Lounge Ruminator

Music videos are something that we take for granted; if a new single is released, then it comes with a video clip too. Given that we’re generally motivated to follow artists for their audio, what effect or influence does the video component have on us today?

Collecting things is a very human thing to do… but why do we do it? After a significant and personal family event, Martin reconsiders the accepted habit of accumulating stuff—whether purchased or inherited from loved ones.

Making friends with others as an adult is quite different from making friends as a kid. This week, Martin reflects on the experience of making a new friend beyond the typical context of school, university or work.

Sport, film, television, music, food, technology, clothes, countries and even individuals have brands today and of course, their own fans… but is it enough to refer to them simply as fans? This week, an unexpected essay encourages Martin to see brand fandom in a new light.

In the first episode for 2020, Martin reflects on his trip to the United States with Natasha, particularly how he attempted to make the most of it through journaling, communication with locals and a more thoughtful approach to photography.

The years fly by… but rarely do we stop to appreciate how things have changed, along with how our use of technology has been reshaped by new tools. In this episode, Martin reflects on his own use of devices, starting with the seismic shift that was the iPad in 2010 and then focusing on 2019, with Apple’s release of the new, dedicated iPadOS.

This week, Martin discusses the value of being truly present and attentive at live performances, along with how different kinds of product (smart or otherwise) can either inhibit or encourage this positive behaviour.

No one likes spoilers. In this episode, Martin explains the lengths to which he has gone to avoid spoilers for the upcoming Star Wars movie Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker, along with what’s frustrating about modern trailers and how they could be changed to restore mystery and intrigue for audiences.

These days, we’re all drowning in technological devices and social media… but does it have to be this way? In this episode, Martin reflects on his own use of online accounts, covering both the rubbish that he left behind and how he aims for more meaningful consumption and interaction today.

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t enjoy movies but some people don’t always think about the crucial role of the soundtrack. In this podcast episode, Martin is inspired by a noisy neighbour and a fellow Micro.blog user to discuss one of his favourite movie soundtracks and what makes it stand out from others, even years after it was released.