Aries (March 21 to April 20)

The best way to get your work done is to dive right into it. So long as you know what you need to do, you will do well where you place your energy. Tackle assignments head-on, and don’t wait until the last second.

Taurus (April 21 to May 20)

You may have a hard time starting new projects or changing old habits. Set aside designated times for study. Try to blend your work with play and get into an established routine.  Reward yourself for getting things done.

Gemini (May 21 to June 22)

Working may be easiest for you when done with friends; If you are having a problem, try talking it out with someone you trust. Don’t be afraid to be engaged in class!

Cancer (June 23 to July 21)

While you may have an easy time starting things, following through is a different story. Once you’ve lost interest, it can be difficult to keep going. Find out what will help keep you engaged with your work —whether it be working in short bursts or using various learning tools. Sometimes, you have to just power through the boring work. You will succeed if you apply yourself to the end.

Leo (July 22 to Aug. 23)

While you may have the drive to get your work done, you get fixated on doing things a particular way. When you want to do something, waiting for the right conditions isn’t productive. Knowing it’s okay to adjust and willing to do so will help a great deal. Also, know when you can do things how you like.

Virgo (Aug. 24 to Sept. 23)

You tend to take on a lot. Even when you can balance all your work, it can still be overwhelming to handle. Keep a list of what needs to be done and prioritized. Make sure you also give yourself breaks; don’t burn yourself out.

Libra (Sept. 24 to Oct. 23)

You may be better with planning than with the actual completion of work. Outlining an essay is easier than actually writing it. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing —if you plan your workout, it can lessen your stress later. However, remember you still need to get things done. See if there are people who you can work with or ways to bring creativity to studying.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 to Nov. 22)

You may feel stagnant doing things that aren’t of interest to you. Work for a class you like might get done immediately, while studying for a boring class is put off. Find ways to spark interest in your boredom. Reward yourself with a sweet treat or listen to music while you work so you feel more enjoyment.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21)

Your main qualm with studying might be keeping focused. With so much going on, it can be hard to stay focused on one thing. Remove distractions during study and work times. Think about one class at a time so they don’t all weigh you down.

Capricorn (Dec. 21 to Jan. 20)

You may have a hard time doing things you don’t see as worthwhile. Busy work might be your downfall. While some classes don’t feel as important to your area of study, you still need to get it done. Try getting this out of the way first. Then, you’re free to dedicate time to the important things.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 to Feb. 19)

You probably do your best as the leader of a group project. While you do well with others, you like things to be done to your specifications. Be sure to know your limits and delegate tasks when needed. In non-social settings, work may be best done with others around. Study together with a group, even if you aren’t all working on the same thing. Hold each other accountable.

Pisces (Feb. 20 to March 20)

Your interest may flit around throughout the day. You may love a class one moment and be bored by it the next day. While it may seem good to do work as your interests align, don’t rely on this. Know what needs to be done, find a place you feel comfortable, and try to set the mood to get assignments done.

Aries (March 21 to April 20)

When trying to get things done, work towards what you want, but don’t be afraid of switching up the strategy you use to get there. You need to learn to be adaptable in your approach, or you’ll find yourself stuck.

Taurus (April 21 to May 20)

You may find a time of strife between you and others, likely due to your stubbornness. If you’re too fixed in your position, it can lead to problems. It may be time to reexamine how important your stance is.

Gemini (May 21 to June 22)

Something in your path may call for you to think or act in ways that seem foreign to you. Your worldview won’t always have the answers, and you may need to look at a problem from another’s point of view to find a solution.

Cancer (June 23 to July 21)

Try exploring new ways of approaching your goals. If you’ve been stuck with something, try making a drastic change. If you’ve been procrastinating, try to push through it. Keeping to one method may hold you back in the long run.

Leo (July 22 to Aug. 23)

While your personal strength and passions may be confirmed, something may challenge the path you’re on. While you may feel keen to stick to one road, no matter what, you may begin to see the good in change.

Virgo (Aug. 24 to Sept. 23)

While you may typically be a rational person, sometimes it is emotions that push us forward. It is good to live practically, but sometimes you need to let your feelings decide your path and not resist them.

