LimeLight

Have A Laugh at Helium
By Cristina Perachio

12.3.07

The Washington Post’s Katie Namrevo found that if she laughed 30 seconds to five minutes as often as 10 times daily, she had more energy and craved food less. While you may not be able to replace your diet with regular rounds of laughter, it’s definitely worth a try. Helium, located at 2031 Samson Street, is a barrel of laughs comedy club with a bar and lounge area as well as an intimate showroom. They are also dedicated to showcasing local comedians and helped one lucky comedian possibly get his big break this week.

On Tuesday, November 28, 2007, Comedy Central held live auditions for their hit show Live at Gotham, a half hour of the country’s newest up-and-comers of comedy performing at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York, as well as other Comedy Central projects. Ten of our city’s top comedians battled for a spot on the show with cameras rolling in front of a live and audience. Local comedic contenders Pat Barker, Joe Bubblewicz, Chip Chantry, Chris Coccia, Steven Gerben, David James, Laurence Mullaney, Andy Nolan, Anton Shuford and Roger Weaver were all well received from the lively audience at Helium.

If you missed out on this week’s show, you can still help support local comedy at Helium. Every Tuesday night is open-mic night, admission is free and the show starts at 8 p.m. If you’ve got a funny bone, sign ups for open-mic begin at 6 p.m. Also, be sure to check out their specials like $6 martinis on Thursdays or get $5 off Wednesday through Friday with a student ID.

For more information about Helium call 215-496-9001 or visit HeliumComedy.com.

LimeLight

Free At Last
By Manuel Agurto
12.3.07

Since his debut in 2003, Freeway has stayed quiet, and many wondered if the follow up to the spectacularly produced Philadelphia Freeway would ever come out. Finally four years later, Freeway returned to the studio to record Free at Last, and outing that serves to further Free’s reputation of talking about street life differently than other rappers, with a sense of morality unseen in hip hop today.

With production that rivals his debut, it’s a surprise that Just Blaze and Kanye West were absent this time around. Free delves further into this in the track "It's Over," a Jake One produced track that uses a sample from "I'm Afraid the Masquerade Is Over," with heavy horns and a drum part that absolutely kills it.

On tracks such as "Reppin' the Streets," Free rasps about his hood life with a sense of nostalgia, as the old school drums and electric piano fill the song with the same type of soul Free spits with.

Although Jay does not come out as strong as he can on the gangsta flossing “Roc-A-Fella Billionaires,” the other collaborations on this album shine. Jadakiss and Busta Rhymes take over on the track "Walk Wit Me," and with Free's verse sandwiched in-between the two it seems he can barely keep up.

50 cent also makes an appearance on the album, but does not rap one verse. Instead, he's singing the hook for "Take it to the Top".

But wait, I thought 50 was supposed to be a rapper? 50 keeps his reputation for catchy hooks but not much else on this made for radio track. Overall, Free At Last is a strong sophomore attempt from the Philadelphia rapper, but not as much as his debut.

3 out of 5 stars

Hit Repeat Tracks:
“Its Over” “Reppin’ the streets” “Walk wit Me”

LimeLight

The N Crowd
By Caitlyn Conefry
12.3.07

Bouncy, spastic, and romping, “The N Crowd” is a Philly-based theatre troupe that delivers its improv comedy gag with wild, slapstick delivery and over-the-top acting.

The show is divided into miniature ‘games’ – the comedic challenges that inspire the troupe’s explosive antics à la Whose Line is it Anyway? Rules are established at the beginning of each game and audience participation is encouraged.

When the performance starts, the tiny crowd is provided with pen and paper and asked to write down any line they’d like to see spoken by a performer during the night. It’s strangely satisfying to watch troupe members yell out “I’m a dirty slut!” while trying to improvise a skit about the black plague.

The spotlight loves these comedians; they each show off what appears to be a solid background in acting – characters portrayed within games range from an emphatic sky diving instructor to the eldest child of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline.

Training in acting seems coupled with some singing experience. (One game required every cast member to break into song until another in the comedy crew decided to play off a line in that song with his or her own completely original, improvised scene.)

So why’d such a versatile group of theatre folk choose comedy?

"There’s nothing better in the world than what? Laughing, right? …It gives more of a satisfaction when you make someone laugh rather than, ‘Oh I like your artwork’ or ‘your music was good’… it’s something different when it’s on the spot, ya know?” Comedian Brandon Libby said.

“Also, our remake of Scorsese’s Last Temptation of Christ bombed,” fellow Performer Michael Connor added.

You may not have a constant stitch in your side – at times it’s hard to tell what the hell is even going on. It’s all part of the fun though, for those of us who take our humor on the zany side.

This group has the sort of chemistry that makes you think they’re one big wacky family off-stage. And you’re part of the inside joke, in their humble, yet intimate theatre.

Shows occur Friday nights at 8, located at 257 North 3rd street (a block or two south of the Spring Garden bar district, if you are so inclined…)

HealthNut

Mood, Food?
By Ashley Blount
12.3.07

Its 8 a.m., school starts in twenty minutes, being late on top of being immensely tired is going to make a terrible-horrible-no good-very-bad day. With only a few minutes to eat breakfast, I grab a pack of peanut butter crackers and head out the door.

