too rude magazine

STILL MONKI-ING AROUND

2011-10-25T16:00:00.006-04:00

Lerima viscose t-shirts; black Peter Pan collar Silvia tee; long sleeve purple Paloma; lambswool Piccolina; sporty Sally sweater

One of my favourite brands from Sweden, Monki, now offers online shopping. I am most excited about The Karolina jacket below. Simplistic with cheap prices and international flare, Monki is not a brand to be missed.

Everything is so cute from each piece down to their whole look and styling! Check out my open love letter to Monki from last summer. My only itty-bitty recommendation for Monki designers? Less polyester, more natural fabrics.

ON CLEANING OUT YOUR IPOD

2011-10-21T17:55:00.013-04:00

Why I have over 30g of music and nothing to listen to

I try not to think about the grueling process of cleaning out my iPod, but sometimes I come across a really ugly jam on shuffle and I'm all, "Why god, why do I own this song?" I have an 80g iPod. You'd think I'd want to fill that shit up, but no, I use my space sparingly. My iTunes library holds selection of carefully curated rooms, each filled with artifacts from specific genres. I have everything from 90s to hardcore to Turkish psychedelic music. In total, there are 5777 songs to this day on my iPod. That's over 15 days of music.

Collecting, organizing and labeling is crucial with the iPod. Some albums you store away, removing from your shuffle queue in silence. Others you highlight in newly designed playlists that scream, "I'm new to your iPod. Listen to me before you forget about me!" I study each album prior to uploading to see if it will "make the cut".

Cleaning out your iPod is a difficult process. You may hate yourself for liking that John Mayer song, but if you DARE delete it, the song will come crawling back to you in some way. Is the lesson to store everything as often as possible and be a music hoarder? If anything, it's the incessant amount of options I have given myself that make this whole process of choosing the soundtrack of my life undesirable.

AFFICTIONADOS: THIS IS WHAT IT IS

2011-10-13T11:21:00.002-04:00

In Malmö, Sweden, Carl Nordström is a DJ and Producer disguised under the name Affictionados. His latest album, "This is what it is" is an eight-track journey into the mind of a producer who can't make up his mind about what genre he falls into. What artist can, after all, label himself?

The album feels like a film score with its mystic quality and fusing of genres. If I were a director I would want to make Carl's music work in my film. It's so gracious with a very listenable quality that mass audiences would immediately understand. Directors of the world, take note.

Naturally, I have listened to "This is what it is" on repeat like most of Carl's other work which is a great combination of soul, jazz, blues, funk, folk, world and hip hop. All of his work loops and loops in my head, stirring my imagination. Throughout the heavily curated and layered album, Christine Owman makes guest vocal appearances adding a mysterious, slightly haunting element to the whole package.

My favourite track would have to be "My Mind Goes" featuring Swedish hip hop artist Bracey Hansun. It is the most unexpected song on the album but doesn't feel out of place. Bracey Hansun raps about coffee a lot in this song for reasons unbeknownst to me.

For Carl, the intention is not to sound like something specific but rather to make new music without limits and boundaries. If “soundscapes” was ever a genre, then this would be what it is.

---

Affictionados on Facebook
Revolving Records
Christine Owman on Facebook

Christine Owman in Toronto for Indie Week:
October 13 (tonight) at Nocturne (550 Queen Street West), 11:15pm, $6
October 14 at Free Times Cafe (320 College Street), midnight, $10
October 15 at The Peacok (365 King Street West), 12:45am, $10

MUSIC-RELATED THINGS I FORGOT ABOUT

2011-10-04T22:56:00.006-04:00

That mid-200s mix CD from the person who had a crush on you
All of the songs were good, some were sappy. Other songs were definitely targeted towards you, making you feel powerful instead of vulnerable or like a "victim" of the imagination of your crush. There were enough lo-fi songs on the CD to break your heart and enough hearty jams to make you self-consciously dance in your head. The track list has been uploaded on your iPod; there is no denying that it was a great mix. It will forever be the sound of unrequited love.

Chicks on Speed
Holy riot grrrl in high school. I'll have the anonymous phone number "987 6511" stuck in my forever after hearing the song, "For all the boys in the world". When was the last time you thought about this group? Probably not since that song! File under: Junior Senior, Scissor Sisters, Le Tigre.

Screamo
I had Saetia on repeat as a teenager. I hadn't thought about them in 6+ years until this year when someone bought my copy of their discography from Amazon Marketplace. I still smell the stench of nostalgia in the hardcore/screamo genre on my iPod, but it would be a crime to delete such meaningful moments in my history. Not surprisingly, the hardcore genre holds some of the most underplayed songs on my iPod. I will not touch them with a ten foot pole as they sit there, collecting digital dust, yet I cannot let go of them.

Life before minimalist Deustch techno
What kind of electronic music was I listening to (other than Justice) before I discovered Ellen Allien in 2008? Probably nothing important, and certainly not anything as crucial as Kompakt total series (6, 7, 9, 10 in particular). Minimalist German techno was my 9/11; every day since my discovery of the genre has been September 12. My brain had to adjust for a while, now that shit is like speed.

Arcade fire, pre-Suburbs
I forgot that Arcade Fire released anything else besides "The Suburbs". Remember when they had two other really great albums? Why does it seem like this one matters the most? It was the Grammy, wasn't it?

TOP SHOP LAUNCHES IN TORONTO!

2011-10-04T21:54:00.008-04:00

Today I was invited to the TopShop Yorkdale media opening on behalf of She Does the City before the grand store opening, which is tomorrow (October 5, 2011). After meeting Kate Phelan, creative director of TopShop and ex-fashion director of British Vogue, I was privileged to shop the collection and really get a feel for the place.

See the full story here.

It turns out TopShop Canada is equally as rad as it is elsewhere in the world. Here is a glimpse of what is going on at TopShop in Toronto. Canadians, be very, very stoked. Prices will be 10% cheaper than in the States, and students receive 10% with valid I.D. We will not be passed by when it comes to excellent designer collabs and higher end collections like Unique and Boutique.

Kate Phelan and I. She is wondering what I bought (and so are you)
Kate Phelan was a very inspirational and supportive woman to speak to. She wants to encourage people to follow their path, so when we spoke I really felt a personal connection to her. Being a creative director is a dream for me, and even just to sit down and speak with her for 15 minutes was great.

Kate's favourite piece, #1

Kate's favourite piece, #2

TopMan

Straight from the runway, very exciting

I picked up this sweater which reminds me of Scotland meets Rag&Bone, along with a classic black pleated dress

BEST OF LONDON FASHION WEEK

2011-09-29T16:22:00.009-04:00

Trying to figure out the best collection at London Fashion Week is like trying to choose between your favourite children. It’s just not gonna happen. London has continuously shocked and surprised me in the last two years with its bold style which seems accidental and scruffy (a good thing). I think this is what is so appealing about the London shows; the designers are diverse, the shows feel young, and the vibe is very street. London just seems a little more earthy and more casual with injections of grunge, yet everybody is delightfully decked out.

Acne, spring 2012. The collection took my heart away to Sweden, and made me consider wearing white, something that is just really, really rare.
Meanwhile, Jaeger London and Roksanda Ilincic stole my heart this season simply based on colour and cut. In Roksanda's collection, we are particularly seeing a fusion of modern cocktail and sportswear, and a new breed of "sophisticated slouch". With Jaeger London, detail and geometry were everything, and the designs were more timeless than anything else.

Roksanda Ilincic, spring 2012

Jaeger London, spring 2012
Mulberry killed it last fall (2011) with their bird prints and purple fabrics. I instantly became a fan. Mulberry’s spring 2012 collection is more calm, cool and collected. Oddly, it seemed prepared for a rainy day in England. How does tulle fare in the rain? Those pastel satchels better be waterproof.

London, you're making my heart pump these days. With or without McQueen.

BEST OF NEW YORK FASHION WEEK: VPL

2011-09-29T15:41:00.006-04:00

Though we are in the midst of Paris Fashion Week with New York, London and Milan behind us, it's important to look back at the best designs in retrospect from all shows thus far. VPL's spring 2012 collection was probably my #1 favourite moment from New York Fashion Week with its sophisticated grey tones mixed with youthful oranges and turquoises. Victoria Bartlett designed with sensuality, mixing exaggerated shapes and structure with interesting textures and drape, overall illustrating woman as powerful. Futuristic yet down-to-earth and ready-to-wear, VPL's panty lines were as visible - and sporty - as ever.

REVIEW: FILMS AT TIFF 2011, PART 2 OF 2

2011-09-21T00:50:00.012-04:00

PINK RIBBONS, INC.
Ever wonder what happens to the millions of dollars we donate to “breast cancer research”? PINK RIBBONS, INC. reveals the downside of pink-washing and how it is harming instead of helping the cause, reducing breast cancer into some sort of outsider/terrorist that we can beat. Women diagnosed with breast cancer from all stages tell distressing, heart-breaking stories about their diagnoses going unnoticed until the fourth, final and deadliest stage of the disease. We see clips of breast cancer rallies, parties, pink-lit buildings and huge fundraisers that shut down cities contrasted with very realistic, intelligent and critical reviews of such girly celebrations. And for what cure? Researchers do not even know what the cause is of breast cancer (it is different for each woman). Therefore, finding a cure is impossible.

The most hilarious breast cancer research endorsement came from Kentucky Fried Chicken. I was shocked to see Avon as a major US sponsor, too, considering that many of their products contain ingredients likely to cause cancer. It is shocking to see how many millions of dollars people raise and how many products are emblazoned with pink ribbons, yet such a small percentage goes to researching cancer prevention and environmental factors. Don’t you just love to point out when corporations contradict themselves? This film wins points for being one of the most relevant documentaries of the year.

WUTHERING HEIGHTS
I have never read Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” but I have seen Andrea Arnold’s films (Fish Tank, Red Road) and I was super excited about her latest movie, WUTHERING HEIGHTS. Set in the nineteenth century moors of Yorkshire, a biracial boy named Heathcliff is curiously embraced by Catherine, a young girl who intimately tries to adopt him as a friend. Set within the dark English countryside, the film has some clumsy and comedic break-thoughs, though I didn't twitch once during the screening.

Years later, a teenage Catherine (played by Kaya Scodelario from Skins!) marries her neighbour Edgar with hesitation. Did I mention that she's stunning? The film goes from ratty to elegant to straight up EMO here. Themes of youth, nature and female desire are courageously used, almost uncomfortably, to create a picture of perpetual longing between Heathcliff and Catherine, who loved each other all along. Peace out, Edgar. My only beef with WUTHERING HEIGHTS was that it felt pretentious, and that I was disturbed by the number of dead animal close-ups in the film. The cinematic experience was breathtaking, the texture and sound was rich, and the quality was gripping.

A FUNNY MAN

I started at this festival with a Swedish film and ended with a Danish one. How typical. My final film of TIFF was seen at 9:30am at the Isabel Bader theatre in Yorkville. Nearby parking costs and arm and a leg, but it was worth every penny to see A FUNNY MAN, which follows the life of Danish comedian Dirch Passer and all of the doubts he carried throughout his career in the 1950s. After his stage partner, Kjeld, becomes jealous of his rising career, Dirch’s life begins to plummet. He tries to branch out into other forms of comedy, overworking himself into failure. In typical Danish fashion, we are exposed to dysfunctional families, alcoholism, death and renewal all in two hours injected with black humour. You don’t need to know who Dirch Passer is to care about this movie. Simply recognize its greatness and move on. The acting is beyond excellent and the film is produced exceedingly well. What a great, rewarding way to end off the festival.

P.S. I loved those Cadillac commercials; “from zero to drama in 0.39 seconds”. The typefaces were impeccable.

Thanks for a great year, TIFF! See part one of my TIFF reviews.

REVIEW: FILMS AT TIFF 2011, PART 1 OF 2

2011-09-20T15:20:00.017-04:00

PLAY
My first film of the festival was PLAY. It was for 2pm on a Friday and there was no rush line. I felt silly, like, was this film going to be worth it? Well, it totally was and the theatre was packed. PLAY is a Swedish film directed by Ruben Östlund. It feels like the entire film takes place in long-shot. Sitting in third row, I was engrossed by the pace, poeticism and beauty of the film. I appreciated every detail, perhaps because I am constantly feeling nostalgic about Sweden and Denmark.

The film was very typical in Scandinavian style with loads of dark humour, almost reminding me of Songs from the Second Floor but more jubilant and youthful. The film undoubtedly questions race relations in Sweden, centering on a group of black kids living in Goteborg who terrorize three neighbourhood boys ages 10-14. Steve Gravestock, Associate Director of Canadian (and Scandinavian) Programming at TIFF, said it was one of the most disturbing films he has seen in years, especially the ending, which was so subjective I wasn’t sure what to think. This film creates a poignant picture of race and immigration in Europe.

GIRL MODEL
The second film I saw that day was called GIRL MODEL, a film about young amateur Russian models that are sent to Japan to obtain “work” with modeling agencies. The film shows a seedy, unregulated side to the modeling business, an industry where hundreds of 13-14 year old girls believe they will make enough money to support their families back home in remote parts of Eastern Europe such as Siberia.

The documentary follows model scout Ashley and her quest to find the "perfect" girl for the Japanese market. The perfect girl cannot be too tall and must be almost childlike with wide eyes and high cheekbones. We find out that Ashley herself was once an international model and she "hated" it. In fact, she hates scouting, despite being able to travel around the world in search of Japan's next top underage model. We end up learning more about Ashley's problems than expected. At the premiere Q&A, one audience member asked, "Is Ashley really that crazy in person?" Dra-ma! GIRL MODEL is a must-watch for anyone interested in the fashion industry.

SURVIVING PROGRESS

Produced by Mark Achbar (The Corporation) with Martin Scorcese as an executive producer (!), this film is based on the book "A Short History of Progress" by Ronald Wright. The book is life-changing, indeed, and the movie lives up to the same expectation. David Suzuki, Stephen Hawking, Jane Goodall and Margaret Atwood deliver outstanding interviews in the film with insight that will haunt audiences everywhere. Over-consumption comes with a consequence, innovation comes at a cost, and our civilization – bound by progress traps – is destined to fail much like the Romans, Incas and Mayas once did. This film is engrossing; it is a must watch for every person living on planet earth. I would have cut out a couple of scenes, making it shorter and tighter, but fuck it, at the end of the day, you need to see this film. Even if you are apathetic, at least acknowledge what is happening around the world right now by watching SURVIVING PROGRESS. It will make its way into your workplace, your classroom, your Netflix account, your theatre, and your university, just like The Corporation did.

File under: The Corporation, Manufactured Landscapes, An Inconvenient Truth, Inside Job.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN ANATOLIA
I seemed to have been aiming to view artsy, slow, pretentious films this year. After much hype from Cannes, I finally got around to seeing Nuri Bilge Ceylan’s latest Turkish flick, ONCE UPON A TIME IN ANATOLIA. I expected it to be something along the lines of Fatih Akin’s films (In July, The Edge of Heaven, Head-On) but it was closer to No Country for Old Men, clocking in at just under three hours. The first 90 minutes of the film were ridiculous. Literally, nothing happens; a bunch of dudes and cops look for a body in the countryside during night time, bantering back and forth. I became impatient as the person fell asleep next to me, nodding his bobblehead from left to right.

Finally, the plot changes. Guy’s head is still sleepily bobbling, distracting and slightly offending me. Finally, it becomes daylight in the film and new characters are introduced. FINALLY, we start to discover why these men were looking for a body in the first place. The film unravels like a chess game; quietly suspenseful, packed with ulterior motives. I cannot reveal the plot; it has plenty of twists and turns to surprisingly keep you awake. Is it worth the three hours? If you’re a cinephile/film snob, then yes. Sleeper hit of 2011!

See part two of my reviews from TIFF 2011.

Y-3 x 2 = 6 LOOKS

2011-09-19T00:17:00.002-04:00

One of my favourite collections from New York Fashion Week this year was Yohji Yamamoto's Y-3. Judging by the success of his Adidas collections, I sense sportswear making a chic comeback, staying in our closets for good. Yes, even past the point of the London Olympics. Yamamoto's avant-garde design hallmarks stayed consistent while checks and tartans made a brief introduction. Japanese street style meets English punk. Only in New York, of course.

NYFW SPRINGTIME FAVES: SIX LOOKS

2011-09-15T00:29:00.006-04:00

Six structured minimalist looks I can handle from New York Fashion Week's Spring 2012 collections.

From left to right: Band of Outsiders, Cynthia Steffe, Jil Sander Navy, Derek Lam, Sachin and Babis x 2.

File under: shirt dresses, Scotland, squares, navy & white, masculine, contrasting dresses.

POLK ME

2011-09-05T21:26:00.004-04:00

These Adidas Originals hoodies remind me of the Comme Des Garcons H&M guest designer line of 2008 (uh, it was really that long ago? I must have turned twelve years old that day). The CDG collection actually changed the way I think about fashion and the way I look at design. What appears to be unconventional and ripped up requires an immense skill in sewing and pattern drafting.

Polka dot anything, especially thick poly-blend hoodies, are sure to cheer up my 100% wool drop-crotch pants. Viva Japan and Adidas.

Rei Kawakubo of Comme Des Garcons is indeed the love of my fashion life. She's a Libra, btw, so we're compatible.

I'll be able to pull it off for you, Rei and Adidas.

MY BIGGEST REGRET OF THE SUMMER...

2011-09-05T12:54:00.004-04:00

is not buying this dress.

Stine Goya Anthias dress (see more silk dresses)
Next time, Stine Goya, next time. I'm looking for you on Ebay.

R.I.P. STILL

2011-09-01T00:39:00.008-04:00

It's past midnight on a Wednesday and I'm listening to minimalist Deutsch techno. I'm still not over you. Whenever I see pictures of your coffin draped in red and white, I weep for you silently. Jack Layton, you were not the politician I ever wanted dead. For someone who knew he was going to die of cancer, you still managed to write this touching piece about the country you fought for and believed in. It breaks my heart every single time. Anyone else could have gone. Why'd you have to leave, Jack?

I didn't think the passing away of a politician running for Prime Minister would affect me so much, even after a week of his death. I am sorry to have missed your televised funeral, I was working a job that pays minimum wage and has no benefits. Yeah, not our cup of tea.

Toronto, instead of erecting some copper monument or renaming a street in the city, let us give Jack something he truly wanted. A bike lane or twelve. An increase in health benefits for the underemployed. An environmental policy that will stick.

JAM OF THE SUMMER

2011-08-31T19:10:00.001-04:00

SUMMER CONTINUES & TIFF WISHLIST

2011-08-30T13:16:00.007-04:00

Here is a list of films I would like to see at TIFF. Films marked with an asterisk are those I'm most excited about seeing. Come hang out at the festival avec moi.

A Funny Man
A Letter to Momo
Albert Nobbs
The Artist*
Avalon
Brooklyn Brothers
Chicken with Plums
Damsels in Distress
Flying Machine
Future Lasts Forever
Girl Model*
The Hunter
House of Tolerance
I am a good person / I am a bad person*
I’m yours
The Invader
Kotoko
Le Havre
Machine Gun Preacher
Martha Marcy May Marlene
Melancholia*
Michael
Play*
Pink Ribbons, Inc.
Once Upon a Time in Anatolia*
Sons of Norway
Superclasico
Surviving Progress
The Skin I Live in
Sleeping Beauty*
Take Shelter
Take this Waltz
Urbanized*
Violet and Daisy*
Volcano
Where do we go now?
Wuthering Heights*

There are a couple more but I'll wait for their wide releases. If you dig Scandinavian film, be sure to check out Steve Gravestock's programming.

ACNE OR DEATH: DRESSES $200 & UNDER

2011-06-20T11:54:00.018-04:00

Realization of the day: The most I want to spend on a casual dress is $200, and I would like to avoid polyester. The dress would be special, not an item you wear every day, and something you cherish for decades.

$200. Not always, just once in a while. This is coming from someone who is usually broke, and whose mother is a seamstress. This is also coming from someone who goes to Fabric Land to touch natural fabrics and says, "Yes, I WILL learn how to cut patterns better! Yes, I WILL avoid polyester for life! Fuck paying for clothes! I just need a personal tutor..."

I start to online window shop when I receive a 40% off email from Swedish designers and master drapers Acne. In reality, I don't think I have ever purchased a dress for $200 except as a bridesmaid this summer. Clad in clementine, the dress was perfect was it not polyester and satin. I would wear it out in a heartbeat, and I managed to keep it wine-stain-free. But you know, in case I ever get a real job with a real salary, I would consider these Acne dresses. Only two of them contain polyester, but the styles are irresistible. Clad me in tencel, silk, modal, and wool! See also: rayon, linen, cotton, cashmere...

I am 5'0", by the way, unlike most sultry Swedes who model Acne clothing. Will my body find chemistry in the clothes? My credit card can only tell.

$162, 100% tencel; $174, 100% polyester

$90, 100% tencel; $102, 100% tencel

$190, 100% silk; $174, 100% polyester

Click on images for a direct link to the Acne Outlet, if you dare.

WHEN ERIN MET TOMMY AND ANNA

2011-06-08T11:08:00.003-04:00

This article was originally written on April 23, 2011, when Anna Dello Russo and Tommy Ton visited Toronto for Ton's photography exhibition as part of Contact at The Bay's The Room.

Anna Dello Russo defies the rules of fashion. Not only does she archive her most vivacious Givenchy dresses in a separate apartment, she'll wear them with oversized fruit hats, feathered blazers, and sparkly 6 inch shoes. She is 43 years old, gutsy, and above all, genuinely crazed about fashion.

When I found out I was interviewing Editor-at-Large of Japan Vogue Anna Dello Russo and fashion photographer Tommy Ton at The Bay, I couldn't believe that I would meet such influential figures in fashion. The context: ten fashion bloggers would arrive at The Room @ The Bay for an intimate Q&A with the artist and muse.

Upon further research, I started to think: what have I gotten myself into? Anna Dello Russo and I basically have nothing in common. She collects fashion. She dresses up in eccentric clothing at 10am in the morning, mixing Pucci, McQueen and Balmain with lux boas and golden accessories.

I remembered seeing her photoshoot in the November 2010 issue of W Magazine. You know, the one with Kim Kardashian nude on the cover. I thought it was vile, but isn't everything shot by Juergen Teller? Longtime fan Faye Alipour has been obsessed with her, admiring her attitude above all.

"I love that she's fun," Faye says. "Fashion tends to be inaccessible when you take into consideration the hard industry faces and celebrities typically in front row." Despite her Vogue lineage, "[Anna] actually has a palpable passion for the art of fashion".

When I finally got to The Bay and sat in on a private interview of Tommy and Anna, I realized this was going to be easy. As long as I made it back to work on time.

Anna was late, pushing me back by 25 minutes. She changed outfits and tweeted between interviews. Her most eccentric outfit, she says, is the masquerade ball mask photographed by Tommy Ton. She never shops online (Tommy does). Despite her thousands of pieces of clothing and jewelry and shoes, she still feels that there is something missing from her collection: everything from next season.

I met the other fashion bloggers for an intimate Q&A session with barely any time left on my lunch. I asked for a quick autograph of my October 2009 Vogue Nippon magazine, marking the only time I have been in a Japanese airport. "Ah, this is old!" she said when I passed it to her. She was very chatty, reminiscing about the dress and the cover photoshoot. She signed, "I will put again this dress. Love, Anna". When I arrived home at the end of the day, the signature had faded in my backpack.

Basically, I had one question to ask in my limited amount of time. Where would Tommy take Anna out in Toronto? Anna responded, "We have only been to The Bay!". Tommy replied tactfully, "[We'd go] to the specialty novelty toy store at Church and Queen".

