Really Papi

Metric, Team Ingrid Conclude Summer Concert Series 2010 with a Bang

2010-08-09T17:05:00.003-04:00

Well, what I had earlier declared to be the "best summer for concerts ever" sure has been filled with highlights and lowlights, but overall the good always outweighs the bad.

Over the course of 3 months I went to 8 concerts and conquered 4 new venues! Not too shabby.

This week, I officially concluded my 2010 Summer Concert Series with two amazing shows: Metric and Ingrid Michaelson.

I
've decided to just put both posts together into a two-part super post because both bands are just that awesome.

Part 1: "Summer 2010; the summer where everything is sponsored by something." -Emily Haines

On Thursday, I made the trek to Brooklyn to see Metric for FREE as part of Prospect Park's Celebrate Brooklyn Festival.

After kicking off with their
"new" (new
like Parachute is for Ingrid)
song , Black Sheep,
they did the hits off their most recent album, Fantasies, peppered with a few throwbacks like the always
amazing Empty and Dead Disco.

I've heard Emily Haines say she wants to be remembered as a sound as opposed to an image, but in reality, I think she might have a tough time with that. Their stage image & their music have to be witnessed together to get the full Metric experience. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I've never seen anyone perform quite like she does.

The highlight of the show for me was definitely the encore. The band came back on stage, minus Emily Haines, who stayed backstage with her mic talking about how "war will never go out of style" only to come running out as they broke into the rocking Monster Hospital from their 2007 release, Live It Out, followed by my all-time fav, an acoustic version of Combat Baby. It almost isn't even worth mentioning there were two opening acts, because everyone floated out of that venue on a huge Metric high.

Set List:

Black Sheep
Satellite Mind
Help I'm Alive
Empty (fight for your right cover interlude)
Gold Guns Girls
Gimme Sympathy (hey hey, my my cover intro)

Sick Muse
Dead Disco

Stadium Love

Encore:

Monster Hospital
Combat Baby (acoustic)

Part 2: "We have been The Ingrid Michaelson Experience, thank you and goodnight!" -Ingrid Michaelson

I wasn't originally planning on going to see Team Ingrid last night, because they were just opening for Keane. Howevs, at the last minuted I figured I would take the money I would have used on the Metric tickets and grab some "cheap" seats (darn you service fees!). Great logic, right? Having money is so 2008.

Since they were opening, they did a truncated version of the show they've been doing for a while now, and I was relatively surprised Ingrid opted to do The Chain and cut out Everybody and Far Away as closer options. Not that I don't love The Chain, because I totally do. It's so pretty you guys, it just puts me in a trance. Look how pretty the band looks!

I can honestly say I'll never get tired of seeing The Hat live though, there's something about that song. Also, you really haven't lived until you've seen the choreography for Toxic. It never gets old, ever, and it always gets a big round of applause. I'm hoping for the Fall tour she'll break out some obscure songs or some new material. I'm dying to see Tour Song again and I would love to know what happened to songs like Walk Away.

Also, I'm really sorry Ingrid, but my inner monologue will forever be, "If you were falling (what would you do)" I can't un-hear it.

Set List:

Soldier (poker face bridge)
Die Alone
Parachute
The Hat

Locked Up

Maybe
The Way I Am

The Chain

Toxic (cover)

After their set I walked around the backstage-ish area to see what I could see and was able to score photos/autographs and chat time Chris Kuffner, Bess Rogers and Elliot Jacobson! Amazing right? I seriously really love them you guys. This was my first time meeting Elliot who was super sweet, and the couple times I've been lucky enough to meet Bess and Chris in the past, they were totally the coolest/nicest people ever and this time was no exception. Ok /gushing.

I even saw Saul and the tour dog! Ingrid herself came out briefly for (what I think was a swindled) meet and greet with some teenage girls and I got to snag a quick photo/autograph from her. The only person I missed all night was Allie Moss! She was the only signature I needed to complete the Ticket of Glory! But alas, she eluded me. Next time, Moss, next time. =)

Behold the Ticket of Glory:

So there it is kids, the conclusion to a summer of amazing concerts. The Fall Concert Series is up next and already looking AWESOME with Lady Gaga on the Monster Ball Tour and Bess Rogers, Lelia Broussard and Allison Weiss on the Quest For Glory 2 Tour in September. Also, there might possibly be another Ingrid show in the vicinity of October? Did I hear that right? I can hardly wait.

Lilith Fair 2010 Falling Apart/ An Open Letter to Kelly Clarkson

2010-07-04T13:11:00.007-04:00

Alright. You may have been hearing that Lilith Fair is cancelling shows, which sucks, but this just got real. Kelly Clarkson has dropped out of Lilith Fair all together.

An official announcement was posted Thursday stating:

"With the news of the cancelled Lilith dates and my current progress in the studio, we've made the decision not to tour this summer. I am going to miss seeing ya'll, but I hope that when you hear what we've been working on, you'll be as excited as I am. I've been working with some amazing people and am stoked about this next album!"

Uh. What?

Ok, let me walk you through it.

(Disclaimer: Anyone who knows me, knows I am a huge Kelly Clarkson fan, so take the following as you will)

First of all, Kelly Clarkson was scheduled for 3 of the cancelled shows. She was scheduled for 11 other shows that haven't been cancelled. Are we all getting this? ELEVEN. That's nearly the rest of the entire tour. So unless she knows something I don't (re: more shows are going under) then this is a really bad move on her part.

Second, there is no apology anywhere in that announcement. Nothing for the fans who bought (rather expensive) tickets for shows mostly because she was going to be there. Also, I have a really hard time swallowing this excuse in general because its coming from an artist who has claimed many many times to love nothing more than touring. Plus, it's not like it was some dog and pony show festival down the street. This is Lilith Fair, this was supposed to be a big deal. Not only is she dropping out of a concert, but on a bigger scale, she is also dropping her support for women in music.

Additionally, I found out about this completely by accident. I didn't (and still haven't) received any notification from Lilith Fair or Kelly Clarkson. I'm really disappointed by this because by cancelling on Lilith in this way, in some cases mere WEEKS before shows she was supposed to be at, Kelly Clarkson has basically cancelled her summer tour and told all of her fans to suck it.

Finally, the people they got to replace her are, well, let's just say I've never heard of most of them. It would be one thing if they got other headliners to replace her. Let's say, oh I don't know, Metric or Ingrid Michaelson or Tegan and Sara. But no, who do we get to replace Kelly Clarkson? Joy Ike, Janelle Monae and Serena Ryder.

Bottom line, I need to see how quickly I can move to Denver, Kansas City or St. Louis.

Anyway, here's the complete list of cancelled shows for your viewing pleasure:

Cancelled Shows: (as of July 4)

Phoenix (7/8)

Salt Lake City (7/12)

Montreal (7/23)

Raleigh (8/4)

Charlotte (8/6)

Nashville (8/7)

Atlanta (8/8)
West Palm Beach (8/10)

Tampa (8/11)

Birmingham (8/12)

Austin (8/14)

Houston (8/15)

Dallas (8/16)

By completely slashing the bottom leg of the tour by cutting all shows from Raleigh on, the tour is now scheduled to conclude August 3 in Washington, D.C.

I have heard rumors of other artists dropping out as well, but cannot confirm or deny said rumors.

With 5 shows complete, only 18 of the original 36 dates remain to sink or swim. The tour continues in San Francisco tomorrow featuring The Bangles, Miranda Lambert, Colbie Caillat and A Fine Frenzy.

Metric & Silversun Pickups Deliver Big Time at Radio 104.5 Summer Show

2010-06-29T14:37:00.020-04:00

Omg, it's so freaking hot outisde you guys. And no, I don't mean the Radio 104.5 Summer Show featuring The Henry Clay People, Metric, Against Me, and Silversun Pickups, because that show was HAWT.

Anyways, let's recap shall we?

Everyone who's anyone knows I have become a huge Metric fan since I saw them last November. My friend, Breeze, is a big Silversun Pickups fan and I have a slight crush on their bass player, Nikki Monninger, so when a concert was announced featuring BOTH bands, we basically said, this show was made for us.

The show was outside and very typically a radio show, meaning: raffles, give-aways, and DJ introductions of each band. A band called The Henry Clay People was up first and played for all of maybe 20 minutes, but it, uh, seemed longer. Sorry boys.

After a brief break, Metric came on around 6:45pm and they were really in top form. I think Help I'm Alive is a really weird opener, but they followed it up with Gold Guns Girls which really flew by, even with an extended outro/guitar solo craziness by Jimmy Shaw.

Dead Disco, the only song of the set not off the new record, had a lot of energy and actually may have been my favorite performance, but there's no denying that Sick Muse followed by Stadium Love to close out the show saw Emily Haines in her element and let her do what she does best: lose her freaking mind.

I swear, if Metric comes to your town, GO. It is a spectacle of awesome, not only music, but pure passion. I am hard pressed to find another lead singer that consistently throws herself into every performance like it's her last like Emily Haines.

Setlist:

Help I'm Alive
Gold Guns Girls
Gimme Sympathy (Hey Hey, My My cover intro)

Dead Disco
Sick Muse

Stadium Love

After Metric was done, Against Me went on and I went to try to sneak into the Metric VIP Meet & Greet. Long story short, I was thwarted this time, but as I was hanging around, I ran into Nikki Monninger from Silversun Pickups. Yes. THAT Nikki Monniger!

She was super nice and sweet and even posed for a photo with me! Long story short, I have a slightly bigger crush on her now than I did before.

I was a moderate Silversun Pickups fan before this, and it's not that I didn't expect them to be good, but they were like, REALLY good. Brian Aubert and Nikki Monninger are two really charismatic people to have leading the band. They both have a really incredible stage presence and relationship with their audience. Personally, I could listen to the bass lick on Panic Switch for the rest of my life, but Lazy Eye was definitely my favorite performance of the night.

They were the main act, and thus played the longest (which was still only like, 45 minutes tops) and I'd say they probs did about 10 songs. I did not memorize their setlist because I do not know all of their songs, but here are the songs they did that I recognized almost in order. ~~I will converse with my sources in the near future and update to a full setlist asap.~~

UPDATED Setlist: (not in order)

Growing Old Is Getting Old

There's No Secrets This Year
Catch And Release

Well Thought Out Twinkles

Future Foe Scenarios

Common Reactor

Substitution

Little Lover's So Polite

The Royal We

Kissing Families

Panic Switch
Lazy Eye

I came to this show to see Metric and absolutely loved their performance, even though it was short, but I was also pleasantly surprised by the Silversun Pickups, who just gained themselves a new fan for sure.

UPDATE: Check out the official Really Papi Tumblr for exclusive photos taken by yours truly!

Team Ingrid Keeps Getting Better

2010-06-11T15:38:00.001-04:00

Ok. I needed a full day to recuperate and process the Ingrid show. That's how amazing it was.

For future reference, it was at the Stone Pony which I would highly recommend for your concert viewing pleasure. Also, I did not take this fantastic photo of Team Ingrid, I wish I had. I got it from Bess Rogers' Tumblr.

Let me walk you through it.

First of all, Team Ingrid fans are legit. We all need to coordinate and have some food catered or something because every time I go to an Ingrid show I have to get there earlier and earlier. I was there about an hour and a half before the DOORS opened, and there were about 10 people in line already.

Matt Morris opened for Ingrid, and came on stage (surprisingly) a few minutes before 8:30, which was when the show was supposed to start. I have not heard of him, I don't know his music, but he was actually one of the better opening acts I've seen. He was really into it and some Matt Morris super-fans were actually standing behind me and screaming along to almost every song.

Team Ingrid took the stage around 9:30 and opened with Soldier, again. I say again, but honestly, I could listen to that extended intro ALL DAY. And, of course, I love that she's leaving the Poker Face excerpt in there at the end.

Other points of interest included Parachute, (the Cheryl Cole cover but not really because Ingrid actually wrote it for Cheryl Cole a while ago but is now playing it herself) Toxic (yes, the Britney Spears cover, but more so its choreography) and the revamped The Way I Am, which gave me flash backs to Kelly Clarkson's rock-n-roll redo of A Moment Like This from the Breakaway Tour in 2005. Anyone? No? Just me? Ok.

Also, there are certain Ingrid songs I will never get tired of seeing live, like Everybody and Maybe. I also really love the various intricate clapping/snapping/knee slapping patterns of songs like Be Ok. However, I must say, Starting Now and The Hat were especially good at this show. I felt like there was a lot of emotion in Ingrid's voice for those two and it just made them so much better.

Team Ingrid is continuing their headlining tour through July 9, with a pit stop at Bonaroo before continuing on to dates at Lilith Fair, the Basilica Block Party in Minneapolis and the Osheaga Festival Musique et Arts in Canada for the rest of the summer. They will also be opening for Keane July 20-August 11.

As long as Team Ingrid keeps touring, I will keep going. The combination of talent from the people in that band is purely astounding. It's only been two days and I already cannot wait for my next Ingrid show.

Set List:

Soldier (extended intro/poker face bridge)

Die Alone
Parchute
Starting Now

The Hat

You & I

Creep (solo cover)

Be Ok

Mountain & The Sea

Everybody

The Chain

Locked Up

The Way I Am

Maybe

Toxic (cover)

Encores:

Far Away

The Way I Am (punk remix)

Melody Gardot & Hot Jazz Kick Off Summer Concert Series

2010-06-08T23:46:00.000-04:00

It has been so long, but now that the summer is in full swing, I'll be making a strong effort to resuscitate this, my blog, my first love.

And what better way to begin again than with a sturdy review of my first concert of the summer?

Yes ladies and gentlemen, what will now be referred to exclusively as my Summer Concert Series (SCS) began this past Saturday night with none other than the lovely Melody Gardot.

Some of you may remember Ms. Gardot from some of my earlier posts, mainly she was my very first New Music Tuesday! Aww. Memmmories.

Anyhoosale.

The show was at the Keswick, which, I had actually never been to. I wish more people would play there. It's small and it has seats. Not that I don't love standing for hours on end for GA shows, but it's a nice place because there's not really a bad seat in the house. I actually wish she would have played the World Cafe again because I think the tables and chairs atmosphere would have lent themselves to her jazz club feel.

Her opening act was Phil Roy, who is also from Philadelphia, a sweet man who came out and played his guitar and had a lot of feelings. Then Melody Gardot came out in grand fashion, unveiled from huge curtains at the back of the stage.

She took a seat at the piano and had a few Lady Gaga moments as she and her band (comprised of an up-right bass, a drum set and a man who played clarinet, flute and saxophone) warmed up the crowd with a long instrumental intro into a song off her newest album. She did a nice variety of songs from both albums, as well as incorporating some covers. Her final song of the set, a cover of "Caravan" may have actually been my favorite part of the night.

It also didn't hurt that she looked absolutely fabulous and really lives up to her self-proclaimed "modern day dame" persona. She was very entertaining, both musically and with her interaction with the crowd. She told some stories and made some jokes, and at the end of the night made a very nice little speech about how honored she was to play a theater she had once so admired.

In short, if you like some fierce jazz and instrumental break downs, when Ms. Gardot comes to your town, go. Her songs really get some punching up in the live atmosphere and her charms are not to be missed.

Set List:

The Rain
Your Heart Is As Black As Night
Worrisome Heart (w/ You Really Got Me interlude)

Les Etoilles (sax intro)
Baby I'm A Fool (acoustic)

If The Stars Were Mine (flute outro)

Deep Within The Corners Of My Mind

Love Me Like A River Does (clarinet outro)

Who Will Comfort Me

Caravan (cover)

Encores:

Summertime (w/ Fever interlude-covers)

Melt (duet w/ Phil Roy)

New Music Tuesday: Elizabeth & the Catapult

2010-05-04T13:00:00.006-04:00

I actually got an EP of Elizabeth & the Catapult last year at the Bust Spring Fling Craftacular (which, might I add, is coming up on May 23, *wink*)

I'll be honest, I liked the front cover, but didn't think much of it. I think it was one of those, I'll get around to listening to it eventually, and then lost it in my mass of CD's.

Anyways, my friend told me they were playing a free concert and asked if I wanted to go. I remembered them from the Craftacular and figured Bust would not steer me wrong, so I opted to go and I am so glad I did.

Wow, what a show. Front woman Elizabeth Ziman is really talented. She plays piano on most songs, and also the occasional tambourine, while accompanied by her band mates on guitar and drums. They played for a solid hour at least, and did a healthy mix of songs off of their first full-length album, Taller Children, which as released in June 2009, and brand new songs. I'm having a hard time picking a favorite song, so I'll post both of the "hits," Race You, and the title track.

I always love going to shows where you can tell the band is really have a good time on stage and they look genuinely happy to be there. They definitely have a Team Ingrid vibe, where, yeah, the album is good, but seeing them live is the real treat. Also, they were more than happy to stay and chat and sign autographs and what not after the show.

Additionally, not only did they play one of my fav venues, The Tin Angel in Philadelphia last year, but I've also heard that Elizabeth & the Catapult frequent some well-known venues for up-and-comers in NYC such as the Rockwood Music Hall, a fav of musicians like Bess Rogers.

Go see them live in NYC on May 20 or Baltimore on May 22. Be sure to stay up to date on all things Elizabeth & the Catapult by following them on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, and of course, their official site.

Everybody, Everybody Wants To Win

2010-03-25T19:23:00.004-04:00

In case you haven't been keeping up on it, the Ingrid Michaelson "Everybody" video contest is going on right now.

As a superfan of all things Team Ingrid, I've been keeping a close eye on the competitors.

I've found that the majority of the entries fall into one of three categories:

1. Terrible attempts at covers

2. Artsy hipster videos

3. Legitimate musical talent

I've been watching a good bit of them (and trust me there are like a bajillion) but the rules are, the 10 videos with the most views by ~~March 29 (this coming Monday)~~ will move on to the voting round where fans will pick a winner.

UPDATE: Team Ingrid has since announced the deadline for submissions will be extended to March 31 at midnight. The voting will open on April 2 at 3 p.m. and close on April 8 at 3 p.m. The winner will be announced on April 9.

Some girl playing a xylophone technically won. However, my #4 choice, Abigail, won the Wild Card and will also be performing live with Ingrid. Where and when the winners will be performing with Ingrid is still undetermined. I'm still hoping it will be Lilith Fair. Juliana came in third. Full results here.

