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CLUE Brings Murder, Mystery, and Laughter to Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre This Spring

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CLUE, the hilarious murder mystery comedy inspired by the Hasbro board game and adapted from the fan-favorite film, is coming to Toronto’s historic Royal Alexandra Theatre from May 20 to June 8, 2025.

Tickets will be available at 10AM on Friday February 21 at mirvish.com or by calling 1.800.461.3333.

Led by Broadway Director Casey Hushion (Associate Director of Mean Girls and The Prom, Associate Resident Director of Aladdin, choreography for the Netflix seriesUnbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, CLUE is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

CLUE is based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn. Written by Sandy Rustin with additional material by Hunter Foster and Eric Price. It features original music by Michael Holland.

The production also features scenic design by Lee Savage, costume design by Jen Caprio, lighting design by Ryan O’Gara and sound design by Jeff Human.

The cast includes Jennifer Allen as Mrs. Peacock, Christina Anthony as Miss Scarlet, Mariah Burks as the Cook, Donna English as Mrs. White, David Hess as Colonel Mustard, Jamil A.C. Mangan as The Cop, John Shartzer as Mr. Green, Jeff Skowron as Wadsworth, Alex Syiek as Mr. Boddy, Elisabeth Yancey as Yvette, Evan Zes as Professor Plum. The understudies are Greg Balla, Aaron Kaburick, Mary McNulty, and Cassandra Marie Murphy.

The CLUE franchise began in 1949 with the manufacture of the ‘Cluedo’ board game. Currently owned and published by Hasbro, the game has since sold more than 200 million copies worldwide.  A murder-mystery comedy film by Paramount Pictures based on the board game was released in 1985 and went on to achieve cult classic status with a passionate fanbase.

The North American tour of CLUE is produced by The Araca Group, Work Light Productions, Lively McCabe Entertainment and Aged in Wood.

Originally produced at Bucks County Playhouse, New Hope, Pennsylvania, Alexander Fraser, Robyn Goodman, Josh Fiedler, Producers. Developed by Cleveland Playhouse, Laura Kepley, Artistic Director & Kevin Moore, Managing Director.

Olive Klug Joins Signature Sounds and Announces Sophomore Album ‘Lost Dog,’ Out This April

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Signature Sounds is thrilled to announce the signing of acclaimed singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Olive Klug. Label president Jim Olsen says, “When a friend sent me the rough mixes for Lost Dog, I was immediately captivated by the catchy songwriting and raw, honest lyrics. Olive’s music evokes the spirit of some of my favorite rebellious songwriters like Michelle Shocked, Alynda Segarra (of Hurray For The Riff Raff), and Adrienne Lenker, pushing the boundaries of roots music with unapologetic authenticity and attitude.”

It’s been a short time since the van-dwelling Olive Klug has fully pursued the life of a touring musician. Their DIY career has resulted in a huge following with over 20 million Spotify streams, nearly 200,000 TikTok followers, and 100,000+ Instagram followers. Self-described as “someone who floats on the breeze, letting the wind take me wherever I’m meant to be,” Klug’s sophomore album and label debut Lost Dog finds them contemplating this propensity for adventure no matter which avenue of love and loss it leads down.

Fans can hear the album’s first singles “Taking Punches From The Breeze” and “What To Make of Me today and be sure to pre-order or pre-save Lost Dog ahead of its April release right here. Olive Klug hits the road again on April 9 in Salt Lake City, UT. A full list of tour dates can be found below.

“Taking Punches From The Breeze” is a fitting opening track to an album about “aging as a neurodivergent free spirit.” Klug reflects, ”As a young touring musician with a propensity for adventure, this instinct towards leaning into the breeze has gotten me into some tough situations, tired me out, and made me generally confused about my life’s direction.”

Gentle at the start, “Taking Punches From the Breeze” gets its title from Klug’s self-described nature of “letting the wind take them wherever they’re meant to be.” As more instrumentation fills in alongside fingerpicked guitar and Klug’s soft croon, a shuffling drum beat arrives under lyrical imagery of life’s new direction and the ups and downs of being beholden to the breeze.

Klug continues, “I was ready to let the breeze take me wherever it wanted me to go, but soon I realized that the breeze has got some hands and has the capacity to toughen and beat you up.”

“What to Make of Me” is an upbeat, zydeco-inspired romp about falling for someone who isn’t quite ready for all you have to offer. Klug writes, “This is the happiest song you’ll ever hear about unrequited love. More specifically, this song arose out of a short-term romance I had with someone who wasn’t ready to claim their queerness. With lines like “you’re too blind to see the goddamn miracle I made of me”, I am claiming my self-assuredness and do not let a lack of understanding from the object of my affection impact the confidence I’ve worked so hard to build.”

Although still very young, on Lost Dog Klug artfully addresses life on the road with an unarguable ability to fearlessly voice deeply honest emotions through captivating storytelling. Audiotree praised, ”equal parts vulnerable and powerful, ebullient and heartbreaking, reminding us how powerful the journey of music can be.” Olive Klug is a singular voice for the future of folk: honest, fearless, often unsure, but willing to try anyway.

Olive Klug refuses to be put in a box. Working out who you are in front of an ever-growing audience is no small task, but one that the Portland-born, Nashville-based singer/songwriter is up for and thriving.

Olive graduated with a liberal arts degree shortly before the 2020 pandemic derailed their plans of pursuing a career in social work. Though they’d recorded and self-released the 2019 EP “Fire Alarm” from a childhood friend’s bedroom, up until early 2021, Olive categorized their music as either a hobby or a pipe dream, depending on who was asking. However, after being laid off from a teaching job in late 2020, Olive started working as a barista and decided to commit all of their extra energy to an ever-growing community of fans online.