When I asked her if she was going to buy anything from The Room, the designer-heavy third floor of The Bay, she stared at me wide-eyed, dumbfounded, and adorable.

"Buy?" she asked, confused about the meaning of the word.

"Will you purchase anything at The Bay?", I rephrased.

"Ah! No shopping!", she declared.

Anna and I had a few good laughs. I fell in love with her approachable personality more than anticipated. It turns out we did have some sort of chemistry; she lights up the room with her style, smile and thick Italian accent. Anna Dello Russo is always learning, curious, but knows what she wants.

"Sometimes I look like a Christmas tree...that is okay".

KABOOM: FATHERS JOIN CULT, WEAR ANIMAL MASKS

2011-06-08T10:05:00.010-04:00

June Temple in Kaboom
I am writing this while my computer tries to de-stress from its recent virus. Seems like it hasn't fully removed its memories and toxicity of the virus, nor will it ever truly detox...

Consider reformatting the beast. Stress out for a while as you reinstall your life, your bookmarks, your electronic soul. Get over the fact that you paid $65 to get it fixed and it still isn't budging. What is this, a lemon?

While my computer was acquiring a virus and sitting in a tech shop, I had the time to watch Kaboom, a 2010 release by cult filmmaker Gregg Araki, distributed by eOne Entertainment in Canada. I haven't watched one of his films in years, I'm talkin' years. The Doom Generation, released in 1995 and described as a sex-and-violence-filled tour across America, was the last film of his I invested in. Things I remember about this film include:

- Darkness
- Cosmic neon lighting
- Anxiety-inducing, swirling scenery
- Social commentary about "our generation"; degeneration
- Rose McGowan's bangs
- Stripes, checkers, and possibly polka dots
- Trippin' balls
- James Duval (Hey! That guy from Donnie Darko)

I belong to The Doom Generation
According to hardcore Araki fans, Kaboom is a throwback to his 90s style of filmmaking. The film is vaguely described as a sci-fi story based around the sexual awakening of a group of college students. Based on my viewing, I would like to list the ingredients of Kaboom and hopefully you will somehow understand the twists and turns of its story:

- 1 kg of pop culture
- 4 kg of sex scenes/dreams/relations - 2 kgs of this must be experimental or sexually undeclared
- 10 kg of sci-fi mixed with horror
- 2 kg of weird dreams involving a red-head woman
- 2 kg of real life involving a red-head woman
- 1 kg of masked assassins
- 7 kg of annoying, "quirky", inauthentic, overly sarcastic characters
- 3 kg of pure, organic kitsch
- 1 kg of horny, awkward, crude language
- 4.5 kg of hallucinogenic drugs
- One cultish twist - choose your own measurement

If you don't feel dirty, dingy, and polyester after watching this film, then you fucked up the recipe. Sorry! Next time, consider having a darker, more experimental, hazy trip. I think Tom Long of Detroit News said it best: "What's going on? Who cares?"

Araki will always be part of my essential high school viewing with The Doom Generation, but I think it's best that our relationship end. If you're curious and you love youthful sci-fi and horror, then I recommend you watch this film.

Kaboom was recently released on DVD and is distributed by Entertainment One in Canada.

RESURRECT DEAD: THE MYSTERY OF MY BLOG

2011-05-23T20:21:00.008-04:00

I had been absent from the internet since scoring a contract box office position with Hot Docs International Documentary Festival in Toronto. From April 28 to May 8, I busted out as much customer service as possible working 11-hour days with lovely co-workers and docu-fying myself with 48 documentaries viewings in total. I repeated myself too often, answering the same questions multiple times a day. But I dealt with it, because the stipend and the unlimited documentaries and the unlimited access to all sorts of great people made everything kinda worth it.

I tweeted less, I communicated more. Handsome dogs visited the box office in Yorkville on a weekly basis. William Shatner's publicist called us, and we loved it so much we decided to make t-shirts. We ate too much vegan food from Fresh during the festival. On our last day, we celebrated with a stomach-destroying "McDonalds Party" consisting of large bowls filled with nuggets and fries. We said our hellos to POM Cocktails and our goodbyes to each other. We met this guy who appreciates grandmas so much. We almost published a list of "people you will find at Hot Docs", some of which include intellects, Russians, hoards of seniors, confused students, sub-types of industry, and then some.

With all that said and done, the films at this year's festival keep my passion going. Here is a list of my top six films at Hot Docs this year. They are the ones to watch for cinematic wide releases.

Position Among the Stars

Resurrect Dead: The Mystery of the Toynbee Tiles

If a Tree Falls: The Story of Earth Liberation Front

Family Portrait in Black and White

Project Nim

The Interrupters

KILL HANNA

2011-04-10T14:53:00.004-04:00

Joe Wright’s Hanna is a film about a girl raised in a remote forest of Finland whose father is an assassin. After spending her formative years in the forest, she decides she wants to see the world. But she cannot leave Finland without consequence; if she leaves, she will be followed by intelligence agents who want to kill her. Will she stay in hiding forever living with her dad, or will she choose to experience life, and possibly, death?

Why I loved Hanna:

Because this thriller is far from boring and cliché, and features more content than action

Because the Chemical Brothers created the soundtrack and it is amazing

Because Cate Blanchett plays a fabulous bitch in green Prada heels

Because 16-year-old Saoirse Ronan (Hanna) is a gorgeous, talented actress who fits the role of badass teen and sheltered ambiguous European living in a cave

Because Hanna is a fucking badass female protagonists who beats the shit out of everyone

Because if I was a pre-teen/teenager, I would have loved this film and wanted to be like Hanna

Because Hanna’s resilience comes from somewhere beyond her father’s trainings, and the truth is shocking

Because the film is not stationary in Finland – it takes place around Europe and thus ignites a mini-travel flame inside of me

Because the costumes for the Finnish parts of the movie are noteworthy

Because scenic tundra is exciting and rare in such large Hollywood productions; yay for the Arctic circle!

Because there is a British family in the film that provides the greatest of comic relief

Because, dude, I need to find out where they shot the scenes with the abandoned theme parks so I can go there

Because thrillers with female protagonists are just much more interesting and refreshing. More films with female protagonists that rule: Kill Bill (Uma Thurman), Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Noomi Rapace), Kick-Ass (Chloe Moretz), Alien (Sigourney Weaver)

See the trailer for yourself:

The only thing missing was Alexander Skarsgard. I just felt like he should have been in this film.

URBAN OUTFITTERS: NOW SELLING THE IDEA OF "ADVENTUROUS"

2011-03-21T21:23:00.011-04:00

Okay, I'm not sure why this is happening. Is it because of the parade of Canada Goose jackets that are suddenly hip? (Those are sooo three years ago in Europe! Get with it!). Urban Outfitters is now selling North Face jackets. Known for their utilitarian outdoor sportswear, the North Face is the antithesis of a floral-wearing fedora-sporting individual who prances into Urban Outfitters. Now hipsters can simply look like athletes, hikers, and pro-campers in these fleece sweaters! Seems a bit too practical for the young and fashionable, no?

If I ever need a North Face fleece sweater, I'll be sure to buy it from a real-ass sports & camping store, not Urban Outfitters of all places. What's next - scuba diving equipment? BROOKS runners?

As cool as travel, outdoor exploration, and athletics are, they'll never look cool or trendy, and that's totally okay. Taken from The North Face's website: "We remain deeply proud to be the first choice of the world's most accomplished climbers, mountaineers, extreme skiers, snowboarders, endurance runners, and explorers." Wow, Urban Outfitters, you really got your target market right on this one!

WHY I LISTEN TO SHITTY RAP MUSIC

2011-03-08T12:10:00.007-05:00

My rationalization finally revealed to the public

Lately, I have been listening to shitty rap music. It’s not an ironic thing for me. I genuinely enjoy listening to bad music and feeling good about it.

It started this summer. Once I graduated and was out of a job, I began searching with desperation. During that time, I came across a music video on MTV: “Money to Blow” by Birdman featuring Lil Wayne and Drake.

Drake. Who was this guy and why did I always hear about him? Surely, I was fanatical about Degrassi and I knew he had a pop career, but he only had released a couple of mixtapes, right? The more I heard, the more I became turned on. It was that deep voice of his. I actually started listening to Flow 93.5 in hopes of hearing similar songs. In a world where internet downloading reigns supreme, I am not sure why I did this. It was probably because I drove a lot in the summer and usually forgot my iPod at home.

The other Birdman
Suddenly, I began enjoying songs by Drake, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Usher, Will.I.Am, Rihanna, Taio Cruz, and Chris Brown. There was something so innocent, carefree, and stupid about all of their songs. It was the music of "conformity". Maybe, that was how I needed to feel in such a time of hopelessness. Plus, it was summer, the most relaxed season of all.

The trend of listening to bad music continued on into the winter, and still lives to this day. Friends have shunned me. Other friends think I am trying to be ironic. No one has gone out to da club with me. My boyfriend could have/should have left me at this point. At least I don’t pay to listen to shitty music, I say, except for when I bought that Drake concert ticket.

I have no shame in saying that I genuinely enjoy the music of Drake. De-friend me now.
However, I am still the same person who enjoys quality music. For so many years, I have listened to awesome bands. People ask me for music recommendations, and I am happy to give them. Just look at all the music reviews on this blog. Do I seriously ever review bad music? Does it take up any of my precious time, money, or even dignity? Did you ever see T-Payne up on that shit?

No, I still listen to “indie” and “lo-fi” and probably every esteemed artist ever featured by Pitchfork. I read books by Alex Ross. I know who Captain Beefheart is. I don’t think I’m superior because of it. Because I love and appreciate all sorts of music, obscure or not, I think I am allowed to have a break from the “real world” of “good music”.

Ciara featuring Ludacris, "Ride", was one of my favourite songs of 2010, and one of my favourite videos.
I think I am allowed to listen to popular rap music, no matter how horrendous it may be. I don’t need to prove myself to anyone. I don’t need to list every rock-snob-approved band I’ve ever loved for acceptance. No. I just want to listen to bad music, because bad music is sometimes fun. What's so wrong with that?

HOW SWEET...

2011-03-01T00:37:00.018-05:00

TIME magazine wrote an article in 2005 about my future

What the eff is a twixter? It sounds like a candy bar, or someone who is betwixt something, but what?

In 2005, the term twixter was publicized by Lev Grossman in a TIME Magazine article entitled Twixter Generation: Young Adults Who Won't Grow Up. The article, clearly written before the financial collapse, highlighted the ultimate failure of today's 20somethings and our inability to achieve success like our parents did when they were our age. I am fascinated by such sociological and economic studies, like the more recent What Is It About 20-Somethings? in the New York Times, so I decided to ponder over some key direct quotes from Grossman's article.

ARTICLE: Parents were baffled when their expensively educated, otherwise well-adjusted 23-year-old children wound up sobbing in their old bedrooms, paralyzed by indecision.

ERIN: OMG, I know, right? What is it with me locking myself up in my bedroom, trying not to cry every day? And by that I mean "trying to make smart, career-related decisions in Toronto and abroad". Oh, thank you for the university education. The experience was invaluable, but there's this guy named "College" who keeps kicking University out of the spotlight, trying to make him feel less important than he actually is.

ARTICLE: Is it that they don't want to grow up, or is it that the rest of society won't let them?

ERIN: Society is hesitant about letting me grow up. At most places I've interned, there is absolutely nobody under the age of 25 who is a full-time, permanent worker. I am only 23; it sounds old but people keep telling me it's not. I guess you don't have to work your dream job at the beginning of your career, but later you'll see this article refers to ideal careers as "callings" or "expressions of identity" for young people. Relevant unpaid career experience is cool at first, but you can't do it forever. Well, I should at least work somewhere because if I don't, I will turn into an anti-social hermit or a 15 year old again.

ARTICLE: In fact, the average college student takes five years to finish. The era of the four-year college degree is all but over.

ERIN: This is true for me. I went into university with an illness allowing me only to study less than the full-time course load. I knew that it would take me five years to complete my degree. To be considered full-time and receiving student benefits in my fifth year, I had extra room for classes such as "Design for Non-Majors" and "How to Fail at Speaking Spanish". I also became manically depressed because I didn't understand why I was in school taking electives with naive first year students ~~who were driving me up the fucking wall with their idiocy~~.

I had my first real job interview one month before graduation for a social media position. I didn't get it because I didn't have "experience". Who has experience in social media when it just came out last year? I just learned some shit I pretended to care about for 5 years straight, you think I'm not going to be able to learn what SEO stands for? I sometimes secretly think that people do not want to work with young people who are smart and know what they want. I feel that we are not given a chance to be paid a decent wage, acquire benefits and vacation, and more importantly, to prove ourselves. That is something we have to work up to. We'll get it by the time we're 28.

ARTICLE: ...most colleges are seriously out of step with the real world in getting students ready to become workers in the post-college world.

ERIN: Uh-huh. Though my university's career centre is fairly legit, they do not provide specialized advice on say, how to write a pitch to an editor, or how to tailor your resume to be a graphic designer. They love to host career panels where it is awkward to keep in touch with these "professionals" in our field after begging for business cards. Other than that, they are pretty good at providing career counseling to people in pre-mid and mid-life crises and workshops. Yay!

ARTICLE: "My problem is I'm really overstimulated by everything," Galantha says. "I feel there's too much information out there at all times. There are too many doors, too many people, too much competition."

ERIN: Yeah...the internet...

ARTICLE: "[Twixters] are not just looking for a job," Arnett says. "They want something that's more like a calling, that's going to be an expression of their identity."

ERIN: Am I spoiled because I really don't want to be stuck in retail or an irrelevant office job for several months at a time, or worse, forever? Sorry for being so straight forward in what I want. Do I even know what I want? Shit, wait I don't...

ARTICLE: ...it's not that twixters don't want to become adults. They just can't afford to.

ERIN: If I hadn't spent my life savings on living in Copenhagen and Ho Chi Minh City, this would be different. Or would it? No Regrets. Different priorities. Let's move on.

ARTICLE: Some twixters may want to grow up, but corporations and advertisers have a real stake in keeping them in a tractable, exploitable, pre-adult state — living at home, spending their money on toys.

ERIN: Coming from someone who has seriously considered working in the fashion industry, I relate to this. I personally feel that 20somethings are expected to be stylish, image-conscious and cutting edge, especially in creative industries where nobody makes money for the first 5-10 years of their career anyway. This image extends outside of fashion, and includes tech gadgets, creative supplies/equipment, going out, getting drunk/high, and living somewhere that isn't a shithole with 7 other people. The emphasis is on spending, which kinda is a bad thing when we don't have real money to spend. Do we listen to advertising anymore, or are we being branded without realizing it?

ARTICLE: "We as a society deem an individual at the age of 18 ready for adult responsibility," Baird points out. "Yet recent evidence suggests that our neuropsychological development is many years from being complete. There's no reason to think 18 is a magic number."

ERIN: To my parental units - next time you think about kicking out your underemployed, privileged and educated daughter, think again. Legally, I am an adult, a less-than-qualified individual who feels pressured to be this Dream Adult From the Past with excess savings, a nice place, a partner I will marry, a car, and a job with benefits. I'm totally down with growing up and moving out, I swear. It hasn't even been a year since I graduated.

The point of all this is not to complain or to feel special. These days, risks seem difficult to take. Money is harder to find. In 2005, money was less difficult to find and we were facing the same problem. What happens to those "in between"? Are we going to continue to be shafted at the expense of others; are we going to wait for our government to draft a special policy for our needs? Are programs in need to bandage our failing system that is putting young people further behind the success line? Do we need prospective employers to give us a chance, even if they think we suck? Do we need legal action in place to make all internships paid from now on? We are no longer slackers afraid of becoming like our parents; we are eager to become adults, over-prepared to settle into that dreamy career we went to school for. What happens next?

At least now I have something to label myself.

WILD TARGET: IS IT CRIMINAL TO BE SO STYLISH?

2011-02-22T15:17:00.008-05:00

I'm not the hugest fan of crime comedies unless they involve Audrey Hepburn, but I thought UK film Wild Target was kind of cute, and I'm certain it had something to do with costume designer Sheena Napier.

Synopsis: Victor Maynard (Bill Nighy) is an assassin whose professional killing routine is interrupted when he becomes drawn to his intended victim, Rose (Emily Blunt). He unexpectedly picks up Tony (Rupert Grint of, yes, the Harry Potter series) on the way, sparing Rose's life humourously. With two new companions by his side, Victor attempts to hinder the murderous attentions of his client.

For a crime comedy, Wild Target stands out for its very English styling of Rose, an airy, convincing, sassy character with manipulation, seduction, and clumsiness up her sleeves. Her style is edgy, mixed up, loud, and bright. Her clothing communicates something about her character, making the movie more interesting by default. And she is never without at least three accessories.

Red coat by Yumi, Blue fringe dress by Kate Moss for TopShop

What is English fashion, anyway? London Fashion Week, occurring this week, might tell you. Caroline Cox's "The Englishness of English Dress" will definitely tell you. TopShop might give some hints on styling, and E4's Skins will inspire you to dress like an experimental teenager again. Taking cues from all these sources, Rose's style strikes me as contemporary English because it is not afraid to take chances. Young women will be taking some inspiration from her.

Wild Target was released on DVD on February 8, 2011 and is distributed by eOne Entertainment in Canada.

THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HYPE WILLIAMS' "ALL OF THE LIGHTS"

2011-02-21T16:17:00.006-05:00

1. It is a clear rip-off/reinterpretation of Gaspar Noe's film Enter the Void, a trippy seizure-inducing, pill-popping, sex-having journey through Tokyo.

2. If you didn't watch Enter the Void, you can just watch this video instead and ignore such happy moments like bloody car crashes, abortions, long and gruesome sex scenes, and more!

3. So many fucking fonts in 6 minutes. Love it.

4. Rihanna's outfit.

5. The beginning of the video is beautifully shot in black and white. It reminds me of Chicago? I automatically like it.

6. Kanye is steppin' on some next cop lights. I almost want to go to a dance party with cop light-inspired light-up floors. Or maybe I should get some L.A. Gears.

7. Kid Cudi's awkwardness and strange faces.

8. For a pop video, I got mad respect. Mostly because of the Gaspar Noe reference. And because it's Hype Williams.

WHY I AM TAKING THE INTERNET SERIOUSLY

2011-02-01T22:39:00.014-05:00

“If it wasn’t for the internet, where would our minds get blown every day?” - George Stroumboulopoulos, Canadian television and radio personality

Right now, the biggest online action in Canadian history is taking place.

Recently, the Canadian Radio-television Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) made a decision that would affect the way that Canadians use the internet, allowing big telecom companies such as Bell, Shaw and Rogers to impose “usage-based billing” on independent internet service providers. These telecom companies decided to introduce a cap on internet use: 25gb/month, charging $2 per gig after that. Originally, the cap is 200gb/month, while independent companies like TekSavvy sell unlimited bandwidth to their customers.

So basically, with a ridiculously low internet cap of 25gb, your internet usage would consist of watching 3 youtube videos per month, running skype for 48 hours straight, checking your email a couple of times, and then paying $2 per gig after that. Forget about torrenting anything, or transferring files online. In short, your internet bill which once cost $50 would cost probably $200, if not more.

Blogger and social media enthusiast Zach Bussey noted how easily 25gb could be gobbled up in one month:

If you use Facebook for an hour a day tending to your Farmville crops, you could use up to 7GB a month.
If you watch a 2 hour HD movie through Netflix, you use roughly 4GB.
If you run Tweetdeck for 8 hours a day, you could use up to 10GB a month.
If you run Skype in the background for 8 hours a day (meaning idly), you use up to 1GB a month.

The metered internet would also mean that entrepreneurs that rely on the internet to build their brand would be screwed. Say goodbye to flashy websites and any hint of creativity. Peace out, Canadian content, networking, and research. Google ads would eat up our bandwidth. Technological innovation online would fail; business and the economy would suffer worse than it already is, and ISPs would not be able to compete with one another. Canada would turn into China, and even Kyrgyzstan would have better access to the internet. We would actually start giving a shit about what useless youtube video we were watching, or what stupid song we were listening to. Unemployed people would have nothing to do all day. We would pay much more for the same service – worse service, in fact – and all the money would be pocketed by lovely large telecoms.

Fuck no.

When I first heard about this violation of communications rights and media democracy, I was so frustrated I could barely type anything rational. Instead, I angrily updated my Facebook status, urging friends to sign the petition, now almost 300,000 signatures strong: the largest online action taken by Canadians in history. The next day, I completed most of this To Do list, contacted the prime minister, filed complaints with the CRTC and Bell, emailed various MPs and newspapers, broadcasting my disgust over Twitter with hashtags including #CRTC and #StopTheMeter. Because that’s how revolutions take shape these days.

It turns out I was not the only one ashamed of my country and its helpless communications system, and I was not the only one typing away in angst to Very Important Decision Makers. Two major political parties took a stance against usage-based billing due to public outcry, and current Prime Minister Stephen Harper said he would “review” it. When old, out of touch bureaucrats are in charge of making decisions without consulting citizens, this is what happens. Time is wasted, and a shitload of people are pissed. As for Bell, they felt threatened by new companies coming to Canada such as Netflix that were “eating up” bandwidth. Guess what, Bell? More and more Canadians are replacing their cable TV with the internet. Skype is replacing landline phones. I have one word for you: ADAPT.

For more relevant, educational and useful links, see the following:

TekSavvy’s response to the CRTC’s decision
CTV:Internet usage caps draw ire of business
Globe and Mail: A metered internet is a regulatory failure
Sign the petition! Sign the petition! Sign the petition! Canadian or not!

To everybody who has done their part in this campaign, keep pushing. It is not over. Rally, write, write, write, sign the petition and send it to everyone you know, update your social media networks as much as you can. Canadians will not be left in the dark, paying outrageous fees for an internet that does not serve our needs. We will not be limited in an age of growth, where online presence is now more important than ever.

Here is an inspirational quote from Hugh Thompson of Digital Home:

‎"Recently, the CRTC asked the Canadian Broadcasting Standards Council to create a national panel and review the use of the word ‘faggot’ after it received a mere 250 complaints. If the [now 285,000] plus online petition signers sent emails and complained to the CRTC instead then you can pretty much can guarantee the federal government will reconsider."

And hey, as much as the internet wastes my time, ain’t nobody is gonna tell me how to use it. No out of touch regulatory body or disillusioned company has the right.

Sign the petition below now

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WHY I CAN’T TAKE THE INTERNET SERIOUSLY

2011-01-26T13:04:00.004-05:00

A brief history of my relationship with the internet, circa 1997-present

Angelfire. Tripod. Geocities. Livejournal. Deadjournal. AOL Instant Messenger. Making fun of MakeOutClub and never becoming a member. These are all reasons why I can’t take the internet seriously.

This is a fact of my life: I grew up on the internet. When I was an adolescent, I didn’t have a lot of friends, so I spent my time learning HTML, making “humour” websites about Current Issues in Pop Culture i.e. why I love/hate Aaron Carter, Britney Spears, and Hanson. I was writing on message boards, confusing people with my real age: 12. When my age was discovered, which I never concealed, fellow board members told me to go play with Barbie. What 12 year old plays with Barbie? I thought this is was the AGE OF THE INTERNET. I was Tavi before that motherfucker was born.

In grade 6, I was introduced to ICQ, but grades 7 and 8 were prime times to be on the internet where I could construct some form of “identity” at 2am on weekends and buy things from Laundromatic.net. I started blogging before the term “blog” existed, using websites like Livejournal and Deadjournal to complain about being a teenager while noting what type of music I was listening to (Slipknot, then Modest Mouse). I made friends with strangers I (usually) never met, and added a couple of real-life friends to Livejournal along the way. There were some other online diary websites, too; I had accounts on all of them. Remember .nu websites? By ages 14-15, I had an online identity that was real, without trying to be anything else. This dissipated as I grew older; I had some real-ass friends and hobbies, I boycotted Myspace until I was 20 and needed it for research, and I went to university. Then Facebook came along, and well, that’s a whole other chapter.

