ALI LARTER Flip to Page 9 for Rites of Spring Coverage for Anyone Who Can't Quite Remember the Weekend on More on Her New Pages 6 and 7, Check It Out

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VerThe Vanderbilt Hustler’s Arts & su Entertainment Magazine s APRIL 22—APRIL 28, 2009 VOL. 47, NO. 14

We're “Obsessed” withALI LARTER Flip to page 9 for Rites of Spring coverage for anyone who can't quite remember the weekend on more on her new pages 6 and 7, check it out. movie, ﬁ ghting Blueskyreality is too cool for spaces between words. Beyonce, and the Soareweﬂ iptopage8. fun of playing a femme fatale.

PLACES TO GO, PEOPLE TO SEE THURSDAY, APRIL 23 FRIDAY, APRIL 24 SATURDAY, APRIL 25 The Regulars Peelander-Z — Exit/In Brenn, Umbrella Tree, Shoot the Mountain and more Dave Matthews Band with Jason Mraz — Peelander-Z is a self-described “Japanese Action Comic Punk — Cannery Ballroom/Mercy Lounge Vanderbilt Stadium THE RUTLEDGE Band.” Composed of three members, Peelander-Yellow, Peelander- Everyone’s favorite independent radio station, Lighting 100, As if Rites wasn’t enough for you, how about another on campus 410 Fourth Ave. South 37201 Red and Peelander-Green, Peelander-Z originated from the Z area presents the second annual Miller Made Music Showcase featuring show that’s ridiculous? Oh, right. DMB. And Jason Mraz. Not a 782-6858 of the planet Peelander. The group will be performing a variety of many of Nashville’s best acts. Brenn, Umbrella Tree, Shoot the big deal at all. Oh and also, there’s a brand new CD that they’re their material on Thursday at the Exit/In in what is sure to be an Mountain, Philos and others are bound to rock your Friday night releasing. And the songs from it will be performed for the first THE MERCY LOUNGE/CANNERY entertaining show. ($8, 9 p.m.) like never before. (Free, 9 p.m.) time at this concert. Need any other reason to go? I didn’t think BALLROOM so. Of course, you probably already bought your tickets months 1 Cannery Row 37203 John Birdsong — Criallo’s Bistro and Bar KingBilly — 12th and Porter ago. Enjoy. 251-3020 Head over to Franklin to witness the musical prowess of John Unfazed by the critics and naysayers, KingBilly continues their ($39.50-75, 6 p.m.) Birdsong, one of Nashville’s hottest upright bass players. He has resolved march toward music industry dominance Friday night, BLUEBIRD CAFE been praised by Grammy-nominated artists for knowing just how with a stop at Nashville hotspot 12th and Porter. Never sacrificing Jenny Gillespie — Cafe Coco 4104 Hillsboro Road 37215 to lay down a groove, and his soulful stylings are sure to please all the quality of their music for superficial success, KingBilly will Okay, honestly I don’t know much about Jenny Gillespie. She’s 383-1461 audiences. (Free, 6:30 p.m., 1935 Mallory Lane, Franklin, Tenn.) certainly entertain. (Free, 8 p.m.) sort of a standard folk rock type and has a decent voice too. BUT, she’s playing at Cafe Coco, and they have excellent hummus and EXIT/IN Maura O’Connell — Station Inn Back Alley Saints — The Rutledge grilled cheese. And doesn’t that sound great? This show is only $5, 2208 Elliston Place 37203 Maura O’Connell is well respected in the local Nashville area for As their ominous name may suggest, Back Alley Saints is a crew so if you never bought that ticket for Dave, perhaps you can come 321-3340 her ability to carry her soul deep into the depths of each song of no-nonsense rock gods, ready to bring some sound into your chill out and have a listen. ($5. 8 p.m.) she creates. After more than 20 years of experience as a singer- world, whether you like it or not. For a quick $5 pop, you’ll gain STATION INN songwriter, O’Connell’s newly confident sound is one that is sure access to a never-surrendering performance, a demonstration of Carl Stewart and the B.B. Kingsmen — B.B. King’s 402 12th Ave. South 37203 to carry her audience along on her own personal musical voyage. force at its finest. ($5, 7 p.m.) Blues Club and Restaurant 255-3307 ($15, 9 p.m.) While this is only a house band, I seriously recommend going to Immuzikation — Exit/In B.B. King’s at least once before you graduate. The ambience is THE BASEMENT Tony Youngblood, The Branded Sons and Antiverse Have you ever wanted to see Daft Punk live? Well here’s the next incredible, it’s cheap to get in and the food is actually pretty good. 1604 Eighth Ave. South 37203 best thing! This Friday night, Exit/In will present Very Disco, a If you haven’t been a blues fan in the past, you might be surprised — The 5 Spot 254-1604 The 5 Spot hosts an evening of up-and-coming artists in our own tribute by Immuzikation, which will play entrancing tunes of the by how much you like it. Give it a try, and you probably won’t local Nashville scene. The music featured is mainly rock, including European techno gods. If you want to get your fill of electro, be disappointed. If you are, sorry. ($5, 6 p.m., 152 Second Ave. F. SCOTT’S RESTAURANT AND such artists as Tony Youngblood and The Branded Sons. With the strobes and trippy costumes this week, check out this show. ($10, North) JAZZ BAR rust-rock music created by Youngblood and the loyal following 11 p.m.) 2210 Crestmoor Road 37215 carried by The Branded Sons, this local showcase should be one to Webb Wilder — 3rd and Lindsley remember. (Cover TBA, 9 p.m., 1006 Forrest Ave.) Double Reed Festival — Lipscomb University Without even knowing anything about his music, you could be 269-5861 If you’re anything like me, you’ve been jonesin’ for your fill of entertained by Webb Wilder just because he’s such a character. Gospel Music Association Dove Awards — Grand woodwinds lately. What better way to get your fix than at the Claiming to be “The Last of the Full Grown Men,” he’s not only SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY Ole Opry House Double Reed Festival, featuring performances by two prominent on a never-ending world tour, but has also starred in cult classic CENTER The Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards unites top artists from oboists and bassoonists. The rousing acts go down at 3901 Granny movies (three short films called “Corn Flicks”). He’s been around 1 Symphony Place 37201 all corners of the gospel music genre to celebrate and recognize White Pike — or just follow the sound of beautiful music. (Free, for a while, but he’s not slowing down. Come out and enjoy it. 687-6500 the year’s most successful artists. The awards were founded in 8 p.m.) ($10, 7 p.m.) 1969 and is the most prestigious ceremony honoring achievement 3RD AND LINDSLEY in Christian and Gospel music. ($55-$200, 4:30 p.m., 2802 Elevation, Harrison Hudson and Modern Society — Sex and Patriotism — Music City Bar 818 Third Ave. South 37210 Opryland Drive) The End Besides rock ’n’ roll, what could be a better combination than sex 259-9891 Resounding with classic rock influences, the music of Elevation and patriotism? Oh, what about if you could get it all for free? The Non-Commissioned Officers — The Mercy truly brings listeners to a higher level. Experience the profound Yeah, that’d be pretty awesome. Oh wait, you CAN get all of it? CAFE COCO Lounge/Cannery Ballroom sound of this emerging group, complimented by openers Harrison Yes, you can. Saturday night. Music City Bar. Free. Be there. (Free, 210 Louise Ave. 37203 The Non-Commissioned Officers was formed to perform the music Hudson and Modern Society, Friday night at The End. ($5, 9 9 p.m., 2416 Music Valley Drive) 321-2626 of Make-Out with Violence, a film created by the Deagol Brothers p.m.) (local Nashville filmmakers). The show celebrates the release of the soundtrack. The film was released last Sunday as a part of the Nashville Film Festival. ($5 or free with Make-Out With Violence ticket stub or Nashville Film Festival badge, 9 p.m.) THIS ISSUE Versus Bits & Pieces APRIL 22—APRIL 28, 2009 VOL. 47, NO. 14 • 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 • Romeo is full of style, too, 4 Editor in Chief • Sane during exam time? We tell you Chris Gearing how, 5

