PLAY: Of Bird and Cage
Of bird and cage is a unique project (six years in the making) that marries a story-driven FPP narrative with a curated symphonic metal album. In other words, it’s equal part “video game” and “musical experience.” In Of Bird and Cage, you assume the identity of Gitta Barbot, who is fighting to escape Bres Lupus, her captor. Composer Arnold Nesis’ two-hour-long score, which is tailored to the narrative, features artists from prominent metal bands: former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, Rob van der Loo from Epica, ex-Evanescence drummer Rocky Gray, and many others. Available May 20 on Steam for PCs.
READ: The Secret to Superhuman Strength
After two bestselling graphic memoirs about her relationships with her parents — first, Fun Home, then Are You My Mother? — Alison Bechdel is back, almost a decade later, to chronicle her 60-year-long relationship with exercise. Due to the pandemic, Bechdel hasn’t been to a gym in over a year, though she does credit the lockdown for her being able to finish the book on time. In The Secret to Superhuman Strength, Bechdel reflects on her various exercise endeavors throughout the years (spin, karate, skiing, yoga, the list goes on…), her relationship with fitness and, beyond that, her relationship with her body. Much like her previous works, this memoir is marked by comedy and thoughtful introspection.
LISTEN: Snake and the Rabbit
Brett and Leanna Patterson are more than just husband and wife: They are bandmates. Snake and the Rabbit, based in Colorado, is a self-described “stripped down, minimalist approach to Americana music heavily influenced by Psychedelic folk, American blues, Outlaw Country and lo-fi Garage Rock.” The duo has drawn much inspiration from the current political climate and ongoing pandemic. In fact, their first album, High and Dry, was made and released during quarantine. Snake and the Rabbit has a couple of upcoming shows in the area: May 28 at Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort (5:30-7:30 p.m.) and May 29 at Florence Brewing Co. (3-6 p.m.). For those who prefer to listen at home, their music is available on most streaming platforms.
WATCH: Hating Peter Tatchell
Hating Peter Tatchell is a firsthand look into the life of British human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, otherwise known as (or perhaps, once known as) “the most hated man in Britain.” The documentary, narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, follows Tatchell’s 50-plus years of activism — in particular, his commitment to the LGBT community — which has effected change around the world. Hating Peter Tatchell gives us a glimpse into the controversial figure’s life and the personal sacrifice that often accompanies radical activism. Available May 20 on Netflix (just in time for Pride Month).
