1. Eddie van Halen Eddie Van Halen was a musical genius and a true guitar legend. As the co-founder and lead guitarist of the band Van Halen, his innovative playing style and unmatched talent revolutionized rock music and inspired generations of musicians. Eddie's technical prowess and groundbreaking guitar techniques set him apart from his peers. He introduced the world to his iconic "tapping" technique, which involved using both hands on the fretboard to create lightning-fast and intricate guitar solos. His playing was characterized by blistering speed, innovative use of harmonics, and a raw energy that captivated audiences. Beyond his technical skill, Eddie Van Halen had a unique musical vision. He combined elements of rock, blues, and classical music, seamlessly blending genres and pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar. His compositions showcased a remarkable sense of melody and an innate understanding of how to create catchy hooks and unforgettable riffs. 2. Joe Satriani Joe Satriani, often hailed as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, continues to prove his virtuosity and mastery of the instrument with every note he plays. His name has become synonymous with technical precision, melodic sensibility, and an unwavering passion for music. Satriani's music is an extraordinary blend of rock, blues, and fusion, where he effortlessly combines lightning-fast guitar solos with emotive melodies and intricate arrangements. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his instrument is simply awe-inspiring, as he effortlessly transitions from blistering displays of technical prowess to delicate and introspective passages. What sets Satriani apart is not just his technical brilliance, but also his unparalleled ability to create memorable melodies. His compositions are filled with hooks that stay with you long after the song has ended, demonstrating his gift for crafting songs that resonate deeply with listeners. From the iconic "Surfing with the Alien" to the soul-stirring "Always with Me, Always with You," Satriani's music captures the imagination and transports listeners on an incredible sonic journey. 3. Yngwie Malmsteen Yngwie Malmsteen is an extraordinary guitarist whose impact on the world of music cannot be overstated. With his unparalleled technical proficiency, lightning-fast fingers, and innovative approach to playing the guitar, he has established himself as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Malmsteen's style is characterized by his virtuosic shredding, combining elements of classical music with heavy metal and rock. His solos are breathtaking, showcasing his incredible dexterity and command over the instrument. Listening to his performances is a true sensory experience, as he effortlessly navigates through intricate arpeggios, lightning-quick sweeps, and blistering runs. Beyond his technical prowess, Malmsteen's compositions are rich and captivating. He has an innate ability to craft melodies that are both memorable and emotionally powerful. His songs often take listeners on a journey, evoking a range of emotions from exhilaration to introspection. 4. Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix, the enigmatic virtuoso of the electric guitar, needs no introduction. His influence on the world of music and his pioneering spirit continue to resonate with generations even decades after his untimely departure. In this review, I aim to celebrate the sheer brilliance and undeniable genius of Jimi Hendrix, the man who revolutionized the way we perceive and experience guitar music. Hendrix was a true maverick, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible with the guitar. His unparalleled ability to fuse various genres, including rock, blues, funk, and psychedelia, resulted in a musical tapestry that was uniquely his own. With his iconic left-handed playing style, Hendrix's fingers danced across the strings, unleashing a torrent of sound that was at once raw, emotive, and groundbreaking. One of the defining aspects of Jimi Hendrix's music was his innovative use of effects and amplification. Hendrix's masterful manipulation of feedback, distortion, and wah-wah pedal created a sonic landscape that had never been heard before. Tracks like "Purple Haze," "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)," and "All Along the Watchtower" serve as timeless testaments to his ability to conjure an otherworldly atmosphere, transporting listeners to new dimensions. 5. Jimmy Page Jimmy Page, the iconic guitarist and visionary behind Led Zeppelin, has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. With his virtuosic talent, innovative songwriting, and profound influence, he has become a legend in his own right. As a devoted fan and admirer of his work, I am compelled to share my thoughts on this remarkable musician.
Jimmy Page's guitar playing is nothing short of mesmerizing. His technical prowess, coupled with a deep understanding of music theory, allows him to effortlessly traverse a wide range of styles, from bluesy riffs to intricate fingerpicking. Whether it's the electrifying solos in "Stairway to Heaven" or the thunderous power chords in "Kashmir," Page's guitar work exhibits a level of skill and creativity that is unmatched. But it's not just his technical ability that sets Jimmy Page apart; it's his ability to weave emotion into every note he plays. His guitar solos have an uncanny ability to evoke a wide range of feelings, from exhilaration and joy to introspection and melancholy. Listening to his music is a transcendental experience that takes you on a journey through the depths of human emotion.
