Others

Alexandria Maillot has released their mesmerizing new single, “Cherry Pit,” offering listeners another captivating preview of their forthcoming album, Cryptomnesia. The Vancouver based singer songwriter and producer continues to carve out a singular space in Canada’s independent music landscape with a sound that is as emotionally rich as it is sonically adventurous. Raised on Vancouver Island, Maillot has become known for crafting lush, immersive music they describe as “swoon rock,” seamlessly weaving together elements of indietronica, dream pop, psychedelia, alternative pop, and subtle R&B influences. The result is a cinematic listening experience that feels intimate, haunting, and deeply transportive.

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Edmonton-based folk singer-songwriter Tyra Whitson returns with her new single “Roommates 4 Lyfe,” a track that continues her signature blend of folk-pop warmth and deeply felt emotional honesty. Over the years, Whitson has built a reputation for writing music that feels both intimately personal and broadly relatable, drawing from lived experience to explore themes of healing, relationships, trauma, and personal growth. Her songwriting style is rooted in reflection, but it never feels confined to autobiography alone. Instead, she creates songs that open a shared emotional space, where listeners are invited to recognize pieces of their own lives within her storytelling.

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“Prom King” is a song about the ephemeral nature of beauty. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the track?

“Prom King” is a song about the ephemeral nature of beauty. It’s about a man clinging to his youth—a midlife crisis, someone who refuses to grow up. It was 100% inspired by a variety of real people I know. I think so much of media focuses on women whose value is tied to their looks, but in reality I see it in men all the time too. Young, beautiful men with bad personalities who I imagine will struggle with age. I also worked in nightlife and spent years working alongside, for, and partying with older men who very much lived the lifestyle I sing about in this song. It wasn’t based on one single person I’ve met.

What were some of the key sonic ideas you wanted to explore with “Prom King”?

I’ll start with what’s probably the biggest sonic through-line in my work so far: using my voice as a background instrument. I think there’s something incredibly cinematic about the way Dov and I chopped up and reverbed my voice into the production on this track. I also love the moment in the middle of the song where we switch the drum beat entirely to a very classic 1960s-style rock beat. It’s probably my favorite section of the song, and a great sonic cue for the nostalgic universe I’m trying to transport the listener into. It’s also a pretty obvious nod to Lana’s unreleased discography, which has been a huge influence on me. The other moment I love is the ending. I didn’t want the track to end abruptly; I wanted it to slowly fade away instead. That choice felt very fitting for a song centered around the fleeting nature of youth and beauty. I liked the idea that those final lines—“it tastes so bittersweet, like a citrus daiquiri, a haunting memory, you were that guy”—keep repeating infinitely even after the song has ended.

How did you work with Mark and the creative team to develop the visual concept for the music video?

I think what’s been great about working with Mark so far is that he’s always followed my lead when it comes to storyboarding and concepts for our videos. I’m very involved in developing the ideas from the beginning. Mark and Lei have consistently taken my ideas and brought them to life while adding to them in ways that make the final product even stronger. For this video in particular, I’d actually credit Allison Hagendorf, who suggested thinking in the direction of Carrie or the cover art for Live Through This by Hole. From there, I had the idea to gender-bend the concept and focus on the boy wearing the crown instead. I also wanted to find a scene partner who could be a central character throughout the video. I created a Pinterest board that was heavily inspired by Evanescence. When I was writing the song, and later producing it alongside Dov Igel, I kept seeing the color blue in my mind’s eye. That visual ended up informing a lot of the aesthetic direction of the video.

Some viewers have compared parts of the video to films like True Romance. Were there any cinematic influences behind the visuals?

The video wasn’t really inspired by True Romance. More than anything, we were looking for a visual cue that would immediately signal to the audience that the video is a period piece set in the 1990s. Since the song is about an older man, but Jake Manley is obviously not that, I imagined the video as a flashback to the height of his youth—hence the lyric, “so we can party like you did back in ’95.” Rewatching it now, it actually feels much closer to shows like The O.C. or Gossip Girl, just filtered through a 90s lens. It reminds me of the young adult shows I grew up watching on The CW.

Do you see the song as a critique of this character, or is there a deeper sense of empathy there as well?

