Gangsta Bizness

Surving the Subway w/ Jamie XX

2012-05-09T13:29:00.001-07:00

A great essential mix is key to having a pleasant subway ride. With the gaggle of creatures riding amongst you, preaching to you and naturally, singing to you, it is muey importante to have something to crank up in your headphones and zone the eff* out to. Currently my favorite head boppin', subway companion has been Jamie XX and his delicious Essential Mix.

Take a listen,
and then tell me you're not transported to a place where there's only:
puppy dogs, ice cream and funky tunes.
Jamie XX-Essential Mix

(See..POOF--the guy picking his nose and scratching his ass just disappeared!)

What To Wear While Listening:

'Not So Mellow, Yellow'
Yellow can be an amazing statement color to wear. Make your yellow even more awesome by pairing it with dark Tye-dyed jeans, like these from J-Brand.

Grabbin' Money with Fitz and The Tantrums

2012-05-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

It's not often nowadays that you hear great, big-voice rock. So when my best friend said that we must see this band called Fitz and the The Tantrums at Coachella, I was very excited. As a band, Fitz and The Tantrums are dynamic. The beautiful blending of the voices of Michael Fitzpatrick and Noell Scaggs paired with a kick ass saxist, stellar keyboardist, a bassist and percussionist, make for one hugely awesome sound. It's soulful, it's indie, it's pop, and there isn't quite anything like it around right now.

Here's the video for their single,

Money Grabber

Enjoy!

What To Wear While Listening:

'Money Grabber'
For the girl who's a little bad-ass, a little girly, and always on her hustle.

Go get your money, honey!
(I know I am--hence the flat boots. Have you tried running around the city in heels?
It's like having a disability.)

Cheers To You, James Murphy (and The Peplum Top)

2012-04-28T18:46:00.002-07:00

James Murphy in Brooklyn last night--Photo: By A Friend

Last night was my first night in Brooklyn and man, was it painfully cool--
so cool, I'm taking the night off tonight.
After seeing Ben Browning of Cut Copy, my friends and I headed over to another bar to see the legendary James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem. (I'm starting to find out that in NYC, the most epic nights are often just around the corner at the next bar.) For a mere $5.00, I witnessed the deity himself spinning, in touchable proximity.
WILD--to say the least.

Mr. Murphy rocked the house with his quintessential nu disco, funkalicious tunes, and I danced until my feet were blistered and my heart content.

Here's his Spring Podcast for your listening pleasure:

James Murphy-Spring Podcast

What To Wear While Listening:
'Yellow Steele'
I love a good peplum top, but then again who doesn't? Pair this mustard Fair + True peplum with grey, tie dyed J Brands, silver accessories, a burgundy shoe and teal nails. You'll look awesome getting down with the get down.

Booty Poppin with Bloc Party

2012-04-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

HARD Summer released its full line up yesterday and, boy, was I impressed. It's been years since I've seen a roster that good, and that dynamic for an electronic music festival. Amongst the extensive list of amazing talent, the two small words, BLOC PARTY, at the top of the bill was what really sent me into a tailspin.

To give context, Bloc Party's first studio album, Silent Alarm, released in 2005, played on a continual loop in my car for the latter part of my high school career.

One could say, I was slightly obsessed.

Now, they're coming back with a highly anticipated fourth album and a slew of confirmed live tour dates.

In honor of this past Record Store Day, Bloc Party re-released their debut single, She's Hearing Voices, on a special edition 7"vinyl.

Take a listen below:

What To Wear While Listening:
'Bold Booty'
Everyone likes a perky toosh... And what's a better way to add a little boldness to your behind than with a pair of bright yellow, printed, Nicole Miller short-shorts? With all the attention going south, keep your upper regions more subdue by pairing your shorts with a linen, J.Crew button up.

Ben Browning-Lover Motion & The Summer Rooftop Party Dress

2012-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Today's Inspiration:

my Friday night plans to venture out into the depths of Brooklyn for the first time, and,

my giddy anticipation of wearing summer dresses on the top of roofs.

This Friday, Ben Browning, Cut Copy bassist and now new solo artist, will be filling the Brooklyn night with his airy, melodic, electronic music. Lover Motion, his first solo EP is nu disco with a touch of that familiar Cut Copy bounce. Having seen Cut Copy perform one of the best live dance shows I've ever seen, I can't wait to find out what Mr. Browning will do on his own.
Tickets for this Friday's show are only $10.00 so you should probably go and purchase them here.

