Posts tagged with "Oslo"

Sommerro in Oslo via 360 MAGAZINE

Oslo Hotels

It’s no secret that Oslo is a frontrunner for one of the top getaways in the world this year, with every corner of the happy city full of delicious seafood, exciting cultural offerings, and captivating hotel options. The city is experiencing a surge in new art galleries, restaurants, theaters, shops, and museums, including the new National Museum and Munch Museum, further solidifying its place as the cultural epicenter of Northern Europe and one of the hottest destinations to visit now. 

Host to a diverse set of accommodation offerings, each with its own distinct personality and experiential programming, visitors can choose their own Oslo adventure based on the type of trip they want to create. 

Some top hotel options include:

  • An Art Deco Cultural Immersion at the Brand New Sommerro:
    • The new place to stay in Norway’s capital, the 231-room Sommerro officially opened its doors in Frogner, a historic neighborhood in Oslo’s West End, on September 1. Set within the former headquarters of Oslo Lysverker, the city’s original electrical company and a 1930s landmark, the hotel presents a trifecta of “first and only” – it is the city’s only Art Deco hotel, its first neighborhood hotel outside of the city center, and the country’s largest-ever preservation project. Guests will enjoy the grandeur of Sommerro’s custom furnishings and artwork contrasted with a sleek new modern rooftop space that includes TAK Oslo, a Nordic-Japanese restaurant helmed by chef Frida Ronge that is one of seven on-property restaurants and bars, a sauna, and Oslo’s only year-round rooftop pool with some of the best views in the city. Inspired by Frogner’s classic and creative neighborhood spirit, Sommerro serves as an open and inspiring house for all, where visitors can enjoy a dynamic range of immersive programming and activities including a residency with jazz musician and composer Maren Selvaag, an extensive art collection curated by acclaimed museum director and art critic Sune Nordgren, the largest wellbeing space of any city hotel across the Nordic countries, boat trips with KOK floating saunas, and more. Nightly rates at Sommerro start from USD$250 based on double occupancy and include breakfast. For more information, visit Sommerrohouse.com.
  • A Historic City Center Escape at Amerikalinjen:
    • Occupying one of the city’s most recognizable buildings, Amerikalinjen opened its doors in March 2019 on Jernbanetorget Square, adjacent to the bustling Central Station in downtown Oslo and just a short stride from the new Munch Museum and Deichman Library’s newly renovated flagship. Originally the headquarters for the Norwegian America Line that transported Norwegians across the Atlantic to the New World, the iconic building, which dates to 1919, has since been transformed into a modern-day marvel with luxurious accommodations, delicious dining, a chic jazz club, locally crafted amenities, and impeccable, personalized service. The surprisingly intimate 122-room property is layered with equal doses of subtle nostalgic references and forward-thinking design, and is defined not only by its accommodations, but also a standout offering of buzzy restaurants and bars, including Pier 42 – voted Best Cocktail Bar in Norway in 2021 and 2022 – which is led and managed by Adrián Michalčík who was recently named the Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year. Nightly rates at Amerikalinjen start at US$250 based upon double occupancy. For more information, visit Amerikalinjen.com.
  • The Ultimate Art & Spa Resort Experience at THE THIEF:
    • A luxury waterfront hideaway located on “Thief Island” near downtown Oslo, THE THIEF is the crown jewel of this city-meets-sea peninsula that has been transformed from an islet hideout for local bandits to an ultra-trendy arts district. Here, guests will find carefully selected furniture and top international art pieces gracing the hotel’s walls, creating a chic, museum-like atmosphere. Its permanent collection was curated by the former director of Norway’s National Museum of Art, and its lounge hosts stylish events including concerts, fashion shows, and book launches. Taking advantage of the stunning harbor views of the Oslofjord and the surrounding sea breeze, the THIEF ROOF FOODBAR is open to guests throughout the summer months, where they will be greeted with live music, contemporary Nordic cuisine, signature cocktails, tailored service and more. The hotel also plays host to a sleek spa, which is connected to the property via an underground walkway so guests can remain in complete privacy as they indulge in a plush robe and glass of bubbles on their way to a decadent and relaxing body scrub treatment – the perfect urban escape.  Nightly rates at THE THIEF start at US$300 based upon double occupancy. For more information, visit TheThief.com.

SOMMERRO IN OSLO

Nordic Hotels & Resorts has announced today the grand opening of its newest luxury hotel, Sommerro, located in the heart of Frogner in Oslo’s West End. One of Europe’s most anticipated launches of 2022, the urban retreat is set within the former headquarters of Oslo Lysverker, the city’s original electrical company, and is energizing the neighborhood and its surroundings with a new sense of creative spirit that pays tribute to Norway’s cultural heritage. Providing a home away from home for both travelers and locals, the iconic 231-room Art Deco hotel is complete with 56 branded residences, seven restaurants and bars, meeting and event spaces with capacity for up to 150 people, a 100-seat gilded theater, a landmark wellness space with a fully-equipped gym, and the city’s first year-round rooftop pool, sauna, and terrace.

“Sommerro is more than a hotel. It is an iconic building housing years of history, located in one of Oslo’s most vibrant and exciting areas. We want everyone to feel at home at Sommerro, whether you are a guest or a local seeking a place to hang out with friends, work, or simply relax in beautiful surroundings,” said Petter A. Stordalen, Founder of Nordic Choice Hotels, now known as Strawberry. “We believe that Sommerro will take Oslo to the next level of hospitality, and I am really looking forward to opening the doors to this fantastic project, bringing the building back to life for more generations to come.”

Bespoke Architecture, Design, and Artwork

Sommerro pays homage to a fusion of neoclassical contemporary aesthetics with original historic elements that have been meticulously restored and developed by local firm LPO Architects in collaboration with New York- and London-based studio GrecoDeco. Sommerro was designed as a community in its own right which extends into all aspects of its design, with diverse areas that feel approachable and welcoming to all. The hotel’s thoughtfully designed social spaces and six varied guest room categories, from snug Loft rooms to lavish Junior and Heritage Suites, are embellished with opulent Art Deco details and lush textiles, including oak parquet flooring, custom-designed furnishings upholstered with 1930s Norwegian motifs, hand-knotted rugs, beds from innovative Swedish sleep brand Hilding Anders, and slick bathrooms with custom tiles.

