Expose Exposure Album Review

Exposé Exposure Album Cover

Exposure, the debut album by American girl group Exposé, was released on March 2, 1987, by Arista Records. I had heard Point of No Return on the radio as well as seen the video on MTV and VH1 and wanted this album badly and my parents were the "tape it off the radio" sort of people, not realizing there was much more to albums than what you hear on the radio. As a kid growing up in the 1980's, if we wanted physical copies of something, we more than likely found ourselves buying it from record stores like Turtles, Peaches and Record Bar or from places like TG&Y, K-Mart and *Zayre or as a lot of us really broke kids discovered, by creating fake names to get 12 free tapes from Columbia House or 6 free ones from RCA/BMG Music Service. Sometimes we had the good fortune of having a friend that has or at least has a sibling with the tape who allowed us to borrow theirs to make a copy of our own on a blank cassette tape, hopefully on brands like Sony, TDK, Maxell or at the very least, Memorex. Unfortunately, I had no friends that had this album and it always slipped my mind while I was creating fake name accounts with Columbia House. This album marked a significant moment in the late 80's dance-pop scene, reaching number 16 on the Billboard 200 and earning a double platinum certification by the RIAA in May 1990. The group, originally formed in 1984, consisted of members Sandra Casañas, Alejandra Lorenzo and Laurie Miller who were later replaced with Ann Curless, Jeanette Jurado, and Gioia Bruno. Exposure's release is sort of an odd one because the original release featured the 1984 version of Point of No Return with Alejandra Lorenzo on lead vocals but later printings and the compact disc featured the 1987 re-recording featuring Jeanette Jurado's vocals on lead. If you own this album, you may or may not realize the track Exposed to Love is the only number that featured the original lineup rather than being re-recorded by Ann, Jeanette and Gioia.

Celebrating my birthday with Gioia Bruno

The album features a mix of high-energy dance tracks and emotive ballads, showcasing the versatility of the three ladies known as Exposé. Among the standout tracks are Point of No Return, Come Go With Me, Seasons Change and my absolute favorite, Let Me Be the One which Gioia absolutely slays with her killer vocals. Each song on the album highlights the group’s ability to deliver catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, making “Exposure” a timeless piece in the pop and dance music genres.

The private concert Gioia did for us

I eventually purchased an actual CD copy of this album, in my late teens and have never parted with it. In 2017, it actually traveled with me from Atlanta to Mexico and Belize along with some of the original Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling and none other than the lady I adored as a kid, Gioia Bruno. Gioia was an absolute sweetheart during the cruise and not only shared a lot of her personal life and struggles but also insight of her solo career as well as her career as a 3rd of one of the most iconic girl groups of the 1980s. She was a riot to party with and also gave 2 epic private concerts for our group, one of which she sang happy birthday to me. I haven't been starstruck too many times in my life but upon meeting Gioia, I felt as if I was in the presence of royalty at first but her humble and genuine demeanor eased my nerves, she was also gracious enough to autograph my CD copy of Exposure, something I will always treasure.

Riding an elevator with Gioia

Exposé’s success with “Exposure” not only solidified their place in music history but also paved the way for future girl groups in the industry. The album’s production, led by Lewis A. Martineé, combined with the trio’s dynamic performances, created a sound that resonated with a wide audience. Whether you’re revisiting the hits or discovering them for the first time, “Exposure” remains a quintessential album that captures the essence of 80s pop music.

I’ve loved this album for ages, so when I found out in 2015 that Cherry Pop, a British indie label, released a deluxe edition, I was thrilled. It not only had all the classic tracks I adored but also an expanded track list and a bonus disc with remixes and dub versions from singles and maxi-singles, some of which had never been on CD before. Plus, it featured songs by the original lineup and versions by Gioia, Jeanette, and Ann. No matter which version you have, you’ll definitely be tapping your foot, singing along, or even dancing your butt off.

