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Album Review: Walking Apollo – You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc.

Music

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March 17, 2022

Album Review: Walking Apollo – You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc.

Walking Apollo is made for radio play – and nowhere is that more apparent than on the Indie Folk outfit’s latest offering, You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc.

Walking Apollo Radio-Ready on You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc.

Every once in a while, as a listener, you come across a band/album that you know is ready for the airwaves. Meanwhile, Walking Apollo is exactly such an act. From the moment the harmonica rings out to introduce the opening track of their latest record, it’s clear that they’ve got something special going for them.

Mellow acoustic guitars build on that harmonica opener to set the tone early. Meanwhile, Christina Rotondo’s soaring vocals add an angelic quality to the instrumentation Buddy Taccolini arranges. And as a whole, Walking Apollo is instantly reminiscent of popular acts like Lady A.

Buddy Taccolini: Walking Apollo – used with permission

You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc. a Solid Effort

Impossible: The Fairytale Of Campus Martius Park has a very distinct Counting Crows vibe. Taccolini’s vocals take front and center, giving listeners the male perspective in a way that builds on similar themes of the opener while offering a different take. Overall, it’s a solid showcase of the versatility this band has.

Meanwhile, Sew has undeniable Paramore vibes circa 2005. This is the most uptempo track halfway through the record – complete with a killer guitar solo. So, if nothing else, Walking Apollo proves that they are not limited to one style and that they’re comfortable mixing things up.

Does This Record Deliver?

The one criticism that might come up for listeners of this record is that, at times, it feels a bit disjointed. Walking Apollo goes from uptempo to ballad with each new track. And because of this, it may be difficult for some listeners to get into. At times the tempo shifts from track to track feel jarring. But, if you can get past that as a listener, there are certainly a few gems in this small collection of songs.

Ultimately, whether or not Walking Apollo pulls listeners back for repeat listens, You’re My Pride And Joy, Etc. is certainly a solid effort that showcases what this band can do. But, even though they hit all the right notes and understand what works in terms of song structure and execution, there may be elements lacking for some in terms of replay value.

For even more of the best independent music reviews, don’t forget to come back to Screen Legion.

Album Review: Eric Anders & Mark O’Bitz – Variant Blues

Music

Axel Bloom

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March 17, 2022

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Album Review: Eric Anders & Mark O’Bitz – Variant Blues

Eric Anders and Mark O’Bitz have been quite the songwriting duo over the years. Meanwhile, Variant Blues is the latest installment of what is essentially their pandemic collection of songs. And this latest offering is a microcosm of the human condition under these current conditions – beautifully transposed into song.

Eric Anders & Mark O’Bitz Capture the Times on Variant Blues

As the opening track of ten on Variant Blues, Far Gone is a beautifully poignant, melancholy ballad. Acoustic chords lay the foundation for the ethereal vocals to follow. And right out of the gate, Far Gone channels something one might expect from the likes of Radiohead or The Verve.

Meanwhile, dreamy single notes ring out over the acoustics and vocals to add to that sonic dreamscape mood. In addition, Far Gone touches on the social isolation and themes of loneliness brought on by the global pandemic – in a way that’s both beautiful and broken.

Eric Anders - Mark OBitz - Variant Blues — Eric Anders – Mark OBitz – Variant Blues – used with permission

An Acoustic Time Capsule

Eric Anders and Marc O’Bitz continue the acoustic themes on Variant Blues with Oh To Leave Here. And while the follow-up track is considerably more uptempo than the album opener, many of the same themes are present. The dreamy soundscape vibe continues on the record – and there’s even a solo midway through this track.

Overall, even early on, Variant Blues captures a certain theme and mood that’s refreshing to listen to. And perhaps most notable is the fact that even though Anders and O’Bitz deal with heavy subject matter like sadness and isolation, the contrast of those themes alongside major chords and soothing sounds drives that juxtaposition home even harder.

A Sign of the Times

Variant Blues is the latest in a long-running collaboration between Mark O’Bitz and Eric Anders – and it shows. As any musician would tell you, finding musical, creative partnerships that work is a rare thing. And with a few albums under their belt as a duo, Anders and O’Bitz have certainly found their groove.