I see it as more of an empathetic portrayal of someone stuck in that cycle. The song definitely walks a very thin line between seduction and critique. On one hand, I’m picking this man apart, calling out his behavior, and even emasculating him. On the other, the narrator is subtly trying to win his approval. There’s this underlying tension of, “you’re a loser, but I still want your validation.” That contradiction is really at the heart of the song. No matter how much the narrator critiques him, it always circles back to her own desire for wholeness through intimacy with men—through being chosen by them. That’s a theme that runs throughout this EP and will continue into its second volume as well.

How does “Prom King” connect to the broader themes explored across the project?

There is absolutely a narrative connection between the songs on this project, and it’s something that has continued to take shape more clearly with every song I write. At its core, I’m talking about compulsory heterosexuality and women’s desire for male validation. Whether you’re a queer or straight woman, I think many of us struggle to identify our authentic desires because we’re conditioned from such a young age to prioritize male approval. This project is really about the male gaze. I don’t think anyone ever fully escapes that conditioning, but I’ve reached a point where I’m much more aware of it than I used to be. A lot of these songs are me trying to unpack those patterns in real time. Hopefully, by being honest about my own experiences, other women will see some of themselves in this music too. It’s not about hating on men. It’s about decentering them. Ironically, I have to center them first before I can properly move on to other topics.

The video moves through several striking locations. What drew you to those settings?

I think these three locations do a great job of conveying the conquest and journey that is post-prom sex, and water has always been such a powerful symbol of youth, rebirth, and renewal.

Where does “Prom King” fit within the larger universe you’re building as an artist?

“Prom King” sits within the New York City nightlife corner of my universe. The club inspires me more than any other space in my day-to-day life, and this song is about the older men I’ve met at afterparties. It’s also an early indicator of the lyrical direction I’m moving in, which is a much more medieval and fantastical world. My songs exist within their own twisted, modern fairytale, and this track is one of the first glimpses of that world beginning to emerge.

You’ve cited artists like Lana Del Rey and MARINA as influences. How do you balance those inspirations with developing your own identity?

At this point, my Lana-isms and MARINA-isms are just a natural part of my songwriting. I can’t really help it. I listen to a lot of Lana Del Rey and MARINA, and my voice is probably more of an amalgamation of those two artists than anyone else. I think the production side is where I can be more intentional about carving out my own identity. That’s where I focus on creating a sound that feels distinct from my influences. Incorporating autotune and more hyperpop-inspired production is one way I differentiate myself sonically from those earlier artists and ground my music in the contemporary underground scene that’s very much alive in New York right now.

What are you learning about yourself as an artist at this stage of your career?

I’m struggling with that a little at the moment, at least when it comes to social media. I’m trying to let my guard down and show more of myself behind all the aesthetics. I’m such a perfectionist, and I’m learning to let go of that a little.

SOCIALS
kikikramermusic.com
instagram.com/kikikramer
facebook.com/kikikramermusic

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LIVE NATION

This August, as winter settles softly across Melbourne’s inner east, Hawthorn Arts Centre will glow with song, strings and shared breath as Strings and Voices unfolds, a luminous new concert series with atmospheric music over four of the Saturdays in the month.

Curated as an immersive celebration of the relationship between the voice and string instruments, Strings and Voices invites audiences into a world of trembling bows, soaring harmonies and cinematic soundscapes. Across four unforgettable evenings, some of Australia’s most evocative and boundary-pushing artists will gather to create performances that are intimate, expansive and guaranteed to keep your soul warm this winter.

From the hushed emotional power of Lior with a string quartet led by Nigel Westlake and the transcendent textures of Xani Kolac in Hymns for Atheists, to the dreamlike chamber-pop of Georgia Fields with Andromeda String Quartet, the genre-defying harp landscapes of Harpedelique Ensemble and the radiant queer storytelling of Homophonic!, the series offers audiences a rare kind of listening experience: deeply human, richly textured and beautifully unexpected.

Winter becomes the perfect companion to these performances, a season for stillness, reflection and gathering close. Within the intimate surrounds of Hawthorn Arts Centre, audiences will encounter music featuring voices, strings and songs that speak to us all.

Opening Night: Lior with String Quartet and Xani – Saturday 1 August, 7:30 pm
Lior with String Quartet | City of Boroondara

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Lior opens the series with an intimate salon-style performance accompanied by a string quartet led by legendary composer and conductor Nigel Westlake. Renowned for his luminous songwriting and emotionally resonant live performances, Lior revisits works from across his celebrated catalogue, presenting a concert of warmth, closeness and quiet power.

