The Forever coogs take a group picture after making it to the quarterfinals.|Raphael Fernandez/ The Cougar
In their first season together, Forever Coogs triumphed over Team Challenge ALS to clinch a spot in The Basketball Tournament Quarterfinals.
The Houston alumni team leveraged their home-court advantage, out-rebounding their opponents 37-28 and sealed the win with two clutch free throws by Melvin Frazier during a decisive 14-3 run to close the game.
TBT is an annual summer competition in the U.S. featuring an open-invitation, single-elimination format with a cash prize at stake. Since the beginning, the number of teams participating fluctuated but in recent years, it has settled at 64.
This year’s tournament began on July 19, featuring alumni teams from all over. Forever Coogs first matchup was against Austin’s Team and the Forever Coogs took the win home with a score of 71-60. Rob Gray led the team in scoring with a total of 21 points, followed by Wesley Van with 13 points and six rebounds.
Advancing to the quarterfinals, the Forever Coogs continued their undefeated run by defeating Challenge ALS 75-70. Despite being down the first half of the game, they quickly turned around to secure a 3-0 record.
Gray was the led the scoring with 23 points, going 3-7 from the three-point line, Justin Gorham with 12 points and six rebounds and Frazier with 11 points and eight rebounds leading the Coogs to their third victory in the tournament.
On Aug. 4, the Forever Coogs took a run in the final game against Carmen’s Crew, who held a 1-2 record.
The game started with Tashawn Thomas sinking a jump shot for the Coogs, but Carmen’s Crew quickly responded. In the final five minutes, the Coogs kept the game tight, trailing by just six points.
However, Carmen’s Crew ultimately took control in overtime, edging out the Coogs by two points.
Throughout the tournament, the Coogs averaged 73.3 points per game, shot 24.8% from three-point range, 77.7% from the free-throw line and recorded a 41.8% rebounding rate across their six games.
Don’t expect colleges and universities to replace stolen or damaged student property, but GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance can.
PHOENIX (August 13, 2024): As students across the country prepare to return to college campuses, GradGuard, the number one provider of college tuition and renters insurance programs, urges families to consider how to protect themselves from the risks of college life.
College marks a significant milestone for many young adults, often representing their first taste of independence and newfound responsibilities. Among these responsibilities is the important task of safeguarding personal belongings, a consideration that may be new to many students.
“Students and families are smart be aware of the risks that come with living on or off campus,” said John Fees, co-founder and CEO of GradGuard. “The average college student brings thousands of dollars worth of personal property to campus, from laptops and bikes and more. The potential financial loss from theft or damage can be substantial.”
Recent Clery Act Reports reveal an alarming average of 24,000 crime and safety incidents are reported annually on college campuses. Over 3 million students living in on-campus housing are likely unaware that their college or university is unlikely to replace stolen or damaged personal property.
• 2,411 robberies were reported on average annually • 1,840 fires were reported on average annually • 20,521 burglaries were reported on average annually
This underscores the real risks students face, even in seemingly secure environments like residence halls or campus facilities.
GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance offers a solution tailored specifically to the needs of college students. Here are five compelling reasons why families are smart to consider renters protection:
1. Protection Against Theft: With thousands of reported incidents each year on college campuses nationwide, theft is a genuine concern. 2. Liability Coverage: Unintentional damage happens, especially in shared living spaces. Whether a sprinkler head discharges from a football being tossed around or a student left a candle burning overnight that caused a fire, renters insurance can protect students from financial liability for damage to their residence hall and to others’ property. 3. Affordability: GradGuard’s policies start with a flexible $100 deductible and no credit check, making College Renters Insurance an accessible option for budget-conscious students and families. 4. Worldwide Property Coverage: Protection extends beyond the residence hall, covering students’ belongings whether they’re studying abroad, visiting home on break, or anywhere in the world. 5. Valuable Financial Literacy: Insurance is a part of life, and a college renters insurance policy is often a student’s first insurance policy. Parents can have peace of mind knowing their student’s belongings are protected.
“College is a time for growth and learning, not worrying about replacing stolen or damaged property,” Fees added. “Our goal at GradGuard is to provide affordable, student-focused coverage with no sneaky “gotchas” allowing students to focus on their education.”
