#bewitched goddess tour | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

lumenouarp · 3 months

Text

The invitation went out to leaders, nobles, and some non-nobles alike inviting everyone to the Divine Forest's Heir Naming Ceremony. Join the Goddess as she names her successor and crown heir to the throne and celebrate the continuance of the Hale/Roosa family line through this joyous time.

The event will span from February 23 - 25. There will be complimentary suites at the Divinity Inn for all who attend the event.

Join the family for an important moment in Nymph history, as well as join the family in a two day post ceremony celebration.

The itinerary is as follows:

Day 1 - Ceremony Day

Welcome brunch ( The Dinning Hall of the Divinity Inn) - Kick start the morning after settling in by having brunch where the mimosas are flowing, and the menu is accommodating of all dietary needs.

Offering to Mother Nature ( The Garden View Park) - Plant a tree, sow seeds to add a plant or add to the community garden. Share and appreciate nature and it's bountiful blessings bestowed by Mother Nature as well as giving thanks and offering by making your contribution to nature

Heir naming ceremony (The Divine Palace) - Portal over to the palace for the ceremony to name Hale Roosa Crown Pincex to the Divine Forest throne.

Crowning ceremony (The Divine Palace) - After a short break, join us as we complete the ceremony by crowning the heir.

Dinner (The Divine Palace Gardens ) - Enjoy a night to remember of buffet style dinner for all dietary needs

Day 2 - Full Moon / Celebration Day One

Breakfast (The Dinning Hall of the Divinity Inn)

Aquarium (The Divine Forest Aquarium) - Enjoy a leisurely day before the full moon by taking in the sights at the aquarium.

Painting Classes (The Divine Palace Gardens ) - Explore your artistic side with Prince Viggo leading painting class throughout the morning.

Lunch (The Divine Palace Gardens ) - After letting your inner artist out, enjoy lunch in the Gardens.

Beach Day (Shimmering Shore Beach) - Spend some fun in the sun with the following activities: Beach Volleyball, Sailing, Swimming w Dolphins, Underwater Sports: Hockey & Rugby

Dinner ( Shimmering Shore Beach) - With the grill fired up there's a little something for everyone for dinner before the full moon.

Full moon activities

ColorUMine - (ColorUMine Body Painting Studio) Grab a partner and express yourselves with some edible body paint. Each couple or group will have their own room for self expression.

Bar crawl - Take a tour of the Bewitched Path with a bar crawl first round at each establishment is on the house.

[All clubs in the area have free admission all night as well as the wolves have free reign to run the forest area. Vampires & Hybrids will have extra donors, infused foods and blood bags available. There will be an all night party happening in the ball room of Divinity Inn.]

Day 3 - Celebration Day Two

Breakfast (The Dinning Hall of the Divinity Inn)

Morning Yoga (The Divinity Inn Gym) - Join Robin LaFleur for Sunrise Yoga

Beach Activities (Shimmering Shore Beach)- Join us for Water sports and activities such as Snorkeling, Catamaran, Parasailing, Underwater Activities: Statue Museum & Photography Sessions, Water sports:Cliff Diving, Free Diving, Wind Surfing, & Kite Surfing

Lunch on the Beach (Shimmering Shore Beach) - With the grill fired up there's a little something for everyone for the send off lunch.

[OOC: While in character the event lasts from 2/23 -2/25, ooc the event will span from 2/23 - 3/16. You can keep old threads or put them on pause. The choice is yours how you work best when it comes to replies. Please tag the event threads as lmevent8. Feel free to make event starters and remember once we get 3 open starters, please reply to those starters before making your own. Any major plots you may have please run them by the admin team! Most importantly though, have fun with this event.]

#lmevent #lmevent8

1 note · View note

voxomniaetnihil · 1 year

Text

A Little More About Me...

Why should you read my blog? Glad you asked! As a Black Man, it’ll be a POV you may not be used to, giving you something to ponder. Agreeing or disagreeing is fine, but as the saying goes: “you’re entitled to your own opinion, but not your own facts”. My opinions & facts are as strong as Death Wish coffee, and I’m not afraid to engage them. Are you?

What will you get from my blog? Honesty, information and some laughs. Reviews, like politics, has become a dirty business and I like getting my hands dirty. Just ask Anne Rice or Amos Lassen.

What will I be posting about? Books, movies, music, movie scores- I love me some movie scores!- politics and life in these United States. Something new I’m excited to try out is episodic reviews of tv & anime series- not so much current ones but old faves like Highlander, Slayers, Babylon 5, Hellsing, etc. And no, I will NOT be doing Smallville...

What’s my cred? I’m a former Amazon Top 1000 Reviewer and a former- and current again- Amazon Vine Voice. I’ve been interviewed by prominent bloggers and correspond frequently with authors. I’ve reviewed for such book tour agencies as Bewitching Book Tours, Month9Books, Xpresso, YA Bound, Enchanted, Goddess Fish, as well as the occasional self-published author. I’m also a regular attendee at the BEA every year, so you’ll be able to get a heads up on what’ll be coming out.

How’d I get started? Welp, in 2009 the company I worked for- Virgin Megastores- closed down and I took advantage of my abundant free time by catching up on some reading. Ok, a lot of reading. Virgin shared the same building as Random House and about twice a month RH dumped their shelves out. And I’m not ashamed to say I was a dumpster diving mofo- it’s how I discovered the Anita Blake series. (true story)

I started referencing Amazon reviews about the books I was reading and came to respect and rely upon the information I received and the people who provided it. After a few months I figured I could do the same- I’m that one friend you'd always ask their opinion about movies, etc. I started moving up the ranks and boom!- Top 1000. This was before all the madness and mishegoss. Ah, the good old days…

I wasn’t in it for a side gig; it was always fun & interesting to me. Trying to hustle to keep my rank up combined with the tsunami of fake reviews and bullshitters angling for free stuff made me lose my taste for the game, so I slacked off for a good while. Then Wordpress suspended my blog claiming I was spamming for posting book tour promos, so I just said screw it. See ya when I see ya.

Now it’s a new decade with new ideas & challenges to tackle, so why the hell not?

A few things about me personally: Proud Black Man. Former US Marine. Born, raised, still living in Brooklyn. 50+ years old. 6’5’’, about 260. One of the handsomest men you’ll ever meet. Big sports fan- Baseball (Mets), Football (Cowboys), Hockey (Devils), Basketball (Lakers). Works in Sports/Entertainment Security. Still working on my own fantasy novel & occasional dabbler in fanfic. Used to never drink coffee... used to. Beer is proof God loves us and wants us to be happy. Wine tastes flat to me.

Thanks for stopping by. If you’re of a mind, hit the links and stalk… er, follow me around the internetz.

#Amazon #Books #Movies #Anita Blake #Amos Lassen #Reviews #Brooklyn #Virgin Megastores #Random House

0 notes

bewitching-book-tours · 2 years

Text

A Bewitching Monday

A Round-Up of Daily Tour Stops

The Girl From Saint Petersburg by Joyana Peters #HistoricalFiction#bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/hGe450Kp7tk

Enter to win the Rare Finds Prize Pack from Cornelia Amiri Contains: Celtic Knot Bookmark, Goddess Pendant, Socks, Soy Candle, Star Trek Badge & More #romcom#scifiromance#spaceoperaromance#oppositesattract#SFR#funnyscifi#sexyscifi http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc2130/

Euphoric Wonderland Open your heart to a compilation of musical poetry and surreal expression drawn from madness and mania. #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/Lmks50Kp7kl

Oracles Violette L. Meier - Paranormal,Urban Fantasy, Horror - A spiritually intuitive woman shares her life story with her family on her 101st birthday as a strange shadowy entity makes its presence known. #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/JkIy50Kp7so

Ghosts and Legends of Genesee and Lapeer Counties Ghost stories and urban legends lurk throughout Genesee and Lapeer counties. #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/FfuQ50Kp7oz

Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker [Tour Spotlight] #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/h3tN50Kp7m3

NOT WELL BEHAVED WOMEN is a Limited Edition Charity Romance Anthology to support reproductive rights with stories ranging from steamy to downright scorching! https://amzn.to/3Ns5Dmi#charityanthology#RomanceAnthology#Romance#ReproductiveRights

Oracles by Violette L. Meier Virtual Book Tour #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/qZ8G50Kp7qO

SPOTLIGHT - POETRY - EUPHORIC WONDERLAND: An Eclectric Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker #bewitchingbooktourshttp://ow.ly/6A7650Kp7mN

0 notes

oopskashish · 4 years

Note

Congrats again!! 💛 maybe headcanons of going to a museum with Remus and he is super enthusiastic and tells stories about everything there?? (idk if this is something, you decide (: )

Le Louvre

A/N: I am so sorry for not getting to your request sooner. I did start writing it but then I realised I know nothing about London museums so this one is set in Paris.