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Some Arab leaders are ignoring Russia’s “illegal” conduct in Ukraine, President Vladimir Zelensky claimed at the Arab League summit on Friday. He made the statement while attending the gathering in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in person. Without mentioning any names, Zelensky remarked that some attendees “have a different view on the war on our land.” “Unfortunately, there are some in the world and here, among you, who turn a blind eye to [prisoner of war] cages and illegal annexations,” the president insisted. “I am here so that everyone can take an honest look. No matter how hard the Russians try to influence [others], there must still be independence.”
Unlike many Western countries, Arab states have refused to impose sanctions on Moscow over its military operation in the neighboring state. Oil-rich nations in the Persian Gulf worked with Moscow through OPEC+ to enact coordinated production cuts, prompting criticism from Washington, which is seeking to curtail Russia’s oil exports. peaking on Friday, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that Riyadh sees itself as a potential broker for peace. “We reaffirm the kingdom’s readiness to continue mediating efforts between Russia and Ukraine, and to support all international efforts aimed at resolving the crisis politically in a way that contributes to achieving security,” he said, as cited by Al Jazeera. Last year, Saudi Arabia and the UAE helped to negotiate a high-profile prisoner exchange between Kiev and Moscow. Bin Salman spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone last month. During the “friendly and constructive” conversation, the leaders agreed to bolster relations between the two countries, the Kremlin said. Jonna Fraser, born as Jonathan Jeffrey Grando on December 14, 1992, is a Dutch singer, rapper, and songwriter. Hailing from Zaandam, a city in the Netherlands, Jonna Fraser has made a significant impact on the Dutch music scene with his unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and melodic rap. Jonna's journey in music began at a young age when he developed a passion for writing and performing. Inspired by artists like Tupac Shakur, Lil Wayne, and Usher, he started honing his skills and crafting his own style. In 2014, Jonna Fraser gained attention through his first official release, a collaboration with fellow Dutch artist SBMG titled "De Coach."
As his popularity grew, Jonna Fraser continued to release captivating music, showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with listeners. He quickly became known for his soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and relatable storytelling. His tracks often explore themes of love, relationships, and personal experiences, resonating with a wide audience. In 2015, Jonna Fraser released his debut mixtape, "Maatje 45," which received critical acclaim and established him as a rising star in the Dutch music industry. The mixtape featured collaborations with prominent artists such as Sevn Alias, Frenna, and Ronnie Flex, further elevating his profile. The following years saw Jonna Fraser's popularity soar as he consistently delivered hit singles and collaborated with renowned Dutch and international artists. He released successful tracks like "Do or Die" with Broederliefde and "Ik Kan Je Niet Laten" with Lil Kleine. These collaborations showcased his ability to seamlessly blend his unique style with various musical genres, solidifying his position as a versatile and sought-after artist. In 2017, Jonna Fraser released his highly anticipated debut studio album, "Jonathan." The album received critical acclaim and peaked at number five on the Dutch Album Charts, showcasing his growth as an artist and cementing his place in the Dutch music scene. Jonna Fraser's success continued with subsequent releases, including his sophomore album, "Lion," in 2019. The album showcased his artistic evolution and featured collaborations with notable artists such as Young Ellens, Lijpe, and Jayh Jawson. "Lion" further expanded his fan base and solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and influential artists in the Dutch music industry. Throughout his career, Jonna Fraser has amassed numerous accolades and awards, including a FunX Music Award for Best Singer in 2017. His music has resonated with a diverse audience, transcending cultural boundaries and making him a household name in the Netherlands and beyond. Jonna Fraser's journey serves as a testament to his perseverance, talent, and ability to connect with listeners through his captivating music. With each release, he continues to push boundaries, redefine genres, and inspire aspiring artists, leaving an indelible mark on the Dutch music landscape. As his career evolves, Jonna Fraser remains a force to be reckoned with, and his future endeavors are eagerly awaited by fans and music enthusiasts alike. The Boss SDE-3000D is a digital delay pedal that has earned a reputation for its versatility and exceptional sound quality. As an owner of this pedal, I can confidently say that it lives up to the hype and delivers an outstanding performance in various musical contexts.One of the standout features of the SDE-3000D is its extensive range of delay effects. From short slap-back echoes to long, lush trails, this pedal covers it all. The delay time can be adjusted from a minimum of 1 millisecond to a maximum of 3000 milliseconds, allowing for a wide range of sonic possibilities. Whether you're looking to add depth to your solos or create ambient soundscapes, the SDE-3000D has you covered.
