ANNIVERSARIES:
ANNIVERSARIES:
2 time Grammy® Winner Ricky Kej does India proud by securing a nomination for a 3rd Grammy® Award
Indian Music Composer and 2 time Grammy® Winner Ricky Kej has been nominated for a 3rd time. This time, Ricky Kej’s is nominated in the “Best Immersive Audio Album” category at the 65th Annual Grammy® Awards. The nominations were announced yesterday by the CEO of the Recording Academy, Harvey Mason Jr.
Ricky Kej’s previous Grammy® Award wins came in 2015 for his album ‘Winds of Samsara’. Based on the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, ‘Winds of Samsara’ was a runaway success and debuted at No.1 on the US Billboard New Age Albums chart, a first for a person of Indian origin. Ricky became the youngest Indian to have won a Grammy® Award, and only the 4th Indian. Ricky Kej won his second Grammy® Award in 2022 for his album Divine Tides, a collaboration with Rock Legend Stewart Copeland (from The Police). Ricky Kej is also an official UNICEF “Celebrity Supporter”, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) “Land Ambassador” and UNESCO MGIEP “Global Ambassador for Kindness”.
Featuring artists from around the world, the current Grammy® Nominated music album ‘Divine Tides’ is a tribute to the magnificence of our natural world and the resilience of our species. The album is nominated for its stunning Immersive Audio Mix, created by industry veterans Herbert Waltl and Eric Schilling. This critically acclaimed album has already won several awards at various festivals from around the world, including a Grammy® Award earlier this year, for Best New Age Album.
The 65th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony will be held on February 5th, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. The winners will be announced at this ceremony.
Visit www.DivineTidesMusic.com for further details
Quote from Grammy® Award Winner Ricky Kej:
“Absolutely thrilled to be nominated for a 3rd Grammy® Award! The album Divine Tides has been my most creative and successful album to date and I am honoured and humbled by the accolades it continues to receive. Stewart Copeland and I created Divine Tides as an immersive audio experience. We hoped to transport our audiences to beautiful places and emotions through our music, and this nomination for “Best Immersive Audio Album” validates all the hard work and love we have poured into Divine Tides”
About Ricky Kej
2 time Grammy® Award Winner & US Billboard #1 artist, GQ Hero 2020, Ricky Kej is an internationally renowned Indian Music Composer and Environmentalist. He has performed at prestigious venues in over 30 countries, including at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and Geneva. Ricky has won more than 100 music awards in over 20 countries. He has been Awarded "United Nations Global Humanitarian Artist" and is also the “Youth Icon of India". Ricky has been named as one of the 100 Real Leaders who 'Inspire the Future'. He is the UNESCO mgiep “Global Ambassador for Kindness”, UNCCD “Land Ambassador”, UNICEF “Celebrity Supporter” & Ambassador for “Earth Day Network”
About Stewart Copeland
Stewart Copeland is a 5 time Grammy® Award-winning American musician and composer. He is the founder and drummer of the British rock group ‘The Police’ who have sold over 75 million albums worldwide. According to MusicRadar, "Copeland's distinctive drum sound and unique style make him one of the most famous drummers ever behind the drum set". He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Police in 2003, the Modern Drummer's Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Classic Drummer's Hall of Fame in 2013. In 2016, Copeland was ranked in the top ten on Rolling Stone's "Greatest Drummers of All Time." He has also composed music for over 50 Hollywood movies including the Oscar winning film ‘Wall Street”.
About The Recording Academy
The Recording Academy represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. Dedicated to ensuring the recording arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, the Academy honors music's history while investing in its future through the GRAMMY Museum®, advocates on behalf of music creators, supports music people in times of need through MusiCares®, and celebrates artistic excellence through the GRAMMY Awards® — music's only peer-recognized accolade and highest achievement. As the world's leading society of music professionals, The Recording Academy works year-round to foster a more inspiring world for creators.
Kashmira Khot recently released her debut single “Break Through”. It’s a mixture of pop, grunge and rock vibes. This song is about changing your vision and dreams, being afraid of it, worrying about the pain it causes, and yet again, asking someone to wait on these fears,while you face these changes for good. R2R gets to know about the artist and her music better
SHED MY SKIN
3rd Dec 2020 (Freestream)
For her first ever, virtual performance as Nuka, she presents SHED MY SKIN, a 30 minute multi-medium performance on global platform DiceFM, a space where her creative and technical skills come together to create a seamless capsule of music, performance, dance and film, inviting her audience into her world. The show will present unreleased material from the artist-producer and will feature special guests : rapper Kaam Bhaari, drummer Gautam Deb, Utkarsh Dhotekar on keys, and her latest collaborator Khalid Ahamed.
Show link – SHED MY SKIN – 3rd Dec 2020 (Freestream)
http://bit.ly/ShedMySkinxDice
Ziro Festival of Music 2017
27th Sep - 02nd Oct 2017.
Ziro Festival of Music returns this year to the spectacular Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh, India with the best of contemporary music and art the world has to offer. Mark your dates, call your friends, book your tickets. Do all it takes to be part of India's Greatest Outdoor Music Festival.
Broadcast India Show 2017 will take place on 12-14 October 2017 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.
Global music sensation Ed Sheeran with chart-toppers like Shape of You and Castle on the Hill. The artist is all set to perform live in Mumbai , as he will be touring Asia later this year
Broadcast India Show 2017 will take place on 12-14 October 2017 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.
Graceland is the home of rock and roll legend Elvis Presley. The mansion on a 13.8 acre estate in Memphis, Tennessee, is today a pilgrimage destination for his millions of fans worldwide. The site was listed in the American National Register of Historic Places in 1991and declared a National Historic Landmark in 2006. In 1982 it was opened to the public as a museum and is the second most visited site in the US after the White House.
There are very few people who can be recognized historically by their first name. Elvis is one of them. Elvis had a presence. You felt him even when you couldn’t see him, and as we celebrate his 42nd death anniversary on 16th August, Verus Ferreira pays tribute to the rock n roll great on his visit to Graceland.
Elvis Presley’s Graceland was always on my bucket list, and I was privileged to get a chance to visit the place when friends Renuka Rose and Marc Taube invited me and my family for a holiday to their home in Cleveland, I jumped at the offer, especially when they said we could visit Graceland. What I didn’t know was my Marc pitching an idea of a road trip to Tupelo (Mississippi) the birthplace of Elvis, then Nashville - home of country music, Memphis (Graceland), St Louis and back to Cleveland. After soaking in the sights of Cleveland’s iconic Rock N Roll Hall of Fame and other places, we werelooking forward to the trip of a lifetime.
Well stocked for the jaunt in a four wheel drive Toyota SUV, we headed out one early morning for the long drive. After a night halt in Columbus, we headed onto Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis. It was here that Elvis Aaron Presley was born on 8th January, 1935. Presley was supposed to be a twin, but his brother, Jesse was stillborn. Elvis was raised by parents Gladys and Vernon Presley who took up small jobs to keep the home fires burning. Elvis was deeply devoted to his parents, especially his mother, Gladys, and was raised to have a strong faith in God. Presley attended the Assembly of God Church with his parents, where gospel music became an important influence for him. Noticing his love for music,Elvis received his first guitar as a gift from his mother on his 11th birthday.
A tour ($18) which will give you access into the modest two room shack, museum and the Chapel he
attended. It’s hard to believe how humble Elvis really was and how great a star he went on to become.
Quite a difference from the opulence of Graceland. The shack has an outhouse; one full room for the family to sleep that has Elvis’ bed and a small kitchen. The cute lady in the house answered questions about how Elvis’ father bought the house. It is a really peaceful, contemplative place to be. I enjoyed sitting on the porch-seat. In my opinion, this place is far nicer, more appropriate and prettier than Graceland, for people who want to remember Elvis quietly. The timeline surrounding the shack takes you back in time.