I checked out the top 10 vids that are leading the pack (all of which have 5,000+ views!) and am now officially putting my endorsement on the following 5 videos:

1. Julianaeveryday

Ok, everyone listen to me, this girl can SING. Ever since I saw this, I've been obsessed with watching the rest of her covers on her youtube channel, including songs like "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga and "Help, I'm Alive" by Metric. This video is my fav because it's simple without being boring because she is really talented. Love.

2. Tristinjamesonmusic

Although I love the Juliana video, I do think this one will end up winning. It's a really cute vid and I think this is exactly what Ingrid had in mind for this contest. Although Ingrid is not voting, I think the fans will be really receptive to the style of this one.

3. 4FloorsUp3

This video follows in the same vain as the previous one, but it's got a little more glitz and glam to it. I like this girl's voice and I like the asymmetry of the squares and stuff. It appeals to that side of me that wants to be a graphic designer. Everyone like special effects, look the hearts are glowing!

4. Abimigaialia

This video is really cute and the outdoorsy-ness makes me happy, as someone who enjoys staying in the house most of the time. It's a sunshine day!

5. Haleybop

Again, this video is not the most artsy or complicated, but there's no denying this girl has a really nice voice. I would like to see someone win this contest and then get a record deal.

I think the voting is going to be really interesting because it will come down to talent vs. visuals. I'm really excited to see who will win, especially if it's one of these five, and also to see what show they get to play at with Ingrid. Maybe it will be Lilith Fair! That would be cool.

Lilith Fair 2010 Continues to Tease FINALLY PULLS THROUGH or YES, WE GOT KELLY CLARKSON!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-16T19:30:00.008-04:00

Lilith Fair 2010 HQ finally announced the first eight tour dates today.

To your left, you will see my dream Lilith Fair 2010 All-Star Line-Up. (Click to enlarge!)

Howevs, there are only going to be 9 acts at each show, not including Sarah McLachlan and the winner of Lilith Fair's "Our Stage" contest who will be at every show for a total of 11.

UPDATE: this list contains ALL shows announced as of May 5

As they continue to announce line-ups, I will rank them to see which city gets the best show, in my opinion. My ranking system is this:

Any artist I want to see = +1

Kelly Clarkson or Ingrid Michaelson = +2

Ke$ha = -1

The best score a city can get is an 11. The results are as follows:

JUNE

27th- Calgary (+3)

28th- Edmonton (+3)

JULY

1st- Vancouver (+3)

2nd- Portland (+5)

3rd- Seattle (+4)

5th- San Francisco (+5)

7th- San Diego (+3)

8th- Phoenix (+3)

9th- Las Vegas (+4)

10th- Los Angeles (+1)

12th- Salt Lake City (+5)

13th- Denver (+7)

15th- Kansas City (+6)

16th- St. Louis (+6)

17th- Chicago (+7)

18th- Minneapolis (+7)

20th- Indianapolis (+6)

21st- Detroit (+6)

23rd- Montreal (+5)

24th- Toronto (+4)
27th- Cleveland (+4)

28th- PHILADELPHIA (+4) KELLY CLARKSON, Sara Bareilles, Courtyard Hounds, Missy Higgins, Jill Hennessy, Anjulie, Zee Avi and a "Special Guest"

30th- Boston (+5)

31st- New York (+3)

AUGUST

1st- Hartford (+3)

3rd- Washinton, DC (+4)

4th- Raleigh (+4)

6th- Charlotte(+4)

7th- Nashville (+3)

8th- Atlanta (+3)

10th- West Palm Beach (+4)

11th- Tampa (+3)

12th- Birmingham (+2)

14th- Austin (+2)

15th- Houston (+3)

16th- Dallas (+2)

So, Chicago, Minneapolis and Denver reign supreme with scores of 7, boasting heavy-hitters like Kelly Clarkson, Ingrid Michaelson, Metric, Kate Nash and Chantal Kreviazuk between the three of them. Is it me or does it seem like it starts out slow, then picks up in the middle (re: Salt Lake City-Montreal) and then tapers off again.

~~Meanwhile, Philadelphia & NYC are among the handful of cities left. Here's hoping they don't keep us in suspense much longer.~~

Now, as far as who these "special guests" are, LF HQ has since announced that Carly Simon and Queen Latifah will be making appearances. Howevs, Carly Simon will be appearing at Hartord, Boston and New York, while Queen Latifah will be at Detroit and Las Vegas, leaving Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. as either wild cards, or with an entirely new surprise special guest!

I am so excited.

All The Single Ladies

2010-02-12T17:58:00.004-05:00

Well girls, Valentine's Day is right around the corner and we all know what that means.

If you don't have a significant other and you're *gasp* single, you're gonna get drunk off your ass and watch romantic comedies and cry all night alone because being single somehow got translated into hating Valentine's Day.

I'm here to offer a little something to ladies like myself. That lost species of single girl that still actually likes the big day of chocolate and flowers.

Here's a playlist for all of you out there who remain optimistic and realize this holiday for what it's supposed to be about: love, not hate.

Create a MySpace Playlist at MixPod.com

Full Track Listing:

Take a Chance on Me by The A*Teens

Knock 'Em Out by Lily Allen

Love Song by Sara Bareilles

Call Me by Blondie

Haven't Met You Yet by Michael Buble

I Do Not Hook Up by Kelly Clarkson

Why Haven't I Heard From You by Reba McEntire

If by Janet Jackson

Do You Wanna Touch by Joan Jett

Telephone by Lady Gaga

Girlfriend by Avril Lavigne

I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked by Ida Maria

Everybody by Ingrid Michaelson

Because It's Not Love (But It's Still A Feeling) by The Pipettes

I Was Made For You by She & Him

Stop by The Spice Girls

Shut Up & Let Me Go by The Ting Tings

(If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To by Weezer

I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston

The Debutant Ball: (a reenactment)

2010-02-10T19:36:00.002-05:00

-

Some people cover songs by their favorite artists, but here we cover hilarious videos. Ashtastic has been practicing her braces accent long and hard, 24 hours a day, and it all comes down to this moment.

Allow me to present you with the first in a series of video reenactments. (Hey, its a blizzard over here, what else would we do in our spare time?)

Just in case you haven't seen it, watch this first and be amazed:

The Original:

Our Version:

Happy Wednesday, all.

New Music Tuesday: Meaghan Smith

2010-02-09T13:06:00.000-05:00

Ever since Meaghan Smith got announced on the Lilith Tour 2010 Line-Up, I've been racking my brain wondering where I knew that name from.

Turns out, it was actually two places.

1. I downloaded a free iTunes sampler of Christmas music last year and her song, "It Snowed" was one of the only ones out of the 20 tracks I actually liked. I enjoy original Christmas songs and her jazzy, throwback sound is one of my guilty pleasures.

2. I was stumbling around on MySpace and saw she had a cover of the Pixies song, "Here Comes Your Man" on her player. It couldn't be the same cover from the "(500) Days of Summer" soundtrack that I loved, could it? Yes. Yes it is.

So, as you know, I am a Christmas music junkie and it turns out she has ANOTHER Christmas song, a version of "Silver Bells," which I really like, so obvsd I'm basically in love.

Also, her song "Heartbroken," is def. my fav so far. She reminds of the singer Melody Gardot and the actress Kelly MacDonald, but I think that second half might just be from the hat in the "Silver Bells" video. In any event, what a winning combination.

I really just enjoy any music that makes me want to cut my hair short and wear a flapper dress. I blame this on overexposure to the movie "Chicago" whilst going through my Catherine Zeta-Jones phase.

Meaghan Smith has released two CD's to date: one EP in April 2009 showcasing four songs that also show up on her full-length album, "Crickets Orchestra" which was released last October.

Keep up to date on Meaghan Smith by visiting her MySpace page, following her on Twitter, or friending her on Facebook.

Tours Galore

2010-02-01T16:36:00.014-05:00

WOW the Grammys sucked last night. With the crucial exception of Lady Gaga's performance with Elton John (quite possibly my fav Gaga performance thus far.)

Unfortunately, Lady Gaga has yet to announce her new and improved super Fame Monster Ball Tour 2.0, but have no fear dear kittyboots!

Because today was the day to get serious and announce a tour.

I now have a cure for your Monday blues plus the fact that Taylor Swift beat Lady Gaga and Beyonce's "Single Ladies" won a SONGWRITING award (sorry I really can't get over that.)

I will now present to you, with great pleasure, tour announcements by Ingrid Michaelson and Bess Rogers!

The Bess Rogers, Jenny Owen Youngs & Allison Weiss Spring Break Forever Tour isn't really new news, but they officially released this promotional video for it today via the interwebs! Look! Photoshop and singing and the same font from the the "Big Girl, Little Cart" video. Be amazed!

As RPR had previously reported, the SBF Tour will kick off on March 1 in South Carolina.

Additionally, Ingrid Michaelson has been teasing us for WEEKS on end with the promise of a new tour announcement and guess what, HERE IT IS.

It really speaks to an artist's talent when I saw her in November and it's only February and I'm this excitant to see her again. Also, she said don't be sad if your town isn't on the list like at call backs for the school play in 8th grade. There's going to be a Summer/Fall tour that will cover the whole darn U.S. of A. plus Canada! Everyone wins! Everyone loves Ingrid!

She'll be co-headling with Mat Kearney. Remember him? He did that one song I like called "Girl America." I remember buying his CD when he was supposed to open for Kelly Clarkson once. But he's way more famous for "Nothing Left To Lose." That song was on the radio alll the timeeeeeee.

After last tour, I'm kind of wondering when my BFF Laswell will show up again. I kind of got used to him opening for Ingrid. I was SO excited when he finally did his cover of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" last time he opened for Ingrid. It was great.

Speaking of Laswell, I wouldn't mind hearing that "You See The Light In Me" song again that they debuted this tour. Additionally, here are my other Ingrid Want/Need Set List Dreams:

I REALLY want to see "Little Romance" and/or "Winter Song." I have not seen them live yet and would like to very much in the future. Maybe Ingrid & Sara Bareilles will do "Winter Song" at Lilith Fair, you know in the summertime. Speaking of Lilith Fair, can they PLEASE announce the dates soon. What's the big secret ladies?

Radio Ga Ga

2010-01-28T19:43:00.000-05:00

Hey did anyone watch the SAG's last weekend?

Yeah, me neither.

I know I said I was going to post my SAG predictions in between my Globes & Grammy predictions, but I looked at the nominee list and said, who even cares, it's just gonna be the Globes Part Deux, and it WAS.

Anyways, let's get to the REAL award shows. The Grammys are on this weekend and Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, The Ting Tings AND Kathy Griffin are nominated. You know I'm on top of this.

First of all, here are my honorary Grammy winners, because I feel maybe they need some more categories to include some of the best artists/albums of 2009 that were overlooked. In no particular order:

Best Album by Canadian Lesbian Twins: Tegan & Sara "Sainthood"

Best Use of the Word Bulldozer: Bess Rogers "Travel Back"

Best Use of Ukelele: Ingrid Michaelson "Everybody"

Best Assortment of Glittery Dresses: Metric "Fantasies"

Best Album Name: Band of Skulls "Baby Darling Doll-Faced Honey"

Best Band Name: Florence & The Machine "Lungs"

Best Movie Soundtrack for a Movie starring Zooey Deschanel: "(500) Days of Summer"

Best Movie Soundtrack for a Movie directed by Drew Barrymore: "Whip It"

And in case you still care, here are my predictions for the categories that actually matter. Again, the people I predict to win are noted in bold, those who I would enjoy seeing win are noted in blue. These may be one in the same and are noted in bold blue.

Record of the Year
(this award goes to the artist/producer/recording engineer/ mixer)

Halo by Beyonce
I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas
Use Somebody by Kings of Leon
Poker Face by Lady Gaga
You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift

Album of the Year

I Am... Sasha Fierce by Beyonce
The E.N.D. by The Black Eyed Peas
The Fame by Lady Gaga
Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King by Dave Matthews Band
Fearless by Taylor Swift

Song of the Year
(this award goes to the songwriter)

Poker Face by Lady Gaga
Pretty Wings by Maxwell
Single Ladies by Beyonce*
Use Somebody by Kings of Leon
You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift

*Is Single Ladies being nominated for SONGWRITING a joke? Seriously, the words are: "If you like the then you should have put a ring on it oh oh ohhhh oh oh ohhh oh oh ohhhh oh oh ohhhh All the single ladies" repeat 1000000x

Best New Artist

Zac Brown Band
Keri Hilson
MGMT
Silversun Pickups
The Ting Tings

Best Female Pop Vocal

Hometown Glory by Adele
Halo by Beyonce
Hot N Cold by Katy Perry
Sober by Pink
You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift

Best Pop Vocal Album

The E.N.D. by The Black Eyed Peas
Breakthrough by Colbie Callait
All I Ever Wanted by Kelly Clarkson
The Fray by The Fray
Funhouse by Pink

Best Dance Recording

Boom Boom Pow by The Black Eyed Peas
When Love Takes Over by David Guetta and Kelly Rowland
Poker Face by Lady Gaga
Celebration by Madonna
Womanizer by Britney Spears

Best Electronic Dance Album

Divided By Night by The Crystal Method
One Love by David Guetta
The Fame by Lady Gaga
Party Rock by LMFAO
Yes by Pet Shop Boys

Best Comedy Album

Back From the Dead by Spinal Tap
A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All by Stephen Colbert
Internet Leaks by Weird Al Yankovic
My Weakness is Strong by Patton Oswalt
Suckin' It For The Holidays by Kathy Griffin
Tall, Dark & Chicano by George Lopez

A few more points:

1. Why wasn't the Lady Gaga super fan box set of amazingness nominated for Best Boxed/Special Limited Edition Package?

2. How is Best Album Notes really a category?

3. The Grammys should not be giving away awards for music videos, that is what the VMA's are for. They have WAY too many categories as it is.

The 2010 Grammys will air this Sunday at 8 p.m. on CBS.

Gold Rush

2010-01-14T15:30:00.000-05:00

Hey, the Golden Globes kick off award season this weekend!

They'll air on January 17th at 8 on NBC. I love an award show, and I will also be posting my predictions for the The SAG Awards (Jan 23) and the Grammys (Jan 31).

But for now, here are my predictions/very educated guesses noted in bold.

I only did the "major" categories because otherwise we'd be here all night.

Author's Note: I would like to say up front that I have not seen all of these movies/shows. Most of these predictions are based on a combination of media hype and award show trends I've noticed through years of viewing them. These predictions are also not neccessarily who I WANT to win, but rather who I would pick to win were I drafted into a high class Golden Globes gambling ring. However, those I would enjoy seeing win are noted in purple.

Movies

Best Picture: Drama

Avatar
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Precious
Up In The Air

Best Actress: Drama

Emily Blunt – The Young Victoria
Sandra Bullock – The Blind Side
Helen Mirren – The Last Station
Carey Mulligan – An Education
Gabourey Sidibe – Precious

Best Actor: Drama

Jeff Bridges – Crazy Heart
George Clooney – Up In The Air
Colin Firth – A Single Man
Morgan Freeman – Invictus
Tobey Maguire – Brothers

Best Picture: Comedy/Musical

(500) Days Of Summer
The Hangover
It's Complicated
Julie & Julia
Nine

Best Actress: Comedy/Musical

Sandra Bullock – The Proposal
Marion Cotillard – Nine
Julia Roberts – Duplicity
Meryl Streep – It's Complicated
Meryl Streep – Julie & Julia

Best Actor: Comedy/Musical

Matt Damon – The Informant!
Daniel Day-Lewis – Nine
Robert Downey Jr. – Sherlock Holmes
Joseph Gordon-Levitt – (500) Days Of Summer
Michael Stuhlbarg – A Serious Man

Best Director

Kathryn Bigelow – The Hurt Locker
James Cameron – Avatar
Clint Eastwood – Invictus
Jason Reitman – Up In The Air
Quentin Tarantino – Inglourious Basterds

Television

Best Television Series: Drama

Big Love
Dexter

House

Mad Men
True Blood

Best Actress In A Television Series: Drama

Glenn Close – Damages
January Jones – Mad Men
Julianna Margulies – The Good Wife
Anna Paquin – True Blood
Kyra Sedgwick – The Closer

Best Actor In A Television Series: Drama

Simon Baker – The Mentalist
Michael C. Hall – Dexter
Jon Hamm – Mad Men
Hugh Laurie – House
Bill Paxton – Big Love

Best Television Series: Comedy/Musical

30 Rock
Entourage
Glee
Modern Family
The Office

Best Actress In A Television Series: Comedy/Musical

Toni Collette – United States Of Tara
Courteney Cox – Cougar Town
Edie Falco – Nurse Jackie

Tina Fey - 30 Rock

Lea Michele – Glee

Best Actor In A Television Series: Comedy/Musical

Alec Baldwin – 30 Rock
Steve Carell – The Office
David Duchovny – Californication
Thomas Jane – Hung
Matthew Morrison – Glee

Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made for Television

Georgia O'Keeffe
Grey Gardens
Into The Storm
Little Dorrit
Taking Chance

Best Actress In A Mini-series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Joan Allen – Georgia O'Keeffe
Drew Barrymore – Grey Gardens
Jessica Lange – Grey Gardens
Anna Paquin – The Courageous Heart Of Irena
Sigourney Weaver – Prayers For Bobby

Best Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Kevin Bacon – Taking Chance
Kenneth Branagh – Wallander: One Step Behind
Chiwetel Ejiofor – Endgame
Brendan Gleeson – Into The Storm
Jeremy Irons – Georgia O'Keeffe

The 2010 Golden Globes will air on Jan 17 at 8 p.m. on NBC.

Bess Rogers Owns at Tin Angel

2010-01-11T01:22:00.016-05:00

So, odds are if you weren't at the Nick Jonas concert Saturday night, you were with the (much) cooler kids at the Bess Rogers show.

She played the Tin Angel, which is a real classy joint. It has a nice restaurant downstairs called Serrano that serves things like grilled octopus, so you know it's legit.

I'd never been there before, but I really enjoyed myself. The atmosphere is very cozy, the waitstaff is extremely personable and the separation of restaurant (downstairs) and concert venue (upstairs) sets it apart from places like the World Cafe Live, which I also love, but I digress.

But enough about that, let's get to the goods, right?

Long story short, Bess Rogers is my number feeling.

She did an awesome set. Only nine songs, but quite honestly I would prefer to spend my concert dollar to see her do nine songs than see a lot of other acts do a "full" show. (re: 20 songs) She opened with her EP's namesake, and one of my personal favs, "Travel Back," a jaunty little number and a perfect way to begin a night of excellence.