While this might seem like a mediocre supplement to a full out sit-down breakfast, the carbs plus protein in peanut butter crackers is a combo that gives lasting energy.

While in class my mind keeps racing and I have trouble focusing.

When you are feeling frazzled or you can’t seem to concentrate, yogurt is a great snack because it’s loaded with DHA omega-3, which is fatty acid that improves brain function and helps one think clearly.

After a long day at school, there usually isn’t much time to relax with schoolwork and other activities. It is important to treat yourself every now and then so stop by the nearest Cold Stone Creamery for their delicious Raspberry Sorbet.

You’ll feel better knowing that carbs such as sugar, starch and fiber release serotonin, the brain chemical that makes a person happy

So try these fast food fixes the next time you wake up to a terrible-horrible-no-good- very- bad day!

LimeLight

HipHop Gets Live at the Troc.
By Manuel Agurto
12.3.07

In the world where mainstream rap is considered real hip-hop, it’s hard to tell who’s a true hip-hop fan. However, standing outside Philadelphia's Trocadero Theatre, it was almost impossible. The whole block in front of the theatre, which spanned from 10th street to 11th, was filled with people, all waiting to see two of hip-hop’s biggest legends – Ghostface Killah and Rakim – along with relative newcomer to the game Brother Ali. The Rhythm Roots All-Stars, a 10 piece, Latin infused band from LA backed the three MCs, making Hip Hop Livemore than just the name of the show, but actually bringing hip hop alive. The crowd boasted guys in fitted hats and dress-sized shirts to girls in dreads sporting grateful dead shirts, all pumping their fists and nodding heads to classic anthems such as Rakim’s “It’s been a Long Time” and Brother Ali’s “Truth Is.”
But while hip-hop has turned mainstream on the radio and the television, absolutely none of it was present at Hip Hop Live. The evenings first performer, Brother Ali, made that clear, with introspective lyrics laid over old school laid back beats, it was like traveling back to 1987 when hip hop was only allowed for people with skill, and the money was just a bonus. Dressed in a flight jacket and a throwback Allen Iverson jersey, Ali spent as much time paying tribute to the legends he was performing with as he did rhyming in his southern tinged voice.

As Brother Ali left the stage the drummer started on a very familiar beat, and as it got louder hand formed Ws were raised and a chant of “Wu-tang” was started. The band exploded into the first song and 11 guys who were not Ghostface came on stage rapping, but the real explosion of sound came when the Wu-tang legend himself came on stage. Ghostface stood in the middle of the stage almost godlike with his entourage surrounding him, and in his orange shirt, white hoodie and his football-sized chain he rocked the hell out of the packed court sized theatre. About three songs into the set, the smell of weed started to waft into the air, the air of a non -smoking space. The smoke was coming from the stage, from three of the guys of Ghostface’s crew, and the only thing they did the whole time was smoke. On the other side was two other guys drinking, and with Ghostface’s frantic running around and brazen rapping, gave his set a very music video-esque feel. The only thing missing was girls dancing, but by the time “c.r.e.a.m.” came on girls had already made their way to the stage to dance along with the rappers.

The real treat of the show however was at the very end, as the boom boom crack bass and snare of “I aint no Joke” came on, and the master MC, Rakim came on. Rakim ran through a set of classics from all his albums, and would often cut out to let the audience rap his songs for him. To his credit, the whole crowd consistently nodded their heads, as they sang along word for word. No doubt that these were real hip-hop heads, couldn't catch them dead at a Soulja Boy show. As the show finished, Brother Ali was headed out of the door, and when asked about working with Rakim he said “He was real cool, one of my legends since I was young. He was cool about everything you know, even when doing regular shit like ordering food; a real pleasure to work with.”

LimeLight

MtvU Woodie Awards hits NYC with a bang
By Ashlyn Coyne
12.3.07

Lights flashing, cameras rolling, crowd screaming. The screen on stage showcases bands most don’t know but wish they did. Trey Martino keeps the acts coming, announcing each award and band excitingly over the microphone. The anticipation and energy is thick throughout the crowd.On Thursday, Nov. 8, the college and university-exclusive MTV channel, MTVU, hosted their fourth annual music awards show called the Woodie Awards. The 2007 Woodie Awards were held at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City and aired on MtvU’s channel on Nov. 15.
The Woodie Awards highlight and recognize less known musical acts who tend to be overlooked in the mainstream music scene. There are no horrible performances by Britney Spears here, or any song or artist as annoying as “Soulja Boy.” Each category is a different “woodie” or a different aspect of a band which recognizes their true talent.

The show kicked off with Lupe Fiasco, performing his song “Superstar.” The already enthusiastic crowd got a little louder when Patrick Stump from Fall Out Boy joined Fiasco on stage to finish out his song.

Q-Tip, member of legendary hip hop group A Tribe Called Quest, was the first person to present a woodie, and he listed the nominees for “Woodie of the Year.” Beating out Common, Lily Allen, The Shins and Amy Winehouse, Gym Class Heroes proudly took the stage to accept their woodie, thanking “management and our fans…it’s been a very blessed year.”
The next woodie was called the “Left Field Woodie.” This particular award was for very talented artists who most people have not heard of and couldn’t locate their C.D. in a music store. The nominees were CSS, The Knife, Klaxons, Madvillain and Rodrigo y Gabriela. Madvillain took home this woodie, which he accepted via satellite.