For more information about GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance and to explore available policies, visit www.gradguard.com/renters.
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About GradGuard:
GradGuard is the authority on helping schools educate and protect students from the risks of college life. As the #1 provider of college tuition and renters insurance, GradGuard’s pioneering protections have served more than 1.7 million students at more than 1,900 unique institutions.
GradGuard’s national technology platform embeds its innovative insurance protections within the enrollment processes of more than 600 institutions in the United States, helping schools increase college completion and reduce the cost of college by reducing preventable financial losses.
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Feel that? That’s reality hitting. Sunday marks the end of brat summer as the fall semester begins Monday the 19th. But don’t fret, stars, we’re here to get you through it. The planets have concocted the perfect storm of excitement, inspiration and stress with Mercury retrograding its way back into the sign of Leo. Mars and Jupiter will be in conjunction in Gemini midweek. Tensions are high, but this is your cosmic reminder to pick your battles wisely this week.
Love,
A Pisces Sun, Aries Moon, Taurus Rising
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Aries (March 21 – April 19):
You know how to work hard and play harder. The planets are passing through your houses of work, health, routines and pleasure, asking you to reassess your work/life balance. Putting off homework to doomscroll and then pulling an all-nighter to finish your work isn’t going to cut it this semester. How you spend your days is how you spend your life, Aries.
Aries’s survival guide: Fix your sleep schedule, plan time with your favorite people and make room in your semester for self-care.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Taurus (April 20 – May 20):
The sun is illuminating your home and family this week, bringing an urge to nest. Whether you’re just down the street or 1,000 miles from home, Fort Collins is becoming your headquarters until December. Now is the time to resolve that issue with you know who, make your space as cozy as possible and nurture your soul. You deserve a relaxed life, Taurus.
Taurus’s survival guide: Wander the home decor section of Target, make comfort food, work it out on the remix and show your new home some love — just do you.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Gemini (May 21 – June 20):
This week, you’re all about expressing yourself. The sun in your communication sector has you feeling curious and expressive, but your ruling planet Mercury in retrograde could cause interpersonal issues. Some texts are best left as drafts, Gemini. Use your inventive spirit elsewhere.
Gemini’s survival guide: Journal it out, use your inside voice, deep dive into a project you’re working on and delete the paragraph you drafted in your notes app.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Cancer (June 21 – July 22):
It’s a great week to revisit your money matters. Mercury retrograde is urging you to be more financially responsible, but don’t panic! Jupiter and Mars are revving up your intuition right now, you don’t need to become the resident finance bro to be successful. Trust your gut, Cancer.
Cancer’s survival guide: Track your spending, make a budget and stick to it, be wary of lending money and take practical steps toward financial stability.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22):
Is it hot in here, or is that just you? Venus is adding a touch of sweetness to your material resources, Jupiter and Mars are boosting your social circles and the sun in your sign has you glowing from within. Later in the week you might feel inspired to take on whatever project you’re working on, and you’d be wise to make the most of it. The world is your oyster, Leo.
Leo’s survival guide: Be unapologetically you, grab brunch with your besties, wear your best outfit to Lucky Joe’s Sidewalk Saloon and make moves toward your dream life.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 23):
Releasing control isn’t really your forte, but this is a time of ultimate surrender for you. The sun is illuminating your spirituality and old wounds along with it. You have the opportunity to see yourself more clearly right now and explore new spiritual practices. Dealing with your pain is an act of self love, Virgo.
Virgo’s survival guide: Meditate, explore Nature’s Own in Old Town, pay a witch on TikTok to tell your fortune, but most of all, take care of your mental health.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22):
Say it with me now: “Not my circus, not my monkeys.” With the sun highlighting your social circles, drama is on the rise. Usually your desire for peace gives you the courage to mediate, but courage and stupidity are interchangeable right now. Mercury retrograde might be blocking the big picture, so don’t be afraid to turn on Do Not Disturb and save the sticky conversations for later. Rest and reflect, dearest Libra.