Back cover of the Cherry Pop release of Exposure

If you are interested in purchasing your very own NEW or used copy of Expose Exposure click this link to check out great deals on NEW and used records, cassette tapes and CDs at great prices

Madonna Blond Ambition World Tour 1990

Madonna Blond Ambition 1990 LaserDisc

The Blond Ambition World Tour is a gem for any Madonna enthusiast. Various performances were filmed throughout the tour, including the color musical footage used in the movie "Truth or Dare" which was filmed in Paris. The standalone performances that were officially released, filmed in Yokohama, Japan and Nice, France were only ever released on LaserDisc as Pioneer was the main sponsor of the tour. For a short time in the late 1990s, Madonna's fan club did offer a limited release of the Japanese performance on VHS. Rumors have circulated for years that either the Japanese or French shows would get a DVD release but it's never happened. Bootleg releases of performances in Houston, Texas as well as New Jersey have made it into the hands of collectors also. The Barcelona, Spain performance was filmed for Spanish television, in spite of technical issues and the fact that Madonna was miserable the entire time while putting on a top notch show and it has also made it's way into the hands of collectors. The 3 "official" recordings can be identified by Madonna's hairstyle and among fans the shows are known as: The One With the Ponytail (Yokohama) The One With the Poofy Hair (Barcelona) and then there's The One With the Curly Hair, also known as the Nice, France show. This review is drawn from the final show of Madonna's groundbreaking Blond Ambition World Tour in Nice, France, which aired on HBO a few hours after the tour wrapped up. While it's technically only available on LaserDisc, you can find DVD transfers on eBay as well as some brave souls periodically upload it to YouTube. No matter your viewing preference, it as a fun nostalgic trip back to 1990. The concert is a visual and auditory feast, featuring some of Madonna’s biggest hits like “Vogue” “Like a Prayer” “Express Yourself” and “Open Your Heart.” Each musical number is meticulously choreographed, blending provocative themes with high-energy dance routines.

Madonna with the iconic ponytail

Madonna’s costumes, designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier, are iconic. The most memorable is undoubtedly the cone bra corset, which has since become a symbol of pop culture. The stage sets are equally impressive, with elaborate backdrops and props that transform with each song, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

The infamous Barcelona performance

However, the tour wasn’t without its challenges. Madonna faced criticism and controversy, particularly from religious groups, due to the provocative nature of her performances. The Vatican even condemned the tour, calling it blasphemous. Despite this, the tour was a commercial success and is often credited with redefining the modern pop concert.

Madonna during the European leg of the Blond Ambition Tour

Reviews at the time were mixed but leaned towards positive. The New York Times praised Madonna’s ability to blend spectacle with substance, noting that “her concerts are as much about theater as they are about music.” Rolling Stone highlighted the tour’s influence on future pop performances, stating that “Madonna has set a new standard for live shows.”

For years I had watched my VHS copies of The Virgin Tour as well as Ciao Italia aka The Who's That Girl Tour, the Virgin Tour being my favorite, until I saw this concert. This was the concert the brought my already obsessive fandom over the top. From Express Yourself to Open Your Heart, I was hooked. The arrangement of Like A Virgin, while not traditional, was naughty and unbelievable for the time but so very awesome. The arrangement of Like a Prayer was the remixed version found on the Immaculate Collection album which in my opinion is far superior to the original version on the Like A Prayer album. My absolute favorite number in the set list was the song she closed out the show with, Keep It Together, a minor hit from the Like A Prayer album. To this day, I am convinced if the live version, complete with the Family Affair intro, was released as a single in 1990, it would have made it into the top 10.

Overall, the Blond Ambition World Tour is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of pop music and performance art. It captures a pivotal moment in Madonna’s career and showcases her as a trailblazer in the music industry.

If you are interested in acquiring your own copy of Blond Ambition on DVD click here to check out the eBay listings but remember, these are transfers from LD to DVD in spite of sellers claiming they are remastered in HD.

