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Top Albums of 2020 - A Feature by Dave Christy and Susan Harris

12/31/2020

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Welcome to our Thursday Music Feature! This week Dave and Susan were supposed to be talking about their top albums of 2020, but Dave apparently made up his own rules! 

Be sure to let us know what YOUR favorite albums were this year in the comments. Also don't forget to add your party songs to the Muser Music Post HERE!

Dave's Top Albums

When I was presented with this task of making my Top 10 Albums of the Year, I knew right away I had to do it my way. And of course, that means making my rules because that’s always more fun!
​So, I bent a few rules, just a little bit. :) 


You know -  Dave is very lucky he isn't entering a giveaway with this post as I do like my rules! But as this is just a feature, and he and Susan did all the work, I guess I can let it pass .... this time! Melanie


The Animal in Me - Running from the Noise
Excellent band, check out the video for "Choke". Also, on a side note, they have a wide range of covers they have been doing over the years, rocked out versions of pop songs from he likes of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and many more.
​Anthrax - Persistence of Time  
OK, this maybe a little of a cheat. Originally released in 1990, this is a 30th Anniversary edition released this year with bonus tracks and a live DVD but it’s one of their best, the music still holds up.
Def Leppard - London to Vegas
Two full concerts in one! One is the complete Hysteria record performed in its entirety, pretty awesome stuff and the other from their Vegas residency. 


​​September Mourning - Volume III  
This was actually released at the very end of 2019 but too late to include on a 2019 list so I'm putting it here. Only a 4 song EP but everything is top notch. Very theatrical band with some interesting videos. "Unholy" and "Hiding from Heaven" should be on top on your watch list.

Melanie - You meant that 2019 list that we didn't have? lol

​Metallica - S&M2.
Yes, I'm repeating myself since you probably read the article before but I love the blend of the symphony with a rock band it came out great.
​In This Moment - Mother.
Amazing record. Guest vocals by Lizzy Hale and Taylor Momsen on a cover of "We Will Rock You".  I love that the 3 of them worked together but I do wish it was on an original song instead of a cover.
​Amaranthe - Manifest.
Blending a male and a female vocalist with different styles and tempos. "Viral" and "Boom" need to be checked out.


​Stitched up Heart - Darkness.
"Lost" was the lead single with guest vocals from Sully Erma from Godsmack. That might lure you in but plenty of other great tunes on this one to keep you interested.
Queen and Adam Lambert - Live Around the World
Admittedly, I'm not the biggest Queen fan but the performances here, collected from several live shows leadoff off their talent and how well Adam fits in the band.
Motionless in White - Disguise.
OK, this is a really big cheat. It was released in mid-2019 but over a year later, I am still listing to "Another Life" every single day and others too. They did release a couple new versions of songs this year, calling them "Motion Picture" versions "Another Life" and "Eternally Yours" adding strings and a completely new dimension to songs I already loved.

( I adore the song Another life as well, it's on a few writing playlists so I'll let this one slide lol *Susan* ) 

Melanie - You two are as bad as each other!

As a bonus, a few new songs from CDs coming out soon but will surely make next year’s list.
Butcher Babies - Bottom of the Bottle. Met them a few times after shows. They have been evolving over the years and progressing. A few sample clips sound great. This first single is a departure for them but is amazing.

Escape the Fate - Chemical Warfare, coming in February but 3 new songs hit this year-- "Walk On", "Invincible" featuring Lindsey Stirling, and "Christmas Song". If these are any indication, this next record will be phenomenal.

Within Temptation - Entertain You. No release date for this one yet but this video is electric! Surely a sign they that have been working on something special for next year!
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The Pretty Reckless - Death by Rock n Roll. Been waiting for this record for a while too. Taylor and the gang change style a little with each record as they grow but this first single is great. I am impatiently waiting to hear more.
​​Dave Christy loves horror, music, documentaries, breaking the rules, and more.  He is also the co-runner of several fan based groups including Morningstars (THE Lucifer fan group also run by Melanie), and now is a member of the VIPers Spotlight Lounge team for Melanie's Muses.  Other than "In The Spotlight" Features -check out his "31 Days Of Halloween Movies"

Susan's Top Albums

2020 was an epic year for music, with albums released from rock royalty to the new artists breathing new life into the genre! The old and new collide in my list below, all released in 2020
(with one little cheat right at the end!)

Melanie - UGH Susan! You are as bad as Dave!

​Ozzy Osbourne – Ordinary Man
An album worthy of the apocalypse! 
There is nothing like classic rock and roll sounds and Ozzy is an example of why music just gets better with age. 
While I wasn't sure about the collabs with Post Malone, the rest of the album is brilliant, definitely the sounds of the year that was 2020, as close to an apocalypse as we can get!


Notable tracks: Straight to Hell, All My Life, Goodbye, Under the Graveyard, Today is the End and Holy for Tonight
​Marilyn Manson – We are Chaos
This is, hands down, for me, Manson's best album and I know that's a bold statement but the album backs it up and them some. 
Some tracks like We Are Chaos and Paint You With My Love surprised me as its essentially a ballad...as much of a ballad that you would expect from Manson and I loved the little change in sound.


