Blinded By Nostalgia

Top 35 of 2011

2011-12-26T14:31:00.000-06:00

As another year comes to an end, I dug through the trash to find a few jems that made 2011 a pretty good year for music. If you're even the least bit curious as to why I chose these albums, PLEASE ask. I'd love to annoy and talk your ear off in order to explain why my musical taste is superior -I joke :)

1. Suck It & See –Arctic Monkeys
2. 21 –Adele
3. Dye It Blonde –Smith Westerns
4. Ceremonials –Florence + The Machine
5. Father, Son, Holy Ghost –Girls
6. Skying –The Horrors
7. Blood Pressures –The Kills
8. Strange Mercy –St. Vincent
9. Let England Shake –PJ Harvey
10. Wounded Rhymes –Lykke Li
11.El Camino –The Black Keys
12. King of Limbs –Radiohead
13. What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? –The Vaccines
14. Bon Iver –Bon Iver
15. Wild Flag –Wild Flag
16. Lioness: Hidden Treasures –Amy Winehouse
17. Only In Dreams –Dum Dum Girls
18. Mirror Traffic –Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks
19. Smoke Ring for My Halo –Kurt Vile
20. Watch The Throne –Jay-Z & Kanye West
21. Hurry Up We’re Dreaming –M83
22. Helplessness Blue – Fleet Foxes
23. Little Hell –City & Colour
24. Wasting Light –Foo Fighters
25. Wild Flag – Wild Flag
26. All At Once –Airborne Toxic Event
27. Cat’s Eyes –Cat’s Eyes
28. The Rip Tide –Beirut
29. 4 –Beyonce
30. As If EP –Sky Ferriera
31. Wild One –North Highlands
32. Colour of the Trap –Miles Kane
33. Last Summer –Eleanor Friedberger
34. Year of Hibernation –Youth Lagoon
35. Rome –Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi

If you're curious as to why Angles by The Strokes did not make this list, it's because -after listening to the album OBSESSIVELY since March and having a small Albert Hammond, Jr intervention in early October -I realized that the 5 PRETTY GOOD songs on Angles can not outdo the other 5 HORRIBLE songs. Also, my favorite Strokes album is Room On Fire -and that's a LOT to live up to.

Album Review: El Camino -Black Keys

2011-12-06T14:20:00.000-06:00

The Black Keys have been providing music fans with real-deal rock & roll since their 2002 debut, The Big Come Up. The duo, comprised of vocalist/guitarist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney, put Akron, Ohio on the map with their modern spin on the classic rock sound. Their mainstream breakthrough, Brothers, marked the band’s unyielding success –winning 3 Grammy awards. Their latest effort, El Camino, is already topping ‘Best of 2011’ lists. But where Brothers was more soulful and bluesy, El Camino is roughly 39 minutes of fast-paced, rock & roll.

El Camino’s lead-off single, “Lonely Boy” opens with what sounds like a purring el camino about to take off -go figure. It’s 3 minutes of hip-shaking accompanied by soulful “oh oh’s” and the story of a love that keeps singer Dan Auerbach waiting. If the instant, viral success of the track’s video wasn’t enough to keep you tuned in, listening to this song turned all the way up will. The following, “Dead and Gone” is reminiscent of the polished sound of Brothers’ “Tighten Up.” What stands out on both of these tracks is the furious restraint in Patrick Carney’s drumming. It’s hard, but controlled, adding just enough to each song to make it standout on its own.

“Gold on the Ceiling” features a bass/keys riff similar to last year’s “Howlin’ for You.” Auerbach’s slightly muffled vocal provide the track with a garage sound and is bound to be a single. El Camino’s standout track is “Little Black Submarines.” Dare I compare it to Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven?” Maybe I won’t be so bold, but the song structure is there. The slower, acoustic beginning that makes the listener feel that they may be at a Renaissance fair, then slowly the drum kicks in, a soft organ adds climatic effect, and finally Auerbach’s heavy guitar –bringing the song into the 21st century. Clocking in at 4 minutes, it’s also the longest song on the record –but it’s worth listening to every second.

Tracks like “Money Maker,” “Run Right Back,” and “Nova Baby” are nods to the sexy, ‘70s tracks by rock giants like T.Rex and ZZ Top. What the Black Keys and producer Danger Mouse did was glam up what the band was already great at producing –real rock and roll for a society that has “club-ready” dance tracks take over radio waves and television sets. El Camino oozes confidence and sex appeal that wasn’t as apparent in the band’s previous efforts. Right now, this is the right sound for the Black Keys and the glam and polish on their retro, garage rock suits them well. **9.2/10

Album Review: Ceremonials -Florence + the Machine

2011-10-20T15:17:00.000-05:00

In 2009, British songstress Florence Welch captivated music lovers with her soulful vocals and wonderfully theatrical songs. Florence + the Machine’ debut album, Lungs, went on to sell millions thanks to the commercial success of tracks like “Dog Days are Over” and “Cosmic Love.” Her sophomore effort, Ceremonials, is a sonic continuation of what makes Florence a true original and shows that she is a force to be reckoned with.

The album’s opener, “Only If For a Night” is a melodic feast of subtle harps and keys. Each track is a tale of love, whether it’s letting go of love or finding it. The theme is packaged in poetic lyrics and almost tribal drumming as each song unfolds itself. The released singles, “Shake It Out” and “What the Water Gave Me” represent the conceptual fight that runs throughout the whole record.

While Florence stuck with her unique sound and didn't give into whatever commerical success "Dog Days" had, there are new elements that show Ceremonials as a progressive growth. There are still theatrics, but there’s more of a soul undertone that is complimented by background vocals. The tracks “Lover to Lover” and "Spectrum" are reminiscent of gospel/soul songs from the ‘70s. Other tracks are true to now Florence + the Machine classics. “No Light, No Light” is similar to “Cosmic Love” while the dark ballad, “Seven Devils” seems like a sequel to “Heavy in Your Arms.”

The driving force that deems this record a true masterpiece is that Welch has completely embraced her lower register, giving the album a distinct, mature sound. Ceremonials is vocally and sonically stunning. Die-hard fans will appreciate the fact that she stayed true to herself and where she’s from instead of partnering with mega-pop producers like Dr. Luke or Timbaland. This latest effort shows that theatre and drama can be accessible and beautiful in contemporary music, and Welch proves that she’s that style’s queen. **10/10

Album Review: Mylo Xyloto -Coldplay

2011-10-18T17:12:00.001-05:00

Since the late ‘90s, college kids and adult-alternative fans alike have turned to Coldplay for songs to help them get in touch with their deep, emotional side. Whether it’s a song with meaningful, somewhat melancholy lyrics that sounds like pop bliss or a piano-driven anthem, Coldplay has trascended leaps and bounds over their competition. With the upcoming release of their fifth, studio album Mylo Xyloto, Chris Martin and Co. remind their devoted fans why the love them and their critics why they don’t.

With a push in the “weird” direction, Mylo Xyloto balances its R&B influences with industrial rock overtones and quintessential piano jams. The album plays with the ideas of addiction and escape, heavy and light, fast and slow, love and hate. But while its predecessor Viva La Vida was clear in its concept, this album is muddled with Martin’s vocals often being outshined by the instrumentation and production distortions.

Irrelevant storyline aside, each song should be taken for what it is. Tracks like “Hurts Like Heaven,” “Don’t Let It Break Your Heart,” and “Paradise” are masterpieces within themselves. Each track is joyful, festival-ready, and embody a certain flare that has been a part of Coldplay’ aesthetic since the beginning. While these tracks are not completely disconnected from the sonic ideals of Viva La Vida, the obvious R&B, dance feel is fresh and exciting.

The album’s standout track is also its most peculiar. “Princess of China” features vocals from Rihanna, a pairing more unexpected than Coldplay’s pairing with producer, Brian Eno. As unnatural the feeling of these two artists finding a common ground, everything works. The cascading keys add an originality to the song when in contrast with the acoustic guitar. While it can be said that this song is the band’s attempt at a huge radio hit, it shouldn’t be tossed aside as just that. This track in particular shows growth and confidence (and still would even without Rihanna’s help).

While Coldplay diehards may be put off by the dance feel of many tracks, there are moments of classic Coldplay that remind the listener of greats such as “Yellow,” “Shiver,” and “The Scientist.” Chris Martin’s quintessential loveletter rears its head on the track “Us Against the World” and “Up With the Birds.” The piano remains gentle, complimentary Martin’s almost-raspy vocals and seminal falsetto.

As Mylo Xyloto appears to be pretty perfect, the “bore” and “pretentious” tags that have become assimilated with the band are still there. “U.F.O.” does its best to draw influences from U2, but fades into the background and the 3 track intermissions don’t add any musical merit or interest to the album as a whole. Also, the fact that the album has 14 tracks could be assumed that each song was “too important” to leave behind (and some could have been).

Shortcomings aside, Coldplay is who it is. The British entity has said that this could be their last record, let’s hope not. **8.2/10

Review: The Way Sound Leaves A Room - Sarah Jaffe

2011-09-12T21:56:00.000-05:00

For the current generation, a strong female presence, stripped of auto-tune and fuzzy distortions, is hard to come by. But Texan-native Sarah Jaffe may just be the perfect contender to take that title –and own it to its fullest capacity. Reminiscent of an early Sarah McLachlan with an endearing brood and raw vocal power, Jaffe brings more than honesty and a hypnotic, ethereal melancholy to the 8 tracks that make up The Way Sound Leaves A Room.

To make a more current comparison, Jaffe’s sound is right up there with the likes of Beach House, Laura Marling, and even Mumford & Sons. The opening track, “All That Time” is ethereal at its simplest, with echoing vocal layers. Much like other tracks, “The Way Sound Leaves a Room” and “Clementine” –instrumentation takes a backseat to Jaffe’s truly beautiful vocals and round melodies and harmonies. The roughness of her tone sounds perfect in juxtaposition to her feminine lyrical content, “I wish I was more delicate.”

While the first half of the EP leans more to a relaxed, singer-songwriter vibe –the second half shows Jaffe testing out new boundaries with a subtle hip-hop influence. From her cover of Drake’s “Shut It Down” to her own song, “When You Rest.” Other stand-out tracks that turn up the tempo with sexy bass lines and an almost danceable groove are “A Sucker For Your Marketing” –which is too short and leaves the listener wanting more, and “Louder Than Ever”, which is much more than relatable. The latte track is poetic and yearning, almost as if Jaffe left the purest part of her soul on the floor.

In all honesty, the only negative I have about this EP is that some tracks feel like incomplete thoughts. Whether Jaffe ran out of words or chords to create something new, a few tracks can become those songs that transport the listener back to a special time and place where they first heard it. **9.6/10

Coming of Age

2011-08-14T18:44:00.000-05:00

I finally saw Submarine last night. It was better than I had expected, though I already had a positive bias towards the film since the soundtrack (songs composed by Alex Turner) is such a knockout. As I watched Craig Roberts as the borderline pretentious, socially awkward Oliver Tate -I (being the analyst that I am) began thinking: "I feel the exact same way sometimes, do I have this cinematic-view of 15 year-old mentality at 20 years old?"

I guess a person like me is naturally drawn to coming-of-age films, from The Graduate to Garden State and anything that can fall in the gray area between. For the past 6 years, I've constantly thought about life and love whether it's my life and love or that of others. Then these films come out and, as you watch them, everything makes perfect sense -until the credits start rolling. I guess from the ages of Oliver Tate's 15 to Andrew Largeman's mid-twenties, one is supposed to be discovering who they are and what they want, but isn't it a problem if a 15 year old can relate to someone who is almost 30 on such an emotional level?

I know that film is fictional most of the time, but everything means so much more when you can relate to it. I guess what I'm trying to get at is age...maybe maturity -it's all subjective. A person can feel...confused (for lack of a better word) if there's some indie, Brit film with a inquisitive, insightful, but maybe precocious teenager that he or she can relate to when they're more or less an "adult" on the brink of their twenties. Then you watch Garden State and a person is supposed to have at least something important figured out and set by that age, right?

Either I'm thinking too much into this or I've aged myself too quickly by thinking that I should have some sort of cemented plan by the time I reach 21. Did I enjoy being 15 or did I rush it? Will I be going home to visit my family in my mid-twenties and be completely, emotionally removed from everyone because I wanted to stick to what I thought was right? Maybe I should just be satisfied with being able to relate to something -fictional film or not, regardless of extenuating circumstances.

Does this make any sense?

Photos from NYLON + Guess & Lollapalooza 2011

2011-08-12T23:57:00.001-05:00

with Sarah Lewitinn -follow her @ultragrrrl

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.

Courtesy of NBC Chicago

The Vaccines

Grace Potter

The Kills

Tinie Tempah

Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes

Chris Martin of Coldplay

Coldplay's crazy amazing lights

Protesters -intolerant AND sexist #pathetic

Does this even really look like Marilyn Monroe?

Phantogram

The Black Lips

The Drums

Ellie Goulding

Lykke Li

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. with bubbles

Ric Ocasek of The Cars

Arctic Monkeys

Foo Fighters & probably one of my best photos ever: Dave Grohl

all photos by me -unless stated otherwise

Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Lollapalooza

2011-08-12T23:38:00.000-05:00

Summer vacation is no longer those 3 months out of school and a way from reality. Now, it's just a continuation of work with select days of play. Yet, while I slowly leave my years of sleeping until 1 in the afternoon and spending my parents' money on things I don't particularly leave behind -I will always have those three days of Lollapalooza. Ever since my first taste of Perry Farrell's brainchild, I waited for the first weekend in August to finally start having fun and this year was NO exception. With headliners like Coldplay and Foo Fighters, everyone in attendance was bound to have a great time, regardless of weather conditions.

My weekend started Thursday night at the NYLON + GUESS Party on Michigan Ave. It was an excuse for Faith and I to get dolled up and wander the streets of Chicago before wandering under fluorescent lighting for 2 hours. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. played an acoustic set before Freddie from The Vaccines DJ'ed. We sipped Flirtinis and Coconut/Pineapple Vodka drinks while perusing the clothes that, no offense to GUESS, are SERIOUSLY overpriced. We also met my hero/life-inspiration Sarah Lewitinn: journalist, DJ, author, culture vulture, and all-around sweet person. Meeting her, chatting, and tweeting along with snagging myself a killer swag bag were the highlights of the shindig and a fantastic kick-off to a rock & roll weekend.

