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Where Art and Healing Meet
January 9, 2019 Ryan AliapouliosBlog, Latest Content, Stories
Throughout her life, Leila Parnian has worn many different hats. For starters, she's a cross-fitter, a multi-instrumentalist and a three-time all-American racquetball player. Until about six months ago, she was also the general manager at Parnian Furniture in Scottsdale, Arizona—a family business specializing in bespoke luxury accent pieces. But she left to pursue her most intense and personal interest: painting. "The passion I have for what I'm doing now blows away anything I was doing in the past," she says. Coming from Parnian, that says a lot.
A quick scan of Parnian's Instagram reveals recent artistic focus on two-dimensional images of various lion heads, both colorful and dynamic. The images might be flat but their effect certainly isn't. "I'm not the most three-dimensional artist," Parnian says. "But what I have realized is that the style I have is very unique to me. It's not something where I need to be copying other people or learning other people's message. This is raw art and raw talent that's coming out of me."
Any recent admirers of her work may be surprised upon scrolling a little farther down to an older collection called Silence Speaks. These images are much darker—abstract faces and heads rendered in black and white—often with x's over their mouths. "I've been in a series of abusive relationships, mostly mentally and verbally though a little bit physically as well," she says. "I went through a relationship where I was dealing with a narcissist, walking on eggshells and scared to say anything. A lot of my art is stemming from a place of pain to this day."
It's perhaps that connection that led to Parnian's collaboration with Joe Polish, all after a chance encounter in her family's furniture store. "Joe [Polish] came in the store about a year and a half ago," she says, "and I had paintings in there. And he walked up to me and said, 'Excuse me, can I get some information on this artist?' And I said, 'That happens to be me.'"
Using his own experience as a recovering addict, Polish's new project serves as a resource for addicts looking for recovery groups, sobriety-themed websites and education on addiction-related issues. After their auspicious meeting, Polish got Parnian involved in his other recovery-related initiative, Artists for Addicts.
Though Parnian was never an addict, her experiences have made her a perfect fit as an advocate for the program. "I'm technically addicted to my cell phone if you want to count that," she says, "but I dated an addict. When I found out what Joe was doing, it really fueled me wanting to help him because I had been in the shoes of someone dealing with the other side of those issues." In her most recent relationship, Parnian says she saw the raw reality of addiction. "I was dealing with the lies, the stealing of money, the abuse," she says. "When someone needs a fix, they'll do whatever they need to do to get it."
While her own artistic style is very deliberate and controlled, the approach that Parnian and Polish came up with together to teach recovering addicts was the result of another synchronicity. "Pour art is something I started about six months ago," Parnian says. "A few months ago, Joe and I were talking and I was like, 'We should start doing pour art for Artists for Addicts.' Ironically, he had gone to an art store and seen an employee doing pour art too. We had the same idea without talking to each other."
As the name suggests, pour art involves putting paint and chemicals in a plastic cup or bucket, giving it a light mix and pouring it directly onto a canvas. "The reason I was so drawn to it was that you don't use a paintbrush," Parnian says. "This type of art is so freeing and therapeutic because you have no control over what goes in your cup and when you flip it, you have no idea what's going to happen."
The final canvases produced through the pouring technique result in psychedelic images with roiling waves of color. As the art itself requires surrender to the process, it has proven cathartic for those who've tried it. "I've done pour art with at least 50 to 60 individuals so far from all walks of life," Parnian says. As an added flourish, she's also had her students write their personal goals (and demons) on the back of their canvases. "They're creating these paintings with an intention. When they release the cup, it's like they're releasing whatever that is into the universe."
To hear Parnian tell it, the work is a grace note at the end of a symphony of dysfunction. "I know I can't necessarily change a person's life overnight," she says. "Around Thanksgiving, [my ex] called me on FaceTime because he was going through something and I almost watched him commit suicide. I was able to talk him out of it but it was pretty traumatic for me." A few days later, he called her back, thanked her for listening and told her he'd been inspired to start painting more. Then they went over pour art together.
Having seen the stakes already, Parnian brings a grit to all her output belied by all the colorful surfaces. "These aren't just pretty paintings," she says. "There's a meaning behind it." For recovering addicts, that meaning can be any number of things. For Parnian, it's transmuting her pain into something beautiful. "I've really," she says, "poured everything out."
: artists for addicts, recovery
Previous Post 3 Questions for People in Rehab to Ask Themselves (AKA Hard-Learned Lessons from my Relapses) Next Post Unified Mindfulness: The Meditation Practice That May Change My Life
Recovery 2.0 Founder Tommy Rosen


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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News & Reviews- Make: Infiniti
Nissan's Leaf has a permanent place in history for being one of the first modern-day mass-production electric vehicles available anywhere, and arguably the first practical EV (sorry Mitsubishi), so…
Nissan to build two all-new EVs at its Canton, Mississippi plant
Nissan's Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars of this modern age, and up until recently the best-selling EV globally.
Nissan's Leaf has a permanent place in history for being one of the first modern-day mass-production electric vehicles available anywhere, and arguably the first practical EV (sorry Mitsubishi), so it's no wonder the compact hatchback quickly became the best-selling electric vehicle in the world.
Nevertheless, as good as the first-generation Leaf was in its day, and as important as it was for reducing "range anxiety" with its second-generation model for 2018, plus eliminating such concerns completely when introducing its "Plus" trim level in 2019 that increased range from an EPA rating of 243 km (151 miles) to 364 km (226 miles), it's no longer the coolest, quickest or most capable EV on the block.
Once best-selling Leaf sales are waning due to strong competition
While still a strong contender due to pricing, the Leaf is starting to lose out to more capable and exciting competitors.
Knowing this, as evidenced by just 14,239 deliveries effectively dropping the Leaf's popularity to sixth in the U.S. last year (fifth in Canada), behind the Tesla Model Y with 172,700 units sold, the Tesla Model 3 with 128,600 new buyers, the Ford Mustang Mach-E with 27,140 sales, the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV with 24,803 deliveries, and the new Volkswagen ID.4 with 16,742 unit-sales (Model 3 was first last year in Canada, and Model Y second), plus appreciating that Hyundai's Kona Electric also made the U.S. top-10 EV list with 8,936 units sold, while that Korean brand's new Ioniq5 is just getting started, and its sister brand Kia's EV6 is set to debut next month, not to mention other electric models soon to arrive from nearly every legacy brand, the Japanese automaker understands it's time to build on the past with more models for the future.
Nissan investing half a billion into US EV manufacturing and technology operations
Nissan is updating its Canton plant, where the new 2022 Frontier (shown) and Titan are produced, for full-EV production.
Therefore, Nissan is investing $500 million USD to partially transform its Canton, Mississippi assembly plant into an electric vehicle production facility, so that it will be capable of producing new Nissan and Infiniti EV models by 2025. This will include retraining and upskilling approximately 2,000 workers from the plant's current 5,000 employee total, a process that will result in the Canton plant being Nissan's centre for EV manufacturing and technology.
"Today's announcement is the first of several new investments that will drive the EV revolution in the United States," said Ashwani Gupta, chief operating officer for Nissan Motor Corporation, Ltd. "Nissan is making a strong investment in Canton's future, bringing the latest technology, training and process to create a truly best-in-class EV manufacturing team."
Nissan Ambition 2030 project responds to massive EV growth expectations
The updated Canton facility will likely produce Nissan's new Ariya.
While it's only part of a $13.5-billion overall investment in Nissan's U.S. manufacturing operations to date, of which $4-billion was previously invested in the Canton facility alone, the company is betting on industry estimates that 40 percent of new vehicle purchases will be fully electric by 2030.
There are certain to be even more electrified models sold as hybrids and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles in the near future too, which is why the "Nissan Ambition 2030" project is targeting 23 electrified models within the Nissan and Infiniti brands globally by 2030, of which 15 will be fully electric.
Two new electric mid-size crossover SUVs are the likely candidates for Canton
An Infiniti model, possibly designed like 2019's QX Inspiration Concept, may be built alongside the Ariya.
The 19-year-old Canton assembly plant, which currently produces four Nissan models, including the Altima, Frontier, Titan and Titan XD, and has built almost five million vehicles since opening in 2003, will have two entirely new fully electric models in production by 2025.
The Leaf, which is currently built in Smyrna, Tennessee for U.S. consumption (and the Oppama Plant in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan for Asian markets, plus NMUK in Sunderland, UK for European buyers), won't be transferring production to the revised Mississippi plant, so it's likely the two new models will be the upcoming Nissan Ariya and something similar to the Infiniti QX Inspiration, both mid-size crossover SUVs that will target large segments of both mainstream volume-branded and premium markets.
Combining EV and truck production could result in future electrified Frontier
Could a modern interpretation of the much-loved Nissan Xterra (last seen in 2014) be based on the new Frontier, featuring an electrified drivetrain?
This said, combining EV and truck production could eventually result in electrified off-road models, similar to how Toyota has hybridized its new Tundra, plus Ford and Chevrolet are bringing out fully electric versions of their respective F-Series (Lightning) and Silverado pickup trucks, as is GMC with its renewed Hummer sub-brand.
