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(04/26/21 3:00pm)
by Conner Tighe
Perhaps one of the most interesting gaming franchises out there, the Crash Bandicoot Saga, originally starting in 1996, has made its way to its fourth release last month. The saga is one of the first jump, run, slide, and boss battle riddled games I experienced back when I stumbled across an original PlayStation copy. As fun and memorable as it is, it’s also one of the most frustrating games I’ve played—no matter the title. Yet, I keep coming back to die repeatedly at the hands of misplaced stepping and nitro explosions.
Bandicoot is a wild animal living on the N. Sanity island with his sister, Coco. When he’s captured and experimented on by evil Dr. Neo Cortex and Dr. Nitrus Brio, he develops more human-like characteristics, like higher intelligence and the ability to comprehend and think for himself. Despite Brio’s warnings of the subject-Bandicoot-failing, Cortex didn’t listen, and Bandicoot broke out of the lab. Now waking up back on N. Sanity island, Bandicoot must work with spirit Aku Aku to save his girlfriend, Tawna, from being experimented on as well. Despite the fascinating plot, you’re going to experience challenge after challenge even with the re released PS4 copy. I’ve highlighted some tips and tricks to make your adventure just a little easier.
Use the ropes
There are many levels on Crash Bandicoot where Bandicoot must maneuver a bridge missing most of its pieces, forcing players to think creatively. "The Road to Nowhere" level is the first to do so. The regular brown colored pieces of wood are safe to land on, whereas the red pieces, both whole and broken, are not. Whole pieces give the players seconds to land on before collapsing, while the broken pieces collapse instantly, causing you to lose a life and start over from the last checkpoint. Here’s where I can help.
Yes, the level offers alternatives to crossing these travesties, like turtles and a bridge piece or two to hopefully land on to jump to the other side. But this is too risky, and unless you’re a highly-skilled jumper, you won’t make it. All these levels feature ropes on the sides. By carefully, and I mean carefully landing on one or the other, you can walk/run to the next piece of rope and so on. Jump off now and then to break boxes and get checkpoints, but don’t get too comfortable; one misstep, and you’ll fall to your death.
Replay levels for more lives
Take advantage of every opportunity offered in all three titles. The original Crash Bandicoot is obviously tougher than Cortex Strikes Back and Warped, but you still may find yourself having to walk away after dying one too many times. Depending on the title you’re playing, you’ll be tasked with collecting different jewels. Each is equipped by completing different objectives, like destroying every box in a level or completing a level without dying. Something right under our noses is the wumpa fruit that comes from destroying certain boxes. Getting 100 wumpa fruits gets you a life. If you find yourself low on lives, play through past levels to get more lives and collect more jewels along the way.
Analog vs. directional pad controls
The revamped saga allows players to play with analog controls and directional pad controls, which were the only option on the original releases. So, which is the easiest to use? Well, it depends. The game developers were clever in creating a 3D world using two different viewpoints throughout the saga. On the one hand, you’ll find the side view where Bandicoot maneuvers levels from left to right.
On the other hand, Bandicoot will maneuver levels from back to front or vice versa. Both experiences are 3D, but the catch is depth perception; which is the main cause of my demise. Analog controls for front to back/back to front; directional controls for the left to right levels. Bandicoot is touchy and will jump with the slightest touch of the X button and could land you in a spot of trouble.
The “slide-jump”
This tip applies to Cortex Strikes Back and Warped as players cannot slide in the original Crash Bandicoot. I have yet to achieve this expertly, but it’s possible to get the best jump possible with a carefully timed jump following a slide. By pressing the slide button, Bandicoot will go into a slide, but after immediately pressing the jump button, he will go for a higher jump which will make maneuvering obstacles that much easier. It’s a tricky maneuver, but worth it in the end.
Watch your shadow
Ninety percent of the trilogy involves maneuvering, rounding, and perusing dangerous obstacles to get to the end. Jumping over enemies is the easy part, but landing on small platforms, turtle shells, or a single suspended box in the air, that’s difficult. Here’s where I can help. Ever notice the faint shadow of Crash/Coco seconds before you land? Use this to your advantage; it’s no coincidence that game developers created a shadow helping players land safer on platforms.
Patience is everything
Patience is the most important tip if you take nothing else away from this article. The trilogy will test your patience to the point of “N. Sanity,” where even the most patient of people will find themselves punching a hole through the TV screen. (We hope not) But pay close attention to patterns and how objects and enemies walk, fly, and float before attempting to platform across. One mistimed jump could mean you start from the beginning of the level—depending on how many checkpoints the level offers. Approach the very edge of platforms and recognize the pattern of whatever it is you’re crossing before making your way.
