Brewed Fresh

Once

2007-12-18T12:56:00.000-05:00

Once has been out for quite a while now, so yes, I realize I am more than a bit late on this one. Today however, marks its release on DVD so I feel that it is timely.

Winner of this years Sundance Audience Choice, Once is a musical without actually being a musical, in the sense that people aren’t randomly busting out in song in inappropriate places a la High School Musical or Moulin Rouge, causing the cheese factor to remain low and the emotional authenticity high. It’s like Little Miss Sunshine with a melody.

Set on the streets of Dublin, the movie stars Glen Hansard of The Frames and recounts the love story of a street musician/vacuum cleaner repair man and a Czech immigrant as they write, record and rehearse songs over the course of a week. The performances are excellent and the music is wonderful, giving the entire film a certain sincerity so rare to find in most movies.

And I am not the only one who thinks so. Made on a shoestring budget of $160,000, the film has grossed over 9.1 million. Two songs have been nominated for a Grammy and the soundtrack sold over 160,000 copies. Check out the clip below and buy the DVD here.

Francesca Woodman

2007-12-17T17:52:00.000-05:00

I don’t have much time today, but I wanted to let all of you know about an excellent exhibit of Francesca Woodwards works at the Marian Goodman Gallery. She is one of my favorites and her photos are absolutely captivating. Best known for her black and whites of herself and other female nudes, her images are frequently blurred giving them a ghostly, ethereal quality that is undeniably feminine, poignantly intimate and completely removed from sexuality. She studied at RISD and then moved to New York to pursue her career. In 1980, after career and relationship failures she threw herself out of a loft window. These are from the House Series she created in 1976. I love them because whenever I see them, combined with my knowledge of her background, they remind me of Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s "Yellow Wallpaper," adding just one more layer of meaning.
Marian Goodman Gallery
24 W. 57th St., 4th fl
212-977-7160

Where Was I?: Personal Updates

2007-12-14T15:12:00.000-05:00

So sorry on the lack of yesterdays post. We had our holiday party and left the office at noon for a wonderfully yummy lunch at Gotham Bar and Grill. I just think this place is so pretty and my belly is still feeling all nice and satisfied from their perfect Cheesecake Risotto. It tasted good enough to melt all of the caloric guilt. Mmmm…

I was off by 3pm and headed home to snuggle up in bed, since my plans for a shopping excursion were put on hold due to the horribly shitty ice-rain that fell all day yesterday. Somewhat oddly, I ended up being sucked into BBC America on Demand, otherwise known as my new favorite channel. I watched two shows and have got to highly, highly recommend them.

The first is “Love Me, Love My Real Doll,” which is the true life version of “Lars and the Real Girl.” It follows several men who own these dolls for reasons of both sex and companionship. The second is “Super Skinny Me,” which follows two British reporters as they try and whittle their waists from a size 12 to a size 0 in five weeks. Both are fascinating and completely fucked up.

As for this morning, I am once again tired and struggling not to pass out face first on my keyboard. Can you guess why, loyal readers?

A) I am hung over
B) I am getting sick

If you said A, you would normally be right, but in this case it’s a trick question. The answer is a combination of both A and B, which sucks because the weekend is here and fun stuff going on. For tonight, I had the Ultimate Douchbag Friday planned, with stops at Tenjune’s Holiday Party, the new club in Aer’s old space called Kiss & Fly ((pic) whose opening night I was too hung over to go to, but, psssttt…heard Andy Roddick was there being unexciting) to a jaunt by 1OAK to see if it is, indeed, actually open. Then, a stop by Brewed Fresh favorite, Magnum PR’s (Klaxons, Neimo, Snow Patrol), holiday party in order to submerse myself in hipsters to wash off all the douche.

And while this seems like so much fun, I don’t want to be sick for tomorrow night, when the best party of the year happens. It’s my BBF Liz’s Holiday Extravaganza where my urban family, made up of those I love the most, will come together in their most glamorous X-mas sweaters to get as wasted as possible.

Anyways, that is about it. Since I did cheap out yesterday, stay tuned for the Crush of the Week later on today. Just in case I get lazy, which is looking highly probable, and you need advice fo rwhat to zone out to this weekend, it's a 750ml Affair ( www.myspace.com/a750mlaffair). And remember, if there is ever a day I don’t show up here and you are just dying for a little Me, you can always find me over at http://www.iminlikewithyou.com/ dissing your fav celebs. .

ketchup mania

2007-12-12T17:36:00.000-05:00

I am super tired today. Those of you have been consistently reading since I began my new ‘experiment,” of adding in some personal tidbits have got to be like, “Damn girl, STOP drinking.” And you of course would be right, but today I have a new excuse that should buy me a few more guiltless nights out: Drunkorexia (please click-it's hilarious), or skipping dinner and just drinking instead. However, it should be noted that unlike the women in this clip that purposefully skip a meal to make up for their liquid calories, I just merely don’t have time to put food in my mouth. I mean, picking up a fork means I have to put my glass down! And how can I fit food into my mouth when a straw is already in there? Essentially, eating just boils down to less time for drinking.

