Link About It: This Week’s Picks

Nina Chanel Abney's newest art project, the rediscovery of a breed of singing dogs, Crack Magazine's initiative for young directors and more

Nina Chanel Abney’s First AR Artwork, “Imaginary Friend” Created with voice, script and music assistance from Chris Chalk, Jeanette E Toomer (Jet) and El Tsid and available on the Acute Art app, Nina Chanel Abney’s latest artwork is an AR companion known as “Imaginary Friend.” Unveiled 28 August, the piece is Abney’s first-ever augmented reality work and was made to be a kind of talisman. …

Crack Magazine’s “Three Minutes” Program for Emerging Directors

Bristol-based Crack Magazine just announced a new program (or “incubator scheme”) called Three Minutes, providing opportunity and funding for five young, emerging directors to make music videos. Run by Crack, the initiative received financing from the England European Regional Development Fund, as well as support from Shure, Burberry and Film London’s BFI network. Unsigned directors under 26 years old may answer the open call with …

Listen Up

From Afropop to avant-pop and a "Thong Song" cover, our favorite new songs this week

Amber Mark: Thong Song (Sisqó Cover) Sisqó’s 1999 campy hit “Thong Song” may be oft-disparaged, but it remains a masterstroke written by the then-19-year-old. NYC-based singer, songwriter and producer Amber Mark has just covered the track—and with relish. Mark (whose style pulls elements from countless genres, including R&B, dance, pop, bossa nova and beyond) says, “Yes, lol I covered ‘Thong Song.’ I HAD TO DO …