Poems - by Mahé Rabesa

Moonlight

A light sheet lays over the fields 

As if to veil the truth 

Clouds act like the finest youth 

Pretending to live through the winds

Night falls slowly 

Leaving alone the graceful Sun before it dies 

The sky and its colours live only 

Through the trees the early star rise 

The moon dances between the trees 

Its faint rays in the valleys 

Shy will be the dawn 

After the night mourn 

Lucifer

The fountain of fire

Where happiness flows

Where sadness, distress are 

Words that don't exist

 

Do you know this place? 

I've tasted the warmth of the flames 

The beauty of your soul

The flavour of your tears

And, I cried on the Sun 

To make the dark clear

Yes, I cried on the Sun 

To dazzle your shadow

 

Look at paradise in hell 

And the fires under the sea

The tsunamis on earth

Rain that falls in the desert

 

I’ve heard the silent thunder 

Seen the invisible lightning  

I saw you dancing like the leaves falling from the trees 

I've seen you cry, you who makes all the ladies turn their heads 

Tell me your secret, and I'll tell you how to get there 

You'll taste the warmth of the flames 

The beauty of your soul 

The flavour of your tears 

Sunday

Sunday 

She is eighteen

And never had a dream

But she is the only one who can see the trees growing

She’s not a teen anymore

But not adult either

Something 

in 

between

Her name is Olympe

And if I didn’t close my eyes, I breathed again

Why didn’t I say something?

Maybe the rain would have stopped falling

She wasn’t ready, she wasn’t ready

She did not wait for the sun to rise

Impatience ran through her veins

She started her journey to the center of the earth far too soon

She wasn’t ready, she wasn’t ready

When leaving, she left behind all her flowers and books never opened 

Olympe once called 

She never called again

Her hands are no longer shaking

She falls asleep in the arms of Mother Earth

And one day,

One day, she’s going to be at peace

Because we will break the fire

And watch the birds fly 

                                     a

                                        w

                                           a

                                              y

Mother Earth

Even from the top of the world, you could not see 

And as we keep moving away

But can’t go anywhere because of those chains 

You should have looked at me 

And it is too late now

The rain started to fall

She is running way faster than you

She is carrying all the complains

All the screams that echo in the air

It is not like we can’t see each other

The wind didn’t warn you

He's a liar anyway

Keep the shouting

The rose never stays long on the grass

It is not because I’m tall

It is because no one listens carefully

You never heard

The river breath out its last breath

You never listened to the colours all around

You just listened to the snow hurt and rocks 

                                                                 revolution 

We are old now

We can have this conversation

Or walk away without ever being understood

I do not want to hide anymore

Please, let me raise the flag

And, if I had told you that they were always there? 

If I had said to you that I was never angry?

That the volcano deep inside me was already extinct 

The water would be clearer

Did I ever say that I wanted to be         with you?

                                                      alone

Student Spotlight - Hannah Delos Reyes by Jordan Dill

Student Spotlight - Hannah Delos Reyes

by Jordan Dill

Today we have an exclusive interview with an emerging artist whose talent and creativity have been making waves within the art community. We have the privilege of speaking with Hannah Delos Reyes (@hannahdelosreyes.art), a student at Brandon University, who graciously granted us a glimpse into her world of artistic expression. As she guided us through the vibrant corridors of Brandon University's art facilities, Hannah shared insights into her journey as an artist and how her education has been instrumental in nurturing her artistic vision. With each piece she creates, Hannah infuses profound meaning drawn from her cultural roots or personal experiences, inviting her audience into a narrative-rich exploration of her work. Unlike some artists who struggle to articulate the essence of their creations, Hannah possesses a unique ability to vividly convey the stories behind her art, offering viewers a deeper understanding of her creative process and the messages she seeks to convey. Below are a few questions we were able to ask her during our interview. 

“Does your culture, upbringing , or any other influences around you get reflected into your work?”

Absolutely, my cultural background and upbringing play a significant role in shaping the themes and motifs that are prominent in my artwork. As an artist, I find myself continually drawn to exploring aspects of my heritage through my creative expressions. Growing up immersed in Filipino culture, traditions, and values, I developed a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories, symbols, and imagery that define my cultural identity. This profound connection to my roots is evident in many of my art pieces, particularly those that I've produced during my time as a student at Brandon University. Whether it's through vibrant paintings, intricate sculptures, or thought-provoking installations, I strive to infuse elements of Filipino culture into my work, celebrating its beauty, resilience, and diversity. From exploring traditional Filipino folklore and mythology to examining contemporary issues faced by the Filipino diaspora, my art serves as a platform for me to reflect on and engage with the complexities of my cultural heritage. By incorporating Filipino symbols, iconography, and themes into my artistic practice, I aim to not only pay homage to my roots but also to spark meaningful conversations and connections with viewers from diverse backgrounds. Through my art, I hope to bridge the gap between cultures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness of Filipino heritage while also exploring the universal themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience.

“Who are your biggest artistic influences?”

My artistic journey has been profoundly influenced by a diverse array of both historical masters and contemporary visionaries, each leaving an indelible mark on my creative ethos. Drawing inspiration from the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo and Vincent Van Gogh, I am captivated by their mastery of form, colour, and emotion, which continue to serve as guiding beacons in my artistic exploration. The bold, dynamic portraiture of Kehinde Wiley and the evocative storytelling of Kara Walker resonate deeply with me, inspiring me to infuse my work with narratives that challenge, provoke, and uplift. Additionally, the hauntingly beautiful prints of David Blackwood have left an enduring impression on me, igniting a passion for printmaking and the power of visual storytelling. As I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, I find myself continually drawn to the works of these influential artists, integrating elements of their styles, techniques, and philosophies into my own artistic practice. From the classical grandeur of Michelangelo to the bold experimentation of Van Gogh, from the vibrant portraiture of Wiley to the poignant narratives of Walker, and from the haunting prints of Blackwood, each of these artistic luminaries has played a pivotal role in shaping my artistic voice and vision. Through their timeless contributions to the world of art, they have not only expanded my creative horizons but also challenged me to push the boundaries of my own artistic expression, striving to create work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

“Describe your ideal work environment.”

My ideal work environment is one that offers a balance of solitude and inspiration, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the creative process while staying energized and focused. I find that I am most productive when I have the space to work alone, free from distractions, enabling me to concentrate deeply on my artistic endeavours and explore ideas without interruption. Whether it's a cozy studio tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world or a quiet corner of a well-lit room, I thrive in environments that foster a sense of calm and concentration.

Natural light is essential to my creative process, as it not only illuminates my workspace but also infuses it with a sense of warmth and vitality. The soft glow of sunlight streaming through windows not only enhances the colours and textures of my materials but also uplifts my mood and enhances my productivity. Similarly, during nighttime work sessions, I appreciate the presence of bright, adjustable lighting that mimics the effects of natural daylight, allowing me to work comfortably and efficiently even after the sun has set.

In summary, my ideal work environment is characterized by solitude, natural light, and a tranquil atmosphere, providing me with the optimal conditions to unleash my creativity and bring my artistic visions to life.

“Do you have a preferred medium ?”

My artistic versatility encompasses a wide range of mediums, from painting and mixed media to watercolour, ceramics, and printmaking. While I am proficient and comfortable working with each of these mediums, drawing holds a special place in my heart as my primary area of expertise and passion. Through drawing, I am able to fully express my ideas, emotions, and observations with a level of precision and detail that resonates deeply with me.

With a solid foundation in drawing techniques and a wealth of experience honing my skills, I approach each artwork with a meticulous attention to line, form, and composition. Whether I'm creating intricate pencil sketches, expressive charcoal drawings, or vibrant ink illustrations, drawing allows me to explore the nuances of light and shadow, texture, and perspective, breathing life into my subjects and narratives.

While I am open to experimenting and pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice across various mediums, drawing remains my preferred and most proficient mode of expression. It serves as the cornerstone of my creative process, providing me with a versatile and powerful tool to convey my artistic vision and connect with viewers on a profound level.

