Shows
Mastering The Game Podcast87: CES 2025 RecapCheck out Media Tech Reviews for the latest news about Tech, Media, and Entertainment.Summary:In the latest episode of the Mastering the Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses highlights from the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES). He emphasizes the introduction of NVIDIA’s RTX 5000 series graphics cards, specifically the 5080 and 5090 models, priced at approximately $1,000 and $2,000, respectively. These cards will feature DLSS 4 and GDDR 7 memory, along with AI enhancements. Additionally, AMD is set to launch their RX 90 70 series to compete with NVIDIA’s mid-range offerings, though pricing details are still unclear. Harris expresses particular exci...
2025-01-1301 min
Breve Music Podcast67: Reminiscing About Guitar HeroLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris reflects on his fond memories of playing Guitar Hero, a game he preferred over Rock Band due to its earlier release. He reminisces about the enjoyment he experienced both solo and with friends and family while playing. Jermaine still listens to some of the songs from the game and invites listeners to share their experiences and favorite tracks from...
2024-11-1900 minBreve Music Podcast66: Let The Haters Fuel YouLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the importance of protecting one’s dreams and mental health in the face of negativity. He shares a personal experience involving a discouraging response from an applicant to his new business venture, where the individual harshly criticized his abilities. Instead of allowing this negativity to deter him, Jermaine chose to block the person and use th...
2024-11-1201 minMastering The Game Podcast76: Steam Warning Customers About Purchasing A LicenseSummaryIn the latest episode of the Mastering the Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses a recent change by Steam, the PC gaming platform, which now warns customers in their shopping cart when they are purchasing a license for a game instead of owning it outright. This update comes ahead of a California law set to take effect next year, requiring clearer notifications about the nature of digital game purchases. Jermaine appreciates Steam’s proactive approach but expresses frustration that most digital games are merely licenses, limiting users’ ability to play them indefinitely. While he understands that some...
2024-10-2801 minBreve Music Podcast63: Composer Highlight #1 - Percy GraingerLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the influential Australian composer Percy Grainger, born in July 1882 and passed away in February 1961. Grainger is best known for his piano arrangement of the folk song “Country Gardens,” but Jermaine highlights pieces like “Irish Tune from County Derry” and “Lincolnshire Posy” as significant works in the band repertoire. Reflecting on his personal experiences, Jermaine shares his journey thro...
2024-10-2201 minBreve Music Podcast60: Level Music Distributor Shutting DownLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn the latest episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses recent announcements regarding the shutdown of two music platforms: TikTok Music, set to close in late November, and Warner Music Group’s distribution service, Level Music. While Harris expresses disappointment about Level Music’s closure, he admits he was not familiar with the platform prior to this news. He highlights the negative impact on arti...
2024-10-0101 minMastering The Game Podcast70: Star Wars Outlaws Initial ThoughtsSummaryIn this episode of the Mastering the Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the recent release of “Star Wars Outlaws,” a game developed by Ubisoft. He admits to having forgotten about its launch and, although he hasn’t purchased it yet, he’s seen enough gameplay videos to form an opinion. Harris expresses disappointment with the game’s quality, citing a history of underwhelming experiences with Ubisoft titles over the past decade. He notes that “Star Wars Outlaws” launched in a buggy state, with some players on PS5 even having to delete their save files to continue playi...
2024-09-1601 minMastering The Game Podcast69: Concord DelistingSummaryIn this episode of the Mastering the Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the video game Concord, which was released on August 23, 2024, but was taken offline by its publisher, Sony, just two weeks later due to disappointing popularity. This swift action highlights the competitive nature of the gaming industry. Harris notes that there wasn’t much positive buzz around Concord prior to its launch and suggests that its lack of uniqueness compared to established games like Overwatch 2 contributed to its failure. He emphasizes the need for innovation in game design, such as incorporating a story mode, to...
2024-09-0901 minMastering The Game Podcast66: Mr. Robot (TV Show) ReviewIn this episode of the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the TV show “Mr. Robot,” which premiered on USA Network in 2015. The series follows Elliott, a cybersecurity worker by day and hacker by night, as he attempts to orchestrate a significant hack against a major corporation in the first two seasons, with the subsequent seasons exploring the aftermath of that hack. Harris appreciates the show’s realistic portrayal of hacking, contrasting it with typical exaggerated representations in media. He also highlights the show’s sensitive depiction of Elliott’s mental health struggles, particularly his dissociative state, which is explored mo...
2024-08-1901 minBreve Music Podcast53: Is Pop Music Becoming Less MelodicLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn the latest episode of the Breville Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses an article that questions whether pop music has become less melodic over the years. Initially expecting a straightforward “yes,” Harris was surprised by the article’s nuanced analysis of pop music trends over the past 60 years. It highlights the evolution from doo-wop and rock in the 1950s and 60s to the current incorporation of EDM el...
2024-08-1300 minMastering The Game Podcast63: Xbox Gamepass Price HikesSummaryIn the latest episode of the Mastering the Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Microsoft’s decision to raise the price of Xbox Game Pass. The previous $11 tier, now replaced by a $15 option called Xbox Game Pass Standard, will no longer include day-one titles and offers limited access to games along with online multiplayer features. The highest tier, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, will cost $20 per month and provides full access to all Game Pass titles. Despite recent price increases, Harris believes that Microsoft will not face significant subscriber losses due to their extensive acquisitions in the ga...
2024-07-2901 minMastering The Game Podcast61: Baldur's Gate 3 Is Not For MeIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares his experience playing Baldur’s Gate 3. Despite initial excitement and an attempt to give it a chance, he quickly realized the game wasn’t for him due to its high fantasy RPG elements. Jermaine found the combat system too cumbersome, requiring multiple steps to execute attacks, unlike the immediate style he prefers in games. Disappointed with the gameplay, he decided to stop playing and requested a refund, expressing regret that he couldn’t enjoy a game many others appreciate, primarily due to the combat mechanics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com...
2024-07-1501 minBreve Music Podcast48: Why Is The Spotify Recommendation Algorithm So Accurate?Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJoin the discord server: https://pxl.to/breve-music-discord-serverSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, hosted by Jermaine Harris, he expresses his admiration for Spotify’s podcast and music streaming services. He particularly praises Spotify’s recommendations algorithm, sharing an amusing anecdote about a coincidence involving the TV show “The Boys,” actor Jack Quaid, and a song called “Time in a Bottle” from the movie “X-Men: Days of Future Past.” Jermaine reflects on how Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlist re...
