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Ver su s Entertainment & Culture at Vanderbilt DECEMBER 3—DECEMBER 9, 2008 VOL. 46, NO. 26 “Abstract Progressive” rapping duo The Knux are giving Vincent Chase his soundtrack and garnering accolades for their debut “Remind Me in Three Days.” Check out our exclusive interview on page 7.

We saw a lot of movies over break. We weigh in on which to see and … from which to fl ee.

“808s and Heartbreaks” is really good. Hey, Kanye, hey.

PLACES TO GO, PEOPLE TO SEE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 , DECEMBER 5 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 The Regulars

Harley Allen Band — Station Inn Parachute Musical and KinderCastle with Noises Carols & Cocoa — Barnes and Noble, Cool THE RUTLEDGE The go-to joint for bluegrass in the Music City features Harley Allen, 10 — The Mercy Lounge and Cannery Ballroom Springs 410 Fourth Ave. S. 37201 Part of the Mercy Lounge’s Winter of Dreamz musical showcase, a well-known writer who’s worked with , Dierks Need to get into the Christmas spirit? The Battle Ground Academy 782-6858 Bentley and to name a few. Make sure to see this living Friday’s event showcases Parachute Musical and KinderCastle along Middle School Chorus will lead you in some of your favorite seasonal legend in action. ($10, 9 p.m.) with opener Noises 10. Head to the Mercy Lounge to enjoy some carols as you enjoy delicious hot chocolate. (Free, 11 a.m., 1701 MERCY LOUNGE/CANNERY live local music and $2.50 pints courtesy of Winter of Dreamz co- Mallory Lane, Brentwood) presenter Sweetwater 420. ($7 advance/$10 at door, 9 p.m.) BALLROOM Roman Candle — The Mercy Lounge 1 Cannery Row 37203 Mercy Lounge is putting on an in-the-round featuring Roman Candle Winter of Dreamz featuring Space Capone and 251-3020 and the Deep Vibration, Keegan DeWitt and Mikky Ekko. Why would Guerrilla Radio and Behind — /In Kyle Andrews with Elle Macho — The Mercy they do this? To celebrate the release of Roman Candle’s EP, of Rage Against the Machine tribute band Guerilla Radio joins Behind Lounge and Cannery Ballroom course! ($7, 8 p.m.) the Sun, a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute band, for a night full of Some of Nashville’s most interesting new bands will share the stage BLUEBIRD CAFE everyone’s favorite ’90s throwbacks. These two are the closest you tonight at the Mercy Lounge’s special event, during which attendees 4104 Hillsboro Road 37215 Golden Animals and Nite Nite — Exit/In can get without seeing the real thing! ($10, 9 p.m.) can enjoy $2.50 pints of Sweetwater 420. Space Capone will bring 383-1461 Have you ever wanted to see a two-person rock band covered in a new take on classic , while Kyle Andrews’ alternative funk will gold sparkles? Look no further than Linda from Sweden and Tommy Bill Monroe Appreciation Night — Station Inn provide a welcomed break from the ordinary. ($7 advance/$10 at EXIT/IN from Baltimore, aka Golden Animals and Nite Nite. (TBA, 8 p.m.) Known as “the father of bluegrass music,” Bill Monroe and his the door, 9 p.m.) 2208 Elliston Place 37203 Grass Boys pioneered the bluegrass genre. It went on to help found 321-3340 Safetysuit with Radioactive Candy — 12th and many other styles, including western swing, honky-tonk and even John Karl — Wildhorse Saloon Porter rock ’n’ roll. The Station Inn is hosting a night of artists infl uenced House musician and self-declared Yankee redneck John Karl has STATION INN Add one part neo-pop grooves, three parts “wall of sound” and two by Monroe in honor of his being elected into the and been touring nonstop for the past three years all across the country, 402 12th Ave. S. 37203 parts of the musical majesty and magic of bands like and you’ll Rock and Roll halls of fame. ($12, 9 p.m.) but calls the Wildhorse his home. (TBA, 7 p.m.) 255-3307 have Safetysuit. That sounds delicious. ($10, 8 p.m., 114 12th Ave. North) Swing Latino — Cafe Bella Christina Watson — F. Scott’s Restaurant and THE BASEMENT A free salsa class will be hosted at Cafe Bella, followed by a Jazz Bar 1604 Eighth Ave. S. 37203 In The Row — The Bluebird Cafe performance by local Latin musicians Swing Latino. Salsa, merengue Vocalist Christina Watson’s soaring voice has been likened to that of 254-1604 Bluebird’s weekly showcase of upcoming songwriting talent features and cha-cha are just a few of the genres that Swing Latino will Carmen McRae, Bessie Smith and Diana Krall, and she transitions Elizabeth Marlow, Sonia Leigh, Ladd Smith and Tom Bohn. Get a perform. Following Swing Latino, disc jockeys will spin Latin tracks between jazz and funk and soul seamlessly. (Free, 7:30 p.m.) F. SCOTT’S RESTAURANT AND preview of the music you’ll be listening in the next few years. (Free, for a late-night party. ($10, 10 p.m., 606 Ninth Ave. South) JAZZ BAR 6 p.m., 4104 Hillsboro Road) American Bang with Modoc and The Tits — The 2210 Crestmoor Road 37215 Alice Clark Art Showcase — Rocketown Basement 269-5861 Carissa Lee Broadwater’s Going Away Party — For a night of great art accompanied by great music, head over This Nashville-based rock band describes itself to be “Southern-fried The Basement to Rocketown. Works by local artist Alice Clark will be showcased, garage rock.” Check out the band’s MySpace for a preview of the SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY That’s right, Carissa is leaving us. But to say goodbye, she’s having along with accompanying music from From The Pawn, Burn This City, energetic, rock-infused show that American Bang is sure to bring to CENTER her friends FreshPack, Brian Ritchey, Jon Byrd, Christy Fields, Matt Goodbye Apathy, Dissect the Coroner, Demeanor, Adelaide, None The Basement. ($10, 9 p.m.) 1 Symphony Place 37201 Haley, Justin Collins, Mando Saenz, Molly Thomas and others play Shall Pass, Colby & TomTom, So To Speak, The Castle Is a Tomb, Eve 687-6500 at her party. That’s a bunch of music for not too much money. Sweet Of Shadows and Acrasia. ($6, 7 p.m., 401 Sixth Ave. South) Karyn Rochelle and Friends — The Listening deal. ($7, 8 p.m.) Room Cafe 3RD AND LINDSLEY Forget Cassettes with The Sincerity Guild and Nashville native and country singer- Karyn Rochelle has 818 Third Ave. S. 37210 Beegie Adair — F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar Nite Nite — The End penned numerous hits for fellow country crooners and 259-9891 Jazz pianist Beegie Adair has been called “elegant” by the Los Angeles Core Cassettes Beth Cameron and Doni Schroader are back and , including Yearwood’s “Georgia Rain,” which earned leading their band with a revamped sound. The group has just Rochelle a BMI award for being one of the most performed country Times and “one of the fi nest players in the world” by Entertainment CAFE COCO News. Need another reason to check out this performance? It’s free! fi nished putting together a new album, and they’re ready to jam to of 2005. (TBA, 9 p.m., 209 10th Ave. South, Suite 200) their mellow rock at The End. ($7, 9 p.m., 2219 Elliston Place) 210 Louise Ave. 37203 (Free, 7 p.m.) 321-2626 Copland for Organ — Nashville Symphony Looking for something unexpected? SunTrust Classical Series presents this special program, featuring the Nashville Symphony. Eighty musicians and 3,568 organ pipes combine for a huge, audience-encompassing sound. (Tickets TBD, 8 p.m.) THIS ISSUE Versus Fiction DECEMBER 3—DECEMBER 3, 2008 VOL. 46, NO. 26 7 • “Playboys,” 2 • “Life in a Cage,” 2 Versus FROM THE EDITOR • Words to live by in 17 syllables, 2 Magazine EDITORIAL BOARD Entertainment • We like movies, 3 Editor in Chief • We really like movies, 3 Darcy Newell • We saw a lot of movies, 3 Managing Editor 6 Sara Gast Music • Go Shorty, it’s your birthday, 4 Features Editor • , you sure sound different, 4 Chris Gearing • Broken Social Scene defies expectations, 5 Culture Editors Brandon Heriford Courtney Rogers Art • What not to wear at semi-formal, 6 Fiction Editor As we tend to do, Versus is making history this week. 4 • Starbucks is the happiest place on Kris Stensland We are ahead of the curve. We are breaking news. How, earth, 6 you ask? You see those goofball brothers The Knux on the • Black Friday, my favorite holiday, 6 Music Editors cover of the issue? Well, I am here to tell you that they Avery Spofford just happen to be The Next Big Thing. And because we are ahead of the curve, ergo, you are ahead of the curve. You music hipster, you. Features • Q+A with The Knux, 7 New Orleans-hailing brothers Kintrell, 26, and Alvin, 24, • Letter from an Angry WASP, 7 Lindsey (or if you are more comfortable with their stage Art Director names, “Krisby Kream” and “Rah Almillio,” respectively) 6 Matt Radford are making waves in the hip-hop community and earning themselves some well-deserved buzz. The duo has been Designers playing music together for over a decade, as they were PIC OF THE WEEK Irene both in the marching band and jazz lessons as kids. Hukkelhoven However, with infl uences like the Wu-Tang Clan and the Morgan Webb Gravediggaz, it didn’t take long for the brothers’ sound to evolve past the . With the upcoming release of Marketing Director their debut album “Remind Me in Three Days...” looming, George Fischer they call themselves “abstract-progressive.” I call them cool. Advertising Manager Angela Booker The brothers’ sound is defi nitely rap, but the duo’s rhymes are backed by layers of twangy, rock ’n’ roll- VSC Director infl uenced instrumentals, and the result is b-a-d-a-s-s. Chris Carroll Need proof? HBO’s “Entourage” used The Knux’s song “Cappuccino” in a recent episode. Hey — if Vincent Chase Assistant VSC jams to it, I am defi nitely down. Director Jeff Breaux Where else have we been? The movie theaters aross America, apparently. Subsequently, we are devoting an Journalist in entire page to the weekend’s big releases, from “Twilight” Residence to “The Boy in Striped Pajamas” to “Milk” just in time to Tim Ghianni distract you from studying for that looming nutrition fi nal. Ugh. Remind me in three days.

