happy – Page 2 – that lemon life

Power to the local dreamer

Hola everyone.

And welcome back to another Monday and another week. I hope so far you’ve had a great day and that you’re doing good. Today I’d like to talk about something very special – how the move to the UK and my time there and basically the aspect of living my dream has influenced me personally and my view of life. I know, it might sound a bit philosophical now, but, actually, I want this to be a story of a dreamer. Of us, I daresay.

First of all, I obviously need to say that moving to Brighton and attending BIMM was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Yes, it was a big and quite scary step. Far away from home, completely on my own and surrounded by strangers. And yes, it was difficult when I first got there, but I knew that it would get better. And I knew that it was what I needed to do in order to get one step closer to my dream. My goal. And that’s actually the easiest way to get through something – if you’ve got something to actually work for, something to look forward to. It might not make the stones in your way smaller, but you’ll grow a tiny bit bigger.

And it all paid off because in a matter of two months, I was already at a place I never thought I’d get to in such a short amount of time. There I was, living in the UK for the very first time, on my own, and living my dream. Interviewing musicians, going to one concert after another, actually becoming a part of the music industry. The risk had paid off.

I often talk to my friend Leni about how the whole trip influenced me. And all I can say is that it taught me to firstly value myself and secondly my dreams. And to fight for them, no matter how crazy they might sound. I would’ve never believed that I would manage to actually be stuck in a room with Hippo freaking Campus for over an hour. Or that I would get to hug Tom after seeing him live for the very first time and doing an interview with him. It all would’ve sounded way too crazy for me if someone would’ve told me about it a few years ago. But it all happened. And it did because I was willing to fight for it and try my best to reach all of my goals.

And now that I’m back home, I get to really digest everything that happened and I noticed that after having been at that point of total happiness, of living the dream, there’s simply no way I can go back. I now know what it feels like to do the one thing you were always meant to do, you always dreamt about doing, and for me, there’s no way back now. And that’s totally fine. Even when I’ll be growing old, I don’t want to look back and just see this as the phenomenal time I had while being at uni. That’s just not how it goes. Because that’s simply not who I am. Not anymore, at least. I want the dream to become my life. Permanently.

I often see people just walking around, living their life, not complaining much but also not doing anything overly exciting. They’re simply alive, doing what they’re supposed to do, earning the money they need to stay afloat and once in a while, they go on holiday or a weekend trip and that’s when they’re free and get to feel alive. And I don’t mean to sound like that’s something bad. I know people who’re extremely happy with their lives like that. They just have other dreams and goals than I do. Or than some other people.

I remember back in school when my teachers would ask me what I wanted to do when I’m older and I always said that I wanted to move abroad, to London. I was 16. And I definitely received more than one strange look from my classmates after saying this. Because, at the age of 16, having the ultimate goal of moving abroad simply sounds strange. And crazy. But I really meant it. And still, I kind of thought that I was a bit weird, maybe also a bit delusional. Because I had never met anyone with the same ambitions as me. Maybe I was crazy.

But then I moved to Vienna and met one dreamer after another. People like me, who also had those crazy dreams they were fighting for with all their power and will. And then I met Leni and now we’re moving to London together. We are doing exactly the one thing nobody ever really believed we would truly accomplish. But now that we have that, it’s “go bigger or go home”. Especially for me. I want to wake up every day happy about the fact that I get to go to work. I don’t want to always think “oh, I’m going to be happy or going to do that once I get home or once the weekend is here”. That’s not what I want from life. I mean, what a total waste of time. Why can’t we all be happy all the time? I mean, of course, we can’t, because we’re humans and we’ve all got our problems and struggles, but still. And after all this time, I think it’s more than okay to ask these questions. Because we all deserve to be happy with the life we are living.

