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Festival NewsMusic News

Playlunch extend Sex Ed Regional Tour + Announce LUNCH FEST

by the partae February 5, 2026
written by the partae

Playlunch extend Sex Ed Regional Tour due to overwhelming demand with additional QLD dates plus venue upgrade

Announce LUNCH FEST in association with Great Southern Nights

Follows triple j Hottest 100 debut with Keith (#4) and It’s Raining Men [Like A Version] (#73)

Regional Queensland, it’s time to pack your lunchboxes! Beloved Aussie bogan-funk outfit Playlunch today announce an extension to their now 30+ date Sex Ed regional tour, treating lunchers in Cairns, Townsville and Mackay to the band’s exuberant live show, plus venue upgrades for their Canberra, Wollongong, and Frankston shows due to overwhelming demand. Playlunch are also proud to announce LUNCH FEST – a minifest curated by Playlunch, DoubleU Artists, and Destroy All Lines in association with Great Southern Nights, set to take place at Sydney’s Liberty Hall on May 15.

LUNCH FEST is set to bring an incredible lineup of talent from across the country together for the school assembly of the century. Joining Playlunch will be multi-award winning innovator DEVAURA, electrifying Minang Noongar artist Ricky Neil Jr., and alt-pop rising star Shannen James, plus a local opener yet to be announced.

Earlier this week the band also announced their first tour across the ditch, playing to New Zealand fans in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland in May. Tickets are on sale now.

The announcements follow Playlunch’s triple j Hottest 100 double-debut, where the group landed the #4 spot for their now iconic track ‘Keith’, and #73 for their Like A Version cover of The Weather Girls’ ‘It’s Raining Men’. As voted by the nation, Playlunch have cemented themselves as one of Australia’s favourite new acts, and tickets are flying for their mammoth regional run and last Australian shows for the foreseeable future.

“Touring regionally has always been such a big priority for our band since the very start, and getting around to all the people who continue to support us,” says the band. “To be able to keep the Sex Ed train rolling is so special! These will be the last Australian shows for quite a while as we are looking to see what the rest of the world has in store for us; so we hope you are able to grab a ticket and make it a night to remember. Everyone is in for an absolute treat, with a show of nonstop dancing and singing across the whole lineups!”

Multiple dates remain for Victorian fans, with the tour continuing in Frankston this Saturday, plus St Kilda, South Morang, Traralgon, and Barwon Heads shows in the coming months. In March, Playlunch are scheduled to return to Tasmania for Good Gumnuts Festival, plus a headline show in Hobart, before playing sold out shows in Queensland’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast in April, and Cairns, Townsville and Mackay in May. New South Wales lunchers can catch Playlunch throughout April and May in Byron Bay, Albury, Gosford, Sydney, Newcastle, Avalon Beach, Wollongong, and Archies Creek, and Canberra will be treated to a one-off show in April. Tickets are on sale now via destroyalllines.com.

The regional run follows Playlunch’s completely sold out headline tour in September in celebration of their second album Sex Ed, where they played their biggest headline shows to date across the country.  Released in August via ABC Music, Sex Ed was immediately adored, debuting at #7 on the ARIA Australian Artist Charts and cracking the Top 5 for physical sales. The release was followed up by an instant classic triple j Like A Version, with the group covering The Weather Girls’ ‘It’s Raining Men’. Playlunch were nominated for two J Awards for the record, including Unearthed Artist of the Year and Australian Music Video of the Year for their viral single ‘Keith’. The iconic track also made its way into bbno$’s setlist at his most recent Melbourne show.

With an infectious catalogue of genre-blending, tongue-in-cheek tracks covering nostalgic and distinctly Aussie themes like school athletics days, rental inspections, grumpy neighbours, and the peculiar world of daytime TV on a sick day, Playlunch’s  live shows promise audiences a sense of euphoric escapism and unabashed joy. Pack your schoolbags and grab your Yu-Gi-Oh! cards for childhood nostalgia’s night of nights, coming to a city near you!

All Lines presents

PLAYLUNCH

THE SEX ED REGIONAL ALBUM TOUR

with special guests

Friday 5th December – Sooki Lounge – Belgrave, VIC SOLD OUT

Wednesday 31st December – Indian Ocean Hotel (NYE) – Scarborough, WA

Saturday 3rd January – Lorne Theatre – Lorne, VIC

Friday 9th January – The Whalers – Warrnambool, VIC

Saturday 10th January – Ocean Sounds Festival – Phillip Island, VIC

Friday 16th January – The Deck – Bendigo, VIC

Saturday 17th January – Volta – Ballarat, VIC SOLD OUT

Thursday 29th January – Prince of Wales – Bunbury, WA SOLD OUT

Friday 30th January – The River – Margaret River, WA SOLD OUT

Saturday 31st January – Albany Town Hall – Albany, WA SOLD OUT

Saturday 7th February – Pier Bandroom – Frankston, VIC SOLD OUT

Saturday 21st February – Commercial Hotel – South Morang, VIC SOLD OUT

Saturday 7th March – Republic Bar – Hobart, TAS SOLD OUT

Sunday 8th March – Good Gumnuts Festival – Burnie, TAS
Friday 13th March – The Deck – Traralgon, VIC