Anders and O’Bitz are a well-oiled, acoustic-driven machine on Variant Blues. And you only need a few measures to realize that they work together well. In that sense, the proof of that is in the ten tracks that make up Variant Blues. Moreover, even if you’re not a fan of acoustic, stripped-down albums, there’s no denying that Anders and O’Bitz found a winning formula when they decided to make records together – and Variant Blues is no exception.

For all the latest independent music reviews, check back regularly with Screen Legion.

’90 Day Fiance’: Avery Says She’s Slowly Converting Omar

Axel Bloom

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March 16, 2022

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’90 Day Fiance’: Avery Says She’s Slowly Converting Omar

90 Day Fiance celebs Avery Mills and Omar Albakour have been together for several years now. One of the things Avery said was that she converted to Islam before finding love with her man. Meanwhile, based on the latest updates, she isn’t the only one that went through a conversion. So what’s the latest?

90 Day Fiance: Avery Mills & Omar Albakour’s Journey

As 90 Day Fiance fans remember, Avery Mills was just 19 when she filmed Before the 90 Days Season 3 scenes with Omar Albakour. Meanwhile, in addition to the fact that Omar is originally from Syria, one of the things her relatives worried about was her young age.

Avery Mills’ 90 Day Fiance relatives worried that she was making a big mistake by risking it all to be with Omar. But, Avery was undeterred by the doubts of her family – and she traveled to Dubai to begin building a life with her man. Certainly, Avery’s conversion to Islam was a huge deal. And years down the line, it seems it’s Omar’s turn to make a conversion of his own.

90 Day Fiance: Avery Mills - Omar Albakour — 90 Day Fiance: Avery Mills – Omar Albakour/YouTube

Omar & Avery in America

Recently, Omar Albakour and Avery Mills celebrated their third wedding anniversary as husband and wife. Meanwhile, considering how their relationship started, it’s safe to say that the majority of 90 Day Fiance fans didn’t think the couple would make it this far.

Moreover, while reflecting on their time together as man and wife, it’s not lost on Avery Mills how hard she and Omar had to fight to live the life they get to enjoy together today. And with Avery’s birthday fast approaching as well, she reminded her 90 Day Fiance fans that they met her when she was 19. And now, she is ready to welcome 23. Along with that, it isn’t a stretch to say that she has come a long way since viewers first met her.

90 Day Fiance Celeb’s Turn for a Conversion?

90 Day Fiance celeb Omar Albakour coming to America was a big deal for this TLC pair. And from the looks of it, Omar is adjusting to his new life on American soil. Along with Avery Mills, the duo shared updates in Philadelphia. And most recently, the pair spent time in New York City.

Meanwhile, with all this jet setting to different cities around the country, Avery Mills said she is slowly converting her husband into a “city boy”. And even though American cities are vastly different compared to what Omar is used to in Syria or Dubai, from the looks of it, he adjusts quite well. Unlike many TLC couples that call it quits, Omar and Avery are still going strong all these years later – and they seem to be more than happy with the life they live together.

For all the latest 90 Day Fiance news, don’t forget to check back often with Screen Legion.

Album Review: Stel Furet – human nature machine

Music

Axel Bloom

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March 16, 2022

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Album Review: Stel Furet – human nature machine

Santa Cruz-based singer/songwriter Stel Furet recently released his debut ep, human nature machine. Meanwhile, the five-track concept offering certainly has a few hidden gems among the small collection. But is it worth a listen?

Stel Furet Debuts with human nature machine

It’s safe to say that you never know quite what you’re going to get when you hit play on a brand new record – especially when it’s a debut. Meanwhile, Stel Furet hooks listeners right from the jump with 33 and a Half. Typically, you don’t expect an album to open with a ballad. But, strangely enough, it works in this case.

For anyone that hasn’t heard Stel Furet, he toes the line between Tom Petty and Mark Lanegan – with a touch of Scott Weiland thrown in for good measure. 33 and a Half has a country twang to it, and Furet brings the track home with his deep, soothing vocal tones. Meanwhile, that trend continues on the follow-up track as well.

