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"The Reeling" - Passion Pit

www.myspace.com/passionpitjams

 

Passion Pit

Barely over two years old, the band from Cambridge, Massachusetts has exploded throughout 2009 thanks to their full-length release, Manners.  Formed by the group's front-runner, Michael Angelakos, the band's original intention was to write a few songs for Angelakos' girlfriend as a Valentine's Day present.  What started as fun side project, evolved into their first EP Chunk of Change with their track "Sleepyhead" gaining momentum on iTunes (thanks to a Canadian PSP advertisement, as well as MTV's "What the Flip" campaign).  However, it wasn't until their single "The Reeling" was released last spring that their popularity grew exponentially.  They have toured extensively throughout 2009, and have shown signs of promise in the coming decade.

 

 

 

"So Fine" - Telepathe

www.myspace.com/telepathe

 

Telepathe

Pronounced as telepathy, the distinct sound of the Brooklyn-based girl duo is unmistakable.  Busy Gagnes and Melissa Livaudis display a flare for the avant-garde with their ethereal vocals and outlandish synthpop stylings.  "So Fine" captures elements of sleepy shoegaze, distant and lamenting vocals, as well as danceable synthy goodness.  Telepathe is one of the best experimental projects I've heard in years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"New in Town" - Little Boots

www.myspace.com/littleboots

 

Little Boots

The lovely blonde English sprite, Victoria Christina Hesketh (better known as her stage name "Little Boots"), began fronting an indie/electropop band called Dead Disco while at university in 2005, which took inspiration from acts such as Ladytron, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Rapture.  However, towards the end of her two-year stint with the band, she decided she wanted to go in more of a pop direction, and began recording her full-length solo debut Hands in 2008 citing a range of influences from WHAM!, to Pink Floyd, to Miley Cyrus.  Hands was released in early 2009 in the UK and abroad, but is not scheduled for US release until early 2010.  The US-released EP Illuminations dropped back in June, and included one of her Top 20 singles, "New In Town" (featured in the film Jennifer's Body), and describes the loneliness she felt when she moved to Los Angeles from the UK.  The track has an oddly Goldfrapp-ish vibe, and has a very catchy hook (for a dancier version, check out the remix by Bimbo Jones).  I'm definitely looking forward for more from Little Boots in the near future.

 

"She's Got Me Dancing" - Tommy Sparks

www.myspace.com/tommysparksmusic

 

Tommy Sparks

I can't write a "Year in Music" blog post without including the Swedes somewhere in the mix.  Sparks is the first on this year's list to discuss.  The Stockholm-born artist currently resides in the UK, and released his self-titled full-length debut back in May.  "She's Got Me Dancing" peaked at 22 on the UK Singles Chart, and has been used in various media including Apple's iPod Touch 3G, as well as the Playstation 3 game Eyenet.  Tommy has also co-written a track for The Prodigy, and is featured in the song "Messages" by the Filthy Dukes.  Tommy incorporates pop elements into his indie sound in ways that his contemporaries (like Denmark's Alphabeat, and Britain's La Roux) have mastered.  If you're looking to shake that thang, download "She's Got Me Dancing" today!

 

 

 

 

 

"I'm Not Your Toy" - La Roux

www.myspace.com/larouxuk

 

La Roux

At a mere 21 years of age, Britain's latest pop princess Eleanor "Elly" Jackson has achieved quite a bit of success in a relatively short period of time with her wonky pop duo, La Roux.  Taking inspiration from early '80s synthpop (The Human League, Yazoo, Depeche Mode, Heaven 17), as well as '80s mainstream pop (Madonna, Prince, Annie Lenox) have given La Roux a unique niche in the pop market.  She also cites folk as a big influence (Carole King and Nick Drake whom she discovered in her parents' record collections).  Jackson is known for her quirky and off-center sense of fashion, and her over-the-top hairstyles have been compared to Mike Score circa 1981 (front man of '80s new wave sensation, A Flock of Seagulls), and are currently being imitated by young women all over London.  La Roux's self-titled full-length debut was released back in June, and peaked at #2 on the UK album charts.  "I'm Not Your Toy" was released in September, and follows La Roux's #1 UK single "Bulletproof" (check out the remix by Dave Aude).  La Roux has toured in support of Lily Allen, and was one of the headliners for the Samsung NME Radar Tour 2009.  The BBC Sound of 2009 poll ranked La Roux in the fifth position.  I'm personally in love with Elly, and I foresee La Roux's popularity growing exponentially in 2010.

 

"Don't Bring Flowers" - Erik Hassle

www.myspace.com/erikhassle

 

Erik Hassle

Erik Hassle is the second Swedish boy in this year's blog post who also currently resides in the UK.  Like La Roux's Elly Jackson, Hassle is also only 21, and is considered to be a part of the wonky pop genre.  Hassle's original desire was to be a professional footballer (soccer player), and attended the musical upper secondary school Rytmus in Stockholm.  In 2008, he signed with Sweden's Roxy Recordings, which lead to an international contract with Island Records and Universal Republic.  His most recent single, "Don't Bring Me Flowers" was released in August off his debut, Hassle, and is touted by The Guardian as a "hot new act."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Lessons Learned" - Matt and Kim

www.myspace.com/mattandkim

 

Matt and Kim

Formed in 2004, Brooklyn-based Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino met while attending the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn.  Their simplistic approach to indie pop, combined with their vivacious live performances in warehouses all over Brooklyn garnered quite a following.  Gaining momentum through social networking sites like YouTube, Myspace, and Facebook led to performances in Lollapalooza and Pitchfork Music Festival.  They released their sophomore effort, Grand, last January and toured with Cut Copy in 2009.  Their single "Daylight" was featured in a Bacardi commercial, as well as the second episode of NBC's Community.  The video for their more recent single "Lessons Learned" features the band streaking through Times Square, and most of the startled-looking tourists on the street were actors.  The band had permits to be nude; however, they were indeed tackled by real police at the end of the video.  The video earned them best Breakthrough Video at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards.

 

 

"Bourgeois Shangri-La" - Miss Li (featuring Amanda Jenssen)

www.myspace.com/experiencemissli

 

Miss Li

Ahhh, yes.  Another Swede...  Linda Carlsson (a.k.a. Miss Li) has been on the scene since 2006, and her single "Don't Try to Fool Me" has been featured in both Weeds and Grey's Anatomy.  Her most recent release is her third (and most successful) studio album titled, Dancing the Whole Way Home, and is her first to break the Swedish Albums Chart Top 10, peaking at #8 last April.  Aided by the vocal talents of Swedish Idol 2007 runner-up Amanda Jenssen, her single, "Bourgeois Shangri-La" was recently featured in an advertisement for iPod Nano 5G, and is a catchy tune reminiscent of '60s garage pop. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Better Off As 2" - Frankmusik

www.myspace.com/frankmusik

 

Frankmusik

Twenty-four-year-old Vincent Rebecca Frank is a solo wonky pop musician from the UK known professionally as Frankmusik.  He was an attendee at both Central St. Martin's College of Design, as well as London College of Fashion before dropping out to pursue a career in music.  In December of last year, he was included on BBC's Sound of 2009, and his full-length debut Complete Me was released this past August.  In addition, he's remixed artists like Pet Shop Boys, Lady Gaga, Alphabeat, Mika, Telepathe, and CSS, as well as covered the tracks "Rehab" by Amy Winehouse and "Such Great Heights" by The Postal Service.  His rise to fame in the UK is largely due to Gaydar Radio, who championed many tracks from his debut and, in return, Frankmusik performed many of them for the station during national student gay pride.  His second single was A-listed on BBC's Radio 1, and his popularity was aided by his local radio station 107.8 Radio Jackie, The Sound of SW London.  "Better Off As 2" captures his eccentric, yet pop infused '80s sound.