2024-07-0901 minMastering The Game Podcast60: Demon Slayer Video Game ReviewJermaine Harris, the host of the Mastering the Game podcast, revisits playing Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles after forgetting about it for a while. He notes the game’s similarity to the Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm franchise, appreciating the art style and gameplay mechanics. As a fan of elemental combat, Jermaine enjoys the water and fire styles in Demon Slayer. While not heavily invested in the story mode, he finds it engaging enough. Jermaine recommends the game to fans of the Naruto series looking for a new anime-related gaming experience. Ho...
2024-07-0800 min
Procedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast12: What Makes A Perfect Detective Show?In this episode of the Procedurally Generated podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his thoughts on cinematography and creating a detective show. He admires the timeless quality of shows like Monk but desires a modern-day adaptation of classics like Murder, She Wrote and Columbo. Jermaine emphasizes the importance of relatability in storytelling and expresses a preference for a more contemporary camera style in his hypothetical detective series. Despite lacking formal film education, he remains enthusiastic about learning more and hints at a possible follow-up episode exploring specific aspects of cinematography in various TV shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast...
2024-07-0402 minMastering The Game Podcast59: Xbox & Fire Stick TV PartnershipIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast hosted by Jermaine Harris, it was announced that Xbox has collaborated with Amazon to introduce Xbox cloud gaming on select Fire TV devices. Starting in July, users will be able to download the Xbox app on the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and the regular Fire TV 4K device. While Jermaine doesn’t personally play cloud games, he appreciates the accessibility it offers. This partnership benefits Microsoft and gamers by providing access to games without needing a console, requiring only an Xbox Game Pass membership and the mentioned Fire Stick devices. Although not all ma...
2024-07-0101 minMastering The Game Podcast57: Hitman World Of Assassination ReviewSummaryIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast hosted by Jermaine Harris, he discusses his love for the Hitman World of Assassination game. Although he hadn’t played any Hitman games as a kid, upon trying the latest trilogy a few years ago, he became enamored with the detailed level design and high replay-ability factor. The game’s stealth elements resonated with him, reminding him of his fondness for stealth games from his childhood. One aspect he appreciates about Hitman is the variety of options available to complete missions, providing a fun challenge for players. Jermaine recommends the Hitman t...
2024-06-1701 minBreve Music Podcast45: DJs On TwitchLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Twitch’s recent deal with major music publishers like UMG, Warner Music Group, and Sony Music, allowing DJs to use copyrighted music legally on the platform. This development benefits DJs financially and provides more exposure for artists. The revenue split is currently 50/50 between DJs and Twitch, though details about payments to rights holders are unclear. Jermaine is excited about this opportunity for creators to earn more money and speculates on...
2024-06-1701 minProcedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast8: Criminal Minds ReviewIn the podcast “Procedurally Generated,” hosted by Jermaine Harris, the evolution of the popular police procedural show “Criminal Minds” is discussed. Starting in 2005 and ending in 2020 before being revived as a Paramount+ exclusive titled “Criminal Minds Evolution,” the show has undergone changes in its narrative structure. While the original series focused on self-contained episodes with occasional recurring villains, the new iteration emphasizes a continuous storyline centered around a main villain and his criminal network. While some appreciate this shift to a more cinematic approach, others feel it prolongs plotlines unnecessarily. Jermaine expresses a desire for quicker resolutions within the season arcs and hop...
2024-06-1202 minBreve Music Podcast44: Spotify Price 2024 IncreasesLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Spotify’s recent price increases. The solo plan is going up by $1 a month, the duo plan by $2, and the family plan by $3. While he prefers that prices wouldn’t rise, Jermaine hopes these changes will benefit writers, artists, and music rights holders in the long run. He explores the idea that Spotify aims to reduce costs to reinvest in its growth, potentially affecting artist payouts. If artists earn less...
2024-06-1102 minMastering The Game Podcast56: IGN Live & MoreIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his experience watching IGN Live over the past weekend. He highlights several upcoming games that caught his attention, including the new Warhammer 4000 game, Space Marine 2, set to release in September as a third-person shooter. Other games mentioned were Eternal Strands and Black Myth Wukong, with the latter expected to launch in August this year. Despite being initially forgotten, the recent reveal trailer has sparked excitement for Black Myth Wukong. Jermaine reflects on the busy week for gaming with events like the summer showcase, Xbox showcase, and IGN Live, expressing enth...
2024-06-1001 minBreve Music Podcast43: Stack by Rostr (A Review)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryStack by Rostr Webiste: https://stack.rostr.cc/Jermaine Harris, the host of the Breve Music Podcast, introduces Stack, a website he recently discovered. He praises Stack for being a one-stop platform that offers a variety of resources, making it convenient for learners at all levels in the music industry. Jermaine emphasizes that his endorsement is not promotional but stems from his genuine interest in sharing valuable tools. He highlights sections on Stack that cater...
2024-06-0400 min
Breve Music Podcast41: Kendrick Lamar vs Drake (2024 Rap Beef)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the ongoing rap battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar that has been making waves on Twitter and Reddit. Despite enjoying music from both artists, Jermaine finds it challenging to witness this unfolding rivalry. From his perspective, Kendrick Lamar seems to be winning the battle, being considered a superior lyricist compared to Drake, especially in their recent releases. Initially skeptical about the authenticity of the beef, Jermaine now believes it is...
2024-05-1401 minMastering The Game Podcast53: Ads In Video Games + Tipping DevelopersIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses EA’s CEO Andrew Wilson considering placing ads in their AAA games, which raises concerns given the recent price hikes in gaming. The base game prices have gone up from $60 to $70, with even pricier versions available. Harris worries about the impact of ads on gameplay immersion and fears that more studios will follow suit. While the idea of tipping game developers sounds appealing, Harris suspects the money would likely end up in executives’ pockets rather than benefiting the actual developers. This raises ethical concerns, especially if companies are not adequately supporti...
2024-05-1301 minProcedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast6: SWAT (2017 TV Show) ReviewIn this episode of Procedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast, Jermaine Harris, who discusses his admiration for the TV show “SWAT.” The show, which premiered in 2017, follows the LAPD SWAT team known as 20 SWAT. He enjoys the action-packed nature of the series but feels that it leans more towards being a popcorn flick than a heavy drama. Despite hearing about potential cancellations after seasons 6 and 7, Jermaine expresses uncertainty about the show’s future. He suggests that ending the series after season 8 might be a good idea due to changes in the main team and concerns about declining writing quality. Additionally, he pro...