Friday, we all woke up in full-out festival mode. Waterproof eyeliner and mascara went hand-in-hand with Urban Decay's "Up All Night" finishing spray and plenty of tank-tops. Finally getting to the front of Grant Park, I could hear Wye Oak playing the Sony stage. The duo was in tight form playing songs off of their debut album, Civilian. I must admit though, my full attention was on The Vaccines who played the Music Unlimited stage as soon as Wye Oak finished. I was "that girl" during The Vaccines -dancing, singing every word, snapping tons of photos and telling anyone who would listen that this band is "SO AMAZING LIVE." They played their debut, What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? in its entirety. Full of energy, I hustled over to see Grace Potter & The Nocturnals.

Now, to say I was blown away by Grace Potter would be a RIDICULOUS understatement. Her voice, her style, and her energy completely blew me away. I wasn't really a fan of the band's latest release but, after a show like that, I will definitely be taking a second listen. And the chant, "Ooh lala, lalapalooza" was stuck in my head until this past Wednesday.

The Kills took the Bud Light stage after Smith Westerns absolutely killed it on the Playstation stage. If I didn't love Alison Mosshart enough already, it's now a full-blown obsession. The chemistry between her and Jamie Hince (a.k.a. Mr. Kate Moss) is fiery and raw. Their set was similar to that of Coachella's, but songs like "Future Starts Slow" "U R A Fever" and, my personal favourite, "Tape Song" had the entire crowd moving -even the couple next to me who rarely parted their lips to take in air.

Tinie Tempah rocked the Google+ stage and I was surprised at how much I actually loved his music. The crowd was wild with random dance-offs, penis balloons flying through the air, and constant, drunken rapping. I caught the end of Bright Eyes' set and watched frontman Conor Oberst jump from the stage and hug everyone he could, getting his full rockstar on. Then, it was all a waiting game for Coldplay.

I could post a novel about experiencing Coldplay for the first time, but I'll keep it to a minimum. It was beautiful -a set full of their greatest hits with frontman Chris Martin absolutely hypnotizing the crowd. "Fix You" was my favourite moment of their set, it just felt like a festival song, with the entire audience coming together. It was different, an atmosphere that was mellow but never lacking in energy. As Muse played across the field, I could only wonder what Matt Bellamy and crew were doing, but when Coldplay plugged back in I couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

As Saturday rolled around, and a little rain drizzle with a breakfast rush to Corner Bakery ensued, the day started with electro-group Phantogram. I can't WAIT for their new album. Afterwards, I made the Google+ stage my home seeing The Drums, Ellie Goulding, and Lykke Li. They were ALL amazing, but Lykke Li was my favourite of the day. Her mash-up of "Youth Knows No Pain" with Kanye West's "Power" was absolutely killer and the crowd roared when she played her hit, "Get Some" off of her AMAZING new album Wounded Rhymes,. I caught a bit of Beirut before heading back to the hotel, in which 5 people had 1 bed -crazy shit.

I was a bit sad waking up Sunday morning and realizing it was the final day of Lollapalooza, and really the end of my summer. No matter how WELL you think you've planned your day, it will get fucked up. I had planned to see Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr., Lissie, Best Coast, Arctic Monkeys, and Foo Fighters. I ended up leaving Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. early for The Cars -guaranteeing myself awesome spot for Arctic Monkeys and Foo Fighters. I was actually surprised with how many Cars songs I knew, with the exception of "Let The Good Times Roll" (which, was their opener and it set a great vibe for the rest of the set). During The Cars, I looked over and saw actors Simon Rex and David Arquette standing no more than 5 feet away from me in the VIP section. I kind of just stared at them, not big enough of a fan of either to say "Hello" -but it was kind of cool.

Then...it started POURING. Literally, right before Arctic Monkeys -the clouds just pissed cold rain everywhere. As I stood there and watched the crew come out and cover the band's equipment, I just kept praying for the storm to blow over so I could hear some amazing, new tracks off of Suck It And See (which I still can't stop listening to). At 6:20, the sun peaked out from behind the clouds around the same time a rainbow appeared. Then, out walked the band and the fangirl inside of me erupted. Again, I could write an novel about seeing Arctic Monkeys (for the 5th time), but I won't continue to annoy anyone reading this lengthy (and not-so detailed) account of Lollapalooza 2011. Let's just say, my voice was gone and as I watched Alex Turner slide across the stage on his knees, I felt a bit like a proud parent. My favourite moment was during "Hellcat Spangled Shalalala" -that song is just perfection and the band just seemed lost in its melodies.

An hour later, with more storm could approaching, Foo Fighters took the stage. It was a whirlwind of serious rock & roll, with frontman Dave Grohl admitting that the band won't be "fucking around" and will play as many songs as possible in their allotted 2 hours. A perfect mix of new and old songs were played with original guitarist Pat Smear back on stage. Besides "Everlong", my favourite part of their set was during "My Hero." Dave introduced the track as a "real Foo Fighters'" song and as Taylor Hawkins' drums kicked in, it started raining harder than it had earlier that day. It was like a scene from a movie, a truly epic moment where everyone just reveled in the imperfections of such a perfect moment. Mud, as well as fans, were flying through the air and everyone around you was your best friend. It was the most amazing ending to a weekend of freedom and fun.

While the festival seemed be overdone with house music and dubstep, the "real" bands honored the legacy that is Lollapalooza. Now, with the summer ending and the real world rearing its ugly head, I can only wait for the end of next summer.

Pictures from Pitchfork 2011

2011-07-18T16:37:00.001-05:00

all photos by me :)

Welcome to Illinoise! Round-Up of Sunday's Pitchfork Festival.

2011-07-18T14:18:00.002-05:00

Chicago was a balmy 95 degrees on the last day of Pitchfork Festival. The weekend was full of must-see acts like Animal Collective, Curren$y, Twin Shadow, and Fleet Foxes. Sunday, however, was something special.

Doors opened at noon while festival-goers were greeted with a warm welcome (both figuratively and literally) as well as free water. I had my own agenda in mind, deciding to check out UK’s Yuck!, Kurt Vile & the Violators, controversial rap collective Odd Future, Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti, Deerhunter, and TV on the Radio. With only 3 stages taking over Chicago’s Union Park, there was plenty of time to see everyone and do a little shopping at the various tents.

At 1:45, Yuck! took the Red Stage. The quartet shined with their indie-pop at an all-time high. While technical difficulties messed with the latter end of their set, the crowd was still showing them mad love. Definitely check them out if you’re a fan of bands such as Pains of Being Pure at Heart and Matt & Kim. Across the way playing the Green stage was Kurt Vile & the Violators. As I watched, I wondered if there was some type of hair-length requirement to be in Vile’s band. They brought a certain “down home” atmosphere to the festival. Vile took up an acoustic guitar at the end of the set, almost sounding like Bob Dylan. The band is definitely worth checking out.

Back at the Red stage, chanting began: “Wolf Gang, Golf Wang!” and “Swag!” were amongst the calls from the crowd anxious for rap collective, Odd Future. Surrounded by hype as well as animosity, the group had a lot to live up to…and they did. Odd Future’s fearless leader Tyler, the Creator hobbled on stage with his broken foot and all, only to jump head-first into the crowd later in the set. Hodgy Beats, Mike G, DJ Syd the Kyd, and Domo Genesis also joined Tyler on stage, contributing their own tracks to the set as well as revving up the crowd. It was dangerous and glorious in all of the sweat and heat during the mid-afternoon. The protesters outside of the park did nothing to sway listeners and it seemed to me that the newcomers had one of the largest crowds of the day. While nothing the collective raps about should be taken seriously, these kids (all around the age of 20 or younger) have a serious talent and are oddly loveable.

After the tornado that was Odd Future, nothing else really seemed to matter. Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti played only half their set, before lead singer Ariel Pink left the stage and angered crowd behind. The sound void was quickly filled by metal band Kylesa, who tore up the Blue stage. While the mostly mellow, indie rock seemed to lose its luster, there was plenty else to do. Posters created by local artists were being sold and local record store, Reckless Records was selling off some of their inventory at obscenely reasonable prices.

Veteran indie-pop rockers Superchunk played before a cool breeze fell over Deerhunter at the Green stage. The music seemed to cool everyone off as the festival was drawing near a close. Singer Bradford Cox seemed happy to back in the States, let alone the festival, saying, “Don’t let anyone tell you that this isn’t the best country in the world!” Patriotism aside, the band was a distraction from the heat and lack of standouts for the day.
Sadly, that’s where my Pitchfork experience ended. While I would have LOVED seeing TV on the Radio, but the hydration and sanity of the people I was hanging out with ultimately won out in the end. My new friend Charles, however, said that TOTR absolutely KILLED it, despite the recent death of bassist Gerard Smith.

This was my first Pitchfork, but it definitely won’t be my last. Like any festival, it’s always a good time and there’s always a chance to meet new people and discover new interests. There’s a certain community feel Pitchfork has that other larger festivals don’t. The organizers managed to make Union Park feel like its own city and that alone is a sign of major success.

2011-07-06T17:29:00.001-05:00

A promotional EP, entitled Split, distributed by Deathwish and Armageddon features two tracks by subtly different artists. The bands, Converge and Dropdead, both have roots in the hardcore genre but take different paths in execution and appeal.

The first track on Split is “Runaway,” contributed by Converge. The song’s grinding sounds and solitary, quick guitar solos are the track’s only highlights. What ensues for about three minutes is the standard, metal drumming and indistinguishable lyrics. For a band who has twenty years of work under their belts, this seems like the typical screamo/hardcore bands that have been playing Warped Tour for years. While the song’s ferocity will be perfect for moshpits, at Warped Tour or really anywhere else, the track has zero substance and emotion.

The second track, contributed by Dropdead, is “Path of Glory.” It’s raw, classic punk at its finest, reminiscent of Black Flag or The Germs. The track is a political anthem for the masses with its unrelenting speed and subtle melodic qualities. This band, also running 20 years strong, remains true to punk’s undying underground.

When full EP’s are released, I suggest checking out Dropdead over Converge. The band seems to know who they are and what they stand for while Converge seems to be playing catch-up with up-and-coming metal acts. **7.5/10

Review: Skying -The Horrors

2011-07-04T19:48:00.002-05:00

British, art rockers The Horrors burst on to the scene in 2007 with their major label debut, Strange House. Songs like “She is the New Thing” and “Sheena is a Parasite” were a breath of fresh air amongst veteran, alternative acts –giving music with a Gothic atmosphere an accessible edge. From then on, the band have seen the light…and moved towards it. Their latest release, Skying, takes the lighter, electronic sounds of 2009’s Primary Colours and took it up a notch. What ensues is melodic waves of synths, lucid guitars, and whispery vocals.

The album opens with an almost tribal sound before fading into a psychedelic feel driven by keyboards. The track, “Changing Rain” has a “Dear Prudence” feel to it with its ethereal overlays and restrained vocals from singer, Faris Badwan. The mellow feel, with diluted vocals, is a theme throughout the entire record, but each song brings something different to the album, allowing it to remain intriguing.

There are aspects of early ‘90s alternative rock in tracks like “Drive In” and “Monica Gems” which make the record seem familiar but still fresh. There is even a post-punk feel to the track, “Endless Blue” which also incorporates a dance feel with muffled waves of guitar and bass. The dance-ability of the record seems to be a new step for The Horrors and continues on to a stand-out track, “I Can See Through You.”

While the album’s openers are strong and full of only the best old and new sounds, the album does falter with long, minimalist tracks that almost seem arduous and vocals that take a backseat to instrumentation. While “Moving Further Away” has a great bridging guitar riff, Badwan’s lyrics about his personal account of fame get to be repetitive and overdrawn. “Oceans Burning” and “Wild Eyed” seem to drone on with instrumentation that fades into the background and almost become full-out bores.

Skying’s finale, “You Said” breathes life back into the album. And while the tone of the album, as a whole, is light and forward-thinking sound wise, the lyrics are still quintessentially dark and mysterious. What The Horrors excel at is the ability to remain themselves in their appearance and message while moving forward and discovering new sounds. The album is beautiful –the cascading keys and shining moments of intricate guitar playing and subtle drums prove that this band knows what it is and is proud of it. **9.4/10

Review: Within & Without -Washed Out

2011-07-01T19:08:00.004-05:00

Washed Out’s music is genre-bending. Is it indie? Sure, but there are so many layers to indie now that one label isn’t enough. What is being known as “chillwave” is getting monster attention from hipster haunts like coffee shops and record stores to TV shows like Portlandia. Up-and-coming acts like Twin Shadow to more established ones like Panda Bear are all reaping the benefits of this new sound, but it’s Washed Out who is really doing it right –and just in time for summer.

The new album, Within and Without, is chalked full of defining chillwave beats and distortions. Blissful echoes and cascading keyboards create a dream-like atmosphere around each track. “Amor Fati” and “Before” are the shiniest beacons of pure, west coast-inspired music and will fit perfectly on any summer playlist.

The album’s standout tracks, “You & I” and the title-track “Within & Without” show Washed Out’s strengths. “You & I” pays homage to the electro-pop of the ‘90s with a slight hip-hop influence. A seductive, female spoken-word bridge livens the background of the song, punctuated with a killer synth contribution. “Within and Without” is simple, but the vocal is easily understood and the shimmering cascade of keyboards at the end makes it an album favorite.

While the record as a whole does fall to some “chillwave” clichés: overly muffled vocals, indistinguishable lyrics, and over-powering electronic distortions, the closer “Dedication” throws all rules of the genre out the window. The vocals are strong yet soft, and the piano is the perfect counterpart to the running, technologic theme. Within and Without is almost like a coming-of-age movie –it may not have an outright happy ending, but it’s hopeful. **9.0/10

My crush on Zombie Boy continues...

2011-06-27T21:25:00.003-05:00

Review: Dedication -Zomby

2011-06-27T16:10:00.003-05:00

The upcoming release from Zomby, a Brit producer of dubstep and Eskibeat, is full of electro beats and beeps. The album, Dedication, isn’t a far jump from his previous works but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The cold, almost gothic overtone on the album is welcomed change from the constant pounding from the likes of groups such as Crystal Castles. Not to say the record can’t hold its own among this new era of electronic music. While the album relies on the simpler state of things, it has moments of high energy and bits of nostalgia for the ‘90s rave scene.