Not that I have visited France but I know quite a lot about it.

Hope you enjoy it 💘

Pairing: Remus Lupin x reader

Summary: you go to the Louvre with your boyfriend, Remus.

You and your gorgeous boyfriend Remus were on a vacation to France

And Remus was adoring France

Not just because of the croissants and wines and cheeses

But also because of the amount of monuments there are

Notre dame, Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Cœur, etc

And obviously Louvre

He was practically buzzing with excitement

And you were so happy to see him being so flamboyant

He was dragging you along, telling you everything he knew

The tour guide was sweating because Remus was doing a better job than him

"There are about 38000 artificants here, darling, did you know that? That statue, right there, is called Venus De Milo, who is the Roman version of a Greek goddess called Aphrodite. Aphrodite is the goddess of love and beauty. Thus this is actually the Roman version of the Greek statue, how odd is that?"

"you're confusing me."

"me too."

And just like that

He was gushing about all of it

And you loved listening to it all.

You admired how his eyes lit up at certain statues and paintings and artifacts

He had a small smile as he told the tale behind each piece in a manner that raptured your attention

He would tug at your hand when he was a little too excited about a certain art piece

And hearing it all in his voice was so calming

His voice was like honey, so smooth and rich. It had a tad bit of roughness to it which made your heart tingle in delight.

And you somehow listened to him and admired him at the same time

And gave some spared attention to the art work

Don't get me wrong

You were also an admirer of art, since your bestie is an artist and she gushes about art too

But the man beside you was so much more pristine and beguiling than all the art pieces combined.

You were also telling him so cheesy pick up lines

"Babe, I am suprised that the museum security isn't after me yet."

"what do you mean love?"

"it's not allowed to touch art and I have been touching you the whole time."

He blushed and muttered something incoherent and tugged you along with him.

"Now this, my love, is Mona Lisa. It's said that she is the most beautiful woman in the world, though I disagree since they haven't seen you."

You shoved him off as he chuckled.

"why are her eyes following me, Remus?"

And then you whisper "do you think someone bewitched it?"

Remus laughed at that.

"no, love, it's made in such a way that it'll be perceived that her eyes are following you."

"creepy."

He continued to take you around

"can I bewitch this statue?"

He was looking at you with a horrified expression

"I shouldn't let sirius hang out with you anymore."

"meanie." You would pout

And then the pout will disappear since he pressed a loving kiss on it

"is that a yes?"

"no."

Pout is back

"Remus! Remus! Remus!" You gasp, grabbing his arm to gain his attention.

"yes?"

"look at the ceiling!"

Remus looked up and saw why you were gawking at it

There was intricate artwork on the ceiling too, which made you gape at it like a lil goldfish

And then he told you all about the painting

When you guys were done spending time there

You guys went outside to see the Louvre Pyramid

"ah yes, of course this beauty. It's made by I.M. Pei. It's fully made of glass. It was made to show respect to the Glorious Revolution of 1830s, I think. it's made pretty recently, actually."

"wow."

"wow, indeed." He would grin at you

Then you guys would go to a lil cafe round the corner and you would order some food for the lunch

"how do you know so much about this, Remus?"

"my uncle once took me here and told me about everything, darling."

"i think it's really lovely that you know all that." You would smile at him

Remus would look at you in suprise

"really?"

"of course! You're so passionate about it, I was feeling bad to even interrupt you."

He would laugh at that and kiss your knuckles as a silent thank you

He was happy that you didn't get annoy by him geeking about art

But how could you?

Your wolfy boi is too adorable for that

-/-/-/-

Send me an ask if you wanna be in my taglist :)

General taglist: @bl597 @obsessedwithrandomthings @firewhisky-kisses @pregnant-piggy @remmyswritings @harrypotter289 @mytreec @strawberriesonsummer @yourssuccubus @idont-knowrn @simplymagicalwritings @kalimagik @xdarthsanchezx @tinylumpiaa

173 notes · View notes

shemakesmusic-uk · 3 years

Photo

Symphonic metal outfit Ad Infinitum return with their bewitching second offering Chapter II – Legacy, out October 29 via Napalm Records. A first glimpse of what can be expected from the album is delivered by vibrant first single ‘Unstoppable’, alongside an explosive music video. The song reflects the band’s attitude in the best way and immediately catches the listener with its intriguing chorus. Ad Infinitum on the new single: “We are very happy to finally unveil the first track from our upcoming album, Chapter II – Legacy. Saying that we’ve been impatient to share our work on this record is an understatement. We hope you will enjoy – as much as we do – the first taste of an album that represents the evolution and growth of the band very well.” [via Metal Goddesses]

youtube

German modern metallers Enemy Inside have unleashed a new exceptional single and video, ‘In My Blood’. ‘In My Blood’ is a song about imbalance in society. The gap between rich and poor. One part lives in abundance & gluttony, while others fights to survive. The mid-tempo song is thought-provoking and directs to where we often prefer to look away. It captures the topic and feelings from reflectiveness to anger by changing the dynamic with softer and harder parts. [ia Metal Goddesses]

youtube

Anette Olzon has released another single from her upcoming LP Strong. Listen to ‘Fantastic Fanatic’ below.

Denmark’s Forever Still share a music video for ‘Pieces’ off of their latest album Breathe In Colours. Watch it below. The band on the ‘Pieces’ video: “This video was intended to be used as tour promotion in 2020, but as you know all too well, touring after 2019 didn’t go as planned for anyone, so we’re really excited to finally be able to share it with all of you.” [via Metal Goddesses]

youtube

Kallias originally started out as an all-instrumental band with their 2020 EP The Fourth Phase. Now guitarist Nicole Papastavrou and bassist Chris Marrone have both stepped up to the microphone to add a new, heavy dimension to their music as you'll hear on the ‘Supermassive’ single. "Kallias are thrilled to announce the release of 'Supermassive'. Our first piece of music with vocals, featuring Nicole and Chris," said the band. "We felt it was a necessary step to indefinitely progressing our sound, with the majority of the new material calling for vocals. The concept behind the video entertains the idea of humans being biologically altered or mechanically enhanced against their will, becoming a kind of modified hybrid being. It can also signify the acceptance of such experiments, resulting in a feeling of enlightenment while becoming a better version of yourself. The next phase for Kallias will be releasing our first full length record in 2022, diving deeper into this concept, and we can't wait to unleash our truest form." Check out the Sirius Cinema-directed music video below. [via Metal Injection]

youtube

Back in May, Jinjer said that their new album, Wallflowers, was their heaviest collection of songs yet. The first two singles we heard from it, 'Vortex' and 'Mediator,' made that very clear, but frontwoman Tatiana Shmayluk also used the word "uneasy" to describe the overall mood of the record, which doesn't necessarily mean heavy. 'Wallflower,' the quasi-title-track from the album that they just released as one final preview, is definitely uneasy. Over jazzy bass noodles, bubbling drums and proggy dribbles of clean guitars, Shmayluk's voice rises and falls between a meditative whisper and a soulful belt. She sounds angry, upset, distressed — and then the heavy comes in with her lion-like roar. Jinjer excel at that sort of compositional drama, leading the listener down one melodic pathway only to lay a booby-trap that drops the listener into a chasm of djent brutality. It's what makes them so exciting, and what makes Wallflowers such a fiercely anticipated release. Plus, the 'Wallflower' video sees Shmayluk working through her emotions with a gun in each hand and a helluva lot of bullets. [via Revolver]

youtube

#metal monday #enemy inside #ad infinitum #anette olzon #forever still #kallias #jinjer

4 notes · View notes

azpartygirlz · 3 years

Video

youtube

Thursday, September 30th

SHANNON & THE CLAMS

at Club Congress (info/tix)

“I am terrified of spiders,” says Shannon Shaw. “My mom always told me that they’re drawn to me. Like, they would drop down and dangle in my face as a baby, or they’d get in my bed.”

But the powerhouse singer-bassist of retro-rock band Shannon & The Clams had bigger fears when she went to an astrologer two years ago. Shaw was at an emotional tipping point — willing to try anything — because everything she loved was falling apart.

“It felt like the end of an era,” Shaw says, which began to unravel in 2016 with the tragic Ghost Ship warehouse fire in the Clams’ DIY community in Oakland. In 2018, the California wildfires in Napa almost caused her parents to evacuate their homes. In 2019, a lurking intruder drove Shaw out of the beloved apartment she’d lived in for 14 years. And then, right as her band was getting invited on big tours with bands like Greta Van Fleet and The Black Keys, her father was diagnosed with cancer. “The idea of leaving my family was agonizing — it was torture,” Shaw says.

The astrologer told her to summon Durga when she felt powerless, a Hindu goddess who holds a weapon in each of her eight arms. Shaw saw the connection. “The symbolism of the spider made a full turn in an interesting way,” she says. “I was getting protection from the thing I feared the most.” Plus, she says with a laugh, “Spiders destroy the bullshit bugs. Like mosquitoes. Who needs ‘em?”