Following her spiffy opener (moose jokes aside) she mostly did songs from the aforementioned EP, but also threw in "I Would Never," off of her first album, "Decisions Based on Information," and three new songs including "Good Enough," "Come Home" and "All In Good Fun," which were really spectacular. If these are any indication of what the new album will sound like, it's gonna be the best thing since Tegan and Sara sliced bread on "Sainthood," obvsd.

All In Good Fun (Virgina April 2009)

Set List:

Travel Back
I Don't Worry
I Would Never
Good Enough (new song)
Yellow Bird
Everything To Lose
All In Good Fun (new song)
Come Home (new song)
Bulldozer

After her set, Bess set up shop hustling her merch (which I gladly bought), posed for photos, signed autographs and was one of those celebrities you live to meet: someone who genuinely seems to want to hang out with her fans, if only for a few minutes. I'm always so glad when people are as cool as I think they're gonna be. I'm sure anyone else who has had the pleasure of meeting her would agree.

Lelia Broussard also co-billed with Bess and came out for the second half of the show. She did a really nice set, which included my personal fav song, "Hipster Bitch," before bringing Bess back out to sing on the final song of the night. Additionally, Chris Kuffner, Elliot Jacobson and Tony Maseli played guitar, drums and bass (respectively) for both singers, and let me just say, those dudes know how to rock it out.

Bess Rogers is currently finishing up her next album, which she expects to release this spring. She will also be embarking on the "Spring Break Forever" tour with Jenny Owen Youngs and Allison Weiss beginning on March 1 in South Carolina.

Stay up to date on all things Bess by checking out her official site and MySpace or stalk her like any good fan by following her on Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook and watching her hilarious videos on her YouTube channel.

New Music Tuesday: Year In Review: The Top 10 Best + Worst Songs of 2009 (Special Edition!)

2009-12-29T01:23:00.000-05:00

*

When all else failed in 2009, we still had some awesome music. However, we also did have pretty terrible music. Never fear, that's why I'm here to tell you the Top 10 jams we loved and the Top 10 songs you should delete off your iPod right now as we dance into 2010.

Disclaimer: There were two rules:

1. These songs had to be hits. (re: you had to hear them on the radio]
2. I didn't use more than one song per artist, per list. Otherwise the Top 10 Best would have probs been all Kelly Clarkson and Lady Gaga.

Lets get the bad news out of the way. Here are the ten songs that clogged up the radio this year and made my ears bleed:

Top 10 Worst Songs of 2009

#10 "She Wolf" by Shakira (july 6)

This song had some potential, but Sharkira howling like a wolf in the chorus is just unforgivable. Not to mention the music video which was just the final nail in the coffin.dancing in a cage Shakira? Really Papi, really?

#9 "Ego" by Beyonce (may 19)

Gah. I SO wanted to have "Single Ladies" on here. But alas, it was released in October of 2008. Even though "Ego" wasn't AS annoying, Beyonce still deserves a spot on this list. Beyonce is lucky she has Gaga in that new "Video Phone" video. It's really the only reason I'll watch it. I don't get the Beyonce hype at all.

#8 "You Belong With Me" by Taylor Swift (april 21)

As most of you probably know, I am not fond of Swifty. Howevs, that "Love Story" song didn't irk me anywhere near as much as this one. Not only is a blatant rip off of Saving Jane's "Girl Next Door," but that "You belong with meeeEEEEEE" was just too much for me to handle.

#7 "I Love College" by Asher Roth (january 13)

Just.... no.*

#6 "Birthday Sex" by Jeremih (march 24)

*See Above

#5 "Right Round" by Flo Rida (january 24)

This song was annoying enough the first time around. Leave it be Flo Rida, you're better than this.

#4 "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus (march 5)

Oh Miley. I gave you a chance. I really did. I liked "See You Again" and I even overlooked the stripper-pole performance of "Party in the U.S.A." But for some reason this song goes right to my nerves. "It's the CLLLLIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIMB." Ugh.

#3 "No Suprise" by Daughtry (may 5)

The only "American Idol" contestant I still follow consistently is Kelly Clarkson for two reasons: 1. Obvsd. 2. Everyone else after her on that show ever has sucked so incredibly much. Case and point:

#2 "If Today Was Your Last Day" by Nickelback (march 31)

Nickelback. Enough said.

#1 "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon

This song. I don't even know. TECHNICALLY this song was released in December of 2008, but I swear if I could turn on the radio this year and NOT hear this song, I was lucky. I hear the hook and just cringe. Something about the faux-rock, horrible Nickelback rip-offs (as if Nickelback isn't bad enough) out there just get to me and therefore gets Kings of Leon the #1 spot on my countdown of terrible.

Wow, what a bunch of crap. It pained me to even find those vids on YouTube and put them on here. Anyways, it can only get better from here. Allow me to introduce my picks for those tunes I couldn't get enough of this year:

Top 10 Best Songs of 2009

#10 "Boom Boom Pow" by The Black Eyed Peas (march 13)

I don't care if you like "I Gotta Feeling" better. This song is hot. The beat is sick and I wanna take a ride on your discostick.

#9 "Good Girls Go Bad" by Cobra Starship (may 11)

Until I found out the girl singing was Leighton Meester I liked this song. Then I found it was Leighton Meester and I still liked it until I saw her solo career. That's why this is only #9.

#8 "Fallin' For You" by Colbie Callait (june 29)

Colbie Callait is pretty and she has a pretty voice and makes pretty videos that make me wish it was summertime.

#7 "Love Drunk" by Boys Like Girls (june 30)

Although I firmly believe the lyrics to this song should in fact be, "I used to be love drunk, but now I'm just drunk," this song is still catchy as hell. I don't even care that Ashley Tisdale is in the video for some unexplainable reason.

#6 "The Fear" by Lily Allen (january 26)

I love love love Lily Allen. This song and this video are so funny and the new album was awesome. That's all.

#5 "Waking Up In Vegas" by Katy Perry (april 21)

I'm not a big Katy Perry fan by any stretch, but this may be one of my favorite songs of all time. I love the "ching ching ching" jackpot noise in the beginning and I thought the whole "that's what you get for waking up in vegas" metaphor really works. Plus this video is perfection.

#4 "That's Not My Name" by The Ting Tings (january 27)

The first time I heard this song, I was like, "What the hell was that it sucked." But then a few hours later I found myself singing, "They call me hell, they call me Stacy.. that's not my name." Hooked.

#3 "If U Seek Amy" by Britney Spears (march 10)

This song cracks me up. I wanted to put "Circus" on here, because obviously it was the most superior song on Britney's new album, but it was technically released in December of 2008. But this one was another one of my favs and true to Britney's signature style.

#2 "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga (october 25)

Obvsd. There are two types of people in the world: those who are a part of the Gaga revolution and.. everyone else.

#1 "My Life Would Suck Without You" by Kelly Clarkson (january 13)

I keep saying the only person worthy of overcoming the Gaga juggernaut is my girl Kelly Clarkson. I love Lady Gaga as much as the next person, but damn, as far as I'm concerned Kelly Clarkson takes all every time. "All I Ever Wanted" is by far her best album and "My Life Would Suck Without You" is pure Kelly Clarkson gold. Thus, I present to you the #1 song of 2009:

So there you have it. What were your top loved/hated songs of 2009? What are you music dreams and feelings for 2010?

Brittany Murphy: 1977-2009

2009-12-21T18:43:00.006-05:00

*

Anyone who knows me, knows that two of my favorite movies of all-time are "Girl, Interrupted" and "Clueless." Neither of the two would have been worth anything without Brittany Murphy's performances. The world has truly lost another great talent.

The Top 10 Reasons Lilith Fair 2010 is Amazing Already

2009-12-10T13:37:00.025-05:00

*

ALRIGHT. TODAY IS YOUR LUCKY DAY, KITTYBOOTS.

Lilith Fair 2010 Headquarters announced the first round of confirmed artists for the show. So far things are AWESOME, but there are 10 reasons especially that you NEED to be there. That is if you haven't already decided who's not getting a Christmas present this year so you can afford a ticket.

Let's begin:

#10 The Indigo Girls:

They might play "Closer to Fine." In fact, I'd be willing to bet what little money I have on it, and I'm not a gamblin' gal. But, if they do, we all know what that means.

#9 Colbie Callait

Ok, I'll be honest, "Bubbly" was sort of killing me slowly, but that new song, the "I think I'm falling for you" one, is ALWAYS stuck in my head and she does Christmas songs!

#8 Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert was also not on my mini-list of 64, but a nice surprise. I'd actually been a fan of hers since her first CD cause that "Kerosene" song is a hot track. But "Me and Charlie Talking" is real cute and "Bring Me Down," might be my fav even though it's kind of depressing.

#7 Sugarland

OH my god. I can't believe Sugarland wasn't on my list. I think it's because even though Jennifer Nettles is smokin' hot, I still kinda fell off the Sugarland boat. Their first CD is awesome though and I would love to see them live.

#6 A Fine Frenzy

So remember a few months ago when A Fine Frenzy's new CD came out and I really wanted to go to their concert but couldn't? This is awesome.

#5 Tegan and Sara

Obvsd.

#4 Metric

I was a casual Metric fan until I saw them live over Thanksgiving break. Now I'm obsessed. If Amy Sedaris and Leisha Hailey had a baby, it would be Emily Haines. Enough said.

#3 Sara Bareilles

Some how another woman I keep missing on tour. Wait, has she toured more than once? I don't think so. Even so, can she PLEASE release another album soon? Thanks.

#2 Ingrid Michaleson

Please see here and here and also here if you are not already familliar with my feelings on Ingrid. Please also watch this video. That is all.

#1 OH MY GOD CHANTAL KREVIAZUK

Alright, let me explain a few things about why Chantal Kreviazuk is number one.

I became a fan of hers when I heard he song "Feels Like Home" in "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days." (Awesome movie by the by) Anyhoosale, that was a while ago and I've been following her ever since. She's from Canada though so for some reason her CD's don't get released here until a few months after they get released there. Also, she rarely tours the U.S. and mainly stays in Canada, so she's one of those people that I'm a HUGE fan of, but have always been thwarted by the concert circut for some reason.

THUS, if there is some way I can see this woman live, finally, it would be amazing. Totes forreals hands down.

There are some people notably absent from this list. Firstly, Bess Rogers. Secondly, Uh Huh Her. I heard they're not with Netwerk anymore but still come on. Also, there are a few big names I hope still get pulled into this thing, like Pink, Esthero and Kelly Clarkson to name a few. Come to think of it I kind of hope Dido and Vanessa Carlton show up too. Anyways, they said this is the list "so far" and I'm so ready for the next batch to be revealed!

New Music Tuesday: Lady Gaga

2009-12-01T14:27:00.014-05:00

So Kittyboots, I took the entire WEEK off last week for Thanksgiving, even though it's only one day. Why? Because I enjoy holiday breaks. Even if Thanksgiving is probably one of my least favorite holidays. I enjoy food, but other than that, what's the point? It's just a segue into Black Friday, which IS one of my favorite holidays, and Christmas which IS my all time favorite holiday of all time.

ANYWAYS. Enough mindless chatter. Let's get to the good stuff shall we? You KNOW I couldn't let a new Lady Gaga CD go by without my full recap! ZOMG. GAGA OOH LA LA. Let's go:

There are only 8 tracks on the new record, so that's not enough to really call it an "album" but not few enough to call it an EP, so I will take a passage from the Book of Gaga and refer to it as the Yang to the Yin of "The Fame," which I really think is the best way to describe it.

I'll be completely honest, on first listen, I was still on a "Bad Romance" high and thought that was the best song in the world and these other songs were okay and I liked them but that was all. However, I've been listening to it pretty extensively all week and I must say, most of, if not all of the songs have really grown on me.

Songs like "Telephone" and "Dance in the Dark" were original standouts for me, because I am just drawn to those club banging beats that we all know and love Gaga for. These two tracks, along with "Monster" and of course "Bad Romance," are what the Gaga fans came for.

"So Happy I Could Die" and "Alejandro" are also tinged with standard Gaga beats and pop, but carry a different meaning. In interviews I've seen with her since the CD came out, she said that every song on the album represents a different "monster"- "So Happy I Could Die" representing her fear of alcohol and "Alejandro" representing her fear of sex, which I actually read as a fear of intimacy (re: "don't wanna kiss//don't wanna touch//just smoke my cigarette and hush.")

The fact that these songs have a deeper meaning, really make them stand out a little more, especially "Ale-Ale-Jandro," which is just catchy as hell. The other two songs, "Teeth" and "Speechless" are respectively in categories of their own, in my opinion.

"Teeth" sounds like nothing I've ever heard Lady Gaga do before, and has such a driving beat, that it doesn't even matter that the lyrics don't really make sense. Listen to it once and see if you're not singing, "Show me your teeth" to yourself a few hours later. I bet you will be.

As for "Speechless," it might be my favorite song off the new CD. I was going to say my favorite Lady Gaga song in general, but that hardly seems fair, considering it sounds nothing like any of her other music. I mean, you can't start to compare a song like "Speechless" to something like "Just Dance." It's like apples and oranges.

I feel like songs like "Speechless" are the kind of songs Lady Gaga should be doing/wants to be doing (judging by her earlier works, pre-Gaga persona) and now she's famous enough that she can start going to those other places outside the dance club. "Speechless" is just such a beautiful song, and I first heard it when I saw her perform it at the AMA's so I think that may have had something to do with my love for it.

As if this weren't enough, on December 15, the limited edition deluxe edition (I did NOT even make that up) of "The Fame Monster" is being released, complete with paper dolls, the Book of Gaga, puzzles, 3D glasses and even a lock of hair from various Lady Gaga wigs PLUS "other surprises." I kid you not. This woman just keeps getting better. She definitely knows what she's doing and I'm completely hooked. I hope my lock of Gaga wig hair is from the "Poker Face" video. LOVE. Let's go Gaga. Bring. It. ON.

Saturday Wrap Party: But Why Is The Rum Gone

2009-11-21T14:31:00.010-05:00

Oh what a week it has been, kittyboots. Hope everything is going well. It's the big push before Thanksgiving and then, before you know it, Christmas will be right around the corner! I'm already listening to my yultide tunes on repeat..yes I'm one of THOSE people. So sue me.

But anyhoosale, a lot has been going down around the internets this week, but that is why you're invited, every week, no cover charge, to the RPR Saturday Wrap Party!

It's pretty much the social event of the season. So let's dive right in, shall we? The water's fine.

+ just dance

A;ex and Stef from Autostraddle have made a video for Lady Gaga's new single, "Bad Romance." There is dancing and ukelele. That is all.

+ a grain of salt

Dorothy Surrenders takes a look at the new Angelina Jolie action movie, "Salt," opening this summer.

+ testing testing

Grace Fox from Grace the Spot gives those hetra-sexuals a pop quiz to see if they could cut it as a real lez girl.

+ how did we get here
Arlan from Your Daily Lesbian Moment proves that hot girls make everything better with Paramore's rendition of that Kings of Leon song that will not die, "Use Somebody."

+ don't they know, it's the end of the world

I rarely watch Oprah, but even she's getting out while the gettin is good as she announces the end of her show in 2011. (via The Huffington Post)

+ hired a construction crew, cause it's hell on the engine

+Feministing looks at a game that tries to be proactive, and yet went terribly, terribly wrong.

New Music Tuesday: Norah Jones

2009-11-17T12:04:00.007-05:00

Norah Jones can be a hard person for her fans to follow steadily. She pops up from time to time in obscure musical endeavors like The Little Willies, El Madmo, and performing with the Foo Fighters, and The Peter Malak Group.

I even have a Chinese version of "My Blueberry Nights" (Norah’s first foray into acting, with Jude Law oddly enough, but there's a Cat Power song in the trailer!) because I couldn’t find it in the States for the longest time.

Now she is making her way back from the shadows into the light again with a new haircut and her fourth studio album, “The Fall,” which was released today.

Following her career religiously, since 2003, has been an interesting experience. I have driven six hours (granted that would have been shorter if map quest didn’t suck) non-stop to see her perform in an opera house, found one of her secret projects by accident at Waterloo, a CD superstore in Austin, and almost re-bought “Come Away With Me” just because it was in that iTunes LP format.

Listening to “The Fall” makes my love of Norah stronger than ever. None of her albums really have the same sound, and that's a good thing, but she still manages to maintain her balance of soft, soothing tunes. Each one also sounds distinct, so it feels like you are truly listening to an album, not the same song on repeat.

As far as what songs are going to become singles, I can’t really say with the exception of “Chasing Pirates,” which is already a single. The one I am pulling for the most though is “Back to Manhattan.”

With every album, she gets a little bit braver and a little more entertaining. Take a look at her videos for proof of this. The “Come Away With Me” album had videos that were all straightforward and honestly lame for the most part. The first videos were her driving a car, or walking on a beach.

With “Feels Like Home” she got a little more creative bringing us musicians in trees and a hula and “Not Too Late” brought us stop-motion creatures. So far, from “The Fall” we have Norah piloting a New York City building as a pirate ship, so I think we are off to a good start.

Stay up to date on Norah by visiting her offical website or Myspace.

[This post was submitted by my RPR's new VP of Creative Affairs, A.J. When he's not busy taking photos and making graphics for me, he busies himself by obsessing over Norah Jones and any other pretty lady with a piano or acoustic guitar.]

Saturday Wrap Party: Vote For Courtney

2009-11-14T21:44:00.001-05:00

Welcome back to the Saturday Wrap Party!

It's that time of the week where I give you the lowdown on all the things you shouldn't have missed on the interwebs.

So let's jump right in for all of your reading pleasure, don't worry, it's a short one this week.

+rock the vote
Feministing editor, Courtney Martin, is in the running to be the Washington Post's Next Great Pundit!

+ceo of ideas
Autostraddle reveals how their new music blog, Audiostraddle, came to be.

+alternative to what
News flash! The Oink Joint exists!

+this just ouch
just. read this. that's all.

Lilith Fair Showdown

2009-11-13T23:18:00.002-05:00

The predictions for Lilith Fair are out in full force now that they have officially announced the first batch of cities. Industry insiders are already scouting everyone on the label over at Netwerk (home of our beloved Uh Huh Her) and some familiar faces from years past.

But with 2010 quickly approaching, we need to get things straight. I want to know who is gonna be at this girl-fest I've been waiting half my life for.