2024-05-0801 minMastering The Game Podcast51: Level Scaling In Video GamesIn this episode of the Mastering The Game podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his thoughts level scaling. He focuses on Gotham Knights, expressing dissatisfaction with the game’s enemy leveling system. He finds it less enjoyable to level up when enemies scale in strength along with the player, making progression feel stagnant. Despite this, Jermaine acknowledges that the crafting system in the game can help offset these challenges by allowing players to create stronger gear with elemental effects like fire, poison, and ice. He contrasts the game with the idea of a zone system similar to Pokémon, where areas hav...
2024-05-0601 minProcedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast5: Law & Order Organized Crime Becoming A Peacock ExclusiveIn this podcast episode of “Procedurally Generated” hosted by Jermaine Harris, he discusses the transition of the show “Law and Order: Organized Crime” to become exclusive to the streaming platform Peacock. While Jermaine personally doesn’t mind the shift since he already watches the show on Peacock, he believes it could attract more subscribers to the platform. He expresses optimism about the potential for the show to explore darker themes and be more violent due to the freedom afforded by streaming services. The mention of Reggie from season 2 sparks speculation about his return and the opportunity to delve into edgier storylines...
2024-05-0301 minProcedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast4: NCIS Franchise ReviewIn the podcast episode, host Jermaine Harris discusses the NCIS franchise, expressing disappointment over the cancellation of NCIS Hawaii. While he enjoyed watching NCIS New Orleans and appreciates binge-watching without breaks, he admits to losing interest in NCIS LA but plans to revisit it. Jermaine isn’t a fan of NCIS Sydney due to its setting outside the US, speculating that it may not last beyond three seasons like NCIS Hawaii. He anticipates new spin-offs focusing on Gibbs and earlier cast members Ziva and Tony to have more longevity compared to NCIS Sydney. Despite doubts about the upcoming spin-offs, Jermaine ho...
2024-05-0102 minBreve Music Podcast39: Are AI Music Websites Taking Jobs?Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this Breve Music Podcast episode, hosted by Jermaine Harris, the discussion revolves around the increasing role of AI in creating music. Jermaine highlights two websites, Stable Audio and Mubert, that allow users to generate AI-based music from prompts, which he found surprisingly good, resembling typical background music in TV shows or movies. He addresses concerns about AI potentially taking jobs from producers but acknowledges the value of human composers in providing customization and making edits that AI...
2024-04-3001 min
Mastering The Game Podcast50: Deadpool 3 AnticipationIn this episode of the “Mastering the Game” podcast hosted by Jermaine Harris, excitement builds for the upcoming release of Deadpool 3. While Jermaine prefers to go into movies without prior knowledge, he expresses anticipation for the movie due to his love for Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men franchise. He acknowledges Jackman’s contributions but believes it’s time for a new actor to take on the iconic role. Speculating on the possibility of a new Wolverine appearing in the film and envisioning a symbolic passing of the torch from Jackman to the successor, Jermaine looks forward to what th...
2024-04-2901 minBreve Music Podcast38: Supertone's AI Voice ChangerLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedArticle About Supertone's AI Voice Shifter: https://pxl.to/hybe-supertone-shiftIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, Jermaine Harris discusses the recent release of HYBE’s beta tool called Supertone Shift, which enables voice translation across different languages. Initially offering a limited number of languages, this innovative technology presents exciting possibilities like listening to favorite songs in various languages. Jermaine anticipates further advancements and broader language options in the future, highlighting the current impressive capability of translating vo...
2024-04-2300 minMastering The Game Podcast49: Older Games Are Still PopularArticle About 2023 Gaming Data: https://pxl.to/2023-Video-Game-AnalyticsIn this episode of the“Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses insights from Newzoo about the gaming industry in 2023. The analysis reveals that the most popular games have been around for over three years, with PC, Xbox, and PlayStation titles averaging seven years old. The Switch stands out with newer games. Games like Fortnite, Roblox, and Grand Theft Auto 5, which are older, continue to dominate. The trend of playing established multiplayer games may persist due to ongoing updates and player engagement. Jermaine highlights the...
2024-04-2203 minMastering The Game Podcast48: Playing Civilization 6 With NeuralinkIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the use of Neuralink to enable a quadriplegic individual named Nolan Arbaugh to play Civilization 6 using his mind. Jermaine expresses admiration for this technological development, noting that it provides Arbaugh with increased independence and enjoyment. However, he also voices concerns about the new and untested nature of Neuralink, as well as the potential risks of implanting such a device in the human mind. While acknowledging that Arbaugh consented to the implant and supporting individual choices regarding its use, Harris remains wary of potential misuse or manipulation of the technology by bad...
2024-04-1501 minBreve Music Podcast36: Principles for Music Creation With AILearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedJermaine Harris, the host of the Breve Music Podcast, discusses a collaboration between Universal Music Group and Roland to establish principles for music creation with AI. These principles emphasize the integral role of music in humanity and highlight how technology can enhance music production. Jermaine appreciates the focus on using AI to benefit musicians and humanity, emphasizing the importance of responsible use. He looks forward to the partnership’s development and hopes to see the industry leverage AI to help musicians ge...
2024-04-0900 minMastering The Game Podcast47: Handheld Xbox Coming Soon?In the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Xbox’s potential entry into the handheld console market. Phil Spencer, a key figure at Xbox, expressed interest in the leading PC handheld consoles - Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and Steam Deck. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that any Xbox handheld would authentically embody the Xbox experience. Jermaine believes this cautious approach is crucial to avoid rushed products and potential poor sales. By prioritizing the gaming experience and developer support, he anticipates strong sales and positive reception. Overall, there is anticipation for what Xbox will ultimately bring to the...
2024-04-0800 min
Procedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast2: Monk (TV Show) ReviewJermaine Harris, host of the podcast “Procedurally Generated,” discusses the TV show “Monk,” expressing his fondness for it. He reminisces about watching it with his mother and its unique appeal as a non-traditional police procedural show. The series follows Adrian Monk, a former detective turned consultant, who struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder following his wife’s death. Despite its focus on solving cases, the show skillfully incorporates Monk’s personal challenges. Jermaine recommends watching multiple episodes to truly grasp the essence of the show and encourages listeners to give it a try if they haven’t already. Hosted on Acas...
2024-04-0302 minBreve Music Podcast35: The Value of PatienceLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the importance of patience in various aspects of life, drawing from his experience in training his new puppy. He emphasizes the need for patience when working towards personal improvement or professional growth, such as in music production or building a following. Jermaine highlights that progress often takes time and encourages listeners to assess their own patience levels, noting that incremental improvements are significant even if immediate results are not visible. He advises...