Stel Furet: human nature machine – used with permission

Stel Furet Brings Slow Grooves & More

If one can imagine it, Just For Me is even slower in terms of tempo than the album opener. But that’s not at all a bad thing. The slow grooves and slick guitar licks set the tone. Meanwhile, Furet’s smooth, slow drawl vocal delivery is exactly what this track needs to reach that next level.

A few tracks into human nature machine, it’s certainly the kind of record you can put on when you want to unwind and escape the world – even for less than half an hour. Stylistically, Furet is certainly a callback to the 90s in the best possible way. And, not surprisingly, any fans of Screaming Trees, Tom Petty, Chris Isaak or Scott Weiland would feel right at home with this groove-laded, melody-driven record.

Stel Furet Delivers on human nature machine

Listening to human nature machine is like stepping back in time to the 90s in the best possible way. If listeners expect an uptempo, in-your-face track on this record, you won’t find it here. But, the beauty of Stel Furet’s artistry is you don’t need it. Even as a record with essentially ballads, there’s nothing lacking, as Furet fires on all cylinders in his relaxed, low-key way.

Even though Stel Furet doesn’t rely on a huge wall of sound to drive his message home, he doesn’t need to. In fact, this five-track offering on human nature machine hits just as hard even without plugged in amps and down-tuned guitars. And that, in and of itself, is the true genius of this record.

For all the latest independent music reviews, come back often to Screen Legion.

Album Review: Arnab Sengupta – Leap of Faith

Music

Hunter Zane

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March 15, 2022

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Album Review: Arnab Sengupta – Leap of Faith

Arnab Sengupta takes his listeners on a journey on his third album, Leap of Faith. Meanwhile, listeners are in good hands with Sengupta as their guide on this sonic journey.

Arnab Sengupta Guides Listeners Across the Sonic Spectrum

For any listeners unfamiliar with Arnab Sengupta’s work, one might expect an album like Leap of Faith to be filled with New Age themes and spiritual undertones. Meanwhile, the record is surprisingly groovy. So much so that some listeners may be taken aback by it.

Face in the Crowd kicks the record off with jazz stylings and grooves in abundance. It’s uptempo right out of the gate – which is a great way to introduce the record. Indeed, it takes a certain panache to make your album opener almost five minutes long. Meanwhile, Arnab Sengupta does exactly this – and pulls it off with ease.

Arnab Sengupta: Leap of Faith – used with permission

Leap of Faith Puts Everything from Arnab Sengupta on Display

In contrast to the album opener, Arnab Sengupta switches gears in a major way with This Way. Sengupta pulls things back for a more intimate look at his songwriting process and execution – including a tasteful, beautifully played guitar solo midway through the track. And, early on in this record, it’s a standout track.

One thing that’s apparent with each track on Leap of Faith is that Arnab Sengupta doesn’t limit himself to one style. Instead, each track stands on its own in a way that’s incredibly unique. This can make Sengupta’s work hard to place and categorize. And perhaps that’s by design – a mystery wrapped in an enigma, recorded, and put on an album.

Should Listeners Take This Leap of Faith with Sengupta?

Although Arnab Sengupta has a wide range of musical interests, it could be that the eclectic display on Leap of Faith is too wide for the casual listener. Each track stands on its own. But that could potentially be a negative thing for those wanting a more cohesive listening experience.

Meanwhile, there’s also the fact that certain stylistic choices may come across as over the top and a little too gratuitous for some. Certainly, Arnab Sengupta is very niche when it comes to the type of audience Leap of Faith is suited for. And outside of that target demographic, the record as a whole may fall flat.

For all the latest independent music reviews, don’t forget to come back to Screen Legion.

‘1000-lb Sisters’: Amy Slaton Pregnancy Update 2022

Vera Thompson

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March 15, 2022

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‘1000-lb Sisters’: Amy Slaton Pregnancy Update 2022

1000-lb Sisters celeb Amy Slaton is pregnant with her second child. And as watchers keeping up with her current updates know, she will be a boy mom – as Gage will have a baby brother. Meanwhile, the TLC star recently updated her fans on her pregnancy progress.