 

"Sleep Alone" - Bat for Lashes

www.myspace.com/batforlashes

 

Bat for Lashes

Making her first headlines in late 2006, 30-year-old British musician Natasha Khan (better known as Bat for Lashes) has become one of the most innovative female artists of the decade.  Evoking great solo women from from the past (Kate Bush, Björk, Tori Amos), Bat for Lashes has developed her own distinctive sound and style.  Khan's music has a deep emotional vibe that seems to emanate beyond the physical world.  A victim or racism in her teens, Khan rebelled and stayed at home from school immersing herself in music.  After she completed her courses, she embarked on a road trip throughout the US and Mexico with her boyfriend, and upon returning to England, she settled in Brighton and enrolled in the University of Brighton to study both music and visual arts.  She began writing material for her debut album, Fur and Gold, which was released in September of 2006, and she received both a Mercury Prize, as well as several other prestigious awards.  Solidifying her audience while receiving praise from the media, she released her sophomore effort, Two Suns, last April which reached #5 on the UK Album Charts.  Her most recent single, "Sleep Alone," has a very somber, melancholy, and '80s indie vibe.  Khan confesses she's "always been an '80s girl," and grew up listening to The Cure, early Madonna and Prince, etc.  Thom Yorke, MIA, Ringo Starr, and Björk have all complimented her work. 

 

"When I Grow Up" - Fever Ray

www.myspace.com/feverray

 

Fever Ray

Karin Elisabeth Dreijer Andersson, one half of Swedish electronic duo The Knife (her brother Olof forms the other half), released her self-titled solo debut under the name Fever Ray earlier in the year.  Noted for her distinctive vocal style (which combines deep shrillness, tone distortion, pitch-shifting, and her signature Swedish accent), Andersson continues to delve into the surreal avant-garde world she introduced while with The Knife.  Andersson is also known for her theatrical performances including the use of masks, and has collaborated with other notable acts like Röyksopp.  The originality and innovation Andersson brings to experimental pop continue dazzle and delight her fans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Baby Baby Baby" - Make The Girl Dance

www.myspace.com/makethegirldance

 

Make The Girl Dance

Unfortunately, I can't seem to find much information about Make The Girl Dance online without it being linked to the controversial video for "Baby Baby Baby."  Anything beyond that is usually in French, and I can only decipher general meaning.  Here's what I do know...  They are a French electropop duo comprised of Greg Kozo and Pierre Mathieu, and they shot the video for "Baby Baby Baby" on the rue Montorgueil (a trendy street in the 2nd arrondissiment, which is part of the Châtelet Les-Halles district of Paris), featuring vocals by French singer, Musubi.  The video begins with a model stepping out of a car who strips naked, and proceeds to walk down the street in the mid-day Paris.  The duo has cited to be fans of The Rapture. Phoenix, LCD Soundsystem, Sébastien Tellier, etc.  It has even been suggested that they may well be the next Justice.  We'll see.  However, a few weeks ago, I did notice that "Baby Baby Baby" has already been featured in an American commercial (though I can't remember the product).  The song has been remixed by notable acts like Designer Drugs, but I think my favorite remix is by No Kiss with Gloss. 

 

"Don't Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby Go)" - Noisettes

www.myspace.com/noisettesuk

 

Noisettes

Noisettes are indie-pop band from London fronted by bassist and singer Shingai Shoniwa.  The band formed in 2003 shortly after three members (including Shoniwa) attended the BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology in Croydon together.  They quickly established a reputation for being one of the rowdiest acts in London.  Interestingly, even though their live shows have been described as explosive, the music itself seems pretty tame.  In fact, Shoniwa's vocals remind me of Skye Edwards from a similar act in the late '90s/early '00s called Morcheeba.  They've toured with the likes of Bloc Party, TV on the Radio, Tom Vek, Mystery Jets, Muse, and even Lady GaGa.  "Don't Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby Go)" peaked at #2 on the UK Singles Charts, and has been featured in several advertisements in both the US and the UK.  They've even performed the track on The Ellen Show.  The single is from their sophomore effort, Wild Young Hearts.

 

 

"Drumming Song" - Florence + The Machine

www.myspace.com/florenceandthemachine

 

Florence + The Machine

Florence Welch, a lovely 23-year-old redheaded singer from the UK, is the vocalist for the band Florence + The Machine.  Her style seems to combine elements of both soul and indie, and Florence has an emotionally captivating voice.  She hails from a creative background (her mother is a professor of Renaissance studies and former Studio54 regular, and Florence is also granddaughter to a satirist, as well as niece to a parodist).  Welch's first experience with death was at age 10 when she watched her grandfather rapidly deteriorate, and then at 14 when her grandmother (also an art historian) committed suicide.  Florence turned to music for solace, citing Velvet Undergound, Hole, Annie Lenox, Kate Bush, and Nirvana as influences.  She was also diagnosed with both dyslexia and dysmetria, and says she is prone to "falling into severe holes" that sometimes leave her crying on the floor.  Her debut album, Lungs, was released in July, and Spin gave it four out of five stars saying, "You gotta hand it to the girl.  She always makes you feel something."  BBC promoted her in BBC Introducing (which is a brand for new music programs across the UK).  Like "New in Town" by Little Boots, Florence + The Machine's debut track "Kiss with a Fist" was also featured on the soundtrack for Jennifer's Body.  The band has also provided support this past summer for two of some of my all-time favorite bands, Blur and Duran Duran.  Her second single, "Drumming Song" won Q Awards Best Video Trophy for 2009.

 

"Wake Up" - Sliimy  

Sliimy

Sliimy (pronounced to rhyme with Jimmy) is the stage name of French pop musician, Yanis Sahraoui, and is perhaps the "wonkiest" of the wonky pop genre to float across the Atlantic this past year.  When I first viewed the video for "Waking Up," I thought I was watching a long-lost Prince video circa 1984.  His album, Paint Your Face, was released earlier in the year, and reached #2 on the French pop charts.  The 21-year-old is a self-professed anglophile obsessed with all facets of British culture, and even cites Britcoms Absolutely Fabulous and Little Britain among his favorite television programs.  Refusing to sing in his mother tongue, Sliimy had in improbable rise to fame, but has ironically packed-out venues across France.  His outlandish and colorful style combined with effeminate feel-good pop has cemented his own niche...perhaps his own genre...in the the pop-infused indie arena.  Blogger Perez Hilton celebrated Sliimy's falsetto cover of Britney Spears' "Womanizer," which lead American stars like Kate Perry and Lady GaGa to tweet about him.

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From a very young age, I’ve had a deep-seated fear of being controlled and having my freedom curtailed.  The thought of being held against my will (physically and/or emotionally) brings about such a pervasive feeling of helplessness and hopelessness, that keeping my will to survive would become an everyday challenge.  For me, such a fear has manifested itself in “chase” nightmares, where I’m typically on the run trying to elude a potential captor.  Or, if I’ve already been captured, the dream becomes a more complex scenario of trying to outwit or out-smart my captor…  I usually do this by befriending and/or manipulating my captor while trying to control my debilitating fear of death at their hands and plan my escape.  I do escape on occasion, but I’m not always lucky. If I’m not, I usually wake up before the fatal blow or gunshot.

Over the last ten years or so, I’ve discovered the category of literature and film that exemplifies this precise fear.  In terms of literature, it’s a fairly new genre (only about 120 years or so), and it’s called Dystopia.  By definition, dystopia is the opposite of utopia, and can be further subdivided depending on the circumstantial settings of the work.  Dystopia is a future society or civilization in which living conditions are physically and/or emotionally miserable and can be characterized by anything ranging from suspension of civil liberties and abridgement of human rights, violence, oppression, war, poverty, disease, pollution, or combinations of all.  The causes can also range from anything including natural disasters and apocalyptic events, to economic and/or societal breakdown, to the rise of oligarchic and/or totalitarian forms of government.

INGSOC

A popular element in most dystopian literature and film in recent years is politics, which usually plays an important role in the theme and tone.  Dystopias are almost always presented as cautionary tales and warnings for current trends perceived to be dangerous in popular culture.  In most cases, a politically dystopian work deals with power vacuums towards the far-right (fascism) or the far-left (socialism, communism).  Two classic examples on both sides would be INGSOC (English socialism) in George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, as well as the theocracy in The Republic of Gilead in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale.  Both concepts are completely opposite in their ideology, but achieve the same result in the complete oppression and subjugation of their societies.   And to go further (especially with works like The Handmaid's Tale and Ben Elton's 2007 novel, Blind Faith), religion can play an important role in the socio-political sphere (as the governing bodies in each work are fundamentalist theocracies).  No matter what the case, the dystopias created through massive political shifts in power seem to always arrive at a similar result:  loss of freedom for the individuals in their societies. 