Sources: Crash Bandicoot Fandom, PCGamesN
Featured Image: Link-Cable
(04/22/21 5:08pm)
Cunning, beautiful, and the ultimate survivor of the horrors of fame, actress Drew Barrymore has had quite the acting career now at 46 years old. On April 13, Barrymore got candid with actress Demi Lovato about Lovato’s struggles with fame and being in the spotlight at such a young age. Barrymore mentioned she could relate to Lovato’s recent documentary Dancing with the Devil, which detailed the young actress’ time in and out of rehab and how she reclaimed her sobriety after a scary overdose in 2018. With a career spanning nearly four decades, Barrymore has come close to some devilish misfortunes herself, but what makes her life so tragic and inspiring at the same time? The answer comes with Barrymore’s deep ties to Hollywood starting at such an early age.
(04/21/21 5:15pm)
by Conner TigheCunning, beautiful, and the ultimate survivor of the horrors of fame, actress Drew Barrymore has had quite the acting career now at 46 years old. On April 13, Barrymore got candid with actress Demi Lovato about Lovato’s struggles with fame and being in the spotlight at such a young age. Barrymore mentioned she could relate to Lovato’s recent documentary Dancing with the Devil, which detailed the young actress' time in and out of rehab and how she reclaimed her sobriety after a scary overdose in 2018. With a career spanning nearly four decades, Barrymore has come close to some devilish misfortunes herself, but what makes her life so tragic and inspiring at the same time? The answer comes with Barrymore’s deep ties to Hollywood starting at such an early age.At the age of five, Barrymore appeared for the first time on-screen with sci-fi film Altered States, released in 1980. The actress had a more than troubling upbringing with an abusive father who left Barrymore’s family when she was just six months old. Her mother, Jaid, was an aspiring actress, sharing a similar dream as her father. With only her mother left to raise Barrymore, she was often found at Hollywood parties with her mother drinking, and she has admitted that even at the young age of seven, she was combining alcohol with ice cream.
(04/21/21 2:52am)
By Conner Tighe
The Wonderlands went for something fresh and daring with their latest single, “Friends,” which features DJ artist Hilliard. This is the first piece of music The Wonderlands have released since their last single, “The Push,” back in February. After at least five listens, my opinion remains unchanged. The single is a new sound and demonstrates the band’s willingness to push past boundaries of what fans expect and what the band wants to explore, but is more stagnant than other releases.
The Wonderlands were founded in Cincinnati, Ohio, by Ball State student Miles Jena (lead singer/guitarist) and friend Adam Steele (bassist/vocalist). The duo grew into a five-person band with Jill Gavigan (keyboard/vocalist), Derek Johnson (drummer), and Patrick Oakes (guitarist/vocalist). The band first released music in 2018 but dropped their first album, This Digital Life, in 2020.
(04/16/21 8:30pm)
by Conner Tighe
Perhaps one of the most well-known novel, movie, and gaming series of the past decade, Harry Potter has become something of a milestone in my life. It was one of the first games I played, and over a decade later, it’s still one of the series I enjoy playing. Whether it’s dueling Death Eaters, flying on a broom, or sneaking past guards, the Harry Potter series has had its ups, but it certainly has had its downs in the gaming franchise. Here, I rank the series from best to worst.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
I'm biased when I say this title is the best, as it’s the first one I played in the series. But, after having played all eight titles, I still think it provides the best experience. Potter’s second year provides the most fun and true-to-heart Hogwarts experience. Players will collect Famous Witches and Wizards Cards, unlock new spells, and more. Furthermore, players can zoom around the castle on a broom. By finding lost items for students around the castle, players will earn more house points than other houses. Racing with your broom, throwing gnomes through hoops, and buying up all of Fred and George Weasley’s goodies in their shop make the experience that much better than releases afterward.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Potter’s first adventure on the PlayStation mirrors Chamber of Secrets almost exactly, with only a few slight differences. Again, players will complete daily tasks, find lost inventory for students, obtain new spells, and more; but this game is glitchier, has different areas to explore, and offers different spells although sharing similar spells with its successor.
