Ambur Masen, Author at MendoWerks

13May

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Music

Songs On Repeat: “Ascend” by VILLA

While "Ascend" by VILLA hasn't been out as long as the first song I wrote about for this column, it is another example of a song that has been lingering in my 'On Repeat' playlist since its release day. This song is an epic tune that never fails to get my blood pumping--and it is especially effective when listened to at loud volumes during my dreary morning commutes. There is something thoroughly enjoyable about the unsettling subtleties of this song contrasted by just how truly grand it is. Thoughts on "Ascend" by VILLA In reference to this song, the artist tweeted, "it truly feels like you’re listening to a symphony in a haunted church" -- and she's absolutely right on that. With "Ascend", VILLA combines the grandeur of symphonic and hymnal music; however, it's almost if ...

18Apr

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Music, Uncategorized

The Tragedy of MNQN: the AI Gone Rogue

Six years ago, Dustin Bates shared a copy of a cease and desist order that he issued against Ohio-based tech company, The Sentience Corporation, due to complications with one of its AI projects, MNON (later called 'MNQN'). In his letter, Bates alleges that this AI project, and thus the company who created it, was guilty of "stealing and advertising the likeness of [his] voice in music works and marketing materials." The offending songs not only contained unauthorized use of the STARSET frontman's voice, but were also distributed to all major streaming platforms without his knowledge, thus "intentionally violating [his] rights and the rights of [his] songwriting business." He goes on to explain that these actions "constitute theft, conversion, misrepresentation, and unfair competiti...

Framing Hanley Returns (Again?) with “Say Less”

4Apr

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Music

Framing Hanley Returns (Again?) with “Say Less”

If you were (an emo kid) on the Internet at any point in the 2000's-2010's, I guarantee that you've come across Framing Hanley at least once. If you were anything like me, then finding out about the band's indefinite hiatus and subsequent "farewell tour" in 2015 was nothing short of heartbreaking--especially given the fact that all three of their albums up until that point were solid bodies of work. What I didn't know until recently is that this "farewell tour" wasn't exactly the definitive ending that I had anticipated it would be upon leaving my local stop on that tour. As it turns out, the band announced the end of their hiatus in 2018, and in 2020, they released a fourth album, Envy. During their hiatus, Framing Hanley released One Màs More, a project split between new renditions ...

Saint Samuel Tells the True Story Behind New Song, “Hit and Run” [Exclusive Interview]

4Apr

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Interviews

Saint Samuel Tells the True Story Behind New Song, “Hit and Run” [Exclusive Interview]

"When the world is crazy, that's exactly what humans need the most: music."Sam mccoig (Saint Samuel) If you're looking for a fun pop-rock bop to jumpstart your Spring playlists with, then we invite you to check out "Hit and Run" by Saint Samuel. Based in Richmond, VA, Saint Samuel is a self-produced singer-songwriter whose roots in Americana and pop-punk meld together in interesting ways. This new song follows the artist's January EP, Going Through It, and in a way, is based on a true story. While the song itself is generally fun to listen to, with its catchy hook and playful transitions, the inspiration behind "Hit and Run" is anything but 'fun'. You can learn all about this song by reading our conversation with Saint Samuel, below. Listen to "Hit and Run" by Saint ...

Get Ready for Bible Service: Eat You Alive III

13Apr

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Events

Get Ready for Bible Service: Eat You Alive III

Bolton's favorite party planners are back next month for another unforgettable night celebrating all things alternative music. Yes, that's right-- Eat You Alive is returning to The Ramp on Saturday, April 6th, for their third epic event full of the best in rock, metal, punk, and emo music. Live music, a late-night, mosh-friendly DJ set, freebies, and more--what's not to love? Get all the details below. Eat You Alive III Who: Eat You Alive presents Mouth Culture, Artio, TOVA, and Asleep at the Helm What: the third edition of Eat You Alive's alternative music club night, as curated by THE HARA's Josh Taylor and Zack Breen. Of-age attendees will be met with a free shot of THE HARA’s ‘Rockstar’ branded vodka upon entry. When: 6 April 2024, from 8pm-2...

16Mar

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Music

Songs on Repeat: “NOTHING” by MAYKO

Here at MendoWerks Magazine, we aim to share the music that truly moves us. With that said, I want to take some time and explain to you, dear Readers, why some of the songs found in my 'On Repeat' Spotify playlist seem to have found a permanent home there. This time, we're going to talk about "NOTHING" by MAYKO, which has lived in my 'On Repeats' since the summer of 2022 (i.e., about 19 consecutive months). Based in San Diego, you may recognize MAYKO's name from his performances at Alter/Ego's LA showcase in 2022, Umbrella Weekend in 2023 or OMFG! NYE 2023. Or, perhaps, you remember his mix for Insomniac Radio's 'Discovery Project', or his new year's mix for EDM Identity. You might even remember that time we interviewed MAYKO, or maybe you read another profile of his. Whether you'r...

Are You Feeling ‘Alright’? After Listening to The Bluebell Smile, You Will

19Feb

By Ambur MasenNo Comments

Features, Music

Are You Feeling ‘Alright’? After Listening to The Bluebell Smile, You Will

The Bluebell Smile, a four-piece rock band made up of life-long best friends from Venice Beach, CA, just released a dreamy new single: "I'm Alright." The song came out via Dark Spark Music (The Orchard) on February 16th. It is certainly a must-listen, especially if you're seeking some respite from the winter cold--or other external stressors you may be facing. The thing we like the most about The Bluebell Smile is that their music oozes nostalgia, while still being fresh and modern. This new song has this hazy, summery vibe to it that's reminiscent of feel-good rock classics of yesterday, but also has appeal beyond that. It's vivid, clever, and resonant--all markers of a great tune. See for yourself: check out the new song by The Bluebell Smile, "I'm Alright," via Spotify, below. ...