Posts made in April 2021

Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined) by Peter Manos and Kindness artwork via Capitol Records

PETER MANOS × KINDNESS – DO YOU TURN RED? (REIMAGINED)

Reworked EP out April 22 via Capitol Records

Manos’ debut single “In My Head” is now RIAA Certified Gold

Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Peter Manos announces “Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined),” a reworking of his 2020 debut EP, out April 22 via Capitol Records. Made alongside GRAMMY-winning British artist and producer Kindness, the new EP spotlights Manos‘ soulful, brooding vocals with a deliberate, textured new take on his intimate R&B. Watch the visualizer for first single “In My Head (Reimagined)” HERE. The EP is available for pre-order HERE.

“In My Head (Reimagined)” is a stark new version of Manos‘ breakthrough track, which was named a Song You Need to Know by Rolling Stone shortly after its release in 2019. Since then, the dorm-room-crafted hit has garnered 333 million streams globally, been certified gold by the RIAA, and appeared on the soundtrack to the Netflix film “To All the Boys: Always and Forever.” Rolling Stone hailed “In My Head” as a song that “proves that ballads can still surprise,” and this new version is similarly revelatory, setting the mood with glassy strings and a barely perceptible beat, and placing Manos‘ raw tangle of post-breakup regrets at its emotional core.

Manos, hailed as “your favorite new R&B singer” by Flaunt, has long been a fan of Kindness, the project of artist, producer, and arranger Adam Bainbridge. While Kindness has worked with artists as varied as Solange, Robyn, Kelela, and Blood Orange, Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined) marks the first time that the fiercely solo Manos has brought in an outside collaborator. The project has opened up his work in unexpected ways.

“I love these new versions because they are interpretations of these songs that I would have never come up with on my own,” says Manos. “The arrangements, the playing, the way that Kindness emphasized my vocals–there are so many different things I love about them.”

“Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined)” reinvents each track from Manos‘ debut EP, including a gently up-tempo rework of ”You Don’t Know Me” and a shimmering update of ”Tennessee,” which The New York Times said encapsulated “pure male angst.” Kindness’ arrangements further uncover the soul that lives at the heart of Manos‘ music. “From the beginning, we had the idea of working with Kindness and this was the perfect opportunity,” says Manos. “Adam’s work brought me into a different world that I wasn’t as familiar with. It has changed the way I view a lot of music.” The EP presents exciting new possibilities about the future of Manos’ music–new worlds to explore, and new emotions to share.

Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined) TRACKLIST:

  1. My Mind (Reimagined)
  2. You Don’t Know Me (Reimagined)
  3. At Night (Reimagined)
  4. Tennessee (Reimagined)
  5. Zach’s Ballad (Reimagined)
  6. Do You Turn Red (Reimagined)
  7. In My Head (Reimagined)

8. Zach’s Ballad (Chopped & Screwed)

About Peter Manos

Despite being intensely private, Peter Manos is extremely good at introductions. When he shared his first song in 2017–”In My Head,” that heartrending slab of eerie soul recorded in a dorm room– he turned ears and stoked fascination: Who was this master of catharsis and vibe, always obscuring his face in photos? Everything that’s come since has slowly opened a window onto his wild mind, while also somehow deepening the intrigue. Consider his second song, “Out of Love,” a mercurial mix of alt-pop, indie R&B, and intimate folk. Or his third track–the title of which being “You Don’t Know Me”– says it all, as the track’s live video shows five differently dressed Manoses, playing five different instruments. The Dallas-to-Los Angeles transplant is a one-stop-shop singer, songwriter, guitarist, pianist, and producer. As he puts it, “I’m completely obsessive about making music and getting it right.” And it shows. The man packs a lot into his songs. Memories, realizations, and conversations with himself. Loss, warmth, hope, and loneliness. He has a knack for creating his own space within the familiar, and it’s safe to assume this auteur will soon craft an entire world for us to explore.

About Kindness

Kindness (Adam Bainbridge) is an Asian British producer, DJ, documentary maker, radio host, and recording artist. Their solo works include albums World You Need A Change of Mind (2012) and Otherness (2014). As a producer, they lend a distinct and recognizable sound, with projects including work on Freetown Sound and Negro Swan by Blood Orange and A Seat at the Table by Solange Knowles (for which they won a GRAMMY), as well as production and songwriting on Robyn’s record Honey and writing and production for Jessie Ware’s What’s Your Pleasure. Kindness returned in 2019 with a string of new singles featuring a wide range of collaborations including Jazmine Sullivan, Robyn, Seinabo Sey, and many others. Kindness’ 2019 album Something Like A War chronicled a long journey of reflection and personal dedication. The record is a life-affirmed exploration of new beginnings, and continuing joy in music and collaboration, heavily emphasizing themes of femininity and the role of femmes in community and art, and the sensuality that comes from vulnerability and longing. Celebrated with a wide range of collaborations, it is Kindness’ most ambitious and well-rounded work to date.