2024-04-0201 min
Mastering The Game Podcast46: Madame Web ReviewIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares his thoughts on the movie “Madame Web.” Despite poor reviews, he went in with an open mind. The film revolves around Cassandra Webb protecting three students from the villain Ezekiel, using her clairvoyance power. Jermaine criticizes the use of ADR for Ezekiel’s dialogue, excessive shaky cam, and unnecessary angles. He also expresses disappointment that the girls never gain powers as hinted. Despite cool elements like Ezekiel’s black Spider-Man suit, Jermaine feels the movie’s execution fell short, leaving much to be desired. He speculates about the need for Sony to contin...
2024-04-0102 min
Breve Music Podcast33: TikTok Ban LoomingLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the potential ban of TikTok in the United States. The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that could prohibit Americans from using the app due to concerns about external influences on the population. While awaiting the Senate’s response, Jermaine considers the impact from a music perspective, noting the platform’s role in promoting musicians and raising privacy concerns. He argues that lawmakers should weigh the potential negative effects on t...
2024-03-1900 min
Mastering The Game Podcast44: Playstation LayoffsIn this episode of the Mastering The Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Sony’s recent layoff of about 900 employees from its PlayStation division, including studios like Insomniac Games, Naughty Dog, and Firesprite. The layoffs were announced by Jim Ryan, a top executive at PlayStation, who emphasized the need for changes to grow the business. Harris expresses frustration at the trend of layoffs in the tech industry, believing that focusing on providing great gaming experiences would be more beneficial than simply pursuing growth for its own sake. He argues that executives should prioritize creating quality games and treating their employees we...
2024-03-1802 min
Procedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast1: Blue Bloods (Is It Copaganda?)In this episode of “Procedurally Generated,” host Jermaine Harris delves into the popular police procedural show “Blue Bloods.” The show, centered on the Reagan family with a rich history in law enforcement, is set in New York City. Jermaine applauds the series for its insightful social commentary, but he also critically examines its portrayal of police actions and accountability.Jermaine passionately critiques specific episodes of “Blue Bloods,” shedding light on instances of police behavior and language depicted in the show. While acknowledging the importance of law enforcement, he advocates for enhanced accountability and suggests implementing mandatory fitness requirements...
2024-03-1303 min
Mastering The Game Podcast43: Modern Warfare 3's Best PlaylistsIn the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his recent experiences with Modern Warfare 3. He particularly enjoys the snipers only playlist, as it allows for a more balanced gameplay and takes him back to his roots of using sniper rifles. He expresses a preference for larger capacity rifles, as they provide more shots without needing frequent reloading. Jermaine hopes for the return of a shipment playlist for team-based objectives, and appreciates the daily challenges that encourage him to use different weapons or attachments. He finds hardcore modes easier for completing challenges, especially those related to headshots or using seco...
2024-03-1102 min
Breve Music Podcast31: Dune 2 Soundtrack ReviewLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Hans Zimmer’s latest work on the Dune 2 soundtrack. While admitting to not having seen the movie yet, he expresses admiration for the ethereal and futuristic soundscape of the soundtrack, likening it to Zimmer’s previous works. He particularly highlights tracks such as “Kiss the Ring,” “Eclipse,” and “Beginnings Are Such Delicate Times” as standout pieces. Despite similarities to Zimmer’s past work, Jermaine encourages listeners to explore and appreciate this new soundtrack.
2024-03-0500 min
Mastering The Game Podcast42: Suicide Squad Kill The Justice League Post LaunchIn this episode the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the negative reviews surrounding the game “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.” While acknowledging its potential, he believes that placing the game in the Arkham universe limited its narrative focus and led to repetitive gameplay. Jermaine expresses interest in finishing the game due to its connection to the Batman franchise but plans to wait for a discount. He criticizes the live service model, suggesting that the game should have prioritized a more narrative-driven approach rather than creating artificial reasons for players to return. Comparing it to the original Arkham g...
2024-03-0401 min
Breve Music Podcast30: The Power of SaturationLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris delves into the fascinating world of saturation tools in music production. The central theme revolves around the use of saturation to enhance the overall sound of recordings, adding a controlled amount of distortion and noise to create a pleasing auditory experience.Jermaine emphasizes the nuanced art of utilizing saturation, highlighting how it can be employed to blend orchestral strings from different libraries. He...
2024-02-2701 min
Mastering The Game Podcast41: Revisiting Civilization 5 In 2024In this episode, Jermaine Harris, the host of “Mastering the Game” podcast, shares his rekindled passion for the game Civilization 5. Despite a hiatus from the game, Jermaine confesses to spending extended hours immersed in the world of Civilization once again. His renewed interest in the game prompts an exploration of various in-game elements and strategies, marking a significant shift in his gameplay approach.Key Discussion Points:Rekindled Passion: Jermaine reveals his recent return to Civilization 5 after a hiatus and his deep enjoyment of the immersive gameplay experience.Diverse Character Usage: Initially favoring Darius...
2024-02-2601 minProcedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast0: IntroductionIntroducing Procedurally Generated: A Police Procedural Podcast, hosted by Jermaine Harris. The podcast's focus is on police procedurals and crime shows. Jermaine, a fan of such shows, plans to discuss episodes from a specific franchise, provide episode summaries, and share personal thoughts. While inspired by classics like Law and Order and NCIS, Jermaine also looks forward to discussing upcoming shows. Listeners can anticipate insights and discussions on various crime dramas in the upcoming episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-2500 min
Breve Music Podcast29: Firing My Music Publishing AdministratorLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his decision to drop his music publishing administrator and take control of submitting his own music. He feels empowered by this decision as it allows him to have better oversight and is frustrated that he didn’t do it sooner. Jermaine mentions that the original company would have taken 15% of earnings, even if they were minimal. He emphasizes the importance of organizing metadata and offers further insights on th...
2024-02-2000 min
Mastering The Game Podcast40: Suicide Squad Kill The Justice LeagueIn the “Mastering the Game Podcast,” host Jermaine Harris shares his initial thoughts on the upcoming game Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League. He admits forgetting about the game until a Reddit post mentioned the appearance of the Joker character. Despite intending to purchase it, he plans to wait for a discount as he has reservations about potential gameplay similarities with Gotham Knights and concerns about the live service model and loot elements potentially interfering with the core story. While expecting mixed reviews, Jermaine still plans to buy the game unless reviews are overwhelmingly negative. Hosted on Acast. See acas...
