Musicality - Matt Goss, Big Bad Gina, Lea Michele, Scarlett Rabe

Matt Goss
I Do
(Virgin)
It’s difficult to imagine that Matt Goss used to be in a boy band in the ’80s, because he’s incredibly soulful on this new E.P. Goss is now performing in Las Vegas until this summer. With a song like “Lovely Las Vegas,” it’s no surprise that he’s very much in the style of Sin City — big blues and jazzy. It’s as if he were a lost student of Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé’s, although Goss’ voice is a bit higher in tone. Frankly, I’m eating it up. If I were going to Vegas anytime soon, I wouldn’t miss the chance to see his show. My favorite track off the four-song E.P. is “Mustang.” It’s a bit more serious than the others on the CD, but it’s probably my favorite song from any artist I’ve heard all year. You definitely should check it out.

Big Bad Gina
Shine Your Light
Big Bad Gina won the Judge’s Choice in the electric category at the HRC Battle of the Bands in Kansas City in January. It’s no shock that they brought down the house. They know how to please a music audience, that’s for sure, but one of my favorite aspects of this band is their range. It doesn’t matter whether it’s blues, rock, country, pop, or rap, they can do it. Even though I’m fully aware that they cover just about every genre that may have ever existed on planet Earth, I’m still surprised and impressed by these far too talented ladies. One of my favorite on this CD is “Venus in Virgo” for its bluesy greatness. Another fun one is “Beetz in my Salad” ― and when I said they could rap, I meant it. Be sure to check out the album at bigbadgina.com/album/89477/shine-your-light-cd?autostart=true
Lea Michele
Louder
(Columbia)
An album was the obvious thing for Lea Michele to do after her success on the TV show Glee. It’s no surprise to any viewer that she has a powerful voice. Though the focus of the album is on her vocals, it’s hard not to think of the late Cory Monteith, her real-life boyfriend and costar, while listening to it. Most of the CD consists of general pop songs about relationships, and it isn’t until “If You Say So” that we know it’s about Monteith. It’s sad knowing that Michele dealt with his death and that the song is about his last words. Even so, though, it’s one of my favorites. Another good one is “Empty Handed,” which includes a male background voice. This may make fans of Glee think it would have been a duet for her and Monteith, who often sang together on the show. But sadness aside, the danceable title song, “Louder,” is the one that stayed in my head well after listening to the CD. Though the lyrics could have been stronger, pop fans will love the album.
Scarlett Rabe
Scarlett
(SLB Records)
Wow, I had never heard of Scarlett Rabe, but now I’m an instant fan. Her songs are beautiful. It’s not just one component ― so many things add up to make these wonderfully written songs from Rabe. The hauntingly gorgeous piano, subtle drums, touch of synthesizer, and her crisp voice mix perfectly. The songs are incredibly addictive, and the album is simply a treat to listen to. Mostly pop, it has a somewhat ’90s feel to it. Scarlett Rabe would fit nicely nestled right between Tori Amos and Fiona Apple, so fans of either will adore her. Some of my favorites are “Hitchhiker Heart,” “Top Down, Baby,” and “Free Fall.” Be sure not to miss this new artist.

WhistlePig + Alfa Romeo F1

SHOREHAM, VT (September 13, 2023) — WhistlePig Whiskey, the leaders in independent craft whiskey, and Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake are waving the checkered flag on a legend-worthy release that’s taking whiskey to G-Force levels. The Limited Edition PiggyBack Legends Series: Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake Barrel is a high Rye Whiskey selected by the Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake drivers, with barrels trialed in their wind tunnel to ensure a thrilling taste in every sip.

The third iteration in WhistlePig’s Single Barrel PiggyBack Legends Series, the Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake Barrel is bottled at 96.77 proof, a nod to Valtteri Bottas’ racing number, 77, and the precision of racing. Inspired by Zhou Guanyu, the first Chinese F1 driver, this Rye Whiskey is finished with lychee and oolong tea. Herbal and floral notes of the oolong tea complement the herbaceous notes of WhistlePig’s signature PiggyBack 100% Rye, rounded out with a juicy tropical fruit finish and a touch of spice.

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by Spectrum Medical Care Center

Nurse Practitioner Ari Kravitz

When I started medical transition at 20 years old, it was very difficult to get the care I needed for hormone replacement therapy because there are very few providers trained in starting hormones for trans people, even though it’s very similar to the hormones that we prescribe to women in menopause or cisgender men with low testosterone.

I hope more providers get trained in LGBTQ+ healthcare, so they can support patients along their individual gender journey, and provide the info needed to make informed decisions about their body. I’ve personally seen my trans patients find hope and experience a better quality of life through hormone replacement therapy.

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Descanso Resort swimming pool and lounge area

Descanso Resort, Palm Springs' premier destination for gay men, just received Tripadvisor's highest honor, a Travelers' Choice "Best of the Best" award for 2023. Based on guests' reviews and ratings, fewer than 1% of Tripadvisor's 8 million listings around the world receive the coveted "Best of the Best" designation. Descanso ranked 12th in the top 25 small inns and hotels category in the United States. Quite an accomplishment!

Open less than two years, Descanso Resort offers gay men a relaxing and luxurious boutique hotel experience just minutes away from Palm Springs' buzziest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping. Descanso has quickly established itself as a top destination for sophisticated gay travelers, earning hundreds of 5-star guest reviews and consistently ranking in Trapadvisor's top positions alongside brother properties Santiago Resort and Twin Palms Resort.

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