I know, this really turned into a huge philosophical post now (sorry), but that’s kind of what has been floating through my head the past weeks. Maybe because I miss the craziness that was BIMM and doing interviews and rushing from show to show. Another reason why I can’t wait to be back. But I think it’s also because I notice how more and more people are now actively ready to fight for their dreams. And I think that’s so damn important. One of my friends decided to move to London with Leni and me. Another one started a new program at university to fulfil her passion. And my mum quit her job and just started her own company. They all did what they had to do in order to be happy and I’m so damn proud of that. Some people might have told them that they are taking way too many risks or that it could all go wrong. And of course it could. But they’re all still here and probably happier than they were before. And isn’t that the most important part?

What I want to say: it’s totally alright to want more from life. To dream big. To fight for what you believe in. To take risks in order to be happy. Do whatever you need to do in order to be happy. Seriously. It will all work out, I promise. Power to the local dreamer (yes, that’s a Twenty One Pilots line and, yes, I had to add that in).

And with that I’m going to end today’s post. I hope that some of you could get a bit of reinforcement and strength out of my words. If any of you want to talk, please don’t hesitate to comment down below. And until then I wish you all a lovely week and thanks for reading. x

What’s Up

Hola everyone.

I can’t believe the weekend is already over and a new week has started again. Can you believe that? Feels like time is just flying past, right? Which I guess is kind of a bad and a good thing, as it means that I’ll be home for the christmas break in the blink of an eye. But it also means that my time here is passing by real fast and I can tell you, it’s such an amazing time that I don’t even want that to happen.

Which is also what I want to tell you all about today. Actually, I was just working my way through possible ideas for my this post right here and kind of remembered that it’s been quite some time since I just talked a bit to you guys and told you about all the stuff that’s happening in my life here in Brighton. Which I why I decided that it’s time to change that. So, get ready and buckle up for some babbling.

As always, let’s start with the most exciting part – my life here in Brighton. It won’t surprise you that, honestly, uni has just been amazing so far. Guys, I just love it so so so much. Maybe it’s because I already have a degree in journalism, as it means that I get to actually chill and listen in class, as I’ve already heard about most of the stuff we’re talking about. But it’s just so nice to simply sit there and soak it all up. All the music related stuff I’ve never heard about. It feels like I’m refining my own knowledge and also possible career path right now. And it’s so cool that my course is as practical as it is, because I get to actually do and write stuff and not just sit around and write down facts I’ll probably never need again in my entire life. Which, speaking of that practical, is also a quite big deal for me right now, as I may or may not have an interview scheduled for this week. Saying that I’m overly nervous and excited at the same time would be such an understatement. I’ve basically been at the edge of my seat the past few days.

Also, music-wise, I can’t wait for 2019 to come flashing around the corner. Honestly. I’ve already got so many concerts planned. Hippo Campus in February, Saint Raymond, Tom Rosenthal (which I still can’t get my head around) and Twenty One Pilots in March, Ed in June and again in August. I may have actually forgotten a few right there. It’s just so so crazy. And I can’t wait, seriously. Just one of those perks when you live in the UK – every single band comes here. Every. Single. One. This is like heaven, no joke. My personal heaven.

And last but not least, there’s one other thing that’s quite new in my life. Believe it or not, but I actually started doing yoga. Can you believe it? Me? Doing yoga? Sounds like something out of this world, doesn’t it? But I guess I just felt like I had to incorporate a bit more exercise into my daily routine, as the typical English weather has just full on hit us now and it’s basically either windy or rainy or plain both. At home I usually stick to the indoor-cycle as soon as it’s getting cold out, but as I don’t have one here in Brighton I had to find something else. Something cheap and easy, preferably. So I just thought about trying yoga and so far I’ve really enjoyed it. I love how it really calms my mind down and makes me focus on myself and my body. Which is just what I need right now. I’ve actually just started this 30 day yoga challenge on YouTube, which is amazing, so if you want to check that out too, here’s the link.

And yeah, I think that’s it. So far, my time here in Brighton has been the best it could’ve possibly been and I’m so excited for everything that’s still to come. If you guys want to know anything or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to drop me a message. And that’s all I’ve got. But how about you guys? What’s going on in your life? Please don’t hesitate to share your stories. And yeah, I hope you’re all feeling well and wish you a nice week. And, as always, thanks for reading. x

New Music Friday

Hola everyone.