2024-02-1901 min
Breve Music Podcast28: Why Universal Music Group Is Leaving TikTokLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Universal Music Group’s decision to remove its music from TikTok due to payment concerns. UMG believes that TikTok is not paying enough for the music used on its platform, while TikTok argues that it shouldn’t have to pay as much as other services like Spotify or Apple Music because it doesn’t allow users to play full-length songs. Jermaine is inclined to agree with T...
2024-02-1301 min
Mastering The Game Podcast39: Palworld (Why All The Hype?)In the “Mastering the Game Podcast,” host Jermaine Harris shares his initial thoughts on the upcoming game Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League. He admits forgetting about the game until a Reddit post mentioned the appearance of the Joker character. Despite intending to purchase it, he plans to wait for a discount as he has reservations about potential gameplay similarities with Gotham Knights and concerns about the live service model and loot elements potentially interfering with the core story. While expecting mixed reviews, Jermaine still plans to buy the game unless reviews are overwhelmingly negative. Hosted on Acast. See acas...
2024-02-1201 minBreve Music Podcast27: Bronze AILearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris introduces Bronze, a tech startup set to launch a music creation tool beta later this year. The company boasts a waiting list of over a thousand artists and emphasizes their “transformational sound format,” enabling generative, interactive, or personalized music experiences. Notably, the tool has been used by artists like Disclosure and in various industries such as gaming, augmented reality, virtual reality, and film. Jermaine, personally intrigued by the platform’s pote...
2024-02-0601 min
Mastering The Game Podcast38: Is Gotham Knights Still Good?In the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares his recent experience with playing Gotham Knights. He initially found the game disappointing, particularly in terms of its combat system, which he had hoped would resemble the mechanics of previous Batman games. Comparing it to Spider-Man and Spider-Man Miles Morales, Jermaine feels that the combat in those games is superior. Additionally, he finds the game’s map cluttered but appreciates the inclusion of random conversations. The sound of the bat cycle and the complexity of the loot-based crafting system also detract from his enjoyment. Despite his disappointment, as a fan of Bat...
2024-02-0501 minBreve Music Podcast26: Recent Purple MusicalsLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his current fascination with the color purple, linking it to modern musicals. He mentions “The Color Purple” and “Purple Rain,” expressing an interest in watching the latter as a musical on a streaming service. Although he has only seen bits of the original movies, he praises the soundtrack of “The Color Purple” but is hesitant to watch the movie due to its sad plot lines. Jermaine appreciates the music and re...
2024-01-3001 min
Mastering The Game Podcast37: Can't Own Ubisoft Games?In the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses a recent interview with Philip Tremblay, a director from Ubisoft. Tremblay suggests that gamers may need to accept not owning copies of games for subscription services to thrive, drawing a parallel to the shift towards streaming services for music. However, Jermaine disagrees, noting that while music streaming services offer similar libraries, game subscription services like Ubisoft’s are limited to their own games. He believes that for subscription services to be more popular, they should offer a wider range of games, akin to Microsoft Game Pass. Jermaine appreciates the ide...
2024-01-2902 minBreve Music Podcast25: How The "No AI Fraud Act" Impacts The Music IndustryLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses a bill proposed in the U.S. Congress on January 10th, aiming to establish the right of publicity at the federal level. This bill would enable individuals to seek compensation for unauthorized use of their likeness or voice. While not specifically aimed at the music industry, its potential impact is of particular interest to the podcast. Jermaine supports the bill, expressing concern about AI recreating voices and likenesses...
2024-01-2301 min
Breve Music Podcast24: Wonka (2023) Soundtrack ReviewLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryJermaine Harris, the host of the Breve Music Podcast, shares his experience watching “Wonka,” a prequel to the Willy Wonka movies. He enjoyed the film, highlighting the delightful songs and the incorporation of familiar tunes like the Oompa Loompa song and “Pure Imagination” into the score. Jermaine recommends the movie, praising composers Joby Talbot and Neil Hannon for capturing its light and wholesome essence. While he typically prefers darker soundtracks, he acknowledges the quality of this iteration’s music, c...
2024-01-1601 min
Mastering The Game Podcast35: Dynasty Warriors 9 in 2024In the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares his experience with Dynasty Warriors 9. As a long-time fan of the franchise, he reflects on the changes made in the latest installment. While acknowledging some improvements, such as reduced glitches and attempts at innovation with an open-world format, Jermaine expresses dissatisfaction with the game’s additional features like fishing and the difficulty of using the bow and arrow due to camera movement. He longs for the straightforward, story-driven gameplay of earlier titles and hopes for a return to the classic format of the series in future releases....
2024-01-1501 minBreve Music Podcast23: Music Publishing Administration WoesLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode, Jermaine Harris expresses his frustration with the slow process of registering music with a Music Publishing Administrator, which has been pending for over a year and a half. He finds it problematic that there is no transparency in the process and believes that with advancing technology, there should be a more straightforward and quicker method for copyright registration and music publishing administration. He hopes for more transparency from administrators and anticipates changes in laws...
2024-01-0901 minBreve Music Podcast22: Beat Galaxy (UMG x Roblox Partnership)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the new partnership between Universal Music Group (UMG) and Roblox, which has resulted in the creation of the Beat Galaxy Music Hub. The hub features a rhythm game that allows players to interact with music from UMG artists and also serves as a venue for virtual concerts. While expressing enthusiasm for the potential of this feature within Roblox, he raises questions about how royalties for...
2024-01-0200 min
Mastering The Game Podcast33: E3 CancelledIn episode 33 of the “Mastering the Game Podcast,” host Jermaine Harris discusses the official cancellation of E3, expressing disappointment as he had always wanted to attend. Reflecting on the event’s history, he notes that the last in-person E3 was in 2019, with the 2020 edition being cancelled and the subsequent virtual event lacking the same feel. Harris isn’t surprised by the cancellation, citing the trend of publishers hosting their own gaming conferences and the emergence of alternative events like the Summer Game Fest. He speculates on the potential for E3 to make a comeback in the future, given its strong r...
2024-01-0101 minBreve Music Podcast21: 2023 In ReviewLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris reflects on 2023 and expresses gratitude for launching the podcast earlier in the year. He mentions learning a lot about audio production and expresses excitement about building upon this foundation in the coming year. He hopes to have longer episodes and potentially feature interview guests in the future. He invites listeners and anyone interested in collaborating to reach out. The episode concludes with holiday wishes and a...