Two-time woodie award winners Fall Out Boy then took the stage to present the Best Video Woodie. The nominees were Justice “D.A.N.C.E.,” Motion City Soundtrack “Broken Heart,” RJD2 “Work It Out,” Say Anything “Wow, I Can Get Sexual Too” and TV on the Radio “Province.” The winner was Say Anything, who were greeted on stage with a huge applaud from the audience as they thanked their management, fans and parents.



Kenan Thompson came on stage next and introduced Tokyo Police Club, who performed two singles, “Cheer it On” and “Nature of the Experiment.” With their unique vocals and upbeat energy, their performance really had the crowd cheering.

The Alumni Woodie was presented next, and this award is for the more popular bands that were once in the same position that the woodie awards winners are in. They may have made it bigger than the rest, but they remain true to their roots. Spoon won this woodie award, beating out Bright Eyes, Modest Mouse, The Shins and Talib Kweli.

Next to perform, introduced by Talib Kweli was Spank Rock. They performed their two songs called “Loose” and “Rick Rubin.”

The next woodie was the Viral Woodie, which is for bands who are “infecting” campuses and computers everywhere. Motion City Soundtrack announced the nominees which were The Academy Is, Fall Out Boy, Linkin Park and Meg & Dia. The winner of the viral woodie was The Academy Is who thanked their management, fans and Fueled By Ramen label.

Tom Delonge and Dave Kennedy of the band Angels and Airwaves came out to announce the woodie for Best Music on Campus. The nominees were Acadia from the College of Oneonta, Danny Freeman from University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Rudy and the Rhetoric from University of Washington, Show me Action from Lehigh University, and Stella by Starlight from Duke University. Stella by Starlight were announced the winners, and graciously accepted their woodie and thanked everyone for voting for them humbly.

Singer, songwriter, humanitarian and activist Annie Lennox announced the nominees for Good Woodie. The nominees were all talented artists who use their voices and music to send a positive message. The nominees were Alicia Keys, Guster, Linkin Park, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Thom Yorke. Guster won the Good Woodie this year but was unable to make
the awards ceremony.

With only two more performances and two more award categories left, Lupe Fiasco took the stage once more to introduce The Academy Is, who played two songs for the eager and screaming audience. They played their two songs called “Everything We Had” and “We’ve Got a Big Mess on Our Hands,” both from their newest album.

The next category was the Best Performing Woodie. Muse took this woodie home, beating out Daft Punk, Lil' Wayne, The Academy Is and The Rapture.

The final category of the night was the Breaking Woodie. These nominees are all emerging artists who are really making a name for themselves on college campuses all across the nation. The nominees were Boys Like Girls, Peter Bjorn and John, Rich Boy, Silversun Pickups and Tokyo Police Club. The extremely popular Boys Like Girls took the last 2007 woodie home.
MTVU’s own VJ Kim Stolz and artist RJD2 introduced the act that would close off the night, Rilo Kiley. Rilo Kiley was a great finish to an amazing awards ceremony, closing with two new songs called “The Moneymaker” and “Breakin’ Up.”

The Woodie awards are for bands that are growing in their popularity, especially at colleges and universities. This award ceremony is a great way to recognize and acknowledge the “little”bands that are usually better than most mainstream music. The night was filled with appearances of great musical acts and mind-blowing performances. The Woodie awards took NYC by storm and the 2008 awards will be even better.

LimeLight

LOOK OUT TENACIOUS D,
The 'Conchords' Are In Flight!
By DaVonne Armstrong

The Flight of the Conchords, of New Zealand, is a two-man acoustic guitar act bringing folk song parody to the forefront of comedic entertainment. Bret “Rhymenoceros” Mckenzie and Jemaine “Hip-Hopapotamus” Clement are childhood friends from the “folk ghettos” of Wellington, New Zealand. I know what you’re going to say? They’re just a New Zealand rip off of Tenacious D, the acoustic metal duo from the states, but these two acoustic comedic powerhouses couldn’t be any more different. Unlike their head banging, side splitting, metal oddity counter parts Jack Black and Kyle Gass (Tenacious D), Mckenzie and Clement use genuinely witty comedic skills supplemented by amazing yet simplistic acoustic guitar playing to deliver a kick-ass show that will leave you giggling to yourself for days. In short, their show is a lot less over the top and chaotic than that of Tenacious D, so their humorous story telling becomes the secret ingredient to their charming attraction to an audience.

A Little Back Story

According to their myspace.com comedy profile, these “robros” were influenced by folk music at an early age. Around 1998, when they claim to have invented rap, they decided to expand they’re musical range and began parodying other genres as well. However, the full prospective of what they were trying to accomplish with their folk music parodies was not entirely understood until the release of pop/rock musician Roger Whittaker’s EP around 2001. It was at that moment that these boys claim their general audience started to understand what they had been poking fun at all that time. It was at that point that their style of entertainment became so popular in New Zealand that they say it was the best damn thing since rugby (which they also claim to have invented in 1989). So what was next for our New Zealand funny men? Presumably the States of course.

It’s Business Time!!