And welcome back to a new session of our all time favorite series – the beloved New Music Friday. I mean, at least I hope you all love it. I do (hehe). And guys, you seriously have no idea what’s coming at you right now. Buckle up and getting ready, because this is gonna be a hell of a ride.

I know it’s been quite some time since the last edition of New Music Friday, which also means that tons of new music have just been waiting for me to work and listen my through them. And oh wow, to say it was quite an experience would be such an understatement. It always makes me so so so grateful for you guys and this blog, because I actually get to share my passion and love for music with the world. I’m already spending my life doing what I love the most and I’m so thankful for that. And if I get to listen to such amazing music on top of that, then that’s just the little red cherry on top. But I know you want me to stop babbling now and just get to it, so, without further ado, let’s jump right into it, shall we?

Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi

If you’ve read my recent postings, you’ll know that I’ve just had the honor of seeing this Scottish lad perform live, which was such a beautiful experience. And now, just a few days after the concert, Lewis has once again decided to bless all of our ears by releasing another EP and with it releasing this gem right here. Again, it’s one of those songs that just make your heart break and your breathing stop for a second, but in the best possible way. It’s raw and honest and sad and melodic and so so soft. Honestly, I just adore Lewis’ music so much, I can’t help myself. I mean, listen to it. How breathtaking is this?

You Know Me Too Well – Nothing But Thieves

You guys know that I’ve been in love with these guys for quite some time now, so it probably won’t be a surprise to you to hear that I freaked out a bit when I saw that they had released a new EP. And if that wasn’t enough, the EP featured this piece of musical heaven that I can’t get enough of. For me, especially this one track is a completely new sound for them and I’m so up for it. It’s refined and soulful and the rhythm just completely draws you into it within the very first second. Also, can we please take a moment to appreciate Conor’s voice? God, it’s so amazing. Well one, guys, well freaking done.

Love – Imagine Dragons

Like I said at the beginning, there’s has been quite a huge mass of new music waiting for me and this one right here is no different. And it couldn’t get any newer than this one, as this amazing band just released their new album “Origins” today. And holy moly, what a masterpiece that is. Honestly. I mean, I’m usually the indie rock/pop kinda girl and if this album doesn’t do one thing, then it’s indie rock. But I still adore every piece of it. What is happening to me? Since when do I like this kind of music? It’s nearly unfair to be this good at making music. The lyrics are fantastic and truthful, every single track hides a bit of a secret and surprise and last but not least the amazing beats. Those are what make this album get a kind of EDM vibe to it. It’s so heavenly produced and even if you don’t like this type of music, you just have to appreciate the flawless production. And “Love” is just as awesome. I love it. Also, please listen to the lyrics. That’s what I’m talking about. (ps: please use headphones while listening to this, seriously)

Worst Nites – Foster The People

My boys are baaaack. Finally. See, that’s what I would call a groovy, flowy and funky piece of music. It’s one of those songs that just make you smile and your body move. And as with every Foster The People track it’s just another musical surprise. So, guys, when can I finally see you live? Please go on tour, yes? Thank you.

Bleed Magic – I DON’T KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME

This is one of those songs I once again have to thank Spotify for for recommending it to me. And no, I’m not screaming, that’s truly this band`s name. I don’t even want to imagine how many of my now favorite artists I wouldn’t know if it wasn’t for this platform and its amazing, personalized mixes. And once you listen to the song, you know exactly why they chose to put it on my playlist. That’s indie rock/pop at its best. It’s rhythmic and weird and just pure fun. A typical Laura song, I would say. Also, it reminds me of how a song would sound if you put The Killers and Weezer into one box and quickly shook it to get it all mixed up. A Weezer and The Killers baby. And what a beautiful one.

