Ver Arts & su Entertainment Magazine s APRIL 8—APRIL 14, 2009 VOL. 47, NO. 12 TIM GUNN Make it Work! Tim Gunn stops by Nashville’s Kate Spade boutique to share fashion tips, talk “Project Runway” and tips for breaking into the fashion industry.

When Holly met Hooly (da kid). A story of making friends on formal weekend on page 5.

Oh my God, shoes! Let’s get ‘em! Quick, they’re on page 8!

PLACES TO GO, PEOPLE TO SEE THURSDAY, APRIL 9 FRIDAY, APRIL 10 SATURDAY, APRIL 11 The Regulars

Minnie Murphy — Sambuca Nashville Symphony — Schermerhorn Center Pico vs. Island Trees — Mercy Lounge/Cannery THE RUTLEDGE Enjoy excellent musical stylings along with your meal at Sambuca, Presented as part of Suntrust’s Classical Series, the Nashville Ballroom 410 Fourth Ave. South 37201 You need not know anything about this beyond their name and one of Nashville’s trendy Gulch restaurants. Thursday’s performer Symphony’s most recent venture into the past, “Vienna Old and 782-6858 is Minnie Murphy, a confident young jazz singer with skills on the New,” brings the many sounds of the European center to you. Join their emo picture — three dudes staggered in a hallway with skinny black ties and ill-fitting pants. Whether or not you had keyboard. Let Minnie set the mood for a stylish and scrumptious conductor Giancarlo Guerrero and violinist James Ehnes for an THE MERCY LOUNGE/CANNERY meal. (Free, 7 p.m., 601 12th Ave. South) evening of excitement. ($35, 8 p.m., 1 Symphony Place) an ill-fated run in with a tropical tree over your formal weekend (although if so you’d be rooting for Pico the whole time), come BALLROOM check out this show at the Mercy Lounge. ($TBA, 9 p.m.) 1 Cannery Row 37203 Pat Bergeson — 12 South Taproom and Grill Eastern Block, The Justin Kack Orchestra and Red 251-3020 Multi-talented musician Pat Bergeson has worked his way up Beard Rattlesnake — The End the musical ladder from the humblest of beginnings. Starting his Keeping their nose to the grindstone since releasing their debut EP Victoria Shaw, Gary Burr, Ryan Rothe — BLUEBIRD CAFE career at the University of Illinois, Bergeson later moved to New earlier this year, Eastern Block has been pounding the pavement, Bluebird Cafe 4104 Hillsboro Road 37215 York and then Nashville, where he collaborated with Chet Atkins getting their indie pop sound heard all over Nashville. Hear them Continuing on our theme of things to do before you graduate, now 383-1461 for several years. (Free, 9 p.m., 2318 12th Ave.) at The End this Friday, with two openers bound to get you excited may be your last chance to get to The Bluebird, a Nashville must- for a great show ($5, 9 p.m.) see. What’s more, these three songwriters have their hands all up Brian Jonestown Massacre with The Flavor in the country music scene, which is also something you should EXIT/IN Crystals — Exit/In Doug Stanhope, The Mattoid and Chad Riden — get into in Nashville at least once. Having written songs for Lady 2208 Elliston Place 37203 Formed in 1990 in tribute to the Rolling Stones’ legendary Exit/In Antebellum, LeAnn Rimes and more, you know this is going to be a 321-3340 guitarist Brian Jones, the Brian Jonestown Massacre has had some Once in a while, the weekend needs a good jolt to get it started. good show. If you don’t know that, go anyway. ($12, 9:30 p.m.) 40 different band members pass through its lineup. Its 1995 Anticipating this need, Exit/In has booked Doug Stanhope for a STATION INN release, “Methodrone,” features the shoegazer sound so common rockin’ performance this Friday night, ready to shake you into a Jeff the Brotherhood — The End 402 12th Ave. South 37203 to the ’90s. ($16, 9 p.m.) good mood. The Mattoid and Chad Riden will certainly complement Billed as a psychedelic/punk/grunge duo, this pair is going for 255-3307 him well. ($20, 9 p.m.) something a bit different — they’re releasing a 7-inch vinyl at Rick Huckaby with Ernie Halter and Seth Walker this party at The End. Do you have a record player? Neither do THE BASEMENT — 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill Flight of the Concords — Ryman Auditorium I. But that doesn’t mean you can’t come see this show — no 1604 Eighth Ave. South 37203 Rick Huckaby lives his life by his own personal mantra: “Play Join the outrageous New Zealand duo as they bring their guitar- equipment required. What’s more, the other bands playing are 254-1604 hard or go home.” This Louisiana-born country boy plays music riddled comedy to the hallowed stage of Ryman Auditorium. called “The Tits” and “The Weiners,” so there’s something for all that reflects his roots, drawing influences from both country and Known for their popular radio and television series, Bret McKenzie you girls and boys. ($5, 9 p.m., 2219 Elliston Place) F. SCOTT’S RESTAURANT AND southern rock music. Opening will be Ernie Halter and Seth Walker. and Jemaine Clement will bring you to tears with their Grammy JAZZ BAR ($5/6 p.m., $7/9:30 p.m.) Award-winning compositions. ($38.50, 8 p.m.) Blair Harp Ensemble — Blair School of Music 2210 Crestmoor Road 37215 Have you ever heard a harp ensemble? Because I haven’t, but 269-5861 Lonesome River Band — Station Inn J-PO and the V.A.D. and The Running — 12th and I bet it’s heavenly. Under the direction of Marian Shaffer and 1991’s breakout release, “Carrying The Tradition,” catapulted the Porter presented in our own Turner Recital Hall, this very different SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY Lonesome River Band into the spotlight: Today, the Band enjoys There’s nothing quite like CD release parties. The artist sits performance will leave you pleased, I guarantee it. How can I CENTER praise as one of the most popular and influential bluegrass bands anxiously on the brink of their future, the fans clutch excitedly say such things? Consider the following: Who else plays the harp? 1 Symphony Place 37201 on the map. With more than 25 years of performing under their to the new music—whether the artist is an international celebrity That’s right: angels. (Free, 6 p.m.) 687-6500 belts, the members of the Lonesome River Band are sure to bring or local talent, you feel like you’re in the middle of history. Join a show to please. ($12, 9 p.m.) J-PO and the V.A.D. for just a moment, as they release their new The FAB — Third and Lindsley 3RD AND LINDSLEY You know what’s going to be –ULOUS? The FAB. Whether you’re a disc. ($10, 9 p.m.) 818 Third Ave. South 37210 Beatles fan or not (and let’s be honest, we all are at least a little The Appleseed Cast with Shot the Mountain, An 259-9891 Horse and Hey Penny — The End Renee Flemming — Blair School of Music bit), this Beatles Tribute band will not need any “help” getting the show started. “Imagine,” if you will, “a hard day’s night” filled Indie rock band The Appleseed Cast favors a post-rock sound When internationally renowned vocalist Renee Flemming blows CAFE COCO accented with impassioned vocals. The four-piece act hails away the audience with her gift of music, you’ll want to be there. with all your favorites. Whether you’re a devoted fan or just a “daytripper,” this show will be more than worth it. ($10, 7 p.m.) 210 Louise Ave. 37203 from Lawrence, Kan., and has evolved to its current sound and Just a short walk from your residence, the Blair School of Music 321-2626 composition after a series of lineup changes and natural musical will play host to one of the world’s most talented sopranos Friday progressions. Openers An Horse and Hey Penny are sure to set the night. Don’t miss it. (Price TBD, 8 p.m.) show off right. ($10, 9 p.m.) THIS ISSUE Versus Bits & Pieces APRIL 8—APRIL 14, 2009 VOL. 47, NO. 12 • Your life in the stars, 2 • Overheard at Vanderbilt, 2 Versus FROM THE EDITOR 5 • Words to live by in 17 syllables, 2 Magazine EDITORIAL BOARD Entertainment • Friends in low places, 5 Editor in Chief • Clothing for a cause, 5 Chris Gearing 6 • It’s an “Adventure”!, 5

