When AI makes music, Bon Jovi rocks, and cosplayers unite

This episode’s audio was generated using Google’s Notebook LM, based on my own script and research—because I’m still working on loving my English accent.

Hey everyone, and welcome to a new episode of Cappuccino & Croissants. Here, we blend the intensity of a double espresso with the buttery softness of a croissant, because why choose when you can have it all? Being greedy is living your best life! Today, we’ll dive into the musical releases that shook the international scene in early June, take a stroll through Powerhouse Comic Con, and discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on the music industry.

So, put your phone down, take that well-deserved break, and let me guide you through the most captivating pop culture trends that’ll become your new mantra. Grab your perfectly crispy croissant, pour yourself a foamy cappuccino, and let’s dive into this new episode together. Let’s go!

Music Releases

Let’s dive into the music releases that kicked off this month of June. Buckle up, because we’ve got some pretty interesting and surprising drops to cover.

Bon Jovi – Forever

Let’s start with our beloved rockers Bon Jovi, reminding us that rock is far from dead. Their new album, Forever, blends classic rock with modern touches. Jon Bon Jovi delivers tracks like "Legendary," which, honestly, feels like an anthem of resilience and gratitude. With lyrics like "And the brown-eyed girl / She believes in me / Legendary," you can almost picture Jon singing with his eyes closed, reminiscing about his wife with a hint of nostalgia in his voice. It’s kind of like re-watching an old 80s TV show—some outdated effects, but still charming. The album covers a range of themes, from celebrating life after tough times to softer, introspective tracks like "Kiss The Bride" and "Hollow Man." Bon Jovi shows they can still mix energy with emotion in an impressive way. It’s like a fine wine—they’re aging well, despite a few well-placed wrinkles.

Charli XCX – Brat

Next up, Charli XCX with her new album Brat. Charli continues pushing the boundaries of pop with an explosive mix of hyperpop and punk. "360" is one of the standout tracks where Charli hits us with unapologetic lyrics like, "I’m tectonic, moves, I make ’em / Shock you like defibrillators." She’s making it clear—there’s no time for subtlety or half-baked metaphors. This album is an auditory rollercoaster, with each track bolder than the last, and that’s exactly what we love about her. It’s a raw, authentic musical experience, an emotional thrill ride where every twist and turn is a new surprise.

Halsey – The End

Finally, let’s talk about Halsey and her new single "The End." This poignant ballad addresses her battle with cancer. With lyrics like "Facing the shadows in the mirror, finding strength in my fear," Halsey gives us a window into her personal struggles. The song is minimalist in its production, letting her emotional, raw voice take center stage. It’s a powerful demonstration of resilience and turning pain into art. Halsey captures complex emotions and translates them into music that deeply resonates with her listeners. A beautiful lesson in courage and vulnerability.

And there you have it—we’ve explored the standout music releases from the beginning of June 2024. But don’t put your headphones away just yet, because June has plenty more exciting releases coming to spice up your playlists.

For those who love their rap raw and introspective, Moneybagg Yo is dropping his new album Speak Now on June 14. Get ready for tracks as real as those Instagram posts from your ex. Pop fans will be thrilled to know Don Toliver is releasing Hardstone Psycho the same day, with exciting collaborations like Charlie Wilson and Cash Cobain. You know, the kind of music that makes you want to dance while simultaneously questioning the meaning of life.

And for those who crave infectious melodies, Camila Cabello is back with C,XOXO on June 28. Expect hits that will be stuck in your head longer than the latest meme. Megan Thee Stallion isn’t far behind with her album Fever Dream, also dropping on June 28. Her sharp lyrics and explosive energy promise to shake up the rap scene—kind of like a triple espresso shakes up your morning.

For the experimental music lovers, Frank Zappa has you covered with Whisky a Go Go, 1968 live on June 21. There’s nothing like a good old live recording to lose yourself in psychedelic rock. And for those who prefer reissues of classics, Joni Mitchell is releasing The Asylum Albums (1976-1980) on the same day. A nostalgic trip back to when long hair and acoustic guitars ruled the world.

Finally, June 28 is packed with a variety of releases, including I Hear You by Peggy Gou—perfect for your summer evenings—as well as albums from Washed Out, Hiatus Kaiyote, and Omar Apollo. Something for every taste and every vibe. Get your headphones and playlists ready, because this June is filled with new music that’s going to keep you vibing all summer long. Stay tuned for more discoveries and beats to shake up your days.

Powerhouse Comic Con 2024

Picture yourself strolling among hundreds of cosplayers, comic book stands, and renowned guests, all under the radiant Californian sun. Yes, it was just as memorable as it sounds. So, let’s talk about the celebrity lineup—quite the impressive panel, to be honest.