Notable tracks: Red, Black and Blue, We Are Chaos, Halfway and One Step Forward, Infinite Darkness, Keep my head Together and Broken Needle
​Hayley Williams- Petals for Armor
Let me start out by saying how much I adore Hayley Williams and Paramore, I've got the tattoo to prove it lol I've been to see them a dozen times, and still rock out to Misery Business like I'm a teen again. with her solo album, Hayley went with her own sound, but the lyrics had the same emotional impact that many Paramore songs had on me. Simmer was the song that I said I would use if Chaos Theory ever got made into a TV series because it is such a Ryan song!

Notable tracks: Simmer, Leave it Alone, Creepin', Dead Horse, Why We Ever, Sugar on the Rim and Watch me While I bloom​​
​Nothing but Thieves- Moral Panic
I loved this album so much that I write a blog post after it's release (You can check it outhere) 
Moral Panic is one of those rare albums, like with most NBT albums, that is an album you can listen to from start to finish without skipping, You delve right in with Unperson, a song that speaks to anyone struggling to find their identity, and how society wants you to be a carbon copy of those around you. The first song released off the album, Is Everybody going crazy?, gave you a feel for how the album was going to be...then, among the guitar heavy songs, you get the reprieve of Real Love Song and Impossible, which could absolutely be an alternative wedding song.  
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Notable tracks: Unperson, Moral Panic, Phobia, Can you afford to be an Individual? ​and Before we Drift Away ​
Notable tracks: Parasite Eve, Teardrops, Obey ft Yungblud, Kingslayer ft Babymetal, Ludens and One Day the Only Butterflies Left Will Be in Your Chest as You March Towards Your Death ft Amy Lee
Bring Me the Horizon – Post Human: Survival Horror
Bring me the Horizon have never been shy to change things up with their sound, and with the release of their latest EP, it looks like that will never change. the Ep had more of a Sempiternal vibe to it, which is my fave BMTH album. There was a lot of collabs on the EP, with massive arena songs like Obey with Yungblud, to Kingslayer ft Babymetal to the haunting 
One Day the Only Butterflies Left Will Be in Your Chest as You March Towards Your Death ft Amy Lee of Evanescence. 
The song Teardrops is one of my top songs of 2020, reminding me of Can you feel my heart which is my all time fave BMTH song...and Teardrops came a close second. 
Pvris – Use me (deluxe version as well)
Lynn Gunn from Pvris has this hauntingly beautiful voice that can do from sweet to rock chick in a split second. I've been a fan of Pvris since day one, ALOT of her songs show up on my playlists over and over again. Use Me is an angst filled album that makes you want to bop your head and sing the lyrics out loud. This is also one of those rare albums where you can listen from start to finish without skipping a song. As you can see below, narrowing down a few notable songs was hard! 


Notable tracks: Gimmie a Minute, Stay Gold, Good to be Alive, Old Wounds, Loveless, January Rain, Use Me Ft.070 Shake, Wish you well and Thank you ft Raye​
​The Hunna – I’d Rather Die Than To Let You In
The Hunna are a band that I would have listened to over the years, some songs finding their way onto book playlists, but I never truly appreciated their sound until this year, with the release of the newest album. I always tend to fall in love with a singer voice and 
Ryan Potter has a unique edge to his to voice that drew me in from the start. 

Notable tracks: I wanna Know, Young & Faded, Dark Times, If this is love ft Phem, and I'd rather die than let you in

​​Grandson – Death of an Optimist 
Another artist I found during lockdown, his song Identity is a dark, gritty, song that I've played over and over again. Grandson uses his sings to convey everything from his past drug use, to frustration with politics, to songs that hint at mental health related struggles. 
​

Notable tracks: In over my head, Identity, Dirty, We did it!!! and Riptide​
​Yungblud – Weird!
I've been a fan of Yungblud for a long time, with his ability to blend rock with pop and basically sing whatever the hell he wants. Weird! is essentially an album about accepting yourself, finding your tribe, owning who you are and not giving a f**k about others opinions. 

​Notable tracks: Teresa. Mars, Superdeadfriends, god save me. but don't drown me out, love song and its quiet in Beverly hills
​ACDC- PWR UP!
After 47 years and 17 albums, ACDC have firmly made their mark on music. Never a band for straying from what they are good at, the new album was a nod to Malcolm Young, who passed away in 2017. The sound of ACDC is unmistakable, from the very first chord, you just know that you can get stuck in and Power Up is one of those albums to listen to on a road trip. Most of the members of ACDC might be in their sixties and seventies, but Power Up proves that age is just a number and you can still get your rock on!
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Notable tracks: Shot in the dark, Kick You When You're down, Wild Reputation and Code Red
Honorable Mention:
Anavae – 45 
This album only sneaks into the list because I only discovered them during Ireland's first lockdown. The album was released in November 2019. I listened to the song Human, over and over, and featured it on a few of my writing playlists. 
Rebecca Need-Menear has such a unique voice and the haunting lyrics produced an album that does not have one skipable track on it.
Notable tracks: Human, Smile, High and Never Want to Love Again


​And reasons to be excited for music in 2021...
After hearing 25 from The Pretty Reckless, like Dave, I'm excited for the new album and the new You me at six album Suckapunch....But we will also get new Foo Fighters and I for one, am flipping excited!!!!
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​Susan Harris is a writer from Cork, Ireland and when she’s not torturing her readers with heart-wrenching plot twists or killer cliffhangers, she’s probably getting some new book related ink, binging her latest TV or music obsession, or with her nose in a book. She is a proud founding Member of the Muser VIPers and is responsible for Melanie not breaking the Website on an almost daily basis!