Darcy Newell AMELIA SPINNEY/ VERSUS MAGAZINE

HAIKUS FICTION Words to live by “CHILDREN AREN’T COLORING BOOKS. YOU DON’T GET TO FILL THEM WITH in seventeen syllables YOUR FAVORITE COLORS.” “I hate apple pie” — KHALED HOSSEINI Is the worst possible phrase I have ever heard.

Should we be thankful S ngs of That we’ve only three weeks left Entitlement Or sad they’ll be gone? The Knux

One of the great things about the arts is when you can fi nd a way to synergis- KRIS STENSLAND tically combine different avenues of expression. Here at Versus, we’re trying Fiction Editor something new: Every week, we take the name of a song by a featured artist and have one of our writers turn it into a short story. This week we’re giving “Life In A Cage” really isn’t as bad as you’d think. I have a meal plan of my own, you twice the bang for your buck with two songs from feature interview band you know. And without those pesky taste buds like you all have, I don’t have to worry about The Knux. variety, so a few of those nice brownish pebbles every day keeps me pretty solid. CHRIS GEARING Features Editor I’ve really got everything you could ever want, and oftentimes I’m even better off than you are. My sweet wheel is way better than a treadmill, and they defi nitely don’t make plastic balls “Playboys” were strewn about as I cautiously stepped into the room. The ash smell big enough for you to fi t in. Besides, my water bottle with the little ball bearing is way more of cigars fi lled the room and overwhelmed my nostrils as my eyes tried to make some fun than any satiating device you could ever come up with for yourself. sense of the scene in front of me. The very best of Hugh Heffner wasn’t even the weirdest thing on the burgundy shag carpet. A busted lava lamp was oozing in the corner, a full set Further, there’s no such thing as an emo hamster. There’s no such thing as hamster loneliness. of monopoly was set up (seemingly in mid-game) in the middle of the nudie magazines, I have no girl-hamster problems because I don’t have any feelings. Besides, you know, terrible an open pack of diapers with a cabbage patch kid spread eagle next to it, a still-burning fear. But generally it’s just feeling like eating or running or making hamster babies (when cigarette in an ash try in the shape of a dragon on the side table apparently from the ’60s, the situation presents itself). So none of us have to worry about being remorseful, or being various stuffed animals torn to bits with their stuffi ng all over the room. These were only a depressed or any of that. Which is great. Any time I start to feel down, I just bury myself in few of the things that lay about the scene. “Mark? Are you here?” I ventured. wood chips and all is right in the world.

I heard a sputter in the bathroom, kind of a relieved sigh muffl ed by the surrounding Some would say that the Vanderbubble is like a big hamster cage. They’re wrong. sea-foam green tile. As I jumped from island to island in the carpet, I wondered what the hell had happened here. Was he robbed? Was this the product of a 72-hour bender of Nyquil, Speed and Dr. Pepper? Or was Mark just the victim of a tragically misbalanced mix of Cheeseballs and Pixy Stix? Honestly, that crossed my mind.

I made it to the bathroom and slid onto the tile. The tub was overfl owing with cloudy water and Mark lay face down in the toilet bowl in only a cheetah print cowboy hat and his Hello Kitty boxers. “What the hell happened to you?” Interested in writing a Song of Entitlement? Interested in writing anything at all? He slowly lifted his bruised head, “Oh man, where to begin? Remember that broad from the bar last night? Turns out she’s a working lady, if ya know what I mean…” E-mail the Versus editors at [email protected]! Versus • December 3—December 9, 2008 • 3 ENTERTAINMENT

VERSUS MOVIE MADNESS “FOUR CHRISTMASES” “SLUMDOG MILLIONARE” “BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS” “TWILIGHT” “MILK”

‘Four Christmases’ not four stars ‘Milk’ is good for you CHRIS GEARING CHRIS GEARING Features Editor Features Editor

It’s that time of year again — Christmas somewhat prissy approach (as she has done There are countless unsung heroes in by a bullet red by a man named Dan White time. It’s the time for caroling, overeating in most of her latest roles) does not mesh American history. You may never have heard (Josh Brolin). and the odd Christmas movie. Past years with Vaughn’s motor-mouthed, somewhat of Harvey Milk in textbooks, history class Van Sant has always been known as an have seen some classics including “Elf” and crazy portrayal of Brad. Think “Wedding or even on PBS specials, but this is a name auteur of lm, and his newest lm further “Love Actually,” but 2008 is still searching Crashers” without Owen Wilson, and you’ll you should know. It is a name that should testi es to his incredible gift with lm. Penn for its Christmas glory. In search of such a have an idea of the kind of banter Vaughn jump to mind when one mentions the ght will most likely win an Oscar for his portrayal prize, Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon rattles off (it is absolutely glorious). With that for universal human rights. Harvey Milk is of Milk, and the supporting cast is absolutely have united this holiday season for “Four said, “Four Christmases” is a gem of a holiday a legitimate American hero, and this lm perfect. Few lms have taken on such a hot- Christmases.” movie. It does not try to be anything other proves it with gusto, class and inspiration. button issue at a time of political polarization The lm follows the odd romance of than a  uffy, entertaining Christmas story. Its Sean Penn tackles the role of Milk in (gay marriage was rated as the No. 1 issue Vaughn and Witherspoon as it is put to the love story is believable, but “Casablanca” it Gus Van Sant’s new biopic “Milk.” Milk was determining voting patterns in the 2004 greatest test of all: their families. Both sets is not. The laughs are easy and ever present ashamed of his homosexuality when he presidential election). The lm’s timing is of parents have divorced and are holding (thanks mostly to the antics of Vaughn), and lived in New York. When he turned 40, he no mistake, and it brings to light one of the separate Christmas celebrations in different you’ll nd yourself leaving the theater with decided to make a change. He moved to San foremost heroes in the ght for homosexual parts of town. Ergo, they must visit four a smile. Francisco and soon became a leader in the rights. This movie portrays a champion of Christmases. Clever, no? It’s not going to win any Oscars, but that ght for homosexual rights, not just in San one of the chief political movements of our Let’s make something very clear — there is is not what “Four Christmases” is trying Francisco but also across the world. Harvey generation. See this movie as soon as you absolutely no on-screen chemistry between to accomplish. It only wants your eight Milk was the rst openly homosexual man to can. You’ll nd a new hero in Harvey Milk. Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn. None. bucks and to entertain you for a little while. hold a major public of ce. However, his life  Zip. Zilch. Witherspoon’s sophisticated, De nitely worth the money.  was ended in a tragic and degrading fashion ‘Twilight’ is amazing ... if you’re a ‘Twilight’ fan