Rediscovering the Magic: Masters of the Universe Origins Action Figures

I was in the first or second grade when I received my first action figure for Christmas, two to be exact. Prince Adam and Skeletor from the Masters of the Universe. I'd not seen the television series at that point but I loved both figures. Adam's pink velvet vest was definitely something that caught my eye when I first opened the box. Over the years, I had collected a lot of the original figures, minus the ladies because my mom thought they were too much like dolls and she was convinced playing with dolls would contribute to my already gay personality. By the time I made it into the 6th grade, I had lost focus on action figures and moved on to collection records and tapes but I still loved my Masters of the Universe collection...that is until my dad conned me into giving my entire collection to a kid whose dad had recently left him and his mom...I found out years later when my dad confessed the reason the man left his wife was because she was having an affair...with my dad. My life is complicated for a very good reason...anyway back to the Masters of the Universe. Over time, the original line was discontinued and new figures were released with each reboot but nothing seemed to interesting to me....until I walked through the toy department of Walmart a few Novembers ago and spotted some familiar figures hanging on pegs....

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 1

For fans of the iconic 1980s series, the Masters of the Universe Origins action figures are a nostalgic trip back to the days of epic battles between He-Man and Skeletor. Mattel brilliantly revived these classic characters, blending retro charm with modern design elements to captivate both longtime fans of the series and a new generation of kids. A Blast from the Past plus more...

Castle Grayskull Origins Line

The Masters of the Universe Origins line brought back the beloved 5.5-inch action figures, complete with the vibrant colors and dynamic poses that made the originals so memorable. Each figure features up to 16 points of articulation rather than the stiff legs and arms of the originals, allowing for a wide range of action-packed poses and storytelling possibilities. Whether it’s He-Man wielding his Power Sword or Skeletor plotting his next move, these figures are designed to bring the adventures of Eternia to life.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 2

Modern updates with retro flair. While mostly staying true to the original designs, the Origins figures incorporate modern updates. Some characters come with additional accessories and swappable parts, like extra heads for more expressive play. The packaging itself is a nod to the past, featuring retro-style artwork AND mini-comics that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 3

Expanding the universe...The Origins line isn’t just about the main heroes and villains. It also includes a diverse cast of characters, vehicles, and playsets that expand the world of Eternia. From the mighty Battle Cat to the fearsome Panthor and iconic locations like Castle Grayskull and Snake Mountain, the collection offers endless opportunities for imaginative play and display.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 4

The original “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” cartoon, which aired from 1983 to 1985, had a profound impact on pop culture. It was one of the most popular animated shows of the 80s and played a significant role in shaping the syndicated cartoon market. The series combined elements of science fiction, fantasy and adventure, creating a unique and captivating world that resonated with kids like me and adults. Its success not only boosted toy sales but also inspired a range of media, including comic books, a live-action film and multiple reboots. The show’s legacy continues to influence new generations, proving that The Power of Grayskull is truly timeless.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 5

For people like me, the Masters of the Universe Origins figures are more than just toys, they’re a piece of history. The attention to detail, the faithful recreation of beloved characters and the inclusion of mini comic books with each figure make them a must-have for any fan of the franchise. Plus, the figures’ affordability and availability make it easier than ever to build a comprehensive collection. Though at this time, to catch up with previous waves, you will spend a good bit of money on eBay or other 3rd party retailers.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 6

The Masters of the Universe Origins action figures are a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. They capture the essence of what made the original series so special while introducing new elements that enhance the play experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Eternia, these figures are sure to bring joy and excitement to your collection.

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Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye Book Review

Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye

Date Me Bryson Keller North American cover

This YA romance was absolutely adorable, featuring a coming-out storyline that felt genuinely realistic, especially in regions of the US and the world where conservative religion still holds sway. I appreciated how Kai and Bryson were portrayed as real teenagers rather than exaggerated stereotypes. Their relationship reminds me a little bit of one I had with a classmate throughout middle and high school though our ending was nothing like Kai and Bryson. Often in YA novels, characters quote unlikely things or have peculiar hobbies that stretch believability. However, Kai’s aspirations to be a writer, his love for a band, his daily school drives with friends, and his struggle to keep his sexuality a secret all felt authentic and relatable. The romance between Kai and Bryson was incredibly sweet, showcasing some of the best chemistry I’ve encountered in a gay YA novel in a long time!