Libra’s survival guide: Take time for self-care, stay in your lane, blast your good vibes playlist and reflect on how you want to show up in your relationships.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21):
While everyone around you is complaining about classes starting again, you’re ready to lock in. The planets are bringing focus to your professional goals and giving you the extra luck you need to make progress. You want to be the person in charge, read every book, check everything off your to-do list and more, but remember, Mercury might bring setbacks. Rome wasn’t built in a day, Scorpio. You have time.
Scorpio survival guide: Go after that job you’ve been secretly wanting, ask for that pay raise, stay disciplined, celebrate your progress so far and all that will come.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21):
Nobody wants to admit it, but we all know you are the wise owl of the zodiac. You’re on top of your game lately, giving great advice, excited for adventure, ready to complete goals and preparing to crush this semester. However, Mercury retrograde might have you spinning your wheels. Don’t sweat it, take time to be adaptable and control what you can. Luck is on your side, Sagittarius.
Sagittarius survival guide: Stay flexible, let yourself wander, take baby steps toward your goals and prepare for setbacks.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19):
Over the summer, the planets have been pushing you to make meaningful life changes for the better. Now is the perfect time to reflect on what’s working, and what’s not. Self-awareness isn’t just holding yourself accountable for the negative, it’s about recognizing your talents and beauty as well. Don’t bring old issues into the new semester, Capricorn, great things await.
Capricorn survival guide: Embrace change, be your own hype man, transform daily routines and stop avoiding.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18):
You’re no stranger to “it’s not you, it’s me,” but in this case, it’s probably you. The planets have been drudging through your social circles, romantic conquests and reputation as of late and asking you to reassess your role within them. I hate to be the one to tell you that your crush can’t read your mind, but you had to hear it from someone, Aquarius.
Aquarius survival guide: Communication is key, reconnect with friends, text them first and stay humble through any retrograde chaos.
(Illustration by Amy Noble, Rachel Macias, Katrina Clasen | The Collegian)
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20):
We all feel like dissociating right now, but you’re going to have to get your head out of the clouds and join us sooner or later. The spotlight has been on your well-being routines lately and Mercury retrograde is asking you to pinpoint how you can live a healthier life and the obstacles that keep you from it. Consider this your note of encouragement, Pisces, start now.
Pisces survival guide: Clarify your goals and what you’re doing to achieve them, be present and, seriously, take a tolerance break.
The Olympic Truce has a history dating back to the ninth century B.C. and has been cited as the reason to ban multiple countries from participating in the games over the years. With nations like Russia and Belarus being excluded from this year’s games, it should go without saying that Israel should be banned as well.
Despite this, the country remains in the competition.
The original idea behind the Olympic Truce was to provide safe travel to athletes and other participants as they attended the games. As time has changed the context in which the games exist, it has evolved into something meant to protect participating athletes and sports while promoting a peaceful narrative for every nation to aspire to.
In the evolution of the truce, the International Olympic Committee has aimed to unify nations and reconcile conflict. This is why Russia, who has been banned for the past eight years, and Belarus were excluded from this year’s summer games due to their involvement in the invasion of Ukraine.
Athletes from excluded nations are still permitted to compete in the games under the Olympic flag rather than their country’s. These competitors are considered “Individual Neutral Athletes,” and there are over a dozen competing this year from both Russia and Belarus.
Given the nature of these particular bans, it only makes sense that Israel would follow in the list of disallowed nations given the country’s persistent attacks on Palestine. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case.
This has led to mass uproar online, with many audience members booing Israeli athletes once they take the stage and insisting they should have sat this year’s games out. The Palestinian Olympic Committee even sent a letter to the IOC insisting the Israeli teams should be banned, as the bombings in Gaza clearly violate the Olympic Truce.
IOC president Thomas Bach claimed he would not take part in “political business” in response to said letter.
Given the fact that the International Court of Justice has ruled Israel’s occupation of Palestine as unlawful, citing multiple violations of international law, these objections to the country’s presence at the games are more than justified.
During the 1948 Summer Olympics, nearly three years after the end of World War Ⅱ, both Germany and Japan were excluded from the games as punishment. In addition to this, South Africa was barred from participating from 1964-1988 due to their refusal to condemn apartheid.