COURTNEY ROGERS a mysterious boy at her new high school, a vampire named brooding expressions, I knew I would enjoy the movie at least Culture Editor Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). Their dangerous romance from a purely super cial standpoint. The lm also tries very leads them into an epic battle while also including copious hard to stay true to the book, and by and large it succeeds. Of I feel the need to preface this review with my complicated amounts of smoldering looks and teenage angst along the course, if you’re a fan of the books you’re going to point out relationship with “Twilight.” way. every scene that they cut, but that is the case with any book There’s one part of me that loves the books. I read them I’ll start off with the good, which mostly involves Pattinson. adaptation on the silver screen. all over the summer and nished “New Moon” in a single You may remember him as Cedric Diggory from “Harry My rst criticism of the movie has got to be the special night only to wake up for work at 7 a.m. wondering what I Potter,” and let me tell you, he makes an even more attractive effects. I understand that “Twilight” had a much smaller was thinking. But in spite of how easily the “Twilight” series vampire than he did a quidditch martyr. From his rst budget than most movies, but seriously those effects took lures me in, I often nd myself very frustrated by the entire appearance on screen with his gravity-defying hair style and away from the entire lm. At one point, Edward explains why plot. Yes, I love that Bella and Edward are so in love with one he can’t go out in the sun by showing Bella what happens to another, but sometimes it gets so over the top that I just want his skin in the light and he is supposed to be so bright and to yell at Bella and tell her to get a life beyond her hunky radiant that it would be impossible for him to go out in public vampire. So it was with these con icting emotions that I without being noticed. However, in the lm his skin just gets headed to the Green Hills movie theatre for the 12:01 a.m. kind of multicolored and the only way to understand that screening of “Twilight.” its supposed to be sparkly is by the little windchime sounds To say that the scene I beheld at midnight was overwhelming that play. It just looked lame, and it made Pattinson look is a huge understatement. There were teenage girls like a slightly sweaty prism. The same goes for the scenes of everywhere. Some were in slippers and pajamas. Some were Edward running — it just looked unrealistic and contrived. wearing hand-decorated T-shirts displaying messages along I questioned some of the characterization as well, especially the lines of “Mrs. Edward Cullen” or “Team Jacob.” Seeing when Edward shows up wearing Ray Bans at school and is all these eager fans made me more than a little embarrassed by happy and smiley. He’s a brooding Victorian vampire, not Mr. my enthusiasm to see this movie the minute it opened, and as High School. It was over the top and too different from the I waited in line for overpriced popcorn I hoped that I would rest of his character. not be put in the same fanatical category as them. But as Overall, I’m still con icted over my “Twilight” feelings, my friends and I found our seats in the crowded theater, I but despite all of my criticisms of its shortcomings I really dropped the too cool for “Twilight” act and allowed myself did enjoy it. It’s de nitely a movie that I would see again to get excited. in theaters, and I’ll most likely buy the DVD if only for For those of you who don’t know, “Twilight” is the story of Pattinson.  a girl named Bella () who falls in love with ickr.com

‘Striped Pajamas’ is tired Who wants to be a ‘Slumdog Millionare’? CHRIS GEARING CHRIS GEARING Features Editor Features Editor Studying the Holocaust is one of the most elements. The lm portrays the dissent important lessons in modern history. George among Germans against the persecution of Few movies can claim to effectively sounds super cheesy. Some rags to Santayana once said, “Those who cannot Jews and the mission of Hitler, a refreshing tackle the topic of destiny. Most feel riches kid winning millions of dollars learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” reminder that not all of Germany was evil clunky or just plain silly (a notable on a game show. Right.” Most of the Indeed, one of the greatest crimes against from 1938 to 1945. Indeed, “Striped Pajamas” exception being “The Matrix”), but time, I would agree with you. However, humanity in world history deserves as much even touches on the duties and fears of being Danny Boyle’s (director of the legendary this film presents itself in a fresh way attention as possible. However, “The Boy In a soldier in the Third Reich. “Transpotting”) latest release handles and really crafts a fine story. It feels The Striped Pajamas” tackles the subject “The Boy In The Striped Pajamas” was not destiny with class and panache, and it extremely real and believable, and the in a somewhat trite or cliche manner — a bad lm, but it was also not a great one. If may even make your skin tingle before actual story of Jamal is very well written presenting an important topic in a tired way. you want a moving depiction of the Holocaust, the credits roll. and interesting. Boyle’s direction is The movie focuses on the story of a young rent “Schindler’s List” or “Life is Beautiful.” “Slumdog Millionaire” opens with also a welcome change from what boy whose father is a German SS of cer in Both movies won numerous Oscars (and for Jamal Malik (Dev Patel) in the hot could have been a boring exercise in charge of a concentration camp. However, good reasons) and portray the Holocaust seat of the Indian version of “Who cinematography. Even the music is our protagonist (played by the charming in a much more original and accurate way. Wants To Be A Millionaire?” He is just fantastic and rife with Indian artists Asa Butter eld) does not understand the In comparison, “Striped Pajamas” just isn’t one question away from winning the and songs inspired by Indian music underlying “principles” of Germany’s nearly as good.  ultimate prize of 20 million rupees, and (expect a lot of M.I.A.). Plus, this film prosecution of Jews. In his travels, he no one can quite understand how this has some excellent footage of Mumbai, befriends a young boy sitting by the fence kid from the slums of Mumbai, India, the latest victim of terrorist violence. of his father’s camp. He grows closer to the could have gotten so far on the quiz Due to this, you may be seeing the city boy and begins to question the wisdom of his show. Heck, lawyers and doctors don’t in the news with increasing regularity father’s persecution of Jews. get past 60 thousand rupees. However, and this is an excellent introduction to Do not get me wrong, the Holocaust is one we soon find out that Jamal’s tragic the city and Indian culture at large. of the most heartbreaking tragedies in world story informs every single one of his “Slumdog Millionaire” is never boring, history. However, this lm is not one of the answers on the show and guides him and its enthralling story is sure to keep best portrayals of this dreadful time in human to fame and fortune. Indeed, one could you interested. It may just revive your history. It’s quite predictable and feels a little even say that it is his destiny. faith in destiny.  tired, however there are a few interesting boyinthestripedpajamas.com I know what you’re thinking, “This 4 • December 3—December 9, 2008 • Versus