Combining their knack for storytelling with a lilting soprano voice, Klug offers observations with an unflinching honesty. 2025 finds Olive in Nashville, attempting to stabilize after a 3-year whirlwind of viral niche internet-fame, non stop touring, and music industry naïveté. Olive’s social work background grounds them in community, a word they keep coming back to when ego proves unfulfilling. Olive is excited to solidify themselves as a fixture of the greater folk community and return to what inspires them the most about music; the catharsis and social change that is possible when people come together and share themselves through song.

Lost Dog tracklisting:

  1. Taking Punches From The Breeze
  2. What To Make Of Me
  3. Cold War
  4. Train of Thought
  5. Opposite Action
  6. Lost Dog
  7. One Dimension
  8. Fleeting

Olive Klug on Tour:

WED 9 APR – Salt Lake City, UT @ Kilby Court
FRI 11 APR – Colorado Springs, CO @ Vultures
SAT 12 APR – Denver, CO @ Globe Hall
SUN 13 APR – Boulder, CO @ Etown Hall
WED 16 APR – Davenport, IA @ The Racoon Motel
THU 17 APR – Des Moines, IA @ xBK
FRI 18 APR – Minneapolis, MN @ Icehouse
SAT 19 APR – Milwaukee, WI @ Cactus Club
TUE 22 APR – Evanston, IL @ SPACE
WED 23 APR – Ann Arbor, MI @ Blind Pig
THU 24 APR – Lakewood, OH @ Mahall’s
FRI 25 APR – Buffalo, NY @ The 9th Ward at Babeville
SAT 26 APR – Toronto, ON, Canada @ The Drake Underground
MON 28 APR – Washington, DC @ The Atlantis
WED 30 APR – Millvale, PA @ The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls
THU 01 MAY – Philadelphia, PA @ The Lounge at World Cafe Live
FRI 02 MAY – Cambridge, MA @ Club Passim
SAT 03 MAY – Providence, RI @ AS220
SUN 04 MAY  – Brooklyn, NY @ Baby’s All Right
WED 07 MAY – Portsmouth, NH @ 3S Artspace
FRI 09 MAY – Portland, ME @ One Longfellow Square
SAT 10 MAY – Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground Showcase Lounge
THU 19 JUN – Telluride, CO @ Telluride Bluegrass Festival
SAT 21 JUN – Greenfield, MA @ Green River Festival
SAT 5- SUN 6 JUL – Orillia, ON, Canada @ Mariposa Folk Festival

 

Tori Amos Unveils ‘Tori and the Muses ‘— A Magical Book Into the World of Inspiration

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From the Grammy-nominated and multiplatinum singer-songwriter and New York Times bestselling author Tori Amos comes Tori and the Muses, a thoughtful and sprightly tale of young Tori navigating the magical world of inspiration in all its forms.

Tori is no ordinary child—her musical inspirations and talents are clear from a young age. But when her dad forces her to rehearse for her recital, Tori is unhappy. She wants to play what she wants to play! And though they don’t see eye to eye, Tori has a secret: eleven Muses who have visited her since she was a baby and inspire her to write and make her own beautiful music. These fairy godmother–like Muses remind Tori that inspiration is everywhere, and perhaps in helping others find their own Muses—including Dad—she may better understand her own inspirations.

So, Tori takes her brand-new floating pink piano—a gift from the Muses—to see what might inspire others, in hopes of understanding what her dad’s Muses might be. And she is surprised at what she finds.

Filled with joy, curiosity, and imagination, this debut picture book written by Tori Amos with otherworldly illustrations by Demelsa Haughton will inspire, encourage, and most importantly, remind young readers to find inspiration in the things they love, and to listen to their own Muses.

Screen to Screen: 50 Years of Austin City Limits Posters in a Stunning New Collection

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From Billie Eilish to Cassandra Wilson, Elvis Costello to Pearl Jam, many of the world’s most beloved musicians have entertained us on Austin City Limits. And for the past couple of decades, each performance recorded on the ACL stage has inspired a special bonus: an original, eye-catching screen-printed poster, commissioned by the show’s producer, Austin PBS, and designed by some of their favorite graphic artists from all over the world.

Screen to Screen celebrates the 50th anniversary of Austin’s premier gig, presenting every poster in brilliant full color alongside dazzling ACL concert photography and reminiscences from Neko Case, Leon Bridges, and other luminaries. Exciting, evocative, and always unique, the posters are accompanied by insightful creative discussion from several designers, including Mark Pedini and Diana Sudyka, and the book itself is designed by the award-winning, Austin-based firm Preacher Co. Introduced by long-time ACL producer Terry Lickona and with a foreword from Willie Nelson—whom you might remember from the pilot episode, taped half a century ago—this collection brings a piece of Austin and music history to life in vivid color.

Zach Top and Billy Strings Team Up for ‘Me & Billy’ — Now Streaming Everywhere

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Zach Top has releases Me & Billy-a three-song EP featuring 2x Grammy Award-winning artist Billy Strings. Previously released last fall as an Apple Music exclusive, the EP can now be streamed everywhere and finds the pair reimagining versions of Top’s original tracks “Bad Luck” and “Things To Do” along with a cover of Ricky Skaggs’ “Don’t Cheat In Our Home Town.”

Of the collaboration with Strings, Top shares, “We had a lot of fun, traded back and forth some playing and whatnot. It’s so fun to watch him play. And I feel like he’s known so much for a player that it gets passed over sometimes how freaking good of a singer he is too. It was so fun to get to sing with him and him kind enough to come in on a couple of my songs and sing a second verse, sing a little harmony, do that kind of thing. It was a blast.”

