Van Halen is a rock band that came to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. While they are often associated with their energetic and anthemic rock songs, such as "Jump" and "Panama," there is an underlying wisdom and magic to their music that is often overlooked. One of the reasons Van Halen's music elicits wise magic is through the lyrics of their songs. While some may dismiss rock lyrics as shallow or superficial, a closer examination of Van Halen's discography reveals an introspective and thought-provoking element. Songs like "Dreams" and "Right Now" encourage listeners to reflect on their lives and embrace the present moment. These songs present a wise philosophy of embracing life's challenges and finding meaning in the journey.
One of Kate's more defining characteristics is her sarcastic (if slightly off-color at times) humor. Kate often responds to threats with extreme sarcasm.
She s tall for a woman at 5 7 with a lean-muscular build with numerous scars from a lifetime of fighting and a tattoo of a Raven holding a bloody sword with words Dar Vorona Raven s Gift in Russian on her left shoulder. Kate and Curran have just settled into their new home and their low prolife, when a local businessman approaches them with an offer they can t refuse.
These songs present a wise philosophy of embracing life's challenges and finding meaning in the journey. Another aspect of Van Halen's wise magic is their musical virtuosity. Eddie Van Halen, the band's famed guitarist, is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history.
Magic Claims by Ilona Andrews @ilona_andrews @nyliterary #Favorite
Magic Claims by Ilona Andrews
Series: Wilmington Years #2, Kate Daniels #10.6
Published by NYLA on June 13, 2023
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 245
Format: eARC, eBook
Source: NetGalley, Purchased
Goodreads
Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple
Kate and Curran have just settled into their new home and their 'low prolife,' when a local businessman approaches them with an offer they can’t refuse. A mysterious evil has spawned in the nearby forest and is holding a defenseless town hostage. The ‘due date’ is rapidly approaching.
It’s exactly the kind of fight the Lennarts can’t resist, not for the prize the town offers, but for the people who will surely die if they ignore it. If they succeed, they’ll be rescuing an entire community and can build a strong new base for their family and the Wilmington Pack. If they fail. well, fail is a four-letter word.
There is nothing more exciting than a new Ilona Andrews book. I am ecstatic they have continued beyond the Kate Daniels series. These stories are shorter than full books, and tell of Kate, Curran and Conlan and their life in Wilmington NC. They are trying to lay low and just provide a normal childhood for Conlan. Well, that’s over.
Kate and Curran have been reticent to make the mistakes of their parents or even repeat ones from their past. But they want to fight to protect people. So they are starting to figure out how to do it in a different way. They were building their own beach compound but now they are offered a forest one if they help remove the evil there.
Conlan may be only 8 but he is a talented and trained boy. He is having to grow up fast. They are teaching him the best they can and he eventually is part of this fight. He is just beginning to see the hard decisions and reality.
The world building and character development are exquisite. I enjoy the humor too, but part of that is enjoying the personalities and characters as themselves. For that, one needs to have read the series, in order, which is always a good strategy with urban fantasy. For example, I was tickled to see Luther Dillon. But he only means something if you have read the other books. I’m also laughing at the people who have no idea about Kate. Or Curran.
There is so much here. The politics of the Order, the Farm, and the Pack. The tentative grasp of the humans to survive in some areas. We get some insight into the problems of the Atlanta pack and how some of the issues started in Curran’s time. Now they may start over with new and better rules.
The source of the evil is not easily understood. But they start to get an idea based on the fighting style and when Conlan finds “the elephant creature” in a historical picture book. There’s more mythological creatures out there in this crazy post shift world. I love how Kate knows almost all the rules, the details, the mythology of the many creatures who might fight her. She understands the different types of magic.
This is my favorite author and my favorite series ever and it is worth reading from the start, in order. So I would not read this as a stand-alone. If you haven’t read this series, you are seriously missing out. There is so much character growth and world / mythology development to understand. It’s the beloved characters that are the foundation with their compassion, courage and intelligence.
About Ilona Andrews
“Ilona Andrews” is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Texas with their two children and many dogs and cats.