Managing Editor Sara Gast 6 Music • T.I. was less than impressive, 6 Features Editor • But The Flaming Lips were on fire, 6 Courtney Rogers • All you need to know about the shows you missed at Rites, 6-7 Culture Editors Trip Cothren 8 Holly Meehl Well, we’re ﬁ nally here. The end of the semester (and for me, my college tenure). This is always a time of reﬂ ection for More Music Music Editors all of us here at Versus. In this spirit, I’ve decided to honor • Q+A with Blueskyreality. (We didn’t Charlie Kesslering the memory of some things in the form of short obituaries understand their name, either.) 8 Avery Spofford in my last letter … • More Rites bands! 8

Head Writer — My innocence, 18, fi nally died during its fi rst night on Kris Stensland Vanderbilt’s Greek row. It had fought a long battle with Features Curiosity, and fi nally gasped its last breath after a keg stand. — My faith in justice, 5 and a half, died suddenly after • Q+A with Ali Larter, 9 reading an e-mail from Chancellor Gee announcing his 9 • Letter from an Angry WASP, 9 move back to OSU. It (unlike he) will be sorely missed. Art Director — Dreams of medical school, 15, lived a long life with its Matt Radford friends Hope and Aspirations. It died in the middle of a freshman Chemistry lecture. PIC OF THE WEEK Designers — Lack of faith in Vanderbilt’s football team, 3, began after Irene Jay Cutler’s last season and died this past December to the Hukkelhoven cries of “Vanderbilt Wins!” Kat Miller — The Economy, 13, was killed last September in a sudden Morgan Webb crash with The Job Market. It is survived by “Living In My Parent’s Basement.” Marketing Director — My unhealthy lifestyle, 4, subsisted on Quiznos, beer and George Fischer 4 hours of sleep a night. It died after moving back home and living with its parents. See above. Advertising Manager — The Class of 2009, 4, passed on after their last exams. Carolyn Fisher They leave behind a legacy of debauchery, alcoholism and moral depravity (among other things). Their parents were VSC Director very proud. Chris Carroll We also saved the best for last, dear Versus readers. This Assistant VSC week we’ve got our full Rites coverage (with amazing Directors photography to boot), our thoughts on the new movie “State Jeff Breaux of Play” and an interview with Blueskyreality. Oh, and we Paige Clancy talked to Ali Larter, the star of the new movie “Obsessed.” We here at Versus decided to end the year with a bang. Journalist in Residence Godspeed, Vanderbilt. Keep it real. Tim Ghianni Stay Legendary, Chris Gearing NICOLE MANDEL / VERSUS MAGAZINE BITS & PIECES HAIKUS Focusing your life solely on making Words to live by a buck shows a certain poverty of ambition. It asks too little of yourself. in seventeen syllables Because it’s only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself From what I recall that you realize your true potential. Rites was great. From what I can’t — President Barack Obama I KNOW that it was.