Managing Editor Sara Gast Music • The frat songs you love to love, 6 Features Editor • Tell me lies, tell me sweet little white Courtney Rogers lies, 6 • Whigging out at The Whigs concert, 7 Culture Editors Trip Cothren Holly Meehl I’ve got something to share, Versus readers. I’m an addict. 8 Fashion Music Editors I’m addicted to disorganization. Have you ever written • Shoes, 8 Charlie Kesslering yourself the proverbial “To Do” list? A running catalogue of • More shoes, 8 Avery Spofford things you need to accomplish by the end of the day? Well, • Project Runway is pretty cool, 8 I didn’t. I’ve been relying on memory and guile to carry Head Writer me through my days, and I had some very limited calendar Kris Stensland usage for the big things (i.e., tests, breaks, parties). Needless Features to say, I was forgetting things. • Tim Gunn talks spring style, 9 Share sad sob story — check. 9 • Letter from an Angry WASP, 9 Art Director I hit rock bottom when I started asking professors for Matt Radford extensions on papers and taking off days of class. I got help. I went to meetings, got a sponsor and started a 12-step PIC OF THE WEEK Designers program. Not really, but you get my point. … You want to Irene know what the real life saver is? Google has done it again, Hukkelhoven my friends. They’ve created exactly what you really need and Kat Miller it’s free and easy to use. It’s called Google Tasks. You can Morgan Webb access it through your Gmail account and get to it with your mobile device (iPhone, Blackberry, whatever you choose Marketing Director to use). It’s simple, type in your task and when it’s done — George Fischer check it off. It structures my life and goes everywhere with me. It’s like my personal assistant, but it’s free! Advertising Manager Carolyn Fisher Shameless promotion of Google Tasks — check.

VSC Director Let’s fi ll up your “To Do” list with suggestions from this Chris Carroll week’s issue of Versus, shall we? Make sure to read our review of the new comedy “Adventureland,” reserve time to Assistant VSC make our top 10 frat songs playlist on iTunes and hear what Directors sartorial guru Tim Gunn has to say on spring fashion (he Jeff Breaux even liked Features Editor Courtney Rogers’ outfi t — see?! Paige Clancy We know what we’re doing here at Versus).

Journalist in Promote the next awesome issue of Versus — check. Residence Tim Ghianni Stay Legendary, Chris Gearing NICOLE MANDEL / VERSUS MAGAZINE BITS & PIECES HAIKUS A lot of compelling stories in the Words to live by world aren’t being told, and the fact that people don’t know about them in seventeen syllables compounds the suffering. Thousand dollar dues — Anderson Cooper Per semester, per person Could save lots of lives…

Three weeks left in school H ROSCOPES Means only three Thursday nights ARIES 3/21-4/19: You have now offi cially said “I’m on a boat” more times than you have actually literally been on a boat. And you Make the best of them. never thought you’d see the day… TAURUS 4/20-5/20: You can never be your favorite superhero, but you CAN be just like their alter ego. If that alter ego is lame, then it’s really just an ego for you. GEMINI 5/21-6/21: Even Kim Jong-il can’t even get it up, so don’t feel bad. If you missed that joke, you should “stay up” on current events more. OVERHEARD CANCER 6/22-7/22: If The Smurfs were communists (think about Some people on this campus just don’t think before it), then Gargamel was the only American of the group. Still, watch they speak. Sometimes we are lucky enough to out for him just in case. overhear what they say. LEO 7/23-8/22: If you have a fear of public speaking, re-evaluate Compiled from the Facebook group “Overheard at Vanderbilt” its merits considering the implications of private speaking.