2023-12-2600 min
Mastering The Game Podcast32: 2023 in ReviewIn episode 32 of the “Mastering the Game” podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares a humorous moment about a bird making noise outside his window as he begins recording. He reflects on finally finishing Grand Theft Auto 5 after multiple attempts and recommends it to listeners. Looking ahead to 2023, he plans to tackle games from his Steam backlog, including Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart, Yakuza, and Persona titles. Harris also discusses his goal to grow his YouTube channel, debating whether to hire an editor or dedicate more time to editing videos himself. He invites potential video editors to reach out and emphasizes his comm...
2023-12-2502 minBreve Music Podcast20: Bandzoogle & Bandcamp AcquisitionsLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses recent acquisitions in the music industry. DistroKid acquired Bandzoogle, an artist services platform that enables musicians to build websites and sell music directly to fans. This purchase aligns with the trend of DIY musicians seeking direct connections with their audience. Similarly, SongTrader acquired Bandcamp, a platform allowing musicians to sell music directly to fans. The episode emphasizes the importance of building multiple streams of income...
2023-12-1901 min
Mastering The Game Podcast31: How AI Could Improve MaddenIn this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the potential for AI to enhance the Madden gaming experience. He suggests that AI could generate dynamic in-game commentary tailored to specific player actions, as well as provide personalized commentary based on a player’s history in franchise mode. Harris also explores the idea of AI learning and mimicking a player’s individual style, allowing for more reliable game simulations. By incorporating AI in these ways, he believes it could create a more unique and player-focused experience.Shure SM7dB: https://amzn.to/3SDDD5i (L...
2023-12-1802 minBreve Music Podcast19: How To Learn From Spotify's LayoffsLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Spotify’s recent decision to lay off 1,500 employees, constituting 17% of its workforce. Despite this, Spotify showed a 1% net profitability in Q3, a significant improvement from the 7% losses in the previous year. Harris expresses hope for music streaming services and emphasizes a lesson to be learned from Spotify’s approach: the importance of leveraging existing resources to achieve growth. He encourages listeners, including music producers and entr...
2023-12-1202 min
Mastering The Game Podcast30: Grand Theft Auto VI Trailer ReactionIn this episode, Jermaine Harris shares his excitement about the long-awaited release of the Grand Theft Auto 6 trailer. The visuals and graphics are a significant improvement from GTA 5, with the game set in a fictionalized version of Florida called Leonita. The trailer showcases various details, including beach scenes, yachts, and a heist. Notably, the main protagonist is a woman named Lucia, marking a first for the franchise. Jermaine looks forward to exploring Lucia’s backstory and potential character development, expressing hope for a compelling storyline. He also discusses the possibility of playing as multiple characters. The episode concludes with an...
2023-12-1101 minBreve Music Podcast18: YouTube's Dream TrackLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses YouTube’s controversial new AI program called DeepTrack, which allows creators to generate music based on an artist’s voice. Notably, large music publishers like Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group have artists participating in the program, while Sony Music Entertainment has expressed concerns about copyright and fair compensation for artists. Dennis Coker from Sony Music emphasized the need for artists to opt in befo...
2023-12-0501 min
Mastering The Game Podcast29: Spider-Man: Miles Morales ReviewIn this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris reviews Spider-Man: Miles Morales. He appreciates the improved swinging mechanics compared to the previous game and notes that while the story is shorter, it’s fitting for a newer character like Miles. He enjoys most of the gameplay but criticizes some missions, particularly one involving a frustrating puzzle. Despite the smaller story, there are fewer gadgets and upgrades, which he finds acceptable. Jermaine humorously shares how he missed out on music during certain scenes due to playing with the volume off. Overall, he recommends the game and en...
2023-12-0402 minBreve Music Podcast17: Broadcast Music Inc (BMI) Changing OwnershipLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the recent news that Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) is undergoing a change in ownership, with New Mountain Capital acquiring a majority stake in the company. Jermaine expresses concerns about an equity-focused company entering the music industry but also sees potential for modernization and increased revenues for songwriters and rights holders. He hopes that the involvement of a company with significant assets could lead to positive...
2023-11-2801 minBreve Music Podcast16: New Blue Sun ReviewLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses Andre 3000’s latest album, “New Blues Son.” He shares his appreciation for the album, describing it as a personal and meditative reflection. While he finds it challenging to categorize into a single genre, he admires Andre’s commitment to creating heartfelt music. Jermaine also expresses his aspiration to create similar authentic music in the future. He highlights Andre’s consistency and authenticity as a musician and encour...
2023-11-2101 minBreve Music Podcast15: Mental Health Tips For MusiciansLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this podcast episode titled “15: Mental Health Tips For Musicians,” Jermaine Harris dives into various activities that can contribute to better mental health. He highlights the benefits of journaling, exercising, and playing a musical instrument, emphasizing the need for a consistent routine centered around positive activities. Furthermore, the speaker advocates seeking therapy as a valuable tool for improving mental well-being and underscores the importance of self-care.Interested in connecting with Jermaine?Email: info...
2023-11-1404 minBreve Music Podcast14: Now And Then (The Beatles' Last Song)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn the podcast episode Jermaine Harris, the host of the Brevin Music Podcast, discusses the recent release of a Beatles song titled “Now and Then”. Despite only half of the group being around, technology enabled the release of this track on November 2nd, 2023. The song, which has been in progress since the 1990s, is described as a melancholy love letter. He explains that the delay in publishing was due to the poor audio quality of John Lennon’s orig...
2023-11-0701 min
Mastering The Game Podcast25: Assassin's Creed Mirage (Initial Review)In this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris provides an initial review of the recently released game, Assassin’s Creed Mirage. Having spent around 15 hours playing the game, Jermaine offers his perspective on its gameplay mechanics and setting without delving into the story. He notes that the game strikes a balance between the original Assassin’s Creed style and recent RPG-focused titles like Valhalla and Odyssey. While it incorporates RPG elements such as gear upgrades and skill selection, there is a significant emphasis on stealth. Jermaine praises the game’s visuals and its value, particularly consid...
2023-11-0603 minBreve Music Podcast13: Spotify Update For Q1 2024Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode, host Jermaine Harris discusses Spotify’s upcoming changes to its royalty payout model. The company aims to pay out $1 billion to legitimate artists and rights holders over the next five years. Three significant changes are highlighted. First, starting in 2024, tracks will need to maintain a minimum amount of annual streams to generate royalties, differing from the current model where any stream over 30 seconds earns a payment. The impact of this shift remains to be se...