“How do you handle constructive criticism?”

Constructive criticism is an integral part of my growth and development as an artist, and I approach it with a mindset of openness and receptivity. Rather than viewing criticism as a negative reflection of my work, I see it as an invaluable opportunity for learning and refinement. When receiving constructive feedback, I strive to maintain a sense of humility and objectivity, recognizing that there is always room for improvement and growth.

I approach constructive criticism as a form of mentorship, drawing upon the insights and perspectives of others to gain a deeper understanding of my own artistic practice. I actively seek out feedback from peers, mentors, and instructors, valuing their input as a means of gaining fresh perspectives and identifying areas where I can enhance my skills, concepts, and research.

Instead of taking criticism personally, I view it as a catalyst for self-reflection and self-improvement. I carefully consider the feedback I receive, weighing its validity and relevance to my artistic goals and aspirations. From there, I channel that feedback into actionable steps for improvement, whether it involves refining my technical skills, revisiting my conceptual approach, or conducting further research to deepen my understanding of a subject.

“Do you have a favourite piece of your work and why is it your favourite?”

While I don't necessarily have a single favourite piece among my body of work, there is one particular artwork that holds a special significance in my artistic journey. Titled "Metamorphosis," this oil painting marked a pivotal moment in my career as an artist when I received my first major commission in 2022.

"Metamorphosis" not only represents a significant milestone in terms of professional recognition and validation but also holds a deeper personal resonance for me. Through this painting, I had the opportunity to explore themes of transformation, growth, and self-discovery, mirroring my own journey as an artist navigating the ever-changing landscape of the art world.

Beyond its thematic depth, "Metamorphosis" served as a catalyst for expanding my artistic horizons and establishing myself within the broader art community. The success and visibility garnered from this commission opened doors to additional opportunities, allowing me to connect with new clients, showcase my work in prominent exhibitions, and further establish my presence within the art world.

Moreover, "Metamorphosis" embodies the essence of my artistic style and vision, encapsulating the elements of storytelling, symbolism, and emotional resonance that define my creative voice. Its creation not only solidified my identity as an artist but also provided a platform for me to share my unique perspective and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Overall, while I cherish each of my artworks for their individual significance and contributions to my artistic journey, "Metamorphosis" holds a special place in my heart as a symbol of growth, opportunity, and the transformative power of art.

“What is your favourite time of day to create?”

My favourite time of day to create varies depending on the setting and circumstances. When I'm working on a drawing or painting at home, I find that I am most inspired and productive when I start right away in the morning, as soon as the sun is up. There's something about the freshness of the morning light and the sense of quietude that accompanies the early hours of the day, which invigorates my creativity and sets a positive tone for my artistic endeavours. Beginning my creative process in the morning allows me to establish a focused mindset and dedicate uninterrupted time to fully immerse myself in my work, exploring ideas and bringing my artistic vision to life with clarity and purpose.

On the other hand, when I'm working in the art studios at school, my preferred time to create shifts to the nighttime. The evening hours offer a different atmosphere and energy, characterized by a sense of tranquility and solitude that lends itself well to deep, concentrated work. With fewer distractions and a sense of quietude permeating the studio space, I find that I am able to enter a state of flow more easily, allowing my creativity to flourish and my ideas to take shape with greater freedom and spontaneity. Working at night in the art studios provides me with a sense of creative liberation, enabling me to explore new techniques, experiment with different mediums, and push the boundaries of my artistic practice in ways that are both exciting and rewarding.

In summary, whether it's the early morning light at home or the peaceful ambiance of the nighttime in the art studios at school, I embrace the unique opportunities and creative energies that each time of day offers, adapting my creative process to suit the environment and maximize my artistic potential.

“What challenges do you think artists face today?”

I could go on for hours about this:

Financial Struggles: Many artists face financial instability due to the unpredictable nature of the art market, limited access to funding and resources, and the expectation to produce work without guaranteed income.

Exposure and Recognition: With the vast array of artists and artworks available online and in galleries, it can be challenging for emerging artists to stand out and gain recognition for their work, making it difficult to attract the right audience and establish a strong artistic presence.

Balancing Artistic Vision with Commercial Demands: Artists often grapple with the tension between staying true to their artistic vision and creating work that appeals to commercial tastes and trends, especially when seeking opportunities for exhibition, representation, or sales.

Access to Resources and Opportunities: Limited access to affordable studio space, art supplies, mentorship, and professional development opportunities can hinder artists' ability to fully explore their creative potential and navigate the art world.

Navigating the Digital Landscape: While the internet has provided artists with unprecedented opportunities to showcase their work and connect with audiences globally, it has also created new challenges, such as managing online presence, combating plagiarism and copyright infringement, and navigating the complexities of online sales and marketing.

Social and Political Challenges: Artists often grapple with addressing social and political issues in their work, navigating censorship, criticism, and backlash, while also striving to create meaningful and impactful art that resonates with diverse audiences.

Mental Health and Well-being: The solitary nature of artistic practice, coupled with the pressures of self-promotion, rejection, and financial insecurity, can take a toll on artists' mental health and well-being, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression.

Ultimately, it is all about finding the right people, whether it’s your audience, support, or resources. People are what factor into all of the above.

“Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations you are looking forward to?”

As a full-time student nearing graduation and balancing multiple part-time jobs, my schedule is currently quite demanding. However, I am excited about a few upcoming projects and potential collaborations that I have in the pipeline.

While these projects are still in the planning stages, I am eager to dive into them once I have more time and bandwidth available after completing my studies and managing my part-time commitments. Despite the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities, I am committed to pursuing my passion for art and embracing opportunities for growth, collaboration, and creative expression in the months ahead.

Revolutionizing Learning with FlashIQ: An Insight into its Creation and Impact An Interview with Hashim Farooq by Jordan Dill

Revolutionizing Learning with FlashIQ: An Insight into its Creation and Impact

An Interview with Hashim Farooq by Jordan Dill

Introduction:

Most students in their free time have to balance studying, work, and their social life imagine building an app and fitting it into your schedule. Well, can you imagine the vast amount of time it takes to create and develop an app? Today, I got to sit down with Brandon University senior business student Hashim Farooq as he discusses his app FlashIQ. From the moment he sat down, I could see he was just built different. Brimming with positivity and energy some could only hope to attain after 2-3 cups of coffee.

Interview Questions:

1. What was your Inspiration Behind Creating FlashIQ?

"The inspiration for creating FlashIQ came from my own experiences as a student," says Hashim Farooq. "I often found myself needing a more efficient and engaging way to learn and memorize complex concepts." This desire to enhance the learning experience led to the inception of FlashIQ, with a mission to make learning more interactive and accessible for everyone, especially in an academic setting.

2. What specific problems did you hope to Address and who were your target audience?

"FlashIQ tackles the challenge of retaining vast amounts of information efficiently," explains Farooq. "It helps students make their learning less overwhelming by breaking it down into parts." The app caters to students, professionals, and lifelong learners who need to memorize and recall information quickly. By incorporating spaced repetition, interactive flashcards, and multiple-choice tests, FlashIQ enhances memory retention and makes learning more engaging.

3. Can you describe the development and launch Process?

"The development of FlashIQ was a meticulous process that began with identifying key features and designing a user-friendly interface," Farooq details. "We utilized agile software development, with a focus on Swift for iOS development. This ensured that the app was robust and intuitive, with seamless interaction across all Apple devices." The launch involved beta testing to gather initial feedback, followed by a phased rollout to manage server loads and address any emerging issues.

4. Did you have any challenges During the Development stage?

Navigating the complexities of UI and UX optimization posed significant challenges during FlashIQ's development. "With educational apps like FlashIQ, it's crucial to prioritize intuitive design," Farooq remarks. "Balancing user engagement with educational value was also very tricky, as was ensuring seamless performance across different iOS devices."