To Get Yourself Familiar:

Ben Browning-Lover Motion

What To Wear While Listening:

'Summer Rooftop Party'
I know it's not quite summer yet, but that doesn't mean I can't stop thinking about the endless possibilities of my first Manhattan in the sun (and humidity--scary.) For all those fabulous parties we will be attending, pair an All Saints Sundress, with a Dannijo necklace and a Cambridge Satchel.

Que Sera Sera

2012-04-23T14:50:00.001-07:00

Yes, I finally made it to the Big Apple...

I've been preoccupied with apartment searching, getting to know the city more intimately, and, you know just uprooting my entire life in general, hence my failing to post regularly this past week.

But I still love you, and I promise I won't ever leave you for this long again--unless someone is trying to take me to Spain for a month.

And, in that case, you're on your own again.

Now, to the music:

When I boarded Flight 420- on 4/20 to make the big move, (ironic, no?) this tune was playing in the Virgin lounge and seemed like a hauntingly appropriate theme song for my adventure ahead.

Because in New York City, whatever will be, will be...

What To Wear While Listening:

'Back In Black'
Time to set the Havianas and Cali sundresses aside. It's New York. When in doubt, wear black and wear leather.

New York, New York

2012-04-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!! I know it's been awhile since we've chatted.

Did you miss me? Because I missed you.

This past weekend at Coachella was one epic extravaganza of music, clothes and food. Despite the Tundra-esque weather that blew through the Coachella Valley on Friday, all was well and raging at the music and arts festival.

(And yes, I am still recovering from the beer and non-stop dancing. More details to come over the next few days about my favorite moments of the weekend)

And, in other news, my move from Los Angeles to New York City will be taking place this Friday! I am excited, anxious and terrified of packing.
In honor of the big move, I present you with, the single most classic song about New York--sorry Jay-Z and Alicia, Frank and Liza did it first (and better.)

What To Wear While Listening:

'City Slicker'

You know, for Le Baron on Saturday night.

Around The River & Through The Bend, To The Coachella Valley We Go

2012-04-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Before I leave to Shangri La, I'd like to leave you with one last thought:

"Music got me feeling so free, We're gonna celebrate"

Because no one ever said it more accurately, or eloquently, as Daft Punk.

See you Gangstas in the desert.

Look Rad & Listen to The Rapture

2012-04-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

Today is the eve before the eve of Coachella, and I know all you dirrty, music lovin', dance floor freaks are just as excited as I am. To keep the momentum up, I've decided to bring you the footloose and fancy free musings of none other than, New York's, The Rapture. The Indie-Dance-Punk band, who has been mentored by LCD Soundsystem's James Murphey, is set to take the Mojave stage this Friday.

Take a listen to their classic tune, How Deep Is Your Love and tell me you're not psyched to get all sorts of weird in the Mojave Tent.

What To Wear While Listening:

'Hipster Cut-Off'

Words don't adequately explain the love I have for a great, graphic print sweatshirt. Pair your sweatshirt with a bra-let (you'll be hot at some point), a bright pair of shorts, funky accessories and you'll have one of the most effortlessly cool looks at the festival.

Go Bright with Gotye

2012-04-10T20:08:00.003-07:00

With one of the biggest singles of the year, Somebody That I Used To Know, Belgium-Austrailian singer, Gotye, will have all eyes on him at this weekend's Coachella. Having a video as unique and cool as the one below, I have high hopes for a really interesting, and different production from him on Sunday.

Somebody That I Used To Know

What To Wear While Listening:

'Light & Bright'

A sundress is a must for this weekend's Coachella. Find a dress with a fun pattern like this one below and mix and match with other patterns and shapes. Finish the look with a bright bag and simple accessories.

Quiksilver tiered dress
$70 - quiksilver.com

Leopard print shoes
$55 - vans.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs leather handbag
£394 - farfetch.com

Giulietta yellow gold bangle
$60 - adessoshop.com

Butter london nail polish
$14 - nordstrom.com

Benedetta Green
$95 - adessoshop.com

TEM heart shaped sunglasses
tigerbites.onsugar.com

Pristine
charmesilkiner.com

Currently Lusting For: Isabel Marant & Toro Y Moi

2012-04-09T14:14:00.001-07:00

Because sometimes, all a girl really wants,

is to just wear Isabel Marant and listen to Toro Y Moi:

Toro Y Moi - I Can Get Love

Crystals & Calvin Harris

2012-04-09T11:29:00.004-07:00

I'm finally back after taking the weekend off to celebrate my birth. It was a 20 hour celebration that will be written down in the books.

Now, I'd like to start off today with a big,

Merry Coachella Week to you all!