Moving on, in order to keep myself awake I have been listening to some super hyper music. Enter ketchup mania, a kinetic punk outfit from Japan, which is working wonders. Winners of Shojo Beat's "Best Japanese Punk Group" award in their 2007 Music Issue (and no I do not actually have this), they have only been in the US once but will be returning stateside. They won’t be in NYC (single tear drop), but they will be in Seattle WA, March 28-30, so start planning a road trip now.

Check out this video for the song 涙☆バキュームサウンド. They look like the Asian version of No Doubt. This chick so needs to hire some blond back-up dancers, name them ridiculous names and contract them not to speak. Then they can just follow her around all the time as she uses them as accessories/props/pets. Can you say "Best Job Ever!"? I am totally applying.

http://www.myspace.com/ketchupmaniajf

Two for Tuesday: Neimo and Sara Melson

2007-12-11T11:31:00.000-05:00

Today has been an absolutely fabulous day already and it isn’t even noon! That almost never happens! Reasons for this rare occurrence: 1) I had a very nice night last night. Nuff said. And 2) I had an excellent morning, in which, if all goes well, will be the first step of a very long and exciting walk to success. Fingers crossed, Mother Universe prayed to.

So to celebrate being awake, energetic and simply alive in NYC, lets hear some music. First up, since I love me some Frenchmen, I’d like you all to take a moment and listen to Neimo. Singing in English, the native French quartet plays some hot Parisian punk rock injected with a heated dose of pop. Frontman Bruno Alexandre has been described as “Michael Hutchence meets Blondie meets Morrissey meets Jagger.” Yowza!

They released their first album, From Scratch in 2005 and it caught on quickly. Noted for their onstage energy, they have built up a fan base in both the underground and mainstream. They have gone on to create their own label, Big Fields, to ensure they keep their freedom and artistic voice.

Their second album, “Modern Incidental,” is set for release next spring from Shangri-La Music. They are in NYC this December, so you have a few chances to check them out:

Dec 12 - Pianos 8pm
Dec 15 - Luna 9pm
Dec 19 - Pianos 8pm
Dec 22 - Tiswas 11pm
Dec 29 - Midway 10pm

Put on your dancing shoes. Here is the video for “Hot Girl.”

Who else do I love today? Sara Melson. This LA-based singer/songwriter belts out the prettiest, poetic and flowing tunes I have heard in a while. Her self-produced debut Dirty Mind, will be out February 26 and is being released by Nettwerk Music Group. A yoga instructor and children's music teacher, you sort of just have to love her.
Listen to her now before everyone else discovers her. "Feel It Coming," is set to be featured on where else, but the centrifugal of current folk music, Grey's Anatomy.

Sara Melson mp3 - Feel It Coming
Sara Melson mp3 - Hardpressed
Sara Melson mp3 - Anywhere Anytime

www.myspace.com/saramelson

Happy Tuesday kids!

Two Things You Should See

2007-12-10T12:41:00.001-05:00

So my weekend was pretty good. The Office Holiday Party, located all the way in western Connecticut, took an unbelievable and hellish four and a half hours to get to. We took a party bus, compete with two big screens playing music videos, booty bass music, flashing lights and a stripper pole. The drinks were flowing and almost everyone was blazed by the time we got the actual destination. As for me? I fell asleep on the way there and spent most of the night outside smoking by the fire. I've learned through past mistakes that it's always safer to distance yourself from the crowd when it comes to the X-mas party. Trust me: This is the best advice you'll get all year.

Saturday was more drinking and not really worth retelling, so I will just move forward and let you know about two things you should see this week:

Barbara Kruger Exhibit

Barbara Kruger can be considered an icon in both art and social commentary. She was HUGE in the ‘80’s and is renowned for her text-based photo montages that question power: how it is constructed, used and abused as interpreted through the social, economic and political arrangements. Her early works from 1978 are on display at the uptown Mary Boone Gallery until the 22nd in an exhibit called “Pictures/Readings.” There are a dozen or so photos, each constructed with a faded color photograph of unknown, residential architectural exteriors on one side and typewritten text recounting the “incidental urgencies and activities,” of the buildings’ imagined inhabitants, on the other. All of the photos were taken in Florida or California so there are tiny hints of warm climates, such as a palm tree or salmon colored roof tops. a palm tree pops into one image, while salmon-colored stucco and red tile roofs can be seen in others.

Mary Boone Gallery: 745 Fifth Avenue
http://www.maryboonegallery.com/

Here are a few of her more well known works/pieces I like:

What Would Jesus Buy
On a sort of related note, Super Size Me’s Morgan Spurlock has a new movie. It’s playing in select cities and is at Cinema Village on east 12th in NYC. The plot is as follows: Bill Talen is a lost idealist who hitchhikes to New York City only to find that Times Square was becoming a mall (a concept that doesn’t seem so far fetched). Motivated by the loss of his neighborhood and inspired by the sidewalk preachers around him, Bill buys a white collar and becomes a the Reverend Billy of the Church of Stop Shopping. He and the Church of Stop Shopping Gospel Choir go on a cross-country mission to save Christmas from the Shopocalypse: the end of mankind from consumerism, over-consumption and the fires of eternal debt. Sounds like the perfect holiday movie. Enchanted, what?