Following this theme, Hybrid and all-electric versions of the new Frontier make sense, as would electrified Titan trims, if that model (which was recently cancelled in Canada) is permitted to continue in the U.S. Likewise, future 4×4-capable SUVs built on the backs of these pickup trucks, potentially going up against the mid-size Toyota 4Runner and full-size Sequoia (the latter of which has been completely redesigned for 2023), which could potentially bring back the once-popular Xterra nameplate, could be profitable for the Japanese automaker.
A range of electric cargo vans might be a good way for Nissan to develop its autonomous driving program.
Electrified commercial vans are also a possibility, being that Nissan was selling its full-size NV Cargo and NV Passenger vans, plus its NV200 compact cargo van up until September of 2021, when they were discontinued as part of Nissan's new Business Advantage plan. A fleet of new electric vans could revitalize this segment for the automaker, and simultaneously expand Nissan's important fleet customer base for its "Seamless Autonomous Mobility (SAM)" driving technologies, a more advanced version of its ProPilot Assist system that's already available in many Nissan and Infiniti retail models.
Story credit: Trevor Hofmann
Photo credits: Nissan and Infiniti
Infiniti could arguably be credited with creating the sporty crossover coupe sector way back in 2002 with the introduction of its mid-size FX35 and FX45. The performance-oriented V6- and V8-powered SUV,…
Sporty QX55 brings crossover coupe mix to Infiniti's compact SUV lineup
Infiniti will soon enter the 2022 model year with a brand new compact crossover coupe dubbed QX55.
Infiniti could arguably be credited with creating the sporty crossover coupe sector way back in 2002 with the introduction of its mid-size FX35 and FX45. The performance-oriented V6- and V8-powered SUV, which would eventually receive the QX70 nameplate two years after the redesigned second-generation FX appeared in 2011, paved the way for a follow-up, so therefore the Japanese luxury brand will re-enter this surprisingly popular niche market segment with something altogether new based on its bestselling QX50 compact luxury SUV.
The appropriately named QX55 makes perfect sense for those who want something sportier than the more upright, family-oriented Q50, or for that matter one of the brand's even more utilitarian mid-size or full-size SUVs, yet still need greater functionality than a Q50 sedan or Q60 sports coupe can provide. The idea is to combine coupe-like styling and SUV practicality into one, with the compromise being a bit less rear seat headroom and reduced cargo volume for a more aesthetically pleasing design.
The QX55 certainly doesn't come up short on style.
The latter measurement drops 134 litres from QX50 to QX55, resulting in 761 litres in the new crossover coupe compared to 895 in the regular SUV. Of note, dedicated cargo space can be increased by sliding the rear seats forward, but versatility is lessened by only having 60/40-split rear seatbacks, compared to all rivals that feature the more convenient 40/20/40 configuration, so that long items, such as skis, can be placed down the middle.
Those rivals include some well-established contenders, like BMW's X4 that was the compact SUV segment initiator way back in 2014, followed four years later by Mercedes-Benz' GLC Coupe that arrived for 2018. Audi's Q5 Sportback is new for 2021, and now Infiniti becomes the first non-German brand to drive down this charted, albeit less known road.
The new QX55 makes a distinctive statement from all angles.
Some might include Alfa Romeo's Stelvio, Jaguar's F-Pace, Range Rover's Velar, Porsche's Macan or Tesla's Model Y in this category due to their sleek shapes and strong performance, but they're the only compact models offered by their respective brands and provide similar passenger and cargo capacities to more conventional segment rivals, so probably not. We'll give them honourable mentions just the same, while Genesis' upcoming GV70 will occupy similar compact luxury SUV territory for the same reasoning.
As far as styling goes, the new QX55 is arguably the best-looking crossover in Infiniti's lineup, providing a big, bold interpretation of Infiniti's double-arched grille up front, bookended by a standard set of slender LED headlights that the luxury brand says "mimic the human eye." Each hover over a gloss-black fog lamp bezel that mimics the appearance of a brake cooling duct, while juxtaposing the grille's classy character with a more aggressive attitude.
Its bold grille combines nicely with standard LED headlamps and an aggressive lower fascia complete with sporty LED fog lamps.
Following the QX55's muscular flanks and arching roofline rearward, which flow into an abbreviated deck lid, the latter dubbed a "fresh interpretation of the FX silhouette" by Infiniti, results in a tidy back end highlighted by sharply penned "piano key" style taillights infused with 45 separate LEDs for a veritable light show at night. De rigueur matte black cladding trims off the SUV's lower extremities from the front wheel arches rearward, although it sweeps upwards on the back bumper to outline a body-colour diffuser-style panel filled with a matching set of chromed rectangular tailpipes. It's an eye-catching design that should find favour from those wanting something a bit more daring from a manufacturer known to be more reliable than its German peers.
Each taillight comes infused with 45 separate LEDs.
Under the sculpted hood is the same variable-compression 2.0-litre turbo-four found in the QX50, in which it makes a generous 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, which while highly efficient and dependable, is never a performance enthusiast's first pick, so therefore a future road test will be required in order to learn if improvements have been made since the QX50 was reviewed on these pages. All-wheel drive will be standard in Canada, with fuel economy most likely near the same as the QX50's estimated rating of 10.8 L/100km in the city, 8.3 on the highway and 9.7 combined.
The QX55's interior will be familiar to QX50 owners, except for a few sportier details.
Similar to the powertrain, the QX55's interior doesn't deviate from its taller sibling, other than the top-line Sensory trimmed model's lack of top-tier quilted leather upholstery. Appearing to be going for a sportier cabin design, an optional two-tone Monaco Red and Graphite black motif gets joined by yet more red on the centre stack and lower console, this really highlighting the unique form of this tech-filled cabin divider. The swath of bright colour is offset by dark grey, open-pore wood inlays on the dash and doors as well, these sections butting up against satin-finish aluminum trim that joins yet more nicely finished metal throughout the interior.
Infiniti's InTouch infotainment system is nicely laid out and easy to use.
Infiniti's InTouch eight- and seven-inch, upper and lower dual digital display design is once again front and centre, sharply contrasting the majority of premium players that house their screens on separate fixed tablet-like protrusions from the dash top. While more traditional, this option allows for touch capacitive use along with smartphone-style tap, swipe and pinch finger gestures, while separate controls can be found on the steering wheel. The QX55 will come standard with all the expected infotainment functions, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE wi-fi connectivity for up to seven devices.
The QX55's standard CVT might be it's only negative, unless fuel economy and reliability are high on your list of priorities.
When the 2022 QX55 goes on sale in April, three trim models will be available. The first will be Luxe, which at $51,995 plus freight and fees will include standard all-wheel-drive, 20-inch alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery, dark aluminum interior trim, heatable front seats, a power glass sunroof, active noise cancellation, and plenty of advanced driver assistance systems such as predictive forward collision warning, forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic rear braking, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and auto high beam assist.
Those wanting more tech can upgraded to $56,998 Essential ProAssist trim, which adds adaptive front LED lights, a 360-degree surround parking monitor with moving object detection, adaptive cruise control, distance control assist, blind spot intervention, and lane departure prevention, while other features include InTouch navigation, 16-speaker Bose audio, and leather upholstery.
Rear seat roominess is likely a bit tighter than with the spacious QX50, but most should find it amply large.
As noted earlier, Sensory is the final pinnacle of QX55 trim hierarchy, which at $60,998 adds softer semi-aniline leather upholstery, the aforementioned open-pore maple wood inlays, tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient interior lighting, and a motion-activated liftgate, while this model's technology systems are further enhanced with a head-up display, traffic sign recognition, full speed range and hold capabilities for the adaptive cruise control, ProPilot Assist semi-self-driving capability with steering assist, and lastly Infiniti's exclusive drive-by-wire Direct Adaptive Steering system.
QX55 cargo capacity is only down slightly when compared to the QX50, par for the course in the crossover coupe category.
The new QX55 is certainly up against some serious competition, particularly because its Infiniti brand name doesn't quite have the same cachet as Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz. Still, it offers similar levels of styling, luxury, technology and performance as its three competitors' entry-level crossover coupes, while the new model's value proposition should be attractive to those on more of a budget.
Speaking of saving money, CarCostCanada has yet to add a QX55 page to its near complete selection of new Canadian cars, vans, trucks and SUVs (one will soon be published), but take note that Infiniti is currently offering up to $3,000 in additional incentives for 2021 Q50 buyers, and up to $3,500 off of 2020 models, although CarCostCanada members save an average of $5,750 no matter the model year. Learn more about how you can save thousands when purchasing your next vehicle by becoming a CarCostCanada member, and make sure to download the free CarCostCanada app as well, so you can take advantage of the latest manufacturer rebates, factory financing and leasing deals, plus dealer invoice pricing that can make a massive difference when negotiation your best deal.
Additionally, be sure to check out our full 2022 Infiniti QX55 photo gallery above, plus enjoy the following video as well (showing the new QX55 speeding away from an original FX, which would easily be possible if only an FX35).
Introducing the All-New INFINITI QX55 (1:12):
Photo credits: Infiniti
Although there has recently been talk about reopening our economy, for the most part we're still in voluntary lockdown throughout most of Canada. While this is certainly better than the mandatory lockdown…
Infiniti turns to Japanese origami to provide 'Carigami' modelling fun
Why not make an Infiniti Carigami Q50 S with the kids during voluntary lockdown?
Although there has recently been talk about reopening our economy, for the most part we're still in voluntary lockdown throughout most of Canada. While this is certainly better than the mandatory lockdown conditions many other parts of the world are enduring, it's left the majority of Canadians looking for things to do in order to bide their time.