You can check out all her books on Amazon HERE


All Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article areAmazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)
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Win It Wednesday - Willy Wonka Feature by Dave Christy and Jennifer Rhodes Cleere & Giveaway!

12/29/2020

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Welcome to our Win It Wednesday Feature! This week it's all about Willy Wonka with a double feature from  Dave Christy and Jennifer Rhodes Cleere, taking a look at both movie versions! Don't forget to read all the way down to see details on how to enter the giveaway to win the Willy Wonka Prize Pack!

​1971 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory by Dave

Gene Wilder leads the cast in this wonderful classic movie. Eccentric recluse Willy Wonka is opening his chocolate factory to 5 lucky winners who find the golden tickets hidden in candy bar wrappers. 
Charlie Bucket is our lead and the last to find the golden ticket.
He joins:
Veruca Salt, spoiled rich girl who is used to getting what she wants,
Mike Teavee, who is more interested in the tv than anything around him,
Augustus Gloop, who is eating everything in sight, and
Violet Beauregarde, who just doesn't to listen to what she is told. 
Each of their faults eventually leads to trouble and their demise, eliminating them from the ultimate prize. 
The film features classic musical performances, including "Candy Man" by Sammy Davis Jr, "Pure Imagination", and "I Want it Now". Another feature in the movie are the Oompa Loompa songs after each of the kids exits, teaching us the lessons of what not to do and how not to act. 
When they decided to remake the movie, they went in the opposite direction. They didn't even make it a musical. And they added a backstory. I'll let Jenn elaborate a little on that version.

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​​Dave Christy loves horror, music, documentaries and more.  He is also the co-runner of several fan based groups including Morningstars (THE Lucifer fan group also run by Melanie), and now is a member of the VIPers Spotlight Lounge team for Melanie's Muses.  Other than "In The Spotlight" Features -check out his "31 Days Of Halloween Movies"

​2005 Charlie and the Factory by Jennifer

This is a tale of how not being greedy can get you far, and yes, I’m talking about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
​Charlie comes from a poor family who barely gets by, but they get through it together. He also dreams about touring the chocolate factory and meeting the famous Willy Wonka. He gets his chance when, by luck he ends up finding a golden ticket and entering this amazing factory.  
Now the other kids you meet that also won golden tickets are the total opposite of Charlie. You see that as the movie goes on. Don’t worry, they end up each learning a lesson that’s really needed for each child, and Charlie ends up being the last one standing and winning that very special and coveted prize at the end.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is very different from the original movie, and there’s more story added, also the cast was amazing. If you like the original, definitely check this one out as well, because as they say two are definitely better than one.

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Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!
Rent on Amazon - They might be streaming somewhere but I couldn't find them at the time of posting.

​

Any Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article are Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)

And Now For The Giveaway!

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GIVEAWAY DETAILS & HOW TO ENTER!

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Will Wonka Prize Pack featuring both movies discussed on DVD sent in by Jennnifer Rhodes Cleere,  and some things from the Melanie's Muses Prize collection -including a notebook, pen, and Melanie's Muses M&M's)

For your chance to win- leave a comment ON THIS POST ON THE WEBSITE (comments left on shares around other social media WILL NOT COUNT) - Telling Us What Your Favorite Candy Is!

The winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments. Other comments about the article are very welcome but only entrants with the qulifying comments will go in the hat! What you ask for will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on January 10th 2021 (and then posted here on the blog as well on the 11th.  Full Rules Below!

   Good luck everyone! 

Rules

  • Only comments posted on THIS original website post will be considered.
  • This is open internationally.  If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can.  Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations.  Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control.  Void Where Prohibited.
  • Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.  
  • Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
  • Void where prohibited.  Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
  • Winner will be announced during the live on Sunday January 10th 2021 AND posted on this post on Monday January 11th. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
    ​ - https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
  • 1st Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days. 2nd for 60 days. We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
  • Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page.
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Doctor Who In The Spotlight - A Feature From Your Muser TARDIS TEAM!

12/26/2020

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Welcome to the Spotlight Lounge! With the Doctor Who Special (Originally set for Christmas but now airing New Year's Day), it seemed the perfect time to share our thoughts on being a Whovian in a collaborative article from Dave, Jennifer, and Melanie. Three Whovian, three different points of view, but one common theme - their love for Doctor Who. Be sure to let us know what you think in the comments!