So now that you know where they are from and how much they are not like Tenacious D here’s where you can find them: Log on to myspace.com and put Flight of Conchords in the music search and comedy search. Go to Youtube.com and search Flight of the Conchords for short videos of their stand up act and comedy skits. If you have cable, tune into HBO on Mondays at 10:30pm to witness a week in the life of Bret and Jemaine as they try to make a name for themselves in NYC. Or if you want a quick preview to see if you can handle the mother flippin’ greatness of the Conchords, click on the links below and enjoy!
She's So Hot (BOOM)

Add to My Profile More Videos

FOTC / Hip Hop

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RunWay

GLAMOUR AT A FAIR PRICE:
The Italian Way of Life
By Ted Layton

I have lived in many places around the world. And even though I am an experienced traveler with a very open mind, I cannot seem to avoid experiencing some level of culture shock when I live in a new country. From nude bathing in Stockholm, public spitting in the Dominican, the burning of effigies in Ecuador to the Day of the Dead in Mexico City. There is always something new, strange or extremely fascinating to be found in every culture.

It took me a while to find the subtle cultural difference between Italy and the rest of Western Society. Overtime, I found that the most interesting and, in some ways, most refreshing thing about Italian Culture is their adamant desire to not fill their lives (and homes) with consumer products. They don’t have a second car or a flat screen TV in every room in the house or cell phones for every member of the family, as are the expectations for Americans.

In Italy, boys rarely have more than three pairs of pants. Italian girls don’t have more pairs of shoes than they can count on one hand. This is not to say that Italian people don’t have the space in their homes or the money to own these things. In fact, most Italians live comfortably in spacious abodes. They simply have a different view on the value of their personal possessions.

The Italian philosophy on shopping is far different than the American way of ‘Bling Bling’, Wal-Marts and strip malls. Italians would rather save up to buy fewer higher quality items that are timeless and fashionable than for the ‘two dozen at half price’ no name brand item.

The reason for this shopping behavior is closely related to a long held idealism of La Bella Figura. Translated literally, it means “the beautiful figure,” which is the Italian term for taking pride in your appearance; the need to look your best at all times. The emphasis placed on a healthy sense of self worth has proven to be a very good thing. They are much happier, more relaxed and more productive in the clothes they choose to wear. I know I am. (I just went to the H&M Flagship store in Milan, and I feel and look great having been selective in my purchases.)

But this lifestyle of sparse buying spills over into other parts of society as well. When talking about the transportation the cars are much smaller, if people drive them at all. But most choose to Motor-scooter, bike or even walk from point A to B. Quick errands and nightly outings are easily transportable through the very efficient and economical public transit system, which includes buses, trams, trollies, trains and metros.

At home, Italians find innovative ways to get through daily chores while saving on their utilities. Most apartments have a terrace or balcony that is used as a drying rack on Sundays. A drying rack above the sink is also a typical invention that dries dishes and silverware well.

Most homes are uncluttered and open, providing a greater space for family and friends to interact and spend time, which is valued in Italian society.

Italians are not better nor do they think they are. They have embraced Western culture in many ways. However, their consumer behavior is an exception. They don’t choose to buy more for cheap, but instead pay glamour at a fair price.

LockeRoom

ANOTHER BCS MESS...
Does Anyone Want to be Number 1?
By Mike Birnbaum

This past weekend brought us another exciting weekend of college football, and surprise, it was filled with many upsets. Four of the top ten teams in the country lost, including number one LSU and number two Kansas. Going into the last week of the season we should see Missouri become the number one team in the country. Following in a close second will be West Virginia. But with that being said, I do not think that both of these teams will be playing each other for the BCS National Championship. I think that West Virginia will destroy Pittsburgh this weekend, and Missouri will fall to Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game. Leading me to believe that we will see Ohio State creep back into the picture, and meet West Virginia for the national title in January. But since this has been one of the most upset filled seasons of college football ever, nothing is out of the question.

LegendaryExpressions

SUPERSTARDOM IN THE WORLD OF BABYLON
By Adia Barboza

The doors to Babylon Cartel’s clothing release party at the Draught Horse flew open at 11 pm on Saturday night. Within the first ten minutes, Temple students had rushed in two by two sporting nothing less than vivid colors and mini skirts, despite the fact that the temperature in Philadelphia had dropped below 39 degrees Fahrenheit that night. Everything about the release was urban chic, from the ladies in fishnet stockings and red painted lips to the guys in brown leathers. DJ Qlassick added to the zestful mood of the celebration by spinning one hit after another, and designers Gianni Lee and Brandy Staton bounced from one side of the Cherry Pit to the other making sure everything was running smoothly for their big night.

The Babylon team decided to take their designs to the next level this year by branching further into women’s clothing. Since women deserve the best in high fashion and vintage couture, Gianni said that the line was a challenge. Bassador, an underground musical artist, said he was most excited to see the new line designed for women. This year we can expect to see more feminine skirts and jackets.