2023-10-3102 minBreve Music Podcast12: Finances For Musicians (Part 2)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, Jermaine Harris continues the discussion about managing finances as a musician. He delves into the less commonly discussed topic of investing, focusing on retirement accounts such as 401ks and IRAs. Harris explains that both accounts serve the purpose of saving for retirement but have key differences, including maximum investment amounts and employer matches. He highlights the distinctions between pre-tax and post-tax accounts and discusses the pros and cons of...
2023-10-2403 min
Mastering The Game Podcast23: Assassin's Creed 1 in 2023In this episode, host Jermaine Harris discusses the enduring appeal of the first Assassin’s Creed game, released 16 years ago. The game features a dual narrative involving modern-day character Desmond and his ancestor Altair, set in the late 1100s. The detailed recreation of Middle Eastern cities like Jerusalem and Damascus enhances the immersive experience. The episode highlights the game’s parkour and combat systems, as well as its innovative stealth mechanics. Harris expresses a preference for the more narrative-focused style of Assassin’s Creed 1 over the later open-world RPG format adopted by subsequent games in the series. He appreciates comple...
2023-10-2303 minBreve Music Podcast11: Finances for Musicians (Part 1)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses financial strategies for musicians when they start earning money in the music industry. He highlights the importance of distinguishing between recurring and one-time payments and emphasizes the need to set aside money for taxes. Jermaine suggests using tools like Mint.com and QuickBooks for tracking income and mentions the necessity of considering quarterly tax payments. Additionally, he advises on allocating funds for investment, savings, and...
2023-10-1704 minBreve Music Podcast10: Goals For Q4 2023Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses his goals for the remainder of the year and outlines his plans for the next year. He aims to release at least one more album by focusing on the Breve Low Brass Ensemble and utilizing virtual instruments such as Cinematic Studios Brass and Cinebrass Pro. His goal is to refine the sound he loves and collaborate with at least one guest on the podcast by...
2023-10-1001 minBreve Music Podcast9: Do Music Producers Need To Go To College?Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the question of whether music producers need to attend college. He emphasizes that formal education is not a necessity for success in music production but acknowledges its potential benefits, such as enhanced understanding and industry connections. The episode delves into the value of education in music production, including the significance of music theory and the practical skills needed for digital audio workstations. Harris also highlights...
2023-10-0303 min
Mastering The Game Podcast20: Most Underrated Tom Clancy GamesIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the most underrated Tom Clancy games, focusing on Ghost Recon Future Soldier. Despite other well-known titles like The Division 2 and Rainbow Six Vegas, he argues that Future Soldier doesn’t receive enough praise. Released in 2012, the game features adaptive camouflage, extensive weapon customization, and an absence of microtransactions, which set it apart. Jermaine appreciates the game’s simplicity and the lack of intrusive monetization common in modern gaming. He highlights the satisfaction of the gameplay, solid level design, and straightforward storyline, inviting listeners to share their experiences with Ghost Recon Future Soldier. The epis...
2023-10-0203 minBreve Music Podcast8: Artificial Intelligence in MusicLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris delves into the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the music industry. He acknowledges the concern that AI may eventually replace human artists and mentions being impressed by the realistic sound of AI-generated voices. He anticipates that within 7 to 10 years, AI voices will become less distinguishable from human voices. Despite concerns, he believes AI can be beneficial for artists, citing its potential to save time and...
2023-09-2604 minBreve Music Podcast7: Choosing A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses digital audio workstations (DAWs), which are programs used for recording, editing, and producing audio files. DAWs have revolutionized music creation, making it accessible to anyone. The episode highlights popular DAWs like Ableton Live, known for its workflow efficiency and live performance reliability, and Logic Pro, exclusively for macOS. Jermaine shares his preference for Bitwig Studio due to its modularity and hybrid track capabilities, recommending it...
2023-09-1902 min
Mastering The Game Podcast18: Is Unity Too Greedy?In this episode, Jermaine Harris focuses on Unity’s announcement of a new fee structure, the Unity Runtime Fee, for games using their engine. This fee, effective from January 1st, 2024, applies when a game is installed for the first time and is based on the Unity subscription tier. The fee ranges from half a cent to 20 cents per install, potentially impacting developers’ profits, especially for games with large installations. Harris criticizes this change, expressing concerns about increased game prices, negative impacts on developers, and potential price hikes for subscription services. He predicts a possible shift away from Unity to other engi...
2023-09-1803 minBreve Music Podcast6: Being A Content CreatorLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses into the advantages of consistently producing and sharing content, focusing specifically on platforms like YouTube. The episode underscores the importance of personal growth and takes pride in observing one’s evolution over time. He also highlights how regular content creation can lead to enhanced self-assurance and the ability to positively impact others through the created material. Additionally, the he also encourages audience interaction and invites feedback while also promoting their own br...
2023-09-1204 min
Mastering The Game Podcast17: Games as a ServiceIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the concept of live service video games and the games-as-a-service model. Host Jermaine Harris discusses the origins of this model, citing World of Warcraft as an early example. He explores various aspects of games as a service, including subscription-based games, microtransactions, and the controversy surrounding the inclusion of useful content behind paywalls. The host expresses concern about the heavy push for monetization in modern gaming, referencing examples from popular franchises like Star Wars Battlefront 2, FIFA, and NBA2K. While acknowledging the need for game developers to make money, the host advocates for a...
2023-09-1104 minBreve Music Podcast5: Music Marketing 101Learn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, the fundamentals of music marketing are discussed. The episode emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong brand identity, including choosing a unique and memorable name, securing a related web domain, and setting up landing pages for touring and merchandise. Additionally, the episode advises creating an email list and establishing a presence on major social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter. Prioritizing content creation and focusing...
2023-09-0503 min
Mastering The Game Podcast16: Batman Arkham SeriesIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the Batman Arkham series, expressing his enjoyment of all four games. He particularly favors Arkham City for its open-world depiction of Gotham City. While the games offer a fun representation of Batman and stay true to the comics, some criticism surrounds the use of the Batmobile in Arkham Knight, as it becomes repetitive and mandatory in various missions. Jermaine hopes for a new release in the Arkhamverse soon, especially after the non-Arkhamverse game Gotham Knights failed to capture the essence of a true Batman game.EquipmentMicrophone: HyperX QuadCast...
2023-09-0402 minBreve Music Podcast4: Four Most Common Music RoyaltiesLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode, host Jermaine Harris discusses the often misunderstood world of music royalties. He focuses on four major types: mechanical, performance, sync, and print royalties. Mechanical royalties are paid when a composition is reproduced or distributed, while performance royalties are earned from public performances, both physical and digital. Sync royalties come into play when music is used in visual media, and print royalties are paid for printed versions of songs. Harris also provides practical advice, such...