Year Of The Spider, the band’s sixth studio album, rages against death and disease with the power of a thousand angry Ronettes. Songs like “All Of My Cryin',” “Mary, Don’t Go,” and “Year Of The Spider,” pulse with girl-group elegance and punk ferocity. On a Clams record, you always get both.

That harsh/soft balance often comes down to Clams keyboardist Will Sprott. "Different keyboards lend themselves to different tones," Sprott says, "a Rhodes [piano] is more soft and bell-like, whereas a Wurlitzer has these chunky, abrasive bites. So when I'm deciding which instrument to play on a song, I'm thinking, what does the song make you feel? What do you want it to communicate? It's like, do you want this organ to scream at you or soothe you?"

On the album opener, it was a little bit of both. “Do I Wanna Stay" is a slow tango between Shaw's voice and Sprott's piano that builds to a break point when Shaw rasps, “I dream at night…” sounding like someone whittled Brenda Lee into a shiv.

"We went line by line with a fine-toothed comb to make sure the instrumentation matched each scene, almost like a movie," Sprott says, adding, "That's one thing about having Dan [Auerbach] as your producer — he is really good at seeing an overall vision of the sound — knowing when and where to add or remove certain layers."

Drummer Nate Mahan agreed, saying "Stay" was a true collaboration. "Shannon had a very unique idea about the tempo of that song that we had to work out with Dan … The timing took us quite a while to get right, but I'm really proud of how it came out."

When Mahan moved to Oakland in 2007, he was a fan of the band before he joined. "I was in a lot of improvisational and noise bands in a city that has every micro-genre you can imagine floating around … Shannon and the Clams stuck out to me because they had great songs with great singers, which I thought that really lacking in Oakland at the time."

Mahan's intuitive approach shines through on songs with dense imagery like, "Mary Don't Go" — one of Shaw and Auerbach's favorites. "I wanted to leave space for the words and pull back [on the drums]," Mahan says. "When you slow the pace, the words can feel more powerful."

On “Godstone," which tells the story of a surreal underwater encounter Shaw had in Hawaii, Mahan ditched the drums completely and played a halting, horn-like piano line while Sprott added the eerie arpeggiated synths.

The other source of the Clams' signature sound comes from the decade-long creative partnership between Shaw and Clams’ guitarist Cody Blanchard. In “I Need You Bad,” their voices lock into bewitching minor chords. “It’s like a zipper when we sing together,” Shaw said, “I think we have a blood harmony, though we’re not related.” Bands that do have blood harmonies — the Everly Brothers, the BeeGees — are major musical touchstones for them. But unlike those groups, Shaw, Blanchard are close friends. They live 15 minutes away from each other and when both are in town, will rehearse in the goat shed turned recording studio that Blanchard built in his yard.

Blanchard mixed Spider at Dan Auerbach’s Easy Eye Sound Studios the same week tornadoes devastated parts of Nashville right before the COVID-19 shutdowns in early 2020. He also wrote and sings lead on roughly half the songs on Spider. His songs, like “Flowers Will Return” and “In The Hills, In The Pines,” have swelling pop arrangements and a mysteriously sparse falsetto, reminiscent of bands like The Hollies and The Association.

As a songwriter, Blanchard said he can get neurotic, so he tried Dolly Parton’s trick: writing songs from another person’s point of view. It worked, yielding some of Spider’s darkest songs: the howling “Crawl,” which has a roiling hard-rock guitar (“that was really fun — just a classic, rippin’ ‘70s guitar solo”) and the album's first single, “Midnight Wine," a thundering baroque-pop number that was inspired by friends and people in the Oakland arts community who died of drug overdoses over the last few years.

“I was thinking specifically of the feeling of alienation,” said Blanchard. “Where it feels like nothing in society works for you. The only thing that makes sense is to get fucked up to the point where you don’t care if you die or not because life is too difficult and bleak.”

Spider ends with the slinky Motown-esque, “Vanishing.”Shaw dons her spiritual spider armor once more, singing directly and poignantly to her father (who is doing well, she said.) At first, Shaw wondered if the lyrics were too personal to put on the record.

“It’s very emotional, very tender,” she said. “I also had these ideas that made no sense, like having the weird call-and-response, but we made it work so it was one of those songs that gave me the chance to grow.”

#shannon & the clams #Hardly Art #shannon and the clams #garage punk #garage psych #doo-wop #1-2-3-4 go! records #oakland #california #shannon shaw

2 notes · View notes

bewitchingbooktours · 2 months

Text

A Bewitching Monday

A Round-Up of Daily Virtual Book Tour Stops

INTERVIEW WITH LUCINDA WICKED (Cosmic Requiem Circle) #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/4cF1YiJ

Check out Crossroads Magic, book 1 in the new Witchtown Crossing series by Tracy Cooper-Posey. This book is a blend of several genres including Paranormal Women’s Fiction, Paranormal Romance (slow burn), and Contemporary Fantasy #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/3vCMxqL

Now scheduling a Cover Reveal and Two Week Tour for Marked Under the Midnight Sun by Susanna Strom https://www.bewitchingbooktours.biz/2024/03/now-scheduling-cover-reveal-and-two.html

Chasing The Dragon by Mark Towse #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/4cDx9Lq

Now scheduling a two-week tour for The Divine and Deadly by Taylen Carver https://www.bewitchingbooktours.biz/2024/03/now-scheduling-two-week-tour-for-divine.html

INTERVIEW - PARANORMAL WOMEN'S FICTION - CROSSROADS MAGIC (Witchtown Crossing, #1) by Tracy Cooper-Posey #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/3TYTlZ8

Six totally odd facts about PNR Author Lucinda Wicked + excerpt http://www.ismellsheep.com/2024/03/six-totally-odd-facts-about-pnr-author.html

Arts and Crafts with Author Tracy Cooper-Posey #ParanormalWomensFiction #ParanormalRomance #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/3PHm95V

The Importance of Book Covers with Lucinda Wicked #BookCovers #CoverArt #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/3U53FPz

In the Kitchen with Lucinda Wicked #InTheKitchen #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/4crT1tf

Writing with Kids- Guest Blog by Mark Towse #Horror #Thriller #Romance #Comedy #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/4cAbvHM

Seven Strange Facts About Tracy Cooper-Posey + excerpt #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/4cwcskw

Author Advice with Mark Towse #Horror #Thriller #Romance #Comedy #bewitchingbooktours https://buff.ly/3TA27LR

Hecate, the Goddess of Crossroads, Embracing the Unconventional: A Ritual by Lucinda Wicked

Haunted Hotels of Michigan Coming August 12, 2024 From captivating tales of lingering lumber barons to lovelorn ladies and chilling stories of murder, Michigan's hotels hold secrets that will send shivers down the spine. https://amzn.to/3Touz4p #MichigansMostHauntedHotels #MichigansMostHaunted #HauntedMichigan #MichiganGhosts #GhostlyGetaways #MichigansGhostlyGetaways #HauntedTravel #GhostTravel #GhostTourism #HauntedTourism #DarkTourism #HauntedHotelsofMichigan #MichigansHauntedHotels

As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases #Amazon #ad #CommissionsEarned

0 notes

aion-rsa · 3 years

Text

Resident Evil Village’s Lady Dimitrescu: Terrifying Facts You Need to Know About Tall Vampire Lady

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Ethan Winters can’t catch a break. After surviving the horrors of Baker Ranch in Resident Evil 7, it seemed like the everyman hero would finally get to go back to his normal life. But when seasoned zombie killer Chris Redfield shows up at his door with a new mission, Ethan is suddenly thrust back into the nightmare.

In Resident Evil Village, Ethan is dropped into a haunted European village, where he’ll have to survive a gauntlet of monsters, including werewolves and witches. Then there’s Lady Alcina Dimitrescu, the giant vampire villain who has taken the fandom by storm since she was first revealed.

Here’s what you need to know about the new game’s most interesting baddie:

Taller Than the Tallest Human

Before Resident Evil developer Capcom revealed her name, the villain was referred to as “Tall Vampire Lady” on social media, and for good reason: she’s 9’6”! That’s taller than the tallest human in recorded history. That would be “The Giant of Illinois,” a man named Robert Wadlow, who was 8’11” and at one point toured with the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Fortunately, his act didn’t involve anything quite as gruesome as what the Lady of Castle Dimitrescu has planned for her prey. Not only does she tower over Ethan but she also has long, sharp claws for fingers. The better to impale our hero with!

The First Vampire in the Series

Her appearance isn’t the only thing that makes Lady Dimitrescu so interesting. She’s also the first vampire villain in the franchise’s history. Resident Evil has largely avoided the classic monster canon up until this point, favoring zombies and monsters grown in labs over the creatures found in Universal and Hammer horror films.