But one thing hasn’t changed. Babylon Cartel’s merchandise is as full of dynamic colors as the party was with New York fitted hats! Gianni said to me that the best theme song for Babylon’s newest clothes would be Lupe Fiasco’s “Superstar.” With lyrics like ‘If you are what you say you are, a superstar / have no fear, the camera is here,’ I can understand why. The sexy pouts on the models’ faces as they strutted around the party and the graphic tee’s they sported all sent a message to the partygoers of ‘look at me, I’m a celebrity.’ When I asked Brandy if she could pick one piece as her favorite, she took a minute to decide, but came to a graphic tee with the phrase “the 80’s is dead” printed on it.

The mood of the party only got better as the Temple football players entered the building. Hype off of the team’s victory, Brian Sanford, a sophomore who plays defensive end, said, “I heard the last party was hot and I like their clothes.”

After speaking with both Gianni and Brandy, I was better able to understand the mission statement of their line, Babylon Cartel. Brandy explained that the name Babylon Cartel was chosen because of its rich meaning. The land of Babylon was the location of the Hanging Garden; which is now one of the 7 Wonders of the World. In ancient times Jewish people were exiled to Babylon for not fitting the mold. There they found a luxurious life wrapped inside of corruption. Since the duo wanted to create something that would be nondiscriminatory, the name seemed to be a perfect match. The designers say that most of their creations are things they have thought of themselves, but there are other inspirations as well. Gianni’s closet is full of Jordan’s, premium denim and sweaters. He also envies celebrity styles like Pharrel Williams and David Beckham, for their ability to turn something casual in to street chic.

So what’s in store for Babylon Cartel? Brandy and Gianni are planning to just go with the flow, and we here at UrbanLegend wish them the best of luck!

LegendaryExpressions

REAL, unavoidable and entertaining, TUV has created a movement which is currently sweeping college campuses across Philadelphia and will soon invade the country. This week's LegendaryExpressions pick, TUV is sure to turn heads. With Miss Pennsylvania as host of Midnight Snack, poets inspired by strippers, and a party cam that is sure to catch all the wrong things at all the right times, this student run organization gives you a look at the reality of the 20 something experience. Be sure to check out TUV's newly launched site at http://www.tuvonline.com/

Lovestoned

DRUNKEN HOOK-UPS
By Rebecca Hilling

There’s nothing like the morning, or should I say afternoon, after a long night filled with crazy partying that you barely remember. The best part of the experience is, without a doubt, remembering all the little details that you wish you could forget.

I call this the ‘morning after round table.’

You sit around with your friends laughing hysterically at yourself and at them for every stupid thing you did the night before. Then you realize that there’s a video floating around of you dancing and singing to the Backstreet Boys. You log onto Facebook only to find that the adorable picture of you flying on a broomstick with a lampshade on your head and a tablecloth wrapped around your waist is already tagged in all of your friends’ albums. Oh, but wait, it’s not over yet. Apparently you picked the ugliest guy in the room as your make-out partner. Nice.

Now the morning after hangover can finally settle in.

The morning after hangover can very well include more than a bad headache and an upset stomach. In fact, the ‘drunken hook-up hangover’ can last much longer and include harsher side effects, like the downfall of your pride and reputation.

As a self-appointed expert in the field of promiscuous intoxication, I have identified 10 types of drunken hook-ups that will hopefully allow you to properly identify and handle your own appropriately.

1. The Accomplishment: Typically the guy that every girl wants. But last night, he was yours, and you’ve got no problem flaunting it. If you can stand up straight, be sure to take some pictures. This is a night that you won’t want to forget!

2. Called It: The guy your friends all knew you wanted, but that you didn’t know you wanted. Girl, it’s time to start listening to your friends, because they know what they’re talking about. The chemistry is just there, and it’s unavoidable.

3. Random: This is the guy that leaves you saying, ‘Where did that come from?” Maybe you’ve never met or maybe you have. Either way, you don’t really care. It came out of no where, and it doesn’t go anywhere. These kind of hook-ups are stress-free and easy.

4. The Clinger: Avoid at all costs, if possible. To The Clinger, you are The Accomplishment, and he does not want to let you go! If you can tell right away, don’t give him your number. He’ll already be sending you messages on Facebook and Myspace, phone calls would just make it worse. The positive side, you’ve just become a heartbreaker.

5. Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda: This is the sweetest, sexiest, coolest guy you’ve ever met. Unfortunately, due to your intoxicated ways the night before, the morning after leaves you saying, “Damn, I shoulda got his number.” But, what can you do. Destiny called, and you missed your cue. Don’t worry, they’ll be others.

6. Friends with Drunk Benefits: The epitome of awkward. Close friends outside the party scene, and a little too close at the party. You’re best friend boundaries tend to get broken when you’re on the drunk side, but when sober, the actions of the night before are avoided. Everything goes back to the best friend norm. Just remember, a drunk mind speaks a sober heart.

7. What Were You Thinking?: This is what your friends will be saying to you. Simply respond in, “Why didn’t you stop me?” This is the ‘ugliest guy in the room make-out partner’ that I was talking about. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Everyone has a story like this, but it may take you some time to get over it.

8. It Was Bound to Happen: This is the guy that you’ve been flirting with since you met him, but it’s just never happened. Well, now it has. Where does it go from here? It is what you make of it, but most drunken hook ups are destined to fail as relationships.

9. I Wanna Date You: This is the guy you’ve been dying to date. And now that you’ve got your drunk cap on, you’ve just professed your love. Of course, he’ll take advantage of your love-stricken self because, well, you don’t know the difference. It usually doesn’t end the way you planned.