Libra (Sept. 24 to Oct. 23)

You may find yourself opposed to someone who thinks and feels in different ways than you. Lack of communication and empathy can cause strife, even if you want the same thing. Try finding where it is you’ve misunderstood each other.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 to Nov. 22)

It may be your own inability to act or change that is holding you back. When you see others who have what you want, you may be missing the steps they took to get there.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21)

You are driven to get where you want, but external factors may hold you back. You may find push-back against your actions, but you can get through them.

Capricorn (Dec. 21 to Jan. 20)

Try to emphasize your resourcefulness. It isn’t always enough just to know a good path to take, so take advantage of all that you have on hand to help get where you want to be. Be ready to change plans at the drop of a hat.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 to Feb. 19)

You may find that your limitations lie in the possibilities you’re able to imagine. You may be unintentionally limiting yourself by not taking everything into account. Try getting a second opinion.

Pisces (Feb. 20 to March 20)

It may be your own compassion that gets you into trouble. It is good to have compassion for others, but if you aren’t willing to say no, you may end up causing more harm than good, at least to yourself.

On Wednesday, Nov. 1, the University of Maine had its Jazz Night in Minsky Hall. The free show featured five different sections of student music, including the UMaine Jazz Band, as well as four smaller groups.

The UMaine Jazz Band is currently composed of 16 students and their director, Dr. Barrett. Many of the students took solos throughout the four-song set. In just the first song, “Duke it Out,” there were six soloists: Maxim LaPlante on alto saxophone, Amorie Lewis on tenor sax, Collin Bierne on trombone, Heath Kennedy on tuba and James Fletcher on bass.

Their final song, “Caravan,” was their most recognizable, according to Barrett. As the name might suggest, it has a more foreign feel than the others. In terms of sound, it resembled something one might hear in “Aladdin” but with a swing twist.

Some of the Jazz Band students would return to the small ensembles. 

The first of the small groups, known in the program as the “Tuesday 3:30 PM Combo,” featured just four students and their coach, who didn’t play with them. Of their three songs, their second piece stuck out the most. “House of Jade” by Wayne Shorter was smoother and slower than others had heard earlier. It was also the first appearance of a soon-to-be infamous upright bass.

The second small group, the “Monday 5 PM Combo,” brought with them more of a casual, funk sound rather than the jazz band and the classic jazz of their predecessors. They were the only group with multiple guitarists, with two of their six-person group playing guitar. While their rendition of “Moon River” was beautiful, with tenor saxist Jaylee Rice also performing vocals, it was the final song of their set, “Cold Duck Time,” that stood out the most. The faster-paced song showed the group’s full capacity.

The third group, the “Friday 4 PM Combo,” made sure to let everyone know they also play together outside of school events under the name “Free Parking.” They can be found on Instagram under the handle “Free_Parking_Band.” This group finds its niche in more soul-esque jazz. Their final song, “Sunny Side of the Street,” saw bassist Isaac Atkinson singing while he played. The only male singer of the night, Atkinson’s voice provided a deepness not present in the other groups. 

The final band of the night, “Monday 5 PM Combo,” managed to pull off the sound and energy of big band music with just their six-person group. This group was the only one to have their coach consistently play alongside them, as well as the only one to have a dedicated vocalist. In the other groups, one member may also provide vocals when necessary. Here, however, Victoria Williams sought to put on a show with each of the group’s four songs. 

“I thought that the Jazz ensemble sounded great. We had an ambitious set of charts to play, but everyone played well when it came time for it. I think that every solo was thought out and well-executed. The combos also all sounded awesome.” said fourth-year communications student Westley Bringer. 

“St. James Infirmary Blues” was the first and set the bar high, but it was their second song, “Nature Boy,” that truly stood out. Starting with a piano solo from Jacob Callas, the song has a haunting melody under Williams’ singing.

There was a level of teamwork required between musicians, as well as a sense of camaraderie. This became apparent when, during their third song and the second-to-last song of the night, the upright bass broke. 

A loud crack interrupted the song, although the combo tried their best to keep playing. It soon became apparent that they couldn’t, as the bridge of the bass had come off, rendering it unplayable.