The new release adds to a breakout year for Top, who was recently named “the future of country music” by Billboard, nominated for New Artist of the Year at the 58th Annual CMA Awards and was named Discovery Artist of the Year at the 2024 MusicRow Awards. He released his widely praised debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, last spring. Produced by Carson Chamberlain (Billy Currington, Easton Corbin), the record garnered over 3.5 million streams in just its first week and received widespread acclaim. The Tennessean said it’s full of “star-making tunes,” while Country Central praised, “Cold Beer & Country Music is a masterclass in traditional country music…With a record this strong, Zach Top has proven himself as a standout rising star in this format and a premier vocalist in country music.”

Furthermore, Top’s “Cold Beer & Country Music” headline tour completely sold out just hours after tickets went on sale and features stops at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium (two nights), New York’s Terminal 5 and Boston’s MGM Music Hall at Fenway among many others. Additionally, Top is supporting select dates with Alan Jackson on his “Last Call Tour” and will join Dierks Bentley’s “Broken Branches Tour,” kicking off in May.

Raised in Sunnyside, WA, Top grew up on classic country music around the family farm. At the age of seven, he formed a band with his siblings which set the stage for his musical ambitions. Throughout his teenage years and early twenties, Top honed his craft by playing in various bluegrass bands before moving to Nashville in 2021, where he has been steadily making his mark as an artist to watch.

ZACH TOP TOUR DATES
February 28-Nashville, TN-Ryman Auditorium^ (SOLD OUT)
March 1-Nashville, TN-Ryman Auditorium+ (SOLD OUT)
March 5-Jacksonville, FL-Daily’s Place+ (SOLD OUT)
March 7-Orlando, FL-Kia Center#
March 8-Atlanta, GA-Buckhead Theatre+ (SOLD OUT)
March 11-Houston, TX-NRG Rodeo Houston
March 21-23-Willowbank, Australia-CMC Rocks
April 2-Oxford, MS-The Lyric Oxford~
April 3-Starkville, MS-Rick’s Cafe~
April 4-Starkville, MS-Rick’s Cafe~
April 5-New Orleans, LA-Hogs for the Cause 2025
April 10-Columbia, SC-Township Auditorium~
April 11-Winterville, GA-Athens Fairgrounds
April 12-Opelika, AL-Sistrunk Farms
April 24-Wilmington, NC-Live Oak Bank Pavilion^
April 25-Statesboro, GA-The Blue Room^
April 26-Tampa, FL-Amalie Arena#
May 1-New York, NY-Terminal 5^
May 2-Siver Spring, MD-The Fillmore^
May 3-Philadelphia, PA-The Fillmore Philadelphia^
May 4-Boston, MA-MGM Music Hall at Fenway^
May 15-Pikeville, KY-Appalachian Wireless Arena~
May 16-Indianapolis, IN-Everwisse Amphitheater at White River State Park~
May 17-Milwaukee, WI-Fiserv Forum#
May 29-Austin, TX-Moody Center*
May 30-Dallas, TX-Dos Equis Pavilion*
May 31-Tulsa, OK-BOK Center*
June 5-Alpharetta, GA-Ameris Bank Amphitheatre*
June 6-Tampa, FL-MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre*
June 7-iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre*
June 11-North Lawrence, OH-The Country Fest 2025
June 12-Toronto, ON-Budweiser Stage*
June 14-Tinley Park, IL-Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
June 19-Chula Vista, CA-North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
June 20-Phoenix, AZ-Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
June 21-Albuquerque, NM-Isleta Amphitheater
June 22-Telluride, CO-Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2025
June 26-Los Angeles, CA-Intuit Dome*
June 27-Wheatland, CA-Toyota Amphitheatre*
June 28-Mountain View, CA-Shoreline Amphitheatre
July 10-Virginia Beach, VA-Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
July 11-Bristow, VA-Jiffy Libe Live
July 12-Mansfield, MA-Xfinity Center
July 13-Clearfield, PA-Clearfield County Fairgrounds
July 17-Twin Lakes, WI-Shadow Hill Ranch
July 18-Cincinnati, OH-Riverbend Music Center
July 19-Noblesville, IN-Ruoff Music Center
July 31-Salt Lake City, UT-Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
August 1-Nampa, ID-Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
August 2-Quincy, WA-Watershed Festival
August 7-Camden, NJ-Freedom Mortgage Pavilion*
August 8-Raleigh, NC-Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
August 9-Charlotte, NC-PNC Music Pavilion
August 14-Darrien Center, NY-Darrien Lake Amphitheater*
August 15-Holmdel, NJ-PNC Bank Arts Center
August 16-Bethel, NY-Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
August 21-Savannah, GA-Enmarket Arena
August 22-Birmingham, AL-Coca-Cola Amphitheater
August 23-Biloxi, MS-Mississippi Coast Coliseum*
August 28-New York, NY-Madison Square Garden Arena*
August 29-Burgettstown, PA-The Pavilion at Star Lake*
August 30-Clarkston, MI-Pine Knob Music Theatre*
+with special guest Cole Goodwin
#supporting Alan Jackson
^with special guest Jake Worthington
~with special guest Lauren Watkins
*supporting Dierks Bentley

Jeff Bridges Unearths ‘Slow Magic, 1977-1978’ — A Long-Lost Chapter of His Musical Journey

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Light in the Attic (LITA) proudly presents Slow Magic, 1977-1978, a collection of never-before-heard songs that Jeff Bridges wrote and recorded with a band of his oldest and closest friends. At turns unruly, inventive, vulnerable, and joyfully weird, the tapes capture him singing and playing with total joy and abandon. The ragtag exuberance of these recordings not only evokes LA at a specific place and time-they reveal a missing link in the life of Bridges, an actor who has always considered himself a musician.