Curated by internationally acclaimed museum director and art critic, Sune Nordgren, the hotel is adorned with an extensive art collection by emerging local artists. The contemporary collection is complimented with a host of original artworks from the 1930s iconic Norwegian artist Per Krohg, including a giant wall fresco in the main hall, a ceiling mural that nods to the building’s heritage highlighting life after the wonders of electricity, and a mosaic feature wall in the basement of the former public baths. Art enthusiasts can enjoy hosted show-rounds of Per Krohg’s collection by local museum curators and the hotel can also arrange private guided tours of Art Deco artwork in the nearby newly opened National Museum.

Curated Cultural Program

With respect to Frogner’s classic and creative neighborhood spirit, a vibrant community brimming with chic boutiques, antique stores, museums, and art galleries, Sommerro will be an open and inspiring house designed to revolutionize the city’s hospitality landscape where visitors and locals alike can gather together to experience a range of immersive programming and activities across its buzzing social spaces. Curated by resident jazz musician and composer, Maren Selvaag, the hotel’s dynamic pop-up music and cultural events inspired by the flourishing music scene of the 1930s will kick off in September with performances by British magician Jon Ensor appearing as The Stranger at Lysverker Scene, the hotel’s own 100-seat gilded theatre that takes its cues from the decadent glamour of old Hollywood and Europe’s grand opera houses. Other regular highlights will include performances from the Sommerro Soul Band and a series of Brunch & Film Classics, with iconic movies screened in Kinoen, a cinema inspired by Tancred Ibsen, the filmmaker who introduced Norway to its first feature film with sound in 1931.

Nordic Cuisine with a Twist

Set to become one of Oslo’s most coveted culinary destinations, Sommerro features seven restaurants and bars, including the city’s only rooftop restaurant, and outposts from local favorites Barramon, a Spanish tapas and wine bar, and Plah, one of the city’s most popular restaurants showcasing elevated cuisine by Norway’s “Best Thai Chef” Terje Ommundsen, which will also offer an exclusive chef’s table experience. Ekspedisjonshallen, an all-day dining spot located in the former hall where the public once paid their electricity bills, comes to life with regular musical performances and a lively cocktail bar on an original sunken floor that serves drinks inspired by the Roaring Twenties. Alongside this decadence, Sommerro will also lead the way with an alcohol-free mixology program, this wellness trend has been spearheaded by bar manager Louika Blouti who has created an innovative menu, named The Prohibitionists. Adjacent to Ekspedisjonshallen is To Søstre – an elegant home for afternoon teas served on decadent cake trolleys, and accompanied by regular classical concerts with a self-playing Steinway Grand Piano, one of the few in Norway. The tea has been designed by British executive head chef, Jonathan Howell and implemented by an award-winning pastry team, it will change according to the season with traditional savory and sweet treats that have a unique Sommerro twist. Further boosting Oslo’s world-class culinary scene, Tak Oslo is a Nordic-Japanese restaurant by award-winning Swedish chef Frida Ronge featuring hyper-local, seasonal dishes using sustainable Norwegian produce and seafood. As the only rooftop restaurant in the city, TAK Oslo will be the place to be seen.

Commitment to Sustainability

As Norway’s largest-ever preservation project, Sommerro upholds and enhances Nordic Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to eco-sustainability, focusing on traditional sustainable elements that prioritize the environment while also emphasizing mental health and career advancement internally along with support of locally owned businesses and community initiatives. This humanistic interest takes a holistic shape through the hotel’s ‘Sommerro Standards’, nine benchmarks that guide all day-to-day operations, partnerships, and hotel philosophies. The hotel has made a commitment to using quality green materials for products and services; sourcing sustainable seafood and local produce; investing in long-lasting relationships with some of Norway’s greatest and greenest businesses and creators, such as social entrepreneurship Sisters in Business that employs female immigrants who create textiles and repair broken items;  sustainable footwear brand New Movements to provide shoes for all its staff as part of the uniform; and Røros Tweed who produce high-quality wool products based on a centuries-old local crafts tradition. Sommerro will be powered on 100 percent renewable energy; provide bikes for guests to rent; offer EV parking with free charging, encourage suppliers to use zero emission transport; and ban all plastic water bottles within the hotel.

 

Sommerro has also implemented an 8-hour rule for employees to ensure work-life balance is always considered – 8 hours of work, 8 hours of fun, and 8 hours of sleep. The hotel prides itself on fostering a truly inclusive, collaborative, and enjoyable home for both employees and visitors alike.

Urban Wellness Retreat

Opening in November, Vestkantbadet, one of Norway’s last remaining public baths from 1932, has been restored to its former glory and reimagined as an 15,000-square-foot subterranean urban wellness retreat, the largest of any city hotel across the Nordic countries. Designed as a haven for health and mindfulness, Vestkantbadet, adorned with a glorious Per Krohg mosaic wall, will feature a series of treatment rooms, original restored Roman baths, infrared sauna, gym, and cold plunge pool offering a traditional Nordic thermotherapy experience. Going beyond the conventional, Sommerro is the first hotel in the Nordics to offer specialist medical aesthetic treatments, along with a range of additional innovative therapies including laser therapy, Wim Hof-style cold water breathing technique sessions, nutritionist workshops, two-day electric sauna boat retreats on the fjord in partnership with KOK, masterclasses with a sleep expert, and complimentary Why We Sleep books in the guestrooms.

Introducing Villa Inkognito

As the second stage in this exciting launch, Sommerro will open Villa Inkognito in March 2023. Housed in a former private residence that dates back to 1870, this 11-suite retreat is adjacent to the hotel with a private entrance and will offer the option to be rented in its entirety. The villa will boast several opulent living rooms, an open kitchen, an intimate bar, a fitness room in the basement and a lovely outdoor area. Its interior design will feature a mix of magnificent antiques, original artwork, decorative details and classic Scandinavian furnishings. Guests can enjoy the privacy of their own villa with full access to all of the amenities and services offered at Sommerro. Villa Inkognito bookings are now open.

Rates at Sommerro, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection, start from USD$250 per double room including breakfast. For more information, visit www.sommerrohouse.com.

 

360 Magazine, LA PRIDE 50th Anniversary

June Top Stories

It’s official; we’ve hit the midway point of 2022. With such an array of breaking news headlines so far this year, let’s review the most resounding stories in the month of June.