Traveling illustration by Kaelen Felix for 360 Magazine

Sustainable Travel in Tennessee

Be Clean, Go Green and Travel Sustainably in Tennessee

Celebrate Earth Day by Going Green with these Sustainable Attractions, Restaurants and Accommodations

Known for its natural beauty, unique culture and southern hospitality, Tennessee strives to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts to preserve its wonder and charm for future generations to come. This Earth Day, be clean and go green with Tennessee Department of Tourist Development by sustainably eating, exploring and lodging across the state.

Where to Stay

Eco-friendly lodging options help play a significant part in reducing water, plastic and energy waste every day. Below are a few lodging options that will have guests snoozing smart and more carefree all night long:

The Crash Pad – Chattanooga 

Located in Chattanooga, this eco-friendly, LEED-certified glamping spot is unlike any other. Offering 24 bunk beds or five private rooms, complimentary DIY breakfast and walking distance to some of the area’s restaurants and bars, this classic, yet charming hostel provides visitors with a blend of reclaimed and renewable resources to ensure the best of energy efficiency while supporting local sustainable businesses.

Hutton Hotel – Nashville

Known for its four-star, four-diamond service, the Hutton Hotel goes above and beyond to provide its guests with an eco-friendly stay. From the time guests arrive, they are greeted by bamboo floors and furniture made from reclaimed wood. The rooms are equipped with automatic, motion detection lights, and to cut back on the use of plastic guests can find soap, shampoo and conditioner all in dispensers. To reduce the use of carbon-emissions and air pollution, the hotel is within walking distance to several popular attractions, restaurants and bars.

David Crockett State Park Cabins – Lawrenceburg

The David Crockett State Park Cabins are the perfect, family weekend getaway. Equipped with geothermal-powered HVAC units and gas fireplaces, these LEED-certified vacation homes are ahead of the curve on energy conservation. The state park also has the Tennessee Naturalist Program which serves as an educational training program to provide service and outreach efforts to help preserve Tennessee’s natural beauty and resources.

For other eco-friendly lodging options, look for the Tennessee Green Hospitality certification on business’ websites.

Where to Eat & Drink

People come to Tennessee from all over to try its award-wining restaurants and signature dishes whether it’s a southern comfort dish or a night out at one of the many farm-to-table establishments across the state. Dive into these local, sustainable-friendly restaurants, bars and wineries that play a part in reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

Husk – Nashville

Known for their ever-changing menu of fresh ingredients all from the south, Husk takes Southern cuisine to the next level. This farm-to-table approach provides a menu full of seasonal food and drinks all while saving the environment and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Local Goat – Pigeon Forge

Located in Pigeon Forge, the Local Goat specializes in locally sourced and sustainable foods. Customers can enjoy a selection of craft food and drinks such as “bhaahhbu” back ribs, ahi tuna steak, a buckberry old fashioned and much more.

Belly Acres – Memphis

With two locations at Overton Square and Regalia, Belly Acres prides itself on bringing their customers the best food “from our acres to your belly.” They have a wide selection of signature burgers, salads and beef-less burgers. They are so passionate about inspiring others and future generations to eat clean that on Wednesdays kids eat free.

2021 New Harvest Farmers’ Market – Knoxville

Opening April 22, the 2021 New Harvest Farmers’ Market offers a wide range of seasonal products including fruits, vegetables, plants, meats and much more. Open every Thursday until Sept. 30, guests cannot only shop for fresh produce but also enjoy the park’s children’s play area, covered pavilion and walking trails.

Winery at Seven Springs Farm – Maynardville

Wander down the historic “Thunder Road” to the charming Winery at Seven Springs Farm. This winery like many others across the state makes its wine on-site which helps to cut back on long-haul delivery and greenhouse gas emissions. They offer tours across the vineyard for their visitors to learn about how they make their wine and take in the picturesque views.

East Nashville Beer Works – Nashville

Make a toast to Earth Day with friends and family at East Nashville Beer Works by sipping away on its locally brewed beer. A member of the Tennessee Sustainable Spirits program, the brewery aims to reduce their environmental impact and energy footprint through practices such as using tankless water heaters and implementing temperature controls.

To read more about Tennessee’s Sustainable Spirits program and its members, click here.

Where to Explore

Whether you are looking to explore Tennessee’s great outdoors or wander down the cities charming neighborhoods, these unique attractions offer environmentally friendly fun all while stressing the importance of being sustainably responsible.

Mirimichi Lakes Golf – Millington

Bring your “A-game” this Earth Day at Mirimichi Lakes Golf. This award-winning course of more than 7,400 yards provides its visitors with an eco-friendly experience. From integrated pest management and water conservation, Mirimichi offers championship-worthy views and environmentally friendly practices for both amateur and professional level players.

Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga 

Make a splash by visiting the Tennessee Aquarium to learn more about the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, their scientific studies and what they are doing to restore and conserve the earth’s ecosystems. Through their Global Passport Program, guests can learn more about different species from around the world and the role they play in their environment.

Able – Nashville

While in Nashville, stop by Able, an ethical fashion brand dedicated to sustainability. The company strives to make a positive impact on the environment by using recycled packaging and mailers, repurposing discarded hides for their leather products, creating all their jewelry by hand without the harsh chemicals needed from a manufacturer and picking clothes that are made from all-natural fibers.

Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park – Johnson City

Guests can cycle their way through Earth Day at the Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. With over 40 acres of terrain and trails, bicyclists and hikers of all ages can spend the day in the great outdoors enjoying the beauty of Johnson City.

Hike MoCo – Wartburg

Established in 2017, Hike Morgan County is a network designed to encourage hikes on Morgan County trails and promote a healthy lifestyle. Throughout the network’s organized hikes, hikers are encouraged to pick up trash along the way to help preserve the beauty of Morgan County’s trails and surrounding areas,

Check out these Earth Day celebrations happening across the state:

April 17-18, 24-25

EarthDayz at Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain

Celebrate all weekend long with Rock City’s 12th annual EarthDayz. The event will host four animal shows in partnership with the Chattanooga Zoo, live music, living ground walker character and much more.

April 22:

Earth Day Hike at Sycamore Shoals State Park – Elizabethton

Kick-off Earth Day 2021 with a guided hike around Sycamore Shoals. Throughout the guided tour, learn about the different trees in the area, how our ancestors used them and the best tips and tricks for a hiking trip.

April 23:

Family Nights at the Museum: Exploring the Arboretum! – Smyrna

Join the historic Sam Davis Home as they commemorate Earth Day with the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council to learn about the site’s arboretum and its many collections of trees.

April 24:

Nashville Earth Day at Centennial Park – Nashville

Connect with the Nashville community and discover ways to make a positive impact on our environment with local sustainable small businesses, government agencies and nonprofits. The event will take place in Centennial Park where attendees can learn and engage with a wide range of activities and exhibits.

Spread the Mulch Volunteer Work Day at Shelby Farms Park – Memphis

Shelby Farms Park will host multiple volunteer workdays to spread the love this Earth Day. During this socially distanced event, volunteers will help lay mulch throughout the park to help trees retain water, prevent future erosion and provide the proper nutrients needed for them to continue to grow.

ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

Tennessee is the home of the blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly, and rock ‘n’ roll— delivering an unparalleled experience of beauty, history, and family adventure, infused with music that creates a vacation that is the “Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee.”   Explore more at tnvacation.com and join other Tennessee travelers by following “TNVacation” on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and “Tennessee” on Snapchat.

business illustration by Rita Azar for 360 Magazine

KILT VS TROUSERS – A LONG BATTLE

Are you confused about what you should wear at the next Scottish event you attend? Well, you are at the right place. Here, you will find everything that you need to know before the event regarding kilts for men and trousers. Many Scottish men point out that real men should put on kilts, but younger generations may be more flexible in their wardrobe choices. For example, Jaden Smith is known to rock a kilt on occasion. Of course, the choice differs from person to person–not all of us like the same food, do we? No! Similarly, some may like the kilt and others prefer trousers. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of each, so that you can decide which is most appropriate to wear for your upcoming event.

Men’s Kilts

A kilt is among the earliest and most popular types of Scottish apparel. Men, and even kings, have worn kilts since hundreds of years ago; and they are still a popular part of Scottish culture today. Many men and women–even those who are not located in Scotland–wear kilts as they are a comfortable and versatile part of their wardrobe. So, let’s see exactly why they love wearing kilts so much.

Trousers/Pants

Everyone prefers wearing pants–until the first time they try wearing a kilt for a day. Pants are everywhere in modern fashion, because according to the modern generation, kilts are considered very girlish. We have simply accepted trousers, but the following discussion is going to make pant-wearers reconsider their thoughts.

Comparing Kilts & Trousers

1- Comfort

No matter if you’re wearing a traditional Scottish kilt or a modern utility kilt, it will make you feel pleasantly surprised by its comfortability. In comparison, trousers make you feel bunched up  and limit your movements. Compared to the limited movements trousers allow, your legs get complete freedom to move in kilts.

2- Keeps You Cool in Summer

Kilts keep you cool when the weather is hot, but you may not realize this until you compare wearing both kilts and trousers in the hot climate. You’ll feel your legs drenched in sweat in trousers, whereas kilts keep you unbelievably cool, if you choose the fabric accordingly. When it comes to choosing the most breathable and summer-friendly kilt fabric, you should avoid heavy wool that’s used for traditional Scottish or Irish kilts. Instead, try a sport utility kilt made from a lightweight cotton blend for the most breathable feel.

