Latest news with #KONG
The Irish Sun
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Inside the weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz where iconic band are brought to life
The exhibition promises to be 'like no other' and it certainly is a unique experience HOUSE OF KONG Inside the weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz where iconic band are brought to life GORILLAZ: HOUSE OF KONG Copper Box Arena, London ★★★★★ IN a discreet corner of London's Olympic Park, you'll find a vast, dingy looking metal warehouse. The word KONG is picked out in big red capital letters above a menacing statue of Pazuzu, a demon-god entity from ancient Mesopotamia, only this one is unceremoniously covered in stickers. 3 A new exhibition is open and celebrates 25 years of Gorillaz, the legendary virtual band Credit: Gorillaz 3 The House of Kong brings the band to life, and there are surprises in store for visitors Credit: Gorillaz Welcome to House Of Kong, the endlessly weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz. You may think of 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Russel Hobbs and Noodle as a virtual band — product of the fevered minds of musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. But this immersive exhibition, which opened its doors yesterday at the Copper Box Arena, is the physical embodiment of their 25-year history. So visitors get the sights, the sounds and, er, the smells that created the legend. Having been given a sneak preview, I was sworn to secrecy about many of the surprises in store, but I can give you a few juicy details. With headphones on, I am invited by a tour guide down a dimly lit, wood-panelled corridor with a sign at the end — again in bold capitals — which implores: 'REJECT FALSE ICONS'. The first room I enter is devoted to what is called the 'miscreation' of Gorillaz, through Hewlett's dazzling drawings. I see how the cartoon band's final line-up was arrived at, how a whole world was built around them and finally how they came to life through animation. I hear the story of their wild ride into the world of music — beginning with the self-titled debut album (2001), then continuing with Demon Days (2005), Plastic Beach (2010) and so on. This part of the exhibition is fascinating but relatively normal. It didn't quite prepare me for the bizarre (secret) scenes about to unfold. Official music video for the track Humility from the Gorillaz's newest album The Now Now Without giving too much away, I get lost in total darkness at one point and have to be rescued by an assistant with a torch. Shocking pink At least a panic attack didn't kick in — and I'm putting it down to a bit of Murdoc Niccals mischief. I can also add that I was very impressed with the large, original model of Plastic Beach, the shocking-pink floating Gorillaz HQ in the South Pacific made of humankind's detritus. And by the time I exited through the gift shop (in time-honoured Banksy-inspired fashion) and emerged blinking in the sunlight, I felt like I was ready for a lie-down (although not in a darkened room!) On the poster, Murdoc describes it as 'an exhibition like no other.' I would add the words, 'and then some'.
Scottish Sun
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Inside the weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz where iconic band are brought to life
The exhibition promises to be 'like no other' and it certainly is a unique experience HOUSE OF KONG Inside the weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz where iconic band are brought to life Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) GORILLAZ: HOUSE OF KONG Copper Box Arena, London ★★★★★ IN a discreet corner of London's Olympic Park, you'll find a vast, dingy looking metal warehouse. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up The word KONG is picked out in big red capital letters above a menacing statue of Pazuzu, a demon-god entity from ancient Mesopotamia, only this one is unceremoniously covered in stickers. 3 A new exhibition is open and celebrates 25 years of Gorillaz, the legendary virtual band Credit: Gorillaz 3 The House of Kong brings the band to life, and there are surprises in store for visitors Credit: Gorillaz Welcome to House Of Kong, the endlessly weird and wonderfully subversive home of Gorillaz. You may think of 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Russel Hobbs and Noodle as a virtual band — product of the fevered minds of musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. But this immersive exhibition, which opened its doors yesterday at the Copper Box Arena, is the physical embodiment of their 25-year history. So visitors get the sights, the sounds and, er, the smells that created the legend. Having been given a sneak preview, I was sworn to secrecy about many of the surprises in store, but I can give you a few juicy details. With headphones on, I am invited by a tour guide down a dimly lit, wood-panelled corridor with a sign at the end — again in bold capitals — which implores: 'REJECT FALSE ICONS'. The first room I enter is devoted to what is called the 'miscreation' of Gorillaz, through Hewlett's dazzling drawings. I see how the cartoon band's final line-up was arrived at, how a whole world was built around them and finally how they came to life through animation. I hear the story of their wild ride into the world of music — beginning with the self-titled debut album (2001), then continuing with Demon Days (2005), Plastic Beach (2010) and so on. This part of the exhibition is fascinating but relatively normal. It didn't quite prepare me for the bizarre (secret) scenes about to unfold. Official music video for the track Humility from the Gorillaz's newest album The Now Now Without giving too much away, I get lost in total darkness at one point and have to be rescued by an assistant with a torch. Shocking pink At least a panic attack didn't kick in — and I'm putting it down to a bit of Murdoc Niccals mischief. I can also add that I was very impressed with the large, original model of Plastic Beach, the shocking-pink floating Gorillaz HQ in the South Pacific made of humankind's detritus. And by the time I exited through the gift shop (in time-honoured Banksy-inspired fashion) and emerged blinking in the sunlight, I felt like I was ready for a lie-down (although not in a darkened room!) On the poster, Murdoc describes it as 'an exhibition like no other.' I would add the words, 'and then some'.