Enter Japanese luxury carmaker Infiniti, a brand well respected for building cars and SUVs with entertaining driving characteristics. Now, instead of supplying thrills on the road, it's slicing and dicing up some very unique paper artwork in the spirit of origami.
Just print off the templates with instructions and have fun.
This said, the only traditional origami-style paper folding is used for the rear section of the Q50 S sport-luxury sedan scale model, as well as the separate wheels and tires and tabs necessary for gluing everything together. Nevertheless, Infiniti's Carigami model is definitely a fun way to pass the time.
Infiniti will soon follow up its Carigami Q50 S model with one for the long-discontinued first-generation FX crossover SUV, showing that the enthusiast heart of this performance-oriented brand is still beating at a high rate, while another fan favourite, the current full-size off-road capable QX80 SUV that's based on the legendary Nissan Patrol (Armada in North American markets), will come next.
If you don't have a colour printer, break out the crayons or paints.
The models will all be in 1:27 scale, and all you'll need to put one together is a printer (preferably colour, or you can add crayons to this list), seven sheets of paper (two for templates and five for instructions), a craft knife, some glue, and a little patience.
While a first for Infiniti, the luxury brand's parent previously commissioned a full 1:1 scale origami version of the funky Nissan Juke subcompact crossover for its fifth birthday in 2015.
All the wheels and tires need to be made separately and added at the end.
To learn more, watch a high-speed video of the model being constructed, and/or download the templates and instructions go to Infiniti.com, or you can go directly to the Carigami download page here, but keep in mind this is the brand's US site and therefore any further investigation into real Infiniti models for purchase in Canada should be done at Infiniti.ca.
Better yet, go to CarCostCanada to check out the latest 2020 Infiniti Q50, Q60 and Q70 sport-luxury cars, plus Infiniti's lineup of SUVs that include the QX50, QX60 and QX80. You can access all the same pricing information as the manufacturer's website, and even build out each model, plus you'll find out about all the latest manufacturer rebates, financing and lease rates, and dealer invoice pricing that can save you thousands when negotiating your deal.
The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow.
For instance, CarCostCanada claims you can save up to $5,550 in additional incentives on a 2020 Infiniti Q50, while those wanting a 2019 Q50 can access factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent. Interested in a Q60 instead? How about $5,350 off of this luxury sport coupe for the 2020 model or $9,000 in incentives for a 2019? If you want a large sedan, Infiniti is offering up to $8,000 in additional incentives for its 2019 Q70 and long-wheelbase Q70L (there won't be a 2020 for this flagship four-door).
After a little bit of work and plenty of fun, you'll have an Infiniti Carigami Q50 S just like this.
As for Infiniti SUVs, those wanting the new QX50 compact crossover can save up to $5,250 for a 2019, $2,000 on a 2020, and zero-percent factory leasing or financing for the fresh new 2021 model, with average member savings said to be $3,250 no matter the year purchased. As for the mid-size three-row QX60, buyers wanting a 2020 can access up to $5,400 in additional incentives while the 2019 model has zero-percent factory leasing or financing on offer. Lastly, the big QX80 can be had with zero-percent leasing or financing on the 2021, up to $5,050 in additional incentives for the 2020 model, and $10,000 in incentives for the 2019.
Photo and video credits: Infiniti
Few premium models mimic their mainstream volume branded donor platforms so closely as the QX60 does with the Nissan Pathfinder, and by that I'm not talking about exterior styling. Actually, Infiniti…
2019 Infiniti QX60 Sensory Road Test
Infiniti's three-row mid-size QX60 moved into 2019 almost identical to its recent predecessors, except for a new trim naming convention. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Few premium models mimic their mainstream volume branded donor platforms so closely as the QX60 does with the Nissan Pathfinder, and by that I'm not talking about exterior styling. Actually, Infiniti does a pretty good job of separating the two at birth. The QX60 gets Infiniti's trademark grille and snake eyes-like LED headlamps up front, plus its squiggly rear quarter window design, and its thinner, narrower wrap-around LED tail lamps, whereas the Pathfinder certainly looks more traditional SUV-like since its 2017 refresh.
No, the most noticeable similarities are found inside, where the two SUVs are similar in design, layout, and general goodness. See how I did that? You probably thought I was going to say something negative, and while I'd like to see more differentiation between QX60 and Pathfinder cabins, they're both very good at delivering what people want and need, the QX60 merely stepping things up when it comes to the quality and choice of materials, plus other refinements.
Stylish from all angles, the QX60 looks especially nice with its top-line Sensory package. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
For instance, the QX60 dash top, instrument panel, glove box lid, lower console sides, and front door panels (from top to bottom) are made from high-quality soft-touch synthetics, whereas the Pathfinder leads its class for hard plastics, covering all of these areas except (strangely) for the front door panels that also get the pliable composite treatment all over. The QX60 takes these refinements into the back too, providing soft-touch rear door uppers, while hard shell plastic covers the Pathfinder's inner doors. Infiniti even goes so far as to wrap all roof pillars in padded cloth, whereas Nissan doesn't even cover the front pillars, like some close competitors do.
The LED headlights and fogs come standard, but the stunning 20-inch alloys are part of the Sensory upgrade. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Of course, Infiniti adds some more obvious upgrades to the QX60 as well, such as real maple hardwood replacing the fake stuff, a higher grade of leather with intricate hourglass quilting on the seat inserts and contrasting piping around the edges, at least in my top line Sensory trimmed example, but the dated electronics are pretty well the same except for some digital branding, the primary gauge clusters identical except for Infiniti's classic purple colouring inside the dials, plus the serrated metallic rims around their edges, this colour treatment carried over to the centre display as well, which incidentally is devoid of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and while the buttons, knobs and switches that control these interfaces (and everything else) are mostly unique and nicer all-round, they're laid out in more or less the same fashion.
Elegant LED taillights are standard across the line. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Along with the rich hardwood and sumptuous leather upgrades, the $4,200 Sensory package adds three-way forced ventilation to the already heatable front seats, while the second-row outboard positions are now heated, and the third row gets a powered return to make loading cargo easier, while accessing the rear luggage area is more convenient thanks to a motion activated power liftgate. Back inside, everyone can enjoy the open airiness of a powered panoramic sunroof overhead, complete with powered sunshades, not to mention a 15-speaker surround-sound Bose audio system upgrade complete with 5.1-channel digital decoding, while they can also appreciate the Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) that includes auto-recirculation, a plasmacluster air purifier and grape polyphenol filter. Last but not least, the Sensory package improves the QX60's styling and handling with unique 15-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels on 235/55 all-season tires.
The QX60's interior is laid out similarly to its Nissan Pathfinder donor model, but it's a lot more upscale inside. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Prerequisites for the new Sensory package are the equally new $5,000 Essential and $4,800 ProActive packages, the first including remote engine start, entry/exit assist for the driver's seat and steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, reverse tilt-down side mirrors, two-way power lumbar support for the driver's seat, two-way driver's memory with an Enhanced Intelligent Key, a 13-speaker Bose audio system, leather upholstery, Infiniti InTouch infotainment with navigation, lane guidance, and 3D building graphics, voice recognition, an Around View parking monitor with Moving Object Detection, front and rear parking sensors, SiriusXM Traffic, and more.
The ProActive package adds auto-dimming side mirrors, high beam assist, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, distance control assist, active trace control, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Blind Spot Intervention, backup collision intervention, front pre-crash seatbelts, and Infiniti's exclusive Eco Pedal.
It's high time for a QX60 update, but everything is still logically place and mostly well made. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
All of this highfalutin gear gets added to a QX60 that's already well equipped in renamed base Pure form, and competitively priced at $48,695, thanks to features such as auto on/off LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED fog lamps, LED taillights, roof rails, power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals, proximity-sensing keyless access, pushbutton ignition, a heatable leather-wrapped steering wheel, a powered tilt and telescopic steering column, an eight-way power driver's seat, a six-way power front passenger's seat, an auto-dimming centre mirror, a HomeLink universal garage door opener, a (regular sized) powered moonroof, micro-filtered tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8.0-inch centre touchscreen with a backup camera, SMS/email display, satellite radio, three USB charging ports, a powered rear liftgate, Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection (PFEB), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and more (see all 2019 and 2020 Infiniti QX60 pricing at CarCostCanada, with breakdowns of trims, packages and individual options, plus make sure to look for special manufacturer rebate info as well as dealer invoice prices that could save you thousands).
Classic analogue dials get filled with Infiniti's hallmark purple/blue backlighting, while a sizeable multi-info display sits at centre. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Some of these features are available with the Pathfinder, incidentally, so it's not like top-tier trims of the Nissan-badged utility are even remotely spartan, but Infiniti does go further as it should. Where it doesn't seem to need much differentiation to remain popular is in mechanicals, where the two SUVs utilize the same 3.5-litre V6 and continuously variable transmission incorporating authentic feeling stepped gear ratios. It's one of the best CVTs on the market, and perfectly suited to these models' comfort-first focus, although all-wheel drive is standard with the QX60, unlike the Pathfinder that offers more basic front-wheel drive trims as well.