The Republic of Gilead

 

Chancellor Sutler from V for Vendetta

Another pervasive ingredient in fictional political dystopias is the use of mass media for propaganda purposes.  In Nineteen Eighty-Four, it was the telescreen, and was installed in every home of the inner and outer party members, workplaces, and businesses.  Unlike our modern televisions (which are chillingly similar), the telescreen had the dual purpose of disseminating state-run broadcasts, as well serve as an instrument of surveillance.  In addition, microphones were placed throughout urban and suburban areas.to control thoughts/actions and deflect dissent.  In the 1980s mini-series, V (inspired by Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel, It Can't Happen Here), the visitors circulate friendly posters throughout the cities they invade with catchy slogans and smiling faces in order portray an image of friendship and camaraderie between humans and visitors like, "The Visitors are our Friends" and "Friendship is Universal" (reminiscent of Nazi era propaganda posters).  They also align themselves with the major television media networks to spread a message of peace and prosperity between the two species.  In the movie adaption of V for Vendetta, the BTN is the state-run British television network that Chancellor Sutler and the ruling Norsefire party use to remind people why they need the party and the regime.  Another feature of mass media propaganda is the use of state-sponsored social organizations like the Youth Spies and Junior Anti-Sex League in Nineteen Eighty-Four, the Aunts in The Handmaid's Tale, and the "Friends of the Visitors" youth programs in the '80s mini-series, V.  All are inspired by real programs like Hitler Youth, as well as the youth programs currently employed by islamo-fascist terror groups, al-Qaeda and The Taliban.  All were designed as a means of both enforcing the ruling body's political ideologies by recruiting and brainwashing youth (including instilling hatred towards any idea or anyone that/who differs from the ideology of the ruling class), as well as providing a system of social surveillance to suppress dissent.  An example would be the "Two Minutes Hate" in Nineteen Eighty-Four where society is stirred into a fanatical frenzy of hate towards the enemies of The Party (namely Emanuel Goldstein).  To this degree, one is not only watched by the regime, but also watched by one's peers, as well as one's own offspring to dissuade any potentially seditious behaviors.

Horn and Hoof emblem from Animal Farm

 

Offred in The Handmaid's Tale

 

Diana from '80s miniseries, V.

The underling theme common to all political dystopias is a warning to the reader that massive shifts in political ideology and thought to the right or left can have damaging consequences on any democracy.  Examples of the worst-case scenarios to the far-right would be Nazi Germany, Mussolini's Italy, The Islamic Republic of Iran, the former Taliban government in Afghanistan, etc.  On the far-left, we have the former Soviet Union, The People's Republic of China, North Korea, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cuba, etc.  All of these countries are examples of how fast an individual or group can influence thinking on a massive scale.  The revolutions in each regime were swift (most only lasting a few years, and some even less).  Granted, the seeds for these revolutions were planted and cultivated long before action was implemented.  Let's examine the United States over the past ten years...  With the post 9/11 ultra-conservative, hard-line approach to homeland security during the Bush administration, the Patriot Act was passed, and as a result, some of our civil liberties have been compromised in the name of national security.  If one is suspected of terrorism, he/she can be arrested and held without due process.  And now, the U.S. is beginning to see a massive shift to the far-left under the Obama administration (the U.S. Senate is now controlled by the democratic party as a filibuster-proof majority, making it possible for far-left socialist activism to be passed swiftly, and without challenge).  Let's not fail to mention the consequences of the financial crisis, which has let our government's tentacles inside our businesses with a potential to control them like marionette puppets (WARNING!  RUN!  Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged provides the dangers of this scenario).  And soon, very soon, we'll have a state-run healthcare system (not that I necessarily agree on the healthcare issue, it has worked very well in some communist/socialist countries, even in secondary powers such as Cuba, where healthcare is first-rate and free).  However, it's very alarming how much of our personal lives are quickly falling underneath the government umbrella.

Anna from the upcoming 2010 remake of V.

 

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As we fight this bitterly cold winter, we are comforted by the thought that spring is officially less than two months away, and our thoughts begin to drift to warm days in the park, barbeques with friends, and margaritas on outdoor patios.  That being said, we eagerly begin to look forward to shedding those winter layers in exchange for lighter and brighter fabrics.

The prevailing trend of the last few seasons in men’s ready-to-wear is tailored, slim cut trousers and jeans (slightly cropped at the ankle), combined with preppy layers and loafers or oxfords without socks, and this trend continues to predominate the runways.  The popular early ‘60s Mod styling shows no signs of slowing down when reviewing the upcoming F/W 2009 collections as well.

However, a few new trends for this season have been noted…

In t-shirts and sweaters, the sizes continue to increase as the decade draws to a close…  Fitted tees and sweaters in the earlier part of the decade are rapidly expanding and becoming fuller in the men’s silhouette.  A good example of this can be seen below in slouchier styles.   

Slouchy Tees

Slouchy Sweater

As men’s skinny pants continue to permeate the fashion world unfettered, a slowly emerging trend towards fuller trousers has begun to surface…  By Spring 2010, I predict a lot of pleating will finally return to menswear as well.  Below are some good examples of fuller cuts in pants.

Gianfranco Ferre SS09

Roberto Cavalli SS09 2

Roberto Cavalli SS09 3

Versace SS09

Roberto Cavalli SS09

Bottega Veneta SS09

Another men’s trend that continues to dominate the past few spring seasons is shorts.  Beginning with longer lengths ending just above the knee a few years back, the length continues to rise, mirroring styles from the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.  Whether casual or dressy, shorts are no longer for the playground and the beach.

Raf Simons SS09 2

Raf Simons SS09

Missoni SS09

Chanel Resort SS09

And finally…  The color combo that saturated runways last fall for the upcoming season is yellow and gray.  I remember noting Sienna Miller’s dress (as Edie Sedgwick) in Factory Girl in early 2007 during her first tour of The Factory (a flirty mid sixties number), and knew it wouldn’t be long before designers started capitalizing on the visually pleasing combo. Below are some great examples

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Burberry SS09

Costume National SS09

Jil Sander SS09

Alexander McQueen SS09

Happy shopping.

~Chuck

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“I’m Good, I’m Gone” – Lykke Li

www.myspace.com/lykkeli

Lykke Li

The 22-year-old Swede exploded onto the American indie scene this year with her debut album, Youth Novels produced by Björn Yttling (of Peter Björn and John).  Her single, "I'm Good, I'm Gone" has a very soulful feel while still encompassing choppy electro beats.  She's most definitely someone to keep on your radar for 2009.  She possesses the talent to become the next Björk if she puts her mind to it.

“Courtship Dating” – Crystal Castles

Crystal Castles

Named for the Crystal Castle in the 1980s animated series She-Ra: Princess of Power (though widely believed to be named after the early '80s Atari game of the same name), the Toronto-based Crystal Castles have created quite a name for themselves over the past few years as producers and remixers.  They've also headlined tours for the likes of Vice Magazine and NME alongside notable acts like These New Puritans, The Teenagers, and Friendly Fires.  This year, they released their self-titled debut album featuring their signature chirpy Atari-esque electro sound.  "Courtship Dating" is a perfect example of the exciting consistency the duo constantly delivers.

“Paris is Burning” – Ladyhawke

Ladyhawke

Twenty-seven-year-old New Zealand-born Phillipa "Pip" Brown (a.k.a. Ladyhawke, named for the 1985 fantasy film staring Matthew Broderick, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Rutger Hauer) channels divas (both stylistically and aesthetically) from early '80s rock like Pat Benatar, Scandal's Patty Smyth (remember "The Warrior"?), Heart, Kate Bush, and even the late Laura Brannigan. The opening lyrics and style of "Paris is Burning" bear a striking resemblance to Gary Numan's "Cars."  The track is more than just catchy, as the hook and chorus play over and over in your mind.  Kudos to Miss Pip!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I Lust U” – Neon Neon (featuring Cate Le Bon)

www.myspace.com/neonx2

 

 

Neon Neon

Perhaps the most interesting collaborative project of the year comes from Super Furry Animals front man Gruff Rhys and electronic producer/musician Boom Bip.  Together, these two form the dynamic duo, Neon Neon. Their debut album, Stainless Steel, released earlier in the year is a concept album, and is based on the life of John De Lorean (the engineer/playboy of the De Lorean Motor Company).  In fact, the album title is a pun for the De Lorean DMC-12, which features a body made of stainless steel.  The album also features guest appearances from familiar faces like Fab Moretti of The Strokes, Spank Rock, and Har Mar Superstar, as well as vintage sythesizers like the Casio SK-5, Korg MiniKorg 700, and Roland SH-101 to create the mid eighties synth-pop sound.  When Welsh singer Cate Le Bon lends her sexy vocals to the track "I Lust U," one feels immediately transported back to the age of excess.