Dimitrescu represents an evolution for the series. However, this isn’t the first time Capcom has considered experimenting outside of the franchise’s wheelhouse. At one point, Resident Evil 4, which is clearly a big influence on Village, was going to feature a killer ghost with a hook for a hand, but the idea was scrapped before release.

Callback to Castlevania

While she marks a first for Resident Evil, Dimitrescu’s role as the bloodthirsty Lady of a giant castle full of spooky creatures is rooted in a classic video game trope. The concept of a vampiric final boss was originally popularized by the Castlevania series, which is largely set in Dracula’s haunted castle full of monsters.

What makes Dimitrescu’s house of horrors unique is that it’s populated only by women. “With Lady Dimitrescu as the cult’s guru, we have created this hierarchy of women,” Resident Evil Village director Morimasa Sato told IGN. “Men have their blood drained by these women, so you could say it’s the opposite of Dracula.”

Dimitrescu’s Daughters

Lady Dimitrescu isn’t the only vampire in the game. She has three blood-sucking helpers she refers to as her daughters. While Dimitrescu’s attire exudes elegance, Bela, Cassandra, and Daniela lean into the grotesque, down to their smiling, blood-covered faces.

It’s teased in the trailers that Ethan will have to make his way past Dimitrescu’s vicious daughters before reaching the Lady, and it won’t be an easy fight, as these vampires not only carry sharp weapons but also have the ability to transform themselves into even more hideous forms. The way they creep towards Ethan and huddle over him to feed may remind you of Dracula’s movie brides.

cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ playerId: "106e33c0-3911-473c-b599-b1426db57530", }).render("0270c398a82f44f49c23c16122516796"); });

Gruesome Inspiration

According to art director Tomonori Takano, the game’s “bewitching vampire” was partially inspired by real-life serial killer Elizabeth Bathory, a Hungarian noblewoman who is said to have tortured and murdered hundreds of women in the early 1600s. Legend has it that Bathory bathed in her victims’ blood because she believed it would stop her from aging.

Another inspiration was the Japanese internet urban legend Hashaku-sama (or “hachishakusama”), an eight-foot-tall evil spirit in a wide-brimmed hat who lures her young male victims to her by imitating the voices of their loved ones. Likewise, all of Dimitrescu’s victims are men, many of their bodies decorating the outside of her castle, “blood drained, looking like skinny scarecrows,” according to Sato. Terrified yet?

The Name “Dimitrescu” Has a Long History

Unsurprisingly, this vampire lady’s name can be traced back to Eastern Europe, especially Romania, where Transylvania is located. Romania also happened to be the home of Vlad the Impaler, the brutal warlord who inspired Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula.

The name “Dimitrescu” could also be derived from Demeter, the Greek goddess of harvest, grain, and fertility, which makes sense since the Lady rules over and terrorizes a village of farmers. Interestingly enough, in Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula travels to England on a ship called The Demeter.

Maggie Robertson and Helena Mankowska Brought Lady Dimitrescu to Life

Maggie Robertson, a stage actor from the Washington D.C. area who has also appeared in a few screen projects, voices Lady Dimitrescu. While this is her first major role in a video game, her performance as the already uber-popular lady of Castle Dimitrescu could be the breakout role that turns her into one of the industry’s up and coming voice talents.

Meanwhile, Polish actor Helena Mankowska provided her likeness for the character, turning her overnight into one of the most popular faces in survival horror. She has another interesting connection to the franchise: Mankowska was Milla Jovovich’s (Alice in the Resident Evil movies) stunt double in the movie Paradise Hills.

Resident Evil Village is out on May 7 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Stadia.

The post Resident Evil Village’s Lady Dimitrescu: Terrifying Facts You Need to Know About Tall Vampire Lady appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/3h91Iy7

#aion-rsa #Den of Geek

3 notes · View notes

assamtourin · 3 years

Text

9 Places You Should Not Miss On Your Trip to Assam

Assam is a stunning land known as the tea capital of India. You may love the proximity with nature and texture fresh air when you set foot in Assam. A land blessed with 5 best national parks in India as well a shocking historic importance and rich heritage.

Assam is a land of pure bliss having a large number of wild animals, migratory birds and lush green gardens. If you are planning to pay a visit to Assam in 2020-21 here is a list of Assam Tour Packages. Experience the world-class Tour to Assam and explore the best destinations in Assam. Here are 9 areas you don't need to miss in your Assam tour. Let us start our list of top places to go to in Assam with the only hill station in Assam Haflong.

1 Haflong

Haflong is not just a breathing area but it's also known for a great number of migratory birds. Standing at an elevation of 2,300 feet above sea level, situated in Dima Hasao area of Assam It’s well known for the phenomenon of birds committing suicide at the Jatinga valley during moonless sleepless nights.

It also offers a couple of amazing waterfalls and ethnic tribal villages. Needless to say, you may enjoy trekking at the Boral mountain and fest yourself using a traditional meal in one of those tribal villages together with the business of a traditional dance group which are all set to perform. It's possible to bewitch a few specular waterfalls in Assam such as Panimur waterfalls and Kaka Waterfalls on the solution to Haflong. Umrangso is just yet another stunning place located on the bank of Kapili River 112 km from Haflong.

2. Dibrugarh

After visiting Haflong it is time to research some wonderful tea gardens of Assam Lush green pastures and adventurous dense forests, this high range place is a fantasy land out of fairy tales. I made the decision to explore the first tea garden at the Assam Chabua property. Most small and large tea estates are sprinkled around this region. The major tea factories and employees plucking tea leaves at a little bucket tied in their head is a frequent scene in this area. Assam tea is famous particularly for black tea and its powerful aroma. You can even go for a tea tasting tour in Assam. Visit us for Dibrugarh Tour Package.

3. Digboi

After the tea garden see it's time to explore the oil field in Assam. I led to Digboi that is just 84 Km away from Dibrugarh.

I was astonished to see the very first refinery in Asia Digboi Oil refinery and also the beautiful museum where older artefacts associated with the petroleum plant and antique things are kept preciously.

4. Tai-Phake village

Tai Phakey village or Namphake village is situated 37 kilometres from Dibrugarh. My second stop was Namphake monastery one of the earliest monasteries in Assam. That keeps and decorated auspiciously from the community which originates from Myanmar from the 18th century practicing their culture, habits and dress in its ancient glory. You may even test mouth-watering Thai food here or elect for a night stay in an Eco-camp or home stay.

5. Sivsagar

It had been the bygone capital of the Ahom dynasty. Dotted with a number of old palaces, temples, ponds and amphitheatre throughout the right time of Ahom dynasty is still sprinkled everywhere in its original glory. This city is attractive to carry you right back. Few Important monuments from Sivsagar are Rang Ghar, Kareng Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Joysagar Tank, Sivsagar Tank etc.

I devote a fabulous day here sitting on the bank of Sivasagar Tank (Borpukhuri) watching fish and eating food. You can glimpse the buildings on the opposite banks of the pond such as a tiny miniature city. I can witness the densely populated temples from the complex.

Another most interesting place worth a trip in Sivsagar is Charaideo Maidam situated 30 km from Sibsagar city. This really can be the burial ground of Ahom kings and queens. It's a myth that the sailors of kings and queens also buried living together in the maidam to help the departed king after death.

6. Majuli

It's time to visit the most exciting area in Assam. Crossing the mighty Brahmaputra by ferry can take you to Majuli Island. With the Assam Holiday Package you can explore the best destinations in Assam.

To begin with we visit Aunisti satra, the largest satra in Majuli with over 300 (Vakats) disciples. Afterwards we see Garmur satra, Kamalabari Satra and the mask makers Satra Samaguri. Mask making art is a most special art from practising only with a bunch of monks in Samaguri satra which grabs everyone's fascination with its unique way.

While in Majuli it's mandatory to find a devotional dance performance and dance play. The time we see was November before the beginning of Raas festival in Majuli. We appreciated the rehearsal for your Raas festival by Mothers of all ages.

Besides Satras, the vibrant green rice fields, lakes full of a large number of avifauna and scenic setting are captivating to make you spellbound.

7. Kaziranga National Park

Located 194 km from Guwahati and 252 kilometres from Dibrugarh, Kaziranga National park would be the prime attraction in Assam. When we hit Kaziranga, a feeling of calmness touches my mind. Away from bustling city life, it is a tranquil place surrounded by tea gardens and forest.

Complete Kaziranga Tour Packages trip with a Jeep Safari as well as an Elephant Safari from the jungle. We spent the afternoon with a trip to Kaziranga Orchid Park and little the chilly night enjoying a bonfire and watching local dancing performance. Though my heart craved for longer and cried from inside saying I wish to stay longer here but because of lack of time I have to leave such a heaven.