Tulsa Shooting

Four people were killed in a shooting that broke out at a campus hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, just eight days after the catastrophic shooting at Robb Elementary School. The gunman, unidentified, was also found dead, producing a total of five fatalities. As the shooting broke out, panic set in as there were “hundreds of rooms and hundreds of people,” located in the hospital, as reported by Richard Meulenberg.

NFL Player Jeff Gladney Dies

After suffering a fatal car accident in Dallas, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney has passed away. At the scene of the crash, along with Gladney, it was confirmed that Andrea Mercedes Palacios was also killed.

Previous Dallas Cowboys Player Marion Barber Found Dead

Marion Barber, former running back for the Dallas Cowboys, was discovered dead in his Frisco apartment. A complaint about a water leak was reported from Barber’s apartment, and police conducted a welfare check. At the scene, they found Barber neglected and unalive. It is uncertain what the cause of his death was.

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard Defamation Suit Ends

After a strenuous courtroom battle, both Johnny Depp and Amber Heard were found legally responsible for defamation by the jury. Their ultimate decision found Heard slandered Depp in three varying statements, with Depp defaming Heard in one statement.

Regarding the financial components, the jury awarded Depp with $10 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages. For Heard, she was awarded $2 million in compensatory damages.  

Jubilee Live Updates: UK kicks off celebrations for Elizabeth II’s 70th year on the throne, United Kingdom

The ‘Trooping the color’ military parade kicks off four days of celebrations across the country for Queen Elizabeth II‘s Platinum Jubilee. Britain’s longest-serving monarch appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace with other members of the royal family at 11 am Thursday. Today, June 2nd, is the first of four days of the Platinum Jubilee festivities.

Thousands of people have flocked to the British capital (London) to greet a queen who arrives at the event at the height of her popularity. Many citizens spent the night outdoors, camping on The Mall, the avenue that leads to Buckingham Palace, in order to reserve a place in the front rows and witness the parade of 1,500 officers and the subsequent flight of the Royal Air Force over the Palace.

Police officer will not be charged for a shooting he committed in 2016, Wisconsin

The officer who shot and killed three people in the line of duty over five years will not be charged in the 2016 shooting of a 25-year-old man who was found sleeping inside a car in a park.

La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke, Milwaukee attorney Scott Hansen and special prosecutors have reported their assessment of the incident and no legal basis has been found to charge and blame former police officer Joseph Mensah for having shot at Jay Anderson.

Phoenix Suffers Mass Shootings

The city of Phoenix, Arizona endured an array of mass shootings in the area. At the end of the month of May, one man was shot at a house party in west Phoenix, leaving an additional five injured.

Only one week later, three separate shootings occurred within 24 hours of each other. In the first, a teenage girl was shot dead at a Phoenix strip mall, with eight enduring injuries. The other two shootings left a teenage boy and a man dead by gunshot wounds.

Shootings in Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Michigan Leave at Least Nine Dead

Saturday June 5 and Sunday June 6 attributed to the United States growing number of mass shootings in the year of 2022. In a shocking turn of events, shootings in Philadelphia, Tennessee and Michigan all broke out.

A fight broke out in Philadelphia that resulted in three people being slain, with 11 others shot in the crossfire. The next shooting occurred near a nightclub in Chattanooga with four people killed, and 14 more people suffering injuries from gunshots. The final shooting of the deadly weekend took place in Saginaw where an additional three people were killed.

JUNETEENTH

Juneteenth, also called Freedom Day, African American Independence Day, Emancipation Day, or Jubilee Day is a federal holiday celebrating the emancipation of slavery in the United States. It commemorates the proclamation of freedom for enslaved persons at Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. Bringing together June and nineteenth, this festival represents pride and solidarity with the black community.

Latest update of the war in Ukraine

The United Nations (UN) denounces that Russia uses rape as a weapon of war. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to many allegations of war crimes and abuses perpetrated by Russian soldiers. The UN has corroborated 124 cases of alleged sexual violence committed in Ukraine.

The Secretary-General’s Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, has stated that “women make up the majority of potential victims”. Of the corroborated total, it indicates that 56 are women. It follows that 41 of the complaints are from girls and seven boys. It includes rape, forced public nudity, attempted rape, and threat of sexual violence.

Britney Spears Ties the Knot with Sam Asghari

The princess of pop herself, Britney Spears, married fiancé Sam Asghari in a magical ceremony Thursday June 9. Dressed by Donatella Versace, the bride and groom both worn custom Versace designs for their big day.

The magical, private evening took place at her Thousand Oaks home in California with around 60 guests. The icon celebrated the special night with some of her dearest friends and family, including Donatella, Paris Hilton, Selena Gomez, Drew Barrymore and Madonna.

A celebration of love and freedom, Britney danced the night away at her well-deserved fairytale wedding.

Justin Bieber Suffers Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Justin Bieber announced the devastating news that he contracted Ramsay Hunt syndrome, “a neurological disorder characterized by paralysis of the facial nerve,” as defined by RareDiseases.org. Bieber took to his Instagram to announce the news, clarifying his recent cancellation of upcoming shows for the summer.

In a video posted to his Instagram, he showed followers the effects of the virus, stating, “As you can see, this eye is not blinking, I can’t smile on this side of my face, […] This nostril will not move. So full paralysis in this side of my face.”

Continuing he declared, “This is pretty serious, as you can see. I wish this wasn’t the case, but obviously my body’s telling me I gotta slow down.”

Texas Legislator Threatens Bill that would Prohibit Minors from Attending Drag Shows

Following a celebratory “Drag Your Kids to Pride” event held in Dallas, Texas, a Republican legislator has made threats to propose a bill that would forbid children from attending drag shows in the state. The event, held in celebration of Pride month, was described a family-friendly show that fostered honor and commemoration, like many other Pride events held throughout the month of June.

The event reportedly went viral across social media, alarming Texas Republican Bryan Slaton. Slaton took to Twitter to announce he would file a bill to restrict minors from attending drag shows. He stated, “I would never take my children to a drag show and I know Speaker Dade Phelan and my Republican colleagues wouldn’t either, […] The events of this past weekend were horrifying and show a disturbing trend in which perverted adults are obsessed with sexualizing young children.”