First up, Bob Carter, the voice behind characters like Bojack in Dragon Ball Z and Shao Kahn in Mortal Kombat. No big deal, right? He shared stories about his voice-acting career, explaining how he effortlessly switches between characters like a true vocal chameleon. Then we had Griffin Puatu, the man of a thousand voices, known for his roles in Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Beastars. This guy juggles roles like others juggle Pokéballs. He wowed the crowd with live demonstrations of his voice talents, seamlessly shifting from one video game character to another. Nathan Hanley, creator of the comic series Truth & Consequence, was also in attendance. He discussed his creative process, revealing how he draws inspiration from everyday life and the landscapes of the Bay Area. Luis Rivera, a veteran in the comic industry, signed copies of his works and shared stories about his collaborations with other big names in the field. An absolute living legend. Sparkle Stache, a renowned cosplayer, dazzled attendees with her incredible costumes and hosted workshops on costume-making. She has that magical ability to transform any material into a masterpiece. And let’s not forget Zabracus, a content creator and cosplayer known for her Magic: The Gathering costumes and Twitch streams. She shared her tips on how to thrive in the cosplay and content creation world—a real jack-of-all-trades in the geek universe.

But Powerhouse Comic Con isn’t just about famous guests; it’s also about the unique atmosphere and activities for every kind of fan. Everywhere you looked, breathtaking cosplays stole the show. The cosplay contest was a real showcase of creativity, with participants—kids, teens, and adults alike—competing fiercely for the $300 grand prize. The competition was tough, and the costumes were nothing short of spectacular. The interactive panels were another highlight. We were treated to lively discussions where fans could ask all the questions they’d never dare ask anywhere else. From hilarious behind-the-scenes stories about video game voice acting to deep reflections on how anime influences the fighting game genre.

And let’s not forget the vendor stalls—a true treasure trove for collectors of comics, vintage toys, and art. You could find anything, from a first-edition rare comic to a figurine of your favorite superhero. Film screenings added a touch of nostalgia. There’s nothing quite like watching your favorite classics on the big screen, surrounded by fellow fans just as passionate as you are. It was the perfect way to relive your childhood for an afternoon. Among the most memorable moments was Bob Carter’s panel, where he not only performed live demonstrations of his iconic voices but also shared hilarious stories from the Mortal Kombat recording sessions.

Griffin Puatu’s performance literally brought his characters to life through his vocal demonstrations, captivating the audience with his versatility. And the cosplay contest, where Sparkle Stache and Zabracus judged with humor and kindness, awarding well-deserved prizes for the most impressive costumes.

That wraps up our recap of Powerhouse Comic Con 2024. It was a day packed with unforgettable encounters, fascinating panels, and dazzling cosplay. But don’t stash away your costumes just yet! If you’re looking for more events like this, don’t miss out on these upcoming dates!

Get ready for Fan Expo Boston from June 14-16. Expect to meet celebrities like Mads Mikkelsen, Bryce Dallas Howard, Hugh Dancy, Rosario Dawson, Marisa Tomei, Charlie Cox, Chevy Chase, and Alan Tudyk. It’s the perfect place to rub elbows with stars from your favorite franchises, attend captivating panels, and, of course, load up on photos and autographs for your collection. And for those of you preferring to stay in Europe, don’t miss the London Film & Comic Con from July 5-7. It’s your chance to meet iconic figures like David Tennant from Doctor Who, along with other notable guests from Star Wars and other beloved franchises. The event promises to be as spectacular as ever, with exclusive panels and unique opportunities to meet your idols.

The Use of AI in Music Creation

The History of Computer-Assisted Music

Let’s start with a little trip back in time. The use of computers in music dates all the way back to the 1950s. The early attempts were rudimentary but groundbreaking. Lejaren Hiller, for example, used a computer to compose a classical piece. Yes, you heard that right, a computer. We were far from today’s keyboards and synthesizers. Hiller programmed an IBM 704 to compose the Illiac Suite for string quartet. It was kind of like asking your toaster to write a novel, but somehow, it worked! Then came the 1980s, bringing along music production software. MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) revolutionized how music was produced. Software like Cubase and Pro Tools allowed musicians to manipulate sounds digitally, opening up endless possibilities. Imagine that moment when you discovered you could copy-paste files on your computer. Now imagine doing that with music tracks! During the ’90s and 2000s, more sophisticated software like Ableton Live and FL Studio enabled artists to create complex tracks directly on their computers. This was when the first examples of AI-created music started to emerge. David Cope, for instance, developed EMI (Experiments in Musical Intelligence), a program capable of composing symphonies in the style of classical masters. Imagine Beethoven rolling in his grave listening to a symphony composed by a bunch of circuits and cables.