We all must grow up H ROSCOPES I just wish that it didn’t ARIES 3/21-4/19: If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Then mix with vodka and you’ve got a party. Have to be so soon.

TAURUS 4/20-5/20: To save money for the holidays, you could go to a semi-semi-formal. That means putting on a collared shirt and going to Chili’s. Classy. GEMINI 5/21-6/21: When you write for a publication, they’re not stalkers, they’re fans. OVERHEARD CANCER 6/22-7/22: Showing up at someone’s suite after locating Some people on this campus just don’t think before it on People Finder is not creepy, it’s romantic. GOD! Someday they speak. Sometimes we are lucky enough to you’ll understand. overhear what they say. LEO 7/23-8/22: Grooming is a sign of affection. But still, quit Compiled from the Facebook group “Overheard at Vanderbilt” touching me. Rando: “It makes me want to FML all over VIRGO 8/23-9/22: If you believe in horoscopes, then your sign is myself.” not Virgo. It’s Heathen. Dude: “Watching The Flaming Lips made me LIBRA 9/23-10/22: Your plan to build a hot tub in your common feel like a 5-year-old, AND like doing room is both AWESOME and FLAWLESS. Make it happen! ecstasy or LSD.” SCORPIO 10/23-11/21: A great way to get into someone’s pants is Guy: “I’m cold, I’m wet and I have a boner.” to steal them from the laundry room.

SAGITTARIUS 11/22-12/21: They say that all journeys begin with Girl: “You can’t survive on an all-sperm a single step. This week, you’ll ﬁ nd that the most epic ones begin diet.” with a stumble. Guy: “I can’t suck on something for an hour CAPRICORN 12/22-1/19: If you have to say “trust me,” it probably and a half.” isn’t a good idea. Trust me. AQUARIUS 1/20-2/18: What if when you said you were getting in Rando: “I haven’t gotten any work done all touch with your inner child there actually WAS a child inside you?? day because I’ve been trying to figure Then you’d be pregnant, idiot. out how to become T-Pain.” PISCES 2/19-3/20: Watch your semantics while traveling. Consider: in a developing country, is “Get Well Soon” a card or a to- Girl: “Do YOU know what giraffe sex looks do list? PHOTOS: ickr.com like?” Versus • April 22—April 28, 2009 • 3 4 • April 22—April 28, 2009 • Versus entertainment Style spotted: Romeo at Rites Nikky Okoro at this year’s opening —Who are your favorite —If your closet was burning Shemsi Frezel Rites performance of designers? and you could only save one Staff Writers Battle of the Bands. Keep Stussy, Ralph Lauren, item, what would that be? on reading below to find Pharrell and Nigo. My BBC (Billionaire Boys This year’s Rites of out more about Michael Club) shirt. Spring music festival and his affinity for certain —Who are your favorite style was full of warm weather styles and brands. icons? —Artist you’re most excited vibes and trendy attire. Fonzworth Bentley, to see at Rites? In addition, there was no Shepard Fairey and also N.E.R.D. doubt that the scheduled Pharrell. artists to perform helped —And most importantly, what to influence the style of —Who do you dress to are you wearing right now? students and visitors on impress? Pants from Yesstyle, shoes campus. Standing out No one. and chain from ASOS, BBC among this crowd was this shirt and BBC “Ice Cream” week’s Style Spotter pick: —Favorite Stores? hat.  junior and fervent Pharrell ASOS, BAPE, Yesstyle and aficionado Michael Nashville thrift stores (like Romeo. Describing his Goodwill). style as “retro, visual and discounted,” Michael is —Most disliked Vandy able to successfully emulate trend? the celebrity style icon The “sweats and T-shirt” while still putting his own look, even though everyone verve into an outfit. While does it eventually. doing this and taking the time to interview with us, —City or country that most he was still also able to exudes your style? find the time to perform My hometown, Brooklyn, N.Y. Nikky Okoro Nikky Okoro Nikky Okoro Pay attention to the ‘State of Play’ recently. The intrigue-in- election years. However, this he finds more than he most memorable part since intriguing. The only qualm Chris Gearing Washington-international- latest Russell Crowe vehicle bargained for. “Good Will Hunting” and with the film is it’s last few Versus Editor-in-Chief conspiracy movie has seen has some legs. A movie like this is built this is definitely one of the minutes where it has to have There have been a lot some action recently, as it When the head researcher on its twists and turns, so best performances of his just one more twist. It should of these kinds of movies tends to happen around for a congressional case that’s all the detail you’ll get career. have just let it go. Otherwise, against a defense contract from this article. However, The movie is fantastic, and it’s fantastically made and company is killed, it hits the the all-star cast does an tumbling down the rabbit acted, and it is definitely worth fan. Congressman Stephen excellent job portraying the hole is quite enjoyable and the price of admission.  Collins (Ben Affleck) is the various personal interests, head of a congressional cover-ups and conspiracies committee and investigation, of Washington, D.C. Crowe and he turns out be was particularly charming having an affair with the and plays well with Rachel aforementioned researcher. McAdams and all of his With the world falling down character’s quips and around him, he turns to witticisms. Ben Affleck his college roommate and does an especially good job local reporter, Cal McAffrey of being the square-jawed (Crowe). However, as Cal congressman, but he plays investigates the company him with depth, shame and blog.oregonlive.com and Congressman Collins, personality. It is by far his apolloprinceton.com