It’s kind of fucked up that the internet constitutes a large part of my adolescence and teen years. I am normal, though. I go outside frequently, I have friends IRL, and I sometimes get sad and bored when I’m alone. I’m not obese and I have non-computerized hobbies. I download a lot of stuff, though – Napster would have been proud of my torrent skills. The days of AIM are over; once eclipsed by MSN and now overtaken by my bare Skype account.

As a result of this digitized tomfoolery, I can’t take the internet very seriously and I am certain it’s due to my past. Several articles and photos are published on the internet in large doses nowadays. People become “internet famous”. Once, we had physical, tangible “libraries” and “photo albums”. Those were the days when your Youtube video wasn’t featured as a newsworthy item. There is so much to read and see on the internet, such as this paragraph, and it’s an overwhelming amount of knowledge and information to handle. People find jobs, MA programs, long lost family members, and homes on the internet now. In short, a lot of serious things are happening on the internet.

The internet has always been a leisure activity for me. It was never supposed to be something serious, was it? Ignore early military-based developments and Al Gore’s “information highway” theory. Was it supposed to take over how I searched for jobs, shoes, apartments, dentists, and love (see: My Brief Experience with Friendster as a 16-Year-Old Virgin)? I never saw the internet as a tool for career-building; it was something you “surfed” in your spare time. Now, every office relies on it to build productive employees. The internet has wasted a lot of time, though, and it’s not always a beneficial tool.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: victims of the internet

For instance, I don’t know how I made it through university without relying on ADHD medication. The research for my fabulous A-papers was basically conducted online alongside a world of distractions. I never had the concentration to read through a full PDF; I was too busy googling random stuff or checking my email/Facebook after finishing the paragraph on why the CRTC is undermining media democracy. I never, ever had the concentration to write and read online without interrupting myself. I even checked my email a few times when writing this. I’m sure you did, too (if you got this far).

I think because I cannot take the internet super-seriously, I am possibly failing in life. The internet is not a glorified tool for action, democracy, activism, motivation, or success. It’s not even real: it’s “cyberspace”. There is too much freedom on the internet – how can you be motivated when there is so much choice? If we all had the choice in the world, we would be prancing around, opting for the “NO WORK” button. In my experience, that is precisely what the internet is: one big giant playground. I am not taking advantage of the internet’s aforementioned wonderful “qualities” because I never knew how to. The only time I adapt to the Wonders of the Internet is during times of employment, interning or volunteering, where I am required to abuse it less.

People are not any more interconnected on the internet; instead, people have become lonelier. People have constructed false identities. People have exaggerated real identities. People are still unsuccessful, unemployed, passive-aggressive, confused, and having affairs/life crises every few months. Survival skills have been overtaken by how to conduct a proper google search. The internet is not a cure-all; it’s a complicate-all. And that’s why I can’t take it seriously. That’s why I can’t be productive online in my spare time. It’s a boredom-eliminating machine, and also a boredom-inducing machine. Everyone is on the interwebz.

“Back in my day, we didn’t have the internet,” your elders mumble. “This generation is so lucky. They have everything they want at their fingertips”.

Yeah, well, maybe that’s the problem.

You grow up on a playground. All your life, you’re playing in sand, swinging, sliding, and frolicking aimlessly. Then all of a sudden, out of the playground emerges an office building. Now you are expected to get a job at this office building and be a serious adult. How do you work there, knowing that the sandbox is on the same turf?

HEY! MY PHOTO WAS PUBLISHED IN TORONTO STAR'S TRAVEL SECTION

2011-01-22T13:01:00.006-05:00

---

Yay!

2011-01-20T14:37:00.016-05:00

1. Start a Twitter account in hopes that someone you’re following will “tweet” a job posting at you.

2. Use Skype often to chat with European friends. Feel tempted to move to Europe because of said friends. Dream of finding a job with a residence permit in such a shitty economy.

3. Read copious amounts of The Atlantic, NPR, New York Times, Thought Catalog, Newsweek, and Gawker.

4. Think about teaching English in foreign countries because you actually don’t know what to do with your life.

5. Make collages and doodle in your daily Moleskine agenda, covering a vast amount of pages you will never use.

6. Window shop for clothing online, preferably from the USA where you can't even bother to pay duties & customs.

7. Send expensive packages to friends in Europe.

8. Go to free screenings. Feel "cultured" after watching said screenings, which are usually experimental, avant garde and in other languages.

9. Make plans with friends to see movies and shows with cover, only to cancel on them later because you can’t afford to do either.

10. Pretend to look for jobs but instead watch episodes of Breaking Bad and Skins.

11. Tell yourself you’re going to learn InDesign, and don’t learn it.

12. Play Scrabble on Facebook.

13. Try not to resort to unpaid internships that will further confuse and complicate your career goals.

14. Think about going back to school for something practical and, like, totally relevant to your life, only to end up resorting to an unpaid internship.

15. Scratch your plans for school because you can "teach yourself" whatever you want to learn. Feel bad because you actually can't teach yourself due to your lack of motivation.

16. Mope over the vast amount of entry-level jobs that don’t exist; dream about taking a contract job that will leave you unemployed again in a couple of months.

17. Look at flights online when they are on sale. Especially from Iceland Air. Remind yourself that it's probably not a good idea to spend all of your savings on airfare. Ignore the $199 flight from Halifax to Iceland. Pretend you never saw it.

18. Feel like you have been unemployed for half a year, even though it has only been one month.

19. Make sure your friends know you're out of work so they can pay for your drinks and appetizers kindly. Really, you don't have to do that.

20. Understand that you have all the time in the world to start up projects, but due to the lack of routine and scheduling in your life, don't do anything because it's too hard and complicated.

21. Remain sedentary until required to go to the gym for ABSession or yoga. Try not to eat a lot of chocolate (oh, but all that serotonin!).

22. Comment on every single Facebook status update ever.

23. Sleep in every day, because you don't have anything else to do.

24. Watch movies and then don't write reviews about them, even if they are extremely compelling or controversial. Even if you want to write reviews about them. Examples: Enter the Void, Fish Tank and The Social Network. Instead, in 140 characters or less, mention them to your friends on Facebook and Twitter.

25. Feel depressed after writing a cover letter and resume you know no one will read.

26. Clean out your entire room and make an huge Box of Things to Sell on Ebay. Make a price list. Be serious about photographing all of those clothes you don't want anymore. Realize that no one will buy your shit, even if it's from Rodarte's Target collection, because you have zero feedback. Feel disgruntled by shipping packages out of your home as a way to make a living.

27. Remember that job searching is a soul-sucking, self-esteem-robbing process that everyone goes through. And you are not alone. And you can't get a job even though you have had three *paid* internships in your field(s). What's wrong with you?!

28. Consider illegal activities like dealing drugs and prostitution to make money until you find a real, socially acceptable job.

29. Go to the library during the day to hang out with seniors and students. This is where unemployed people spend most of their time.

30. Try not to email ex-colleagues, begging them for a job. Blame the economy for your desperation.

31. Consider moving back to Asia which seems to be the only place where anyone makes money these days. Or is it?

32. Stare at your book collection often. Especially that seemingly unedited James Franco book, "Palo Alto". It has a nice spine.

33. Feel unaccomplished, even though you truly aren't.

34. Try not to cry every day out of boredom.

35. Remember that you at least have your BA in Something Totally Useless, and that is at least something to feel good about. It's another accomplishment out of the way. Another stepping stone. Wait, I'm starting to sound too positive...

MY OBSESSION WITH THOUGHT CATALOG

2011-01-11T13:12:00.013-05:00

And so the day begins.

I wake up, read Thought Catalog, and post my favourite articles on my facebook. I don't receive that many comments, which is okay, but I really am starting to wonder why. The fact is this: You need to know about Thought Catalog, especially if you are a 20something who grew up on the internet (literally spending hours on the web, day and night), lived off MTV or Muchmusic, and read Vice Magazine as a teen. It also helps if you tried to start your own zine, you have a hefty opinion on pop culture, and are currently a recent Liberal Arts grad failing to make it in the real world.

That's all me.

For this, I find comfort in Thought Catalog. One Saturday evening, I refused to go out and instead read the entire 136 pages of the blog. (It takes a lot of balls to publish that on the interwebs.) That night, I started bookmarking my favourite posts. There was something refreshingly new yet very nostalgic about the blog. The tone of writing is similar to Vice, a magazine I grew up with in my teen years, Aspiring To Be Everything Like It. That phase is over now. Though I'm not sure I could categorize Thought Catalog into one "style" due to its diverse number of writers, I see where it's going. Thought Catalog inspires me to want to write again in my own voice. And it's fucking hilarious.

A screen shot captured today, 11-01-11 at 1:00pm.

Here are some of my favourite articles published thus far:

An Obituary for Myspace
An Interview With Someone I Just Took a Road Trip With
When I Had a Zine
A Phone Conversation with James Franco
A Letter to Individualism
How to Live in New York City
How to be a Complete Douche
Do Museums Still Matter?
How to Appear Cooler on Facebook Than You Really Are
5 Judgmental Strangers
Why People Love to Hate Eat, Pray, Love and a Confession On Why I Don’t
Korea Field Report: The ESL Gold Rush Pans Out
An Examination of Sofia Coppola’s Career (Thus Far)

This list will continue to grow. In short, you'd be silly to ignore this new generation of writers. Thought Catalog is now.

ERIN PEA'S SPRING 2011 NOTABLE ACCESSORIES (MOSTLY SHOES)

2011-01-07T23:27:00.007-05:00

Observable trends, bright colours, summertime dreaming: spring 2011 accessory report recycled and reinterpreted by me.

KEEP IT SIMPLE, STUPID

RESCUE ME WITH ROPE

CONFRONTATIONAL NECKLACES

GEOMETRIC, COLOUR-BLOCKING HEIGHTS

RURAL, MEET URBAN

THE MEMORY LIST: ERIN PEA'S BEST OF 2010

2010-12-25T11:48:00.014-05:00

Let's face it, 2010 was a pretty shitty year. It was the year I graduated university, and it was the year I traveled least. I did not make a lot of money doing what I loved; it was the year of odd jobs until I scored a few internships in Toronto's film industry - both of which were great, filling me with hope for this quarter-life crisis, post-grad life. Many successes and commitments were achieved - some on my behalf, some not - mostly by Kanye West. I can only hope that 2011 will be filled with tons of surprises for the better.

2010 was the year of ridiculous noteworthy news: the g20 in Toronto this summer caused a lot of suffering; the oil spill was the most depressing, suicide-inflicting news I had heard in a long time; Rob Ford was elected Mayor of Toronto, forever threatening efficient public transport in the city; Paul the Octopus died; MTV canceled the City; tuition fees rose in England from £3,290 to £9,000, and so much more.

Enough about me and the real world, let's look at the media's top moments.

1. BEST FILMS

Black Swan Natalie Portman is chosen to play the Swan Queen in Swan Lake, and the only way she can become a truly fantastic performer is to lose complete control. Her dark side emerges as the bad guy in this striking, stunning and engulfing film.

Waste Land Brazilian artist Vik Muniz documents the largest landfill in Rio de Janeiro where he finds a group of very characteristic recycling pickers. Muniz encourages the pickers to make their own large-scale portraits out of recyclable items from the landfill. The portraits end up in London for an auction at Phillips de Pury, and the recycling community uses the money to change their lives forever. An underrated film that makes us realize how much garbage can say about our identities.

Catfish Ariel Schulman receives paintings of his photographs from a young girl. After communicating with her through email for some time, he falls for her older sister Megan. He decides to visit Megan in her hometown Michigan, despite his suspicions about her. The viewers are in for a shock that is totally out of left field, with blatant commentary on how one can control his/her identity through the internet. Fake or not, a huge lesson is to be learned through this film.

Les Amours Imaginaires 21-year-old Montreal filmmaker Xavier Dolan surprises the hell out of us with his second feature film that follows two hipster friends and their jealous relationship with beckoning newcomer Nico. Beautifully shot and reminiscent of French New Wave and the director Tom Ford, Dolan will make his mark on Canadian film. Plus, the soundtrack features The Knife and Fever Ray. How else can I convince you to see this?

2. BEST MOMENTS IN FASHION

Clean and classic Influenced by Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant and French fashion designer Celine, the year has seen a palette of clean, simple and well-designed clothing, ranging from classic camel-coloured pea coats to flattering straight leg pants and comfortable, well-combed cardigans. Men have started to dress better thanks to stores like Banana Republic and people like John Hamm. Women have started embracing their curves in a-line dresses cinched at the waist, and their lips with deep red lipstick. Thanks Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton and Christina Hendricks!

Urban Outfitters' AROUND THE WORLD collection This year, Urban Outfitters brought some lesser known designers mainly from Europe to their online store. Designers ranging from Madras by A.P.C., Le Mont St. Michel, and Stolen Girlfriends Club highlighted a new era for Urban Outfitters, with lower-end designer prices and unique looks in cashmere, merino, silk and angora. Scandinavia influenced the collection with designers such as Stine Goya, House of Dagmar, Minimarket, and Wood Wood. It was easy for these designers to stumble and confuse you into using your credit card, because you knew that the quality would be impeccable.

Rag and Bone pre-fall 2011 Aside from Proenza Schouler and Vera Wang, Rag and Bone blew me away with their effortless combination of structure and drape. David Neville and Marcus Wainwright were quoted as saying, "When in doubt, use leather," which is a philosophy that worked extremely well with this lightweight, adaptable collection. A collection for "real girls" in the city, they say.

3. BEST ALBUMS

Caribou - Swim I saw Caribou live this year in Toronto. Two weeks later, I saw him again in Houston. I don't care to see live bands in such a short amount of time, or even twice in their lifespan, but Caribou had converted me with this surreal album that sounded like nothing I had ever heard before. I continue to listen to this album on repeat, having difficulty choosing which track is my favourite.

M.I.A. - MAYA I unexpectedly fell in love with M.I.A.'s latest album. It is annoying as fuck, but not more than her past albums, and that's why I like it. It's the only M.I.A. album on my iPod with all the tracks on it. I want to freak out to this album over and over again. Beat someone up to one song, maybe dance to another, run as fast as I can to the next, and enter a hazy smoke-filled room afterward. Fantastic.

Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Honestly, I don't need to talk about why this album is the greatest thing ever. I am blown out of the water, track after track, except for "Blame Game", my least favourite song. Honourable mentions: "Dark Fantasy" (for its haunted muppet-like chorus), "All of the Lights" (because Rihanna is amazing), "Monster" (mainly for Nicki Minaj's verse), and "Lost in the World" (featuring Gil Scott-Heron, need I say more?).

Arcade Fire - The Suburbs An album came out this year, and it was all about my life, my upbringing, my hopes, my dreams, my youth. Lyric after lyric described how I grew up in a boring, bustling suburb. This album is the anthem for all of those kids affected by poor urban planning and malls. Each haunting song reads like a story, making mundane landscapes seem interesting and full of character. The Arcade Fire has perfected pure innocence for that reason.

4. BEST YOUTUBE GEM

Antoine Dodson: Bed Intruder Song

I sang this song way too much this year. I know all of the lyrics, and would be pleased to hear it on New Years Eve. Thanks.

Insane Clown Posse - Miracles

Possibly funnier and more amusing than Antoine Dodson, because it's outwardly and militantly clueless about science. Adults who don't understand how magnets and rainbows work do exist in this world, and they shockingly extend beyond ICP. A true gem in the world of comedy, without trying to be funny at all.

5. BEST REASON TO GET A TWITTER ACCOUNT

whitegrlproblem This mysterious twitter account finally explains the world of people like Kim Kardashian, Lauren Conrad and Miley Cyrus without saying it outright. Oh, and maybe it explains my irrational thoughts a little bit, too. A hilarious read that will make you feel better about yourself.

conanobrien Conan and I are meant to be, and this twitter account illustrates every reason why I could love such a gangly, tall, self-deprecating ginger. Did I mention he's an Aries?

680newstraffic This is the most useful twitter account ever for commuters. Like seriously, this is what twitter is meant for, not #MTV, or #Kraft Dinner. This is twitter put to work, with #real, #hard-ass #information in #small doses. For 2011, #nobodycareswhatyou'redoing, unless you're 680 News.

6. BEST WEBSITES

Tonematrix Make your own music with dots. JUST TRY IT! So much fun!

Variations on Normal A highly creative blog by Dominic Wilcox and all the stuff he creates out of more stuff, without wasting other stuff.

Refinery 29 Refinery 29 is the fashion blog I have been following the most this year, and it's because they have awesome coverage, good style advice and ideas, and lots of fun pictures of fashion collections and street stylish babes. The best part? It's not even boring. Somehow, R29 makes it all seem original and fresh. Plus, they kinda make me wanna do my hair and buy lots of things from Sephora. Writing for 29 = Dream job!

Ignant I can't understand a damn word on this website (it's in German), but it has lots of pretty pictures that I want to emulate. Ignant is totally an inspiration blog for us creative people with so many ideas and not enough time or connections. The clean layout is a major plus.

7. BEST ARTICLES

The End of Men An extremely relevant article written about the rising power of women in the workforce with a clear emphasis on money and the middle class. The article chronicles the (unfortunate) fall of men as well, and how middle class men are unable to keep up with the trend. Women are slowly becoming the main breadwinner in many new families, and this article illustrates the pros and cons of this emerging trend. A well written expose without being pro-feminist or anti-men.

Straight Outta Comp 101 A writer who has never listened to hip hop primarily discovers the genre through reading "The Anthology of Rap" printed by Yale University Press. Fascinating, adorable, and an easy sell to culture junkies (like me).

Interns: Experience or Exploitation? As many new graduates enter this shady workforce, many are encouraged to partake in internships that pay very little or nothing at all, all under the name of "experience". The fact is that many "assistant" full-time jobs are being canceled to accommodate the rise of internships. How much is too much? When will companies that make millions of dollars be legally penalized for hiring on interns, and not even paying for their Metropasses? This Toronto Star article says it all, including legal dilemmas, and perspectives from students who want more from their internship besides filing papers and entering data.

How to Dress for Parties without Freezing Dress Code, my favourite column on Jezebel.com, hit the nail on the head with this article. Time after time, I am disgusted to see fellow women without stockings while peep toe shoes in the dead of winter. Have you no respect for yourself? You can look just as sexy wearing a lot of cashmere, sweater dresses, or boots. Or perhaps fleece-lined tights? Promise they won't make you look bulky!

8. BEST PERSON

James Franco New York Magazine recently wrote an 8-page article about enigmatic James Franco. This is why I love him: he is an actor, he has a B.A. from UCLA, he is enrolled in 4 graduate programs (NYU for film, Columbia for writing, Brooklyn for writing, Warren Wilson for poetry), he will have a p.h.D in English from Yale, he takes design courses at Rhode Island, and he is a published author whose work has been featured in an art show in NYC. Basically, James Franco is the dream version of myself in man form. Begin the process of finding out why he is so amazing, and check out the NY Mag article here.

BURNER MAGAZINE

2010-12-17T22:31:00.011-05:00

Breaking down the concept of "smart girl, stupid interests"

“Burner Magazine gives you the power to make decisions,” says editor Sarah Miniaci

Photographer: Alexander Browne

Sarah Miniaci doesn’t believe in connections. She is the only person to ever tell me this when I asked how she landed an interview with the Dandy Warhols in Burner Magazine. Burner Magazine, an online publication powered by Issuu, is run by both Miniaci and editor-in-crime Leah Stephenson. On a chilly Tuesday night on December 8th, the girls held their second issue launch at the bohemian Loft 404 on Adelaide Street West.

So far, the magazine has featured the musically-inclined Warhols, Governor-General award-winning multimedia artist Istvan Kantor, internationally renowned artist Sonja Ahlers, and Canada’s only literary erotica magazine founder Jeremy Hanson-Finger. It has also received contributions from former Rolling Stones writer Rob Spiegel. How did such a small, self-funded magazine become so successful in just two issues?

Miniaci called up the Warhols’ public relations company to request an interview with persistence. “Sometimes you get turned down, sometimes you don’t,” she says. Next thing you know, she’s interviewing Yoko Ono of the same PR Company for Burner Mag’s third issue. The magazine itself received over 2,000 submissions internationally through word of mouth and online calls for submissions.

Aside from the well-known names, Burner Mag has a unique mandate. “There weren’t [any publications] I wanted to submit my work to, so I started my own,” Miniaci says. She describes her readers and contributors as “anybody of a certain level intellectually who doesn’t feel the need to be trapped by it”. The Burner Babe reads Cosmo and Kierkegaard; she listens to Lil Wayne and Drake but watches Jean-Luc Godard films; she loves Tyra Banks and Charles Bukowski equally. For this, Burner Mag is a shameless and confident publication full of individuals keeping it real, not trying to be anything else but themselves.

The magazine will continue to grow. Expect to see beautiful full-page ads in future publications, and in print format. If the magazine is not beautiful, including the advertisements, “you end up hating it,” Miniaci declares. The aesthetics are inspired by DIY, zine culture, and Dazed and Confused Magazine; Miniaci wants the magazine to feel like a personal artefact.

“[Burner Mag] has a private and sentimental vision that is not always visible in magazines publicly anymore,” she says. “Magazine layouts have become boring. Burner Mag is art that’s not boring.” After being showered in cupcakes, wine, and an attractive, well-dressed guest list, I headed out of the loft with a sense of self-assurance. The down-to-earth crowd had warmed my soul, and the chat had given me some sort of power to make decisions and to take control of my passions, just as Miniaci hopes her readers will do.

“If you’re passionate about something, if you love something, you will do whatever it takes”.

visit burnermag.com.

THE ONLINE SHOE SHOPPING DILEMMA

2010-12-10T14:40:00.009-05:00

Some people do drugs to escape from their lives. I look at shoes online. It takes me away from my daily worries and responsibilities. I ignore more important things in life while window shopping online. What’s worse is that, when I do find a shoe I absolutely adore, it never comes in my size, or it’s too freaking expensive, or the shipping and customs cost is outrageous. Shoes will always be expensive though.

My main problem is the sizing. I’m a size 7. Most women are. You think that all the shoe companies in the world would manufacture more size 7’s knowing this about women, but they fail to do so. Finally, I see the shoe I’ve been eyeing for months on sale at the websites of Urban Outfitters, ASOS or Zappos. But is it a size 7? No way in hell! The world needs more size 7 shoes. There should be companies solely dedicated to carrying size 7 shoes. I am dead serious. The deficit of size 7’s in the world is a problem, because so many women wear this size. Enough of them are not being produced. And the pair of shoes that you truly long for never end up being yours, unless you’re willing to pay the price.

Okay, so let’s say I find my size anyway. I live in Canada. Online shoe shopping, like I said before, is a bit of a “window” ordeal: look, but don’t touch. Hell, with online shopping, don’t even bother trying the damn things on. Often, Canadians are tricked into paying astronomical fees for anything coming from the US/UK. I’m talking about that secret $30 extra tacked on to your bill. This is the customs and duty fee. I see the pair in a style I have been looking for (story of my life) and I add them to my check out cart, only to find out that the shipping is not actually free, despite what the website advertises. I mean, yes, Solestruck is giving me free shipping, but the Canadian government ain’t. Most sites fail to actually mention in non-legalese that you’re going to pay extra border fees at your door, or they pretend that it’s not a big deal. The shoes on sale for $100 end up costing $130. You’ve just been tricked into thinking your shoes were on some sort of “sale”. Ha!