3. Time Limitation

You can’t wear the same pair of trousers you run errands in to go to a formal event, can you? No! Unlike trousers, there’s no such limitation with the kilts. You can wear kilts anywhere and anytime, as long as you pair it with the appropriate accessories and shoes.

4. In Terms of Health

According to the Scottish Medical Journal, men who wear kilts regularly show better sperm quality and fertility when they plan to have a child. Although there’s not a lot of research-based scientific evidence on the topic, it can be something to be considered.

5. Makes You Feel Good About Yourself

Surprisingly, men’s kilts can have positive effects on men’s mental health, making them feel an improved sense of masculinity and pride. According to the Scottish Medical Journal, psychological benefits like these can help men feel more confident. Kilts give men the confidence they need to achieve their personal, as well as relationship, goals. Kilts may help men grow as a person. If you’re suffering from a lack of confidence, I’d suggest you try wearing a kilt–you may be surprised by the positive changes.

Benefits of the Kilt

●      Adjustable fit: kilts allow you to adjust their size according to natural body changes and/or preferred comfortability.

●      No bunching & bending: No more bunching and bending in clothing material will allow you to feel relaxed and free.

●      Keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter: Kilts can keep you cool in summer and maintain your body heat in winter, depending on the fabric. Especially in the summers, kilts can help make a hot summer’s day even more fun. Kilts are a perfect choice for any weather.

●      Health: The design of kilts provide the most breathable option for an outfit. The ventilation helps keep your private parts’ temperature regulated, which can lead to higher sperm counts and higher fertility. A kilt also looks attractive­­, which will keep your partners’ attention on you and, in turn, helps maintaining your relationship goals.

Benefits of Wearing Trousers

●      Trousers are appropriate in all situations. We cannot deny the fact that kilts can be inappropriate to wear in some specific places (usually due to religious or cultural differences,) so trousers come to the rescue.

●      Freedom of movement: Just in case you have to stand on your head, there is no risk of indecent exposure with your trousers, unlike kilts.

●      Keep your calves warm: Long pants cover your calves. We can’t deny the fact that trousers beat out kilts when it comes to keeping your calves warm.

●      Health: An advantage of trouser is that long pants can keep your legs safe from harmful UV rays.

Conclusion

No one can tell whether kilts or trousers are better, as it differs from person to person. In my opinion, it shouldn’t matter which you choose, but you should consider trying on both garments. If you haven’t at least tried a kilt before, you should give it a shot. Once you do, it is likely that you may never want to turn back. In the end, whichever makes you feel more comfortable, confident, and happy is what you should wear. 

Toosii - Thank You For Believing Artwork for use by 360 Magazine

TOOSII – WHAT IT COST

Toosii Shares New Single And Video for “what it cost”

Track Is From Thank You For Believing, Set For May 7 Release

Combined Global Streams Of Toosii’s Songs Near One Billion

Pre-Save / Pre-Order Thank You For Believing HERE

View “what it cost” Video HERE

On his powerful new single, ”what it cost,” Toosii reflects on his roots and his current reality. The Syracuse-born, Raleigh-based artist, who is closing in on one billion combined global streams across all of his songs, details his journey from a lost kid surrounded by tragedy to a national sensation full of promise on the introspective, stripped-down track. Download/stream ”what it cost” HERE. The song is from his new mixtape, Thank You For Believing, set for May 7 release via South Coast Music Group/Capitol Records.

My mom is a real hard worker. That’s where my hustle comes from. She taught me to never quit,” says Toosii.

While many rags-to-riches stories have been told, the official video for “what it cost” is a rags-versus-riches story, following Toosii as he transverses two starkly different worlds. Directed by Joan Pabon, who helmed the official videos for ”back together” and ”Reminiscing,” the clip shines a light on inequalities and economic disparities and the tangible and intangible costs of living in a poverty-stricken home versus a wealthy household. The video is bookended by real talk from Toosii about his life, touching on the loss of his grandfather, the times he’s nearly died himself and his drive to be there for the loved ones that are depending on him. “Everyday bro, I wake up, I gotta go hard bro. Can’t go back to being homeless,” says Toosii. View the video HERE.

Earlier this month, Toosii earned widespread praise for ”back together,” which also appears on Thank You For Believing. XXL named it one of the “best new songs” of the week. “Toosii skyrocketed into the mainstream in 2020. Now, he’s looking to continue this ascension with “back together,” observed Complex. ”Toosii [is] looking to own 2021,The harmonic love fest [‘back together’] taps into [Toosii’s] R&B sensibilities while still showcasing his penchant for nimble bars,” said HipHopDXHotNewHipHop noted, ”[‘back together’] plays much more like a ballad than anything else and it works to perfection, it’s a nice piece of self-reflection that will make any fan want to tap in for more.” View the official video for ”back together” HERE. Fans who pre-save / pre-order Thank You For Believing HERE will instantly receive ”what it cost” and “back together.”