Date Me Bryson Keller UK Edition Cover

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Some of the blurbs from various authors and booksellers include:

"One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." --Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

"I can't tell you how much joy [Date Me, Bryson Keller] brought me. One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." —Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

“[A] fantastic love story. . . . Uplifting.” —BuzzFeed

"A poignant, cute queer love story that showers teens with support and shows that the hate will never win as long as we stick together." —The Nerd Daily

“An adorable featherlight romance.” —The Guardian

"A fun, feel-good story that shows the importance of having a strong support system, that love is love, and that everyone deserves to love and be loved." —School Library Journal

"This #ownvoices debut is scrupulously romantic. . . . A solid blend of swoon-worthy moments and minor injustices." —Kirkus Reviews

"[Kevin van Whye] writes a coming-out story with authority and empathy. . . . The execution is appealing, and readers, too, will want to date Bryson." —Booklist

"Debut author van Whye uses the dare to set up a book filled with good-natured sweetness." —Publishers Weekly

"A sweet romance and exploration of the ways we can accidentally fall in love. Adorable and authentic." —L. C. Rosen, author of Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts) and Camp

The basic storyline for those who love spoilers would be:

What If It's Us meets To All the Boys I've Loved Before in this upbeat and heartfelt boy-meets-boy romance that feels like a modern twist on a '90s rom-com! 

Everyone knows about the dare: Each week, Bryson Keller must date someone new--the first person to ask him out on Monday morning. 

But Kai Sheridan never expected Bryson to say yes to him. As the days go by, he discovers there's more to Bryson beneath the surface, and dating him begins to feel less like an act and more like the real thing. Kai knows how the story of a gay boy liking someone straight ends. With his heart on the line, he's awkwardly trying to navigate senior year at school, at home, and in the closet, all while grappling with the fact that this "relationship" will last only five days. After all, Bryson Keller is popular, good-looking, and straight . . . right?

Drawing on his own experiences, Kevin van Whye delivers an uplifting and poignant coming-out love story. Readers will root for Kai and Bryson to share their hearts with the world--and with each other.

About the Author: Kevin van Whye is a writer born and raised in South Africa, where his love for storytelling started at a young age. At four years old, he quit preschool because his teacher couldn't tell a story. Kevin's love affair with stories led him to film school to study script writing. Date Me, Bryson Keller is his first novel. Kevin currently lives in Johannesburg, and when he's not reading, he's writing stories that give his characters the happy rom-com endings they deserve. Find him at kevinvanwhye.com and on Instagram.

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Madonna Like a Prayer Original Release Album Review

Release Date: March 21, 1989 Record Label: Sire Records

Madonna Like A Prayer Album Cover

The day this album was released, I was at the Walmart in Milton, Florida bothering the lady in electronics to check in the back to see if the album came in. The lady was super sweet and came back with 2 cassette tapes, one for me and the other to go on the shelf. By the time the Like A Prayer album was released, the song Like A Prayer was already a megahit and was in constant rotation on the radio and MTV, partially due to the Pepsi deal gone wrong.

Among Madonna’s discography, Like a Prayer stands out as her most deliberate artistic endeavor. While it’s clear she aimed to create a “serious” album, the dazzling array of pop styles is truly impressive. From the funk of “Express Yourself” and “Keep It Together” to the haunting melodies of “Oh Father” and the title track “Like a Prayer,” Madonna showcases her exceptional songwriting skills, making this her most cohesive album at the time.

Singles from Like A Prayer

The album opens with the title track, “Like a Prayer,” which blends pop and gospel influences, creating a powerful and emotive anthem. “Express Yourself” follows with its upbeat, empowering message and funky rhythm. “Love Song,” a collaboration with Prince, adds a unique, experimental touch to the album.

“Till Death Do Us Part” delves into the complexities of a troubled marriage, reflecting Madonna’s personal experiences. “Promise to Try” is a poignant ballad about the loss of her mother, showcasing her vulnerability. “Cherish” brings a lighter, more playful tone with its catchy melody and romantic lyrics.