Check out the web site at: http://wwjbmovie.com/

You gotta love the Walt Disney font on this:

And lastly, in completely unrelated news: This is the cutest thing I have EVER seen.

And this is the funniest thing I have heard all day. Its sexy time, people.

mog.com

More about this song

The Lunchbox Auction Opening Event

2007-12-07T14:02:00.001-05:00

All of you daily readers will know that I was struggling with a bit of a hangover yesterday and debating on whether or not to go out last night. Those of you are are expert partiers will know that the best cure for drinking too much, is to go ahead and just drink more.

Being an “expert,” this is exactly what I did and it was well worth it. A friend and I went down to Saatchi & Saatchi for the Lunchbox Auction event. I notified all of you about it the other day here, and you can still bid online. All proceeds go to the Food Bank For New York City and The Lunchbox Fund of South Africa to aid in hunger relief. It's a wonderful cause and well worth your dollar.

They had the over 100 lunchboxes signed by celebrities out for display and an area where people could place a silent bid. Sadly, Andy Samberg and Justin Timberlake did not donate their dick in a box, which would have been hilarious and likely a real price winner.

There was one live auction. Mario Batali, in his omnipresent bright orange crocks, spoke first and introduced the event. Next R.E.M. front man Michael Stipe took the podium and explained what was in his box: photos of celebrities wearing his glasses and a few other items. I think that this is a brilliant idea. A woman from Christies led the bidding, which reached 40k. We spotted Mario in the corner excitedly encouraging people to raise the number higher.
But Mario and Michael weren’t the only A-listers in attendance. We spotted Anna Sui, the shockingly short Lisa Marie Presley and mom Priscilla chatting it up near the DJ booth. The leader in rock n’ roll fashion talking to the family of the King of rock n’ roll; now that’s a conversation I would have bid to gain privy to.

The thinking fans favorite couple Peter Sarsgaard and Maggie Gyllenhaal were also making the rounds and are just as twee and perfect as they look in pictures. Maggie had her hair back in Heidi braids and Peter wore his scarf all night, making them both appear like they would be making their way to a Williamsburg coffee shop at any moment.
Other stars in attendance included: Patti Smith, Heatherette designer Traver Rains, Billy Crudup,Rachel Ray and the amazing Zac Posen.***

Zac, if you happen to ever google yourself and come a cross this fantastic site which is my blog: send me clothes. Please!

I have to give myself a pat on the back for my behavior. I am a huge R.E.M. fan and was increasingly tempted throughout the night to go over and let Michael Stipe know that the song “Everybody Hurts,” was seminal to my coping with teen angst. I resisted though and this morning I sort of wish I would have at least introduced myself.
After the event we headed over to Goldbar and proceeded to stay out too late. I really like this place and I have to say that while most clubs who market themselves as exclusive hire asshole’s for doorman, I couldn’t adore the club’s Ryan any more. He deserves the first ever, Brewed Fresh Hugs and Kisses award for being a genuine person when his job dictates that he should not be.

Finally around 3am (AGAIN!) I head home. Even though this is way too late, I am also giving myself a pat on the back for it because a friend of mine, whom I have a tendancy to stay out too late with, was texting me to come and continue the night at Soho Grand. Today, I do not feel so shitty as I would have and am prepared to face the horror that is the “Office Holiday Party,” without a headache. In a few hours I will be off on a shuttle bus for a two hour ride to Connecticut, hating my job and the fact that going to this party, which I don’t even want to go to, requires four hours of travel time and a $25 purchase of a gift.

Happy Weekend Kids! I'll be sleeping.

The Drunk Diarys: Hung Fucking Over

2007-12-06T18:09:00.000-05:00

So I am wicked hung over today and can barely think. I hate it when I do this to myself, not only because I ruin my productivity for the day, but I also ruin my ability and motivation to go out the night after and damn it, there is fun stuff going on tonight.

So instead of relaying to you some ultra cool indie band I know you'll just adore, I'll just give you a recap of my debaucherous night. Yeah! More personal stuff! I think I have three posts now and, as we all know, three is trend (hint-stay tuned for more, though better posts written in a non-Jack Daniels haze).

So first stop on the party trail last night was a party for the Designers for Darfur. They had limited-edition tee shirts up for auction with proceeds going to help prevent genocide in Sudan. It was held at one of my favorite venues, Gin Lane, and Brewed Fresh favorite The Pierces performed. I swear to you these chicks could not be hotter (they seriously make me wet) and their music is amazing.