The Chapel is quite large and has the original podium that Elvis once used. There is also a replica piano of Elvis’ on one side. It is definitely worth the visit especially to see a rare videos of Elvis singing hymnsat the morning prayers when he was a young child. The museum here is very interesting with a lot of photos and stories.Don’t forget to take a walk around the well manicured garden and then a short climb uphill to see thestatue of Elvis which is really grand. If you are going to Graceland I would suggest visiting Tupelo where it all started.Back to the Elvis journey, in 1948, the family moved to Memphis and it was here that Elvis had his first taste of musical success when he won a talent show at Humes High School in Memphis. After graduating in 1953, he began working as a truck driver to pay his way into the Memphis Recording Services studio to get studio time.
He cut his first demo record at what later became known as Sun Studio. He sang the song My Happiness and That’s when your heartaches begin and before long, Sam Phillips, the record label owner, decided to sign on the young singer. He got his first break with That's All Right Mama which was his first single in 1954. Soon enough, the hits came rolling in for Elvis. Heartbreak Hotel, Hound Dog, Don’t be Cruel, All Shook Up, Jailhouse Rock, Teddy Bear, Its Now or Never among many others put him in everyone’s heart. His impact on American culture was stupendous, as he seemed to have an effect on the manner of dressing, hairstyles, and even behavior, which many copied. His spinning movements on stage became legendary. His stardom got him 136 gold records and 10 platinum records. He was the top recording artist for two straight decades, the 50s and 60s. Elvis received 14 Grammy nominations and won three wins for Gospel recordings - the album ‘How Great Thou Art’ (1967), ‘He Touched Me’ (1972) and his live Memphis concert recording of the song ‘How Great Thou Art’ (1974).
Elvis also tried his hand at acting, thereby showcasing his music too. His first film was ‘Love Me Tender’ (1956) and the very popular ‘Jailhouse Rock’ (1957) followed by many more, making him singer and actor. Called to serve his country, Elvis began a well-publicized stint in the army in 1958, but returned when his mother passed away in 1958. The remainder of his military service was spent stationed in Germany (until 1960), where he met his future wife Priscilla Beaulieu who he married in 1967. Theywere blessed with a daughter Lisa Marie.
Elvis's success in the entertainment industry came the hard way and with it a few wrong decisions and
unneeded advice. This took a toll on him when he faced numerous failures in his personal life. In 1973, he and Priscilla divorced; As Elvis's millions grew, so too did the mismanagement by Parker, his long time manager. Elvis made an estimated $4.3 billion in earnings during his lifetime, but he never acquired a concept of financial responsibility. His personal problems were never ending, weight gain and drug dependency hitting him hard. Through all this, Elvis continued a steady flow of concert performances in sold-out arenas well into the 1970s. On 16th August, 1977, the day before another concert tour was about to begin, Elvis was found dead in Graceland Mansion by his fiancée, Ginger Alden. He was only 42 years. The official cause of death was heart disease, although information revealed after his death about his drug dependency. His death caused worldwide scenes of mourning.Elvis continues to be celebrated as superstar and legend as much in death as he was in life. Graceland
Mansion, which he had purchased in 1957 for his parents for $102,500, is the top tourist attraction in
Memphis and attracts millions of visitors from both America and around the world.
Elvis’ Graceland lies near the majestic Graceland Hotel on Elvis Presley Boulevard. There are many budget hotels nearby. It is advisable to book your tickets online to avoid serpentine queues. You can opt for The Ultimate VIP Tour ($169) that gets you a personal tour guide, a meal voucher, an exclusive lounge and a chance to view and hold some rare exhibits of the King. The pass also lets you make multiple return visits to the exhibits before closing time. There’s also the Elvis Entourage ($96) and the most popular $59 Elvis Experience Tour. All tours have a mandatory interactive iPad.
Once on the tour you would be drooling over the man and his almost unbelievable, superhuman charisma. I went crazy to see the home where he had lived, breathed, sang, made love to Priscilla and years later breathed his last. Our eight member group, (yes I opted for the Ultimate VIP Pass), began just outside the museum, when we were bused across the street to a sweeping lawn and into the environs of the Graceland mansion. The two storied limestone mansion with green shutters, white Corinthian pillars, and two white marble lions, beckons every visitor aka Elvis fan. The Living room has 15 foot long white sofa, gold drapes, peacock stained glass windows. A staircase leading to the first floor was out of bounds for visitors and probably is only accessible to Elvis’ wife
Priscilla and his only child Lisa Marie who visit Graceland. You can feel Elvis’ presence as you wander though the mansion, maybe seated at his Dining table. Move ahead and you have the kitchen with a vintage blender, fridge, microwave oven, wash basin and cabinets. The tropical rain forest evoking Jungle Room with stone walls, carved heavy wood Polynesian furniture also has part of the walls covered in green shag rug with a non functioning waterfall. You couldn’t miss out the Teddy Bear seated on the sofa nearby. His French dynasty-inspired Billiards Room (Pool room) was decorative to the core, with its tuck-and-draped ceiling made of 350 yards of heavy brocade fabric; the media room was all lemon yellow and black with a mirrored ceiling for good effect, with three TVs, where the ‘King’ sat and watched television,. There are a couple of LP records around with a white porcelain monkey on the centre glass table.
In the Trophy room, the walls are lined with silver and gold records, while his Racquetball building, houses the piano that was used by him to entertain his friends. It’s the same piano he played the day he passed away. A passage leads you to his father’s office where a host of exhibits are displayed. Elvis was a cowboy at heart. Out on the lawns you can watch horses graze, but none of these are Elvis’, namely the most famous Rising Sun, who was the last to die in 2005. After another gallery of exhibits, you then head outside to a kidney shaped swimming pool that overlooks the Meditation garden, Elvis’ favorite space at Graceland. It’s where he lies buried alongside his parents Gladys and Vernon, Grandmother Minnie Mae and his twin brother Jesse. I spent awhile in reflection of his great spirit. I couldn’t hold back the tears, but I wasn’t alone, diehard fans were weeping, staring at his grave, prayingat his gravesite, feeling his presence.
Back in the bus and across the road, the tour continues with the Museum exhibits that follow Elvis life and career gaining insights into his roots, influences and artistry, his movies and his life in the army. Iswooned over every photo gushing about just how handsome he was. There’s lots to see from his Automobile Museum that has over 20 cars, his 1955 Pink Cadillac or the black 1973 Stutz Blackhawk III, the car he used the night before he died. There’s the Lisa Marie Conair 880 aircraft, the fashionable outfits he wore on stage, one better than the other, it is all here. Elvis loved dressing up, just wearing what he liked and felt right; he became a fashion icon that everyone followed, the bell bottom, different colored sequined jackets, flared shirts, boots and ornaments to go with such royal attire.
Our tour ended with the secret room. Here our select group got a chance to see his comb, the necklace and ring he gave Priscilla, and the microphone he used. I almost wept with delight as I held the microphone. It was a magical moment for me, something I would always cherish for the rest of my life.Before leaving don’t forget to pick your souvenirs from Graceland or the nearby merchandise shops. The wall and at places even the footpath outside Graceland is inscribed with messages from fans from across the world who have visited Graceland and left their memories here.
The Elvis Presley story does not end at Graceland. Head to Downtown Memphis to visit Sun Studio where his career started. You learn all about the birthplace of rock n roll, you can even stand on the spot where Elvis stood (I unknowingly did), take a picture with the microphone Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis used. You can also grab a bite or a beer at the BB King Bar or Hard Rock Café on Beale Street. While many referred to him as The King or the King of Rock n Roll, he calmly remarked, “I am not the King, Jesus Christ is the King. I am only an Entertainer.” Elvis’ charisma, style and that deep melodic voice that measured every word, is unforgettable. So rich, velvety. It was Elvis’ dream to sing. He taughtus, that dreams can come true.
Historically, poetry, song and literature have often been used as a means to propagate new ideas, social reform and to protest against injustice and oppression. They have triggered revolutions, helped overthrow many a despot and been instrumental in bringing about much needed change. Many of these poets, writers, thinkers and revolutionaries have gone on to become heroes, for their contribution to the social, political and cultural evolution of our civilization.