Sula – Hippo Campus

So, here we are again. Back with one of my favorite boys. But let me tell you one thing – this track right here is everything but new. Actually, this is one of those songs that didn’t make it onto their albums, so they just decided to release them on their own now. And honestly, I think that’s actually the most fantastic idea ever. Imagine how many songs and hidden gems never made it onto the EPs or albums of your favorite artists and are now just waiting to be released. I’m looking at you, Ed. Yes, you. Go on. But jokes aside, “Sula” honestly is an amazing piece of art and I’m so happy that they decided to put it out into the world. Thanks guys.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0ruS7RQkjQ

Echo – Saint Raymond

And last but not least we have Callum, better known as Saint Raymond, once again blessing us with his angelic voice. I don’t know about you, but I just adore his music so freaking much. I’ve been in love with it from the very first time I saw him live, which was also the first time I saw Ed live. Two incredible singer-songwriters packed into one evening, what a dream come true. But honestly, I’m still so thankful that Callum was part of this show. And I’m so happy that he’s back with some brilliant new music.

So yeah, there you go guys. That’s another New Music Friday right there. I hope you enjoy these tracks as much as I do. Honestly, I really recommend checking out some new music playlists on Spotify or Apple Music or Amazing Music or whatever. You can never know what’s waiting to be checked out by you. Maybe your new favorite song is just a click away. And maybe you even find your new fave in this list. I’d be super happy if that was the case. And even it isn’t, I still hope you enjoy this little playlist.

As always, please don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts and comments down below. I hope you’re all doing good and wish you a great weekend. And, of course, thanks for reading. x

Ps: Guys, guess who managed to get tickets for the one and only Tom Rosenthal today?! And no, I’m not kidding. Tom is seriously doing some shows live in London next year and I’m being part of it. I can’t believe it. I would’ve never thought that that would really happen. I feel like the luckiest person on the planet, honestly.

Meet Clancy

Hola everyone.

I hope you’re all having a fabulous day. And I hope that this post will make it even better, because guys, you’ve got a storm coming, oh wow. To be honest, I actually had something different planned for today. I wanted to tell you all about my week at Nova Rock, the festival I worked at, but that plan changed pretty quickly, as something even better happened. Guys, guess who’s back again after a hiatus of one year…

The one and only TWENTY ØNE PILØTS.

I seriously cannot believe it guys. This is like the biggest thing ever. And the funny part is, when I watched the video for their new song “Jumpsuit” for the very first time and heard Tyler’s voice and then saw him, I legitimately teared up a bit, because I suddenly noticed how much I had really missed them during their hiatus.

Maybe some of you have already noticed that my two boys are back, maybe some of you even followed the cryptic signs they sent out during the past days and also during the past months. I can just tell you, the songs don’t just sound more than amazing, no, they have such a deep meaning and complex story hiding in them, I actually had to read like so many websites and postings to fully understand what they are all about. And as I was so happy to finally get some good information, I thought I’d just do the same and present those two fantastic songs to you guys. Please enjoy.

Jumpsuit

As already mentioned, this song probably works as their new single – which I’m just guessing, as it’s the song that actually got paired with a video. First of all, I have to say that this song pretty much blew my mind. I mean, it’s like such a new and different sound for the boys, but I love it so much. It seems like a new milestone for them and I couldn’t be any more proud.

So, the song starts up in what I would call the musical corner that’s full of guitars and dark, dark beats. In short, it sounds like a super rad rock song. And then it suddenly slows down and Tyler’s angelic voice starts up and shines a light on that cool and dark corner and everything mends into one amazing musical piece. The song then continues riding those dark and rocky and slow and melodic waves until Tyler, the small bean, finally gets to show us what he’s got and pretty much scream-sings the last few lyrical parts of the song. I have to say, I’m usually not a fan of the screamo genre, but in this case it just fits. I mean, c’mon, it’s Twenty One Pilots, of course there have to be one or two screams. Also, at about minute 1:55, there’s like this super cool beat part, so please listen to the song with your headphones, you just need to experience that, seriously.