If you buy from a Canadian company, chances are the shoes are going to fucking suck. The world needs to wake up, especially Canada and the US, and find a more efficient and wallet-friendly way of dealing with customs and duty. Canada isn’t that “international”. We're on the same damn continent as the USA. New York is a 12-hour bus ride away, or a 1-hour flight. Buffalo is a 3-hour drive. So don’t tempt us depraved shoe-a-holics into driving across the border, only to find that what we came for does not exist.

For the most part, my best shoes came from Europe, and my worst shoes from Vietnam. Some from them came from the USA. I own a lot of shoes “designed” in Sweden and continue to want more. Lately, out of desperation to own a pair of ankle booties from Swedish Hasbeens, I began looking for cheaper knock-offs. I came across DICO Copenhagen, and well, I couldn’t help but share these lovely pairs from the fall/winter 2010 collection with the blogosphere. I don’t even want to know if they have my size or how much they will cost. Forget about shipping.

Welcome to my world. Look online, but don’t touch. Don’t even think about buying or trying. Just dream. Save the picture on your computer, and hope for the best. Maybe one day you’ll actually find them, or force else someone to pay for them for you.

MY UNDYING LOVE FOR MONKI

2010-12-06T14:50:00.008-05:00

In September, I wrote an open letter to Monki, one of the best contemporary fashion companies to come out of Sweden. Since then, Monki has opened shop in Amsterdam and Hong Kong. I wonder if Toronto will ever become cool enough for Monki, but until then, I'll be planning my (shopping) trip to Stockholm for these fall/winter 2010 goods. Just the website itself excites me with it's uber-cute cosmic illustrations. Monki, I love you. Can I work for your magazine one day? I will relocate to Stockholm instantly; it is the city of love affairs.

Monki is an entity derived from mixtures of old chemicals, forgotten in the ruins of old fabric factories in the city of oil and steel. Monki is also a store concept and women's clothing brand. Unique illustrated prints on clothes, packaging and stationary continuously tells stories from the world of the Monkis.

Monki also has a magazine that comes out every season. Essentially, it is a catalogue with the added bonus of daringly twee photo shoots, cute articles and interviews with cute people, and awesome illustrations. My favourite part of the recent issue was an interview with Yelle, who calls herself a feminist but without any attachment to an organization. Monki is always after creative and original people, and it doesn't seem so forced, which is why I think it's great.

Some of the most creative and youthful photo shoots I've seen! All taken from the website. See Monki.com for more unique styling solutions.

WEAKERTHANS WANDERING TOUR

2010-11-27T16:27:00.019-05:00

Seeing Winnipeg, according to Weakerthans lyrics
by Theo Markou
Edited by Erin Pehlivan

When I told my friends and co-workers that I was going to spend my one week ration of summer vacation in Winnipeg, Manitoba, most gave me the same muted glare of disbelief. "Oh...good for you," they would say. What they actually meant was; there is no compelling or rational reason for a tourist to travel to Winnipeg.

The real reason I chose to visit Winnipeg was for my itching desire to experience a city that I feel close through song. John K. Samson, front man of the Winnipeg-based Weakerthans, writes the most evocative and illustrative lyrics that I’ve ever heard. Samson masterfully works emotion, sentimentalism, nostalgia, longing and political commentary into intelligent lyrics, without every becoming trite or obscure.

Listening to the album Fallow transports me to a bitterly cold prairie expanse and a lonesome Winnipeg cityscape. Using lyricism as a form of cartography, Samson maps the city in short vignettes from the chaotic march of investment bankers beneath Portage Avenue to aggressive urban renewal effort in the city’s North end, all the while declaring, "I hate Winnipeg". Scattered across Samson’s lyrics are references to landmarks throughout Winnipeg. My goal was to visit as many sights of lyrical representation in one week with a map. On this adventure, my only sources of direction were the Winnipeg skyline and the vague itinerary presented to me by Weakerthans lyrics.

"The airport [is] always almost empty this time of the year, so let’s go play on a baggage carousel..."
- Aside
Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YGW): 200 Wellington Ave.

Arriving from Toronto’s Pierson International Airport, it’s only by default that my first official stop would be the baggage carousel mentioned in "Aside". My suitcase was one of the first to come out the shoot and onto the carousel, but I hung back and let it cycle while a throng of people wrestled for the few square feet of space at its curve.

"A spectre [is] haunting Albert Street..."
- Pamphleteer
48 Albert Street

Some believe that Samson, in reference to the first sentence of the Communist Manifesto, pays tribute to Winnipeg’s tradition of leftist radicalism, specifically the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919. In the last decade or so, Winnipeg’s leftist radical tradition has spawned an overt anarchist tendency which has declared part of Albert Street to be an "autonomous zone". Albert Street is a part of this long and still evolving history. In this sense, a spectre is haunting Albert Street – the spectre of the working class.

"Wellington’s Wednesdays" (song)
The St. Charles Hotel: 235 Notre Dam Avenue

Wellington’s is, or perhaps was, a bar located in the basement of the St. Charles Hotel at Notre Dam and Albert Street. Whether or not the bar remains in operation is open for debate; not once did I see any activity on the street to suggest the raucousness described in Samson’s tribute. The lyrics "curtains never open, faces never show" hit upon this. However, the elders of the Winnipeg music scene know that, during the 1980s, Wellington’s was the prairie capitol of goth, punk and new wave; the Cure performed there in August 1981.

Be sure not to miss the vintage advertisements that still remain on many buildings throughout the city; few cities in Canada can claim such a collection of colourful murals. As Winnipeg continues to grow and renew, it seems almost certain that these murals, or the structures that serve as their canvas, will go "missing, like teeth".

"Let’s plant a bomb at city hall..."
- Confessions of a Futon Revolutionary
Winnipeg City Hall, at the Winnipeg Civic Centre: 510 Main Street

Would-be futon revolutionaries take warning – Winnipeg’s city hall is located directly across from its police headquarters. This and because it’s in Winnipeg makes it a less than ideal target for revolutionary direct action. That’s not to say that the intimidating building wouldn’t benefit from being razed.

"A thousand sharpened elbows in the underground..."
- One Great City!
Underground concourse: Vicinity of Notre Dam & Main Street

When visiting Winnipeg during its sunny summer days, it’s easy to disregard the unforgiving winter months. Evidence of winter’s treachery can be found in the enclosed footbridges that connect buildings to one another, as well as the hermetically sealed glass bus shelters. Still, the most telling evidence is the underground concourse which begins just on the edge of the Exchange and connects many of the downtown office towers and hotels, mostly for the benefit of those who work within them. During rush hour, it is not difficult to imagine the cramped marble quarters being filled with agitated business people, making their way to lunch or waiting chauffeured cars.

"All-night restaurant North Kildona..."
- None of the Above
Salisbury House: 759 Pembina Highway

Some years ago I decided that, if I ever found myself in Manitoba, I would make a point of eating at the all-night restaurant mentioned in "None of the Above". In the end, this plan was only partially met. Given the suburban layout of the neighbourhood of North Kildona and the rumoured historic taste of its coffee, the lyrics seem to describe the scene inside of a Salisbury House restaurant.

Salisbury House, or simply Sal’s to the locals, is a regional chain that could best be described to outsiders as a Denny’s-type chain. After a Saturday night performance at Freud’s, the party wasn’t quite over. At 2:30am on the weekend, finding food means leaving downtown Winnipeg and heading to the suburbs for either late-night Chinese or "Sal’s". With eight all-night locations scattered across the city, it’s just a matter of selecting one. But at North Kildona, the pancakes apparently tasted like rubber and the service was really slow. Between this review and that contained in "None of the Above", perhaps the location isn’t worth visiting after all. We ended up a nondescript plaza at the side of the Pembina Highway, which my hosts assured me was more or less identical to the one in North Kildona.

"Out under the Disraeli, with rusty train track tires..."
- Fallow
9 Rover Avenue

(Photo from The Uniter: Winnipeg’s Weekly Urban Journal)

"The Disraeli" refers to the Disraeli Freeway and by extension the Disraeli Bridge. Despite warnings from locals that the area wasn’t safe, even in daylight, I studied the incomplete bus route map I grabbed from the airport. Parts of North Winnipeg remind me of a forgotten city where once populated streets abruptly turn desolate and confrontational. The street that I was walking on at around 2pm transitioned from an industrial strip of auto repair shops to a small neighbourhood of older homes.

Judging by the images that I looked up on Google Street View after the fact, the Disraeli Bridge is hulking, rusty and utilitarian; not much of a sight to look at. Yet there is still something charming about it. "It’s the best place in all of Winnipeg to watch the sunset," insists a former co-worker. If you’re more daring than me, you can watch the sunset and then use the cover of night to head south to the train yard that Sampson references. Just don’t go alone.

"I love this place, the enormous sky..."

The best adventures change something about the individual; my changes were both emotional and physical. All of the walking and a largely vegan diet led to some weight loss. When modeling my souvenir t-shirt, my mother commented that she could see my ribs through it. Similar to a lyric in "Aside", all of this wandering wore holes into a brand new pair of shoes that I "got for free" shortly before leaving for Winnipeg. In a short time, I had worked my way into the dialectic of the city’s complex social landscape. While I cannot articulate its specifics, I can appreciate how Samson is able to draw so much inspiration from it.

Winnipeg and the landmarks discussed are tantamount to Graceland for Weakerthans fans. Since visiting Winnipeg, the experience of listening to their recordings has been altered; I now have a more intimate relationship to some of the raw lyrical material. The visions that were once simply the product of my imagination have been replaced by memories of what actually is there, in the endearing city of Winnipeg.
------
To contact Theo Markou, email him at cameraninja@gmail.com and be sure to visit his tumblr thisblogcouldbeyourlife. His original Weakerthans Guide to Winnipeg is 25 pages long and deserves to be published in all publications relevant to Canadian and non-Canadian music. This is an edited version only for the purpose of Too Rude Magazine. And if this doesn’t get published elsewhere, I hope the members of the Weakerthans stumble upon it in pride. Thank you for sharing, Theo.

KANYE WEST: RUNAWAY

2010-11-01T23:19:00.013-04:00

Kanye West might be a self-absorbed auto-tuned-out douche at times, but the 34-minute music video for “Runaway” directed by the man himself is a stunning and beautiful investment worthy of your time.

Kanye is not a man of tightly fastened words, rather he is known for his honesty and bluntness which often gets him in trouble. With the lyrics, “Let’s have a toast for the douche bags”, he is really illustrating his frustration with the music industry including heavy critiques of his turn-on, auto-tune-in, post-college-drop-out album 808 and Heartbreak. This time – judging purely from his new music video – Kanye has taken a step towards positive growth regardless of his blatant bravado.

The reason why I value this music video is because of Kanye’s unpredictability. If nothing else, appreciate the creativity and artistic value of the video, which is unabashedly beautiful and simply stunning. With costumes designed by fashion god Philip Lim (drool) and noted theatre costume designer Martin Izquierdo, we get a taste of Kanye’s high life. Damn, those new loafers must have hurt his pocket, too; wearing brands such as Lanvin in the music video show us that Kanye is putting effort into his image. But he looks better, faster, stronger and sharper than ever in his various get-ups.

Let’s not fail to mention Selita Ebanks, the fallen phoenix (literally) and love interest of Kanye in the video – and the love interest of many men as a former Victoria Secret Angel. Exotic, indeed; as Kanye brings her to his all-black-bourgeois dinner, her “otherness” surprises the guests clad in starch white clothing. She comes from another world free of discrimination and Kanye can't help but fall in love with her wide-eyed fragility and feathers. She watches Kanye perform at the dining hall as ballerinas jut and creep with elegance. This is one of the most original scenes I have seen in a music video in a long time.

Add the colonial references and some nice unpredictable cutie-pie animals like sheep, rabbits and deer, and you have the re-emergence of the importance of music video. Subtract the occasional mindless, hollow dialogue (written by Hype Williams) for a better music video recipe, though.

Taken at face value, the video is an aesthetically beautiful and surreal piece. But given Kanye West’s negative publicity and “the way he rolls”, some of us can’t help but feel this is a vanity project. Maybe he is pulling a Bansky-esque trick on us all? If Kanye truly has taken his career to another level, then sign me up for the new album and a ticket to his next concert, please.

Click here to view the video on youtube. Shit's too good to embed.

THE FRENCH ISSUE: IF I WERE TO BE IN PARIS

2010-09-29T17:36:00.014-04:00

Thinking about spending three days in one city is not exactly a fun thought. I mean, only three days? That's torture. European capitals are often victim of the three-day method of travel and Paris is no exception. A lot of people end up hating Paris. If we had all the time, money and visas in the world, maybe Paris would feel like a better city. Maybe we'd spend longer amounts of time there to erase the bitter taste in our mouth.

If you had three days in Paris, what would you do? Here's only the beginning of my must-do list, which excludes a lot of boutiques, dance clubs, and mouth-watering savoury French food.

Find Amelie. Amelie has been one of my favourite films since I was a youngster, so it only makes sense to track down the beautiful Parisian scenery in the film which is largely based in the neighbourhood of Montmartre. Could such a whimsical Amelie-esque moment in Paris be available elsewhere in the city?

Visit the Sweatshop. More than just a cafe, the Sweatshop is a creative concept situated near St. Martin. The space is equipped with ten Singer sewing machines and a communal table with rotating workshops. You pay by the hour if you want to use the machines, kind of like a stitch-and-bitch except not free. Sounds heavenly and productive. The couture counterculture begins here.

Admire Patisserie Pain de Sucre, because you can't visit France and avoid the bakeries, cafes, baguettes and wine even if you are gluten-free, child. This bakery was featured in Wallpaper Magazine and evidently dozens of bloggers have featured it as the go-to pastry shop, the most tempting, old-world and luminous of them all.

Image from Paris Patisseries

Go to Colette. A trip to Paris is incomplete without ogling over designer wears from Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Comme des Garcons, Lanvin, Chloe, and more. That's why I'd window shop at Colette, a boutique carrying lustful items mentioned by the fashion gods themselves. All those thousands of Euros. It hurts so good.

Next stop: actually learning French!

THE FRENCH ISSUE: FRENCH FRIES

2010-09-20T13:11:00.006-04:00

Last year I became deeply obsessed with Wendy’s French Fries. I can’t explain how or why it happened. The once-or-twice-a-year treat turned into a weekly obsession. The fries were skinny and salty enough and they didn’t make my stomach churn like McDonald’s French fries (which taste like sanitary napkins in my humble opinion). I don't like my fries meaty and brown either, and fuck home fries. They’re called “home fries” for a reason – YOU MAKE THEM AT HOME! In my experience Wendy’s fries are an irreplaceable fried and salty delicacy. You can only get them at Wendy’s after all. Ever since 2009, I have developed an obsession with Wendy’s fries and probably gained 10 lbs unnecessarily. Now I can laud myself as a “Professional French Fry Taster”. Watch out, wine tasters, because there’s a new food movement coming and it has nothing to do with bacon, but definitely has a lot to do with burgers. When Wendy’s isn’t around, I can rely on these fellow franchises for my favourite French fries. An ode to the French, mais oui!

WENDY’S
We already talked about how amazing these fries are. They are my #1 smash hit, off the charts classic. Some people find them soggy and gross, but their crisp is phenomenally comforting. Just salt them right and don’t serve them too hot. 10/10.

Image from Yummy-station.com

A&W
Truthfully, when a Wendy’s is nowhere near, A&W fries make a great substitute. They are meaty fries but with just enough crisp to tide me over. Plus, who doesn’t want to go to a franchise that sells miniature baby burgers? 8/10.

Image from Newyorkfoods.seriouseats.com

IKEA
I honestly think IKEA needs to open cafes in the city that only sell food. IKEA furniture is one thing, but let us be frank – we all go to IKEA to have a little meal or two. It’s as exciting as a 2nd grade field trip. Favourite thing to order? The kid’s meatball special, equipped with some of the finest fries I’ll ever eat, and the cheapest. 8/10.

Image from Neogaf.com

HARVEY’S
Harvey’s has excellent burgers but I get a little depressed by their fries. They’re just not the same. I could make better French fries in my own oven and deep fryer (if I was fat enough to own one). I’ll pass on these and just get the veggie burger, or even the poutine. 5/10.

Image from Yummylocal.com

HERO BURGER
Hero Burger probably has the best burger a franchise could ever sell in Canada. You can taste the lack of preservatives. And the fries? Oh the fries! A fantastic Wendy’s substitute! Although last time they tasted a little bitter and I waited a long time for them (at the Queen West location), they were satisfactory. But Hero Burger is not the place to be eating fries solamente, a burger made from 100% certified Canadian beef is quite mandatory. 7/10.

THE FRENCH ISSUE: JEAN TOUITOU, TRES OUTSPOKEN

2010-09-05T00:05:00.022-04:00

The French Issue of Too Rude Magazine is a month full of blog posts dedicated to all things French, whether they are Parisian, Quebecois or African. This is the first article of the month.

"Nothing is known to be about style. This is the problem with fashion: trying to define and sell style. Style can't be bought or sold. Fashion can help with having a bit more style, but either it's there or it's not. It's not fair. That's the way it is" - Jean Touitou, A.P.C.

A.P.C. inspiration board created by me

Ever since I read the interview with Jean Touitou, creative director of A.P.C. or Atelier de Production et de Creation, in Corduroy, I became very intrigued by the simple Parisian street wear brand. Blending sometimes military with classical French style and effortlessness, A.P.C. is subtle yet informed, unassuming yet revealing in the design and textures used in the clothing.

Touitou is the driving force of A.P.C. with his strong opinions and no-bullshit attitude towards fashion and its unforgiving marketing strategies. He claims that A.P.C. is a "no sell-out line" and often he refuses to pay attention to ridiculous trends: "The trend now is clothing and accessories for Russian prostitutes. [So] I don't feel sorry to be out of it," he states in the Corduroy interview with Tim Chan.

Touitou exclaims that he hates the word "basic" - it doesn't even exist in the French dictionary and therefore should not be used to describe his clothes. "Basic" for A.P.C. means fake, complicated details completed by robots in factories. His ideal perfect white t-shirt flatters different types of sizes based on their cut and fabric quality above all else. Something so "simple" is actually a complicated process that requires endless tailoring and attention to detail. The brand is credited for using selvedge denim which is known to give a better cut to jeans without unraveling at the seams.

If you follow Paris fashion week bi-annually, you'll notice that A.P.C. doesn't have "half a million to just burn" on fashion shows. Touitou is a self-proclaimed hater of unprofessional model agents and "cheap power". "Life is too short to bother," he says about fashion shows. When asked what his favourite all-time purchase was, he outspokenly responded with "A donkey". He even claims that he would have been an architect in another life but never a writer; "a writer's life is miserable".

Often insightful, the character alone of Touitou makes me appreciate and understand the concept of A.P.C. Despite describing himself as uninspired, Jean Touitou still has a few things he needs to accomplish: "Read Philip Roth's latest remarkable novel and not hang myself". Fashion-related or not, A.P.C. is fashion-forward without really trying to be.

CORKIN GALLERY: FLIRTING WITH BLING

2010-08-15T17:34:00.008-04:00

Image "curated" via Ron Wan's interactive website linked below, featuring my Jeffrey Campbell's

Corkin Gallery is a Toronto-based gallery situated in the Distillery District. Last week was the opening of "Flirting with Bling" partially curated by Jyoti Minhas. It included the following artists:

Marepe, Ramón Serrano, Sharon Switzer, Frank Mädler, Lori Newdick, Grit Schwerdtfeger, Natalie Munk, Roxanne Lowit, Barbara Astman, Ian Baxter, Sarah Moon, Françoise Sullivan, Erwin Blumenfeld, George Platt Lynes, Edmund Kesting, and Irving Penn.

I know owner Jane Corkin hates when people comment on the space (it's supposed to be about "the art"), but what Corkin has done with the beautiful and historic building is nothing short of spectacular. The rustic undertones are balanced by a new, modern and clean touch in the gallery, making art-viewing a comfortable and spacious experience.

An impressive opening, good wine, great artists - particularly Melvin Sokolski's Twiggy works. For awesome coverage, check out Ron Wan's blog here. Actually, you will be impressed by this.

LAST NAME EVA, FIRST NAME GREATEST: DRAKE AUGUST 1, 2010

2010-08-07T11:11:00.007-04:00

Drake loves his hometown Toronto. He loves it so much that he played last Sunday at the Molson Ampitheatre at his self-created OVO Fest (October's Very Own) in army pants. He brought some friends along, too. Maybe you know them? Their names are Jay-Z and Eminem. Nevermind Rick Ross, Fabulos, and Kardinal Offishall. Jay and Eminem were the stars of the show, even moreso than baby Drake himself.

Drake hasn't entertained Toronto since last August when he was on tour with his "big brother" Lil Wayne. Since then, Drake's ego has grown and he has released a full-length album entitled "Thank me Later" which has collaborations with Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and so many more. It was a sold out show and the assholes at security was in full force. After countless moments of flirting with security guards trying to get to the front row, we settled for the 300 section from our fleshless 400 level seats.

The beginning of the show was boring as hell, even Young Jeezy's meagre 5-song set put us to sleep. Then Drake comes onto the stage and all the girls lost their panties/minds. No bras were thrown, in fact, I couldn't even spot Drake's famous "bra rack" on stage, a collection of bras thrown at him from previous shows.

Jay lookin' a little like Drake?

We had heard rumours all day about Eminem and Jay-Z making a special guest appearance, so we were kept on our toes the entire show. They only made their appearance at the end with songs like "Forever" and "Run this Town" (featuring Kanye West and Rihanna in the recording, yet no ladies were on stage representing). Drake's set mostly consisted of slow songs until he hit us all with "Over" and "Best I Ever Had", in which he mentioned he loves Toronto so much that he could only marry a girl from here. "It would just feel right," he said. He kept talking about Toronto's women as the hottest in the world, and if he "were the type to spend money on women", his number one city would be this one.

Eminem

Speaking of girls, he loooves to pick women from the crowd and bring them onto stage. He warned the girl he picked out that she would get kissed, sucked and licked, but this girl just stood there like a piece of wood. If I was on that stage, I would have worked it and taken full advantage of Drake's sweet Teddy Pendergrass moves. Ultimate performance fail on the girl's behalf, who was just 21 and was equipped with really unflattering booty shorts.

Drake showed a lot of love for his live band which was a huge highlight of the show with their sweet bass lines and under-appreciated guitar solos. He gave shout outs to Lil Wayne often and told the NYPD to fuck off and Free Weezy.

I believe that Drake's fame has gotten to his head. If he still stayed on Degrassi and didn't have his own Virgin Airlines plane with his face plastered on it, I wonder where he'd be now. His flow was weak at times and he missed a few words on stage. His voice wasn't as low and sensual as it is on the recordings. Yet he delivered a memorable show that kept me satisfied for days. I'm excited to see how he evolves as a performer. He is after all only 2 years old in this rap scene. I'd see him live again, maybe in his "second home" Houston.

All photographs taken by Erin Pea.

WORLD CUP: PASS THAT DUTCH

2010-07-12T09:56:00.012-04:00

So, the World Cup 2010 in South Africa is finally over with Spain deservedly taking the World Cup. I was a Dutch (and Danish, and German) supporter all along yet somehow I don’t feel bummed out about Spain winning. They are a good team with the Euro championship from 2008 under their belt. What startles me is that this is Spain’s first World Cup win; neither Spain nor the Netherlands had won since World Cup’s inception.

To get a kick-start of my Dutch cheering, I ate some hagelslag while listening to both countries’ national anthems. Both sound like funeral themes. The only football teams with vivacious and trumpeting operas as their anthems seem to be Uruguay and Brazil. Happiest anthems ever? Definitely.