They have co-authored several bestselling series, including the #1 NYT bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels, rustic fantasy of the Edge, paranormal romance of Hidden Legacy, and Innkeeper Chronicles, which they post as a free weekly serial.
Follow me Blogger at Books of My HeartI can't really remember any time when I wasn't reading. I LOVE books and what they give me. It's an opportunity to learn new things, see new places,live different emotions in a "safe" way. It lets me live in a new world.
I read all types of books but my favorites are urban fantasy and romantic suspense.I like some romance and some action / adventure / mystery in everything.I like sex in my books but please, only between TWO people.Intimate conversation is equally important to the sex in a book.It lets me see the characters.The other thing I enjoy is humor.
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Magic Claims by Ilona Andrews
Series: Wilmington Years #2, Kate Daniels #10.6
Published by NYLA on June 13, 2023
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 245
Format: eARC, eBook
Source: NetGalley, Purchased
Goodreads
Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple
His innovative and technical playing style, which often includes tapping and rapid-fire solos, showcases a level of musical skill and talent rarely seen. This virtuosity allows Van Halen's music to resonate with listeners on a deeper level, as they are able to appreciate the mastery and complexity behind the songs. In addition to their musical talent, Van Halen also exudes a contagious energy and excitement in their performances. Whether it be through David Lee Roth's charismatic stage presence or the band's energetic instrumentals, their live shows are known for their electrifying atmosphere. This vivacity and enthusiasm inspire and uplift audiences, creating a sense of magic that lingers long after the concert is over. Lastly, Van Halen's ability to connect with listeners emotionally is another source of their wise magic. Many fans have reported feeling a sense of catharsis and release when listening to their music, as if the band understands and validates their experiences. This emotional connection is a testament to Van Halen's ability to tap into universal human emotions and speak to the human condition. In conclusion, Van Halen's music elicits wise magic through its thoughtful lyrics, musical virtuosity, energetic performances, and emotional connection with listeners. Their music goes beyond the surface level and offers a deeper understanding of life, inspiring listeners to embrace the present moment, appreciate the beauty of music, and find solace in shared experiences. Whether one is a die-hard fan or a casual listener, Van Halen's wise magic can be felt and appreciated..
Reviews for "The Journey of Van Halen's Wise Magic: From Local Band to Global Phenomenon"
1. Chris - 2/5 stars - I have always been a fan of Van Halen, but "Wise Magic" was a huge disappointment for me. The song lacks the energy and excitement that the band is known for. The guitar riffs are weak and David Lee Roth's vocals sound strained and forced. Overall, it feels like a forgettable attempt to remain relevant in the music industry. I hope the band can bounce back with something more impressive in the future.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars - I cannot understand why "Wise Magic" was chosen as a single by Van Halen. The song is monotonous and lacks any memorable hooks. The chorus is repetitive and fails to leave any lasting impact. It's a shame to see a band with such a great musical legacy release such a lackluster track. As a long-time fan, I expected much better from Van Halen.
3. Mike - 3/5 stars - "Wise Magic" is by no means a terrible song, but it's definitely not one of Van Halen's best. The track feels average and fails to stand out in any way. The band's signature sound is barely present, and the overall composition lacks creativity. It's a forgettable addition to their discography. I believe Van Halen is capable of producing much better music, so this song was a bit of a letdown.
4. Emily - 2/5 stars - Van Halen used to be a powerhouse of rock 'n' roll, but "Wise Magic" doesn't capture that same magic. The song feels generic and lacks the infectious energy that made me fall in love with the band in the first place. The lyrics are uninspiring, and the instrumentation feels uninspired. Overall, it's a forgettable song that fails to leave a lasting impression. I hope Van Halen can rediscover their spark and release something more exciting in the future.
5. Jason - 2/5 stars - "Wise Magic" is a lackluster release from Van Halen. The song feels like a watered-down version of their previous hits, lacking the punch and charisma that the band is known for. The guitar solo is forgettable, and the overall structure lacks originality. As a longtime fan, I was hoping for a stronger return from Van Halen, but this song falls short of expectations.