10. The Start of Something Good: This is the luck of the draw. It is seldom that a girl finds her Mr. Right after a drunken hook-up, and those who do are envied. You’ll know when you’ve got it. It’s comfortable, easy, and fun. What else could a girl want?

While your ‘drunken hook up hangover’ may not be cured by your newfound awareness of the top ten things, or boys, you’re bound to do, it may slightly diminish by knowing that girls everywhere are experiencing the same thing.

For now, a toast for good drinks and good fortune.

Here’s to a “second date” with your Accomplishment, letting your friends call the shots, and not running into The Clinger. May your nights be long, your mistakes small, and your mornings be filled with laughter.

It’s the nights you don’t want to remember that lead you to the mornings with the friends you’ll never forget.

Healthnut

RUNWAY TO REALITY
By Kim Wood

A true fashion enthusiast may swoon over the clothing at Fashion Week; however, the makeup can be a bit frightening. Every fall, during fashion week, there are so many hot new makeup styles that I am dying to try out but can never figure out how to pull them off without looking overdone and tacky. This year, I decided to tackle that problem and share my runway to real life techniques. Below are two standout looks from two different designers and made them perfect for anyone to wear.

Before trying any new makeup styles, apply your standard base makeup routine for a great complexion. Start with clean, dry skin and use a concealer under your eyes, around your nose and on any imperfections. My favorite is Victoria’s Secret’s Very Sexy Fluid Concealer. The wand applicator makes it super easy to cover exactly what you want. Then apply a light reflecting foundation like bareMinerals Foundation all your face which creates an even, clear complexion.

NUDE AND FRESH

In a collection by Veronique Branquinho, from Belgium, most of her models had a gorgeous, completely nude face. In the real world, it can be hard to wear this barely there makeup look without looking well totally naked. This earthy, au natural color scheme can be tricky but was I was determined to perfect this fresh-faced look.

To achieve naked looking eyes without looking like you just woke up, line your upper and lower lashes with a thin line of cream eyeliner. A flat, angled liner brush works perfectly for precise application. Smashbox Fusion Cream Eyeliner in Runway works perfectly. Try using the dark brown on your top lashes and the gold on your bottom lashes. Then sweep a nude shimmery shadow from your lash line to your brow bone. My favorite is Clinique High Impact Eye Shadow in South Beach. To add a bit more life to the look, lightly brush a shimmery powder like bareMinerals Glimmer in True Gold over the outer corners of your eyes, under your lower lashes and across your cheekbones.

To finish off the look, apply two coats of Rimmel Underground Glitter Mascara in Gold Digger on your top and bottom lashes and coat your lips with a gloss close to your own natural lip color. I like Victoria’s Secret’s Very Sexy Lip Gloss in Wet for that subtle, shiny glow.

DRAMATIC AND SEXY

Alessandro Dell'Acqua used a sultry smoky eye for his runway in Milan, but unless you are strutting down the catwalk, a standard black and grey smoky eye often can overpower your face. Lighten up the look by using a fresher set of colors. I prefer shades of green to compliment my blue eyes, but other color palettes such as blues, purples or browns may make other eye colors pop even more. Definitely do not be afraid to experiment with other colors that flatter your own unique eye color and then follow the same application techniques.

Use pencil eyeliner, which can be easier to blend for that smoky look instead of a liquid liner. If you are pinching pennies, try Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner from Rimmel London, which is a great black liner you can afford. After rimming your top lashes lightly with black liner, swe on a sheer coat of bareMinerals Glimmer in Envy. This iridescent green lit up my face, instead of drowning it in the usual sea of grey. For a shimmery powder that isn’t too glittery try bareMinerals Glimmer in Soiree and generously layered it from our lashes to just beyond the crease to add a bit more glamour to the look. Also, line your lower lashes with Soiree, using a thin angled brush. Finish off your smoky eyes with two coats of Bourjois Paris “Yes to Volume, No to Clumps” mascara.

To balance your dramatic eyes, apply a light sweep of bareMinerals Blush in Trendsetter across your cheeks. Trendsetter is a discontinued color, but can be found new on sites such as eBay, which is where I find many of my discontinued makeup favorites. To finish the look, try Beauty Rush Lip Gloss in Slice of Heaven for a splash of color.

TAKE IT TO THE STREETS

Both of these looks can easily go from day to night with a few touch ups and additions. Try adding a dramatic lip to the Nude and Fresh look for a night out. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Love that Red is an unbelievably creamy, matte lipstick in the perfect color red to brighten up any skin tone. For the Dramatic and Sexy look, try going a little lighter on the eyes for work or school. Be sure to have your liner handy to add some extra oomph to the look for night. Take a cue from Sophia Loren and extend your liner out from the corner of your lid. Use a pencil or a liquid liner to wing out the line. Now that you have mastered these runway looks, strut your stuff on your own catwalk.