Hagelslag, a Dutch treat, is really just chocolate sprinkles on toast

I contemplated what the win would mean for tiny Netherlands, a country of 16 million with a strong taste for orange despite the red, white and blue flag. From 1652 to 1759, the Dutch colonized South Africa through the Dutch East India Company. Insert pages and pages and books and books of history here. The South African language changed and so did the culture; whites prevailed over blacks through decades of ongoing ethnic tension still apparent today. There were slaves, racial battles, and eventually, the Boer War in 1880 – the war of independence for South Africa – where Boers or Dutch farmers rebelled against British colonization. Another Boer war broke out in 1899 where Brits used concentration camps and found that most of their men were physically unable to fight.

I’m not sure if South Africans were generally cheering on the Dutch once their home team was eliminated, but it sure would be ironic if Netherlands took over South Africa...again. And wouldn’t it be an amuse-bouche of politics if the Brits made it to the finals against Netherlands. Europe’s cup in Africa seems like a familiar story.

All that vaguely written history aside, the match was a bit of a disappointment. The vuvuzelas were in full throttle at high speed and volume while the sophisticated navy jerseys triumphed over the silly and flamboyant orange ones. Foul after injury after yellow card after penalty after free kick, at 116 minutes the Spanish finally scored their single goal by Andrés Iniesta. Dutch player Arjen Robben’s was dangerously fast and sneaky. Even though 85% of the team won yellow cards, I’ll never forget his fancy footwork.

Paul the Octopus was right; his prediction was Spain for this years World Cup.

It turns out that Paul the Octopus in Oberhausen, Germany was right. Paul usually predicts German games during Euro Cup and World Cup, but this time he predicted Spain to win during the match against Holland. He is a coveted psychic. Two flags in containers are dropped into his aquarium, both equipped with mussels. The container that Paul opens with his mighty tentacles is the team he chooses as the winner of each match. So far, he has been correct about every single prediction except Germany vs. Spain at Euro Cup 2008. So, if you’re a disappointed fan who was never cheering for Spain, don’t bother advocating for Paul’s transformation from octopus to sushi since he is now retiring. He’s actually wiser than us all. And really, hearing news about Paul's freakishly accurate predictions was the greatest highlight and most memorable aspect of my World Cup this year.

MUSIC I'M INTO PART II

2010-07-06T19:05:00.013-04:00

Wale: Attention Deficit Wale (pronounced WALL-EH) has convinced me that he is an intelligent rapper that is far from obnoxious. After producing 5 mix tapes, he knows what a sick beat sounds like, and has included respectable production into this 2009 LP including songs featuring Lady Gaga (“Chillin”), Gucci Mane (“Pretty Girls”), and oodles of contributions from Jazmine Sullivan, K’Naan and Pharrell. Previously he has been compared to Drake, but he has higher quality writing skills; meanwhile, Drake could use a creative writing class or two (and hey, maybe I can join him...snicker). Wale, you are vivacious as fuck. You make ordinary people love hip hop. DON’T STOP!

Surfer Blood: Astro Coast During NXNE I was dying to see this band for all the hype. On the way to Wrong Bar we ran into these fellas in a cab and they told us to get in even though the cab was full. Yeah, awkward. We get to Wrong Bar and – wrong – we arrived with cash and without passes. The show wasn’t meant to be and the night was not on our side. But after listening to Surfer Blood copiously afterwards, I can say that I already love them. They have hints of Arcade Fire’s charm (“Harmonix”) with sharp doses of Built to Spill and Vampire Weekend. The vocals are a mash-up of Thursday and ATDI; for anyone who is “over” their emo phase, you might dig Surfer Blood for their ability to remind you of your teenage years. Most importantly, Surfer Blood is an updated version of Weezer AKA what Weezer should be sounding like now but instead they sound like crap. It’s the whole “You take your car / I’ll take my board” mentality of this Florida band that I love so much and all those Rivers-esque feel-good oh oh ohh’s. Such good, chill summer music that makes me want to wear cut off jeans and a black t-shirt for the rest of 2010.

MUSIC I'M INTO PART I

2010-07-04T00:10:00.010-04:00

Quadron: Self-titled Scandinavia constantly amazes me with its large number of super-catchy 60s soul revival bands. The two kids of Copenhagen’s Quadron are keepin’ it just as real as El Perro and the Concretes with their brand of modern “electro soul” which includes influences from Aaliyah, Missy Elliot and Marvin Gaye among others. Quadron is a band of binaries yet the name means a “quarter” (quadraries?). With half-hand-played instruments and half-technology-based sound, Quadron reveals their interesting sound while ethnically both members are half-Danish and half-mulatto African. If it doesn’t make you cry, it should make you dance.

Paul Kalkbrenner: Berlin Calling My friend Florian in Hamburg told me to check out Paul Kalkbrenner’s “Berlin Calling” album, which is actually the soundtrack of a film by the same name chronicling the “dark side” of Berlin’s drug-induced electric party scene. Kalkbrenner is the only thing playing in Germany right now, other than the World Cup at Brandenburg Gates. "Atzepeng" is devilish and fluteful while the mesmerizing “Sky and Sand” tops charts and dance clubs in Deutschland, only making me wish I was there more than here. Toronto doesn’t love this brand of pulsating house as much as the Germans, sadly, which makes me wonder if Kalkbrenner could survive in a North American market. However, he is multifaceted man specializing in the production of minimalist techno, house, and of course, acting these days.

Sarah Harmer: Oh Little Fire I remember being awaken on a Saturday morning by the acoustic sounds of Sarah Harmer’s latest album “Oh Little Fire” on CBC Radio 2. It absolutely blew my mind. Upon hearing the soft vocals of “New Loneliness”, I thought it was Emily Haines at first. This album is sure to be a classic in my collection – it focuses more on indie and less on country jargon as compared to Harmer’s previous works. It’s her first album in 5 years showcasing her personal era of change. I’m not surprised though; Harmer is a talented and modest woman with a huge passion for the Boreal forest. What’s not to like about her really, truly, and anyways?

Erlend Øye: DJ Kicks I fell in love with Erlend Øye after seeing Kings of Convenience live in Toronto in June. It was the funniest performance ever due to Øye’s awkward Napoleon Dynamite dance moves, plus all those deadpan Norwegian dark jokes that turn me on so much. With Kings of Convenience, it’s very easy to tell which songs were written by Øye – the jigs like “I’d Rather Dance With You” get everyone in the barn hopping. But back to DJ Kicks, have you EVER heard “Poor Leno”? This song makes me shit the bed every single time. A twirl of the Smiths lyrics for “There is a Light that Never Goes Out” combined with remixed Royksopp beats shows Øye’s genius beat-mixing skills. If you’re going to listen to anything today, make it be this song. While you’re at it, give this album a chance x 10.

So much more to come this July! A lot of catch-up to play...

2010-06-28T14:17:00.007-04:00

During my recent week-long stay in Houston, I had the opportunity to check out the multitude of art galleries, collections and museums that the city offers. It turns out that big-bottomed Houston is actually bustling when it comes to the arts. Some of the major sights include the Menil Collection – a collection of mainly surrealist and contemporary work where you’ll see lots of Rothko and Warhol, and the Station Museum for Contemporary Art where I was blown away by Charif Benhelima’s “Welcome to Belgium” photo exhibit about immigration and the darker side of Belgium’s wealth, which (sadly) ended May 30.

When scouring Houston's art scene, you cannot forget about the the hearty, well-rounded and internationally flavoured Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH) which showcases a fantastic variety of textiles, jewelry, sculptures, paintings and so much more from around the world. My favourites included Pre-Columbian, Native American Art, and African collections.

But there was one gallery that spoke to me, and that was the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston otherwise known as CAMH, which also stands for Centre for Addiction and Mental Health here in Toronto (I had to point that one out to ya’ll).

From May 15 until July 25, 2010, CAMH will be hosting the HAND+MADE Program which deals with the “performative impulse in art and craft” and the expansion of art and craft. On the day I visited, I was lucky enough to see the majority of artist’s in house giving brief talks and answering a Q&A about their work, which was an enriching experience to say the least.

The intrigue of the exhibition primarily came to me for its focus on textiles. I was most impressed by Nick Cave’s work (not the musician!) titled “Soundsuits”. Not only are these suits prominent structures but they can also be worn by panache dancers, as noted in his video where the Soundsuits debut on the streets. Cave’s work is absolutely stunning as statue forms, coming to life in their performances. He has sewn a range of materials into his suits such as metal toys, various textiles, human hair, beads, sequins, twigs, buttons, and various flea market discoveries, all for the sheer purpose of making noise while movement takes place.

"When you're raised by a single mother with six brothers and lots of hand-me-downs, you have to figure out how to make those clothes your own," he says in a New York Times interview in 2009. A combination of thrift, dance, and a BA in fine arts led to a job at the School of the Institute of Chicago where he was graduate director of fashion. This is where he truly began embracing this type of work.

Performative or not, the sheer beauty and detail in his work is astounding; it is impossible not to stare at his costumes for hours upon hours, analyzing each detail.

Other notable artists include Sabrina Gschwandtner and her installation comparing the 12-frames-per-second labour of film to that of crocheting. She filmed herself crocheting just to make it even better. It was interesting but unfortunately her talk was loaded with cryptic Marxist terms that put the entire room to sleep. Much like Sabrina, many artists focused on the idea of arts and crafts as “labour and production” as performance.

I found the audacity of Michael Rea to be promising with his playable instruments crafted out of wood, and with immense detail. He provided a video of the instruments being played, but I stood there forever analyzing the depth and work put into each wooden instrument.

Christy Matson surprised me with her ability to transform textile into sounds with her “Sonic Structure” piece; the textile is given a breath of life when gallery goers touch the fabric and a sharp static sound is heard. The sound is also malleable based on how one interacts with the textile. Fashion’s next top designers better get on this.

Sheila Pepe is another American artist whose Rodarte-esque threads overtook the CAMH gallery space. Her work was easy to interact with, although security guards would scare you off if you tried. A big hanging glob of thick threads from the ceiling never looked so appealing. The interesting thing about this exhibition was the use of textiles in several pieces, yet all pieces, aside from Nick Cave’s Soundsuits, truly lacked wearability. It made for a fascinating exhibit; an elixir of all things I love about the fusing of art and fashion.

I highly recommend this entire exhibit for Texans and tourists, and maybe CAMH as a whole institution. Far from languid, it’s an exhibit for anyone who has ever loved and appreciated the art of crafts. It’s for anyone that has once been a child and has held a relationship – no matter how small – with the art of creating things.

All photos by me excluding the one of Christy Matson available at her website.

Nac/Hut Report

2010-06-03T10:27:00.011-04:00

Polish/Italian band embraces avant garde and experimental noise with a touch of NYC's first no-wave scene

One day I received a lovely little email from an experimental group named Nac/Hut Report. Normally bands don’t email me for press, but I really liked their sound and thought they deserved some recognition. They are unlike anything I’ve heard before, or maybe it’s because the obscure genre they associate with, “musique concrete”, is completely alien to me.

The band is influenced by guitar, electronic, and concrete noises. Bored with the conventional sound of pop music and its harmonies, the two members M.A.D.ame Decode and Li/ese/li integrated their archive of strange sound noises, both ready-made and self-created, into their songs with pop tendencies.

It’s something I’ll coin as “freak pop”. The music is influenced by pop but is very much removed and unfamiliar to the genre. Nac/Hut Report describes themselves as “everything mixed up together for no obvious reason, the worst kind of post-modernism”.

From a previous interview with Puke Skywalker, the band is influenced by Glenn Branca’s no-wave guitars, Pierre Schaeffere, Pierre Henry, Luc Ferrari and Jean Tinguely. The list goes on with Cabaret Voltaire’s first recordings, “Twin Infinitives” by Royal Trux, SPK, Einsturzende Neubauten and Die Todliche Doris.

“I’m really into the digital hardcore stuff,” M.A.D.ame Decode states, adding that the use of electronics is the most unconventional and powerful. “Alec Empire is one of the most interesting artists of our time”.

But again, there’s that small ounce of freak pop. The Pastels, Indian Jewellery and Candy Claws have been some of the band’s favourites to listen to. In the song “Not Completely Legal”, you can feel the pop with an eerie no-wave saxophone repeating in the background presumptuously like a siren with tortured guitars for added flavour. The vocals remain soft and dreamy.

Nac/Hut Report stuck out to me the most for defining themselves as Polish/Italian group. M.A.D.ame Decode hails from Poznan, Poland while Li/ese/li is from Reggio Emilio, Italy.

“We met almost 3 years ago in Krakow. After some months, we started living together. [Now] we're living mainly in Italy, but we often move between Italy and Poland if we have enough money,” says Li/ese/li.

According to M.A.D.ame Decode, both European cities lack a “real music scene”. Most bands end up playing generic mainstream rock, a genre far from the band’s style.

“In Italy, the music is really terrible ... [They] didn't discover the music after the 90s,” Li/ese/li stated. “Maybe there's even something good but we just don't follow it”.

As for the band’s name, Nac/Hut Report emerged during a talk about artistic avant garde. “At one point we realized we’re not part of avant garde but we were just using it to explore our artistic possibilities,” says M.A.D.ame Decode.

The band wanted to define their style as the opposite of avant garde (the advanced guard), which in German means "Nachut" or the "rear guard" in English.

“Then we stumbled onto a German porno movie called Nacht Report (Night Report). We just fused the names and it sounded very good to us”.

Unfortunately, Nac/Hut Report does not have any upcoming North American tour dates but they have released some material including an EP for the American label RCP Tapes in 2009. The LP "9th Overflowing...Milky Slaughterhouse...Dream of Incubator" has been spread label-less throughout the internet for free. You can download the LP for free here in .rar format.

Check out Nac/Hut Report on Last.fm and Myspace for a taste, or join their facebook group for updates.

AN OPEN LETTER TO MONKI IN STOCKHOLM

2010-06-02T09:58:00.014-04:00

Dear Monki,

Where have you been all my life? First, I arrived in Stockholm, Sweden two years ago already knowing about the magic of Cheap Monday. I discovered the cheap Gina Tricot when I was both in Stockholm and Malmo. Then when I came back home – 6 months later – I discovered 5th Avenue Shoe Repair, another Stockholm-based company known for its intricate cuts, interesting shapes and translucent tees. I was sad to miss out on window shopping at the flagship in Stockholm. But then the unbelievable happened.

Click on thumbnails for larger images

You, Monki, seeped into my life when I was least expecting it – during a time when my travel bug was really intense, jumping out of my skin, especially for Scandinavia. There you were with your beautiful and amazing clothes that were a hybrid of avant garde and ready-to-wear. Suddenly, I reminisced. I remembered Cheap Monday, 5th Avenue and even thought about Ann Sofie Back, Maison Martin Margiela, Commes Des Garcons, Christpher Kane and Alexander Wang in the meantime. Those are some of my favourite designers, and I feel like you embody them in some weird way or another.

Click on thumbnails for larger images

Monki, I am pretty sure you and I are meant to be. It’s just a matter of planning my trip back to Copenhagen and Stockholm so I can fully take advantage of your amazingness. Until then, this entry comprising of melting saliva will have to suffice. And maybe that’s for the better because lord knows I can’t be hoppin’ around spending 30 euros here and 15 euros there as a jobless new grad with no closet space left. I mean, it’s getting a little ridiculous.

Sincerely,
Erin Pea

Click on thumbnails for larger images

P.S. Okay, so I guess if we’re truly meant to be I’ll have to see what kind of material you’re made out of and if you fit my non-sleek-and-slim, antithesis-of-tall-Swede body.

Click on thumbnails for larger images

P.P.S. Your web design? Super freaking cute.

TOO RUDE: CITY GUIDE TO AUSTIN

2010-06-01T16:34:00.013-04:00

I just came back from Austin, Texas last week, and it was awesome. It was my first couchsurfing experience, and my first visit to Texas as an adult. Austin is known for its art and music scene (see: South by South West), especially live music, which infiltrates the venues lining 6th street on any given night.

The city’s slogan “Keep Austin Weird” is telling, with its bustling little cafes, vintage shops and crazy people with crazy businesses such as Hoek’s “Death Metal” pizza (where they serve pizza only accompanied by the drilling sound of death metal). Having said all that, people in Austin seem to dig bicycles, recycling and animals. Everyone is friendly, polite and nice, at least compared to Toronto. Southern hospitality, as Ludacris once stated promptly.

My days in Austin were marked by Guadalupe street at University of Texas, South Congress (SoCo) and other little nifty “communities” around downtown Austin. I mention communities because, having been to Houston and realizing how hell-bent Texans are on driving their cars, there ain’t much of a need to “walk around” unless you’re walking around in a mall. Downtown seems dead. This can be true for Austin as well, but Austin seems more established in this realm. I knew Austin was going to be cool, but it exceeded my expectations. Here’s how Austin worked its magic on me.

Where you gonna eat?!

Home Slice Pizza (1415 South Congress) is an established pizza joint in the South Congress neighbourhood. Expect to be waiting minimum 30 minutes for a table for this legendary pizza during peak dinner hours. It’s like Toronto’s Pizzeria Libretto, and equally as delicious. Try the mushroom pepperoni pizza without substitutions or design your own pizza. Weird fact: they’re closed on Tuesdays. Home Slice Pizza online.

Kat enjoying a slice or 10 at Home Slice

If you’re not totally stuffed at Home Slice Pizza then head across the street to Jo’s Coffee (1300 South Congress Avenue) for some drinks. It’s got a cute outdoor sitting area and is great for lunch and snacks, not just post-meal coffee and tea (both warm and cold). See it for yourself and visit them here.

El Mercado (1302 South First Street) is a place I never ate at, but according to the girl I was staying with who works at El Mercado, it has some serious Tex-Mex. Skip Guero’s in SoCo and head to El Mercado instead. El Mercado Austin online.

Tacodeli (1500 Spyglass, South Austin) is a legendary taco joint that attracts long line-ups during lunch. They’re only open from 8am-3pm only because they make such good money during these hours. See their website and notice the sheer amount of awards they've won from the city. My most memorable moment at Tacodeli was purchasing a bumper sticker stating, “Please be kind to cyclists” and some Dublin Dr. Pepper which uses sugar cane instead of refined sugar. The taco, I hate to say it, was subpar only because after eating it I realized that I do not like shredded chicken or corn tortillas. But their options are plentiful and won’t disappoint.

What's the deal with Dublin Dr. Pepper? Amazing. Dr. Pepper was invented in Texas.

Magnolia Café (1920 South Congress Avenue). If you are completely and utterly wasted in SoCo, Magnolia Cafe might be a good place to pick up some late-night breakfast food. I had a slice of pecan pie (a southern specialty) and I couldn’t complain. It’s got a diner feel and attracts all sorts of Austin’s weirdos. More info here.

Shopping, OMG, Shopping

Buffalo Exchange (2904 Guadalupe Street) is a big treat for Canadians heading south of the border. I understand that there are many locations across the states, my favourite so far being in Brooklyn. I did find some great designer items here but they were a little ratty, torn or stained. So much for the BCBG dress and Alex Wang top :( I can always dream though. Anyways, you’re destined to find something grand at Buffalo Exchange.

Cream Vintage (various locations). I couldn’t get over Cream Vintage simply because they are a vintage shop that provides alterations at a cost for all the sweet ill-fitting finds. I respect that in a store. They have three locations, one of which is wholesale open on the first weekend of every month. The website is under construction but you’ll definitely hear about this place.

So many antique stores all over Texas. This one is from Galveston.

Feathers Boutique (1700 B Congress Ave, enter Milton St.) was probably my favourite vintage store of all the thrift and antique stores plaguing Texas with finds such as Salvatore Ferragamo shoes galore and a really unique selection of clothing. They have a blog but don’t forget to check out all the other stores lining SoCo. You won’t be disappointed. They ship internationally, too!

Expect a hearty collection of cowboy hats and boots in all parts of Texas.

If you’re visiting Austin for thrift stores, see the Vintage Around Town Guide which you can find in selected stores or online. A map for printing is available.

TIPS for Going Out

Honestly, living in Austin must be exhausting if you’re going to go out on 6th street all the time. But from a tourist’s perspective, it really is a place you have to experience as a visitor.

Red River street is home to many venues like Emo's and Stubb's. Sadly, I missed Drake at Stubb's :( Sold out show!

Shangri’la (1016 East 6th Street) is a little hidden joint out of the way from the major 6th street establishments. I spent my time there chugging PBR’s like a poorboy and listening to hip-hop which was actually amazingly good. Shangri has a huge patio, grass, benches, and a roof that is really, really, really tempting to jump on. There’s probably a pool table downstairs. All in all, a good experience. Website: Shangri’la Austin.

TIP: Wanna go out in Austin? Pick up flyers! The highlight of my trip to Austin was definitely “Les Artistes: The Revolution”, a fashion and art show taking place at the Scoot Inn (1308 E. 4th street) on a hazy Saturday, May 22nd headed by Austin-woman-in-charge Grace Rogers. All proceeds from the show benefited the Heather Deering Cancer Foundation.

Grace Rogers and Les Artistes: Fashion and Art show

We arrived at what seemed to be a back yard equipped with a DIY runway and a frenzy of local designers prepping their models for the 9 o’clock appearance. It was funky, different, and so freshly Austin. It reminded me of Alternative Fashion Week (F.A.T.) here in Toronto with southern flare. The show included Lindsey Marie White’s recycled designs, Nunca Nunca (also recycled), Melissa Long, and outlandish Aaron Torres. All were impressive. I was happy and glad to see young independent designers living out their dreams.

Images above: Austin's Lindsey Marie White and Nunca Nunca respectively reconstruct vintages garments into one-of-a-kind pieces. Les Artistes Fashion and Art show is a great documentation of this type of craft in Austin.

TIP: Too much to do in Austin? Pre-googling is your best bet. Googling such terms like “Austin indie” or “Austin entertainment” will lead you to a plethora of websites and blogs. Your best bet is to wander around 6th street or Red River street in search of live music. But if you’re a little too organized or you’re looking for just the perfect band to fit your evening, search online in advance at the following event websites:

Austin 360
6street
Austin Chronicle
The Austinist
Do512: What to do in Austin
The Deli Austin
AustinMe: Music and Entertainment
Show List Austin (Great!)
Eventful Austin

Nature

I didn’t expect amazing trails and nature paths in Austin, and I never go to a city without visiting at least one park. Along the river (that goes through Zilker park), you can canoe, kayak and go bat-watching in the evening at South Congress bridge. Yes, bats. There are tons of them in Austin and they seem to be the city's furry little winged mascots.

Hamilton Pool is where its at

Hamilton Pool is a 45 minute drive out from Austin and is highly recommended with one of Texas’s best swimming holes. When was the last time you swam in unpolluted water remotely close to downtown Toronto? This place gets busy on weekends, and rightfully so. On the other side of Hamilton Pool conservation area, there is a river you can walk across with little to no people in the area. The secluded beauty of this place is astounding, and rare. It’s a must-do in Austin. No excuses.

Barton Creek is perfect if you want to sit in the sun with your feet immersed in water. Bring your binoculars for dog-watching.

Barton Creek is in south Austin, not quite downtown but still within Austin city limits (no pun intended). Here you can swim in the river and sit on rocks to sunbathe. Expect a lot of dogs to swim with you, and really nice trails. Unlike Houstonians, whose streets are lined with trees that serve no purpose other than to drive beside, Austinites really love their nature. If you come to Austin and don’t visit this place, I’ll be really. really disappointed in you.

WAYNE MARTIN BELGER: IN DEATH I BLOOM (LAST CHANCE IN TORONTO!)