The Israeli occupation of Palestine has been an issue for decades, and the last year of attacks alone has resulted in the loss of about 40,000 Palestinian lives.
If the German, Japanese and South African teams were disbanded in such a manner, then the Israeli Olympic Committee should have faced the same treatment this year in accordance with those same rules.
Denying Palestinian athletes safe passage and refusing to uphold the standards they’ve kept for every other nation up until now is a shameful display from the IOC. Every day, citizens of Palestine have been made to face the trampling of their homes and loved ones. An estimated 400 Palestinian athletes have lost their lives in the midst of this conflict.
Bach and the IOC condoning Israel’s participation in the games despite this is not “neutrality,” it’s blatantly disregarding the events that have occurred during the Israel-Palestine conflict.
In refusing to take a strong stance against the Israeli government’s offensive to the Palestinian people, the IOC is effectively ignoring not only the point of the Olympic Truce but the spirit of the games themselves. In choosing “political neutrality,” they’re choosing to damn the cries from Palestinian athletes and turn a blind eye to their suffering.
The Olympics have always been political. The games have a history of boycotts and bans that simply cannot be described as apolitical and claiming otherwise is absurdly disingenuous.
Banning Israel would not immediately result in the end of the Israel-Palestine conflict, but it’s a step in showing the world that we should not stand for Palestinian genocide.
The Olympic Truce exists to inspire peace, and that’s a good thing. Instead of scapegoating through “political neutrality,” the IOC should uphold the truce’s message in the hopes that we may one day see a free Palestine.
Parker Hodges-Beggs is a journalism sophomore who can be reached at opinion@thedailycougar.com
Note: This is an ongoing story. Updates will be made as they become available.
Fort Collins Police Services responded to a shooting in Old Town at around 1 a.m. this Sunday, according to a City of Fort Collins press release.
Upon arrival, two people, one female and one male, had been shot, and it appeared to be a dispute between two separate groups. The female victim was brought to the hospital and is expected to recover, while the male victim was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead. The dispute happened in a parking lot at 215 Remington Street.
The suspect has not been named or found and is considered armed and dangerous.
Police presence was expected to continue until mid morning.
It is being asked that anyone who may have witnessed the event or who has any further information report to the FCPS tip line.
Campus looks a little different this fall with construction in progress on two main buildings. The Andrew G. Clark Building updates are still underway, with construction expected to be completed in the next three to four years, according to Colorado State University’s Clark revitalization site.
Clark was built in the mid-1960s and first opened to students in the fall of 1967. Since then, it has housed many liberal arts departments and has been home to virtually every CSU student for at least one class.
While the original building has served students for decades, former College of Liberal Arts Dean Ben Withers set forth a revitalization plan in 2016. This revitalization has shut down the A and B wings; C is not included in the revitalization plan to the dismay of some students and faculty.
Because two thirds of the building are closed off, the departments housed in A and B have moved. The most noticeable changes are in history and sociology, which have been relocated to trailers just behind Braiden Hall across from Canvas Stadium.
Dell Rae Ciaravola, CSU’s director of issues management, provided a recent update on Clark from Beth Etter, the director of communications for the CLA dean’s office.
“That part of the project is moving along, though due to supply chain issues, (it) will be delayed on reopening until 2026,” Ciaravola said. “Clark B will be taken down and replaced with a new four-story, state-of-the-art building for classes, labs, collaboration spaces and department offices.”
Updates primarily focus on electrical and HVAC systems, the basement and lobby and ADA accessibility. Asbestos abatement and window removal were among tasks completed over the summer; then the project moved into active demolition starting July 24. That demolition is scheduled to take around three months.
In recent Clark updates and communication, the timeline has been adjusted a bit. Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs Ryan Claycomb sent out an email detailing the new timeline.
“Many of you are aware that the Clark A Basement was originally slated to come back online by the summer of 2025,” Claycomb said. “Because of a series of circumstances — including procurement challenges and some further design details that more thoroughly tie Clark A utilities with the new building — that timeline has been pushed back by a year. Currently, Clark A is on schedule to reopen in the summer of 2026.”