5. What makes Flash IQ Different from other Apps?

"What sets FlashIQ apart from other educational apps is its comprehensive approach to learning," Farooq highlights. "We've combined spaced repetition, interactive elements, and multiple-choice tests to create a holistic learning experience." FlashIQ stands out through its personalized learning experience, offering a wider range of customizable flashcards, an easy-to-use UI, and the ability to add sketches and diagrams to flashcards for free.

6. What type of Feedback and Suggestions have you taken into consideration?

"The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the app's user interface and the effectiveness of the learning algorithm," Farooq shares. "We've incorporated suggestions such as more diverse flashcard topics and the ability to share flashcards with peers, enhancing the collaborative learning experience."

7. What Marketing Strategies have you used?

"We've used a mix of content marketing, social media engagement, and partnerships with educational institutions," Farooq explains. "The most successful strategy has been leveraging user testimonials and word-of-mouth referrals, as they authentically showcase the app's impact. While marketing efforts have been limited pre-revenue, we're focused on building a strong user base."

8. Is there a Monetization Plan in the future?

"Currently, FlashIQ operates on a freemium model," Farooq reveals. "Basic features are free, while advanced features, like AI card generation and text-to-speech, will require a subscription. We're exploring partnerships with schools and content collaborations as additional revenue streams."

9. Are there any Future Updates or Features coming soon?

"We're planning to integrate AI-driven personal tutors and expand our content to cover more subjects," Farooq discloses. "Also in the pipeline is a feature that allows users to create and share their own flashcard sets with the community. Additionally, we're working on allowing students to register with a university course so that professors could share study sets and notes, similar to TopHat. The future of AI in education is bright, with the potential to cater to each individual student and their learning style."

10. Do you have any Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs or App Developers?

"My advice would be to thoroughly research your target market and continuously engage with your users for feedback," Farooq advises. "If you want to start building something, whether it be an app or a business, the hardest part is starting. Start with what you know and what you have. Stay flexible and ready to pivot if needed, and don't underestimate the importance of a solid marketing strategy. Most importantly, be passionate about your idea and resilient in the face of challenges."

In conclusion, FlashIQ represents a paradigm shift in the way we approach learning. By leveraging technology to enhance memory retention and engagement, Hashim Farooq, a senior of Brandon University, has created a tool that empowers students and lifelong learners alike. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, FlashIQ has amazing potential to shape the future of learning one flashcard at a time.

A Look Back in Music History Miles Davis: The Birth of the “Cool” by Hannah Hiebert

A Look Back in Music History

Miles Davis: The Birth of the “Cool”

by Hannah Hiebert

Welcome to the “Music History” column! In this column we are going to briefly discuss one of the most distinguished and influential jazz musicians of the twentieth century. Allow me to introduce you to Miles Davis!

A trumpeter, band leader, and composer all in one, Davis was at the forefront of nearly every major development in jazz from World War 2 all the way up to the 1990s. He was partially responsible for the creation of modal jazz, which in turn allowed for “jazz fusion” to arise from his work alongside other musicians during the late 1960s and into the early 1970s. It was Davis’s send recordings, along with live performances of his many influential bands, that lead to the acceptance of jazz as music with long-lasting artistic value.

Between 1950 and 1955, Davis primarily recorded music as a leader for Prestige Records and Blue Note records within a wide range of small-group settings. Around this time, Davis was heavily influenced by pianist Ahmad Jamal, whose style greatly contrasted with the often “busy” sound of what was then referred to as BeBop. Davis would then go on to frequently play in the jazz clubs of New York.

After overcoming addiction, Davis created a series of important recordings for Prestige Records in 1954 that could later be collected on albums including: “Bags Groove, Miles Davis and the Modern Jazz Giants”, and also, “Walkin”. It was around this time that Davis began to use the Hermon mute to darken the timbre of his trumpet. It was this very trumpet tone that would be associated with Davis throughout the duration of his career. By 1955, Davis successfully formed his first incarnation of the renowned, “Miles Davis Quintet”. The first recordings of the group were made for Columbia Records and would later be released on “‘Round About Midnight”. Even in the present day, the Miles Davis Quintet is often recognized as one of the greatest musical groups in the history of jazz.

Much later in his life, Davis would continue touring with a band of constantly changing personnel and critical stock at a higher level than it ever had been before. His last recordings were the hip-hop influenced studio albums “Doo-Bop” and “Miles and Quincy Live at Montreux”, a collaboration done with Quincy Jones himself for the 1991 Montreux Jazz Festival. It was here that Davis would perform repertoire from this classic 1960s recordings for the first time in decades.

Miles Davis’s music is still held in high regard by jazz musicians in the present day. His music would go on to be learned and performed by high school jazz bands, small jazz ensembles, and would forever be remembered as, “The Birth of the ‘Cool’”.

Source for Research Provided by: “NewWorldEncyclopedia.org”

Pain in Black by Zen

Yet again, a soul taken away Why ?

Because of the colour of his skin?

Because of the chances he was never given ? A young man lost his life

For being an immigrant?

For struggling with his mental?

For being young?

A young man's fate, in injustice, lies. No questions asked, 3 shots to dead

“We serve to protect” they solemnly claim

But you took a man too soon from the bosom of the arms he fled for for a better life “We are one”

Lies unfold , as a black man’s life goes cold.

Verses on Embracing Life's Lessons Mahé Rabesa

Renaissance

Lying on the ground I watch the stars 

If they fall I'll be there to swallow them

You'll taste their sweetness when you kiss me one last time 

Before the sea rips everything away, the waves wash away what's left of us 

Don't worry the wind of the golden storm will blow away all your failures 

The ones you don't dare say out loud

The ones you hide in the pit of your stomach 

They'll follow you until daybreak

 

And you take them by the hand and expose them to the light

You will understand that they are the reason you are who you are today

We don't attach ourselves to victory, ideas or freedom

We make them bloom like annuals so they come back every year 

We learn to fall low, to crawl, to tie ourselves down to get up again 

For it's with sadness that today nothing is more important than watching the pixels go by

Endlessly, ceaselessly, hungrily you eat to soothe yourself

With information, notifications and beautiful illusions 

Feeding your anxiety and depression

So, very disappointed with what I've taken from us 

No exchange or refund 

Unchanged by change 

Continue to grow without changing our clothes 

So, perhaps reinvented in our size

Well-fitted, made-to-measure, clinging to our skin 

So that we never cease to reborn

 

In more beautiful forms that only night can hide 

And turn your curves into fleeting shadows 

 

You run or you walk straight

No detours, no delays

You've been given no choice

Stop not knowing what you're doing

Like a point of no return 

And good-byes again 

Through faded flowers and salty tears 

In the garden of forgotten souls

Enchanté, I never found myself there

You always end up back to the first square

Mother Earth

Even from the top of the world, you could not see 

And as we keep moving away

But can’t go anywhere because of those chains 

You should have looked at me 

And it is too late now

The rain started to fall

She is running way faster than you

She is carrying all the complains

All the screams that echo in the air

It is not like we can’t see each other

The wind didn’t warn you

He's a liar anyway

Keep the shouting

The rose never stays long on the grass

It is not because I’m tall

It is because no one listens carefully

You never heard

The river breath out its last breath

You never listened to the colours all around

You just listened to the snow hurt and rocks 

                                                                Revolution 

We are old now

We can have this conversation

Or walk away without ever being understood

I do not want to hide anymore

Please, let me raise the flag

And, if I had told you that they were always there? 

If I had said to you that I was never angry?

That the volcano deep inside me was already extinct 

The water would be clearer

Did I ever say that I wanted to be         with you?