The centre stack is well organized and filled with features, but it mimics the Pathfinder too closely. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
At 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, the QX60's direct-injection infused V6 also provides 11 more ponies and an identical 11 lb-ft of additional twist over the Pathfinder's version of the engine, which makes for a bit more energy off the line and when passing on the highway, plus Infiniti massages the CVT with a manual mode in order to extract the most performance from those just-noted stepped gears, not to mention default (a best of all worlds compromise), Sport (that makes adjustments to the engine and transmission to enhance performance), Eco (that adjusts engine and transmission responses to improve fuel economy), and Snow (that controls engine output to reduce wheel spin) driving modes, whereas the Pathfinder pays respect to its more rugged styling by including an "i-4×4" selection on its rotating drive mode selector, this denoting Nissan's Intelligent 4WD system lets you choose between 2WD, AUTO, and LOCK, the latter for getting out of deep snow, mud, sand, or other types of slippery situations. Nissan's combination of drive settings is probably best off-road, not to mention its 7.0 inches of ground clearance versus 6.5, but Infiniti's setup is automated more for slippery conditions and optimized further for pavement, which is where you're more likely to be driving 99.9-percent of the time.
While hardly the largest infotainment display in the class, its overhead camera is really helpful when parking. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
How do these differences affect fuel economy? The QX60 does very well with a claimed Transport Canada rating of 12.5 L/100km in the city, 9.0 on the highway and 10.9 combined, whereas a fully loaded AWD-equipped Pathfinder is good for an estimated 12.4 city, 9.2 highway and 11.0 combined; more or less the same.
Beautifully finished genuine maple hardwood inlays add a lot of glamour to the QX60 Sensory interior. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
The QX60 also rides on an identical fully independent suspension made up of front struts and a multi-link design in the rear, plus stabilizer bars and coil springs at both ends, but sameness aside it feels more substantive than its lower-priced alternative. It probably comes down to some of the aforementioned soft-touch surfaces quelling noise, vibration, and harshness levels, not that the Pathfinder I recently tested was particularly harsh. Additional sound deadening materials used where the eyes can't see no doubt play a part as well, but whatever Infiniti did, the QX60 feels more upscale, effectively shielding occupants from the world outside.
This makes its ride feel smoother and more comfortable too, and it very well could be due to suspension tuning, but if there's a difference it's very minor. Both are excellent when it comes to coddling occupants in suspension nirvana, no matter the road conditions, while the two SUVs are pretty decent at managing high-speed corners too, as long as you don't get overzealous in your need to travel from A to B quickly.
The special quilted leather Sensory upholstery is lovely, but the two-way lumbar support doesn't cut it. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
A feature I would've liked to see Infiniti address more completely is lumbar support, the QX60's two-way powered system identical to the Pathfinder's, and not good enough for the luxury sector. They should have at least made a four-way system optional, because as it is you'll either get sufficient pressure exactly where you need it on your lower back or not, the latter being the case for my five-foot-eight frame and particular pain. A four-way system allows upward and downward movement in order to satisfy all body types and conditions.
The optional dual-pane rear panoramic sunroof adds a lot more light than just the standard one up front. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Other than this the driver's seat is quite comfortable and should be large enough for most peoples' requirements, while second-row seating is very accommodating thanks to plenty of room from side-to-side and the ability to slide each 60/40-split portion fore and aft as needed, plus a comfortable armrest with integrated cupholders in the middle. The third row isn't the largest or smallest in the class, yet should be sufficient for all but large teens and adults. Better than size, access to that third row comes via Nissan/Infiniti's innovative seat folding mechanism that lets you keep a child safety seat installed (without the child strapped in) while sliding it out of the way.
The rear seats are very accommodating. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Speaking of this, the QX60 could use more child seat latches, particularly in the third row, but on the positive Nissan/Infiniti's Rear Door Alert system is brilliant. It uses door sequence logic along with an instrument-panel message alert, plus multiple horn honks to remind its driver to check the rear seating area after parking and turning off the ignition. This is an important step towards eliminating child and pet injuries/death after being left behind to suffer in the summer heat of parked cars.
The second row seats flip forward and slide out of the way for easy third-row access. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Cargo volume is good, with 447 litres (15.8 cubic feet) available behind the third row, this space made yet more functional thanks to a hidden compartment below the load floor that also houses a removable Bose subwoofer, while up to 1,155 litres (40.8 cubic feet) of gear-toting space can be created by dropping that 50/50-split third row downward via powered switches mounted on each cargo wall. Finally, the 60/40-split second-row seatbacks flip down completely flat via manual levers on their sides, providing a sizeable 2,166 litres (76.5 cubic feet) of maximum cargo volume. Some rivals offer automated second-row seats too, but this setup works well enough and the space provided is very generous.
Not the largest in its class, but the QX60's third row is still quite roomy. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
In the end the QX60 is showing its age, but being a bit older doesn't necessarily mean it's outdated. Yes, its instrument panel electronics could use a refresher and I'd like to see more visual separation from the lesser Pathfinder, but it looks good inside and out, is finished in high-quality materials, drives well, and offers seven-passenger luxury SUV buyers a lot of practicality for a very good price. This 2019 model is no different than the 2020 version arriving now, other than its previously noted packages transforming into four trim levels, plus a number of new option packages.
No shortage of cargo space here. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
A complete redesign isn't far away, however, said to be arriving next year as a 2021 model, but if you can't wait that long this 2019 model, or the new 2020 version, are good choices that drive a hard bargain in the mid-size luxury SUV class, although I expect the upcoming 2021 QX60 to be improved enough not to need a discount.
The Infiniti Q50 has been one of few sport-luxury sedans that found continued success despite the unprecedented onslaught of crossover luxury SUVs, at least before Q1 of 2019. Last year, Canadian premium…
2019 Infiniti Q50 Signature Edition Road Test
With each new generation, Infiniti's Q50 looks better and better. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
The Infiniti Q50 has been one of few sport-luxury sedans that found continued success despite the unprecedented onslaught of crossover luxury SUVs, at least before Q1 of 2019. Last year, Canadian premium car shoppers said their unceremonious goodbyes to the BMW 3 Series, which saw its sales drop by 19.5 percent, and the Audi A4, that lost 20.3 percent, while Acura's TLX, Cadillac's ATS, and Jaguar's XE gave up even more ground, but the Q50 actually grew its sales by 6.8 percent throughout 2018.
Over the past few months, however, Q50 sales have gone off the deep end with a 36.3 percent downturn, and while this is no doubt cause for concern by the powers that be at the company's Hong Kong headquarters, it's still not as bad as BMW's 3 that lost 37.7 percent compared to Q1 of 2018, and Audi's A4 that's seen 39.9 percent of deliveries taken off its order books. Even Mercedes-Benz' mighty C-Class has fallen by 34.5 percent, while Lexus IS deliveries (which were down 10.9 percent in 2018) have now plummeted by 45.5 percent, and Jaguar XE sales are currently nose-diving by a staggering 78.1 percent (its sales were only off by 27.8 percent last year).
The Q50 has a curvaceous body that looks especially nice from the rear. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
I suppose I should stop tapping away at the keys right now and point you to my review of the impressive new Infiniti QX50 compact luxury SUV instead, but in all seriousness, 2,576 Canadians purchased the Q50 sport-luxury sedan during 2018, plus an additional 517 over the first three months of 2019, so I can think of plenty of good reasons to continue writing this review. In fact, I find the Q50 one of the smartest choices in the compact luxury D-segment, even if this category isn't exactly filled with optimism these days.
As a bit of a backgrounder, Infiniti gave the Q50 a mid-cycle update for the 2018 model year, refreshing its grille, front fascia, headlamps, taillights, rear bumper design and more, so it continues forward into 2019 unchanged from a visual perspective, except for a new Canadian-exclusive "I-LINE" styling treatment that now comes standard with the renamed I-Line Red Sport 400 model.
LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights come standard. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Infiniti chose the new I-Line nomenclature from the words "Inspired Line," and just like eyeliner it blackens the grille surround similarly to last year's gloss-black fog light bezels and diffuser-like rear bumper cap, while the spoiler on top of the trunk lid also gets an upgrade to high-gloss carbon-fibre, plus new "custom imported" glossy black 19-inch alloys trim out the lower regions. Possibly more important, I-Line trim helps to visually differentiate the sportiest 400-horsepower Q50 from lower trims within the lineup, an intelligent move when factoring in the $7,700 leap from the already fast 300 horsepower Q50 3.0T Sport.
Of note, both 300 and 400 horsepower Q50 models utilize the same turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, albeit with unique components and tuning. Engines in mind, an even bigger change for 2019 is the discontinuation of the Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder from the Canadian market, although it continues to make 208 horsepower in other world markets, including the U.S.
With all the fine lower front fascia detailing, it would be a reasonable mistake to mistake this Signature Edition for one of the top-line Sport models. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Back here at home, both V6 engines use Infiniti's advanced seven-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift mode and downshift rev-matching capability, the latter a rare and wonderfully fun enhancement to the Q50's overall strong performance, while the Japanese luxury brand's "Intelligent" rear-biased all-wheel drive also remains standard.
Fuel efficiency has seen improvements since Infiniti replaced the naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6 with the new 700-cc smaller turbocharged 3.0-litre engines, but now that the four-cylinder is no longer available the model's base fuel economy, which measured 10.7 L/100km city, 8.6 highway and 9.7 combined last year, no longer sits amongst class leaders. Still, the new as-tested base 3.0-litre's rating of 12.4 city, 8.7 highway and 10.8 combined remains competitive amongst six-cylinder rivals.