Additionally, there was an email sent to all CLA faculty and staff detailing the most recent changes made in Clark along with what’s to come next. The information was sent by Clark Building Revitalization Updates.
“The next phase of the project is the severing of Clark B from Clark C and Clark A,” the email read. “This will involve grinding of concrete and crushing of the concrete structure, which means noise levels will increase significantly. This work begins Wednesday, July 24, on the east side of B/C, then moves to the west side of B/C and finally to B/A. This effort will last upwards of three months.”
Students and faculty can expect noise from around 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The demolition is expected to cause disruptions. Staff and faculty are encouraged to be patient and supportive with adjustment conversations and to work around the noise whenever possible.
Because the building is mostly fenced off, it is advised that students plan accordingly for alternate routes through campus. There is no access to the Monfort Quad, and the C wing is only accessible from the south side.
Despite their displacement, professors still remain committed to being available for students; class syllabuses will be updated according to each professor’s temporary office space on campus.
While Clark is undergoing some big changes, it isn’t the only building on campus in transition. Another main construction point is Durward Hall, which is being remodeled and will not house students this academic year.
Durward is one of two buildings, along with Westfall, that stand high above the north side of campus. Although students will not live in Durward, there is still room for its would-be residents in other residence halls. For those who have heard about Westfall’s renovation, this is a different solution from putting students in a hotel.
The changes haven’t begun quite yet but will soon. Marianne Wieghaus is the director of communications and sustainability for Housing and Dining Services, and she was able to provide an updated timeline of the changes.
“Durward Hall will wrap up summer conference activities (July 23), and the building will begin decommissioning activities (July 29),” Wieghaus said. “It will remain offline for the 2024-25 academic year and summer with an anticipated reopening ahead of fall 2025 move in. … Durward will receive upgrades to resident rooms, corridors and lounge spaces.”
The incoming changes will also include new flooring, lights, furniture, paint, mechanical and plumbing upgrades. For those who would be living in Durward, space has been made in the other residence halls.
In recent years, print on demand (POD) companies have become increasingly popular among startups, providing them a cost-efficient way to bring products to market. With their production process and various customizable options, these services offer benefits that can enhance the success of your startup. This article delves into how utilizing print on demand companies can elevate your business to heights.
The Convenience of Print on Demand
One benefit of using print on demand services for your startup is the convenience they bring. Unlike printing methods that require bulk production upfront, POD allows you to print items when they are ordered. This eliminates the need for inventory storage and minimizes the risk of overestimating product demand.
Moreover, partnering with a print on demand company means you no longer have to handle production and shipping logistics yourself. The POD service provider efficiently manages these tasks, giving you time to focus on essential aspects of running your startup, like marketing and engaging with customers.
Wide Range of Customization Options
Another significant advantage offered by print on demand companies is their range of customization choices. If you’re interested in creating items or customizing products for your target audience, print on demand (POD) services offer a range of tools for personalization.
These platforms let you choose colors and design elements and add text or images to tailor products according to your brand’s vision. Additionally, some POD companies provide integration features that enable collaboration with design software to streamline the creative process.
Affordable Startup Options
For businesses with constraints, minimizing initial investments is crucial. With low startup costs and no minimum order requirements, print on demand services present an affordable solution for budding entrepreneurs.
By avoiding inventory expenses and reducing operational costs linked to traditional printing methods, the POD model allows startups to allocate resources strategically. This saved capital can then be directed toward marketing initiatives or product enhancement efforts while maintaining product quality for customers.
Emphasis on Quality Production
While being cost-effective is important, it should never compromise product quality. Print on demand firms understand the importance of delivering high-quality results to their clientele. By utilizing state-of-the-art printing methods and high-quality materials, these service providers ensure that your products meet the expectations of customers. By maintaining quality control standards during the production process, print on demand (POD) companies establish a reputation for excellence. This meticulous attention to detail not only boosts customer satisfaction but also helps in cultivating trust and loyalty among your target audience.
Expanding Globally with Ease
Thanks to the internet and efficient shipping logistics, POD services empower your startup to extend its reach on a global level. With extensive networks of production facilities spread across parts of the world, these services enable you to offer your products to global customers.