                                                      alone

J. Cole’s “Middle Child” Achieves Monumental Success by Olorunfemi Gbenga

In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, achieving platinum status is a significant milestone that only a select few artists can claim. However, J. Cole’s “Middle Child” has surpassed even these lofty expectations, reaching an extraordinary 9 times platinum. This article will delve into the journey of “Middle Child,” exploring the factors that contributed to its

success and the impact it has had on J. Cole’s career. Released on January 23, 2019, “Middle Child” emerged as the lead single for J. Cole’s Dreamville compilation album, “Revenge of the Dreamers III.” Produced by T-Minus, the song quickly gained traction for its catchy beat, insightful lyrics, and J. Cole’s distinctive delivery. The track addresses J. Cole’s position in the

rap industry, encapsulating the essence of being the “middle child” between the old and new generations of hip-hop. “Middle Child” didn’t take long to make its mark on the charts. Debuting

at number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, the single showcased J. Cole’s ability to create commercially successful music without sacrificing his lyrical prowess. Its staying power was

evident as it continued to climb, eventually peaking at number 4 on the chart. The critical

reception mirrored the song’s commercial success. Critics praised J. Cole’s introspective lyrics, citing his adept storytelling and social commentary. The track resonated with audiences, earning

J. Cole newfound respect as a rapper who could balance mainstream appeal with artistic

integrity.

“Middle Child” not only benefited from J. Cole’s individual star power but also from the

collaborative efforts of Dreamville, the record label founded by J. Cole himself. The song was a

key component of the “Revenge of the Dreamers III” compilation album, a project that

showcased the talent within the Dreamville roster and featured collaborations with a diverse

array of artists. The album’s success served to elevate “Middle Child” further, as fans of other

featured artists discovered the single through the compilation. This collaborative approach not

only propelled J. Cole’s career but also solidified Dreamville as a powerhouse in the hip-hop industry. One of the reasons behind “Middle Child”’s widespread appeal is its thematic depth. J.

Cole, known for his introspective and socially conscious lyrics, uses the song to comment on his

position as a bridge between the older and newer generations of hip-hop. The struggles of being

caught in the middle, seeking validation from both sides, resonated with listeners facing similar

challenges in their own lives. The relatability of “Middle Child” contributed to its longevity on the charts and its enduring popularity. Fans found solace in the fact that even a successful artist

like J. Cole faces internal and external conflicts, adding a layer of authenticity to the track that

transcended traditional hip-hop narratives.

Accompanying the track was a visually striking music video that further enhanced its

impact. Directed by Mez, the video complemented the song’s themes, featuring symbolic

imagery and cinematic storytelling. The visual representation of J. Cole’s journey added another

dimension to the overall experience, making “Middle Child” a memorable and complete artistic

package. In the digital age, streaming numbers are a significant indicator of a song’s popularity.

“Middle Child” dominated streaming platforms, amassing millions of plays across platforms like

Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. The accessibility of the song on these platforms contributed

to its widespread reach, ensuring that fans worldwide could easily engage with and share the track. Beyond its commercial success, “Middle Child” had a notable cultural impact. The song

became an anthem for those who felt overlooked or misunderstood, transcending its status as a

piece of entertainment to become a cultural touchstone. Memes, references, and social media

discussions further propelled the song into the public consciousness, solidifying its place in the

cultural zeitgeist. “Middle Child” marked a crucial point in J. Cole’s artistic evolution. While he

had already established himself as a respected rapper, the success of this single displayed his

ability to navigate the changing landscape of hip-hop without compromising his authenticity.

“Middle Child”’s universal themes and relatable content demonstrated J. Cole’s growth as an artist who could connect with diverse audiences. The journey to 9 times platinum is a testament to the song’s popularity, and a reflection of the industry’s acknowledgment of its impact. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) awards platinum certifications based on a combination of sales and streaming numbers, making “Middle Child”’s 9x platinum status a rare achievement that underscores its enduring appeal.

J. Cole’s “Middle Child” stands as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and

the ability to bridge generational gaps within the hip-hop landscape. Its journey from the lead

single on a compilation album to 9 times platinum is a remarkable feat that reflects not only the

song’s inherent quality but also J. Cole’s strategic approach to music-making and his impact on

broader culture. As “Middle Child” continues to resonate with audiences, it serves as a blueprint

for artists navigating the complexities of the modern music industry while staying true to their

artistic vision.

Discovering the Charms of Brandon, Manitoba: A Guide to Fun Things to Do

As the winter season blankets Brandon, Manitoba in a fresh, white coat of snow, it’s easy to be enticed by the warmth of your own house and the attraction of TV. The season’s chill, however, does not have to force you to hibernate. While winter has arrived, it also comes with its a lot of entertaining activities that will remove the thought of remaining inside. There is no reason to spend the long winter months watching the TV. Even when the landscape is blanketed in snow, there are several ways to embrace the season and make the most of the icy paradise in Brandon. In this guide, we’ll look at a variety of interesting activities to do in Brandon during the winter to ensure you get the most out of the season’s beauty and excitement. So, bundle up and head outside, because Brandon is bursting with winter adventures that will have you yearning for more chilly days and starry nights. Here is a comprehensive guide to the fun things you can do in Brandon.

The Daly House Museum: To delve into Brandon’s history, make your way to The Daly House Museum. This historic house has been transformed into a museum that offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s past. Explore the carefully preserved rooms, each of which tells a unique story about Brandon and its residents.

Art Galleries Abound: Art lovers, rejoice! Brandon is home to various art galleries, including the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba. Local and modern art shows provide a cultural flavour to your visit. The city’s artistic scene is alive and thriving, and the galleries provide a venue for them to present their work.

Sample Local Flavours at Restaurants and Cafes: Brandon, like any other city, has a distinct culinary scene. The city’s food scene is a delightful adventure waiting to be savoured, with charming cafes serving aromatic coffees and fresh pastries to upscale restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines. Try local specialties or international dishes; there are plenty of options, and you won’t be disappointed.

Experience Cultural Events: Brandon’s cultural events are also centred in the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium. Check the schedule for upcoming concerts, theater performances, and other artistic events. Brandon’s art and cultural scene is diverse and rich, and seeing a live performance is an excellent way to appreciate it.

Ice Skating: Put on your skates and head to one of the city’s many ice rinks for some traditional winter fun.

Winter Photography: Capture the arousing beauty of Brandon’s winterscapes. The snow-covered landscape makes for stunning photography.

Ice Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, ice fishing on frozen lakes is a thrilling way to spend a winter day.

Snowshoeing: For a peaceful winter hike, grab some snowshoes and explore the snow-covered landscapes.

Skiing and Snowboarding: While Brandon does not have any ski hills, you can plan a day trip to nearby ski resorts such as the Asessippi Ski Area and Resort.

Brandon Hills Wildlife Management Area: Nature lovers can escape the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting the Brandon Hills Wildlife Management Area. This sanctuary provides excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the area’s tranquil beauty.

All four seasons are prosperous in Brandon, Manitoba. Regardless of the season, this destination has something to offer everyone thanks to its rich history, dynamic cultural scene, and breathtaking natural settings. To make the most of your trip to this enchanting city, whether you’re a visitor or a local, don’t pass up the chance to find Brandon’s hidden treasures.

A Fresh Life for a Historical Giant: The Impact of the Revitalization of the McKenzie Seeds Building on BU Students

The brick giant silhouetted against Brandon’s skyline has presided over the city for over a century. The building’s story is one deeply engrained in Brandon’s community, as well as Brandon University itself. A. E. McKenzie and his family moved to Brandon in 1882 when he was twelve years old. He took over his father’s seed and grain business in 1896 and started selling garden seeds, quickly growing the company to over one-hundred employees here in Brandon. He needed a space to house his growing company, and an office building was constructed in 1910 that still stands today next to the 1918 addition we recognize as the second tallest building in our city. With his success, McKenzie provided a large endowment to Brandon University (then Brandon College) in 1939 and the university’s “McKenzie Building” was named in his honour. McKenzie’s company still exists to this day, but they moved from the historical site in downtown to their new building on Parker Boulevard in 2008. The company’s former building has sat vacant ever since… until now.