While sneaking past prefects, body-binding spells go through walls, making your job that much more difficult. The screen will go black at times, forcing you to restart from wherever you last saved. In that sense, the game is ruthless in making you redo tough challenges if it decides to glitch on you. But the overall experience is still there for Potter fans.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
Potter’s final journey ends in mediocre gameplay and a fast-paced storyline. Players can switch combat spells to match enemy attacks and defense positions. Players can experience characters like Professor McGonagall, Seamus Finnigan, Ginny Weasley, and more. The game's mission to include diversity this way is a hopeless trope. No two characters are different as everyone uses the same spells. The only "side missions" include collecting small glowing orbs to unlock character trophies. However, the experience has its sense of replayability. Sometimes the most exciting part of the journey is the end.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1
Creators took the combat system to a whole new level when this installment came out. Potter begins his journey with Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, searching for Voldemort’s Horcruxes. Players will protect wizards and witches from both Snatchers and Death Eaters. Voldemort’s followers won’t be the only enemies Potter will face. Spiders, dementors, and more await the three. The missions seem repetitive after a while, making the game feel useless. Potter enters the Ministry of Magic after escaping with Voldemort’s locket. This makes no sense in the realm of logic, and I can’t ignore the fact the game took this route with the plot. The experience is worthwhile for one play-through, but beyond that, little takeaways come from the experience.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Potter’s sixth year is a mere copy of his fifth as an errand boy. You can brew potions and duel students and Death Eaters. Nearly Headless Nick guides players around the castle. It was an upgrade from the Marauder's Map idea with its predecessor. The lack of real combat makes the upgrading system futile. The game follows the book and film well and is a mediocre year at Hogwarts.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Prisoner of Azkaban was the first sign that the trio was growing up. The plot balances classwork and side plots. You’ll battle creatures using different tactics and spells. This was the last game in the series to incorporate the Wizard and Witches card hunt, which was disappointing. The classic dueling system was not as good as the previous release, and the game took away the broom flying option. The game was a drab forgotten release, much like Goblet of Fire.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Order of the Phoenix expanded upon the dueling system, allowing players to use more combat spells like stupefy, protego, and petrificus totalus. Unfortunately, much of the game is taken up by having Potter run errands for students involved in Dumbledore’s Army. By using the Marauder’s Map, players will explore Hogwarts’ dungeons, corridors, and exterior to upgrade spells and achieve tasks. It gets boring quickly but is better than its forerunner.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Oh boy, this game was bad. The combat system, the bug issues, the lack of scenery and levels. The famous trio returns to Hogwarts, maneuvering challenges related to the Triwizard Tournament. Players can cast a variety of spells at the click of a button. The AI casts the spell related to the individual situation players are put in. By pressing one button, the correct spell will be cast, depending on the enemy's weakness.
Players will explore the Herbology greenhouses, the infamous Little Hangleton Graveyard, and more. Potter will battle fiery salamanders, poisonous bugs, and all other sorts of craziness. You can collect Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans and challenge shields to upgrade skills. Although the game attempted to make the most of the experience, it failed. The AI gets stuck in corners, and you replay levels repeatedly to make sure you can get to other levels.
Sources: Scout Life
Featured Image: Pinterest
(04/12/21 10:23pm)
By Conner Tighe
Artist AJ Mitchell dropped his next teaser for his upcoming album Skyview, a music project inspired by the Skyview Drive-In in his hometown Belleville, IL. “STOP” is relatively similar to “Camera’s On” in vocals and presentation; however, the message is on the opposite end of the spectrum. The latest single takes the spotlight away from Mitchell’s inner struggles and taps into his personal desires. However, despite the amazing quality of his recent music, his tracks are beginning to blend together as fans— myself included— impatiently wait for Skyview. This album is something the artist has been discussing with the media since 2019.
Mitchell’s latest single is electric, fun, and solidifies the young artist’s rise to pop stardom. Taking place after his previous single “Camera’s On,” “STOP” continues Mitchell’s story of fame, this time focusing on his passions and inspirations.
(04/11/21 5:46pm)
By Conner Tighe
When Taylor Swift rereleased her classic “Love Story” back in February, you best believe I was hyped. It was a teaser for her latest reimagined vision of her 2008 Fearless. I only now realized the crooked business war behind the album, but the announcement was something fresh and new she hadn’t done yet. We hadn’t heard country from Swift in years. The artist added an additional 13 tracks to her 2021 version making it her longest tracklist to date. You may find yourself accidentally listening to it for a number of hours like I did. Long story short, it’s worth the listen, let alone the purchase, if you have the cash.
Swift has come a long way after moving from Pennsylvania to Nashville at just 10-years-old. With inspirations from female country icons like Shania Twain and Faith Hill, who sang about faith and womanhood independence, the young artist pursued her interest in country, releasing her first album Taylor Swift in 2006. If you listen closely, Swift continues to keep those themes with some of her tracks. The 2006 album was the first of a string of troubles to come with previous label, Big Machine Records. Her latest album Fearless (Taylor’s Version), is her tenth album, and it is her best since 2019s Lover.