The sound quality of this pedal is simply superb. The delays produced are clean, clear, and free from any unwanted noise or artifacts. The pedal's 24-bit digital processing ensures that your guitar's original tone remains intact, while the analog buffered bypass maintains the integrity of your signal even when the effect is disengaged. The SDE-3000D truly shines in terms of sonic fidelity. The user interface of the SDE-3000D is straightforward and intuitive. With dedicated knobs for delay time, feedback, effect level, and mode selection, it's easy to dial in the desired settings quickly. Additionally, the pedal features two footswitches: one for engaging/bypassing the effect and another for tap tempo control. The tap tempo functionality is a welcome addition and allows for on-the-fly adjustments during live performances. Durability is another area where Boss pedals consistently excel, and the SDE-3000D is no exception. Housed in a rugged metal enclosure, this pedal can withstand the rigors of regular use and is built to last. The control knobs and footswitches feel sturdy and reliable, instilling confidence in its reliability even during heavy touring or gigging. The only minor drawback I found with the SDE-3000D is its larger footprint compared to some other delay pedals on the market. While it may take up slightly more space on your pedalboard, the benefits it offers in terms of sound quality and versatility far outweigh this inconvenience. Overall the Boss SDE-3000D is an exceptional digital delay pedal that delivers outstanding sound quality, versatility, and durability. Its wide range of delay effects, intuitive interface, and top-notch build quality make it a go-to choice for guitarists in various genres. Whether you're a bedroom player, studio musician, or live performer, the SDE-3000D is a reliable and impressive tool that will elevate your tone and inspire creativity. This weekend's Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in northern Italy has been cancelled because of deadly floods in the region. Formula One said it made the decision for safety reasons and to avoid any extra burden on the emergency services, after consulting with Italian political figures. “It is such a tragedy to see what has happened to Imola and Emilia-Romagna, the town and region that I grew up in and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding and the families and communities affected," F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said.
At least five people have died in the flooding and 5,000 more have been evacuated, while electricity supplies and cell phone networks have been severely affected. Thousands of fans were expected at the circuit from Friday for practice sessions ahead of the race, adding more load to an already stretched transport system. “I want to express my gratitude and admiration for the incredible emergency services who are working tirelessly to help those who need help and alleviate the situation – they are heroes and the whole of Italy is proud of them,” Domenicali said. "The decision that has been taken is the right one for everyone in the local communities and the F1 family as we need to ensure safety and not create extra burden for the authorities while they deal with this very awful situation.” Formula One personnel had earlier been told to stay away from the track after floods affected large parts of the Emilia-Romagna region. Some residents of Imola, where the track is located, were warned to move to higher floors of their homes. The Santerno River runs right next to the track. Mad Professor MIGHTY RED DISTORTION - Demo by Alberto Barrero This is the Mad Professor derivation of the venerable Björn Juhl BJFE Dyna Red Distortion - a classic Marshall-style distortion in its own right. This is a really versatile pedal despite just three controls - Volume | Distortion | Presence. There's certainly a lot of competition in this category while this is the simplest on offer here - so if you like to keep things simple - this is your likely choice MI Effects: SUPER CRUNCH BOX V2 This is still my favourite Brown Sound / EVH style pedal against all-comers - I have most of the key performers in this category - and while they all get in on the rotation - this is the one that has just the right amount of sizzle for me. 3 Clipping options for different degrees of compression, combined with 3 Gain Mode structures - Low, Medium and High - and then 3-Band EQ plus Presence. For some this pedal is a touch too fiddly, but for me I can dial in exactly the voicing I like - still my favourite of its kind - although I've yet to do a full head-to-head with the JHS Andy Timmons Plus. The Election Commission concluded its vote counting on Monday morning and announced the Move Forward Party’s victory in the May 14 general election.
EC chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong said MFP won 112 constituency MPs and 39 list seats, followed by Pheu Thai with 112 constituency MPs and 29 list MPs, Bhumjaithai with 68 constituency MPs and 3 list MPs, Palang Pracharath 39 constituency MPs and 1 list MP and United Thai Nation Party with 23 constituency MPs and 13 list MPs. Feyenoord have taken just their second Dutch title since the turn of the millennium after a 3-0 win against Go Ahead Eagles.
They eased past mid-table Go Ahead with a comfortable victory on Sunday that saw them wrap up the Eredivisie championship.With two games remaining, they lead second-placed PSV by eight points, with AZ Alkmaar in third and struggling Ajax in fourth. Arne Slot's side were 2-0 up within 18 minutes thanks to goals from Oussama Idrissi and Santiago Gimenez. They never relinquished control, and Igor Paixao netted in the second half to put the gloss on the win.