VIRGO 8/23-9/22: Although an Alliance sounds great, an Axis is Rando: “Have you hooked up with that guy more badass. with the baby face yet? Wait, is he even legal?” LIBRA 9/23-10/22: You think you’re a great dancer. Well guess Guy: “We’ll make it like a Ouija board … what, you’re NOT. but the goal is his dick.” SCORPIO 10/23-11/21: Although it sounds like they’d be cuddly, Guy: “I just got herpes … and I’m single! your acute symptoms this week are not good things. What’s up with that?” SAGITTARIUS 11/22-12/21: Compose a letter to Taylor Swift this week: “Dear Taylor, Yes. Sincerely, Me.” Frat boy: “Unless there’s a chance of death, it’s not hazing.” CAPRICORN 12/22-1/19: One would think that sinful and cynical could become synonymous, but that’s not as clever as you think it is. Rando: “Priests’ daughters are FREAKY!” AQUARIUS 1/20-2/18: As a pre-med, you can self-diagnosis and Professor: “If I gave the wrong instructions, self-treat the fl u. The same cannot be said of loneliness, though. blame the ’70s.” PISCES 2/19-3/20: While mermaids may seem attractive at fi rst, don’t try to hook up with one this week. Because… gross, fi sh parts.

Unless you’re into that kind of thing. PHOTOS: ickr.com Versus • April 8—April 14, 2009 • 3

lead. As media continues to change nationally, Student Media at Vanderbilt is also making some changes to our structure to allow for more in-depth news gathering and improved content streams.

We invite you to consider applying to lead our efforts into the future of Student Media at Vandy.

The Vanderbilt Student Communications Board of Directors is seeking applications for the following leadership positions for the 2009-10 academic year:

Group 2 VTV Station Manager The Vanderbilt review Editor-in-Chief Slant Editor-in-Chief Commodore Editor-in-Chief The Vanderbilt Torch Editor-in-Chief orbis Editor-in-Chief Talented Tenth Editor-in-Chief Vanderbilt political review Editor-in-Chief Geist Editor-in-Chief Vanderbilt Fashion Quarterly Editor-in-Chief

Student Media News Editor Student Media Sports Editor Student Media opinion Editor Student Media Features Editor Student Media Multimedia Editor

Applications are available at www.vscmedia.org

AppliCATioN DEADliNES Group 2 Applications are due on Friday, April 10 at noon.

For more information about the job descriptions and responsibilities of the above leadership positions, please contact paige Clancy at [email protected] 4 • April 8—April 14, 2009 • Versus Versus • April 8—April 14, 2009 • 5 ENTERTAINMENT Make some formal friends, like young foreign rap stars

HOLLY MEEHL with, but the Panama locals, met a group of vacationers proceeded to throw several Culture Editor teenage spring breakers and that we assumed to either cds at us. The CD is titled So like many other Vandy the rare aspiring rapper. be college age or a bit “Biz,” and as soon as we got students this past weekend While on the beach and younger. Our judgment back to our room we eagerly I embarked on the infamous enjoying the masses of was slightly off. As we put the CD in the stereo. spring formal trip to Panama Vandy kids of varying frats, I asked the group of giggling After several minutes of him City. After returning on met some people who were Southern girls how old talking, his music started the long bus ride Sunday not from Vandy or even from they were they replied, and surprisingly was not that evening, I considered the America. My friend and I “Seniors in high school.” bad. After our tenth listen of trip a success as I was struck up a conversation OK, acceptable. We the song “How Many Chicks” not as red as a lobster, I with two young men from proceeded to ask the boys it really started to grow on us had no obvious bruises Argentina. They seemed sitting next to them how and became the theme song or battle wounds, and my to be enjoying the college old they were. to the trip. You can check out liver, although a bit angry party scene and informed “I’ll be a freshmen next abc.net Hooly da kid on MySpace with me, was still intact. us that they were having year,” he said. were sharing a hot tub with. name. Well, we didn’t exactly along with his addicting Reminiscing about the days a party at their house later “What school are you But after my initial qualms, make friends with him per jams. on the beach and nights in that evening and we were going to?” I asked. I relaxed and enjoyed the se. On Friday night, we were So for all those heading the penthouse I realized that invited. We had to politely “Well, I mean, I’ll be a conversation. walking to a restaurant for to Panama or some version some of my best or perhaps decline. freshmen in high school.” Despite the charm of the some Panama seafood when of this next weekend, don’t most interesting memories Another group we met Seeing as it was nearly Argentineans and the high a car slowed down next to us forget to make friends with involved the friends we were from the U.S. but midnight and a boy next to schoolers, my favorite “friend” and rolled down its windows. strangers. It gives an extra made in Panama. No, not were a bit younger. While me was holding a bottle of we made in Panama was a 21- “Yo, check out my demo.” element to the debauchery- the Vanderbilt randos you searching for a hot tub to Andre, I felt a bit uneasy year-old called Hooly da kid, The young black man in lled weekend and great suddenly become besties lounge in one evening we about the 13-year-olds we or at least this was his rapper the car, presumably Hooly, stories to tell your friends.  ‘Adventureland’ scores well with laughs and sighs

TRIP COTHREN well. This coming-of-age tale “A m e r i c a n to provide that contrast of someday soon. With the likes Culture Editor of a newly graduated virgin Pie.” Jesse hot girl and nerd. And then of Bill Hader and Kristen When I saw the previews English major is something Eisenberg is there is the talent-driven Wiig, the movie was full of for this movie, I thought that we all can relate to that nerdy, Ryan Reynolds who plays good jokes contrasted with I knew what I was getting in some way. Typically the lovable, the legendary, mysterious a heavy undertone that is at myself into. I was wrong. virgin story is overdone and a w k w a r d park repair guy. Reynolds has times a little awkward and This movie comes off as played up like it’s the main goob that we lately proven that he actually hard to watch. Reynolds’ and another hilarious movie with punch line, but that was not have become does have some talent, not Stewart’s interactions are the the same tone as the Apatow- done here. “Adventureland” familiar with just looks and charm. most awkward of scenes. I do verse movies. It was hilarious writer/director Greg Mottola in the past. The movie overall was very recommend this movie to at many points throughout had more in mind with this However, Mr. well done. It was very well any and all fans of the darker while having many serious story. Mottola also directed Laist.com E i s e n b e r g acted and probably will not humor and the heartfelt tales moments that were more than “Superbad,” this generation’s “Adventureland” provided pulls this role off in a way do so well in the box of ce, of love.  unexpected. Sure, there are classic go-to movie. He turned some great, gut-busting that it was not annoying but will likely be a cult classic comedies that border on being over a new leaf with his most laughs while also alluding and cheesy but lovable and serious movies that have been recent effort, and it was to classics like “Fast Times at hilarious. “Twilight” star good, but this one did it very something that I really liked. Ridgemont High” and even Kristen Stewart was able VERSUS MOVIE RATING:

Fashion for a Cause’s meeting tiimes. on information for [email protected] see for yourself!! E-mail We’re a lot of Come fun!! runway show ‘died’

ANA ALVAREZ Staff Writer If Rachel Zoe had been able to attend last week’s fashion show, “Living in Color,” she certainly would have said, “It died.” In case you’re not familiar with the celebrity stylist’s lingo, that means literally, it was the best thing ever! Why? Because the Fashion for a Cause event not only offered Vanderbilt students the latest spring fashion trends, but also the opportunity to receive hands-on experience with the fashion world and bene t a cause at the same time. “Interacting with designers NOW HIRING and their work was an PART TIME! awesome experience!” said Francesca Barillas, vice president of designer planning. “At this stage in my life, I never thought I’d get such in-depth exposure to the fashion industry. I also never thought that so many ANA ALVAREZ / Versus Magazine designers and storeowners would be so enthusiastic “While some (designers) we found it had a connection about participating in the had special requests as to with our cause,” said Amanda show. Many of them were what color they’d like to take Shield, Co-President of more than willing to work on, others offered a variety Fashion for a Cause. “(It) with me and gave me a lot of of colors, and I just picked added another dimension to input on how I could make the whichever one they had the the show … and was catchy show better. In fact, we even most of or their most powerful and familiar enough to stick in had two designers exclusively pieces,” Barillas continued. “I the minds of our audience.” design and create collections did my best to represent just Even though the planning just for the show (Southerly about every primary color, and process is a year-long Designs and Local Honey). I think I was pretty successful endeavor, Shield and her This was particularly exciting in doing that. The show has co-workers prove that the ShOpping 101… for me because I had the never really been done like outcome is worth all their yOur heADquArTerS fOr DeSigner BrAnDS AT DiSCOunT priCeS chance to also give my input this, but I feel like this theme time and effort. into the design process.” really provided a cohesive “The fundraiser and While Southerly Designs and artistic element.” the show were extremely PUMA | ADIDAS | STEVE MADDEN | SKECHERS | ROCKET DOG offered a white and cream color Ever since 2004, the runway successful, because not only MUDD COLUMBIA SPERRY GUESS NINE WEST BEARPAW palette, Local Honey provided shows put together by Fashion did it draw in a large audience | | | | | deep red and black hues. One for a Cause, a Vanderbilt … the silent auction achieved notable piece from the UAL student-run organization, have the largest pro ts than it has boutique collection was a bene ted various charities. This ever had in years past, and yellow, “safari” dress. Around year, members of the board the energy remained high the model’s waist was a thin, chose Nashville CARES to be throughout the evening,” caramel belt that went along the recipient of the fundraising Shield added. “The event with metallic gladiator sandals. event. In turn, those affected by also promoted awareness The juxtaposition between chic HIV or AIDS will receive the for Nashville CARES and a Downtown 615.254.6242 | Opry Mills 615.514.0290 | Cool Springs 615.309.8939 and casual created the allure of care and treatment they need. continued growing reputation The Avenue at Murfreesboro 615.494.5048 the out t, like many others the “We decided to call the and campus familiarity of  audience found on the runway. show ‘Living in Color’ because Fashion for a Cause.” www.offbroadwayshoes.com

OB482_09Spr_VandHust_4-8_031909.indd 1 3/20/09 3:37:55 PM 6 • April 8—April 14, 2009 • Versus

In an unexpected turn, The David Lynch Foundation's Transcendental MUSIC Meditation benefi t on Saturday in New York played host to a Beatles I’m a big woman. I need big hair. reunion, as Paul McCartney and —Aretha Franklin Ringo Star teamed up for three fi nal songs. magicwebchannel.com

When you’re out fratting hard, perhaps a drink or two deep, there are always those few songs that come on and you just go, Top 10 Frat Jams “I LOVE THAT SONG!” Here I’ve compiled my top 10 countdown of those awesome frat jams that everyone seems to know. KRIS STENSLAND Head Writer 6. “Your Love” — The Out eld 3. “Take Me Home Tonight” – Eddie Money Until just now, I wasn’t exactly sure what this song was about. This song is catchy, sure and classic (again, '80s music rules 10. “Love Story (Pop Remix)” What makes this a great frat jam is that it doesn’t even matter frats like Natty Light), but it breaks the top three by also tossing — Taylor Swift — all you have to do is scream out “I don’t want to lose your in the desires of 90 percent of the dancing males in any given At rst, this sugary sweet love tonight” (whether that’s true or not), and go with the beat. frat party. Is that dude singing the lyrics or pleading with you? pop tune may seem like a Then, realize that it’s also, “I just want to use your love tonight,” Perhaps a bit of both. This song is so Money. strange choice for a group and realize how tting it is for your sketchy dark bumping and of adolescent men, but look grinding. And then attempt to forget it. 2. “Livin’ on a Prayer” — Bon Jovi around the next time this song Oh, Bon Jovi. Made for frat action, you were. “Livin’ on a plays and check just how many 5. “I’m On a Boat” — Lonely Island Prayer” is merely the greatest of the hits by this (again '80s) star. people are singing along. Not Especially useful as a rally at around midnight (when you’re oh, just girls, either. What started halfway there), this song can nonetheless be played at any point as ironic listening turns into throughout the night (or day, for that matter). unabashed belting in the middle of a party. Come on, it’s 1. “Don’t Stop Believin’” — Journey a “Love Story” — just say yes. cmt.com 9. “Summer of ’69” — Bryan Adams “I bought my rst real six-string, something something something … it was the summer of ’69!” Despite only knowing approximately 10 percent of the lyrics to this song, there’s no reason one can't scream that chosen portion again and again. With love of '80s tunes leading frattastic musical endeavors, this Bryan Adams hit is a regular at all frat parties. It appears that nothing can last forever … except our love of this song. rap-up.com