So, for your entertainment, discussion and enjoyment, Team RPR has cleared up who really needs to be at Lilith Fair with this nifty bracket system. It's like the Superbowl play-off, half-time, full-court system. You know the one.

The only rules for our play-offs are:

1. The nominees could not have attended the original Lilith Fair (just wanted to clear that up before you all start asking me where Alanis Morissette was)

and

2. The act must be primarily women*, obvs.

*Howevs, bands like the Ting Tings and She & Him are still acceptable since they have a prominent female member and although Lilith Fair celebrates women in music let's get our feminist cards out and remember teh mens.)

Click to ENLARGE!

So as you can see, Esthero is the number one lady I want to see at Lilith Fair next year. I think this is a pretty plausible option, since she does a lot of festivals in her native Canada and she's all about this feminism.

Anyways, this is a fun game to play with your friends. I even questioned my own lesbian credibility when the Uh Huh Her juggernaut fell to Natasha Bedingfield. Howevs, let me clarify, this list is based on many things such as live performances, studio albums and overall hotness. Of course this is all very scientific. I had to get out my beakers and my abbacus and everything.

So, try it on a napkin while you're waiting for the bus or when you should be taking notes in class. You don't have to narrow it down to 20 either, go through your whole iPod and let us know who your Lilith Fair 2 queen is!

"Oh Baby Baby.."

2009-11-12T20:45:00.022-05:00

Over the past couple of days there have been numerous reports that hundreds of Britney Spears "fans" allegedly walked out of her concert in Perth, Australia last week.

The thing that gets me about this is, people were demanding their money back because she was *gasp* lip-syncing.

Really? Really Papi?

It took them 10+ years to figure out that Britney Spears lip-syncs in concert?

As you know, I am a huge Britney fan. I will not deny it. I also saw her on the first leg of the Circus Tour earlier this year and it wasn't really my favorite show of hers, but it was good. The Dream Within A Dream Tour was still totes my fav.

But anyways, for the most part it was standard Britney operating procedure. There was fire and confetti and things exploding and about a grillion costume changes and crazy video interludes and lights and dancing. Oh was there dancing.

But was there singing? No. Not really. You know why? Because Britney Spears has built an empire on the very fact that she does not sing live.

Ok, I take that back. She does sing sometimes. Sometimes she will pull out a stool and sing a slow song and during the fast ones, she does sing along periodically to a pre-recorded backing track of her own voice. You can always tell when she's in the mood to sing and when she's not, because it's really obvious when you hear her own, out-of-breath voice over the backing track.

Howevs, I could see these people actually having a valid point if:

1. She claimed she does not lip-sync

[But she doesn't, it's not a big secret. She knows it, I know it, you know it. No big deal]

or

2. She stood on stage the whole time in front of a microphone and based her fame off her vocal skills and then lip-synced in concert.

[But she doesn't, her concert is a SHOW. It's not about the singing, it's about the spectacle. If you're going to a Britney Spears show to hear her beautiful voice, you're just lying to yourself.]

I mean, if I went to a Kelly Clarkson show and she lip-synced, I would be pissed. If I went to see Ingrid Michaelson and she lip-synced I would be pissed. If I went to see Esthero and she lip-synced I would just cry and the world would explode. But, you get the picture.

Not many people lip-sync anymore, in fact I'm not sure anyone lip-syncs anymore besides Britney Spears, even when I went to the Spice Girls Reunion Tour they were really singing, and talk about a spectacle.

But, whatever, that's her thing and if you claim to be a "fan" of hers enough to go see her in concert, you should know what you're getting yourself into.

Additionally, according to the The Daily Mail, "politicians in three Australian states [are] calling for new laws to force music promoters to disclose whether a concert will be live or lip-synced."

And according to the NY Daily News, "Spears' Australian promoter, Paul Dainty, vehemently denies reports of mass walkouts in Australia, going so far as to say it is "the biggest lie I've ever heard.'"

So, do with that what you will.

To conclude, I present to you the most epic Britney performance I've ever had the pleasure of seeing live. To this day it is one of my fav. concert moments/openers, lip-syncing or otherwise.

Enjoy.

The Evolution of Lady Gaga

2009-11-11T16:40:00.000-05:00

Lady Gaga is one of few stars who have managed to transform from quirky hipster to high fashion sensation.

What I don't understand about Lady Gaga is that it seems like she has a different kind of fame. She's not as famous as say, Britney Spears, still has immense immense record sales.

What I mean is that she has a cult following, but she still manages to straddle the line between being "undeground" and being mainstream. She's not like Tegan and Sara, (who I love) who are crazy popular in their niche market, but I don't hear still don't hear them on the radio.

So how did Lady Gaga get so famous? What is that "it" factor? Let us take a mini trip down memory lane of a career that barely a year old. (In case you're a visual learner, I've also included the "Gaga Graph." Hey, if Alexa Chung doesn't want to do hers anymore, I'll take that idea and run with it. Click to enlarge!)

1. "Just Dance" was just the beginning. Aw, it's baby Gaga. She was still rocking the lightnening bolt at this time and this song had a distinctly different sound than anything else that was out on Top 40 radio at the time. Plus, everyone loves a good house party video. Remember "Before Your Love?" No? Ok, me neither.

2. "Poker Face" comes along and totes blows everything out of the water. You could NOT get away from that song. Why was this such a hit? I don't know. No one knows. All I know is that I had it on repeat for like two weeks straight.

3. "Eh, Eh, (Nothing Else I Can Say)" kinda tanked, let's be honest. I never understood why it was on the CD and understood it even less when I saw the video. Since this was the obligatory third single, I thought she was done with "The Fame" and we wouldn't hear anything else from her til the next album. I can admit when I'm wrong.

4. "LoveGame" was a pretty good video and Lady Gaga started to climb back up the charts. It was pretty successful, but nothing compared to "Poker Face." Still it was catchy and lent itself to multiple remixes and let's be honest, that beat is sick.

5. The last single off of "The Fame," "Paparazzi," is still my favorite Lady Gaga music video, because I enjoy videos that tell a story. I like the song and I thought the video was clever. I kind of wish this song was more popular, but I think it lacked the danceability factor that had her first two singles on heavy rotation.

And now, in case you missed it, I present to you the next in a long line of Lady Gaga videos.

Well, there you have it. Athough I'm not quite sure why she was on fire at the end, my conclusion is this: the theme of all these videos is, still, no pants, and that's fine by me. Bring it on Gaga, bring it on.

New Music Tuesday: Bess Rogers

2009-11-10T12:52:00.001-05:00

Allow me to introduce you to someone. This is Bess Rogers.

Based out of Brooklyn, Bess has become a regular in the New York music scene. She independently released her debut album, "Decisions Based On Information" back in 2007, followed by a new EP in April of this year containing six new tracks entitled, "Travel Back."

After accompanying Ingrid Michaelson on the U.S. leg of her "Everybody Tour," Bess is now embarking on a solo tour of the States.

Previously to these touring endeavors, she's also been seen hanging around the likes of Allie Moss, Gregory & The Hawk and Jenny Owens, just to name a few.

I'm so excited to see her when she plays Philadelphia on Dec. 4 because I was just so impressed with her at the Ingrid show.

I haven't been able to stop talking about her since then. And that's saying something, because, you know I love me some Ingrid Michaelson, but Bess really did steal the show.

Not only does she have such a sweet voice, but she plays a mean electric guitar, among other things. I believe throughout the course of the show I saw her play guitar, piano, bass, freaking mandolin and I'm pretty sure she was rocking the synth at some point a la Camila Grey. If Uh Huh Her is still looking for a third member, hello ladies, please contact this woman. There's probs nothing she can't do.

Here is a short sampling of her work followed, obvs, by her explanation of wine.

Keep up to date with Bess and find out when she's coming to your town by following her on Twitter, friending her on Facebook, checking out her Tumblr or Myspace and, of course, her official website.

"Oh What A Day Is Today"

2009-11-06T18:02:00.025-05:00

Oh Kittyboots, what do I have for you today?

Let me just say, what a glorious day it is to begin the new era of the Really Papi, Really? Empire. I hope you enjoy the new site and feel free to comment about your feelings on the new layout, logo and all-around new feel of RPR. Also, I’m still looking to add some new members to the RPR expansion! E-mail me at reallycarol223@yahoo.com if you’re interested and I will give you ALL the details!

Now, let’s get to the good stuff.

By this time, I feel like we have developed a relationship. You know me.

Could I have met (that’s right, I said MET) Ingrid Michaelson, her guitar player (and my new crush) Bess Rogers, stalked out a Panera for her secret show, then saw her again last night in concert from the front row and not told you about it??

Of course not.

Shall we?

First, I found out Ingrid was doing a secret show yesterday at noon. I didn't know where the show would be, but me and A.J. knew we were on it. It was being promoted by a local radio station, so we decided that would be a good guess and headed toward the station around 9 a.m.

As we were driving down the street, we got an update via Twitter that said the secret show was at a Panera in Robinson. Really? Really Papi? A PANERA? You know, where they have bagels and bread and stuff? Yeah, THAT Panera.

So we get there in like 10 minutes flat and it's like quarter after 10 and we walk in and get the details from a very excitant girl who was working the counter. We then began our stake out. My cherry danish was delicious.

ANYWAY. It was near high noon and wouldn't you know it, Ingrid Michaelson herself stepped through the glowing doors of Panera Bread.

She got an everything bagel (i still don't know what that means) with tomato, toasted, in case you were wondering.

She played three acoustic songs (the hits of course: "Be OK," "The Way I Am" and "Maybe") with her trusty ukelele, accompanied by Bess Rogers on backing vocals and guitar and of course Allie Moss on guitar.

Oh, I'm sorry, did you want HIGH DEF VIDEO of the performance? Ok, I guess I can do that:

After her set, me and A.J. pounced on her. Well, not literally, but I was not leaving until I had my photo with her. Like Kathy Griffin and Warren Beatty on that episode of "My Life on the D-List."

Anyway, we got to chit chat with her for a few moments, I got a photo with her AND she signed my CD. She was super sweet and nice, just like you would imagine her to be.

And as if things couldn't get any better:

This was the last show of the U.S. leg of the "Everybody" tour and you could defintely tell it was a bittersweet time for the whole band.

But, plain and simple, the show was amazing. Her two opening acts (Greg Holden followed by Greg Laswell) were really charming and Greg Laswell even played his cover of "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" which I've wanted to see since the LAST time I saw him open for Ingrid.

We had a perfect view of the stage, from the Bess Rogers side of course, and the band was rocking all night. A lot of the songs from the CD's like "Maybe," "The Hat," and my personal favorite "Mountain & the Sea," sounded so much fuller live and had a much richer sound. Ingrid's voice is flawless and it was incredible how in sync she was with her back-up singers.

The two new songs, one a duet with Greg Laswell were classic Ingrid style and I can defintely see them becoming fan favorites, much like the previous "Tour Song." Songs such as "The Chain" and "Keep Breathing" still manage to give me chills, while the sheer joy of songs like "Everybody," "Far Away" and a remix of "Maybe" detailing her love of Mexican food, are the perfect balance to Ingrid's more heart-wrenching ballads.

AND, there's more. After the show, I was lucky enough to catch one of the drumsticks AND meet Bess Rogers. She signed my poster and is totes the coolest person ever.

All in all, you could really tell the whole band was just having a blast out there and when that kind of energy is palpable like that and translates to the crowd, it really is just magical.

Setlist:

Soldier
Die Alone
Once Was Love
The Hat
Be OK
You & I
The Chain
*New Song (which I'm calling "Be Mine")
*New Song (duet with Greg Laswell)
Giving Up
Mountain & The Sea
Maybe
Keep Breathing
Locked Up
The Way I Am
Everybody

Encore:

Maybe (Mexican Food Remix)
Far Away

*Photos/Graphics/Videos Courtesy of RPR's newest team member, A.J.

Pardon Our Dust

2009-11-01T13:58:00.007-05:00

UPDATE: REALLY PAPI, REALLY? WILL OFFICIALLY RE-LAUNCH THIS FRIDAY WITH AN EPIC RE-TELLING OF MY INGRID MICHAELSON EXTRAVAGANZA TOMORROW.
--------------------------------------------------------

WOW.

Hello, how have you been? It's been far too long since we last spoke.

These past few months I've dissapeared into what I will call the college vortex where things like scantrons eat my soul and prevent me from spending quality time with my one true love: this site.

HOWEVER.

Have no fear, because Halloween is over AND I've had some time to think about the big changes that will be happening here at RPR. I enjoy numbers, lists and structure so here are the main things you need to know:

1. The biggest change will be an entirely new design. It's gonna be pretty cool, I won't lie. I think you will like it. It will make things cleaner, sharper, better and faster. These are all good things.

2. The Really Papi, Really? empire is expanding! If you are interested in becoming a part of the RPR team, send me an e-mail at reallycarol223@yahoo.com and we'll have a chat. Perhaps we will get baseball tees with our last names and favorite numbers on the back.

So anyway, those are the facts ma'am and I'm very excitant about the future. That's all for now. I will set an official re-launch date asap and of course you will be the first to know.

New Music Tuesday: A Fine Frenzy

2009-09-15T13:17:00.011-04:00

Last Tuesday, A Fine Frenzy finally released their second CD, "Bomb in a Birdcage."

Front woman, Alison Sudol, first enjoyed success with her haunting piano ballad "Almost Lover," the first single off of the first CD, "One Cell in the Sea" which was released in 2007.

However, "Almost Lover" didn't stick around for long which is unfortunate because subsequent releases, "Rangers," "You Picked Me" and "Lifesize" went virtually unnocticed, even though they paint a much clearer picture of what the album, and A Fine Frenzy's style, is.

"One Cell in the Sea" is an album that I listen to constantly and don't even realize it. A Fine Frenzy is the definition of under-the-radar. She has such a beautiful voice. She kind of reminds me of a cross between Ingrid Michaelson and Camila Grey from my favorite band of all time Uh Huh Her.

The immediate stand out track for me upon first listen was "Electric Twist" becaues I appreciate that Sudol is experimenting with different styles on the new record. However, the first single is "Blow Away," a song that harks back to the "One Cell in the Sea" days of coffee shop beats, melodic choruses and songs that make me think of autumn and falling leaves.

The fall tour begins on October 20 in Austin, Texas and will conclude on November 18 in Anaheim, California. I will unfortunately be IN Austin when A Fine Frenzy will be near me (why couldn't you have waited a week, Alison, a WEEK!?) but if you find yourself in the Philadelphia area on Ocotber 30, please go see A Fine Frenzy at the World Cafe Live. It is one of my all time favorite concerts venues and I have been looking for excuses to go back there ever since I saw Esthero there a few years ago. I will be eternally jealous of anyone at that show.

Positive Sex is Safe Sex

2009-09-14T20:50:00.017-04:00

Tonight Evelyn Resh came to my school to speak about her new book, "The Secret Lives of Teen Girls," which comes out tomorrow.

Although it wasn't quite the feminist/philosophical sex discussion I was thinking it would be, she was a dynamic and up-front speaker that brought with her a view point that many young adults need to hear: a sex-positive one.

Especially here, in the suburbs of an otherwise rural area, where I think a lot of students still hold traditional views about sex and sexuality; views undoubtedly bestowed upon them by their upbringing and their religion.

What stuck out for me was a point at which she was talking about abstinence. She made a remark that there are only three ways to have completely safe sex, in the sense of said sex not ending in pregnancy.

This raised even my eyebrow, as I have been in the brainwashing section of the "abstinence is the only sure fire way to not get pregnant" set, for which heteros only need apply, of course. However, she continued to say that having a same-sex partner or masturbation were two other ways to prevent pregnancy. She didn't spend much time talking about same-sex couples, but she did spend quite a good bit of time discussing the benefits of masturbation, something you don't normally hear about.

I was both pleased and surprised at her pro-masturbation attitude and think if more people took the time to recognize masturbation for what it is and not the taboo it has become, young people's problems and questions about sex would be more easily solved, because they would feel that it's ok to explore their own body and answer their own questions, especially when it comes to sexual pleasure.

Additionally, she made several mentions about the shame that accompanies sex in our culture. Not just shame about masturbation but also the shame young people especially feel about having too many partners or not being a virgin anymore, whatever "virginity" means. One of my heroines, Jessica Valenti from Feministing.com, wrote an entire book dedicated to the "purity myth" and discusses slut-shaming frequently both in the book and on Feministing.

Just like saying "that's so gay" when you think something is wrong or stupid, girls who call each whores and sluts for no reason (you know the type, "Like OMG Hey Whore!") are plaguing our culture and perpetuating sex-shaming stereotypes.

Why does it seem like the ideas of safe sex and sex as a positive thing have to be mutually exclusive?

Sidenote: Yes, that is my first love, Drew Barrymore straddling Ellen Page up there, top left. I have way too many feelings about the Vs photo shoot and the Marie Claire photoshoot to even attempt a post on the subject. I cannot handle things that beautiful. That is all. (p.s. you're welcome for those links..)

Super Sweet Sunday: Late Night Vlogging Edition

2009-09-13T14:36:00.010-04:00

Today for Super Sweet Sunday I present to you only one video. It is possibly the best work of cinematography I have ever produced using my webcam, my friends and then posted to this site.

Enjoy and Happy Sunday.

P.S. Check out my You Tube Channel!

New Music Book Tuesday: Kathy Griffin "Official Book Club Selection" Special Edition

2009-09-08T18:28:00.018-04:00

It's Tuesday here in the Really Papi, Really? universe, and that can only mean one thing, right? WRONG.

In lieu of New Music Tuesday, we will be celebrating the release of Kathy Griffin's memoir, "Official Book Club Selection," which hit bookstores today.

The almost 400 page memoir is supposed to be an uncensored account of Griffin's life, chronicling everything from her struggles growing up as the "ugly" girl in suburban Illinois and later plastic surgery mishaps to becoming a successful stand-up comedian and dealing with fame. The book is also said to be peppered with celebrity dish and gossip galore, otherwise known as Griffin's bread and butter.

"Official Book Club Selection" has already garnered popularity on Amazon.com, gaining the #14 spot on the Amazon.com Best Seller list and topping the charts in categories like "Humor/Satire" and "Entertainer Biographies & Memoirs." Along with the popularity, positive reviews have already begun to emerge.