While coach James Winters announced they might have to end early, the fellow bassists in the crowd, those who had played in earlier sections, began gathering on stage to fix the instrument. 

If you have ever wondered how many bassists it takes to fix a bridge, the answer is four. They huddled around the instrument, conspiring on how to fix it, while Williams jokingly engaged the audience. They did manage to fix the bass, and the group played their fourth and final song, Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi.”

Students interested in joining UMaine’s jazz scene should look into MUO studies or contact Dan Barrett. Both the Jazz band as well as the combo groups are non-audition, although the latter has limited availability.

Aries (March 21 to April 20)

You may enjoy a rush of energy and determination. Be careful not to dive in too deep based on a good mood alone, think carefully about whatever plans you commit to. Don’t forget to have fun, though.

Taurus (April 21 to May 20)

While you may feel strongly about something, there’s no guarantee others will feel the same. Don’t despair if others do not share your opinion or feelings, and stay true to yourself. Stick to your belief, and don’t let yourself be swayed by disagreement.

Gemini (May 21 to June 22)

You may find that you are letting your feelings cloud your judgment. Remember to look at things with a clear head and don’t rely solely on emotional responses. Take time to yourself if it’s needed. 

Cancer (June 23 to July 21)

Let whatever inspiration strikes be a guiding force. Don’t resist a call to action and instead embrace opportunities that you see in front of you.

Leo (July 22 to Aug. 23)

Your sense of self may feel like a mystery right now. It can be hard to adjust to change, and this will only be worse if you focus on what’s gone now.

Virgo (Aug. 24 to Sept. 23)

Beware of the disparity between your head and your heart. You may find yourself stuck between the two. Don’t throw yourself blindly into one choice without considering the other.

Libra (Sept. 24 to Oct. 23)

You may find that you don’t feel as strongly about something as you feel like you should. Others may try to win your approval, even on things you don’t particularly care about. Don’t put out too much energy into such topics.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 to Nov. 22)

Things are aligning for you right now. Trust in yourself and hold your head high. Speak your mind and make sure your voice is heard.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21)

Don’t fall into the trap of biting off more than you can chew. As stressors pile up, take care of what you already have before starting anything new.

Capricorn (Dec. 21 to Jan. 20)

You may be reaching a tipping point on what you want to do. While something has been holding you back, it will likely clear up soon. Take advantage of any opportunities that come your way.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 to Feb. 19)

You may be feeling stuck in your routines. Try something new and push your boundaries, even if initially uncomfortable. Think up new things you’d like to try and put your mind to them. You won’t get anywhere by staying stagnant.

Pisces (Feb. 20 to March 20)

Be wary of people trying to take advantage of you. Kindness is a good trait to have, but it could lead to you giving more than you should. Be aware of when you need to say no or when someone uses your compassion against you.

Lambrini Girls are a UK-based queer punk trio that recently released their first EP. Titled “You’re Welcome,” the EP combines their three singles and three new tracks. 

Inspired by popular Riot Grrl pioneers like Le Tigre and Bikini Kill, their music is loud and raw. Lead vocalist and guitarist Phoebe Lunny is able to blend screaming with her singing, switching between the two in a satisfying show of energy and rage. They utilize pop culture references and slang, creating a sound that can resonate with a modern audience.

The band’s most popular song, and the first track, is “Boys in the Band.” The song criticizes male privilege in the music industry and how fame allows people to get away with doing whatever they want. Bassist Lily Macieira and drummer, who they say is Banksy, the famous street artist, keep up a driving rhythm underneath the scathing lyrics. 

Lack of accountability will become a recurring theme throughout the tracklist, and “Boys in the Band” is a strong introduction to their work. 

“Terf Wars” is the next track. Terf is short for trans-exclusionary radical feminist and calls out those who do not believe trans women should be included in feminist ideals. The song focuses on calling out transphobic ideals and standing up for all women. Lily’s riffs may just be the highlight of the song, carrying in between Phoebe’s verses. The song’s ending is also memorable, where Phoebe breaks the tune and says, “There’s a reason your kids aren’t talking to you anymore, Carol. It’s because you’re being transphobic on Facebook again.”