Business Wire
03-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Bamboodles, Cooper and Gracie, KONG, and Nutriment Natural Treats Among Winners at 2025-2026 World Branding Awards Animalis Edition in Vienna
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The 2025-2026 World Branding Awards Animalis Edition marked its fifth instalment, bringing together leading pet and animal brands from all around the world. These brands were celebrated for their outstanding achievements, earning recognition as National, Regional, and Global Winners. The awards ceremony, held at Vienna's prestigious Hofburg Palace, welcomed winners across diverse categories, including pet food, retail, wellness, pet exhibitions, and aquatic products. Mounia Berrada-Gouzi expertly hosted the evening, which culminated in a grand celebration of brand excellence. 'The Animalis Edition of the World Branding Awards recognises brands that have achieved the highest distinction—genuine recognition in the hearts and minds of consumers. Tonight, we honour those whose names resonate globally, whose values inspire loyalty, and whose presence defines excellence in the pet and animal industry,' said Richard Rowles, Chairman of the World Branding Forum. Out of over 950 brands nominated by more than 80,000 consumers in a global online survey, only the top 105 brands from 25 countries achieved the coveted title of winner. Earning a World Branding Award is a significant achievement, solidifying their status as industry leaders. Proving their excellence and impeccable branding, the Global tier winners include Frontline (Germany), Kit Cat (Singapore), KONG (UK), Sheba (USA), and Whiskas (USA). Winners from United Kingdom include Bamboodles, Cooper and Gracie, James Wellbeloved, KONG, and Nutriment Natural Treats. Other National tier winners include CIAO (Japan), Delibest (Switzerland), Heads Up For Tails (India), Kaniva (Thailand), Pampered Pets (Singapore), Petio (Japan), Powercat (Malaysia), Topbreed (The Philippines), and Vancat (Türkiye), to name a few. Regional tier winners include Alps Natural (Malaysia), EHEIM (Germany), and Hikari (Japan). These brands were voted as consumers' favourites in 4 or more countries across 3 or more areas in a specific geographic region. As the 2025-2026 World Branding Awards Animalis Edition concludes, the highly anticipated Global Edition of the World Branding Awards is set to return to the stage this November. For more information, visit The World Branding Awards is the premier award of the World Branding Forum, a registered non-profit organisation. The awards recognise the achievements of some of the world's best brands.
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Pet store hosting 'heartwarming' event to help dogs in shelters
A pet store is hosting a "heartwarming" event to help dogs in shelters. Healthy Pet Store, in Salisbury Road, Totton, is holding its second annual KONG Stuff-a-thon on Sunday, April 6. The event is to celebrate KONG Day and aims to provide enrichment and treats for dogs in local shelters. The event is free and open to the public, and will run from 10am to 4pm. People are encouraged to visit the store and help fill KONG toys with nutritious treats, including fruit, vegetables, cheese, meats, and pastes. These will be frozen and delivered to shelters the next day. Deborah Burrows, managing director of Healthy Pet Store, said: "We're really excited about holding this event for the second time. "This exciting initiative provides a unique opportunity for the community to come together, have fun, and do something good at the same time." For more information, visit the store's website or call 02380 868598.
Fox News
18-02-2025
- General
- Fox News
7 truly indestructible dog toys for dogs who destroy all their toys
The moment you give your dog a new toy is an exciting one for you and your pup. But for dogs who take less than five minutes to completely rip apart that new toy, the excitement isn't long-lived. If your dog is an aggressive chewer or if they like to tear their toys apart, you need indestructible toys built to last. The toys on this list are designed for larger dog breeds and dogs who have destroyed the dozens of toys you've already bought for them. Included are well-known brands like KONG and Tuffy and toys made of durable, long-lasting materials. Original price: $23.49 Tuffy toys have extra-strong seams and are made from durable materials to withstand aggressive players. A Tuffy's giraffe toy isn't just cute, it can get through a spirited game of tug-of-war. It's best for medium-sized dog breeds. Original price: $21.99 A BetterBone beef dog toy helps clean your dog's teeth and will last, even with aggressive chewers. The beef flavor is sure to make this toy any dog's favorite. Plus, it's splint-resistant, so it's a safe toy for your pup. Original price: $15.99 KONGs are great for energetic dogs that need to be constantly entertained. Just stuff the toy full of peanut butter, pumpkin, yogurt and any other dog treats, and your dog can spend time trying to free them from the toy. The black KONG is the one meant for larger dog breeds or aggressive chewers. Responsibly sourced elk antlers make great chew toys for dogs of all sizes. Elk antlers are less susceptible to splintering like some dog toys, making them a good alternative. Heartland elk antlers are harvested only after being shed by elk, so they're sourced responsibly. Most purchases can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you're an Amazon Prime member. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your holiday shopping today. You can get a three-pack of indestructible dog chews for the price of just one. These food-grade nylon dog toys are a safe way for your dog to get rid of any extra energy or any anxiety. They're designed with a paw-friendly grip, so they're easy for your dog to pick up. Big dogs who like to play tug or chew their toys will love this indestructible ring ball. It's much larger than a tennis ball and is carefully designed for a good game of tug. It's made from heavy-duty, industrial-strength rubber and is butter-scented. What's better than that for a dog! For more Deals, visit Give your dog a literal tire, but one that's safe for them to chew on. This Leaps & Bounds toss & tug toy is a strong rubber tire with a tough rope attached. It's rated for aggressive chewers and larger dog breeds.