Along with other EU members, Italy has been caught up in rising tensions between the US and China that have been exacerbated due to Beijing’s close ties with Moscow. “Given the state of relations between the US and China, we cannot remain an ally of the US and at the same time remain in the BRI,” Stefano Stefanini, Italy’s former ambassador to NATO, was cited as saying by the FT. “We have to try to negotiate a peaceful — or [the] least damaging possible — exit with the Chinese.” Bloomberg reported last month that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni intended to make an announcement on Italy’s participation in the BRI before the G7 summit in May, but was still undecided as to whether the memorandum of understanding should be scrapped or renewed. Reports earlier this week claimed that the Italian premier had previously assured US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy that her government was in favor of an exit. The purported plans have triggered deep concern in Italy’s business community, already reeling from sanctions on Russia, as the post-Covid reopening of the Chinese market is viewed as offering significant prospects. Italian exports to China saw a year-on-year surge of 92.5% in the first quarter of 2023, mostly boosted by a short-term increase in sales of pharmaceuticals.
“A possible withdrawal would lead to a cooling of bilateral relations at a historic moment in which companies and professionals are experiencing a frenzy and a desire to return to the Chinese market,” Mario Boselli, president of the Italy China Council Foundation, told the FT. The Belt and Road Initiative, unveiled by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, envisages linking China with Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas through a network of seaports, railways, roads, and industrial parks. It is expected to provide effective connectivity and boost China’s cooperation with more than 80 countries around the world. The main goal of the project is stated as promoting peace through trade and development. The Yamaha Revstar series has gained a reputation for being a bold and versatile lineup of electric guitars designed for rock and blues players. With their unique aesthetics, high-quality craftsmanship, and tonal versatility, the Revstar guitars have become a popular choice among musicians seeking a distinctive instrument that delivers both style and substance. In this review, we'll explore the key features and qualities that make the Yamaha Revstar a standout choice for rock enthusiasts.
Design and Construction: The Yamaha Revstar series showcases a range of eye-catching and vintage-inspired designs. From the sleek and minimalist look of the RS320 to the more retro-styled RS502T, each Revstar model exudes its own personality while retaining a cohesive aesthetic. The attention to detail is evident in the carefully chosen finishes, hardware, and overall build quality. The guitars feature solid mahogany or maple tops, with mahogany or alder bodies, delivering a resonant and well-balanced tonal foundation. The set-in neck design ensures excellent sustain and access to higher frets, while the comfortable neck profiles provide a smooth playing experience. Tone and Electronics: One of the standout features of the Revstar series is its tonal versatility. Equipped with a variety of pickup configurations, including P-90s, humbuckers, and Filtertron-style pickups, these guitars offer a wide range of tones suitable for various musical styles. The pickups deliver a balanced output, capturing the nuances of your playing with clarity and definition. The Revstar's electronics also feature versatile controls, including coil-tapping and a Dry Switch (on select models), allowing you to achieve single-coil-like tones and improved clarity when needed. From warm bluesy tones to fat and aggressive rock sounds, the Revstar can handle it all with aplomb. Playability: The Yamaha Revstar series excels in terms of playability, catering to the needs of modern guitarists. The guitars feature comfortable neck profiles with smooth fretwork, ensuring easy navigation across the fingerboard. Whether you prefer fast lead playing or chunky rhythm work, the Revstar's well-balanced neck and fretboard provide a comfortable and responsive playing experience. The hardware, including high-quality tuners and Yamaha's own Tune-O-Matic style bridges, offer reliable tuning stability and precise intonation, making the guitars suitable for stage and studio settings alike. Value and Affordability: One of the notable aspects of the Yamaha Revstar series is its excellent value for money. Despite their premium feel and features, the Revstar guitars are priced competitively, making them accessible to a wide range of players. Yamaha's commitment to quality ensures that even the entry-level models offer exceptional performance and durability, allowing players to experience the essence of the Revstar series without breaking the bank. In conclusion, the Yamaha Revstar series stands out as a versatile and well-crafted lineup of electric guitars that cater to the needs of rock and blues players. With their unique designs, tonal versatility, excellent playability, and attractive price points, the Revstar guitars provide a compelling option for guitarists seeking a reliable instrument that combines style and substance. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring musician, the Yamaha Revstar is worth considering for its outstanding performance and value. Eurozone inflation surged to 7% in April in the first increase in the last five months, data released by the European Union’s statistics office Eurostat on Tuesday showed. Consumer prices rose from 6.9% in March, driven by food prices that soared 13.6% year-on-year last month. Food, alcohol and tobacco are expected to have the highest annual rate in April, followed by non-energy industrial goods, which picked up 6.2%.