Saturday 14th March – Barwon Heads Club – Barwon Heads, VIC SOLD OUT

Saturday 28th – Archies Creek Hotel – Archies Creek, VIC SOLD OUT

Thursday 9th April – Solbar – Sunshine Coast, QLD SOLD OUT

Friday 10th April – The Northern – Byron Bay, NSW

Saturday 11th April – Miami Marketta – Gold Coast, QLD SOLD OUT

Sunday 12th April – Finnians Tavern – Port Macquarie, NSW

Thursday 20th April – UC Refectory – Canberra, ACT  *VENUE UPGRADE*

Friday 24th April – The Espy Gershwin Room – St Kilda, VIC SOLD OUT

Saturday 25th April – Beer Deluxe – Albury, NSW

Friday 1st May – Drifters Wharf – Gosford, NSW

Saturday 2nd May – UTS Underground – Sydney, NSW SOLD OUT

Friday 8th May – King Street Bandroom – Newcastle, NSW SOLD OUT

Saturday 9th May – Avalon Beach RSL Club – Avalon Beach, NSW SOLD OUT

Sunday 10th May – UOW – Wollongong, NSW *VENUE UPGRADE*

Friday 15th May – LUNCH FEST @ Liberty Hall – Sydney, NSW

Friday 22nd May – Tanks Arts Centre – Cairns, QLD

Saturday 23rd May – The Warehouse – Townsville, QLD

Sunday 24th May – The Met – Mackay, QLD

Thursday 28th May – Erricks – Dunedin, NZ

Friday 29th May – The Loons – Christchurch, NZ

Saturday 30th May – Meow – Wellington, NZ

Sunday 31st May – Whammy Bar – Auckland, NZ

For tickets & more information visit destroyalllines.com

About Playlunch

Forged in the depths of lockdown in a share house home-studio somewhere in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, Playlunch is the chaotic, genre-bending brainchild of producer and multi-instrumentalist Liam Bell. A wild blend of retro dance music, late ‘90s/early 2000s Aussie nostalgia and unapologetic suburban swagger, Playlunch aren’t just riding a wave—they’re creating their own: a loud, proud, and irresistibly fun genre they call Bogan Funk.

Since bursting onto the scene in April 2022, Playlunch have gone from a cult curiosity to one of Australia’s most exciting and talked-about new acts. Their 2023 debut album, Who’s Ready For A Good Time?, laid the foundations with viral TikTok moments, triple j High Rotation, and a sold-out 500-person shows across Australia – but Playlunch aren’t just a viral moment.

In an industry facing tough economic headwinds, Playlunch have defied the odds, powered by a fiercely loyal and ever-growing fanbase. Their 2024 showcase at BIGSOUND cemented their reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging acts, with eyes now firmly set on their next era.

2025 has seen Playlunch cement their place in the national spotlight with the release of their sophomore album Sex Ed — a bold, cheeky, and sonically irresistible evolution of their Bogan Funk manifesto. The standout single “Keith” became a breakout hit, racking up over 3 million streams across DSP’s, 10 million+ views across TikTok and Instagram Reels, and earning triple j Feature Track alongside high rotation and community radio saturation across the country. Thanks to its hilarious yet heartfelt tribute to every middle-aged Aussie bloke you’ve ever known, “Keith” struck a chord far beyond their core fanbase—spawning thousands of memes, fan videos, drag performances and even unofficial pub karaoke nights. The track reached #1 on the Spotify Viral 50 (AU) and helped propel Sex Ed into national charts and end-of-year “Best Of” lists.

Playlunch’s insane live show has made them a must-see act across the country. Across NYE on the Hill, Party in the Paddock, Hyper Festival (to name a few), and a headline tour of packed-out 1200 CAP venues, they’ve built a reputation for turning any crowd into a sweaty, laughing, dancing mess. Wherever they go, Playlunch take nostalgic school disco and amp it up to full-blown festival euphoria.

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February 5, 2026 0 comments
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Music News

Vinyl Floor – Balancing Act (Album Review)

by the partae February 4, 2026
written by the partae

Most albums invite you to follow along. Balancing Act does the opposite. Vinyl Floor seem less interested in guiding the listener than in establishing a space and letting it hold. The record doesn’t hinge on standout moments or dramatic turns — it relies on consistency, repetition, and a quiet confidence that never asks to be applauded.

What’s immediately noticeable is how little the album tries to impress. Songs arrive without urgency, often circling a single idea rather than developing it in obvious ways. Tracks like “All This and More” and “Back of My Hand” aren’t built around hooks or climaxes so much as feel and persistence. They sit comfortably in their own patterns, trusting that familiarity will do the work.

Production plays a major role in that effect. Guitars are restrained, sometimes almost understated, used to shape atmosphere rather than drive momentum. The rhythm section keeps things grounded and predictable, not out of habit, but intention. Even when tension appears — as it does on “Tell the World It Happened” — it’s controlled, never pushed to the point of release.

Lyrically, Balancing Act avoids clear declarations. The writing tends to hover around ideas of steadiness, uncertainty, and endurance without landing on firm conclusions. Songs like “Swan of Eileen Lake” and “Puppet Laureate” feel more observational than confessional, leaving space for interpretation rather than spelling out meaning. Vocals follow the same approach, warm and measured, rarely stepping forward unless absolutely necessary.

There’s an argument to be made that the album’s discipline comes at a cost. Its emotional range stays deliberately narrow, and listeners looking for sharp contrasts or immediate highlights may find the experience understated to the point of blending. But that restraint is also the album’s defining feature. Nothing feels accidental, rushed, or included for effect.

Balancing Act isn’t concerned with reinvention or relevance. It sounds like the product of long familiarity — two artists who understand their working relationship well enough to trust subtlety over statement. Vinyl Floor don’t push this record toward the listener. They let it exist on its own terms, and for those willing to meet it there, that quiet assurance carries its own weight.