TODAY THURSDAY, DEC. 4 FRIDAY, DEC. 5 Jim Heath, a.k.a. The Reverend The four members of alterna- Nashville’s historic Horton Heat, brings his band and their tive rock band Safetysuit features country artists of all ages, MUSIC brand of gritty, down-and-dirty punkabilly to have been friends since before styles and sounds. Head to the Ry- Cannery Ballroom. The Texas three-piece the ban’s founding, and their man Auditorium this Friday to see per- “I’ve had the honor of working with group mixes country, punk, rockabilly and camaraderie shows through in formances by , some of the greatest artists in black other musical genres to create a unique their energetic live show. Catch , Del McCoury music, and I can’t help but be a sound that has generated a cult following the group’s grandiose rock Band and more in an evening better artist as a result of it.” as well as mainstream success. Tickets are performance at 8 p.m. at 12th reminiscent of old-school countrifi ed SETLIST $20, and openers Nashville Pussy and Porter. Tickets range from Nashville. Tickets start at $26, and —John Legend kick the show off at 9 p.m. $10 to $12. the show kicks off at 8 p.m. Kanye and battle for most anticipated album “808s and Heartbreak” “Prospekt’s March”

‘808s and Heartbreak’: Get Your Fix It’s a ‘March’ of good ‘Prospekts’

CHARLES KESSERLING and “Welcome to Heartbreak” resound with CHRIS GEARING Other notables include the tracks “Glass of Staff Writer the same sense of despondence. Both detail Features Editor Water” and “Rainy Day,” which are both West’s wish to “be a real boy,” free from the reminiscent of the glory days of Coldplay Kanye West isn’t happy. Fortunately for pressure, exposure and pain of celebrity. In Coldplay sure does talk a big game. (think of the lyrics of “Parachutes” mixed us, though, his displeasure with life inspired his freestyle, the artist explains he “sacri ced , the frontman and singer of with the musicality of “A Rush Of Blood “808s and Heartbreak,” an emotional success. a real life for all the fame and  ashing lights,” Coldplay, claimed earlier this year that their To The Head”). Other tracks include a The album, 52 minutes of aural sentiment a sharp shift in perspective since cheerfully latest album, “ or Death and All remix of “Lovers in Japan” that virtually ranging from subdued bitterness to  aunting his “Good Life” last year. His Friends,” would be the best album ever sounds the same as the original besides a tumultuous rage, radically rede nes West as “808s and Heartbreak” peaks in quality made. To be honest, Chris, it was good, but few background vocals and couple tweaks. an artist. Only recently achieving his potential when West becomes spiteful, reacting to his it was not THAT good. In fact, it wasn’t even The title track “Prospekt’s March” is a slow as a rapper, West chooses to express his anger failed relationship with lyrical resentment the best of Coldplay. None of the songs melodic exploration of symbolism and and anguish, spurred on by the death of his and retribution. In “RoboCop,” among the few recaptured the magic of “Clocks,” “Yellow” imagery, but the haunting melodies and mother and separation from his ancee, upbeat cuts on the album, West slights his ex or even “,” and, frankly, it was a vague lyrics never really go anywhere. The exclusively with his voice. (assumedly) repeatedly, calling her “a drama little disappointing. This is not to say that less-than-a-minute track “Postcards From Aided entirely by the trendy production queen that would turn his life into Steven the album was bad, but it certainly did not Far Away” is a nice piano break after the effect Auto-Tune, he belts out (auto- King’s.” meet or exceed expectations. fantastic opening track. However, the EP croons?) his problems for whoever West enlists industry friends Young Jeezy Indeed, “Viva la Vida” opens with “Life in Technicolor II,” which will listen. While West is certainly and Lil’ Wayne to help him express his always felt a little you could think is just no T-Pain, the genuine emotion resilience on “Amazing” and “See You In incomplete. In response an expanded version in his voice and creativity of his My Nightmare.” In fact, “Nightmare” nds to such allegations, of the opening track of words make up for any lack of West irate, shouting “tell everybody that Coldplay has recently “Viva la Vida.” Fortunately, vocal talent. Also, West relies upon you know, that I don’t love you released an eight-song the band also decided to the Rolland 808 drum machine, the no mo’!” while Weezy makes EP titled “Prospekt’s add some lyrics to the album’s partial namesake, for every his cohort’s feelings just as March” that quells any track that really make it track, using rudimentary, tribal- clear: “We were once a fairy doubts about the band’s shine. It’s exactly the esque beats to help convey the tale, but this is farewell.” prowess or virtuosic kind of thing that “Viva disc’s deep, ever-present passion. “Say You Will,” ability. la Vida” was missing. Heartfelt at times, hateful at “,” and The EP has some If you buy this EP for others, the album navigates “Paranoid” all  awlessly notable additions, no other reason, get it the many manifestations explore what could have including a remix for this track. It’s one of of heartbreak. “Heartless,” been, at three different of “Lost!” entitled Coldplay’s nest. “Coldest Winter” and “Bad tempos. “Lost+” with some If you have any affection for the News” represent West at his Certainly the result fresh rhymes from work of Coldplay, make sure to lowest, a mournful victim of of emotional necessity, Jay-Z himself. Although pick up their latest EP, “Prospekt’s tragedy. In “Coldest Winter,” a “808s and Heartbreak” it doesn’t really add March.” It’s the missing piece to heavy tribute to his deceased exists because Kanye anything to the song, it “Viva la Vida” and contains some mentor, manager and mother, West needed musical certainly does not hurt of the band’s nest work in a long Donda West, the artist therapy, not more fans. it. Indeed, the addition time. The EP will remind you why questions “Will I ever love However, even if your of rap on top of the Coldplay is often called one of the again?” utterly unsure of the life hasn’t been ruined music of Coldplay is best bands around. Trust me, it’s answer. lately, snag a copy and an interesting musical worth the money.  The record’s hidden vibe — if for no other experiment, and it track, a six-minute freestyle reason than to hear may even nd an recorded live in Singapore, West sing falsetto.  audience somewhere. mtvpress.com live8live.com Nashville royals, Kings of Leon, rock its hometown NATALIE FRITZ show ever — at the famed Madison Square told us that too. But I think we got better Staff Writer Garden in January. at it, so … I’d like to thank y’all.” The Opening bands The Whigs sophistication of new tracks such as “Cold Equipped with gorgeous Gibson guitars and We Are Scientists set the stage for the Desert” and “Use Somebody” created and clad in skinny black pants, cowboy boot Kings, after which the headliners kicked an intriguing contrast to the simplicity loafers,  annel shirts and leather jackets, off their set with a rousing track called of their earlier work. The enthusiastic the boys of Kings of Leon certainly knew “Crawl” from the new album. Now with a hipster audience couldn’t get enough, and how to play the part of southern rockers. dimensional repertoire, the band made everywhere one turned fans were belting Their distinctive style has been compared use of a variety of their material. The set out the words and scatting bass lines, even to a Strokes and Lynyrd Skynyrd love child. was incredible, showcasing 24 songs. Old to songs from the new album. They came back to their hometown for their favorites like “Taper Jean Girl,” “ After the initial set and a brief break, nal stop on this leg of their American tour, squidoo.com Waiting,” “The Bucket,” and “Slow Night the band reemerged for the encore, which after which they will head over the pond to So Long” were full of bravado and their began with a shout out to the audience and , where they have sold 10 times as Quake. The tour is in promotion of their familiar youthful energy. Lead Singer Caleb the band’s momma, followed by the de ant many . freshly dropped fourth record, “Only By The Followill, who spoke minimally, modestly and soulful ballad “Knocked Up.” The nale The venue, Nashville Municipal Auditorium, Night.” Kings Of Leon’s new single, “Sex on explained, “We just want y’all to know, me “Black Thumbnail” was an appropriate was very open, essentially a large general Fire,” is climbing the billboard charts after it and my brother, we started writing songs in farewell: “From runways to the road I ramble admission pit with stadium seating on the was featured on the popular TV show “Gossip this town a long time ago. And we weren’t along.” Let’s hope the Kings ramble by again side, much like Memorial Gym’s set up for Girl,” and the Kings just booked their largest very good at it either and everyone in town soon. 