8. “Sweet Home Alabama” — Lynyrd Skynyrd Though a recent addition, this song de nitely belongs in the Normally played during the day (or sampled in the form of top ve. Not only does everyone know and love it, but it’s so easy Kid Rock’s somehow-Grammy-winning song) “Sweet Home to call out the lyrics that you can’t help but join in. Add in the Alabama” is the leader of the genre of Southern rock that fact that T-Pain is involved, and that it hits every awesome aspect everyone knows and is familiar with, from the very rst guitar of every rap song ever, and you’ve got what may be the most riff. Whether or not you’re actually from the South, you probably perfectly designed frat jam ever. However, it has not yet gotten know and love this song. On your porch with a beer in hand, past fad status — we’ll see if it withstands the test of time. you de nitely know and love this song. 4. "I Love College" — Asher Roth 7. “Paper Planes" — M.I.A. If your fraternity has yet to discover this song, look it up. moonbeammcqueen. les.wordpress.com Who knew that a girl with a past riddled with guerilla Now. Everyone else already had it painted on their coolers last warfare and religious persecution could crank out the perfect weekend. This song is the quintessential ode to college life, One word: duh. Even if you’re living in a lonely world, you funky jam to keep frat boys miming guns and cash registers straight from the lips of middle-class prepster Asher Roth. know this to be the frattiest (and thus most awesome) song ever into the wee hours of the morning? While M.I.A. herself has Whether he went to college or not, this kid de nitely knows created. Though it probably wasn’t intended as such when it was said that she nds the song's aggressive mainstream in ltration what he's talking about. With lyrics including "Pass out at 3, written and initially performed, this has become a drunken (and surprising, it certainly has done just that — what started as a cult wake up at 10, go out to eat and then do it again" and "Time isn't by proxy fratty) anthem. If your midnight train is a silver bullet, favorite, quirky indie jam has become an insanely overplayed wasted when you're getting wasted," "I Love College" speaks to then your Naturday is undoubtedly highlighted by Journey … and monotonous. What could be frattier than that? the frat boy in all of us. at least once. Peter Bjorn and John’s ‘Living Thing’ is alive SHEMSI FREZEL Staff Writer the synthesizer was king. The album’s title track “Living Thing” Contrary to the title of the most noted song (“Nothing to is carried by a beat quite noticeably derived from South African Worry About”) from Peter Bjorn and John’s fth album, “Living styles of percussion. And the lead single “Nothing to Worry Thing,” these guys have plenty of grounds for concern — their About” oddly features the voices of small children who chant/ main worry being discontent with the pop status their 2006 sing the chorus without the sing-a-long characteristic that hit “Young Folks” earned them. It seemed no one, including childlike voices usually evoke. The sing-along quality is lacking Kanye West who sampled the song on a mixtape, could escape from the entire album because these are songs of few words — the catchy whistle-driven indie-turned-mainstream tune. This the words are secondary to the music. album is the trio’s attempt to distance themselves from 2006’s What drives this album more than anything is the use of the “Writer’s Block.” Peter Moren, Bjorn Yttling and John Eriksson, drum machine. Not since “808 and Heartbreaks” has the drum who make up the Swedish group, seemed to have focused more machine been this overused. There are moments within many on production than lyrical content and pop appeal this time of the songs where the only sound is a drum machine; these around. rhythms are often more interesting than the song’s lyrics, which The rst song on the album, “The Feeling,” is in someway are loosely woven and repetitive. However, the steady, thumping indicative of what’s to come as Eriksson proclaims: “I feel it, rhythms that the machine provides lend most of the songs their can you feel it, there’s something in the air.” It’s possible that charming sound — a charm that is not rooted in a pop esthetic something is in the different sound of this album. “Living but harkening back to their indie roots. Peter, Bjorn and John Thing” showcases some of the various in uences on PB&J’s are clearly working outside their box on “Living Thing,” and sound. Songs like “It Don’t Move Me,” the up-tempo song of a whether you love, hate or just tolerate the album, you have to scorned lover, and “Last Night” pay homage to the 1980s when windishagency.com respect artists who take risk with their work.  Artists to know White Lies Ryan Bingham AVERY SPOFFORD ZAC HUNTER Music Editor Staff Writer