Services climbed by 5.2% in April, compared with 5.1% the previous month. Energy prices were up again by 2.5% after a slight decline by 0.9% in March, according to the report. Core inflation – excluding food and energy prices – declined from 5.7% in March to 5.6% in April. The figures are closely watched by European Central Bank policymakers, who will decide whether to continue raising interest rates to curb inflation when they meet on Thursday. Latvia continues to struggle with the highest inflation at 15%, followed by Slovakia, Lithuania and Ireland — all dealing with a double-digit surge in consumer prices among the 20-member eurozone. Inflation in Germany, the EU's biggest economy, declined to 7.6% in April from 7.8% in March. In France, however, consumer prices rose 6.9% last month up from 6.7% in March, Eurostat said. While the ECB has not committed to a new rate hike, the latest figures make it more likely, economists warn. The key deposit rate in the eurozone stands at 3%. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently said that taming inflation while avoiding a recession was the biggest challenge the EU will face in the months to come. This is a direct follow-up to my Pedal Primary Colour Wheel article where I noted the direct correlation between the colour Red and Marshall-style Drive and Distortion pedals. I named 6 that fitted the bill then, and I’ve found a few more to complete an elegant colour-matched grouping. The post was triggered by the original article, but also my recent acquisition of the Sitek Wuffy Distortion. Note that these pedals vary between Plexi and JCM-800 styles of drive - some cover more territory, while others are a lot more focused. Not all of these specifically claim an allegiance to the Marshall sound - but they all have that signature crunch that most of us know and love so well. With the acquisition of the Sitek Wuffy I now have 4 of this number - along with the Catalinbread Dirty Little Secret Red Mod, MI Effects Super Crunch Box V2 and Wampler Pinnacle. I have also had the Dawner Prince RedRox and JHS Andy Timmons Plus on my wishlist for a while. The MadProfessor Mighty Red Distortion and MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion are included here for the first time. I obviously have thing for Marshall drives - and I feel a few more of these will certainly find themselves in the collection before long. Amptweaker: TightRock Jr™ I've featured this pedal a couple of times on my site previously. This is a an excellent Crunchy Plexi-style pedal with 3 character modes - Plexi | Regular | Smooth, 3 Gain Modes - Fat | Regular | Tight, a variable Noise Gate and Volume | Tone | Gain knobs. Catalinbread - Dirty Little Secret Red Mod - Quick Look
This recent limited edition souped-up DLS contains more tone-shaping and punchier gain than the standard MKIII version. It sold out pretty quickly, and I was lucky enough to bag a copy. As noted previously, the Catalinbread DLS has long been Andy Martin's favourite Marshall-style drive, while I have a slight preference for some of my others - which unfortunately are not red!
2023 FORMULA 1 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CONSTRUCTOR STANDINGS
Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has told CBS News that the conflict in Ukraine may be approaching a turning point, and that Chinese-brokered peace talks could begin by the end of 2023. "Now that China has entered the negotiation, it will come to a head, I think by the end of the year," the 99-year-old diplomat told CBS in an interview broadcast on Sunday. By that time, he continued, "we will be talking about negotiating processes and even actual negotiations."
With the release of its ‘Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis’ in February, China put itself forward as a potential mediator between Moscow and Kiev. The Chinese plan was rejected outright by the US and EU, while Russian President Vladimir Putin described some of its 12 points as “in tune” with Moscow’s position, and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky welcomed only a handful of its points, but maintains that Kiev will not compromise with Russia in any way. Zelensky’s refusal to negotiate with Putin’s government – the Ukrainian leader banned contact with the Kremlin in a decree last October – is just one stumbling block faced by China or any other potential middleman. Russia considers the conflict in Ukraine a proxy war between itself and NATO, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday that any negotiations would not be held “with Zelensky, who is a puppet in the hands of the West, but directly with his masters.” In Washington, the administration of President Joe Biden publicly claims that it is up to Ukraine to decide when to seek peace. Zelensky has been offered no incentives by the US to do so, with Biden offering to continue supplying him with weapons “for as long as it takes” to achieve his war aims. Among these aims is the capture of Crimea, a Russian territory since 2014. American military leaders have publicly admitted that the chances of this happening are slim to none. Kissinger drew the ire of Kiev last year when he suggested that Ukraine should accept a return to the “status quo ante,” or relinquish its territorial claims to Crimea and grant autonomy to the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, in the name of peace. He has since suggested that these territories become the basis of negotiations after a ceasefire and Russian withdrawal. Moscow has repeatedly said that it is open to talks with Kiev but only if Ukraine “recognizes the reality on the ground,” including the new status of the regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye as parts of Russia. Otherwise, the Kremlin has stated, Russia will settle the conflict by military means.
2023 Formula 1 World Championship Drivers' Standings
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