As Blast Magazine raves,

"He knack for storytelling comes through in “Official Book Club Selection,” a witty, entertaining read about Griffin’s rise to fame and ongoing pursuit of notoriety. She manages to make even the most mundane childhood stories — getting an early start on gossiping by dishing family secrets to the neighbors, for instance — enjoyable rather than tedious."

"What’s most appealing about “Official Book Club Selection” is that Griffin affords herself the same no-holds-barred treatment she employs in her celebrity skewerings, devoting one chapter to a now-deceased brother who had alleged pedophilia tendencies and offering candid details about the collapse of her marriage in another. She frankly describes herself as an “ugly” child, and a binge-eating disorder is mentioned repeatedly. The warts and all approach also carries over to an extensive discussion of her much-discussed plastic surgery and liposuction procedures, complete with explicit post-op pictures."

"As a writer, Griffin comes off as refreshingly self-aware. “Official Book Club Selection” is a must-read for any Kathy Griffin fan."

Keep up to date with Kathy Griffin and see if she's doing book signing in your town by checking out KathyGriffin.net.

"District 9:" Aliens and Social Commentary

2009-09-07T18:59:00.021-04:00

"District 9" wasn't on my Fall Movie Preview to complete the 9 themed trifecta, but I did have a mild interest in it once I found out it was a social allegory to the situation in South Africa and that it was filmed in the style of a documentary.

From the previews and the marketing campaign, one would assume the movie would be preachy, a way to get to the general public and subliminally show them a problem they may not have otherwise chosen or wanted to acknowledge. However, although the movie gets off to a rocky start, it quickly moves into full-on sci-fi/fantasy territory and even though the social parallels are still there, they are not the focus.

The movie begins as you would expect from watching the previews. We are introduced to Wikus Van De Merwe, who works for MNU, a private military contractor that is put in charge of relocating the aliens from District 9 to District 10 when the aliens become a nuisance to locals due to the rise in crime and violence in the ghetto that is now District 9.

Throughout the first 20 minutes of the movie, Wikus' family and friends are interviewed, all of whom say things like, "this never should have happened to him." Since I was expecting the movie to be in the style of a documentary, I was expecting Wikus to be killed off soon and then have the movie shift to a different story, then a third story, etc. almost in the style of Paris Je' Taime.

**SPOILERS AHEAD**

*********************

However, the movie takes a turn when Wikus is exposed to a chemical the aliens were using to try to restart the mother ship so they could leave District 9 and return home. Wikus then begins to turn into an alien himself and when he goes for help, the doctors are fascinated that he can now use the alien weapons (which required alien DNA to function) and insist on killing him and using him for medical experiments. Wikus escapes from the hospital and takes up shelter in District 9 and the rest of the movie plays out from here.

There are three major things that happen during the bulk of the movie that really stood out to me:

1. When Wikus is originally serving the eviction/relocation notices when he is still human, he and his team are ignorant of the use of the chemical he touches that turns him into an alien. He confiscates it saying, "I don't know what this is, but it could be a weapon so I'm taking it." Additionally, when they are talking to the aliens, Christopher (the alien that is trying to restart the mother ship) asks him questions such as why they are being relocated, why he did not get the mandatory 24 hour notice, etc. and instead of answering his questions, Wikus simply insists he must sign the paper and that Christopher must be hiding weapons or else he would be more cooperative. This demonstrates the ethnocentrism that is often found in many cultures and instead of trying to understand something, we tend to jump to conclusions.

2. When Wikus is taken to the hospital, the doctors are more concerned with the fact that they can now use the alien weapons than helping Wikus. There is a sequence where they are testing Wikus' ability to use the weapons and when he refuses to shoot, they taser him until he complies. He then agrees to shoot the weapons without tasering, but receives the tasering anyway. There are a lot of issues in these scenes that deal with the intimidation of hospitals and doctors and also torture/interrogation techniques that made me feel uncomfortable. The whole idea of, who can you feel safe with if not doctors, police officers, etc. Additionally, the feelings that now that Wikus is half-alien, he is no longer considered a human being, merely a testing device.

3. When Wikus goes into hiding in District 9, he is considered a fugitive. He goes to a local restaurant to try and buy food and while he is there, a news flash comes on the TV showing his picture, saying the reason he is turning into an alien is because he had sex with an alien and is now highly contagious. The restaurant staff refuses to serve him and everyone in the restaurant runs out screaming. This is a good example of how the media can sensationalize news stories and the effects the media has on the public.

Thorughout the movie, Wikus becomes more and more like an alien. Toward the end of the movie, Wikus befriends Christopher when he says he can turn Wikus human again if he can get back to the ship. They work together to relocate the chemical and Wikus helps Chirstopher escape as Christopher promises Wikus he will return in three years and "fix" him. The movie ends ambiguously with Wikus shown in full alien form making flowers for his wife out of metal scraps in what the audience can assume is District 10. There is no time stamp to let the audience know whether the three years have passed or if Wikus is still waiting for Christopher to return.

********************
**SPOILERS END**

Much like "Cloverfield," another good movie that kind of went under-appreciated, I thought "District 9" took a concept that could have been old and tired and went in a new direction with it.

Additionally, for a movie that relies solely on CGI aliens and a main character portrayed by an unknown actor, Sharlto Copey, the human emotion never gets lost.

I think "District 9" raises a lot of questions about our society, as well as any other that has some sort segregation issues, which I can comfortably say would be any. The ultimate message of the movie is not to become a social activist for change in places like South Africa, but to rather to simply walk a mile in someone else's shoes and treat everyone as they are: human beings.

Super Sweet Sunday: Alexa Chung Super Special Edition

2009-09-06T12:36:00.016-04:00

Normally, Super Sweet Sunday is supposed to be the end of the weekend. Something to give you a pick-me-up before starting work/school/reading/tying your shoes on Monday. Howevs, it's a long weekend because Labor Day is tmw! Yay!

So today I present you with an extra special Alexa Chung Edition of Super Sweet Sunday. Usually I try to make SSS a little more varied, but too much funny stuff happens on this damn show.

Enjoy.

Saturday Wrap Party: The Real L Word + Pole Dancing + Pin Ups

2009-09-05T23:33:00.003-04:00

Oh kittyboots, it's that lovely time of the week again when it's time to party. Saturday Wrap Party that is!

Although I haven't quite had the time to be posting regularly here this week, I've had just enough time to catch the important stuff.

Here are the Top 5 articles you should have been reading this week, courtesy of me, free of charge.

1) reality check

Everyone lets out a collective "Really Papi, REALLY?" when Mama Chaiken's new show, "The Real L Word" is announced. (via Autostraddle, Grace The Spot & Dorothy Surrenders)

2) surprise sex

Feministing looks at why terms like "The Georgetown Cuddler" are harmful.

3) last dance

Laura at AYF sees the connections between Miley Cyrus' ice cream dancing and the newest doll to hit the market.

4) calendar girls

Bust gives the ladies the news on how to be a pin-up girl.

5) no one on the corner has swagga like us

This is Style Rookie. From what I gather, she is a 13-year-old who is obsessed with fashion and models. She dresses real cool. This isn't like hard news or anything, but damn that girl has style. She will probs be a cross between Alexa Chung and Riese when she grows up.

New Music Tuesday: The Return of Ingrid Michaelson + Really Papi, Really?

2009-09-01T17:00:00.011-04:00

WOW it's been a long time.

But what better way to get right back into the swing of things here at RPR than a good ol' fashioned New Music Tuesday?

I cannot tell you how pained I was that the new Ingrid Michaelson CD, "Everybody," came out last Tuesday and I could not honor its release with a proper and timely NMT. However, right now, I will attempt to remedy that situation.

Here we go!

I've talked about Ingrid Michaelson before, but this CD is really something special. I cannot stop listening to it.

The stand-outs for me right away were pure Ingrid-style piano romps like "Mountain & the Sea" and "Once Was Love."

However, although the majority of the album is in the style of the previous three, she's taking some musical chances and experimenting on some tracks like the super-percussive "Locked Up," the rolling guitar opener, "Soldier" and the bluesy "Incredible Love."

Additionally, the happy-go-lucky title track "Everybody" is an instant classic, along with the catchy first single, "Maybe."

I am lucky enough to have my tickets already for the Everybody Fall Tour Extravaganza and if you don't already have yours, check out her tour dates and find a show near you!

The tour begins in Toronto on September 9 and ends in Pittsburgh on November 5. Ingrid will then begin her European tour on November 16 in Munich, Germany.

A Really Papi, Really? PSA

2009-08-19T23:30:00.014-04:00

Well kittyboots, tomorrow I leave for, well, let's say a vacation. I'm telling you this, because for the next week or so it's likely that I will be in a place in the world where they don't have phones, internet or carrier pigeons. Needless to say, I will not be able to update here as regularly as I would like, but I will be trying my best. I'm hoping to at least have content up for the weekend, but the normal weekday posts may be minimal at best.

I wanted to assure you that my absence will not be long and I will be back for your reading pleasure in no time. Think of all the things you can do while I'm gone!

1) Watch "It's On with Alexa Chung" Monday-Thursday at noon on MTV and take notes. I expect at least one person to be able to tell me everything I missed. I want guest names, band names and a very detailed description of Alexa's outfits. Statements such as "It looked like she wasn't wearing pants" are unacceptable, since this is a given.

2) Clear your local Blockbuster out of Helena Bonham Carter movies. If you can find "A Room with a View" or "Dancing Queen," bonus points, write me a review for either of them. Never seen "Fight Club?" Write me a review of it through a feminist lens and I'll feature you in an upcoming post. Word of wisdom? Avoid "Howard's End." Really, you'll thank me later.

3) Familiarize yourself with the other blogs I talk about a lot, such as Autostraddle, F eministing, This Girl Called Automatic Win and Dorothy Surrenders. Also, look over Grace the Spot and catch up on my posts as Grace Gatsby. Start at the beginning and let the enlightenment begin.

4) Play Bubblespinner. Seriously, you can probably start now and will still be playing when I get back. If you get past like, level 4, show me how.

5) Think of plots for an L Word movie that would actually get you to the theater. Which characters would need to come back/leave? Who would have to hook-up with who? Who killed Jenny? If you think of a good one, message IFC on Twitter. If there's no way in hell you'd ever see an L Word movie no matter what, message her that too, maybe.. would that be too mean?

New Music Tuesday: Joan Jett (The Covers)

2009-08-18T00:05:00.011-04:00

There are a lot of artists out there that can do cover songs, but it's quite a different matter to do a cover song and do it well.

It's no secret that I love good cover songs almost as much as I love remixes and mashups.

Kelly Clarkson's covers of classics like Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" are brilliant, She & Him's cover of The Beatles' "I Should Have Known Better" is divine and Natasha Bedingfield's cover of "The Scientist" by Coldplay is unmatched. Even one of my favs, Cat Power released a whole CD of nothing but cover songs with, "Jukebox."

However, there are many, many attempts at covers that go horribly wrong. Most of which aren't even comical enough for me to mention here, just terrible for the ears.

But there is one woman who truly knows how to rock a mic, be it with her own songs or others. Basically, she can do no wrong. There are really no words.

I now give you, a woman who needs no further introduction, Joan Jett.

"Do You Wanna Touch Me" (originally by Gary Glitter)

"Have You Ever Seen The Rain" (originally by Creedence Clearwater Revival)

"Let's Do It, Let's Fall In Love" (originally by Cole Porter)

Super Sweet Sunday: Riot Edition

2009-08-16T13:27:00.004-04:00

Hello kittyboots! Hope the weekend is finding you well. If perhaps you need some cheering up, would like to watch some intriguing videos or perhaps just want to gander at some pretty pictures, well you've come to the right place! So, prepare for the week ahead or simply enjoy a lazy day with the second ever Super Sweet Sunday!

Saturday Wrap Party: Britain Rocks + The New Wave of Lesbian Chic

2009-08-15T13:00:00.005-04:00

Welcome to the Saturday Wrap Party!

It's the special time of the week where I round up the five blog posts you should have read. Also, I provide them in nifty quick link format!

I encourage both reading and audience participation here, so if there is anything you have been reading/writing this week that you want to showcase at this week's party, send a shout it in the comments section and spread the info love.

With that said, in case you missed any of the buzz, have a go at this week's stories:

1) the L word:

Diva Magazine observes the effects of censoring the word "lesbian" for a "family-friendly" DVD cover.

2) a virgin is forever:

Laura, over at Adventures of a Young Feminist, looks at the value of a hymen.

3) the brits have us beat: part 1

Feministing considers shipping Kelly Clarkson off to the UK where airbrushing could soon come with a disclaimer.

4) the brits have us beat: part 2

Dorothy Surrenders takes a peak at beautiful women over 40 sans plastic surgery.

5) the boys wanna be her

Count down the Top 10 Lesbian Style Icons with the fashionistas at Autostraddle.

Fall Movie Preview

2009-08-14T18:42:00.006-04:00

Ah, Friday. A night for dinner and a movie.

In the spring, I picked 8 movies I wanted to see this summer in my Summer Movie Previews part one and part two. So far, I have seen 5 of them- in order of greatness-"Away We Go," "500 Days of Summer," "Public Enemies," "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" and "Julie & Julia." (I never got see "Transformers 2" -no big loss there I'm sure- and neither "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" nor "Paper Heart" is in theaters yet.)

My disappointment from the last movie of the summer I was really excited about, "Julie & Julia," got me thinking about upcoming movies that I could get excited about again. Thus I present to you, my Fall Movie Preview.

1) 9

Produced by Tim Burton, this CGI Sci-Fi flick is the first computer-animated film to receive a PG-13 rating. I like the darker "kid's" movies for a change of pace. "Monster House" was actually pretty good and "Coraline" was exceptional. The, "Oh no! The robots have turned on us!" story has been done before I'm sure, but from the looks of things, this could be pretty cool.

Opens in wide release: September 9, 2009. (9/9/09.. har)

Starring the voice talents of: Elijah Wood, John C. Reily, Jennifer Connelly and Crispin Glover (a/k/a the creepy thin man from "Charlie's Angels.")

2) Whip It

Just like "500 Days of Summer" was my big summer movie, this is my big fall movie. I am SO excited for this one. I mean, come on. A combination of the directorial debut of my first love, Drew Barrymore, Ellen Page, roller derby and Peaches? Yes please. Lovelovelove the trailer. I could watch it for days.

Opens in wide release: October 9, 2009.

Starring: Ellen Page, Drew Barrymore, Kristin Wiig, Marcia Gay Harden, Jimmy Fallon and Eve.

3) The Invention of Lying

I actually kind of stumbled onto this preview by mistake, but I'm glad I did. It looks really funny and I am in love with the concept. I'll never give up on Jennifer Garner as an actress, even after "Catch & Release" AND "Ghosts of Girlfriends Past." I am convinced that girl who played Sydney Bristow on "Alias" will come back to us someday. Oh, and Ricky Gervais from the original UK version of "The Office" fame is in it, wrote it and directed it. Brilliant.

Opens in wide release: September 25, 2009.

Starring: Tina Fey, Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman.

4) Shutter Island

I've seen this preview in front of a lot of movies this summer and I guess it's growing on me. Even though I'm not the biggest Leonardo DiCaprio fan, I do like a psychological/mental ward thriller. However, this is opening against the Pixar juggernaut double-feature, "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2" in 3D. I have a feeling this one will either be hit or miss.

Opens in wide release: October 2, 2009.

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo

5) Nine

Ok, first of all, Marion Cotillard is in this and looks stunning just in the previews. She can do no wrong. Secondly, there are A LOT of freaking star names attached to this movie. Last, it's directed by Rob Marshall, the guy who did "Chicago." Sign me up.

Opens in wide release: November 25, 2009.

Starring: Marion Cotillard, Daniel Day-Lewis, Kate Hudson, Dame Judi Dench, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Fergie. (Yes. THAT Fergie)

Happy Viewing and Happy Weekend!

"Does This Look Sexual To You?"

2009-08-13T14:28:00.005-04:00

Oh, kittyboots, what have I got for you today? Well, I was poking around for information on another post when I stumbled onto this gem:

Apparently a shop in Montclair, NJ called "Dressing For Pleasure" had their "dungeon" shut down due to an anonymous complaint. The owners of the store insist things like their spanking bench, stocks, interrogation cell and medical room are soley for "historical reenactments." They deny that any sexual contact was ever allowed at their discreet "play parties" which they held three times a month to cater to their total of 700 registered members.

The fact that the owners, Ed and Karen Dougherty (also known as "Master Ed" and "slave Duchess") are trying to make it seem like their parties were in fact nothing but "historical reenactment" parties seems a little far-fetched to me.

The website itself declares the store as, "not just a store," but "a central part of the BDSM/alternative lifestyle." According to the site, they are predominantly a major retailer of "bondage equipment, fetish wear, leather, latex, corsets, shoes and boots, lingerie, sex toys, restraints, collars, clamps, harnesses, paddles, whips, floggers, handcuffs, medical supplies, electrical play (violet wand and TENS units), furniture and more."

They go on to say that they welcome all "kinks and fetishes including AB, CD/TS/TV, maledom, femdom and even vanilla" as well as all experience levels and sexual orientations.

That's all well and good, but the part that blows the owner's stories is clearly stated on the website. It says, "We also offer play parties open to all, where you can meet new people, socialize, play or just watch." Then, when you go click the link on the sidebar named "play parties" you are taken to an error screen that says "We must have updated the site since the last time you were here," and directs you back to the storefront page.

Hmmm.. tricky tricky.

The thing that gets me about all this is that, people didn't have a problem with the store itself and what they were selling, until the found out that people were gathering in the store to use the items to *gasp* have sexy time. This kind of strikes me along the same lines as the people who say, "Oh well, I'm not a homophobe or anything, but I don't support same-sex marriage."

They weren't bothering anyone, they weren't hurting anyone (in a bad way), and they weren't doing anything out of the ordinary. They were just coming together in a safe environment to be with like-minded people and have a little fun. I don't get why people have ruin things that aren't effecting them just because they might disagree with it or, most likely, not understand it.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to see a man about a spanking bench..

New Music Tuesday: Sweeney Todd

2009-08-11T14:59:00.014-04:00

This may not be so new to some of you, since Tim Burton's movie adaptation of "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" originally hit theaters during the Christmas rush of 2007, but when I started New Music Tuesdays, I decided it would be a feature about whatever I couldn't stop listening to at the moment; not necessarily "new" in the sense of time, but new to me.

With that said, broadway/musicals are kind of a guilty pleasure of mine, and I really can't believe it's taken me this long to see this movie, because the music is divine.