Ten years can make a difference for anyone, but try 13 years. After an ongoing battle with previous music manager, Scooter Braun, Swift decided to revamp her musical roots after Braun sold six of Swift’s albums for more than $300 million last year. This event came after Braun bought Big Machine Records. Since he was then in charge of Swift’s music future, he limited the artist on what she could and couldn’t perform. The founder of the company, Scott Borchetta, offered Swift a new label, but the artist took matters into her own hands singing onto Universal Music.
“Essentially, my musical legacy is about to lie in the hands of someone who tried to dismantle it,” the singer said in a 2019 Tumblr post. Well, no more. 2021’s Fearless (Taylor’s Version) is a direct act of defiance toward Braun, and honestly, she’s better off because of it. Her independence as both a female artist and an artist of free will makes me love her even more.
Swift advocated for artists having the right to own their own work tweeting on Feb. 11.
Astounding tracklist
I would be tone-deaf if I said the tracklist was overdone or not worthy of a listen. Fearless 13 years later continues to be heartfelt, even more so now with the history. I did not expect a 26-track filled album, as many of her albums range from 15-17 tracks per album, yet here we are. Swift combines past hits like 2008s “Fearless,” “White Horse,” and “You Belong With Me” and new tracks with her own spin on the classic guitar and love ballads. The album is a return to her teen angst years of high school, love gone wrong, and early days in the country music world.
We used to watch the sun go down/On the boats in the water/That's sorta how I feel right now/And Goodbye's so much harder/'Cause we were happy
Unlike Folklore and Evermore, Swift manages to carefully balance tear shedders with upbeat feminist vibes. Old collaborations like Colbie Caillat’s “Breathe” return, but its revamped version brings additional voices from Maren Morris (“You All Over Me”), and Keith Urban (“That’s When”). I enjoyed the collaborations as they were a breath of fresh air from her usual pop aesthetic. I only wish there were more country collaborations. Not only was the album a wave toward Braun, but was a heartwarming reminder of her musical past.
Swift has always been one for not needing a man in her life, but as she does, the singer sneaks in tracks like “Jump Then Fall (Taylor’s Version)” and “Don’t You (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)” to provide reassurance that the artist is not entirely lost. Swift has been dating actor Joe Alwyn for four years and shows no signs of creating a breakup hit as she has kept her relationship out of the spotlight.
Original vs. Taylor’s Version
Swift came for first place when she delivered those additional 13 tracks. I found her original 13 tracks (Taylor’s Version tracks) to be better in presentation compared to new tracks (From the Vault). It’s difficult to pinpoint why but lately the artist has delved more into melancholy, slow-paced tracks which can deliver amazingly at times. Particularly “We Were Happy” sticks out as one of her best slower-sounding tracks on the list. I guess I have a special place in my heart for the young, country singer many of us were introduced to so many years ago. But don’t let this discourage you. Swift can still sing some country.
I was a dreamer before you went and let me down/Now it's too late for you and your white horse/To come around
Swift’s versions of past tracks like “White Horse,” “Hey Stephen,” and others sound nearly identical to her 2008 releases, but perhaps that’s the point. Fearless (Taylor’s Version) is exactly that, Taylor’s version. In that regard, the revamped versions neither sink nor help her past releases climb in progression.
Top tracks:
Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
Fifteen (Taylor’s Version)
White Horse (Taylor’s Version)
Recommended if you like:
Harry Styles
Shawn Mendes
Maren Morris
Sources: Byte, TaylorSwift.com, Time, Fandom, Rolling Stone, Page Six, The New York Times, The New York Times, New York Post, Twitter, Insider
Featured Image: Genius
(04/10/21 1:00pm)
By Conner Tighe
Actor and artist Darren Criss released his latest music piece, “F*KN Around,” which centers on Criss’s days as a young wannabe star. I originally thought the piece was a larger project, and it turns out it is. But it would not be in an album but a start for more music, which is yet to come. Diverging from his other works like EPs Human and Homework, “F*KN Around” comes with a comedic, fun vibe that makes the singer sound like a half rock star and half pop star.
Criss grew up in California, mainly doing theater work for Team StarKid. He was always into the music scene, playing alongside his older brother Chuck. The two never went into full stardom until 2017, when they released EP Lost Boys Life under the name Computer Games. Perhaps what Criss is most well known for is his time in the spotlight as character Blaine Anderson on Fox’s Glee, which lasted for six seasons. He was one of the first openly gay characters on the show, an act completely different from Criss’s real life as he married his wife Mia Swier in 2019. He’s continued working for shows under Ryan Murphy’s handling, like American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace and Hollywood.