A native of West Los Angeles, Bridges was born into a showbiz family that happily encouraged him to follow them into movies and television. “I had other interests like music, painting, ceramics, all different kinds of things,” he says. “And my dad would say, ‘Jeff, don’t be ridiculous. That’s one of the great things about acting. You’re going to be called upon to tap into all the talent and different interests you have.'”

Even after being nominated for an Academy Award at age 22 for his role in 1971’s The Last Picture Show, Bridges was uncertain if acting would his path. He bought a ramshackle house in the hills above Malibu, which became a clubhouse for a group of close friends who had been the misfits of University High School, class of 1967. Among them were Stan Ayeroff (a guitar virtuoso who later wrote books about Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian); David Greenwalt (a guitarist and songwriter who later started writing scripts and eventually co-produced Buffy The Vampire Slayer); Matthew Bright (a bassist who went onto to direct Reese Witherspoon in the gonzo cult film Freeway); and Steve Baim (their fearless leader, famous for his spontaneous art-making, taking over 300 acid trips, and auditioning to be James Brown’s drummer).

At the Malibu pad, they surfed and flew kites and soaked in the hot tub and sweated in the sauna that Jeff installed. Everyone played music. Songwriting was just an extension of the hang-as effortless as dancing or sharing a joint. While Bridges worshipped Bob Dylan and the Beatles, his approach to making music was spiked with weirdness-he loved Captain Beefheart and Moondog.

After Jeff finished 1976’s blockbuster remake of King Kong, he and his friends rented a warehouse in Venice, CA, where they recorded a set of songs that included “Obnoxious,” a gloriously chaotic waltz that satirizes self-consciousness, and “Slow Magic,” a sweet shuffle about stoned enlightenment. The sessions were overseen by songwriter and orchestrator Ken Lauber, who had recently relocated to LA to work with Bob Dylan and The Band at Shangri-La studio in Malibu. He and Bridges met when Lauber did the soundtrack for Hearts of The West. “Jeff was going to Est seminars with Werner Erhard, and that enabled him to get in touch with these psychological underpinnings of his life experiences up to this point,” says Lauber. “I thought he’d honed his writing and singing to a point where it could be recognized as a commercial venture.”

An assortment of old friends and LA oddballs floated through the sessions. Horns were played by Sam “Sluggo” Phipps or Billy Superball-both members of the guerilla theater troupe The Mystic Knights of Oingo Boingo, which later morphed into Oingo Boingo, led by composer Danny Elfman. While Jeff was recording at Village Recorder, the storied studio soon to be taken over by Fleetwood Mac for Tusk, he ran into the legendary character actor Burgess Meredith, who wrote and directed Jeff’s second film-the surreal thriller The Yin & Yang of Mr. Go (1970). Meredith was an early supporter of Jeff’s music and encouraged him to contribute original songs to the film. A few years later, fresh off his role as Mickey in Rocky (1976), Meredith added extraordinary monologues to “Kong” and “Here On This Island,” two mind-bending slices of mutant disco. The inspiration for “Kong” came from Jeff’s concept for a sequel to Kong (1976)-when producer Dino De Laurentiis rejected his pitch, Jeff turned it into a song.

At times, their music occupied the same airspace as Arthur Russell, or Talking Heads, or Frank Zappa-or all of them playing together. Still, they were aware that their tastes might be too weird or vulnerable for public consumption. After the sessions were shelved, Jeff and his friends continued to meet privately for “The Wednesday Night Jam,” a drug-fueled, free-form ritual held every Wednesday night at Steve Baim’s storefront art studio in Culver City. The rules were simple: 1) No songs, 2) No blues, 3) No preparation. The racket they made together could be disastrous or glorious. Either way, they loved it. For Jeff, it was a refuge from the pressure of movie stardom, a place where he was allowed to totally lose himself, surrounded by the old friends he trusted most. The atmospheric instrumental collages of “Space #1” and “Space #2” come from that space.

As Jeff’s fame grew, the old friends continued to meet, generating new songs and accumulating self-recorded tapes traded among themselves like Dead Heads. Meanwhile, his movie career and his music started to converge. He and T-Bone Burnett became lifelong friends and collaborators after meeting on the set of Heaven’s Gate (1980). Burnett and Bridges worked closely to develop the character and music of Crazy Heart (2010), for which Jeff won the Oscar for Best Actor. Burnett went on to produce Jeff’s self-titled 2011 album, the follow-up to his first solo album, Be Here Soon (2000). Following Crazy Heart, Jeff started touring with The Abiders, who have been his live band ever since.

After collaborating with Jeff on the 2015 ambient spoken word album Sleeping Tapes, Keefus Ciancia was in the studio with Jeff when he happened to pull up some old recordings from the 1970s. Ciancia was blown away. He said that the old tapes sounded like “The Band playing at CBGB with the Exploding Plastic Inevitable” and quietly tipped LITA to the existence of Jeff’s archive.

The music on Slow Magic, 1977-1978 comes from a single decaying cassette labeled “July 1978.” It represents a cross-section of those lost 1970s sessions. Keefus Ciancia, Jean Sievers, and Matt Sullivan spent the second half of 2024 working closely with Bridges to prep the music for release. Though he’s on a tight filming schedule, Bridges completely devoted himself to every aspect of this release-sharing stories for countless hours, studying mixes and sequences, and even hand-drawing a version of the LITA logo for the artwork.