The movie as a whole is also very well done, supported by the fact that the cast is perfection. Not that you can really go wrong with ~~Captain Jack Sparrow~~ Johnny Depp, my newest love, Helena Bonham Carter and the vocal love of my LIFE, Alan Rickman. Plus, I mean, honestly, who knew that any of them could sing?

I think the thing I like about musicals is how catchy the songs are, but not in a Top 40 radio kind of way. I think it's cool because in musicals, the songs are (usually) propelling the plot forward and telling a story but I still find myself humming them later.

Stephen Sondheim's musical adaptation is based on the 1973 play adaptation by Christopher Bond. Both stories are based on the legend of Sweeney Todd, a character that originated in British "penny dreadfuls," or sensationalized fictional serial stories in the late 1800s. Although the story of Sweeney Todd has been widely regarded as an urban legend, the character and story have changed immensely over the years.

The original broadway production debuted on March 1, 1979 at the Uris Theater (now the George Gershwin theater where they show "Wicked") in New York City. It was nominated for nine Tony Awards and won eight, including Best Musical, Best Actress, Best Actor and Best Original Score. The musical has often been hailed as the beginning of the movement of horror-themed musicals like "The Phantom of the Opera," "Jekyll & Hyde," and "Little Shop of Horrors."

As for the theatrical adaptation, "Sweeney Todd" is one of only two Tim Burton productions to not include music by Danny Elfman. Additionally, many songs from the original musical were cut for time or cut entirely in order to keep the plot moving.

The film received favorable reviews from critics and audiences alike and garnered an Oscar nomination and an MTV Movie Award win for Johnny Depp, a Golden Globe nomination for Helena Bonham Carter and two Golden Globe wins- one for Johnny Depp for Best Actor and one for Best Picture (Comedy/Musical) in 2008. Additionally, the soundtrack was nominated at the 2009 Grammy Awards for Best Motion Picture Soundtrack.

There are definitely some beautifully orchestrated songs in this movie/musical, but the catchiest melodies and funniest lyrics belong to Helena Bonham Carter's character, Mrs. Lovett. Although Sweeney Todd is the "lead," I would have to say (and I know I'm not alone on this) that Mrs. Lovett/Helena Bonham Carter stole the show. She is arguably the epicenter of the entire story. So, with that, I now leave you with my two favorite songs:

Super Sweet Sunday: Bank Heist Edition

2009-08-09T12:31:00.005-04:00

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!

As a good end/beginning to the week, I will be now be posting pictures of pretty girls and videos that make me smile every Sunday. My posts will be sort of themed, so I am encouraging audience participation. If you have any super sweet vids/pics you'd like to share, post them in the comments and spread the joy!

So enough chit chat, let's get to it! Feast your eyes on the first ever Super Sweet Sunday!

Saturday Wrap Party: Coming Out Stories, Lady Gaga & Breast-Feeding Dolls

2009-08-08T23:23:00.015-04:00

And we're back!

Welcome to the very first installment of the Saturday Wrap Party!

I'm going to be trying out some new things here on the site and see how it goes, the first being posts on the weekends!

That's right, kittyboots, now you can be saying Really Papi, Really? all week long!

Here's how it's gonna work- on Saturdays, I will now be featuring my five favorite blog posts (in no particular order) from the past week. If you read something you think should be invited to the wrap party, leave it in the comments and enlighten me and your fellow readers!

The SWP will be exclusively for blog posts since I encourage reading here and supporting fellow bloggers, so that means no video/picture links. I don't care how funny that Youtube video might be.. As for Sundays, well, that will be a surprise for tomorrow; don't want to give away too much too soon!

So, without further ado, I present the first official Saturday Wrap Party!

1) #wheniknew:
Start at the beginning with the spectacular three-part "When I Knew" series on Autostraddle.

2) meryl mania:
View pics galore as Ms. Snarker pays homage to the magnificent Meryl Streep over at Dorothy Surrenders.

3) ask and tell:
Riese will never stop answering your questions over at Autowin. Check out responses from A;ex and Haviland too!

4) got milk?:
Get the lastest on breast-feeding baby-dolls on Feministing.

5) this is what a feminist looks like:
Lady Gaga mistakes the meaning of the word "feminism" for "man-hating" and gets called out by Laura over at Adventures of a Young Feminist.

Everybody But Kelly Clarkson Can Suck It

2009-07-30T22:32:00.030-04:00

I actually first heard about this on Alexa Chu ng a few days ago and didn't really think it would get much media attention.

Then there was an article today on Autostraddle, so obvs I knew it was national news.

I looked into more and the stories are pretty much the same:

Kelly's new single, "Already Gone" sounds similar to Beyonce's recent release, "Halo." Turns out, Ryan Tedder, from One Republic, wrote the music for both and against Kelly's wishes, RCA released "Already Gone."

According to MTV News, Kelly had this to say:

"No one's gonna be sitting at home, thinking, 'Man, Ryan Tedder gave Beyoncé and Kelly the same track to write to,' " Clarkson told Canada's CBC radio
network. "No, they're just gonna be saying I ripped someone off. I called Ryan and said,'I don't understand. Why would you do that?'"

Tedder replied:

"'Already Gone' is one of the best songs I've written or produced since [Leona Lewis'] 'Bleeding Love' and stands tall on its own merits apart from 'Halo,' "
They are two entirely different songs conceptually, melodically and lyrically, and I would never try to dupe an artist such as Kelly Clarkson or Beyoncé into recording over the same musical track."

"The idea is both hurtful and absurd. I think when people hear 'Already Gone,'they will hear what I hear — one of the greatest female vocalists on earth giving her most haunting and heartbreaking performances on a song she helped write," the statement continues. "I challenge people to listen and form their own opinions."

All that is well and good and as far as I'm concerned, who the hell cares. If Kelly's song would have been released first, people would have been saying Beyonce copied off of her. Maybe, but maybe not, since in my mind, Beyonce has a kind of superstar/goddess status that I'm not sure she deserves, but that's a rant for another day.

Anyway, what gets me about this whole thing is the backlash Kelly Clarkson is getting. When the co-host for the "What's Happening" segment was on Alexa Chung the other day talking about this, he was really criticizing her. ~~I wish I had the clip,~~ (UPDATE: Here's the clip!) but he was saying things like how Kelly is kidding herself if she thinks she a "real" artist and how all she did was win a karaoke contest. At one point in his rant he actually said she is a "singing monkey."

Then, when I was looking at articles about this story, I came across an article on Perez Hilton. Now, I know, I know, consider the source, but just because he's Perez Hilton, that doesn't give him the right to make some of the remarks that he did.

Take for instance these gems:

"Damn! This just proves that you don't bite off the hand that gave you a
record deal! Sources reveal exclusively to PerezHilton.com that Kelly Clarkson's record label is super pissed about the original American Idol shooting off her mouth about the drama surrounding her latest single."

"Now, because she opened her trap, the label is returning to their original
threat and will attempt to kill the album, meaning " no more promo, no more
singles, no more money into it."

"Poor Kelly. Sucks to be her! Have another donut, sweetie!"

First, if I hear one more person say that Kelly Clarkson is fat, I might scream. I'm so tired of it. Especially in an industry that focuses so much on looks, to write an article reporting on issues about the MUSIC, only to then take a blatant, below-the-belt jab at someone's "weight gain" is just so uncool.

Second, I am really turned off by his use of the phrases, "shooting off her mouth" and "opened her trap." Kelly fans will know that she has had issues in the past with RCA and Clive Davis and has been reprimanded by many people in the industry for not "shutting up" and just being ghettoized as a power-pop hit-machine.

She's often spoken out about her dislike of creative freedom with her record deal and has had a rocky relationship with RCA ever since her third album, "My December," had disappointing sales in comparion to the monster-smash album "Breakaway," thanks largely in part to the popularity of "Since U Been Gone."

The bottom line is this: Oh No! Not a woman voicing her opinions about her career! That can't be! She has thoughts and ideas and and and AH I CAN'T TAKE IT WE CAN'T CONTROL HER! MUTINY!

Just like some people told the Dixie Chicks back in the "I'm ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas" days, Kelly Clarkson should apparently just "shut up and sing."

Obvs that won't happen because she has said from day one that it's all about the music. She doesn't care if she sells 1 album or 1 million albums. The fact is, if she did nothing but "win a karaoke contest" she wouldn't still be famous. She would have disappeared into the American Idol Vortex along with Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Fantasia Barrino, Taylor Hicks and hell I'll even say it, Carrie Underwood. Don't even get me started on Justin Guarinni.

Everyone seems to be overlooking the fact that if RCA drops her, or more likely, she packs up and leaves, I find it hard to believe she would have a tough time finding another label that will give her the reigns and finally give her the respect she deserves.

It's On

2009-07-29T23:31:00.022-04:00

Author's Note: For all intents and purposes of this photo montage, the likeness of myself will be portrayed through Zooey Deschanel and the likeness of my friend Breeze will be played by Amy Sedaris

You know, sometimes I like to play with Photoshop. Allow me to present to you:

Act 1: I Hope I See You In Prison (A Train Ride)

So we took the train up to NYC at the frickin crack of dawn, like usual, and tried to be slick and get a three-seater so we'd have room to chill. It wasn't really too crowded for the first couple stops, but then this businessman got on and sat next to me, even though I swear there were plenty of open seats. Anyways, he was on his phone most of the time and had an indistinguishable accent. He kept looking out the window, but out of the corner of my eye it felt like he kept looking over at me and it was real weird. He also had no concept of personal space. He was elbowing me and such like we were old pals.

But toward the end of the ride, I thought he was looking at me and he was on the phone and all I hear is, "I hope I see you in prison." Upon further review, I believe his accent prevented him from saying, "I hope I see you in PERSON," but he did have other words of wisdom, like comparing his business strategies to child-birth, saying, "It's a painful process, but in the end you have something tangible." I like listening to other people's conversations and I learned a lot about the economy in Frankfurt on that train ride. Breeze just kept laughing at me laughing at the guy and was concerned about blowing her nose.

Act 2: "I Think We're The Oldest Ones Here (I Hate Tim Burton)"

First we waited outside, then we waited inside. Then we waited for the show to start. It wasn't too bad, because where there are lines, there are interesting people waiting in them. Plus I got interviewed for MTV News and Breeze hit her personal space sealing. We were about fifth in line, and there was a group of girls in front of us that really looked about 12 years old, tops. They were even waiting with their mom and dad (who left eventually, thankfully) and the mom jumped at the chance to be on MTV News when they came around.

They asked you to say what movie you were most excited for (out of a list) and why. They interviewed me after they ~~humoured~~ interviewed the mom and I picked "Alice in Wonderland." When my bit was over the mom turned around and was like, "Wow, I didn't know anything about any of those movies you really know what you're talking about!" Then she started asking me questions about the movie and I told her Tim Burton was doing it and she looks at me and goes, "I hate Tim Burton," and turned around.

Act 3: "Speedwalk 23 (Final Thoughts)"

I think that about sums it up.

Final Thoughts: I want to Speedwalk 23 and I want to go see Alexa Chung again. I am now accepting applications from people who wish to join me.

Fin.

New Music Tuesday: Metric

2009-07-28T20:12:00.014-04:00

This band was actually reccomended to me by a girl at Best Buy while I was buying a Tegan and Sara CD. It was one of those, "Oh well if you like this, you'll like this." She even wrote the name on my receipt so I wouldn't forget.

A few days later I actually saw Metric perform their song, "Help, I'm Alive" on Alexa Chung. Then I saw one of their music videos on Music Choice. Then I went to buy the "500 Days of Summer" soundtrack and stumbled onto their CD, "Fantasies." I figured it was fate.

Formed in Toronto, Metric has realeased 3 other albums prior to the April 2009 release of "Fantasies." Two of their albums albums have been nominated for the Juno award for Best Alternative Album and in 2006, their second album was nominated for Canadian Album of the Year.

This year, "Fantasies" has been nominated for Canadian Album of the Year, an award which will be announced on September 21. Additionally, frontwoman, Emily Haines, has released a solo full-length album and EP.

Metric recently finished up a Canadian mini-tour, followed by a tour of Europe. They are currently touring the U.S. until the end of the summer, when they will prepare for their first Australian tour in October.

Even though I don't think Metric sounds anything like Tegan and Sara, I do think they sound simillar to Uh Huh Her, which is fine by me. On first listen, to me, even their single, "Gimme Sympathy" sounded like a sped-up version of Uh Huh Her's, "Not A Love Song."

Observe:

I mean, if anyone knows how to make mash-ups, feel free to take this idea and run with it. Just send me a copy.

Check out their official site or find them on Myspace and don't forget to follow them on Twitter to stay connected to all things Metric.

Never Look a Tiger in The Eyes..

2009-07-24T16:41:00.021-04:00

..And never try to open a jam jar with your teeth. These are just a few of the quirky words of wisdom Alexa Chung delivers daily during her new MTV show, "It's On with Alexa Chung."

This coming Monday, I will be traveling to NYC to see a live taping of "It's On with Alexa Chung." Hailed as the replacement to the late TRL, but in a noon time slot, "It's On" is a live, one-hour variety/talk show.

Alexa interviews celebrity guests, catches her audience up on recent pop-culture happenings and does games and give-a-ways. But something that differentiates this show from others out there is the use of social networking sites in conjunction with the live show.

Even though "It's On" is filmed in front of a live studio audience, during the show, Alexa encourages the home viewers to participate, accepting interview questions for her guests via Facebook while displaying viewer comments and photos in real time via Twitter.

Another staple of the show is Alexa's trendy studio set-up. They've taken the old TRL studio and traded the view of Times Square for the more intimate feeling of a hip SoHo-style loft. Even Alexa's wardrobe choices are the latest and greatest in hipster chic, even if she does channel Jenny Schecter from time to time:

But enough about that! Alexa may have acquired he love of fashion at an early age. She started off as a model in her native England at age 16 and acrued quite a modeling portfolio, posing for Elle Girl, CosmoGIRL! and Urban Outfitters. Although she quickly quit the modeling biz after about four years, she has continued to dabble, even walking in the Vivienne Westwood show at London Fashion Week in September 2008.

In 2006, she got picked up by Popworld, a British twist on TRL known for their irreverent and awkward interview styles, which Alexa definitely has not forgotten and puts to good use on "It's On."
However, Popworld was cancelled in July 2007, leaving Chung to switch over to another Chanel 4 program, T4, which dealt in music and concert specials as well as cartoons and reality TV/sitcoms aimed at the 16-25 demographic, much like MTV.

It's also interesting to note that T4 was produced by Princess Productions, which also has a hand in "It's On." Princess Productions is also responsible for projects like the talk show, "Lily Allen and Friends" in the UK and MTV's reality show "Date My Mom."

Although Alexa was enjoying success with T4, eventually hosting her own fashion and music show with designer Henry Holland and hosting numerous award shows, she left the UK in April to pursue a career here in the U.S.

"It's On" debuted on June 15 to mixed reception. One reviewer in NY Magazine said, "To be perfectly fair to all parties involved, it's far too early to give a verdict on the show's future potential. But based on yesterday's bumpy debut, we don't really think Rachael Ray has much to be concerned about."

But one thing's for sure, Alexa is the glue holding this thing together. As The New York Times remarked, her "hip attitude and sometimes wacky lines of questioning appealed to MTV." Appealing indeed. I'll admit I used to mourn the loss of TRL, but if this is what the future of MTV looks like, count me in.

Follow Alexa and the show on Twitter and be sure to check out the fansite on MTV.com.

20 Years in the Making

2009-07-24T01:59:00.007-04:00

Alright, maybe not, but one of my friends, Kelly, turns 20 today. Remember when I made that video for Ashtastic, wishing her a happy birthday? Well, it's kinda like that. But if you thought that was embarassing, she got off easy compared to what I'm about to show you.

Thanks to ashtastic (ah revenge is sweet, isn't it?) and a team of highly skilled camera people (or, my webcam) I present to you, Really Papi, Really?'s second ever birthday tribute video. Please, hold your applause..

A Tribute to "This Just Out"

2009-07-23T13:09:00.017-04:00

I am so sad to say that this past Monday, the series finale of everyone's favorite internet kitchen table comedy talk show premiered on AfterEllen.

What began in May 2008, with nothing but a "blue blaze" and Shane from the L Word, turned into three seasons and a total of 19, half-hour episodes of Liz Feldman's brain-child, "This Just Out."

The show regularly featured Feldman's zany sense of humour, (if it seems like she hints at an Ellen Degeneres-style, it's because Liz was a writer on her show for many years) accompanied by interview segments with celebrity guests and band recommendations from her friend and music guru, Raimy Rosenduft.

While the internet-only show enjoyed brief success, part of the show's pull was Feldman's ability to book high-profile guests and friends. Some of the ladies that joined Liz in her kitchen included: Kate Moennig, Erin Daniels, Clea Duvall, Emily Deschanel, Leisha Hailey and Camilla Grey from Uh Huh Her, Melanie Lynskey, Tegan Quin from Tegan and Sara, Clementine Ford, Bridget McManus, Rachael Cantu, Erin Foley and Rose Rollins.

Many of the guests made surprise cameo appearances on other episodes, like Kate Moennig and Clea Duvall who would show up from time to time and Camilla Grey who posed as Raimy in one episode and plugged Uh Huh Her. In the second season, the band even recorded a theme song for "This Just Out."

Because many of her guests were also her "friendos," she had the ability to ask them outrageous questions, give them off-the-wall gifts and play games with them. Take, for instance, the time Liz engaged Tegan Quin in a rousing game of "Who's Gayer?"

I have to be honest and say that I only did this post because I have so many good memories of watching this show, from Liz's amazing impression of Illene Chaiken to wielding the "gay sword" at the end of every episode while looking into the camera and happily stating, "You're so gay."

It was such a great way to start the week and I think Liz Feldman is just so funny. She had great people working with her, both on-camera and off, and I will really miss Liz drinking alcohol and telling me about things she's fond of.

You can watch all of the episodes, in their entirety, on AfterEllen and to stay up to date with Liz and Raimy, check out Liz's Myspace and Twitter and follow Raimy on her blog, MuthaFunka and Twitter. Also, for more Liz Feldman, check out her little dog-and-pony show, "Shack Talk" on Funny Or Die.

I sincerely wish Liz, Raimy and all of the "This Just Out" crew the best of luck with everything and I can't wait to see what's coming next.