Dave - 

"Watch Doctor Who" they said. "It'll be fun" they said. However, they did not tell me to have a box of tissues nearby, so there have been a few episodes where I ended up with a tear-soaked sleeve. Yes, I willfully admit the show has made me cry.
 
Everyone starts their journey with the Doctor at different times. Some start at random episodes. Some start with a particular Doctor. There have 13 so far. 14 if you count the War Doctor that was introduced later in the timeline. Being a completist, I felt I should start with Season 1, Episode 1 of the reboot. I chose that because a lot of the earlier classic episodes from the 1960's are missing and I felt I had a better chance of liking the current era than if I started with the classics. From the moments on screen and the word "RUN!", I was drawn in and there was no turning back. I have since went back and watched everything from the classic run of 1963-1989.
 
The story of Doctor Who is a long one, going back almost 60 years since the first airing meaning has a legion of die-hard fans. One thing is for sure, I can always count on a reaction when I am in public with a Doctor Who t-shirt on. Whether it’s just a nod or a smile from another fan wearing a Doctor Who shirt or sometimes it just strikes up a random conversation on the bus.
 
Comic Cons are also a great place to interact with fans. You can be waiting in line to meet one of the actors and start talking to the fans around you because you know have that similar interest or you can ask them if they have seen any Doctor Who related stuff around. My first time attending NYCC, I spotted a fan and asked if they knew where Jenna Coleman's table was. The NYCC a couple years was ago was a great way introduce the 13th Doctor. I got to watch a panel and the world premiere of the new episode and first-time seeing Jodie Whittaker in action in a roomful of about a 1000 fans !
​Dave Christy loves horror, music, documentaries and more.  He is also the co-runner of several fan based groups including Morningstars (THE Lucifer fan group also run by Melanie), and now is a member of the VIPers Spotlight Lounge team for Melanie's Muses.  Other than "In The Spotlight" Features -check out his "31 Days Of Halloween Movies"

Jenn - 

Doctor who. What can I say or where to begin? Well, I’ll just start from the beginning. When I was younger, to me Doctor Who was something stupid and I never understood why people actually liked it. Well now I do and that’s all thanks to Mels. I remember first watching them online through my computer. This was before Netflix or HBO Max. I also remember asking Mels what happens next, and her just telling me to keep watching. Have you noticed that about her, if you are lucky enough to be her friend you will hear that A LOT! So I did.
 
I ended up falling for the Doctor and his/her companions. Especially the companions because they’re the ones that actually made you feel like you are with the Doctor on this journey. That TARDIS and the beautiful sound it makes will forever be etched in my memory and I’m not saying that’s a bad thing because it’s not. The Doctor is someone in my opinion who we should all strive to be like, because even with his/her enemies the Doctor doesn’t want to harm them, unless given no choice which that often ends up being the case. If you haven’t joined the Doctor in the TARDIS, I think you should. You will not regret it and it will be the ride of your life.
Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!

Mels - 

Oh where to start! The Whoverse is just so incredibly large, I think it can be daunting for many people.  I have been a Whovian since I was a child and the show was airing with Tom Baker (4th Doctor) on the BBC. 

Going through many reincarnations, some better than others, a failed movie reboot in 1996 (which broke up the gap between 1989 and 2005), and a complete overhaul in 2005 with the 9th Doctor hitting the screens, Doctor Who has a huge fan base which has only continued to grow. 

For the most part new people watch from the  2005 “New Season 1”, (Like Dave and Jenn) but there are several great jumping in points.  Personally I always recommend “Blink” (New Season 3 – Episode 10) which features the 10th Doctor (David Tennant), but unlike other episodes is told from the perspective of someone not familiar with the show.  This is actually how I hooked Greg - and then he went back and watched from the 9th Doctor's introduction. (Trailer below)

 Other great jumping in points are the beginning of the new Season 5 which introduces us to the 11th Doctor (Matt Smith), a new Showrunner (Steven Moffat) and no continuing companions, and then finally the beginning of Season 11 which introduces us to the 13th Doctor (Jodi Whitaker) and another new Showrunner (Chris Chibnull), and again all new companions meaning that the story starts completely fresh.  

Dave has already mentioned the Whovian Fandom. We are vast and many, and yes if you see one in public there will probably be some acknowledgment.  That being said, I find that online the fandom (especially long term fans going back to "Original Who" can be quite Toxic and judgy. They are by far one of the most toxic online fandoms I have seen, but don't let that put you off. The Whovian Musers, as with all Muser Shows, are fabulous and supportive.  (I will actually be doing a vlog about the Whovian Toxic Fandom in the near future so watch for that!)

The other video below is from about 3 years ago, when there were just rumors of the possibility we could have a "Female Doctor", but my thoughts really haven't changed.  I think Jodi and the crew are fabulous, and i know my heart will break a little, as it always does, when they leave.