(03/30/21 4:00am)
The Peach Tree Rascals released their first EP/album, Camp Nowhere which combines all the fun the band has had and morphed it into an alternative-Indie blast of a joyride. After an initial run-through, I found nothing entirely exquisite but, all the same, a good time. Those familiar with the Indie genre will recognize the slight inspirational sound from Foster the People, Poolside, Surfaces, and MGMT. The Peach Tree Rascals have never been one for deep, thoughtful essence in their art, but want to have fun doing what they love. Camp Nowhere continues the band’s adventures of combining the band’s cultural and musical backgrounds into a diverse mix of music OGs will come to love.
(03/30/21 6:01pm)
By Conner Tighe
The Peach Tree Rascals released their first EP/album, Camp Nowhere which combines all the fun the band has had and morphed it into an alternative-Indie blast of a joyride. After an initial run-through, I found nothing entirely exquisite but, all the same, a good time. Those familiar with the Indie genre will recognize the slight inspirational sound from Foster the People, Poolside, Surfaces, and MGMT. The Peach Tree Rascals have never been one for deep, thoughtful essence in their art, but want to have fun doing what they love. Camp Nowhere continues the band’s adventures of combining the band’s cultural and musical backgrounds into a diverse mix of music OGs will come to love.
Jorge Olazaba (creative director), Tarrek Abdel-Khaliq (singer/rapper), Isaac Pech (singer/rapper), Joseph Barros (singer/rapper), and Dominic “Dom” Pizano (producer/mixer) met in high school. The five began producing small-time projects demonstrating what each member was capable of until they released their single, “Mariposa”, in 2019, which launched them to fame. The song talked about personal growth and accepting who you’re meant to be and used the Spanish word “mariposa” for “butterfly” to project that symbolization of change. The band has released 18 singles going back to their first single, “Glide”, in 2018.
A diverse sound
The band has diverse backgrounds in music, including Mexican, Filipino, and Palestinian. With their presentation of hip-hop, rap, and Latin-inspired sound, the album provides that mix of sound that most bands can’t offer. The Peach Tree Rascals are an example of taking unique backgrounds and forming them together in the name of not love, but music. Track one, “OOZ”, exemplifies hip-hop while track four, “Change My Mind,” has pop inspiration, and track seven, “Pockets”, sounds like a track from a John Mayer album. Those familiar with the pop, folk, and Indie genres will see through this transparent case of past musicians getting their due where it’s deserved.
Pocket full of sunshine/Flowers help me find my way/Before the sunrise
Nothing is too serious or deep in this album, and it appears like the band wants to keep it that way, most likely to appeal to their younger audience. The Peach Tree Rascals are a fun, lighthearted group of guys who – you would assume – would describe themselves as “chill”. With inspirations from Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean, The Beatles, and John Mayer, my respect for the five is that much stronger. Camp Nowhere pays its respects to the greats who came before them.
Stacking against the rest
Like many other artists in today’s age, the Peach Tree Rascals speak to the youth culture and this sense of coming of age appeal. It seems like the band is still on their own journey of self-discovery, and the lyrics expressed in Camp Nowhere speaks to a universal sense of confusion and what it means to be young. Drugs and musicians seem to coexist as you look more and more into the creative processes and personal stories. Tracks like “OOZ”, “JoJo”, and “LEAVE ME” speak about drugs as both a coping mechanism and piece of youth, while tracks like “papá” talk about growing up in a changing world.
See, I don't know and I never did/I'm on a road that'll never end/All my control flying with the wind
Top tracks:
OOZ
Pockets
Change My Mind
Recommended if you like:
MGMT
Foster the People
Poolside
Sources: Daily Bruin, Ones to Watch, Elicit Magazine, Spotify, BMI
Featured Image: Genius
(03/30/21 1:10pm)
Actor and comedian Monty Geer was relatively not as well-known when he was trying to make it big in the TV industry. That was until he landed a role on MTV’s drama/comedy Awkward. The show lasted five seasons and won a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Cable TV Comedy. Geer played lanky, tall geek Cole Higgins, a recurring character on the show’s last two seasons. Since the show’s ending in 2016, the actor has been doing small projects here and there along with his own stand-up act in LA. Geer took the time to speak with me about his past career and the hard work and perseverance that got him where he is today.