Propelled by his gift for drenching real lyrics in rich emotion, Toosii has proven himself to be one of rap’s most relatable rising stars. Naming him an artist to watch, Billboard said, “Toosii is coming for the crown.” On Thank You For Believing, he tells jarringly honest tales of street life and lost love, addressing the good times and the bad, the glow-up and the dark days that came before. Toosii’s career has been percolating in North Carolina for years, but he found immediate, staggering success in February 2020 on the strength of Platinum Heart. The album hit No. 1 on Billboards Heatseekers Albums chart and launched Toosii into the top 10 of Rolling Stone’s Breakthrough 25 chart.

Toosii quickly followed up those achievements with Poetic Pain in September 2020, which debuted in the top 20 of the Billboard 200. He recently earned a Gold record for his top 10 Urban radio hit, “Love Cycle.” Toosii has earned a devoted audience, including 2.4 million Instagram followers. In 2020, Toosii collaborated with DaBaby, who’s tipped him as “the hottest new emerging artist.”

Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic, a digital exhibition by David Uzochukwu on Artsy for use via 360 Magazine

David Uzochukwu – Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic

Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic, a digital exhibition by David Uzochukwu on Artsy

2016 – ongoing.
Italy, Senegal, Germany

Artist statement:

Mare Monstrum / Drown In My Magic channels the power of myth by explicitly visualizing Black merfolk. It envisions water as expanse which the characters can cut through, be safe in. No longer are they subject to whims of the tide, or drift into a void that holds the potential for destruction. Instead, the portrayed are equipped to survive and find freedom in the monstrous.

It almost seems as though Blackness is inevitably linked to a passage through the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, Evros River, whether historic or recent. The potential of self-actualisation lapping at someone’s feet always calls to mind the blood, sweat and tears of those who have come before them. Can new lore shift the entanglement of Black bodies and their environments, making unquestionably clear that they belong?

About the series:

David Uzochukwu’s photographs deliver you into warm and sensitive worlds where humans and nature entwine in search of belonging. Expanses of sand, water or sky embrace Black bodies emanating strength and resilience. Often their limbs morph into fantastical forms against hyper-real landscapes that offer a space for contemplation or escape. It’s this interplay between the natural and supernatural, between the visible and invisible, that imbues the artist’s images with an arresting presence.

Uzochukwu’s ongoing body of work, Mare Monstrum / Drown In My Magic, uses the central idea of Black mermaids to explore both the historical relationship between the African diaspora and the water, and contemporary politics around illegal migration. A great part of the images were made in Senegal in 2018 and show mermen emerging from the seas protecting and healing one another. The most recent images came together in Germany and introduce a whole community of hybrid merfolk in states of solace and rebirth. An incubated baby, a proud centaur and a tender couple, among others, inhabit a boundless realm.

The Austrian-Nigerian artist was born in 1998 in Innsbruck. His photographic practice began as a teenager with intimate self-portraiture that soon gained recognition. He’s enjoyed collaborations with artists including FKA Twigs, Pharrell Williams, Ibeyi and Iris van Herpen. Since joining Galerie Number 8, he’s exhibited at Bozar, Photo Vogue Festival, Unseen Amsterdam, Off Biennale Dakar and LagosPhoto. He was named ‘One to Watch’ by the British Journal of Photography in 2020, and his first co-directed short film, Götterdämmerung, was selected for Max-Ophüls-Preis in 2021. He is currently studying philosophy at HU Humboldt University of Berlin.

“The long history of oppression experienced by people of color in the West makes an unlikely context for art devoted to the fantastical. All the more so when you consider recent developments such as the racist rhetoric and anti-immigration policies of the Trump administration, the chilling roll call of African-Americans killed by US police (Freddie Gray, Eric Garner, Philando Castile) and the bigotries unleashed in Britain by Brexit (monkey chants at football matches and a spike in xenophobic hate crimes). Under such conditions, it’s worth asking if a turn to the fantastic by black artists is driven by a desire to escape from the charged and painful circumstances of daily life. Yet the opposite seems to be true. What characterizes much of the imagery being produced today is an eagerness to grapple with urgent questions of culture, identity and history– albeit through imagery that accentuates the extraordinary rather than the everyday. (…)

Ultimately, the Berlin-based David Uzochukwu – whose recent Drown in my Magic project situates a panoply of mythical water creatures within arid landscapes – may speak for all the artists currently finding inspiration in fantasy. The goal, as Uzochukwu puts it, is to reclaim the narrative of fantasy’ by embracing ‘the alien otherness projected onto black bodies in a way that could be read as pure empowerment.’”
-Extract of the essay “A Fantastic Turn” by Ekow Eshun for Unseen Magazine.

