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(11/30/09 7:54pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>You’d have to be living under a rock these days to not know the cultural phenomenon that is Lady Gaga. The pop superstar has just launched her first international tour and bestowed a new album upon the masses.“The Fame Monster” has a decidedly different feel than Gaga’s debut album, “The Fame,” released late last year. No longer focused on the excess of fame and fortune, now Gaga’s lyrics gravitate toward other excesses and fears; what Gaga calls her, “monsters.” “The Fame” brought her a string of number ones, and these eight new tracks are sure to give us a few more. Not one song on the entire album feels like yesterday’s leftovers; each one has true hit potential.If any fault must be found, it could be in the sometimes confusingly veiled meanings behind the artist’s verses, but it doesn’t take away from a listener’s enjoyment. But once one learns the origins of this artist’s vision, they might find a new appreciation and even more to enjoy.
(11/30/09 7:46pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>After what’s become an infamous performance at the American Music Awards, one might be asking — what about the music?Fortunately, unlike his performances, Adam Lambert’s debut shouldn’t be offending any listeners. This fourteen track disc is packed with something for just about everyone.Glambert, as some call him, finds a sweet spot in an area between Queen and Christina Aguilera; between glam-rock and pop. One minute we find Lambert on the dance floor, and the next we find him on the stage. Luckily, the switch from stomping rocker to atmospheric ballad actually works.Some songs are better than others, such as the title track and the Lady-Gaga-penned, “Fever.” The album’s only major fault is that it begins to lag towards the end, slowed down by a string of ballads.Lambert’s theatrical persona is evident throughout, and that isn’t a problem. In fact it’s the diamond-studded chain holding this album together.
(11/11/09 5:20pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>An album released from a group of relatively unknown actors doesn’t sound like one you may want to drop the cash for during a recession, but “Glee: The Music, Volume 1” is worth it.Fans of the FOX television program will love this album, but even non-fans won’t find it hard to enjoy the infectious spark encapsulated in each song.Lead performers Cory Monteith (Finn), Lea Michele (Rachel) and Amber Riley (Mercedes) carry many of the performances. Michele and Riley are undeniably talented and call for repeat listens. Monteith, however, lacks the vocal prowess of his peers and becomes a bit tiresome at points.The album’s biggest problem is that in some cases, songs just aren’t nearly as enjoyable without the visuals of the show, causing some to feel a bit tedious. Some tracks simply remind the listener that the original is better.However, two tracks featuring guest star Kristen Chenoweth are irresistible – something her Broadway fans already know.“Glee” is a must-buy for die-hard fans, but others might want to wait to buy the season on DVD to see the great visuals that go with the music.
(10/07/09 9:30pm)
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(09/10/09 1:43am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>First of all, let me make this clear: Whitney Houston is not the same diva she once was. She has been through years of alleged drug abuse, an embarrassing reality show with her ex-husband and she completely dropped off the radar of popular music in recent years.But she is still a diva.“I Look to You,” Houston’s first new release in six years, is a solid comeback for the singer. Houston’s voice has definitely changed over time and may disappoint some listeners. However, her husky tone adds some emotional gravity and belies the often syrupy lyrical content. Houston and her producers have also managed to make her music relevant once again, without mimicking the mini-divas of today or allowing a guest star like Lil’ Wayne to keep her afloat.“Million Dollar Bill,” the standout track from the album, has a fun, funky vibe that is relentlessly catchy after a couple of plays. “Bill,” like much of the album, shows a positive side of Houston not seen in years.As she sings for the “lovers” and the “haters” in one track, she “ain’t got nothin’ but love.”
(09/10/09 1:17am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Although you may not have a “Van” in front of your last name, you can still party like a true New York socialite.To start off, be sure to send all party invitations by text message. If any proposed guests don’t have cell phones, they don’t belong at this party. All attendees should dress in their Sunday best – and that means all of it. Over-accessorizing is optimum styling for this occasion. Girls, put on your headbands and bracelets. Guys, throw on those scarves and blazers.To decorate, a few key items will help set the mood. A chandelier could really make the entire party, and a wall-sized mural of New York City would also be a nice touch. The more extravagant, the better. Once guests arrive, everyone should refer to themselves and any other party-goers by the first letter of their first name. However, speaking isn’t always necessary, as texting isn’t rude – it’s expected. Think of it as an updated version of the telephone game you used to play in kindergarten.Your drink of choice must be top-notch at this party. If you’re not up to the martini challenge, just fake it, because image is everything. Beer is strictly forbidden. If you follow the tips above, you’ll have a scandalous time and might just end up on a NYC gossip blog – or at least Facebook.
(02/27/09 5:19am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Though it sits no more than two blocks away from campus, the Runcible Spoon restaurant remains a mystery to many students while continuing to garner national attention.Esquire magazine recently listed Runcible Spoon as serving the best breakfast in Indiana, just adding to several other mentions from national publications. Runcible Spoon has been mentioned in O: The Oprah Magazine and also by the Travel Channel as having one of the world’s best bathrooms, co-owner Regen O’Neill said.O’Neill said that she and her husband Matt O’Neill purchased Runcible Spoon in 2001 because it was “one of our favorite places in Bloomington.”A residential building houses the restaurant, which is on Sixth Street. The Spoon’s walls are painted in various hues, adorned with art and covered by tall bookshelves. Many of the items that add to the cozy atmosphere are the O’Neills’ personal belongings.That atmosphere has both positive and negative effects on the business. Regen said the owners don’t advertise the restaurant much, and being in an actual home can cause business to be slow. But, Regen said that she really enjoys the “chill out” atmosphere.“It’s a place that you stumble across and find,” she said. “It becomes a cherished favorite.”Matt O’Neill, a Dublin-native, moved to Indiana in 1986. He started working in kitchens at 13 and apprenticed with chefs throughout Europe. During his career, Regen said he has had the chance to cook for the likes of Luciano Pavarotti, The Who and Steve McQueen.Regen said it’s natural that the menu be toned down for a smaller restaurant, but when it comes to the ingredients and style of cooking, “he’s in charge.”Runcible Spoon is also the only restaurant in Bloomington that roasts its own coffee on location, Regen said. The previous owners started the tradition, and that is something Regen said she was adamant about keeping.“It’s a craft that isn’t common,” said employee Melissa Jane Hight. “You get really caffeinated.”Since receiving so much attention, Regen said business has picked up quite a bit, but it’s something she’s happy about and it’s “a fun challenge.”Along with the hope that business will continue to bloom, Regen said employees will do their best to maintain the level of good food and atmosphere they have been known for.“Sit down. Take your time,” she said. “We’re not in a rush.”