(03/29/21 8:35pm)
It’s been an exciting and anxious time for fans of young artist AJ Mitchell. In 2015, Mitchell was discovered via social media while living in his hometown of Belleville, Illinois. He released his first single, “Used to Be” in 2017, after writing it at the age of 13. He has collaborated with musicians like Meghan Trainor, Cheat Codes, Ava Max, and Ella Henderson. Mitchell is a candid, free musician, taking inspiration from his life and shaping it into worthwhile lyrics. I got the chance to speak with Mitchell about his writing tactics, inspirations, and upcoming album Skyview, set to release soon.
(03/29/21 8:31pm)
The opinions and views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the opinion of Byte or Byte’s editorial board.
(03/29/21 2:00pm)
by Conner TigheActor and comedian Monty Geer was relatively not as well-known when he was trying to make it big in the TV industry. That was until he landed a role on MTV’s drama/comedy Awkward. The show lasted five seasons and won a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Cable TV Comedy. Geer played lanky, tall geek Cole Higgins, a recurring character on the show’s last two seasons. Since the show’s ending in 2016, the actor has been doing small projects here and there along with his own stand-up act in LA. Geer took the time to speak with me about his past career and the hard work and perseverance that got him where he is today.Conner Tighe: Did you want to be an actor when you were little?Monty Geer: Yeah, I’ve loved acting from a young age. I’m from a small town called Snohomish in Washington state. It’s just lots of farms and stuff. Acting wasn’t an option at all. Like everyone I talked to, they would say, “How do you do that? That’s not a real thing.” So, when I was a little kid, I made videos a lot with my friends. They were like sketches, basically. The only industry was this improv team in Seattle an hour away, and I auditioned for them when I was like 14 or 15, but everyone on the team was like 45, and here I am as this 14-year-old auditioning. So, I didn’t get that. When I was 16, I started going to New York to go to the New York Film Academy during my summers when I was in high school. After high school, I moved to New York to pursue it full-time. So, it’s definitely something I’ve always wanted to do, but it was a hard time figuring out how to do it for most of my life.CT: Who has strongly influenced your life?MG: Definitely lots of other actors for sure, like Seth Rogen. I love how he writes and directs his own stuff or Will Ferrell. When I was a kid, at night I would watch the 1975 SNL tapes and stuff with John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd. I lived off of that. My uncle was always the funniest person in my life. He made me pursue comedy because he was so funny, and he died this year because of COVID-19, so that was pretty rough. He was definitely the biggest influence for me, as a child, to even pursue the enjoyment of comedy.CT: How did you get into stand-up comedy?
(03/26/21 2:00pm)
by Conner TigheIt’s been an exciting and anxious time for fans of young artist AJ Mitchell. In 2015, Mitchell was discovered via social media while living in his hometown of Belleville, Illinois. He released his first single, “Used to Be” in 2017, after writing it at the age of 13. He has collaborated with musicians like Meghan Trainor, Cheat Codes, Ava Max, and Ella Henderson. Mitchell is a candid, free musician, taking inspiration from his life and shaping it into worthwhile lyrics. I got the chance to speak with Mitchell about his writing tactics, inspirations, and upcoming album Skyview, set to release soon.Conner Tighe: What was your inspiration behind "Camera's On?"AJ Mitchell: It came to me about three years ago, which is when I originally wrote the song. Basically, I was inspired to write that because I was in this situation where I was surrounded by people where it just seemed like a fake environment. It seemed like people were wearing smiles, people were saying “I love you” when they didn’t mean it, so I felt like a weird dynamic which I’ve never experienced before. That was when I first came out to LA. So, I wrote the song about how as soon as the camera’s on, everyone switches up. The “never with you” part is the music side and my family and friends and the people that make it worth it, and that’s what the songs about.Image from FacebookCT: What do you find most difficult when writing music?AM: The music part is easiest for me. I write songs every day, like I love it. I mean, I could write three songs in a day. But the most difficult part for all of it, I would have to say, is the emotional part. I’m promoting the songs and going on social media, doing all that stuff because honestly, I’m not great at social media. I try to give the fans what they want, but when it comes down to promoting the music, I’m like, “I don’t know what to do. I’m just going to take a video from a song and post it up.”CT: What was your childhood like?AM: I would say my childhood growing up was very free for me to explore, adventure, and live my life the way I wanted to as a kid. I was from a really small town. There wasn’t much to do at all other than write music all day because I was bored, and I just wanted to play on the piano and learn and practice. It was fun for me. Or I’d be outside with my friends, riding our bikes around town, exploring abandoned buildings, sneaking into this college down the street so we could play basketball. We were super adventurous kids, and I just wanted to have fun. I was the type of kid where if