But oh ho, that’s not everything this song has to offer, because like I said, both songs have such a complex story behind then, which shows even more when you watch the video. So, here’s what Jumpsuit is about in short:

With their last album Tyler and Joseph created the character named Blurryface, that, according to Ty, represents all the bad feelings and worries and insecurities someone has inside them, or which he has inside himself, to be exact. It represents the dark side, basically. And as we’ve just reached a new era, Tyler and Joseph went on to create a new character called Clancy, who lives or actually is kept in a city called Dema (= Tower of Silence). This city, which is surrounded by walls to trap the residents, is ruled by the nine Bishops. Clancy, who initially stands for this new, much lighter version of Tyler, tries to escape Dema. In the video he can be seen in a deserted land, walking around with a pretty uncertain look. Then a man in a red hood on a white horse starts going after him until Clancy/Tyler let’s him reach him. The man then places his hands on Clancy’s/Tyler’s neck and leaves black marks on it, which then start to fill up all his neck as he starts following the man who’s slowly riding away again, like in a trance. So, this means that the hooded guy actually is Blurryface, who captures Clancy/Tyler until suddenly people can be seen above, at the top of the surrounding cliffs, who then start throwing yellow flower petals over Clancy/Tyler and Blurryface. This initially helps him get away from Blurry, until he is sadly caught again at the end.

What’s important here is the colour yellow, something that runs like a continues yellow (ha ha) thread through the new concept of the band. And it’s so relevant, because the colour actually can’t be seen by the Bishops or Blurryface. So like it’s mentioned in the lyrics, the jumpsuit with the yellow tape on it and then the yellow petals cover Clancy/Tyler. So the people on the cliffs are the rebels who try to help the people that are kept in Dema and controlled by the Bishops and Blurryface. Also, just to mention, Josh and Tyler’s wife Jenna are actually two of them, which is so damn exciting. And last but not least, the video for “Jumpsuit” starts off right where the video for “Heavydirtysoul” ended and therefore marks the end of the Blurryface era and the beginning of the Trench era (that’s the title of their new, upcoming album, but I’ll get to that).

Nico and The Niners

This is the second released song by TOP and frankly, it sounds so different, you wouldn’t even think it was by the same band if it wasn’t for Tyler’s voice. But honestly, that’s the aspect I love the most about them – they never stick to a certain genre and they’re not afraid to try something new. As for this song, I’d say it’s much more pop-ish and actually features a phenomenal rap at the end. It’s so much fun to listen to and it’s so damn hard to decide which one is better. Something I’m not going to do, because it’s literally impossible.

When it comes to the meaning of the song, I would say that this one is about Clancy trying to escape Dema. The lyrics feature aspects like the Bishops not being able to see yellow and the jumpsuit taking Clancy higher (I think because of the walls). Also, Nico and the Niners stand for the nine Bishops that control Dema, so Nico is actually the name of one of them.

So, there you go guys, those are the two new songs by the one and only Twenty One Pilots. Honestly, I couldn’t be any happier right now, I’m so damn grateful to have my boys back. Oh and of course they wanted to come back with a bang, so they not only released two songs, but they also gave us the title for their new album, which is called Trench and will be out at the 5th of October. And if that wasn’t enough, they also released the tour dates for their upcoming Bandito tour and yes, I will be going to one of their shows, and yes, it probably will be London. And yes, I’m already more than hyped for the ticket sale that starts at the 17th. Pray that I get tickets, please. I need to see them. I mean, just listen to Jumpsuit and imagine experiencing that live. Holy moly.

And yes, you’ve now made it to the end of this post. I really, really hope that you enjoyed reading it and that you enjoyed their new music even more. I’m so damn happy that I get to share their amazing art with you guys. As always, I wish you a fantastic weekend and please don’t hesitate to leave your comments down below. And, of course, thanks for reading. x

Taking pictures with my iPhone

Hola everyone.

I’m not quite sure whether I’m saying this too early or not, but it really seems like Summer is literally just around the corner. Which means the weather gets warmer, people start crawling out of their dark caves into the light and the nature all around us is finally coming back to life. And that actually has to be my most favorite part of Spring/early Summer season – all these different pops of color in the landscape.

