There isn't really a screenshot that properly encapsulates the awe behind Mozilla's PopcornMaker - a surprisingly robust web application for fusing Soundcloud, Youtube and Vimeo clips. I mean, we're talking basic iMovie functionality via existing web media under one interface. It's also incredibly easy to use. I fused Mystery Twins album preview and Beverly Bee Bard from Uncle Skeleton - just to see how it felt. Felt great! Play around with it for a minute, it's pretty bonkers how well done it is.

I'm astonished by it but I'm definitely enjoying the AV Club Redesign. It's given some actual focus to the content, a problem it certainly struggled with before. Honestly, I'm going to miss my long scrolling Newswire but I commend them for downplaying the difference between a feature piece, a review and a news piece - it's all interesting, right?

CineFamily

First and foremost, I don't really trust any news coming out of The Register - maybe that's an incorrect mentality but it seems awfully tabloid-y to me. So, I read this article on Google Tech Outwitting Developers with a giant grain of salt. It's mostly about how their image recognition software is learning to spot objects in a manner beyond what they were specifically programmed to do (i.e. recognizing a paper shredder that's not specifically marked as a paper shredder).

This means that for some things, Google researchers can no longer explain exactly how the system has learned to spot certain objects, because the programming appears to think independently from its creators, and its complex cognitive processes are inscrutable. This "thinking" is within an extremely narrow remit, but it is demonstrably effective and independently verifiable.

So, while I may not fully trust the actual article, the concept itself isn't outside the realm of reality. Long story short, I'm intrigued.

Chris O'Grady

despite some potential issues, James Murphy wants to make the subways musical.

NATO Online

Really enjoying the design sensibilities and portfolio browsing from Smalltime Projects. The work is super clean but not without personality.. I particularly enjoy the City Handyman and Everyday Coffee projects but there's something worthwhile in each endeavor.

via Brian

I haven't broken down and spent the $2.99 on the iOS I Pixel U app but I am sure I will. The Instagram'ed examples, when used on people, are pretty fun.

via Kottke

new album on January 28th, 2014. WANT

not sold on the video but the song was entertaining

https://i1.sndcdn.com/artworks-000063157040-i89xam-large.jpg?e76cf77

It's unfortunate that Vine's web interface isn't a bit more fleshed out (yet) because there are a lot of great creations on there that would be great to browse. Such as, the works of TotalSuccess - an animator sharing his jubilant stop motion works combined with strangely alluring electronic droning sounds. Look `em up from within Vine.. quite a treat.

I accidentally caught Nervosas at CakeShop last week and was mesmerized by their stage presence. It was energetic, bombastic and just the perfect balance of discordant and melodic. It definitely errs on the side of aggressive and loud but there's an undeniable singalong element to it as well. I can't put my finger on the guitar tone that was emitting from the stage but you can get a taste of it Descension... though I'm sure the band would prefer you start with their latest S/T album.

I must admit it, the FrontBack app is pretty clever.. it simultaneously takes a photo of your choosing and a photo of you, the person taking the photo. It's a fun execution of a way to include everyone.

Haven't listened yet but Telekinesis is in the mix, so it can't be all bad!

yes!

MsArvensis

Not gonna lie, this week's playlist is paltry. I could have added this Uncle Skeleton video or this Wes Anderson short or this Coin promo or this Keezy promo or this amazing short but I didn't want to force that repetition on you! That's to say, I'm covering my guilt for not having a fully fleshed out playlist by reminding you that I give you good content all week. Hopefully that covers me!

• Wind Up Dog Tail Chaser - makes for a great gif.
• Why Can't We Be Friends? - perfection reaction to this on both parties part.
• Tuba Scream - kudos Brian. kudos.
• 1981 - 2001 - Teppei Koseki put together this incredible animated collage of photographs from his life. If it doesn't grab you right off, scrub ahead and marvel at the face placement.. lovely.
• James Wallace and The Naked Light - Worse Things Have Happened - I've been loving this album, Strange News From Another Star, for the better part of two years but it's still got legs. Love seeing the band continue to promote it with pieces such as this short film.

Have a great weekend!

Uncle Skeleton has a lot of ideas knocking around in his head - including visual ones to accompany his music. He put together a few of these projection videos for songs off of the brand new Too Young, Too Old. The first of which, 6_6, you can right here. I wouldn't call it a music video per se but, rather, a music companion.. best for playing at a party or zoning out at home on the couch.