British band White Lies may take its cues Ryan Bingham could be the Luke from some of the most popular music of the Skywalker of country music — you know, ’80s, but it’s no hair band. With in uences “A New Hope.” In an age where the country including Joy Division, Talking Heads and music scene is dominated by distorted Tears for Fears, White Lies takes the best of electric guitars and pop-sounding No. 1 hits, the ’80s and leaves the rest. a singer-songwriter from Texas strumming Formed in October 2007 from the ashes of a beat up acoustic guitar accompanied pop-punk act Fear of Flying, White Lies got by tasteful ddle and a hard living voice its start with a rst gig at the humble Hoxton’s is refreshing. Bingham sings with a voice Square Bar and Kitchen … a rst gig that just stained by smoke and whiskey and maturity picasaweb.google.com happened to be stacked with in uential A&R beyond his young age of 28. With a sort of of old-school songwriting that has a unique executives. After this inaugural performance, modern cowboy look (designer jeans, scruffy ambiance, which makes the listener feel like blogs.mirror.co.uk record labels came calling and the newly- beard and a cowboy hat), Bingham has found he is riding on a railway car through the named group rocketed to the forefront “Death” to fan favorite “E.S.T.” (which was a way to bring the sound of “The Gambler” Texas desert. of the U.K.’s musical consciousness: from featured earlier this year on The CW’s hit TV to 2009. While critics call Bingham out on his BBC Radio (who named the group one of series “Gossip Girl”), “To Lose My Life” sounds His rst major studio album, “Mescalito,” sometimes cliche country-western lyrics, he their artists to watch in their Sound of 2009 like it could be the soundtrack to a Brat Pack is one great number after another. “Bread has the background that makes it authentic. feature) to festivals and media this side of movie — “Sixteen Candles,” anyone? and Water” has the driving-train, foot- A former touring rodeo cowboy, Bingham the pond (the band is scheduled to perform Ever since their movement towards a stomping feel of an Allman Brothers tune, saw more hard times than most (perhaps at this summer’s Coachella festival and have lighter name and a darker sound, White Lies and “Don’t Wait For Me” follows as a slow explaining his voice that Rolling Stone says been featured on MTV), everyone seems to have been gathering momentum. With a rst ballad, with the sad sounds of a mandolin sounds like “Steve Earl’s dad”). Bingham want a piece of White Lies. album that skyrocketed to No. 1 on the U.K. and banjo crying behind the sweet harmony may never see a No. 1 hit with his name next Their sound is unique, but it's impossible to charts and recognition from some of the in the chorus. He also somehow pulls of an to it in today’s country world. He is an artist describe without mentioning the in uence of most in uential media outlets both at home entirely acoustic, authentically Mexican song, to know not because you can say “I told you music from the ’80s. The group’s rst LP, “To and abroad (BBC and NME in the U.K. and in which he mumbles some raspy Spanish so” in ve years when he’s accepting country Lose My Life,” debuted earlier this year and … “Gossip Girl” … in the U.S.), listeners can lyrics. The rst single on “Mescalito” is the music’s artist of the year award, but because showcases heavy throwbacks to new wave and look forward to great things from Britain’s six-minute plus “Southside of Heaven.” Sad he makes good music. And everyone can use ’80s alternative rock. From the single-worthy newest ’80s act.  and then suddenly upbeat, it is a great piece more good music in their lives.  Versus • April 8—April 14, 2009 • 7 Back in Cleveland after a 12- They say politics make soundtrack year retreat to New York, the odd bedfellows, but what Rock and Roll Hall of Fame about music? Gangster to the issue induction ceremony ushered rapper 50 Cent and Metallica, Run DMC and rockers Fall Out Boy will others into the halls of history join forces for five shows Saturday night. during the month of April. iconvsicon.com tinypic.com