Drown in My Magic will go live starting April 16th 2021 on Artsy HERE.

Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic, a digital exhibition by David Uzochukwu on Artsy for use via 360 Magazine

Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic, a digital exhibition by David Uzochukwu on Artsy for use via 360 Magazine

The Nation cover illustration by Heather Skovlund (Original cover art Illustration by Barry Blitt) for 360 Magazine

Elie Mystal × The Nation

Can Biden Fix the Courts That Trump Broke?

There is no progressive future without a serious fight to reclaim the judiciary from the grips of conservative judges.

In The Nation’s latest cover story, justice correspondent Elie Mystal explains:

“While previous Republican administrations tried to break government, Donald Trump tried to break democracy. He did this boldly and brazenly, by attacking elections, and he did it less boldly but no less brazenly, by working alongside Mitch McConnell to take over the unelected branch of government that sets the rules for all the others: the federal judiciary. That branch is now stuffed with conservative ideologues masquerading as jurists.”

Making the case that there is no progressive future without a serious fight to reclaim the judiciary from the grips of conservative judges, Mystal evaluates whether Biden can fix the courts that Trump broke: Happily, there is a solution, and that solution is to expand the lower courts.

Congress has used its constitutional authority throughout history to expand the federal judiciary. Historically, these lower court expansions were bipartisan: As the country grows in population, so does the number of lawsuits. Adding judges is just a thing we used to do to keep the judiciary running smoothly. But since 1990, when the last judgeship bill was passed, the US population has grown by a third; the number of district court cases has grown by 38 percent; and the number of cases involving a felony defendant has grown by 60 percent. The number of judges has not changed.

“I absolutely believe that if Trump had won reelection and McConnell had hung onto the Senate, Republicans would be working on court expansion right now,” writes Mystal. “There just aren’t a lot of vacancies left in the federal judiciary. Republicans can always find some casus belli for stacking the courts with conservative judges. The only question is whether Democrats will ever realize there’s a war, and they’re losing it.”

“To balance out decades of inequity, Biden’s judicial appointments shouldn’t ‘look like America;’ they should overrepresent the kinds of Americans routinely excluded by Republican administrations,” he continues. “You can’t balance a seesaw by standing in the middle when an elephant is sitting on one side.”

Read the full cover story here. Mystal, who covers the courts, the criminal justice system, and politics for The Nation, has also recently reported:

Biden’s Supreme Court Commission Is Designed to Fail

Biden’s recently announced commission to study court reform isn’t designed to offer solutions—it’s designed to be an excuse to do nothing.

How the Supreme Court Gave Cops a License to Kill

Derek Chauvin’s defense team is hoping that the 1989 Graham v. Connor ruling will be his ticket to acquittal.

The Blue Wall of Silence Is Crumbling Around Derek Chauvin

For one of the first times in memory, police are testifying against one of their own. But will it lead to an actual conviction?

ABOUT Elie Mystal

Elie Mystal is The Nation’s justice correspondent—covering the courts, the criminal justice system, and politics—and the force behind the magazine’s monthly column, “Objection!” He is also an Alfred Knobler Fellow at the Type Media Center. A graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, Mystal was previously the executive editor of Above the Law and a former associate at Debevoise & Plimpton. He’s a frequent guest on MSNBC and Sirius XM. 

Founded by abolitionists in 1865, The Nation has chronicled the breadth and depth of political and cultural life from the debut of the telegraph to the rise of Twitter, serving as a critical, independent, and progressive voice in American journalism.

Trippie Red illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

Trippie Redd × Neon Shark Live

Trippie Redd Announces NEON SHARK LIVE, A Virtual Concert Experience with an Exclusive Merch Line

Multi-platinum selling hitmaker Trippie Redd announces NEON SHARK LIVE – a virtual concert experience scheduled for Thursday, April 22nd at 6PM PT / 9PM ET. The concert will see Trippie perform songs from his latest album, NEON SHARK vs. Pegasus [Presented by Travis Barker] as well as hits ranging across his entire discography.

The concert will take place at Trippie Red Live, and will provide concert-goers with exclusive access to 8 brand new merch pieces. Access to this merch will become available to ticket holders once logged in to the website starting Friday April 16th at 10 AM PST / 1 PM ET. This event is powered by Maestro, the interactive streaming platform.

“I’m so excited to partner with Maestro for my first ever live performance of my favorite songs from NEON SHARK,” says Trippie Redd. “I can’t wait for my fans to check out the crazy stuff we’ve got in store for them.”

Trippie’s latest album, NEON SHARK vs. Pegasus, combines his love for hip-hop and rock, and includes features from Machine Gun Kelly, Travis Barker, Deftones’ Chino Moreno, blackbear and more. Globally recognized for his striking visuals and creative energy, Trippie’s fans can expect a wild ride through the digital world of NEON SHARK where he will perform an eclectic, career-spanning set, from his greatest hits to tracks off the just-released album. The virtual concert will feature cutting-edge audio, visuals and special effects to create immersive experiences and surprise moments for fans around the world.