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growing awareness. Versus • April 22—April 28, 2009 • 5 Five ways to stay sane during exam time opened over 60 years ago. If 2. Watch Susan Boyle on look of Simon’s goofy grin this brunch splendor are HOLLY MEEHL you’re hungry for breakfast YouTube! during her performance, the homemade bite-sized Culture Editor you can nd delicious ham, This is a quick de- even he is in love. donuts you can order served So exams and term papers biscuits and eggs. But when I stressor, but is still that bit with three savory dipping are upon us and let’s face it, venture to this heavenly ’50s of procrastination fuel you 3. Go see “17 Again” sauces. Yum! we’re all going a little crazy. dinner I go for the milkshake need to go on and crank out Zac Efron’s puppy dog Obviously none of us did any and burger combo. The those last ve pages of your smile? Leslie Mann’s witty 5. And nally … breathe! work during Rites of Spring milkshakes here are some research paper. This video banter? Do I even have to Even if you think you are weekend so it is crunch time — of the best I’ve ever had, will make anyone smile as sell this study break idea? for sure going to fail your no more ve-hour Facebook thick and creamy. They are frumpy yet adorable Susan Watch Mathew Perry as he medieval literature nal, chat distractions or endless the ultimate reward for the Boyle leaves the audience transforms into Zac Efron don’t sweat it. These are just FML story readings. It’s time physics exam that just melted and judges of “Britain’s Got and becomes a 37-year-old grades, they are not the sole to pull it together, grab that your brain. Talent” in awe. And by the trapped in a 17-year-old’s indicators of your future! textbook and triple shot latte body and the comedic drama You can survive a C, a D and head to your favorite that ensues. even an F! Stress is what study spot. But let’s be honest, richardwillisuk. les.wordpress.com you make it, so just keep we all need a study break at 4. Have brunch at BrickTops serves up a telling yourself that life will some point. So step away BrickTops! delectable brunch complete go on. Go outside, breathe from that chemistry book or So this idea is bit pricier with ve different types of in that Nashville air that is 20-page English paper — you but totally worth it! On eggs benedict. But the best nally starting to warm up a can do it, back away slowly — Saturday and Sunday, part about splurging on bit, lay out on Alumni Lawn, and check out some of these press play on your iPod and ways to de-stress, even if it’s just chill.  only for 10 minutes.

1. Go get lunch (or breakfast) at Elliston Soda Shop! Step into the past and far away from your exams at this old-school soda shop where little has changed since it farm1.static. ickr.com thomonthenet.com winniecooper.net

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The Somalians aren't the only pirates facing MUSIC the harsh consequences for their actions these "Rock and roll music, if you like it, if you feel days. A swedish court it, you can't help but move to it." sentenced each of the —Elvis Presley four founders of sharing site Pirate Bay to a year in prison Friday.