​Doctor Who has always been a #MustWatch for me – but I love to see all the new Whovians popping up – maybe it could be your next fandom! 
The New Doctor Who Episode Will Air New Years Day!  Doctor Who Is Currently Available in the US on BBC America and HBO Max.
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Currently Streaming Free With Your HBO MAX Subscription! Check your local listings for more options~
​

Any Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article are Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)
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We're Off To See The Wizard! - A Wizard of Oz feature by Jennifer Rhodes Cleere

12/23/2020

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Welcome to our Win It Wednesday Feature! This week it's all about The Wizard Of Oz from Jennifer Rhodes Cleere! Don't forget to read all the way down to see details on how to enter the giveaway to win the Oz Prize Pack!

Jenn -

Let’s go on another trip to another place beyond anything you could think of.
This classic famous movie started out as a book, actually a whole series of books, although many people only know this one, and yes, I’m talking about "The Wizard of Oz". 
Dorothy and Toto are swept away by a tornado to a magical land called Oz. When Dorothy first arrives, she lands in Munchkin Land and ends up accidentally destroying the Wicked Witch of the East, much to all the munchkins delight, and also gets her the prized ruby red slippers from Glenda, much to the Wicked Witch of the West’s disappointment. 
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​Discovering that, in order to go home, she needs to head to the Emerald City, Dorothy follows the yellow brick road, and along the way, meets three amazing new friends; The Tin Man, Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion, all needing to see the great Wizard of Oz for personal reasons.
In the end, Dorothy realizes she had the magic to get home all along by clicking her ruby slippers together and saying that now famous line. There’s are a lot of amazing messages in this movie, but the one I take away the most, is that no matter how far you roam, There’s no place like home!
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Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!
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Rent on Amazon - Or Currently Streaming Free With Your HBO MAX Subscription! Check your local listings for more options~
Any Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article are Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)

And Now For The Giveaway!

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GIVEAWAY DETAILS & HOW TO ENTER!

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Oz" Prize Pack featuring the Illustrated Wizard of Oz Paperback Book and the Original Wizard of Oz DVD sent in by Jennnifer Rhodes Cleere, A  Paperback copy of Oz Reimagined and some things from the Melanie's Muses Prize collection -including Susan Harris Swag (Because Wicked Game (Sanguine Crown Book 3 is coming - And that has a "Wicked" Theme)

For your chance to win- leave a comment ON THIS POST ON THE WEBSITE (comments left on shares around other social media WILL NOT COUNT) - Telling Us What You Would Ask The Wizard For!

The winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments. Other comments about the article are very welcome but only entrants with the qulifying comments will go in the hat! What you ask for will not influence whether you go into the hat - Only that you answer the question!

Winner will be announced during the Live show on January 3rd 2021 (and then posted here on the blog as well on the 4th.  Full Rules Below!

   Good luck everyone! 

Rules

  • Only comments posted on THIS original website post will be considered.
  • This is open internationally.  If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can.  Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations.  Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control.  Void Where Prohibited.
  • Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.  
  • Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
  • Void where prohibited.  Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
  • Winner will be announced during the live on Sunday January 3rd 2021 AND posted on this post on Monday January 4th. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
    ​ - https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
  • 1st Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days. 2nd for 60 days. We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
  • Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page.
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A Christmas Story- A Feature By Jennifer Rhodes Cleere

12/17/2020

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Jenn - 

Welcome to our Friday Feature. Today's feature is brought to you by Jennifer Rhodes Cleere.

Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!
​When you think about classic Christmas movies this is the one that always comes to my mind, and that’s a Christmas story. This movie is very popular and plays on the tbs channel every Christmas for twenty-four hours straight!
This movie is about a boy and his journey to get a red rider BB gun for Christmas, and all the different shenanigans he’ll go through, like trying to outsmart his mom, writing a "what he wants" essay for school, and even asking Santa for one.

via GIPHY

​Plus, there's the leg lamp, and yes, I mean that lamp. If you’ve seen this movie then you know what I’m talking about because that thing is everywhere especially around Christmas time.

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​Does Ralphie end up getting what he wants for Christmas? Well, I’m sure you’ve seen this classic at least once, but if not then you just have to watch and find out!  

via GIPHY

Rent now or watch the 24 hour marathon on tbs starting on Christmas Eve at 4pm ET

All Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article areAmazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)
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The Music That Made 2020 More Bearable - Susan Harris

12/17/2020

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2020 might have been a year none of us ever expected, where our lives hit a roadblock and the world stood still for far too long.
However, we have to pay tribute to the books, the tv, the art, and especially the music that made 2020 more bearable. 
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 2020 saw the return of the Foo Fighters with Shame, Shame- that included an epic video that spawned from a dream that Dave Grohl had since he was a child. ​ It was unlike any Foo's song that came before it, and I loved it. 
We saw epic albums, (which will be discussed in a joint article with Dave) from some of my fave artists, like Ozzy Osbourne, Pvris, Bring me the Horizon. Yungblud, Nothing but Thieves, ACDC & Marilyn Manson.

It was also a year of discovery for me, finding some new artists to listen to during the year:
Grandson, Des Rocs, Inhaler, NOISY, ​Ayron Jones, Nothing,Nowhere

People have been saying for the last few years that Rock was dead, but this year has seen a resurgence to the genre, a blend of old and new, redefined with an eclectic sound that is exciting, invigorating and makes me excited for when the time comes to step inside a music venue to bear witness to live music again.
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My 2020 Fave Songs were all released in 2020- I may have cheated a little and included Brainstorm by Artic Monkeys, but it's the live version and it was released in 2020.