After months and months of anticipation, we have finally arrived at the week of Coachella.

May the next four days go by at lightning speed.

To kick the week off right, I present you with magnificent songster and DJ, Mr. Calvin Harris. After having the most commercially successful year of his career, with a slew of massive hits and major collaborations, his set on Sunday is sure to be in the top three of the weekend. The thing that is so great about Calvin, is that you never know what kind of set you're going to get with him. Sometimes it's an upbeat, heavy House, sing-a-long and sometimes it's a down right dirty, hard hitting Electro set. Whatever he chooses to play is alright by me. I'm always up for a good techno surprise. I also wouldn't be mad if our girl RiRi hopped on stage to sing along. C'mon, we all know she's going to be in the Sahara Tent anyways.

Here's Calvin Harris' Essential Mix to pump yourself up these next couple days:

Calvin Harris- BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix

What To Wear While Listening:

'Cork-y Crystal'

Having worn a shirt just like this Chan Luu one to many events, I can say with confidence, that there is no substitute for wearing an article of clothing that has its' own mind, moves independently of you, and shines like a disco ball. If you wear a shirt like this, let it be the star of your outfit. Pair it with cut-off shorts, Jeffery Campbell Spiked Lita Boots, a cork bag and bright blue nails.

Feist & Fedoras

2012-04-06T12:11:00.001-07:00

Feist is back and better than ever with her stellar fourth album, Metals. Feist has one of the most beautiful voices in music today and a serious talent for putting a song together that rocks you to the core. Her first single, The Bad In Each Other, is a powerful rock song, carried by a bluesy guitar riff and heart pounding drumming. I'm fairly positive hearing this song live, next Saturday, will be one of the many defining Coachella moments.

Check out the video for The Bad In Each Other below:

What To Wear While Listening:

'Bohemian Rhapsody'

Pair a little white dress with some cool ankle boots, a cuff and a fedora for an easy and chic bohemian look.

This Sunday is Easter? So, We Should Probably Brunch.

2012-04-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Though I am not of the faith that celebrates Easter, I can still appreciate an Easter egg-hunt, chocolate bunnies and a good brunch. That's why this Sunday I'll be at an all inclusive, Mexican themed, champagne brunch. I'm a fan of recognizing any and all holidays that give me an excuse to enjoy my friends and family over a meal and a mimosa.

Because I can't leave you without a tune to get ready to:

Here's Kaskade & Deadmou5's Move for Me. One of my favorite songs, EVER.

What To Wear While 'Brunching':
'Brunchin' Beauty'
I've styled a look for your Easter (or not Easter) brunch this weekend. Pair a beautiful maxi skirt with a pastel tee and a jean jacket, and you'll look cuter than the Easter bunny himself.

Mustaches & Metronomy

2012-04-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

Metronomy is one of those "cool" bands, who only your Indie-hipster friends in Silverlake know about. Their music is reminiscent of bands like Hot Chip and Phoenix, with a sound that has evolved over the course of their three albums into a funky, electro groove, that is insanely fun to dance to. I can't wait to see Metronomy perform at Coachella for the first time on Sunday. I have a feeling they're going to be a perfect segway into the last, wild Coachella night.

Check out their music video for The Bay, off their third album, English Riviera.

What To Wear While Listening:

'Miss Mustache'

I'm a sucker for a great graphic tee and this mustache tank below might be one of my all time favorites. Pair it with cool printed shorts, a statement necklace and some green nails and you'll look better than Tom Selleck and his mustache ever did.

Go Girly and Listen to Girl Talk- All Day

2012-04-04T10:48:00.001-07:00

Greg Gillis better known as master mixer and DJ extraordinaire, Girl Talk, has quite literally perfected the art of remixing. For those of you who don't know, Girl Talk takes every pop, hip hop, rap and rock song you've ever loved over the past five decades and seamlessly interweaves them into one big dance track extravaganza. Word on the street is that Greg is even wilder live, turning his remixes into sweaty, primal dance music that doesn't let up until you collapse. Having never seen him live before, Girl Talk is at the top of my 'must-see' Coachella list.

Here is a copy of his newest album, All Day. Get yourself familiar, because there's only 8 days left.

Girl Talk- All Day

What To Wear While Listening:
'Gossip Gurl'

As you know, this season is all about bright colors and whacky patterns. Pair a patterned crop top with cute cut-offs and funky accessories to get the look, while still being dance-floor friendly. Add a brown braided belt for a hint of normalcy.