I was bored, I wanted to do something. I wanted to go on adventures. I wanted to go in the woods. I wanted to have a thrill with my friends.CT: Who were your musical inspirations growing up?AM: When I was growing up, my first inspiration was my dad. He was writing songs and practicing the piano, and when I saw that, I wanted to do it myself. He was one of my first inspirations. Then after that, I loved The Beatles, Lil Wayne, Eminem, Bruno Mars, Coldplay, Adele, Whitney Houston, Etta James. Honestly, I drew inspiration from everywhere. I wouldn’t say there’s one artist that’s my favorite. I’m that type of person that doesn’t have a favorite anything, because I love so many different things.CT: How did writing songs at such a young age impact your life?AM: I loved it. I was writing songs all the time. I only knew a couple of piano chords, but with those chords, I was writing songs all the time.CT: Where do you get your inspiration from when writing music?AM: I get my inspiration from life, I think, just life experiences. Honestly, the inspiration can come from anywhere. If I’m walking down the street with a friend and we’re just having a real conversation about real life, and something pops up, and I’m like, “Honestly, that’s beautiful. This would be such a beautiful topic to write about.” And I’ll take it to the studio, and I’ll write the song. That happened one day with the song “Growing Pains,” which is going to be on my album Skyview. I had a wild night out, and the next morning I woke up like, “Oh, I’m growing through growing pains,” so I know I’m going to do that again. You know what I mean? And that’s how everything works out. I’m inspired by real-life situations, and it’s either with my relationships or life lessons that I’ve learned that I want to share with other people. I like my music to be motivational or happy.CT: Is there a past performance that comes to mind where you were extremely nervous?
(03/22/21 4:00am)
Justin Bieber released his latest album, Justice, this past Friday and if you hyped this up like his last album, let me save you the trouble. Justice doesn’t achieve the same lasting effect as Changes. Like his last album, there’s a heavy inspiration from faith and Martin Luther King Jr. If this sounds strange, it is. It’s so out of place and is the first piece of audio you’ll hear on track one, “2 Much.” The singer is already receiving mixed feedback on the album, with some not appreciating MLK’s addition while others see it as a timely thing.
(03/22/21 9:50pm)
By Conner Tighe
Justin Bieber released his latest album, Justice, this past Friday and if you hyped this up like his last album, let me save you the trouble. Justice doesn’t achieve the same lasting effect as Changes. Like his last album, there’s a heavy inspiration from faith and Martin Luther King Jr. If this sounds strange, it is. It’s so out of place and is the first piece of audio you’ll hear on track one, “2 Much.” The singer is already receiving mixed feedback on the album, with some not appreciating MLK’s addition while others see it as a timely thing.
Bieber has come a long way from his pop and purple-dressed, shaggy hair-wearing days dancing for the girls. Justice solidifies his stance on religion and how faith can be life-changing as it has been for him. The artist acknowledges that much of the world is suffering, especially with the recent social injustices that have plagued this nation for decades. He provided a sense of truth and hope by incorporating his faith in Changes and continues to do so in Justice, although the overall experience comes across as a little stale.
A sense of truth
Nothing is heard in this 16-tracklisting that isn’t premeditated or signifying some other pop-Esque vibe that we usually hear every day. Bieber wants to stand out not only from other stars, but from his past self as much of the album is about moving on from past mistakes and celebrating the two people that have stood by him: his wife and his faith. To me, the listening experience was a clone of Changes and did little to differentiate itself from its predecessor. As Bieber talks about throughout, there are moments of weakness and temptation, but he continues to rise above it all through music. Few tracks stand out from others in the album except for his “Peaches” collaboration with Daniel Caesar and Giveon.
MLK returns for track seven as an interlude, talking about social injustice followed by more tracks about Bieber’s wife. The tone shifts when MLK is introduced intermittently to something serious and then we go back to the artist talking about Hailey Bieber. I understand that MLK signifies and talks about living with passion as better than not living with a passion — which Bieber uses to show his passion for music — but something about it didn’t sit right with me and was unnecessary. I can’t say the album is entirely about his faith, as there are pieces about his wife and the undying love he expresses for her.
Your touch blurred my vision/It's your world, and I'm just in it
Lack of inspiration
It's clear that much of his inspiration comes from his wife, but it seems tiring at this point. Bieber attempts to make his messages universal, like with “Somebody” talking about having a shoulder to cry on, or “Lonely” with the struggles of depression and mental health. The artist is moving away from rap, it seems, although slowly. His 2020 collaboration with Quavo on “Intentions” is a recent example; yet, even on this tracklist, he appears beside Chance the Rapper (“Holy”) and Khalid (“As I Am”). The R&B just doesn’t seem like who he is anymore.