1000-lb Sisters: Amy Slaton Expecting Another Boy

As 1000-lb Sisters fans know, Tammy Slaton brings all the drama in the family. And because of this, viewers enjoy the more low-key, pleasant updates from Amy. On top of that, there’s a lot to be excited about, as she is pregnant with her next child. And along with that, it won’t be much longer until her bundle of joy arrives.

Many 1000-lb Sisters fans keep up with Amy Slaton’s pregnancy – including her updates. And based on the latest from the TLC star, her baby on the way measures roughly 11 inches and weighs around 15 ounces at 22 weeks. Moreover, even though there’s still a ways to go, Amy told her fans that time is going by in a “flash”.

TLC Celeb Celebrates Special Day with Hubby

With all the baby news for Amy Slaton, she recently had something else significant to celebrate. As 1000-lb Sisters fans know, even though Amy and Michael met in high school, the pair didn’t tie the knot and make it official until years later in 2019.

Meanwhile, based on the latest updates, the pair are still going strong – and are getting ready to welcome another member to their family. In addition, they recently celebrated another anniversary as a married pair – and Amy Slaton shared a throwback pic with her husband when she was still pregnant with Gage.

Along with the throwback photo, Amy Slaton wished her hubby, Michael, a “very happy wedding anniversary”. Indeed, it’s clear that the love is strong between these two. And despite all the hurdles they’ve faced over the years, they’ve done so together, as a family.

1000-lb Sisters: Amy Slaton - Michael Halterman — 1000-lb Sisters: Amy Slaton – Michael Halterman/Instagram

Sweet Messages Pour in for 1000-lb Sisters Stars

As 1000-lb Sisters fans know, you can’t talk about the Slaton sisters without bringing up Tammy Slaton’s latest drama. And because of this, many watchers appreciate drama-free updates like this from Amy. In addition, many fans congratulate the TLC star on her pregnancy progress – as well as her recent anniversary with Michael.

Meanwhile, at 22 weeks, she’s at the halfway point of her current pregnancy. And at this rate, it won’t be long until she welcomes another member into her family. Suffice it to say; the countdown is certainly on.

For all the latest 1000-lb Sisters news, check back regularly with Screen Legion.

’90 Day Fiance’: Ben Busted Boozing – Mahogany Drove Him to the Bottle?

Vera Thompson

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March 15, 2022

1

’90 Day Fiance’: Ben Busted Boozing – Mahogany Drove Him to the Bottle?

90 Day Fiance celeb Ben Rathbun is in trouble based on the latest tea making the rounds. Is Mahogany Roca to blame for his latest brush with law enforcement?

90 Day Fiance: Ben Rathbun in Trouble with the Law

Based on the latest 90 Day Fiance tea making the rounds, Ben Rathbun has a lot more to worry about in his life than Mahogany Roca. It turns out Ben was arrested, and his bond was set to $10K. But a lot of watchers have questions about the events surrounding his arrest.

From the looks of it, Ben Rathbun was boozing it up – and he decided to get behind the wheel of a vehicle while intoxicated. According to the latest reports, Mahogany Roca’s questionable love interest was charged with an OUI – as well as driving on a suspended license.

Additional details on this case say that the OUI and suspended license arrest took place back in 2020 – and in January 2021, Ben was sentenced to 18 months probation. Meanwhile, it looks like Ben was supposed to appear at a probation violation hearing on February 7. But he was a no-show – leading the judge to issue a bench warrant.

Meanwhile, it seems the most recent booking of the 90 Day Fiance star is linked to the bench warrant, as well as the original OUI case that set all of this in motion.

TLC Celeb Picked Up in Michigan

It turns out Ben Rathbun was picked up in Michigan – where he resides. Meanwhile, with all the drama playing out in 90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days Season 5 scenes between him and Mahogany Roca, some watchers suspect things not going as planned with Mahogany may have driven Ben to the bottle.

