Search

Search only in certain items:

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
2014 | Action, Sci-Fi
A film that never needed to exist
Marc Webb’s first attempt at being behind the lens of a Marvel film was 2012’s The Amazing Spider-Man. Just five years after Sam Raimi concluded his trilogy with Tobey Maguire in the tight fitting suit, Andrew Garfield donned the iconic costume in a film that was good if a little unnecessary. Here, Webb returns just two years later with The Amazing Spider-Man 2, but can it prove its worth?

Thankfully yes. Amazing Spider-Man 2 is not only the best Spider-Man film to date, but one of Marvel’s greatest offerings despite some flaws in its production.

Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone return as Peter Parker and Gwen Stacey respectively as they battle a whole host of new foes in a movie that is loud, frequently violent and massively long.

Peter is still trying to piece together the fate of his parents as Aunt May, played excellently by Sally Field, continues to keep the truth from him. However, there’s no time for anguish as the villains come thick-and-fast.

Jamie Foxx, Paul Giamatti and a superb Dane DeHaan are all present to give Spider-Man, and his alter ego, a good kicking. A brilliantly unrestrained Foxx plays Max Dillon who inexplicably becomes one of the title characters best on-screen foes, Electro.

Much of the criticism of Raimi’s 2007 blockbuster Spider-Man 3 was given to the inclusion of too many plots, sub-plots and villains. Therefore many fans and critics thought the case would be similar here, especially considering Electro, Green Goblin and Rhino were all billed to appear.

The-Amazing-Spider-Man-2-New-Poster-spider-man-35222096-1024-1421

Mercifully, Webb restrains himself and leaves much of the film’s running time to Electro while Rhino (Giamatti) and Green Goblin (DeHaan) are merely given glorified cameos; setting the characters up for a larger part in the inevitable Amazing Spider-Man 3 and 4.

The special effects are on a whole new level to what we have seen previously. Apart from a few lapses towards the climatic finale, where things can begin to look like a video game, the film looks absolutely fantastic. The soaring shots of Spider-Man swinging his way across New York landmarks are exceptional and Webb’s use of slow-motion frames bring home the spider like senses Parker has been gifted with.


Acting performances are also sublime. Parker is a much better Spider-Man than Maguire was in the previous films. His geeky, timid persona is brilliantly juxtaposed with the superhero’s more arrogant attitude. Yet he never becomes irritating, a la Spider-Man 3. Emma Stone’s portrayal of love interest Gwen Stacey is wonderful and she does a cracking job of making the pair have real chemistry despite how difficult it is for this to create – though it must always help when you are partnered in real life.

The real joy here though is Dane DeHaan as Harry Osborn/Green Goblin. His performance is the complete opposite of James Franco’s take, he makes Harry a more vulnerable young man, clearly damaged by previous events in his life, as well as the ones which will no doubt occur in the future.

Unfortunately, the film’s running time is a real headache. At 142 minutes, you begin to check your watch as there are numerous points where you believe it could end – though it never does. Thankfully, this is a minor issue in a film which rarely lets up in its riveting pace.

Overall, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is a film which never really needed to exist, certainly not for another ten years or so. It is clear in some respects that its production has been rushed to capitalise on the ever-popular Marvel series, but in others it makes perfect sense to release it when the story is still fresh in people’s minds.

Despite some clunky special effects in the finale and its gargantuan length, Amazing Spider-Man 2 boasts excellent performances and a humorous and exciting story, and as such is one of Marvel’s best offerings to date, only beaten by Avengers Assemble. The only question is, was it all necessary?

https://moviemetropolis.net/2014/04/19/the-amazing-spider-man-2-review/
  
Somewhere New - Single by Gavin Beach
Somewhere New - Single by Gavin Beach
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Laurel Laxxes (Nicholas Cummins) is an electronic producer from Byron Bay, Australia. Not too long ago, he released a groovy electro-pop tune, entitled, “Somewhere New”, featuring singer-songwriter Gavin Beach.

“I was living such an incredible life at this point. Being enamored with the new landscapes I was finding myself in around Europe whilst being afforded the opportunity to collaborate with international artists left me feeling so inspired and positive.” – Laure Laxxes

The first drafts of “Somewhere New” were written around the time Laurel Laxxes was working at Acapela Studios in Cardiff, UK.

