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The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

The Student News Site of Biola University

The Chimes

FINNEAS releases mostly melancholic and nondescript ‘Optimist’

FINNEAS releases mostly melancholic and nondescript ‘Optimist’
The album fails to break ground, featuring only a few good tracks.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor October 19, 2021

“Optimist” dropped Oct. 15, already garnering millions of streams on Spotify alone. From re-defining the industry with sister Billie Eilish, Finneas O'Connell’s own album dares high numbers from his notoriety alone. The expectations for it, however, are equally high.  OPTIMISM DASHED  The album...

Remi Wolf releases a kaleidoscope experience

Remi Wolf releases a kaleidoscope experience
“Juno” combines unique sounds with raw lyricism for a standout pop album.
Lauren McBride, Senior Copy Editor October 16, 2021

Following her recent fame from the viral TikTok song “Photo ID,” Remi Wolf did not disappoint with her latest release. On Oct. 15, she dropped “Juno,” a bright, colorful funk-pop piece that offers more than fun beats and sound effects. Wolf acknowledges difficult truths about herself, encouraging...

Class of ‘14 alumnus Daniel Pimentel talks album making in Honduras

Class of ‘14 alumnus Daniel Pimentel talks album making in Honduras
“Fear and Trembling” is a relic of deep Old Testament theology and Pimentel’s long-time passion for music.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor October 14, 2021

Daniel Pimentel graduated in 2014 with a degree in cinema and media arts with a focus on production. The next eight years of his life would be split between being a youth pastor in Salt Lake City, Utah then moving to Honduras, doing volunteer work and audio and video production for a bilingual school....

Bardwell Hall and Green Art Gallery host two new alumni exhibitions

Bardwell Hall and Green Art Gallery host two new alumni exhibitions
Both exhibitions are centered around finding new connections post-pandemic and translating the isolating feelings within that time.
Chris Charpentier, Staff Writer October 12, 2021

On Tuesday evening, Biola students and families crowded into Bardwell Hall’s gallery space to witness the opening of a new alumni showcase. According to gallery director Jeffrey Rau, this event allowed students who graduated during the pandemic to showcase their work. COVID COMMENTARY Connection...

‘Friends That Break Your Heart’ is a mixed bag

‘Friends That Break Your Heart’ is a mixed bag
James Blake returns with a new album that largely plays it safe.
Chris Charpentier, Staff Writer October 9, 2021

James Blake has made quite the name for himself in the past few years. His collaborations with artists ranging from Bon Iver to Travis Scott show his versatility and experimentation that remain a big part of his solo work since his debut LP. However, with the release of his fifth album “Friends That...

Songs that will transport you to autumn

Songs that will transport you to autumn
Here are our top picks of songs to help students get in the fall headspace.
Kate Bomar, Photographer October 5, 2021

How could one even describe the autumn aesthetic? Although southern California does not display iconic fall weather, there are still ways to take advantage of this season. Here are some of our top picks for an autumn playlist, including scenic descriptions.    PUMPKIN CHAI IN A COFFEE SHOP When...

“Venom 2” is an aggravating mess

“Venom 2” is an aggravating mess
“Let There Be Carnage” fails to recapture the inherent silliness of its predecessor.
Chris Charpentier, Staff Writer October 2, 2021

After three years, “Let There Be Carnage” the follow-up to box office hit “Venom” finally hit theatres. The marketing leading up to its sequel capitalized on the more humorous aspects of the original film. Unfortunately, director Andy Serkis and writer Kelly Marcel failed to understand the humor...

Here are some of the best coffee shops in LA

Here are some of the best coffee shops in LA
You can celebrate the holiday year-round with these recommendations.
Kate Bomar and Emily Coffey September 30, 2021

While grabbing a cup of coffee at Heritage or Common Grounds is perfect for a study session or in between classes, the coffee scene in southern California should not be ignored. Check out these local and chain coffee shops for an alternative to Starbucks or Panera.  PHILZ COFFEE  Tried and true,...

“Dear Evan Hansen” offers an important message on mental health

“Dear Evan Hansen” offers an important message on mental health
Despite an overgrown male lead, the musical turned movie is worth watching.
Natalie Willis and Amanda Frese September 28, 2021

On Sept. 24, Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Dear Evan Hansen” made its debut across theaters. While movie musicals grew in popularity after the successful release of “La La Land'' and “The Greatest Showman,” the adaptation of Evan Hansen was not met with enthusiasm.  Despite an onslaught...

Artist Alessia Cara releases full-length album

Artist Alessia Cara releases full-length album
“In the Meantime” is a positive sonic evolution, but lacks definition.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor September 25, 2021

“In The Meantime” released on Sept. 24 as the next installment of Alessia Cara’s bright, youthful and highly successful career. Although the lyrics fail to reach new depths, there are moments where emotion shines through and the music aligns. It speaks of past dysfunctional relationships and explores...

CMA students and commercial music alumna unite to create “Banana Pop”

CMA students and commercial music alumna unite to create “Banana Pop”
Aluma Ellery Sablan and crew discuss the filmmaking process behind the music video for “Banana Pop.”
Chris Charpentier, Staff Writer September 23, 2021

Filming for “Banana Pop” began on Sept. 3, a unique collaboration between commercial music alumna Ellery Sablan and cinema and media arts students. The music video reflects the sentiments of Sablan’s single about heartbreak and the longing to experience happiness again.   With help from her...

TikTok and the British Fashion Council unite for this season’s fashion show

TikTok and the British Fashion Council unite for this season’s fashion show
Featuring both live and in-person shows, LFW 2021 was truly unique.
Emily Coffey, Managing Editor September 21, 2021

London fashion week runs from Sept. 16–21 this year in a hybrid format that allows the event to feel normal—but better. Many designers are offering live versions of their shows, while other designers are opting for in-person shows hosted at the Old Selfridges Hotel.  TIKTOK SPONSORSHIP  On Sept....