Such practical elements covered, I should also point out that the 2019 Q50 now includes standard predictive forward collision warning and forward emergency braking, which certainly is a step in the right direction for helping the Q50 to eventually achieve an IIHS Top Safety Pick + rating.
These 19-inch alloys are standard with Signature Edition and Sport trims. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
With the 2.0-litre four now gone for 2019, Q50 3.0T Luxe AWD trim replaces the Q50 2.0T Luxe AWD, with the base price commensurately moving up $5,000 to $44,995 plus destination and fees, which just happens to be last year's entry price for the V6. The Q50 3.0T Signature Edition being reviewed here starts just a hair higher at $46,495, while the upper mid-range of the model lineup gets filled by the previously mentioned $48,495 Q50 3.0T Sport AWD, whereas the $56,195 I-Line Red Sport 400 ends up on the top spot. This said all trims are very affordable when factoring in everything that's on offer.
By the way, each price noted is available in detail, along with trim, package and option information, from CarCostCanada, where you can also source money saving manufacturer rebate info and otherwise difficult to get dealer invoice pricing that could save you thousands.
The badge on the back gives this "Signature Edition" away. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Although mentioning the word "base" a moment ago, nothing about Q50's twin-turbocharged V6 is remotely basic. To be clear, no rival offers a 300-horsepower base engine, or the direct-injected mill's near equally impressive 295 lb-ft of torque. I've sung praises about this talented V6 before, plus gone on ad nauseum with respect to the seven-speed automatic and all-wheel drive setup it's mated to, so rather than pore too much attention on the numerous technological advancements that make this combo worthy of your full attention, I'll lay down a more experiential tone.
For starters, the base engine feels even quicker off the line than those figures suggest, although those 300 and 295 output numbers are hardly insignificant. It just has more full-throttle jump from standstill than the majority of similarly rated cars, this probably due to the engine's twin-turbochargers delivering most of that twist from only 1,600 rpm all the way to 5,200 rpm, which is considerably sooner in the rev range than a normally aspirated mill would be capable of, with a wider torque band as well.
All Q50s provide a very upscale, luxury experience inside. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Those turbos spin at speeds of up to 240,000 rpm, incidentally, a thought I just can't get my brain to comprehend, especially considering their almost silent operation and complete reliability. Also worth mentioning, the mostly aluminum and therefore lightweight V6 has been on the Wards "10 Best Engines" winner list since it was created, just as its 3.7-litre and 3.5-litre predecessors were, so I'm not alone with my accolades.
Push the "START/STOP ENGINE" button just next to the gauge cluster and it purrs into action, a subtle rasp from the dual exhaust noting that this is no four-banger. Flick the "DRIVE MODE" toggle switch on the lower centre console to "SPORT" instead of "STANDARD" (SNOW, ECO and PERSONAL modes are included too), pull the contrast-stitched leather-wrapped shifter rearward into "D" and then over slightly for manual mode, and prepare yourself to shift via the gear lever as steering wheel-mounted paddles are only available with the 3.0T Sport and I-Line Sport 400 trims. No issue here, as I've been shifting stick for longer than I care to say. Then again, I'd appreciate having paddle-shifters too, but obviously Infiniti sees the Luxe and Signature Edition as its luxury-focused models, in spite of their quick response to throttle input and dynamic handling.
The Q50 instrument panel is well made and filled with top-tier features. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
This Signature Edition wears the same standard 245/40R19 all-season run-flat performance rubber as the Sport model, but as it was my test car purposely featured winter M+S tires that without doubt impacted its lateral grip on dry sections of roadway. Just the same Infiniti didn't go cheap on its winter tires, skinning the standard triple-five-spoke alloys in Pirelli Sottozero 3s, which showed such prowess through wet and snowy conditions that nothing nearing the likes of an SUV was at all necessary. In fact, it was so good at managing wet Left Coast snow that this Q50 quickly became my default ride for a very cold and soggy Vancouver week, while it was not only a great help in overcoming inclement weather, but its wonderfully reactive steering, wholly capable suspension, and smooth, comfortable ride made each stint behind the wheel a joy.
No digital gauge cluster here, but the Q50's analogue dials are easy to read in any light. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Of note, additional Signature Edition upgrades include the same performance-oriented exterior design details as found on the Sport, such as a sharp-edged glossy black lip front spoiler and similarly black fog light bezels, as well as a slightly less aggressive variation on the black and body-colour diffuser-infused rear bumper theme noted earlier, while each mid-range model also utilizes of an identical set of silver-painted 19-inch alloy rims, which is an improvement over base Luxe trim's 18-inch alloy wheels and 225/50 all-season run-flat performance tires.
Finally, both mid-range Q50 trims get silver "S" badges on each front fender, but oddly the Signature Edition includes a special rear deck spoiler just above its own scripted "Signature" badge, but the Sport model doesn't get a spoiler at all, although it does receive a silver "S" insignia beside its Q50 badge.
The Q50's standard dual stack of infotainment displays is easy to use and highly functional. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Slide inside and you'll quickly see that Signature Edition and Sport trims also share identical Sport Type seats featuring driver's power lumbar and powered torso bolsters, plus manual thigh extensions for both front seats. The driver's seat was thoroughly comfortable and provided superb lateral support, which is always appreciated when slinging such a capable car through fast-paced curves. Additionally, the Signature Edition's Kacchu aluminum decorative inlays mentioned earlier are also found in the Sport model, a bonus as they look fabulous and feel substantive.
Almost every other feature not yet mentioned is shared between the base Q50 Luxe model and the Signature Edition, which means the Q50 Signature Edition receives standard automatic LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, LED fog lights and front turn signals, LED brake lamps, aluminum "INFINITI" branded tread plates, proximity keyless access, pushbutton start/stop, Infiniti's "InTuition" for storing climate, audio and driving preferences within each "Intelligent Key", welcome lamps on the front outer door handles, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming centre mirror, a universal remote for your garage, micro-filtered two-zone automatic climate control, an Infiniti InTouch dual-display infotainment system featuring a bright, high-resolution 8.0-inch upper monitor and an equally clear and colourful 7.0-inch lower touchscreen, a reverse camera, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, decent sounding six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/satellite audio with HD playback, RDS and speed-sensitive volume control, dual USB chargers, a heated steering wheel rim (that truly responds quickly), heatable front seats (almost heating up a fast), power front seats, a power glass sunroof, plus more.
The top monitor displays the navigation system, rearview camera and more. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Notably, along with the move up to the base V6 engine a variety of features that were previously optional now come standard, such as remote engine start, Infiniti's precise InTouch route guidance/navigation system with lane guidance and 3D building graphics, the Infiniti InTouch Services suite of digital alerts and remote services, voice recognition for audio, SMS text messaging and vehicle info, power-adjustable lumbar for the driver, and 60/40-split rear seatbacks with a handy pass-through down the middle.
Moving upward in trims from this Signature Edition, the only significant improvements to the previously noted Sport model are performance oriented, with upgrades including the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters I spoke of before, a special sport-tuned dynamic digital suspension, and an identical set of sport brakes as found on the Red Sport 400, which incorporate four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers, while the two sportiest Q50 models also include an exclusive set of front seat-mounted side-impact airbags.
The bottom display is a touchscreen for accessing audio, climate and other functions. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Features in mind, items not available with this Signature Edition include optional electronic power steering with the Sport model, while Infiniti's exclusive drive-by-wire Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system can be had with all trims except for the Signature Edition. The same can be said for the auto-leveling adaptive front lighting system (AFS) with high beam assist, the power-adjustable steering column with memory, the Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD), the top-line 16-speaker Bose Performance audio system featuring Centerpoint technology, front and rear parking sonar, adaptive cruise control with full speed range, distance control assist, blindspot monitoring, blindspot intervention, lane departure warning and prevention with active lane control, and backup collision intervention with rear cross-traffic alert.
This elegant knurled metal rotating dial is for controlling the top display. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Some features that are not available with the Signature Edition, are optional with the Sport, and come standard with the Red Sport 400 include auto-dimming exterior mirrors with reverse link and memory, plus Infiniti's advanced climate control system with auto-recirculation, Plasmacluster air purifier and grape polyphenol filter.
This puts the Q50 Signature Edition in a unique value position, by including much of the Sport trim's features yet limiting choices to colours, which are identical to the five provided for the Sport, including Liquid Platinum silver, Graphite Shadow grey, Black Obsidian, Majestic White, and the beautiful deep Iridium Blue coating my test car; as well as interior themes, which just like with Sport trim come in Graphite (black) and Stone (grey). By the way, the base model's interior can also be had in Wheat (tan), while available dark-stained gloss maple hardwood gives off a more traditional luxury ambiance. Additionally, those who move up to sportier Q50 trims lose the option of base Pure White and optional Mocha Almond (brown metallic) exterior paint, but the base model doesn't offer Iridium Blue, while Red Sport 400 customers have the option of Dynamic Sunstone Red.
The Q50's seven-speed automatic is truly and advanced gearbox. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
Features aside, all Q50 trims are finished to a very high level. My test model included stitched leather across the dash top, instrument panel, both sides of the lower console, and the upper two-thirds of each door panel, while the glove box lid boasts a high-quality soft composite too. The materials are superb as well, from that leather surfacing to the finely upholstered premium leather seats, to the gorgeous Kacchu aluminum inlays, the plentiful satin silver accents, and other surface areas, while all switchgear looks good with nice tightly spaced fitment, and feels substantial with proper luxury-level damping.