NIKKY OKORO / The Vanderbilt Hustler OLIVER WOLFE / The Vanderbilt Hustler T.I. fails to dispel 'haters' Despite rain, The Flaming Lips with disappointing show do everything but smolder ALEX GOLDBERG air, the confetti bursting into versions. The slower versions CHARLES KESSLERING big moola to hear. At times members who undoubtedly Staff Writer the crowd and Wayne Cohen’s of “Fight Test” and “Yoshimi Music Editor pompous, at times angry, T.I. possessed similarly fascinating “To be honest, I only know shadow in front of the video Battles the Pink Robots” were On Friday night, T.I. took to focused less of his efforts on nicknames, the rapper’s a few of their songs. I’m just on the screen really gave me absolutely beautiful with the the stage huf ng and puf ng. music than the promotion of talent struggled to emerge really glad to nally get to see a sense of what The Lips is light rain and the Vanderbilt Unfortunately, he couldn’t his ambiguous “movement,” uncorrupted by the sea of the legends,” said sophomore known for. They performed community coming together blow the crowd away. unnecessarily watering talentless. Chris McDonald during an epic like no other Rites of Spring to lend their vocals, which is Tragically misjudging his down an otherwise strong In the end, T.I. did perform guitar solo. Indeed, The Music act I have ever seen. what Rites of Spring is really audience, the rapper spent performance. the hits — “Live Your Life,” Group gave us an epic weekend Of course, there was the about. much of his set dismissing Adding to the distractions “Whatever You Like,” “What by bringing The Flaming Lips to music. While The Flaming Another plus about this his critics and “haters” was T.I.’s entourage, a space- You Know” and more — but campus. Lips did not play every song set was the lack of onstage (malicious naysayers, often wasting crew to boot. Joined only after 30 minutes of chorus I didn't feel like I was I was hoping they would play, talking. I appreciated the lack found in barber shops or chat on stage by Young Buck, medleys and verses cut short, standing on Alumni Lawn they did do a great job of of propaganda and personal rooms) instead of investing Pee-Wee (a wayward youth old and forgotten songs, and sandwiched between Alumni spreading out the hits. “Race accounts and the maximization all his energy in the songs his to whom T.I has taught pretentious rants. Sadly, one and Tolman Halls. Rather, I for the Prize” and “She Don’t of music played. The Flaming overwhelming straight-laced many life lessons except, of his last performances before felt like I was transported to Use Jelly” were two songs that Lips concert was one that I crowd — who could care less seemingly, how to hold up prison was, quite simply, a Lewis Carroll’s ideal dream. really showcased theatrics and will remember, and I’m sure about hip-hop beef — paid his pants) and a slew of posse disappointment.  The balloons oating in the sounded similar to the album everyone else will, too. 

CHRIS PHARE / The Vanderbilt Hustler JUSTIN MENESTRINA / The Vanderbilt Hustler CHRIS PHARE / The Vanderbilt Hustler Black Joe Lewis and the K'naan steals the show Grand Ole Party ditches Honeybears ignite the stage in true Somalian style conservatism for a liberal CHARLES KESSLERING HOLLY MEEHL headliners. Culture Editor Foot Philosopher” and his dose of entertainment Music Editor In a long-thought-gone newest release “Troubadour.” Turning a lackadaisical move stolen straight out Before the madness of He started with “In the KELLY HUGHES but to try out new songs Saturday evening into a rabble- of the annals of Motown, Santigold, Q-Tip and T.I., Beginning,” and immediately Staff Writer that they’re currently rousin’ good time, Black Joe the sax players effortlessly a less famous musician, pumped out an energetic recording instead. Kristin’s Lewis and the Honeybears two-stepped to the beat; K’naan, lit up the Rites stage. beat that made people leave One of the Rites powerful singing sounds emerged triumphant in the the well-dressed drummer But his performance was just the Chik- l-A stand to see highlights on Saturday very reminiscent of Jack quest to entertain. slammed his heart and as entertaining as the later who was performing. By his was rock-trio Grand Ole White’s vocal style, and Hitting the stage like soul into his set; Black Joe shows Friday night. K’naan, last song, “Waving Flag,” the Party from San Diego, the band led the audience venue veterans, the ripped melodies out of his with his unique sound, whole audience was engaged Calif. Lead singer Kristin through an enjoyable set edgling group brought harmonica as if it were which borders both hip-hop in K’naan’s soulful rap. Gundred was front and of alternative songs. They an unyielding enthusiasm the end of days. After and rap, had the audience With his charismatic stage center behind the drum may not be a household largely unrivaled during hearing the Honeybears, dancing and waving their presence, we will de nitely kit. The band opted not to name yet, but Grand Ole the performances of Rites that would’ve been just hands to music from his be seeing more of K’naan in play songs from their debut Party definitely has the of Spring, even among the fine. older album “The Dusty the future.  album "Humanimals," potential to become one. Versus • April 22—April 28, 2009 • 7

Everyone can breathe Rapper and producer Sean a big sigh of relief. "Diddy" Combs will soon soundtrack Allegedly having step into a different kind chased his estranged of spotlight, starring in a to the issue wife on the freeway, Judd Apatow-produced film. Nate Dogg, the rapper Going out on a limb, Combs of many-a-chorus fame, will play a record label has been cleared of all executive in the "Forgetting stalking charges. Sarah Marshall" spin-off.