​There are some songs on my playlist that might surprise you, like my little addiction to a certain Icelandic Eurovision entrant that became my earworm song of 2020!

Here are some of my fave songs of 2020:
​

Foo Fighters - Shame Shame
Ozzy Osbourne - Goodbye
Hayley Williams - Simmer
Bring Me The Horizon – Teardrops
Nothing But Thieves – Phobia
grandson – Identity
All Time Low - Monsters (feat. blackbear)
Billie Eilish - No Time To Die
Des Rocs - This is Our Life
PVRIS - Thank You (feat. RAYE)

You can check out my full Fave songs of 2020 list below.

Have a listen and let me know of you found any songs that you liked, found a new artist that you didn't know before, or let me know of any new music in 2020 that got you through the year of infinite hell that was 2020.

Susan Harris is a writer from Cork, Ireland and when she’s not torturing her readers with heart-wrenching plot twists or killer cliffhangers, she’s probably getting some new book related ink, binging her latest TV or music obsession, or with her nose in a book. She is a proud founding Member of the Muser VIPers and is responsible for Melanie not breaking the Website on an almost daily basis!

You can check out all her books on Amazon HERE

All Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article areAmazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)

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The Grinch In The Spotlight - A Feature by Jennifer Rhodes Cleere  PLUS GIVEAWAY!

12/16/2020

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Welcome to our Win It Wednesday Feature! This week it's all about The Grinch from Jennifer Rhodes Cleere! Don't forget to read all the way down to see details on how to enter the giveaway to win the Grinch Prize Pack!

Jenn - 

Have you ever felt just not in the Christmas spirit mood? I know I have. I've never been called this character, but I sure have felt like him. Yes I’m talking about the Grinch and how he came to steal Christmas, or so he thought. 

via GIPHY

This movie originated as a children’s book by the amazing Dr. Seuss and then later became movies. There are several versions including the very well-known cartoon, but I want to talk about now is Jim Carrey’s "How the Grinch Stole Christmas". 

​I think so far that is my favorite take on it and the one with the most story. The Grinch is from the town of Whoville where all The Whos live, but he’s a little different from the way he looks, to the way he acts. He also hates Christmas and The Whos who seem to love it. One year he decides to get rid of Christmas by stealing all their decorations, food and gifts. The thing that happens though is that everyone realizes, those aren’t the things that make Christmas but rather it is how you spend it, and with who, like your family and friends. 

via GIPHY

When the Grinch sees the change in The Whos down below, he starts to realize what truly matters. This makes his heart grow and he learns to love. Now I’m sure you heard of this story in one way or another, but it is always worth looking again, because in the end it has a spectacular message.

via GIPHY

Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!
Rent on Amazon - Or Currently Streaming Free With Your Netflix Subscription!
​​

Any Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article are Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)
​And Now Your Chance To Win A Grinch Themed Prize Pack!
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GIVEAWAY DETAILS & HOW TO ENTER!

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Grinch" Prize Pack featuring the Dr Seuss Book, and the Jim Carrey version DVD, sent in by Jennnifer Rhodes Cleere and some things from the Melanie's Muses Prize collection -including Susan Harris Swag (Because She Is A Self Confessed Grinch lol), Poop Emoji sticker, and some Chandler Stickers (because he hates Thanksgiving - and that's close enough!)

For your chance to win- leave a comment ON THIS POST ON THE WEBSITE (comments left on shares around other social media WILL NOT COUNT) - Telling Us either #TeamChristmas or #TeamGrinch

The winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments. Other comments about the article are very welcome but only entrants with the qulifying comments will go in the hat! Team choice will not be a factor.

Winner will be announced during the Live show on December 27th (and then posted here on the blog as well on the 28th).  Full Rules Below!

   Good luck everyone! 

Rules

  • Only comments posted on THIS original website post will be considered.
  • This is open internationally.  If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can.  Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations.  Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control.  Void Where Prohibited.
  • Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.  
  • Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
  • Void where prohibited.  Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
  • Winner will be announced during the live on Sunday December 27th 2020 AND posted on this post on Monday December 28th. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
    ​ - https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
  • 1st Failure to claim will result in a no future giveaway entry being counted for 30 days. 2nd for 60 days. We want people to claim their prizes! Don't get on the list!
  • Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page.
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Alternative Christmas Movies - A Feature By Dave Christy!

12/11/2020

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Dave - 

If you've been following my articles, you know this is not the place to find "It’s a Wonderful Life" and "Miracle on 34th Street" and movies like that. Sure, you can watch them and enjoy them. But I like going a little more left of center. So here are 5 of my top "Alternative Christmas Movies" complete with trailers so you can see what you're going to get if you watch it!

Scroll To The Bottom For Info On Where You Can Watch Them!



​1. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993). Is it a Halloween movie? Is it a Christmas movie? It can be both! The story of the Pumpkin King trying to take over Christmas is an exciting ride you can enjoy year-round.