The Sport Style driver's seat provides powered lumbar, torso bolsters, and manual thigh extensions. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
The Q50 is quiet too, whether rushing around town or speeding down the freeway, while it's ideally spacious for all occupants. Adding size and roominess to a given market segment has long been part of Infiniti's value proposition, and in the case of the Q50 it comes close to mid-size proportions when compared to a number of D-segment competitors. This benefits larger folk more than someone measuring a mere five-foot eight like me, but my longer legs and shorter torso often make it difficult to set up a comfortable driving position in other cars. Not so with the Q50, which provides extensive reach from the tilt and telescopic steering column, which when combined with the multi-adjustable driver's seat allowed for optimal comfort and control. Improving on that, the power-adjustable lumbar support ideally fit the small of my back, the powered side bolsters snuggly kept me in place during hard cornering, and the thigh support adjusters nicely cupped under my knees.
The rear seating area is roomy and comfortable. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
As usual, I took the opportunity to sit behind my preset driver's seat to find out how roomy the rear quarters are, and am happy to report that the rear left-side seat provided approximately five inches in front of my knees, a lot of space for my big winter boots below the driver, plus ample room side-to-side, while I had about three inches above my head, meaning six-foot-plus passengers should fit in back just fine. Rear passengers are treated to accommodations that are just as nice as the front compartment, with features including a flip-down armrest with cupholders at centre, overhead reading lamps, plus a set of air vents on the back of the front centre console.
Trunk volume should be amply sized for most owners too, but its 382 litres (13.5 cubic feet) isn't as large as some others in this segment. I'd prefer the European-style 40/20/40 split-folding rear seatback configuration too, rather than the Q50's 60/40 division, but the rear pass-through is probably large enough for two or three pairs of skis, which may work well enough depending if skiing is your thing, or whether or not you ever load in long cargo.
The Q50 provides plenty of passenger and cargo flexibility. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)
No car is perfect, but honestly the Q50 competes very well in this class, and easily deserves your earnest attention. On top of its list of virtues is value, which is always an important consideration, while Infiniti also has a very good record of dependability, makes beautiful interiors, provides arguably attractive styling, and has long been the go-to Japanese brand for performance. In the end, Infiniti will no doubt be more than happy to sell you a QX50 crossover SUV if you need more cargo capacity, but those who want the better performance of a low-slung sport sedan will appreciate that this Q50 continues to serve such purposes. Either way, Infiniti has you covered.

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text:
Billions lost on unfinished Iraq projects
by Kim Gamel - Aug. 30, 2010 12:00 AM
KHAN BANI SAAD, Iraq - A $40 million prison sits in the desert north of Baghdad, empty. A $165 million children's hospital goes unused in the south.
As the U.S. draws down in Iraq, it is leaving behind hundreds of abandoned or incomplete projects. More than $5 billion in American taxpayer funds has been wasted - more than 10 percent of the roughly $50 billion the U.S. has spent on reconstruction in Iraq - according to audits from a U.S. watchdog agency.
That amount is likely an underestimate, based on an analysis of more than 300 reports by auditors with the special inspector general for Iraq reconstruction. And it does not take into account security costs, which have run almost 17 percent for some projects.
There are success stories. Hundreds of police stations, border forts and government buildings have been built, Iraqi security forces have improved after years of training, and a deepwater port at the southern oil hub of Umm Qasr has been restored.
Even completed projects for the most part fell far short of original goals, according to an Associated Press review of hundreds of audits and investigations and visits to several sites. And it remains to be seen whether the program reached its goal of generating Iraqi goodwill toward the U.S. instead of the insurgents.
Col. Jon Christensen, who took over as commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region District this summer, said the federal agency has completed more than 4,800 projects and is rushing to finish 233 more. Nearly 600 projects have been terminated, mostly for security reasons.
Christensen acknowledged that mistakes have been made. But he said steps have been taken to fix them, and the success of the program will depend ultimately on the Iraqis - who have complained that they were not consulted on projects to start with.
"There's only so much we could do," Christensen said. "A lot of it comes down to them taking ownership of it."
The reconstruction program in Iraq has been troubled since its birth shortly after the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. The U.S. was forced to scale back many projects even as costs spiked, sometimes to more than double or triple projections.
As part of the so-called surge strategy, the military in 2007 shifted its focus to protecting Iraqis and winning their trust. American soldiers found themselves hiring contractors to paint schools, refurbish pools and oversee neighborhood water-distribution centers. The $3.6 billion Commander's Emergency Response Program provided military units with ready cash for projects and paid for Sunni fighters who agreed to turn against al-Qaida in Iraq for a monthly salary.
But sometimes civilian and military reconstruction efforts were poorly coordinated and overlapped.
Iraqis can see one of the most egregious examples of waste as they drive north from Baghdad to Khan Bani Saad. A prison rises from the desert, complete with more than two dozen guard towers and surrounded by high concrete walls. But the only signs of life during a recent visit were a guard shack on the entry road and two farmers tending a nearby field.
In March 2004, the Corps of Engineers awarded a $40 million contract to global construction and engineering firm Parsons Corp. to design and build a prison for 3,600 inmates, along with educational and vocational facilities. Work was set to finish in November 2005.
But violence was escalating in the area, home to a volatile mix of Sunni and Shiite extremists. The project started six months late and continued to fall behind schedule, according to a report by the inspector general.
The U.S. pulled the plug on Parsons in June 2006, citing "continued schedule slips and ... massive cost overruns," but later awarded three more contracts to other companies. Pasadena, Calif.-based Parsons said it did its best under difficult and violent circumstances.
Citing security concerns, the U.S. finally abandoned the project in June 2007 and handed over the unfinished facility to Iraq's Justice Ministry. The ministry refused to "complete, occupy or provide security" for it, according to the report. More than $1.2 million in unused construction material also was abandoned due to fears of violence.
By contrast, the Basra children's hospital - one of the largest projects undertaken by the U.S. in Iraq - looks like a shining success story, with gardeners tending manicured lawns in preparation for its opening. But that opening has been repeatedly delayed, most recently for a lack of electricity.
The construction of a "state of the art" pediatric specialist hospital with a cancer unit was to be completed by December 2005 for about $50 million. By last year, the cost had soared above $165 million, including more than $100 million in U.S. funds, and the equipment was dated, according to an auditors' report.
Investigators blamed the delays on unrealistic timeframes, poor soil conditions, multiple partners and funding sources, and security problems at the site, including the murder of 24 workers.


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Toronto marchers denounce slaughter in Iraq
An estimated 9,000 people braved severe icy conditions to march through Toronto Saturday demanding an end to the US-led slaughter in Iraq. The mood was palpably angrier than previous demonstrations. The loudest applause was given to a speaker who suggested that the Bush administration be tried for war crimes—a demand that also found its way onto a number of placards.
Among the hundreds of home-made signs carried by marchers were the following: "Democracy? From George Bush plutocrat?" "Bush is not above the law", "Illegal president, illegal war", "Rogue state USA" and "$, this flag is not worth dying for."
Other slogans included: "Bring home the troops and stop lying to them", "Bush, Rumsfeld and Co use weapons of mass distraction" and "The White House is occupied by thugs and gangsters".
An Iraqi student from York University told the rally: "The world's most superior military power in history to date is bombing, attacking, assaulting, invading—anything but liberating a country and a people. They tell us this war is for the good of the Iraqi people and for the most part welcomed by them. Do they honestly hope for us to buy into images of happy Iraqis welcoming American soldiers with their flags and of love for American G.I. Joes pouring out into the streets? They can't fool us anymore. No people want to be occupied by foreigners, no matter how evil their current leader might be."
Despite the fact that the Bush and Blair governments have defied massive global demonstrations, the main message being projected from the platform was a plea to apply more pressure on existing governments.
A speaker from the Toronto Coalition to Stop the War told the crowd: "We might not be able to stop the slaughter, but we will put enough pressure that no nuclear bombs are used in Iraq, that no cluster bombs will be used anymore. The only reason why the United States of America hasn't bombed Iraq with nuclear bombs, and other chemical and biological weapons, is that we are watching."
Radical celebrity Tariq Ali pushed a similar line, welcoming the supposed opposition to the war initially expressed by the French and German governments. After conceding that French President Chirac and German Chancellor Schröder were now calling for a quick American victory, Ali nevertheless insisted that the antiwar movement had to keep trying to pressure them. "And what can only push them and what will continue to maintain the pressure on the warmongers in Washington and London is you—is us—the global antiwar movement and we have to link now the anti-globalization movement to the antiwar movement."
New Democratic Party leaders and parliamentarians were noticeably absent with the social democratic camp represented instead by less prominent figures, such as Canadian Labor Council vice president, Marie Clarke Walker. Shirley Douglas, daughter of social democratic forefather Tommy Douglas, delivered a long oration in which she appealed to Canadian nationalism, white-washing the role played by Canadian governments as one of Washington's junior partners in NATO.
A heavy police presence was noticeable. Hundreds of mounted and foot police armed with shields and truncheons monitored the march and guarded the US Consulate. Police provocatively arrested one young man before the march on charges concocted from a previous antiwar protest. Since the war began on March 20, police say they have arrested 14 people at antiwar rallies in Toronto.