N.E.R.D. aces S.A.T. night We at Versus have excellent taste in music. Below, the editors share shemsi frezel remaining virtually silent concluded with a spirited what tracks we’ve been spinning as Staff Writer behind his keyboard. In performance of “She we create the glory you’re holding As was to be expected, between belting out songs, Wants to Move” where in your hands. N.E.R.D.’s performance on Williams catered to the true to form, Williams Saturday night was full of crowd by shouting out the made dreams come true energy. Pahrrell Williams academic achievements of by inviting some ladies “race for the prize” and Shay Haley kept the Vanderbilt students. In a from the audience to 1. The Flaming Lips crowd alert and engaged surprising turn of events, dance on stage. N.E.R.D.’s with the music, while Chad rapper Wale appeared from performance not only “She wants to move” Hugo retained his low key seemingly thin air to join lived up to but exceeded N.E.R.D. status in the group by N.E.R.D.’s show. Their set expectations. 2. Chris Phare / The Vanderbilt Hustler “l.e.s. artistes” 3. Santigold All that glitters is Santigold “Cousin randy” 4. Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears nikky okoro Staff Writer definitely brought both power the energy in the powerful “blow (feat. dre)” There’s absolutely no and creativity to all aspects of beats and unique lyrics. She Rick Ross doubt that the artist line-up her performance. Originally even went so far to invite 5. for this past weekend’s Rites hailing from Philadelphia, students on stage to dance of Spring 2009 was perfectly Penn., Santigold still to the unique remixes of her “99 problems with buddy superior in both talent performed like she was at song. After such a great live 6. holly” and popularity. Even more home in Tennessee’s Music performance, her fan base on Jay-Zeezer impressive was the up-and- City. There was no doubt that campus is sure to be as good coming artist Santigold, who the crowd was able to feel as gold.  Nikky Okoro / The Vanderbilt Hustler “yoshimi battles the pink 7. robots” The Flaming Lips Q-Tip relentlessly rocks the crowd “sweetness” 8. Jimmy Eat World Charlie kesslering the former A Tribe Called all in an attempt to give Vanderbilt Music Editor Quest frontman bequeathed its money’s worth. “swagger like us (feat. kanye A man most obviously in love an infectious energy upon the Not as inspirational as K’naan west, jay-z, lil' wayne)” with hip-hop, Q-Tip blessed festival. or as confrontational at T.I., the 9. Rites’ Friday crowd with an Just as eccentric, lively and hip-hop veteran relied upon T.I. unabashed excitement for music. brazen as he appears in music his unyielding charisma and “i feel like dying” Despite technical difficulties videos and studio recordings, appealing tracks, both new and Lil' Wayne and an audience composed Q-Tip climbed stage equipment, old, to carry his set to success. 10. largely of unacquainted listeners, told jokes and sweated profusely, They did just that.  eric glasser / The Vanderbilt Hustler 8 • April 22—April 28, 2009 • Versus More Music Q+A with the guys of Blueskyreality

The city of Los Angeles has always been a competitive breeding ground for new artists and in 2006 yet another talented group emerged from the city. Staff Writer Shemsi Frezel sat down with the band, which consists of five ambitious young guys, Zak, Nick, Jake, John and Philip, who are ready to share their music with as many listeners as possible. Shortly before taking the stage at Rites they sat down for an interview with Versus.

Versus Magazine: Is there any special meaning to the name Blueskyreality? Nick: The band’s name has its origins in a garage band that I started in eighth grade and then senior year of high school, I recruited Zak to play with the band. The name has to do with never knowing the true color of the sky because of the reflection of the ocean.

VM: How would any of you describe the band’s sound and who are some of your musical influences? Zak: It’s soul-rock — rock music that keeps coming back to elements of soul as far as harmonies and melodies. I really love soul singers like Marvin Gaye, Musiq Soul Child, Anthony Hamilton and Brian McKnight — that was the first concert I ever went to, a Brian McKnight concert. We also really love pop music from the ’90s.

VM: Speaking of ’90s pop music, Blueskyreality is about to go on tour with Third Eye Blind. How excited are you all about myspace.com that? Philip: When we first started out, getting a tour was more it — you know with the iPhone. That’s a great song. just so saturated. important that actually being signed, so we’re really excited to Nick: Pretty much anything from the Third Eye Blind album. Nick: We end up doing a lot of self-marketing and take any go out and tour, especially with a band like Third Eye Blind. opportunity to showcase our music. We want to show people VM: How does Blueskyreality usually go about the writing that we bring something new and fresh to music. VM: Do any of y’all have favorite Third Eye Blind songs? process? Jake: You know the song “Graduate”? It was like the second Jake: Someone usually comes in with a rift or like a chorus and VW: What songs are y’all looking forward to doing live? song on the soundtrack for the movie “Can’t Hardly Wait.” verse and we build from there. Jake: We’re doing a lot of new songs. That’s a great song and a great movie. Zak: Yeah, Jake usually does the lyrics and I’m pretty simple, but Nick: I’m definitely looking forward to doing “Doing Alright.” Philip: “Faster” John is really good at pulling things apart and making them Zak: The other day we heard a cover of the song “I Want You,” more interesting. And Phil, he makes things funky. He’s like the VM: The band Twitters. What do you all see as the point of and I was pretty sure it was a Third Eye Blind song so I Shazamed spice; he really spices things up. that? Jake: We use it as a marketing tool to allow people to follow us. VM: You guys are all college-aged. Did any of y’all go (to We just want people to know that we are approachable and college) or was music always first? just because we play music doesn’t mean that we have a stuck John: I’m actually in my final semester now. I’m finishing up up attitude. We’re just everyday guys and we try to stay true my last credit hour and I’m suppose to graduate next year, but to that. with the band’s busy schedule I don’t know when I’ll have time to finish. VM: Lastly, I can’t help but ask after seeing you all in person, Philip: You can always take classes online. does the band have a specific fashion philosophy? Zak: Talk to Nick, he’s the fashion guy. VM: How does being from L.A. influence your music? Nick: We just wear whatever we feel comfortable in, before a Zak: I think it makes us work harder because there is so much show we usually say, “Wear something that looks nice that you competition. L.A. is where people go to act, model and get into can play in.” music, so they’re so many talented people there — it really John: I stick to V-necks because they’re easier to wear when I’m makes us work harder. drumming. Jake: Yeah in L.A. there is so much going on it’s hard to get even Zak: It’s not a forced look. We’re just normal guys who wear myspace.com your friends to come out to shows because the social scene is what we like, but we do like to look nice on stage.  Rites opener got the weekend off to a running start Courtney Rogers Features Editor Friday afternoon under clear and sunny skies, Run With Bulls helped kick off Rites weekend by rocking out on Alumni Lawn. Though many Vandy kids were still over on Kensington enjoying We know what you’re craving… the sun, the band drew a mellow crowd and everyone sunbathed while enjoying the music. As Brad Sample promised, Run With Bulls brought out their favorite BigBig Eat,Eat, TinyTiny Price!Price! songs such as “Shotgun” and “Jealousy.” Their sound was a blend of rock ’n’ roll and country flair and their set combined with the sunny weather like peanut butter and jelly. The best part? When 1/0 BigBig Eat,Eat, TinyTiny Price!Price! I got lost during Q-Tip, I saw Brad on the periphery and we talked about how excited Run with Bulls was to play at 3 OR MORE MEDIUM Rites. Losing your friends in a giant 1-Topping Pizza Mia™ Pizzas crowd of people isn’t usually fun, unless ONLY you happen to know someone in a rock $ 99 For band.  Justin Menestrina/The Vanderbilt Hustler 5 Only 2 for $ 99 Drs Elam, Vaughan & Fleming 10 377 Choose from 3 flavors: Your Dental Home Away From Home CLASSIC, MEATY or PEPPERONI