This broad global presence allows you to explore markets without the costs and challenges associated with international expansion. Moreover, as your business progresses and expands, print on demand services are well-suited for scalability. Whether you’re dealing with ten orders per month or a thousand orders per day, these companies have the infrastructure in place to handle large-scale fulfillment effectively.
Fostering Brand Loyalty through Personalized Merchandise
Building brand loyalty can be quite challenging in today’s market landscape. Nonetheless, creating custom merchandise through print on demand services offers a way to connect with your audience and nurture brand loyalty.
By offering items that feature your logo or unique designs tailored to your industry or the interests of your target audience, you provide customers with a tangible way to connect with your brand beyond just making a purchase. This fosters a sense of belonging and community among those who wear or use your merchandise, leading to the creation of brand advocates and loyal customers.
Conclusion
Print on demand companies have transformed how startups introduce their products to the market. By utilizing the convenience, customization options, and cost-effectiveness of POD services, entrepreneurs can guarantee the success and expansion of their businesses. Whether it’s through production processes or global reach, teaming up with a print on demand company enables startups to concentrate on their key strengths while delivering top-notch products to their clientele. So why delay? Embrace the opportunities presented by print on demand services and propel your startup towards horizons.
On Tuesday, July 16, indie rock band Winnetka Bowling League played their first-ever show in Atlanta at The Masquerade’s Altar. The headlining tour follows the release of the band’s first full-length album, “Sha La La,” on May 31.
The band was formed a little over five years ago, and they began by putting out several EPs, including “Winnetka Bowling League,” “Cloudy With A Chance Of Sun” and “Congratulations,” before having to pause their work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an interview with the Technique, frontman Matthew Koma talked about the band’s formation, saying, “We’ve all been in different bands and have done music our whole lives and in different forms and different ways. So this was sort of a practice in [saying], ‘Let’s be a little selfish and make stuff that we really like.’ And at first, it started [by] putting EPs out because it felt a little bit less committal. [It was a chance to] figure out what [we] want[ed] it to be, without taking as much of a statement as [we] would with putting out an album.”
He later stated that post-lockdown, as the world began to open again, the group felt that putting out a full album was a way for the band to have a “fresh start” and to begin a “new chapter.”
“Sha La La” is a ten-track album that has just the right sound for long road trips through the countryside.
When talking about writing the album, Koma said, “I don’t think [there] was necessarily a purposeful direction, but it ended up being very much a retrospective look at growing up and [feeling] like you’re not able to really fairly judge something until you’re through it. So, just looking back at the mid to late ‘20s or ‘30s, and what that all felt like. I think it ended up feeling somewhat nostalgic for us and for a lot of people who listen to it.”
The same subtle feelings of nostalgia were present onstage at the band’s show. Their “set” featured a small stack of several types of old televisions, a quarter candy machine filled with Mike & Ikes, multi-colored gumballs and jellybeans and string lights wrapped around the keyboard.
Several weeks after the release of “Sha La La,” Winnetka Bowling League released their single “This is Life” with fellow musicians Medium Build and Dawes.
Such a quick turnaround time is unusual for most bands, which Koma acknowledged during his interview with the Technique. He said that when it comes to writing music, he “never really stops…that’s the part of [music] that keeps me sane and not attached, which is probably even part of the reason [for] putting out an album and then a song a couple of weeks later. It’s just nice to have that freedom to just put stuff out [whenever we want].”
The band played “This is Life” at their show, joined onstage by one of the openers, singer-songwriter Darryl Rahn.
Koma also shared that he has a lot of fun playing shows on tour and getting to perform for more fans who know their songs, something that can undoubtedly be seen in his live performance. There was an overarching, wholesome feeling throughout Winnetka Bowling League’s set, with fans singing along and dancing with each other. It was clear that the audience was there not just to see a band that they loved but also simply to have fun with each other. If someone were to think of the perfect summer experience, this show was it.
Orville Peck has been rocking the boots and rhinestones for quite a while now. As the first openly gay country artist to be signed to a major label, he has taken that title to the limits and beyond with his sweet, sultry sound. As his career has carried on in evolution and continuing vulnerability, Peck has set a standard and continued to be a trailblazer in the music industry.