It wasn’t long ago that the 90 Day Fiance pair were spotted out and about at a mall in Mahogany’s home country. But because this “relationship” seemingly started as a catfish, viewers have their doubts as far as the authenticity of this pairing is concerned. Additionally, what drove Ben to get sloshed and then behind the wheel of a vehicle is certainly a hot topic among fans.

90 Day Fiance: Ben Rathbun - Mahogany — 90 Day Fiance: Ben Rathbun – Mahogany

What’s Next for 90 Day Fiance Star?

As far as further legal drama that Ben Rathbun faces on account of these charges is concerned, it’s worth keeping an eye on this to see what happens next. In addition, what Mahogany thinks about this latest development and whether or not it influences a potential future is worth watching as well.

As it stands, many 90 Day Fiance fans don’t think the relationship between the pair is real. But, if ever Mahogany Roca were looking for an out, this legal trouble from Ben could be exactly what she needs to cut ties.

For all the latest 90 Day Fiance drama, check back often with Screen Legion.

Album Review: Perry – Maximize

Music

Hunter Zane

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March 15, 2022

1

Artist Max Clemmons Jr plays under the moniker Perry to deliver smooth jazz soundscapes ideal for a study session or a time to unwind. And his latest, Maximize, offers that to the fullest.

Perry: Smooth Jazz with a Twist

Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or a casual listener, Max Clemmons brings a little something to the party for everyone on Maximize. The eight-track outing runs the gamut of what you might expect from a smooth jazz record. But there are also a number of surprises listeners may not anticipate.

Meanwhile, the album opener, Do You, does just that. The song comes through with a catchy groove right out of the gate – laying the foundation for this introduction to the album. Soothing piano and bass grooves are a standout early. But it’s the gritty guitar solo midway through that really brings this track home. All in all, a solid effort to hook listeners.

Perry Keeps Listeners Guessing on Maximize

Just when you think you might have Perry pegged based on the opening track, Max Clemmons comes through with Dinner Table. The follow-up track has a decidedly more hip/hop lean. And while there are similar elements when compared to Do You, Dinner Table has a more noticeable bounce to it that’ll get listeners wanting to move to the grooves.

Musically, the track is on point. It’s upbeat enough to energize listeners without being too distracting. And a track like this could easily serve as a morning pick me up prior to and during a working session. Certainly, it’s hard not to get caught up in the groove – and that’s definitely a good thing.

Max Clemmons Showcases Versatility on Maximize

Even if this style of music may not be in your wheelhouse, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the versatility and artistry of this record. After going upbeat for several tracks, Clemmons slows things down with soothing saxophone and sexy grooves on Baby Making Music – a fitting title while approaching the midway point of the record.

Certainly, this record has all the elements one might expect from this genre – as well as a few surprises you might not be able to predict. And whether you use it in the background during a work or study session, or whether you put it on to help you sleep, there’s no denying that Clemmons puts his full range on display on this record, and he most definitely hits the mark.

For all the latest independent music reviews, check back often with Screen Legion.

Single Review: Julia Pratt – Tried and True

Music

Hunter Zane

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March 14, 2022

1

Single Review: Julia Pratt – Tried and True

21-year-old singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Julia Pratt refines her brand of introspective, deep-cutting artistry on her latest single. So what can listeners expect?

Artist Spotlight: Julia Pratt

Julia Pratt is an up-and-coming artist currently based in Philadelphia. And after growing up playing several instruments, it’s not surprising that her path to music was paved early. Julia started out playing classic Jazz tunes. And it didn’t take her long to sing along to those songs rather than play along with them instrumentally. Meanwhile, based on her current career trajectory, it’s clear that was the right choice.

Certainly, Pratt’s idols like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday come through in her brand of Pop with a twist. Meanwhile, in terms of more modern influences, anyone who listens to acts like Regina Spektor and Ingrid Michaelson would feel right at home with Julia Pratt.

Tried and True is a Single That Hits the Mark

After years of honing her craft – both instrumentally and vocally – Julia Pratt is poised to take the next step in her career. And from the sound of it, her latest single, Tried and True, is the perfect vehicle to get her to the next stage based on everything the new song exudes.