Whether films, music, or visual art, his process has always been to joyfully immerse himself in whatever opportunity surfaces in the moment. He just never thought that opportunity would emerge for these tapes. “Pretty wild that this thing that happened around 50 years ago wants to bloom,” says Jeff. “I guess weirdness is what’s happening these days. You never can tell what’s gonna happen.” The spirit of these rediscovered tapes is connected to Emergent Behavior, a series of raw, unpolished songs that Jeff has been recording and releasing in recent years. The music is available directly through jeffbridges.com.

Pressed at RTI on transparent blue vinyl, Slow Magic, 1977-1978 will be available exclusively for Record Store Day (April 12) at participating independent retailers. Additionally, the album will arrive on digital platforms on the same day. All physical formats include extensive liner notes by Sam Sweet featuring a new interview with Jeff Bridges and a treasure trove of never-before-seen archival photos courtesy of photographers Loretta Ayeroff and Candy Clark. The album features eleven previously unreleased tracks newly mastered by multi-Grammy nominated engineer John Baldwin, with lacquers cut by John Golden at Golden Mastering. Designed by Darry Norsen, the LP edition features a 20-page booklet.

Ahead of the album’s release, digital single “Obnoxious” is streaming on all platforms today (Feb. 28). Behind the scenes, filmmakers Isaac Gale, Paul Lovelace, and Ben Wu (the team behind the acclaimed 2025 documentary, Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted) have produced a series of short docs surrounding the project slated for release this spring.

Liner notes writer Sam Sweet conducted countless hours of interviews and research, working directly with Jeff Bridges and in partnership with Light in the Attic. Sweet is best known for All Night Menu, an ongoing series of microhistories of Los Angeles. The project encompasses books, archival collections, and an interview series. The mission of All Night Menu is to make the invisible equal to the visible.

Slow Magic, 1977-1978 LP/Digital Tracklist:

Side A
He’s Here
Obnoxious
Attitude
Space #1
Slow Magic
Here On This Island (feat. Burgess Meredith)

Side B
Light Blues
This Is The One
Space #2
You Could Be Ready
Kong (feat. Burgess Meredith)

Bryan Ferry and Amelia Barratt Unveil ‘Florist,’ a Cinematic Prelude to Their Collaborative Album ‘Loose Talk’

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Bryan Ferry and performance artist, writer and painter Amelia Barratt release ‘Florist’, the latest work from their upcoming collaborative album Loose Talk, due for release on March 28.

Following the richly detailed and transportive ‘Orchestra’, ‘Florist’ invites the listener deeper into the cinematic world of Loose Talk. The accompanying video was shot and directed by Bryan Ferry.

Loose Talk signals the beginning of a new creative chapter for Bryan Ferry, blurring the lines between music, poetry and art. Fifty-three years since Roxy Music’s iconic debut album arrived like a bolt-from-the-blue, his latest project is just as startlingly unexpected. The sounds and shapes, and the spoken words they are set to, are unlike any previous Bryan Ferry album. At the same time, the mood that Loose Talk captures is rooted in Ferry’s past half-century of work.

Loose Talk marks the first time Ferry has created new music for another writer’s words. The album consists of eleven texts, composed by Amelia Barratt, creating fascinating micro-fictions, simultaneously fragmentary and self-contained.

The album balances refined minimalism and abstraction with an experimental and youthful energy. Ferry’s music and Barratt’s texts each hold their own codes. As those codes pulse as one, the album discovers its own language – two monologues begin a conversation that becomes a duet.

Discussing Loose Talk, Bryan Ferry said: “The whole experience of making Loose Talk has had an interesting newness about it. It seems to have opened a whole new chapter in my work. There’s a really strong mood to the work that Amelia does and I was very conscious of not getting in the way of her words. Hopefully, together, we’ve created something neither could do on our own.

The nearest I ever got to doing pieces like this before would maybe be back in Roxy with “In Every Dream Home A Heartache,” and “Mother Of Pearl”. To some extent, those are kind of spoken monologues. I’m pleased that when we’ve played Loose Talk to people, they’ve said, “Oh, this sounds really different.” That’s what I’ve always wanted with everything I’ve done, or been involved in, to be: different. Different to what you’ve heard before, or seen before. That’s the whole point of being an artist: trying to create a new thing, a new world.”

Amelia Barratt said: “Loose Talk is a conversation between two artists: a collaborative album of music by Bryan Ferry with spoken texts by me. It’s cinematic; music put to pictures.

There’s possibility for experimentation within a frame. And there’s a freedom in knowing exactly what my part to play is, then being able to pass a baton, stretching out creatively and knowing there is someone on the other side to take it further. Nothing feels off limits.”

Bryan Ferry and Amelia Barratt were first connected via their separate involvements in the art world. The collaboration began with a chance meeting at an exhibition opening, where Ferry grew intrigued to learn Barratt had started working with writing and performance in parallel with her painting. Both artists share an art school background – Bryan Ferry studied painting at Newcastle University in the 1960s, Barratt at Glasgow School of Art and the Slade School of Art, where she received an MFA in 2016 – but it’s the differences between them that animate Loose Talk and create unmapped territory.

Bryan Ferry’s collaboration with Amelia Barratt was first teased with the release of ‘Star’ in 2024 – presented as the latest composition on the newly released 81 track career-spanning collection, Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023. ‘Star’ was described with “smouldering brilliance” by Uncut Magazine, “a sinister sequel to Dance Away” by MOJO, “remarkable, crunching, frosted, sub-zero electronics” by CLASH Magazine and “a trippy new single” by the NME.

Why Does Every Content Creator Need a Free Video Generator in Their Toolkit?