AI in Music Production

Today, AI is integrated into many aspects of music production. Algorithms can analyze musical trends, predict potential hits, and even create entire tracks autonomously. Take Jukedeck, for example. This platform can compose original pieces in seconds, adapting style and genre to your needs. It’s like having a pocket-sized Mozart ready to whip up a symphony on demand. Artists like Taryn Southern have already released entire albums with the help of AI. Her album I AM AI is a prime example of what human-machine collaboration can produce. However, AI in music still has its limits. While it can generate melodies and rhythms, the question remains: Can it really capture the human emotion and intrinsic creativity of artists? Maybe one day, we’ll have robots crying in the studio, but we’re not quite there yet. The advantages of AI include faster production times and reduced costs. Imagine being able to compose an entire album without paying a single musician. Producers are already dreaming of it. But the limitations lie in the authenticity and emotion of the music produced. Listeners might feel a certain coldness or lack of soul in AI-generated compositions. It’s like comparing a homemade burger to a fast-food one. Sure, both fill you up, but one has that special something that makes it stand out. In conclusion, AI already has a significant impact on music creation and will continue to transform the industry. Authenticity, emotion, and human creativity will always be at the heart of the debate. So next time you listen to your favorite track, ask yourself whether it was composed by a human or a machine. And stick with us for the next episode, where we’ll keep exploring the blurry lines between technology and creativity.

The Impact on Artists and the Industry

Let’s take a look at how AI is changing the creative process for artists. Picture a composer, late at night, desperately seeking inspiration in a cup of coffee that’s gone cold. Now, imagine that composer replaced by an AI that never needs a coffee break and can generate melodies on loop until it finds the perfect one. Yes, it’s a bit depressing for the purists, but it’s the modern reality. AI allows artists to quickly test ideas, experiment with new sounds, and optimize their creative process. Artists like Holly Herndon are using AI to create complex vocal harmonies that even a choir of angels would envy. But it’s not all sunshine and roses. AI is also shaking up the economic landscape of the music industry. Producers and record labels see it as a way to cut production costs. No need to hire studio musicians—AI can generate full tracks at a fraction of the cost. This might mean more profits for labels, but less work for human artists. It’s like robots replacing baristas at your favorite coffee shop. Sure, the coffee’s still there, but the experience just isn’t the same. And let’s not forget the ethical debates—there are plenty. Authenticity and creativity are at the heart of the issue. Can a song created by AI truly be considered an authentic work of art? Purists will argue that music must come from the human soul to truly resonate. Others see AI as a new form of artistic expression, an extension of human capabilities. It’s a debate as old as time—or at least as old as the first robot that tried to dance the waltz.

The Future of Music with AI

Now, let’s look ahead. The future of AI in music creation is both promising and slightly terrifying. Imagine AI capable of collaborating with human artists to create hybrid works that push the boundaries of creativity. Projects like Endel are already using AI to create personalized soundscapes based on your biometric data. Your heart rate influences the music you hear. Creepy or genius? You decide. The coexistence of AI and human artists could become the norm. We might even see AI becoming full-fledged members of music groups, bringing their own "style" and "musical personality." This could transform concerts into interactive experiences where AI reacts in real-time to the audience’s emotions. Picture a concert where the setlist is generated based on the crowd’s mood. Big Brother on guitar solos. Predictions for the music industry in the coming years are varied. Some think AI could democratize music creation, allowing anyone to produce professional-quality tracks from their bedroom. Others fear a homogenization of music, where tracks become interchangeable and lack unique character. As always, striking a balance between innovation and tradition will be key.

Final Thoughts

AI is already making a significant impact on music creation and will continue to reshape the industry. It offers endless possibilities for experimentation and pushing the limits of creativity. However, the true essence of music lies in human emotion and authentic artistic expression. Will AI ever fully capture that? Perhaps. Or maybe AI’s role will be to complement, rather than replace, human creativity. In the years to come, finding a balance between technological innovation and preserving artistic authenticity will be crucial. Artists and producers will need to navigate this new landscape with both caution and imagination. Ultimately, AI could become a valuable partner in music creation, opening up new paths and offering powerful tools for creators around the world.

Conclusion

And there we have it, the end of this episode where I’ve broken down the latest music releases, explored the impact of AI on music, and taken a tour of Powerhouse Comic Con. If you enjoyed this adventure, don’t forget to subscribe on your favorite podcast platforms and follow me on social media.

Thanks for listening and making all this possible. I’ll catch you on Thursday for another dive into the world of pop culture and technology. Until then, stay curious, take care, and remember: not even AI can replace your critical thinking. See you soon, and keep those headphones plugged in! Alright, take care!