Joining the evening is acclaimed violinist and composer Xani Kolac alongside bassist Meg Kolac, presenting Hymns for Atheists, an ethereal and deeply moving exploration of humanity, feminism, nature and love.

Georgia Fields with Andromeda String Quartet and Happy Axe – Saturday 8 August, 7:30 pm
Strings and Voices: Georgia Fields with Andromeda String Quartet | City of Boroondara

In a striking meeting of art-pop and chamber music, Georgia Fields joins forces with Andromeda String Quartet for an evening of storytelling and immersive sound. Expect soaring vocals, live looping and tactile strings, intimate and cinematic. Led by violinist Natasha Conrau, the quartet brings precision, daring and emotional depth to arrangements that blur the edges between indie, folk and contemporary classical music.

Joining Georgia Fields is Happy Axe, whose hypnotic ambient pop blends swooning harmonies, lush strings and unusual rhythms into delicately crafted songs inspired by a deep love of the natural world and the magical power of nature.

Harpedelique Ensemble and Invenio – Saturday 15 August, 7:30 pm
Strings and Voices: Invenio and Harpedelique | City of Boroondara

Amplified harps shimmer, pulse and swell in this immersive sonic experience, which will feature a set from Harpedelique Ensemble and vocal ensemble Invenio. Invenio singers will offer a special preview performance of their third album, Fight Eyes, with the repertoire by founder and award-winning vocalist Gian Slater. Blending classical refinement with cinematic intensity, Harpedelique reimagines the harp as both instrument and atmosphere. Featuring music inspired by composers and artists including Hans Zimmer, Coldplay and Nigel Westlake, the performance is bound to unfold like a dream scored in real time, layered with rich sound design, resonance and movement. Under the direction of Liana Perillo and sound designer Fabian Aravalés, this is a concert that dissolves boundaries between concert hall, cinema and reverie.

Homophonic! RESPECT and QiQi – Saturday 29 August, 7:30 pm
Strings and Voices:  Homophonic! RESPECT and QiQi

The series ends with a bold and celebratory finale with Homophonic!’s RESPECT, a powerful collection of newly commissioned works inspired by the stories and lives of LGBTIQA+ elders performed by a chamber ensemble as you’ve never seen before. Led by Artistic Director Miranda Hill, Homophonic! has spent more than a decade amplifying queer voices within contemporary classical music, creating performances that are fearless, joyful and deeply resonant.

Joining the program is Melbourne-based Chinese-Australian composer and multi-instrumentalist QiQi, whose genre-fluid work draws together traditional Chinese instrumentation, jazz and contemporary composition. Their acclaimed work Elysian Blues received multiple nominations at the Melbourne Fringe and established QiQi as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging voices.

Strings and Voices
Hawthorn Arts Centre: 360 Burwood Road, Hawthorn, VIC
Saturday 1 August – Lior and Xani
Saturday 8 August – Georgia Fields with Andromeda String Quartet and Happy Axe
Saturday 15 August – Harpedelique Ensemble and Invenio
Saturday 29 August – Homophonic! RESPECT and QiQi
Tickets on sale now via: boroondara.vic.gov.au/arts

Tickets available online, by phone or via Box Office before performances, subject to availability.

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.

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.

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.

Your new single FLOWERS TO MY DOOR // SWORD OF SACRIFICE hits with a mix of heartbreak, fury and surrender. What sparked the first line or image that set this song in motion?
The first line of this track is exploring an alternate reality, questioning and wondering if things had gone a different way would the outcome have changed, or whether it actually was always destined to be the way it is.

You’ve described writing this song as an act of emotional release. What moment in your life made these lyrics arrive with so much urgency?
I was in the middle of a serious relationship rupture. I was feeling so much grief and anger spiced with a particular flavour of empowerment, because this was not the first time me and this person had gone through something like this, but I knew it would be the last.

The production moves from intimate vocals and sparse guitar into a darker, pulsing electronic world. How did you approach that shift so it reflected the emotional rupture you were working through?
In the chorus when that first kick drum comes in, that’s when the song starts having a feeling of movement and from there a lot of possibilities opened up. When I’m producing my own tracks, I rarely have an idea of what it’s going to be before I’m in the studio. I try to get out of the way as much as possible and listen to what the song is asking of me. How does it want to be brought to life? I believe songs really do have a life of their own and it’s my job as a producer to listen with an open mind and with open ears. The feeling of the song was already there and I just created the textures and movements that reflected that feeling.