The album’s sixteen tracks flow with a cinematic drama about them. The earlier tunes, “Natalia’s Song” and “Witch Hunt” are slower, setting the mood for what’s to come. It’s almost as if the listener is entering a haunted house complete with cathedral-esque echoes. From then on, tracks like “Vortex” and “Digital Rain” completely amplify the record to its climax. It’s high heart-rate, accessible dance music that could be played alongside anything to create a new, musical atmosphere.

As a conclusion, Zomby returns to a mellow lucidity with tracks like “Haunted” ,which is driven by what sounds like violins accompanied by a piano, and “Mozaik” ,which sounds like ending credits to a video game. What’s great about the end of the record is that it feels whole –as if it perfectly punctuated Zomby’s every thought.

While the album may be an acquired taste for some, it’s worth listening to. In the United States, at least, dubstep and “rave” music have been pigeon-holed as having to contain heavy bass and the same, repetitious set of keys and synths. With Dedication, the “genre” is more artistically crafted rather than slapped on due to sonic appeal. **8.3/10

Review: A Flower in Your Head -John Gold

2011-06-23T14:01:00.002-05:00

Los Angeles singer/songwriter John Gold recently released his third, proper studio album A Flower in Your Head. With two of the album’s tracks already making it into rotation thanks to MTV shows like Teen Wolf and 16 & Pregnant, this new effort is getting Gold some well-respected attention. However, solid tracks aside, the album falls short due to lack of standout moments and sense of direction.

The album is singer/songwriter at its most cliché. Sonically, there is (and maybe unintentional) influence from bands like Augustana, Hanson, and the Honorary Title. The theme of the “broken relationship” runs its course through tracks like “Vampire’s Kiss” and “Augusta Vail.” But, where it succeeds is in the track, “Baby It’s Your Life” which is the most interesting track including vocal distortions during an infectious chorus that break-up the monotonous tone of the other songs.

As a whole, the record’s atmosphere is subtle –almost fading into the background. Half of the album includes acoustics and piano that put you to sleep rather than make you want to continue listening. The album’s unnecessary “Interlude” and the song “The Flower in My Head” are simply boring. Too much emphasis is placed on the lyrics making the listening tedious.

The other half of the record shows Gold really falter. Tracks like “We Get High” and “Honeymade” include dance beats and keys that show Gold’s muddled sense of direction. The idea of “commercialism” can plague an unknown singer/songwriter, but Gold seems like he’s trying too hard to find some type of success and room to fit into any specific genre.

Though the cons of the album outweigh its pros, there are a few solid tracks that show promise for future works. “Skyscraper”, “Thursday” and “The Loop” can stand on their own amongst an album of underwhelming pop songs. Though he has three albums under his belt, Gold still doesn’t know who he is musically. Hopefully he discovers his true inspirations and sound and can finally release the album that catapults him to stardom. **5.6/10

Review: Alexander -Alexander Ebert

2011-06-14T00:20:00.002-05:00

Alexander Ebert, the enigmatic frontman of neo-hippie jam band, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, has released his first solo effort Alexander. There’s not a huge, musical jump from the sound of Edward Sharpe, but the difference lies in Alexander’s sheer simplicity. What Ebert has created is 11 of the best campfire songs influenced by one of the best eras of music –the ‘60s.

As a whole, the record shines with influences from the obvious Bob Dylan, to The Byrds, and even Sam Cooke. Ebert sounds like he should’ve been born early enough to enjoy California’s Summer of Love in the late sixties than in the late seventies Los Angeles. Sonically, the record roots itself in acoustic rockabilly and southern toe-tapping, hand-clapping jams. The album’s best numbers hold that at its core, but incorporate subtle touches of blues, Motown, and even reggae.

Tracks like “Bad Bad Love” and “Glimpses” are soulful and stripped down with Ebert’s higher register strongly echoing. “Bad Bad Love” is the edgiest track, and the only track featuring a recognizable bass sound, while “Glimpses” is reminiscent of Sam Cooke’s classic “A Change is Gonna Come.” A truly standout track, “Truth” features Ebert almost rapping over a slightly reggae groove accompanied by a breathy saxophone accompaniment.

While the softer moments on the record seem to stand out the most, songs like “Let’s Win!”, “Awake My Body”, and the Traveling Wilburys-esque love song “A Million Years” are lively accounts directed towards the youth of this generation with a hint of nostalgia for a simpler time. On “Let’s Win!”, Ebert speaks for the lost, singing “I hear myself screaming for the truth!” The track “In the Twilight” even proposes the question, “Would you call the Earth an asshole?”

While the album could have the unfortunate fate of being deemed homage to Bob Dylan (the track “Awake My Body” features background vocals that sound uncannily like the legend), there’s more to it. To generalize it as such or even a stripped version of Edward Sharpe would take away the beauty of it. Nothing is overly-produced, not too many hands have touched it. It’s beauty is in its simplicity and what was created is a breath of fresh air accented with a welcomed bit of nostalgia. **9.0/10

Keeping Busy

2011-06-12T02:43:00.003-05:00

Hello shy (I'm assuming) yet dedicated readers!

I have to say, I'm really loving writing for Napiers News. There's some really great stuff coming up so be sure to visit the page and browse :) I'm reviewing two new albums now so when they're posted -check. them. out. PLEASE. Writing these is only furthering my LOVE of reviewing, music, etc. Speaking of which -did anyone see Pirate Radio?

If you haven't -PLEASE find a way to get your hands on it. If you LOVE music; geek over it, debate it, would make love to it -you NEED to see this film. The cast is great, Philip Seymour Hoffman's as yet another a rock and roll connoisseur (of course, my favorite performance as Lester Bangs in the movie that changed my life Almost Famous), DJ "The Count." As well as Robert Pattinson's BFF and fellow hottie, Tom Sturridge and cinema's triple threat Kenneth Branagh (actually, he may be a quadruple threat). The ending -and this could just be me being an overly emotional being, I cried.

Can I just say -I was born in the COMPLETELY WRONG DECADE! If I was a teenager in the 60s...damn ;)

My Body's a Zombie for You

2011-06-10T22:14:00.001-05:00

Song of the Day

2011-06-10T21:54:00.003-05:00

"Thunder Road" -Bruce Springsteen.

The screen door slams
Mary' dress waves
Like a vision she dances across the porch
As the radio plays
Roy Orbison singing for the lonely
Hey that's me and I want you only
Don't turn me home again
I just can't face myself alone again
Don't run back inside
Darling you know just what I'm here for
So you're scared and you're thinking
That maybe we ain't that young anymore
Show a little faith there's magic in the night
You ain't a beauty but hey you're alright
Oh and that's alright with me

Review: Bon Iver -Bon Iver

2011-06-08T19:19:00.002-05:00

In 2007, Justin Vernon independently released Bon Iver’s debut For Emma, Forever Ago. The album year lists, and won several awards. The long-awaited follow-up, simply entitled Bon Iver, is the spring-like compliment to For Emma’s songs of wintery sadness.

The last the music world heard of Bon Iver before this record was Vernon’s collaboration with Kanye West on the track “Lost in the World” from West’s masterpiece My Beautiful, Dark, Twisted Fantasy. That influence trickled into Vernon’s own work on this record. Tracks like “Calgary” and “Hinnom, TX” both contain synth that bring an almost danceable life into the record. Other tracks, “Michicant” and “Minnesota, WI” have a progressive, R&B feel to them. “Minnesota, WI” has a slight, Jamaican groove feel to it while “Michicant” has distortions that create an affect that is completely new terrain for Bon Iver.

With remnants of R&B being peppered amongst the classic acoustic strings, there is a slight country feel to the record. The song “Towers” is the liveliest on the album, the complete opposite of the wintery sounds on For Emma. Along with the rollicking country groove, it’s got a slight blues tone that is also accompanied by violins.

“Holocene”, “Perth” and “Wash” are quintessential, Bon Iver tracks. The heart-breakingly beautiful lyrics and acoustic guitar are what made this band’s debut the success it was. But where “Holocene” and “Perth” have the ethereal, Vernon vocals, build-ups of snare drums, and soft keyboards, “Wash” stays consistent with a soft piano. “Wash” is by far the sleepiest track on the album, but its counterparts make the album special.

“Wash” isn’t the only track that holds the album back. The instrumental “Lisbon” really serves no purpose. At its most rudimentary, it’s a prelude to the album finale, “Beth/Rest.” The final track roots itself deep in ‘80s, synth-pop. Vernon’s vocals have the most production I have ever heard on a Bon Iver record. He almost sounds like Chris Martin of Coldplay.

While Bon Iver is often put in the same category of bands such as Iron & Wine, this album shows Justin Vernon’s growth as a lyricist and composer. There’s no lack of emotion or heart on this record. The problem seems to be fitting the influence into each song to make it a cohesive album. Where the songs are most upbeat and lively, the band shines. To the band’s credit however, you do get lost in the music and there’s nothing wrong with that. **7.9/10

Review: Goblin -Tyler, The Creator

2011-06-07T18:54:00.002-05:00

As the leader of the rap collective Odd Future (fully entitled Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All), Tyler, the Creator has made a name for himself through his music as well as his antics. Whether it’s getting involved in a war of words with Sara of the Canadian-indie act Tegan & Sara, or getting arrested for “disturbing the peace”, Tyler is as unapologetic as his twenty-year old self allows. His latest release, Goblin, is a track by track account of his life –from growing up without a father, to finding first loves, to teen angst and eventual fame. What the leader of hip-hop’s new sonic wave is saying is a force to be reckoned with.

Goblin is a follow-up to his self-released debut Bastard. What continues is Tyler’s own psycho-analysis of himself; tracks that include and distorted voice (Tyler’s own) act as a therapy session and precursor to the song that will follow. The song “Goblin” is Tyler establishing who he is. The record opens with it, Tyler confessing ins and outs of his life, calling himself out as well as calling out others. While explicit, it’s his honesty that is separating him from other rappers. There’s nothing radio-friendly, there is nothing that would make a good club jam –it’s brute honesty –an autobiography of a straight-edge, 20 year old skater-turned-rapper.

The album’s first single, “Yonkers”, is almost a self-loathing/self-promoting, shameless track for attention. He sets himself up to be the best, a fresh voice, a master of hard knocks and pulling out to win. Calling out fellow musicians such as B.O.B. and Bruno Mars, controversy is a thread holding Goblin together. The track is addictive; the beat almost overpowers the rhymes, creating a hypnotic energy.

On tracks like “Radicals” (which includes a “random disclaimer” where Tyler says that the song is “fiction”) and “Tron Cat”, Tyler unleashes his demons with no remorse. While battling the egos of others, he also gives his own quite a beating on the piano-driven track “Nightmare” before attacking feelings of lust on “She (feat. Frank Ocean)” and “Her.”

Lyrically, the same misogynistic and homophobic undertones are as present here as on any other rap album. Is it right or ok? Of course not; I take offense to the word "fag" and, as a woman, don't think that it should be acceptable for the rap community to constantly refer to women as their "bitches.” The cuts “Bitch Suck Dick” and “Transylvania” are more or less unlistenable and the lyrics “Rape a pregnant bitch and tell my friends I had a threesome” show his immaturity which, in turn, show the misfires on the record to be trying too hard to be a “gangster.”

The entire record is 20 minutes too long, but the obvious lack of outside help proves that Tyler’s auteur-style is still there. He does, to stay current in the lingo of this generation, have swag. Where he’s strong, he’s strong, but where he falters, he pigeonholes himself. Once he learns to edit and maybe find some humility, he can get to work on being the innovator he deserves to be recognized as and maybe all of this can occur before he turns 25. **7.9/10

Life Update.

2011-06-06T23:11:00.002-05:00

I titled this very literally, this is an update of my life.

First off, I'm now contributing to Napiers News. I'll be posting my album reviews there and who knows where it can go after that! But it's really exciting and I owe Mal HUGE props for hooking me up :)

Secondly, I'm writing a review of some Odd Future stuff. Tyler is getting a lot of heat, but I honestly can't stop listening to Goblin. I promise my review will be fair, I'm not going to kiss his ass or defend him to an insane, biased level. But, I'm excited to get to write about the new direction hip-hop is going (sonically, not lyrically).

So that's it; short and sweet. Right now, I'm watching Jane's Addiction Live at Voodoo so Perry Farrell is getting all of my attention...actually no, Dave Navarro is :)

Review: Codes & Keys -Death Cab for Cutie

2011-06-05T15:38:00.005-05:00

Washington’s Death Cab for Cutie has excelled at bringing somewhat sad narratives to fans across the world since the late nineties. With central lyricist and lead singer Ben Gibbard at the helm, the band has created seven albums that blend indie rock and folk, creating beautiful, simplistic songs that are relatable; which help set them apart from their musical counterparts. Their newest effort, Codes & Keys, may be their best full-band sound to date with cascading guitar that don’t overpower, vintage keyboards, and a steady, but subtle drum beat. What has been able to withstand the past 13 years is a band that has not only grown up but found something greater to inspire it.

The album’s lead-off single, “You Are a Tourist” shows the newer, more optimistic Gibbard and Co. “When there’s a burning in your heart, don’t be alarmed” he sings, encouraging the listener rather than reminding them that life and love ultimately end. What this song, as well as others such as “Monday Morning” brings to the table is a sense of maturity and an understanding of purpose. “Under the Sycamore” shows the strength of the new and improved Death Cab for Cutie. The sound of the piano and the sweetness of what sounds like tapping on glass jars propels this record in to a state of its own.

There are bits and pieces of the Death Cab that we would all play when we were sad and wanted to be alone with our thoughts. Tracks like “Home is a Fire” and “Portable Television” are quintessential, deep melancholia that are predictable, but enrich the album by rounding out its edges. Gibbard’s signature, whisper-like vocals bring out the emotion rooted in every word, and buries each sound into the listener’s mind. “Portable Television” especially, is the go-to lullaby on Codes & Keys, much like previous tracks such as “I Will Follow You into the Dark” from the album Plans.