After a brief hiatus, Peck re-entered the scene with the long-awaited, full duets album “Stampede” on Friday, August 2. With so many names, creative sides and styles to work with, it’s a hard feat to approach but Peck does it all with ease. Each song is lyrically and musically differentiating, so let’s listen along this incredible musical roller coaster.
We Love a Good, Gay Cowboy Romance
Starting us off is “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other.” A duet sung with Willie Nelson, this was the collaboration that sparked the idea for the rest of the album. If you know anything about the film, “Brokeback Mountain,” this song will be incredibly familiar. The ease of the acoustic guitar combined with the whistling harmonica are stellar additions to this story.
“The Hurtin’ Kind” shifts us into a love ballad. The harmonies of Peck and Midland are undoubtedly the major sellers on this track, which combines a falsetto into the belting energy of the song. Truly angelic. The lyrics “A one-night, lonesome cabaret meet me down where the broken-hearted stay,” and, “Lie together, tell me lies, baby, I don’t mind” are enough to make your heart wrench for him.
Elton John makes a presence in the next track in a cover of “Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting).” Peck takes this song and creates a Western, casino-like jive to the melody which is an excitable change to the already phenomenal song.
Sweet, Sexy and Sultry
The next few tracks on the album, “Back At Your Door” and “Chemical Sunset,” both follow romances that carry on past the point of the end. Though they are similar in this light, the compositions are entirely different. “Back At Your Door,” sung with Debbii Dawson, has a sweeter side to it from the lightness of Dawson’s vocals and the soft instrumentation of the guitar and background vocals. “Chemical Sunset” creates a seductive undertone. Allison Russell’s vocals combined with the sultry drum beat bring a subtle R&B mix to the country side of Peck. It’s an incredible listen and by the end, you’ll be under Peck and Russell’s spell.
If Willie Nelson and Elton John weren’t already exciting additions, welcome Beck to the stage in Peck’s next track “Death Valley High.” Taking things back up a notch, this song takes the listener to the biggest party in the West.
“How Far Will We Take It?” is a duet perfectly written for Peck and Noah Cyrus. These two have a phenomenal sound together which adds an extra layer to the heartbreaking story created by these lyrics. It’ll be sure to send tears strolling down your face.
Next, “Miénteme” introduces the addition of a Latin beat which has always been a constant pleasure in classic American country music as a genre. The mixing of Peck and Cuaron’s vocals and their constant harmony will send chills throughout your body. The groove is never-ending.
Is There Anything He Can’t Do?
Picking things up a bit, “Midnight Ride” inserts disco into Peck’s already stylish twang. Partnered with Kylie Minogue and Diplo, this song stands out among the others, in the best way possible. It opens up so much power in Peck’s vocals and creates the perfect tune to line dance to. It might just give “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” a run for its money.
“Ever You’re Gone” takes us back to the R&B style from “Chemical Sunset.” Teddy Swims is featured on this track and what a presence he announces. The rasp within his voice and the smooth twang Peck brings to the plate is the perfect mix. The hook lies within the chorus while both musicians belt it out to an organ playing in the background as a full choir echoes throughout.
The next track switches gears once again. Incredibly comedic but honest, “You’re an Asshole, I Can’t Stand You (And I Want A Divorce)” is very similar to Dolly Parton’s sound. You can hear how much of an influence she’s had on Peck’s songwriting. Margo Price was the perfect partner to duet with on this track, as her vocals have that high-pitched twang that meshes perfectly with comedic writing.
Our Favorite Cowboy is Taking Off
Nathaniel Rateliff is the next feature in Peck’s next ballad, “Conquer The Heart.” A favorite of mine on the album, the belting harmonies between the two is hard to beat. And to top it all off is a saxophone solo that adds to the sexy love story created between the two artists.
“Rhinestone Cowboy” finishes us off with the perfect theme song for every queer cowboy in the West. The classic country sound of the ensemble of Orville Peck, TJ Osborne, Waylon Payne and Fancy Hagood makes the perfect mashup for this gay anthem.
Besides a few unmentioned songs, there you have it! Be sure to check out “Stampede” now, available on all streaming services!
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