Limelight

THE NEXT BIG THING: SUNDAY'S BEST
By DaVonne Armstrong

It just so happens that the Trocadero is my favorite music venue in Philadelphia. So having the opportunity to perform on even its tiny balcony stage was a privilege and enough reason for high expectations. However those expectations were negated at the moment I remembered that The Next Big Thing was a local show. Typically amateur or “local” shows aren’t that good. The bands are more often than not horrendous and the organization of these mini-concerts are anything but organized. Many of the bands that play in the Philadelphia/South Jersey music scene are notorious for butchering Hardcore: a merge-genre that’s a mix of metal and punk. In other words hardcore is basically the same three or four chords, played drop or minor key, with heavy distortion, and numerous breakdowns. Professional hardcore incorporates metal thrash riffs and a combination of screaming and singing. That is just not the case in this area.

So my initial feelings toward this particular show were numb outside the excitement of performing. However they were almost immediately countered by the overwhelming talent in just this day alone. Don’t get me wrong there were still horrendously sucky bands but the number of talented bands were a pleasant surprise.

Foul Language

Amongst the brain pounding, face melting metal-core bands was Foul Language, an electric-acoustic band from Norristown, Pa. Foul Language was the only acoustic guitar act in the entire competition: “I liked being the only acoustic band, it set us apart a bit from everyone else,” guitarist Tom Connors told me. He and band mate, guitarist Bobby Waterman started Foul Language a year ago playing at Steel City Coffee Shop in Phenixville, Pa. “Me and Tom jammed together once at the beginning of last summer and after that just decided that we should make an acoustic band together,” Waterman said. They took their love for bands like Sublime and The Mad Conductor, Bobby’s nine years of guitar experience and merged it with what Connors calls “hippie music” and BANG! the birth of Foul Language.

All that jamming did not go unnoticed as their quick fingers and harmonic voices impressed the crowd at The Next Big Thing resulting in the only encore request that Sunday; the boys opted to do an improvised song instead of an existing track. “The improvised song was fun for me,” Connors comments on the experience. Bobby felt that the song was a success because of their many improvised jam sessions. Though Tom, Bobby, and newest member drummer Jordan were not winners in this local competition they were definitely successful in standing out from the rest.

Shadow Rose

“Its time to melt some faces!” lead guitarist Mike Lamplugh thought as he was waiting to take the balcony stage that Sunday. He and his fellow band members, guitarist Mark Cunard, drummer, Lee Rowbothum , and myself, bassist DaVonne Armstrong were so amped and anxious just to play at the Trocadero, that we forgot that The Next Big Thing was a competition. Until we found out that we won second place of course: “I wasn’t even paying attention [to them announcing the winners] until my mom started screaming,” Cunard says. Mark’s mind was too occupied with other things such as the status of the shocks on his Monte Carlo, going to the bathroom and being bombed with soaked toilet paper, by Rowbothum and Lamplugh, while going to the bathroom. This is typical behavior for us however, we don’t really take our band seriously at all. On numerous occasions Cunard has referred to Shadow Rose’s performances as goofy. We simply let go and be ourselves, act crazy, throw some props in the crowd and have a good time. Our music style definitely illustrates that, with song titles such as “Primal Circus” and “Pirates” and instrumental styles ranging from simple bass lines running parallel with heavily distorted power chords or casual bass riffs laced between ear piercing metal solos. Who could possibly take us seriously?

Even during an interview the boys of Shadow Rose couldn’t give a serious answer or give an honest answer with a straight face: “I had to take a wicked poop,” Cunard said when asked what he was thinking when we pulled up to the venue. It is still a mystery to all of us how and why we won that competition but we are eternally grateful.

Mahoneys View

It’s very clear why this Phillipsburg, New Jersey/Easton, Pa, band won first place at The Next Big Thing. Its almost awe striking how similar they sound to The Mars Volta, an experimental/indie/rock band known mostly for its sporadic transitions between movements of their nearly 15 minute tracks. The only thing Mahoneys View needs to do now is learn to sing in Spanish and they’ll be set. Actually they’re extremely tight musical performance and genuine connection with the audience could be more of the reason why they were named Philadelphia’s Next Big Thing. Guitarist Brian Dickey said that the days and even weeks before the big show were stressful. The day of the show they had to be on the road by 7am in order to make it to the Trocadero on time by 9am. For a band six members strong that is a great feat. Six members, Seth Phillips (vocals/sax), Matt Sheehan (keyboards/synth), Ian Muessg (drums), Conor Kimsman(bass/vocals), Brian Dickey, and Nick Kossup (guitars) are essential when your bands main influences are large jazz fusion ensembles and the Mahauishu Orchestra; sacrifice becomes a common action.

Even though this band played during the Saturday show of The Next Big Thing they definitely deserve to be mentioned (psst! They won first place, duh!)

Photographs: (Top right) Members of Shadow Rose from left to right; Mark Cunard, DaVonne Armstrong, and Mike Lamplugh, (Top left) Bobby Waterman of Foul Language, (Bottom right) Tom Conors of Foul Language

The Wire

NOISE POLLUTION LULLABIES
Anonymous

Police cars race down the busy streets, running red lights across Broad, which is it lit up like a Broadway show.
People fill the streets following concerts at the Liacouras Center.
Loud chatter.
Arguing and sometimes fist fights.

On a typical day in North Philly, one quickly grows accustom to chirping sounds indicating that it’s safe to cross the street. Not to overshadow the loud yells and rants of the drunkards stumbling back to their homes from the parties that fills the air every weekend.