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February 4, 2026 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

The Midnight @ The Forum Melbourne, 31 January 2026

by the partae February 4, 2026
written by the partae

Photography: Darren Chan

February 4, 2026 0 comments
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Why Is My Dog So Itchy? The Secret to a Healthy Coat Starts in the Bowl

by the partae February 3, 2026
written by the partae

Every dog owner knows the sound. It starts with a subtle chewing noise and quickly turns into the rhythmic thump-thump-thump of a back leg scratching furiously against the floor.

Itchy skin, dull coats, and “hot spots” are some of the most common complaints among Aussie pet parents. While it is easy to blame fleas or seasonal grasses, the root cause of your dog’s skin issues is often hiding in plain sight: their dinner bowl.

Creams and medicated shampoos might offer temporary relief, but if you want a long-term solution for a shiny coat and comfortable skin, you need to look at nutrition from the inside out.

The Gut-Skin Connection

You might not associate your dog’s stomach with their fur, but the two are intimately linked. The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it requires a massive amount of protein and nutrients to stay healthy. If a dog’s diet is full of cheap fillers, corn, or wheat, their body spends all its energy trying to digest difficult ingredients rather than nourishing the skin barrier.

When digestion is poor, inflammation rises. In dogs, inflammation often shows up as red, inflamed skin, constant scratching, and excessive shedding.

The Power of Omega Oils

If there is one “super ingredient” for a glossy coat, it is Omega fatty acids. Specifically, the balance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 is crucial.

Many generic dog foods are heavy on Omega-6 (often from vegetable oils), which can actually increase inflammation if not balanced out. High-quality dry foods are formulated with rich sources of Omega-3s, such as fish oil, salmon, or flaxseed. These essential fats help lock moisture into the skin, reduce itching, and give the coat that show-dog shine.

Identifying Food Sensitivities

Just like humans, dogs can develop intolerances to certain foods. Surprisingly, the most common allergens for dogs aren’t grains—they are often common proteins like beef or chicken.

If your dog is constantly itchy despite flea treatments, it might be time to look at a “novel protein” diet. This means feeding a protein source your dog hasn’t been overexposed to, such as turkey or kangaroo. These proteins are often leaner and easier for sensitive systems to digest.

What to Look for in a Skin-Friendly Diet

When shopping for food to help an itchy dog, ignore the pretty pictures on the bag and look at the ingredient label. You want to see:

  1. A high-quality named protein as the first ingredient (e.g., “Turkey Meal” or “Kangaroo”, not just “Meat”).
  2. Natural anti-inflammatories, such as turmeric or green-lipped mussel.
  3. No artificial colours or preservatives, which can trigger allergic reactions.
  4. Prebiotics and probiotics to support the gut microbiome.

The Difference Real Nutrition Makes

Switching to a nutrient-dense food doesn’t just stop the scratching; it changes your dog’s entire demeanour. They sleep better because they aren’t irritated, they smell better because their skin is healthy, and their coat becomes softer to the touch.

If you are tired of seeing your best mate uncomfortable, it is time to upgrade their nutrition. Pet Food Australia specializes in formulas specifically designed to tackle skin issues and gut health, using Australian ingredients that actually work.

A healthy dog is a happy dog—and a happy dog doesn’t spend their whole day scratching.

February 3, 2026 0 comments
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Music News

Hooper Finds Meaning in the Everyday on ‘My Favourite Mug’

by the partae February 3, 2026
written by the partae

On his new single “My Favourite Mug,” Hooper turns his attention to something modest, familiar, and deeply human: the quiet comfort of everyday ritual. The track serves as a gentle entry point into his debut full-length album Super Duper, set for release this Spring, and introduces a songwriter whose relationship with music has been shaped from the very beginning.

Raised on a small island off Canada’s west coast, Shane Hooper grew up steeped in song. His father played in the platinum-selling band The Grapes of Wrath, while his mother was one half of beloved indie-folk duo Lava Hay. Music wasn’t just present—it was foundational. That early immersion led Hooper to the CBC Searchlight Finals while still in high school and instilled an intuitive, lifelong approach to songwriting.

“My Favourite Mug,” which Hooper describes as “an anthem for homebodies,” distills that background into something deceptively simple. On the surface, it’s a love song to an inanimate object. Beneath that, it’s a meditation on the small, grounding habits that provide steadiness amid change. The song’s charm lies in its restraint, finding emotional weight not in grand gestures but in familiarity and repetition.

Musically, the track nods to the melodic storytelling of 1960s singer-songwriters, filtered through a rough-edged ’90s sensibility. Recorded mostly live off the floor at Montreal’s Mixart Studios—a space that feels frozen in the ’60s and ’70s—the song captures the loose, unpolished chemistry of a band playing together in real time.

Now based in Montreal after stints in British Columbia and Toronto, Hooper has become embedded in the city’s indie scene, collaborating with members of Fleece, the Nora Kelly Band, and Pastel Blank. “My Favourite Mug” carries what Hooper calls “a nostalgia for a past you never lived,” while pointing forward to what’s next: an artist settling into his voice, balancing grit with tenderness, and creating music that feels lived-in, welcoming, and unmistakably like home.

 

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February 3, 2026 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

Ocean Alley Photos @ The Domain – 31/01/26

by the partae February 2, 2026
written by the partae

Photography: Jake Harm Nam

February 2, 2026 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

Monsieur Mellow – ‘Paris Strut’ (Single + Video Out Now)

by the partae January 29, 2026
written by the partae

Australian songwriter and producer Callum MacDonald, best known as a core member of R&B/soul project daste., steps into a new creative chapter this week with the launch of his solo project Monsieur Mellow. While daste. continue work on new material slated for 2026, MacDonald has taken the opportunity to explore a sound that’s been quietly forming for years.