​


​2. Fred Claus (2007). Vince Vaughn is Santa's brother, living in the shadows of the big guy his whole. You know he is never the favorite son in that household. He pays Nick a visit at the North Pole.

​


​3. Bad Santa (2003) (or Badder Santa if you get the unrated version). Its lewd, its crude, its right up my alley! Billy Bob Thornton is a drunken con man playing a mall Santa so he can rob it later. Definitely not what you would call family fun. But turns out he actually has a heart after all.

​
 

​4. Scrooged (1988). Dickens A Christmas Carol has been told and retold about a billion times, but this is one of my favorites. Bill Murray is a tv executive who is producing a live show on Christmas Eve.

5, Slay Belles (2018) Yes I mentioned this in my 31 Days of Halloween Movies, but it’s a Christmas movie that I watch every year so I am putting it here too. Have you watched it yet? If the answer is no, what are you waiting for? Allow me to refresh your memory. Barry Bostwick stars as Santa. That’s a reason to watch alone! C'mon! He needs the help of 3 cosplaying YouTubers to help defeat Krampus. Yes, it’s a bit cheesy but very fun!
So How Many Will You Be Watching?
​
Dave Christy loves horror, music, documentaries and more.  He is also the co-runner of several fan based groups including Morningstars (THE Lucifer fan group also run by Melanie), and now is a member of the VIPers Spotlight Lounge team for Melanie's Muses.  Other than "In The Spotlight" Features -check out his "31 Days Of Halloween Movies"

How To Watch - If it says Free with Prime Membership and you don't have one - you can try it free for 30 days bly clicking the banner! All prices / links correct at the time of posting. 

All Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article areAmazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)

Watch Free With  Disney+
Watch Free With Your 7 Day AMC+ Trial
Rent or Buy the Director's Cut on Amazon
Rent or Buy on Amazon
Watch Free With Prime!
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Tori Amos in the Spotlight - A Guest Feature By Jennifer Bollnow

12/10/2020

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Melanie's Muses is pleased to welcome Jennifer Bollnow with a guest spotlight feature about Tori Amos for today's Music Feature!  Be sure to let us know what you think of her article in the comments below!
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Jennifer Bollnow - 

,Have you ever heard a song or singer that just voices everything you are feeling?  Mine, for over 25 years, has been Tori Amos.  She has a unique skill to make a piano and her voice sound more powerful than a full band.  She can be vulnerable or aggressive, She can rock a ballad or sweetly sing a lullaby.  Heck she could sing the phone book and I would listen!
 
Born in North Carolina, Tori started playing piano as soon as she could stand, and began composing her own pieces at age 3.  She is a classically trained pianist.  She received a scholarship to the Peabody Institute age of 5 but was kicked out 6 years later for not playing school approved music. Besides being a musical genius she has chromesthesia where she can see the notes as moving colorful, lights, and shapes. At 13 she played in piano bars and gay bars with her father, and Methodist preacher, as her chaperon.  She had a short lived pop group, Y Kant Tori Read but their album flopped and she went solo. 

​Her debut solo album (and still my favorite after all these years) is Little Earthquakes.  Tori sings about religion, sex, feminism, sexual assault, politics and more.  She not only makes playing the piano sexy but she can play 2 pianos at the same time or play piano along with a harpsichord keyboard or organ.  

via GIPHY

​Tori has released 15 albums since Little Earthquakes, some of which are just her and a piano, some with a full band and others with an orchestra.  Her daughter has even recorded a few songs with her.  She has adapted the book Light Princess into a musical which won awards in England.  Tori is close friends with author Neil Gaiman (he is even her daughter’s godfather) and you can find easter eggs of each other's work in their own writing.  She even did a song on the soundtrack of the series Good Omens, called A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square.  She has received a total of 8 Grammy nominations and 5 MTV VMA nominations.

via GIPHY


​Tori has also been the spokesperson for RAINN Rape Abuse and Incest National Network after her haunting acapella song, Me and a Gun, that tells her own personal story.  
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Tori’s most recent album was released on December 4th in vinyl or digital download.  She recorded the songs for Christmastide at home during quarantine for Covid 19.  
 
CHRISTMASTIDE
1. Christmastide
2. Circle of Seasons
3. Holly
4. Better Angels
 
“With Christmastide, it was important to be positive and to try and lift people’s spirits.
It’s a time of year that should be joyful with family and friends but also can sadly be a very lonely place for some.
Many families will be unable to be together this year because of the pandemic as well as many that are also dealing with the aftermath of a long and bitter US election. I hope these songs contained in this beautiful package can be a small treat to help along the way.”
from ToriAmos.com 

Listen to ANY of the albums mentioned for FREE with Amazon Music! Not a member? You can try it free for 30 days by clicking the banner!