His disgust surrounding the celebratory event has alarmed people across the nation, especially after the mass elementary school shooting that occurred in Uvalde, Texas and left 22 dead one month prior.

Drag superstar Alyssa Edwards, originally from Texas, has publicly communicated her discomfort with Republican officials’ responses to the shooting versus the Pride event. Edwards took to TMZ and Twitter with statements, asserting directly to Slaton, “You, sir, have tweeted more about #drag than the loss at #Uvalde. Is this truly about children or politics? #Priorities.”

A group of US senators reaches a minimum agreement to increase gun control, United States

  1. The measures include a revision of the process for purchasing weapons for those under 21 years of age.
  2. The group of senators that has reached an agreement in principle consists of 10 Republicans and 10 Democrats.

A group of United States senators announced on Sunday June 12 an agreement in principle to increase control over firearms, which proposes minimum measures after the mass shootings in a school in Uvalde (Texas) and in a supermarket in Buffalo (New York) . In a statement, the group of senators, both Democrats and Republicans, have indicated that the agreement includes a review of the process for purchasing weapons for those under 21 years of age ( the perpetrators of the #Uvalde and the #Buffalo shootings were both 18 years old).

Rapper Trouble dies after being shot at an apartment complex in Georgia

Atlanta rapper Trouble was shot to death at an apartment complex in Georgia. The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office confirmed news of the 34-year-old man’s death to local media on Sunday, June 5. According to WSBTV Atlanta, Trouble, whose artist’s real name was Mariel Semonte Orr, was shot around 3:20 a.m. at the Lake St. James apartment complex in Conyers.

Police officers claimed that when they arrived at the crime scene, they found the rapper lying on the ground. He was shot once in the chest and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The rapper’s label, Def Jam, released a statement: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the children, loved ones and fans of Trouble. A true voice for his city and an inspiration for the community he proudly represented. RIP Scoob.”

Bitcoin ATMs become more common, more than 880 machines installed in June already

In recent days, Bitcoin ATM installations around the world have increased, Coin ATM Radar has stated in its recent report. In the first two weeks of June alone, more than 882 Bitcoin ATMs have sprung up in different locations around the world. The increase in the number of these fiat-to-crypto exchange machines is related to the emerging regulation of cryptocurrencies in various countries. Besides, institutional investments in the crypto industry have managed to keep investor appetite intact, so more people have opened up their financial portfolios to also include crypto assets.

On average daily installation is between 16 and 23 crypto ATMs worldwide, data from Coin ATM Radar shows in a report.

Ranchers against the project to lower nitrogen pollution, Netherlands

The Dutch government announced on Friday, June 10, the obligation to lower emissions to 70% in some places and even up to 95% in others, to protect nature. The objective is to attack the emission of nitrogen from cattle that produces their digestion, feces and urine. The Minister for Nature and Nitrogen Policy, Christianne van der Wal, guarantees that it is an “inevitable transition”: “We have to emit much less nitrogen, and unfortunately the agricultural sector emits a lot of nitrogen. They have done a lot to emit less, but for unfortunately it is not enough. We still have to reduce it much more”.

Something that will cause major upheavals in the country’s multimillion-dollar agricultural industry since The Netherlands is the second largest agricultural exporter in the world, after the United States. A definite NO from farmers’ associations; the head of the Netherlands Association for Horticulture and Agriculture, Sjaak van der Tak, replies: “Our members say that it is good enough, that we have reached the limit. That means that we will prepare the appropriate actions to make it clear, in a dignified way, that These plans are unacceptable.”

The new National Museum in Oslo becomes the largest cultural building in the Nordic region

The most striking feature of the new museum is the huge illuminated exhibition hall at the top of the building. It will be used for temporary exhibitions of international importance. The building was designed by architect Kleihues + Schuwerk Gesellschaft von Architekten, with an emphasis on longevity and dignity over sensational architecture. The roof terrace of the new museum offers a unique view of the inner fjord of Oslo. The square in front of the main entrance has become an urban meeting place, with a coffe shop and benches that invite you to enter to rest.

“The new National Museum is the largest museum in the Nordic countries and is built to contain, preserve and display our amazing collection of visual arts, crafts, design and architecture dating back to ancient times and continuing to this day,” explained the director from the National Museum, Karin Hindsbo.

Spanish NASA finally takes off: this is how its space agency should be to be effective, Spain

The Spanish Government will approve today (June 14) the Space Council to promote the start-up in 2023 of the long-awaited Spanish Space Agency. Scientists and engineers from the sector give their opinion on how this body should be and if it is feasible to locate it outside of Madrid.

Mick Jagger tests positive for covid-19, Amsterdam

The Rolling Stones cancel a concert in Amsterdam after singer Mick Jagger tested positive for covid-19. Mick Jagger’s positive status was announced in a statement on the band’s verified Instagram account: “The Rolling Stones have been forced to cancel tonight’s concert in Amsterdam at the Johan Cruijff ArenA, after Mick Jagger tested positive after experiencing COVID symptoms upon arrival at the stadium,” the statement read. “The Rolling Stones deeply regret tonight’s postponement, but the safety of the audience, fellow musicians and touring crew must come first.”

The concert will be rescheduled for a later date and original tickets will be honored. The Rolling Stones’ current summer tour is for the band’s 60th anniversary.

The emotional farewell of the Real Madrid player: Marcelo Vieira, Spain

Marcelo: “I’ve done everything I set out to and leave here feeling happy, I leave a legacy for the youngsters”. “This season I realized that you don’t need to play to be important, you need to be part of a team and understand the coach”, he added.

The football player addressed the media at the press conference held after the tribute and farewell ceremony that took place at Real Madrid City: “I don’t think much about the future, I always live in the moment. It’s hard to leave the club of your life after so much joy, suffering, training, pain, giving your all for the club. Putting on this shirt is a beautiful and powerful thing. The future doesn’t scare me because history’s already been written, I had to do this. I’m pleased with myself and my family’s proud of me too. There’s no uncertainty”.

Current Real Madrid teammates like his compatriots Vinícius Júnior, Éder Militão or Casemiro, former teammates like, Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, or Sergio Ramos have wanted to pay tribute on social networks to Marcelo, who leaves the white club after 16 seasons.

Shakira and Gerard Piqué confirm their separation as a couple, Spain

After twelve years together, Shakira and Gerard Piqué separated in the midst of an international scandal. The Colombian singer would have discovered her Spanish husband’s infidelities with a young model and decided to ask for a divorce.

