Latest news with #OwlCity
Buzz Feed
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Is Addison Rae's Debut Album Actually "Skipless"?
If you haven't heard, Addison Rae's rebranded from doing TikTok dances to making pop hits. The transition from social star, to actress, to singer has been met with a mix of public opinion, but Addison has taken it in stride, explaining how she's handled the criticism in a number of recent interviews. In a YouTube video with internet personality, Quenlin Blackwell, Addison responded to comments she was "trying too hard" saying, "How about you try at all? We can tell you're not". Following the launch of her new career via EP in 2023, she released her first album, self-titled Addison, on June 6, 2025. The 12-track collection is already being praised for its production by an all-female team and labelled by fans as a "skipless" debut. Is the "no skips" sentiment a universal experience, or are the fans just stitching us up? I'm going to find out for the both of us by listening to Addison from start to finish. One listen per song. "New York" My First Impression: If the Secret Life Of Pets wasn't a children's movie they would DEFINITELY add this to the soundtrack. This is a strong start and felt like it needed a strobe light attached to it. If you could bottle the feeling of whipping your hair around to a song on dance floor where you can't hear yourself think, "New York" is pretty close. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: Definitely a club scene montage where a group of friends is rediscovering their youth — having fun, running amuck and giggling a lot. Think Gossip I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. "Diet Pepsi" My First Impression: Technically, I've heard this one already — not in its entirety — but it's different hearing it in this context. The chorus has always been really catchy and so is the backbeat. Each hit on the closed hi-hats scratch an itch in my brain that I can't explain. I know the song is meant have quite a sexy vibe, but it also gives off the air of sadness and a feeling of growing up too fast, knowing you can't go back. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: I'm imagining Hannah Montana standing up in the back of a ute/pickup truck driving through Tennessee, saying, "This is what life's all about". Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: Yes (but only because I didn't know there was a key change). "Money Is Everything" My First Impression: The intro instrumental feels very Disney princess, but after the starting monologue you can feel a punk touch. I really like the choral element on the repeated "money is everything" lyric — it has the same energy as "Hollaback Girl" by Gwen Stefani. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: A group of powerful woman are power strutting, about to take over the world and wreck someone's day. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No (but also, why are the songs so short?). "Aquamarine" My First Impression: I burst out laughing thinking I was listening to "Fireflies" by Owl City because of the opening electronic notes. The song feels super hypnotic, like someone is sitting in front of you with a crystal ball and reading your fortune while chaotic things are flying around. At this point in the album, you can feel it's very consistent in its sound and storytelling. Although, this does feel like it has an '80s disco atmosphere. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: A witch is casting a spell into the sky and making a storm. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: Yes (I thought it was "Fireflies" sorry). "Lost & Found" My First Impression: This is a 48 second interlude that feels very airy and dreamy. It feels like a higher power trying to wake someone up from a crash out. You can feel the album start to shift from high energy to more melancholy. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: A royal walking through a castle, contemplating whether to keep a life of riches or pursue a life of freedom amongst the grain. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. "High Fashion" My First Impression: Addison sounds sad here. This feels like the most literal description of wanting clothes and to go shopping that I've heard in a song. No drugs!!!! Give her shoes!!!! It almost feels a bit satirical, but I know it probably isn't. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: Andrea in The Devil Wears Prada is staring out the window of a black town car in Paris. There's rain pouring outside and she's noticing shoes and purses outside, something she wouldn't have done before. She realises she's changed. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No (but it does confuse me a little bit, I think I need to listen to it again). "Summer Forever" My First Impression: This song is like missing a moment while you're still in it. To me, it almost feels like a Lana Del Rey/Taylor Swift love child with airy-ness of the instrumental and the lyrical pattern. While I understand the vibe she's trying to achieve, I kind of wish the beat on this one was more like Addison's earlier tracks because why does it make me want to cry while the sun's out? What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: A summer break up before moving away, but both of them know that they don't want to let it go. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. "In The Rain" My First Impression: Okay, the speed is back, we're moving into hair-whipping, strut-your-stuff territory. Just kidding, it's STILL SAD!!!!! It feels like it teeters on the edge of a hip-hop/R&B song and I really enjoy it. Of course, Addison's voice brings it back to pop and I think lyrically this is one of strongest of the album so kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: A solo hip-hop contemporary dance in the rain (duh). Think Step Up 2: The Streets. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. "Fame Is A Gun" My First Impression: I think this song embodies her story perfectly and I absolutely love the energy of it. It feels like old-school pop with her distinct flavour and I can see this being really timeless, especially with the catchy hook. It really gets your shoulders moving at your desk, I won't lie. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: After an artist plays a stage show they launch into a fever dream where this is playing, there's a lot of sparkly tinsel. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. "Times Like These" My First Impression: Does anyone remember that scene in Camp Rock, where Tess was surrounded by a bunch of mirrors? This would've been the perfect song for that moment. Breathy vocals are making their return here. It almost feels like this is the end of the album, even though theres two more songs. What kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: The main character is driving in an old school red convertible, moving from one place to another across a long stretch of highway. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: Yes (I think, I just wanted to get back to more of "Fame Is A Gun"). "Life's No Fun Through Clear Waters" My First Impression: The last interlude of the album and you can't hear Addison through it, it feels like a break setting up for the grand finale. Not too much to kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: Think Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes' Romeo + Juliet when they're staring at each other through the aquarium. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No, this is a nice palate cleanser. And finally, "Headphones On" My First Impression: This is "Diet Pepsi"'s chiller sibling that still has that sensual vibe, but instead of feel sad, it feels quite hopeful. It cleanly rounds off the entire album, further emphasising the consistency element. While it is the last song, it feels like it leaves the future open for where her sound could go kind of movie scene would this song be the soundtrack to: This is for the montage in a coming-of-age movie when the protagonist finds out they were just "a bet" or everything wasn't real with the person they fell in love with. It's for the part where they fix their life. Did I want to skip the song at any point in time: No. Listen to Addison by Addison Rae, wherever you get your music.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
Scientists warn we might be the last generation to see fireflies: Why are they disappearing?