The drum and bass breakdown is such a bold turn. What made you decide that this song needed that jolt, and what were you trying to express in that moment?
This was a decision that honestly surprised me. When I first made the track, that section was not fully going into a drum and bass territory, it was only alluding to it and honestly I was kind of scared to fully go there. But when I took this track to Callum Edwards who helped me finish it off, he said that it’s definitely asking to be a drum and bass breakdown and I think I just needed that affirmation to go there. This is such a big moment in the song both musically and lyrically where I’m literally yelling (in some of the vocal tracks) “That’s what I needed”, and it’s here that all the anger, grief and sadness culminate, creating the pinnacle of the song.

You took bigger risks as a producer on this single, working between your rural home studio and Sing Sing in Melbourne. What did stepping deeper into production allow you to say that you couldn’t before?
It has been and continues to be such a big journey learning the art of production and I still feel like I’ve only really scratched the surface. It’s been so empowering to be self-sufficient in making my own music and has really given me the permission to carve out a new sound for myself that previously was not possible. If someone had told me a couple of years ago that I would be releasing a self-produced single with a drum and bass breakdown in it, I would not have believed them. But here we are.

Making my own music has not only helped give my songs the life they have been asking for, but also has changed the way I write music. Some of the songs on my upcoming album just wouldn’t have been written if I didn’t know how to use Ableton. That DAW has literally changed my life. It’s also been such a joy to bring my projects to Callum Edwards who is an actual wizard. He has really affirmed and helped bring my ideas to life.

The theme of sacrifice runs through the entire track. While you were writing, what did “the sword of sacrifice” come to represent for you personally?
The act of choice making is something that I have been contemplating for many years now and I have come to my own understanding about what it actually means to choose. To me, “the sword of sacrifice” represents discernment. The blade that cuts away anything that is no longer serving or aligned and creates a clear pathway for you to walk down. That pathway can only appear when you are fully inhabiting a choice. Every choice we make, no matter how great or small, requires some kind of sacrifice, which is why it can be so difficult to choose.

I think in this modern western/capitalist world we are sold this idea that we can have it all, do it all, and that more is more. I think it’s this mindset that creates a lot of confusion. The reason I have been in such deep contemplation about this topic is because I myself have found it extremely difficult to make clear choices and found that being in indecision for long periods of time amounts to a lot of stagnancy. To choose wholeheartedly is to live, and I want to live fully. Therefore I have to live and die by the sword of sacrifice.

You often pull from folk sensibilities, but this single leans heavily into trip-hop and experimental electronic textures. What pushed you toward that sonic evolution?
As I said in the previous question, having the agency over creating my own sound through production has really allowed me to expand what is possible for my songs. I started out as a folk singer-songwriter but have never wanted to pigeonhole myself into any particular genre. The trip-hop and electronic textures were resonating at the time so I just trusted what I was being gravitated to. I think a big part of the creative process for me is to trust my own ear and go by the rule: if it sounds good, it is good.

You’ve spent years moving through collectives, bands, solo work, and global travel. How did all those creative chapters shape the artist who made this song?
Oh my goodness, all of these things have shaped me so much. I have been so privileged in my life to connect with people and places in Australia and all around the world. Through each of these chapters I’ve learnt many things, found endless inspiration, and faced many challenges, which has led to where I am as an artist now. Someone who trusts themselves more than ever, is willing to take more risks, is more process-than-outcome driven, and someone who feels they genuinely have something to offer.

This single is the gateway into your upcoming album FLOWER TONE SLAYER. What does this release reveal about the emotional and sonic territory you’re heading into next?
There’s a definite ’90s trip-hop thread woven throughout this body of work, with some songs leaning toward R&B and other songs leaning back into my folk foundations, all of which speak from my inner landscape. Most of the music I make is born from emotional waters and songs are written out of necessity to process my emotions, and this album is no different. Expect songs of love, loss, belonging, and taking power back.