The first taste of Monsieur Mellow arrives via ‘Paris Strut’; a groove-led, jazz-house debut that introduces the sonic world of MacDonald’s forthcoming ep, which is already completed and waiting in the wings. Drawing from funk, disco, reggae, and Caribbean influences, the track is rich in warmth and movement, built to feel lived-in, loose, and instinctive.

Written in the in the wake of touring UK/EU with daste., ‘Paris Strut’ emerged from a period of renewed inspiration on the road. “After returning home from touring Europe with my band daste., the time on the road left me deeply inspired by Caribbean, reggae, disco, and funk. For the first time I felt a clear sense of direction for music that existed outside of the band.” MacDonald explains.

At the heart of the track is a raw, emotive acappella sample from Parbleu’s ‘Pas de Saints Au Paradis’, which MacDonald chops and weaves through understated drums, soft pads, guitar, and bass, allowing each element to bounce off the next and create the feeling of a real band playing together in a room. “This project is about following instinct, world influences, and creating groove-setting music that feels raw and rough around the edges,” he says.

The title ‘Paris Strut’ captures the track’s essence perfectly: a confident, effortless swagger inspired by wandering the streets of Paris, spring in step. It’s that same feeling that sparked the sonic identity of Monsieur Mellow, an outlet for movement, mood, and musical freedom.

With ‘Paris Strut’, Callum MacDonald sets the tone for a solo project driven by feel over perfection, groove over gloss, and instinct over expectation, marking an exciting new direction for one of Australia’s most versatile songwriters/producers.

INSTAGRAM

Stream:

https://bfan.link/paris-strut

Socials:
https://linktr.ee/monsieurmellow 

Credits:

Written by Callum MacDonald & Parbleu

Produced by Callum MacDonald

Mixed by Callum MacDonald

Mastered by Paul Blakey

Artwork by Callum MacDonald

Visuals by Callum MacDonald & Lauren Whitehill

Photos by Lauren Whitehill

January 29, 2026 0 comments
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Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: WILL K on Engineered Chaos, Club Momentum, and Letting Instinct Lead the Drop

by the partae January 28, 2026
written by the partae

Loose Pt. 3 feels engineered for peak-time chaos rather than careful planning — when you started building the track at 140 BPM, did you sense straight away that this one was going to live in the club rather than anywhere else?

Well firstly, thank you, that is exactly what I was going for with this one! It was one of those songs I knew would be perfect for the club as the original tempo was 140bpm. The moment I added drums to the vocal I knew exactly where to take this song. At the same time, it’s important to me that it’s not just a club tool. I always try to make it feel like a proper song as well, something that could work beyond a moment in my set. That’s why I focused a lot on the arrangement, finding the balance between energy and musicality so it could live in a few different worlds at the same time.

You’ve talked about letting the vocals lead the direction of the record — what was it about JAY1 and Ms Banks’ energy that unlocked the sound so quickly for you?

I instantly felt inspired from the flow from both JAY1 and Ms Banks. There’s so much energy and attitude in the vocals that made it really easy for me to build a drop and keep that same energy. JAY1’s tone naturally brought that darker vibe which really shaped the drops, and the way Ms Banks leads into the drop was a perfect way to introduce the listener and keep them waiting for that moment.

There’s a real sense of weight in the bass but bounce in the percussion — how intentional is that balance when you’re designing a track meant to hit big rooms?

The balance is really important for this record… I wanted the weight to come from the rhythm of the bass hitting on the 1’s/kicks, this gave me a lot of room to add the percussion and toms flowing in-between the kicks and with some slight swing on those parts I think it brings a lot of energy and translates really nicely in the club.

You referenced drawing inspiration from Fred again.. and Skrillex live sets — what did those performances teach you about momentum and restraint in modern club music?

Skrillex and Fred again.. play a huge role for me when making club music, and honestly just music in general. Their taste is immaculate from their sound selection and especially how they arrange their songs. I spend a lot of time listening closely to their sets and paying attention to the structure, from the breakdowns to the buildups and drops. They’re really intentional in the sense that they don’t give too much away, letting their songs breathe early on so when the drop comes then you’re ready for it. That sense of momentum and restraint is something I try to bring to my own records. I also think it’s important to reference artists you genuinely love, because it gives you a perspective on what’s actually working.

You’ve been releasing at a relentless pace — how do you avoid repeating yourself while still keeping a signature sound people recognise instantly?

Everyday I am always inspired by something new, and it can come from anywhere, any genre, any era, even outside of club music. I listen to a wide range of music and that constant input keeps things fresh and stops me from feeling boxed into making the same type of song. Usually when I start to overthink what I’m doing I can get lost and feel like it’s forced, so keeping the process organic and honest is really important to me, so just working on things that excite me is a lot more sustainable for my creativity. While doing that I think your signature sound starts to evolve, when you’re not forcing anything and doing things naturally people will start to recognise your sound.

Having started producing so young, do you still feel that same curiosity when you open a session, or has discipline overtaken experimentation?

I still feel that same curiosity every time I open a session, and that comes from how I approach each song mentally. Being in the right headspace is what leads me to creating something real and exciting. I listen to my instincts and really trust my own taste, that’s what keeps me motivated every day. I feel like it’s very easy to get caught up with what’s hot, what’s new and trending, and when I focus too much on that personally it leads me to getting burnt out creatively and you could hear it in the music that I would make.

You’ve played everything from Wildlands to Tomorrowland — how does testing tracks live feed back into the way you finish records in the studio?