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LETTER FROM ALI LARTER AN ANGRY This week, Features Editor Courtney Rogers caught up with WASP Ali Larter, star of the new movie “Obsessed.” In the fi lm, Each week, she plays a femme fatale who goes “Fatal Attraction” our resident on her co-worker. We don’t know how it ends, but we can promise some serious cat fi ghts between Larter and Angry WASP Beyonce. In addition to the movie, Larter told us about her sounds off on things upcoming projects, fi nding your dream job, and the classic that make him buzz. trauma of waiting for the phone to ring. Check it out. (see what we did there?)

Versus Magazine: How does this movie differ from your other acting When you watch this movie, experiences and what made you want to be in this movie? the movie fails if you don’t believe Ali Larter: I’m usually the one beating people up, so this movie humbled that she’s in love with this man and me a bit. I had to take one for the team. This movie differs because that the things she tells herself my character is in the vein of the classic femme fatale, and that are real. I did everything I could is what drew me to this movie. Also, the fact that she really gets to make sure people saw those lost in her psychosis and believes one thing when something characteristics in her and make else is probably true. For me, it was interesting to fi gure out the people understand that this woman complexities of her and what makes her tick. And then, it’s really a is in love with this man. three-hander in this — you get to see three points of view of people in the same situation. Also, the movie is colorblind. Not once is race VM: What kind of message do you Dear Everyone, mentioned and that’s one thing I found really appealing. think “Obsessed” is trying to give the audience? Well Vanderbilt, it’s VM: What kind of training did you do to prepare? AL: This movie is in the vein of those been a good run. I AL: We do a lot of physical stuff on “Heroes.” It seems that I always get really fun, sexy thrillers. This is a in some kind of fi ght no matter what role I’m playing. We start off more modern take on it because thought for my last by getting the best stunt doubles we can fi nd and I have an amazing we take it into an offi ce and column perhaps I’d girl that I work with. But I also like to do as much as I can, I think we’re also in a new world of instead think of all the that you can really tell when the actor is in there. We spent about technology. There are different good things we’ve a week breaking it down, we had a joy in it. For me, watching ways that you can have an accomplished. Then, Beyonce charge me was one of my favorite moments. I hope that affair. Is it inappropriate to send I later thought and that comes across on the screen, that people see that we tried to an e-mail? Is it inappropriate to make it believable and avoid cliches but also deliver what the movie iChat with someone? If someone decided that would be promises to deliver. hits you with an iChat at 10:30, is really stupid. So, here that inappropriate? This shows the it is: my last rant. VM: How does it feel to play this kind of sexy character? different levels that technology has First, good luck AL: I love playing sexy characters. This character is defi nitely a femme taken us to. People go to work and getting someone as fatal — she’s a woman who uses whatever she has to get what she they spend more time with their co- angry and WASPy as wants. She’s in love with this man and she has fun with herself, she workers than they do with their families. I think this movie plays on doesn’t take herself too seriously. For me, that was a really fun role some of those fears that live in us about what happens when they me next year. Admit and I loved playing her. leave the house and go into that offi ce. it: you probably only religiously read VM: What was the most challenging part of this movie? VM: Could you expand on how diffi cult it was to balance the schedule of the horoscopes, AL: The most diffi cult thing was that I was shooting “Heroes” at the same shooting “Heroes” and “Obsessed” at the same time? overheard and the time, so for a couple months I was working seven days a week, 12 AL: The hardest part of this business to me is that you can’t plan WASP. The rest is just hours a day. That was by far the most trying thing, because I would everything. ... So I got the opportunity to shoot this movie and be going from one character and one tone and hopping into another I really wanted to do it — it looked like so much fun to me. I fi ller. one and sometimes I would be driving from one set to the next. It love playing these dark, complex women. I’m so drawn to them. Next, have any of was also that I was so excited to play a take on the femme fatale. “Heroes” was generous enough to work out this schedule where I you been reading I love watching these movies and being an audience in those sexy was shooting “Obsessed” four to fi ve days a week and “Heroes” what I’ve written? thrillers like, “Hand that Rocks the Cradle” and “Fatal Attraction.” two to three. It’s one of those things where you just need to know Because seriously, This movie is really an homage to those. To get to play her, she’s that there’s an end date. I just went for it — I was as organized as I spread the