The Curse of Wolf Mountain is available for digital streaming. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
In horror movie news, here is a new movie available on digital platforms including iTunes, Amazon Video, Google Play, Vudu, Apple TV, and more. Directed by David Lipper, The Curse of Wolf Mountainis distributed by Uncork’d Entertainment and stars David Lipper, Tobin Bell, Danny Trejo, Keli Price, and Eddie McClintock. (October Coast, 2023)
The Curse of Wolf Mountain AJ begins having dreams of his parents death. He decides to go back to the spot where they were killed, accompanied by his brother and his brother’s family. Legend has it there is something mysterious roaming these woods.
Robert Earl Keen’s laid back opus Western Chill is accompanied by a play-along songbook, full album performance video, and a 92 page graphic novel. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Americana legend and model Texan Robert Earl Keen retired from touring in September of last year but his new release WesternChill finds the songwriter alive and well and, seemingly, very relaxed. While Keen is still making public appearances—he was just officially honored on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives and popped into Dallas’ newly reopened Longhorn Ballroom to play a tune with Old Crow Medicine Show—Western Chill makes it very apparent that retirement suits him. For most artists, dropping an album of fourteen new songs would be enough, but, proven time and time again, Keen is not most artists. (IVPR, 2023)
Currently, the only way to hear Western Chill is to purchase the entire box set. Thankfully, the box set has it all, including a 92-page graphic novel inspired by the album, a play-along/sing-along songbook for all fourteen songs, and a DVD of the Robert Earl Keen Band performing the entire new album at Keen’s Snake Barn studio space. The only thing “chill” about the release is the songs themselves. For the foreseeable future there will be no download or streaming links, so fans are encouraged to dive into the entirety of Western Chill the way it was intended: kick back, crack a cold one, sing along, and enjoy the vibe.
Pre-sales are over, but fans can now purchase Keen’s Western Chill package for immediate delivery and do not forget to stay up to date—rumor has it, REK has already finished another record.
Western Chill track list: Western Chill Blue Light (feat. Bill Whitbeck) Waves (feat. Brian Beken) Hello Stranger (feat. Kym Warner) The City (feat. Brian Beken) Let’s Valet Balmorhea Marfa Bone and Flowers (feat. Bill Whitbeck) Sweet Summer Rain Mister Mockingbird (feat. Bill Whitbeck) Mr. Blues on the Run Walking On Rippling Waters
The Western Chill vibe is packed with enough surprises to keep even the most seasoned fan guessing what is coming next. The opening title track—an instant Keen classic in the easy-loping vein of “The Front Porch Song,” “Gringo Honeymoon,” and “Feelin’ Good Again”—sets the mood for the whole album, followed by back-to-back original stunners sung and written by fiddle/guitar player Brian Beken and bassist Bill Whitbeck. If variety is the spice of life, Western Chill is the Silk Road to chill with more contributions are heard from Beken and Whitbeck, as well as compositions by the rest of the band. This has all been documented on the accompanying video because true to the “featuring” tag on the album cover, this really is a REK Band affair.
‘Liquid Shades of Blue’ is the debut novel by James Polkinghorn. Photo: Amazon
James Polkinghorn is a lawyer and partner in a national law firm specializing in labor and employment law. He has extensive trial and litigation experience accumulated in multiple jurisdictions throughout the country. A Pittsburgh native, Polkinghorn moved with his family to Florida in high school, where he has since stayed. He has a degree in political science as well as a law degree from the University of Florida. He now lives in Key West with his wife, Becki, and their dog, Major Tom. In “Liquid Shades of Blue,” his first novel, after the death of his brother and now his mother, Jack Girard searches for the truth behind his family’s tragedies. (Amazon, 2023)
“Liquid Shades of Blue” – When hungover ex-lawyer and Key West bar owner Jack Girard groggily wakes up one morning, he is greeted by a beautiful woman lying next to him and a shrill, ringing telephone. The call is from his father, Claude “The Duke” Girard, who tells him that his mother is dead in an apparent suicide. Jack then heads back to his childhood home in Miami to face his tyrannical father. His mother’s death brings up haunting memories from Jack’s past—memories of his brother Bobby’s suicide when they were in college together. Being back in Miami only continues to dredge up his family traumas, but things grow more complicated when The Duke suggests that his estranged wife’s alleged suicide may have been a murder. As Jack begins to uncover the truth about his mother’s death, including the secret she had revealed to only two people—the same secret Bobby had taken with him to his grave—he finds himself in imminent danger. Can Jack reveal the true story before it is too late? He has to act quickly, or he fears he may be the victim of the next Girard family tragedy.