Testing records live is a huge part of my process. It gives me instant feedback not just in terms of how people react, but how it sounds on a big system. I make all of my music in the box (on my laptop speakers most of the time) so when I can hear it on a big system I’ll know if anything needs to change in the mixdown. It’s great for arrangement purposes too and to know if it mixes well with other songs, or if any sections are lacking energy and need to be reworked.

Looking ahead to 2026, do you see your next chapter being about pushing tempo and intensity even further, or pulling things back and surprising people in a different way?

Looking ahead to 2026 I think the next chapter is really about showing people who I am as an artist and proving that I don’t feel limited creatively. I don’t want to be boxed into one lane or one sound, I want to surprise people but in a way that still feels true to me. Personally for me it’s not about pushing tempo or intensity just for the sake of it. It’s about following what excites me in the moment and trusting my taste. That could be releasing some club focused music, or songs that I would love to listen to in the day, but the goal is always the same. To keep the art as pure as possible, and make people feel a certain way while doing that.

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | SOUNDCLOUD | FACEBOOK

January 28, 2026 0 comments
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Top Party Entertainment Ideas That Go Beyond Music and Food

by the partae January 28, 2026
written by the partae

Great parties are no longer defined solely by good music and food. Today, memorable events focus on interactive entertainment that actively involves guests, sparks conversation, and creates shared experiences. Interactive elements transform guests from passive attendees into participants, helping people connect, laugh, and engage with one another naturally. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, corporate event, private celebration, or themed gathering, interactive entertainment keeps energy levels high and ensures your party stands out long after it’s over.

1. Immersive Themed Experience

An immersive themed party turns your event into a fully realized environment rather than just a decorated space. Instead of adding a few themed props, everything – from décor and lighting to guest interaction – is aligned around a central concept. Popular themes include Great Gatsby, Masquerade, Hollywood Glam, Tropical Escape, or Retro Decades.

What makes this entertainment powerful is guest participation. When people dress according to the theme and interact with the setting, they naturally become part of the entertainment themselves. The theme encourages conversation, photo moments, and role-playing without forcing structured activities. Guests feel like they’ve stepped into another world, which instantly makes the event more memorable.

2. Murder Mystery Party

A murder mystery party is a highly interactive form of entertainment where guests become characters in a fictional storyline. Each person receives a role with a background, motivations, and secrets. As the event unfolds, clues are revealed, accusations are made, and guests collaborate-or deceive one another-to solve the mystery.

This format works exceptionally well for adult gatherings, milestone birthdays, and corporate socials because it encourages communication among guests who might not normally interact. It also keeps people engaged for the entire duration of the event, as the story progresses in stages. The mix of suspense, humor, and social interaction makes it both entertaining and immersive.

3. Pop-Up Escape Room or Puzzle Challenge

A pop-up escape room or puzzle challenge brings excitement and teamwork into a party setting. Instead of locking guests into a single room, you can create multiple puzzle stations with riddles, coded locks, hidden clues, and logic challenges.

Guests can form teams and rotate through the challenges, competing against the clock or against one another. This type of entertainment is especially effective for corporate events and energetic social groups because it promotes collaboration and friendly competition. Solving puzzles together creates a sense of achievement, which guests tend to remember long after the party ends.

4. Creative Workshop or Art Experience

Creative workshops add a relaxed but engaging layer of entertainment to a party. Activities such as painting, candle making, pottery painting, tote bag design, or simple craft projects allow guests to express themselves creatively.

This form of entertainment is appealing because it doesn’t require constant attention or high energy. Guests can participate at their own pace, making it suitable for mixed-age groups or guests with different social comfort levels. The added bonus is that everyone leaves with something they made themselves, turning the entertainment into a meaningful keepsake from the event.

5. Live Interactive Performers

Live interactive performers elevate a party by creating personal, up-close entertainment experiences. Instead of performing on a stage, these entertainers move through the crowd, engaging small groups at a time. This might include close-up magicians, mentalists, illusionists, or even improvisational actors.

Because the interaction is personal, the entertainment feels spontaneous and exclusive. Guests don’t have to stop socializing to enjoy the performance-it happens naturally as part of the party flow. These moments often spark amazement and conversation, keeping energy levels high without overwhelming the event.

6. Comedy or Improv Experience

Comedy is a powerful social connector, and bringing it into a party setting can dramatically enhance the atmosphere. Stand-up comedians or improv groups can deliver short sets that keep the mood light and entertaining.

Improv performances are particularly effective because they rely on audience participation and spontaneous humor. By referencing guests, shared experiences, or event themes, the comedy feels personal and relevant. Laughter breaks down social barriers, helping guests feel more comfortable and connected to one another throughout the event.

7. Advanced Photo and Video Experiences

Modern photo and video entertainment goes far beyond traditional photo booths. Interactive setups that capture slow-motion videos, 360-degree footage, or digitally enhanced images give guests something fun to do during the party and something to share afterward.

These experiences act as both entertainment and memory-making tools. Guests naturally gather around them, encouraging interaction and group participation. Because the content is digital, it extends the life of the event well beyond the party itself through social sharing and personal keepsakes.

8. Interactive Game Show Experience

Transforming a party into a live game show adds structure, excitement, and friendly competition. Trivia games, quiz battles, or challenge-based competitions can be hosted using screens, microphones, or mobile-based systems.

