The Wiccan calendar wheel is an essential tool and concept in the practice of Wicca, a modern pagan religion. It represents the cyclical nature of time and the changing seasons that play a significant role in Wiccan rituals and celebrations. The calendar wheel is divided into eight major points, also known as Sabbats, which correspond to specific times of the year and honor the different stages of nature. The first point on the Wiccan calendar wheel is called Samhain, which is celebrated on October 31st. This Sabbat marks the beginning of the dark half of the year and is a time to honor and remember the dead. It is also considered a time of introspection and divination.
Summer Magic is the act’s sixth Korean EP, and their second Korean album of 2018, following January’s The Perfect Red Velvet. Billboard has confirmed with SM Entertainment that there is a connection between that album and the upcoming EP, as the latter will feature an English version of the former’s single “Bad Boy.” The group gave fans a glimpse of the upcoming track at KCON 2018 NY in June, when they incorporated an English verse into their rendition of the song. “Bad Boy” was written by the Stereotypes, who won two Grammy awards earlier this year for Bruno Mars’ “That’s What I Like.” The song went to No. 2 on the World Digital Song Sales chart dated Feb. 10.
Billboard has confirmed with SM Entertainment that there is a connection between that album and the upcoming EP, as the latter will feature an English version of the former s single Bad Boy. Billboard has confirmed with SM Entertainment that there is a connection between that album and the upcoming EP, as the latter will feature an English version of the former s single Bad Boy.
It is also considered a time of introspection and divination. Following Samhain is Yule, which occurs during the winter solstice, usually around December 21st. This Sabbat celebrates the rebirth of the sun and the return of light.
Magical summer vibes red velvet
Taking on Summer once again is Red Velvet, following the success of Red Flavour and The Red Summer (released last year). The mini-album, Summer Magic, features 7 songs. I will only be reviewing 6 of the song (with the last one being Bad Boy (English Version), which I believe they performed at a KCON event). And with Summer wrapping up in the Northern hemisphere, let’s quickly have a closer look at the album before it gets too chilly.
Summer Magic Album Cover
2. With You (한 여름의 크리스마스)– With You reminds me of Summer due to the presence of the instrumentation (hollow drums reminding me of the Caribbean and the tropics). The song itself also features great vocals from the members. The best part was when they sing together for the chorus, while some of their solo moments to give the chance for each member to stand out. There is a hint of catchiness making this a decent song to listen to. Not sure how Christmas relates to the Summer sounding track (I, unfortunately, do not have time to look up lyrics for this review), as the final Korean word in the title is ‘Christmas’. (8/10)
3. Mr. E – This song reminds me of another song which I cannot pinpoint yet. But its sense of nostalgia is greatly appreciated. It has that exotic vibe which sounds quite nice. The song itself is quite addictive, consisting of a very catchy hook and great melodies throughout the rest of the song. Like the previous song, the song also features great vocals. I also liked the rapping in the song but would have liked some more, to be honest. (8/10)
4. Mosquito – Probably my most favourite song on the entire track list. From the instrumentation to the vocal work, everything seemed perfect. But it is even better when everything feels epic. I like the hip-hop feel in this song, which gives a little flavour to the song that is unlike any other on this album. It also gives this song that extra edginess, which is why I describe it as ‘epic’. I liked how the instrumentation was relatively simple, but the suspenseful thumping came at the right time. Favourite line of the entire song has to be the ‘Na Na Na’ (10/10)
5. Hit That Drum – Following nicely from Mosquito is Hit That Drum that carries the same momentum. It sadly isn’t as epic sounding, but it has that catchiness that the previous song through its chorus. I have been humming the song since I first heard of it. It does remind me of another KPOP song, but I cannot figure out which (or even its it was by Red Velvet or not). It does need a little more of something to make it even better, but it was still another favourite. (9/10)
6. Blue Lemonade – Blue Lemonade aims to be a refreshing song and it nails its job perfectly. While its elements are very traditional, the overall feel of the song has that fresh tone which you want to hear with any new song. I like the bubbly effects the song contains, which personalises the song to the group very well and allow for the title to come to life. Once again great vocals, especially the ending to finish off the song. (9/10)
Overall Album Rating – 8.3/10
Summer Magic/Power Up Teaser Image
3. Mr. E – This song reminds me of another song which I cannot pinpoint yet. But its sense of nostalgia is greatly appreciated. It has that exotic vibe which sounds quite nice. The song itself is quite addictive, consisting of a very catchy hook and great melodies throughout the rest of the song. Like the previous song, the song also features great vocals. I also liked the rapping in the song but would have liked some more, to be honest. (8/10)
It is a time of joy and feasting, as well as reflection on the darkness of winter. Imbolc, celebrated on February 2nd, marks the beginning of spring and the emergence of new life. It is a time to honor the goddess Brigid and cleanse and purify oneself for the coming season. Ostara, occurring during the spring equinox, usually around March 21st, celebrates the balance between light and dark. It is a time of fertility and growth, symbolized by the returning of plants and animals from the winter slumber. Beltane, celebrated on May 1st, marks the halfway point between spring and summer. It is a time of fertility and abundance, celebrated with maypole dancing and bonfires. Litha, also known as Midsummer or the summer solstice, occurs around June 21st. This Sabbat celebrates the longest day of the year and the peak of the sun's power. It is a time to honor the sun god and appreciate the bounty of nature. Lughnasadh, on August 1st, marks the first harvest of the year. It is a time to give thanks for the abundance of the land, harvest crops, and enjoy communal activities. Lastly, Mabon, celebrated during the fall equinox, around September 21st, marks the second harvest. It is a time of balance between light and dark and a time to reflect on the harvest and give thanks for the blessings of the year. The Wiccan calendar wheel is an integral part of the Wiccan practice, as it helps Wiccans establish a deeper connection with nature and the changing natural cycles. By honoring and celebrating the Sabbats, Wiccans align themselves with the energies of the seasons and find balance within themselves and the world around them..
Reviews for "The Wiccan Calendar Wheel: A Tool for Manifesting Intentions"
1. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars
I was disappointed with the "Wicca Calendar Wheel" because it didn't provide any new information or insights. The content felt repetitive and lacked depth. I was hoping to learn more about the origins and history of Wicca, but the calendar only scratched the surface. Additionally, the format of the calendar was confusing and hard to follow. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking to expand their knowledge on Wicca.
2. John - 1 out of 5 stars
I found the "Wicca Calendar Wheel" to be overly simplistic and lacking in substance. It seemed like a hastily put together compilation of generic Wiccan beliefs and practices. The images used were low-quality and I was expecting something more visually appealing. The organization of the calendar was also unclear, making it difficult to navigate and utilize effectively. Overall, it did not meet my expectations and I would not recommend it to serious practitioners or those looking for a thorough understanding of Wicca.
3. Emily - 2 out of 5 stars
The "Wicca Calendar Wheel" fell short for me. The content felt superficial and didn't provide enough depth or explanation for each month's significance. I was hoping for more detailed rituals and ceremonies associated with each phase of the moon and holidays, but it only provided brief descriptions. The artwork and design of the calendar were lackluster, making it less visually appealing than I had hoped. Overall, it left me wanting more and I wouldn't recommend it to those seeking a comprehensive guide to practicing Wicca.