Early ticket buyers will have exclusive access to Trippie Redd merchandise including a limited-edition hoodie ticket bundle. Additional exclusive merchandise will become available within the experience in the weeks leading up to the show.

FOLLOW TRIPPIE REDD:
INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE / TWITTER / FACEBOOK

About Trippie Redd:

Since delivering his debut mixtape A Love Letter to You in 2017, multi-platinum-selling, chart-topping rapper/singer/songwriter Trippie Redd has continually defied genre boundaries, embedding his melodic take on rap with frenetic elements of rock-and-roll and heavy metal. A self-professed workaholic, Trippie has now debuted five consecutive projects in the top 5 of the Billboard 200 chart.

Born Michael Lamar White IV and raised in Canton, Ohio, he grew up on hip-hop icons like Tupac Shakur, Nas, and Jay-Z, but later became fascinated with the shock-rock of Slipknot and Rob Zombie. As he recalls, the urge to create his own music arose soon after his older brother (an aspiring rapper who went by the name Dirty Redd) died in a car accident when Trippie was 10. “I took his dream and did it myself,” Trippie says now. Drawing much of his inspiration from the free-flowing style and inventive lyricism of Lil Wayne, Trippie began recording in his cousin’s basement and later relocated to Atlanta to further hone his skills, quickly landing a record deal with 10K Projects.

Though 2020 brought its fair share of adjustments for the rapper with the arrival of COVID-19, Trippie used his time in quarantine to make some of his boldest career moves yet. He made his Hollywood acting debut in a cameo during an episode of Lil Dicky’s critically acclaimed DAVE. He also dropped his highly anticipated album, Pegasus, on Halloween. The mythical LP, which debuted at #2, included the intoxicating “Excitement” featuring PARTYNEXTDOOR and showed Trippie bridging the generational gap with the legendary Busta Rhymes on “I Got You.” The deluxe version of Pegasus comes in the form of NEON SHARK, a collaboration album with production from Travis Barker.

About Maestro

Maestro is a live streaming platform that has hosted critically acclaimed concerts by Billie Eilish, Tim McGraw, Katy Perry, Erykah Badu, Melissa Etheridge, and others. Founded in 2015, the start-up recently expanded streaming offerings for musicians and brands and has quickly positioned itself as a leader in the field.

Lawsuit illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

Lawsuit Against L’Oreal USA, Inc.

The Dugger Law Firm, PLLC Has Filed a Sexual Orientation, Atheism, and Disability-Based Harassment Case Against L’Oreal USA, Inc. on Behalf of Rafael Sanchez

On April 13, 2021, Rafael Sanchez filed a federal complaint in the Southern District of New York, alleging New York City Human Rights Law (“NYCHRL”) sexual orientation, Atheism, and disability-based harassment and hostile work environment claims, as well as aiding and abetting of discrimination claims, against L’Oreal USA, Inc. (“L’Oreal”). Rafael Sanchez is being represented by The Dugger Law Firm PLLC.

L’Oreal hired Plaintiff as a makeup artist and skincare consultant during approximately December 2017, through staffing company Randstad Professionals US, LLC.

Mr. Sanchez alleges that L’Oreal, through its long-time Business Manager Viviana Nunez (“Nunez”), engaged in discriminatory harassment and created a hostile work environment based on Mr. Sanchez’s status as a gay male, non-religious Atheist, and/or disabled person.

Mr. Sanchez’s complaint seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, declaratory relief, injunctive relief, attorney’s fees, expert fees, costs, and interest.

The case is Sanchez v. L’Oreal USA, Inc., No. 1:21-cv-03229, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Marijuana illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

The Best Cities to Get Stoned

It’s been a busy year so far for the cannabis industry: In recent weeks, New York, Virginia, and New Jersey legalized recreational marijuana for adults — with four other states, and even the federal government, possibly joining soon.

In light of these rapid changes — and 4/20 around the corner — the most important question to ask right now is: Which of America’s weed meccas promise to enhance your cannabis experience?

LawnStarter ranked 2021’s Best Cities to Get Stoned by comparing 94 U.S. cities (where recreational marijuana is currently legal) based on 12 key indicators of a smoking good time. Among them: The volume of Google searches for “marijuana” and “weed,” access to dispensaries and head shops, and availability of 420-friendly lodging and smoking lounges.

Check out the top 20 stoner cities below, followed by some highlights and lowlights from Lawnstarter’s report.