2023-08-2903 min
Mastering The Game Podcast15: E-SportsIn this episode, host Jermaine Harris delves into the world of eSports, highlighting its surge in popularity over the past decade and its role in creating a community and fostering competition. He explains that eSports has a rich history dating back to the 1970s with games like Space War and Space Invaders. The episode discusses popular eSports games such as League of Legends, Dota, Super Smash Bros., Madden NFL, and Call of Duty. While Jermaine hasn’t actively participated in competitive eSports, he expresses a keen interest in the concept, particularly due to its team aspect and his love fo...
2023-08-2802 minBreve Music Podcast2: FabFilter vs iZotope SuiteLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris delves into a comparison between FabFilter and iZotope plugins. Both companies offer similar plugins like equalizers and reverbs, but iZotope’s suite provides more features, with a specific highlight on the AI-powered Ozone tool for adjusting music. Harris personally uses FabFilter for mixing and iZotope for mastering, utilizing FabFilter for specific track adjustments and Ozone for overall EQ on the master bus. He recommends using products fr...
2023-08-1501 min
Mastering The Game Podcast13: Pokemon (2023)In this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the Pokémon franchise, sharing his personal experiences and thoughts. He reminisces about watching the Pokémon TV shows on WBKids and Cartoon Network and reflects on how the animated series complemented his gaming experiences. Discussing the various generations of Pokémon games, he expresses some disappointment with the latest releases, particularly Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, feeling they strayed from the core fun of the franchise. Jermaine highlights his preference for the earlier generations and expresses a desire to see familiar Pokémon in newer games...
2023-08-1403 minBreve Music Podcast1: IntroductionLearn the 5 companies you have to register your music with in this e-book: Music Royalties DemystifiedSummaryIn this episode of the Breve Music Podcast, host Jermaine Harris shares his goal of providing a platform to help musicians and artists navigate the music industry. He discusses his 17-year journey as a musician, from starting with the clarinet in sixth grade to learning the tuba in college. He emphasizes his love for music theory and his experiences in high school and college music programs.He also explains his shift towards music business and...
2023-08-0904 min
Mastering The Game Podcast12: Diversity in Video GamesIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the importance of diversity and representation in video games. He emphasizes that as a form of media, video games serve as a mirror to society, shaping perceptions and beliefs. Highlighting three games released within the past decade, he discusses how they have been praised for their diverse characters and storylines. “The Last of Us Part II” by Naughty Dog features a young gay protagonist and a prominent transgender character, exploring themes of identity and survival. “Tell Me Why” by Dontnod Entertainment includes a transgender man as one of its main characters, delving into the myst...
2023-08-0703 min
Mastering The Game Podcast11: Evolution of Video Game GraphicsIn this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the progression of video game graphics from the early days of pixel art to the present era of 4K gaming and virtual reality. He highlights the revolutionary impact of classic games like Pong and Space Invaders, emphasizing how they set the stage for future innovations despite their simplicity. Harris then explores the introduction of 3D graphics in the 1990s with games like Wolfenstein 3D and Doom, which significantly enhanced immersion and changed game design. The episode also delves into the leap in graphic quality during the 2000s with games such as Half-Life 2 and...
2023-07-3103 min
Mastering The Game Podcast7: Conflict: Desert Storm + SOCOM FranchiseIn this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses two lesser-known video game franchises. The first franchise is Conflict, focusing on the game Conflict: Desert Storm, a tactical third-person shooter set during the Gulf War. Jermaine highlights the game’s core mechanics, including team direction and night vision, noting its influence on subsequent games like Ghost Recon. Moving on, he explores the SOCOM franchise, a PlayStation exclusive series centered around U.S. Navy SEALs. Notable for its early online play capability, the series gained popularity, especially with its PSP releases. Despite a hiatus since 2011 and a...
2023-07-0304 minMastering The Game Podcast6: Ubisoft Forward (2023)In this episode, Jermaine Harris discusses the Ubisoft Forward presentation. The episode covers key games showcased in the event, including Avatar Frontiers of Pandora, Prince of Persia The Lost Crown, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage. Harris expresses interest in Avatar, noting its similarity to the movie and its resemblance to the Far Cry series. He also shows excitement for the long-awaited return of Prince of Persia and highlights the unique animation style and sound design. Regarding Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Jermaine praises the game but notes slight issues with character movement. He encourages listeners to share their thoughts on the...
2023-06-2603 minMastering The Game Podcast4: Summer Showcase 2023In this episode, host Jermaine Harris discusses the recent gaming event. He mentions several games that were featured, including a new Prince of Persia game set for release in January, as well as Mortal Kombat 1 and a Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 update. One standout game for him was Banisher’s Ghost of New Eden, which reminded him of Shadow of Mordor. He appreciates the innovation showcased in the Mortal Kombat franchise, particularly the Cameo system, and expresses his preference for gameplay demonstrations over cinematic trailers. Jermaine reflects on the challenge of keeping gaming franchises fresh and engaging, emphasizing th...
2023-06-1204 minMastering The Game Podcast3: Marvel's Avengers (2020)In this podcast episode, Jermaine Harris discusses his recent experience with Marvel’s Avengers video game, discussing both its positive and negative aspects. He expresses disappointment with bugs, microtransactions, and exclusive content for different platforms, criticizing the trend of releasing incomplete games with additional paid content. But he has hope for a better future game, citing X-Men Legends and Marvel Ultimate Alliance as enjoyable experiences. He highlights the desire for diverse teams and bonuses based on character selection, as well as a wider variety of objectives and villains. Despite these critiques, Jermaine recommends the game, particularly for fans of th...
2023-06-0508 minMastering The Game Podcast2: PlayStation Showcase 2023In this episode of the Mastering the Game Podcast, host Jermaine Harris discusses the recent PlayStation Showcase for 2023. He highlights games like Helldivers 2, Immortals of Avium, and Ghostrunner 2 but focuses on two major releases: Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Spider-Man 2. Jermaine expresses his excitement for Assassin’s Creed Mirage due to its return to a more stealth-focused gameplay style, sharing his preference for narrative-driven experiences over excessive side quests. He plans to wait a few days after the game’s October 12th release before playing, considering the potential launch issues typical of Ubisoft games. Additionally, Jermaine briefly mentions Spider-Man 2 but ad...
2023-05-2903 min