Top tracks:
Die For You
Off My Face
Anyone
Recommended if you like:
Shawn Mendes
Ed Sheeran
Selena Gomez
Sources: New York Post, TMZ, YouTube, The New York Times
Featured Image: Genius
(03/19/21 7:00pm)
by Conner TigheThe opinions and views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the opinion of Byte or Byte’s editorial board. When thinking about female superheroes and villains, there’s a wide span of variety. Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel, Scarlet Witch, and many more; but one stands out. Not only for her unpredictability, but as one of the few females to side with a hero and battle him at times. Selina Kyle, more commonly called Catwoman, is one of the most mysterious female heroes/villains of the DC Universe. She has been portrayed by several actresses over the years, with each portrayal being different from the last. With Zoë Kravitz playing Catwoman in 2022’s The Batman, I thought it was only fitting to look back at the past lineage of women—from worst to best—who have portrayed the infamous whip-wielding burglar.
(03/17/21 4:00am)
After a five-year hiatus between his last album, Last Year Was Complicated, and now, listeners will find much to love with Nick Jonas’ latest album Spaceman. This is the artist’s fourth solo album following his career, which started back in 2005 with his first album, Nicholas Jonas. After an initial listen-through, I was honestly impressed with every track, and this is coming from someone who is a moderate fan of Jonas. Spaceman is a huge step up from his 2016 album due to its more uplifting, fast-paced tempo and catchy lyrics. From the surface, the 11-track record is impressive, but as I got into the nitty-grittiness of the work, the waters became murkier as to how Jonas pulled off a valuable piece of art.
(03/17/21 9:25pm)
By Conner Tighe
After a five-year hiatus between his last album, Last Year Was Complicated, and now, listeners will find much to love with Nick Jonas’ latest album Spaceman. This is the artist’s fourth solo album following his career, which started back in 2005 with his first album, Nicholas Jonas. After an initial listen-through, I was honestly impressed with every track, and this is coming from someone who is a moderate fan of Jonas. Spaceman is a huge step up from his 2016 album due to its more uplifting, fast-paced tempo and catchy lyrics. From the surface, the 11-track record is impressive, but as I got into the nitty-grittiness of the work, the waters became murkier as to how Jonas pulled off a valuable piece of art.
Floating in music ecstasy
Jonas introduced a new side of himself with his R&B-inspired Last Year Was Complicated, and that tradition continues with Spaceman; however, it's in moderate doses this time. The artist knows how to carefully balance his pop roots with R&B, and I would go so far as to say he includes some soul-inspired hits like “Sexual” and “Deeper Love.” Accompanying the tracks comes brilliant piano work, moderate drums, and of course, Jonas’ vocals to solidify the A-plus-quality journey of sound. Spaceman is not an album for background music: The album is above that level of mediocrity and is for bass-playing technology and loud atmospheres. I can personally see more than one track here winning an award or two.
It’s assumed Jonas worked on the album during the band’s revival and his marriage to Priyanka Chopra back in 2018; explanation as to what lies underneath the words. The tracks “Don’t Give Up On Us” and “Heights” talk about the conflict Jonas had with Chopra, although it’s unclear when. However, roughly 75 percent of the album is a love ballad to his wife, and he admits to taking inspiration from Stevie Wonder and the Bee Gees. Any sign of his brothers and the story behind their rehash remain out of the album, perhaps for privacy. One thing is clear, and that is that Jonas is at the highest point in his personal life.
This is Heaven / And I don't know how this could get much bettеr (Yeah) / Than you and me, herе right now
Better off alone
Jonas and his brothers, Joe and Kevin, collaborated on their 2019 album, Happiness Begins, which touched on their heartfelt reunion after years of divide. Happiness Begins, as well as the brothers’ other collaborative projects, have been sparks of pop fun, but frankly, they aren’t comparable to Nick’s solo works. Jonas has proved himself more worthwhile to listen to besides Joe and Kevin, and Spaceman further proves that point. Jonas cares about the care and presentation of his vocals and sound, which are beautifully represented here. No single track feels rushed or created for a quick cash grab of sales. That’s why the album knocks his brothers’ work down some pegs.
Top tracks:
This Is Heaven
Sexual
Deeper Love
Recommended if you like:
Miley Cyrus
Demi Lovato
Justin Bieber
Sources: BuzzFeed News, Seventeen
Featured Image: Genius