“Dear Jessie” is a whimsical, fairy-tale-like song that adds a touch of fantasy to the album. “Oh Father” is another deeply personal track, addressing her relationship with her father and the impact of her mother’s death. The album closes with “Act of Contrition,” a weird, unique and experimental piece that blends rock and religious themes.

If you were lucky enough to get the first printing of the album, no doubt you will remember the scent of patchouli, included to give the album an immersive church-like experience.

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The Darkness Outside Us Eliot Schrefer Book Review

The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer

The Darkness Outside Us Cover Art

Hardcover Released June 1, 2021

Paperback Released May 10, 2022

Winner of the 2022 Stonewall Book Award

While sorting a shipment of books to be shelved in Ink, the main bookstore I work in, a book caught my eye. The cover of The Darkness Outside Us, a young adult LGBTQ+ book by Eliot Schrefer, looked interesting so I read the back cover and the first couple of pages and the story drew me in. I'm not really into Sci-Fi but in spite of being a Science Fiction & Dystopian Romance, I very much enjoyed The Darkness Outside Us.

I recently read a few books by Adam Silvera as well as Becky Albertalli. If you enjoy their writing style, imagine it being remixed with episodes of Black Mirror or Twilight Zone. Schrefer brilliantly encapsulated a dark, foreboding atmospheric feel to the story, almost giving you a claustrophobic vibe due to the fact these guys are on a spaceship. The first couple of chapters are a little slow but not bad and you don’t want to put it down because it sets up with a melancholic mood that continually builds and all of a sudden, you are hooked and want to know what's going on and what's going to happen. 

The story is set several centuries in the future with Ambrose and Kodiak on a mission to save Ambrose's sister from a fledgling colony on one of Jupiter's moons. I won't give away much more to this story because the less you know, the better your reading experience will be. As with most reviews I've read, the general consensus among all of us who have read it, it's a complicated story that the slightest of detail within the story could be a spoiler. I will say, it's classified as a romance book, and a love story is inevitable, the only thing I will say that doesn't spoil the story is about the journey and Ambrose and Kodiak finding themselves.

Some of the national trade reviews are quoted as:

They Both Die at the End meets Gravity in this mind-bending sci-fi mystery and tender love story about two boys aboard a spaceship sent on a rescue mission, from two-time National Book Award finalist Eliot Schrefer. Stonewall Honor Award winner!

Two boys, alone in space. Sworn enemies sent on the same rescue mission.

Ambrose wakes up on the Coordinated Endeavor with no memory of a launch. There’s more that doesn’t add up: evidence indicates strangers have been on board, the ship’s operating system is voiced by his mother, and his handsome, brooding shipmate has barricaded himself away. But nothing will stop Ambrose from making his mission succeed—not when he’s rescuing his own sister.

In order to survive the ship’s secrets, Ambrose and Kodiak will need to work together and learn to trust each other . . . especially once they discover what they are truly up against. Love might be the only way to survive.

* Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books of the Year * A Booklist Editor's Choice of the Year * A BCCB Blue Ribbon Book of the Year * A YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults & Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults Book of the Year *

A film adaption by Eliot Page's Pageboy productions has been announced though no details of a timeline of when it will be filmed, released or who will star.

If you enjoy The Darkness Between Us, you will be happy to know that Eliot Schrefer's sequel The Brightness Between Us will be released October 1, 2024 available at Libro.Fm, HudsonBooksellers.com, Amazon.com or your favorite book retailer. I already have an advance copy and will review it soon.

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Record Stores a re-worked memory

Years ago, I posted a blog regarding my love for record stores. I revisited it and while I feel it's still relevant to my life, I figured I would write a new post about the subject from a fresh perspective.