Te felicito‘ (I congratulate you): Shakira’s song whose lyrics all relate to Piqué. After the announcement of the separation, the speculations have not stopped and it has become a highly commented topic on television talk shows. The song has not only become popular for being a danceable theme, but also for the lyrics. And it is that there are many who have related the lyrics of the song with the FC Barcelona footballer on social platforms.

A jihadist attack in Burkina Faso causes 86 deaths and 19,000 displaced, Africa

The number of displaced people after the terrorist attack that took place in northern Burkina Faso on the night of June 11 to 12 and in which 86 people died, amounts to more than 19,000 people, the authorities of the African country reported this past Saturday.

Since 2015, Burkina Faso has been dealing with a jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced nearly two million people. The conflict, which is also affecting parts of Niger and Mali, is displacing rural communities and contributing to widespread food shortages.

The left political party makes history and wins the Presidency of Colombia for the first time with Gustavo Petro

With 98.86% of the recognized votes, Petro obtained 11,185,671 votes, equivalent to 50.49%. Gustavo Petro is a 62-year-old Colombian economist and politician, leader of the Political Coalition Historical Pact. he will succeed the president of Colombia, Iván Duque, from next August 7.

Beyonce releases “Break My Soul”

Beyonce released her new song on Monday June 20, and we can safely say that “Break My Soul” did its part in “breaking” the internet. With a house music melody, the single has marked the return of the artist. The new track also reunites queen Bey with bounce music legend Big Freedia, who collaborated on the artist’s 2016 track “Formation.”

VidCon 2022

VidCon returned for the first time in a few years and was held at the Anaheim Convention Center. An array of creators and digital moguls came together at the four-day event. A surplus of panels, vendors, meet and greets and after hour celebrations took place. Sponsored this year for the first time by the popular platform of TikTok, esteemed creators like Charli D’Amelio, MrBeast, Brittany Broski and Nia Sioux were in attendance.

R. Kelly senteced to 30 years prisontime

R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison for numerous sex trafficking charges. The R&B singer reportedly used his celebrity status throughout his career to coerce young individuals to participate in sexual acts. 

Kelly’s conviction in 2021 found him guilty of one count of racketeering and eight breaches of the Mann Act, which criminalizes the use of “any woman or girl for prostitution or debauchery, or for any other immoral purpose.” 

Toyota car graphic via Reb Czukoski for use by 360 MAGAZINE

How To Get Great Leiebil Services at Gardermoen, Oslo

If your plan is to visit Oslo sometime soon, you’ll want to begin the preparation process to ensure you enjoy your stay in Norway as much as possible. In case you are wondering which types of preparations, let’s cut right to the chase: you will need to rent a car in Oslo if you really want to enjoy your stay there and enjoy the freedom that a vehicle can provide you with.

You might not know is how to get the best leiebil – aka car rental – services at the Gardermoen airport in Oslo. It’s alright to be bit confused about this, but you need to learn more about the process in order to be prepared to use the best viable services.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of renting a car, then you should check this out: https://dailygenius.com/general/5-advantages-of-hiring-a-rental-car/

The most important thing you’ll need to do when getting ready to visit Oslo is learn how to get the perfect leiebil services upon arrival. This will help you end up being pleased with the specific car that you rent and with the overall process of cooperation with certain companies. There is no doubt that you want to be happy with the car that you’ll be driving while in Norway and that you want to have a great cooperating experience with those companies.

You’ll need to be highly attentive and observant when obtaining leiebil services at Gardermoen. Knowing which steps, you’ll need to take in order to have the best renting experience will obtain the goal of making sure that you have the perfect collaboration experience with a particular company. In simple words, you want everything to run smoothly and there are some important steps that you’ll need to take to make that happen.

In short, we’ll provide you with a list of some of the most important steps you’ll need to take when aiming to get the perfect leiebil services for you. This guarantees that your entire car renting process will become much easier, thus, let us get started.

Be Careful Which Company You Are Choosing

To really get amazing rental services, the first thing that needs to happen is this: you need to understand that the actual quality of these services extremely depends on the company you’ll choose to work with. Different companies offer different services and you need to choose a great company in order to get great renting experience and to feel the car hire benefits, including those listed on this page.

Make Sure You Are Aware Of All The Rental Terms & Requirements

After you have found the perfect company and have set your mind on a specific vehicle, you might feel tempted to obtain the key and start driving. You’ll need to wait for a little while longer before doing this to get a better understanding of all the rental terms and requirements that you need to be aware of when hiring a vehicle.

There are a few important things to pay attention to when it comes to requirements, but the best thing to do is listen to the professionals carefully and make sure you are understanding everything they are saying when talking about the renting terms. Among other things, you should check their fuel policy, so you know precisely what to do when returning the car. After getting familiar with all the rental terms, you’ll have a much clearer understanding of this entire process, making it easier and more enjoyable.

Don’t Forget To Inspect The Vehicle

NEVER forget to inspect the vehicle before leaving with it. It may be damaged to a certain extent, and you want to be perfectly aware of that. This will help you check if the car you are choosing is safe to drive and it will also help you become aware of any dents and similar “injuries” that the car might have suffered previously.

In addition to becoming aware of potential injuries to the car, you should also take pictures, serving as proof that you weren’t responsible for the damage. That way, you will avoid getting charged for something that you haven’t done.

Do Some Fee Comparisons

When you are starting the research process on companies that offer rental services at Gardermoen, you will find that there are quite a few different ones. And, of course, their fees will be different. If you visit Goautos Gardermoen you will be able to compare those fees and thus figure out which firms are reasonable in this regard. Comparing these fees will lead you towards making the best possible choice.

Ask All The Questions You Have Before You Drive Off

Even after you do all proper research, you might still have some unanswered.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with that and there is a solution to that specific issue. Simply put, you should ask all the questions that you have before actually driving off to ensure there will be no surprises along the way. Make sure to ask all your questions and get the answers before making final decisions.

Eagles of Death Metal × Christmas

Today, November 19, UMe and Eagles Of Death Metal’s Jesse Boots Electric Hughes join forces to gift us all with Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas, a six-track EP sure to bring much needed holiday cheer to the ears and hearts of every little girl and boy. The EP is available now on CD and all digital formats.