8. Guwahati

It's a riverine city flecked with many temples.

If I state Guwahati is a frequent city just like any other contemporary cities in India, I can't justify the virtues of Guwahati city. So I have to list it in a few of the fascinating town in India. The night time is the most charming in Guwahati and when it's accompanied with a gentle drizzle then you lost yourself. I forget all of my laziness by enjoying such a beautiful evening sitting around the bank of the Brahmaputra River.

I spend the entire day seeing Assam state museum, Umananda temple (the temple situated on a little island) and also Kamakhya temple. Kamakhya temple can be found on top of a little hill. Book North East India Tour and enjoy the scenic view of the entire city.

9. Manas National Park

Located 140 km from Guwahati, Manas national park is still just another charming federal park in Assam. It is not much commercialized as Kaziranga but you can delight in staying at a wild hotel inside Manas National Park. It is possible to listen to the giggle of the river passing by and observe the sound of creatures at night. It's an out of the world encounter.

The night we spent Manas was the very exciting one. We stayed in a bungalow in the park. It is called Mathanguri Forest Lodge constructed during Britishers period. My Safari in the park was also very exciting. We saw peacocks dancing beautifully in their whole grandeur and a herd of wild elephants which become very furious after missing one baby elephant. They hunt for the baby here and there in complete distress. Afterwards we spot the young goddess a few kilometres away looking tirelessly to find their family. All these innocent stories forced me to go back to the jungle again and again.

#AssamTourPackages #AssamTouristPackage #AssamHolidayPackage

1 note · View note

laurenemilyescort · 3 years

Text

If you have any nerves about making a date with me, please take the time to read the reviews written by gentlemen I have spent time with.

I have a 100% positive review rate, spanning the last 7 years. It can be daunting meeting new people, so I’ve placed all the reviews here, to give you an idea of what our own chemistry could look and feel like.

Please also don’t be shy to leave a review if I have made a glowing impression on you.

“She is kind, funny and intelligent...A wonderful night with a wonderful person”

My date with Gia was absolutely perfect. From the initial contact, everything was very professional and first-class.

We shared a 2-hour dinner at a Japanese restaurant, and I easily could have talked to her for hours more.

She is kind, funny and intelligent.

A wonderful night with a wonderful person.

NARCISSUS123, Scarlet Blue, January 2020

“My eyes lit up when she walked out of the bathroom in her lingerie..”

Gia was just what I needed before a day full of meetings. Arranged to meet the week prior and communicating with her was a breeze. She walked through the door in activewear and I could tell how fit she was. My eyes lit up when she walked out of the bathroom in her lingerie. She knows how to work around your body and how she initiates is amazing. One word of advice is to marvel her physique from the back. Hope to meet her in the new year.

HEIANTH, Scarlet Blue, December 2019

“I have been back for many bookings since and have to say it’s something I really look forward too…”

I feel I definitely owe writing this for Gia and I’m sorry it’s taken this long -first when saw her website I really felt I would be punching above my weight in booking her but from the moment we met she made me feel very comfortable. Gia a such a complex and intelligent girl to speak with but still makes the booking seem like such a fun time that you don’t want her to leave. I have been back for many bookings since and have to say it’s something I really look forward too , always engaging ,relaxed ,funny and completely intoxicating is the time you will spend with

So if you really want to treat yourself to a one in million this is your chance to do so .

BC, Scarlet Blue, June 2019

“Gia is insanely beautiful in person. Tall, meticulously dressed and possessing a figure and curves that would make Leonardo Da Vinci retroactively call his Golden Spiral the Gia Spiral…”

It's quite the challenge to put into words what an evening with Gia James is like, but I will do my sincere best!. Gia has a highly visible social media presence, particularly on Twitter where she has probably one of the best Sex Worker feeds in Australia full of stylish, sexy selfies, food/cocktail pics and running commentary on her favourite television shows- I only know the details of Married at First Site due to her twitter feed. Gia's pictures are breath taking. It is hard not to be bewitched by her jaw dropping, awe inspiring beauty. She basically looks like a much, much hotter version of Angelina Jolie. Her 21st Century, neo-Bombshell look originally put me off seeing her due to me thinking a shlubby dude like me should not be bothering such a gorgeous, impossibly beautiful girl like her, but eventually decided to go for it and am blissfully happy I did.

Gia is insanely beautiful in person. Tall, meticulously dressed and possessing a figure and curves that would make Leonardo Da Vinci retroactively call his Golden Spiral the Gia Spiral, Gia is almost too good to be true. Gia is everything you could hope for from a Professional Lady. Booking was easy to make, she was on time and communicative.

Gia is without a doubt the best Provider I have ever been with. She is super friendly, smart and chatty and surprisingly cuddly in the booking. Her ability to make you comfortable and put you at ease (I am shy and get quite nervous) is unparalleled and I hate to mention it again, but her figure is just a sight to behold, it's almost impossible to believe she is not a 3D rendered vision of perfection.

I couldn't recommend Gia enthusiastically enough!

Saxon, Scarlet Blue, June 2019

“She is great, I’ll tell you that…WOW!!”

I spent a few hours with Gia a few weeks ago for the first time. Although we didn’t meet on time (mainly my fault) she was so kind and welcoming for my late arrival.

The first hour we had together was getting to know a bit about ourselves and interests sharing a drink along with a cheese platter.

Once we decided to go upstairs, Gia gave me a great lap dance and we started kissing. She is great, I’ll tell you that. She then went down on me, and wow does she give great blowjobs!!!!!

It was the best one I ever had, so great that she made me cum, before we could go any further. Again WOW!!

After I went to clean up, I asked if it was alright if we just spent the rest of the night hanging out. She was cool with that and we headed back downstairs and played PS4. She was having trouble with one of her games and I helped her out with that.

And that was the end of our time, thank you Gia so much, I hope we can meet again soon.

MWB, Scarlet Blue, April 2019

“…She looks even better than her photos…definitely memorable in every way !”

Had the pleasure of seeing Gia last Friday. Setting it up was a great experience, she is such a good natured person and made it all feel very natural. Down to the outfit and discussing how I wanted the meet up to go, she remained a pleasure to talk to. The actual occasion was great and she looks even better than her photos which look amazing. Definitely memorable in every way and time (and money) well spent.

DANTE12, Scarlet Blue, August 2018

"In short, this Goddess is everything that I’d hoped she would be."

A massive thank you to Gia James for saving the day and seeing me at very late notice this weekend (due to my previously booked escort going MIA, I hope she is ok).

Gia was great to deal with over text and arrangements were seamlessly confirmed. The fact that I’d actually be seeing this stunner in a little over 24 hours for 2 hours PSE was still amazing to me.

I first noticed Gia James a few years ago and had been a fan ever since but had never booked her. I am not a ‘regular’ punter and have only ever infrequently booked ‘touring’ escorts here in Melbourne at their hotel or if I was in Sydney, at their apartment.

We met at the hotel lifts. Gia was wearing a red dress and a leather jacket. She is gorgeous in person. Although I was a little star struck she was very down to earth and great to talk to. Having never heard her speak before I’d half expected a Russian accent but no, she speaks in regular Aussie albeit with a hardly noticeable but very cute lisp.

I had asked Gia to bring a few of her favourite toys and she did not disappoint. Her bag of tricks included a large pink dildo, a couple of butt plugs, another knobbly glass dildo and a hitachi vibrator. This was going to be fun.

A couple of highlights from my first experience with Gia James:

Gia is a fantastic kisser, Gia has wonderfully sensitive nipples that love attention, Gia tastes great, Gia is very vocal when she cums - love that, Gia loves being rimmed almost as much as I love rimming her, on her third orgasm, she squirted - I didn’t know that she could do that, bonus!

In short, this Goddess is everything that I’d hoped she would be.

Thank you Gia for a fantastic afternoon. You are a 10/10.

- Baz

SCARLET BLUE, JULY 2018

"On a scale of 1-10 how would I rate my time with Gia? 11."

I have wanted to book Gia James so many times before and finally circumstances prevailed where it became a reality. I followed her links from Scarlett Blue profile to her website and noticed amongst other things she provided a BDSM service both as Dom and Sub, and being a lover of this kink myself the only decision left was which role. I opted to be dominated so I must advise that this review is for such a session, if you’re not into that kink, you don’t know what you’re missing. What made things more appealing was that Gia has the same outlook in that it should be complimentary to the sexual act and not separate as some practitioners would like you to believe. So here is my review.