Some of the great protest songs that come to mind, include, the gospel based We Shall Overcome, Bob Dylan’s Masters of War and Times They are a Changing, Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On and Edwin Starr’s War. Some were born out of the oppression, persecution and injustice suffered by the people under the ruling classes, while others have been triggered by specific events or ideas such as, Hurricane by Bob Dylan, Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival, Free Nelson Mandela by The Specials, Killing in the Name by Rage Against the Machine, or Alright by Kendrick Lamar, to name a few.
In an ideal world, where lawmakers, administrators and industry, the people in power, are responsible, clean, transparent and non-corrupt and everything is open to public scrutiny, there is nothing to expose, everything is out in the open. In an ideal world you don’t need the likes of Julian Assange, or W Mark Felt, Woodword and Bernstein, or Serpico, or Sherron Watkins and Cynthia Cooper, Bradley Manning, Edward Snowden, etc.
But the real world is a far cry from the ideal. Most Governments, private and public institutions are often recklessly irresponsible, thrive on corruption, indulge in heinous criminal deeds and are necessarily opaque, because they have a lot to hide.
It is in this scenario that people like Assange or any of the others mentioned above become relevant. Through his efforts, Julian Assange, Founder of Wikileaks, the organization he founded to expose war crimes, corruption and human rights abuses and aided by former intelligence analyst, Chelsea (Bradley) Manning, published several secret documents that incriminated those in power.
With the result he has since been persecuted by those who feel threatened by what he had exposed. Isn’t what they did justified, when you consider the greater good. Don’t citizens have a right to know what is happening? Don’t governments themselves use the reason of greater good to justify many of their actions when it is convenient? You could say that technically the means used by Assange may have been illegal, but as a journalist wasn’t it his duty to expose the wrong doings?
No man or woman is infallible. So Julian Assange has his shortcomings but his journalistic endeavours cannot be called criminal. He believed in protecting freedom of speech, and the right to free expression and set about doing what he had to do.
Facing US extradition proceedings, he surrendered to the British police in 2010 but broke bail and sought asylum in the Embassy of Ecuador, where he remained for seven years, before he was jailed last month when Ecuador withdrew his asylum.
So why has no one thought of writing a song protesting the treatment meted out to Julian Assange. There have been movies and documentaries made about him but alas, no one has thought to write a song about this man who fought for human rights, freedom of expression, transparency and free flow of information.
Where are the great protest singers like Dylan, Joan Baez, Bruce Springsteen, Kendrick Lamar, or Morrissey? Had they been alive, maybe Phil Ochs or Pete Seeger or Lennon would have written one. With escalating global conflicts, intolerance, increased muzzling of the press and restrictions on the free flow of information on the net, wouldn’t it have been a timely reflection of our times?
Don’t you think he deserves a Song?-
-Stanley Paul & Pradeep Joseph
A recent drug crisis in India, especially in the state of Punjab, has authorities scrambling to find a cause. Could music be to blame? Given the enormous popularity of hip hop culture in India, particularly Punjabi Hip Hop and Rap,there is a concern that Lyrics common in popular modern rap that promote violence, misogyny,and alcohol and drug abuse may contribute to the epidemic. Punjabi Hip Hop and Rap are music and culture that combine hip hop music and culture with music and culture of India andsurrounding countries. Some of the leading desi Rap stars are Badshah, Honey Singh, Hard Kaur,Raftar,Baba Sehgal to name a few. According to this theory, the music often glorifies drugs and drug use instead of promoting the benefits of being drug-free.
A history of drug-related lyrics.
Hip hop artists in the United States have used drug imagery since the beginning of the genre.Several early rap artists grew up during the panic surrounding the use of crack cocaine in the1980s. Others were raised in areas experiencing problems with other drugs. Some of these young people felt trapped and disillusioned since they felt that more traditional paths to success excluded them. Instead, they may have grown up idolizing successful gangsters who were prominent drug dealers. Some of these drug dealers may have entered the drug trade in efforts to rise above their circumstances or gain prestige.
People then incorporated these experiences in their music . Their lyrics spoke of using drugs as a commodity to acquire wealth and success and as tools to escape the bleakness of the impoverished and disadvantaged environments that surrounded them. In such portrayals,dealing drugs, not taking them, was cool. They promoted the benefits of being drug-free while earning material riches and respect.Song lyrics transformed over time. Instead of glamorizing drug dealing as an avenue to obtain money and lavish lifestyles, lyrics began championing inebriation and drug use to mask inner pain or to party like rock stars.
A study by the University of California at Berkeley reported that the use of drug-related lyrics has increased. Lyrics about drugs appeared in only four out of thirty-eight popular songs (11percent) prior from 1979 to 1984. By the end of the 1980s, the use of drug-related lyrics increased to nearly 20 percent. By 1993, the percentage was 69 percent.
Music companies realized that mentioning drug use, objectifying women, and hinting at other antisocial behaviors made rap artists appear more edgy to the young people who idolized them.That edginess led to increased record sales. So, the combination of sex (and the objectificationof women). drugs, and rock and roll (or rap) became some of the essential ingredients of modern hip hop. While some rappers tried to counter this with more positive lyrics promoting the benefits of being drug-free , others continued glorifying drug use and other behaviors.
Punjabi Hip hop & Rap became increasingly popular in the United States and around the world. For example, it is popular in India, which added its own contribution to the genre with desi rap or desi hip hop.Desi hip hop or desi rap is an East Asian form of hip hop that combines traditional hip hop with Indian influences. Rap has continued to gain fans on the Indian subcontinent, becoming one of the most popular genres in India with no slowdown in sight.
Like its Western counterpart, desi hip hop sometimes glamorizes drug use in its lyrics. Also like Western hip hop, the prime demographic for desi hip hop is young people who sometimes seek to imitate their idols. Studies have shown a tendency for some fans to try the drugs mentioned in rap songs. Some African American millennials admitted that they've tried the drug Molly (MDMA) for the first time after hearing about it in songs by popular rap artists . With popular artists promoting drug use without a strong counterargument about the benefits of being drug-free, drug use among young people may not seem too surprising.
Changing the message
Dr. Dheeraj Sharma of the India Institute of Management found that there may be links among popular song lyrics pertaining to drug use and increases in drug usage, violence, and negative attitudes towards women. One challenge now is to discourage drug use without censoring music. Censoring lyrics might have an opposite effect. It may make drugs and drug-related lyrics seem more desirable and increase their allure.
Instead, parents and schools may want to provide young people with information on the effects of drug use. People may want to make artists aware of the dangerous effects their lyrics may have on their fan base. There are numerous benefits of being drug-free and ways people can encourage this.
- Dale Vernor
It’s Show Time!
Classical musicians and their on-stage antics A lot of research has been done to classify personality, management and parenting into different styles. Has anyone studied the concert styles of performing artists? I am talking about the styles adopted by Indian classical musicians on stage. I have them classified under seven types.
1 : 24K magic
What is common amongst Mozart, Beethoven, U. Srinivas or Rashid Khan? All are child prodigies, born to sing. In their
concerts, one is merely a spectator witnessing pure magic. Making good music is of paramount importance, nothing else mattered.
2 : Boom boom paw
For many years now, I have stopped going to amusement parks. Roller coaster rides are not for me. However, many classical concerts
these days have started giving the audiences the same kind of thrill. These musicians perform acrobatics with their voices and the
audiences walk out chanting ‘scintillating, mind blowing, thrilling’ …..
3 : We’re all in this together
“Which one is the main singer?” asked the gentleman next to me. His question was valid considering there was literally a dozen people
seated on the stage. The maestro had three disciples , two on either sides and one behind him. And then he had upto four different and
varied percussionists. What’s more, he had many disciples sitting around him just observing him perform. Such musicians could put
Serena Williams to shame in terms of the size of their entourage.
4 : Everything you want
These are musicians who have devised a formula for success and they give the audience what they come to hear. Experimentation and
creativity give way to consistency. It is a win-win situation for both the performers and the listeners.
5 : Party rock anthem
This is the type in which the musicians walk on to the stage and transform into showmen. They have an on stage persona which is very
dramatic. They are to the classical scene what Shah Rukh khan is to the Indian cinemas. Stylised and complete entertainers.