The incredible visual landscapes from that area inspired him to create the lush sounds found in “Somewhere New”.

Shortly afterward, he was introduced to Gavin Beach, and the two artists hit it off for what would be a successful partnership.

“I met Gavin and his producer at the studio in the hills and instantly fell in love with his voice. Also, I admired his laid back and respectful personality. Upon returning to Australia, I knew I had to get him on the track, knowing his vocals would sit perfectly in the track and absolutely shine where they needed to.” – Laure Laxxes

‘Somewhere New’ contains a relatable storyline and soulful vocals. Also, the likable tune possesses harmonious instrumentation scented with unique blends of atmospheric electronica sounds.
  
40x40

Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Between Us by Hayden James in Music

Jun 6, 2019 (Updated Jun 6, 2019)  
Between Us by Hayden James
Between Us by Hayden James
2019 | Dance
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Hayden James is a producer and Naations is an LA-based Australian duo. Not too long ago, they released a super-hot dance tune, entitled, “Nowhere to Go”.

The retro-filmstrip footage follows the empowering Venice-based all-women skate crew, GRLSWIRL, down the California Coast. Also, it follows them as they go from piling into a ’70s-style camper van to effortlessly skating the back-streets of Venice.

‘Nowhere To Go’ highlights Hayden and Nicky Night Time’s abilities to produce tracks which are club-ready and radio-friendly.

The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with dance, EDM, and electro-pop elements.

Also, it displays Nat Dunn’s powerful vocal performance and songwriting talents.

Naations are responsible for the huge Ibiza 2017 anthem, entitled, “Real Life”, with Gorgon City & Duke Dumont.

Not too long ago, they released their debut EP, entitled, “Teardrop”. The 6-track project serves as an introduction to the duo’s teardrop and star concept, which represents the light and the dark, which inspired their creative process.

They have performed at notable music venues on both sides of the Atlantic, including New York’s Output as well as Brixton Academy and XOYO in London. Also, they made their CRSSD Festival debut alongside Hayden, before heading back to Australia to support British songstress Anne-Marie on the AU leg of her tour.


https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/hayden-james-nowhere-to-go-naations/
  
40x40

Nick McCabe recommended The Infamous by Mobb Deep in Music (curated)

 
The Infamous by Mobb Deep
The Infamous by Mobb Deep
1995 | Rock
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Favorite

"Nineties hip-hop has never been bettered for me. I kind of lost interest in the eighties when electro started morphing into hip-hop. It got a bit clunky for me as it tried to sound more real, it sounded clumsier. By the time you get to the nineties, you had a mutation of what's real. The production on The Infamous – sonically it's just genius. It's a shame some of the lyrics are so offensive as it detracts from how good the music is. It's brilliant soundtrack music – it carries on the thread for me of the stomach knot for me, from John Carpenter. I don't know why they were so quick to move on from the sound of The Infamous. I suppose the royalties thing is huge in hip-hop, now everybody buys an off-the-shelf keyboard and has a stab at it to avoid having to clear samples. But it doesn't sound the same. It was hard to pick one. When I got ousted from The Verve in 1995, I stumbled on Tical by Method Man. That's definitely my favourite Wu-Tang record, probably because it was my first. The production doesn't bear any relation to anything I'd heard before. You could draw a parallel with Tom Waits – it's from another world really. That one needed perseverance as well. It sounds shit at first, but then it reveals itself."

Source
  
Coconut Island - Single by Meresha
Coconut Island - Single by Meresha
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Meresha is a Florida-based electro-pop singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Not too long ago, she released a lyric video for her “Coconut Island” single.

“So we crossed the sea again looking to find a land where we could thrive, you and I. Then a storm came suddenly, shook us up so violently, and we lost all track of time. The warm sand beneath my cold body, I rose with the sun when you found me.” – lyrics

‘Coconut Island’ tells a dreamy tale of a young woman who enjoys a sweet-like-candy-life on a tropical island with her significant other in the summertime.

