In a notable return to the music scene, artists Helena Hauff and F#X have revived their collaborative project, Black Sites, with the release of their new album, R4. This marks the first full-length project under this name in over a decade and is being released through Berlin’s prestigious Tresor Records.

The album, recorded live to tape and intentionally left raw, showcases a distinctive approach that prioritizes instinct over polish. Hauff and F#X crafted the tracks without overdubs or revisions, emphasizing a direct connection to their equipment and creative instincts. This choice reflects a commitment to authenticity, allowing the music to resonate with a visceral energy that aligns with their shared influences.

Origins and Hiatus of Black Sites

The genesis of Black Sites can be traced back to their time as residents at the Golden Pudel in Hamburg, where both artists found common ground in their musical interests and a desire to experiment with technology. Hauff recalls that their early days were filled with intense creative collaboration, which eventually led to a natural pause as they focused on their individual projects.

“We had some things left unsaid, unfinished, and it felt like there was more to explore,” Hauff explained. “The project never quite reached its conclusion, and there was a sense that it was still waiting to be fully realized.”

Revisiting their earlier work inspired the duo to create a cohesive album. They listened to unreleased tracks, recognizing the unique sound they had developed, which motivated them to pursue the project anew.

Embracing the Punk Ethos

The album’s rawness has drawn comparisons to a “punk ethos,” a theme that recurs in discussions about their work. Hauff and F#X both express admiration for the simplicity and energy of punk music but are careful about labeling their own artistic identity. Hauff stated, “I don’t see myself as a punk… I like the energy of punk music. Also, I love simplicity and naivety in music.”

F#X is more open to experimenting with new technology, emphasizing the importance of tactile engagement with the machines they use. He noted, “When I can control a machine directly, I’m more willing to dive into further experimentation,” indicating a balance between traditional and modern musical tools.

As Black Sites continues to evolve, the artists have not yet outlined specific future plans for the project. However, both Hauff and F#X express enthusiasm for the possibilities that lie ahead, hinting at a willingness to explore new artistic directions.

The album R4 is available now, marking a significant chapter in the ongoing journey of Black Sites, showcasing the duo’s commitment to their craft and their shared vision of music as an ever-evolving art form.

A new patch for Helldivers 2, designated as patch 01.003.200, has been released, introducing innovative features including the ability to impale enemies with flags. This update also includes weapon balancing adjustments as players face fresh challenges in the ongoing Galactic War, particularly with the Automatons attempting to seize control of the Democracy Space Station.

The patch focuses on enhancing gameplay dynamics. Players will now find that the time required for their divers to recover after being incapacitated has been slightly reduced. Additionally, the bleed damage from chest injuries has been increased, addressing player feedback that previous damage levels seemed ineffective. These changes aim to improve overall combat effectiveness, especially with the Flame Sentry, which has also undergone enhancements to its firestarting capabilities.

New Combat Features and Strategic Goals

One of the most significant additions is the revamped Masters of Ceremony warbond’s One True Flag stratagem. According to Arrowhead Game Studios, the developers conducted extensive research into flag technology, allowing players to plant flags directly into enemies, regardless of their status. This new mechanic symbolizes the enduring spirit of Super Earth, as Niklas Malmborg, the design director, noted in a video presentation that implementing this feature required considerable adjustments to the game’s code.

In addition to combat enhancements, the latest patch brings urgent strategic objectives. A new Major Order has been issued, tasking players with defending key locations to secure the Democracy Space Station. These locations include the planets Claorell, Tarsh, and Gaellivare. The developers warn that enemy troops are mobilizing, indicating that this is merely the first wave of planned attacks, suggesting a sustained campaign against the space station.

As players gear up to confront these challenges, the patch offers both new gameplay mechanics and critical missions that will shape the ongoing narrative of Helldivers 2. The game’s community is encouraged to adapt their strategies in light of these updates, ensuring that Super Earth’s objectives remain on course as the Automatons escalate their efforts.

Overall, patch 01.003.200 not only enhances the combat experience but also raises the stakes in the ongoing struggle for control within the game’s universe. With these updates, Helldivers 2 continues to evolve, keeping players engaged in its rich and dynamic world.

Metronomy has released a new remix of their popular track “Salted Caramel Ice Cream,” this time featuring Bristol producer 1-800 GIRLS. Originally launched in 2019, the song has become a staple in Metronomy’s live performances, showcasing a blend of catchy electronics and the distinctive vocals of frontman Joe Mount.

Celebrating a Milestone with New Compilation

The remix accompanies the announcement of Metronomy’s upcoming compilation album, titled Greatest Hits, which is set to be available on September 5. This album aims to encapsulate the band’s journey and achievements over the years. “Salted Caramel Ice Cream” holds a special place on the tracklist, highlighting its significance within the band’s discography.

1-800 GIRLS brings a fresh take to the original, infusing the remix with vibrant house elements and frosted disco tones that aim to invigorate listeners and entice them to the dancefloor. This collaboration reflects the ongoing evolution of Metronomy’s engaging sound and their ability to adapt while maintaining the essence of their music.

Fans can now listen to the remix online, marking yet another chapter in the story of Metronomy’s celebrated catalogue. The release not only reinforces the song’s popularity but also showcases the creative synergy between established artists and emerging producers. As anticipation builds for the Greatest Hits compilation, the remix serves as a reminder of Metronomy’s lasting impact in the music scene.

Metronomy has released a new remix of their fan-favourite track, ‘Salted Caramel Ice Cream’, reimagined by Bristol-based producer 1-800 GIRLS. Originally launched in 2019, the song has established itself as a staple in Metronomy’s live performances, showcasing the group’s distinctive blend of electronic and pop music.

The remix comes as part of Metronomy’s upcoming compilation album, Greatest Hits, which is set to be released on September 5, 2023. This album encapsulates the band’s journey and includes a carefully curated selection of their most celebrated tracks. ‘Salted Caramel Ice Cream’ holds a prominent position within the tracklist, highlighting its continued relevance and popularity among fans.

1-800 GIRLS’ take on the track introduces a fresh, vibrant sound characterized by frosted disco tones and an energizing house beat. This new version invites listeners to the dancefloor, offering a lively reinterpretation that retains the original’s charm while adding a modern twist.

The release of this remix not only reflects Metronomy’s ongoing evolution as artists but also demonstrates their ability to collaborate effectively with emerging talents in the music industry. As anticipation builds for the Greatest Hits compilation, the remix serves as a reminder of the band’s enduring influence and appeal within the music scene.

Listeners can explore the new remix and experience the dynamic sound that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.