Sam Goody Store "Goody Got It"

Oh, the golden age of record stores! 🎵 I would do anything to return to the hallowed aisles filled with music—where vinyl sat in upright shelves waiting for someone to flip through, cassette tapes lining the walls and CD long boxes that stood on it's own enticing music lovers to upgrade their collections from analog to digital. Tower Records, Record Bar, Turtles, Coconuts and Peaches—they were more than stores; they were portals to sonic wonderlands.

My memories of the limited-time being able to visit a record store during my mom's infrequent pilgrimages to the mall resonate with me deeply. If I was given a chance to pick out something, the clock ticking, the pressure to choose wisely—it was like a musical scavenger hunt. My sister’s lightning-fast genre coverage is legendary! Metal, rap (or '80s rap, as it was known), pop/rock, she was a musical connoisseur on a mission. And there I was, eyeing the “M” section, hoping for a new gem by Madonna. 🎤💫

Typical Set Up of a 1980's Record Store

The decline of vinyl hit hard, but oh, that snap, crackle, and pop—it was part of the experience. My Emerson dual cassette boombox I received in the 7th grade and Emerson stereo with a turntable and single cassette player I got for Christmas in the 5th grade may have mangled my tunes, but they couldn’t dampen my enthusiasm for music, or creativity and ingenuity when it came to tape splicing and repair 

And let’s talk about the evolution of record stores. From a team of knowledgeable staff to today’s sparse crew, it’s a different landscape. By gone are the days when you could walk into a store and say you are looking for a song that goes something like....blah blah blah...and the sales person knows exactly what you are asking for. Now you have to be specific and even still they will ask “Who’s it by?”—ouch! But fear not, because old-timers like myself and possibly you as well as vinyl freaks can find solace in used record stores, like Fantasyland Records or Media Mania if you happen live in the Atlanta area. 🌟

There’s something irreplaceable about the feel and sound of vinyl. The warmth, the crackle, the tangible connection—it rocks worlds and spins memories. So here’s to the vinyl groove, the hidden gems, and the joy of discovering music in its physical form. 🎶✨

By the way, have you stumbled upon any rare vinyl finds lately? Or perhaps there’s a specific album that still eludes you? Let’s keep the musical conversation going! 🎧😊

My go to fruity drink for customers who didn't know what they wanted: Banana RUM Punch

 When I was a bartender, there were several different types of customers that could try your patience until you are ready to explode. The ones who would walk up to the bar and rush me because they think they are about to be sat were the worst, especially knowing they could just wait until they got to their table to order because most of the time, I would make their drink and rather than paying and tipping me they would want to get the check transferred over. We had a policy to pay at the bar and the customer would get mad and not tip based on me following policy.

There's a lot of other types that would be troublesome but the type that seems to be annoying for all bartenders are the ones who don't know what they want but they know they don't want beer or wine. I would ask questions based on various tastes and fruity seemed to be the one those people would settle on, if it were a manly man, I would totally blindside them with foo-foo garnishes on my go to fruity offering just for giggles. While I know I could have talked anyone into a Long Island Tea or a BMF, my favorite was Banana Rum Punch because they were super easy to make and it always put a smile on people no matter if it was their drink or someone else. So here's the recipe I used...not all bars have Banana Rum but ours did.

1.5 ounce banana rum
2 ounces orange juice
2 ounces pineapple juice
top off with Sprite
splash of grenadine
Orange and lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
Shake banana rum, orange juice and pineapple juice till foamy
Pour into tall glass over ice, top with Sprite add a splash of grenadine, which will slowly sink to the bottom.

Serve with orange and lemon slices for garnish and enjoy your fruity drink.

ROCK ON!!!

Red White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston Book Review: A love story that transcends boundaries and expectations.