New Music Tuesday: 500 Days of Summer

2009-07-21T00:54:00.024-04:00

I'm gonna go out on a limb here and just say it: "500 Days of Summer" could be the best movie I'll see this summer. Remember how excited I was when I covered it in my Summer Movie Preview? Well, I'm still that excited.

So far, "Away We Go" is in the lead for the prestigious title of "Best Movie I Saw This Summer." It hasn't had much competition, being way out of reach from the second best movie I've seen this summer, "Public Enemies" which is consequently not even in the same stratosphere as the worst movie I've seen this summer, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

All that aside, I'm beginning to think that, this weekend, "500 Days of Summer" could dethrone my summer movie juggernaut, "Away We Go" (thanks to Maya Rudolph/Alison Janey/Maggie Gyllenhaal and Melanie Lynsky.) Even their soundtracks are fierce competitors.

I was obsessed with a song from the trailer for "Away We Go" and after I saw the movie, I immediately purchased the soundtrack and feautured Alexi Murdoch in an edition of New Music Tuesday.

This week, we pay homage to another great soundtrack creation. Let me walk you through it.

There is only one song on the soundtrack that would be considered for the "original score" version of the soundtrack, meaning it's just instrumental. Now, the composer/love of my life, Hans Zimmer cannot be topped, but Mychael Danna is pretty damn close. Not only does he do the music for this movie, but he also did the music for one of my all time favorite movies of all time, "Girl, Interrupted" and collaborated on the music for "Little Miss Sunshine."

I'm also a big fan of Feist, who makes an appearance with the quirky but catchy "Mushaboom" and Regina Spektor who displays her talents on two tracks, "Us" and "Hero."

There are also some good covers like "Here Comes Your Man" by Meghan Smith (originally by The Pixies) and of course a cover by She & Him (Zooey Deschanel & M. Ward's band) of "Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want," which was originally done by The Smiths (who were apparently the original Fall Out Boy/Panic! at the Disco, in the sense of unnecessarily long song titles.)

There are some good oldies but goodies like "You Make My Dreams" by Hall & Oates and "Bookends" by Simon & Garfunkel (which was also in "Girl, Interrupted"..ooooh spooky)sprinkled among some new classics like "Vagabond" by Wolfmother and "She's Got You High" by Mumm-Ra.

The stand-out for me on this soundtrack is actuallly in the trailer. "Sweet Disposition" by The Temper Trap is a flowing yet driving melody with peaks and valleys in all the right places.

And of course, the soundtrack would not be complete without "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" by The Smiths. Just watch the first 30 seconds of this to understand why:

That song is just icing on the cake, as this soundtrack is heavenly indeed.

Having a Roommate is So Gay

2009-07-20T13:01:00.016-04:00

Today, in the "Dear Amy" section of the L.A. Times, a mom wrote in asking for advice about her son. He will be starting college this fall and has just gotten his roommate assignment. But, his roommate is a gay! Gasp!

Personally, I think if I were a straight man, I would actually PREFER having a gay roommate. I mean, he wouldn't be sprinkling salt on your game and he would keep his side of the room clean. Maybe he would even take you shopping for new sheets!

And what straight girl wouldn't want a lesbian roommate? She would know all the hot new bands and you'd always have a drinking buddy. Not to mention when your drain is clogged or a light bulb goes out? Who else would you need to call? Obvsd these kids are NOT thinking things through..

Anyways,

The mom writes :

My son "Bob" is leaving for his freshman year of college in August. Bob just received his roommate assignment and discovered that his roomie is gay.

Bob has four older siblings who have made it successfully through college and dorm life. They've had roommates who were of different races, different cultures and different religions, and have gotten along fine. Bob would prefer a straight roommate.

When I called the university to ask if Bob could be assigned another roomie, the housing director intimated that I was persecuting the gay roommate. Bob can put in for a change during the first two weeks of school if he wants to switch.

I was taken aback. The university (a Jesuit school) has no policy for gay/straight roommates, other than that they don't permit discrimination.

In doing an informal poll of my older children and their friends, I discovered that all but one had a gay roommate and didn't stay roommates for long. Is it discrimination when a straight man doesn't want to room with a gay man? (Emphasis mine)

What stands out to me, and also makes me laugh, is that she says, "The university has no policy for gay/straight roommates, other than that they don't permit discrimination." If that's not a contradiction, I don't know what is. Not discriminating, IS a policy, and a good one at that.

But my favorite thing about this has to be that she actually asks, "Is it discrimination when a straight man doesn't want to room with a gay man?" Really, Papi? Really?

I thought this was interesting because this actually happened to a friend of mine, only she was on the other end of the situation. Her roommate promptly moved out once she told her she was a gay lady, which I think is just so wrong. I mean we're talking days into the semester. There was no, let's get to know each other, nothing.

Thankfully, "Amy" gives her an amazing response, specifically saying, "I agree with your school's policy not to discriminate," and ""My roommate is gay" isn't a valid reason to switch in advance. Furthermore, this should be your son's issue to sort out on his own."

For me, when it came to housing at school, I got lucky. I got to room with three awesome roommates-turned-friends who are some of the best all-around people I know.

But the fact of the matter is just that. I got lucky and shit like this happens all the time. Some people might not think it's a big deal, but these things that seem like minor acts are all part of a bigger picture and we need to realize that.

And on a side note, the second, "Dear Amy" letter today is almost as good as this one and I love the fact that the ads on the side are for Roommates.com and a Bi-Sexual Quiz. Good times..

(story tip-off via autostraddle)

Feminism & Criminals, Violence & Interrogation

2009-07-17T15:48:00.011-04:00

In the midst of Harry Potter mania, I went to see the movie, "Public Enemies." I was very excited about it, as I stated when I covered it in part two of my Summer Movie Preview.

It was really good, actually. It even starred two of my loves in life, ~~Captain Jack Sparrow~~ Johnny Depp and my future girlfriend/Academy Award Winner, Marion Cotillard.

But this isn't about that.

*Spoilers Ahead*

Not to ruin anything for anyone who doesn't know the story/is planning to see the movie, but there is a scene toward the end where Marion Cotillard's character, Billie Frechette, a/k/a John Dillinger's main squeeze gets caught.

She isn't really an accomplice or anything, but she was covering for him, so they arrest her and take her in for questioning. To make a long story short, she gets asked about Dillinger's whereabouts and when she refuses to tell, obvsd because they're in love, she suffers the consequences. The interrogator beats her pretty badly, and I swear I saw him smack her in the face with a phone book at one point.

Anyways, the point is this: during that scene in the movie, I could feel everyone in the theater squirming in their seats a bit. But why?

Where was this visceral reaction coming from? Did we have an emotional investment in this character? Was it because we knew she was (kind of) innocent? Guilty by association?

No.

It wasn't because of any of these things. It was because the interrogator, and by default the abuser, was a man and she, the "victim" was a woman.

Now, I'm not saying I advocate violence/torture as an interrogation technique by any means. All I'm saying is that if:

A. The situation were reversed and it was a man getting the shit kicked out of him by a woman

B. Both parties were men

or

C. Both parties were women

I think the reaction from the audience would have been considerably different. As in, there wouldn't have been a reaction.

Why is this?

She wasn't portrayed as weak or a victim throughout the whole film. She was actually quite a strong and sassy character, for being the love interest/only female character in an action flick.

I think the main reason is because of the images it conjures of stereotypical domestic violence/partner abuse/rape scenarios. Because these things don't happen in LGBT couples and women don't rape men.. (both of which, we know, are completely untrue.)

I don't think a man should ever hit a woman, but I also don't think a woman should ever hit a man (excluding personal defense scenarios for both sexes).

I guess what I'm asking is, what is your opinion about why it's ok, almost acceptable or preferable for women to hit men and we're mostly indifferent about girl-on-girl/guy-on-guy violence, (minus the occasional "cat fight" references, but that's an entirely different post) but for a man to hit a woman never sits well, even in a situation (she was a criminal) that may be deemed "acceptable."

Why was I comfortable sitting there for the other two hours and 15 minutes watching men shoot and kill each other and I didn't even bat an eyelash, but that 5 minute scene felt like a lifetime?

/rant.

New Music Tuesday: Christmas in July- Special Edition!

2009-07-14T13:12:00.016-04:00

I've actually been waiting to do this post for a while. For those of you less informed, I love Christmas.

It is my all-time favorite holiday of all time. I am also one of those people that listens to Christmas music year-round.

Combine this with my love of remixes and cover songs and DAMN. I mean, BAM. Christmas in July. My all-time favorite holiday of all time that isn't really a holiday.

So for this week's New Music Tuesday, I present the Top 10 Christmas Songs guaranteed to put you in the holiday mood on even the sunniest, hottest of July days.

Here we go:

10. "Frosty the Snowman" by Fiona Apple

I can't even explain this. It's that great. I mean, a happy little kid song, sung by Fiona Apple? Yes. Plus I love the cute little guitar riffs. It's the only version of "Frosty the Snowman" I'll listen to.

9. "Winter Wonderland (Rise Ashen's Brazilian Beach Mix)"

Winter wonderland on a beach? Best of both worlds.

8."Silver Bells" by Alice Smith

I love this woman's voice. That is all.

7. "Happy Holidays" (Beef Wellington Remix)

I love this remix. Especially the little "Holiday Inn" excerpts thrown in. It's just so happy.

6. "Sleigh Ride" by KT Tunstall

"Sleigh Ride" by Ella Fitzgerald is argueably my favorite Christmas song, but this quirky version really delights me. I've always been a KT Tunstall fan.

5. "Christmas Wrapping" by The Spice Girls

Ok, I will admit, the original version of this song by The Waitresses is about as good as it gets. But come on. The Spice Girls? You knew I couldn't resist.

4. "I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Holly Conlan

This is one of my newest favorite Christmas songs. I love her voice and the big brass feel at the beginning. I also have a thing for mash-ups so the fact that she includes "Do You Hear What I Hear" at the end seals the deal for me.

3. "The First Noel (Attaboy House Party Mix)"

Ok. Trust me on this one.

2. "Little Drummer Boy" by Aly & AJ

I'm not ashamed to say I bought Aly & AJ's Christmas CD so I could have that "Greatest Time of Year" song from that movie "The Santa Claus 3." It plays over the end credits and when I worked at the movie theater I would hear it all the time when I cleaned theaters and I loved it. But I ended up liking a lot of the other revamped Christmas songs on that CD more, like this rock and roll version of "Little Drummer Boy."

1. "Jingle Bells (Robbie Hardkiss Remix)"

This played at the shop last year on our Christmas CD and I was obsessed with it. This song says cool Christmas to me. It's a no-fail song with a funky beat and I love that combo. Hands down one of the best new Christmas classics.

Yay. Only 163 more days, but who's counting, right?

"It's So Good To Be Back In L.A."

2009-07-09T19:11:00.008-04:00

As if I needed an excuse to write about Kat Von D, tonight's the night for the season premiere of "L.A. Ink."

I never watched Kat while she was on "Miami Ink" but I for some odd reason I started watching "L.A. Ink" during it's second season. I really started getting into tattoos around the same time and Kat Von D became one of my heroes.

Not only is she a master artist, but she's also wicked successful as a businesswoman. Her drive and passion for what she does are matched by few. Seeing what she has been able to do after opening her own shop, following her dreams and really making a difference in people's lives really insprires me.

I didn't watch the show much last season after Pixie got canned. The new crew didn't really do much for me, but I still watched occasionally to what Kat, Hannah and Kim were up to. (I do like Corey, he's a fantastic artist, but Hannah and Kim crack me up)

Howevs, I heard that both Hannah and Kim are M.I.A. this season and I'm really interested to see what will happen without the bulk of the original team there.

The other thing that keeps me coming back to this show is the stories of the people getting tattooed. I always found it really interesting to hear people's reasons for specific tattoos and some people's stories are really astonishing.

One of my favorites was in season 2 when that couple was on. If memory serves me right, they were together for a while and then they separated. Some time later, the woman almost died in that huge tsunami and somehow the man was there at her bed while she was in the hospital and took care of her.

They got back together and they went to the shop together to get tattoos to symbolize their experience. If that doesn't show the importance of tattoos, I'm not sure what does.

Catch all new episodes "L.A. Ink" starting tonight on TLC at 10pm EST and stay up to date on Kat Von D and the happenings of the shop at her offical site, her Myspace page or follow her on Twitter.

More To Love?

2009-07-02T21:12:00.010-04:00

I was watching "So You Think You Can Dance," (Kelly Clarkson was on, kthx) and I saw a commercial for Fox's new reality show. It's called, "More to Love." I was appalled. Here's why:

Ok so, got that girls? If you're "plus-size" (which I don't even think some of those girls are) you've got love issues, and Fox is here to solve them! Because everyone knows that girls who are "overweight" just want boyfriends!! If only I could be a size 2, I would be married by now! Also, apparently, there's a certain kind of man who likes "real" women too.

I keep putting words like "plus-size," "overweight" and "real" in quotes because that's the other thing that really gets me about all this. For example, Forever 21 recently launched their "plus-size" line called Faith. Have a look:

I mean. Is it me or do these girls look fine? They can't be more than a size or two above me and I wear an 8, sometimes a 6. What does that say about me? Am I one donut away from being "plus-size?" I know in the modeling world, anything over a size 0 is considered "plus-size." I mean, Hello, Whitney from Cycle 10. Which I still think is wrong, but I guess I can understand sample sizes and the fashion industry and models etc.

However, I don't think it's ok to market clothes to a girl who's a size 10 and call her "plus-size," because of the stigma that goes along with those words. Some poor girl is going to go into Forever 21 and leave thinking she has to lose 10 pounds because she fits into the "plus-size" line. Descriptions like that are just hurtful to women's psyche. In my opinion, there shouldn't even be a "plus-size" section. "Petite" I can understand, because it's a height thing, but how come there's no label on the size 0-4 section?

As I said before, the whole reason I saw the commercial in the first place was because I was waiting for Kelly Clarkson to come on and perform, which relates to this post, because she has been getting some flack recently about gaining weight ever since she started making the talk show rounds promoting the new CD. But unfortunately, the fat-shaming is nothing new, because I remember even after she won "American Idol" people we telling her she needed to shape up. To me, Kelly Clarkson has always looked like one of the healthiest celebs out there. Do we want young girls looking at women like Kelly Clarkson and thinking that this is what over-weight looks like?

Additionally, on the other side of the coin, I'm really tired of hearing about how these girls are "real" women because they have curves. Now, don't get me wrong. As a feminist, I believe we should celebrate all body types, shapes and sizes equally. The key word there being equally. As I said before, I think I'm an average weight, (I wear size 6-8 pants and dresses and medium tops) and I also dont have a lot of curves to me. Without going into the details, I have close to what you'd call a "boyish" shape and it gets very frustrating when you don't fit the ideal of the model stereotype, or the counter-attack of the "real" women have curves stereotype. It's a very odd sort of limbo.

All that said, let it be known that I am not complaining about the body I have. I do try to exercise somewhat and eat enough healthy foods because I am concerned about being a good weight for MY body. That's what everyone forgets. As long as you are healthy and you are happy with yourself and your image, that's what matters. Don't even get me started on how much I cringe when I hear girls use terms like, "pear-shaped." You are a grown woman, not a fruit!

/rant.

A Mid-Summer Night's Movie Preview: Part Two!

2009-07-01T20:51:00.011-04:00

Back in April, I unveiled my Summer Movie Preview: Part One. The movies I included were "500 Days of Summer," "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," "Away We Go" and "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs."

Since then, I have only seen 1 of the 4, simply because I'm still awaiting "500 Days of Summer" to grace my theater screen and "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs" probs shouldn't have even made it into the SMP, I should have saved it for the Fall Movie Preview, since it doesn't come out 'til Sept. but I was real excited about the preview. 3D! Ahh!!

Anyways, the one I saw was "Away We Go" (which was fantastic) since I'm waiting to see Transformers at the discount price of $6 on a weekend/holiday morning because even I can't justify spending $10.50 (yes, you read correctly) to see a bunch of robots explode for 2 hours.

This is partially due to the fact that I need to save up my money, because this summer, the good movies are just rolling out one after another. In fact, one that I have been waiting to see came out today! This brings me to, the Summer Movie Preview: Part Two!

Shall we?

1. Public Enemies

Alright, call me a nerd, but I love a good American history bio-pic. I also love "based on a true story" stories. Gets me every time. Also, it's Captain Jack Sparrow and (academy award winner + my future girlfriend) Marion Cotillard. I LOVE her. "La Vie En Rose" changed my life. I will go see this movie. Probs this weekend. Right after Transformers 2. Double Feature!!

Starring: Marion Cotillard, Johnny Depp, Christian Bale (a/k/a Batman) and Channing Tatum (a/k/a the hot guy from "She's the Man")

Opens in wide release today!

2. Julie & Julia

After watching this preview it occured to me who Amy Adams is, the new Meg Ryan. Listen to her voice, it's almost spot on! Oh Meg Ryan, where did you go? Anyways, I could really care less about Amy Adams, but I love that Meryl Streep looks like she's gonna be an awesome Julia Child and that her and Stanley Tucci are reunited! ("The Devil Wears Prada," -another life-changer) Additionally, they got me again with the "based on a true story." Hollywood: 2. Carol: -$21

Opens in wide release August 7, 2009.

Starring: Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Stanley Tucci and (The Goddess Herself) Jane Lynch

3. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Yes, I have seen all the movies. No, I haven't read all the books. Yes, I do want to see this movie partially because I love Helena Bonham Carter and have a huge man-crush on Alan Rickman. That voice! Sigh. He's been in so many good movies. He's a great person to play 6 degrees of separation with.

Opens in wide release July 15, 2009.

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Alan Rickman and Helena Bonham Carter

4. Paper Heart

This movie looks so cute. I don't care if Michael Cera plays the same person in every movie. People say that about Zooey Deschanel too, only in his case, they're actually right. But it works for him! Also that Charlyne Yi girl was in a recent issue of Bust and her interview was pretty funny. Yay! Summer rom-coms, here we come!

Starring: Charlyne Yi (a/k/a the stoner girl from "Knocked Up"), Michael Cera and Seth Rogan

Opens in wide release August 14, 2009

5. From Justin to Kelly

Just kidding!! Those were the days.. "Musical event of the summer" indeed.. =]

New Music Tuesday: Triple Threat Special Edition!

2009-06-30T20:32:00.016-04:00

For this week's new music Tuesday, I was inspired when I was listening to an olde mix CD I had made with a song I haven't heard in so long it sounded like new again. The song was "La Familia" by Mirah.