Broken Social Scene steals the show — by performing AVERY SPOFFORD charts, real music and live performances still brought out the intricacies of each song. The Music Editor exist for real music fans. acoustics and sound quality of the Cannery Opener set the tone for the Ballroom were fantastic, as well, contributing Some bands seem to treat their live shows evening with their listenable but complex further to Broken Social Scene’s professional, like a tedious desk job — get the day’s work songs, quickly impressing the audience and  awless sound. done, and do it in time get the heck out before holding its attention throughout their set. Broken Social Scene must have known rush hour. With late arrivals, shortened sets As my friends and I started to listen, what they sounded good, too, because they just and a lack of interaction with the audience, began as an aimless stroll around the half- didn’t want to get off the stage. The group even (and perhaps especially) some of today’s empty Cannery Ballroom turned into a switched instruments, faked the crowd out most popular groups seem to drag their frantic scramble to nd out the group’s name with crescendo after crescendo, and played heels when it comes to bringing their music and more about it. I was equally, if not more, for a full 40 minutes longer than their slated to audiences in a live setting. Rarely does a impressed by Land of Talk as I was by Broken set time. The band members was obviously jamoo.com band give an audience what it expects and Social Scene, and fully expect them to follow having fun and enjoying themselves, and the I’ll admit it — before their show in Nashville, deserves in a live performance. in Broken Social Scene’s footsteps to become audience enjoyed the performance in turn. I didn’t even listen to Broken Social Scene. However, whenever I start to grumble about another of Canada’s great indie rock groups. Although a few stragglers from the audience After Tuesday, however, that’s changed. Even this deplorable state, to mope about “what Having missed the rst half of Land of Talk’s wandered off as the group continued to rock for someone who isn’t a Broken Social Scene the industry has come to,” a band steps in set, we didn’t have to wait long before Broken into the wee hours of the morning, most of devotee, the show was a fantastic display of to restore my faith in the popular live music Social Scene took the stage. With a large variety the crowd remained, no one really minding musicianship and true love of performance. experience. Broken Social Scene, Canada’s and number of instruments and band members that the band seemed like they would never The show instills hope that there are still premier indie rock band, slapped me in the (at least six playing on stage at all times), Broken stop playing. Even the staff of the Cannery bands out there that strive to a great face last week with their outstanding live Social Scene’s stage setup resembled that of an was confused — “I don’t know what’s going show and connect with their audiences, performance at the Cannery Ballroom and orchestra more than that of a rock band. The on, they were supposed to go off like 40 and musicians who enjoy the experience of reminded me that, even in an era where expansive lineup paid off, however, allowing the minutes ago,” said the manager of the venue, performing rather than waiting for the end Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers rule the group to deliver a rich and textured sound that Andrew Mischke. of a set time limit.  Versus • December 3—December 9, 2008 • 5

SATURDAY, DEC. 6 SUNDAY, DEC. 7 MONDAY, DEC. 8 TUESDAY, DEC. 9 Head to the nearby Exit/In on Sat- Every true country fan in Nash- Western swing band The Time Up-and-comers Thriving Ivory SOUNDTRACK urday evening to catch four bands ville should be at the Sommet Jumpers are heading to the Sta- bring their sound for the price of one! The Royce, Center this Sunday to catch tion Inn to show Nashville a good to local venue Rocketown. Hailed Lovers and Liars, Beauti- performances by Grammy Award time. Comprised of Nashville’s by VH1 as one of the year’s hottest TO THE ISSUE fully Crude and Hollowday winner and multi-platinum artist best studio musicians, The Time artists “you oughta know,” Thriving all show off their unique styles this Carrie Underwood and Jumpers combine classic infl uences Ivory cite diverse infl uences through- weekend at the local venue. Tick- opener Little Big Town. Ticket as well as new material to appeal out the rock genre and are an act to ets prices are TBA, and the doors costs range from $32.50 to to a wide variety of audiences. catch before they blow up. Tickets open at 8 p.m. $52.50, and Little Big Town sets Tickets are $10, and The Time are $12, and doors open at 6:30 things off right at 7:30. Jumpers start swingin’ at 9 p.m. p.m.

UnLabel helps bands who are unable We at Versus have excellent taste EILEEN BEGLEY , the UnLabel. will create and design their Web page. If a in music. Below, the editors share Staff Reporter MilkBoy Recording co-owners Tommy songwriter would like to copyright a song, the what tracks we’ve been spinning as Joyner and Jamie Lokoff noticed artists UnLabel helps guide the songwriter through we create the glory you’re holding Sleeping Naked was a problem for recording their songs but leaving their the copyrighting process. Basically, for a fee bandmates Craig Tallent and Holden Seguso. studio without a way to publicize their the UnLabel staff will produce, promote and in your hands. After forming their band, Sleeping musical accomplishment. And with many publicize your band. “SEX ON FIRE” Naked, the two members left their Florida artists going independent and not signing For Sleeping Naked, nding the UnLabel high school and headed in two different to major record labels, they recognized a was the solution to their bi-coastal problem. 1. Kings of Leon directions, but Sleeping Naked left them future business: a record label that does not The UnLabel allows Tallent and Seguso to with a strong desire to share their pop-funk sign artists but still produces and promotes continue their collegiate athletic careers by “STREETLIGHTS” sound with the world. singers and bands. The recent creation of the helping create the Sleeping Naked penguin Tallent, now a junior, headed to Nashville UnLabel allows recording artists to manage logo and marketing their music on the 2. Kanye West to play golf at Vanderbilt University, and their own careers, artistically and nancially. Internet and iTunes. “MilkBoy is doing things Seguso left to play tennis at the University And, in the case of Sleeping Naked, also we can’t do now,” says Tallent. The UnLabel “PELICAN BAY” of California at Los Angeles. Even though explore other opportunities simultaneously. is even trying to set up a small summer tour Tallent and Seguso coincidentally live in two The UnLabel easily allows bands from all that help will accommodate the band and 3. heavily music-in uenced cities, Sleeping over the country to access their a la carte their need to practice at driving ranges and Naked still had a problem. services. They offer three different categories tennis courts. “He’s in the West and I’m in the East, so of services: creative, marketing and business. For a price, Sleeping Naked can now “WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG” we can’t play live shows and can’t have that If a band decides to purchase business cards fall asleep in California and Tennessee 4. exposure together,” explains Tallent. Then and  yers, their graphic design artist will knowing that their songs will become Sleeping Naked learned about Pennsylvania- design the band’s logo. If Web design and known to the world, thanks to MilkBoy based MilkBoy Recording and their new Facebook is not a singer’s forte, the UnLabel and the UnLabel.  “MOTHER CRIES WOLF” 5. Amie Miriello “JOHNNY AND JUNE” Trombone Shorty stars with his sound 6. Heidi Newfi eld ZAC HUNTER with Lenny Kravitz, and is developing into ever seen. Everything he does is with careful Staff Writer one of the nest wind instrumentalists in the musical consideration and taste, but never “MANNEQUIN” music world today. sounds overly polished or produced. 7. Britney Spears For those looking to add something He is one of those guys who can do anything While his recordings (“Orleans and different to their iTunes library, check out on the horn. Whether he is playing in the Claiborne,” “The End of the Beginning”) Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. Trombone Troy Andrews Quintet, a group with a classic give a good general look at his work, the “I’M GOOD, I’M GONE Shorty is a jazz virtuoso on both the trombone (albiet sometimes boring) “New Orleans best part of Trombone Shorty’s music is the 8. (Metronomy Remix)” and the trumpet. His sound is unique and Jazz” sound, or if he is blasting his trombone live performance, which often features him comes from his background as a native of one on stage with his band “Trombone Shorty holding a couple of notes continuously for at of the most musical neighborhoods in New and Orleans Ave,” this young superstar will least two or three minutes with only one breath. Orleans and a graduate of the New Orleans blow you away. Shorty rocks anything from Unfortunately most of us probably missed his “GHOSTWRITER (Remix)” Center for the Creative Arts, which boasts his original funk/rock/hip-hop songs like show at the Exit/In over Thanksgiving break. RJD2 one of the best high school music programs “Frontin’” to covers like AC/DC’s “Back in So, for a new artist to look for in the concert 9. in the country. Andrews has been leading Black.” He also plays Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s listings and some new albums to add to your Mardi Gras marching bands since he could Get it On” on the trumpet as one of the most mundane library, look up Troy, and you won’t “LIGHTS AND MUSIC” walk, is coming off a fairly recent world tour impressive displays of musicianship I’ve be disappointed.  10. Cut Copy Refreshing lyrics lead to unexpected fame for