2010-05-27T16:22:00.009-04:00

Folks. Everyone. Listen. ¡Oye! This is the LAST WEEK of California artist Wayne Martin Belger’s “In Death I Bloom: Photographic Journeys from Creation to Destruction” exhibit at the Meta Gallery in Toronto (124 Ossington Avenue, at Queen West). If you want to see some of the most impressive work at Contact Festival 2010, you do not want to miss this. And while you’re in the neighbourhood, check out Pizzeria Libretto, Toronto’s best slice of pizza. Sorry, I just had to add that in there.

I have never seen art more authentic, real and raw than Belger’s. His project is true “art”, and in addition to that, it is science. It is design. It is conceptualization at its best. It is amazingly mind-blowing. Belger creates every one of his pinhole cameras and takes a picture with that camera relevant to the design of the camera. He uses materials such as aluminum, titanium, bronze, brass, HIV-positive blood, copper, steel, insects, animal and human parts (deceased) and pages of ancient scriptures (the Koran, the Bible, the Torah), only to name a few, to construct beautiful, thought-provoking cameras.

An example: Belger made a camera with two valves of HIV-Positive blood. His subjects in the photos captured with this specific camera were all HIV-Positive.

The photo...

And the camera.

(Question: Where does one find HIV-Positive blood?!)

“There is no barrier between [the pinhole and the photo emulsion on the film],” he states. His pictures taken with these special cameras are authentic in that there is no light manipulation, a true representation of “light and time”.

I believe this is a photo from Belger's "Heart Camera"...

This is the camera. It is made with a fetus heart; the fetus was his twin brother who had died, while the camera captures images of a pregnant woman.

Belger’s cameras are beyond anything I’ve ever seen, but the photographs taken are equally as stunning and ripe with meaning. The camera and the photograph work within a symbiotic relationship. But his photographs wouldn’t mean much if the cameras were not there on display with them. In this, Belger’s work is the richest. You’re really not looking at a photograph with his work, but something much more deeper and meaningful. Something I have not witnessed in a gallery before.

A camera made of scraps from the world trade centre on 9/11 and religious scriptures, for added controversy.

Unsure if this is from the same set, a photo concerning religion. Belger has included many photos including Tibet and even made a camera out of a 150-year old skull from Tibet.

The Meta Gallery is open Wednesday - Saturday 12 - 6 pm and Sunday 12 - 5 pm. Address: 124 Ossington Avenue, Toronto, ON. Join their facebook group for more updates.

AYLA: EMERGING TORONTO DESIGNER

2010-05-12T10:49:00.012-04:00

I first met Ayla Khosroshahi while volunteering at Alternative Fashion Week in Toronto at a venue with too many volunteers and too little things to do. We were assigned to set up a pile of freshly arrived pizza boxes after we started talking a little bit. It turned out that Ayla was trying to get some experience in runway so she could finally launch her line AYLA with fervour and great confidence. As for me, I always dreamed about making my own collections but I sure as hell wasn’t working towards it. I was just there for the shows. But after meeting Ayla, I realized for the billionth time in my life that anything is possible in this world, so I might as well pick up those threads and needles (That dress I meant to hem is still sitting in the basement.)

We were both passionate about social justice and the environment. We also loved fashion. I always thought you had to choose one or the other, but no. I had always wondered how I could combine my BA in International Development with something creative like fashion, photography, design or publishing. Ayla, having finished her MA in Human Rights at the University College of London, illustrates that one can delve into social consciousness while maintaining creativity and being who you are. It turns out that fashion is not just an empty form of production and consumption, but there are actual ideas behind it! Maybe those crazy designers have something to say and something to do in this bandaged up world after all. Think Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood.

AYLA is rather fresh, interesting, and filled with the dichotomies she speaks of like being “born in the east, raised in the west” and “always moving, [yet] grounded at home”. She is an emerging designer with a lot to say, and she will be showing her spring 2010 collection at The Clothing Show in Toronto this weekend (May 14 and 15). Want to know more? Then you’ll have to read the interview.

Hi Ayla! How are you?

Ayla: Great! Excited for the show this weekend.

You were at the Clothing Show last autumn and you are going again for the spring show on May 14th and May 15th. How was your last experience with that?

Ayla: We had a great time and a great response in September so I wanted to do it again. It was my first fashion show! Its a great space to showcase work, and since I am very young in this industry I am grateful for any opportunity there is.

Tell us a little bit about your recent collection (spring 2010) and what kind of message you are trying to communicate.

Ayla: The collection showcases two series of pieces: a ready-to-wear and an intimates line. This round AYLA explores the theme of ‘lust’. Exploring the ideas of limitation and temptation; the interplay between power and weakness. Each piece mixes conservative pieces with provocative elements giving in to the ideas of restraint and freedom, work and play, and masculine and feminine. Transparent slips are paired with tailored pencil skirts, and blazers are hijacked by bra straps. The collection gives into both softness and strength, using a variety of fabrics and recycled materials.

How did you get started within the fashion industry?

Ayla: I have always had a love affair with fashion. I have sketch books piled up in my room from when I was 6 years old. I would get my mom or grandmother to make me the new ideas I came up with, then I started playing with my own creations, taking scarves and making them into dresses, pillow cases into skirts, etc.

At the end of high school I was at a crossroad, Ryerson for Fashion Design or McGill for Political Science... I chose the latter. The road then further led me to a Masters in Human Rights and key leadership roles, working on projects nationally and internationally, with children, youth, and individuals with developmental disabilities in under-serviced areas and lower-to-no-income communities.

But, in the last year I started to flirt with the idea of re-engaging in my old love of design and seeing where it could take me. I felt something was missing, I had a need to be creative and create to regain a balance in my work/ life.

You mention on your website a responsibility towards human rights, the environment and social justice. How is this message conveyed in your fashion line?

Ayla: AYLA is a very young line in development, so I can not say that the message is "conveyed" per se, in those strong terms...at least not yet anyways. What it does mean is that while I am developing the line, making the clothes, promoting the brand, etc, I am very conscious of the materials I use and their impact on the earth, what type of production I am willing to engage in, etc.

Where did you get the idea to incorporate human rights into your fashion line, and how do you do this?

Ayla: When I decided to re-ignite my affair with design and see where it would lead I knew that I could not dismiss my education and work experiences. My ideals and responsibilities had to transfer to any new project, including a fashion line. As I explore ways to bridge my passions, I am researching "Fashion Ethics". It’s more than just fashion with a conscience for me – it’s about bringing context to concept – emphasizing quality vs. quantity. My international education and experience lends a unique set of tools and a global perspective. It’s more than just the clothing for me, it’s a belief and responsibility that I trying to realize through the designs, the company and beyond.

In what ways are your clothes manufactured? How is this reflected in the “social justice” aspect of your brand, if at all?

Ayla: Well for now, starting out, this is not a problem, there is no manufacturing, all the pieces are hand made. I do a selection of pieces to showcase for the fashion show and then take any personal orders that come in on a one to one basis. However as the line grows, manufacturing will be an area of concern. As I research how to develop the brand, ethical and eco-conscious manufacturing techniques are on the top of my list.

What kinds of materials do you use?

Ayla: I like to use fabrics outside of their comfort zones, incorporate mixture of textures and then throw in chains and lace accents. Always a bit of the unexpected. As much as possible I try to recycle materials, rework vintage pieces, use fabrics from various garments, take apart jewelry to use the beads or chains, etc... anything in order reuse and reinvent. As I develop the line I am looking towards organic and eco-friendly materials.

You mention on your website that each one of your pieces is “balanced through contradictions”, much like yourself. How do you think fashion can convey such an abstract concept such as “balance”? Is it strictly visual?

Ayla: The perception of "balance" is entirely personal, and goes beyond what we see to how we feel. I know for me ideas/things that are traditionally perceived as contradictory are those same ones that I have to combine to find my balance. By saying "AYLA explores the interplay of dichotomies while finding balance in their contradiction" really just means that the concept of the brand is that anything is possible. Fashion is seen as an inspirational journey through creative freedom, experimentation and self expression. Evolution and innovation are key ingredients in the brand, along with humour, passion, intelligence, irony, seduction, and provocation. Each piece has a soul and tries to tell a unique story.

What inspires you to design clothing? Again, I’m mostly interested in how it connects to your “responsibilities” in the third question.

Ayla: "Responsibilities" don't inspire me to design. The desire to create and explore inspires me to design. Art, energy, expression, travel, food, mood swings, attitudes, etc, are the things that fuel the desire. Where the "responsibility" portion comes in is when I decide how to do it. That's when I step back and think, how can I do this where it respects the earth, people and sends a positive message.

Where do you hope AYLA will be in the next 5 years?

Ayla: A prosperous ethical fashion line. Innovative in beliefs and design.

Thank you!

Photos: Susheela Willis | Hair/Makeup/Styling: Ayla Khosroshahi | Clothes: AYLA

Say hello to Ayla at the Clothing Show | The Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto | May 14 at 6:30pm and May 15 at 1pm and 5pm.

FAT: ALTERNATIVE FASHION WEEK

2010-05-10T21:41:00.009-04:00

In the final week of April, I volunteered for Alternative Fashion Week here in Toronto's Liberty Village. It was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life solely for the outrageous performances, art installations, tasteful clothing and the talented designers that are not well known outside of this country (unfortunately). The event truly reminded me that fashion can be very performative and doesn't necessarily need to be business-friendly and accepted by all. Sometimes creativity is enough to bring audience attention to the clothing, and that is what FAT (Fashion. Art. Toronto) is essentially all about. It is a time to go crazy on our makeshift runway and make it the best it can be. One of the most defining moments of FAT had to be the models. They came in all shapes and sizes, with stretch marks and cellulite but still managed to embody fierceness. And that's why Alternative Fashion Week will always work over the traditional week's in Milan, NYC and Paris. I enjoyed seeing the diversity of women's sizes. It truly made the clothes look more interesting and have more personality.

Although my memory is rusting as I type this, I figured I'd post some of my favourite pictures without writing a proper review this time because I am busy like that ;)

One of the many instances where Jasper Garvida blew my fucking mind with a clean, polished art-deco inspired collection. One of the most mature collections of the entire week.

FAT hosted many art installations. This one room, The Pump Room, imitated a relaxation room from the Roman times. That is Justus and he gave me a massage (Note: that ain't me in the picture in case you are wondering). Nothing beats getting a massage from a gay man in a sailor costume.

The much anticipated Evan Biddell line entitled "Refined". Isis from Thunderheist made an appearance on the runway and it was a total circus treat. Biddell wasn't the only one to have a masquerade on stage. Many designers went apeshit with the runway in innovative and unexpected ways hosting theatre to opera to dance, and so much more.

Romandin's collection was a stand out. This is my favourite piece. I would wear it everywhere.

I was mostly impressed with the Sheridan Textile Program's show. It was a very disjointed yet flowing runway performance to the sounds of Sigur Ros. The collection was airy and evoked a sense of nature; hair was woven with pieces of twigs and flowers. The whole thing reminded me of a calm tornado. I felt really inspired by these young ladies and now I want to dip my fingers in some screen printing ink.

I was confused by Pippa's collection at first but once Alice came out, and we saw the Snow Queen and the twins, I knew that the latex-and-vinyl collection was paying a homage to Alice in Wonderland. Truly a great runway performance!

Last but never least, the show by Artifice blew my mind. I couldn't stop talking about it for days afterward. Another neon vinyl collection, but with serious Blade Runner undertones and a whole lot of unbelievable creepiness. Observe...

How Transformers is this!?

The model pressed a button and these wings suddenly grew out of her back. I was in absolute shock and awe. It's what I love about fashion, what can I say? I may plan to get this on my wedding dress one day.

Body painted Avatar ladies. Seductive serpents. Severe body paint. Raw talent. Loved it.

Mother Alien emerged at the end of the show. The alien costume must have been over 8 feet tall and it haunted the runway in slow steps. There was a person underneath the dreadful costume while its slave man slithered around it as the monster made its rounds. It was a breathtaking ending in the most horrifying way. No skyscraper of a being has ever intimidated me, terrified me, in such a way.

2010-03-01T15:17:00.013-05:00

Guys, I couldn’t help myself. After the Figure Skating Gala and the Closing Ceremonies, there was no way that I could *not* have just one more Olympic fashion post. I take this seriously, haha. The Olympics are indeed over but the outfits (uhh yeah, and the sports and medals) will be forever etched in our minds. Even for the Olympic haters out there, you loooove it. Enjoy!

don't:

more weird prints

US Four-Man Bobsled Team

Somebody decided that wearing a star-spangled raincoat over star-spangled nylon pajamas would be a good idea. This is concerning, not cutesy. Bedtime, not ceremonies.

George Gray: Men’s 50km Cross Country

Poor Canadian George Gray was 5th in place in this race. It made me sad seeing him cry on TV. But his suit also made me sad. He is so much better than the stretchy suit of ugliness that drags him down.

eurotrazch

Aliona Savchenko and Robin Szolkowy, Germany // Miki Ando, Japan

Both of these outfits scream of Eurotrash – Aliona’s white pants paired with cheap sparkly shirt only reminds me of an outfit you’d see at Roxy Club in Prague. I don’t even think the discount rack at Stitches would carry such a monstrosity. Miki Ando looks like a 90s desert disaster – perhaps she was visually channeling “Desert Rose” by Sting or “Sandstorm” by Da Rude. Sandy beige and ruby tones? Weird, and not so natural. I get it, but it doesn’t work.

do:

k.i.r. (keeping it real) on ice

Joanne Rochette, Canada // Mao Asada, Japan

Kim Yu Na, South Korea

Stunning outfits on ice. Good job ladies! Interesting choices. Would.

boots

Men’s Curling Canada

I’d let the men’s curling team step on me any day with those tres gangsta combat-style boots. They definitely stepped all over Norway’s team to get gold. Hudson’s Bay Company? You have done it again.

good design

Speed Skating Nederlands

Fuck, how hot do these Dutch men look? This honestly looks like the most comfortable outfit ever, and the cuts of the jackets and pants are flawlessly flattering. Would.

ready to wear: mounties

Admit it, you’ve always wanted to wear a mountie outfit out to town but were afraid of looking too Canadian-clearly-influenced-by-England. This feminine version of the mountie outfit is a modern twist on a classic piece, just how a good "updated" uniform should be. Add a little fierceness and sexiness and you have yourself a winner. Does The Bay carry these?!

neil young

Neil Young is the best folk musician of all time. Sorry. Fashionable? He is beyond that.

undecided

Oksana Domina and Maxim Shabalin, Russia

Still undecided on this Matrix-inspired theme. I love black & shine, but this honestly feels very Russian. I could see Russian kids wearing shit like this to a rave, PVC and all. At least the skaters semi-pulled off all the black with an interesting theme and story.

2010-02-27T17:09:00.012-05:00

Due to popular demand, I have compiled content for another Olympic fashion entry. My findings just keep getting better and better. The more ridiculous suits out there, the more fun my job is. With only 2 days left of Olympic festivities, who knows what we’re going to see on the world stage in terms of sly performance and fashion forward-ness? Unfortunately I haven’t been able to get pictures of ALL the great outfits and jackets, but this is what I have for now. Behold, Olympic Fashion Do’s & Dont’s: Part II. Tell all of your boyfriends and your girlfriends.

do: graphic suits – fitted and baggy

Tina Maze of Slovenia for Alpine Ladies/giant slalom
I had to think about this one for a while. I do like the graphic lines – it’s very Balenciaga. The colours aren’t obnoxious which is always great. I am into the robotic look, what can I say?

Stephanie Beckert of Germany for speed skating.
Oh, speed skating: my first true discovery of Olympic fashion. I like how the black, yellow and red merge into each other in this tight-knit, high-contrast, pixelated graphic way. I could see a textile being made of a similar design for a dress or a flowy top. A sleek, eye-catching and innovative use of the German flag.

I am FULLY impressed by these suits influenced by Japanese Harajuku street style and Comme Des Garcons. It’s actually fantastic how these outfits emit “Japanese” in their own unique way. Polka dots, stripes, crazy colours and patchwork – does this scream Japan to you yet? You could wear this on the streets of Tokyo and people would love you forever. You could wear it to the club and people would be jealous of you for having such a trendy outfit. Ha!

Manfred Oettle Reyes of Peru

At first glance, this is a fashion don’t, but the textile is very relevant to Peru which I find to be adorable. Llamas, alpacas, and ancient Inca culture all play a role in this outfit, and although it has too many colours, I dig it overall as a textile print. It would obviously be more beautiful as a nice woven knit, but this is the Olympics – nylon and breathable fabric all the way!

don’t: graphic suits – hideous

Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong of Ghana
In the words Tim Gunn, “This concerns me”.

This suit from Mexico is a definite DO NOT. What is going on in this picture? That fake belt kills me. This is so cartoony it’s slightly embarrassing. Emphasis on crotch = concerning! Rust on grey on red = sad! No continuity whatsoever. Poor dude :(

Dear Ireland: WHAT?!?! It took me a while to understand which country this athlete was representing, and then I realized the clovers on the suit. Ugh, really? First of all, the colours look like someone puked up vegetable stew. Ireland could have been way more creative and less vomit-inducing with the design of this suit. I’m seriously disappointed and expected more from Ireland. You don’t ever blend orange and green together with a hint of white, unless you want a liquor shot of “Irish Flag” (baileys, crème de menthe and brandy) tumbling around in your belly. I am in distress.

do: simplistic figure skating outfits

Rachael Flatt of USA; Kiira Korpi of Finland

This might sound odd, but I am reminded of many Preen spring collections when I look at this outfit. Maybe if Preen were to meet Diane Von Furstenburg on ice, it might look something like this. Just get rid of the white skin-coloured fabric. That tone is meant for bras.

Kim Yu-Na of South Korea

I know that dance outfits are allowed to be outrageous, sparkly, unconventional and bold, but I have always favoured simplicity in visual aspects of the sport. A little embellishing never hurts, but a lot of embellishing sometimes distracts and is confusing. Rarely have I seen uber-embellishment taken to a chic level, except for maybe Kim Yu-Na of South Korea. Loving the geometry of the front design – it is complex because of the glitter and tiny squares, yet simple because it doesn’t scream “Pick me! Pick me!” with those colours. The blue and red outfits? De-spandexify it and it’s ready to wear.

do: olympic street style

Estonian figure skaters Irina Shtork and Taavi Rand know how to make snowflakes work. I love the weight and graphic texture of the snowflakes on the jackets. Estonia only has one medal, but I’m giving them a second one: cutest Olympic street style. (Globe and Mail)

Ukranian journalist Yuliya Pazenko gets gold for this cute and hilarious coordination. Not gonna lie, if I were a Whistler-prancing snow bunny I’d probably coordinate too. Admit that you want those snowboots. (Globe and Mail)

don’t: questionable headgear

Tina Maze of Slovenia

I’m confused by these cartoons! Not feeling the eyeball helmet, and I don’t even want to comment on the unicorn. As for the Swedes, totally hilarious. Fans will inevitably make questionable decisions when supporting their favourite team/country.

do: jersey appeal

Finland’s jersey wins me over with its appealing medieval inspired crest. I couldn’t find a picture of the women’s hockey team winning their bronze medals, but they all looked so cute! They came out in aqua-blue jerseys, black pants and black riding-esque boots. I loved every second of it, totally adorable! They had amazing haircuts too. This jersey is very eloquent for a sport that is unabashedly violent at times. For those who don’t know, “Suomi” means Finland in Finnish.

don’t: not wearing a jersey

Yeah, I know that those HBC hockey jerseys are $200 and up. I guess these guys couldn’t afford that (understandably) and just opted for body paint instead. Let’s just hope the boys wore sweaters when they were out on the streets of VanCity. Under-dressing for winter = biggest fashion don’t of all time.

do: HBC hoodies

Behold: the impossible hoodie! Hudson’s Bay Company launched their Olympic collection recently, but time after time, these Canada hoodies have sold out along with the infamous red Olympic mittens. What a bummer it is; I really like the hoodie. It’s pure mint for casual sportswear and makes a bold statement, especially in black (which is the hoodie I lust after). They are thick with layers of cotton, like a good strong hoodie should be.

do: lines

Anna Holmlund of Sweden, ski cross

Karolina Reimen of Poland, ski cross

Katrin Zeller of Germany, ski cross

Loving the simplistic lines here. Poland is keeping it slick with the white-on-black grid pattern. Sweden makes ski cross look tasteful with the long vertical line running down the leg. Germany showcases the legs in an interesting and graphic manner. It’s all about those flattering curvy lines, but I’d like to see more vertical and horizontal lines interacting on sports suits as seen with Sweden and Poland.

don’t: crying because you won a silver medal

USA Women’s Hockey, this one goes to you. I hope you look back on your medal ceremony footage and realize how silly you were to sulk through the whole thing as if it were a funeral. Be proud of the silver medal, or give up your medals to a country that would appreciate them. Only a handful of your players cracked a tiny smile at the ceremony while others fought off their tears, whereas Finland (who took bronze) was ecstatic to get a medal. Don’t waste your tears. USA still has more medals than anyone else!

2010-02-23T16:07:00.008-05:00

Surely Canada is in an Olympic frenzy these days. I've been watching the games day and night cheering for this country, hoping that we can pick up as many medals as possible and make new records worldwide. One thing I've been keen to is analyzing the outfits of many athletes competing this year. Surprise surprise. Although the games aren't a fashion show, there have been a lot of good and bad fashion moments thus far that need to be documented. The point is not to be an eyesore - plenty of which manifest within figure skating, but that's a whoooole other blog in itself. Ladies, gents and baby animals, I present to you the Fashion Do's and Don'ts of Vancouver Olympics 2010.

do: speed skating outfits

Kyle Parrot, Christine Nesitt and Kristina Groves

This is going to be hard to back up, but I love the Canadian speed skating outfit and I can't explain why. There's something about the gradient of black/white/grey/red that turns me on. I guess big thighs and camel toes could be turn on's for some people as well. The entire upper part of the outfit would be totally marketable as a cotton hoodie or sweater - at least I'd wear it on a casual day. I love cut outs and x-shapes across the chest, it screams BADASS!

do: cool skeleton helmets

John Montgomery

What a rude boy helmet that is. Skeleton's are known for having very detailed and graphic helmets, and I like how this is graphically simple. It also pays a homage to some form of aboriginal turtle, which is fitting for Vancouver's overall theme.

do: modern & minimalistic floral print

Russia's women's curling team

Ivan Skobrev, speed skating

Wowza, am I impressed by Russia's sweaters! As a huge sucker for khokhloma floral patterns and Russian imagery in general (see: Matryoshka dolls), I totally would introduce these ultra-modern sleek sweaters into my closet. As for the picture of Skobrev's bulge (among other things), I do love the graphic contrast with typical Russian architecture (St. Basil's cathedral? The Kremlin?). It flows very nicely.

do: tasteful blue & yellow combinations

I guess I am biased but I dig these sweaters/any yellow-blue combination in general. I like how the Olympic logo is dealt with in an original way on the back of the sweater; it still stays true to Sweden with the iconic tre kronor.

do: military jackets on ice

Patrick Chan was a competitor of Canada's men's figure skater who unfortunately didn't get a medal this time around but gave us a stellar performance. I just want to point out his slick military-style jacket that oddly reminds me of many jackets that have stomped down the runways.

do: elegance in figure skating

Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir were the most elegant couple on ice I've seen in a long time. Let's be honest, figure skating outfits can be very kitschy, literal and costumey. The outfits do have to stand out but that's no excuse; figure skaters gain points for elegance over cheesiness. Winning Canada's gold means that Russia did not win for once - not since 1960 has a non-Russian competitor won the gold in ice dancing. This also means that Virtue and Moir are the first to win gold in North America. Looking good and having mad skillz pays off?

don't: argyle

Yeahhh...not going to comment on this one. Way too obnoxious for one of the world's most boring sports. Sorry Norway, you were much better in women's ski cross.

don't: jeans and plaid in snow

Shaun White, moguls

Lindsey Vonn, alpine

Yeah, I can't deal with how casual these outfits are. They're just so...American? Pink plaid with ads plastered all over it = not so innovative nor fresh. But JEANS?! Snowboarding/moguls in jeans, you have got to be kidding me. This isn't high school. I'm all for interesting patterns on jackets, but Shaun White barely looks like he's wearing a jacket. Just how casual and trendy can you go in the snow?

don't: everything about johnny weir

I definitely almost typed "Johnny Weird", American figure skater who is known for channeling "Lady Gaga" among other diva's. Although his skating was near flawless, I just couldn't jive with his outfits. That pink/black number honestly looks like it's from the discount rack at Hot Topic. It's too much, and lacks taste. Luckily for Johnny, Rodarte designed a knit skating suit for him. Although I have no interest in seeing his bare ass shining through the flawless threads of Rodarte, it's still pretty cool that they did this for all American athletes.