Not to say that the record is perfect. While beautiful, some tracks such a “Some Boys”, “Unobstructed Views”, and “St. Peter’s Cathedral” seem to drag on. With little to no change in tempo or sound, the songs get boring and tedious.

Where it shines, it’s brilliant, and where it falters, it’s still great. Pitchfork was way off when writer Larry Fitzmaurice called the album “emotionally distant.” Each note played by the band is packed with more emotion and feeling than Fitzmaurice has in his whole body. If anything, Death Cab for Cutie has to hone that emotion and make it stand out, rather than let some fall as background noise. **8.0/10

Every Teardrop is a Waterfall

2011-06-03T13:30:00.004-05:00

What I think of the NEW Coldplay track:
Lyrically, it's catchy and relatable. There's more of a narrative like their earlier tracks. It's very electro, sonically reminding me of "Lovers in Japan." It's commercial for radio and sounds like what you'd expect from Chris Martin and Co. I don't think there's a lot of growth, it's almost too familiar, but I do like it.

Hopefully the album brings something new to the table. Viva La Vida: Pt. 2 isn't really what I wanting from this band.

This Old Machine

2011-06-03T10:15:00.003-05:00

My mom was just on the phone will my grandpa. He's been in the hospital for almost a month and he just found out that my aunt was admitted for the fourth time this month. He told her he already knows, but he's on the "pot" so he can't go visit her right now. I, having selective hearing and being more than 20 feet away, screamed, "PAPA'S SMOKING POT!?" No...my grandpa is not smoking pot, but how funny would that be?

I always think of how my grandparents probably were when they were young. My mom told me Al Capone hit on my grandma (asked her out, not put a hit on her) and my grandpa reminisces about the bar fights he got himself in to during World War 2. All in all, sounds like fascinating stuff to me. I probably would've been friends with them.

The song "The Boxer" by Simon & Garfunkel kind of reminds me of my grandpa. I wonder if he knows that song...if I get the chance, I'll play it for him one day.

You Look Like You've Been For Breakfast at the Heartbreak Hotel

2011-06-02T01:46:00.005-05:00

Submarine opens in Chicago June 3rd, SO excited.

The film seems whimsical and quirky, also nostalgic. Plus, the soundtrack is AMAZING.

As if Alex Turner wasn't amazing enough as it is :)

Someone is going to have to go see this with me. It will be a $10 spent well.

Synonyms for "Inspiration"

2011-06-01T01:09:00.002-05:00

I'm currently writing my review of Death Cab for Cuties' Codes & Keys. The album is beautiful, but I have no idea where to begin. I could start off with something like,"In the past, Death Cab for Cutie has released albums that reach into your soul; each track's tale of romantic sadness burrowing itself into the caverns that surround your heart...", but how CYNICAL does that sound? That is how their music made me feel though. Ben Gibbard understood that everything dies; the idea of love, lovers, family members, etc. Life ends and life isn't always happy and sometimes you're alone...then you wake up, clean up, and BOOM! -you're married to the indie darling who is Zooey Deschanel. Well, we can't all share that tale, can we?

Anyway, what's really going on is that I'm INCREDIBLY wrapped up in my short story/could possibly be turned into a novel -that's how ridiculously stimulated I am with this story. I gave it a serious overhaul and BOOM! -inspiration...I'm really overdoing it with the onamonapia usage here, apologies.

Love?

2011-05-28T22:22:00.003-05:00

I found my portfolio from high school. Everything I wrote for the "Phoenix Flyer" lies in plastic sleeves that are starting to rip out of the binder, doing more harm than good. <- That was me attempting to be descriptive and sound overly-intellectual. Ignoring my ill-fated attempt to make something boring seem interesting, I read my articles today. I even read my proposals. I wanted to write about love for the Valentine's Day issue, what a fresh idea. Actually, I wanted to write about what I think of love and what my friends think of love. What I discovered from my friends was that romance has a very limited shelf-life. I make my friends seem incredibly cynical...some of them are. Anyway, my idea was shot down by my professor. I understand that it was cliche and I, at the time 17 years old, could be seen as "too young" to tackle such an adult conversation. Yet, I wanted to do it and I still do so...I'll question a bit here.

Within my family members that I see at holidays, parties over the summer, regularly for weekend dinners, etc. -NONE of them have ever been divorced. So there's a part of me that has hope. Then, there are more than a handful of family members who are 50+ years old who are ALL ALONE...hope shattered. Now, I may seem... naive here, but isn't the old saying "There's someone for everyone"? I thought so. I have seen some of the oddest couples be hopelessly devoted to one another and yet, people who I think are absolutely AMAZING have a better chance being struck by lightning than finding love.

I guess this is my only inquiry -what do people who are forever single think once they hit a certain age? I doubt they accept it and move on. I think that they have the capacity to be happy, but there's got to be something missing, right? Of course, as a person who lives in her mind and has to place herself in to EVERY scenario, I worry. Will I be like my aunts or my uncles? Not saying I want to find the love of my life and get married at 19, but I have yet to have a boyfriend/be kissed at all. My first kiss was with my gay friend Jordan and it was all of 4 seconds, egged on by the OBSCENE amount of alcohol we had consumed just minutes beforehand.

Love is supposed to be something that everyone DESERVES to feel and have, yet there are people who will, unfortunately, die alone and could die without having experienced a great love at all. Then, I get cynical. If love is supposed to be this fantastic thing, why does it make some people so miserable? The single, slightly bitter and rigidly jealous part of me becomes prideful -WHO NEEDS A MAN/WOMAN!?

...Maybe it's a good thing I didn't write this piece. I'm way out of my league here. Is it wrong to think about the end when you've really just begun? Is it wrong to put yourself in the shoes of people who are older than you? Actually, that last one, probably.

How do you feel about love, or lack there of? And, pardon my rambling :)

Opening My Jar of Thoughts

2011-05-27T22:09:00.005-05:00

So, in lieu of my most recent review postings, I've decided to really go all in with this music journalism thing. I know I've been saying it and wishing for it, but I think I have what it takes. I mean, I read reviews by Rob Sheffield and interviews done by Brian Hiatt and I just think, "I can write just as well as them." People, not just my friends who may hold a certain bias, seem to like what I'm saying -so why do I still question it? Maybe because the world is so fucked up, but how long can I keep using that excuse? Will the world stay in this turmoil forever? Actually...probably. ANYWAY, to stay out of those muddy waters, I'll just keep the focus right on myself, thanks :)

Regardless of what the future holds, I'm proud of myself for even posting my opinion on the internet, where it "can never really be deleted." The only person who was allowed to read my musings before this was my cousin Rachael, and though I love her, I don't think she ever really got it. I don't think a lot of people in my family get it...but I guess that unconditional love thing kicks in and it doesn't really matter.

Also, I've started writing fictional short-stories again. I kind of like where this one is going so, if worthy, I'll post a bit. I'm so glad to be out of my "emo" phase, you have NO idea. In all honesty, how many stories could one girl write about being an outcast and falling in love with the boy with chipped, black nails and a deep, dark secret? It got a little tired, but I did win a Young Author's Award for that masterpiece ;)

Review: Suck It And See -Arctic Monkeys

2011-05-26T01:16:00.005-05:00

Five years ago, the Arctic Monkeys made a name for themselves in the UK with their smashing debut, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not. Frontman Alex Turner’s snotty lyrics about the drab life he and his mates lived in Sheffield made for perfect narratives that were brought to life with clever guitar riffs and a steady beat. Each album has been a success and the band have only continued to grow. 2007’s Favourite Worst Nightmare was more of the same while 2009’s Humbug revealed a band that had so much more to explore and give. Their upcoming release, Suck It And See, continues down Humbug’s journey with a more accessible vintage sound that isn’t afraid to get a little loud.

The album eerily unfolds with “She’s Thunderstorms”, a poetic ode to Turner’s girlfriend, Alexa Chung. The song itself is lucid, parallel to Turner’s vocals that sound almost whispered. The second track, “Black Treacle” has lyrics reminiscent of The Beatles’ “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.” Nothing sounds too dark, there’s no exceptional hook unless guitarist Jamie Cook’s slide work that gives the track a bit of an Oasis sound. The great thing is that the band comes out, guns blaring, with each member playing to their individual strengths.

Tracks like “Brick by Brick” and “Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair” pack a heavier punch than their predecessors. Turner adapts to his lower register, as drummer Matt Helders relies heavily on hitting his cymbals as hard as he can. The guitar work, from both Turner and Cook, is much more intricate than on previous albums. Solos are placed where solos usually aren’t found while the frantic, 3-chord progression that helped catapult them to indie stardom is nowhere to be found.

As the songs themselves become more intricate, so do the lyrics and song titles. The irrelevantly titled “The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala” showcases the Monkeys’ first real heavy bass groove from Nick O’Malley while the always leading guitars echo into the background.

There are quintessential moments on Suck It, however. “Library Pictures” sounds uncannily like “The Bad Thing” and “Do Me a Favour” before slowing into a more psychedelic trance -only enhanced by Turner’s hypnotic vocals. “All My Stunts” could have easily been placed on Humbug, sounding like a mash-up of “Dangerous Animals” and “Secret Door.” It is, however, the band’s most inspired track –featuring vocal overlay and back-up vocals courtesy of Josh Homme, guitar distortions, and Helders’ heaviest drumming to date.

“Reckless Serenade” is by far the most beautiful and poetic track. The caverns of Alex Turner’s mind must be filled to the brim –half with sappy love songs (“I’m a fool for you”) of really any decade and half with the biting wit of poets such as Bukowski (“Your waitress was miserable, and so was your food”). As far as modern lyricists go, he is on another level. He is a lyrical poet of Morrison’s caliber. The heartbreakingly honest “Love is a Laserquest” reminds me of “Only Ones Who Know,” where Turner reminisces about a love who moved on, leaving him to rot alone –only this time, he’s calling her out.

“Suck It & See” and “That’s Where You’re Wrong” cap off the album. The suggestiveness of “Suck It & See” could easily be about finding true love as it could be about sex, while “That’s Where You’re Wrong” is a layered, shrilling beacon of ‘60s peppered rock & roll. Turner is crooning on this track, capturing each theme the album holds into a perfect four minutes. The song is happy and sad, but optimistic rather than sarcastic and cynical. It sounds as if it was written on some beach on the west coast, rather than in the confined, industrial town that is Sheffield.

The great thing about the Arctic Monkeys is that they grow just enough to remain relevant and exciting, yet they know where their roots are. If the album has that late ‘60s, California pop ring to it, it’s because that’s what it is at its inner-most core, yet it’s heavy enough to still be considered “rock and roll” or, at its most dumbed down, indie. All the familiarities remain; poetic tangents, ubiquitous narratives, Turner’s soft yet commanding vocals, and a band that’s playing as tight and as together as ever. Where the album lacks in hooks, frantic dance-ability, and tracks that can stand out as obvious radio “singles”, it ironically makes up for it with its sheer simplicity. **9.4/10

Lady GaGa is the lovechild of Madonna & Bruce Springsteen on Born This Way

2011-05-18T18:47:00.006-05:00

Lady GaGa took over pop music in 2008 –catapulting it into strange and uncharted territory like performance art, outlandish outfits, and actually singing. She brought back the fun of Madonna and coupled it with her own New York City Club Kid aesthetic. Since the debut of The Fame, her pop counterparts; Katy Perry, Rihanna, and Britney Spears, have all tried to get on her level. Hate or love her, GaGa hasn’t apologized for anything she has done. With the release of Born This Way, she is still as unapologetic as ever and it’s continuing to work in her favor.

The album’s opener, “Marry the Night” reveals the record’s agenda: a timeline of GaGa’s life and love. It’s unassuming in its ‘80s drivetime style. It’s actually her most conservative track and to use it as an opener for an album that is supposed to be a landmark, it’s unimpressive.

The title track, “Born This Way” straddles the line between the breakthrough power anthem GaGa wants it to be and the gayest thing you’ve ever heard. I get it –be who you are, not who you’re not. Don’t change yourself to fit any else’s mold; it’s all great. But what came out of that inspiration machine quickly turned into repetitious, only-tolerated-in-the-club, four and a half minutes of over-indulgence. Maybe if she had spent more than ten minutes penning it, it would’ve been more.

“Government Hooker” opens with GaGa’s earnest attempt at something more operatic. The beginning is repetitive but the chorus hits closest to sounding like it could’ve fit on The Fame Monster. It’s the most Gothic, industrial sounding song on Born This Way, as well as the darkest lyrically. Not lacking in controversy however, GaGa speaks, “Put your hands on me/John F. Kennedy” as if it’s been her childhood fantasy. Where the track lacks in lyrical value, it also lacks in anything more interesting than the industrial sounds of “Bad Romance.”

“Judas” is one of the best tracks on the album. Ignoring the Biblical undertones, the song stands on its own as a masterpiece of metaphor. Is it annoying that she still feels the need to remind us that her name is GaGa? Yes, but when that beat drops, it’s an instant reminder of why we care that she is GaGa. The song is the most cohesive lyrically, telling a full story instead of trailing off and becoming something else entirely. Much like “Government Hooker”, “Judas” could have easily been a sibling to “Alejandro” on The Fame Monster.

“Americano” opens similar to Rosemary Clooney’s “Mambo Italiano.” Of course, GaGa puts her dance spin on the track, ushering it in with “la la la’s” and masking the flamenco guitars with a familiar dubstep beat. As flourishing violins battle with flamenco guitars who are in their own battle with a rave bass, this bilingual romp proves that while Gaga is best when she’s stylized, she has the capacity to be even better when she’s over-stylized.

“Hair” is sure to be an anthem, period. Is the first verse horrible? However, the saxophone contributions from Clarence Clemence of The E-Street Band give the song a different effect. The song definitely shows GaGa trying something new –for her aesthetic at least. Surprisingly, the inspiration factor in the chorus works in her favor unlike the chorus in some of the other tracks. The bridge however, sounds like 16 year-old GaGa sticking it to anyone who ever doubted her. If maturity was a serious factor in pop music, she would lose points with this one.

“Scheibe” has GaGa speaking German and honestly –does anyone care what she’s saying? No, because the track takes on a life of its own and is one of her best. It’s definitely a “fashion” song, deemed to be played on runways next Fashion Week. Its Euro-trash dance music at its finest –the constant shooting-siren exemplifies the dance track cliché but GaGa rocks it with her own performance art swag. It’s not a new formula, as “Dance in the Dark” followed the same recipe, but it’s GaGa and we love her for it.