In the middle of October, a new company called Brandon Fresh Farms announced their plan to invest $30 million to restore the historical McKenzie Seeds building into a controlled environment agricultural farm. Brandon Farm Fresh is anticipated to employ twenty to thirty-seven full-time and twenty-five to eighty part time employees to produce a variety of fresh produce year-round. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and herbs are the main plants they intend to grow. The produce will be sold directly to the community, and overflow will be sent to local grocery stores and food banks. The company is set to officially open its operations to the public in 2025.

Just as the McKenzie seeds company helped the university all those years ago, Brandon Farm Fresh will benefit our students here at BU. The first prospect the project will bring to our students is the opportunity for jobs. Current students pursuing certain science degrees, like biology, might find it interesting and helpful to work a part-time position at the artificial farm for experience relevant to their field of study. Furthermore, the company’s full-time positions will provide an opportunity for our graduating students to find permanent work in Brandon instead of being forced to move to Winnipeg or other provinces to pursue their desired career.

Additionally, the project could help revitalize our city’s downtown area. In a previous Quill article, junior reporter Abdul Nadeem Myireh wrote about how we as students can help revitalize our downtown by supporting businesses in the area. Brandon Farm Fresh will be one of these businesses. If they are supported and manage to run a successful business in downtown, other businesses will look to them as a leading example. More companies might buy older or historical buildings in our downtown and give them new life, in addition to diversifying Brandon’s downtown community.

The largest impact, however, of Brandon Farm Fresh’s project to BU students is that of the student diet. We all know Harvest Hall can be… unreliable… at times, when it comes to offering a nutritious meal. Additionally, the skyrocketing grocery prices deter students, both searching for food outside of Harvest Hall and those renting apartments or houses, from the fresh produce aisles of our grocery stores. The artificial agricultural farm could change this, as one of their plans is to make fresh produce more affordable for the citizens of Brandon. The project could provide an opportunity for students to add healthier foods into their diets for a cheaper cost, and a healthier diet will give students more motivation and clearer thoughts to properly thrive in the university environment.

As promising as the project is, the McKenzie Seeds building is notorious for creating false hope within the community. While Brandon Farm Fresh’s project would certainly revolutionize the city and help our students – with the new economic prospects and the potential to help in the revitalization of downtown – the deal has not been completely finalized yet. If Brandon Farm Fresh’s project is followed through to completion, we as students can be the first to show our support and ensure the project is a success that helps our community, and students, flourish.

All of the historical information for this article came from Historic Sites of Manitoba: A. E. McKenzie Building (30 Ninth Street, Brandon) (mhs.mb.ca), and the information about Brandon Farm Fresh came from the Brandon Sun’s article BFF plans $30M McKenzie Seeds building overhaul – Brandon Sun

J. Cole’s “The Off-Season” (and the Quenchless Thirst for “The Fall Off”)

J. Cole is a legend in the field of contemporary hip-hop, and his mastery of the lyric and his insightful narrative have caught the ears of his listeners all around the world. His sixth studio album, “The Off-Season,” which was released in May 2021, was evidence of his work as a musician and explored themes of achievement, aspiration, and personal development. Fans were astounded by the lyrical genius of “The Off-Season.” It was not just about enjoying the now; it was also about longing for the future. I am going to take a tour of some of my best songs and features in “The Off-Season,” exploring the lyrical depths of J. Cole’s talent. We also investigate the mystery surrounding his forthcoming project, “The Fall Off.” With no release date in sight, “The Fall Off” has developed into an intriguing masterpiece-in-the-making, igniting curiosity and expectation among his uneasy fan base and the music industry at large.

“The Off-Season”

J. Cole’s “The Off-Season” debuted with a sense of expectation, which is evidence of the rapper’s extraordinary talent and reliability. This 12-track album by J. Cole is a poetic triumph, exhibiting his narrative skills and deep wordplay. It reflects his experience in the music business, his fame, and the difficulties he has faced. The remarkable listing of guest performers on “The Off-Season” is one of its best qualities. Although J. Cole frequently takes a more solo-focused approach in his projects, he purposefully incorporated partnerships with some of the industry’s biggest names to give diversity and depth to the album. The following are some standout artists to me:

21 Savage: 21 Savage joins J. Cole on the song “My Life,” contributing a verse that goes well with Cole’s reflective examination of fame and accomplishment. This record stands out on the album because of the two performers’ chemistry.

Lil Baby: The song “Pride is the Devil” includes Lil Baby, giving the album a more modern feel. The power of the song is increased by Lil Baby’s appearance as it addresses themes of ego and the dangers of success in the music industry.

Diddy: Diddy an unexpected collaboration, Diddy contributes to the album’s reflective and inspirational outro, “Let Go My Hand.” His wise words have a lasting impact, and serve as a perfect climax to J. Cole’s inner journey.

So, there you go, these are my best features on the album.

“The Fall Off”: Anticipation Builds with No Release Date

While “The Off-Season” has wowed his fans with its lyrical skill and musical brilliance, it also eagers the wait to the much-awaited project, “The Fall Off.” Since J. Cole has been hyping “The Fall Off” for a while now, like in Drakes’ new album that just dropped a few days ago titled “For all the Dogs.” J. Cole said, and I quote, “I’m naming the album the fall off - it’s pretty iconic because it ain’t no fall of me.” Such lyrical brilliance. This is one of many features he has been on for a year or two now. Excitement for this album is at an all-time high. The absence of a release date is one of the distinctive features of the excitement surrounding “The Fall Off”. This vagueness has been skillfully used by J. Cole to create suspense and mystery. He has cultivated a sense of mystery and anticipation that is uncommon in the era of immediate satisfaction, by keeping fans in the dark about when the album will be released. J. Cole’s strategy for “The Fall Off” stands out in an era of unexpected album releases and highly planned marketing campaigns. He has decided to depend on the rapport he has established with his fan base over the years and let the music speak for itself. The anticipation for “The Fall Off” to hit the ear of his fanbase has only grown due to this technique.

The Expectations for “The Fall Off”

The expectation for “The Fall Off” is not just based on its ambiguous release date; it is also based on J. Cole’s track record for producing music that is both thought-provoking and emotionally impactful. He has shown that his poetic skill is as bright as ever with “The Off-Season,” raising the bar for his subsequent work of art. Both fans and critics anticipate “The Fall

Off” to uphold J. Cole’s legacy of superb storytelling. They predict that he will reflect on fame, prosperity, and the social themes that have long been a mainstay of his songs, going even farther into his personal journey.

Additionally, the lack of a release date has given J. Cole the freedom to complete the album at his own speed, guaranteeing that the finished result will live up to his expectation. “The Fall Off” is expected to have big societal influence and musical aspirations. J. Cole has made a name for himself as an advocate for social and political issues, and his capacity to successfully blend conscious rap with mass appeal has the power to start meaningful debates and effect change.

Conclusion: The Unparalleled Anticipation for J. Cole’s “The Fall Off”

In addition to establishing J. Cole as one of the rap game’s most talented lyricists, “The Off-Season” acted as a drawing forerunner to “The Fall Off.” “The Off-Season” was a poetic masterpiece that left listeners craving more because of its outstanding qualities and reflective themes. The anticipation for “The Fall Off” is unlike anything in the music business in recent years. Fans are on the edge of their seats as a result of J. Cole’s cryptic approach to the album’s release date, which has injected a sense of anticipation. Expectations are skyrocketing for what seems to be another remarkable chapter in J. Cole’s illustrious career since “The Off-Season” set the bar so high. When “The Fall Off” is released, it will undoubtedly have a profound impact on hip-hop and beyond, cementing J. Cole’s reputation as one of

the best musicians of his age.

Album Review: Pretenders – “Relentless”

When a band names their album “Relentless”, the last thing one would expect to be is bored. Sadly, however, the latest album by renowned 80’s rock group The Pretenders defies expectations by containing some of the blandest rock music I’ve heard in a long time.