So why are the sounds of Philly such a musical piece?
It is the students?
The locals?
Those in town for the weekend looking to cause trouble?
Most likely a combination of all three and then some.
Construction.
Helicopters.
Sirens.
Gunshots.
Subways.
Hoots from a horny passersby; the vulgar words that follow after you politely decline giving them your phone number.

The sources of sound are endless. And eventually, after a trip home, you’ll discover that the shouts of the inebriated homeless woman didn’t keep you awake but in actuality sung you to sleep like a lullaby.

Runway

SNEAKER HEADS
By Jennifer Bullock

According to Nike’s Web site, the company mission statement is “to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world.” But the founders of Nike believe that “If you have a body, you are an athlete. And as long as there are athletes, there will be Nike.” Nike forgot to add Temple students to that list, because as long as there are Temple students, there will be Nike.

There have been an enormous number of Nikes cascading down Liacouras Walk in recent months. These sneakers belong to a diverse crowd. Temple students from all over the states with all different nationalities are throwing on their Nikes as they head to their 8:40 a.m. classes.

In the midst of this sea of Nikes, there exists a group who wears these sneakers with a different style, a different swagger. This group is known as Sneaker Collectors.

A sneaker collector is anyone who accumulates sneakers. They may have as many as 50 pairs of sneakers and tend to collect sneakers of the same kind or brand.

They usually are the first to know about a new release of sneakers. They are the people who you see lined up all night outside of your hometown sneaker store. They will travel anywhere, and do anything to get the sneakers that they need in their collection.

Sneaker Collectors have sprouted up all around Temple’s campus.

Alvin Brown, a sophomore at Temple majoring in Business Finance and Film and Media Arts, has been collecting sneakers since he was 13 years old. He owns 87 pairs of sneakers, including 57 Nikes. Out of those 57 Nikes, he owns 21 pairs of Jordans, a special brand of Nikes designed by Michael Jordan.

Alvin, who considers himself a sneaker collector, says that he collects sneakers “because I need shoes to match my clothes and since I have a lot of clothes I need a lot of shoes.”

Brown, who keeps his favorite shoes at home in D.C., had noticed the epidemic among Temple students regarding sneakers. He says that “everybody walking around with fly sneakers.”

Then there is Nosakhere “Sock” Khalid, a sophomore at Temple majoring in Computer and Information Science, who’s been into sneakers since he got his first pair of Jordans in the 3^rd grade. He now owns almost 70 pairs of sneakers. In his collection are at least 50 pairs of Nikes. He not only considers himself a sneaker collector but he calls himself a “sneaker head.”

“A lot of people I hang out with is sneaker heads. Everybody got their different style and brand,” says Khalid.

Khalid infatuation with sneakers started when he was young. His father used to own a store in D.C and Sock used to walk down Green Avenue and go to the sneaker store everyday and look at all the sneakers.

Since he has been at school he has bought at least 6 or more sneakers. While in Philadelphia, he shops for sneakers at Nocturnal, Sneaker Villa, and on the Internet.

“You’ve got to look around for low key stuff nobody knows about,” says Khalid.

The rise of sneaker collectors have affected women on Temple’s campus also. One female sneaker collector is Jenny Sewell. Sewell is a sophomore majoring in International Business and Pre-Law. She owns 80 pairs of sneakers with at least 50 Nikes. She considers herself a sneaker collector who “wear shoes based on how I’m feeling that day and that’s how I express myself.”

Sewell has been collecting sneakers since she was in the 6^th grade. Since she has been at Temple, she has bought 18 pairs of sneakers. She shops for her sneakers at City Sports, Ubiq, South Street, EBay, and Sneaker Villa.

As far as the Nikes on campus, Sewell says, “it’s a trend among Temple students.”

One of the biggest sneaker collectors on campus goes by the name William “VJ” White. A senior majoring in Marketing, White, as of now, says “ I usually have around 40 pairs but if I see something a lot of people have, I’ll get tired of it and sell it and for every 10 I sell I’ll probably buy 6 more rare or exclusive sneaks.”

But don’t call White a sneaker head. “I like sneaker collector, I don’t like sneaker head. Sneaker head seems a lot more mainstream or new. It seems like a new phrase that people who just got on made up,” says White.

White has been into sneakers since he was 12. He started collecting sneakers because “ it’s a lot to it than just shoes. It’s a whole culture.”

White understands that culture and says “the biggest thing is to buy shoes from other people.” White sneaker collection is worth at least 5,500 dollars and in the past 2 years he has spent about 4,000 dollars on sneakers. But White makes most of that money back when selling sneakers. Last spring, White sold about 15 pairs of sneakers and made about 3,000 dollars off them.

While living in a dorm one year, White received a box of sneakers every week from EBay. But now “I don’t like EBay a lot because it’s fakes sneaks going around,” says White.

One of White’s favorite response to get when he wears his sneakers is “Where did you get those?”

“I had a total of 300 sneakers,” says White. White knows where all the exclusive sneakers are.

“You got to know people,” says White, as long as Temple students know people, Nike will always be around. Whether there are old sneaker collectors or new sneaker heads, the infatuation with sneakers has taken Temple’s campus by storm.