“Bloody Mary” is sweeping before the beat begins. GaGa sings slowly, “I’m gonna d-d-dance with my hands above my head/ Just like Jesus said.” The violins pluck before a suppressed scream brings the song back to life. Lyrically, it is poetry. “We’re not just art for Michelangelo to sculpt” she states before continuing on her journey to get to the heart of what love, beliefs, and life is really about.

“Bad Kids” is the evil twin to “Born This Way.” It should’ve been played during the Disco Bloodbath inspired film Party Monster. It’s back to the floor with this one; a bit Donna Summer with some electric guitar. The relentless declarations, “I’m a bitch” and “I’m a punk” will probably continue to annoy those who already find the Lady annoying, but it’s hard not to adore the chorus.

“Highway Unicorn (Road to Love)” is guilty of two things; a horrible title and sounding like a b-side to the Killers’ Day & Age. With the exception of the over-produced chorus and fuzzy melody, Brandon Flowers could have easily sang this and, to the decree of his band mates, been shut down immediately. Each verse is strong but GaGa loses it at the chorus, where the image of a unicorn does come to mind. Only, instead of it being viewed as something artistic, it comes off cheesy. Lyrically, it’s similar to Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” -2 lovers on some desolate road who would rather die or constantly be on the run than have some sense of security.

“Heavy Metal Lover” is the brute-force cousin of “Teeth.” It’s absolutely filthy, from the beats to the lyrics, “I want your whiskey mouth/All over my blonde south.” Where the song is sexy, with GaGa sounding like she could be Marilyn Manson’s long-lost sister, it gets to be a bit much.

The Pop Queen gets heavy on “Electric Chapel” with the opening riff sounding like any 80s metal band’s chord progression. It’s definitely a stand-out; a dark, forbidden love anthem that could pass as a Blondie jam. If GaGa ever wanted to rock, she definitely worked those demons on this track. The bridge displays her raw, guttural vocals which are a welcomed change from her polished pop persona.

The first time GaGa played “You & I” was on Good Morning, America. She sat at her piano, after rain fell in New York City, and sang just as raw as she was playing. The song allowed everyone to catch their breath after being pummeled with industrial dance beats and heavy bass. The album version however, brought GaGa’s piano soul down to zero as it’s masked with guitar distortions and soft-eighties background vocals. Her narrative about a love that just won’t die quickly turns into a 5-minute recap of her rise to stardom where “You & I” becomes more “Me, Myself, and I.”

“Fashion of His Love” is really GaGa at her most Madonna. The beat is reminiscent of Madonna’s “Open Your Heart” as well as sounding like it would be played in the mall scene in any John Hughes’ film. If it were ’86, Whitney Houston probably would have killed to call this song her own. It’s overly polished, cutesy, and too happy for a woman who notoriously speaks of her “dark period” of substance abuse, broken love, and suffering through life up until now.

“Black Jesus –Amen Fashion” isn’t about what you’d think. Much like “Born This Way” it’s a song about GaGa. It’s her life, born to be a star. Yet another song born to be played on the runway, it’s apparent that she wrote this with her dear friend, Alexander McQueen in mind. Though, 2 minutes in, it gets boring to listen to. If GaGa is fashion and fashion is GaGa, then what’s left? Oh right, Jesus is the new black, who knew?

Honestly, the best track on Born This Way is “The Edge of Glory.” It’s pure, unabashed ‘80s pop –glistening in love and life. The song features another saxophone solo by Clarence Clemence, but where his previous addition brought something new and not-so welcomed, it fits perfectly here. The song is a celebration, and leaving here there, it can be seen as the triumphant finish of a mostly good album, which is a beautiful image.

With trying to turn Jesus into some pop culture, fashion trend, it’s not a perfect pop album. While some tracks can stand on their own as “masterpieces”, GaGa can only go up from here. It’s not a substantial growth, but it’s a growth that will keep her “little Monsters” happy and may draw more people to her shows. What she continues to show is that she has the chops; she has an image, she has a gimmick, she has a presence, but most importantly –she has a voice. **8.8/10

Review: All At Once -The Airborne Toxic Event

2011-05-16T23:24:00.004-05:00

In August 2008, the fresh sound of California’s Airborne Toxic Event travelled through radio waves and the hit single “Sometime Around Midnight” was played in heavy rotation on Vh1. The self-titled EP was the band’s first and brought a fresh sound to a heavy hip-hop and electro-pop industry. Each song sounded good, from the summer-ready recollection of singer Mikel Jollet’s first love in “Gasoline” to the sweeping violin in “Sometime Around Midnight.” The band’s edge was Jollet’s relatable lyrics coupled with his melodic yet raw vocals. Everything just worked and, although never fully breaking into the mainstream, the EP showed the band’s potential for something greater. Their newest release, All At Once, is packed with Jollet’s honest lyrics, but fell short with its less-than-upbeat sound.

The record’s lead-off single “Changing” is the band’s only effort to try and break into mainstream radio. The hook is infectious, with Jollet reminding his lady-love that he is “a gentleman” while a simple drum beat holds the song together. Lyrically, “Changing” is Jollet’s only attempt at something happier, with every other song depicting images of broken hearts, lost childhoods, and just all around sadness. Though his lyrics are beautiful and poetic, the listening almost becomes tedious and heavy rather than an all around enjoyable experience.

The track “Welcome to Your Wedding Day” sounds like the worst of what Muse and The Strokes have offered in the past 5 years. On this track, it’s almost as if the band took all the clichés of a harder, indie song and stuffed them into three minutes and forty-four seconds.

Though the album has its obvious mishaps, there are reminders of why this band should matter. A personal favorite is “Half of Something Else” which sonically could be the sibling of “Sometime Around Midnight.” The song is hypnotic, with Jollet and keyboardist/violinist Anna Bulbrook’s voices harmonizing perfectly. The song really hits around the three minute mark, where Jollet shatters all hope of his romance being able to continue with his scream flying above the hard drum-kick and shifty guitar work. “All I Ever Wanted” is the only track featuring Bulbrook’s violin, but relies too much on recognizable “indie” chords and progressions.

All At Once is worth having in any record collection. I wouldn’t regard it as a sophomore slump; it shows growth and a band who has established its own identity. It’s an album that should be celebrated for its lyrical value rather than the way it sounds. Once each member figures out how to marry each element, everything will fall into place. **7.5/10

7:15 P.M.

2011-05-16T18:52:00.005-05:00

"Better Man" has been on repeat for the past 15 minutes. I've been on this Pearl Jam thing. Actually anything remotely "grunge." With this said, I'm 90% sure I will be attending Pearl Jam 20 Festival this September. I'm going for The Strokes (like that needed to be said) but Queens of the Stone Age are playing too so it'll be a good time. Plus, I'll get to skip Monday's 8 a.m. lab to sleep in and bask in the up-all-night beer drinking and dancing that is bound to ensue.

In Guilty Pleasure/Reality TV news: Real Housewives of New Jersey starts tonight. Now, as a woman, I am...shall I say...offended(?) that these women act like lunatics but as a person who likes to be entertained -this show is QUEEN! I'll miss that crazy, wannabe Lesbian Danielle Staub though. Her logic, or lack there of, was always a Monday night favorite among my mother and I.

In Music news: There's this dispute going down between Tyler, The Creator and well...everyone, especially Sara Quin of Tegan & Sara. I, in NO way, support homophobic or misogynistic ideals, but I really like Tyler's music.

Of course, as a supporter of the LGBT community and Gay rights, I take offense to the word "fag" and, as a woman, don't think that it should be acceptable for the rap community to constantly refer to women as their "bitches", but should this 20 year-old's rhymes be taken so literally? The rap community has built an empire on homophobic and misogynistic music and, up until now, the majority of people have ignored it because of the beat and presence in the club.

It's not right, obviously, and if the world was perfect none of it would exist. But who said that the meaning of life could be found in the lyrics to "Yonkers" or "AssMilk"? I mean, even the titles of some of the tracks show that it's not to be taken so seriously. I've never been a huge hip-hop enthusiast, but this is how the kid writes, this is how he expresses himself, and if it's not literally hurting anyone, then let him be. If you don't like it - don't listen to it.

Have I deleted some of Tyler's tracks that take it to a repellent level? Of course. So why doesn't everyone else?

Ok, I'm off my soap box. I have nothing else to say. I wish my life was more interesting. Summer has just begun and maybe it won't be so bad.

We all need a fix, I guess I need one, too

2011-05-07T23:49:00.003-05:00

This documentary is reminding me just how much I love The Airborne Toxic Event. Their first album was so beautiful and I hope All At Once follows suit. To whoever reads this, expect a review (probably in the next post)

I will be updating blogger more as I dedicate my summer to improving myself both mentally and physically. I've reached my breaking point and I'm not going to let myself fall. I'm too young to be this messed up, honestly.

Anyway, the "renewal" is kicking off with an organic bowel cleanse, followed by buying a bike for my work-out routine. As far as the mental situation, I'm made a plethora of appointments so we'll see where that goes.

ON A LIGHTER NOTE: My Pitchfork tickets are FINALLY purchased. Can't wait to see Twin Shadow, Odd Future, and Deerhunter. I'll be that girl sweating in red lipstick with her camera so find me and say hello if you're attending :)

Livin' Ain't Easy

2011-03-30T19:57:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I wish I could blink and be 5 years from now. I'd like to see myself at 24. Hopefully I'd be thinner, smarter, happier, in a relationship, I don't know...something. Unfortunately, I can't do that so I settle for daydreams and talking to myself (not aloud though, that'd be crazy).

In reality, I'm dependent on my iPod and Tazo's Earl Grey Black Tea to get through my day. I've also been really in to Astrology, which is weird since I talk SO MUCH SMACK about people who get zodiac sign tattoos. I still think they're stupid, but Astrology is cool. Is that too trendy? Oh well.

I'm also in love with my 69 year-old Shakespeare professor. Is it a father-figure thing? No. I don't have particular daddy issues so there's no void to be filled. I just think he's hot. He's not bald, he doesn't have a hunchback, he wears coke-bottle glasses, has 2 hearing aids, and has a snake tattoo on his forearm -perfect much? I regret every time I ditched that class, all 4 times.

Side Note: The end of Willy Wonka (the original one) ALWAYS MAKES ME CRY! Gene Wilder is AMAZING in that role. He's the perfect mix of disturbed and innocent.

Anyway, I'm chewing gum Violet Beauregard style but it's ok. My uncle called me Veruca when I was younger -that bastard.

WHY DO I BOTHER TO BLOG!? RAMBLING.

Regardless, I'm stressed (what college student isn't?), I'm failing Calculus (well I have a D- ), and if my English professor insults me one more time I will THROW. DOWN.

...I've missed Blogger. Maybe I think it's more private because no one reads this but I just like the fact that I can type and type and not feel like a super dork because no one has "reblogged"

Angles - The Strokes

2011-03-16T10:29:00.005-05:00

This is MY review of Angles -dig it :)

In 2003, Rolling Stone spent all night with the Strokes, as the magazine titled them the “New Kings of Rock & Roll.” The fab-5, with their New York cool and nonchalant demeanor not only stole the hearts of teen girls (and some boys) everywhere, but also brought a breath of fresh air to radio waves that were cluttered with the sounds of over-produced alt-acts such as Creed and Hoobastank. Their second release, Room on Fire, was a straight-forward continuation of what the band were becoming known for and what they excelled at. In 2006, they released First Impressions of Earth, an album that, at the time, was too ambitious even for the boys with so much promise. Now, 5 years later, the Strokes have returned with Angles; an album that is largely being called their “best work since 2001’s debut, Is This It?” With each member now in their 30s, it would make sense for the Strokes to go for a more mature, refined sound, right? Well, not exactly. Angles is approximately 36 minutes of the Strokes at their tightest with their most collaborative songs yet.

The album unfolds with “Machu Picchu” –an electro-guitar gem that has Casablancas admitting that he’s “putting your patience to the test” (the understatement of the year). The song rolls on with a neo-reggae groove that you can’t help but sway to…until the chorus. It hits hard with Hammond and Valensi going toe-to-toe and Moretti hitting the snare with absolute conviction. Coming to the bridge, the guitars sounds like an all-too familiar ‘80s classic, “Got to be Startin’ Something” by Michael Jackson. The overlay vocals only add to the new Strokes’ sound, but it’s a welcomed change. The third and final verse has Casablancas in a higher register, an aspect that trickles down to the rest of the album’s best tracks.

The album’s lead single “Under Cover of Darkness” is next. In a way, it’s a return to form but listening to it doesn’t get old. As Julian asks, “Will you wait for me now?” You can’t help but answer “yes” as the chorus kicks in. Lyrically, it’s the similar relationship complaints that were on the previous Strokes’ albums, “I’m tired of all your friends, listening at your door…” brings up memories of “I can’t get along with all you friends” from “Vision of Division.” It’s a toe-tapping good time that will fit in perfectly at summer festivals. This is the track that reminds us of the Strokes that we fell in love with a decade ago.

UCoD is followed by “Two Kinds of Happiness.” An almost, dare I say…anthem? Casablancas hurls in to the chorus with “Don’t waste your heart” while Valensi and Hammond play in unison. It’s the kind of song that conjures images of the end of a John Hugh’s film. This song definitely puts the spotlight on the new, poppier Strokes that long-time fans may be resistant to –at first listen. The words “Don’t you give in” aren’t really a Casablancas staple, but maybe he himself needed a little beacon of inspiration. What this track brings is a more accessible side to a band that has always seemed “too cool.”

“You’re So Right” gave bassist Nikolai Fraiture a chance to flex his writing skill. It’s fast and rippling, leaving the listener with the choice of either listening again to decipher Julian’s muffled croon or skipping it on the next listen. With that said, the track’s pinnacle is Nick Valensi’s solo - 30 seconds of rapid fire that reminds me a bit of “Juicebox.” Looking at the album as a whole, it’s definitely one track that seems out of place and would feel more at home on Julian’s Phrazes for the Young; which, not only foreshadows the possible direction the Strokes may continue in, but also shows that for a frontman who was never in the same room as the rest of the band, his influence was still felt.