“Blind” – Hercules & Love Affair (featuring Antony Hegarty)

Hercules & Love Affair

Like Blondie did in the late '70s, DJ Andy Butler (the brainchild behind musical project Hercules & Love Affair) proves once again that Disco and New Wave create a beautiful combination.  Releasing the self-titled debut album earlier in the year, Hercules & Love Affair have been a dance floor sensation.  One of the most powerful tracks on the album is Antony Hegarty's vocals (of Antony & The Johnsons) on the track, "Blind."  The effect is reminiscent of '80s synth-pop band Bronski Beat (the similarity between Hegarty's and Jimmy Somerville's voices is uncanny).

“Shut Up and Let Me Go” – The Ting Tings

The Ting Tings

Based in Salford, UK (I can't help but think of The Salford Lads' Club in The Smiths' 1986 video "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before"), the pop-punk duo scored a number one hit on the UK charts with "That's Not My Name," as well as number one album for their debut, We Started Nothing earlier in the year.  Their most recognized and downloaded track from the album is "Shut Up and Let Me Go," a wonderful blend of pop, punk, a tinge of reggae, and a dab of hip-hop. 

www.myspace.com/thelongblondes

The Long Blondes

Sadly, as I write this year in review, The Long Blondes have officially broken up (as of October 20th), with five years of fantastic music behind them.  The Sheffield, UK band was most revered for their distinctive sound, which was reminiscent of '60s garage rock and late '70s mod revivalist and post-punk/new wave.  "Guilt" was released last summer from their second studio album, Couples, produced by famed electro DJ and producer/remixer, Erol Alkan.  The ballad shows their softer side, with melodic vocals, smooth riffs, and light electronica. 

 

 

 

 

“Cassius” – Foals  

www.myspace.com/foals

 

Foals

Undoubtedly one of my favorite bands of the year from one of my favorite cities on the planet.  "Cassius" is a brilliant blend of pop and punk.  For more on this artist, see my post "ON THE RADAR: Five Acts to Watch in 2008."

 

Black Kids

One of the most acclaimed indie bands of the year comes from one of the most unlikely of places...Jacksonville, Florida.  Suffering from a bit of a time-warp, Black Kids sound like they should be on a John Hughes film soundtrack instead of in the indie limelight, but God bless 'em.   For more on this artist, see my post "ON THE RADAR: Five Acts to Watch in 2008."

“Lights & Music” - Cut Copy     

Cut Copy

Compared to iconic '80s cult band New Order, Cut Copy has been one of Modular's most successful acts to date (a label that has produced a string of acts that have helped define indie music this decade including The Presets, Wolfmother, New Young Pony Club, The Avalanches, Ladyhawke, etc.).  Gaining popularity over the past few years when they began touring with acts like Franz Ferdinand, Junior Senior, and Bloc Party, their sophomore effort, In Ghost Colours, catapulted them from Aussie bars to international acclaim. 

“L.E.S. Artistes” – Santogold

www.myspace.com/santogold

Santogold

After witnessing her as the opening act for Björk in September of '07, I knew Brooklyn-based Santogold would have a phenomenal year.  Not since M.I.A. burst onto the scene in early 2005, have I seen an artist with such an innovative and unique edge.  After touring with both the previously mentioned artists, as well as Architecture in Helsinki, she's been in collaboration with such notable names as Spank Rock, Freq Nasty, and Diplo.  As she continues to make wise marketing and PR decisions with her career, her popularity continues to skyrocket.  She's recently toured with Coldplay, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and supported Beastie Boys' Get Out and Vote '08 tour.  "L.E.S. Artistes" is one of her most recognized singles over the past year...  To me, her vocal style very much reminds me of the Canadian twins, Tegan and Sara.  I predict Santogold will become a mainstay in pop music over the coming years.

“I Will Possess Your Heart" – Death Cab for Cutie

Death Cab for Cutie

Quickly gaining cult status this decade like Phish did in the '90s, DCFC have released a number of crtically acclaimed albums and singles over the years.  Admittedly, they've never really been my "cup of tea" until I discovered this gem of a track earlier in the year.  It's very soulful, and very touching.  I highly recommend you give it a listen.

“If You Wanna Be A Star” – Walter Meego

Walter Meego

Walter Meego is an extremely talented electropop duo from Chicago.  For more on this artist, see my post "ON THE RADAR: Five Acts to Watch in 2008."

Calvin Harris

For more on this artist, see my post "ON THE RADAR: Five Acts to Watch in 2008."

“Fire” – The Whip

The Whip

The Manchester UK band is still relatively obscure in the US, but their debut, X Marks Destination (produced by Jim Abiss, who has worked with Arctic Monkeys, Ladytron, Sneaker Pimps Editors, and Kasabian), caught my attention earlier this year, and I've been a fan ever since.  They've also gained notoriety as remixers ("Anyway You Choose to Give It" by The Black Ghosts, which appeared in my best of 2007 blog post is among them).  "Fire" is a dancey new wave delight which has been in constant rotation on my iPod over the past year.

“Skeleton Tiger” – Tame Impala

Tame Impala

Not since the '90s have I heard a psychedelic band with so much promise.  The Perth, Australia trio was recently signed to Modular, and a full-length debut is on the way.  They remind of a good blend of '60s garage and '90s Britpop.  I suspect 2009 will bring them much success, and "Skeleton Tiger" is one of my favorite tracks so far.

MGMT

Without a doubt, one of the most innovative and prolific bands of the year is Brooklyn-based duo, MGMT.  A string of fantastic singles is already under their belt from their debut album, Oracular Spectacular.  For more on this artist, see my post "ON THE RADAR: Five Acts to Watch in 2008."

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The idea for this trip began last April when my roommate/landlord/good friend Dale Stein (a frequent world traveler) suggested I go visit our mutual friend Dana Brüller in Berlin with him in August.  Of course, after the financial centrifuge I'd put myself through for the better part of the decade, I protested.  I simply did not have the kind of money to drop on airfare (especially with summer European rates), even though we had a free place to stay.  Dale insisted that it would be a great experience, and all but begged me to tag along.  I held my ground.  As attractive as it sounded (especially with how much I loved my European study-abroad ten years earlier), and as much as I really wanted to do it, I knew it just wasn't feasible......until Dale made a suggestion I hadn't thought about.  He suggested that he'd pay for both tickets and I could just pay him back an extra hundred bucks a month in rent until I paid it off.  This was a fantastic idea.  I finally agreed and began to get excited...especially because my other good friend, Elizabeth Dicks, had moved there two summers ago and had come back on occasion and told me how amazing it is. 

Stockholm-Arlanda Airport

The five-month wait seemed long, but August 20th finally arrived, and the journey began.  We were to have a connection flight in Stockholm, and we honestly hoped that maybe we'd have a long layover or "accidentally" miss our flight to Berlin and have to go to the city for a few hours and explore.  I mean, seriously...  Any country that produces exports like IKEA, Cheap Monday, Filippa K, J. Lindeberg, H&M, Volvo, gay marriage, ABBA, Roxette, Ace of Base, The Cardigans, The Sounds, The Knife, and Peter Bjorn & John has to be freaking fantastic,  right?  We even had the opportunity to sit behind Swedish boy band sensation E.M.D. on the way over!  Ooooh!  Okay, so I had no idea who they were until I got back to the States.  I just knew they were famous because of the autographs they were signing for a few Swedish passengers.  Moving on...  Flying over the landscape of Sweden is quite beautiful.  With the exception of Stockholm, the land is relatively (and surprisingly) undeveloped and pristine.  Unfortunately, Stockholm-Arlanda airport is easy to navigate, so there was no chance of "missing" our flight without being charged.  However, it is probably the most mod and fashion-forward airport I've ever seen.  Brushed steel ceilings and light fixtures combined with dark mahogany hardwood floors in most of the main thoroughfares give the airport a very warm feeling.  Slate blue is the soothing color of choice.  The control tower is reminiscent of the helmet of the EV-9D9 droid that gave R2-D2 and C-3PO jobs in Jabba's palace in Return of the Jedi (Whoa!  Nerd alert!).  We didn't have much time to absorb it before we were back on board for a short flight to Berlin.