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By Mitch Rice

In today’s fast-paced digital world, video content is king. Whether you’re a marketer, educator, or social media influencer, high-quality videos are essential for engagement and brand growth. But not everyone has the time or budget for professional video editing. That’s where a free AI video generator becomes a game-changer. It streamlines the video creation process, allowing content creators to generate professional-grade videos effortlessly.

With tools like CapCut Commerce Pro, you can transform raw content into polished, high-performing videos without needing advanced editing skills. From automated captions to AI-driven enhancements, these tools save time and resources, making them a must-have in every creator’s toolkit. In this article, we’ll explore why a free AI video generator is indispensable for modern content creation.

What is a free AI video generator and its benefits? 

A free AI video generator is a smart tool that automates video creation, helping content creators produce high-quality videos without requiring advanced editing skills. With features like automatic scene transitions, text-to-video conversion, AI voiceovers, and smart effects, these tools simplify the editing process while maintaining professional quality.

Platforms like CapCut Commerce Pro make video production effortless, whether for marketing, tutorials, or social media content. Many creators also use this tool as a YouTube video editor to refine their videos further, ensuring they are optimized for engagement and seamless publishing.

Benefits of a free AI video generator

  • Saves time & effort: Automates editing tasks like trimming, transitions, and captions, reducing manual work.
  • Cost-effective: Eliminates the need for expensive editing software or hiring professional video editors.
  • User-friendly: Intuitive interfaces make it easy for beginners to create high-quality videos effortlessly.
  • AI-powered enhancements: Features like auto-captions, smart effects, and background removal enhance video quality.
  • Faster content creation: Speeds up video production, making it ideal for social media, marketing, and promotions.

Why content creators should use CapCut Commerce Pro?

CapCut Commerce Pro is a game-changer for content creators, offering AI-powered tools that make video editing faster, easier, and more professional. Whether you’re creating promotional content, social media reels, or product videos, this tool streamlines the process without requiring advanced editing skills.

Key reasons to use CapCut Commerce Pro

  • AI-generated captions & subtitles: Automatically adds accurate captions to enhance accessibility and engagement.
  • Smart background removal: Removes backgrounds effortlessly, perfect for product showcases and branding.
  • High-quality AI voiceovers: Converts text into natural-sounding voiceovers, eliminating the need for manual narration.
  • Built-in royalty-free assets: It provides access to a vast library of music, effects, and stock footage for creative flexibility.
  • AI video generation: Easily creates AI-powered videos with product links, smart templates and automated enhancements.

With CapCut Commerce Pro, content creators can elevate their video production without spending hours on editing. Below are the steps to using CapCut Commerce Pro to generate AI videos.

Steps to generate videos using CapCut Commerce Pro

Step 1: Add a product link or upload media

Launch the application and go to the “Video Generator” feature, where you can paste a product link or upload media like images and videos. The AI then extracts key product details, including names, features, and images, while the “Auto Enhance” option optimizes visuals for a polished look. You can further customize your video by selecting “Advanced Settings,” which allows you to modify scripts, avatars, voiceovers, and aspect ratios. For a more engaging result, incorporate AI-suggested stock assets and adjust video elements to suit your content style. Once satisfied, click “Confirm” and hit “Generate” to let the AI bring your vision to life.

 

Step 2: Create AI videos in clicks

Once your video is generated, explore various theme-based categories like product highlights, memes, text overlays, and TikTok trends. To refine your selection, hover over a template and click “Quick Edit” for easy customization. In the editing panel, modify the script, AI avatars, voice settings, text, and font styles to align with your creative vision. For advanced editing, click “Edit More” to adjust the aspect ratio, add elements, insert stock images, include background music, and fine-tune playback settings. With AI-powered smart tools, you can seamlessly enhance your video for a professional and engaging final result.

 

Step 3: Export your video

Once you’re satisfied with your AI video, click the “Export” button in the top right corner. You can either “Publish” your video directly to social media platforms or “Download” it to your computer. If downloading, choose your preferred resolution, quality settings, frame rate, and format before finalizing the export. This ensures your video is optimized for the best viewing experience across different platforms.

 

Best use cases for AI video generators

  • Social media content creation: Quickly generate eye-catching videos for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Facebook Stories.
  • E-commerce product showcases: Create professional-looking product videos with AI-generated scripts, voiceovers, and transitions.
  • Marketing & advertisements: Produce engaging promo videos, ad campaigns, and brand storytelling content with minimal effort.
  • Educational & training videos: Generate tutorial videos, explainer content, and e-learning modules using AI voiceovers and animations.
  • Corporate presentations & pitches: Convert text-based presentations into visually appealing videos with smooth transitions and AI-powered graphics.

Conclusion

A free AI video generator is an essential tool for content creators looking to streamline their workflow and enhance video quality effortlessly. With powerful automation, AI-driven enhancements, and user-friendly editing features, tools like CapCut Commerce Pro make professional video creation accessible to everyone. Whether for social media, marketing, or product showcases, AI video generators help save time, reduce costs, and boost engagement. Start leveraging AI-powered video editing today to elevate your content game!

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

Tournaments at Golden Crown Casino – types and rules of participation

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By Mitch Rice

Golden Crown Casino offers a variety of exciting tournaments that attract players from around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, there are events tailored to every skill level. In this article, we will explore the different types of tournaments available at Golden Crown, as well as the essential rules for participation to help you enhance your gaming experience.

Types of Tournaments at Golden Crown Casino

Golden Crown Casino offers a variety of tournaments designed to cater to the preferences and skills of different players. These tournaments create an exciting and competitive atmosphere where participants can showcase their abilities and win attractive prizes. Understanding the various types of tournaments available is essential for players looking to maximize their experience.