Guests can compete individually or in teams, which makes this idea ideal for larger groups and corporate events. Customizing questions around the guests, the company, or the occasion adds a personal touch. Game-show-style entertainment keeps attention high while still allowing plenty of room for fun and laughter. Visit this site to hire your choice of interactive games in UK

9. Fortune Tellers or Mystical Experiences

Mystical entertainment introduces an element of curiosity and intrigue. Fortune tellers, tarot readers, palm readers, or astrology consultants provide one-on-one interactions that feel intimate and unexpected.

Even guests who don’t fully believe in it often enjoy the experience as a novelty or conversation starter. This type of entertainment works best in quieter areas of the venue, offering a calm contrast to louder, high-energy activities. It adds a sense of mystery and elegance, especially to evening events.

10. Surprise Moment or Hidden Performance

A well-planned surprise can become the highlight of an entire party. This could involve an unannounced performance, a flash mob, a dramatic reveal, or an entertainer disguised as a guest who suddenly takes center stage.

The effectiveness of this idea lies in timing and secrecy. Because guests don’t expect it, the emotional impact is stronger-excitement, laughter, and amazement all happen at once. Even a short surprise performance can leave a lasting impression and become the most talked-about moment of the event.

Final Thoughts

The most successful party entertainment goes beyond passive observation. By focusing on interaction, creativity, storytelling, and surprise, you transform your event into an experience rather than just a gathering. These 10 ideas are designed to engage guests mentally, socially, and emotionally-ensuring your party stands out long after the music stops and the food is gone.

January 28, 2026 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

HELLBOUND HEAVY METAL CRUISE RETURNS JANUARY 2027

by the partae January 27, 2026
written by the partae

HELLBOUND HEAVY METAL CRUISE RETURNS JANUARY 2027

Due to set sail 17-21 January, 2027

Choose Your Cruise is pleased to announce Hellbound will return in January 2027, following the immediate sell out of its maiden voyage in 2026. The next chapter of Australia’s dedicated heavy metal cruise experience will sail 17-21 January 2027 aboard Carnival Splendor, delivering four nights of heavy metal mayhem.

Hellbound brings together world-class artists, passionate fans and an immersive onboard environment that celebrates heavy music culture at sea. More than a festival on a ship, Hellbound is a floating metal community.

Hellbound II is a direct response to demand for the first cruise, announced for October 2026, which sold out in less than ten minutes, the fastest sell out in Choose Your Cruise’s fifteen year history.

Highlights for Hellbound 2027 include a huge metal lineup (to be revealed 2 February), multiple stages, immersive events, themed nights and curated activities built for metal fans. Cruisers can also recover from the chaos onboard  with a port call in Tangalooma, offering an island escape with experiences such as dolphin feeding, sand tobogganing and snorkelling shipwrecks.

Lineup Announce – Monday 2nd February (register interest)
Pre Sale Live – Wednesday 4th February (sign up for presale access)
General Sale Live – Thursday 5th February

About Choose Your Cruise

Choose Your Cruise is Australia’s leading music cruise operator, known for delivering high-quality, genre-specific cruise experiences with loyal repeat audiences. Since their inception in 2009 and first cruise in 2010, they have curated over 40 themed cruises in Australia and Europe, welcoming over 100,000 guests onboard over the years.

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January 27, 2026 0 comments
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The Ultimate Guide to Virtual Phone Numbers: How to Stay Verified, Secure, and Connected in 2025

by the partae January 27, 2026
written by the partae

Why do so many people struggle to verify accounts today?? Why are businesses switching to virtual numbers at record speed? And how can you protect your privacy while still accessing every platform you need?

If these questions sound familiar, you are exactly the person this guide was written for.

The digital world changed drastically over the last few years. Almost every platform — from Google to Telegram, Facebook, WhatsApp, PayPal, and countless marketplaces — now requires phone verification before giving full access. Meanwhile, privacy concerns rise, people travel more, remote teams expand, and SIM cards stay tied to strict local regulations.

Virtual phone numbers became the universal solution to this problem. They offer flexibility, privacy, global access, and independence from traditional telecom limitations. Whether you want to verify accounts, protect your identity, build a business communication system, or operate across multiple countries, virtual numbers allow you to do it effortlessly.

What Are Virtual Phone Numbers and Why They Matter

A virtual phone number is a cloud-hosted number that works like a normal mobile number but does not rely on a physical SIM card. You can receive SMS codes, calls, and verifications through an online interface or mobile app. This makes the setup flexible and fast, while keeping your privacy intact.

The best part is that you can get numbers from different countries instantly. You do not need to travel, purchase local SIM cards, or go through complicated operator paperwork. Everything happens online, which is why virtual numbers became essential for both personal and professional use.

If you want a reliable provider, consider exploring Telnum, which offers a wide range of global virtual number options with instant activation.

Disposable Numbers vs Permanent Numbers

Although virtual phone numbers share the same core idea, they come in two main types: disposable and permanent. Understanding the difference helps avoid mistakes and choose the right format for your needs.

Disposable virtual numbers are ideal for one-time tasks. If you only need an OTP message to register an account or quickly test a service, disposable numbers are the most cost-effective and privacy-friendly choice.

People often use disposable numbers to create additional or temporary accounts, avoid sharing their personal number on unfamiliar platforms, or test sign-up flows on apps. They work well for social media verification, quick onboarding, and experiments.

Permanent virtual numbers, on the other hand, act like a stable, long-term digital phone line. You can use them for business operations, ongoing customer communication, advertising accounts, marketplace seller accounts, banking apps, or any service that requires recurring login and 2FA.

Permanent numbers typically support both SMS and voice, making them flexible for diverse use cases. You keep them for months or years, and they become part of your long-term digital identity.

If you need durable verification for accounts you plan to keep, explore Permanent Virtual Numbers.