The album starts inoffensively enough with “Losing My Sense of Taste”, a somewhat grungy number containing a pair of rather decent guitar solos. The vocals sound somewhat flat, but that’s to be somewhat expected considering lead singer Chrisse Hynde turned 72 last month. In any case, the second track, “A Love” is a noticeable improvement, with Hynde’s vocals fitting better with the Smiths-esque instrumentation.

The song “Domestic Silence”, while featuring a pretty good riff, also features lyrics that are far less clever than they think they are (“Domestic silence comes in many places”) and a guitar solo so tepid and underwhelming I would have preferred if they hadn’t even bothered. “The Copa” is where the album really starts to drag, combining yawn-inducing adult contemporary musicianship with flowery, melodramatic lyrics (“You're long blond in hair of heavy salty sea / A curtain when it closed over and above me.”).

Writing-wise, “The Promise of Love” is an improvement over the previous track, but is let down by a glaring distortion during the choruses which I highly doubt to be intentional. Thankfully, the next track, “Merry Widow” is actually rather decent, being a psychedelic rock track with a sound similar to something The Doors would’ve put out, especially during the coda. There are some production-related gripes that I have with the song (The drums sound rather flat, and there is some slight audio clipping), but they’re nowhere near as bad as they were in the previous song. 

“Let The Sun Come In” is another success as far as I’m concerned, boasting a nice, thick-sounding bassline and the best chorus on the whole album. Unfortunately, the album dives right back into mediocrity with “Look Away”, another dull piece of fodder for coffee shop playlists that sounds as if it were written to be sung by someone a few decades younger. The next two tracks, “Your House is On Fire” and “Just Let It Go”, continue this trend, but come off as being slightly more interesting due to trip-hop-inspired production and a well-executed guitar solo by James Walbourne respectively.

11 tracks into this 12-track long album, “Vainglorious” finally delivers the high-energy rock sound that one would expect from the album when looking at the title and cover. That’s not the say that the song is very good, mind you, as it features one of the lousiest excuses for a chorus I’ve heard in a good while. Luckily, it seems that The Pretenders believe in saving the best for last, as “I Think About You Daily” is miles above everything that came before it. The combination of Chrisse Hynde’s delicate vocals and a dizzyingly gorgeous string section conducted by Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood fit perfectly for the song, an ode to a lost love. One can only imagine what this album would’ve been like had they put this much effort into the other songs.

Similar to Throbbing Gristle’s “20 Jazz Funk Greats”, the title of this album comes off as a cruel joke, with the key difference that one album is a seminal, genre-defining work, while the other comes off for the most part like a band going through the motions in order to keep the lights on. Even the cover seems like something that was thrown together in two hours at most. In the end, with the exception of the excellent closer, this is an album so mediocre that I can’t even bother getting upset at it, since I’ll probably have forgotten everything about it within a week.

5/10

Agnes’ Gmail - Part 2

A fictional piece by James Waugh

Missed the first part of the story? You can read it in Issue 5!

April 23, 2006

Dear Jess,

Last night was our first night home from the hospital. I haven’t slept since before I went into labour. I haven’t eaten either, but my appetite hasn’t returned yet. Michael almost never puts Rosemary down and I don’t mind, I’m so exhausted that I’m scared I’d drop her. I hardly ever hold her except to feed her, I can’t handle it for much longer than that. I just get this pit in my stomach when I look at her. God, that’s an awful thing to say, but it’s true. She’s so small and delicate and beautiful and I know she’s a blessing but when she grabs my finger with her tiny hand it feels like I’m being choked. I feel a dread so deep I forget how to breathe. I don’t know how to tell Michael. He’s on cloud 9 right now, I don’t think anything I could say would bring him down.

I’m writing this at 2 am because every time I feel myself drifting off, I jerk myself awake again. If not that, it’s Rosemary crying. Michael always gets up, he says I need to stay off my feet. Even when I tell him I’ve been lying awake and volunteer to fight all my instincts and check on her, he insists on checking on her. I can’t describe how thankful I am that he feels this connection. One of us has to. I’m still in a lot of pain. I have a year’s supply of pain meds, but I don’t like how they make me feel so I use them sparingly. I took these when I had my wisdom teeth taken out and they did the same thing back then. They give me horrible dreams. I’m always fighting with someone I love. Usually in a shopping centre. Occasionally the monkeys from The Wizard of Oz are there. My own personal hell.

I told Michael that I think there’s something wrong with my stitches. He seemed concerned, but he suggested it’s best that I just stay off my feet and heal for a bit longer. I suppose it’s been less than 48 hours, so maybe I’m being too quick to judge, but I’m really starting to get nervous. Do you think it’s too early to go back to the doctor? I’ll ask Michael what he thinks in the morning. I can hear him coming back to bed. Goodnight Jess.

I love you,

Agnes

April 23, 2006

Oh Aggie,

Don’t use your computer that late at night, it’s bad for your eyes! You poor soul, have you tried passionflower and skullcap? It’s all natural so it shouldn’t give you any problems. If that doesn’t work, just pop a valium, that should knock you out. You did ask for valium, right? To share with your cool sister? What are your pills called, anyways? I’ll Google them at the library next time I drop off my books, maybe they’re interacting with something else you take. What meds have you been on since getting your wisdom teeth out? I don’t think it’s too early to go to the doctor, but I also think Michael has a point about staying off your feet. Maybe you can get your OB on the phone and chat about it. You know how I feel about hospitals. If I were you, I wouldn’t go unless I was bleeding out. Maybe you’d feel better if you ate something. I’m sure you don’t even want to think about it, but I’m sure it will help. You can’t heal on an empty stomach!

I’m so glad Michael is there for you. He’s always been so kind and helpful, I can’t imagine you having a child with anyone else. Have you told him about your dreams? Maybe if you talk about them, you won’t feel as scared when they happen. I write my dreams down as soon as I wake up. Sometimes they’re too good to forget, but when they’re bad, I write them down so I can get it out of my head for the day. Maybe I’ll buy you a journal for Christmas instead, a nice leather-bound one, like Dad’s. I’m surprised Michael has been sleeping at all, I know how excited he must be to finally be a dad! It seems like this was his primary goal in life, it’s no wonder he wants to spend so much time with her. If you truly feel that strongly about not being around Rosemary, I think it’s best for Michael to take the lead with her right now. Once you finally get some sleep and start to recuperate, you’ll start to see Rosemary differently. It’s okay that you're feeling this way Aggie, lots of women go through this kind of stuff. You can reach out to your doctor if you ever need help. Plus, you know Michael and I will always be here.

Much love,

Jessica

Agnes’ Gmail is a fictional piece, taking the form of emails, by James Waugh. Instalments will be published every 2 weeks

April 20, 2006:

Dear Jess,

Today I gave birth to our angel, a beautiful baby girl, 6 lbs and 12 oz. We named her

Rosemary, after Michael’s grandmother. I was in labour for 16 hours, but I’m sure time stopped

the moment we stepped into the hospital. Michael says I had something called a “perineal

tear.” I was pretty out of it, so Michael okayed the doctor to stitch me back up. Apparently, that

happens all the time.

I know we saw that horrible video in health class, but I still felt so unprepared to actually

go through it. My OBGYN walked me through what to do when my water broke months ago,

but she didn’t warn me at all about dealing with the doctors and nurses. I swear they were all

staring at me as I waddled my way through the halls to the delivery room, but I couldn’t quite

tell. When we arrived, there was a doctor that I didn’t recognize, but Michael seemed to know

him. They shook hands and helped me get onto the bed. As a nurse gave me the epidural (the

needle is almost scarier than labour itself), I asked where my OB was, but I don’t recall getting

an answer. I think I was in and out of consciousness the whole time. The doctor whose name I

still don’t remember said that was normal, and that he and his team took good care of me while

I was out. Michael said they talked golf nearly the whole time, I don’t remember it too clearly

but that certainly sounds like him.