ANA ALVAREZ growth or show of emotion, all turn out OK. This spark Staff Writer the speaker leads a passable of hope adds a special sort of life. The problem is  avor to the song. Despite British band Noah and that in order to change and its sad undertones, Fink the Whale has previously live, a person has to feel leaves something happy for claimed to have no real what it is to suffer and die. the audience to hold on to, ambition in the music An undercurrent of sadness which is part of what makes world. Besides continual pervades the song, but Fink their music so appealing. performances at local leaves a positive message for So far, Noah and the venues, they saw no real his listeners. A person must Whale has appeared in future until the release of accept hardships in order to many festivals, including their 2008 debut album, improve his character. Leeds, Latitude, SXSW, V “Peaceful, The World Lays “” is about Festival and Glastonbury. “5 Me Down.” Singles such a ctitious yet universal Years Time” has also been as “Shape of My Heart” relationship between two used in both Topshop and and “5 Years Time” have people. Fink avoids the Starbucks advertisement inadvertently caught the generic love song by adding campaigns. The band had attention of many listeners. small details such as going planned a 2008 tour of the Their schedule of gigs to the zoo, making jokes United States, but timing and interviews has grown and smoking. Because of and the development of a nonstop alongside their these personal touches, the new record forced them fame. song becomes both original to cancel. It was to take The band formed in 2006 and relatable to all sorts place around the time of in , England, and of audiences. The most . Perhaps spring members include Charlie memorable phrase is when 2009 will see the arrival of Fink (vocals, guitar), Doug Fink says he no longer feels this up and coming band — Fink (drums), Tom Hobden like he has to be James stay tuned!  ( ddle) and Matt “Urby Dean in order to catch her Whale” Owens (bass). Writer attention. He lists the worst and musician that could happen to the comes up with most of the relationship toward the lyrics to their music, which end of the song: is described both as folk They may no and punk rock. Often, he longer be on gets inspiration from his speaking terms, own past experiences and they might not philosophies on life, as well know each as his ex-girlfriend and o t h e r former band member, Laura or get Marling. Colorful clothing along, may constitute half of their yet he signature style, but the other believes half lies in the simplicity t h a t and sincerity of Noah and “in ve the Whale’s lyrics. y e a r s “Shape of My Heart” time, discusses the advantage of you just having a calloused and bent m i g h t heart. The positive angle is prove me that a person loses the ability wrong.” to be affected by adverse There is situations or daily struggles. a chance By avoiding any sort of it might www.summersundae.com 6 • December 3—December 9, 2008 • Versus ART Formal Dressing 101 OLIVIA KUPFER is perfect for the winter season because its sheen and feminine details, you’ll add fashion and fun to Staff Writer helps you look less pasty and tries to mimic that a piece that could otherwise veer into the categories summery glow. Pick any silver shade, from gunmetal of boring, or worse, classless. There is no time of the year more stressful than the to pewter which looks very  attering on those with Sequins galore — In the event that you can’t holiday season. First there’s nal exams, then those fair skin or even bright metallic silver for those nd a dress that corresponds to any of the trends family obligations and nally there’s the question of blessed with the appearance of year-round tans. mentioned above, pick an all-sequined mini-dress. nding that perfect formal frock. What can be more This season’s popular strapless cut is a good choice A tted, tastefully short, jewel-toned sequin dress is anxiety provoking than nding the perfect holiday for a silver dress. The look is young and fresh and a guaranteed to make you a showstopper. And at any cocktail dress for all of these momentous occasions? great option for a formal affair. kind of formal, that’s obviously the desired result.  OK, this may be a slight exaggeration because you Holiday goddess — If you’re a free spirited neo-hippie don’t have to dress up for nals (even though I who values effortless chic clothing over a restrictive, believe you test better when you cinched-waist dress, try a draped and Greek goddess- feel and look great). But exams inspired gown. Channel your inner-goddess in a one aside, if you do have to dress for shoulder, knee-length dress that accentuates your a formal and are in desperate clavicle while still leaving something to the imagination. need of fashion advice, you One shoulder is the season’s perfect neckline because need look no further than this it’s seductive but sophisticated. Try T-bags’ colorblock list. This holiday season, I’m one-shoulder dress for a modern take on the Grecian replacing the dressing room goddess look. hassle with the click of a button Unique wrapping — All holiday cocktail dresses rely (thank you online shopping). on dramatic fabrics, materials and embellishments With this guide to the hottest in order to compliment the festive holiday season. holiday fashion trends, selecting That means that this winter, even if you wear a black the perfect cocktail dress for dress to formal, try one of the season’s fashion trends formals should be a snap. as an accent. Some popular accents this season Silver bells — A major trend include feathers, a pronounced, oversized bow, for this year’s holiday dresses or tiered ruf es on a cocktail dress. An oversized is silver. What color is more bow on the typical little black dress looks festive elegant, festive and winter- and unique, rather than trite and predictable. By Cat Deeley wearing a one-shoulder. appropriate than silver? Metallic pairing this holiday season’s mini-dress with girlish ickr.com cherryontopshop.com ickr.com Go on — embrace the Christmas starts early this Black Friday bonanza year for Starbucks lovers HOLLY MEEHL along by our sale-rabid mom mall and do a little research Staff Writer New Starbucks fl avors arrive on time for winter. eliminated the possibility of about Black Friday. Would Thanksgiving is over, but ever entering a mall on Black the shopping go so smoothly ANA ALVAREZ “The cups are always different. We like to the holiday season is just Friday. For others, Black with the economy going so Staff Reporter focus on the artwork more than anything, beginning — and with it Friday may be their favorite poorly? which is why they don’t have quotes like comes holiday shopping. It shopping day of the year with I drove to the mall in the As a resident of Miami, I’m always the regular cups.” Young said. “If there is an starts with a day that makes the 50 percent-off posters or afternoon (I wasn’t about to searching for a way to keep warm during the increase in sales, it’s usually attributed to many people cringe, yet has the “buy one get one free” wake up at 4 in the morning Nashville winter season. Whether it’s inside people getting into the season and wanting bargain hunters drooling: the chant many retailers promote. like many), though I quickly my 80-degree dorm room or underneath to take some home to their families. People dreaded, the anticipated, the Personally, I try to avoid the found myself regretting that layers of clothing, I always nd a way to stay usually buy somatic types of coffee, but they Black Friday. mall during this particular choice as I looked upon the cozy. One solution I’ve get into the themes and We all have most likely Friday, and I instead choose over owing parking lot. I found to combat the the new blends.” experienced Black Friday’s to watch various Christmas had to circle for 15 minutes cold is Starbucks. The rst Christmas craziness at least once. For movies from my comfortable before I found a spot, and I I never lose an blend ever was released some, the experience of couch. However, this year I even witnessed a collision opportunity to buy in 1984. It features a being a 7-year-old dragged decided to take to my local between an SUV and sedan a cup and feel the mix of Latin American trying to get to the sales soothing warmth of and Asian/Paci c coffee a little too quickly. Happy the coffee after every along with rare and that I avoided such a Black sumptuous sip. That aged Indonesian beans. Friday fate, I entered the mall rich, earthy smell of The exotic and spicy eager to chat with some store coffee in the morning is lure of the blend made mangers about how their the little bit of heaven I customers want to buy sales had been going. What need to keep me awake it by the pound. Today, I found is that no one really for the rest of the day. new  avors such as wanted to talk to me. Recently, I tried the the gingersnap latte, At last I came upon one gingersnap latte that peppermint mocha twist surprisingly calm sales Starbucks serves almost and espresso truf e representative in Gap Kids every Christmas season. are popular drinks as who told me his take on this “But we just celebrated customers look for year’s Black Friday, “The way Thanksgiving!” you may alternatives to the I see it, we’re having more exclaim. What’s with all traditional combination. shoppers than ever, but the commercialism? With so many new people are spending less.” I have to say, back in holiday offerings, it can So paradoxically, people are November I thought it ikr.com be dif cult to choose swarming to the shopping was pretty early for Starbucks to be selling the right drink for that chilly day. Each malls to get some of the great coffee in those famous “red cups.” But as is very different, so when you’re trying to deals because they don’t want temperatures drop and the holiday season choose, consider what kind of  avor you’re to be spending much money rolls our way, the time seems right to promote looking for in your steamy beverage. If you at all. that toasty, homey feeling. are in the market for a creamy drink with Who knows for sure, but I Ashley Young, general supervisor at the the added kick of crystallized ginger, go learned that Black Friday at Starbucks in the Student Life Center, said if for the gingersnap latte. Prefer the taste the mall is way too hectic a students thought the holiday cups appeared of mint, bittersweet chocolate and coffee place for me. Despite all the earlier this year, they were right.  avor? Then the peppermint mocha twist is great deals, I’ll be doing my “This year, we started selling the cups on for you. If you need that early morning eye- Christmas shopping a little Nov. 4 rather than Nov. 27 as in previous opener to make it through the last full week bit later when the bargain years. There is no real reason behind it that of early classes, try espresso with Starbucks’ hunters and sales reps won’t I’ve heard of,” she says. European-style cocoa. Whichever one you add onto mounting holiday Each year, Starbucks presents artwork on choose, these holiday delights leave little stress.  the cups that follows a holiday theme. room for disappointment.  ickr.com Christmas shopping at the bookstore