The second stop was the Details Magazine and Nautica event at the East Village Yacht Club. I had never been here before, but really like the venue. It looks deceivingly small on the outside, but is actually enormous with a downstairs area that takes up three large rooms. Let’s just say finding the bathroom was a difficult task. The DJ was good and the crowd good looking. My friend and I met two fabu-gays who work at Conde Nast and played the real life version of Details back page, “Gay or Insert Noun.” Examples being: Gay or a Model? Gay or a Publicist? Gay or Dressed by His Fashion Designer Girlfriend? It’s a hilarious game, although damn near impossible to figure out the correct answer in most cases. Also, BONUS-I got myself a snuggly warm comforter from Nautica, which someone will likely be receiving as their X-Mas gift.
Next we head on over to Marquee, which just happened to also be the location of the Goldman Sachs Holiday After-party. It was literally a sea of undulating suits as the financial guys got more and more wasted. Since they were all trying to out flash each other, bottle service was ubiquitous and my friend and I just bounced from table to table. At some point, I hazily remember dancing on a banquet.
Now normally I would be out of there in a flash, but my friend was in heaven. As for my opinion of the Wall Street male, I’ll just say that I have never met one that I get along with. In my experience all they want to do is talk about how much money they make, how big their dick is, how much coke they just snorted; basically, how they are a Master of the Universe. It’s so not-my-thing and I can sustain a conversation with them for all of a minute before I am bored as hell and desperately searching for an artsy, hipster guy to come save me.

I did however meet one that seemed nice enough at first. He told me he was a fisherman when I asked if he worked at GS and I found that pretty cute. Plus he was French and as everyone who knows me knows, I have a deep weakness for Frenchman. Also, and this really shouldn’t matter and I am usually not the type to really look at clothing, since I tend to look more at style, but this guys sweater was the softest cashmere I have ever felt. Just touching it made me want to jump him. It had to have cost a good $350 at least, but it was worth the cost. I have to suggest it to all of you male readers. A woman, no matter how un-materialistic, can not resist the lure of nice cashmere.

Just be warned: This fine fabric isn’t enough to get a woman to go home with you, which is exactly what this boy tried to do. Very true to my typecast of “finance guys.” After the definitive “No,” he tried to persuade me four times with the line, "Is it because we haven;t gone on a date? Let's go get dinner now. Then we'll go back to my place." Ummm, still No. So, we’ll see if he calls. I’m not holding my breath.

So that was it. I made it home around 3am and am just dying right now. I’m supposed to head out again tonight so wish me luck. I don’t know if I am going to be able to make it very far.

Tis the Season To Spend Money

2007-12-05T16:54:00.000-05:00

So why not spend it the right way? Today I bring you news of two pretty cool auctions. The first is from CBS’s ever-awesome, TV staple, "The Price is Right," and is being held though the Paley Center. While the wax-like corpse of Bob Barker will not be for sale, they will be auctioning off six pieces of the set including three green door panels signed by the illustrious host, two lightable “Price is Right Signs,” (which would look awesome in a bar if I do say so myself), and lastly a “Race Drop,” canvas. All proceeds go to benefit the Paley Center's efforts to increase the public's understanding of the media in today’s society. Bidding has already started and will end at 6:00 PM, ET on Monday, Dec. 17. Check it out and get a piece of history at www.charityfolks.com/paleycenter

The second auction has just as much pop culture cred. Over 100 celebrities in the entertainment, fashion, art, music, literary and culinary worlds have signed a lunchbox to be auctioned off to benefit two hunger relief organizations, Food Bank For New York City and The Lunchbox Fund. Just a few A-list names include Mario Batali, Sir Elton John, Kanye West, Mike Myers, Orlando Bloom, Natalie PortmanJosh Hartnett, Anna Sui, Zac Posen, Heatherette, Cynthia Rowley, Maggie Gyllenhaal, John Mayer, the Beastie Boys, Kevin Smith, Yoko Ono, Sienna Miller and Rufus Wainwright. My money is on Courtney Love and the Scissor Sisters, so hands off kids.It starts at midnight this Thursday, Dec. 6 and will run until Dec. 21. To check out the auction and bid, Click here.

Also, if you're in the spending mood. This is what I want, it's the Wooly Mammoth from FAO Schwartz. Can you believe this bitch costs $12,000. Kids in Manhattan kill me. Literally.

In related news, this photo just served to remind me that, oh yeah, I'm old. "As you wish," my ass.

Ohh and one more thing: It’s snowing out in NYC! I am excited with the sort of “woo hoo, it’s pretty,” amusement that should last all of…it’s over.

Crush of the Week: My Robot Friend

2007-12-04T14:33:00.000-05:00

I can not say enough good things about My Robot Friend. But here are a few: the songs are smart, funny, have wicked beats and finally, are just plain awesome. A.k.a Howard Robot, he plays funky, digitalized, plastic electro-pop with wide variation between the songs.

He's currently working on his upcoming album "Robot High School," due out in early '08 from Soma Records and has already released a few outstanding tracks. He carries the academic theme onto his website, http://www.robothighschool.com/index.html, where you can visit "Home Room," and are reminded to use a "#2 pencil."

Anyways, I could go on, but I'll spare you my gushing. Just listen.

My Robot Friend - "Robot High School" (MP3) (Via Stereogum)

My Robot Friend - "Why Won't You Call Me Back?" (MP3)

Listen to more at: http://www.virb.com/myrobotfriend. The song "One More Try," features the lovely Antony from Antony and the Johnsons.