I arrived right on time, I buzzed Gia’s apartment number and as we couldn’t get the downstairs door to open, Gia said to me ‘hang on I’ll put some clothes on and come get you’. Now I was expecting her to come down in trackie pants and sweat top and then she appeared, in the stairwell. Now regular punters will know Profile pics and their accuracy has a high degree of variation not just on SB but on all sites. I was hoping, this wasn’t one of those occasions but yes it was. For as hot and stunning as her pictures in her profile are, Gia is far more attractive in person. When she came to open the door in a sexy red summer dress with white polka dots I was immediately reminded of Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Scarlett Johanson’s character. Following her up those stairs I congratulated myself on my decision and gave myself a pep talk. I had to be on my best performance levels to do justice to the beauty and the body that was swanking its way one step above me, the stairway to heaven. A cliché but oh so true in this instance.

Lauren began by slapping my already hard cock, firmly enough, then she shoved her beautiful natural breasts, bra still on into my face, I kissed and licked. Then she pressed her pussy, panties still on the same way, I kissed I licked. She then placed her lips on mine and we had an ever so fleeting glimpse of what a GFE with Lauren would be like. We kissed like we were in a Pedro Almodivar movie, ‘Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down’ comes to mind, tongues dancing a tango amongst saliva and ever warming breath. When Gia decided it was enough, she pulled back. She slapped my face a couple of times, licked the palm of her hand and rubbed it on my face, spat on my face and rubbed it in on me.

She then ordered me on all fours and to crawl to the bathroom and have a cold shower. Throughout she gave me strict instructions not to cum. This was easily said than done as I am the king of multiple shots. She said she was in charge and she would tell me when to blow and she wanted it to be one massive gorging orgasm. She ordered me to stand in the cold shower for 40 seconds and wank. Wank but don’t blow. Once I had completed that task, I was allowed to dry and crawl back into the bedroom and onto her bed.

Lauren took over as Director for the filming and ensured perfect camera angles, have already relived the magical moments. Unlike some others, Gia doesn’t place restrictions on her filming. In fact, a couple of times I caught her checking herself on my I Pad screen, she needn’t worry, she looked spectacular.

On the bed Lauren ordered me to kiss every part of her naked body from the top of her head, to the tips of her toes. After tha Ccc t I maneuvered my way back to her spectacular pussy for some DATY. That was most enjoyable for me and as I had done some research, also for Gia. Then she pressed her ass cheeks against my face, I slowly lifted my tongue, rimming around her asshole before I plunged in, I could feel the pleasure surge through her entire body, I went as deep as I could, and it was awesome.

She then had me on all fours and spanked my ass, slapping my still hard cock every now and again. Then pulling on the lead she placed her fingers in my ass. More a finger fuck than prostate exam, she released the chain to pull on my cock with her other hand. As soon as she felt I was about to blow she relaxed, retreated and I breathed a sigh of relief from unrealized expectations.

She then ordered me on my back, and began the best blow job I’ve ever had. I know that’s often claimed and to be truthful it’s hard to find a bad one but this was pure bliss, not porn star more the naughty GFE, kissing the tip and stem, licking every inch and then taking it all deep into her mouth. She had adjusted camera angle so that I could see those beautiful doe eyes looking POV as my rock hard cock disappeared lovingly past her pouty lips, and watching it again turned me on almost as much as live.

She then straddled me reverse cowgirl style, her slappable bubble but bouncing in front of my face as we fucked, slowly at first then I pounded her tight warm pussy, I was ready to blow but Lauren wouldn’t let me.

The coup de grace came in the form of the best doggy style fuck I’ve ever had. Broken up into three sections. The first two times when I felt like blowing, I would let Gia know and she would get me to relax and slow down but stay in that heavenly hole before resuming. As we began Round 3, she said to me ‘This time I want you to blow, and I want it to be the biggest load of cum you’ve ever blown. Make it massive’. I couldn’t let her down. I began pounding her hard from behind, slapping her ass, tugging on her dangling firm nipples from her bouncing breasts, kissing the back of her neck, her back, her ass before I blew this tidal wave of cum, a tsunami no less.

After I caught my breath, I showered and we had a nice chat while I waited for my Uber. On a scale of 1-10 how would I rate my time with Gia? 11. I am not kidding. I am already preparing for our next meeting, this time we may switch, or maybe I go the PSE, nah fuck it, I think it will have to be an overnighter.

- Cliptiger

PUNTER PLANET, JULY 2018

"An absolutely stunning and breathtaking beauty who will make your time unforgettable..."

I don't normally write reviews but the lady last night I met was an incredible soul so that's why I am writing a review. I had an absolute pleasure of seeing Gia last night for the first time she is everything her profile claims to be an absolutely stunning and breathtaking beauty who will make your time unforgettable, she was simply unbelievable , innocent, beautiful, educated and well mannered with a splendid body.

- K

SCARLET BLUE, DECEMBER 2017

1 note · View note

kickdownthewalls · 4 years

Text

TOP 20 ROCK/METAL ALBUMS OF 2019

Been looking back at the list I made last year and it is hard to say if 2019 was better or not. I feel like, if nothing else, there were fewer let-downs and more out-of-the blue surprises, so I guess that means it was an improvement. For anyone who says there are no good metal albums coming out these days, I say they just need to dig a little. So many great bands have been forming in recent years and started looking back to the origins of metal before death and black metal ruled the world. Since that was the era I grew up in, it isn’t too surprising that a lot of my choices this year hark back to earlier times. Case in point…

20. BEWITCHER - Under the Witching Cross

First up is one of many bands to put a modern spin on a retro sound and this one is even from the PNW (Portland). In this case, the most obvious comparison is early Venom. “Hexenkrieg” even has a chorus like “Acid Queen” and a bridge straight outta “1000 Days in Sodom.” Lyrically, Bewitcher may be even more primitive, with lots of references to Satan, goats, and witching of all sorts. Musically, however, they do show some real diversity and skills, mixing up lightning-fast tunes with slower, pounding metal. No sophomore slump here, thank Satan.

19. INCULTER - Fatal Visions

Norway is starting to establish itself as a home for raw and brutal old-school thrash metal, with the likes of Condor, Deathhammer, and Nekromantheon delivering some wildly OTT albums in recent years. Inculter are a bit newer but really impressed with their debut in 2015 and are back with an even more lethal release in 2019. The riffing is relentless, although the band does do a good job of mixing up the tempos throughout. Still, fast thrash with touches of early Sodom and Sepultura is the core of Inculter’s sound and it is the perfect soundtrack for getting out your aggression here at civilization’s end.

18. MIDNIGHT PRIEST - Aggressive Hauntings

I’ve been following this Portuguese outfit since their debut nearly a decade ago and have seen a solid increase in songwriting and production, along with a solidification of style. Many bands have stolen King Diamond’s sound and style, but Midnight Priest use it as a jumping-off point into a realm of their own. The vocals cover a great range with theatrical lyrics of hauntings, convents, and candles, while the music is firmly in the classic 80s vein with some wildly catchy riffs that remind me as much of Priest and Accept as they do King and Fate.

17. FATAL CURSE - Breaking the Trance

Hailing from the middle of upstate New York, this power trio has more in common with their NWOBHM-loving brethren across the northern border than they do most US bands. Fortunately, they pull it off with the effortlessness only a group of dyed-in-the-wool fans of the music can. Songs like “Can’t Stop the Thunder” and the title track overflow with pure, punchy energy that reminds me of the heyday of Diamond Head and Jaguar. It’s a short but power-packed debut that bodes well for the band’s future.

16. BABYMETAL - Metal Galaxy

Although this might seem out of place, I’ve always had a love for electronic dance music and this is the best combination of metal and dance I’ve heard yet. While the first two Babymetal records had a cool sound, they felt kind of samey and it was hard to really remember any of the individual tracks. Not so here. “Da Da Dance” is pure anime energy, while “Shanti Shanti Shanti” incorporates Indian instrumentation and melodies and “Oh! MAJINAI” can only be called a pirate anthem. Even “PA PA YA!!” with its rap bridge totally rocks. Some folks are turned off by ‘manufactured’ bands like this, which I totally get, but I’m more interested in the results and “Metal Galaxy” is a really solid, diverse album that I’ve come back to many times already.

15. IRON GRIFFIN - Curse of the Sky

Finland is apparently the world’s capitol of metal (most bands per capita) and represents all types well. Iron Griffin is a thoroughly original and enjoyable mix of 70s occult and hard rock, early USPM, and classic epic metal. The production is nice and organic, with each instrument shining through, especially the bass. Vocalist Maija Tiljander can deliver the mellow and screaming parts with equal panache, while all of the instruments are handled by Oskari Räsänen (drummer of the divine Mausoleum Gate). If you enjoyed their EP, this album is 100% better and that is saying something.

14. VIGILANCE - Enter the Endless Abyss

Haven’t heard too many Slovenian heavy metal bands (Hellcats is the only other one I can think of), but Vigilance is quite impressive in both delivery and originality. Their style is a fairly complex mix of classic, speed, and black metal. The riffing is solid, with plenty of Maiden-esque harmonies to be had, while the vocals are gruff in the vein of Amok-era Sentenced. Every song is a bit of a journey, without being overblown, and it makes for a very satisfying album experience.

