Eclectic Interests (From Food to Shows)

Commentary  I watched a 2011 short documentary entitled Miss Representation this week. It gave me much to think about. I have noticed some negative things in our culture, but I had not noticed a few things. I will share a few things that I learned, and then let's think further about the message. The first thing that struck me is how flagrant and explicit ads can be. I did not realize how little regulation there was on what ads can be aired nowadays. Compared to 2011, 2024 has even more availability of ads for young children.  Another point that made me pause was the lack of normal women in TV and movies. I have noticed this before, but I hadn't thought too hard about it. The only women who are main characters in movies right now are unrealistically gorgeous and one or two dimensional. According to much of the media, women have to be size 0 or size negative one in order to be deemed attractive. They also cannot have body hair, have wrinkles, or any normal fat. All of which is p...

Here is a good indie-rock band. They also have folk elements. They are clearly inspired by Mumford and Sons along with Bastille. They are based out of Cedar Hills, UT, but they often come to Velour (Provo) or Fork Fest (in American Fork.) They have been releasing music since 2018. In 2022, they released their first full album, Rim of the World . This album feels nostalgic, even if you have never heard it before. My three favorite tracks on this album are: Bloodhound, Sea of Sirens, and Ghost Story. Ghost story begins with a compelling guitar rift and drumbeats which pull you straight into the song. The lyrics they sing are also very compelling. They paint stories, tell of strengthening love, and write poetry. I highly recommend listening to Rim of the World . You won’t regret it (Picture credit:  https://www.lanternbysea.com/the-band )

    Provo has one of the best local music scenes in the country. The best place to see this is the music venue on Center Street called Velour. It has been the home of many great bands such as Moth and the Flame, Neon Trees, and Imagine Dragons. As you walk in you can feel the combined passions and varied visions of the bands who have played their.     One new and up coming band is the band No Such Animal. They are an alt-rock band with a fresh sound. I have seen them at Velour for multiple concerts. Recently they released a new album called The Entertainer . It is a cohesive album with a grand vision and great lyrics to guide it. I would highly recommend listening to it. The Entertainer feels like the results of a big producer, but still grounds you in the feeling of college life.      I have loved diving into local music. It is a form of media that connects you to the community and helps you see others a little clearer. The music you can fin...