Hughes puts his signature aural alter-ego Boots Electric stamp on a half-dozen electrified interpretations of perennial holiday classics that include God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Put A Little Love In Your Heart, O Holy Night, Little Drummer Boy, and Little Town Of Bethlehem. The sonic highlight rounding out the EP is an extraordinary, and quite stirring, a cappella rendition of O Holy Night featuring Hughes and EODM bandmate Joshua Homme on vocals.

Just a few songs to warm your heart during Christmas time. I hope you like them. May Christmas bring peace to you all. Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, I love you, and God bless you all. Hughes said of this new, winter-wonderful holiday EP.

Order Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas HERE now.

Eagles of Death Metal are also pleased to announce the second leg of their upcoming 24th Anniversary Tour, which will take place across Europe next March & April. The previously announced first leg of the tour kicks off in Brighton, UK on November 22, 2021, with special guest Bones UK. Ticketing information can be found HERE.

Concertgoers will also be able to purchase bottles of Eagles of Death Metal: Shrieking in Tongues, EODM’s own brand of cherry-cola and habanero-flavored BBQ hot sauce as made by Dean of the Dead Hot Sauce. Shrieking in Tongues will be available for purchase onsite at each European venue as a tour-merch exclusive.

Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas arrives just in time for the holidays, with six new recordings sure to arouse everyone’s holiday spirits. Order Eagles of Death Metal Presents A Boots Electric Christmas HERE.

EAGLES OF DEATH METAL PRESENTS A BOOTS ELECTRIC CHRISTMAS

[CD + digital]

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Put A Little Love In Your Heart

O Holy Night

Little Drummer Boy

Little Town Of Bethlehem

O Holy Night (A Cappella)

EAGLES OF DEATH METAL: THE 24TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR 2021-22 EUROPEAN TOUR DATES (WITH SPECIAL GUESTS BONES)

2021

November 22              Brighton, UK                           Chalk

November 23              Cardiff, Wales                         Tramshed

November 24              Newcastle, UK                         University

November 26              Birmingham, UK                      02 Institute

November 27              Dublin, Ireland                        Academy

November 28              Belfast, Ireland                       Limelight

November 29              Glasgow, Scotland                 SWG3 Galzanisers

December 1                Leeds, UK                              Beckett University

December 2                London, UK                            Roundhouse

December 3                Nottingham, UK                      Rock City

December 5                Manchester, UK                      02 Ritz

December 6                Bristol, UK                               02 Academy

2022

March 19                     Zurich, Switzerland                 Komplex

March 20                     Stuttgart, Germany                 LKA-Longhorn

March 21                     Milan, Italy                               Alcatraz

March 22                     Vienna, Austria                       Simm City

March 24                     Budapest, Hungary                 Akvarium Klub

March 25                     Zagreb, Croatia                      Culture Factory

March 27                     Prague, Czech Republic         Lucerna Music Bar

March 28                     Munich, Germany                   Backstage Werk

March 30                     Bremen, Germany                  Modernes

March 31                     Copenhagen, Denmark          Amager Bio

April 1                          Oslo, Norway                          Sentrum Scene

April 2                          Gothenburg, Sweden              Pustervik

April 4                          Stockholm, Sweden                Slaktkrykan

April 6                          Tallinn, Estonia                       Helitehas

April 7                          Riga, Latvia                            Palladium

April 9                          Warsaw, Poland                     Stodola

April 10                        Berlin, Germany                     Huxleys

April 11                        Hamburg, Germany                Fabrik

April 13                        Manster, Germany                  Skaters Palace

April 14                        Amsterdam, Netherlands        Melkweg

April 16                        Cologne, Germany                 Live Music Hall

April 18                        Besancon, France                  La Rodia

April 20                        Barcelona, Spain                    Razzmatazz

April 21                        Madrid, Spain                         Sala La Riviera

April 22                        Lisbon, Portugal                     Coliseum

April 23                        Santiago, Spain                      Sala Capitol

April 25                        Bordeaux, France                   La Krakatoa

April 26                        Paris, France                          Olympia

April 27                        Antwerp, Belgium                    Trix

April 28                        Luxembourg, Luxembourg       Den Atelier

April 30                        Blandford Forum, UK               Teddy Rocks Festival

Joy Crookes' Skin via Epic Records for use by 360 Magazine

Joy Crookes – Skin

BRIT Award nominated singer/songwriter Joy Crookes releases her highly anticipated debut album, Skin.  The 13 track body of work includes previously releases singles, “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now,” “When You Were Mine,” “Skin,” and the newest, “Trouble.” Get it HERE via Epic Records/Insanity.

With Crookes credited as an executive producer on the album, alongside the formidable Blue May (Blood Orange), Skin is a hugely personal, game-changing body of work from one of the UK’s boldest and brightest young talents. A collection of songs built and honed throughout her adolescence and into her early twenties, and finished last year within the most turbulent of circumstances, Skin touches on topics such as mental health, relationships, and politics all with grace and sensitivity. Crookes has created a truly special body of work that is both perfectly of the moment, and entirely timeless. Skin’s album artwork is shot by Carlota Guerrero, who has previously worked with Arca, Chloe x Halle, and Solange for all of her imagery for A Seat At The Table.

Already, the album has garnered Crookes a massive amount of acclaim worldwide. British Vogue has dubbed her, “undoubtedly one of the most exciting artists to emerge in the music scene this year,” while The Guardian has praised her “effortlessly nuanced and individual melodic sensibility.” I-D has praised her music as “powerful” while Complex has noted her “soul-stirring vocals,” and Billboard has similarly highlighted her “unfaltering vocal performance.”  The New York Times in a recent profile may have summed up Skin best:  “Crookes offers listeners a nuanced and candid exploration of her multiracial identity. At a time when many conversations about race in the arts and calls for change have only recently begun, Crookes’ commitment to vulnerability in her storytelling has helped her connect with a growing—and loyal—fan base.” 

Up next, Joy Crookes will tour the UK later this year in celebration of the new album; the run kicks off in November in Brighton and extends into next year when she will take the tour to Europe. Full list of dates below.