Needtobreathe

2007-12-03T10:32:00.001-05:00

This morning I am totally digging Needtobreathe. I just discovered them after hearing about the soundtrack for the new movie P.S. I Love You. I actually have no idea what the flick is about, but I do know that it incorporates a lot of sappy music, with the main song being James Blunt’s “Same Mistake.” Yes, I do like JB. What about it? I am indeed shameless. So anyways, I decided to check out some of the bands included on the cd and am really digging Needtobreathe, who sort of remind me of Wilco and contribute the song “One More Time.” Made up of Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart, drummer Joe Stillwell and bassist Seth Bolt, the group is signed to Atlantic Recordings and just released their second album The Heat, back in August, co-produced by the band alongside Rick Beato (Shinedown, Jump Little Children) and Collective Soul’s Ed Roland. Apparently they are a Christian band, which would normally be cause for an immediate ban from my play list, but it’s acoustic, down home southern rock goodness makes you forget all the god stuff.

For example, “Washed by the Water,” is just plain gorgeous, religious undertone or not. (Sorry for the quality, it’s the best I can find).

Check out their myspace at: http://www.myspace.com/needtobreathe

Oh, Fuck Yeah!

2007-11-30T18:35:00.000-05:00

For realz, bitches.Just think, I may get my very own Domenico.

Friday Playlist

2007-11-30T14:08:00.000-05:00

Hayden - Dynamite Walls
Hayden - Bass Song (Live At Convocation Hall)
Fire On Fire - Hangman (Via Stereogum)

Blaqstarr + Rye Rye Shake it to the Ground (Via Gorilla vs Bear)

The Bird and the Bee - Man
Violet Vector and the Lovely Lovelies - Can You Dig It
NEW BREWED FRESH FAVORITE- The Brunettes - Loopy Loopy Love (Via The Yellow Stereo)

Brunettes - Small Town Crew (Via Atoms 4 Peace)

Babyshambles - Gang Of Gin

And a little Bear Hands

Adventures in My Personal Life

2007-11-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

Since this morning's post was sort of cheap (though brilliant and hilarious) and I have some time before my friend is ready to meet me at the Blackbook party at Tailor, I have decided to bestow upon you, my beautiful readers, some randomness from my daily life in conjunction with my new "editorial format," of blending content and my personal reality.

This week has been pretty good. I chilled in on Monday night and watched my favorite, now past-favorite, show "Tila Tequila." Why past favorite? That bisexual bitch voted off Domenico, the hottie Italian Stallion and only rational reason to watch the program. My depression was quickly alleviated though; the hunk will be getting his own show called "That's Amore!", currently in casting.

Tuesday, I had planned on going to the Lydia Hearst handbag launch at 60 Thom, but it was a fucking mess. Thank you Guest of a Guest, for posting on this, since you helped my ego and made me feel a bit better about not getting in. It all worked out for the best though, since instead, I met a cutie who makes me laugh for a few drinks in the West Village.

Last night, was awesome. A friend and I braved the disaster that is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting. Warning to those who have never been: It is a fucking battle. Thousands of people pushing their way against barricades blocking the street, trying to get close enough to get a glimpse of basically anything except the side of a building. We were going to give-up, but firmly stood by the VIP entrance, a testament to the fact that every god damn occurrences in NYC has to have a class system in place, until we were finally taken pity on and let through. We got a primo spot, right in line with the tree. Since my comp. sucks, photo will be posted tomorrow (it takes forever and I already inserted the others).

What people don't realize about the lighting is that you can't see the performers unless your like, the camera man. The acoustics are also horrible so you can't hear them either. It will be the last and only time, I ever say "Turn Ashley Tisdale up! I want to hear her!" It was cold, the guy behind me kept coughing, my feet hurt, but when that tree finally lit up in all it's splendor, it warmed my heart with its Jew-mas glory.

And that about wraps it up. Happy evening kids. If you're out and about at the Touch Nightclub opening tonight, say hi and as always, buy me a Jack and Diet. Ohhh, and tell me I look pretty (even if you don't mean it, I don't mind).

My Happiness For Today

2007-11-29T15:34:00.000-05:00

This is fucking hilarious. I am laughing out loud at my desk. Mila Kunis's expressions with her eyes are perfect. Enjoy.

MGMT

2007-11-28T13:53:00.001-05:00

Made up of Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, MGMT will make you shake with their fun, messy, electronic rock. They formed the group while in college and where courted by Columbia Records last year. While most people would jump at the chance, VanWyngarden says, "We were really sarcastic when we met them. They asked us for a list of dream producers, so we made one: Prince, Barack Obama, Nigel Godrich and 'Not Sheryl Crow.'"

One hell of a crazy list, right, especially for a debut album? Well, they ended up getting someone just as great: Flaming Lips producer Dave Fridmann for Oracular Spectacular. It officially comes out in January, but is available on iTunes now.

The song “Time to Pretend,” about the coke and hooker rock star lifestyle, has a pretty weird/excellent story behind it. The keyboard melody was inspired by the jerky movements of their pet praying mantis. After the insect died, the duo kept its egg sac, which soon hatched, unleashing hundreds of baby praying mantises in their house. "We tried to name them all, but they died after a day," says Goldwasser. "It was the dead of winter, so there wasn't much we could do."