Overall, America: not impressed. Not only do you teef all of the medals due to your sheer size and economic value, but the style sense of your athletes is questionable.

undecided: black & gold

I'm the biggest fan of black, gold, and details, but I still feel undecided about Japan's speed skating outfit. It might have worked better if it was black with gold accents. Too flashy.

YO SOY CONANDO

2010-01-24T15:26:00.007-05:00

Well, I am really sad that Conan O'Brien has left NBC's late night line up. Conan has been there for me throughout high school and university, from a time where I had no friends to a time where I had all the friends in the world. I remember being online and watching Conan in high school, and then furiously typing "AHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA" to a few of my friendly Conanites every time he said something hilarious (which was a lot).

Conan is my anti-depressant pill; everything he says and does makes me laugh (even when I am in the worst mood and am really tired), not to mention his lanky physique. Not only is Conan hilarious but he is handsome as hell. I think it's all those chic suits he wears. This world is such an injustice sometimes - I don't understand how stupid people like Jay Leno succeed and smart people like Conan have to leave an entire television network. I guess Conan is too good for NBC (except 30 Rock and the Office because they are brilliant).

In the last week of Conan's shows, I noticed how super-racy he was, just like he used to be at the 12:35am time slot. How amazing was it that Robin Williams gave the finger to NBC like 10 times on the third-last Conan show? I love the support for Conan. He is the only late-night TV show host worth watching in my opinion, whereas Jay Leno is like the Mike Bullard of America: UN-FUNNY. I love Conan and I will miss him. I wish him all the best and I hope he returns to late-night television again so I can giggle a lot. Oh, and the best Simpsons episodes of all time? Yeah, they were written by Conan.

Although I haven't seen every single episode ever (not even close), some of my favourite moments include the masturbating bear and the "desk rides". Fuck, would I give anything to go on a Conan desk ride. Also, I love the comparison between Conan and the Finnish PM (who is a woman) - they look very alike.

I came home early to watch Conan's last show and was super-sad when he started choking on his words. He didn't deserve any of this. The last lineup was stellar: Steve Carrell, Neil Young, Will Ferrell doing a musical performance with various artists such as Beck and ZZ Top, featuring Conan on guitar. Mad cool. I wish there were more funny interviews, but the music was satisfactory.

Who knows where he will be after this? Perhaps in my arms, Conan, perhaps you will be in my arms :'(

2010-01-15T20:26:00.008-05:00

Last Saturday I went to see this band at Rancho Relaxo from Toronto called Bravestation. Not only was every band member super-attractive, but they played solid music reminiscent of Muse, Interpol, Editors and Kings of Leon without sounding like a carbon copy. I have to say that I am surprised by these alt-rock radio-friendly dudes in regards to their presence and talent. Where’s George Stroumboulopoulos, NOW Magazine and NXNE? If you’re reading this, GET ON THIS BAND. The Rancho crowd loved them off as the band failed to broadcast any imperfections in their live music. So watchout! Southern Ontario, because you’ve got another thing coming, if you’re brave enough to handle it. And Foals, you better watch out too, because Bravestation could totally open up for you on a UK tour. I’m really impressed by the amount of press these young Brockvillians are getting. Maybe it’s because they are so gosh-darn tight and on top of that, they can make the publicists werrrk for their benefit. Ben Rayner of the Toronto Star even gave them a good review – that’s generally a sign from the music gods that your career is going to be awesome.

Photo by Daina Little

Honourable song mentions include “Roaming through the Capital” and “Southern Company”. Can’t you picture yourself driving/biking to these songs? Possibly with the radio on? Eh? Eh? Listen to the rest here.

Photo by Daina Little

As for Rancho Relaxo (aka Raunchy Relaxo), well, that’s a whole other story. I was glad to see the place packed with all sorts of fun people. Good vibes, good times, and it doesn’t hurt that there was Mexican food downstairs.h

STARLIGHT BURLESQUE: A REVIEW

2009-12-19T12:07:00.010-05:00

Last night I finally hit up the Starlight Burlesque Holiday Special Show at the Blue Moon at Queen/Broadview. The Starlight ladies consist of Esther De Ville, Virginia D'Vine, St. Stella and Emmanuelle La Gitane. The night included special guests Coco Framboise, Mina LaFleur, the Incredible Edible Akynos from New York City, fire-eater Dante Inferno, and vocalist Patte Rosebank. Let's not forget the FANTASTICAL George Lake Swing Band, a sixteen-piece jazz orchestra that made the night lively, adding that warm and special holiday jazz feel. Makes me wanna go out and see more live orchestras! A nice touch was added with little cute burlesque girls serving hor'dourves before the show.

From my understanding of burlesque shows, there tends to be a comedy routine in between performances. At the Blue Moon, we saw Parker and Seville busting jokes and boners throughout the night in an old-fashioned silly style with a modern twist. Esther De Ville opened up the show with sparkles and definitely got the crowd going. Emmanuele La Gitane was up next, a petite girl with a few delicious ounces of bellydancing in her. By this point in the show, it's clear that every humourous burlesque dance concludes with boob pasties being revealed. St. Stella worked it like a tiny dancer with mighty curves and a hint of Catholic innocence. Virginia D'Vine, award winning burlesque performer, rocked it on the off-stage swing with personality and persistence. Dante Inferno was up next who was a fire-eater in true American burlesque spirit. I lost my shit when he took his jacket off, only to reveal a gothic mesh shirt underneath to the sound of "Enjoy the Silence" by Depeche Mode. I was in true hysterics! Patte Rosebank serenaded us with "Merry Little Christmas" with its original lyrics from Meet Me In St. Louis (1944) that were definitely insensitive to the on-goings of World War II.

Esther De Ville working her pasties in the rain

Coco Framboise dazzled the audience after intermission. I heard a lot of guys take deep breaths as they tried to hide their undeniable boners. Coco must have been the highlight of the show with her diva entrance and her fiiiine booty. Beyonce's got mad competition (and so do I). Mina LaFleur hit the stage shortly after with her ruffled undies as she enveloped herself in sensual and gigantic feather fans. Finally, The Incredible Edible Akynos ceased the night with her extremely parodied version of a shy and clumsy burlesque dancer, but as the rhythm of the orchestra moved faster, so did she, and her courage shined right through.

Note that burlesque is a form of comedy coupled with sometimes grotesque and over-the-top sexuality. The comedic factor to Burlesque is not to be misunderstood; parody, pastiche and character are central to the performance. The more the night went on, I couldn't help but think how special burlesque revival is to the City of Toronto. Burlesque is about embracing the diversity of women's bodies. Each girl had minor stretch marks, cellulite, and some flab on her. Each girl is a different weight and height. In a celebrity gossip tabloid, these would be seen as negative traits, but let's face it, most women have all of these things and guess what? It's actually normal, so there's no reason to hate.

The crowd was very cosmopolitan and open into doing something very different on a Friday night. If you're looking for a change in weekend entertainment, then check out the hurly-burly Starlight Burlesque and their guests for good times and a little 1940s class & elegance. Oh, and try not to take yourself too seriously. You'll have a blast.

Now, excuse me while I hunt down some feather boas before New Years Eve arrives.

BACK IN THE DAY: AN ODE TO SONIC YOUTH

2009-12-12T17:02:00.008-05:00

Three years ago today I wrote a livejournal entry on the importance of Sonic Youth. To commemorate this moment in my life, I am reposting it for all to see. It also got published in York University's Excalibur. I submitted it as a joke and it actually went through with some editing. Quality journalism right here, folks.

Cheers!

Sonic Youth is amazing. They are the reason why you listen to music. They are the reason why so many bands exist today. It took me a few years and many tries to get into them. Now that they have grabbed my heart and entangled it into their guitar strings, I can't go back. I feel accomplished for letting them devour my soul with such intensity.

I first bought Goo in grade eleven from an unpolished used CD store on Bloor street, knowing that the album would somehow impact my taste in music. I did this even though I wasn't enthusiastic about them. It was one of the best $7 including tax I ever spent on music.

Sonic Youth owns music. They have influenced a large volume of artists, including your band. Even if you've never listened to Sonic Youth, they have influenced you. Even if your band sucks, they have influenced you. Sonic Youth is so superior that they invade your subconscious.

Sonic Youth has always been one of those "essential" artists, despite what musical genre they are placed in. Sonic Youth overrides grunge and indie and every other musical category. Sonic Youth is better and arguably more essential than Stephen Malkmus' band Pavement. I could list all the bands Sonic Youth is better than, especially from the late 80s to mid-90s, but I would be wasting my time, and yours.

There is a small chance that Sonic Youth might even be better than the Pixies. I'll have to get back to you on this, though.

Plus, Sonic Youth has ubiquitously invaded my childhood cartoon-watching experiences. Remember when Sonic Youth was on the Simpsons? This is clearly one of the top ten best Simpsons episodes ever. Not to mention, who can forget choppy music video clips of Sonic Youth on Beavis and Butthead in the mid-90s? Not me. I bet Daria had a Sonic Youth poster on her wall, too.

Listening to Daydream Nation, Dirty, and even Rather Ripped legitimizes the amazingness that Goo once captivated me with. Years later, I am downloading and purchasing the albums beyond Goo. I know, you're probably like, "What took you so long, poseur?". Dude, I don't care. Now is the best time. Now.

Sometimes the best music you'll discover in your life is almost fifteen years too late. Sometimes the best musicians pick up their instruments before you're born. To see those musicians still impacting music today, whether people realize it or not, is profound and mind-blowing if you really think about it.

I should write an academic thesis on the importance of Sonic Youth in life.

2009-12-09T13:28:00.021-05:00

You know, Copenhagen and I have a special and loving relationship, albeit dysfunctional. We've fallen in love, fallen out of love, played the blame game, ended our relationships on Facebook, and now we are both at a happy medium where we can enjoy each others company in a civil and respectful manner. All I need to do is test our new relationship with a little visit. You know, to make sure we're both doing okay.

In January 2008, I packed by bags and headed for Copenhagen for 6 months of exchange at University of Copenhagen. What was a terrifying experience at first turned into something delightful, eye-opening and just plain "hygge" (the Danish concept/way of life for "coziness"). Although it was stressful at times dealing with "Danish ways", I look back now and realize that my life wouldn't be the same if I never lived there. No, this is not turning into a sob story. Many friends were made, and many beers were consumed as several bicycles roamed the streets like it was no big deal. This is normal to the Danes; environmentalism, sustainability, high taxes and tall Carlsberg's. In lieu of COP 15 and to anyone who is interested in visiting my beloved little city in the near future, I present you with my guide to night life in Copenhagen. Note: I haven't been to Copenhagen since 2008 so I'm not exactly "up to date". Feel free to criticize this post.

A guide by neighbourhoods and by streets

Nørrebro The Nørrebro neighbourhood houses the long street that is Nørrebrogade. I lived off this street, quite north past another long road called Jagtvej in a little dormitory/kollegiet. Nørrebro was the neighbourhood I biked through every day to get right into the centre of town (25 minutes by bike, 50 minutes walking). This is where you see daily Danish commuter life, not to mention all the delicious shwarma and falafel joints that dot the street.

What's good in this area?
Be sure to check out the streets Elmegade and Fælledvej; they intersect with Nørrebrogade. These are some of my favourite street to bike down, plus there are loads of ethnic shops and shoe shops. It's a little like Vesterbro (you'll see) with lots of Middle Eastern foods/cool shops/awesome cafes happening.

RUST. Proper DJ nights, great bands, and just all around easy access and good cheer. As a non-Dane, is it wrong for me to say that I love this place? I discovered Kleerup, Egyptian Lover and Choir of Young Believers here.

Blågårdsgade Jazz Cafe. Cheap drinks and relaxed times with live jazz playing several nights a week for free. Just one of those little heartwarming discoveries found floating off from the main streets. There are other crafty and thrifty to be found in this area. Beware, thrifting Copenhagen is stupidly expensive compared to North America.

Stengade 30. They have reggae nights every Sunday. A lot of African - especially Ghanaian - expats come here (all 15 of them). Fun under the fake Jamaican sun.

Vesterbrogade Welcome to another street with tons of ethnic restaurants, colourful galleries, hot clothing shops, and cafes. Just off of Vesterbrogade is the "up-and-coming" meat-packaging district on a street called Istegade. This is also the "red light" district (aka: a handful of sex shops and maybe two hookers). Vesterbrogade is a very long street well worth the bike trot.

If you are in the area, find Lakagehuset, it has some of the best pastries, breads and muffins the city has to offer. It's more or less across Hard Rock Cafe. When you go, please fed-ex me some baked goods because I am drooling as I type this. There's also one right across Christianshavn metro station where you will need to get off, if you want to see Christiania.

Vestergade Not to be confused with the drawn out Vesterbrogade, this is yet another street that houses tiny vintage shops and cafes. It's filled with surprises and hidden urban gems.

Downtown: Various streets! Time for Google Maps, no? Anything is close to you on a bike when you're in baby Copenhagen!

FISK (Sankt Peders Stræde 1). It's one of those hybrid vintage clothing shops/cafes/bars all in one. Copenhagen meets Berlin.

Salonen (Sankt Peders Stræde 20) for a pretty decently priced sandwich and local ecological beer, with heaps of flyers on the walls.

Din Nye Ven (Sankt Peders Stræde 34). A cool place to read/drink in the daytime with live music on most nights. It gets packed and is awesome (minus the smoking - damn Danes, update your indoor smoking laws). This is one of my favourite places ever. I absolutely love this street. Din Nye Ven (which means Your New Friend) is crucial in the night or day.

Living Room (Larsbjørnsstræde 17). Living Room sells fair trade/organic coffees and tees. They also have a really nice cozy basement, and really cute postcards lying around. I was sold the instant I popped inside. Living Room defines hygge one step at a time. Check out the neighbouring Studiestræde if you like to look at cute stuff like I do.

Bankeråt (Ahlefeldtsgade 29). A cafe/bar that has human-sized taxidermied people/animals all around. I believe they have international newspapers there for your reading pleasure, too. I love this place and I wish I took pictures of its interiors. But taxidermied stuff + beer? Kind of a big deal.

Culture Box (Kronprinsessegade 54). Probably one of the hippest places for house, electro, and minimalist German techno. But I wonder if this venue is "sooo 2008" or what. Maybe there are other venues like this that I've never been to. Regardless, they host events with DJs such as Ellen Allien. FYI: The Cheap Monday store of Copenhagen is at Kronprinsensgade 7.

Vega (Enghavevej 40). Not exactly my favourite place, but this is a venue to check out while planning your visit to Copenhagen because there are always decent touring bands playing here. This is where I met Jens Lekman for the *second* time. Be weary of their house nights. Although good DJs play here sometimes, it's easy to run into creepy men trying to hit on young women. Fortunately, the place is open til 5am and then at that point, you can just bike away from the creepers.

The Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) Remember when I mentioned Istegade? Well, now I am going to talk about it some more. Istegade is one of the major arteries of Kødbyen, translating to "meat city". Istegade is populated with boutiques, bars, and other strange discoveries. This is the first street in the world where pornography became legal; you'll find sex shops and up-and-coming cafes/shops to go to. As for the hookers, I never saw more than four at a time. The area is generally safe. For more info, here is a nice little Wallpaper* review of the hood.

Kødbyen is primarily around the street of Halmtorvet. It is parallel to Istegade. There are some bars and clubs that opened up recently, such as Jolene. It's not advertised as such, but I'm pretty sure it's an Icelandic lesbian bar with impressive lighting and decor. Kødbyen is a cool place to walk around in the daytime because it's very raw (and I'm not talking about meat), however, it's also on the verge of gentrification.

Råhuset. Yeah, it means "Raw House". Råhuset lies off of Istegade and is an ex-meat factory. Strange, artsy, and Scandinavian. Actually, this might be on Halmtorvej. This area in general is carnivorous. Vegans: proceed with caution.

Karriere (Flæsketorvet 57). Ok, so this is another major street in Meat City. Karriere is a play-on-yuppies; literally, the name of the bar/restaurant means Career. It's pricey and yuppified to a point where I'm not sure if it's ironic anymore. But take a walk inside. The design and decor is, yet again, fantastically original.

---
Okay, so I think I've exhausted my Copenhagen resources. There are some places that I just don't remember the names and locations of, but overall, the main goods of my Copen-half-year have been revealed. Tourist or local, feel free to contribute to the list.

NEW IN MUSIQUE

2009-12-04T11:17:00.010-05:00

Annie: Don't Stop

ACHTUNG fans of electro of the Scandinavian, particularly Norwegian variety: get on this album! Annie is redefining electro with her latest album Don't Stop and I clearly can't stop (listening to it). It's got hints of Röyksopp and Robyn with undertones of dancing to fashionable house music at Culture Box in Copenhagen circa 2008. Beginners should start out with the tracks “I Don’t Like Your Band” and “Songs Remind Me of You”. Great poppy vocals, jumpin’ beats, and Ladytron-esque vibes. I LOVE it!

The XX: Self Titled

And now for something completely different, the XX. Why does this album remind me of Sonic Youth with a tinge of R&B? Is it the awkward-kinda-there-Kim Gordon-meets-pop vocals? Anything that reminds me of Sonic Youth is generally amazing; I think it's the combination of vocals and gloomy, calculated guitars. Therefore, this album = yes. Just yes, yes, yes, yes, YES!

Otis Redding: The Very Best of Otis Redding

Not exactly "new" in music, but definitely newly appreciated by me! I just can’t get over the greatness of “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay”, one of the greatest songs ever written. I have been listening to this album day in and day out. It warms my winter blues and compliments deceptively sunny days where it's below 0. I love the way he revamps doo-wop songs like “My Girl” into intense soul jams with his killer vocals. Otis is the king of soul. He brings the funk into my life. Not a big deal at all!

Motown: Various Tracks

So, in lieu of Otis Redding (who was actually on Stax Records, not Motown!), Motown has been on my listening list for the past couple of weeks. I am reminded by how great late-50s and 60s music is at a class I'm taking notes for called "The History of R&B, Soul, Funk and Rap". It's the best class I am taking notes for by far. Each week the professor tells us insane stories about the music biz back in the day and how pretty much everyone died (Florence Welch, Mary Wells, Tammi Terrell etc) or became really greedy (Record Company owners, Diana Ross). I've only attended lectures after the doo-wop period, but man, I'll never forget sitting there typing out the stories of how Diana Ross was a huge bitch and yet still remains one of the greatest vocalists of the 60s. Growing up listening to Alan Cross's "History of New Music" radio show, I can't help but appreciate and love the history of music and its shaping of music today.

Peter Bjorn & John: Living Thing

If you go back to the very first entry of Too Rude, you will see that I was obsessed with “Nothing to Worry About” by Peter Bjorn & John (AKA Peanut Butter and Jam) off the album “Living Thing”. Now I have this album on repeat. There is something I like about its annoying and repetitive sound. Listen-worthy tracks: "Blue Period Picasso", "I’m Losing My Mind", "It Don't Move Me". The track "Living Thing" reminds me of Africa, so that one's pretty good too.

ER-COUTURE: AN INTERVIEW

2009-11-27T15:45:00.013-05:00

Elisabeth Rolskov of ER-Couture is a Danish-born expat living and designing in Vietnam. She has started up shop in Ho Chi Minh City with her brand as an ecological designer and is adding her own personal brand of conscious, class and creativity to the basic yet emerging Vietnamese fashion scene. Here's what she has to say about being an expat-designer in Vietnam.

Tell me about ER-couture and how it got started. Why are you designing in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam at the moment?
I have always dreamed about having my own fashion company. This was what I wanted ever since I was a little girl, drawing garments for my paper dolls. I set up my boutique ER-Couture 6 month ago because I accommodate an area in Vietnam where there are little suppliers right now. This is the market in between unknown retailers and high fashion stores like international fashion brands. There are hardly any suppliers in the middle where you can buy affordable high-quality clothing.

You are originally from Denmark. Would you say that your designs and concepts are influenced by where you’re from?
I am indeed influenced by my Danish background but on the other hand I have been living overseas for many years, which is reflective of my designs. After living in Hong Kong, China and Vietnam, I have often found myself in a melting pot of different cultures. I appreciate diversity, and the exposure to varied ethnicities has inspired me to integrate the Asian and Scandinavian design style. My brand ER-couture represents a cultural fusion – distinctive for its unique combination of Western silhouettes & tailoring with Asian details & ornaments.

Can you explain the significance of using natural fabrics in your designs? Would you be considered an eco-friendly designer?
At ER-Couture, we continuously do our utmost to make things last and we never compromise on quality. We select only natural materials for our collections such as silk, wool, cotton, linen and leather. Quality and comfort are keywords at ER-Couture and we never let our customers wear synthetic fabrics!

We care about our customer and in order to reduce chemicals that fabrics often carry, and minimize excess color and shrinkage, we take the effort to wash all fabrics before production. Our philosophy is always to make the most out of our resources and we carefully consider suitable fabrics, designs and cutting methods in order to minimize waste. We also encourage people to do Demi-couture or Made-to-order as we see this as a way of encouraging quality and “slow fashion” over mass-produced disposable fashion. ER-Couture can be custom-made for the same price – which is an offer we provide as it gives us the possibility of greater customer satisfaction and a chance to make our production more environmentally friendly. This is high-end fashion after all, and the design will lose its soul if it’s being mass-produced.

Transmissions Photo shoot

Where do you find your main organic materials? What is the manufacturing process of your work?
Not all our material is certificated organic – we can’t get organic materials in Vietnam and we must therefore import organic materials (you can consider how eco-friendly they actually are after the transportation). We do import some bamboo fabrics from China, which is an organic fiber that we have been very happy to work with.

We mainly use a small sewing team that work for ER-Couture and other smaller shops. In our boutique, we have an excellent tailor who helps us produce samples and custom made garments. This gives us the chance to make perfect samples for the sewing team to follow.

What is the fashion "scene" like at the moment?
I see a market very interested in fashion. Look at the attention towards Fashion TV. The interest for international fashion magazines is also growing and Sunflower Media now has the license to publish "Her World" in Vietnam. Some of the local designers are also very interesting and are especially making beautiful garments with hand-embroidery.

Tell me about your latest collection as well as the expansion of ER-couture in Ho Chi Minh City.
Every season I choose a new inspirational source. This season our Fall/Winter 2010 collection is designed with references to Film Noir’s femme fatale and 1940's exquisite elegance. The 1940's chic, sharp and sophisticated elegance with reference to Hitchcock's female heroines is the theme ER-Couture is embracing which is visible in our feminine, artful drapes and constructed silhouettes. We focus on a feminine figure with exaggeration of waist, hip and shoulders. The overall lady-like look has a slight rock-chic twist visualizing our female heroines aesthetic with use of raw, metal rivets, dramatic zippers and leather.