6: Like a prayer
The padmaasana, the mudras, the stillness, here the singer is meditating through his or her music. One may not understand the
technicalities but certainly knows that one is a witness to some serious spiritual exercise. This breed is dwindling because the
masses want speed and action. These singers believe that classical music is not for the masses.
7: We belong together
Last is the breed of performers who like to collaborate with other musicians; call it jugalbandi, fusion, new age music, collaboration.
These musicians are soon only seen collaborating, quite like the doubles players in tennis or the ones who only play the Davis cup.
---- Rama Sundar
"Anuradha Palakurthi's song Jaan Meri" carved its name on the winner's trophy at "Mirchi Music Awards 2020" under the category of "Indies Song of the Year"
Celebration saw the presence of Bappi Lahiri, Shaan, Sameer anjaan, Ankita Maity, Swastik, Reema Lahiri, Asif Shaikh etc.
Anuradha Palakurthi, who has performed many live music concerts with Bollywood singers such as Kumar Sanu and Bappi Lahiri across the US, released two songs "Ishq Ne" and "Jaan Meri" last year. Lovely romantic melodies which soar because of their meticulous arrangements.
Jaan Meri which released globally last year won "Indies Song of the Year" in Mirchi Music Awards 2020. Infact "Ishq Ne" also made an expected entry through the nominations. "I am so happy and delighted that 'Jaan Meri' is such a big hit. The song left impact for its simple but captivating melody. It made it through the winners trophy at Mirchi Music Awards 2020. Looking back in time just a year back we launched this song and couldn’t even think of it creating ripples. I am over the moon" said Anuradha Palakruthi
From sixteen to sixties everyone loved Jaan Meri "Soulful number which will give you goosebumps. Our mission is to bring quality music to our fans. It is a beautiful song with beautiful moments. Jaan Meri will help you explore the enchanting world of thoughts and emotions"
Anuradha Palakurthi is called as the “Nightingale of New England” by her fans in her home city of Boston, USA. She is widely regarded for her versatility across genres. She has also recorded playback for South Indian films. In Boston, Anuradha serves as the Chairperson of MIT’s Heritage Arts of South Asia (MITHAS) and co-hosts a weekly Radio Music India show on WLYN 1360 that educates and entertains listeners on the Carnatic & Hindustani classical roots of Indian Film music.
Anuradha Palakurthi is on to new highs. Her next project includes USA tour with Shaan
This is the first time in more than a decade, 14 years to be precise that legendary composers Jatin- Lalit came together for the concert of their songs. For the first time ever the show featured all the great hits of Jatin- Lalit sung by the original singers of the songs.
Concept & Produced by Meena Pandit of I AM Entertainment, calls it one of the biggest set up one can ever think of in terms of singers coming together.
Music director Lalit Pandit needs no introduction. To call him just musician or composer would do his impact and legacy no justice.
Throughout his illustrious career, Lalit Pandit has composed music with his brother Jatin for some of the biggest names in the Bollywood and with some of the best singers and musicians.
They have composed the highest-selling Bollywood soundtrack of the year on three occasions in that decade – Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), and Mohabbatein (2000).
Lalit Pandit revolutionized Indian Music when he was fairly young. His flair in music was greatly the reason that he marked his debut when he was in college.
His first compositions “Bin Tere Sanam” from Yaara Dildara (1991) and “Pehla Nasha” from Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992) continue to have a cult following even more than two decades after the release of the movies.
Yaara Dildara was his debut Bollywood soundtrack with Jatin .Lalit Pandit went solo in 2007 and his initial claim-to-fame was the start of his celebrated career.
Munni Badnaam Hui" from the film Dabangg got him many awards including filmfare and he changed the face of single song perception in Hindi films and brought a revolution ,the iconic song is a landmark in the music scene .
"I am honored & overwhelmed. I am earnestly grateful for the recognition I have received for my work over the years. I have faced several challenges on my way here, but each one of them have only strengthened me & made me what I am today. The immense support & love I got from the audience & fraternity was my driving force. On my way here, but each one of them have only strengthened me & made me what I am today. The immense support & love I got from the audience & fraternity was my driving force" says Lalit Pandit.
Meena Pandit of I AM Entertainment says "This is our first project under I AM Entertainment. As a brand we have always associated with music which is why we wanted our first project to be grand & musical. We are honored that we could have stalwarts from Music Fraternity on a single platform to credit Jatin ji & Lalit ji for their glorious career. A lot of hard work has gone into the project and hopefully it will leave an unforgettable impression on everyone"
Madhuvan& Swarmauli In association with Savarkar Seva Kendra Parle had organised a concert Samarpan dedicated to vichitra Veena Mastro Pt. Ramesh prem.
The program begin with Vichitra Veena Recitel by Smt.Padmja Viswaroop, (Padmaja is the first lady Vichitra veena player to present dhrupad on this instrument. She presented Raga Yaman with Aalap , Jod , Jhala followed by a composition in chautal . It was well appreciated by the audience.Shri Sukhad Mude provided nice Pakhavaj accompaniment.
Smt.Padmja Viswaroop, & Pt.Dinker Panshiker was presented with Madhuvan Ratna Award.This award is given to artists for their devotion & hard work towards Indian classical Music.Well known musicologist Shri Deepak Raja presented the awards.
The concluding part was vocal recital by Jaipur Gharana Mastero none other then Pt.Dinker Panshiker .This was a power pccked presentation by pandit ji. He presented Rag
Anandi Kalyan, Dagori, Sampurna Malkaus, Adambari Kedar Etc. Excellent Tabla & Harmonium accompaniment was provided by Abhay Datar & Siddesh Bicholker.
Legendary Music director and Singer, Roopkumar Rathod launched his first coffee table book “Wild Voyage” by Himanshu Seth Photosafaris on 7th December, 2019 at Nine fish art gallery in Mumbai. The book comprises of wildlife photographs by many non-photographer artists like Veteran actress Waheeda Rehman, musician Archana Mariwala and others. The book’s foreword is written by megastar Amitabh Bachchan. "I thank Rathodji for sharing his experiences with us through his superb photography. He has my blessing for continued joy and success with his love for photography," the testimonial read.
In a conversation with Mr. Roopkumar, he revealed that his inspiration to click wildlife pictures came from his trips to the jungle in his younger days. “Coming back home and describing the scenario wasn’t enough as there had to be a solid proof. Slowly, I realized how important a professional camera was to capture images which would then serve as a memory for years to come”, he said. His wife, Sonali Rathod played huge role in getting his book published.
From Shooting in Africa’s Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater to the Sand dunes of Namib Desert along with India’s Tadoba National Park, Pench National Park, Jim Corbett and Madhavgarh, Kumar’s camera has seen it all. Talking about the difficulties that he faced in his journey, he recalled an incident when they had to stay in a tent made of cloth in the center of the jungle. At night, after dinner, the team decided to sleep when they heard around 10-12 lions and lioness’ come near their tent and scratch it. In a situation like this with no modes of communication, no security and the risk of the lions tearing off the tent made them turn to know one but God.
Kumar hopes to launch more such books in the future as he believes this will help to have their pictures secure and as it is a wonderful medium to reach out to the people. He strongly believes that the nature needs to be preserved and he has done nothing but captured the magic of the nature that has always existed.
The organizer, Himanshu Seth was all smiles with the amazing response and looked forward to hosting more such events. Apart from hosting his own photography exhibitions, this was the first time he has held an exhibition for his team. On being asked if he had more musicians in his team, he revealed that his wife, Aditi Seth too is a musician and singer. Talking about Archana Mariwala, he said that though she isn’t a professional photographer, she has done an amazing job!
-Anam Khalid Mirajkar
Cofounder Aman Gupta said it plans to manufacture more products in India
At the moment, most of its headphones are made by contract manufacturers in China
The brand claims to have sold 8K to 10K headphones daily in 2019
Not just Apple and Tesla, popular Indian consumer electronics brand boAt is also suffering from the impact of the manufacturing shutdown in China due to coronavirus and the COVID-19 disease. The startup's cofounder Aman Gupta said production of new and existing products and availability is likely to be hampered. Gupta added that boAt was planning a sale but had to cancel it in order to hold on its inventory for the next month.