EILEEN BEGLEY best part about this adorable gift is will wear your gift all the time. Vera Bradley ID Case/Wristlet Staff Writer that it oinks. Now, she’ll never have Vanderbilt sweatshirts come in all If you go to the bookstore often, an excuse when she’s late to meet sorts of styles, colors and prices. you’ll notice that near the women’s It is of cially the holidays, a you. It also comes as a dog or rooster Teddy bears or any other stuffed section there is a huge display of favorite time of the year for college alarm clock for only $19.95. animal quilted bags. If you’re a guy, you students, especially for girls. We Vanderbilt sweatshirt I wouldn’t call myself a stuffed probably immediately disregard have already made our Christmas Your girlfriend’s closet may be animal fanatic, but I would be more it and head right upstairs to buy lists in hopes that our dads, brothers full of Vanderbilt apparel, but than pleased with these pink-garbed souvenir shot glasses and beer and boyfriends will buy us a Tiffany your mom’s closet is always ready teddy bears. Who can’t resist a cute mugs. But whenever my friends and marshalljewelry.com necklace or cashmere sweater. But for another Vanderbilt sweatshirt. teddy bear or a stuffed giraffe? This I explore the bookstore, we always Jewelry they don’t, because men are the Every Vandy mom is the perfect gift stop by the Vera Bradley section. The bookstore is a place where worst gift-givers since Aunt Betty loves to show off for your girlfriend, Almost every time my friend says, “I you buy textbooks, endless amounts and her monogrammed hats. her child’s school. little sister or niece. would love that ID holder so much. of Vanderbilt apparel and school So for all the men in Nashville, I Another sweatshirt It is something soft I nally would stop losing my ID supplies. But did you also know they found some gifts that you can buy is just another and cuddly that will and key.” sell jewelry? And it is not Vanderbilt- at the bookstore on the Card for reason to tell the always remind her If you know a girl who always themed jewelry. On the second  oor, your favorite female. Here’s your world that her child of her favorite guy. misplaces her ID card after a night behind the greeting cards section, a cheat sheet: is a Commodore. Like sweatshirts, the of holiday frat parties, buy her this mecca of jewelry exists. The jewelry An animal sound alarm clock And if your parents bookstore has many gift! It will save her $10 each time comes in all sorts of varieties from As someone who sleeps through live above the different kinds of she goes to the Card of ce to buy simple earrings to artistic necklaces. many a re alarm, I would de nitely M a s o n - D i x o n stuffed animals who a new one. Plus, you’ll never have There are pearl stud earrings for love this pink pig alarm clock. line, the perennial wear many different to hear her complain at brunch the a middle school-aged sister and Almost every girl loves the color cold weather will out ts. And they’re next morning about not having her brightly colored necklaces for your pink and there’s a cute pig on it. The guarantee that she global-b2b-network.com also cheap at $15. Card to use. outgoing girlfriend.  Versus • December 3—December 9, 2008 • 7

LETTER FROM AN ANGRY WASP Each week, our resident Angry WASP sounds off on things that make him buzz. (see what we did there?)