Following ER-Couture's very successful first six months, we found the need to expand our Ho Chi Minh City boutique. On this occasion we have added an outstanding selection of designer accessories such as jewely, leather bags, belts and shoes. We are also introducing our new fashion line, ER, which follows the same principles of high-quality products as ER-Couture, yet it prioritizes simple design for stylish every-day wear.

I know how crazy and hectic it can often be living in Ho Chi Minh City. How do you clear your head and gain your creativity?
I manage to travel a lot. I go back to Denmark at minimum two times a year and I travel to Hong Kong occasionally.

Where do you see fashion heading in Vietnam in the next 5-10 years or more?
There is still a long way to go if we compare with Singapore and Hong Kong and I think the retail stores are still quite limited. With the huge interest in fashion I think Vietnamese retails have a good change for growth. We are indeed heading towards a more fashion-forward future!

Construction photos from a photo shoot with The Word magazine.

2009-11-18T10:57:00.012-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I introduce you to Brittney Townson, blogger extraordinaire of SHIRK magazine. You can view my interview and pictures at SHIRK here to see just exactly how blog swaps work!

1) What’s the deal with SHIRK? Tell me about your blog.
Shirk started as a side for a thesis project for design school. I was too lazy to design a full website. I printed out little rectangle "business cards" with SHIRK and the URL attached, gave it to all of my school friends, and sooner or later I started getting hundreds of hits daily. After school finished, I didn't touch it for the longest time...until I started posting again. Everything from fashion, music, news and other ridiculous shit that I found entertaining. It keeps me sane.

2) You moved from your old house recently. Tell us how the move went and where you moved.
I went from an old creaky house built in the 60's by the lake to a three year old townhouse in "down town" Mississauga. I plan on leaving as soon as possible.

3) Tell me about your closet in particular.
It's tiny, and a complete mess. My room is the size of a dive-bar bathroom, so I have all of my expensive clothes and dresses hung up. On the top shelf; little organization boxes with hats, purses and scarves. On the floor, boxes full of shoes, old photographs, ex-boyfriend love letters and other knick knacks. Thank you, Ikea.

4) What is your favourite place you’ve traveled to and why?
My heart will always belong to New York, but there's just something I can't seem to express verbally about Iceland. It has to be the most breathtaking place I've ever been and every day I dream about going back.

5) If you won the lottery right now, what would you do with the money?
Tour Europe. Period.

6) What item of clothing are you dreaming about owning these days?
I am looking for a nice new pair of fancy shorts; I love the patterned nylons with shorts combination. I would also fancy something black with huge, dramatic shoulder pieces. I would like to say something Lady Gaga'esque without actually having to mention the words Lady and Gaga at all.

7) What food could you absolutely not live without?
Sushi, is that too typical? I could honestly eat it every day.

8) What inspires SHIRK? What motivates you to write and design for SHIRK?
Everything. Art, fashion, music, design, ridiculousness, gossip, bullshit, awesomeness. I just put all of myself into Shirk without making it too personal.

9) Favourite designer (fashion, industrial, or graphic) and why?
Fashion --> Anna Sui, Marc Jacobs, McQueen, Galliano, and Biba.
Graphic --> Saul Bass and everyone to do with the Constructivism movement in the 30's and 40's. Gary Baseman, Friendswithyou and pretty much any other designer featured at Magic Pony.

10) What’s so great about Toronto, anyways?
The thing that's great, but it's also it's hugest downfall, is how everyone seems to know everyone else in this city. Also, everyone's creative in some sort of way. It just wants more more more. I hope it keeps up.

2009-11-06T12:13:00.012-05:00

I got sick from food poisoning a lot this past summer in Vietnam. Despite this, I can’t seem to get over how excellent the French restaurants were in Ho Chi Minh City. You probably won’t head to Asia for a couple of French meals, but given the history of Indochina, French cuisine has been integrated into meals of the Vietnamese. High-quality ingredients paired with cheap Southeast Asian prices are pretty sweet for a Westerner who had missed her European food at the 2-month mark. If you’re in HCMC for a long haul like I was, check out the following restaurants a la Français.

Typical means of transportation in Vietnam: motorbikes

The Refinery Vietnam was colonized by France around 1784. As a culinary result, French cuisine impacted Vietnamese styles of cooking all across the board. The Refinery is a hidden restaurant in the deep alleyway-courtyards of Saigon. Although the view is covered by high rise buildings, it’s a good place to get away from the city smog and people. The restaurant actually used to be an abandoned refinery at some point. Meals are pricey for Vietnamese standards; expect to pay around $14 for chicken breast, roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes – a meal I could easily have made myself. Check this place out for its ambiance and bring your friends out for the patio. Don’t forget to go dancing at Vasco’s next door afterwards. 74 Hai Ba Trung, District 1.

Le Jardin Le Jardin is attached to the French Cultural Centre of Saigon (IDECAF) and hosts the cheapest place to eat high-quality French food in the city with dishes going for around $7, plus the wine. The French must really appreciate green spaces because there are tons of plants and grass patches around this area, making for a peaceful getaway from the noisy streets. Not only was Le Jardin two minutes away from my apartment, but the price was something I could not get over. 31 Thai Van Lung, District 1.

David Beckham-esque celebrity endorsements for chicken

Ty Coz Yet another hidden French family-owned restaurant, and possibly the best French food in Southeast Asia! A three-course meal in this home-away-from-home cost around $14 which is a steal of a lifetime. Many of the ingredients are imported, especially the delicate French raw oysters. The French waiter from Lyon explained the entire menu to us which took around 15 minutes; apparently the menu changes daily/weekly. I love fixed price with tons of options. I would kill to come back here and stuff myself into a comatose state. Incognito at first, Ty Coz is located inside of an apartment on the second floor (if my memory serves me correct) at 178/4 Pasteur in District 1, right by the cathedral.

Typical Vietnamese streetwear. NO SUN!

Fanny’s From what I’ve heard, Fanny’s is a French-owned ice cream chain. I haven’t seen it anywhere else in the world, but damn, I wish I had one in my backyard because it is so stupendous. Fanny’s has the craziest flavours like young rice which tastes like rice pudding), chocolate chili, passion fruit, avocado, vanilla macadamia nut, ginger (!!!) and cinnamon. Where can you find cinnamon ice cream in Toronto? Because it's in my TOP 5 BEST ICE CREAM FLAVOUR category. If you are in the area, check out T3 in the Temple Garden building right next door for some of the most intense and delicious DIY barbecuing you’ll ever do. 29-31 Ton That Thiep, District 1.

SCANDI REDUX

2009-10-16T11:03:00.008-04:00

This month's musical redux goes out to the early winter we have been facing in the Greater Toronto Area this October. Apparently mother nature decided to skip out on autumn and was just like, "Whatevs. Ya'll can start hibernating now". There's nothing that will keep us warmer than the delicious dance tunes of the following people.

Kid Kishore/DJ Hvad is a DJ based out of Copenhagen who is known for his eccentric mixes that incorporate Bollywood, Punjab breakcore, hiphop and nauseating sound effects all into one. A little geometric and a little politically incorrect, he puts on a live show that you kind of have to dance to. Hvad?

Kleerup has my heart. I'm honestly the biggest fan of Kleerup's pop-infused beats that are catchy as hell. He could orchestrate a Coca-Cola commercial with debut track "Hero". Other favourite tracks include "Until We Bleed" featuring Lykke Li, "With Every Heartbeat" featuring Robyn, and "3am" featuring Marit Bergman.

Familjen still brings it. We recently celebrated our one-year anniversary of me purchasing Det Snurrar I Min Skalle (The spinning in my head). I'm surprised he hasn't gained fame in North America yet but that's probably because he sings in Swedish. Oh, and be sure to check out his remix of "If I Had a Heart" by Fever Ray on the Myspace page. Impressed!

The Touch have gotten a little shaky over the years but if you are into electro and possibly Ed Banger then The Touch is worth a listen. I could never find their album because I think they are strictly for da club.

CFCF (aka Mike Silver) is a producer from Montreal who recently came out with the album "Panesian Nights". Funk-infused and a little Chromeo-80s-cheesy, CFCF is a hot piece of joke worthy of your attention. CFCF is for fans of Chromeo, poppin', Crystal Castles remixes, and The Drake Underground. He deserves an honorable mention here as he is the only non-Scandinavian artist featured this month under Scandi redux. Yeah, I cheated a little.

MONTREAL EATS ITS YOUNG

2009-10-14T12:21:00.014-04:00

Too Rude Magazine’s guide to Montreal

Last weekend, my partner in crime, Jamie, and I, drove to Montreal for the long weekend. Despite the ass-awful parking, the peculiar automobile drivers, and the freezing cold, we had a pretty awesome time. I ate tons of food, stared at tons of sweet bikes, and jaunted through neighbourhoods aplenty. Here is my short and sweet guide to visiting Montreal for 3 days.

Eat
Une Crepe (on Mont Royal just west of Mont Royal metro)
Une Crepe’s decor was trés classy, spacious and cozy. I purchased a cone-shaped Nutella crepe which was delicious, but very filling after the first crepe I ate an hour beforehand. What can I say? I love crepes.

Rue Mont Royal

Le Flambard (851 Rue Rachel E, corner of St. Christophe)
Le Flambard is a choice-heavy, super-tiny prix-fixe restaurant with minimal decor serving excellent traditional food from Lyon. I stuffed myself to death here with a killer four-course meal. I enjoyed a tomato, garlic and duck fat soup; a spinach, goat cheese and mushroom puff pastry; scallops in garlic and cream sauce, and a crème brulee made out of perfection. The whole meal was a bit pricey ($34, cheaper options available) but decent for a nice and intimate night out. BYOW – bring your own wine because the place does not serve alcohol.

La Banquise, 994 rue Rachel Est (at Ave de la Parc LaFontaine; metro Mont-Royal)
You cannot go wrong with a 24-hour poutine machine with over twenty-five varieties of poutine as well as sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs and petit dejeuner options. Once operating as a mom-and-pop dairy/hotdog/hamburger joint in 1968, the place has moved on to being the post-night-out-hot spot for stuffing oneself to death. I tried the veggie poutine even though I was really curious about the smoked meat poutine. Check out the menu here!

Cathedral on Rue Rachel

Croissant de Lune on Saint-Denis (just south of Ontario)
I first discovered Croissant de Lune when I was 16. They serve amazing crepes with plenty of options. I remember eating strawberry crepes with chocolate sauce. I didn’t get a chance to come here this past weekend but I totally recommend it. Still.

Going out
Montreal has this reputation of being a party city, especially compared to Toronto, where a usual night out is stiff and judgmental. We didn’t go out excessively, probably because we were too tired from walking around all day. Our big night out occurred on Crescent street. Now, I’m not sure what kind of reputation Crescent street has with Montreal crowds; is it comparable to Richmond street in Toronto? Jamie is a big fan of Irish pubs and we couldn’t get more authentic than Hurley’s at 1225 rue Crescent (southern part of Crescent). Not only did they pour an amazing pint of Guinness but they sold us with their rustic decor, Celtic wood carving, and artful rooms. Pretty versatile for an Irish pub with friendly staff and some cover bands. St. Laurent is another busy street worth checking out for shopping and going out, but alas, no time.

Sights
Basilica de Notre-Dame: Probably the most stunning building in Canada with a ridiculously detailed Catholic interior. For a five dollar entry fee and a location in the middle of Old Montreal, you have to see it at least once.

Museum of Contemporary Art: Located at 185, Sainte-Catherine Ouest, the MOCA is a small but fulfilling collection of contemporary art with high hopes to please everyone walking through its doors. Current exhibitions include Tricia Middleton, Francine Savard and Tacita Dean, with Middleton being my favourite for her sensory experience of a contemporary version of Plato’s cave. She stunned me with her textile details in the ceiling and wall work.

McCord Museum of History: 690 Sherbrooke Street West. An impressive and interactive museum focusing on the history of Montreal. Current exhibition includes “Being Irish in Quebec” which remembers the Irish immigration from the late 1800s and looks at current Irish neighbourhoods in Montreal. Totally worth the visit if, you know, you're into Canadian history.

Old Montreal

Botanical Gardens: 4101 Rue Sherbrooke Est. Don’t expect to walk here from the McCord Museum because it’s quite far east. Situated by the retro Olympic stadium, the Botanical Gardens are currently hosting a traditional Chinese garden/lantern exhibit outdoors which glows beautifully at night. The best part is that the Gardens use TFT LED Contactless systems which substantially reduce energy consumption.

Et moi! Dans l'Insectorium

OMG FEVER RAY

2009-10-03T11:54:00.013-04:00

FEVER RAY was the most amazing show I have ever been to. It wasn't even a show, it was a dramatic art performance. Seriously. Karin Dreijer Anderssen incorporated the "shaman" character from the "Seven" video into her live performance; he was in costume along with the rest of the band and their whimsical appearance, and Karin with her rotting organic corpse of a woman which is supposed to be symbolic of something. It was moving as hell. I was like a giddy schoolgirl during the first three songs, after which Karin revealed her blonde hair, painted face and grimly dressed body. A weird and creepy, incredible and talented, foggy and lasered-out show that is going down in my history books. This performance was the definition of too rude. Karin is herself, she doesn't seem to care what others think, and as a result, a masterpiece is born.

(Last pic: Helly from Toronto, dolled up like Karin as seen here)

More of my pictures here. Please ask before using.
My favourite interview with Karin Dreijer Anderssen

"Seven" video:

DO'S AND DON'TS

2009-10-02T00:02:00.006-04:00

The Dø (pronounced doe) is a fresh-as-fuck duo from France slash Finland. After their Toronto debut last night at Wrongbar, all I have to say is that The Dø is the total opposite of a music-døn’t.

The Dø brought their oddball energy from Europe to Toronto almost in a way to prove the crowd wrong. They were almost too good for the crowd on this soggy Wednesday night. But they brought an element of life to us which tends not to happen on Wednesdays. Olivia Merilahti’s little shindigs never failed to impress us, not to mention the weird, black, strappy, avant-garde ensemble she was wearing that night (P.S. I want it. Where did you get it, Olivia?). Not to mention the completely Istegade-influenced metallic red tights and the multicoloured Reeboks that accompanied it.

Olivia’s shrill vocals mixed with the heavy bass, percussions and jaunty keyboards of Frenchman Dan Levy makes for a unique, jazz-infused sound. Sometimes subtle, and sometimes insane, their music is a whirlwind of emotion and tonal changes which made for an exciting mini-rollercoaster of a set, reminiscent of a spring day with a 99% chance of thunderclouds. The song “A-Ha” showed us another side of the band with a sound inspired by Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs (whose outfits I wouldn’t mind pouncing, either.).

If you’re looking for a new album to listen to that is super-fun, super-weird, and super-stylish in its own way, then take the Dø by the hand and run into a sunny field for a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised.

MIIKE SNOW VS. JACK PENATE

2009-09-27T13:01:00.008-04:00

Last Wednesday I hit up Wrongbar with my partner in crime Max for a show of the Svenska invasion. Miike Snow (SE) and Jack Peñate (UK) have been touring for their latest albums and given the ridiculous amount of Scandinavian bands that are touring in Toronto this autumn, we both knew that this one was going to be a highlight. But aside from the interesting crowd that made the night Hilarious, it wasn’t anything special.

Miike Snow recently opened up for Lykke Li at her Sound Academy show in August which would explain why the show was sold out. As for Jack Peñate, well, I truly have no idea where he came from (other than England). That being said, Mr. Peñate teefed the show without hesitation. His energy was through the roof! Miike Snow played several danceable songs but the set was slow and droney with way too much “negative space” and feedback; back-to-back full songs would have highly been appreciated. I forgot how much Miike Snow doesn’t remind me of Familjen, except for that one song “Animal”. I’ll give them this; their non-ballad songs are incredibly catchy, but the lead singer who looks like Bert McCracken needs to try a couple of new things with that keyboard of his.

Overall, the night was sub-par: the crowd was expected but unexpected which shaped the overall vibe of the show. Given Lykke Li’s deserved fame, I bet that Miike Snow will follow in her steps. The Svenska invasion continues.

OVERCAST & CONCRETE: BANGKOK

2009-09-13T00:01:00.011-04:00

In my last and final weeks of summer, I visited Thailand. Despite the absolutely ridiculous things that occurred while trying to get OUT of Thailand (Let's just say I spent 24 hours stranded in an airport), I figured I’d give a brief overview of my experiences in the one and only: Bangkok.

Without getting into too much detail, all you need to know is that Bangkok is a really ugly city minus the stunningly detailed wats, temples, palaces, and ancient cultural archi-facts (artifacts + architecture) spread throughout the city. Bangkok is a concrete jungle where you feel like you’re always walking under a highway, at least in the Silom and Sukhumvit business districts. If you’re not walking under sky trains rails and elevated walkways, then you’re walking into over-age men with under-age Thai women.

Accommodation
My first night arriving in Bangkok was spent at a hotel called Take a Nap. Stunned by the unique designs of the rooms on Hostelworld, I booked a twin ensuite immediately. At $25 a night, it’s like a cheap Asian version of Denmark's Hotel Fox. Take a Nap was clean, secure, and design-conscious, which meant that several young Japanese and Korean 20somethings were staying here on a shopping vacation. Although the staff were questionable in their mundane recommendations for nearby restaurants and spas, I generally appreciated housing myself here for three nights.

The eye-catchiness of Take a Nap hotel in Silom. I stayed in the purple/pink room.

Shopping
Bangkok’s middle name is shopping. It’s actually kind of revolting how many markets exist in the city alone. The malls are outrageous; if you can't survive the Eaton’s Centre, then I’m not sure how you’d deal with the ~~palaces~~ malls such as Siam Paragon and MBK. My one piece of advice is this: ignore all shopping malls, and head to Chatuchak market at the very end of the metroline. Bangkok’s metro is advanced and makes Toronto’s TTC look like a beaten down homeless shelter (isn’t it?). Chatuchak market only takes place on weekends with over 10,000 stalls. I know. It doesn’t make sense to me either. You can find the latest avant-garde Asian and Westernized fashion here three to five times less than you would in North America or Europe, making this market a true diamond in the rough of Bangkok.

Eating
Honestly, I had no bad experiences with Thai food; it is one of my top five favourite cuisines of the world. Every restaurant I visited in Silom was exceptional. When traveling to any developing country, it is crucial to be skeptical of sanitary conditions. Consider Dukarol, the traveler’s diarrhea medicine. According to our trustworthy receptionists at Take a Nap, the best area to eat in Silom was Tasty Thai which is a chain (for god’s sake!) with stellar food. If you’re expecting atmosphere, traditional music, Thai silks and candle lit dinner, leave it at the door, because this place is the high quality McDonald’s of Thai food.

Overall, it was “nice” to visit Bangkok to kill my curiosity. A much anticipated trip to Thailand was in order after living in Vietnam for three months, but at the end of it all, Bangkok killed my buzz. If I wasn’t so crazy about Chatuchak market and Bangkok Fashion Week, I'm not sure I'd return.

COME ON BACK TO THE WAR, DON'T BE A TOURIST

2009-08-17T00:28:00.011-04:00

San Art Gallery is a new gallery space in the Binh Thanh district of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, run by Viet Kieu’s (also known as Vietnamese Overseas) from America. Not only is it an independent, non-profit, artist-run exhibition space, but it’s also a reading room and a host of lecture and international exchange programs.

Artists are slowly emerging and thriving in Ho Chi Minh City along with the indelicate, coarse skyscrapers that are creeping up on the country’s largest city, and San Art is a perfect player in the changing landscape of Vietnam. The fact that San Art is funded by the Vietnam Foundation for the Arts says something about the improving image of Vietnam. Now, Vietnam is following the same steps as its South East Asian brothers and sisters in Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Slowly, but surely.

I discovered San Art in mid-July. The first exhibition I attended was called Blink which ran from June 12 to July 24. Blink illustrates the rise of creative individuals in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Nine young contemporary Vietnamese artists graced the gallery walls impressively. What wasn’t so impressive was the “reading room”, which consisted of a wooden chair in the corner of the gallery. A comfy couch might need to provide itself useful in such a budding gallery. But anyways, the magazine and book collection was quite impressive, from back issues of ArtForum and Frieze to many contemporary Asian and Australian mags. Not to mention, the hoard of used international development books and UN reports.

The latest exhibition is entitled Everything Illuminated which runs from August 6 to September 24. Six selected artists respond to works of three senior photographers: Chu Chi Thanh, Doan Cong Tinh and Vo Anh Khanh. Not only are these men successful and recognized photographers, but they were also soldiers during the Vietnam War. Amongst illustrating the horrors of the war, they display the backbone and endurance of the people during this time period.

Left to Right, top to bottom: Hung Tran POV 2009, Kevin German Untitled, Dao Nguyen Thach Thao Untitled 2009, Cu Chi Thanh Jane Fonda Visiting Nam Dinh City 1972.

San Art is truly a unique space in Ho Chi Minh City. The gallery is close in proximity to district 1 but it takes a skilled Xe Om (motorbike) driver to navigate through the broken, half-constructed roads and alleyways in which San Art is placed. With a little time, I can see the neighbourhood of San Art really growing in the next few years, much like the rest of Vietnam. What I feel about that development is maybe controversial, considering I cannot walk anywhere without hearing a drilling, a buzzing, or a hammering in the city.

NEW IN MUSIC

2009-08-04T13:43:00.011-04:00

In Vietnam it's not easy to download or stream tracks because the internet connection is not very stable, but with the help of Grooveshark streaming (best website ever) and the occasional Pitchfork visit, I have discovered new music. This is what I can't stop listening to these days.

Wildbirds and Peacedrums: Heartcore and The Snake

I discovered W&P a few months ago but I just need to mention how fucking awesome they are right now. Moreover, I can't get over how much Mariam Wallentin could totally be my doppleganger. A husband-wife duo from none other than Goteborg, Mariam's voice chill me every time because there is a tiny hint of Karin Dreijer Andersson in those vocal chords. Simplistic folk paired with raw orchestration and rolling drums make for WB&PD's original sound, which led the artists to an Årets Svensk Jazz award in 2007.

jj: jj n° 2

jj is a side project of the edgy Tough Alliance, mein lovers from Goteborg: city of love and music. After hearing only one track, I am taken aback by this project. Can't wait to hear the entire thing. Listen to "Ecstacy" which, much to my enlightenment is sampling "Lollipop" by Lil Wayne but doing it with all that Svensk class, style and grace. Ooh child.

Affictionados/Oh No, No Decks

Affictionados is not new to me. He is my friend Carl (aka Carlsgatan) from Malmo, Sweden. Back in Copenhagen, I took a class across the bridge in Malmo in which I had to interview local musicians, DJs, producers and promoters for a research project. Carl was nice enough to meet up with my group and I to spill the beans on the scene. For some reason I am really enjoying the lounge essence of his music these days and the quality of production he brings to his mixes. Not to mention, he DJs some really mean funk in the emerging cafes and clubs of Malmo. You can download his collections and single tracks here.

Phoenix: Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

I find something sexy about Phoenix that the Strokes lost a long time ago. Maybe it's because they're French. I thought rock revival was "over" but when I listen to the latest album by Phoenix, I feel as though they bring a fresh perspective to the genre. At first not a fan, their catchy tunes grew on me because I was bored of everything else. This is their fifth full-length release, and unlike the American version of their music - The Strokes - the newest album actually sounds good. The singles "1901" and "Lisztomania" bring me back to my high school days of eating freezies on church stairways in the Annex and thinking about what Karen O is wearing.

Peter, Bjorn and John: Living Thing

I am really hooked on some of the tracks of Peter, Bjorn and John (aka Peanut Butter and Jam), god damn. I will have to hear the whole album to make a decision, though. I'm just really obsessed with their videos by my favourite director, Andreas Nilsson, especially "Nothing to Worry About", a painfully annoying and addictive song.