Jack Girard has not had an easy life. He comes from a well off family, but his brother committed suicide, his mother is now dead, and he is not in the best of terms with his father who refers to himself in the third person: ‘the Duke.’ This is a clear indication that his father is a strong willed person who demands respect and that what he says is not up for debate. Jack has tried to make a life for himself even after his career derails but when his mom dies, he has to return home. When his father asks him to look into his mother’s death, what he discovers comes as a big surprise. The plot twist at the end will take readers by surprise too. The characters are well developed and relatable. For a first novel, it certainly is impressive; the language is poetic at times: “the kaleidoscopic azure and green surface of Biscayne Bay glistening in the winter sun behind me” and as a whole, it reads like a fine work of literature. It is narrated in the first person point of view as experienced through Jack’s eyes. Even though it is a small book and an easy read, it is packed with action and is destined to become a classic. With interesting characters and beautiful prose, “Liquid Shades of Blue” is this year’s beach read and is recommended for readers who enjoy a good mystery novel. It is perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter and Harlan Coben.
“By the time I passed the airport, the familiar orange and yellow disk had emerged from the sea, casting magnificent white and yellow reflections across the water to the sand. Four brown pelicans flying at my approximate pace were silhouetted against the sun as they began their morning search for baitfish near the ocean’s surface.”
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
‘Indiscernible Elements: Calcium’ will be released on May 30, 2023. Photo: Google
Korynn Newville is an artist, designer, and environmental activist. She received a master’s degree in architecture from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a Bachelor of Design from the University of Minnesota. She is currently an architectural designer studying to become a licensed architect. She strives to utilize sustainable building practices in her professional projects and has a passion for creating artwork through the common materials used to construct her buildings projects. Korynn believes in the use of our imagination to offer new solutions to problems, and her artwork is her voice to tell the story. Her drawings and passion for the environment are the catalysts that led to her writing. Her first book, “Indiscernible Elements: Calcium,” explores the vital role of calcium not only in the body but also in architecture and human relationships. It is available for pre-order now. (Black Château, 2023)
“Indiscernible Elements: Calcium”– Calcium is a vital element that plays a fundamental role in various physiological processes in the body. As an architectural designer, Newville tells us how this element connects all of us, beyond our bodies. With a focus on practical advice and evidence-based research, her new book provides readers a new perspective of this element, and helps readers look at the world differently.
“A lot of building materials are made of pieces of calcium. My teeth are made of the same things as dry wall. Buildings are made of bones. These structures are just like us.” – Korynn Newville
Her book stems from her thesis work on how architecture needs to practice with living and dying. Newville envisions a series of future books focusing on more elements, and is embarking on a journey of sharing her art through events, media, and other vehicles.
“This book is just the beginning of what could be. By breaking us down to our core elements, we can understand the importance of our connection to the planet. And maybe that will help prepare us to live in a world that is rapidly evolving and changing.” – Korynn Newville
The Dead Hour is a 12 episode horror series available for streaming now. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
There is a new horror series available now on Tubi, Amazon, and the YouTube channel Kings of Horror. Terror Films is getting into the horror television business, premiering a new 12-episode horror series titled The Dead Hour on digital platforms. (October Coast, 2023)
Creators Daniel B. Iske and Scott Coleman say classic The Twilight Zone was their key inspiration for the limited series, which premieres May 12 globally. It is an anthology series featuring a creepy tale each episode bookended by a twisted radio announcer (Melissa Holder) introducing each episode.
“We created our setup, a delightful yet twisted radio DJ in a dark booth late at night telling her audience creepy tales. We would start each episode with her opening setup monologue and then we’d jump into the story as it plays out on screen. For over a year we would come up with hundreds of short story ideas before finally narrowing it down to the dozen or so that we wanted to do first. Each episode has a different cast which gave us an opportunity to work with a vast array of talent. Our stories definitely are rooted in our commentary on today’s world and culture. We have our external monsters but also, we delve into the monsters inside us as well.”