Best Cities to Get Stoned

1 Denver, CO

2 Los Angeles, CA

3 San Francisco, CA

4 Fullerton, CA

5 Garden Grove, CA

6 Glendale, CA

7 Colorado Springs, CO

8 Boston, MA

9 Portland, OR

10 Las Vegas, NV

11 Orange, CA

12 Detroit, MI

13 Torrance, CA

14 Santa Ana, CA

15 Pasadena, CA

16 Huntington Beach, CA

17 Anaheim, CA

18 Lakewood, CO

19 Ontario, CA

20 Worcester, MA

Highlights and Lowlights

Denver: The Mile High City 

Denver takes the weed cake in our ranking as America’s pot capital. With Colorado leading the nation’s recreational cannabis reform movement in 2012, it’s safe to say being a first mover really has its advantages.

Denver dominates the social environment category, with more 420-friendly lodging establishments and social consumption lounges. Where Denver falls short: the number of dispensaries and head shops and Google search popularity.

Colorado Springs and Lakewood also finished on a high note, at Nos. 7 and 18 overall, respectively. Only Fort Collins, in 63rd place, didn’t fare as well.

California: The State of High

Five Golden State cities landed in the top 10, a dozen in the top 20, and 20 in the top 30, and … you get the point: California is the “it” place for stoners, with the Los Angeles metro sweeping the popularity and supply access categories.

Among the top 10 overall are Fullerton, Garden Grove, and Glendale — all earning the highest grades in popularity and supply access — plus San Francisco at No. 3.

While no California city won every single metric, chances are you can find anything and everything cannabis-related in the state. It is, after all, the true reform pioneer: The state was first to legalize medical marijuana, in 1996.

Doobie Newbies

Cities in the newest states to join the league of fun-weed states — Arizona, Illinois, New Jersey, and New York — for the most part placed in the bottom third of our ranking. For example, Tucson, Arizona, landed at No. 85; Rockford, Illinois, at No. 91; Newark, New Jersey, at No. 90; and New York City at No. 77.

But two cities are riding on their recent high: Chicago — propelled by an abundance of marijuana tours and events — at No. 28, and Paterson, New Jersey — with the most residents searching for weed online — at No 46. Apparently, stoners here have waited long enough and aren’t wasting any more time.

The full ranking and analysis can be found on Lawnstarter’s website.

A Cinderella Story: Starstruck illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

A Cinderella Story: Starstruck

A Country Girl with Hollywood Dreams

A Cinderella Story: Starstruck

Bring Home the Music & Magic

June 29th on Digital, July 13th on DVD

Lights, Camera, Action! Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will have you singing and dancing in your seat with the release of A Cinderella Story: Starstruck, on Digital beginning June 29th, and on DVD on July 13th. The all-new musical film set in Dreary, Idaho stars Bailee Madison (A Week Away) as our modern-day heroine Finley Tremain and Michael Evans Behling (All American) as her charming romantic interest, Jackson Stone. Other featured actors include April Telek (Chris Watts: Confession of a Killer) as the cruel stepmother, Valerian, and stepsiblings Saffron and Kale, played respectively by Lillian Doucet-Roche (A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish) and Richard Harmon (The 100).

A Cinderella Story: Starstruck will be available on Digital for $14.99 SRP ($14.99 in Canada), and on DVD for $19.98 SRP ($24.98 in Canada).

A Cinderella Story: Starstruck will also be available on Movies Anywhere. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can access all their eligible movies by connecting their Movies Anywhere account with their participating digital retailer accounts.

Finley Tremaine, a small-town farm girl, longs to spread her wings and soar as an aspiring performer. When a Hollywood film crew arrives in her sleepy town, she is determined to land a role in the production and capture the attention of handsome lead actor Jackson Stone. Unfortunately, a botched audition forces her to change course. Now, disguised as cowboy Huck, Finley finally gets her big break. But can she keep the charade a secret from everyone, including her evil stepmother and devious stepsiblings?

This is the sixth installment in the A Cinderella Story movie series. Other titles include A Cinderella Story (Hilary Duff), Another Cinderella Story (Selena Gomez), A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song (Lucy Hale) A Cinderella Story: If the Shoe Fits (Sofia Carson), and A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish (Laura Marano)Michelle Johnston (Nickelodeon’s Blurt) returns as writer and director of A Cinderella Story: Starstruck, after writing A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish and directing the last 2 installments of the franchise. The veteran filmmaker also choreographed the first four films and served as a producer on the past three. Dylan Sellers of Limelight (Palm Springs, The Starling, The Giver, St. Vincent), keeper of the A Cinderella Story franchise, is back for his sixth turn as producer. Trygge Toven (Captain Marvel, Avengers: Infinity War, Trolls) and Toko Nagata (Shaft, The Predator, Pitch Perfect 3) are the music supervisors. Production services were provided by Front Street Pictures Inc.

BONUS FEATURES

  • Finley’s Best Friends: Meet the Farm Animals
  • Dirt Under My Nails: The Making of A Cinderella Story: Starstruck