Apparently, the breezy and warm air is fresh and pure, and the deep blue sea entices them to take a swim. Later, they savor the yummy juice from coconuts while the gentle waves crash the shore.
‘Coconut Island’ contains a fun storyline, pleasing vocals, and harmonious instrumentation flavored with a tropical-pop aroma.

Also, the likable tune sends an evergreen message which states that coco is good for your soul and nature is the remedy.

Meresha considers herself an #AlienPop innovator with a wide-ranging soulful voice and quirky sonic vision.

Her last single, “Jungle Potion”, went viral, hitting a million streams within a few weeks. Also, it was included on Ariana Grande‘s official personal playlist.

Meresha has landed on the Billboard charts 7 times, including peaking at #3 on Billboard’s Next Big Chart globally.
  
Lost & Found by Polar Youth
Lost & Found by Polar Youth
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Polar Youth is a 24-year-old producer from Ghent, Belgium. Not too long ago, she released a lovely electro-R&B duet, entitled, “Call Out”, featuring WAYI & Lani Rose.

“In a way, you told me lies, in a way you let me go. In a way, you said goodbye, my heart jumped on the floor. Felt it all the way outside the door when you said you didn’t need me anymore. Felt the pain in my heart when you said, ‘let me go’.” – lyrics

‘Call Out’ tells a bittersweet tale of a once budding couple who experience an emotional breakup.

Apparently, the guy is the one who broke off the problematic relationship, and now the woman feels like falling.


The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and mellow instrumentation flavored with atmospheric pop synths and ethereal electronic sounds.

“The main inspiration behind ‘Call Out’ is something everyone has felt at some point in their life. Loving someone so hard but being pushed away, leaving you desperate and heartbroken.” – Polar Youth

Polar Youth prides herself in adding heart & pop melodies in electronic music.

Her recipe has earned her Red Bull Elektropedia’s Most Promising Artist Award, a remix released under Majestic Casual, and a collaboration with DJ Fresh.

For this release, she put the spotlight on WAYI, who is endorsed by BBC 1Xtra and Elton John, and 21-year-old St. Louis-based singer Lani Rose.

‘Call Out’ is featured on her debut EP, entitled, “Lost & Found”. The 6-track project also features Fortress, Trent the HOOLiGAN, Sangstaa, and ËMIA.
  
Size of Relief by Young & Sick
Size of Relief by Young & Sick
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Polar Youth is a 24-year-old producer from Ghent, Belgium. Not too long ago, she released a lovely electro-R&B duet, entitled, “Call Out”, featuring WAYI & Lani Rose.

“In a way, you told me lies, in a way you let me go. In a way, you said goodbye, my heart jumped on the floor. Felt it all the way outside the door when you said you didn’t need me anymore. Felt the pain in my heart when you said, ‘let me go’.” – lyrics

‘Call Out’ tells a bittersweet tale of a once budding couple who experience an emotional breakup.

Apparently, the guy is the one who broke off the problematic relationship, and now the woman feels like falling.

The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and mellow instrumentation flavored with atmospheric pop synths and ethereal electronic sounds.

“The main inspiration behind ‘Call Out’ is something everyone has felt at some point in their life. Loving someone so hard but being pushed away, leaving you desperate and heartbroken.” – Polar Youth

Polar Youth prides herself in adding heart & pop melodies in electronic music.

Her recipe has earned her Red Bull Elektropedia’s Most Promising Artist Award, a remix released under Majestic Casual, and a collaboration with DJ Fresh.

For this release, she put the spotlight on WAYI, who is endorsed by BBC 1Xtra and Elton John, and 21-year-old St. Louis-based singer Lani Rose.

‘Call Out’ is featured on her debut EP, entitled, “Lost & Found”. The 6-track project also features Fortress, Trent the HOOLiGAN, Sangstaa, and ËMIA.
  
For Love by Danelle Sandoval
For Love by Danelle Sandoval
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Danelle Sandoval is an indie-pop/R&B singer-songwriter out of Los Angeles, California. Not too long ago, she released a delightful 4-track EP, entitled, “For Love”.