Iske and Coleman wrote and directed the low budget horror film Fields of the Dead which enjoyed a run-on Redbox and OnDemand before turning their sights to the episodic realm.
Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents Sleeping Beauty. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
In an extraordinary collaboration between Children’s Ballet of San Antonio and the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), Principal Dancers Skylar Brandt and Herman Cornejo will share their remarkable talents with San Antonio for the first time in this classic fairytale. These epic performances will take place Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13, at the beautiful Majestic Theatre. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2023)
The CBSA production of Sleeping Beauty has all the romance, enchantment, and beauty you would expect from this classic fairytale, told through the magic of dance. The story opens with the christening of the beautiful Princess Aurora, who receives a curse from the evil fairy Carabosse. The curse states that Aurora will fall into a deep sleep on her sixteenth birthday, which, in this reimagining, is a Quinceñera. Only a kiss from her one true love can awaken the princess.
A talented cast of roughly 200 young CBSA artists will bring the characters and story to life through creative performances. The performers, ages 3-19, include internationally acclaimed classical dancers, gymnasts, actors, vocalists, special needs artists, and other exceptional young people. Filled with spectacular digital and physical scenery, live music, grand special effects, and interactive elements, CBSA’s Sleeping Beauty will expose audience members of all ages to an enchanting world where love conquers all.
The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205
Performance times: Friday, May 12, 7p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2p.m. Saturday May 13, 7p.m.
*********************************** Looking for a unique gift for the adventurous moms in your life? Take flight this Mother’s Day at iFLY Indoor Skydiving. (iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2023)
With no need for a parachute or a plane, iFLY is fun for the whole family (ages 3+). Experience the thrill of freefall in iFLY’s state-of-the-art wind tunnels are designed to provide a safe flight experience and memories that will last a lifetime and a thrilling story to tell! Flight vouchers are available online
iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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Lighthouse Immersive is excited to announce a Mother’s Day ticket discount for Disney Animation: Immersive Experience from now until May 14. All tickets will be 20% off the experience for loved ones to celebrate mom with the magic of Disney Animation. In addition to the discounted tickets, all mothers will receive a carnation upon their visit. (Disney Animation, 2023)
Disney Animation: Immersive Experience is the perfect place to celebrate mom with iconic animated stories suited for all ages—from hits of today like Encanto, Zootopia and Frozen, to all of the classics including The Lion King, Peter Pan and Pinocchio. Relive heartwarming moments and reminisce with the magic of Disney for an unforgettable experience together.
Discounted Mother’s Day tickets will be available for purchase through their ticketing site. The last day to purchase the discounted Mother’s Day tickets will be on Sunday, May 14.
Lighthouse ArtSpace San Antonio 221 Burleson San Antonio, TX 78202
Tommy Prine’s upcoming debut album This Far Suth will be out June 23 via Thirty Tigers. Photo: Google
Tommy Prine’s debut album This Far South, coming June 23, 2023, is not only a long-awaited introduction but a testimony to Prine’s 20s and the loss, love, and growth that has defined them. Co-produced by a close friend and kindred musical spirit, Ruston Kelly, and beloved Nashville engineer and producer, Gena Johnson, the album is rich and dynamic from cathartic jams to nostalgic storytelling. This year, alongside his own runs of headline shows, Prine opened for Tyler Childers on his Send In The Hounds Tour in London. He was also named one of Amazon Music’s 2023 Breakthrough Artists to Watch. (IVPR, 2023)
Like the rest of the songs from Prine’s upcoming debut This Far South, “Reach The Sun” feels very personal; a journal entry observation set to music. The theme does not end there. More often than not, Prine spins his narrative with positivity and hope, no matter how distant those feelings seem at the start. “‘Reach The Sun’ is about learning to ground yourself and doing something that you love is part of the brighter things of life,” he says.
An emotionally complex but universally accessible debut, This Far South—co-produced by Ruston Kelly and Gena Johnson—brings together a sonic patchwork of musical influences to help tell the story of each song. Inspirations from groups like Outkast or The Strokes or Bon Iver sneak into This Far South as well, but Prine always sounds like Prine; honest in his emotions and impactful with his message.