Casey McQuiston's Red, White & Royal Blue: A Book Review

Red White & Royal Blue Paperback Edition

I quit my job at Borders Books for more than two decades, and during that time, I stopped reading despite having bought numerous books with the hope of finishing them. It wasn't until the final days of Borders' liquidation sale that I managed to purchase a mass market paperback copy of Gaston Leroux's The Phantom of the Opera. It took nearly two decades for me to delve into the original story that my all-time favorite musical was based on. Since beginning my employment with Hudson Booksellers, which primarily serves travelers at airports, ports, and other travel hotspots, my reading habits have dramatically increased. This wasn't just for professional reasons but also because I rediscovered my passion for reading. In 2023, I read over 200 books, often enjoying them while listening to audiobooks provided by my company as well as titles acquired from Libro.FM and sometimes the library. Some might argue that listening to an audiobook isn't the same as reading, but I view it differently. Whether you're reading with your eyes or listening with your ears, if you're absorbing the words penned by an author, you're engaging in the act of reading.

Red White & Royal Blue promotional graphic

As someone who rediscovered their love for reading after a long hiatus, I found myself completely captivated by Casey McQuiston's "Red, White & Royal Blue." This New Adult debut novel is a whirlwind of emotions, seamlessly blending humor, romance, and thought-provoking themes of duty and identity. The story revolves around Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales. Thrown together by a PR stunt gone wrong, these two young men find themselves navigating a fake relationship that soon blossoms into something real.

McQuiston masterfully crafts Alex and Henry as complex and relatable characters. They grapple with societal pressures, personal insecurities, and the weight of their respective roles. Their journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as they learn to embrace who they truly are and fight for their right to love freely. The supporting characters add depth and humor to the narrative. Alex's sister, June, is a fierce protector, while his best friend, Nora, provides unwavering support. The interactions between these characters are heartwarming and genuine, adding another layer to the story's emotional impact. A recurring theme throughout the book is the concept of duty: to one's family, country, and oneself. McQuiston explores how these obligations can conflict with personal desires and the importance of finding a balance.

Red White & Royal Blue Film Poster

"Red, White & Royal Blue" is a story that leaves you wanting more. While reading, I imagined various actors playing the characters if a film version was made, not realizing the film had already been completed and was slated to be released through Amazon Prime Video within the year. Of course the day Amazon released the movie, I was in front of my television enjoying every bit of it, including one my favorite parts of the book which involved the massive cake incident which led to the PR stunt. It's a hopeful and optimistic tale that celebrates love, acceptance, and the power of individual voices. McQuiston's writing is fresh, engaging, and emotionally resonant. This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of love to overcome any obstacle.

Red White & Royal Blue American Hardcover Edition

For those of you that love bonus material, be sure to check out the hardcover edition which includes some fun artwork on the dust jacket and book cover and an incredible bonus chapter.

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KLF - The White Room North American Release Review March 1991

The KLF - The White Room North American Edition

Since it's release on Arista Records back in 1991, The White Room has been in consistent rotation in my CD collection. After success with their 1988 single "Doctorin' the Tardis" better known as the theme from Dr. Who, Bill Drummond and Jimmy Cauty had money to employ talented musicians such as P.P. Arnold and Maxine Harvey instead of sampling other people's music as heard on their previous albums. 

The White Room has been released in different countries with various configurations of the musical numbers, some featuring different mixes as heard on the North American edition. I have most of the international releases and in spite of it being a heavily edited version of the other recordings, find myself listening to the North American edition mostly because I associate it with my teen years. 

I first heard 3 AM Eternal on WABB during an evening segment they called "Make It Or Break It?" and as much as I loved it, it unfortunately it was not as well loved by the listening audience of the Mobile and Pensacola area as a majority of callers opted to "Break It" and it was rarely played on the station in spite of it's position in the top 40 charts. To this day, I consider it one of the best club tunes from the early 1990's.

The White Room is an album bursting with hit singles that flow almost seamlessly with the tracks that didn't quite make it to radio or their own single release. Often overlooked as a classic from the acid house era, tunes from The White Room seems to hold up well on the dancefloor.

After charting with What Time Is Love, 3 AM Eternal and Last Train From Trancentral, The KLF had another trick up their sleeve. Nine months after The White Room was released in the US, a second edition was released as a 2 CD, featuring the original CD release as well as well as the Maxi-Single of the newly reimagined version of Justified & Ancient featuring country legend Tammy Wynette on lead vocals.

Back Cover of the North American Edition The White Room

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