Guitarist Nick Valensi’s second song (his writing debut came in the form of ‘Machu Picchu’), is “Taken for a Fool.” The vocal sounds straight off of Room on Fire, but is that really a bad thing? Clearly, Valensi is longing for the Strokes that were –raw, fast, simple. Moretti’s beat keeps the song alive as the last 40-seconds repeat the chorus’ hook. Personally, I prefer each verse to the chorus, but it has a radio-friendly quality which may make a good, future single.

A dance track is something I would have never expected from the Strokes, but “Games” is a pillowy number in which the best part of the song is Fab Moretti’s drumming. The song seems to be the most-worked song on the album, epitomizing the worst ‘80s new wave and echoing whispers of The Cars. Again, Julian’s solo efforts are felt heavily with the song feeling like the sibling of “11th Dimension.” The song is repetitious, tedious, and doesn’t evoke the same passion as the other tracks. From this point on, “Games” will be referred to as “Album-filler.”

Angles’ lullaby comes next with Julian’s soft croon in “Call Me Back.” The smooth bossa nova vibes remind me of Moretti’s band, Little Joy or something that Devendra Banhart would play. It’s just vocals and guitar with slightly staccato breaks that wake the listener from Julian’s seductive droning. The overlays of incomprehensible whispers add to the dream-like quality of the song. It’s a nice break from the synths and heavy drums.

A wake-up call is brought in the form of “Gratisfaction” –a Thin Lizzy-influenced song that is one of the album’s most memorable tracks. On first listen, it brought back those fuzzy, muffled feelings I got the first time I listened to “Someday.” The background vocals, provided by Hammond and Valensi, actually add to the song’s easy-going vibe. It’s familiar but fits amongst the new electro wave the rest of the album rides.

“Metabolism” sounds like it should fall between “Heart in a Cage” and “Vision of Division” on First Impressions of Earth. The Muse-style structure is as dark as Angles gets. Casablancas almost growls at the end of each phrase, re-entering his lower register and drifting off like the personification of midnight. Lyrically, “Metabolism” takes us back to Julian’s progression of emotions a la “On the Other Side.” Live, the song should definitely strike a chord, as it’s probably the track that drives hardest on the album.

Angles’ farewell is the only track that survived the scrapped Joe Chicarelli sessions. “Life is Simple in the Moonlight” is just that, simple. Valensi’s solo is probably the slowest piece he’s ever done, perfectly complimented by Moretti’s controlled drumming while Hammond’s rhythm sections gives the song a cascading quality. Lyrically, it’s probably the deepest with phrases like “So we talk about ourselves in hell, to forget the love we’ve never felt.” It’s a narrative but maybe one of the Strokes’ most relatable songs. The fades quietly with Julian singing “Don’t try to stop us, get out of our way.” At this point, I don’t think anyone would think of getting in their way.

Angles is really two albums in one. It’s an album that reminds us of that band that so nonchalantly changed the face of what was considered “rock & roll” and it’s an album that strips Casablancas and co. of their sunglasses and leather and shows them attempting to find something new. If Strokes IV is in the works, I hope it comes soon. Angles is a solid return, but it’s not their best. They have an album in them that’s better than Is This It?, they just have to trust each other first. **8.9/10

Up on a hill, is where we begin

2011-03-07T13:26:00.003-06:00

I've been having a full-on affair with Tumblr lately. Why? -people actually follow me/like what I have to say. I still love Blogger though, it's more blog-esque. Tumblr just allows people who obsess over the same thing to reblog and drool together instead of alone, pathetically.

ANYWAYS, a lot has happened since I've posted last. I've gotten another tattoo, I've lost 5 pounds, I've been craving a cigarette, I only cuff my jeans, Radiohead released The King of Limbs (it's obviously fantastic), and I treat my leather jacket as if it's my child.

In other news, the Strokes played SNL and Miley Cyrus is still a talentless child. Back to The Strokes -I'm nervous. Angles is...almost here. I'm EXCITED but apprehensive. Pitchfork posted this CRAZY-ASS ARTICLE that encompasses all 10 years of the Strokes, yet it left me feeling less than optimistic about my favorite's future. I could tell from the NME article that Julian only kinda likes Angles and that Nick was pissed off that Jules wasn't really around. Then, Pitchfork reporter Jonathon Garrett is describing how Julian is answering each question, including the "long pauses" and "hesitations" followed by a cornucopia of ellipses. Should there even be a 5th Strokes album or should we all just revel in what used to be? I'm torn. AND FOR THE RECORD- the happy-go-lucky videos the Strokes' website has been posting about the "Making of Angles" are SERIOUSLY MISGUIDING!

Anyways, I also have a new adoration for Adele. 21 > 19, in my opinion. She's a BAMF. Can we please that acronym back? It was so much fun.

later, BAMFs

Merry 2011

2011-01-10T20:09:00.004-06:00

So far, it's better than I could have hoped. On New Year's day, I went to see The Black Keys at the Aragon Ballroom with my FAVOURITE PEOPLE for free and I spent the night dancing, singing, riding around with the sunroof open, blasting music, eating Mexican food, and drinking Horchata with vodka. Nights like that just reaffirm my love of the city. The city at night FAR SURPASSES the city during the day, especially after a concert. All that adrenaline is bursting out of you, everyone is your best friend, everyone looks better, the world seems better, and the night is perfect. I didn't wash my pants after that, I "kept the night on them" as Michael Cera would say in Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. But it's nights like that I wait for and want to repeat every night until the decadence starts eating away at me.

So the new year has been good, except for today -which sucked. I was listening to "Sunday Morning" by The Velvet Underground and I got really emotional each time Lou Reed sang, "watch out, the world's behind you..." I literally started crying and shaking and I called my mom. That song just got me thinking that, even though I'm told to enjoy college because once I'm in the "career-driven adult world" I'm "never going to have that kind of free time again" and "live in the moment", I have to think about the future and the world. So I thought about all of that, which made me more stressed and nervous, which added to tears and yelling, all before 11 a.m.

Now it's 8:15 and I'm sitting here, in a dorm, listening to the smokers outside of my window ramble, thinking about the fact that I'm at a college that a) doesn't have my major and b) sucks the life out of me. Ok...b) is a bit dramatic but really I don't even care to show up to class. I do and I only do so to get good grades and get the fuck out. But in the end, I'm just spending my days going through the motions and if this is the last time I'm going to get to enjoy this "young adult freedom", shouldn't I be excited about it?

R.I.P. John Lennon

2010-12-08T13:44:00.002-06:00

30 years and the man is still making a HUGE impact.

December 1st

2010-12-01T10:18:00.004-06:00

Could it be? The first REAL SNOW is actually occurring on December 1st? I hate snow but this is kind of cool. Even though I almost fell on my ass because of the white stuff on my way back from class, I'm kind of enjoying it.

I also just heard this news: ILLINOIS HOUSE APPROVES CIVIL UNIONS FOR GAY/LESBIAN COUPLES

Now my cousin and her girlfriend can get hitched and so can my other gay/lesbian friends :) This just shows that we're 1 step closer to equality; I'm very stoked.

Hopefully December is going to be a bitchin' month, I feel that there's something in the air.

Thankful.

2010-11-23T12:01:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is in 2 days. I hate to admit this, but I only know that Thanksgiving is in 2 days because my roomie has a countdown on her whiteboard. Otherwise, I'd be completely oblivious and that, combined with my ZERO sense of time, isn't really the best combination. Regardless, I am thankful for things this year. This year's list is more mature that last year's. I've grown up and experienced things and I know what's important and what's not. With this said, I still have the capacity to be shallow and be thankful for material items (oh well, I'm not perfect)

1) My family's health. For the past 5 years, a family member of mine has died in November. This year, everyone was happy and healthy.
2) Doing well in college. I was scared I would fail, ok?
3) My parents still having jobs and trying to float above this shit economy.
4) My family's pact to get physically healthy in 2011. Biggest Losers anyone? Placing bets now :)
5) Music -given, like this one would ever change?

now something cute:

Happy 2 day 'til Thanksgiving whoever reads this :)

I'll Tumble for Ya

2010-11-20T10:36:00.002-06:00

my tumblr

^it's more fun.

Light my Fire

2010-11-20T10:16:00.004-06:00

so...I've now smoked a couple of cigarettes in my lifetime. I thought I was NEVER going to but...well, I did. The guilt kills me though, sometimes I feel like I can still taste the nicotine (even though it's been almost 2 months and I brush my teeth twice a day). But it got me thinking about why smoking is portrayed as glamorous. After I smoked, I smelled like crap, my throat burned, and my mouth felt dirty...really dirty. There's something about it that, as lame and cliched as it sounds, makes you feel...cool. Or maybe I thought/felt all of this because I was drunk and we were stumbling around Boys Town at 5:30 in the morning with a Lady Gag Gag blow-up doll. ANYWAYS -smoking is not glamorous, but some of the most beautiful and talented women do it and people accept it/condone it/replicate it. It's weird how pop culture society works, isn't it?

New beginnings?

2010-11-13T23:16:00.003-06:00

Oh hey Blogger. I've been all up in Tumblr's business yet again; it's just so much easier. However, I prefer to ramble on blogger because I KNOW no one reads this whereas on Tumblr, people actually like some of my posts :)

But today, November 13th at 11:18 p.m. -I'm going to be more positive. I live in my mind, constantly over-analyzing every little detail and comparing my life to the lives of others , but now I'm going to stop. STOP!...Jane's Addiction moment...sorry. On a sidenote, does anyone think Seth Meyers is hot? I think he's hot. My sister prefers Andy Samberg but that's only because she's shallow 0_0

To keep on this positive thing, I'm shocked at how much I've been dancing and singing lately. I don't really dance, I moreso hop and shimmy and throw in the occassional fist pump for shits and giggles. The singing is getting really bad. I turn on The Like's new album and sing-along to "Don't Make a Sound."

The Strokes needle is also firmly stuck in my arm again as a result of the Isle of Wight coverage that was on Palladia. They're just so good...I can't help myself -I geek out. I was born with this large capacity to geek over just about anything, it's a double-edged sword.

Um....so, end of post? If I don't post again -Happy Thanksgiving :)

Jules gives a Thanksgiving shout-out during "Someday" -hells yeah

Cheater.

2010-10-25T17:27:00.003-05:00

I'm a cheater. I've been cheating on this blog with Tumblr and I've been cheating on Albert Hammond, Jr. with Mark Ronson. For these indiscretions, I apologize.

However, I'm back :) No one reads this, but I'm posting to make myself feel better. If I don't post, I'm going to go Dimmesdale on my ass and start whipping myself before I go to bed and ultimately die from a bleeding "A" I carved into my chest. <-That's a Scarlet Letter reference for anyone who hasn't read it. I actually enjoyed that book in high school, it's quite beautiful.

I love how I can say that now, "...in high school," as if I've been out for so long that it all seems like a distant, fuzzy memory. In a way, it does. I can't remember certain lunch room conversations I thought I'd remember forever. I don't really care, but high school wasn't as much of a miserable cliche as I have made it out to be. Could this be maturity? I don't know.

I'm sitting here, reading about Charles Manson and listening to Radiohead's Pablo Honey album. It really doesn't get old. I know Thom Yorke hates "Creep" but it's still brilliant and relevant. It's kind of like how "Don't Stop Believin" by Journey will never get old; "Creep" will live on in my iTunes forever. My children will consider it "oldies" but they'll even appreciate it.

Isn't that weird to think about? The music we listen to today will be considered "the oldies" to our kids/future generations? I can't imagine bands like The Strokes or Radiohead being considered "oldies." Fuck...I'm introspective right now, aren't I?

ANYWAYS-it looks like rain and it looks like I'm procrastinating. Shit.

Bright Young Thing.

2010-10-14T18:41:00.005-05:00

it's been awhile since I've blogged, have I really been that busy? no, just lazy. no, not lazy -focused (except for on anthropology, that shit SUCKS). I've been reading Lolita more than anything I have to read for class. Is it strange I feel like a total perv for reading that? it's kind of like a bad car crash, I can't look away. now I'm kicking myself for utilizing that cliche...fuck. whatever, I'm blaming this ramble on the beautiful weather imparing my ability to focus and form a coherent sentence...post...blog?

as of late, I've joined the masses and went out to see the social network. 3 things: andrew garfield is a fox (but I've known that since the imaginarium of doctor parnassus), jesse eisenberg plays an asshole but gave him a heart...sort of but it's ok because i totally bought it, & finally -justin timberlake is the devil. he was so believable as a complete dick that it has TOTALLY made up for his mediocre crap he's been putting out musically.

^babe

in other news: I'd like a best friend. I've had the WORST luck in that department and I'd really like to have a maid of honor at my wedding one day, ya know? but, I really don't like many people my age -how horrible is that?

Fall Ball.

2010-10-03T20:34:00.009-05:00

Lately, I've been liking UIC more and more. Sure, it's not as artsy as Columbia and there's not as much creative energy, but I'm loving the people I'm meeting and the things I'm doing. I'm stoked for the next 3 years, which may include getting an apartment, and I'm stoked for grad school in good 'ole NYC after that. I knew life was going to get better, it had to. Also, Jack just informed me that H&M is having an anniversary sale all this week. This means I will be doing my part in helping to propel the economy back into a healthy state! Sorry in advance mom & dad :(

ANYWAYS-I feel like I look like this every morning:

And all I've been listening to is John Lennon, Bruce Springsteen, Mystery Jets, Mark Ronson & The Business Intl, and Jenny & Johnny. Quite possibly my favorite playlist of the season :)

ALSO-I LOVE SKY FERREIRA! Seriousy...I adore her. "Obsession" is my obsession...lame? Isn't it weird when a musician is the same age as you but they seem so much better?...more weirdness.