Rosemary is healthy, she didn’t just cry right away, she wailed. You said I would feel

better when she was finally born, so why don’t I? Linda from prenatal yoga, which I still think is

stupid no matter how many classes you gift me for Christmas by the way, says she felt all her

doubts fall away the moment she held her son for the first time, but I didn’t have that moment.

I wish we could trade places; you would be a million times the mother I will ever be. How about

you be mom, and I’ll be cool Auntie Aggie? I’m still in a lot of pain, sorry if this email is a short

one. I miss you and I hope to God I can see you again soon.

Love you lots,

Agnes

April 21, 2006:

Agnes please!

You didn’t even tell me you were going into labour! I could kill you, I told you to keep

me up to date! I googled that tear thing, and it looks nasty, now I have to go bleach my eyes. I

hope yours wasn’t as bad as that lady’s! Anyways, I’m so glad to hear Rosemary is doing well,

that is such a beautiful name. Michael must be just over the moon, he’s been looking forward

to this for so long. You both were. Which one of you does she look more like? Or does she look

like her stunningly beautiful aunt?

I’m sorry you had such a rough time at the hospital. Were they out of wheelchairs or

did they just want to glare at you while you walked? Nurses can be so nasty sometimes. Do you

remember Natalie from high school? She moved to Saskatchewan and became a nurse; she’s

always complaining about patients on Facebook, I’m tempted to report her to her boss but that

might be too petty, even for me. Hopefully the nurse who gave you the epidural was nicer than

her, but even if she wasn’t, at least she was giving you drugs! I’m glad to hear that Michael got

along with the delivery team, I know how jittery he gets when he has no one to talk to. Maybe

it’s for the best that your regular OBGYN wasn’t there, he was always complaining that she was

too pushy.

As for all your worries, don’t say those things about yourself! You are going to be the

best mother in the world, I have the utmost confidence in you. Just think of how Mom and Dad

did it and then adjust accordingly, plus you have Michael to help keep your head on straight.

Maybe I’ll get you a postnatal yoga class this Christmas, it sounds like Linda could be a good

source of motherly advice. I don’t care if you think they’re stupid, it’s good for you! If you keep

trying it, you’ll get your pre-baby body back in no time! Also, there’s no way we’re switching

spots, I’m nowhere near ready to be a mom. I can hardly remember what I had for breakfast

yesterday, how am I supposed to teach a baby how to read? I love the three of you so much

and I can’t wait to finally meet your little sweetheart.

Talk to you soon!

Jessica

P.S. Sherman says thank you for the catnip <3

Album Review: The Chemical Brothers – “For That Beautiful Feeling”

As they are today, The Chemical Brothers are a group that are best described as a nostalgia act, rising to fame amidst the rave culture of the late 90s, fading from popularity in the 2000s, and spending the 2010s attempting to adapt to modern tastes to varying degrees of success. It’s from this mindset that “For That Beautiful Feeling” was created, a summer party album that they decided to release in September for some unknown reason.

Following a minute-long intro track consisting of distorted vocals over a bland drumbeat, “Live Again”, the first real song of the album begins. A collaboration with French Pop singer Halo Maud, what could have been a potentially decent song is let down by the presence of a conspicuously offbeat and off-key vocal sample that plays throughout much of the song. The trend of potentially decent tracks being ruined by one bad creative decision continues on the album’s lead single, “No Reason”, a dark, funky track that falls apart halfway through when they introduce a synth sound so uninspired that I’d be shocked to find out it wasn’t an unaltered keyboard preset.

Fortunately, it is at this point that the album momentarily begins to build some steam. “Goodbye” is a whirlwind of haunting, organ-like keys and buzzsaw synths that build up to a great drum fill, “Fountains” combines a pounding beat reminiscent of 2000’s ringtone rap with a fantastic Rick Wakeman-esque keyboard solo, and “Magic Wand”, while feeling somewhat incomplete in both production and structure, is short enough not to be too irritating. By far the best song on the album (and not coincidentally, the most reminiscent of their early work) is “The Weight”, a blood-pumping, upbeat number whose clean, funky bass, dreamy saxophone breakdown, and suspenseful lyrics (“Who's gonna take the weight? Who's gonna take the blame?”) invoke images of a 70s crime drama akin to the ones parodied by the Beastie Boys in their video to “Sabotage”.

Shockingly, directly after this comes the worst song on the album. “Skipping Like A Stone”, a collaboration with fellow 90s has-been Beck, is as bland of a dance track as you could possibly come by. You’d probably get the same experience listening to white noise for four minutes as you would listening to this song. I was convinced it was placed on the album solely to placate the record label’s demand for a radio-friendly single, but the following track, “The Darkness That You Fear (Harvest Mix)”, fits that role perfectly while also avoiding sounding soulless and devoid of passion, leading one to wonder what the point of including the track on the album even is.

“Feels like I’m Dreaming” is somewhat of a return to form, featuring an intense, glitchy breakdown and production that comes off as a midpoint between 90s and modern dance music, although I did find the chorus to be slightly annoying. The last track, “For That Beautiful Feeling” features Halo Maud again over sparse instrumentation that builds up throughout the song before reaching a disappointing climax that comes off as a half-baked attempt at imitating M83.

“For That Beautiful Feeling” comes off as The Chemical Brothers trying to be something that they’re not. Tracks like “Fountains” and “The Weight” Prove that the duo could likely put out another album on the level of their first four if they really wanted to, but as it is, they seem to be more preoccupied with chasing trends in a desperate attempt to recapture the stardom they enjoyed in the 90s.

6/10

My Top Ten Sitcoms

Tie your shoe laces, knot your ties, and maybe even mow your lawn, because today I’ll be doing one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. Like, I have seen the eye of the tornado and engaged in a staring contest with it, I have drank larva because I was so thirsty and I have beaten Barry Allen in a racing contest but what I am about to do will go down as one of the hardest things I've ever done. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am about to reveal my top 10 sitcoms. I know…I know…who is this guy? I’ll tell you who I am. My name is Charles Adamu, and I am a lover of TV shows. I could try to explain to you how much I love TV shows but I don’t want this article to span an infinite amount of pages. If you name it, I’ve watched it and if I haven’t, I’ll watch it. 

       TV shows have been a huge part of my life for the past 5 years and although some people might say watching Netflix is a waste of time, I hold a different thought. I think that TV shows have actually taught me a lot of things, and have given me a lot of lessons that hadn’t I watched those shows, experience would have taken the opportunity to be my teacher instead; and let’s be honest, although experience is the best teacher, it doesn’t usually let you go unscathed. Anyway, let’s get back on track here. There are a ton of genres when it comes to TV shows but today, I will be taking time out to name my top ten TV shows in the world of sitcoms. You know how in every family, every parent has a favorite sibling but they just never ever admit who that is. And the hardest question to ask that parent would be: Can you tell us who your favorite child is?

        Today, unfortunately, and painfully, I’ll be admitting to myself and to you all which one of my many children I love the most. Today, I’ll be dipping into my mind palace and picking those who are most loved by their parent. Today, I will be separating the “This was a good show” from the, “Oh my God, who wrote this.” Now before I go on, I would like to apologize to future readers of this article concerning the possibility that your favorite sitcom might not feature here. I am sorry and you should know that this is purely personal and I’m just being honest to myself and to you as well, so buckle your seat belts, wear your second sock, and turn off your headphones because here I go!

10. New Girl

    New girl! This sitcom like a lot of sitcoms, talks about the lives of a couple of characters finding their way through life. The series stars actress and singer Zooey Deschanel as Jessica Day (my favorite character in the series), an awkward and loving lady in her early twenties looking for a new place to live right after she finds out that her longtime boyfriend is cheating on her. Somehow, she meets three single guys who share an apartment and are looking for a fourth. The three guys: ridiculous Nick Miller (Jake Johnson), Schmidt (Max Greenfield), who thinks himself a womanizer, and athletic Winston Bishop (Lamorne Morris). And together, alongside the beautiful model, Cece (Hannah Simone) who was Jessica Day’s best friend, they navigate the ups and downs of life and love. Now in my experience, a lot of sitcoms don’t have a good ending. And by good, I don’t mean roses, smiles, and unicorns, I mean a well-written ending. New girl for me accomplishes that. Somehow, they found a pretty suitable ending and I was really pleased by this. Now I am not basing the series making my top ten on just a good ending but if you’ve seen a lot of TV shows like I have, you’d know that a well-written ending on TV is a rarity. Also, the characters in my opinion are really well developed and the character Jessica Day always made my day.