Why Virtual Numbers Became Essential in 2025

The rise of virtual numbers is not accidental. Several global shifts accelerated their adoption.

First, verification rules became more strict. Platforms worldwide introduced new layers of security to fight bots, fraud, and multi-account abuse. Many now require region-specific numbers, meaning a US platform might accept only US numbers, while a Middle Eastern platform expects a local line. Virtual phone numbers let you bypass these limitations easily and legally.

Second, remote work exploded. Teams now collaborate across continents, and companies need communication tools that match this global structure. Virtual numbers make international presence possible without opening physical offices or signing contracts with foreign telecom operators.

Third, people became more conscious about digital privacy. Sharing your personal phone number everywhere increases exposure to spam, fraud, data leaks, and unwanted contact. Virtual numbers help build boundaries between your personal and online life.

Finally, e-commerce, digital banking, AI-driven platforms, and fintech services created more situations where identity verification is necessary. Instead of juggling multiple SIM cards, users now rely on flexible online numbers.

Most Common Use Cases for Virtual Phone Numbers

Virtual numbers shine in many situations because they fit both simple and complex tasks. Let’s break down the most popular ones.

1. Personal Privacy and Online SafetyUsing your personal number on dating apps, marketplaces, or forums often leads to spam or unwanted messages. Virtual numbers let you register safely, test platforms without risk, and keep communication separate from your real identity.

2. Online Account Verification and 2FAThis is the most common reason people buy virtual numbers. Almost every modern platform requires a phone number. Virtual SMS numbers make the process quick, clean, and predictable.

3. Business Communication and Global PresenceCompanies use virtual numbers to support customers across different regions, launch marketing campaigns in new countries, run multi-regional ad accounts, and create sales funnels without local offices.

4. Freelancers, Marketers, and DevelopersTesting onboarding flows, isolating projects, managing multiple accounts, or creating localized landing pages becomes much easier with virtual numbers. They reduce friction and save time for experimentation.

5. Crypto Users and Privacy-Focused ProfessionalsBecause virtual numbers are flexible and not tied to a physical SIM, they work well for crypto users who prefer privacy. They allow registration on exchanges, wallets, and fintech apps while keeping personal details private.

Choosing the Right Country for Verification

Different countries behave differently during verification. Some platforms prefer specific regions, while others restrict certain routes. Choosing the right country is crucial for successful onboarding.

United States numbers work well for many Western services, especially when you need a strong identity footprint for advertising or marketplace accounts.

Turkey numbers often perform well for social platforms and regional apps. They are also affordable and widely accepted.

European countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and Poland offer reliable verification routes, especially for e-commerce, fintech, and SaaS tools.

Asian countries like Thailand and China are often required for region-locked apps. Some services in those markets accept only local numbers, making virtual numbers the only accessible alternative.

Middle Eastern platforms frequently require a Saudi Arabia number because many local apps verify users strictly through domestic routes.

Understanding these patterns helps you pick the right country for each verification challenge.

January 27, 2026 0 comments
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Music Interviews

Celina Silva Sits With the Quiet: Inside Inheritance Songs

by the partae January 26, 2026
written by the partae

Celina Silva is the kind of songwriter who listens as much as she sings. Her debut album Inheritance Songs (out February 20) unfolds with patience and emotional clarity, sitting with memory, identity, and love rather than rushing toward resolution. The record emerged during a period shaped by grief and renewal, movement and stillness—an in-between space that Silva allows to remain open. She describes Inheritance Songs as “a eulogy, a family portrait… a spell, a shape, an image and a story,” and the album carries that layered sensibility throughout.

The album’s first offering, “Natural Blonde,” serves as a quietly powerful introduction. Intimate and clear-eyed, the single feels less like a declaration than an invitation, gently tracing questions of identity and inheritance without insisting on answers. Silva’s silvery vocal delivery is understated but deeply affecting, floating through an arrangement that leaves room for breath and reflection. In its restraint, “Natural Blonde” establishes the emotional language of the record—one rooted in observation, tenderness, and trust in what can be felt rather than explained.

Written and produced in close collaboration with Emily Millard, Inheritance Songs weaves voice and arrangement with careful attention. The songs are spacious without feeling sparse, holding room for loss while quietly reaching toward healing. Silva refers to them as “records of self/identity, family, culture, and love,” arriving like inheritances themselves—moments passed down, briefly held, and somehow retained in the body.

At the heart of Silva’s work is a deep commitment to language and community. She holds a BA in Poetry from the University of Victoria, a foundation that shapes her lyrical precision and devotion to the poetic line. Her love of harmony and choral music grew through years singing with Corazón Vocal Ensemble, and she continues to develop her practice through mentorships, workshops, and open mics, studying with artists including Emily Millard, Aspen Switzer, Jessica Benini, Joline Baylis, and Emily Millard. Alongside her life as a musician, Silva works as a clinical counsellor—a dual practice that resonates throughout Inheritance Songs in the way her writing listens closely, bears witness, and gently names what is often left unsaid.

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January 26, 2026 0 comments
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Music News

Nameless Friends Kick Off 2026 With Raucous New Single ‘I’m Afraid Of Failure’

by the partae January 26, 2026
written by the partae

Toronto-based rock collective Nameless Friends are tearing into 2026 with their latest single, “I’m Afraid Of Failure”, now out everywhere. The track follows their explosive 2025 double single comeback—“Mary” and *“There’s a Rapist in the White House”—*and previews their highly anticipated sophomore album, The Quiet Part, Loudly, arriving April 15th. With its raucous energy, glitter-soaked chaos, and fearless heart, the song proves once again why Nameless Friends are one of Canada’s most electrifying and genre-defying bands.