Any Links To Buy / Subscribe to Amazon Programs On Amazon in this article are Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do!)
Jennifer Bollnow is a TVaholic with no possibility or desire to rehab. She met Melanie when they worked together on the former Voice of TV website. She especially loves sci-fi, fantasy, Christmas movies and anything with Patrick Swayze. She loves helping people find their new favorite series. Her current obsessions is Outlander. This is her second guest article for Melanie's Muses!
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Christmas Vacation In The Spotlight - A Feature by Jennifer Rhodes Cleere & Dave Christy- PLUS GIVEAWAY!

12/9/2020

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Welcome to our Win It Wednesday Feature! This week it's all about National Lampoons Christmas Vacation with Jenn and Dave Tag Teaming it in a double feature!  Don't forget to read all the way down to see Melanie's little note - and of course details on how to enter the giveaway to win the Christmas Prize Pack!

Jenn - 

This is the time of year that Christmas movies start appearing on our tv screen. I like the occasional Christmas movie, but not really into them like Mels, well except for this one and I’m sure you’ve all heard of it - Christmas vacation!
​
It has it all and come on who doesn’t love the Griswold family? This family does it all and all with a crazy doting father who just wants to have the perfect Christmas! The movie starts with the family going out into the middle of nowhere and getting their family Christmas tree. Not only that but he has invited the rest of his family to his house for the holidays and that’s when chaos begins.

via GIPHY

​You might feel bad for Clark, but trust me you’ll also be laughing A LOT, especially when cousin Eddie enters the scene. Clark has never really been to happy to see him, because he’s definitely the black sheep of their family. If by some Christmas Miracle  you haven’t by chance seen this you need to check it out now, trust me once you do. It will definitely be added to your must watch list each year. It even made Mels top 10 Must Watch for 2020!
Jennifer Rhodes Cleere met Melanie back when True Blood was popular and they have been friends ever since.  She loves TV (especially things that make you smile), Doctor Who, Finding new shows, and regularly provides awesome fandom items for Muser Giveaways.  Jennifer is now a proud member of the VIPers - the Melanie's Muses Spotlight Feature Team!

Dave - 

I've been following the misadventures of the Griswolds for many years now. Even back in the 80's, I saw most of these movies in the theaters starting with European Vacation. So needless to say when National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation hit theaters in 1989, I was there opening weekend. It is a yearly tradition for a lot of my friends with many classic lines that get repeated with bursts of laughter.

I don’t watch many traditional Christmas movies, I go for the more oddball stuff, but this incredible cast makes this a must watch. Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki were in the early days of their career but had no trouble joining the cast and holding their own against Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and the show-stealing Julia Louis-Dreyfus!

via GIPHY

With so many wonderful moments, I can’t really say that much about it except that if you haven't seen it by now, where the hell have you been?
Dave Christy loves horror, music, documentaries and more.  He is also the co-runner of several fan based groups including Morningstars (THE Lucifer fan group also run by Melanie), and now is a member of the VIPers Spotlight Lounge team for Melanie's Muses.  Other than "In The Spotlight" Features -check out his "31 Days Of Halloween Movies"

Melanie - 

Thanks guys - that was great!

​For those that have followed the page, or have seen my video, you know that this is a MUST WATCH every year in this house!  Check out what I have to say on my Top 10 Must Watch Christmas Movies 2020 - and be sure to watch for it popping up on my Magical Movies List too!
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Rent on Amazon or watch for free with your 7 day AMC+ Trial
​

Any Links To Buy On Amazon in this page may be Amazon Affiliate Links
​(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which in turns helps support all the Muser giveaways we do)

​And Now Your Chance To Win A Christmas Themed Prize Pack!
Picture
GIVEAWAY DETAILS & HOW TO ENTER!

Melanie's Muses will be giving away a "Christmas Feature" Prize Pack featuring the original National Lampoons Christmas Vacation DVD, sent in by Jennnifer Rhodes Cleere and some things from the Melanie's Muses Prize collection -including a Santa Hat, Christmas Headband, Christmas Hair tie, Christmas Poop Emoji, some Snowflake Window Clings, and 2 hanging snowflakes like the ones seen during our live shows, and stickers!

For your chance to win- leave a comment ON THIS POST ON THE WEBSITE (comments left on shares around other social media WILL NOT COUNT) - Telling Us If You Love Lots Of Christmas Lights!

The winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments.  

Winner will be announced during the Live show on December 20th (and then posted here on the blog as well on the 21st).  Full Rules Below!

   Good luck everyone! 

Rules

  • Only comments posted on THIS original website post will be considered.
  • This is open internationally.  If you win and you cannot accept mail due to Covid issues we will hold the prize until such time as you can.  Some exceptions may apply based on Post Office Regulations.  Melanie's Muses takes no responsibility for rules beyond her control.  Void Where Prohibited.
  • Sharing is always appreciated but is not required for entry.  
  • Winner Will Be Picked At Random.
  • Void where prohibited.  Prize is provided via Melanie's Muses and will be mailed by her.
  • Winner will be announced during the live on Sunday December 20th 2020 AND posted on this post on Monday December 21st. Winner will have 48 hours to claim by messaging their address to
    ​ - https://www.facebook.com/MelaniesMuses/ Or prize is considered forfeit.
  • Any questions please contact Melanie on the Facebook page.
Comments
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