Soft piano chords introduce Tried and True. In addition, Julia Pratt’s vocal layering kicks in – literally adding layers to the listening experience as a whole. In many ways, this single harkens back to A Fine Frenzy in the mid-2000s, and this song would find its place among that collection.

Julia Pratt Makes a Statement with New Single

Even though Julia Pratt’s new single is technically a ballad, it’s one that has a lot of things going on. And if nothing else, Tried and True is a stunning representation of how far Julia Pratt has come musically in only 21 years. This single is certainly a promise of what’s to come – and it would easily hook listeners and make them want to find out just what she has up her sleeve next.

Julia Pratt creates moody, ethereal soundscapes that truly stand out on Tried and True. Certainly, one could say she uses “tried and true” methods to bring this track home. Meanwhile, the vocal layering creates a call and answer effect that adds to the listening experience as well. Overall, whether you like this style of music or not, there’s no denying that Pratt is going places.

For all the latest independent music reviews, don’t forget to come back often to Screen Legion.

’90 Day Fiance’: Kalani Fed Up with Manchild Asuelu?

Hunter Zane

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March 14, 2022

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’90 Day Fiance’: Kalani Fed Up with Manchild Asuelu?

90 Day Fiance couple Kalani Faagata and Asuelu Pulaa were first introduced to viewers in Season 6. Meanwhile, based on the latest teasers from 90 Day Diaries, it looks like some old issues still linger for the pair. So what’s the latest?

90 Day Fiance: Season 6 Introduced Asuelu Pulaa & Kalani Faagata

Many 90 Day Fiance fans will never forget Asuelu Pulaa due to the dance he did for Kalani Faagata in the middle of a crowded airport as soon as he landed in America. Asuelu is very childlike, and he has a different way of viewing the world. And while that may be endearing a lot of the time, it’s also something that has caused issues in his relationship with Kalani.

A big source of Kalani Faagata’s frustration with her husband is his seeming inability to step up for her when she needs him. Certainly, he has a habit of deferring to her when it comes to tackling life situations. Meanwhile, having to parent their two boys and her husband exhausts Kalani. And because of this, they’ve nearly thrown in the towel in the past.

90 Day Fiance: Asuelu Pulaa - Kalani Faagata — 90 Day Fiance: Asuelu Pulaa – Kalani Faagata/YouTube

90 Day Diaries Teases More Tense Moments Ahead

As 90 Day Fiance watchers keeping up with all the spinoffs know, 90 Day Diaries Season 3 is set to premiere. The spinoff brings back several familiar couples. And interested viewers can catch up with some of their past favorites. Moreover, with a new crop of cast members in Before the 90 Days Season 5, as well as 90 Day Fiance Season 9, 90 Day Diaries is a great way for fans to keep up with past favorites.

Meanwhile, 90 Day Diaries spoilers reveal it’s not all a good time in upcoming scenes for Asuelu Pulaa and Kalani Faagata. In teasers, Kalani accuses her husband of putting their children in danger. In her mind, they have almost died numerous times on his watch. And from the looks of it, she can’t trust her man to keep the safety of their boys as a top priority. In addition, making matters worse, Asuelu storms off mid-conversation.

https://youtu.be/70BFZA97N2k

90 Day Fiance Pair Leak Major Spoiler?

Because Kalani Faagata and Asuelu Pulaa have nearly called it quits in the past, viewers wonder if they’re still one nasty fight away from throwing in the towel for good. Meanwhile, recent off-camera activities leak a major spoiler for both their upcoming storyline and the current status of their relationship.

Based on the latest updates from Asuelu Pulaa, the Samoan man vacations with Kalani, their boys, and her sister, Kolini, in Hawaii. Asuelu has been sharing a handful of updates from the island of Oahu for the last few days. And from the looks of it, things seem to be going well for the family.

Certainly, it could be TLC plays up the immature Asuelu storyline to get viewers interested in the upcoming spinoff season. But at least for now, it looks like there’s no trouble in paradise for this 90 Day Fiance family – literally.

For even more of the best 90 Day Fiance news, don’t forget to come back to Screen Legion.