UK Dates

11/6/21 Brighton, England Concorde 2 SOLD OUT

11/7/21 Bristol, England The Trinity Centre SOLD OUT

11/8/21 London, England O2 Forum Kentish Town SOLD OUT

11/9/21 London, England O2 Forum Kentish Town SOLD OUT

11/11/21 Dublin, Republic of Ireland The Academy SOLD OUT

11/15/21 Glasgow, Scotland St Luke’s SOLD OUT

11/17/21 Leeds, England Leeds University Stylus

11/18/21 Birmingham, England The O2 Institute

 

European Dates

2/10/22 Paris, France La Gaîté Lyrique SOLD OUT

2/11/22 Amsterdam, Netherlands Melkweg SOLD OUT

2/12/22 Brussels, Belgium Ancienne Belgique SOLD OUT

2/14/22 Cologne, Germany Gebaude 9

2/15/22 Munich, Germany Strom

2/17/22 Berlin, Germany Heimathafen Neukoelln

2/18/22 Hamburg, Germany The Stage Club

2/20/22 Copenhagen, Denmark Pumpehuset

2/21/22 Helsinki, Finland Tavastia Club

2/22/22 Oslo, Norway Parkteatret

2/23/22 Stockholm, Sweden Nalen Klubb

2/25/22 Warsaw, Poland Hybrydy

2/26/22 Zurich, Switzerland Exil Club

Kygo × X Ambassadors

Global superstar, producer and DJ, Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll – a.k.a Kygo releases his new song “Undeniable” ft. X Ambassadors today. Listen HERE. “Undeniable”, out now via RCA Records is the follow up to Kygo’s most recent release “Love Me Now” ft. Zoe Wees which was released this summer and  “Gone Are The Days” ft. James Gillespie which was released in the Spring.

Kygo says, “Sam and I had so much fun writing this one together in LA then performing it last month at Banc of California Stadium. It’s a special song to us and I hope everyone likes “Undeniable” as much as we do.”

X Ambassadors lead singer/songwriter Sam Nelson Harris says, “I’ve always had an affinity for big-ass love songs but don’t often end up writing them. This one came together so organically and quickly— it was such a treat to write it with Kash, Nick, Whethan and Kyrre. I honestly couldn’t be more excited to sing it at all my friends weddings.”

Kygo recently played a massive sold out show in Los Angeles at the Banc of California Stadium in early September. This followed his triumphant first live show back in front of a crowd, where he sold out the historic Red Rocks amphitheater in June. He recently announced, and then sold out within 10 minutes the biggest stadium in Oslo (Ullevaal Stadium) for a show scheduled for July 2nd, 2022. He continues his ongoing residency at The Wynn in Las Vegas. Additionally, through his lifestyle brand Palm Tree Crew, he recently threw his one-of-a-kind intimate festival experience, Palm Tree Music Festival at the Francis S. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton, NY. The single-day event captured the feeling of summer in paradise and featured performances by Kygo himself, Zedd, Gryffin (DJ Set), Frank Walker and Forester.

2020 was a massive year for Kygo. He released a remix of Donna Summer’s Grammy Award winning, platinum, #1 song “Hot Stuff” as well as a remix of Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It” to rave reviews. He also released his critically acclaimed third full-length album Golden Hour which features his hit single “Lose Somebody” with OneRepublic as well as “Higher Love” with Whitney Houston, the latter of which has garnered over 1.1 billion streams worldwide and charted at Top 40 radio. Earlier this year Kygo performed a breathtaking set which was livestreamed on Moment House. Filmed on a snow-capped mountain top in the Sunnmore Alps in his home country of Norway, the one-of-a-kind virtual experience allowed audiences around the world to watch the global superstar deliver a career-spanning set amidst a breathtaking environment unlike anywhere they’ve seen him perform before.

BUY/STREAM GOLDEN HOUR HERE

Yumi Zouma New Tour

New Zealand’s alternative pop quartet Yumi Zouma will embark on a 21-date U.S. tour starting April 7 in Atlanta, GA, and ending May 6 in San Diego, CA. Notable stops include the Music Hall of Williamsburg in New York and the Roxy in Los Angeles. Spotify presale starts at 10AM local time 9/27 until the end of midnight, 10/1. Public on-sale begins at 10/1 local time. The tour announcement comes fresh off the release of their brand new single Give It Hell.

YUMI ZOUMA ON TOUR 2022

EUROPE

03/17 – Birmingham, UK @ The Sunflower Lounge

03/18 – London, UK @ Lafayette

03/19 – Manchester, UK @ Yes

03/21 – Dublin, Ireland @ Whelan’s

03/22 – Glasgow, UK @ King Tut’s

03/24 – Paris, France @ Le Hasard Ludique

03/25 – Brussels, Belgium @ Botanique

03/27 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Melkweg

03/28 – Hamburg, Germany @ Turmzimmer

03/29 – Copenhagen, Denmark @ Ideal Bar Vega

03/31 – Stockholm, Sweden @ Obaren

04/01 – Oslo, Norway @ Krxsset

04/03 – Berlin, Germany @ Burg Schnabel

04/04 – Warsaw, Poland @ Praga Centrum

U.S.

04/07 – Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West

04/08 – Durham, NC @ Motorco Music Hall

04/09 – Washington, DC @ Black Cat

04/12 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer

04/13 – Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg

04/14 – Boston, MA @ The Sinclair

04/15 – Portsmouth, NH @ The Press Room

04/16 – Montral, QC @ Petit Campus

04/17 – Toronto, ON @ Horseshoe Tavern

04/18 – Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop

04/20 – Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall

04/21 – Madison, WI @ High Noon Saloon

04/22 – St. Paul, MN @ Turf Club

04/23 – Lawrence, KS @ The Bottleneck

04/25 – Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater

04/28 – Vancouver, BC @ The Fox Cabaret

04/29 – Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile

04/30 – Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios

05/04 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy

05/05 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy

05/06 – San Diego, CA @ The Casbah

ABOUT YUMI ZOUMA:

Originally created as a long-distance project between friends online, Yumi Zouma is a collaboration drawn from around the world, with members based in New York City, London, and their home of New Zealand.

The self-produced quartet have honed their craft of delicate pop tapestries by way of emailed home recordings, resulting in records such as 2020’s acclaimed Truth or Consequences, lauded by FADER as “shimmering nostalgia-pop.”

However, on the fearless new single “Give It Hell,” singer Christie Simpson issues a call of resistance amongst the chaos of our modern age. The song, which was recorded over remote sessions undertaken throughout 2020, showcases an expanded sonic palette of live drums, grand pianos, orchestral strings, and woodwinds revealing a cacophonous glimpse of the band’s fourth and most formidable album yet, out early 2022.