It may not be too far in the future when we will only be left with Owl City's serenading song, and no fireflies in real life. At least, that's what the researchers and scientists are warning about. Raphaël De Cock, a firefly researcher, as reported by National Geographic, wrote his PhD thesis on larvae like the one he found as a child. And sadly, what's relatable is that, unanimously, we all see a lot fewer fireflies than we used to in our childhood. Experts confirm the same grim truth, saying there's scientific merit to that observation, as firefly species around the world are declining. Fireflies: Conjuring starry skies on Earth Fireflies are those enchanting insects that illuminate summer nights with their bioluminescent displays. They belong to the family Lampyridae, which includes more than 2,000 described species, many of which emit light. These soft-bodied beetles are commonly known as fireflies, lightning bugs, or glowworms due to their distinctive light production, primarily during twilight, to attract mates. The type species is Lampyris noctiluca, known as the common glow-worm of Europe. It is believed that light production in the Lampyridae initially originated as a warning signal to indicate that the larvae were distasteful. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรดทองCFDsกับโบรกเกอร์ที่เชื่อถือได้| เปิดบัญชีวันนี้ IC Markets สมัคร Undo This ability to produce light was later adapted as a mating signal. Additionally, adult female fireflies of the genus Photuris have been known to mimic the flash patterns of the Photinus beetle to lure their males as prey. Although all known fireflies glow as larvae, only some species produce light in their adult stage, and the location of the light organ varies among species and between sexes of the same species. Fireflies have attracted human attention since classical antiquity; their presence has been taken to signify a wide variety of conditions in different cultures and is especially appreciated aesthetically in Japan, especially in Miyazaki films, where parks are set aside for this specific purpose. And sadly, those magical insects are rapidly disappearing from our landscapes. Recent studies indicate that we may be the last generation to witness their mesmerizing glow. However, understanding the reasons behind their decline is crucial for conservation efforts. Habitat loss : The vanishing wetlands and woodlands Fireflies are generally found in temperate and tropical climates, and they thrive in specific habitats, primarily moist environments like wetlands, marshes, and damp woodlands. These areas provide the necessary conditions for their larvae, which spend a significant portion of their lives in the soil or under leaf litter. Urbanization, agricultural expansion, and deforestation have led to the destruction and fragmentation of these habitats, making it increasingly difficult for firefly populations to survive and reproduce. Light pollution : The night sky's silent intruder Artificial light at night, or light pollution, has a profound impact on fireflies. Most firefly species rely on their natural bioluminescence for mating rituals. The glow from streetlights, billboards, and other artificial sources can interfere with these signals, leading to mating disruptions and declining populations. Studies have shown that light pollution is one of the fastest-growing threats to firefly conservation, outpacing even habitat loss in some regions. Pesticides: The fatal chemical warfare The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture poses a significant threat to fireflies. These chemicals not only kill fireflies directly but also reduce the populations of their prey, such as snails and slugs, which are essential for their larvae. Additionally, pesticides can contaminate water sources, further degrading the delicate ecosystems fireflies depend on. Climate change: Altering life cycles Climate change is altering the temperature and moisture levels of habitats, affecting the life cycles of fireflies. Warmer temperatures can lead to earlier or mismatched timing of mating seasons, reducing successful reproduction. Changes in precipitation patterns can also impact the availability of suitable habitats and prey, further stressing firefly populations. Conservation efforts: Protect the glow The decline of fireflies is a poignant reminder of the broader environmental challenges we face. Their disappearance signifies the degradation of ecosystems that support countless other species, including humans. It is imperative that we take collective action to address the factors contributing to their decline. Efforts are underway globally to protect and conserve firefly populations. Those initiatives include: Habitat restoration: Rehabilitating wetlands and woodlands to provide suitable environments for fireflies. Reducing light pollution: Implementing measures to minimize artificial lighting in critical habitats. Sustainable agricultural practices: Promoting the use of eco-friendly pesticides and farming techniques. Public awareness campaigns: Educating communities about the importance of fireflies and how to protect them. Saif Ali Khan on 'making of star kids': 'You might have a last name, but it doesn't mean you have talent'