Another obsession: Kanye West. His performance on SNL was fucking legendary. Everyone can hate on him, but STFU Taylor Swift fans, Kanye is beyond brilliant :)

...and that's all folks =p

Fashion Week

2010-09-20T19:13:00.021-05:00

as I lay here in bed, sick as a dog, with kleenex to my left, cough drops on my lap, and a bowl of soup to my right, I'm thinking about the things that make me happy. such things include: listening to mystery jets, talking about the strokes (and music in general), the fact that gossip girl is on in 45 minutes, the premiere of criminal minds on wednesday, and the past fashion week. I AM SHOCKED THAT I HAVEN'T WRITTEN ABOUT FASHION WEEK AT ALL! I feel as if I've failed myself. So, to cheer myself up and to use an excuse for continuing to creep on the New York Times' NYFW slideshows; a blog about my favorite spring lines of 2011.

first up: the mastermind that IS oscar de la renta

:the brilliantly edgy jeremy scott

: the hippie, country-sweet style of anna sui

: couture OBSESSION at marchesa

:the icon that is betsey johnson

^love the twin looks

:and of course, my FAVORITE DESIGNER EVER; the sexy and talented Marc Jacobs

-marc by marc-

-marc jacbos-

of course i loved others: alice+olivia, zac posen, mulberry, herve leger, erin fetherston, rodarte, mulberry, carolina herrera, derek lam, diane von furstenberg, charlotte ronson, rag & bone, and christian soriano; but if I included ALL of those then this blog would be more obnoxious then it already will be =/

to check out all the lines from ALL of the cities, click here

UGH-now I feel better :) I must say though, the best part of NYFW was The Strokes playing the Tommy Hilfiger after party. Seeing that -I would've died for <3

Rite of Passage

2010-09-15T10:47:00.003-05:00

I've already gotten to the point where I'd rather blog then do homework...damn, it's too soon. Though it's only Wednesday, this week has been pretty eventful :)

Yesterday, I got my tattoo. I got Bella the Italian word for beautiful, which is what my Nanie used to call me. But now I realize that that's also my cousin's dog's name...fml. I do love my tattoo though and it didn't even hurt. Anyone who thinks they hurt is lame...granted I had some SERIOUS EYE-CANDY while I was getting mine done so that could've numbed the pain. But the artist was SO FINE, seriously. Anyway, tattoos seem to have become a "rite of passage" in a way. They mark a time in a person's life that meant something and/or they mark being able to do whatever the fuck you want to without having to ask your parents' permission. It was a surreal experience to say the least :)

THEN-we watched The Human Centipede. OH MY GOD, DO NOT WATCH THIS MOVIE! The only reason we watched was because Daniel Tosh was reviewing it on Tosh.0 and well...when he said don't watch we realized we had to. BUT SERIOUSLY-it's disgusting and half of the things that happened I don't even know why they had to occur. I also never want to go to Germany now so thanks writer of The Human Centipede...fucker. Thinking about this film is making me nauscious so I'm moving on.

...now that I've moved on I have nothing more to say. MUCH LOVE

SONG OF THE DAY: "Afternoon Delight" -Starland Vocal Singers.
The song is about afternoon lovin' and, though I'm not getting ANY, it's been stuck in my head ALL DAMN DAY

Fashion's Night Out 2010

2010-09-12T15:33:00.009-05:00

So, September 10th was Fashion's Night Out. Because I was NOWHERE NEAR NYC, I all but forced my roomie and friend Jack to get dressed and frolic down Michigan Avenue with me to celebrate in our own little way. Celebrating Fashion's Night Out meant spending $50 at H&M on the MOST COMFY SWEATER EVER and a set of pins that I now realize I can't live without, $17 on fashion magazines at Borders, and drooling over the Marc Jacobs at Macy's that I can't afford. All in all, pretty successful :)

This Fashion Week just seems so BEYOND previous weeks...I don't know why. Maybe I'm somehow more excited than I ever have been before because I'm more knowledgable but I can't explain it. I'm going to blame Tavi Gevinson. I wish I was as hip/fashionable as her when I was 14. When I was 14 I was emo, only wore band t-shirts, and tried SO HARD to be Daria. You know, the dead pan MTV cartoon character...I still love her.

Anyways: SONG OF THE DAY -"Hard to Live in the City" Albert Hammond Jr. this song has been a favorite of mine for...the past few years BUT it's been on repeat constantly. currently, soundtrack to my life

Victory at Monterey

2010-09-09T20:37:00.009-05:00

so...i love reading cory kennedy's blog, as if i wasn't in love with random people enough. CHECK IT OUT- http://itscorykennedy.com/

i stole these pictures from her:

this may sound bad, and don't get me wrong -i LOVE my friends, but i wish they were more...willing to do stuff like this. not just walk down the street looking awesome but randomly take pictures or be up to do anything. i don't know...i just think it'd be cool :)

IN OTHER NEWS
IT'S ALEXA CHUNG FOR MADEWELL DAY!

for Madewell, the prices are actually...fair =/

so besides feeling sick, this day wasn't as awful as i've been making it out to be. i'm trying to be more optimistic because college is a fresh start, i'm a freshman all over again and i have to be someone new and DO something new. HAPPY THURSDAY!

SONG OF THE DAY: "Here Comes Your Man" -The Pixies

"I apologize, I don't match right now"

2010-09-08T18:13:00.004-05:00

THIS HAS BEEN SUCH A GOOD DAY, just so the whole blogisphere is aware :)
IT'S FINALLY FALL which means scarves, boots, leather jackets, more denim, and...*drum roll please* STARBUCKS PUMPKIN SPICE LATTES!

YES, i am OH SO EXCITED so now i can get fat off coffee :) just kidding, i'm actually going against the grain and LOSING the freshmen 15 -HOLLA.

ALSO-i've been drinking Tazo's Earl Grey black tea like it's my J-O-B. i also seriously abuse the salad bar in the cafe...oops.

In other news, going to walgreens makes me feel...mature but in the elderly sense. i feel like i'm going to be that old lady with all the bags whose hunched over and shuffles across the street within the last 3 seconds before the light changes and gets honked at...sigh.

Personally, I'm semi-altering my style. I'm including more rings, going from 2 necklaces to 1, and wearing one clip-on earring (because when i get my ears pierced they ALWAYS get infected) totally '80's style to go along with my feather twist-ins. in conclusion, this fall will be a fashion explosion for me <3

SONG OF THE DAY! 9 year-old Willow Smith (daughter of Will & Jada Pinkett) wants you to whip your hair, check it out:

Tuesday

2010-09-07T21:19:00.010-05:00

3 day weekends are supposed to be relaxing and leave you feeling fresh and awake for tuesday...that's bullshit. today was EXHAUSTING and, may I add, dragging, especially since I waited ALL DAY to go get a tattoo that I couldn't get because the line was too long. next tuesday, the girl waiting outside at 12:15 will be me. i'm getting love on my wrist; no it's NOT for "to write love on her arms" and yes i'm aware of the cliche. however for my first piece, i want something i'm NOT going to regret (breaking a tradition, i'm sorry) and i've wanted it FOR-EV-ER. but now i'm thinking of getting bella, the italian word for beautiful, not for the fictional "heroine" of twilight. for the record, is bella really even a heroine? she doesn't really do anything but annoy the shit out of me...in the films at least, i still enjoyed the books.

in other news: i'm pretty sure the man-pool at UIC is dried up, at least the men that are my type. i thought this guy was hot, he looked like albert hammond, jr. from the side...and then i saw him straight on. he's still cute but it's disappointing that i can't find at least ONE. also, i'm in need of straight friends. my gay friends make my day, but i need some testosterone around...pronto.

drab, fab, cab, scab, tab, lab, shab, gab...-ab! <--out of boredom/lack of something to ramble about.

been listening to a lot of this lately:

i must admit, i'm one for the psychedelic.

umm...nonsense. OH! Song of the Day

Animal Baby - Alex Winston

Song of the Day

2010-09-05T22:48:00.002-05:00

black sheep -metric

honestly, it's more like song of the past 2 weeks, but it won't get out of my head.

Obsessions

2010-09-05T01:08:00.003-05:00

so...yep :) i just felt like i needed to post. no one reads/cares but i wanted to post for myself. i feel like i should start doing things for myself. i should work out more for myself, not for the attention of a boy. i should stop caring so much about boys...i can't.

Buongiorno Regazzi

2010-08-25T16:01:00.006-05:00

kicking ass in my italian class. seriously, the alfebeto is my bitch. also-i caved and went to a frat party- YES I DID. horrible, but it is something you have to experience.
i want to walk around campus with a camera one day. everyone smokes, everyone's already in love, everyone's all ready to throw themselves from the university center and plunge to their death because of stress. however, i am...content? i don't know, i still don't want to be at this school but i'm...making the best of it? i'm writing for this magazine soon, hopefully they'll let me write what i want but we'll see. i'm going to my first party at a lounge- how downtown is that? but honestly, all i want to do is see Scott Pilgrim vs. The World...again

and honestly...I only want to see it again for him

OH! and i want these :)

I love college?

2010-08-21T21:30:00.003-05:00

Well Mr. Asher Roth, thus far -you are FULL OF SHIT! Not that I ever liked that song anyway but, I had to admit, listening to it on a mix my sister gave me as I drove into the city on move-in day was a bit...cliche yet exciting.

However-now I'm over it. I want to do well, graduate, and get my ass to NYC. My aunt started me a fund, so far there's...$50, $30 of which I put in myself. I don't care, it can't come soon enough. I've already been faced with "Let's go to a Frat party!" The Greek-life isn't my style and, though I appreciate my fair amount of booze now and then, I'm just not in the mood. I was also faced with the "Do you even want to be friends with us anymore?" Um no, not if you're going to pull this high school bullshit on me 4 days in.

SO-I spend my days wandering, getting lost on purpose so I can find my way back and get to know this side of the city better. I've wandered into a wine shop as well as a tattoo parlor that has $20 Tuesdays. I'm all over that...possibly this Tuesday.

I don't think I'm ever going to be that party girl or even a typical college student. I don't like the whole keg/makeout/hook-up party. I'd rather go to a magazine launch party (which I've been invited to) or go karaoke for hours. Am I lame? Probably.

I love college.

Playlist Post #1

2010-07-17T00:09:00.005-05:00

I feel so dull lately. Erica says I'm "exciting" & that she always waits to hear what I have to say next. I think she's the only one. I'm indifferent though, I'm leaving in a month, well not leaving...I'm moving a half hour away into the city. I belong in an urban area, I'm just sick of Chicago.

ANYWAYS-my mom got all sentimental and admitted that she will suffer without my constant shoving new music down her throat. To satiate her thirst for a new sound of the old sound, I made this pretty bitchin' playlist (if I do say so myself)

1. High Times - Landon Pigg & Turbo Fruits (featured on the Whip It soundtrack <3)
2. Boys Wanna Be Her - Peaches
3. Sheena is a Punk Rocker - The Ramones (not new, but to my mother a nice refresher)
4. Pot Kettle Black - Tilly & The Wall
5. On The Road - Turbo Fruits
6. Hang Around - The Biters (punk grown this decade but belongs a few back)
7. White Night - The Postelles
8. Dance With Me - Adam Green (Garfield album, NOT EP version -trust me, it's better)
9. What Makes Him Act So Bad? - Adam Green
10. Joining The Dots - Arctic Monkeys (brilliant Humbug b-side)
11. Diamond Trip - Miles Kane (R.I.P. The Rascals, but Miles has got it goin' on)
12. Take On Me - Aha (probably one of the best songs of all time)
13. Sometime Around Midnight - Airborne Toxic Event (still can't get enough)
14. Bayonets - Amazing Baby
15. House of the Rising Sun - The Animals (a chance to get nostalgic)
16. Around The Bend - Asteroids Galaxy Tour (forgot how good this is)
17. Make Me Wanna Die - The Pretty Reckless (taylor momsen is a hoe, but song=good)
18. Shoulder to Shoulder - Little Joy (Evaporar makes me want to play guitar again)
19. Baby - Devendra Banhart
20. Ready for the Floor - Lissy Trullie (models CAN play)
21. Cosmic Love - Florence + The Machine (...i love her)

To download all these songs FO FREE, go to
(http://www.dilandau.com/download_music/)

Whip'd

2010-07-15T01:08:00.005-05:00

I've watched Whip It 3 times within a span of 2 days. I have no idea why...I also just downloaded the soundtrack. I'd like to pin it on the beautiful Landon Pigg but I know that's not why I keep watching. I'm gonna go for Jimmy Fallon as "Hot Tub" Johnny Rocket...odd.

Really into girl groups of the '60s: The Shirelles, The Shangri-las, The Angels, The Dixie Cups, The Ronettes, etc. Really addicting, I need some estrogen in my playlists.

Also, I've come to the conclusion that if I want to become the person I aspire to be, I need to try harder. I'm giving 100%, I need to give...250% or if I'm giving 250%, I need to give 500%

I need to be inspired

Gemstones

2010-07-05T23:03:00.005-05:00

Feeling as if I need to define myself. My "academic advisor" (a.k.a. utterly useless man I'm supposed to trust with scheduling my future) asked me who I was. I didn't necessarily say "I don't know" but I felt like he already had an answer. If I said "I don't know" he would've defined me as someone who can't make a decision if even make a guess let alone have any idea of who she wants to be one day. If I gave him some long speech about who I may think I am, he probably would've thought I was pretentious. Now I have to go back Friday...ugh.

ANWAYS-Adam Green, for the past 2 hours.

Should I dare say I love his solo stuff more than The Moldy Peaches? Oops, I just did :)

I'm going to cleanse for the next week & making give Yoga a second chance. I still wake up every morning thinking I'm going to look outside and see the Ambassador Theatre on 49th street.

I need to become more cultured...cinema anyone? Give me some suggestions.

You see her walkin' on down the street

2010-07-02T22:23:00.003-05:00

I've been back from New York City for...4 days and I still don't understand why I didn't just take Sam up on her offer and stay awhile longer. WHAT AN IDIOT. There's just something about that city, it gives you a certain confidence. Luckily I know my way around Midtown so I didn't look like an idiot walking ahead of my mother & sister as I was stopped and asked for directions from tourists. I realize that technically I'm a tourist because I don't live there...yet, but I'm not an annoying kind of tourist where I stop in the middle of the street and take a picture of every bit I see. I take it all in sure but I don't need to have a picture of the changing screens on the M&M building. I did take a lot of pictures while in Brooklyn though. I love Brooklyn, everything about it. Prospect Park, the botanical garden, the Brooklyn Museum of Art, and of course the little detour through hipsterland (a.k.a. Williamsburg). I can't wait to move there. I can't wait to go stay with Sam and adventure after our cupcake baking classes and vintage scavenging. I spent $85 in the St. Mark's Place area in about 5 minutes, that has to be some type of record. "Concrete jungle where dreams are made of"-yes, absolutely. "There's nothing you can't do"-only if you have illions and illions of cash. Regardless, I'm counting down the days.