13. TANITH - In Another Time

After being blown away by their performance at Frost & Fire IV, I was very pleased to see Tanith sign with Metal Blade and release a killer debut. Trying to describe the band’s sound is difficult, as they incorporate a lot of different elements. There is a definite 70s vibe and some early prog-rock influences at work, with complex song structures that thankfully never get self-indulgent. The blending of male and female clean vocals is another highlight and both work remarkably well with the melodic riffs. The bass playing is also worth noting, as it winds its way through each song in perfect counterpoint to whatever the guitar happens to be doing. Bonus points for writing a song about the Cassini probe and its journey to Saturn.

12. ATLANTEAN KODEX - The Course of Empire

When I hear the term ‘epic metal,’ this is exactly what comes to mind. It incorporates the most grandiose elements of bands like Manowar, Bathory, and Solstice, but Atlantean Kodex somehow take it to the next level. This isn’t a collection of catchy songs, it is a weighty opus that you need to sit back and let cascade over you. It has been six years since their last record but you can definitely hear the time was well-spent and great care taken to craft each song just so. Although it doesn’t surpass The White Goddess in grandeur, it is close behind.

11. SUICIDAL ANGELS - Years of Aggression

Greek thrash very much in the vein of the classics from ’88-’90. Solid production, straightforward but great riffing, and a wide range of tempos. There are songs that swing back and forth between fast and slow, some that are mid-tempo throughout, etc. I love that Suicidal Angels sound like they are equally influenced by the Germans and Bay Area thrashers equally, with nods to outliers like Sepultura and Artillery as well. The band tends to sound pretty much the same from album to album, and that is true here as well, but it feels like this is one of the best collection of songs they have put together yet.

10. POUNDER - Uncivilized

Here is another great US band, this time formed by some death metal merchants looking to do something a bit more traditional. Pounder really do a great job covering all the bases and Uncivilized overflows with catchy riffs and melodies, anthemic choruses, and a great deal of diversity. Speed metal like “Red Hot Leather” is followed by a power ballad in the form of the AOR-tinged “Long Time No Love” and both are excellent. Shades of Rainbow permeate tracks like “The Mists of Time” and “Uncivilized.” Early Pretty Maids is a good reference point for the styles covered and the gruff but melodic vocals. Stellar debut and I’m really hoping the band forges on as I think there a great deal of potential here for even better work.

9. TOXIKULL - Cursed and Punished

This one almost slipped under my radar but glad I managed to hear it. This is the stunning sophomore release from Portugal’s Toxikull and is prime power/speed metal with searing vocals and some of the best change-ups and most memorable choruses of the year. Imagine Judas Priest’s Painkiller with more modern production and even more adrenaline and you have a pretty good idea of what to expect. Clocking in at just over a half hour, this is a solid album that never disappoints.

8. DESTRUCTION - Born to Perish

Destruction was never my favorite of the German thrashers but I still enjoyed most of their albums, even if they started to sound pretty much the same shortly after the reunion in 2000. I felt like something was different with this new one, as the opening snare drum assault of the title track got stuck in my head almost immediately. The overall style is still very much modern, thrashy Destruction, but there seems to be a little more melody overall and the songs feel more thought-out and memorable. It is always heartwarming to hear a band releasing one of their strongest albums this far into their career. Now we just need a US tour…

7. MYSTIK - Mystik

Another release that I nearly missed out on is Mystik, who hail from Sweden and pack a real wallop of melodic speed metal with compelling vocals and strong choruses. The production is that perfect balance between pro and underground and gives the music a really timeless feeling. This is another short album that gets to the point and delivers, song after song. The vocals remind me a bit of early Warlock and Acid, while the music has a darker edge and the two complement each other to a T.

6. ROTTING CHRIST - The Heretics

These Greek pioneers have really walked a wide-ranging path over the years, from raw black metal to polished gothic metal, and on into uncharted realms where those elements and more all come together in sublime fashion. There is a truly epic quality to the songs on The Heretics, even with all of the songs being in the 3-5 minute range. Gruff vocals are juxtaposed with clean backing vocals and chanted choruses, with the music covering equally diverse ground. A work of startling, dark beauty and possibly my favorite Rotting Christ record to date.

5. VULTURE - Ghastly Waves & Battered Graves

This is pure German speed metal, with frantic yet melodic riffs, relentless drums, and piercing vocals. Bands like Ranger and Speedtrap brought the sound back to life a few years back and Vulture really take it to the next level. The aggression and rawness is still intact, with nods to early Exodus, but there is a keen sense of melody and strong songwriting that runs throughout the record. Plus, possibly the best album title of the year.

4. AVATARIUM - The Fire I Long For While

I have always enjoyed Avatarium’s records, this is the first time that it feels like the band has really come into its own and produced a remarkable piece of art in the process. The heavy, doomy riffs are still plentiful, but there is a deeper resonance to the melodies and riffs than ever before. The powerful vocals of Jennie-Ann Smith take the center seat, but the increased use of organ and fuzz-heavy guitars and bass really rounds out the sound. The shift from 100% Leif Edling-penned songs to the majority coming from Smith and guitarist Marcus Jidell also no doubt lends to the more unique character of The Fire I Long For (though I must say that “Epitaph of Heroes” would be right at home on Ancient Dreams).

3. DEATH ANGEL - Humanicide

As much as I love many bay area thrash bands, I think Death Angel have secured themselves as my all-time favorite. Their first three albums are timeless and the albums since the reunion have been close behind. The worst thing I can say about any of the records is that they are good but maybe not as memorable as the ones before (notably The Evil Divide and Killing Season). Humanicide is probably my favorite since The Art of Dying, with a wide range of styles, memorable choruses, and the artistic blend of rough and polished that Death Angel does so well.

2. SOILWORK - Verkligheten

It has been a while since I’ve paid that much attention to Soilwork and now I wonder if I’ve been missing out because this album is a monster. The combination of styles here, from melodic death metal with blastbeats to 80s metal to frantic thrash is intoxicating and executed so perfectly, the album just blows right by. “Full Moon Shoals” exemplifies the range perfectly, with one of the best bridges I’ve heard in ages. It feels like Bjorn’s involvement in the retro-minded Night Flight Orchestra has helped to give Soilwork a broader sound as well as a tighter focus on crafting the songs into something more than just a collection of riffs. Even the bonus Underworld EP is consistently strong, while many bands would just toss their throwaway tracks on such a release. For a band’s 11th album, Verkligheten is not just above average but near the top of the band’s best works, period.

1. SACRED REICH - Awakening

Sacred Reich was one of the brightest stars of the late 80s thrash wave, with a strong debut and a timeless follow-up, but, like so many others, they lost their way in the 90s and eventually disbanded. Although it took the band 23 years to finally get their comeback record out, damn, it was totally worth the wait. Everything that I love about Sacred Reich is here: speedy riffs mixed with chugging mosh parts, a hypnotic rhythm section, Phil’s one-of-a-kind vocal assault, and every song a winner. Even “Death Valley,” which I didn’t care much for on first spin, has grown on me with its groovy, stoner vibe. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for Sacred Reich’s heartfelt, socially-conscious lyrics, too, and Awakening is hopefully just that: the dawn of a whole new era for OD and tha Reich!

There may not have been any big-name releases this year, but the underground came through with a ton of brilliant new releases. Narrowing down my list to 20 was more difficult than ever this year and I’d like to mention several other bands that nearly made the list: ALCEST, ANGEL WITCH, APHRODITE, BARBARIAN, CALYX, CRYPT SERMON, DEMON HEAD, EXCUSE, HAUNT, HELLISH GRAVE, KRYPTOS, LUCIFERA, METAL INQUISITOR, ROCK GODDESS, SANHEDRIN, SCREAMER, SMOULDER, and SPIRIT ADRIFT. Definitely check out any and all of these albums, preferably on Bandcamp where you can also buy them.

With so many smaller and retro-minded bands hitting the scene this year, there were also plenty of demos, EPs and 7” singles. Among the best: BEASTMAKER, CIRITH UNGOL DENIAL OF GOD, GALAXY, HAUNT, MIDNIGHT DICE, MIDNIGHT SPELL, SHADOW WARRIOR, SOLICITOR, SOURCE, THE NIGHT ETERNAL, TYRANN, and VISIGOTH. GALAXY in particular has the potential to really be something special and I can’t wait for their next release.

Will 2020 top this year? Hard to say, but there are plenty of promising releases on the way from SODOM, HELLOWEEN, DELAIN, NIGHTWISH, DARK ANGEL, and LUCIFER. Maybe MEGADETH will surprise us with a worthy comeback, too, you never know. It will be a chaotic year for the world, no doubt, so we are going to need some good, solid metal releases to help us cope. Horns up!