The repeated question “Was it worth it?” hits like a wound and a challenge at the same time. Looking back now, has your answer changed since the day you wrote it?
Ooft, a wound and a challenge. Love that. The whole song is crafted around exploring that question and at the time of writing it, the answer was not yet clear to me. But now, if I was to ask that same question — was it worth it? Absolutely. It was all worth it. For one, I got a great song out of it. But more importantly, it was through the experience of this relationship rupture that I was able to return to myself in a way that I never had before. I was able to embody my own self-worth in a way that was so powerful it created a new trajectory for my life that I would not trade for anything. It was 100% worth it.

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‘Let’s Go Out’ feels like a celebration of friendship and shared experiences — what inspired you to capture those late-night moments and turn them into a track?

A lot of song writing is written about romantic love, but one of the biggest and most treasured loves in our lives is the love that we give and receive through friendship. When we are on a night out with our friends, we are so aware that we are living our ‘golden days’ and we wanted to preserve that feeling into a song. 

The song features actual snippets of your friends’ voices from nights out — how did you collect those, and what do they add to the story of the song?

You can hear the voices of our friends chatting throughout the track from a drunken conversation over an indian kebab. Moments like these are so candid and often not the objective of the night out, but end up being the most special. We documented these small moments on our phones and wove them through the production, creating a very personal touch to ‘Lets go out’.

Across Best Of A Thing, there’s a strong theme of community and connection. Was that something you planned from the start, or did it emerge naturally as you were writing?

The themes of community and connection was not something we had planned going into this body of work but it was something that came naturally as we feel that community is at the center of everything we do as artists. We are very passionate about the local music scene and the people that surround us so I think these themes will run through all of our work to some extent.

With Hit the Town you touched on the struggles facing Australia’s live music scene. How important is it for you to use your platform to spotlight those wider issues?

In our personal lives, we are always discussing the local music scene here in Australia and it felt very natural to put some of those thoughts into a song. It felt very cathartic to express ourselves through a more punk style track and I don’t think it will be the last time we explore wider issues through our music as we feel strongly about using our platform to open important conversations.

You’ve built something special with Club Miramar over the last three years. How has curating your own live series shaped the band’s identity and connection with the Sydney scene?

Club Miramar is one of our proudest achievements as a band. It has deepened our passion for  the Sydney music scene and connected us with so many amazing artists. Uplifting other artists around us gives so much purpose and joy to our journey and we are so excited to continue building our electronic music community. 

Earlier this year you supported Groove Armada at the Royal Botanic Gardens — what was that experience like, and did it change the way you see yourselves as a live act?

Supporting Groove Armada was an absolute dream come true. Having the opportunity to play on such a big stage, gave us so much confidence in what we are doing and showed us what we are capable of. When you are always hustling to reach for the next thing, you often forget to look back and see how far you have come as artists, but standing on that stage, alongside Groove Armada, was an incredible moment of reflection for us on all the hard work we have put in over the past few years. 

The three of you grew up in regional towns before finding your place in Sydney’s music community. How has that journey influenced the way you approach both your music and your friendships?

Moving from our small towns to Sydney means we all know what it’s like to be in a new city where you don’t know anyone and to have to build your network from scratch. In this transition, we have been lucky enough to have formed such special relationships including within the music scene and we know to not take it for granted. This experience has definitely played a role in how much we value community and will continue to inform how we move through the world as artists and individuals. 

With four singles and now this EP under your belt in 2025, where do you see Miramar heading next — are you already thinking about an album, or is the focus on building out the live side even more?

Miramar is gearing up for summer! We have so many exciting, dancey tracks that we are working on and can’t wait to put into the world to soundtrack these upcoming sunny months! We are also working on some more collaborative works and will be exploring some new sounds in the process.

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Rickie Wang is a 12-year-old singer-songwriter and actor from Vancouver who’s turning growing up into something you can sing along to. Blending pop, R&B, and a storyteller’s instinct, his music channels the emotional rollercoaster of youth—raw, fearless, curious, and full of heart. With a background in TV, film, and award-winning theatre, Rickie brings real emotional weight to every lyric, delivering songs that feel like snapshots of his own coming-of-age journey.

His debut tracks dive into the messy, magical parts of being a kid—pushing back against expectations, dancing through uncertainty, chasing moments of joy, and finding safety in unexpected places. Whether he’s questioning the rules or just soaking in a rare moment of calm, there’s always a sense of movement and meaning behind his words. Rickie isn’t just writing songs—he’s capturing what it means to be young right now. Through his music, he’s building a space for his generation to feel seen, heard, and understood. It’s honest, it’s bold, and it’s just the beginning.