In an interview , Gupta highlighted that almost 99% of the headphones sold in India, including the ones priced above INR 500, are made outside the country. China is one of the biggest markets for the manufacturing and production of boAt headphones. He noted that if the coronavirus outbreak continues longer, it will lead to a production and product development lag. The company procures its products through contract manufacturers based in India and China.
"We have got products in buffer till 15 March. If the situation doesn't improve, we will consider getting them by air," Gupta added.
The company is planning to start manufacturing its product line in India, especially due to the difficulties faced in the ongoing US-China trade war and now the coronavirus outbreak. The company produces its chargers and cables in India already.
boAt Targets INR 500 Cr In 2021
Founded in 2016 by Gupta and Sameer Mehta, boAt is a consumer technology brand that manufactures electronics products such as earphones, headphones, speakers, soundbars, travel chargers, and premium rugged cables.
The company followed an omnichannel distribution with its products listed on ecommerce websites such as Amazon, Flipkart and more, as well as through offline retail chains like Croma Retail, Vijay Sales, Poorvika Mobiles, etc.
The company claims to have sold over 8K to 10K units every day in 2019 and hopes to sell over 10K units daily this year. Gupta added that boAt registered gross sales worth INR 100 Cr in the financial year 2018 and plans to achieve INR 500 Cr in 2021. He noted that the company has got a 30% repeat rate.
"Earlier we used to get headphones free with the mobile. Today's generation owns many pairs of headphones for communication, travel, movies and audio playback. With the screen getting more personal, there is a huge demand for personal devices. The related accessory market including that of headphones is also growing."
He added that the average selling price (ASP) of boAt products in 2018 was INR 700, whereas this year it has risen to INR 1,100. "We are somewhere between cheap and premium," the cofounder added.
In July 2019, boAt raised INR 16 Cr (about $2 Mn) in debt funding from venture lending firm InnoVen Capital and $2.9 Mn in venture debt from Sachin Bansal's BAC Acquisitions. Prior to that, the company had raised $872K (INR 6 Cr) from Fireside Ventures in May 2018.
Badshah's latest release 'Paagal' on Sony Music, has set a record by clocking 75 million views in the first 24 hours of its release, beating the previous record set by Korean boy band BTS’s ‘Boy with Luv’. It had reached 100 million views by the 2nd week and 149 million views in less than a month. But this is where the story begins.
In spite of having the highest views in a month’s time, making it the most watched video in the world, surpassing International artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, etc., YouTube is not willing to certify that it set a record. Is it because they are not willing to acknowledge it as genuine views? Or that Badshah is not really a global artist? For that matter neither is BTS. We are not clear about YouTube’s stance in this mater.
As it turned out Badshah and his team had purchased advertisements from Google and YouTube which led to his video being embedded in some of the content being watched or directing search to the video. But then this is a common practice employed by even top international artists and music companies, global industries and well heeled content providers, to ramp up their YouTube views and likes.
So far the Music Industry and the Public at large have accepted the fact that certain amount of Social Media promotions could get you more Views/ Likes/ Comments, etc., depending on the Social Media and this was the barometer of success or failure. Today YouTube's non reaction to Badshah’s feat brings up the question that the Social Media platforms which sold us the idea that the Views/ Likes/ Comments, etc. was the barometer, seem to be exhibiting double standards. Or is it that they believe these views are not for real. So should we still support Social Media platforms that have an inherent flaw in their system which is easily exploited by third parties?
If ‘Paagal’ is taken as a sample case, how do Music companies receive royalties for their Artists? Is it per genuine views only, if yes, how is it calculated? If that is the case, it could be a deal between the Social Media platforms and Music companies. Often Artists also party to this ‘fake views’. What happens when a genuine Artist asks for Royalties as per the views seen on the Social Media platforms and sues a Record label or Social Media platform? That will be the day, the truth may be out.
We wonder if this is good for any art form especially Music, that real talent is pulled down because they didn’t attempt to buy fake views. Has anyone seen the views many cover version artists or just some idiot with some buffoonery have garnered, compared to the real legends, like Michael Jackson. And we are surprised to see that Michael Jackson has lesser views, what irony. By this barometer does this mean a legend for over 4 decades is less successful? This barometer certifies that anyone who can organize fake views have a bigger audience than a True artist.
This is what happened with an Artist in India and hence nobody will bother, but just like DJ Khalid questioned Billboard's charts, this is an episode that will surely open up a Pandora's box. Watch out for more debates on this topic coming up soon.
Those of you who have been around from the 1960's through the 1990's will remember the vibrant live music scene in almost every starred hotel in India. Those were the days when you walked into a nightclub like 'Rendezvous' at The Taj Mahal hotel and 'Supper Club' at the Oberoi Sheraton in Mumbai to see curtains going up on a band that was the prime focus of these outlets. Every seat in these restaurants allowed an unobstructed view of the band that performed every night on resident contracts. Today all this has disappeared thanks to some ridiculously high entertainment taxes on live music. Today, non off these hotels have complete bands playing save for a few that feature small duos or solo singers. The Lodhi in New Delhi, recently listed among the world's best hotels, decided to step in and rewind to the good old days. They got Goa's premier jazz quartet 'Jazz Junction' to move to Delhi on a resident contract and the decision has paid off in terms of footfalls generated by the band. Jazz Junction featuring singer Daniella Rodrigues, pianist Tony Dias,
bassist Colin D'Cruz and drummer Angelo Colasco began playing at The Lodhi in June 2018. Four months into the contract the band generated a sizeable following, with quite a few high profile guests choosing to celebrate their special occasion at the Elan bar where the band performs. Against all odds the rewind option proved to be a huge success and hopefully other properties around the country takes the cue to trigger a whole new revival of live music.
Zombies often herald the end of all things, but for Frank West, their reemergence marks a
new beginning.Frank, former photojournalist extraordinaire, has been off the radar since the first Dead Rising a decade ago, and this third Christmas-themed sequel finds him eking out his days as a college professor teaching novices his craft. But when the dead come, he again finds life. Even in Frank's opening nightmare in which he knocks back zombies like a wrecking ball, there's a sense amid his snarky complaints that he wants this. And even though Capcom's approach here stumbles here in parts, I was surprised by how much I wanted this as well.
When Dead Rising 4 works, it's because it steadfastly refuses to take itself seriously. Frank is 16 years older now and looks and grumbles (thanks to a new voice actor) a little like Joel from the PS4's The Last Of Us, but even though he journeys back to fictional Willamette, Colorado with student Vick Chu, the lightweight but enjoyable tale is never weighed down with musings on surrogate fatherhood and hope. Neither is it entirely dismissible, even though it largely dumps the main conspiracy premise a handful of chapters in, as it handles its characterizations well. Frank drops lines about setting his balls on fire and other wisecracks, but there's enough gravity mixed in with the goofiness to make the relationships seem believable.
Still, this is a tale about blasting zombies with a gnome-capped staff called the "Gandelf" and gleefully plowing through literally hundreds of zombies in a city park with a lawnmower. It's about strapping on hulking (and rare) exosuits after zombies overrun the Willamette Memorial Megaplex after Black Friday and cutting down them with an electrified battleaxe or using blueprints to make quirky weapons like an "Ice Sword" from scattered items like liquid nitrogen and machetes. The melee controls are satisfying and intuitive, although the removal of throwable melee weapons stings bitterly and ranged weapons suffer from poor aiming. Never before has the series tossed the undead at you with such relentlessness. I'm inclined to believe there's no way a town like Willamette was home to that many people in the first place, but the crowds make the yuletide slaughter consistently enjoyable.