That also means I’ve spent the past few weeks walking around in Vienna and at home, admiring all this beauty of the nature. Which also gave me a good reason to start photographing again. But this time I thought I’d give the whole photography part a new twist and take the pictures with my iPhone camera instead of my professional one. You guys know that I usually use my Sony Alpha 6000 to take my pictures, but I thought I’d give the phone a chance to prove itself. And holy moly, I wasn’t let down.

Just so you guys know, I took all of these pictures with my iPhone 6S. And I don’t even know what to say, because these pictures are bloody amazing. Before this phone, I owned a Samsung Galaxy S5 (I think) and I never really enjoyed taking pictures with it, but the iPhone totally changed my mind. I love these pictures so so much. I mean, of course they aren’t as good as the pictures I take with my Sony, but holy moly, for a phone these look absolutely fantastic. So, props to the makers, really.

I actually wanted to make this post to show you guys that sometimes a phone can really be a good choice and substitute if you want to take nice pictures but don’t have a professional camera. I’m seriously so happy with how these pictures turned out and I hope you enjoy them too. As always, please don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts and comments down below. Oh and I hope you’re doing well and wish you an awesome weekend. And, of course, thanks for reading. x

New Music Friday

Hola everyone.

And we’re back with a new “New Music Friday“. I hope you’re all doing good and had an awesome week. Just a little update from my side: this week has been pretty amazing and god, guys, the sun is finally out and it’s just so nice. Walking around in Vienna at night has been my favorite thing to do lately, it’s so warm. I’m also already looking forward to the weekend and I hope you are too and that this little selection of songs can contribute to your weekend playlist. Please enjoy.

Thought I Told You – The Academic

If you’ve been following some of my latest posts, then you know that this is the band I just saw live last week (here’s the post). And I mean, I loved their music before, but since then I’ve learned to really appreciate the fact that I got to see them live. They’re really awesome.

Standing On Ghosts – Two Door Cinema Club

Well, well, well. Who would’ve known that TDCC was hiding such a bop from me all these years. You guys know my relationship with this band and I just adore their music, especially their older songs, and this is one of those. They just recently released it again to celebrate the anniversary of their very first album. And thank god they did, because this here is freaking amazing.

Moving On – Sarah and the Sundays

This is one of the songs, that Spotify recommended to me and I just adore it. I mean, it perfectly fits this time of the year, when everything starts to bloom and become alive again. The perfect song to listen to while lying in the sun, maybe reading a good book or chatting with a friend.

Fresh Air – FLOWVERS

The same goes for this sun. Such a fantastic spring/sommer song. I don’t know how the algorithms of Spotify work, but hell, whatever they are doing, they are doing it bloody well. They give me exactly what I need.

Sad Boys / All I Wanna Do – TRASH

This here is one of those bands where I love listening to their music but never really go into my fangirl mode. But that doesn’t change the fact that their music is freaking amazing. And again, thanks to Spotify for recommending this and pretty much all their other songs to me, I owe you one.

Ride Or Die – The Knocks ft. Foster The People

Guys, if you want to listen to the spring/summer song of the moment, then you just reached the right place. I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty convinced that it’s this one. I’ve seriously heard this song in pretty much every single store I’ve been to the past week. It’s literally everywhere. And the thing is, it’s actually so awesome. I mean, I love Foster The People and their sound is perfect for this song. It just fits.

Cos Love (If You Miss It) – Tom Rosenthal

I’m sorry guys, but it wouldn’t be a music playlist without Tom being a part of it. I just love his music so much. Tom, can you please go on tour, like, right now? Or at least when I’ve moved to the UK? Please. He’s literally my number one on my list of musicians I want to see live. I need to hear this song live. I need to hear all of his songs live. According to him, this song right here is the best song he’s ever written and I mean, I can’t deny that. It’s just so cute and romantic and sad. I love it.

So yeah guys, there you go. Those are the songs I’ve been loving the past days and weeks. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. Oh and please don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts down below. And, as always, I wish you all an amazing weekend and thanks for reading. x