The long-awaited wait for HBO’s Euphoria season two has officially ended.
The Knockturnal wrapped our HBO’s Euphoria interviews with the insanely talented Nika King, Storm Reid, and Colman Domingo. In season one of Euphoria we watch as high school student Rue Bennet, played by Zendaya, struggles with a drug addiction after coming out of rehab. Along with putting herself through hell, Rue doesn’t realize how her addiction is also affecting her mom Leslie, played by Nika King, and sister Gia, played by Storm Reid, as well. While struggling with sobriety, Rue meets a sponsor named Ali, played by Colman Domingo. Ali attempts to try and get Rue to understand that only she can help herself, and that she can no longer use people in her life, like Jules, as an emotional crutch to justify why she should stay sober. In our interviews with the amazing cast, Nika King described what it was like filming her iconic fight scene with Rue and how it was actually improvised, which many fans did not know. We also learned that the newest season will feature a more in depth look into Gia’s character who we saw rebelling a bit in season one.
Check out our interviews with Nika King, Storm Reid, and Colman Domingo and don’t forget to watch Euphoria Season 2 streaming on HBO on January 9th and let us know what you think!
Photo Credit Eddy Chen HBO
K-pop has begun to sweep the world as the “Hallyu wave” or “Korean wave” (the idea that South Korean pop culture has grown in prominence to become a major driver of global pop culture) has finally cemented its place in the west. After almost two decades of k-pop, the world has finally started to pay attention to the astounding accomplishments being made by k-pop idols and groups. Everyone is aware of who BTS are, but not many people know how astounding their accomplishments really are. In their recent years as a group, BTS has broken world records, been nominated for a Grammy, gotten Teen Choice, MTV, VMAs, Daesangs, Bonsangs, iHeart Radio Music Awards, American Music Awards and much much more. With BTS being the number one k-pop artists in the world, having just become the first asian act to win Artist of the Year at the AMA’s, it is finally time for people to begin to recognize these global powerhouses and pay attention to how incredible these groups really are.
First Gen
(Seo Taiji and The Boys left to right: Yang Hyun-suk, Seo Taiji, and Lee Juno)
K-pop can be broken down into “generations”. Each generations designates a certain time period a group has debuted and attempts to define the genre and culture as k-pop evolves over time. The first generation took place from the 1990s to the early 2000s with notable acts like Seo Taiji and the Boys, H.O.T., and Sechs Kies. This first generation designated the official start of k-pop and acted as a stepping stool for many other groups to follow. Not long after came one of the most globally influential generations, the second generation of k-pop.
Second Gen
(Girl’s Generation left to right: Yoona, Sooyoung, Tiffany, Hyoyeon, Yuri, Taeyeon, Sunny and Seohyun)
The second generation took place from 2003 to approximately 2010. In this generation we saw groups like SHINee, Big Bang, Girl’s Generation, 2NE1, Super Junior, and so many other talented groups make their mark and help the spread of the ‘Hallyu wave”` with world tours and the introduction of “fanservice”, these idols began to drop the mysterious untouchable celebrity act and introduced the friendly approachable idol image.
Third Gen
(Seventeen left to right: Wonwoo, Jun, S. Coups, Seungkwan, Dino, Joshua, Hoshi, Jeonghan, Woozi, Vernon, DK, The 8, Mingyu)
Groups that began the generational transition shift in the early 2012’s became known as the third generation. Some groups from this notable era are Twice, Seventeen, BTS, Red Velvet, EXO, BLACKPINK, and NCT and tons more. Third generation had a very heavy emphasis on a global audience. Before the third generation many international fans had to rely on other fans to add subtitles to clips of their favorite groups, but the third generation introduced more content for the international fan through social media platforms, like Twitter and Instagram, along with streaming platforms, like YouTube. K-pop also began to expand and add more of a story telling element through the introduction of “universes” or the group’s “concepts”. The end of the third generation is a bit less conclusive, but many agree it ended sometime in 2018.
Fourth Gen
(Stray Kids left to right: I.N., Changbin, Lee Know, Felix, HAN, BangChan, Hyunjin, Seungmin)
Any group who made their debut in 2018 or 2019 was considered to be a part of the current fourth generation. The fourth generation shows k-pop at an unprecedented scale that we have never seen before. Groups are debuting and immediately gaining millions of views on music videos and going on showcase tours around the world. Groups like TXT, Aespa, Stray Kids, ITZY, Enhypen, ATEEZ, LOONA, P1Harmony, STAYC are among many other powerhouse groups debuting almost weekly. This new generation are showcasing their individual talents through k-pop to the world while showing there are no barriers and their possibilities of success are endless.