The tournaments at Golden Crown Casino primarily fall into three categories: slot tournaments, poker tournaments, and table game tournaments. Each type has its own unique rules and participation requirements, ensuring that players can find an event that suits their interests.

Overview of Tournament Types

  • Slot Tournaments: 

These tournaments focus on popular slot games where players compete for the highest number of credits accumulated over a set period. Participants are usually given a specific number of spins, and the player with the highest score at the end wins.

  • Poker Tournaments: 

Golden Crown Casino hosts various poker formats, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha. Players compete against each other in a series of hands, with the goal of winning chips and ultimately the tournament prize. Buy-in amounts and blind structures can vary, creating different levels of difficulty.

  • Table Game Tournaments: 

These tournaments involve classic table games such as blackjack and roulette. Players compete based on their ability to accumulate chips or bets over a series of rounds. The winners are determined based on their performance and overall ranking at the tournament’s conclusion.

Each tournament type provides an exciting opportunity for players to engage with the casino environment in different ways. Participants are encouraged to check the specific rules and schedules for each tournament to enhance their chances of success.

Prize Pool and Prize Distribution

The prize pool in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino is designed to reward participants based on their performance and engagement throughout the event. The total prize pool is derived from the entry fees collected from participants, which ensures that the rewards are generated directly from the contributions of the players. This system not only incentivizes participation but also enhances the competitive atmosphere of the tournaments.

Understanding how the prize distribution works is crucial for participants, as it affects their strategy and expectations. The distribution is typically structured to reward the top performers proportionally, with larger payouts awarded to higher placements. Below is a breakdown of the common prize distribution model used in many tournaments:

Place Percentage of Prize Pool
1st Place 40%
2nd Place 25%
3rd Place 15%
4th-5th Place 10%
6th-10th Place 10%

In addition to cash prizes, Golden Crown Casino often offers additional incentives such as bonuses, free spins, or exclusive memberships for high-ranking participants. The specific details of the prize distribution may vary from one tournament to another, so it is advisable for players to review the tournament rules and guidelines for precise information.

Popular Games Available in Tournaments

Golden Crown Casino offers a diverse array of games for tournament participants, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a fan of strategy, luck, or skill, the tournament lineup caters to a wide range of preferences and playing styles. Players can engage in friendly competition and aim for exciting prizes while enjoying their favorite games.

Each tournament features specific games that players can enter, often highlighting the classics along with newer titles. Here are some popular games to look out for in the upcoming tournaments:

  • Video Poker: A staple in any casino, video poker tournaments challenge players to showcase their skills and strategies against others for the highest payout.
  • Blackjack: Known for its combination of skill and luck, blackjack tournaments draw competitors who aim to outsmart their opponents while maximizing their winnings.
  • Slot Machines: Slot tournaments provide a fast-paced environment where players compete for spins and bonuses, all while seeking the biggest jackpots.
  • Roulette: Roulette tournaments come with their own set of rules, allowing players to place bets in hopes of predicting the winning number or color.

Moreover, tournaments may feature popular themed games that enhance the gaming experience:

  1. Fruits & Stars – A vibrant slot game with lively graphics and themes that appeals to a wide audience.
  2. Mystery Treasure – An adventure-themed game that offers unique bonuses during tournament play.
  3. Lucky 7’s Blackjack – A variation of traditional blackjack that can be particularly exciting in a competitive setting.

With such a variety of games available, participants can select their preferred format and strategy, making each tournament an engaging and thrilling experience at Golden Crown Casino.

Tips for Successful Participation in Tournaments

Participating in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, success in these competitions requires more than just luck; preparation and strategy play vital roles. By following the tips outlined below, players can enhance their performance and increase their chances of winning.

Understanding the game mechanics, rules, and tournament structure is crucial. Familiarize yourself with specific game strategies and adapt your approach based on the type of tournament you enter. Below are practical tips to help you prepare effectively.

  • Research Tournament Rules: Make sure you understand the specific rules and regulations of the tournament you are entering. Each tournament may have different formats, scoring systems, and conditions.
  • Practice Regularly: Spend time practicing the games featured in the tournament. The more familiar you are with the gameplay and strategies, the more comfortable you will be during the competition.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your tournament participation. Effective bankroll management will allow you to play without risking more than you can afford.
  • Stay Calm and Focused: Maintaining a clear mindset during the tournament is essential. Avoid getting overly emotional or distracted, as this can affect your decision-making and performance.
  • Observe Other Players: Pay attention to the strategies used by your opponents. Learning from their tactics can help refine your own gameplay and improve your chances of success.
  • Network with Other Players: Engaging with fellow participants can provide valuable insights and tips. Building connections within the gaming community can also lead to future opportunities.

In conclusion, participating in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino can be a thrilling endeavor filled with potential rewards. By thoroughly preparing, practicing, and remaining focused during competitions, participants can significantly enhance their overall gaming experience and increase their odds of success. Best of luck in your tournament journey!

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

Top Social Casinos to Explore: Fun, Free, and Exciting Gaming Experiences

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By Mitch Rice

The world of online gaming has seen a significant shift in recent years with the rise of social casinos. Unlike real-money gambling platforms, social casinos offer players the thrill of casino games without the financial risks. Whether you enjoy slots, poker, blackjack, or roulette, these platforms provide an engaging and entertaining way to play.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top social casinos to try in 2025, highlighting their features, gameplay options, and why they are gaining popularity. We’ll also discuss how platforms like BestSocialCasinos.com help players find the most exciting social casino experiences.

What Are Social Casinos?