Frank's ability to handle those swarms comes with a price. Dead Rising 4 is never difficult, and even in a toque blanche and chef's whites I could shrug off piles of the undead about as well as Overwatch's Reinhardt might fend off a pack of yorkies. When I died and had a chance to check out the generous checkpoint and autosave system, it was only because I'd stepped away and forgotten to pause. There's not even a way to ramp up the difficulty besides sticking around for New Game+ or a separate multiplayer mode that's confined to a specific setting and steadily increases the difficulty. But even in the New Game, Frank can handle himself just fine. If you're specifically looking for a single-player combat challenge or any degree of tension, you won't find it here.
But you might find cause to stick around if your interests lie elsewhere. Capcom removed much of the series' previous urgency by ditching the timer, which frees up Frank's time to track down a sleigh's worth of blueprints and assorted collectibles, as well as stopping off from time to time to save survivors stranded in the undead sea. So heavy is the sandboxy exploration emphasis that Frank doesn't even have to head anywhere to craft his sometimes silly murder devices: he can cobble together firework-shooting crossbows or electricity-shooting go-karts right there in the field. The approach works well because the small-town setting is so well-realized, partially thanks to its Christmas theme that infects the core 10-hour story as thoroughly as the sickness infects the zombies. The holly jolliness adds a touch of flavor to exploring parts of town beyond the mall that might come off as boring during any other season.
There's so much to see, so many parts to use for an impressive variety of weapons, and so many combos to build that I usually had a cozy sense that I was in a zombie-themed take on Just Cause, taking similar pleasure in causing mindless mayhem with weapons and vehicles to the tune of "O Tannenbaum" and "Auld Lang Syne." Frank's camera even adds to the fun, not only by taking great shots to build a few extra experience points, but by stopping to take goofy selfies with the shambling corpses. It all makes for a nice change of pace, but I could never shake the feeling that Dead Rising had sacrificed much of its identity in the process.
Weirdly, there's no co-op option for the campaign, thus robbing the series of a big degree of its former fun. Gone, too, are the cutscenes that uses to boot up before what used to be called the "psychopath" minibosses. Capcom calls the psychopaths "maniacs" now, and they're sadly essentially irrelevant, being almost exclusively limited to sidequests and usually involving little more than regular zombies with big health pools tromping around in exosuits or Santa costumes. Sometimes I found welcome surprises in the form of fast, newly turned zombies, but most of the time the thousands I killed were as indistinguishable as bricks in a wall.
It's a strange game for the series, as it subtracts something for everything it adds, making it unlike anything we've seen for Dead Rising until now. It's the kind of design that might scare off veterans but bring in fresh zombie killers into the fold. But it's one that I generally enjoyed, even though it's marred with a first-launch crash bug that Capcom warned us about, but which it still hasn't fixed. For some players, though, I imagine that bit of bootup trouble won't prove as annoying as the fact that you can currently only download it for PC from the Windows Store. A Steam version is supposedly in the works, but by the time we see it, Dead Rising 4's cheeky Christmas theme will likely be long out of place. But now? 'Tis the season.
The Dwarves, a new realtime tactical RPG based on Markus Heitz’s German fantasy novel series of the same name, is an uneasy adaptation. As an RPG, Dwarves wants you to make choices to explore the world of its characters, but as a slavish recreation of a well-known book, it is constantly taking choices away from you. It’s a novel stuffed into an ill-fitting RPG suit, straining at seams held together by threadbare patches of tactical combat.
There are a few different problems going on here, but if I smelt it right down to the base ore, The Dwarves has two main failings: its RPG doesn’t give you any freedom to make choices or grow, and its combat is spammy, tiresome, and not very fun.
Only a few minutes into my adventure—playing as Tungdil Goldhand, the young dwarf on a quest—I came across the first of many times that the plot of Heitz’s novel stomps on my fun. I’m travelling across an overhead map in the style of a board game, with pieces moving along a gridwork of paths and roads. At each grid intersection, a chance encounter, town, or event pops up.
On this occasion, the encounter window tells me I’ve found an abandoned camp and fire ring. Do I want to start a fire and bed down, or should I be extra cautious and climb into a tree? Not seeing any reason why I should be paranoid enough to sleep in a damn tree, I sack out. The next window informs me that an orc stabbed me in my sleep, and I am now dead. No ceremony, no preamble. Dead dwarf, game over.
I had to load my most recent save because, according to a friend who has read the series, Tungdil sleeps in the tree in the book. It may be faithful to the source material, but if I played D&D with a DM who concluded a short introduction with “...and a piano drops on you and you die; let’s start again,” I would not hang around that game for very long.
After reloading and sleeping in the tree, Tungdil wakes up to see an orc warband (surprise!) set up camp below him. After they leave, an encounter window gives me my options: climb down, or wait up in the tree to make sure the coast is clear. Well, you don’t have to stab this dwarf in the gut more than once to teach him some caution, so I wait in the tree. Nothing happens, says the encounter window. Do I want to wait some more?
I chose the option to wait in the tree a dozen times, waiting for something to happen. Nothing ever does; the plot didn’t move on until I climbed down. These false choices are everywhere: maybe saying hello to a traveling caravan will give me an opportunity to buy some supplies; maybe meeting a character in that caravan is absolutely critical, and walking past it is game over. An RPG is a game about choices, yes, but Dwarves is a game in which some choices are meaningless and some choices are momentous, and there’s no telling which is which. I found myself quick-saving every few minutes.
For being so devoted to the plot of the book, sadly, this is a rendition of The Dwarves that did absolutely nothing for me as an introduction to this world. Names washed over me, signifying nothing, as though I was making introductions at a friend’s family reunion: Vraccas, Tion, Girdlegard, Bo?ndal, Älfar. A narrator delivers some pretty talented voice work, including what sound like direct dialog quotes from the book, but not being able to understand the references pulled me out of the game. The whole story wraps up in about 11 hours, reminding me again and again that I was playing a Wikipedia-level summary of a much more interesting story.
When Tungdil isn’t clicking around, exploring this and that and getting quests to here and there, The Dwarves spends a lot of time in combat. It’s a standard party-based tactical RPG set-up: overhead camera, pause at any time, give orders, deploy special skill attacks set to cool-down timers. This design is serviceable in a lot of other games, but it stumbles badly here.
The members of your party automatically attack the nearest enemy and pound them steadily with a basic attack until you give an order to use a special skill, which is actually pretty nice to see. Unfortunately, the basic attacks are useless, so the special skill attacks do all the heavy lifting. After some trial and error, I discovered that using basic strategy and smart party placement isn’t nearly as important as making sure that all of your fighters use as many of their special attacks as often as possible. The best way to make it through a tough fight is to pause often, switch characters constantly, and throw around those special attacks the instant their timers expire.
If any party characters die, that’s game over (because the characters have to participate in the plot, of course), so it’s a real pain in the leather that there are very few ways to heal during a fight. This made difficulty spikes a real issue for me. Even on the easiest difficulty, I came up against several seemingly impossible battles, randomly placed before or after another fight that I found effortless. My success or failure depended entirely on how many bad guys level designers decided to spawn for that battle. If they added too few, I had an easy time. If they added too many, I had a horrific grind.
It’s at this point that I would spend some character points beefing up that basic attack or spend some gold improving my gear, but Dwarves doesn’t have even those basic RPG elements. There are a few inventory items, like enchanted pendants and such, but no way to upgrade armor or loot new weapons. The only way to grow a character is by advancing along a very simple, one-path skill tree (skill stick? skill line?) with half a dozen special moves to unlock.
After all the whining I’ve just done about this poor, battered game, it hardly seems worth mentioning, but: I had a lot of technical issues with The Dwarves, too. I only crashed to desktop once, thankfully, but there were other problems. My frame rate plummeted in every battle when a lot of enemies showed up, and moving around the map interface brought on screen tears and texture-pops. In combat, the camera is a real nuisance; I paused to find a camera angle free of tree branches and terrain almost as often as I paused to give combat orders. On one occasion, a corrupted saved game loaded to show a permanently frozen, motionless dwarf in the foothills around Blacksaddle. I returned to a previous save and started again.
Between the rocky difficulty curves, the linear progression, the forced petty choices, and insta-death penalty for veering away from the dictated plot—everything in The Dwarves made me feel like I had no real control over my journey across Girdlegard. I lacked any real agency as a player, and even for a short RPG adventure, that sucks. I wanted to go on a journey, but I ended up just watching a pretty good book as read by someone else.