“SAY NO”

The Victoria Innocenzi-directed video finds Sandoval lying comfortably in bed. She’s alone and craving for her man’s touch. Also, flashback scenes are sprinkled every now and then to remind us of Sandoval’s relationship status.

‘Say No’ contains a relationship storyline, soothing vocals, and danceable instrumentation embedded with pop elements.


“HANDS”

‘Hands’ is a seductive tune oozing with the pleasure-seeking thought of romance. Also, it contains an intimate storyline, silky-smooth vocals, melodic melodies, and lush instrumentation perfumed with a charismatic bounce.

“CARELESS”

‘Careless’ tells the tale of a woman who’s had enough in trying to make her relationship work. After failing in trying to patch things up with her significant other, she wants to exit their union which was once boomin’ with happiness.

The song contains a bittersweet storyline, sincere vocals, and groovy instrumentation perfumed with an r&b/electronic vibe.

“CAPACITY”

‘Capacity’ tells the tale of a woman who questions her significant other’s heart. She knows he wants her. But does he have the capacity in his heart to be able to love her the way she wants to be loved? An interesting question she needs answers to.

The song contains a relatable storyline, soothing vocals, and lively instrumentation embedded with tropical/electro-house elements.

In conclusion, Danelle Sandoval’s “For Love” EP is an ear-welcoming chill pop/r&b project based on relationship issues.

https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/danelle-sandoval-love-ep/
  
Good Things - Single by Kelaa
Good Things - Single by Kelaa
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Kelaa is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter and producer from Sweden. Not too long ago, she released a lovely debut single, entitled, “Good Things”.

“Good things come to those who don’t wait around. I can’t let you slow me down. F**k you and your lies. Chase me when I rise. Get blinded by my light. Good things come to those who don’t wait around.” – lyrics

‘Good Things’ is the first single from Kelaa’s upcoming EP.

The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with an electro-pop aroma.

“‘Good Things’ is about not waiting for chances to come but instead create the conditions you desire around yourself, no matter what the obstacles are. ‘Cause, in the end, good things come to those who have the courage to follow their intuition.” – Kelaa

Kelaa grew up in a musical family with traditional folk music from the Kurdish regions of eastern Turkey.

Her musical journey with the project KELAA began after she participated in the program, Who can become a producer?

The message she wants to give is that everything is going to be alright even at times when you are standing at the edge.

The name Kelaa means fortress and is the name of a holy mountain in Kurdish regions Turkey.

The name was chosen by the artist to honor her roots, as an attempt to at least spiritually, preserve a piece of her background as the thought of losing her identity became a daunting experience at times when physical borders hindered her from connecting with her roots.

Creating songs under this name reflects the blended identity, which has formed her growing up in Sweden.

https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/kelaa-good-things/
  
WT
Wild Things - Single by Annprincess
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Annprincess is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter based in Oslo, Norway. Not too long ago, she released a dance video for her “Wild Things” single.

‘Wild Things’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with electro-pop and tropical-dance elements.

Also, the likable tune showcases Annprincess’ effortless gift for writing R&B-infused pop tunes.

Annprincess fled her home country of Liberia at the age of seven as a refugee. Shortly afterward, she and her mother found sanctuary in Norway, the place she now calls home.

At the time, Liberia had internal conflict and attempted coups were an everyday occurrence.

Also, Annprincess’ father, Prince Yormie Johnson, was one of the prominent figures in the first Liberian Civil War (1989-1997).

He became notorious for killing anyone who opposed his views or actions. And Annprincess’ mother was repeatedly jailed for her opposition to him.

Also, his role in the torture and murder of President Samuel Doe in 1990 is well documented on video, a part for which there is a regular talk of him being indicted for war crimes.

One of ten children to Prince Yormie’s multiple wives, Annprincess grew up with a dysfunctional view of relationships.

Even those closest to her, leading to her songwriting in which many of her lyrics deal with failed interactions between people.

Forever feeling she has been the underdog in life, Annprincess’ resilience sees her balancing two jobs alongside her music career, not to mention being a successful football player and coach.

Along with her mother, she has overcome every obstacle life has thrown at her and adapted to an alien culture and language.

Also, she used the negative experiences of her story to become an inspirational example to others to never give up in the pursuit of your dreams.