Listen to St.Vincent's Cruel & Look Casually Cool

2012-04-03T09:39:00.001-07:00

Annie Clark, better known as the talented musician and songstress, St. Vincent, will be slamming on her guitar the Saturday of Coachella weekend. The first single, Cruel, off her third album, Strange Mercy, is one big, beautiful song full of highs and lows and obvious contrasts. Those contrasts most obviously noted by the sweet, melodic voice of Annie, paired over jaunting, yet delightful, rock-worthy guitar riffs. The song seems to make no sense at all, but it's confusion is what makes it so appealing.

What to Wear While Listening:

'Confused Coolio'

Like St. Vincent's music, a little confusion can go a long way. Using a little bit of this and a little bit of that, can come together to make a whole lot of fabulous. On paper, this outfit might not make too much sense. A baseball cap, a crop top, a full skater skirt, a leopard camera bag and sneakers--doesn't sound all that amazing, right?

But...

with a little bit of creative styling, mixing and matching patterns, and sticking to a color theme, all the while maintaining a sense of humor and fun, actually, makes for one heck of an insanely cute ensemble.

Kaskade - Essential Mix & The Royal Raver

2012-04-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Hip, hip hooray!!!

It's Monday, April 2, which means we have officially entered the most glorious month of the year. Not only is April the month of Spring awakenings (not the Broadway show- but props if you made that association), but as you know, April is the month of our beloved Coachella, and my day of birth. (My birthday is Saturday April, 7--not that exciting for you, thrilling for me. But if you'd like an excuse to party, please feel free to use it.)

With the arrival of the great April, comes even greater responsibility... A.K.A.

1) Jergens Sunless Tanner daily application must begin, and 2) Extensive working out must start, in order to fit into our Coachella crop tops. Ladies, ya feel me?

To help with the latter, I have provided you with the ultimate work out mix tape, Kaskade's 2011 Essential Mix. This essential mix is a full two hours of Kakade's self-described 'euphoric, melodic, Big Room House' music that will get your blood and feet pumping. You'll kill two birds with one stone as you practice your dance moves for his highly anticipated set on Saturday, while kicking your workouts into high gear.

Enjoy my friends, for it won't be long until we're dancing under the desert sky together.

Kaskade- Essential Mix 2011

What to Wear While Listening:

'Royal Raver'

This great, blue lace, sundress from Mink Pink is perfect for the Sahara Tent. Pair it with a pair of cool kicks, like these ones from Vans, neon nails, a tribal print backpack and some sassy jewelery and you'll be the belle of the techno ball.

Mink Pink lace dress
$78 - nastygal.com

Canvas backpack
$40 - delias.com

Illesteva round sunglasses
$200 - net-a-porter.com

American Apparel neon nail polish
$6 - americanapparel.net

Mirah, Women
$55 - vans.com

JewelMint
jewelmint.com

Oh Canada!

2012-04-01T16:01:00.002-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, Canada is actually so much more than Maple syrup and Boxing Day...

Without Canada there would be no Bieber and no Canadian Tuxedos (a sad reality to even ponder for a moment.)

So I dedicate this post to thanking you, Canada.

You're da' most neutral bomb!

As you may have noticed, I take the 'equal opportunity' approach when it comes to the music I listen to (except for Country-- sorry y'all.) And my music non-discrimination policy holds true with Justin Bieber's music. The Biebs has just come out with a fresh new sound on his track, Boyfriend, thanks to the production skills of Mike Posner--remember the guy who sang about the chick who was cooler than him? The beat is fly and the melody is catchy, and I just want to keep playing it over and over again. Take a listen and then tell me you don't want to bump this at every pool party you attend this Spring.

Damn you, Bieber, you've done it again.

What to Wear While Listening:

'2012 Canadian Tuxedo'

Before Bieber was even born, the Canadians were responsible for the birth of the 'Canadian Tuxedo,' (in laymen's terms-- a jean on jean ensemble, typically a suit, :/, that was not exactly chic.) Now, things have changed and there has been a revival of a new, modern, and actually quite cool take on the Canadian Tux. Pairing a chambray shirt with a print on it, like this great one from Quicksilver, and jean shorts, with a statement necklace, and a coral colored bag, is a great way to look fresh and fun, while paying a sartorial shout-out to our beloved Canada.

Quiksilver
$60 - quiksilver.com

Quiksilver cotton shorts
$50 - quiksilver.com

Beach shoes
$26 - reef.com

Orla Kiely patent leather handbag
$450 - orlakiely.com

Lanvin logo sunglasses
€290 - colette.fr

Dolce Gabbana lacquer nail
£18 - harrods.com

Adora
charmesilkiner.com

Prabal Gurung for Sally Hansen Nail Wraps

2012-03-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

This is real and it's happening right now.