With the influx of new groups and the lack of “boy bands” and “girl groups” in the west since notable acts like One Direction and Fifth Harmony, k-pop has been able to take over and found a new sense of popularity throughout the global pandemic. Something that differentiates k-pop from the typical “teenage pop group” is the amount of time and production that goes into it. Some idol groups like Stray Kids and Seventeen are also labelled as self producing because they take part in writing, producing, mixing, choreographing, and doing many other things. These all rounder groups are insuring that they cement a place for themselves globally and need to be recognized for their hard work and legitimate artistry instead of just a “teenage craze”.
Needless to say there are many more layers to the K-pop universe and learning about what differentiates it or makes it appealing is only the beginning. Until then, here’s some of our favorites that you should definitely add to your playlists.
HBO’s Euphoria season two is officially here after a very long wait. The highly anticipated hit series starring Zendaya is ready to shock fans once again with tons of new twists that fans are not going to be expecting. In season two fans of Cassie, Lexi, and Maddie have a lot to look forward too. This season will feature a lot of personal growth and amazing character arcs for all three characters expanding on the little we know about them from season one. Euphoria follows teenage addict Rue Bennett, played by Zendaya, as she struggles with sobriety after coming back from rehab while she faces daily challenges in high school. Along with being able to watch Rue’s story we got to watch Maddy, played by Alexa Demie, as she struggled with an abusive and manipulative relationship with football player Nate, played by Jacob Elordi. Season two opens with Maddy having ended and coming out of that relationship. Along with Maddy, in season one we also got to watch Cassie, played by Sydney Sweeney, as she struggled with rumors and being exploited by boys at her school. When asked about her shocking character arc this season Sweeney laughed and said she’ll definitely have to shut her phone off after fans watch the show. In season one we unfortunately did not get to see Lexi’s, played by Maude Apatow, character develop as much as we would have hoped, but that is changing with this new season. Fan favorite Lexi is going to be highlighted much more in season two. We can anticipate a lot more drama and plot twists at Rue’s high school as they all try to navigate love and friendships in a world of drugs, sex, trauma, abusive relationships, and social media.
Check out our interviews with Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie, and Maude Apatow and don’t forget to watch Euphoria Season 2 streaming on HBO on January 9th and let us know what you think!
Photo Credit Eddy Chen HBO
In 2019, hit HBO show Euphoria took the world by storm.
The newest Holiday EP from internationally acclaimed jazz artist Spiros Exaras is here, and The Knockturnal got the inside scoop. Exaras’s first ever original holiday single “The Magic of Christmas”, released on December 1st, brings joy to the world. Exaras is known for his impressive fusion of different musical elements, notably in his Greek- Cuban collaboration with Elio Villafranca, “Old Waters, New River” as well as in his signature Blue Note album “Phrygianics”. Along with title “The Magic of Christmas”, Spiros Exaras also released a second Christmas track titled “Christmas Wish”. In the title track, “The Magic of Christmas”, Spiros’ resonant guitar sound meets with Don Braden’s distinctive sax, and Eugene Ruffolo’s smooth vocals to create what is sure to be a future Christmas classic.
Inspiration for “The Magic of Christmas” struck when Spiros’ daughter was studying abroad and was unable to join the family in decorating the Christmas tree. With love and imagination, Spiros and Ileana decided to co-write a song expressing the holiday cheer that magically unites people, no matter the distance. A jolly journey of two solos is followed by a line in Spiros Exaras’ native language, Greek. “Ding, dong! Christou’genna pantou,’” (Christmas is everywhere), wishing happy holidays from his home to the world. Indeed, The Magic of Christmas knows no borders. The second track, Christmas Wish, is a heartfelt song about lending a hand to those less fortunate. It is a wish for a world where holiday joy is not a privilege for the few, but can spread to all people. Amanda Homi’s soulful voice along with Caryl Paisner’s stunning cello interpretation blend with Spiros’ dynamic arrangement to create a song that is both touching and hopeful. The Magic of Christmas EP is a joyful sleigh ride, a cheerful stroll through a sparkling city, and gift of heartwarming melodies that once opened, will bring smiles to all its listeners.
Check out our interview with guitarist, composer, producer Spiros Exaras below and don’t forget to check out the music video for “The Magic of Christmas” along with “Christmas Wish” now on YouTube and Spotify.
Tell us about your new song
In my family, we have a tradition of decorating the Christmas tree together while listening to Christmas songs- jazzy Christmas songs. One year my daughter, Ileana, was studying abroad and couldn’t join us for this annual tradition, so we decided to unite in a different way: by writing a song that we could look forward to listening the next holiday season we’d get to spend together as a family.