I can't even really remember how I stumbled on to Mirah. I think she was a, "if you like this, you'll like this" reccomendation actually. I enjoyed her album title, "You Think It's Like This, But Really It's Like This," and bought it immediately. I love her voice and her style, and the compilation of remixed songs on "Joyride" gives a fresh taste to old favorites. Plus, she's out, she wears glasses and she was born in Philadelphia. What more can you ask for? Check her out on her Myspace page.

The next day at work, "Love Letter To Japan" by The Bird and the Bee came on to the radio.
I've been a fan of The Bird and the Bee for a while now. I love all of their albums, from the self-titled debut from 2007, their EP, "Please Clap Your Hands," and their newest album, "Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future."

I first became a fan when I saw them open for Lily Allen a few years ago at the TLA. I loved her voice and their style as a band. I also loved that her back-up singers wore matching night gowns. I thought that was sweet. And then, they did a cover of "How Deep Is Your Love" for the Sex and the City Movie. Swoon. Experience the greatness of The Bird and the Bee at their official site or their Myspace page.

I was watching the L Word the other day, like usual and I was recalling how much I enjoyed this little ditty called "Swimming Pool" by Freezepop. (a/k/a the "Everything is Perfect Now" sex background music, awww.. gets me everytime. sniff. tibette forevs! /mini-rant)

That song was actually the first Freezepop song I heard and then I found out that "Less Talk More Rokk" was a bonus song on Guitar Hero II. Sactually most famous for having their songs featured in video games, which I thought was interesting. Anyhoosale, shortly after mastering that song on Guitar Hero, obvsd, I went to buy their CD, "Future Future Future Perfect," and was not dissapointed. For more on Freezepop, check out their official site or Myspace page.

The one thing all of these ladies have in common is a cool voice that keeps an even-keel. This is not to say they are not talented and I do not enjoy their work, as I am fans of all of these aforementioned bands, but I would go so far as to say they sound a little non-plussed, but I like it. In an age of radio dominated by rap and hip hop, dance club beats and the occasional tear-the-roof-down songstresses (beyonce, i'm looking at you) it's nice to take a minute, sit back and just like a gentle voice glide over you pallette.

The New Media and American Tragedies

2009-06-26T12:20:00.012-04:00

I can't think of a better way to put this:

"As I tweeted earlier, "Michael Jackson is not Pearl Harbor or JFK, but you'll always remember where you were when he died... on Twitter." -Fletch, Digital City.com

Granted, I haven't witnessed many great tragedies or monumental pop culture deaths in my lifetime so far. (I've got a long way to go as a twenty-something.) So some of the only things I remember so far are Katrina, the tsunamis and the Iraq war.

The only thing I can remember the day and the time, where I was and what I was doing, was September 11th. I can recall the details of those moments like it was yesterday and I heard the news on the radio, because this was long before I even knew what Twitter was.

I will admit that I heard about Michael Jackson going in to cardiac arrest via Twitter and found out about his death via text message, because I was at work. Otherwise I probably would have caught it on T.V.

I also found out about the death of Farrah Fawcet via Twitter and it's kind of a shame that her death is being completely oveshadowed by Michael Jackson's. But he was definitely more famous, in the sense of being an icon.

I certainly know who Michael Jackson is and I know his music and his legacy, but I was a child of the '90s and missed his hey day and I was never his biggest fan, so his death wasn't really upsetting to me as much as shocking. Shocking in the sense that, here is this American icon, and he's not going to be around anymore.

But, back to Twitter. There were so many tweets about his death when I got home and every story on every major search engine confirmed the news. The image at the right is a graph of Google's trends showing the peak of Michael Jackson's death.

I went to a journalism conference in NYC a few months ago and in a lot of the workshops I went to, the people were stressing how much, we, as journalists need to be equiped with the tools of the new media, e.g: blogs, twitter, facebook, websites.

Prior to that, my web skills had pretty much been limited to my facebook, but since then I've joined the Twitter revolution and have started many a blogging endeavor. However, I know that my generation is the internet, iPhone, text message generation or whatever and I'm supposed to be embracing all these new forms of media, but something about it never really appealed to me.

I may be biting the hand that feeds me, but I like the internet and everything as kind of a side dish. I like that we can talk to anyone, anywhere at almost anytime, I think that's really cool, but the way you have to take everything you see on the internet with a grain of salt kind of irks me.

They say you can't believe everything you read, but the internet has really taken that to a whole new level. Additionally, I think what really gets to me is the emotional detachment of the internet universe and text messaging as opposed to phone calls and things. It all just seems so impersonal. Here we have these things that bind us together as a society, but we feel like 140 characters or less is a good enough contribution. It just doesn't make any sense, does it?

/rant.

New Music Tuesday: Alexi Murdoch

2009-06-23T22:29:00.006-04:00

You'll probably recognize his song, "All My Days" from the trailer for the new (fantastic) movie, "Away We Go," (which I featured in my summer movie preview) but Alexi Murdoch is not going anywhere anytime soon.

The London-born, but Scottish-bred artist self-released a four-song EP in 2003, "Four Songs" which then became the number one selling album in CD Baby history.

Since then, his first full-length album, "Time Without Consequence" was released in 2006 one of the album's most popular songs, "Orange Sky" has been used on multiple TV shows including, "The O.C.," "Prison Break," "Ugly Betty," Dirty Sexy Money" and "Ladder 49."

Murdoch is known to be somewhat of recluse, but earlier this year, he embarked on a tour here in the U.S. where he distributed exclusive copies of his new CD, "Towards the Sun" which is rumored to be released later this year.

So take a listen to "All My Days" and for more Murdoch be sure to check out "Away We Go," for which he provided the majority of the soundtrack.

Stay up to date on Alexi Murdoch with his official site and Myspace page.

"If it were up to him, Cesar Millan would be up here with that damn dog.."

2009-06-22T19:25:00.011-04:00

She first gained notoritity in a supporting role in a sitcom. Now she's a two-time Emmy winning, Grammy nominated commedianne who is still working twice as hard to get half as far in her never-ending quest to get off the D-List.

All of this despite the fact that people still call her Kathy Griffith, to which she always replies a sarcastically exhausted, "It's Griffin.." Repeatedly getting people's names wrong will never get old for me, I have no idea why, it's just always funny.

Kathy Griffin is the outspoken comic that says the things we're all thinking.

She has no trouble speaking up about things like her plastic surgery mishaps and is very open about herself and her life. Plus, she's the newest Bust cover girl. Can't compete with that.

Although she may have made some public A-List enemies, audiences of her stand-up routine and her reality show alike have shown their support in droves.

In 2007, the third season of "My Life on the D-List" premiered to over 1 million viewers, an all-time high for the Bravo Network.

Additionally, she may be banned from The View, Regis and Kelly, The Tonight Show and Ellen, but that just gives her more material for her stand-up act, where she routinely criticizes celebrity behavior.

To date, she's done seven stand-up specials, her most recent being the hilarious, "Kathy Griffin: Straight to Hell," and she's rumoured to have another Bravo stand-up special in the works as we speak.

Currently, Griffin is on tour and as usual you can follow her on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook for all the latest news. And if that still doesn't soothe your Griffin addiction, be sure to pick up a copy of her book, “Official Book Club Selection: A Memoir According To Kathy Griffin” due out ~~Sept. 29.~~ UPDATE: release date has been pushed UP to Sept. 8! Yay!

“Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List” airs every Monday on Bravo at 10 p.m.

New Music Tuesday: Little Boots

2009-06-16T14:17:00.008-04:00

It's time to add Little Boots to your list of great U.K. imports.

The 25-year-old Lancashire native started her career when she was on "Pop Idol" for only three rounds, being eleminated before she even made it to the judge's table. After that, she briefly toured with a jazz band in Europe before forming the electro-pop band, Dead Disco. Her bandmates eventually accused her of being too "mainstream" and "pop-sounding," so she decided to pursue a solo career writing pop music.

Since last year, she has released four EP's and three singles. In January, she came in second only to Florence and the Machine (another amaze artist check her out right now) for the BRIT's Critics Choice Award and in March she performed at SXSW.

As if that weren't enough, she has recently confirmed that she will be colloborating with Kid Cudi on a remix of his new single. Additionally, she has already worked with producer RedOne, the mastermind behind a good deal of the Lady Gaga think-tank, including her first smash, "Just Dance."

She is currently touring the U.K. into the fall and will play a few U.S. shows including NYC, Chicago, West Hollywood and San Franciso in September.

For now, feast your eyes on the new video for the single, "New In Town." It'll get stuck in your head almost instantly.

Her full-length debut, “Hands,” was released on June 8 in the U.K and is set for a July 14 release stateside. For everything on Little Boots, check out her Myspace, follow her on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook, and of course stay up to date with her official site.

NewNowNext Awards Recap Central

2009-06-15T17:13:00.010-04:00

Well the second ever NewNowNext Awards were on Saturday night on Logo. I tuned in to see nothing I wanted to see happen. I recognized about three people on the red carpet, and that's only because I saw them on the Autostraddle pre-game video, which was more entertaining than the whole of the awards show.

Speaking of whom, I did not see Riese and/or A;ex, but instead, I saw those two guys who are like the Ryan Seacrests of Logo and the lead, but my least favorite girl from "Gimme Sugar." Which starts again.. in like a week. I like Bathilda, she makes me laugh and Davonee was one of those three people I recognized. But I digress..

Let's get to the re-cap, ok? Ok. Look out. Watch your eyes.

Here are the ones I actually had an opinion on:

Best Lesbian Kiss: Bette & Tina
-Obvsd.

Best Future Feature: Bruno
-Ummm... The next Batman movie should have won.. def.

Brink of Fame Actor: Nelson Ellis ("True Blood")
-HELLO. Clementine Ford. People please. Need I remind you?

Annnnnnnnd we're back.

Brink of Fame Comic: Kate McKinnon ("The Big Gay Sketch Show")
-Again. Hello, NewNowNext Awards. Let's talk. Erin Foley was nominated. I believe there has been a mistake. Kthxbi.

Brink of Fame Music: The Fire and Reason
-Let's also talk about how Morningwood, Lykke Li or Ladyhawke could have won and I would have been satisfied. But no. Sing the song = get the award. Please people, these are NOT the Grammys.

Cause You're Hot: Jessica Clark
-This was by far the biggest mistake of the night. Jessica Clark is indeed hot. But she was up against Lady Gaga. LADY GAGA.

That is all.

Here are the other winners, but I will be honest and tell you I have never heard of any of them, except Christian, the guy from Project Runway 87. Well and Miley Cyrus, obvsd, but that is not an award I think she'll be running to pick up anytime soon.

Feel This Bitch: Dorota (The housekeeper from "Gossip Girl")

Most Addictive Reality Star: Ongina ("RuPaul's Drag Race")

Most Guiltiest Pleasure: The Wendy Williams Show

OMFG Internet Award: Prop 8: The Musical

Ruining Pop Culture Award: Miley Cyrus

Best Gay Couple: Christian Siriano & Brad Walsh

Best International Crossover: Patrick Wolf

Best Show You're Not Watching: "True Blood"

I mean. For the second time around, this one was better than last year's, with the crucial exception of Lady Gaga's freaking AWESOME performance of "Just Dance." But, they need to get some better writers or something.

They have (some of) the names and they def. have the awards. They just need the show. At some points it was like watching a really bad Saturday Night Live episode. Reallt the only excuse I had to keep watching it was to see the Britney Spears tribute for the NNN version of a lifetime acheivement award, which was short but still nice. Mostly, I think they just need a bigger stage.

I Fly Like Paper, Get High Like Planes

2009-06-11T15:50:00.016-04:00

Although it's raining, or maybe because it's raining, I've been wishing I could go on vacation. Now I don't vacation a lot, but when I do, I really love to travel. Getting there is half the fun. I don't care for long road trips, but I am a fan of ridin' the rails as well as a good sea voyage, and I absolutely love to fly.
I stumbled on to a funny article this morning entitled, "7 Ways to Annoy a Flight Attendant." I'm often stunned at the way some people behave on airplanes and in airports and I thought it was kind of ironic that the list of things that annoy flight attendants are the same types of things that annoy me when I travel. Let us recount:

*Don't Bring Your Pet On The Plane

Personally, I would think this would be a no-brainer. Luckily, I've yet to be on a plane where a passenger has decided to book their pooch a seat, but people bring their dogs in to the shop all the time and carry them around the store in their purses, a la Paris Hilton. I'm always afraid the dog will leap out of the bag and start running amok, or the dog looks so sedated I feel like I should call animal control. Any way you slice it, I'd say bringing your pets to public places, unless they are for personal aide obvs, is a big Don't.

*Don't Put Your Bag in the First Set Of Overhead Bins, Then Sit in the Back of the Plane/ If Your Bag is Too Heavy, Just Check It

This annoys me so much. So so much. People stand there and fight with their bags because they can't lift them and hold up the whole line just so they can be slick and grab their bag real quick on the way out. The article says if you can't lift your bag on top of your refrigerator, it's too heavy. I think that's a good tip.

Also, you're taking up space from people who are actually gonna sit up front and then everyone has to wait while the flight attendants try to find an empty storage bin, usually the one you could have used in the first place. I fly Southwest a lot and because of their boarding system (you pick where you sit) I think everyone should walk straight to the back of the plane and sit that way. But no. Everyone wants to be first OFF the plane, so everyone gets held up while people try to sit in the first few rows. We'll all get off the plane eventually people, a seat is a seat. Trust me.

*Don't Ignore Your Kids

The article talks about how parents expect flight attendants to have diapers, extra batteries, toys and medicine at their disposal, but I find it more annoying as a passenger when a mis-behaving child is being completely ignored by their parents. You can sometimes prepare yourself and spot them early on in the waiting area. Look for the kids that are running around or constantly whining to their parents for food or to go to the bathroom.

Once you get on the plane, I've found that sitting in front of a child is the worst seating arrangment, because your seat gets jostled more from the kicking child than from the turbulence. Also, your ears are in the line of fire if that kid starts screaming/crying. There's nothing you can do, because if you make a comment to the parent, nine times out of ten, they are not receptive to your pleas and will inform you that you can't tell them how to discipline their children and don't even think about complaining to the flight attendants, they don't need that. There's really no option, except try to distance yourself, but mis-behaving children are definitely one of my pet peeves about traveling.

*Don't Complain About Seating, the High Price of Airfare or Any of the Above.

Nothing is worse than hearing another passenger constantly calling the flight attendant over to complain about every little issue. Also, don't make comments, like, "I can't believe they're charging for x, y, z now, shouldn't those come with the ticket?" I used to get the same thing when I worked at the movie theater. People would complain about the price of the food or the price of the tickets and ask if they got something for free or something extra and it really just got old. You're not being original and you're not being funny. We don't make the prices, we just work there. Cut people some slack.

Some of my personal traveling Don'ts would be:

*Don't listen to your iPod at max volume. I listen to my music loud, but if I can tell what song your listening to, it's too loud.

*Don't go overboard on PDA. We're already in close quarters. Odds are if I'm not by the window, my choices are look at the walls or look at you. It's just awkward. Keep it clean, kids.

*Don't eat food that smells. Seriously, I don't know how else to put it. If I'm sitting near someone with something spicy or chinese food especially, in a confined space, that stuff can be lethal. It's the same idea as wearing too much cologne/perfume. Think about the people around you.

What are some of your travel don'ts/horror stories?

New Music Tuesday: Top 10 Summer Remixes

2009-06-09T15:49:00.004-04:00

No time for pleasantries! Let's dive right in, shall we?

10. Justice: “D.A.N.C.E." (MSTRKRFT Remix)

I honestly could not stand this original song when I first heard it, but then I heard this remix and I changed my tune. There's something really catchy about it and definitely dance worthy!

9. The Spice Girls: “Who Do You Think You Are (Morales Club Mix)”

A little throwback here, but in my mind, the Spice Girls still haven't gone out of style. This song is one of their best dance jams, hands down and this remix only amps it up to the nth degree. Get ready to get your party on!

8. Emma Bunton: “Downtown”(Remix)

The original cover that Emma Bunton (aka Baby Spice) did of "Downtown" was pretty good by itself, but I cannot get over this remix. I listen to it all the time. It's the perfect song for those cool summer nights.

7.Feist: “I Feel It All” (Escort Remix)

This marching band-inspired remix is definitely not for the clubs, but if you find yourself looking for something different to listen to while you soak up the sun, check out this bright and brassy tune.

6. The Gossip: “Listen Up!” (MSTRKRFT Remix)

I would never think to remix this song, but it totally works! The grooving, synth-y bass line works wonders and makes this into a top choice for cruising around town on those bright summer days.

5. Kelly Clarkson: “My Life Would Suck Without You” (Dance Remix by Weekend Of Hedonism)

My life would suck without this remix. (Sorry, it was too easy) Good remixes of Kelly Clarkson songs are few and far between because her songs don't really lend themselves to the club scene, but this is a nicely done, different take on the latest big hit. This won't give you a headache at the club, but it's a cool, breezy jam to take on those long roadtrips or for chilling at a pool party.

4. The Pussycat Dolls: “I Hate This Part” (Pole Moto Blanco Remix)

They may hate this part right here, but you will not hate this remix! This is definitely one to pump you up before you hit the streets on those hot summer nights.

3. Lady Gaga: “Poker Face” (Jody Den Broeder Remix)

Try to turn on the radio right now and not hear "Poker Face" on at least one station. I dare you. This song is the number one hit of the summer so far and this remix is no gamble, featuring the perfect combination of sweet sounds and heavy beats.

2. Britney Spears: “Circus” (Linus Love Remix)

There are so many "Circus" remixes out there right now, because this song is like a firecracker, it is HOT. But this remix in particular just has that certain something that makes it the perfect dance club party jam.

1. M.I.A.: “Paper Planes” (DFA Remix)

It was love at first listen the first time I heard this song. This remix, which you might recognize from the movie, "Slumdog Millionaire," is definitely a jam to keep you flyin high, all summer long.

Been Leanin' Like A Cholo, BRB

2009-06-08T22:59:00.004-04:00

So, some of you may have noticed a minor RPR hiatus this past week. Don't panic! Your regularly scheduled program will return tomorrow with an all new New Music Tuesday, I promise! I've been having some difficulties this week that have kept me from my one true love, the blog, and I present you with a video that sums up my feelings:

See you tomorrow.