MGMT - Time to Pretend

And here’s another one:

MP3: MGMT - “Kids” (Via Rock Sellout)

My Space is: www.myspace.com/mgmt

Crush of the Week: Camphor

2007-11-27T12:47:00.000-05:00

I am having a total, “Damn it!,” moment. Two Sundays ago, Nov. 18th, I spent the day with my lovely friend Angela cavorting around the East Village enjoying brunch, booze and dinner (pssst…Yaffe Café is the cutest in a campy, zebra print sort of way). At some point in the evening she remembered that Bird and the Bee were playing at the Blender Theater. I walked over with her, but since I was tired, broke and not super familiar with the band, I decided to just bail and go home.

Now for the “Damn it.” Today as I went on to the MySpace page for Camphor, an indie band from Rye, New York, I saw that they were the opening act. I had wanted to catch them during one of their three CMJ shows, but didn’t get a chance.

Which means that unless they decide to play another show in New York in the next coming months, and I am actually aware of it this time, I will have to wait till February 19, when the release their debut album Drawn To Dust, before I hear more songs not already up on the Internet.

The indie pop group is fronted by Max Avery Lichtenstein, who has done instrumental music for independent movies "Tarnation," "Jesus' Son," and "The King." In 2006 he decided to expand beyond film and began a collection of songs loosely exploring a beautiful Japanese concept I am completely digging called wabi sabi, which is “the idea that greatness exists in the inconspicuous details of the world, and that heart-tugging beauty can be found in the imperfect and the broken.”

After he had the outline of these songs laid out, he pulled together friends from the bands Mercury Rev, Beirut, Hopewell and Timesbold (of which he is also a member). Word on the street is that the album’s got mariachi horns, strings, woodwinds, a harp, mellotrons, optigans, lo-fi electronics and more to create a sort of Beck meets Suftjan meets Sparklehorse sound. Can't wait to hear the whole thing.

Camphor mp3 ~ Confidences Shattered
Camphor mp3 ~ The Sweetest Tooth

Psssttt..The Secret Handshake

2007-11-26T09:42:00.001-05:00

Hey, hey everyone. Hope you had an excellent Thanksgiving and took advantage of your long weekend. I was down in Jacksonville, Florida, jacket-less, hose-less, and NYC noiseless. Although it was too cold to swim, it was warm enough to spend the night smoking $3.25 packs of cigarettes and recounting old family memories. Ahh, and thus starts the holidays. Nicotine and nostalgia.

Moving forward. After the debacle that was my birthday, I thought I would start off my personal new year by forgoing my usually sad-eyed tunes and posting some music worth getting up in the morning and dancing to.
Luis Dubuc, aka The Secret Handshake, is just that type of music. Described as "equal parts electronic, hip-hop, pop, indie and alternative," he sounds pretty damn original. He does everything using a Wurlitzer piano and an Apple computer. His EP, the flashback-ishly titled Summer Of ’98, was released all the way back in March and has only now made its way to my ears and features remixes by Ronnie Darko of Spank Rock, P.O.S., Toxic Avenger and Dillinger Escape Plan. He also had an album released in Sept. 2007, titled One Full Year.

He was set to tour with Hawthorne Heights during the next few months, but sadly a member of HH's band passed away. He has two upcoming tour dates in Chicago and Plano.

Check out the songs "Summer of '98," and "Too Young." For more info visit his MySpace.

The Last Boy Brewed Fresh Post Ever

2007-11-21T04:20:00.000-05:00

{redacted}

Project Runway's New Digs

2007-11-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

Normally I am not a big TV watcher, so not having cable doesn’t bother me too much. There are times, however, when I really feel the hurt. During Flight of the Conchords I could rely on Ex Boy Brewed Fresh to Tivo it, but that was only because he enjoyed it as well. However, Project Runway, the only other show that has made me wish I could afford to pay that extra money to Time Warner every month, is not on his must see list, forcing me to just suck it up and view vicariously through water cooler talk at my office.

I'll admit, I have no idea what is going on in the show. I did, however, get some pictures of their housing sent to me so that I can not only be jealous of people who get A& E, but of those who live in a far better residency than myself. The past three seasons, the contestants were put up in the Atlas, but this time they are being housed in luxury, residential tower New Gotham at 520 West 43rd Street (Have fun stalking). It looks ridiculously nice and must be a great motivator to stay the entire two month period of filming. And get this---they had access to the building’s 24-hour personalized concierge service as well as its full gym with basketball court.

So here you go, a peek inside:

2007-11-19T17:25:00.000-05:00

If there’s one thing Brewed Fresh loves, it’s cute white boys with guitars. Those who know me will be quick to tell you, that coming up in close second, are cute French boys. Enter Chris Stills, son of Stephen Stills (Crosby, Stills and Nash) and French pop legend Veronique Sanson, and his songs that lull and cradle my heart with their aching, romantic sounds.