Anyways, I'm home now and just as I suspected-nothing has changed. It rained the entire week I was gone and the bill for my dog staying in that hotel cost $312. It's not so bad though, we did throw a picnic which included a water balloon fight and singing "Age of Aquarius" as we danced through the new waterpark area of Fort Frankfort. I just saw a mosquito(e?) fly about my room-FUCK.

To end this dully informative post, I admit to having an obsession with Karen Elson (Mrs. Jack White) and her album "The Ghost Who Walks"

LISTEN TO IT!

p.s. Hello Hilary (if you still read this) I miss & love youuuu :)

You can cry like a baby, just let me do what I need to

2010-06-01T22:44:00.005-05:00

this photo means that i have graduated from high school. haven't i had a countdown going for some time now? yes and unlike the rest of the graduating class, (majority of which have been together since kindergarten) i am not the least bit sad. i didn't cry over the speeches or moving my tassle from the left to the right. i had no connection to the school, maybe to some of the students but not many, and i honestly only tried hard for the future=college. am i going where i want? no, but New York City is in my future. for that, i'm excited, i'm not scared, and i'm not sad to leave here whenever that day does come.

this photo also means that it's FINALLY summer! summer means shows, getting rid of my awkward pastey-ness, having all day to work-out because i'm jobless, and NYC! of course, that will be the highlight of the year (besides seeing The Strokes at Lolla).

i don't know exactly where my love for the big apple stems from. maybe it's because of the music, i blame blondie. it's the fashion, i know for sure because sex & the city started when i was...roughly 10 and i was hooked. jay-z nails it on the head in "empire state of mind." (which i REFUSED to listen to when i got my rejection letter from NYU) it could've been seinfeld, woody allen, and andy warhol as well. oh look, i've begun to ramble...

ANWAYS! new music express this weekend.
download:

The Young Veins (thank god ryan ross and jon whatshisface left p@td because this is much better)

Sleigh Bells (fuzzy wuzzy is the only way to describe this sound in my mind)

The Like (basically the supremes in stereo-finally)

Uffie (sex dreams & denim jeans, mhmm <3)

The Dead Weather (sea of cowards is AMAZING goth-blues rock & roll, can't wait for july)

Travis McCoy (solo > gym class heroes)

...and spinmagazine.com has been offering enough free music to make your head spin.

also-check this site out, fo' free :)
http://rcrdlbl.com/

unbelievably long blogpost that only one person may read *hello hilary becker, i love you*

peace & all good things

Suburban Home.

2010-05-08T14:56:00.003-05:00

Today is Prom Day. As everyone updates their facebook statuses and goes out to get their hair done, I sit here and wonder why the fuck it matters so much to these people? Maybe it's me being cynical or just...pessimistic but suburban kids are ridiculous. I'm not even going to prom and I've gotten 6 text messages asking if I have faux-eyelash glue. Oh yes, I have tons of that just lying around-wtf!? The dress drama is my favourite. Let's spend $750 on a dress you're going to wear once for 4 hours that is only going to be left shapeless on a hotelroom floor after you give your boyfriend/date what he's only been getting all year. It's obnoxious.

I hate living in the suburbs. I hate that life revolves around school dances, tanning, faux eyelashes/nails, and big hair that's "full of secrets." There's no sense of individuality, if you don't put out there's no point in trying to make new friends with the "higher-ups" or getting a boy's attention, you work hard in school to get ranked by a bunch of administrators who play favorites anyway, and you don't even get a a diploma when you graduate-you get a sleeve. It's a sick cultural wasteland. Seriously, these kids' idea of rock & roll is All Time Low and...Shinedown -SICKENING. Also, they use "gay" and "retard" as synonyms for "stupid" and "lame." I literally dread going outside of my house because I'll be exposed to the small-mindedness and ignorance of these people who are considered "my peers." They aren't my fucking peers, I'll tell you that much.

I don't even know how many days are left until Graduation. All I know is that it's not this coming Monday and that's a buzzkill.

Silly money, You're my honey

2010-04-25T11:29:00.005-05:00

I can't stop listening to "Congratulations" It's actually sickening and, for the record, MGMT would be the most fun to hang out with ever. My mom is hooked as well, she goes around humming "Someone's Missing" like no one can hear her. I can't wait to see them in June, it shall be amazing (=

1 month and 3 days until graduation. THANK GOD! It's really getting to me, all this high school bullshiz. I can't wait to get my life started with what I want to do and how I want to live.

Also-I'd like to see a Teddy Graham Person and a Human Fire Hydrant. (Thanks to SNL for putting those images into my head)

No one's around, but the map says "You're Here"

2010-04-08T11:46:00.011-05:00

April 6, 2010 -Julian Casablancas & the Sick Six made their way to the Windy City. Let me preface this by saying that I completely fangirled out so all of this could slightly biased, but I'll try my best. Anyways-from 7 am to 10:30 pm, the day was dedicated to Jules and his bandmates.

After waiting in the morning thunderstorm, which I insisted it was "just drizzling", we made our way down Belmont and sat in Starbucks for an hour, then made our way to American Apparel, and Dunkin Donuts. By the way-American Apparel: HELLO SESAME STREET! I'm planning a return so I can spend some $$.

On the walk back to The Vic, we saw the bus. Danielle, JP, Alex, and Nelson were all hanging out and I admit that a huge, stupid grin made it's way across my face. I caught a glimpse of Julian as he ran down the sidewalk and disappeared in the middle of the street (Whatever cab he got in, that driver had better recognize).

A few hours later, this happened:
I didn't have my moment until he walked away though. My knees started shaking and I called my mom and dad like I had just won the lottery or something. I can't thank my friends enough (Kacey and Andrea) for...pushing me towards Jules. He was super sweet and gives amazing hugs.

Now-to the show! I finally got my photopass and I took my place among the other photographers in the pit. I felt misplaced considering the fact that they had all their fancy equipment and I had my little Olympus digital. But Buzznet gave me an amazing opportunity and I hope I did them proud.

The (forgettable) opening act (Head Automatica meets...some slightly screamo band)played for...at least 30 minutes. However, the lead singer was quite entertaining since he semi-beat everyone in the band with a tambourine and microphone. Then, the lights went dim-and out walked Julian clad in tight, red pants, a heavily embellished leather jacket, and hightop, white nikes.

He opened with a new song which kind of surprised me. Why would he open with a possible, new Strokes song, let alone a song no one knew? But the song was a bit punk and really set the energy bar at a high that it would surpass later on in the show. The next song was "Ludlow Street," the ode to growing up in New York City, drinking on the lower-East side and watching it all change right before your own eyes. I couldn't help but get distracted by singing along, Julian's voice was perfection and his presence was captivating.

"River of Brakelights" sounded way better than it did on Jimmy Fallon. Miss Danielle Haim on bass was brilliant as well. I kind of love her...in a strictly hetero-way, but I kind of love her. "Left & Right & in the Dark" got the crowd dancing. However, I had been dancing since the SECOND the band took the stage. But nothing compared to "Hard to Explain", The Strokes classic that whipped the crowd into a frenzy. This song is the reason my voice is gone and why I'm ridiculously sore. However, when some fans started shouting requests ("Someday!" "New York City Cops!") one fan caught Jules's attention with "What do you think about Lollapalooza?" To which Julian replied, "You mean Chicagopalooza? I don't." He turned away from the mic, and turned almost cynical. Like any talk of The Strokes is a sore that just had salt poured into it. This kind of bummed me out. How much longer do The Strokes have? But whatever-there's more solo show to discuss!

"Glass" was incredibly beautiful. When Julian got to the part of the song "Dominance & loyalty. Romance & security, stay behind." It was like he completely poured himself into the song. I had never heard or seen an artist do that before and it was amazing. That song is whole-heartedly one of my favorites now. That was one of my favorite parts of the show.

The band jumped head first into "11th Dimension" and as anyone who has "Phrazes for the Young" knows, this is the ultimate dance song. The crowd danced and the show turned into a campfire sing-along. After the song, Jules flashed the peace sign and walked off stage. But of course, it didn't end there. A brief intermission gave everyone a breather before Julian walked out and began singing "I'll Try Anything Once." The song really showed his range and I admit, I got a tad choked up. A part of me prefers "I'll Try Anything Once" to "You Only Live Once." The lyrics are deeper and there's just something about the atmosphere the song creates.

"Out of the Blue" followed, causing me to move infront of the security guard so I could have more room to dance.

After a false start into "4 Chords of the Apocalypse" due to a keyboard malfunction, Julian said, "Fuck it. I don't really like the song anyways. How about a Christmas song?" Before the band switched gears into the SNL classic, "I Wish it was Christmas Today." "Yay for inappropriateness!" Jules smiled as the song drew to a close. The band left the stage again. I saw a few people leave, but Jules had one more trick up his sleeve. A second encore? Oh yes.

"1 out of 10 people like this song. So this one's for you." Julian said as he introduced "Tourist." I love that song so I was thrilled. Now, as the entire show drew to a close. The keyboard was fixed, and "I hear it in your silence..." bellowed throughout The Vic theater. Julian sang from his gut and he sounded almost soulful as the song hit its peak. He thanked the crowd once again, bowing as the crowd chanted his name even afte he walked off.

All in all, the show was perfect. To the Sun-Times, Julian was NOT bored. I don't know how they got that impression but whatever. I will never forget it. I had been waiting to see Casablancas since I was 10 and this was worth the wait. I can't wait to see The Strokes at Lollapalooza!

Hey, Lover

2010-03-29T19:26:00.003-05:00

I taped that saying to a picture of Agyness Deyn hanging on my wall. It's a part of a collage; I don't have a giant, LESBIAN crush on Aggy. (so wanted to have a Mean Girls moment with that. "It's because I have a big, LESBIAN crush on you! Suck on that!) sorry, rant...Janis Ian <3

anyways-so much went down today. Rave Died-R.I.P. glowstick, wielding-maniacs. maybe rave has been dead for awhile but I made it official today by announcing it in the senior hallway. I'm curious what people think when they hear me talk. like when I say "i love 40-something year old men, oh so sexy." I wonder what goes through their puny, little minds before passing false judgements. it's true though, i love me an aged man. it's like a cheese or fine wine (=

I don't discriminate though, ages 18-however old Daniel Day-Lewis is are all ripe for the picking.

Um what else happened...oh, Prom dress shopping was a BUST! maybe I should go as Gaga. I'll just wrap myself in bubble-wrap and wear my dog's vet cone around my neck and call it an evening. I'd be the person people would take pictures with and I'd be in everyone's display pic-mwhahahahaha.

Julian Casablancas is in exactly 8 DAYS! I'm so excited. My autographed poster is framed and hanging directly across from my bed. I can't wait to get some amazing pictures of an amazing man. SUPER BUMMED to hear the new Strokes LP is being pushed back to January 2011 though-FUCKERS! get it together for the good of music-kind <3

Dream a little Dream of me

2010-03-25T20:48:00.005-05:00

quite possibly my proudest moment in photography class. can't wait to shoot this weekend, supposedly the chicago weather is going to let up and the sun will shine. I could be wrong...the news could be wrong...I rarely watch the news.

so...I won this Julian Casablancas tour blogger contest through Buzznet. VERY EXCITED! i've never shot with a photopass before so it should be interesting. intimidated though-i don't have a professional camera therefore i may look like a fool.

excited to be going back to New York in June. I'll be thinner, we won't have to do all the touristy things again, it'll be fun. BUT IT'S A SURPRISE! it's a birthday gift for mi madre. she won't read this so it doesn't matter.

listening to marc cohn-BRILLIANCE! "walking in memphis"

"but do i really feel the way i feel?..."

that is all bonbon <3

Da-dum.

2010-02-25T21:19:00.002-06:00

Julian Casablancas at The Vic in 1 month and 12 days. Unbelievably excited but curious to know who is opening up for him. So jealous that the last leg of the tour had Beach House, fucking love them. I've been preparing for the day since I always decide to arrive at the venue at the crack of dawn (actually more like 7 o'clock AM). I'm thinking tarot cards? It'll be a good time.

MUSIC MOMENT: The Big Pink. Um, amazing? Obviously. Finally downloaded "A Brief History of Love"-PICK THAT SHIT UP!

air kisses & high fives, xo

Now you're in New York

2010-01-06T19:20:00.006-06:00

reminiscing about my time spent in NYC. I miss it. taking 800 pictures wasn't enough. planning another trip soon (=

2 steps forward and 3 steps back.

2010-01-04T22:56:00.000-06:00

Today I spent a $50 giftcard in 3 minutes, didn't drink coffee, drove my car until it ran out of gas, and had a dance party in the middle of the street while the rest of the suburbanites were probably getting ready for bed.

Tunes: "The Modern Age" -The Strokes (4th LP soon please? I'm going crazy). Honestly, I don't think First Impressions of Earth was that terrible, though it wasn't great.

Reading: High on Arrival - Mackenzie Phillips. Hedonism, consensual incest, rock n' roll, what's not interesting?

Bought: Cosmopolitan (because I NEED to know how to get a healthy, sexy vagina 0_0 )

Nylon (because it's my bible)

Filter (because I must read about the evolution of Julian Casablancas)

Q-Magazine (because I seem to agree more with UK music journalists & there was a sexy picture of Noel Gallagher)

My Booky Wook-Russell Brand. A Memior of Sex, Drugs and Stand-Up. Need I say more?

Thoughts: Who the fuck is Ke$ha? How dare Rolling Stone say Lady Gaga should "watch her back." Blasphemy.

Hello Pretty Visitors

2009-12-28T23:17:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning and thought, What the hell? Let's blog. Now, here I am, ready to tell whoever is bored enough to read whatever is on my mind.

Some background info: putting my two-cents in isn't out of character for me but considering the fact that this is unknown territory, I will refine myself for as long as possible until I'm comfortable with this whole thing.

That is all. December 28th, 2009 will live in infamy. Stay tuned.