If the Walking Dead TV show can’t decide whether it wants to be a dark, maudlin drama or a schlocky, gory thrill-ride, Telltale’s interactive adaptation has established a more consistent voice that allows room for a bit of both without leaving you suffering from tonal whiplash. Its problem is that between the comic books, the TV series and the games, the cyclical nature of its narrative has become ever more apparent. Still, if a riff is catchy enough then it can bear a certain degree of repetition—and though some of its scenarios are familiar, Season Three opens with a double-header that shows The Walking Dead at its best, with characters you can care about, a couple of genuinely shocking surprises and a clutch of well-staged set-pieces.
It certainly helps that Telltale’s new engine finally feels fit for purpose. While Batman still had its share of performance issues, there’s little to grumble about in Ties That Bind: everything runs that much smoother, with snappier transitions that give the action sequences a greater sense of urgency. Press a button to jab a sharp object through a walker’s skull and the only delay between tap and squelch is in the swing. Better lighting and superior cinematography enhance the visual storytelling, too: episode one’s terrific opening offers a shivery reminder of the time the dead first started coming back to life, following a wonderful corridor shot with a jittery handheld camera to heighten the growing unease.
It’s here that we meet new protagonist Javier Garcia, a disgraced former baseball star who quickly moves from absentee son to surrogate father as his story picks up a few years later. He’s now on the road with sister-in-law Kate and her two stepkids, the sullen Gabe and the more immediately likeable, level-headed Mariana. Theirs is the kind of dysfunctional family unit we’ve seen before, but there’s some solid character work here—and a winning line in gallows humour—that establishes the bond between them. Even as they snipe at one another, there’s a clear affection behind the barbs.
Then, of course, there’s Clementine. A few years have passed since the end of Season Two, and she’s now significantly more hard-bitten and distrusting than ever—albeit still fundamentally decent enough to let Javier hang onto an item of emotional worth. It’s startling to see her like this, but we soon come to understand why, via a pair of playable flashback sequences across the two episodes. The first draws a firm line under last season’s events, and for at least two of the possible endings resulting from your pivotal choice in the finale, the outcome here is especially grim. It’s a reminder that your decisions can only really shape your journey rather than its destination, but in a world where surviving is an act of defiance, there’s something to be said for a choice that lets you spend a little longer with someone you care for.
These moments are slightly more problematic in light of the main narrative. As players, we want to know what happened to Clem between then and now, and so it makes sense for Telltale to fill in the gaps. But this isn’t an ensemble piece where each character’s perspective is explored; outside these flashbacks, the story is told exclusively from Javier’s viewpoint. Taking time out to explore the backstory of someone he’s only recently met feels strange, and it also leads to a certain disconnect in terms of your decision-making. We all know Clementine, but Javier doesn’t: though Telltale steadily establishes an uneasy alliance between them, there are key decisions we’re invited to make as Javier with knowledge he couldn’t possibly have. There’s a similar problem in a later scenario. After arriving at a new settlement, it’s not long before Javier indirectly causes a crisis, and yet characters are all too ready to trust him over companions they’ve presumably spent a good deal longer with. Still, that’s an issue from which the TV show also suffers, and at least Javier seems a less impetuous and unhinged leader than Rick Grimes.
Otherwise, there’s much to admire here, from a darkly amusing exchange between Javier and Clem about their different terms for the dead (“What do you call the ones that run?”) to a torchlit tunnel escape that concludes with a tense confrontation and a choice that threatens to have serious ramifications for the next episode at least. An optional DIY surgery scene is every bit as squirmingly grisly as Clem’s wound stitching in last season’s opener, while an appearance from a familiar face will delight fans of the comic and/or TV show. It’s clear that the 'graceful exit' imagined by one character isn’t going to happen any time soon for The Walking Dead, but Ties That Bind makes a surprisingly convincing argument for it to keep shuffling onward.
IE 80S BT
The IE 80S BT delivers outstanding accuracy and a breathtaking soundstage from a sleek neckband design. Audiophile quality is assured by hi-res codec support including LHDC, aptX HD, and AAC and high-end AKM DAC. The balanced sound can be adjusted via the Smart Control App and its 5-band equalizer. The supplied ear hooks, and choice of ear adapters in silicone, lamellar and Comply™ Memory Foam ensure a perfect fit for excellent passive attenuation and outstanding wearing comfort.
When exceptional is your standard, Sennheiser’s IE 80S BT is the ideal choice for audiophile wireless listening without limits. With the launch of its first audiophile Bluetooth In-Ear headphones, Sennheiser builds on the sonic achievements of the much-loved IE 80S, to create a high-end wireless model that delivers outstanding accuracy and a breathtaking soundstage from a sleek neckband design. As a high-end audio product that can be enjoyed anywhere, the IE 80S BT headphones are the perfect wireless companion for the sophisticated listener with a dynamic lifestyle.
This smarter, connected user experience extends to offering at-a-touch interaction to all common voice assistants such as Siri and Google assistant via a dedicated voice assistant access button on the three-button remote. Interaction by voice is made all the more effortless thanks to Sennheiser’s expertise in microphone technology: The headphones feature high quality microphones with noise reduction technology that are optimally positioned to ensure crystal clear capture of speech for undisturbed telephone calls and more natural communication with voice assistants.
If you are looking to purchase the latest smartphone that combines sleek design with great functionality, shop online at Amazon India for the Mi A3. Enjoy stunning features such as 6.08 inch super AMOLED display, AI Face Unlock, 4,030 mAh battery, 7th Gen In-screen fingerprint sensor, Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chip, 32MP AI selfie camera, 48MP + 8MP + 2MP AI Smart triple camera and more.
features of Mi A3
Processor
Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 665
Octa-core Kryo™ 260 CPU, up to 2.0 GHz
Adreno™ 610 GPU
11nm FinFET process
Battery & Charging
4030mAh (typ) / 3940mAh (min)
Supports Quick Charge™ 3.0 Techonology and 18W Fast Charge
In-box 10W charger
Type-C charging port
Built-in rechargeable battery
Rear Camera
48MP primary camera
• Sony IMX586 sensor
• 1.6μm 4-in-1 Super Pixel
• 6pcs lens, ƒ/1.79
• 1/2 inch sensor size, PDAF
8MP ultra wide-angle camera
• FOV 118°, ƒ/2.2, FF
2MP depth camera
• AI Portrait mode
• Steady handheld night photography
Video features
4K video, 30fps
1080p, 60fps/30fps
720p, 30fps
EIS, 1080p, 30fps; 720p, 30fps
Slow motion recording, 1080p, 120fps; 720p, 240fps/120fps
AI Scene detection
Detects up to 27 different scenes
Front Camera
32MP AI Selfie Camera
1.6μm 4-in-1 Super Pixel Design
5pc lens, ƒ/2.0, 79° FOV, FF
Panorama selfie
Display
15.46cm (6.08) Super AMOLED Display
19.5:9 aspect ratio
HD+ display (1560 x 720)
Contrast ratio: 60000:1 (min)
Color gamut: NTSC 102.7% (typ) 2.5D glass, rounded display corners
Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5
Colors:
More than White
Not just Blue
Kind of Grey
FEATURES:
Qualcomm®Snapdragon™ 439 processor High performance for a smooth experience
4000mAh (typ) two-day battery Lasts up to 17 days
12MP AI Sony IMX486 - rear camera
Spectacular photos at your fingertips- 13.8cm (5.45) HD+ display- Stunning visuals
TÜV Rheinland® certified display- Reduces harmful blue light
Wireless FM Radio- Listen to music unlimited
2+1 card slot- Up to 256GB expandable storage
AI Face unlock - Unlock with a glance
To buy this smartphone: https://www.mi.com/in/redmi-7a/
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No, the title doesn’t contain a typo. No, the iPhone 8 hasn’t magically become official already. Still, the rumor mill has considered that it’s time to move on from discussing Apple’s tenth anniversary smartphone. So, just for today, let’s talk about the iPhone 9. The one that will come in 2018. Apparently this will be offered in two sizes, both sporting much bigger touchscreens than we’ve gotten used to. The small iPhone 9 will come with a 5.28″ display, while the larger model will accommodate a 6.46″ panel.