Supporters of the WSWS and the Socialist Equality Party distributed hundreds of copies of the first two resolutions passed at the March 29-30 conference "Socialism and the Struggle against Imperialism and War: The Strategy of a New International Working Class Movement".
Demonstrators who spoke to the WSWS expressed contempt for the Bush and Blair governments. "You can't attack a country just because it might attack you," said Ben Rogers, a security industry worker. "It's all about oil and control over the Middle East. The main reason that Bush and Blair gave—weapons of mass destruction—was fallacious. The use of cluster bombs, etc., makes obvious that they are the aggressors."
Asked how he thought the war could be stopped, given that Washington and London had defied the largest global demonstrations in world history, Rogers was less certain. "I haven't given much thought to that. I'm here to find out."
Rakesh, a worker, said: "I don't like innocent people getting killed for the benefit of a few. Only governments win out of wars and that's what will happen this time. The leaders will keep gaining until people have the power.
"Bush and Blair's only concern is to get enough oil. The war's not about weapons of mass destruction, because many countries have them, with the United States having the most."
Two high school students were among the large numbers of young people on the march. Colin said: "Capitalism does not need more oil, and the US nobility does not need more power. Bush and the Republicans are only listening to those with money. We don't have any, but the oil companies and business leaders do.
"It reminds me of France before 1789—the nobility controls all the wealth. Only this time the inequality is global, because America dominates the world. There are poor people in the United States, but you don't see them in the media. The troops should be asking their officers, 'what's going on'".
Colin's friend Kyle observed: "It's a strange idea that killing innocent people will save lives. Bush seems to be changing his story all the time. He used to be about disarming Iraq but he has switched to getting Saddam Hussein out.
"It's the same with Blair. Neither of them have the best interests of the Iraqi people at heart."
Sizeable antiwar marches were also held Saturday in Vancouver and Edmonton, with smaller rallies in other Canadian cities, including Halifax and Regina.
CanadaNorth AmericaWorld News


I have something pretty special to share with all of you today, Some really fun Halloween inspiration.
Last month 20 of my projects went to HSN for Craft Day. I snatched a photo showing the beautiful display shown above. The center card is one of my personal projects mixed with other amazing projects by our design team. Isn't that cat ADORABLE on Winnie Witches Hat??? I am honored to be working with such an amazing team of ladies at LDRS Creative.
I am showcasing a card from the show; here is Winnie Broomstick. My focus for this card was the coloring of this amazing stamp. Polkadoodle stamps are so beautifully detailed and you cannot help but color to your hearts content. I especially liked coloring her green hair!!! Take a closer look below.
My card base is a 5.5" square. For my second layer I have used a piece from our New 6x6" paper stack called "Wicked". My piece is cut to 5" square leaving a nice 1/4" border. I simply stamped Winnie Broomstick onto a pre cut white die cut and after coloring I decorated these simple layers with a sprinkle of pre cut glimmer stars and sequins from my embellishment stash.
There are three Halloween stamps by Polkadoodles featuring Winnie. The third in the trio is Winnie Dracula seen below. Check out that paper as well. Those googly eyes fit the paper perfectly. So Clean and Simple but so fun at the same time.
To check out all 3 of these Halloween Stamps simply CLICK HERE.
Just wanted to pop on and share my newest project featuring Magnolia stamps from the online store "Magnolia-licious" The stamp I have chosen to focus on is called "Tilda With Big Poppy" from the "Yay! It's Your Birthday" Collection.
When beginning to design this I wanted to play around with making my own patterned paper so I am using the "Heart Flower Background" stamp to do this with.
The stamp was stamped numerous times to create this background paper. I then colored it with Copic Markers that coordinate with the focal stamp. I absolutely love the way this all matches Tilda's dress and even the little flowers on the hedge hogs. Those are also available in the store and are called the "Hedgehog Kit"
Both the Hedgehog Kit as well as the Sunlight stamp are from the "Sunbean Collection"
Magnolia Tilda with Star ~ A Untraditional Christmas Card!
Welcome Back! Today I am coming to you as part of the Magnolia-Licious Design Team. I am featuring a lot of products in this fun Non Traditional Christmas card.
I have numerous items in this card beginning with the Lemon Craft Christmas Carols 6x6 paper pad. Lemon Craft has beautiful papers and a lot have a vintage feel to them.
Tilda With Star is the focal here and she was really fun to color. I used Copic Markers in the following color combos.
I even added a second star covered in Glossy Accents. See below!
The star focal behind Tilda was made with the Christmas Star Doohickey Die. You cut the die 6 times and using the score lines you form an accordion style fold. Designer Tip: Use patterned paper and it comes together quite nicely. Make sure to use a quick drying glue like Tombow Liquid glue.
With the embellishments I chose paper roses from my stash along with the Laser Love # 7 Daisies and the vines from the Cross With Flowers & Leaves doohickey die set.
My goal is to inspire so make sure to get crafty today!
I am here today to share some cuteness with all of you! My newest project featuring the LDRS Creative "Happy Fall" Stamp set & 6x6" paper pack. These bunnies have taken a hold of my heart, they are so precious!
I have used numerous LDRS Creative items here including the following.
When I began to design this card, I knew I wanted to do something to really show off this adorable bunny stamp. So I decided to reach for my beloved LDRS Creative dies and chose the Holly Wreath Circle Die Set. The inner circle die has a light cross stitch like border and is the perfect size but I didn't want to create a holiday card so I switched things up and decided to use the Dew Drop Circle Die to layer behind the smaller circle which really helps showcase this stamp. Look how perfect these all layer together. I really like being able to use seasonal sets year round!
I wanted this card to be clean and simple so I choose a paper from the Happy Fall 6x6" Paper Pack to use as the background and the small banner across the bottom of the card. The sentiment used is from the Happy Fall Sentiments Stamp Set fits nicely inside the oval sentiment die from the Scalloped Rectangle Die Set.
Lastly I stamped a bunch of pumpkins from the Happy Fall Stamp Set and fussy cut them out. Between the Happy fall paper and the pumpkins sprinkled everywhere it truly now feels like fall.


Renaud Detry is a Research Scientist in the Mobility and Robotics Section at JPL. He is also a visiting researcher at the Montefiore Institute (University of Liège, Belgium) and in the Computer Vision and Active Perception lab (KTH Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan, Stockholm, Sweden). His research interests include computer vision, robot learning, and autonomous grasping/manipulation. He is regularly serving as associate editor for IROS, ICRA, and as a reviewer for TRO, RAS, RSS and AURO.
I am interested in autonomous sensorimotor interaction via robot vision, tactile sensing, and robot learning. See renaud-detry.net for more information.
My publications are listed at renaud-detry.net/publications.


Important Notification of Hoax Email.
We have been made aware that a former colleague's NWAA email address has unfortunately been spoofed and is sending hoax emails.
This email has not been generated by NWAA but designed to look as though it has.
Contact your own IT so they can run scans just to be on the safe side.


The General round of Bhutan's 3rd Parliamentary elections is scheduled to be held on October 18, 2018. On that day a section of the Bhutanese people will choose the party that will form the government, for the next 5 years.
This election is interesting on many fronts.
1. PDP - Many had believed that PDP would emerge the winner in the Primary rounds and even go on to win the elections to form the government for a second term. They were unceremoniously shunted out. Even more surprising, they fared poorly in the postal ballots, which caught many by surprise.
2. DNT - considered a rank outsider - dethroned the strident and swaggering PDP - to emerge the winner of the Primary round. The public perception was that they would trail a doubtful second, behind PDP.
3. DPT - to every body's utter consternation - the DPT emerged victorious in the Primary rounds. In fact, in terms of number of constituencies won, they are the undisputed victors. Most had believed that DPT would soon cease to exist as a political entity. But just as the proverbial Phoenix rose from the ashes, so did DPT soar, from despondency to dominion - bringing home the truth about the unpredictable nature of politics.
4. BKP - seen by many as a party that would attempt to do the most right. Their promise to fight corruption should have gotten them truckloads of votes. Sadly it appears that fighting corruption is not on the priority list of the Bhutanese people - how poorly the party fared is proof of that.
The results of the Primary round are out in the open and there is no altering it. Now what is to be seen is how we will vote during the crucial General round, which is due on the 18th of October, 2018.
Will the Sharchops' continue to remain doggedly unwavering in their loyalty towards their party of choice - the underdog DPT? Or will they capitulate to another round of lyrical renditions from the likes of Dasho Sonam Kinga and Ex-Police Chief Kipchu Tshering? While I personally remain unconvinced that their negativity made any difference at all, is it possible that the DNT President's promise of a gaggle of Ministerial berths for the Eastern Dzongkhags would manage to wean away voters from the DPT? Will they change their minds at this critical juncture? We will have to wait and see. The Sharchop factor is key - and they make me jittery.
I am in no doubt that the Central votes will yet again go the DPT way. The Bumtaps are a willy lot, as are the Koortoeps. For the Bumtaps, it is CARPE DIEM! They are just too smart to let slip away an opportunity to elect a Prime Minister from their Dzongkhag. It is just too alluring.