news. really a character that is delusional. Figuring out how to keep a could be. Some of the time, I was so tired that it actually fed into the mystery to her while also fi nding a way to make the audience feel delusion that I was feeling when I was playing Lisa Sheridan. One Riding bikes, walking for this girl was great. For her, it was only about love and things thing about a television show is that you’ve created a family at that in four-people lines, that people say can be misinterpreted. To me, that’s the point of point. Everyone was so supportive and you go into it knowing the sniffl ing in class this movie — it’s an imaginary offi ce romance that has disastrous character you’re playing. … it KILLS me. I consequences. We tried to dissect the three points of view and show always think, “Man, how each person reacts to it. VM: Did you ever fi nd it diffi cult to act out some of the very crazy scenes someone should say with your character? VM: What past experiences did you draw on for this character? AL: Every time I go into this and I have those scenes coming up I’m something.” And then AL: For me, Lisa Sheridan defi nitely is a bit delusional — she becomes a petrifi ed. I’m sure I can’t do it and I break myself down, it’s a terrible I remember… oh bit of a psychopath. But you can’t play it that way — you have to cycle. But you just show up that day and you bring everything you yeah, I did! play it from the rational point of view because she thinks that what have. I’m such a normal human being; I have the same fears and Finally, while she’s doing is rational. There’s a linear line stresses, so I try to channel that into what my character is feeling. … perhaps it is of her experiences and why she does It’s challenging, but for some reason, I love these women and I love somewhat the things she does. I tried to draw on getting a chance to play female characters who have a hunger and things from my own life and combine a desire for life, an intensity to them. hypocritical, but I it with those circumstances and believe my last point understand how I would VM: What are you working on now? will be about people act if that happened AL: I’m about to start a movie with Ed Burns, which I’m very excited who complain too to me. A lot of about. … In the future, I would love to do a comedy — I would love much. Realistically, substitution went to laugh. When you’re on the set of movies like this, days when complaining at all is into this role we’re shooting the fi ght scenes we’re having a blast. But on days because you when we’re shooting scenes with intense altercations between me pretty lame. When have to make and Derrick it’s very intense. They’re painful. So there’s two sides you consider how it believable. of it, and I think I’m ready to lighten up a bit, maybe get a little legendary of a year romance and some lightness. this has been, and how every year will VM: What advice do you have for college students going out and fi nding just get better and their fi rst job? AL: Just do what you love. Find what you love to do and fi nd a way to better, you don’t make money at it. We spend so much time in our work and for me, have much footing. acting and making my living acting is the great passion of my life. It’s fun to joke about It’s something that I love so much. It scares me, it inspires me, it little annoyances, defi nitely keeps me on my toes. That’s the kind of life that keeps me but do you realize in the present and keeps me excited to go to work each day. On how unattractive the other hand, there’s not a lot of stability. You never know if you’re going to have another job, but that lifestyle suits my personality. constant complaining It’s all about fi guring out what you want to do and just going for it. is? Whether that’s a I’ve always been one who believes that you have to go after your passive-aggressive dreams. You’re going to hear no along the way, but you just keep Facebook status or charging forward and you don’t let people deter you from going your whiny voice after your goals. Write letters to the people you want to meet, keep talking about how calling if there’s a job where they said no, keep going after it. If that’s what you want I do believe you’ll get there. hard that fi nal paper is going to be, just VM: Do you have any obsessions? can it for a bit. We’re AL: I defi nitely remember when I was younger, and a couple other girls among the most I’ve talked to experienced this too, where you’ll sit by the phone all privileged people in night long waiting for the guy to call you. This was more when I was the world, so start in high school. I would have done anything to will that phone to ring. It’s those kinds of games that we play in our heads that we tried acknowledging it. to tap into with this movie. For her, she defi nitely takes it a little too Thanks. far, but the obsessions are the stories that you tell yourself. Someone And so with that, may say one thing, but it’s how you misinterpret that to hear what I sign off for the you want to hear. I love Wheaton terriers, I love to cook, I love to last time. Farewell, watch old movies. I’m obsessed with trying to live every moment to annoying aspects of the fullest.  Vanderbilt.

Sincerely, An Angry WASP 10 • April 22—April 28, 2009 • Versus flip side

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