Berlin Hauptbahnof

As we flew over Berlin, I noticed that the trees were a bit less green.  It looked as though they may have had a drier summer than usual.  The Berlin-Tegel airport was similar to Stockholm in its efficiency and minimalism.  Before we knew it, we were on a bus to the Central Train Station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof).  There, I bought a 10€ T-Mobile phone card and called Elizabeth (by the way, all pay phones are hot pink T-Mobile phones).  Elizabeth arrived within 20 minutes or so, and helped us navigate our way on the S-Bahn and U-Bahn to Kreuzberg (a borough full of history itself, as well as the area we were staying) with a stop-off at the famous Alexanderplatz to see the Fernsehturm Berlin (TV Tower).  Finally, we made our way to the Kottbusser Tor U-Bahn stop in Kreuzberg with only a couple blocks walk to Dana's dorm on Adalbertstraße.  It was surreal.  I'd made it nearly 5000 miles from home (the furthest I've been...even a few hundred miles further than Honolulu in the opposite direction).

Kottbusser Tor

 

The next week was a whirlwind of sight-seeing, shopping (mostly in the touristy Mitte area and hipster Prenzlauer Berg), and going out...  Berlin itself is a city unlike other European cities...  It was virtually destroyed by the Allied Forces as they closed in on Berlin in the mid '40s, proceeded by a division down the middle of the city dividing East (Communist Russia) and the West (Britain, France, and America), and has only been unified for the past 19 years (most all of the wall is now gone with no border or markers as a way for Berliners to mover forward from the past).  There is a definitive difference between the aesthetics of East and West.  West Berlin is a bit cleaner and more traditionally "European," whereas East Berlin is a bit more spread out, less ornate, and a bit poorer.  To put in comparison to fellow Atlantans, it would be the difference between the "niceness" of Buckhead and Midtown versus the "grittiness" of Cabbagetown and Old Fourth Ward (only amplified on a bigger and grander scale).  Most of the typical European architecture in Berlin was destroyed, badly damaged, or rebuilt (in some cases rebuilt with a more modern feel).  Berlin feels like a gigantic, spread out Brooklyn with attitudes to match.  It was actually kind of hard to believe I was in Europe except for the language barrier.  The weather was a welcome change for me.  It remained mostly sunny for the better part of the week with highs in the low to mid '70s with lows in the mid to upper '50s.  It rained (drizzled) only two days, so it was a bit cooler on those days.  Even though the mascot for Berlin is a bear, I honestly think it should've been a yellow jacket.  There is a definite infestation....worse than flies.  However, they aren't as aggressive as they are persistent around food.  Most Berliners brush them away like flies, unfettered by the potential anger from the bees.
 

The best part about our stay is that it was Dana's last week in Berlin for the summer program she was attending (a study of Jewish culture in Berlin - which is sadly lacking in Berlin's religious landscape to this day).  We were able to meet a lot of her fellow students the night we got there for their last night on the town, as well as their Shabbat dinner the next evening.  It was a great group of students of various ages, backgrounds, and countries.  It reminded me quite a bit of my study-abroad at Oxford ten years ago.  Dana's roommates Marnie and Sheer were excellent hosts, though Marnie moved out a day or two later to her own apartment.  Sheer's good friend Valerie came to visit from Israel the day after Dale and I arrived.  We immediately clicked with her and did quite a bit of day-time sight-seeing together.  In the evenings, we all had wine and dinner at home as Dale was our personal chef and cooked an array of delicious dishes.  Later at night, we'd all go out as a group to various nightspots.  Sometimes, we'd just grab a beer from a corner market and drink it on the way (oh yeah, you can do that on the street and on the train in Europe).  i would be lying if I said it's not expensive for Americans.  The conversion rate was about $1.50 = 1€.  However, it's very cheap for Berliners since they're making euros instead of American dollars.  A typical beer anywhere costs around 2,50€.  Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to almost double any price you see.  This is another reason we didn't go to many restaurants, and saved our money for nightlclubs and touristy things.  It was refreshing to not be on a time schedule of any sort, as well as come and go at our leisure...the way a vacation should be.

As the week came to a close, Dana prepared to go to her home city of Munich, and Dale and I planned to meet her there.  The cheapest and fastest way to travel between the two cities is NOT the train.  The train costs about 70€ ($105), and takes about seven or so hours.  However, there are some great web sites to find independent car services between the two cities (most of them are frequent travelers between the two cities looking to make extra money).  It only takes five hours and the competitive rate is about 30€ ($45).  There are usually a few more passengers traveling with you.  Plus, you get to travel on the Autobahn!!  NO SPEED LIMIT!!!  The Autobahn is built for speed and smoothness.  After all, the Nazis designed it to carry tanks and artillery between cities (unlike the shoddily constructed American interstate highway system).  People who use the Autobahn also know how to drive better than most people in countries with interstate highway systems.  If you don't drive correctly and follow the rules, you could die.

We arrived in Munich exactly one week after we arrived in Berlin.  The two cities couldn't be more different.  Dana lives at the city center on Kanalstraße a block or so from the Isartor S-Bahn stop and the old city.  Munich is the capitol of the German state of Bavaria, rich in culture and history.  However, like Berlin, it is also a city of a turbulent past.  Munich is clean, touristy, and aesthetically gorgeous...much like one would imagine it to be.  Most of the surviving architecture can be attributed to Ludwig I (1825 - 1848) who had a penchant for late 18th century neoclassic architecture, though there is much left from medieval and renaissance periods as well.  It is also common to see traditional Bavarian dress in the touristy spots (dirndl and lederhosen).  Oktoberfest draws a massive crowd every year.  However, on the flipside of the historical beauty lies an ugly recent past.  The National Socialist German Workers' Party began as a small, radical right-wing political group in Munich to whom no one paid much attention, and quickly increased momentum throughout the '20s until they gained the majority in the German parliament and President Paul von Hindenburg appointed Hitler as Chancellor in 1933.  Shortly after, The Reichstag Fire Decree was passed which "amended" the German constitution by suspending civil liberties for "national security" during this time of "crisis."  The rest is history.  The Nazis quickly established headquarters and offices in many historic buildings and landmarks throughout Munich as a way of defining the past, present, and future of Germany.  As a result, many landmarks have a dual history.  Munich also marred by the 1972 Olympics, where Israeli competitors were held hostage and later killed by Palestinian terrorists.  Today, Munich is economically booming with opulent (hedging on obscene) displays of wealth (especially on Maximilianstraße).  Englischer Garten (a large park near the city center) is one of the world's largest public parks and contains a nudist area (we saw one man in particular who permanently scarred us).  It also contains a beautiful Biergarten at the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Pagoda).  The weather in Munich is a bit warmer than Berlin and so are the people.  All in all, it was fantastic to be able to experience the two cities.

To see personal pics of my trip, visit www.myspace.com/chuckjones or www.facebook.com/

Below is a guide to sights, shops, and bar/nightclubs in both Berlin and Munich...

BERLIN

Sights (all hyperlinked for historical reference):

World Clock

Berliner Dom

Berliner Dom

The Reichstag

Brandenburg Gate

Fernsehturm

BerlinTower.jpg

Neue Synagogue

Humboldt University

River Spree

Friedrichstraße (Mitte) - A nightlife and cabaret district in the 1920s that was destroyed in WWII and later transformed into the main shopping thoroughfare in Berlin today (much like the 5th/Madison/Lexington shopping district of Manhattan).

Friedrichstraße

Straße des 17 Juni - Commemorates the 1953 East Berliners' Upsrising against Communism.

Nightlife:

Weltempfänger (Mitte-Tiergarten-Wedding) We went here the first night in Berlin for Dana's program's '90s party.  It's a small, cool dance space underneath the main bar/restaurant.

C.C.C.P. (Mitte) These are the only letters outside the door of the club in Mitte (translated to the U.S.S.R. - communist themed).  This was the second place we went on the night our arrival (Thursday).  I LOVED IT.  The DJ played an outstanding blend of '60s, '80s, and current indie.  I was very impressed by some of the tracks...especially "Shakin' All Over" by The Guess Who.  Unfortunately, Dale was so jet-lagged, he slept right next to the DJ booth (what a compliment to the DJ!).  I met a German girl named Sarah who kept trying to wake him up.  Thank you Elizabeth for bringing me here!