13 notes · View notes

likesomekindofcheese · 4 years

Note

Hello! I saw that you were doing ships and I'm interested if they're still open? If so, could I please get ships for The Beatles, Queen and Bohrap? I will be sending a few of these to give a full description so I'm sorry for the spam! I never exactly know what to put in these! So, My name is Jasmine, I'm Australian and I speak English, German, Czech (Gotta love family that doesn't speak English..) and Japanese. I've always been considered the 'artsy' person among my peers. (1/5)

I'm usually rather quiet at first, often the person just sitting in the back and drawing. The main exception of this being if I'm performing, wearing a fashion I love or doing a hobby of mine. I love the arts and have always been a big creative type. I will admit, I'm quite passive/submissive and very indecisive. I'm also kind of insecure. I tend to do whatever I can to make my friends happy due to negative experiences in the past. Also because I love doing things for people (2/5)

I'm 5'7" and pale, I have hair that reaches past my waist and is naturally a honey blonde in colour, I sometimes dye it magenta. My eyes are a blue/green colour and for some issue, one tends dilate more than the other, I have an hourglass body and because of that, I do have some cuves on me. I also have a slight overbite (which got "fixed" with braces). In terms of clothing, I love wearing alt fashion such as Lolita fashion, Cult Party Kei, and my own style which is quite doll-like. (3/5)

For my job, I'm currently studying Primary Teaching and Drama in University and a few years ago in Highschool, I began work as a Professional Mermaid and Princess for hire, as well as working part time in an OSHC. I love the water and I've been an actor since I was a child, For hobbies I love to Draw, Make accessories/clothes/costumes, Cosplay and I'm also a trained Singer, Dancer and Aerialist. (My mum always said " if you want to do something, do it while you're young") (4/5)

I'm actually a Pagan and practise White magick and am starting to learn Green magick, my deities are Poseiodon, Persephone and Aphrodite. Unfortuntely, I also live with a few physical and mental issues such as Endometriosis and Chronic Fatigue, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Dress Disorder as well as being Photosensitive. So that can sometimes make certain things hard for me, but we get past that! I tend to easily befriend all Cats and Birds I meet. Sorry this was so long, I suck at this (5/5)

Of course I can! You seem like such a cool, fascinating person with an incredible life and abilities!! 😯🤩 and don’t worry about giving extra info, I don’t mind.

For the Beatles, I ship you with...

Paul McCartney!

So with your pale skin and dyed hair, Paul basically thinks you are a princess

So when you get your mermaid job, Paul loves to tease you, but he also takes cute little photos and lovingly calls you “me siren!”

Even though he will lightly tease you for your Australian accent, but you tease him back for his Liverpool one!

He loves animals, so he always notices how his sheepdog, Martha, wags her tail and even wiggles on her feet like a tap dancer for you when you come in to visit her. He adores that even animals know they can love you are trust you.

You both often go wining and dining, especially in your beautiful Lolita style dress, enjoying the food, atmosphere, and each other’s company.

Though the first time you went to one of those fancy places, you were intimidated by the menu that was twice the size of your head and half the items were in French. “Paul, what should I get here? I’m not even sure!” “Would you like me to choose for you, Jasmine?” “Please!”

He ordered you a nice dish and you both had a drink and then went walking out in the moonlight, opening up about each other’s souls and insecurities but holding hands and assuring each other’s worth.

Since you are a more quiet, “submissive”’person, Paul loves it when he can “baby” you and take care of you, as much as helping you with your hair and outfits and plenty of times he will order for you at restaurants.

He even made you flashcards and notes to help with University, though sometimes you caught him doodling on your name full of hearts.

He probably composed “And I Love Her” for you if you ever felt sad or insecure

For Queen, I ship you with...

Brian May!!

He loves that you are a bit taller than most, even if he is technically taller, it means he doesn’t have to do a squat to hug you.

He is amazed at your creativity and multiple hobbies! He even loves watching you fly up in arealist in the air, he even took a beautiful stereoscopic photo of you!

When he decides to flirt with you at first, he noticed you were back there drawing so he went over and asked about your art and you showed him and you both were soon smiling and subtly flirting with each other.

He was nervous about asking you out until the whole band pushed him to, they all shipped it from day one.

He loves to hear you sing and he enjoys hearing you practice from upstairs, sometimes he will slowly pluck your notes on a guitar until he gets a song idea. Then he will run up to give you a hug and kiss as a thanks (despite your confusion)

He loves that you know all those languages and begs you to go on tour with him to help translate (and see things like Japenese cherry blossoms and German castles together linking arms).

He makes little lovey comments related to your pagan beliefs

“Jasmine, you bewitch me!” “Well, I didn’t intend to!”

“Jasmine, you’re a goddess of beauty”

“Don’t let Aphrodite hear you! You’ll be in trouble, Bri!” “Not if it’s the truth, sweetheart”

And he understands your PTSD and anxiety and helps to make sure you have counseling, and always leans in with a glass of water and a patient, listening ear

As for BohRap, I ship you with...

Rami Malek!!!

He thinks you are an absolute doll, from your eyes to your figure and calls you it all the time!

Plus you are both the most fashionable couple ever and when there is a premiere and he brings you along, you both grin at each other as the media looks at you both, shooketh to the coreth.

He is so sweet and understanding of your acting life that he comes to all of your premiering shows in the front row with a bouquet of flowers so big it needs it’s own seat. Plus he loves to help you think through characterization with auditions and rehearsals.

He loves to notice how you make beautiful costumes and things and if you need something like fabric or a certain color of paint, he runs and grabs it.

You both paid up when the BohRap cast has a board game night and defeat everyone through teamwork, until you both laugh and kiss each other.

He loves to learn bits of phrases of German and Japenese from you, and he brags about your abilities in interviews.

Gladly flips off anyone who gives you crap about your overbite and is always protective of you, with an arm around your waist.

He admires your strength and determination in spite of your physical and mental problems, it gives him hope to go on.

And he understands anxiety, so he will gladly cuddle you and help you with breathing deep when you’re anxious.

You both have a busy life together, but then you both snuggle into bed, giggling and playing footsie and gently touching each other’s faces.

#carrieships #queen ships #beatles #beatles ships #bohrap ships

1 note · View note

the-pug-addict · 5 years

Text

Castlevania HC: Carmilla is the World’s Most Beautiful Woman (self-proclaimed)

There’s no question that vanity is one of Carmilla’s many vices (other than being slick as a snake). It would be very likely that Carmilla sees herself as the most beautiful woman in the world, both for vampires and humans alike (or for any other species).

Carmilla will make damn sure that everyone agrees with her on it. Her taste in clothes and jewelry is impeccable. She’ll wear the brightest form of reds and golds. Her makeup job will be on point. Just as she did at Drac’s castle, she’ll put on the most dramatic, intriguing entrances she can make. All eyes need to be on her, always.

The woman loves to flaunt how many lovers and suitors she has, too. She knows the exact count of how many she has. She keeps all of them in contact with her and strings them along, regardless of whether she returns their affections or not (but gets rather upset if any one of them seems to be getting over her). She’ll retain all love letters and gifts in a single area of her quarters; should she give anyone a tour, this will be one of the main sights.

By the way, saying otherwise wouldn’t be an option...

You know how in Greek mythology, all hell fell upon anyone who claimed to be more beautiful than the goddess Aphrodite? It’s the same situation here, but maybe a little worse.

You never want to compare another vampire woman to Carmilla. EVER.

If you want to dig your grave faster, then compare her to... a human woman.

And unfortunately, there have been some women in the past whom have been dubbed the most beautiful women alive. After the word reached Carmilla’s ears, each suffered unfathomable fates.

For instance, the young wife of a Chinese emperor, whom was fabled by her people to be the most beautiful. An Austrian vampire noble had encountered this young flower and made the mistake of mentioning her to Carmilla when talking about his travels. The next time he went back to China, Carmilla traveled with him posing as his wife so that she’d gain access to the palace. The second the vampiress laid eyes on the consort was perhaps the reddest her pale face had ever been. What happened to the poor girl you asked? The story was that her robes had accidentally caught fire from a candle that night...

Another example was an acquaintance from France: once the daughter of a knight, then a vampire lady of Paris. The lady was infamous for her long, bewitching hair. When a smitten vampire male said that she was the most beautiful woman, Carmilla brutally punished him on the spot by tearing off his genitals, tongue and eyes. She later apprehended the French vampire, first forcing her to devour these parts, tortured her via strangling her with her own hair, then finally executing her with a stake to the heart.

But as much as she won’t accept it, Carmilla is actually not the most beautiful woman in the Castlevania universe.

If not, then who is?...

No one, actually. Because not only is that subjective, it’s also just downright pointless for anyone to give half a shit.

#castlevania #castlevania netflix #carmilla #tw: gore #tw: strangulation #there should also be a trigger warning for narcissism

19 notes · View notes