9. One Day At A Time

     My hats off to this series. Truth be told, I stumbled upon One Day At A Time. I was bored, I had nothing to watch and I was in the mood for laughs. I popped open my Netflix, scrolled through a couple of comedies, and for some reason, clicked on One Day At A Time and I couldn’t click pause till the fourth episode because I just could not believe that I had not watched it yet. I just couldn’t believe it! It shows three generations of the same Cuban-American family living in the same house: a newly divorced former military mother, her teenage daughter and teen son, and her old-school mother. Now here is the thing, with not so many scenes, not too many characters, and very thin popularity, One Day at a Time manages to tackle a whole lot of societal issues. Issues like addiction, sexism, self-identity, racism, immigration, drugs, sexuality, etc. So many issues were mentioned and somehow within the sensitivity of these issues, they still managed to make it incredibly funny. One Day At A Time is definitely an incredible watch and if you haven’t seen it, you should!

8. Modern Family

     Incredibly enough, I just watched Modern Family. The thing is, I didn’t have Disney Plus and I didn’t want to go to jail for using illegal sites so I lured my roommate into getting Disney Plus and somehow got him to give me a profile. I got into the humor of Modern Family right away! Modern Family. What do I love most about the show? The concept! The story is told from the perspective of an unseen documentary filmmaker.  The series offers an honest, often hilarious perspective of family life. Parents Phil and Claire yearn for an honest, open relationship with their three kids. But a daughter who is trying to grow up too fast, another who is way too smart for her own good, and a sometimes smart and sometimes not-so-smart young son make it challenging. Claire's dad, Jay, and his Latina wife, Gloria, are raising two sons together, but people sometimes believe Jay to be Gloria's father. Jay's gay son, Mitchell, and his partner, Cameron, have adopted a little Asian girl, completing one big -- straight, gay, multicultural, traditional -- happy family. Modern Family is a great way to pass the time and have good laughs. Some of their jokes were a bit intense, getting a tad close to boundaries of things like racism but in my opinion, they do not cross the line. Anyway, a lot of you have probably already seen Modern Family but if you haven’t, why haven’t you?

7. Black-ish

     Black-ish is probably one of the first five sitcoms I ever watched. The show follows an upper-class black family being led by Andre Johnson (Anthony Anderson) and his wife, Bow Johnson(Tracee Ellis Ross). In summary, the show reveals the struggle a black family undergoes in trying to gain and maintain a sense of cultural identity while living in a predominantly white neighborhood. I will say that black-ish is the type of show you watch during an academic session. You know all those times when there are just so many tests and assignments coming up and you just feel so exhausted, put on an episode of Black-ish and I bet you that you’ll be revived. Or even as a worker, maybe your boss gave you a hard time at the office and you just feel like you’re tolerance has been over-tested, put on an episode of Black-ish and watch how Andre Johnson’s pettiness, makes you forget about your boss.

6. The Office

     Speaking of offices, the sixth position on my list goes to “The Office”. The office is an incredible show. I’ll let you in on a secret: it took me trying to watch the show five times before I finally got into the humor. If you are a “The Office” fan, then you know it’s not like every sitcom; the humor is dark and unique, and it takes a keen sense of being able to tap into the humor to be able to actually enjoy the show. I’ll be honest, the first season was not too impressive but in the second season, I felt like they really got the ball rolling. The relationship and tension between Jim Halpert and Pam got me hooked. I just needed to know! Will they end up together or not?! And I was learning some steps on how to flirt with a receptionist. I mean, who knows? Also, I didn’t really like Michael Scott at first but I think he grows on you. You begin to see that he’s not totally a bad person. All in all, The Office is a show that I really would not have forgiven myself if I didn’t get to watch. Now I know I can’t ask each and every one of you reading this to try to watch it five times but give it a chance and I bet you that you’ll love it in the end. Most importantly, if you want to watch a show and go, “What the?!”, multiple times, then The Office is the way to go.

Okay…okay…okay, I know I promised that I’ll reveal my top ten today but I wasn’t entirely sincere. Today I’ll only be revealing to you my 10th-5th favorites and I’ll be saving “The Big Five” for my next article. It’s hard you know, I just told some of my children that they are not amongst my “Big Five”. I feel like I need some time to recover and redevelop the strength to rank my children once more. And with that said, I can(because I love writing), and cannot(because I hate ranking my kids) wait to reveal to you all the “Big Five” next week!

WELCOME TO BRANDON UNIVERSITY!

Welcome to all the International Students, the new academic year has begun! It may be a bit overwhelming, but you can do it. Throughout the course of the week, the BU staff has made it their mission to ensure all new students are comfortable and secure. As an international student, I know what it’s like being in a “strange” environment and struggling to adapt. Whether it’s the weather, the food or just how different the culture here is from back home. 

You are not alone! Brandon University is equipped with several resources that can help to keep you on track. Firstly, the Student Services department can help you in many areas. They can aid in your career planning, student advising as well as improving your skills in academic areas such as writing and math. I suggest utilizing these resources as it will make university life less stressful.

Speaking of stress, managing stress as an international student can be challenging due to the cultural and academic adjustments you may need to make. However, there are several effective strategies you can use to reduce stress and maintain your well-being:

Time Management:

  • Create a schedule or use a planner to organize your tasks and assignments.

  • Prioritize your work based on deadlines and importance.

  • Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Seek Support:

  • Build a support network of fellow international students, local students, and faculty.

  • Join clubs, organizations, or cultural groups to connect with like-minded individuals.

  • Don't hesitate to seek help from campus counseling services or support groups if you're struggling emotionally.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

  • Eat a balanced diet to fuel your body and mind.

  • Engage in regular physical activity to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

  • Get enough sleep to ensure your body and mind are well-rested.

(I recommend trying deep breathing exercises or yoga to reduce stress.)

Set Realistic Expectations:

  • Understand that it's normal to experience challenges when adapting to a new culture and academic environment.

  • Set achievable goals for yourself, both academically and personally.

  • Avoid comparing yourself to others.

Practice effective study methods:

  • Break your study sessions into shorter, focused blocks with regular breaks.

  • Use active learning techniques like summarizing, teaching others, or discussing the material with classmates.

  • Don't procrastinate! Start assignments and studying early to avoid last-minute stress.

Financial Management:(very important!)

  • Create a budget to manage your finances and avoid unnecessary stress related to money.

  • Explore scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and financial aid options.

Stay Connected with Family and Friends:

  • Regularly communicate with loved ones back home through calls, video chats, or messages.

Professional Help:

  • If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking the assistance of a mental health professional or counselor.

  • Brandon University offers counseling services to students.

Make Time for Yourself:

  • Dedicate time to do things you enjoy, whether it's a hobby, exploring your new surroundings, or simply relaxing.

  • Taking breaks is essential for recharging your mind and reducing stress.

(For me, I would go on solo dates at different places in Brandon, I highly recommend it!) 

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Remember that it's normal to feel stressed as an international student, especially when you first arrive. However, by adopting these strategies and seeking help when needed, you can effectively manage and reduce stress, making your academic journey more enjoyable and rewarding.

Additionally, the Office of International Activities has resources accessible to all international students. During “Orientation Week” the department has a series of events to aid in guiding students during their stay in Canada.

Personally, I am mostly excited for the Clear Lake trip but other sessions such as the SIN Clinic session and the IRCC Study/Work Permit Webinar are equally beneficial and would guide you as international students in Canada.