Monarch - (Skalitzer Straße 134, at Kottbusser Tor, 10999 Berlin-Kreuzberg) We went here the next night (Friday).  The original plan was to go to Bang-Bang, but Dana deemed it a bit too hipster and too pretentious.  We wanted something a little more laid-back.  We found it.  Dana brought us to this great space located upstairs from the Turkish Center literally across the street from the Kottbusser U-Bahn stop.  The door leading to the stairwell is only marked with Turkish Center-related information.  We discovered Friday night is the best night to go as the DJs play an eclectic set of music (mostly laid-back Britpop...though, he did throw in "Turn it Up" by Robots in Disguise to spice it up).

Bang-Bang (Mitte) - I actually didn't get a chance to attend their infamous Friday nights, but I'm sure there are hipsters galore dancing to the latest indietronicelektroneuerave sound.  When checking out the Myspace page (click the name), I discovered they actually play a lot of Mod.  I'll have to go next time around.

Luzia (Kreuzberg) - This was our most common hangout throughout the trip.  It was only blocks away, and very cool.  By day, it is a cafe, and by night it's a lounge/bar with a small dance space and DJ booth.  Most of the furnishings are antique (including the light fixtures).  It maintains a very casual and trendy atmosphere.  Most of the music is more of a downtempo kind of feel.  It's a nice relaxing place to have a drink.

Luzia

Berlin Hilton

Shopping:

Garage (Division of Kleidermarkt - Ahornstraße 2, 10787 Berlin-Schöneberg) Located in the West Berlin neighborhood of Schöneberg (which has an interesting history itself...  Marlene Dietrich was born there, David Bowie and Iggy Pop resided there for a time, and it was the center of gay culture in the '20s before the Nazi's shut it down in the '30s), Garage is one of the largest thrift stores in Berlin with tons of cool finds.  They usually have special deals where you can buy 1 Kg. for 13€.

Colours (Division of Kleidermarkt - Bergmannstraße 102, 10961 Berlin-Kreuzberg)  A sister store to Garage in an area of Kreuzberg that very much reminds me of St. Mark's Place in the East Village, NYC.  The same sorts of deals apply here as they do Garage.

Kastanienallee (Prenzlauer Berg) - THE hipster street of Berlin.  Kastanienallee is lined with tons of independent designer boutiques, as well as cafes and restaurants.  The fashion-forward kids are everywhere.  GREAT people-watching.

Kastanienallee

Who Killed Bambi? (Prenzlauer Berg) - One of my favorite boutiques.  Fantastic bags and t-shirts!  It deserves its own mention!

COS (the location at Neue Shönhauser Straße 20, 10176 Berlin-Mitte) - Definitely a guilty pleasure store.  COS is the upper-end line of H&M with stores throughout Britain, Belgium, Denmark, The Netherlands, and Germany.  In other words, it's like the Banana Republic of H&M (only MUCH more fashion-forward than Banana Republic).  Elizabeth introduced us to this store, and God bless her!  Even though, it's pretty much mid-line for Germany, it's pricey for Americans with weak dollar against the euro.  Dale bought an amazing 3/4 coat that fits him like a glove.  Kudos!

COS

Flohmarkt am Mauerpark (Flea Market at Mauer Park - Prenzlauer Berg) - Sunday mornings never felt so good....except for the Sunday morning we went.  We came directly from Berghain (as I noticed a few others did as well).  I was sleepy.  I was cranky.  It was a bit cold and drizzly.  However, there are TONS of great finds.  Dana found a cute blue dress from H&M for only a few euro.  I wish I were a bit more awake.  I would've taken advantage of the awesome deals.

Sankt Oberholz (Mitte) - A GREAT coffee shop at Rosenthaler Platz in Mitte.  Elizabeth brought us here, and it's her favorite.  There's great music, free wifi, outdoor seating to view the bustling Rosenthaler Platz.

Sankt Oberholz

BERLIN ONLINE NIGHTLIFE / SHOPPING GUIDES:

[030] - All-inclusive nightlife listings guide (online and paper-based).

ein000 - Comprehensive online and paper-based listing of all Berlin boutiques by city neighborhood.

ein000

blu - Comprehensive online and paper-based listing of GAY Berlin.

MUNICH

Sights:

Frauenkirche

Frauenkirche

Marienplatz (with New City Hall and Glockenspiel, as well as Mariensäule).

Nazi Tour (Dana gave us our own personal Nazi walking tour...  However, there are professional ones offered:  http://www.newmunichtours.com/thirdreich.htm

Englischer Garten (with Biergarten at the Chinesischer Turm - see the last paragraph before the listings for hypernlinks).

Nightlife (most are in Isarvorstadt):

Die Bank - Sleek bar with a blended crowd.  Good music.  I heard a house-y remix of "Bonafied Lovin'" by Chromeo that I hadn't heard before.  It's a bit more mainstream than I would've liked, but still a cool spot for a drink.

X-Cess Bar (Kolosseumstaße 6, at Jahnstraße, 80469 Munich) - It has a wall of boobies!  Seriously!  It's a very small indie dive bar.  Wasn't there for very long, but enjoyed the vibe.

Die Registratur - This place is a great indie dance club.  It has a fairly large dancefloor and bar area.  It has a separate smoking room open to the outside.  You get to pick a little trinket at the door to take home with you.  How cute.  I think Boys Noize plays there this Friday.

BAU - This is definitely Munich's version of The Eagle in Atlanta.  However, there were more younger gay guys who weren't quite a "bear-ish" as I expected.  The downstairs where the bathrooms are is virtually pitch-black.  Proceed with caution.  Yikes.

BAU

BAR JEANS (Blumenstraße 15, 80331 Munich)  - Supposed to be Munich's oldest gay bar.  It's across the street from Die Registratur (above).  We went there for a drink after we got stamped and waited for the crowd to pick up at Die Registratur.  It's a small bar with a quaint crowd.  We were enthralled with the gay porn playing at the bar.

 

Shopping:

Kleidermarkt See Garage and Colours above.  The only difference is that it's twice the size and carries traditional Bavarian dress for men and women.

Kleidermarkt

There are tons of tourist shops in the Old City, as well as international brand names.  For the "Rodeo Drive" of Munich, you have to stroll down Maximilianstr

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"Ahhh...  New York...  Aren't ya gonna miss it?"

Carrie Bradshaw ushered these very words to the infamous "Mr. Big" in the episode "I Heart NY" from Season 4 of Sex and the City (2001).  It couldn't be truer.  My love affair with this town spans twenty years now and began when I moved to New Jersey at the age of 13 in January 1988.  My stepfather had just married my mother and he was transferred to New York from Atlanta.  I wasn't a big fan of Jersey, but I relished the weekends when we'd go into the city.  Even the first glimpse of the massive skyline with the prominent World Trade Center would give me chills (I sketched it over and over again...I still have one of the sketches to this day).  Of course, these trips would include the more touristy things like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, The Empire State Building, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Grand Central Station, etc., etc., etc.  I can even remember going to Central Park on a gorgeous Spring day (complete with a sky full of kites) in May of '88 or '89 (I can't remember which), and glimpsing a cute gay couple holding hands.  I remember thinking that I'd have a cute boyfriend someday...  Little did I know what a challenging enterprise that would be.  Unfortunately, my dislike for Jersey outweighed my love for NYC (since I dealt with Jersey on a daily basis), so I moved back to Atlanta to live with my Dad a year and a half later in July 1989.  I would only return to visit my mom for a short Christmas visit later that same year.  I wouldn't return again for twelve whole years (in the interim, my mom and stepdad moved to other cities).