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Montreal-based, Cairo-born artist Ash has released his highly anticipated new single, “On My Mind,” coupled with the soulful talents of Felukah. Delivering  a unique fusion of genres, and blending Ash’s signature dance-ready beats with Felukah’s captivating voice.

A global force in music, Ash is known for his genre-defying style, seamlessly weaving together the rich musical traditions of his Egyptian and French heritage with electrifying electronic sounds. With over 1 billion streams and a rapidly growing fanbase, Ash continues to captivate listeners around the world with his eclectic approach to music.  His debut album, Self-Discovery, released on February 2, 2024, marked a new chapter in his already impressive career, following the success of tracks like “Mosaïque,” “Worlds Apart,” and “Daydream.” The infectious energy of Mosaïque, in particular, gained worldwide attention in 2019 when his video performance went viral – and in 2024 Ash followed up with an iconic performance in front of The Pyramids of Giza, solidifying his place as an international sensation. Watch that incredible performance HERE.

Last year, Ash’s artistry continued to reach new heights as he embarked on a sold-out world tour, having already performed in cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Cairo, Istanbul, and Montréal. With over 50,000 tickets sold, 2.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, 500,000 YouTube subscribers, and 228,000 Instagram followers, Ash’s deep connection with his audience is undeniable. Joining Ash on “On My Mind” is Felukah, a rising star whose music blends the essence of Middle Eastern hip-hop with Afrofuturism. Born and raised in Cairo, Felukah has made waves since moving to New York City in 2017, drawing inspiration from her roots and her experience as a creative writer. With collaborations with notable artists from the SWANA region, including Ma-Beyn, Nayomi, Dounia, and Nadine El Roubi, Felukah is a force of her own. Her work was recently featured in a cover of Queen’s “A Kind of Magic,” recorded with Danna Paola and Tamtam for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Fans of both Ash and Felukah can expect an exciting, genre-blurring experience with “On My Mind” – a track that reflects the fusion of cultures and sounds that define their artistry.

UMEK celebrates massive milestones of 30 years in the music scene and 300th release on his label 1605 with the new single “Hypnotizing,” a monumental techno track worthy of its name. The Slovenian icon wastes no time with the production, opening the track with an immediate hard-hitting, driving bassline. He seamlessly layers in undulating melodies on top of syncopating synths, even incorporating a haunting vocal riff mid-track that builds anticipation even further for the nonexistent drop. “Hypnotizing” is a dark and ominous sonic journey through time and space–from dungeons to dancefloors and beyond, wherever the listener’s imagination may roam when held captive by the mesmerizing beat. UMEK teams up with Dutch producer Maddix for this release, who has also released on Spinnin’ Records, Armada Music, Rave Culture, and Revealed Recordings. Check out what UMEK himself has to say about “Hypnotizing” below.

“Celebrating three decades in the dynamic realm of electronic music, I am overjoyed to mark this milestone with ‘Hypnotizing’ – a track that encapsulates the energy, passion, and relentless drive that have defined my career. As the 300th release under the auspicious banner of 1605, ‘Hypnotizing’ not only mirrors the evolution of my sound but also underscores the vision and spirit of a label committed to pushing boundaries. Here’s to the rhythm that unites us, the beats that inspire, and the magical 300 that reflects a journey of persistence and undying love for music. The hypnotic allure of the dance floor awaits, and I invite you all to lose yourselves in the mesmerizing world of ‘Hypnotizing'” – UMEK

What’s 2 meters tall, lives behind the Iron Curtain, has 1605 reasons to run an awesome label, and flies? Meet UMEK, a techno legend from Slovenia. UMEK is personally responsible for kickstarting the electronic music scene in his home country by first organizing illegal raves and then becoming one of Slovenia‘s most wanted export products and the number one music ambassador to the whole world. And he does fly! Around 100 times per year, visiting almost every continent each year. His gig diary ranges from dark underground clubs in Berlin to massive techno stages at the world’s most renowned festivals. Apart from making his name in the DJ booth, he’s also a tireless producer. He mostly releases on his own imprint 1605, and most of his tracks end up on the very top of Beatport‘s charts. After 30 years as a professional musician, he decided to use his experience and skills in the entrepreneurial world, and together with his managers, he founded a music-tech startup Viberate.