“Mr. Lovebomb” revolves around being showered with extravagant gifts and affection, with it later turning sour and owing the one buying you things. Lovebomb is louder and features more raw screaming than most other tracks. 

“Lads Lads Lads” was the most recent single to be released prior to the full EP. Like much of the band’s work, it criticizes toxic masculinity, a lack of accountability, and homophobia. The lyrics take the role of a stereotypical man in a bar, passing between violence towards gays, getting away with violence towards women, and the gang mentality that allows this to happen. Phoebe’s vocals and Lily’s riffs work together delightfully, making the song catchy on a first listen. The lyrics, once understood, prove that they have a story to tell.  The song features lines such as “cornered her in a bathroom, but you can’t prove that” and “Wifebeater vest, swing for a punch. ‘Cause the man at the bar was wearing makeup.” Lambrini Girls clarifies the type of person this song calls out.

Second to last is the band’s first release, “Help me I’m gay.” Sitting as their second-most popular song, the song is, expectedly, about homophobia and those around them not understanding.“Help me, I’m gay. Yet every boy I know just assumes I’m straight.” The song goes by fast, partly for its simplicity and just over two-minute run-time, and partly due to the fast guitar and bass parts connecting each line. The vocals have a noticeably different tonality than the band’s other songs. Rather than making the song seem disconnected from the rest of the EP, it serves as a break and breath of fresh air towards the end. 

Last but not least is “White Van.” Once again, turning towards toxic masculinity as the focus, now laying into catcalling and objectification. “Yet, as I cross the road, I’ve heard no remark. Maybe just this once, have I won, is there a chance?” 

“White Van” ends the EP with a bang, although the mix of a fast pace, screamed lyrics, and heavy British accent makes the song unintelligible at times. It takes a few listens to even begin to hear what the song is about. “Lads Lads Lads” also suffers from this, although on a lesser scale.

Being from Brighton, “Lambrini Girls” have only had live shows in Europe as of yet. They have grown from only the UK to Italy and the Netherlands. They can be found on most music streaming services, as well as Instagram under @lambrinigirlz, and Facebook as just their name.

With the debut EP having been released just last May, there is no current news about future releases. As the trio remains active both in live performances and on their socials, it seems hopeful that they will stick around.

Aries (March 21 to April 20)

Go boldly into whatever you have to do. Even if life throws obstacles at you, deal with them head-on. You have the power to push through.

Taurus (April 21 to May 20)

You may be having a hard time with having people accept you. Those around you may want you to tone yourself down or fit in more. Know that you don’t have to change for others. Don’t sacrifice yourself for other people’s wants.

Gemini (May 21 to June 22)

Stop waiting for a sign to get something done. While you can visualize what you want to do, you may have trouble getting started. Don’t wait for the perfect moment, or it may pass you by without you realizing it.

Cancer (June 23 to July 21)

You may have something bringing you down, whether it be stressors, the changing seasons, or other factors outside of your control. While it can be hard to find motivation sometimes, try to do what you can to keep your mood up. Don’t just let yourself fall into a bad mood.

Leo (July 22 to Aug. 23)

You may feel that the world is trying to make you change yourself. While losing your sense of self is never fun, you can’t stay stagnant forever. Don’t be so stubborn that you’re unwilling to change for the better.

Virgo (Aug. 24 to Sept. 23)

Be careful with how you say things. What you think may be practical may come off as cold to others. Think about your words and how others may take them in order to avoid misunderstandings.

Libra (Sept. 24 to Oct. 23)

You may be having a difficult time with being kind to yourself. Don’t blame yourself for things outside your control or for others’ reactions to you. While you may feel the desire to fix the problem, don’t get weighed down with trying to fix yourself.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 to Nov. 22)

Keep your head held high. Confidence is the key to powering through bad days. Know that you are where you’re supposed to be, and don’t let self-doubt convince you otherwise. Trust in yourself and defend your decisions.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21)

Now is the time to get in touch with your emotions. While you may go through the day-to-day not inspecting everything that impacts your mood, it can be helpful to know. Take a closer look at what can change how you feel.