Social casinos are online gaming platforms that mimic traditional casino games but do not involve real-money gambling. Instead of wagering actual cash, players use virtual coins or tokens to play. These coins can be earned through gameplay, in-game rewards, or optional purchases.

Why Are Social Casinos Popular?

 No Financial Risk – Players can enjoy games without the worry of losing real money, as there’s no actual gambling involved.

 Play for Fun – Social casinos prioritize entertainment, offering a relaxed gaming experience.

 Exciting Features – Many social casinos provide daily bonuses, leaderboards, tournaments, and opportunities for social interaction.

 Available on Multiple Devices – Most platforms are accessible via both desktop and mobile apps.

With millions of players around the globe, social casinos offer a fantastic way to enjoy the excitement of gaming without any financial concerns.

 

Top Social Casinos to Explore in 2025

While there are numerous social casino platforms out there, not all deliver the same level of enjoyment, fairness, and variety. Here are some of the top social casinos worth checking out in 2025.

1. BestSocialCasinos.com – Your Ultimate Social Casino Guide

For those seeking the best social casinos, BestSocialCasinos.com is the go-to resource. This platform features comprehensive reviews, ratings, and comparisons of various social casinos, helping you find the perfect match for your gaming preferences.

Why Choose BestSocialCasinos.com?

 Expert Reviews – Get in-depth insights into game selections, features, and overall gameplay quality.

 

 Up-to-Date Rankings – Keep yourself updated on the latest and most popular social casinos.

Exclusive Bonuses – Discover special promotions and rewards that are only available through our site.

 Safe & Fair Gaming – All listed casinos are thoroughly verified for fair play and security.

Instead of trying to figure out which social casino is the best, let BestSocialCasinos.com lead you to the top options.

  1. Chumba Casino – A Premier Social Casino with Sweepstakes

Chumba Casino stands out as one of the most recognized social sweepstakes casinos in the market. It operates on a unique sweepstakes model, allowing players to convert their winnings into real cash prizes in certain situations.

Key Features:

 Hundreds of Slot Games – A wide variety of slot machines featuring unique themes.

 Blackjack & Poker – Classic table games for those who enjoy strategy.

 Daily Login Bonuses – Receive free Sweeps Coins every day.

 Exciting Tournaments – Compete against other players for substantial rewards.

Chumba Casino offers an exciting blend of social gaming and sweepstakes features, making it an excellent choice for players seeking variety.

  1. LuckyLand Slots – A Fun and Rewarding Slot Experience

If you’re a fan of slot machines, LuckyLand Slots is a social casino you shouldn’t miss. It features a vast array of slot games, each boasting vibrant graphics and unique bonus features.

Key Features:

 Extensive Slot Variety – Enjoy classic, video, and jackpot slots.

 Daily Free Coins – Get free Gold Coins every day.

 Regular Promotions – Take advantage of special bonus rounds and tournaments.

 Social Features – Connect with friends and other players.

LuckyLand Slots is perfect for those who love casual gaming and earning rewards while having a good time.

  1. Global Poker – The Ultimate Social Poker Destination

For poker lovers, Global Poker is the go-to social poker platform. It uses a Sweeps Coins model, similar to Chumba Casino, allowing players to join realistic poker tournaments.

Key Features:

 Texas Hold’em & Omaha – Play popular poker variations.

 Multi-Table Tournaments – Compete with players from around the globe.

 Fair & Secure Gameplay – AI-driven system ensures fair play.

 Play for Free or Purchase Gold Coins – Various ways to enjoy poker.

If you’re looking to sharpen your poker skills in a risk-free setting, Global Poker is an excellent option.

  1. Slotomania – A Leading Social Casino

With over 100 million downloads, Slotomania stands out as one of the most popular social casinos globally. It boasts an extensive collection of slot games along with engaging social features.

Key Features:

 200+ Slot Games – A vast selection of slot machines featuring various themes.

 Slot Club Rewards – Advance through levels to earn better rewards.

 Daily Free Spins & Bonuses – Enjoy rewards simply for playing.

 Live Tournaments – Challenge other players in exciting slot competitions.

Slotomania offers a lively and entertaining social casino experience, ideal for casual gamers who enjoy slot machines.

How to Choose the Best Social Casino?

With numerous options available, picking the right social casino can feel daunting. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

 Game Selection – Do you enjoy slots, poker, blackjack, or roulette? Opt for a casino that features your preferred games.

 Daily Rewards & Bonuses – Seek out platforms that offer free coins and enticing promotions.

Social Features – Some casinos let you play with friends, participate in tournaments, or climb leaderboards.

 Fair Play & Security – Utilize trusted resources like BestSocialCasinos.com to discover verified and secure social casinos.

 Mobile Compatibility – Make sure the casino provides a seamless mobile experience if you like gaming on your phone or tablet.

By leveraging a resource like BestSocialCasinos.com, you can easily compare different platforms and find the ideal social casino that suits your gaming preferences.

Final Thoughts: Why Social Casinos Are the Future of Online Gaming

Social casinos are gaining immense popularity as they provide all the thrill of traditional casino gaming without the financial risks. Whether you prefer slots, poker, blackjack, or sweepstakes games, there’s a social casino that caters to your interests.

Key Takeaways:

 Social casinos offer a fun and free gaming experience.

 Websites like BestSocialcasinos.com assist players in discovering the best options.

 Leading social casinos feature exciting elements such as tournaments, leaderboards, and daily rewards.

 No-risk gaming allows you to enjoy casino-style entertainment without stress.

If you’re in search of an enjoyable social casino experience, visit BestSocialcasinos.com to find the ideal platform for you!