In both cases, the screen tech used will be OLED, and the supplier of the panels will be none other than Samsung. The Korean company expects to sell at least 180 million units to Apple for this purpose. That’s more than double the estimated 80 million OLED displays that it’s producing for the iPhone 8, which should launch this fall.
Of course this is but an unconfirmed rumor for now, so don’t take it too seriously. We’ll have to wait and see whether other reports will corroborate what it claims.
This year Apple is said to release three new iPhone models, two successors for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus (with the same screen sizes and LCD panels), and a new size device that will feature the Samsung-made OLED screens. According to “some sources”, the Korean company is planning to build a new factory that will be dedicated to exclusively churning out OLED panels for Apple.
Poets Corner
Open a World of Opportunities…
Poets Corner is place where Songwriters can post their songs with the hope that their words can connect with Composers and be the place where Words meet a Tune, for some of the big hits in the future.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
The X’th standard student wept, he got only 95 per cent
The cut off for college admissions is 96%, everywhere he went
The parents were inconsolable, contemplating suicide
How can we face the neighbors, we have no place to hide
Their child got 96%, going to that same tuition class
Request for re-evaluation, the correction system is a farce
How can our child become a doctor or an engineer?
If he can’t get into a college to further his career?
We’ll have to buy a handcart, get him to deliver meals
Join the ‘dabbawalas’ union, that’s how his mother feels
Next year, I hear, the cut off will be around a 110%
Even people like ‘Einstein’ won’t get into college then
Make him a politician said his father scratching his belly,
Most of them are ‘8 std pass’, he'll do well in Delhi!
-Ernest .J. Flanagan
© -Ernest .J. Flanagan 2019
Aries (March 21-April 20): This week, Control your temper and keep patience, Wait for right time before taking any step. Even though you are doing well at work, you may feel dissatisfied with the results. You are perhaps becoming overly ambitious. There is no harm in starting a new carrier in film or music industry in this week provided you are certain that you will be able to enough resources to conclude the same. Happiness is love is assured this week.
Taurus (April 21-May 20): Socially, a very active period is ahead. A close associate may back out of some promised help, this might halt your carrier development in music industry . This will be quite upsetting for you. However, this will help you to realize that you should not depend on other. Rest assured that through hard work you will achieve success. Gains are indicated this week, relatively for singers . Those in love can look forward to many exciting evenings with their beloved in this week.
Gemini (May 21-June 20): A quick turn over in business leads to sudden monetary benefits. Avoid fresh investments until you come across a real good bargain. Do not reject any of the projects related to singing and directing. Speculative ventures should be avoided. Those associated with the singing will sign new prestigious contract. Love life is sparkling this week.
Cancer (June 21-July 21): Overseas influence is strong for those who are in field of lyricists. Some of you will make plans to travel on work or on a special assignment. Others are likely to have a visitor from overseas who may have an interesting proposal for a joint venture in multimedia. Those in creative media or related fields are bound to be in the limelight.
Leo (July 22-Aug. 21): Financials gains are indicated but you are advised to hold on your profit and not to invest the same in new ventures. Do not in any case invest your money on the advice of associates who may have some ulterior motives. The married are likely to face a few problems on the home front, As you could not spend much time with them. Those who are composers will be singing new prestigious contract.
Virgo (Aug 22-Sept 21): A busy work schedule could prove tiring. Those travelling on work related to music or film industry will face a few delays and hardships. It is quite likely you may have to travel again to conclude your task. You may hardly find any time for love and romance. A journey abroad will yield profits now and for the future. You may have to return a favor.
Libra (Sept 22-Oct 22): Organizers and playback singers will be given a special assignment to handle independently. The successful completion of this particular project will lead too a promotion. Home also comes under focus due to certain joyful celebration in the family. As you are a entertainer you will be entertaining a number of guests and friends visiting you from out of town.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): Those living away from home and family are likely to return soon. Financially, a favorable period and you could make new investment in fresh projects like buying a music album. The singers who desire of changing job will receive suitable offers. Happiness pervades on the home front.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 20): Avoid speculative ventures for a financial setback is foreseen. You need to stick to routine work and not listed to the advice of those who are making proposal for some quick-money-making scheme. A change of residence or location is predicted for some of you. A deeper bond and can also help you to develop your carrier in music industry
Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 19): Certain “Lucky” developments at work suddenly propel you to a position of eminence. You will get an opportunity to consolidate your position and also display your organizational abilities. Financially, your position is secured, But Co-operate with your seniors mood; it may bring good news if you are composer or singer. You will be organizing a large social get-together, Which will prove enjoyable.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18): Work wise a rewarding week. You will be able to consolidate your position at work and also make profitable investment in a deal proposed by a friend, as this can also help you to grab attention of your seniors if you are a producer or director. Love life is delightful and exciting. Some of you are likely to travel to your favourite holiday resort in the company of your sweetheart.
Pisces (Feb 19-March 20): You are greeted with a sudden surprise with the receipt of large sum of money. . The desire to journey is great, but don't take your eye off the professional ball, as there are chances of going out station for a shoot so you can do both things at same time, as things are moving quickly.
Soon after bidding farewell to Lord Ganesha, I was captivated by the thought of planning the celebration of the upcoming momentous milestone: The Ninetieth Birthday of the Nightingale: Lata Mangeshkar! MI mind went blank trying to write something that was different and distinct enough to justify the overwhelming importance of this occasion. I kept writing and discarding, as I have already written a lot on what was 'different' and 'deferent', and then, I gave up reluctantly.
Overpowered by the restlessness of how I was not able commemorate this landmark event when I have forever been in so much awe of her, thoughts swam through my mind, and one rose from the depths to skim the surface! I seemed compelled to come up with a list of the wide ensemble of rare classic song gems of Lata ji. They were all unearthed and presented with a breath of new life at the “Keep Alive” live music events over the past 22 years by an array of trained and talented singers ranging from Vaishali Samant and Vrushali Patil, Shailaja Subramanian and Sarita Rajesh to Lopita Mishra and Supriya Joshi to Radhika Nanday, Anupama Roy, Shruti Rane, Jyotika Sharma and Prajakta Sarardekar and Sairam Iyer (who sang effortlessly in both male and female voices).
The above singers were supported in the duet songs by other talented singers like Anand Bahal, Anant Bhardwaj, Gaurav Bangia, Nishanth S V, Rana Chatterji, Sagar Sawarkar, Shrikant Narayan... and in the chorus~choir backed songs by Nishigandha Phatak. Nitin Karandikar, Rahul Chitnis, Sonal Naik, Sudha Sundar, Sumeeta Sundar, Veena Joshi....
Presenting the novel conglomeration of the Nightingale Nuggets to mark her Ninetieth Birthday:
Ah!... am running out of energy to go ahead and list the songs of the 60s and 70s...
The list is long and endless.... I stop here....
When I was typing out the songs, lot of beautiful memories came flooding:the musical evenings in which these songs were presented, the singers who rendered them on stage with animated spirits, their initial reaction to the songs that they had never heard, their apprehension about the audience response and the frenzied ovation they received for their rendition and overall presentation!
Incredible and unbelievable that these song gems were actually unearthed and presented on stage in the youthful voices of trained and talented singers associated with “Keep Alive” from time to time.
I am sure many of those reading this piece and who were a part of the “Keep Alive” journey (the singers, the musicians, the music loving discerning audience) will relate to and remember many of these ‘Nightingale Nuggets’ and evoke nostalgia of the good old days which now remain as distant as a dream and remote as a reality!! Anyway, thanks to Lata ji’s 90th Birthday for triggering this exercise. Could there be a better way to mark the momentous event of the Nightingale! Wishing Eternal Ever flowing Euphony to Bharat Ki Beti: Lata Mangeshkar!!
Manohar ‘Mohabbat’ Iyer / Keep Alive
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