Previously released in Europe to great and deserved success, Chris album almost didn’t make it to America. Slated to be released earlier this year by V2 records, the label shuttered leaving the album without a parent. But, hooray, his self-titled debut has been adopted by KCJ Records and is set to hit the states January 29. Described by Stills as "the moment when you realize that you're falling in love while desperately trying to catch your breath," it’s simply gorgeous. He is joined by drummer Matt Johnson (Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright) and Mixer Juan Patino (Lisa Loeb, Jewel). Two of the songs are sung in French, so go ahead, turn down the lights. Oooh la la.

Chris Stills mp3~ When The Pain Dies Down (Via The Late Greats)

For more, visit his Myspace here.

Thank The (the nondenominational beings) It's Friday

2007-11-16T18:13:00.000-05:00

Good evening kids. I am sort-of-not-really still recovering from a wicked hang over. I went to Plumm's 1 year anniversary last night and let me tell you, it knocked me on my ass. (The fact that I had gone to Trailer Park and started drinking right after work, probably did not help much either).

Dave Chapelle was there, as well as Lisa Loeb. Joel Madden from Good Charlotte DJ'd but Nicole was no where to be seen. The music was pretty good, but nothing to write home about (although, obviously it's good enough for here). I saw him outside at the end of the night getting a cab and said hello. I was sort of vainly waiting for him to tell me I look like Nicole Richie, since I get that a ton, but all he said was "Be safe." Which is nice and all. I guess it would have been pretty weird anyways to have him tell me I looked like his pregnant girlfriend.

Via http://www.buzzfoto.com/?p=1578

After Plumm we went to Gold Bar, which is now going to be my new favorite place. Ex-Boy Brewed Fresh got mad at me and to be honest, this time I probably deserved it. However, it is some thing that he should have just spoken to me about, instead of pouting all day and refusing to speak to me. He knows, and hell, all of you know and basically anyone I will ever meet will know, that I love him more than anyone. He's the sunshine on my rainy day, the sparkle in my eye, the cherries in my cherry pie, etc. If he asked me to marry him tomorrow, I would simply say "Why wait. I'm ready now." The bottom line: I can't imagine spending my life with out him and it rips my heart in pieces to think I hurt him or upset him in any way.

Anways, after the bar I went home and did what I always do when I have had too much to drink and am feeling bad about Ex BBF: I wrote him a half-baked, 14-year-old-girl-ish, completely ridiculous poem. Number of calls: 3. Number of texts: 2. I am insane.***

***but only when it comes to him. The poor boy, he brings out the crazy in me.

Anyways...I am off to nap, recover, maybe weep a bit and pathetically mope while incessantly listening to my new obsession, The Damnwells. Check them out at www.myspace.com/thedamnwells and keep your fingers crossed that Ex BBF saves a piece of my sanity/soul/heart and calls me to come over for the Sunday "S" Trifecta of snuggling, smoking and sex.

Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium Premier: Part 2

2007-11-15T17:37:00.001-05:00

So yesterday I told you about the movie Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium and as promised, today I will relay all the fun of the red carpet.

The premier was being hosted by Target so the first to arrive was the Target Dog Bullseye, who, on a side note automatically makes me think of Bill Sykes dog of the same name in "Oliver Twist" (Yes, I am a dork). Now, I am sure that this pup is pampered far better than many an Upper West Side socialites with constant grooming (i.e. the human equivalent of spa treatments), gourmet pet food suited for a Cipriani’s splurge and probably sleeps on a down comforter. But despite all this, my PETA sensibilities arose and I felt bad for the pooch. The English Bull Terrier was led along the carpet by Targets newest designer Erin Featherstone plus a glam squad of one for red bullseye make-up reapplication. A trainer was also there to make the dog bark if you ask it a question (yes, he is available for interview) and ensure that he looks directly at the cameras for the papperazzi. That was actually pretty phenomenal. Ahhh, if only men could be so easily trained… Next up was a parade of rising child stars. Most of them I didn’t know, but Josh Fink from "License to Wed," was one recognizable face. Abigail Bresnon, star of that beacon of light and hope, "Little Miss Sunshine,” aka “The Best Movie Ever!” was there as well. Her brother Spencer was there also. I didn’t realize the relation, but you should (not) recognize him from “Santa Clause 3: Escape from Clause,” aka “The Worst Movie Ever!” Again, I felt sort of weird about this and got one of those matriarchal pangs to save those kids from a Jon Benet fate, but I think it may have been because of this girl, who is staring in the upcoming Cashmere Diaries. Freaky.

While none of them had visible puppet strings or wind up tabs sticking out of there backs, they seemed eerily well behaved, articulate and trained better than even Bullseye. I mean, that dog may be able to look directly at the camera, but can he give thumbs up and the “I’m so cute,” face? I think not. But enough picking on kids, who I am sure will grow up to be normal, rich, famous and happy. If they can survive rehab. On to the big stars. Dustin Hoffman came by first. I am sure everyone knows that he is a tiy man, but just how tiny is surprising. He’s practically my height and I am just edging 5’0 ft. He gave some tv interviews, posed for the paps and headed on inside.
Natalie Portman came by next and she is gorgeous. Definitely smaller than me and thin boned. She looks incredibly fragile. Her dress, though it doesn’t look all that spectacular in the photos was actually really pretty and complimented her figure.
Next up: My all-time favorite actor. Now I realize that it seems like I am throwing around a lot of hyperbolic statements today, but Jason Bateman is comedic genius. Arrested Development is by far the most brilliant show on television, ever. He’s funny in real life too, quipping witty, sarcastic answers to unprepared reporters. Normally I find this very intimidating and asshole-ish, but Bateman does it so hilariously you just have to giggle. Plus, he is just so adorable and cute. His eyes twinkle. You want to hug him--so much so, that I almost did. In a moment that certainly makes the highlight reel of my life, I got to have a ten minute conversation with him during the after party at Brasserie 8 ½. He is amazingly nice. I see wonderful things for him in the future.