This Far South track list: Elohim Crashing Again This Far South Reach The Sun By The Way Mirror and a Kitchen Sink Boyhood Some Things Letter to My Brother Cash Carter Hill I Love You, Always
‘Sweet Emotions’ is the new cookbook/poetry book by Kevin Bates. Photo: Google
Kevin Bates was born in Beaumont, Texas and currently resides in Houston. A devoted reader and writer, he spends each day wandering in the world of words. As a kid, his mother brought him into this world of words. “She would read with her sweet angelic voice taking me so far away doing things I never done before living the adventures of the people she read about. Soon afterward when I asked her to read another, she would tell me to pick a book off the shelf & to read it myself.” Through reading, Kevin learned early that words are powerful when shared correctly through speech or in print. His mission is to share his message with you. His new book “Sweet Emotions” is a combination cookbook and poetry book. (Kevin Bates, 2023)
“Sweet Emotions” is a book created by me of the emotions that my mother’s cooking, love for cooking, and sharing it with others would bring. I hope everything within the covers of this book conveys those sweet emotions. My mother’s food always gave me an unbelievable rush and I could not wait for the next plate. After reading my words, I hope they do the same for you and leave you wanting the next poem to have the feeling of “Sweet Emotions.” The same goes for after you cook each recipe. This book takes you from your appetizers to your desserts.
‘Quiet Room Speaking’ is one of Danny Wilson’s many poetry books out there. Photo: Amazon
Okay, poetry fans. Continuing the journey into Danny Wilson’s poetry, here is volume 3 and a look into some more of his other poetry books. Danny Wilson is a poet originally from Greenville, NC and currently residing in Albuquerque, NM. After years of military service, he is now retired and focusing on his poetry. He has written over 100 poetry books in the last nine years with no intention of slowing down. (Danny Wilson, 2023)
Quiet Room Speaking Ears ringing 24/7. I try to make sense of a senseless life anew. Hanging out with the folks at Denny’s. My inner psyche grows with the complexities of human dynamics.
Between November Life becomes just a series of events. Complex children running towards misunderstood elders. Walking a tightrope along angst and melancholy. Destiny fades to black. Life becomes just a series of events. Destiny fades to black.
After Summer The journey of life traveling at the speed of sound. Flawed characters taking life one day at a time. Pain becoming useful medicine. Hope provides a band-aid to heal weathered hearts.
Fading Forward Existing between complex worlds. Seeing the beauty of fellow truth-seekers. Tired eyes reaching for a brass ring. Pet sounds fade to the twilight zone.
‘Escaping the Dashia’ is Rebecca Inch-Partridge’s new YA science fiction novel. Photo: Amazon
Rebecca Inch-Partridge is an author, an editor, and an avid science fiction fan who grew up imagining a more inclusive world for women in SFF. Today, she is helping to shape that reality. Her first novel, “Escaping the Dashia,” is a YA science fantasy published by Black Rose Writing. Rebecca is a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and Broad Universe and frequently speaks at writers’ conferences and science fiction conventions. Her short stories and articles have appeared in several magazines, and she has won Honorable Mention in both Writer’s Digest and Writers of the Future contests. “Escaping the Dashia” is the first book in The Paradox Star Cluster series and invites readers to root for the main character, young telepath Twyla, as she runs from one of the most notorious crime families in the Universe – the one led by her mother. (Black Château, 2023)
“Escaping the Dashia” is a meticulously crafted, immersive young adult (YA) science fiction (SF) novel that explores the complexities of family, betrayal, and the painful feelings of being an outsider. It follows young telepath Twyla, who is abducted by her mother and forced into her family’s criminal enterprise. Now, Twyla must navigate the blurred lines between right and wrong, good and evil, and the precarious position her family has put her in. Rebecca Inch-Partridge, a longtime SF fan, writer and speaker at science fiction conventions, uses her world-building skills to craft a richly detailed universe.
“I believe science fiction and fantasy has the power to challenge us and to inspire change. With ‘Escaping the Dashia,’ I hope to engage readers in a thrilling adventure while exploring important issues such as family dynamics, morality, and justice, all within a universe that I hope readers will enjoy exploring as much as I enjoyed creating it.” – Rebecca Inch-Partridge
Rebecca Inch-Partridge is a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and Broad Universe. As someone who grew up imagining a more inclusive world for women in SFF, today she is a strong supporter of women in SFF as well as women in STEM.
SA Examiner 