For more information about Yumi Zouma, visit their website or connect with them on social media @yumizouma

Norwegian Air Customers Donate to UNICEF

$3 Million Donated to UNICEF by Norwegian Air Passengers

Customers of Norwegian Air, the World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline and Value Airline of the Year, have donated a total of three million dollars since a donation option was introduced to the booking process in July 2015.

Within its first year, the new donation option raised more than $720,000, and in July 2018, Norwegian introduced onboard donations featured in the personal in-flight entertainment system on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. American passengers are among the top donors with Californians donating the most to UNICEF.

Norwegian and UNICEF established its signature partnership in 2007. Since then the airline has supported various initiatives, which also includes its “Fill a Plane” campaign, saving hundreds of thousands of children. Five humanitarian flights carried out since 2014 have brought tons of emergency aid to the Central African Republic; the world’s second-largest refugee camp, Za’atari in Jordan; Mali; to Djibouti for relief to Yemen; and last year, to Chad.

Through the booking process customers can choose to donate $3, $5, $10 or $15, which will go directly to UNICEF. Donations can support the following:

  • $3 can provide a life-saving mosquito net, which will protect newborns against malaria;
  • $5 can enable UNICEF to vaccinate 20 children against polio;
  • $10 can provide an entire class of 20 students with exercise books; and
  • $15 can buy 38 packets of therapeutic food – enough for two-weeks of treatment for a malnourished child.

“I would like to personally thank all our wonderful customers for their generosity. Their donations help UNICEF ensure that even more children around the world get access to the future they deserve. When it is this easy to donate, we notice that many more contribute to such a great cause,” said Norwegian’s Founder and CEO, Bjørn Kjos.

“So much of UNICEF’s work is made possible by the ongoing generosity of partners like Norwegian Air,” said Caryl M. Stern, President and CEO, UNICEF USA. “We are incredibly grateful for the support and commitment of Norwegian Air and travelers to help UNICEF continue to put children first around the world. Every donation – large or small – makes a difference.”

Norwegian passengers donate the most as they also represent the largest nationality of the airline’s customer base. Most generous per donation, however, are the Danes. Among American customers, passengers out of Oakland are the most generous per donation (average $5.50 donation), followed by Los Angeles ($5.40) and New Yorkers ($5.08), although in total, more New Yorkers donated as the city is home to most Norwegian routes.

Top 10 routes where passengers have donated the most to UNICEF during their booking process:

1)  London – New York

2)  New York – London

3)  Bergen – Oslo

4)  Oslo – Bergen

5)  Trondheim – Oslo

6)   Los Angeles – London

7)   Stockholm – London

8)   London – Los Angeles

9)   Oslo – London

10) Oslo – Trondheim

Last year, nine Norwegian employees also raised more than $50,000 by representing the airline and UNICEF during the NYC Marathon. This year, another group of employees will do the same.

About Norwegian

Norwegian is the world’s fifth largest low-cost airline and carried over 37 million passengers in 2018. The airline operates more than 500 routes to over 150 destinations in Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Thailand, Caribbean, North and South America. Norwegian has a fleet of more than 160 aircraft, with an average age of 3.8 years, making it one of the world’s youngest and “greenest” fleets.

Norwegian has been named the Most Fuel-Efficient Airline on Transatlantic Routes by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) twice. Norwegian has been voted ‘Europe’s Best Low-Cost Airline’ by passengers for six consecutive years at the SkyTrax World Airline Awards 2013-2018, along with being named the ‘World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul’ Airline’ for the past four years. Norwegian employs more than 11,000 people worldwide.

Follow @Fly_Norwegian on Twitter, join the discussion on Facebook and keep up with our adventures on Instagram. For more information on Norwegian and its network, visit norwegian.com.

About UNICEF

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. UNICEF USA supports UNICEF’s work through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org

“Murmurations”

Ben Howard’s new song, “Murmurations,” as well as his music video for the lead single, “Nica Libres At Dusk,” is out now—listen to the song HERE and watch the video HERE. The new music appears on Howard’s highly anticipated new album, Noonday Dream, out June 1 on Republic Records. Howard filmed and directed the “Nica Libres At Dusk” video with Australian cinematographer Allan Wilson in the Atlas Mountains.

The new music has begun to receive widespread critical praise—The Independent proclaims, “‘A Boat To An Island On The Wall’ is a sprawling, mesmerizing track that shifts restlessly, rocking back and forth like that small boat on the waves, with the familiar sound of Howard’s low, gruff vocals,” while Paste adds, “This seven-minute single [‘A Boat To An Island On The Wall’] features Howard harmonizing with himself, as ambient chords slowly ease the quiet song into a grungy guitar riff.” NYLON furthers, “Press play and let this cinematic gem wash over you.” Additionally, you can watch Howard’s performances of “Towing The Line” and “Nica Libres At Dusk” on “Later… with Jools Holland” HERE and HERE.

Howard will return stateside this fall confirming a run of headlining North American dates, which include stops at legendary venues such as Berkeley’s Greek Theatre, Denver’s Red Rocks AmphitheatreLos Angeles’ Shrine AuditoriumNew York’s Hammerstein BallroomMontreal’s Bell Centre as well as DC’s new venue Anthem. Fans can purchase tickets at http://benhowardmusic.co.uk/live. See below for complete tour details.

Noonday Dream was written and produced by Howard, with production contributions from regular collaborator and band-mate Mickey Smith. The album was recorded over the course of two years in various studios throughout Europe, including the legendary Sawmills Studio as well as locations in southwest France. The new recording continues to highlight Howard’s sonic evolution with unpredictable and textured arrangements and rich, emotive songwriting.

Howard’s debut album Every Kingdom was released in October 2011. The album sold more than one million copies globally, receiving a Mercury Music Prize nomination, and winning him two Brit Awards in 2012 for “British Breakthrough” and “British Solo Male Artist.” The follow up, I Forget Where We Were, which was released in 2014 was met with similar critical and commercial acclaim—the album earned an Ivor Novello Award nomination, the U.K.’s most prestigious songwriting accolade, and charted #1 in the U.K. Howard’s music has amassed well over half a billion streams to date.