Zhemgang has been a mixed bag for the DPT. While Lyonpo Dorji Wangdi is unshakable in his Panbang constituency, the Bardo-Trong constituency has been indecisive in the past. They voted for DPT in 2008 but against it in 2013. Encouragingly for the DPT, Zhemgang voted for them 100% during this Primary round. It is to be seen how they will vote during the General round.
I am not going to hazard a guess as to how the Western and Southern voters will behave. Voters in these two regions will have you believe that they are knowledgeable and learned in the selections they make. That they are inherently more astute than others, and that they know a thing or two about making informed choices. For all that, they make the most erroneous choices.
But I do believe that there might be an element of surprise awaiting the General round of elections.
In the General round it appears that the swing votes will be those from the West and the South. People are more or less convinced that DPT will sweep both Eastern and Central regions. I tend to agree - going by the primary results. Of the total 21 constituencies in these two regions, DPT won 20 constituencies. If this trend continues, DPT needs only 4 constituencies from the Southern and Western constituencies, to win the elections.
In addition to the total of 20 constituencies in the Eastern and Central regions, DPT also won one each from Paro and Samtsi - taking the total constituencies won to 22. This means that the DPT needs only 2 additional constituencies, to emerge the winner of the 2018 elections. Is this doable?
I think people of Haa and Wangdue are likely to wake up to the reality that they may be the only two Dzongkhags from where there will be no Ministers who will form the new cabinet. Now this is a big deal - people of Haa and Wangdue will realize that should the DPT win - and in all likelihood they will win - their Dzongkhags will have no Ministers to root for them. People of Haa and Wangdue are very competitive in nature and the fear that they might get left behind is bound to play on their minds. Is it likely that this very real eventuality might make them catapult in the last minute, and vote for DPT! Quite likely ---- and then again one never knows.
Finally, what intrigues me most is how the Indian government will behave, should the DPT win the elections. It is said that they believe that DPT is anti-India and pro-China. Regardless of how they perceive the party, the reality is that they will have to live with the party - for the next five years, should they come to power. Now, India can either decide that the meaningful way forward would be to reconcile their ways and show that India is behind Bhutan - regardless of the party in power, or they can continue to give DPT a hard time and edge them towards China. India will have to make that choice. But certainly from my point of view - should the DPT come to power, India would be presented this God sent opportunity to work at removing some serious misconceptions and put India-Bhutan relations on a more solid footing. It is becoming clear that people of Bhutan have increasingly become edgy about the deteriorating relationship between two long time friends. How India will treat DPT, if they do come to power, will demonstrate to the people of Bhutan whether they have Bhutan's interests at heart, in addition to their own, which are no less legitimate.
Or, India can yet again repeat the kerosene and cooking gas withdrawal stunt.


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AGM Secretary's report 2020-21
by Bob Collins | Jul 5, 2021 | Club News | 1 comment
One of the strangest years in the club's history took place without a game being played or a rugby ball kicked or passed by any players. The Covid lockdown of 2020 extended well in to 2021 and its legacy remains with us to this day. The clubhouse has been closed for much of the past year along with everything else: no bar, no catering, no training, no juniors, no sponsors, no club members.
Despite all this much has been happening behind the scenes and those involved in club management and governance have been able to meet by Zoom link on regular basis. Work on the grounds and by volunteer maintenance crews has begun once more as restrictions gradually eased and the full vaccination process moved into top gear. From an empty, desolate clubhouse during the winter I'm delighted to say that we now have players back in full training, memberships going out once more, bars being stocked, caterers being organised, fixture lists prepared and the grounds staff with energetic activity. Sponsors are being sought, travel arrangements are being made for a challenging season in the national league and many significant investments have been made for the club.
The clubhouse itself is currently undergoing a full refurbishment which we hope will soon be open for all to see in the new season. Pitches have been re-laid and are looking superb. A line marking machine nicknamed the Barum Beast has been bought and is already marking pitches and being hired to out other local clubs. Extensive landscaping work has been completed and new floodlights installed for winter training. Work continues apace with Bridgefield development and we are close to securing a long-term lease for this area.
Much of the funding for these projects has come from local and national grants which were designed to help clubs through the Covid crisis. Other funding has come from government Bounceback Loans which has enabled us to make new investment in resources for the grounds. Despite having no bar, sponsorship or membership income for 12 months the club is in a healthy financial place and special thanks are due to new treasurers Benn Coley and Hannah Hole for overseeing all expenditure and income.
Several new and younger committee members have made a very positive contribution to the club during the closure and brought new ideas and vigour to the established committee.
As always, the work of the many dozens of volunteers for the club cannot go unmentioned. Ground staff have toiled tirelessly to prepare the pitches and landscape the environment for the club. We are immensely proud to see the high quality of the pitches and whole club area from both the downstream bridge and the clubhouse itself.
Much of the work installing new lights, preparing the clubhouse, managing the developments and creating community links with sponsors all comes from thousands of volunteer hours which are put into the club each week. On top of this we have dozens of parents acting as coaches for the juniors and supporting the many youngsters in the North Devon community who enjoy playing here.
Barnstaple RFC are now ready for the new season with a series of friendlies planned as warm ups. The thirds/veterans had a run out last week against a visiting team from Wasps and second team fixtures will soon be announced. The first team have a tough but exciting season ahead to look forward to including a trip to Guernsey in the Channel Islands, a first ever for this club.
Sadly, we have to report the resignation of our former chair Ian Stanton owing to illness. The club have formally thanked Ian for all his tremendous efforts for Barnstaple RFC over the past few years. We all send our sincere wishes for his recovery and hope to see him back at the club in the future. Trevor Edwards, our current President, is kindly stepping in as chair for the time being.
On a brighter note we have much to look forward to in the near future with the club now having expanded to a level that has never before been attained: Hundreds of members, many local sponsors, grounds and pitches extending from the new bridge to the football club, new tractor, a GPS ground marking machine, LED floodlights, and several resources beyond our wildest dreams. We have hundreds of juniors training and playing weekly, National league status for the 1st team and a financial turnover which dwarfs that of just a few years ago. To this can be added a clubhouse with significant hiring potential and offering facilities for which we can all be very proud.
Secretary BRFC
Share the Mighty Barum:
Tim Hickman	on July 5, 2021 at 10:42 am
Awesome achievement for an awesome club!
MIGHTY BARUM!


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Breaking! Kamal to battle 7 villains in 'Vikram'
We broke the news first to you that the next shooting schedule of Kamal Haasan's 'Vikram' will begin in Coimbatore from tomorrow, November 17th. It is said that the cast and crew will camp for more than a month there until the film is wrapped up. Kamal, Vijay Sethupathi and Fahadh Faasil will be working together and Lokesh Kanagaraj himself and his team are eagerly waiting to see them in action.
Reliable sources have given us the hot news that Vijay Sethupathi's villain character in 'Vikram' will have six brothers and Kamal will have a faceoff with all of them. Actor Sampath Ram is playing the eldest brother and Chemban Vinod Jose the younger one to VJS while the other actors will be revealed during the shooting. The sources add that Lokesh has given equal importance to all the negative characters as much as the positive ones.
'Vikram' produced by Raaj Kamal Films International has music by Anirudh, cinematography by Girish Ganghadaran and editing by Philomin Raj. The stellar cast has Kamal, Vijay Sethupathi, Fahadh Faasil, Kalidas Jayaram, S. Gayathrie, Shivani Narayanan, Mynaa Nandhini, VJ. Maheshwari and Narain. It has already been announced that this super exciting biggie will hit the screens worldwide in April 2022.
The SIFCC comes in support of Suriya in the Jai Bhim controversy!
Kamal Haasan unleashes his new fashion pursuit at the fanfare event in the USA!


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Former FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH Drummer JEREMY SPENCER Returns In PSYCHOSEXUAL; Video Streaming
news heavy metal psychosexual
Jeremy Spencer, former drummer and co-founding member of Five Finger Death Punch, has unleashed a new project stemmed from the darker corners of his psyche with the industrial-tinged gothic rock band PsychoSexual. Taking the persona of front man Devil Daddy, Spencer has created a dauntless soundscape for listeners that is equal parts horror and fantasy. In celebration of the macabre for Halloween, PsychoSexual have unveiled their new charmingly grim new single "I Wanna Be The Blood In Your Cut" with an anime-inspired music video to coincide with its chorus sung entirely in Japanese.
"'I Wanna Be The Blood In Your Cut' was something that came to me one night when I was having a goth moment, missing the sounds of Type O Negative, and even the nu-wave flavorings of Gary Numan," recalls Spencer. "I felt like doing a dark, demented kind of love song, and I think that translates very well. As I was writing the lyrics, I was visualizing them coming to life via anime, which gave me the idea for not only the video, but to also sing a chorus in Japanese. I've always loved touring Japan, and the language has always fascinated me, so it all came together rather organically."
Torch The Faith consists of 12 tracks including the original English-only version of "I Wanna Be The Blood In Your Cut" as well as an alternate mix featuring Type O Negative guitarist/co-lead vocalist Kenny Hickey. "I'm a fan of so many types of music—from David Bowie to Devo to black metal bands," shares Spencer. "PyschoSexual is the outlet I've needed to bring all these things together in one big evil stew."
PsychoSexual is rounded out by guitarist Crucifier, bassist Astaroth and drummer Volac, and they plan on hitting the road to torch the masses in 2021.
(Photo by: Shane O' Neal)