My next visit wasn't until Labor Day, 2001.  At the time, I was 26, and I was going to visit a guy I dated for some seven or so months before he completed grad school at UGA.  Of course, by then, I was an avid watcher of Sex and the City, so I had a completely romantized view of New York.  We did some touristy things, and some not-so-touristy things.  Three places I enjoyed were XL Lounge (a sleek lounge in Chelsea for the boys, which I'm not sure exists anymore).  XL had an ultramodern public latrine in the middle of the bathroom with this divider wall with trickling water fall, but you could see the other person on the other side, which was a bit intimidating.  They had hot, shirtless bartenders, and I think I saw the SATC girls on a later episode at the same place.  Samantha was checking out the latrine and complimenting "the goods” while saying something to the effect of it being “like a diabetic in a candy store.”  I also remember a great place for Sunday brunch called Artepasta (I think it was hedging on Greenwich Village and Chelsea).  I just remember they had all-you-can-drink mimosas for $10!  A great place for shopping at the time was Century 21, which was downtown directly across from the WTC.  I remember stepping outside and looking up and asking Jason (the guy I dated) if we could be tourists and go to the top because I never had the chance to do it as a kid.  He said no, so I thought there would plenty of other chances.  It wasn't like they were going anywhere.  I remember my bag being ransacked at the Newark airport by security when I was leaving a few days later.  It was a bit scary because I'd never been through it before.  I had extreme anxiety on the flight home, which was bizarre because I love to fly.  One week later, as I sat in my tiny cube at Wolf Camera corporate, I watched the nightmare unfold with the north tower on CNN.com.  I immediately rushed to the break room to find out was going on.  I watched in pure horror as the airliner struck the south tower.  A sickening feeling of disbelief ensued as I realized at that moment we were under attack.  As the towers fell, it was like I living in an alternate universe.  I can't even describe it.  All those people…  Those symbols of New York (and America, really) that I'd sketched so often as a child....gone.

My next visit came almost exactly five years later in 2006.  The 9/11 tragedies became even more real when I saw the downtown skyline with the absent towers.  My September '06 trip and my July '07 trip were much more relaxed and exploratory.  It was time to do some off-roading.  My BFF Christina (who moved there in '05) gave me the inside scoop, and I've become more and more familiar with different neighborhoods throughout the city.  Over the past six years, I've had quite a few friends migrate to New York...many of which never came back.  As Atlanta becomes smaller and smaller to me (while simultaneously growing bigger and bigger to others), my annoyances with Atlanta have peaked, and I've decided to make the move myself.  My goal date is June 1, 2009.

Looking for fun places to go on your next visit to New York?  Here are some gems in both Williamsburg and Lower Manhattan I’ve discovered over my past two visits.  They are written from an Atlanta perspective, since I haven’t really a basis for comparison.  I’ve hyperlinked most places to their respective Myspace pages or web sites where applicable.  Enjoy!

WILLIAMSBURG, BROOKLYN:

Metropolitan (GAY)

559 Lorimer St almost at Metropolitan Ave (there's an L stop right across the street)

It's like a Mary's in Williamsburg.  However, there's not really a dance space, but it has a bigger outdoor patio.  It's more of a hangout.  I guess it could be dancey sometimes, but I've never been on a dancey night (I've only been twice, and I think it was during the week).  It's a bit strange how much it reminds me of Mary’s.  Still, a fun place!

Union Pool (or, affectionately called  "U.P.")

484 Union Ave. at Meeker St.

A great blend of The Earl, MJQ, Lenny's and The Local...  Great bar area, great outdoor patio, great live music area, and great dance space.  It's the best Williamsburg hangout. 

Royal Oak Pub

594 Union Ave. at Richardson St.

Cool hangout.  Much like The Local.  Nice little dance space in the back!  Very much like UP, though not quite as many ultra-hipsters.  More laid back.

The Levee

212 Berry St. at N. 3rd St.

This place is very much like The Local (albeit a bit more crowded on Friday nights).  The have ten billion different kinds of beer (like, bizarre ones you've never heard of).  It's fun.  I went there on 4th of July after seeing Japanther and Pterodactyl play at 29 Wythe.

Capone's

221 N. 9th St., between Roebling St. and Driggs Ave.

We went on a Sunday night.  Pretty cool place.  Every time you order a beer, you get a free pizza!  YESSSS.

Galapagos

70 N. 6th St., between Wythe and Kent Ave's...a few blocks from Bedford Ave.

Live music / indie bar / art space.  I wanted to see The Presets there back in '06, but it was the day I left.  Still, a great place

Savalas

285 Bedford Ave., between Grand and S.1st St's

Dance club on Beford Ave.  I ran into my friend Carrie White from Atlanta a few years back, and she said she spins there on Sunday nights...  However, who knows if she still does...  Worth a peek.

29 Wythe

29 Wythe at N. 14th

Cool little live music warehouse-type space.  Reminded me of lots of spaces in Cabbagetown.  They had a great 4th of July party, and only blocks from full view of the East River fireworks.

Barcade

388 Union Ave, near Metropolitan Ave

Cool little hangout spot to have a few beers, as well as play some '80s arcade games!

McCaren Park Pool
Lorimer St. between Driggs Ave. and Baynard St. (technically Greenpoint)

From June to August, all the hipsters from Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Park Slope, etc. gather in droves for the Free Sunday “pool” parties.  It's literally a HUGE, old drained community pool where everyone goes to watch summer shows.  Check here for the free Sunday Pool Parties schedule:  http://thepoolparties.com/.  Otherwise, shows during the week cost $$$. 

PLACES TO EAT:

Bonita

338 Bedford Ave., between S. 2nd and S. 3rd St's 

AWESOME Mexican food.  I ate their twice.  I mean, you can't find good Mexican in New York, but this is as good as it gets!

Fabiane's Cafe & Pastry

42 N. 5th St at Bedford Ave

SOOOO GOOD!  Open Air during summer.  Good for coffee and people watching.  Try their mushroom quiche...  FANTASTIC.  Though, don't expect the traditional French fluffy quiche...  Since Fabiane's is a fusion of Brazil and France, the quiche is more on the runny side...kind of like a casserole.  SOOO GOOD.

Phoebe's Cafe

323 Graham Ave., between Lorimer and Leonard St's

Great little indie coffee house / brunch spot.  I had the banana walnut waffles.  They were quite tasty.

Relish

225 Wythe Ave at N. 3rd

Ever wonder if there's a place like Ria's or Radial is in New York?  THIS IS IT.  I went there just before I had to go to LaGuardia...  YUM.  I could’ve stayed MUCH longer.

Sunac Natural Food

440 Union Ave near Metropolitan Ave, between Devoe and Keap

24 HOUR NATURAL FOODS AND DELI!!!!  It's great to get hoagies in the middle of the night!!

SHOPPING:

Beacon's Closet

88 N. 11th St., between Berry and Wythe Ave's 

THE thrift store to shop in Williamsburg.  Some things are pricey...others are shockingly not.  I found a quite a few things there. 

FOR ALL THINGS WILLIAMSBURG, VISIT:  www.freewilliamsburg.com or www.thelmagazine.com

MORE GOING OUT/PARTY SUGGESTIONS FOR BOTH BROOKLYN AND MANHATTAN (sign up for this email updates):

www.going.com

OPEN BAR NIGHTS:

www.myopenbar.com (sign up!  a great resource for fun things!)

LOWER MANHATTAN:

Thursdays:

Cheeky Bastard at Hiro Ballroom

371 W. 16th St. (Chelsea)

The creme de la creme of indie dance nights in NYC.  :ots of Paper magazine, Useless magazine, and V magazine folks.

Happy Ending (GAY indie dance night, weee!)

302 Broome St (LES)

It's kind of a ghostown before Midnight, but after that, LOTS OF CUTE INDIE GAY BOYS DANCING IT UP!!!  If I wasn’t so hungover from 4^th of July the night before, I would’ve had a blast.

Fridays:

Trash at 40 Avenue C

40 Ave. C at 3rd St. (East Village)

MY MOST FUN NIGHT BY FAR!  DJ Jess (who's cute as hell, but alas...straight), plays an '80s new wave-heavy night at this whole-in-the-wall East Village bar...  The crowd was good!  It has changed locations from Rififi since I've been there, but the music is awesome.

Ruff Club at The Annex

152 Orchard St, between Stanton and Rivington (LES)

An indie rock "scene" night.  Pretty much all the NYC fashionista-hipster-scenesters gather here on Fridays.  Hint: know the bands that are playing before the actual dance party gets started.  A door guy may ask you who you're here to see, and just name one of the bands.  This is how they keep the frat boys and sorority girls out...

Saturdays:
Crashin' In at Stanton Public
17 Stanton St. between Bowery St. and Chrystie St. (LES)
Lio Cerezo (DJ Oil) who used to live here in Atlanta and spin the Britpop Video Nights at Mary's with Dennis Millay every Monday hosts this night.  It's a great party.  It used to be located at Galapagos in Williamsburg.  You should go!

Sundays:

Sway (the sign outside still reads McGovern's Tavern)

305 Spring St, between Hudson and Greenwich - a little up the street from Don Hill's where infamous MisShapes party used to be.