Let’s take a look at the greatness. He gets more pics in a mini-shrine to how awesome he is:

Other than that, the most exciting thing ever, there is not much else to say besides: Arrested Development the Movie, please!

Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium

2007-11-14T18:27:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday I went to the premier of Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium. The movie is about a 234 year old magical toy store owner (Hoffman) who decides to leave his shop to his apprentice, failed pianist Molly Mahoney (Natalie Portman). The store, which is magic and emotionally attached to the old owner, isn’t too excited by this passing of the torch and throws a tantrum with toys fritzing out, losing their magic and turning grey. Mahoney must believe in herself in order to make it come back to life. She is aided by 9-year-old Eric Applebaum (Zach Mills) and newly hired accountant Mutant, a name penned affectionately by Magorium who mixes “counter,” and “mutant” (Jason Bateman) in bringing the magic back to life.

I enjoyed the film and I recommend it as a cute flick, but it won’t blow your mind and it's low on the awe and amazement scale. There is a lot of “magic,” and some great details like a doorknob that changes where it leads to when you turn the knob making it a room full of balls or a house or a similarly fantastic wonderland. There is also a zebra and the set itself is all colors of the rainbow. Yet, it doesn’t reach into the realm of disbelief because it lacks the originality and creativity of say, something like Harry Potter or more notably related, Willy Wonka.

The cast does add some life to the film, along with a certain patina not normally found in childrens’ films due to their star status. Jason Bateman, whom, full disclosure is my favorite actor of all time, steals the movie as an accountant just dying to cut loose. Natalie Portman is a wonderful actress and does well in this movie, but doesn’t quite fit the character. While she was believable as the quirky girl in Garden State, her quirks in this are minor (spoiler alert: she does a “weird thing” with her fingers) and she lacks a certain level of fanciful freeness. Dustin Hoffman, bless him for Rainman and The Graduate, could sadly be described in one word: Disappointing. With Einstein-like hair, bushy eyebrows, a purple suit and wild ties, he lacks a spark in the delivery of his lines due to an annoying lisp that is far more contrived than funny. Zach Mills, who plays the nine-year old boy with a hat collection and inability to make friends, does a great job by avoiding sugary sweetness and acting like a real, authentic boy. The most touching scene in the film comes between him and Bateman as the boy tries to buy the store from Molly after Mr. Mag’s death.
But like I said, it was definitely cute and great for the holidays. That being restated once again, I did have a few problems with the film (Please note that this is purely my opinion and I respect your right to disagree):

1) Mr. Magorium dies. Um, does this seems like pretty heavy subject matter for a kids movie? I would say, “Yes.” Additionally, you’re never really given a reason for his “departure,” either, just told that he will be leaving. While Mr. Mag is okay with his imminent demise, assistant Molly is not, rushing him off to the hospital and giving him a day of fun antics to encourage him to live. He even gives a little speech about the possibilities of his after-life. Which is sad, right? Like too sad for kids, if you ask me. On top of that, after ol’ Mags death the whole store goes dark, just adding to the potential weep fest and innumerable questions about the afterlife that I am guessing most parents aren’t expecting to have to deal with after going to see a holiday flick.
2) What’s up with Molly? The whole movie is based around her character learning to believe in herself, yet the only glimpse you see that she may not believe in herself is her inability to finish her concerto. But she doesn’t seem devoid of faith. Several scenes show her practicing and she even thinks about it on the subway. That seems like dedication more than despair and she even tells Mr. Mag at the beginning of the film that she is thinking about leaving her position at the store in order to pursue music full time.

3) The enemy: In order to have a plot, you must have a nemesis. The nemesis in this is self doubt. This again, seems over kids’ heads. You really can’t make an action figure out of an existential problem. The only tangible way this doubt manifests itself is in the store. The entire thing turns black and white and it throws a tantrum. But no one battles the store and the store is not evil. It’s more sad and childishly temperamental.

And there you have it. Tune back in tomorrow for a celeb-filled after party recap.

Deer Tick at Merc Lounge Tonight

2007-11-13T12:16:00.001-05:00

I wrote about Deer Tick, aka John McCauley, a while back. I missed him perform at Cake Shop during CMJ, but I heard he was great. He just wrapped up his tour with the Castanets and will be bouncing in between New York and Providence, RI the next two months. Tonight he'll be at Mercury Lounge (217 E. Houston St. (corner Ave A & Houston)) at 8:30pm. Tulsa and Cole Gentles Symphonic Rock Revival are also playing.
Tickets are $10.