Concert Review: The Whigs We at Versus have excellent taste in music. Below, the editors share courtney rogers Features Editor from a permutation of metal to more what tracks we’ve been spinning as traditional rock ’n’ roll. I found myself we create the glory you’re holding I’m guessing that it would be pretty difficult slightly distracted by their graphic tees in your hands. to write a negative concert review when you and denim on denim, but they had a lot of get to walk into a venue and tell them, “I’m fans in the crowd and definitely helped get on the band’s guest list,” but fortunately I everyone pumped for The Whigs. “You Are My Sister” do not have that kind of task before me. Not The Whigs started off with an intense, 1. Antony & the Johnsons only did Friday’s show at the Exit/In make almost war chant before their first song, and me feel important, it also was one of the best that intensity carried through the entire “Við Spilum Endalaust” concerts I’ve ever been to. performance into the encore. They played Sigur Rós The night began with opening acts The a good variety of songs from “Mission 2. Ettes and Wax Fang. The Ettes had a solid Control” such as “Like a Vibration” and punk vibe and their energetic drummer “Right Hand on My Heart” and even treated “My Type” set the bar high for having rocker hair that to the audience to some new jams that will T.I. added to her intensity without distracting be on their third album. I am especially 3. her. I would have needed a scrunchy for excited for “Alabama Stars,” a song that sure. Though punk is not my top genre, I let their Southern roots show, and “More “In the Aeroplane Over the kind of want their songs on my iPod for Than Before,” the song that I have had 4. Sea” when I’m on the elliptical because the stuck in my head for two days and cannot Neutral Milk Hotel yelling might scare me into literally going find anywhere, even on YouTube. The quest the extra mile. Wax Fang ran the spectrum for “More Than Before” was frustrating, “Day ‘n’ Night” Kid Cudi delawareonline.com 5. but if it was some sort of tantalizing mind game to get me excited for the next CD, it “Leningrad” worked. 6. Billy Joel A man of his work, lead singer and guitarist Parker Gispert treated us to some epic dance “Brooklyn (We Go Hard)” moves, including maneuvering under the drum set and climbing on the speakers 7. Jay-Z feat. Santigold during the encore. Though I sadly did not realize that my plus one and I could have “Love Games (Disco Stick)” met the band (I caught on to the idea of a Lady GaGa guest list 12 hours too late), the Whigs put 8. on a great show and I’ve been rocking out to “Mission Control” ever since.  “Girl From the North 9. Country” correction Bob Dylan In the April 1st issue of Versus, we mistakenly said rapper T.I. was headlining “Kiss Me Thru the Phone” Rites of Spring on Saturday night. T.I. will 10. Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em feat. be performing on Friday night. bighassle.com Sammie 8 • April 8—April 14, 2009 • Versus World of Fashion For the love of sneakers Your shoes: An abundance Just the other day, as I both classic and modern Nike Nikky Okoro slowly made my way to styles, it is also necessary to Staff Writer of shoe styles another mundane class, I point out that alternatives Shoes: one of the most was startled by what came do exist. Signature styles and architectural influences. It for graphic details on the Shemsi Frezel essential and perceptible across in the corner of my such as old-school Adidas or is easy to look at the trends of wedge heel itself or the use Staff Writer parts of any person’s eye. As I looked ahead, authentic lace-up Vans prove spring and summer within of metallic for the strap in wardrobe. To not wear the a mysterious boy with a to also pack the punch. From platforms to sandals, three categories. an attempt to return the perfect shoes with an outfit rather simple outfit caught However, nothing gets better fringe to snakeskin everything wedge to its stripped down is to essentially sabotage the my attention with h i s than a pair of high “Supreme was present on the runways Platforms roots of the 1940s. ensemble all together. h i g h l i g h t e r Edition” Nike Dunks in an about a month ago during After years It is so simple to both yellow Nike assortment of bright hues- Fashion Week. While some of absence in Sandals observe and discern part of Dunks. I didn’t what girl could resist? shoe fanatics will always mainstream What would the a person’s overall style and know who he Often, it seems argue that the shoe makes the fashion, warmer months individualism just from one was and only a chosen few look; this spring shoes have platforms are be without glance down to the feet. Of on campus are emerged as the focal within back in a major sandals? This course, I believe when it able to consistently design. Embellishments like way. Houses like season there comes to guys, the only pull off a look with studs, floral touches and even a Gucci and Prada harpersbazaar.com are plenty of fun true way to exude trendy sneakers (no pistol-shaped heel (as shown by have breathed options to choose from. your individuality names mentioned, Chanel) are giving this season’s new life into the staple shoe The omnipresent gladiator is through a pair of but you know who shoes their unique flare. Many of the 1970s, giving them a style of last season is still bold, eye-catching you are). Still, current designs have updated refined yet edgy look through relevant but made even more nicekicks.com sneakers. There’s no more guys should and developed popular styles subtle leather detailing. Stud dramatic by being attached limit to what brands can be encouraged to take of the past by adding artistic embellishments are being to a spiked heel rather than be bought and what styles probably never would, but up the challenge. Invest in added to some of that leather the flat styles of days past. can be worn-as long as the I did know that just from a brand, customize your detailing giving wearers of Tribal influences like fringe sneakers say a bit about his shoes he was sure to style and make it work. these ultra-feminine shoes a and bright, intricate and your aura. be someone I wouldn’t Many sneaker companies, tough girl swagger. repetitive patterns are also mind meeting. Though I such as Reebok and Nike, cropping up on sandals, may have somewhat often include special Wedges providing endless options to of a small bias online sections that allow A spring and summer choose from. towards for a customer to create a standby, the wedge sandal specifically tailored pair of has been adapted this Overall shoes trends for shoes. There’s no doubt that season to have a cork rather this spring and summer are you’re sure to be noticed than a woven base. The allowing ladies to stand tall, and given a double look — design most seen is that of stand out, and be unique in the best way possible. a thickly strapped simple and expressive, and isn’t So, if the shoe fits, don’t sandal. Designers like that what fashion is all just wear, it — rock it.  Michael Kors have optioned about?  sneakers.pair.com verycool.it 5 reasons to love ‘Project Runway’ Michael Kors with lines like, everything from sloppy Courtney Rogers “Wow, that is too short/too sewing to bad taste. It’s a Features Editor long/too heinous for words.” little like watching weekly Last week, in addition installments of the “Devil to being a milestone in my 2. The catchphrases are Wears Prada.” Though I fashion career when Tim nothing short of incredible. have survived being judged Gunn complimented my Never underestimate the for wearing cable knit, I outfit, “Project Runway” power of a good catchphrase. don’t know how I would fans collectively jumped Like good puns, they’re an fare in front of that panel. for joy in their stilettos — inside joke and a gift that They will make you cry only and with good reason. For keeps on giving. Most of the to tell you not to ruin the months now, a war of Prada show’s great lines come from silk dress that they despise. flickr.com latimesblogs.latimes.com and Armani power suits has co-host Gunn (“Make it work!” ensued over the rights to and “That is a lot of look”). the new season of the show, But other notable contestants which has already been taped. such as season 4 winner Fortunately, a white Hermes Christian Siriano have made flag waved, and Lifetime will their own (such as “Fierce”). be airing the new season this If Beyonce’s adopting it as summer. For those of you her new persona, you know IF YOU’RE snickering about Lifetime, it’s noteworthy. know that first and foremost, the show will be exactly the 3. More drama than rush, LOOKING FOR same as it was on Bravo, and semi-formals and formal secondly, those movies are season combined. Designers strangely therapeutic. If you tend to have rather dramatic flickr.com SUMMER HOUSING aren’t already addicted to personalities, and when this competitive reality show, they’re given tasks such 5. It’s the Bloomingdales here are five reasons why as “Create a party dress of reality television. you should procrastinate out of flowers in one day” The new shows that are IN NYC, STOP with seasons 1-5 of “Project or “Design an outfit from devised for reality T.V. are Runway” and get excited for anything you can find in a absolutely mind boggling. season 6. supermarket,” tensions run Shows that have spawned YOUR GOOGLING. high. This is most likely a bizarre spinoffs such as horrible situation for the “Charm School” for the Just click on www.studenthousing.org/looking. designers, who will later losers of scandalous dating You’ll find clean, modern, safe, affordable summer housing. talk to their respective shows remind me of what It’s just that simple. shrinks about flashbacks happens to the gremlins from being locked in the when you spill water on New School’s design studio, them and feed them after but for viewers it makes for midnight. But amidst all some interesting television. of these Sketchers cork Last season, we were wedges of questionable treated to the personality shows, “Project Runway” of Kenley, a designer whose stands out as a Manolo z.about.com combination of erratic ideas Blahnik mary jane. It’s www.studenthousing.org/looking 1. It’s something you and defensiveness led her classy, the judging is based 800.297.4694 can really judge. Maybe this to do the unthinkable: get on more than a game of won’t appeal to the small Gunn to not like you. Gunn mud football in bikinis and percentage of us who are not is nice to everyone, but the people who win it are judgmental, but for everyone Kenley just couldn’t dial actually very talented. By else, this is a show where you back the drama long enough now you may not even be can actually pretend you’re a to take his advice. Once you reading if my impressive judge because the criteria is exhaust Kenley’s eye rolling rhetoric has been that only visual. Not to badmouth moments, just keep taking convincing, but if you are “Top Chef,” but that show a trip back in time because still reading, stop, find makes me feel as though I the earlier seasons have a computer and bring have zero agency. True, I’m drama to spare. yourself up to speed.  not really judging “Project Runway” (don’t remind me), 4. The judges are brutal. but when an outfit comes “American Idol” has its nice, down the runway, I know set pattern of polarized whether it’s good or bad. judges with Simon as the On “Top Chef,” I can only mean one whose insults guess. Maybe that crazy egg are shockingly creative and dish really did succeed and Paula as the nice one who blow everyone’s mind. But isn’t necessarily all there at you can’t smell it or taste it any given moment. “Project and though presentation is Runway” has no Paula. important, it’s not exactly my Though Heidi Klum and top criteria for food. With the guest judge dujour often “Project Runway,” you and try to be more diplomatic, your friends can pretend to Nina Garcia and Michael sub in for Nina Garcia or Kors will call you out for flickr.com