Straits Times
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
GE2025: 'Look left, look right' and all the essential songs for election season
People's Power Party candidate Samuel Lee (left) and Workers' Party candidate Jimmy Tan are among politicians who have been trying to sing their way into voters' hearts. ST PHOTOS: BRIAN TEO, MARK CHEONG GE2025: 'Look left, look right' and all the essential songs for election season SINGAPORE - I look left, look right, look left, look right – and find myself in the middle of a sing-off. Singapore's upcoming General Election has had plenty of walkabouts, rallies, manifestos and, somewhat unexpectedly, songs. Several candidates have been trying to sing their way into voters' hearts, not least among them the People's Power Party's Samuel Lee. The 33-year-old information technology engineer kicked off GE2025 with a song adaptation that is getting its moment in the sun. His is the voice that launched a thousand memes, after he filled in the classic Chinese song A Tiny Bird (1990) by Taiwanese singer Chao Chuan with English lyrics lamenting the struggles faced by Singaporeans in securing a job. 'I look left, look right, look left, look right, for a career path. Is this a request too high?' Mr Lee sang to introduce himself at the PPP's press conference on April 22, in an alteration of the song's original Chinese lyrics, 'I search and search for a warm embrace. Is that too much to ask?' While it is unclear if h is message resonated with netizens, his version of the song is certainly a hit. An electronic music version of Lee's song, put through an artificial intelligence (AI) software, got over 6,300 likes and 9,600 shares on TikTok, with one commenter jokingly naming it: 'Look Left Look Right - PPP (Owl City remix)'. Owl City is an American electronic music project. Comedy meme account Yeolo, which has close to 90,000 followers on Instagram, has posted several memes of Lee's clip, with captions like: 'Me asking my boss for a raise,' and 'Me checking LinkedIn at work.' Mr Lee will be contesting Ang Mo Kio GRC as part of a five-man team, going up against a People's Action Party (PAP) team led by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and a team from the opposition Singapore United Party (SUP). Other candidates have also attempted to endear themselves to constituents through music. At a press conference unveiling its slate of candidates contesting Nee Soon GRC, Red Dot United (RDU) secretary-general Ravi Philemon, 56, not only sang the viral K-pop hit Apt. by Blackpink's Rose and American pop star Bruno Mars, but another tune as well in Hokkien, showing off his multilingual skills. He will lead a five-man team in Nee Soon GRC against a PAP team led by Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam. Another opposition crooner, a prize-winning one at that, is WP's Jimmy Tan, who is part of the party's slate for Tampines GRC. The 53-year-old sales manager sometimes get recognised by residents while walking the ground. Why? He won the Channel 8 programme Golden Age Talentime in 2023. The Chinese singing contest is only open to those above 50. On the show, Mr Tan showed off his pipes with classic Chinese hits like The Past Can Only Be Reminisced (1970) by Taiwanese veteran You Ya and Cheers To The Past (1988) by Taiwanese singer Chiang Yu-heng. Progress Singapore Party's (PSP) candidate for Marymount SMC Jeffrey Khoo, 56, tried to woo voters at a party election rally on April 24 with the folk song You're The Only One In My Heart, made famous by Taiwanese singers Liu Wen-cheng and Teresa Teng. He sang a verse of the song, before addressing Marymount citizens directly and echoing a lyric from the song: 'Marymount residents, I'm Jeffrey Khoo. You're the only one in my heart.' Certainly, incumbent ruling party PAP has its own singer too in new face Goh Pei Ming, 43, whose team fielded for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights enjoyed a walkover. Asked by The Straits Times what his favourite army song is, the former Singapore Armed Forces chief of staff sang Purple Light. And his current song on repeat is a Mandopop classic – an anthem about one's unrequited affections, Devotion Love (2002) by Taiwanese singer Sam Lee. So with a week left till the polls, and if you're looking to get in the mood, here's a playlist of GE2025 'hits': A Tiny Bird Apt. You're The Only One In My Heart Devotion Love Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