Capricorn (Dec. 21 to Jan. 20)

Find a sweet spot between taking risks and being safe. You need to get out of your comfort zone in order to create change but don’t throw yourself at every opportunity given to you. Be open-minded, but still weigh your options.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 to Feb. 19)

While you have a strong sense of identity, you may be too married to your current idea of who you are. Don’t be fooled into thinking you have everything figured out. Everyone has room to grow, and that includes you.

Pisces (Feb. 20 to March 20)

The world around you may be holding you back right now. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing and gives you time to reflect on what you want done when the opportunity arises. Spend this downtime planning and make sure you have a clear goal in mind before acting.

The autumn equinox passed this last week, marking the official end of summer. Don’t despair, the University of Maine and the surrounding area have plenty of fun things to do as the months get colder.

UMaine Fall Traditions

UMaine has plenty going on in the fall, ranging from traditional events to Halloween shenanigans. Here’s a list of the biggest and most popular events going on.

Homecoming

Taking place on Oct. 13 and 14, UMaine’s Homecoming welcomes back Alumni while having a slew of activities for current students. The two members of homecoming royalty will be crowned. There’ll be plenty of tailgating in the parking lots, and the football team will play against Monmouth Hawks. To learn more about different events taking place during homecoming, visit https://www.umainehomecoming.com 

Field Hockey, Ice Hockey and Football

Furthermore, some of UMaine’s biggest sports seasons happen in the fall. Football is underway and will continue through November 18. Get to a game while you can! Men’s and women’s ice hockey will also be getting started. Keep an eye out for the UNH rival games, with the men’s being on Dec. 1 and the Women’s on Oct. 13. Students should also show their pride at a women’s field hockey game in their new complex. The team’s tournaments are in early November.

Planetarium shows

The Versant Power Astronomy Center will also switch to their October shows. The show “Halloween: Celestial Origins” will take you through the history of All Saint’s Day, Samhain and into our modern Halloween. There’s also the music show “Monster Mash: A Halloween Spooktacular!” The music show puts your typical planetarium show in a lineup of thematic music. 

If you want something less Halloween-themed, there’s also the weekly show “Black Hole- First Picture.” This science-based show covers the first image of a black hole and the technology that went into it.

Human vs. Zombies

Ever wanted to play a campus-wide game of manhunt? You’re in luck. This year’s game of Humans vs. Zombies is coming up. As a human, you’ve got two hours to survive the zombies hunting you, with only your wits (and maybe a projectile) to keep you alive. Look out for future information and be ready to meet at the mall on Oct. 27 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Terrell House Halloween Party

The Terrell House, located on College Ave., throws a Halloween party for students. If you’re looking for a good place to show off your costume, feel free to stop in. Check them out on Facebook and Instagram and look out for information on this year’s event.

Halloweekend Union Takeover and Trick or Treat Trail

Everyone loves a good Halloween party, and UMaine is no different. The Union will be decked out for the weekend before Halloween, Oct. 28 and 29. Stop in for a costume contest, music, refreshments and more. This year, a new tradition is in the works. A trick-or-treat trail will be available on Saturday, Oct. 28. It will be located around the mall and library. No one can pass up free candy. 

Off-Campus

UMaine isn’t the only place to enjoy the fall season. If you’re looking for something to do on the weekends, try looking around the community.

Treworgy Family Orchards corn maze

Bangor’s Treworgy Family Orchards has the longest-running corn maze in Maine. It’s been active since 2001 and gets more elaborate each year. This year’s maze is “Farming for 40” and depicts a tractor to honor the 40 years the farm has been open. The maze is available during the day, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Running the maze isn’t your only goal, as puzzles are hidden within that can get you a free ice cream. The maze will be open for nighttime runs on Oct. 20, 21, 27 and 28. 

Also at the farm are fresh apples and pumpkins, as well as other in-season crops, making it a good stop for all the fall needs.

Fall foliage

If you want to witness all that Maine’s foliage has to offer, plan a trip in mid-October. This is when you’ll see the most changed leaves. Acadia, Baxter State Park, Camden and Mt. Katahdin all have lovely views during the autumn. 

This is far from a comprehensive list of things to do in the fall. Take a look at the Union and CAB schedules to find what events are being run, as well as local orchards and haunted houses.