It has become increasingly hard to get into Sway on Sundays...more and more people have found out about it.  As a matter of fact, Chloe Sevigny has been spotted there a few times over the past two years.  However, it's dance-o-mania here.  Good crowd as well.

PLACES TO EAT (Brunch and Latenight):

Clinton Street Baking Co. & Restaurant

4 Clinton St., between E. Houston and Stanton (LES)

SOOOO EFFING GOOD!!!!!  Southern-styled.  The best food EVER.  You should go.

Punjabi Grocery & Deli

114 E. 1st St., between 1st Ave. and Ave. A (LES)

Open 24 hrs!!!!  Hits the spot after a long night boozing and dancing.  It’s Indian take-out.  Fast, and better than going to Taco Cabana or Majestic at 4am if you know what I’m sayin’..

SHOPPING:

Trash and Vaudeville

4 St. Mark's Place, Ste. 4, between 2nd and 3rd Ave's (East Village)

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Calvin Harris

Calvin Harris

The Scottish singer/songwriter/producer/remixer is truly a jack-of-all-trades.  He scored a nominal hit last year with “Acceptable in the ‘80s,” poking fun at the fashion and pop culture of the period.  The video is a parody of many early ‘80s new wave videos, which were often dreamlike and nonsensical (since video was a new medium for music at the time, it allowed for much more creative freedom).  The 24-year-old is also known for his producing talents [Róisín Murphy, Kylie Minogue, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, and the highly entertaining “Michael Jackson” by The Mitchell Brothers (you should YouTube the video immediately!)].  He lends his clever remixing abilities to tracks by The Ting Tings, CSS, and Jamiroquai.  Keep on the lookout for Mr. Harris this year.

Walter Meego

Walter Meego

The synth-pop musical duo from The Windy City met back in 1999 and shared similar musical aesthetics.  The band takes its name from vocalist Justin Sconza (who is HOT as Hell, by the way), when he asked his counterpart (instrumentalist Colin Yarck) to call him “Walter,” which was short for his new alter ego, Walter Meego.  The group’s musical style has been described of elements of dance, funk, and post-punk, and they’ve been compared to the likes of New Order, Daft Punk, and Radiohead.  Their upcoming full-length, Voyager, showcases a wide range of ability, and features the track, “Wanna Be a Star.”  Walter Meego is probably some of the most intelligent electropop goodness in the past six years.  Keep them on your radar.

MGMT

MGMT

Perhaps my favorite new musical act of the year thus far would undoubtedly be MGMT.  The artsy bohemian duo from Brooklyn has produced some of the most innovative sounds I’ve heard this decade yet.  Combining elements of garage rock, glam (think Bowie-esque and T.Rex crooning vocals), and a bit of ‘80s synths, and you’ll have a magical combination of rock that transcends time.  They’ve already produced a string of catchy singles from the recently released Oracular Spectacular including the mesmerizing “Time to Pretend,” the soulful “Electric Feel,” and the synth-driven “Kids.”  I know it’s only April, but I’m almost ready to hand the Best Album of the Year Award to MGMT.  Check them out.

Foals

Foals

Last year, Klaxons were touted as the band to watch by NME, as the cheeky Brit mag proclaimed them the purveyors of the new rave movement.  This year, NME has crowned a new band as their lovelies du jour.  Foals hail from Oxford, England (which is more than just a University.  Oxford is a cool little city…like a miniature London, if you will.  I have an undying love for it that hasn’t faded since I studied there for a term ten years ago).  Foals provide a clever combination of math rock and dance-punk that creates a captivating sound.  Their debut album, Anitdotes, was just released a few weeks ago in the UK, and has already shot to number three.  The album’s US release is slated for today.  The band caught my attention with their single, “Mathletics” a few months back, and it hasn’t left my “most played” iPod list yet!

Black Kids

Black Kids have enjoyed a whirlwind of success in just six short months.  Back in August, they performed for Athens Popfest (Athens, GA), and the festival catapulted them to online fame, as indie music bloggers talked about them non-stop.  As a result, they received coverage in The Guardian, Vice, NME, and The Village Voice.  They also released an EP titled, The Wizard of Ahhhs that same month, which earned them a stellar review from Pitchfork Media (and contained an outstanding single called “Hurricane Jane”).  Since then, they’ve signed a deal with Quest Management (Björk, Arcade Fire), and have received exposure in The New York Times and USA Today.  Rolling Stone named them one of the ten best new bands of 2008.  Their first official single since signing with Almost Gold Recording was released yesterday and is a newly recorded version of “I’m not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance with You.”  Look for their debut full-length (TBA) to drop in July.

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With the F/W 08 shows officially complete (as well as fashion prodigy Christian Siriano crowned as Project Runway’s latest prince), I can now take the opportunity to reflect on the current state of women’s fashion.  As I surmised, tops would continue to get larger and more ornate (Edwardian influences with fuller sleeves, larger shoulders, and frills and ties galore).  The waistline has (finally) climbed back to…well…the waist.  Yes!  No more butt-crack (at least for a good ten to fifteen years)!  Large width high-waisted belts continue to be an accessory of choice to slim the female silhouette.  Trousers range from the form-fitted “skinny” look (which is most prevalent), to high-waisted full-cut  (semi-palazzo) styles, to full looks which slightly taper toward the ankle.  Pleats have also begun their cyclical revolution featuring high-waisted styles, complimenting the larger Edwardian tops quite nicely.  Hair has remained with little change throughout the decade…  Retro looks from the 20^th century still prevail (with ‘60s and ‘70s styles dominating).  The resurgence of bangs over the past few years continues.  Below are some great examples of women’s trends in separates for the following year:

High-Waisted Photo 2

High-Waisted Photo 7

High-Waisted Photo 6

High-Waisted Photo 5

High-Waisted Photo 3

High-Waisted Photo 4

High-Waisted Photo 8

High-Waisted Photo 1

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First of all, I hope everyone had a great new year.  Hopefully, I'll expand the blog in some way during 2008.   I'm still in the beta phase, and getting used to having a blog in general.   Once I become dedicated, and utilize all the blog's capabilities (as well as my own), I may even create a "real" blog with a better host (wider readership and fewer restrictions).

Now, for the fashion…

As we move into the closing years of the first decade of this new and strange technologically driven millennium, fads and fashions are moving at a pace quicker than ever before, with retro looks being recycled with fewer years between the preceding craze.

Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to never fall victim to an over-the-top, at-the-moment fad (unless you're one of the few who can pull it off and not look foolish when looking back at pictures from this era)…   Otherwise, you'll wear it for a few months before it goes back to the vault for another ten years, only to reemerge with slight variations and modifications.  

Looking at men's fashion over the past eight years, it is important to note that there has been a shift in the men's silhouette, which mirrors a similar phenomenon in women's trends.   The fitted top and full (if not wide-legged) bottom half, which dominated most of the nineties, as well as the earlier part of this decade, has completely reversed itself (as it happened with the seventies/eighties transition period).   It is becoming more and more common to find a fitted bottom half with a fuller top half.   Color still dominates ready-to-wear men's looks (mostly inspired by the eighties revival earlier in the decade, as well as the neon colors of underground dance culture), though muted colors and earth tones have begun to reemerge over the past few months, and have been shown in both S/S and F/W collections over the past year.

As the winter marches on, the trends of the season for men continue to have a definitive mod look.  Inspiration from early sixties mod/late seventies mod revival (as well as early new wave) are more than evident.   Slim-fit trousers and denim are most common; with designer denim going into decline as inexpensive mass-market brands offer up-to-the moment skinny looks in flattering styles.   Turtlenecks have reemerged this season, as well as plaid patterns (flannel, madras, etc.).   The reintroduction of military trends last season remains popular (particularly in shoes).   A movement towards oxfords, desert boots, tasseled loafers, wingtips, etc., begins to overtake casual sneakers for the first time in six years or so.   Hair moves away from over-styled, straight, flat-ironed looks to more natural waves, curls and free flowing mop-top styles.  Below are some great looks as examples.   Have fun, and happy winter!

*The below images are credited to one of my online fashion Bibles, The Sartorialist.

Winter Blues Photo 1

Winter Blues Photo 2

Winter Blues Photo 3

Winter Blues Photo 4

Winter Blues Photo 5

Winter Blues Photo 6

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