My absolute favorite, designer Prabal Gurung, has made all your and my dreams come true, and teamed up with Sally Hansen to create some of the BEST nail wraps I have yet to see. Nail designs inspired from his lust worthy Spring/Summer 12 collection are now available to us all for only $10.00 at your local drugstore. Because most of us twenty somethings can't afford his flawless yet pricy collection, this is a great way to wear a little piece of his genius everyday without going into debt.

Space Jam with Justice

2012-03-30T11:05:00.001-07:00

The French may think that they're better than everyone else...

but that's because they kind of are (except when it comes to winning wars and washing their hair.)

But like no other culture, they have perfected the art of enjoying the finer things in life. And have so kindly introduced the rest of us to French pleasantries such as the croissant, the Louvre, Chanel, and banging electronic music--Daft Punk, anyone?

Another epic French duo is Electro/Indie/ Rock group Justice. After a widely successful first album, Justice has come out with their follow up album Audio, Video, Disco. The first single off the record is Civilization. A track that holds true to the stuff that made Justice great the first time around -- a heavy beat laced with funk, a little bit of rock and a lot to dance to. After seeing Justice a few times while they were touring for their first album, I know that these guys will bring the heat Sunday night at Coachella.

Woo, I can't wait, and I know, neither can you.

Civilization-Justice

What to Wear While Listening:

'Moon Bounce'

For the nu-age Space Cadette hottie who's going to a disco on the moon.

Bon Iver & the High-Low Skirt

2012-03-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

A grizzly bearded, heartbroken man, locked up in a cabin in Wisconsin, writing love songs about a broken heart, proves to be the magic formula in making a hit album. And Justin Vernon, the lead singer and driving creative force behind Bon Iver, did just that. The man channeled Thoreau and won a Grammy. With the release of their self titled second album, Bon Iver's hauntingly beautiful music is not to be missed at this year's Coachella. Bon Iver is sure to be the perfect break from the strobe lights and booty poppin', as Justin and his band serenade the crowd into widespread hand holding and swaying.

What to Wear While Listening:
'Backwoods Beauty'

Currently I'm all about a jean vest. Pairing one with the ever-popular crop top makes for a great way to wear both of the trends. (You won't feel over exposed while still looking a little flirty and a lot sexy.) And like every other girl out there, I love a sheer high-low skirt. Pair it with a great pair of studded boots and you've got the perfect outfit for huntin', fishin' and dancin'. OK, maybe this look is just good for the dancin' part. Either way, you'll look great.

Blue Nails & Azealia Banks

2012-03-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

Harlem born rapper Azealia Banks is bringing the dirty back with her deliciously vulgar single 212. At only 20 years old, one might think that Azealia's repeated use of expletives and hyper-sexualized lyrics are a mere tactic to shock people into listening. This may be true, but the uptempo, catchy back beat and sinfully provocative lyrics are sure to make one hell of a live show, as she takes the stage for the first time at this upcoming Coachella.

Azealia Banks-212 ft Lazy Jay

What to Wear While Listening:
'Hip Hop Anonymous'
For the bad-ass betch in all of us.

From Runway to Real World: Monochro-mania

2012-03-27T14:24:00.001-07:00

From Runway: Calvin Klein Collection S12

To Real World:

'Monochromatic Minx'

This Spring season sorbet and pastel colors flooded the runways as the main counterpart to the bright/neon trend. A more demure and girly look, pastels are perfect for the times your persona is feeling a bit more subtle and light than, bold tigress. This look below shows how you can do the monochromatic look while still incorporating fun, young accessories.

SANTIGOLD & Overalls

2012-03-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

It's been four long years since Santigold first burst onto the scene with her debut album, Santogold. After much anticipation, she is finally back with her second album, Master of My Make Believe. The first song released from the album, Big Mouth, is a fierce, pulsating anthem. Lyrics going after pop stars like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, are set to a banging afro-fusion back beat that feels more like a call to the wild than a pop song.

Lucky for us, we get to express our tribal urges while Santi rocks the stage at Coachella in just a few weeks.

(Get a free DL of Big Mouth, by filling out your info at Santigold's site below)

Big Mouth-Santigold (download)

What to Wear While Listening:
'Funky Monkey'
OK, so you swore off overalls when you hung up your baby blue Dickies, for what you thought would be forever. But history has in fact repeated and like all things in fashion, overalls are making a comeback. Overall shorts are perfect for one of your festival outfits. Pair it with a printed bandeau and colorful accessories and you'll look radical shaking your toosh all day long.