Client: EHS Agency: The Ryan Group 212.255.3400 Versus • April 8—April 14, 2009 • 9 Making it work LETTER FROM with AN ANGRY WASP TIM Each week, our resident Angry WASP sounds off on things that make him buzz. GUNN (see what we did there?)

COURTNEY ROGERS Features Editor

Last Thursday wasn’t a fabulous day. It was rainy, included a tornado watch, and no one’s hair looked great. Cars near Lewis were submerged, and for many, the prospect of driving down 21st avenue was a laughable fantasy. However, it’s days like Thursday that separate the fair-weather fans from the true fashionistas. Because Thursday was no ordinary Thursday. It was a day that will go down in Nashville fashion history as Tim Gunn Thursday because the style icon himself visited the Kate Spade boutique in the Mall at Green Hills. For those of you who do not know Gunn, he is the co-host of “Project Runway” who encourages designers to “Make Dear Rising it work!” even when the “it” happens to be some combination of Sophomores, fl owers, solo cups and lycra. Even if you missed out on this chic event, here’s a wrap-up of what went down when Nashvillians and Vandy girls alike dressed up. Please, continue crying about where you’re placed for housing next year. Yeah, that sure Who: Tim on … sucks that you’re right in the middle Tim Gunn and his legion of College Fashion: of campus. So close (mostly) female fans. “I don’t believe in college students being fashion victims necessarily. I believe that it’s important to save up for a few key items, a great blazer, classic dress pants, my 10 essential to the frats and all items. But they need to be personalized — they really need to be you and who you are. And of your classes, and a lot of that will be informed by what you actually do when you leave college, where you’re a Munchie Mart working, with whom you’re working and what the community expectations are for where right on the ground What: you work. So in that sense we’re chameleons.” level — what are you going to do? A night of fashion tips, His work at Parsons: Can you believe champagne and Kate Spade. “In many ways it chose me. I had been at Parson design, where I’ve taught for a total that you have your of 24 years, I’d been there 17 years and was associate dean. I was sent in for a year to Also the celebration of Kate diagnose the curricular situation and offer up a prescription. I found out that morale was own bathroom Spade’s Quinn bag’s 10th very bad; it was basically about the fact that the curriculum had not evolved in 50 years. AGAIN? And all birthday. We know that fashion is all about change, so to have a curriculum that stood still was your friends are incomprehensible. The repositioning of that department for the 21st century was one of going to be so close the things I’m proudest of professionally.” to you, yikes! Some privacy, please! Where: Breaking into the fashion industry: Just seriously, “What I love about the industry today is that you can form your own path. You can forget knock it off. Are about the old paradigms and say ‘I’m going to do it my way.’ The industry is eager to fi nd you really so Kate Spade boutique at the innovative thinkers and creative people of course but you have to be thinking of the long term. You can’t be thinking about one season or one year — you have to be thinking of fi ve spoiled that you’re Mall at Green Hills. years or 10 years. And you must have an unbridled passion for this, an unerring passion, a going to complain love, because there are way too many obstacles that will be thrown in your path that will about housing, derail you. But if you love it, you’ll get right back on the track and persevere.” of all things? It’s a room! Can you Season 5 contestant Kenly Collins: sleep there? Great. “Let’s just say, the editing was kind toward Kenly.” (Kenly was the contestant everyone Is it clean? Great. loved to hate on Season 5 with her eye rolling and defensive attitude toward the judges. Gunn assumed that fellow contestant Jerell had beaten Kenly for the third spot, but when Does it have a bed Kenly walked into the room, Gunn said, “I thought to myself, she’s still here?!”) and a desk and a closet, just like every other place Fashion tips for spring: Use bright accessories to accent an outfi t. No matter your body type, remember that you on campus? Perfect. need to fi nd a silhouette, proportion and fi t. Don’t be afraid of trends, but classic pieces Do you really need should be the bulk of your wardrobe. that extra couple of square feet of fl oor space? Does it really make a difference to you? If Tim’s 10 Essential Items: you really have that much crap, your biggest problem is Basic black dress Any occasion top not your on-campus 1. 6. location. Even if you’re “stuck” in Kissam next year — is that really the end of the world? I doubt an extra fi ve minutes of walking is going 2. Trench coat to kill you (in fact, after this year you 7. Skirt could probably use the exercise). Just deal with it — you get your own 8. Day dress space that you 3. Dress pants can do what you’d like with, so quit complaining. Jacket 4. Classic shirt 9. As for the rest of you, aren’t you glad you got what you asked for? I would Jeans A comfortable 5. 10. be, too. alternative to a sweat suit Sincerely, An Angry WASP 10 • April 8—April 14, 2009 • Versus FLIP SIDE Capitol Towers Downtown Studio, 1BR & 2BR Apartments Utilities Included

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