New Orleans may not be the city that jumps to mind when someone CHRIS GEARING Features Editor mentions rap, but the Big Easy is home to two of the best rappers on the hip-hop scene today. They are The Knux, and they use instruments to craft their own brand of rap (in opposition to say T-Pain or Lil’ Wayne). One of the brothers, Rah Almillio, sat down with Features Editor Chris Gearing to discuss Hurricane Katrina, positive messages and fi ghting with the crowd at live shows. Dear Awkward Versus Magazine: How did you guys get into music? We have a pretty deep message in our songs — we cover These gangs have been fi ghting for so long it doesn’t Airport Rah Almillio: We’ve been doing music since we were like it up with our catchy s**t. Every last one of our songs has matter anymore after this kid dies. It’s kind of the Conversations, 12 or 13. We used to play in jazz band and we started a message to it, but we try to do it without being corny. message in the song, too. It’s something we had to deal off playing brass instruments, reading and writing sheet “Put the guns down! Be positive!” Trying not to kill the with in New Orleans. We didn’t want to take it to the music, and stuff like that. We’ve always been into hip-hop art of it. “Cappuccino” was just like, we had a coff ee shop hood. People are tired of seeing the same s**t. People You know those little just being young and black and in the hood, you know under our apartment. If everyone knows Sunset and Vine are tired of seeing the same videos over and over. They awkward exchanges what I mean? We started real, real young. in Hollywood, there’s like a Borders there. I got coff ee in want to see something entertaining. Every video we do in the airport where the morning, and one morning I came in and I was doing will be something diff erent, we won’t do anything with a VM: What are your top three musical infl uences? this riff on the guitar. I had coff ee in my hand, and Krispy f**king green screen. No “look how cool I am, one pose” you see somebody RA: I cannot name that. Too many artists in too many genres, was just like, “Yo, I need a fresh cappuccino with a mocha the entire video. you know when you’re virtually impossible. twist.” I was like, “That’s pretty ill.” We played it for some fl ying somewhere and people, and they said like, “That s**t is crazy.” When we VM: It seems like you guys mix a lot of traditional instruments you feel like you should VM: OK, well how about what’s currently playing on your made the lyrics pretty abstract. He came (guitars, drums, etc.) instead of using prefabricated beats say something, but then iPod? from one perspective and I came from mine. We want or synthesized music like other rappers. Why’s that? RA: My brother, Krispy, is currently listening to, I think … I everyone to take something from the music, not just box RA: We have beats, we have break beats. But we play so once you do you realize think it was like some old album. I am currently listening it in with lyrics. Some people think of women with that many diff erent instruments, it would’ve killed us if we that you really don’t to the new Portishead record, which I didn’t like at fi rst song, but it’s just coff ee. had done anything less. We didn’t try to do it, but we know them that well, but now I like. It was putting me to sleep, but now it’s have so many instruments. We couldn’t count on our but you’ve now initiated starting to grow on me a little bit. Oh yeah, the new VM: I know you guys were in New Orleans around the time lyrical ability. We wanted to just please ourselves — we is crazy too. Danger Mouse did his thing on that that Katrina hit. How has that experience aff ected you? wouldn’t have been satisfi ed with just beats and rapping. conversation so you have motherf**ker. For real. RA: We came back from a writing session and the day of, We like to consider ourselves producers as opposed to to say something more we came back to an evacuation. We only had the things “beat makers.” Production versus “Oh cool, that’s a cool than hello? Yeah, well, to VM: You guys describe yourselves as being from “Hollywood- we packed in LA, and they said we had to leave the city. beat.” We need to get clear about who’s a beat maker and that conversation: I hate via-New Orleans.” What does that mean and how has it Nobody ever leaves for the hurricanes, so something this who’s a producer. aff ected your music? time made us say, “Well, let’s just leave.” So we went to you. RA: It just means we moved from New Orleans to Hollywood Dallas, and we came back and we found that we couldn’t VM: I hear that you have really crazy live shows — any good You happen to pop up (laughs). We moved out there a couple of years ago. get back into the city. A good six months of not being stories? at the most susceptible They embraced us in Hollywood, and we used that New able to come back with only the belongings we had RA: Oh, I have crazy stories. (laughs) It’s like punk shows, we times — right when Orleans hustle and muscle. So it became like our second from LA. So it was pretty crazy. When we fi nally got back talk to hip-hop guys and we wear dirty Chuck Taylors home, you know? It didn’t really infl uence the music, into the city, we found our apartment all day cause we get dirty. If you don’t want to get your I’ve got nowhere to go, but it infl uenced the album. It’s defi nitely a Hollywood burned down so we didn’t s**t f**ked up, don’t come to our shows. But one time, I sitting in the terminal album. have anything. We pretty tried to do the f**king stage dive s**t. The whole Johnny waiting for my fl ight. much had to start Rotten, but when I jumped I tripped over my cord and It takes me a minute to VM: Where did the name “The Knux” come from? over from scratch. fell like f**king mad. The stage was so high I feel RA: Knux is short for “The Knuckleheads.” Back in New Orleans, But it’s cool. between the barricade and the stage. But I got decide whether I could we used to be a big ass group called The Knuckleheads, back up and I had hit my head. I picked up have a meaningful talk and it’s just shortened down to me and my brother. VM: Where did the the mic and went right back into it. Another with someone who I kind The other guys weren’t around, but me and my brother idea for the time, Wesley kicked somebody’s ass and of know, maybe that girl were the only rappers. We shortened it due to some for then rocked the show right after, just copyrighting s**t, and due to everyone in the industry “Bang Bang” murdered the show. The energy was who I have class with or with short d**n names. We’ve been in the industry for a come from? so high after that fi ght — we just that person I recognize while — we used to write hooks and s**t. I was 18, 19 RA: I wrote that. I want to bring a raw element to from the time at the place and my brother was like 20-something — we used to actually have hip-hop. Live shows right now with the people. You write songs and produce. People were like, “We’re with a production are so blah. Not entertaining The Knux!” and we were like “Motherf*cker, we’re The company, and at all. I come from a fan’s know the one. Anyway, Knuckleheads!” Everyone called us The Knux around LA, I’m actually going point of view and try to give you just have this way of and so we were like, “F**k it.” Plus, it sounds like a crazy to start putting everyone what they paid popping up when eye ass punk band. out indie fi lms and for — a show.  contact and recognition s**t like that. I wrote is made. VM: Songs like “Bang Bang” and “Cappuccino” have some the treatment for that very interesting lyrics — how do you guys write your video, and I approached Here on campus, a song lyrics? the director and was just simple “hello” would be RA: Y’know, writing songs … you know what’s crazy, a lot like, “Yo man, I know you fi ne, because we already of the songs start off with just the music. Being that have a track record but I acknowledge that we we’re producers, we’d start just jamming out, just kind can’t have it any other way.” He of going for it. That’s why the album sounds like that read it and didn’t even want to go to Vanderbilt. But in — we produce so many genres of music. When we do add to it. I was thinking about how a different city’s airport, something, it won’t necessarily be for The Knux. Then we the song sounded. I listened to it and you become necessary put some lyrics on it, and it’s one of our songs. It’s never was like, “Let’s put these two gangs together.” out of the, “Oh isn’t like, “Let’s do a rock song!” You know what I mean? If it They’re fi ghting without guns, but I don’t know just sounds like Knux material, then we put it under that if you’ve seen the dramatic one where the kid this weird we’re so far umbrella. We didn’t contrive none of that. Basically, lyrics dies at the end. He gets shot and when the away from campus.” come after the music. You can just hear it, the music kind gun shot rings out it’s like “Oh s**t!” And that’s about where of speaks. This sounds like this, and this sounds like that. your conversing material “Bang Bang” was just like crazy, “Yo, I can just hear guns blazing.” You can hear it, y’know? begins and ends. And After you hear it, it makes so it inevitably ends with perfect sense. the oh-so-solid, “So … It’s just the you looking forward feeling. to coming back?” after starting with the, “So … how was your break?” And even though I know that this is not a meaningful conversation, and I know it’s just as awkward for the other person, somehow I just can’t keep from bringing you back time and time again. So please, awkward airport conversations, here are your new options: Give me something to work with. Let me run into somebody I know better. Or would like to know better. Or better yet, let me travel in peace.

Sincerely, An Angry WASP 8 • December 3—December 9, 2008 • Versus flip side OVERHEARD H ROSCOPES Some people on this campus just don’t think Sagittarius 11/22-12/21: You get no special rights because before they speak. Sometimes we are lucky it’s “your birthday month.” Sorry. enough to overhear what they say.

Compiled from the Facebook group “Overheard at Vanderbilt” Capricorn 12/22-1/19: If you have to say “trust me,” it Professor: “Abstinence makes the heart probably isn’t a good idea. Trust me. grow fonder.” Aquarius 1/20-2/18: You’d better give Sagittarius some tips, Girl 1: “What’s that on your eye? Is that man. from airplane turbulence?” Girl 2: “Um, it’s a hickie.” Pisces 2/19-3/20: My favorite is apple pisces.

(In a discussion regarding Islam) Guy: “Yeah, and didn’t Mohammed Aries 3/21-4/19: Your string of bad luck will come to an end. If like fly his carpet over the you stop asking us to make your horoscopes better, that is. mountains?” Girl: “Um ... I think that was Aladdin.” Taurus 4/20-5/20: To save money, you could go to a semi-semi- formal. That means putting on a collared shirt and going to Chili’s. Classy. Professor: “This is not a sexy argument.” Gemini 5/21-6/21: You need to find somebody for whom “all I want for Christmas is you” is true. That way, you can save a lot of Guy: “So, I had the weirdest dream. I money on presents. dreamt that all of the pathways at Vanderbilt were covered in Cancer 6/22-7/22: marinara sauce. And the only thing In the spirit of Christmas, you should that I could think of was where I volunteer somewhere new this week. It will make you feel better about could find some bread sticks. Is all the drinking you’ve been doing. that a normal dream?” Leo 7/23-8/22: Girl: “C.T. West. ... Is that in Towers East You may want to be a vampire, but don’t do it. It sucks. Like this or Towers West?” joke, but literally.

Girl 1: “I’m going to marry him.” Virgo 8/23-9/22: Girl 2: “But isn’t he already married?” Christmas is the best season for songwriting. If you run out of words, Girl 1: “Well, yeah ... but car accidents you can just put in a good “falalalala” and you’ll make millions. happen!” Libra 9/23-10/22: The online love horoscope is giving you Professor: “Let’s talk about bad decisions. zero out of three hearts for this weekend. Grab some ice cream and This morning I blew my nose on my depressing movies on your way back from the library Friday night. towel.” Scorpio 10/23-11/21: “Love Actually,” though set at : “Having sex with a ghost ... that’s Girl Christmastime, is not a Christmas movie. But you’ll still watch it five definitely a new fantasy of mine.” times this month. photos: www.flikr.com

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