Music

Swift regained ownership of her old albums’ masters from Shamrock Capital, who had initially bought them from Scooter Braun’s company in 2020. The specific amount paid wasn’t revealed but seems to be around the $300-$360 million USD range that Shamrock originally invested, which is less than some earlier overestimated rumors. This move ends a tumultuous phase dating back to 2019 when her previous label, Big Machine Records, sold her masters to Scooter Braun without her approval. In reaction, Swift undertook an unconventional re-recording journey, launching “Taylor’s Version” albums for Fearless, Red, Speak Now, and 1989, which garnered both commercial and critical acclaim, effectively reducing the value of the original masters.

As an art enthusiast, I’m absolutely captivated by “The Rule of Three,” a fascinating exploration presented by otherthings by THE SHOPHOUSE. This intriguing exhibit delves into the symbolic and structural importance of the number three in artistic creations.

Three remarkable artists, Karena Lam, Hilarie Hon, and Olivier Cong, grace this exhibition with their innovative works. Each artist offers a unique perspective, showcasing their talents through ceramics, paintings, and music. Despite the diversity in mediums, their pieces harmoniously weave together, creating a unified conversation that emphasizes the intricate relationship between form, material, and perception.

Acqua di Parma has introduced the Blu Mediterraneo La Riserva line, a sophisticated reinterpretation of their most iconic scents. Crafted through a painstaking two-month maceration process, this meticulous creation gives each perfume an elegant silkiness and lasting power. The fragrances slowly reveal themselves, showcasing intricate layers that echo the vibrant landscapes of the Mediterranean.

Refreshing the lineup of New Balance’s 1906A for Fall 2025, you’ll find two fresh, vibrant color schemes. The first pairing features a dark black upper with eye-catching “Pink Metallic” mesh and silver accents. The second option presents an off-white and white leather foundation, subtly enhanced by subtle neon green details. Both designs showcase the deconstructed silhouette of the 1906A, combining retro-futuristic design with striking contrasts. With a price tag of $170 USD, these two styles are slated for release at retailers later in the year.

The brand G-SHOCK has revealed the MRGBF1000, an upscale, all-metal MR-G watch from the G-SHOCK line, tailored for the ocean. This titanium-shielded timepiece becomes part of the FROGMAN family, a collection renowned for its 200-meter water resistance as a diver watch. Known as the “Goliath Frogman,” this model takes cues from the Conraua goliath, the world’s largest frog. It embodies the amphibian’s imposing presence and vibrant colors in an eye-catching design.

Currently, Sun Day Red is innovating its design with the Pioneer Magnolia, which draws inspiration from “modern classic” aesthetics. Sharing the same base as the Cypress, the Magnolia incorporates conventional wingtip and brogue accents on its upper surface. Additionally, the latest “Spectator” color options, featuring striking white/black and white/navy combinations, exude a sharp, professional look suitable for the office environment.

This constructible set showcases a miniature Nike Dunk figure, a moveable brick basketball playset, and a retractable “Dunk” logo. Of interest, the Nike Dunk replica incorporates concealed storage spaces for “championship rings or other necessary items,” along with additional laces to facilitate swapping colors.

It’s astounding they manage to produce outstanding hip-hop music, all while promoting the preservation of the Irish language. One might wonder if three lads from Northern Ireland could excel in this genre, but their commitment to keeping the Irish tongue vibrant is almost extraordinary.

McDonald’s has launched its most innovative store to date at Admiralty Station, Hong Kong, featuring a fresh “Mood-Engine” design by Landini Associates. This new design, named “Ray-Naissance”, pays tribute to the founder Ray Kroc as it celebrates 50 years of McDonald’s in Hong Kong and 70 years since Kroc opened his first restaurant in the U.S.

The Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam has revealed an extensive exhibit titled “Ma Yansong: Architecture and Emotion“. This display highlights the innovative creations of Chinese architect Ma Yansong and his firm, MAD Architects. By using dynamic models, multimedia presentations, and artistic representations, the exhibition delves into Ma’s architectural journey, tracing his development from initial experimental designs to the flowing, organic structures that characterize his work currently.