It had to be Christmas song- a jazzy Christmas song. If you listen to the lyrics, you’ll get to hear holiday spirit from four cities, all of which Ileana and myself have travelled to: Paris, London, Moscow, and of course, New York. “The Magic of Christmas” is about the joy- bearing holiday energy that knows no borders, and that brings us together no matter the distance.
It’s available on all streaming services, but Apple subscribers exclusively can also listen to the Atmos mix for a more cinematic and immersive experience.
What was the creative process behind it?
You would think that after being exposed to so many holiday songs in one’s life, writing them would be second nature, but its not so! If it’s a Christmas song, you want it to “sound” like Christmas. The challenge then, is trying to think about the song rationally- as in trying to come up with festive harmonies and thinking about traditional instruments like bells, while also trying to make it come from the heart- and that’s when all the thinking you’ve put in finally translates into emotion. After weeks of thinking and writing nothing, my daughter, Ileana, sent me a picture of herself in front of Saint Basil’s Church in Moscow, a historic landmark. As if by magic, memories came back to mind and the first lyrics landed: “Christmas in Moscow’s Saint Basil, Ding Dong, Saint Patrick’s in New York”. I sent the draft to the ‘master’ to finish it brilliantly. This is the first time Ileana and I wrote lyrics together.
What are some of your favorite holiday songs?
Holiday songs are more than just melody: they are memory, they are hope, and they can inspire comfort even in not so comforting times. Some songs that are timeless for me are “I’ll be Home for Christmas” “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”, and “Carol of the Bells”. I believe these songs have the power to bring moments of heartwarming unity. Joni Mitchell’s “River” is also an important and beautiful song, showing the angst that can be hidden behind the lights and ornaments of the season.
How was collaborating with your daughter?
Being able to work with Ileana is a blessing. I trust her and take her opinion very seriously. She is in touch with her generation, and her academic and experiential knowledge from living in different countries ensures that I stay up-to-date with the times, and reconsider any ideas that may be old fashioned, both in the music industry and in life. It is important to build a relationship of honest communication and respect with your children. You grow together, and most importantly, these are values that your children will export to society. It all starts in the family. Of course, at times we are both “stubborn Greeks” but that’s because we set the bar high. She has a great gift for translating the emotion I want to communicate into lyrics.
What’s next for you?
Next up, I’m working on a concept album with 11 songs inspired by ancient Greek mythology. You’ll be able to hear exotic rhythms, ethnic instruments, and progressive harmonies mixed with cool electronic sounds. It’ll be performed with my band, World-Jazz Ensemble. If you’re into myths, heroes, gods, and goddesses, stay tuned for a “mythical” jazz twist!
In the meantime, you can get an acoustic glimpse of a Greek-folklore fusion, featuring santurist Loukia Valasi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vz63BOf0frk). Finally you can check out another very important project from this past year: a video for “La Ruta”, a song co-written with Jeremy Ryan dedicated to refugees who risk their lives for a better future, with original images from the Syria- Turkey Border, Greece, Serbia, and the United States, by acclaimed photographer Craig Ruttle and original text from NYU psychoanalyst Dr. Spyros Orfanos. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3-68KxF-bY)
What about “Christmas Wish”, the second holiday song you released this season?
The holiday season in New York City is a gift in itself, bringing in a rush of love, compassion, and gratitude. Not everybody, however, receives this love and compassion. “Christmas Wish” is a reminder not to lose sight of our consideration for others amidst the shopping and the sparkling spectacles. It’s a song that I hope will inspire those with a big enough hand, to lend it to those who do not have their basic needs met, physical and emotional. I hope that everyone will have something to feel grateful for this season. That is my wish.
Cover art by Pau Yaniz Gonzalez
The Witcher has returned with the long-awaited season two.
Holiday spirit still lingers on top of Hollywood after Katie Welch and Jordan Kuker’s 8th annual Toys for Tots spectacular. With special appearances by youtube sensation Gigi Gorgeous along with Adam Lambert wrapping up some amazing holiday singing performances, the party was a show-stopping event.
We arrived to the beautiful Yamashiro Hollywood restaurant and were immediately floored by how beautiful the venue was. The restaurant sits above all of Hollywood with spectacular view that wraps around the whole exterior. We were escorted by staff to a seperate room on the side of the restaurant with a red carpet outside. On the carpet we watched as many celebrities dropped off their toys in the Toys for Tots bins before having a few photos snapped. Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children who don’t receive gifts for Christmas. Once we entered inside the venue we were met with an amazing sushi buffet, hot chocolate bar, and photo booth amongst other fun things. Guests enjoyed SNAX-Sational Brands’ Candy Pop and Cookie Pop’s two new original holiday flavors Cookie Pop Popcorn Iced Gingerbread and Candy Pop Popcorn Peppermint Hot Chocolate. We also had the opportunity to join in on some auction items like paintings and weekend getaways which all also benefited the Toys for Tots event. After grabbing a bite to eat we walked out into the courtyard area.