Described by the band as “Great Big Sea on speed,” “I’m Afraid Of Failure” is a Celtic punk-fueled celebration of perseverance. It rips through self-doubt with the ferocity of Dropkick Murphys and the irreverent, jump-in-the-air joy of ’90s pop-punk and ska. Lead vocalist and producer Number One explains, “It’s about that feeling when you give enough of a shit that it actually hurts—but you do it anyway. We wanted to capture the raucous, bloody energy of the crowds we’ve played for in Prince Edward Island and Scotland—places where people know how to celebrate and mourn in the same breath.” The result is pure musical adrenaline: a Maritime kitchen party colliding head-on with a punk basement show, all glitter, grit, and unrelenting heart.

Building on the bold foundation of their 2023 debut Blasphemy, The Quiet Part, Loudly promises to take the band even further. Produced with the acclaimed engineer Nyles Spencer (The Tragically Hip, Broken Social Scene, Alvvays), the album draws on cross-Canada touring experiences and delivers a fearless exploration of identity, injustice, and resilience. As Number One puts it, “This album is a love letter with constructive criticism to our home country… choosing to be who you are anyway, even in the middle of a culture war or real, literal violence.”

Hailing from London, Ontario, Nameless Friends feature Number One on vocals and production, Number Three on guitar, Number Five on bass, and Number Seven on drums, with touring keyboardist Number Six rounding out the live lineup. On stage, they’re unforgettable—glitter-soaked, bleach-stained, and radiating a rare mix of righteous anger and pure joy. After selling out iconic venues like Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern, taking bold public stances on issues like transgender rights and climate justice, and touring across Canada, the UK, and Ireland, Nameless Friends remain a band that combines fearless politics with dangerously fun music.

With “I’m Afraid Of Failure”, they’ve crafted a song that doesn’t just speak to fear—it transforms it. It’s a defiant, joyous anthem for anyone who dares to care, to try, and to keep going, no matter what.

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January 26, 2026 0 comments
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Music News

Julian Hunt Returns With Dreamy New Single ‘Marine Drive’

by the partae January 26, 2026
written by the partae

Toronto-born singer-songwriter Julian Hunt is back with his latest single, “Marine Drive”, a dreamy, nostalgic track that explores the delicate tension between memory and moving forward. Written during a move to Vancouver, the song draws on vivid personal snapshots—“my red eye flight,” “high like kites,” and “time for our biggest mistakes”—painting a picture of moments that linger long after they’ve passed. Julian says the track’s looping structure mirrors the way certain memories resurface again and again, with Vancouver’s Marine Drive serving as a touchstone for reflection and possibility.

Musically, “Marine Drive” blends lush dream-pop textures with 80s-inspired synths, airy keyboards, and sparkling electric guitars, all anchored by gentle programmed drums. Julian’s layered vocal stacks add warmth and intimacy, highlighting his self-taught piano skills and flair for storytelling. Following the buzz of his debut single “Sharks In The Pool”, featured in Zillions Magazine and on Radio One Vancouver, “Marine Drive” solidifies Hunt’s reputation as a bold, reflective voice in contemporary pop—melding cinematic nostalgia with modern production in a way that feels both personal and universal.

 

January 26, 2026 0 comments
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Music News

Awolk Embraces Vulnerability and Forward Motion on Intimate New EP Wild Rose

by the partae January 26, 2026
written by the partae

Nova Scotia-born Awolk, the project helmed by singer-songwriter Jesse Thomas, is back with Wild Rose, a six-track EP that marks a turning point in both sound and storytelling. Crafted with Toronto-based producer and engineer Eli Browning, the record captures a stripped-back, studio-band energy that feels natural and unforced — intimate, yet expansive. It nods to the atmospheric folk and indie roots that first defined Awolk while signaling a readiness to explore new emotional terrain. As Jesse puts it, the EP runs “from the first track to the last” with a sound that complements what came before while boldly “looking to the future.”

From the opening notes of the title track, listeners are drawn into a perspective often overlooked in adventure-driven music: the person waiting for a loved one to return. “Wild Rose” isn’t about chasing thrills; it’s about longing, patience, and the quiet power of anticipation. This theme continues on standout track “Someone,” which Jesse describes as an exploration of “life’s ultimate risk”: the courage to love and be loved even when the outcome is uncertain. Both tracks showcase a careful attention to detail — delicate guitar lines, layered harmonies, and lyrical storytelling that lingers long after the music ends.

The heart of Wild Rose, however, lies in its deeply personal moments. “Into the Void” stands out as the EP’s most raw and intimate track, born from Jesse’s experience navigating his mother’s sudden, life-altering illness in 2021. With lines like, “See the road, there it goes. Where it runs, you got no place to lay your head,” and “Everything a family falls back on, every oath and every memory,” the song captures the weight of uncertainty and the strength found in shared familial bonds. It’s a reminder that Awolk’s music is never abstract — it’s rooted in lived experience, processed through melody and memory.

Since the project’s 2018 self-titled debut, Jesse Thomas has seen Awolk grow into a beloved fixture of the Canadian indie scene, amassing millions of streams, touring extensively across the country, and developing a reputation for performances that resonate deeply with audiences. Wild Rose is both a reflection and a declaration: a set of songs that matter to him, a bridge between past and future, and a glimpse of what’s to come in 2026. With its intimate storytelling, emotive arrangements, and quiet power, Wild Rose reaffirms Awolk’s place as a project unafraid to explore life’s complexities while still offering moments of beauty and hope.

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January 26, 2026 0 comments
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