The Yamashiro Hollywood courtyard was absolutely stunning complete with koi ponds and bonsai trees in a traditional Japanese style. While we enjoyed the delicious snacks and beverages, there was a DJ was setting the mood for the rest of the party with a delightful holiday set list. After more guests had arrived the holiday performances began. The event opened with a dance performance inspired by 2004 cult classic Mean Girls complete with santa dresses and hats. After that hosts Katie Welch and Johnny Wujek introduced tons of amazing singing acts after performing a couple numbers themselves. The singing performances wrapped up with Grammy award nominee and singing legend Adam Lambert. The charity event spread tons of holiday cheer and brought Christmas spirit to town while doing tons of good for children in need.
The iconic Matrix franchise is back and ready to offer fans an inside look into the new universe. The Matrix Resurrections, releasing in theaters December 22, 2021 and streaming on HBO Max, is the fourth installment in The Matrix film series. The new film follows the third installment almost 18 years later and it did not disappoint. The Matrix Resurrections brings back the iconic cast from previous Matrix movies like Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Lambert Wilson, and Jada Pinkett Smith who are also now being joined by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Christina Ricci. Producer, director, and writer Lana Wachowski recreates the Matrix universe in a way that appeals to previous fans of the Matrix universe as well as those who have never seen them before. Little has been teased about The Matrix Resurrections, but Lana Wachowski hopes to invite fans to return to a world of two realities. The two realities test the limits of everyday life and what lies behind it. The film follows Mr. Anderson who attempts to find out if his reality is a construct going on a self-discovery journey attempting to truly know himself.
Check out our interviews with Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas and don’t forget to watch The Matrix Resurrections in theaters and on streaming platform HBO Max starting December 22, 2021 and let us know what you think!
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♬ Hall of Fame (feat. will.i.am) - The Script
The Kurt Warner story is not one many would say they are too familiar with, but after watching The American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story no one will be able to stop raving about how inspirational and moving it truly is. American Underdog is an uplifting true story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family and determination. American Underdog, directed by the Erwin Brothers, stars Zachary Levi who plays Kurt Warner and Anna Paquin who plays Brenda Warner. The inspirational true story follows the journey of Kurt Warner who goes from being a stock boy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. While following the journey of Kurt, the audience is also able to learn more about his wife Brenda who also deals with many of her own struggles and challenges that she is able to persevere through with the motivation and help of her faith. As Kurt Warner begins to fall in love with Brenda, his plans and aspirations to become an NFL player slowly become derailed. Through thick and thin Brenda remains by his side and with the help of his coaches, teammates, family, and friends Warner is able to overcome his challenges and find the strength to finally prove to the world the champion that he already is.
Once we arrived at the red carpet of the beautiful and historic TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood we were greeted by a team of cheerleaders performing and welcoming all the guests. We got the opportunity to speak to the cast and crew of The American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story. Along with cast and crew, we also had the chance to speak to executive producers and inspiration behind the movie, Kurt and Brenda Warner. Incredibly gracious and kind, Kurt and Brenda talked about what having a movie about them means, and what they hope audiences will take away after watching it. Kurt said, “The exciting part is to know that people thought that our story was good enough that it could impact people.” After being able to watch the premiere as well, The Knockturnal can surely say this movie definitely did what it had set out to do. Not an eye was left dry after watching the moving film about the humble and hardworking story of Kurt and Brenda Warner.
After the movie premiere Los Angeles Rams fans amongst those in the audience began to cheer and scream in joy, transporting the whole audience to the stadium of a football game. This energy carried on to the after party as well. When we arrived at the beautiful Sunset Room in Hollywood we were greeted with the amazing site of Kurt Warner’s actual football jerseys. Inside the venue projectors played footage from the movie as well as family photos of the Warner family. With tons of great music, food, and drinks the night ended out on a very uplifting and festive note.
Check out our interviews with actors Zachary Levi, Anna Paquin, Brett Varvel, directors Andrew and Jon Erwin, executive producers and inspiration behind the film Kurt and Brenda Warner on the red carpet and don’t forget to check out our official TikTok @theknockturnal.com for more behind the scenes content!
(Photos credit: EPK American Underdog Los Angeles Premiere)
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