Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Movie Review: Eclipse



Probably the one film of the Twilight saga that, at its core, had a good, Hollywood-esque story to work with: a love triangle, suspense, action and the return of our favorite evils - the Volturi (a.k.a. Dakota Fanning) and "Victoria." That said, this movie was pretty good. The best part may be the way it pulls viewers deeper into Bella's (Kristen Stewart) world, giving them a chance to learn more about both the Cullens and the wolves, or it may be the action/special effects. Sure there were the painfully awkward scenes as one comes to expect when watching any one of these films, but those were much more infrequent than in its predecessors. Plus, if you're looking for a new crush look no further than Riley, played by Xavier Samuel.
Best on-screen moment: Hilarity ensues when Charlie (Billy Burke) breaks up a near brawl between Edward (Robert Pattinson) and Jacob (Taylor Lautner), prompting Jacob to explain what happened.

Check it out: Noodles & Co. Fundraiser Tonight!


Today is the day! VIM Magazine is hosting our first fundraiser at Noodles & Co.on Grand River Ave. to help raise funds for the launch of our first issue. Please stop by between 4 and 9 p.m. tonight to help support the magazine (and pick up a delicious order of Penne Rosa or Pesto Cavattapi)! All you have to do is mention "VIM" when placing your order. Hope to see you tonight!

Concert Review: Backstreet Boys



A Backstreet Boys concert never fails to disappoint whether one is an old fan, a fan who never left or not really all that much of a fan. The boys' No. 1 worldwide hit "I Want It That Way" along with all 12 of the other radio-friendly songs released by the band in the 1990s and early 2000s provide enough entertainment for any audience. Regardless of the fact that you may not prefer pop music, there is no denying that its harmonies are infectious. Backstreet never fails to play all of their hits in some way, shape or form - though on this particular show they forewent performing the infamous hat dance during "All I Have to Give" for the first time ever. A special treat on the "This Is Us" tour came in the form of pre-recorded videos played during costume changes. For these, each Backstreet Boy re-created a movie trailer of one of their favorite films, turning them into "Backstreet" stories with their music as the soundtrack: The Fast and the Furious (Howie), Fight Club (AJ), Enchanted (Brian) and The Matrix (Nick).
Location: DTE Energy Center, 18 June 2010
Favorite Number: Opener "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" catered to the audience with excellent video typography graphics.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

A Trend Worth Trying

Rompers, Jumpers, Jumpsuits, Onesies. Whatever you prefer to call them, they are a staple from the Seventies that are back in full force. While many people are still unsure about them, I think they are a trend worth trying on. Not only are they super comfortable, but they are an easy piece to throw on and wear all day. Versatile enough to wear from day to night, a simple shoe change can be enough to take a romper from flirty in the day to sexy at night. Whether a romper is strapless or long sleeved, printed or plain, there are a couple of things to keep in mind while trying to find the perfect one. First, remember that fit is key. Fit is always very important in clothing, but because a romper is one piece of fabric it is extra important it fits correctly. Second, if you are still not sure about the overall look of rompers, try one with loser shorts, like the one pictured. It will look like more of a dress from certain angles and it is a good way to break into the trend. Third, if you dare to be extra bold, go for one with capris or full length pants to really make a statement. Finally, make sure to personalize it. Throw on a fun hat, chunky necklace, bright lipstick, or whatever you love. Most importantly, just try on rompers to try something new. They’re fun and you may just find they are your new summer favorite.

Aqua Challis Romper, $68. Bloomingdale’s

Monday, June 28, 2010

Celebration In A Bottle!


Thanks to Deborah Lippmann, we have seen an outburst of glitter in nail polishes. In Fall 2009, she debuted Superstar, a chic copper flecked fudge sparkle shade in an effort to sophisticate the use of glitter for everyone, not just pre-teens. The fashion and beauty world were hooked and ever since, Lippmann’s dazzling colors have become a necessity backstage at Fashion Week.

Lippmann’s all time best seller, Happy Birthday, is an instant flashy accessory to any outfit. The unique graffiti of multi-colored glitter gives full coverage in just one coat. You can wear this sparkly glam of confetti alone or apply it over your favorite shade of polish to really make your nails pop with color. While the fun of a birthday might only come once a year, your nails can look celebratory any day.

Deborah Lippmann "Happy Birthday" glitter nail polish, $18. Nordstrom stores.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Album Review: Bionic



We have always loved Xtina's ability to use her music as a form of empowerment for women. As a result, listening to any one of her albums makes girls (excuse me, women) feel pretty good (see "My Girls" of Bionic or "Can't Hold Us Down" of Stripped). However, while this album has its fun moments and truly spectacular vocals - never a surprise from this songstress - there are too many points where it lacks fulfilling lyrics or just gets a lil' weird (see "Sex for Breakfast").
Most notable tracks: "Glam," "I Hate Boys"

Friday, June 25, 2010

Concert Review: Dave Matthews Band


Sweet, sweet summertime concerts. This past Tuesday, I attended the Dave Matthews Band (DMB) concert in my home state and one of my favorite towns: Columbus, OH. It was outdoors at Huntington Park, which was a baseball stadium turned into a concert arena for the night. The weather was great, and so were my seats... well actually, there were no seats since we were right up front, though, this was perfect.

DMB took the stage around 8:30PM and played for a good two hours straight. The sound, band, and fans definitely made this an experience I will never forget. For those of you that are not well acquainted with DMB, they have been around for over 15 years and have produced seven successful albums.

Every night of the tour has a different set list, which makes fans anticipate the new songs Dave might throw at them during the course of the concert. On this specific night, they played several songs from my favorite album, "Busted Stuff" and their newest album "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King." Dave got the crowd pumped up by talking between every couple songs, and having the band play extra long versions of the songs, enhancing to the jazzy, acoustic rock.

If you're looking for a great summer concert to attend, DMB is definitely a great choice. Although, make sure you stay hydrated before the concert, because that summer sun can get the best of you while you stand in a crowd of hundreds of screaming fans. Check out their new album on iTunes, and especially my favorite album from 2002, "Busted Stuff."

--LK

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Movie Review: Toy Story 3



Eleven years in the making, Toy Story 3 hit theaters this past weekend to soaring numbers. After making box office history and cementing themselves as the second highest grossing animated film of all time, with $109 million, it was easy to see why. The animated short "Day & Night," which preceded the film, was awesome. As was the film itself. Though it did end with the possibility of more, a prospect we would rather not see happen - too much of a good thing, in our opinion. Also, we would have enjoyed more scenes with the 3-peas-in-a-pod.
Best on-screen moment: Mr. Potato Head (Don Rickles) as Mr. Tortilla Shell. Classic.

Album Review: Can't Be Tamed



On her new album 17-year-old Miley Cyrus is trying to break away from Disney... HARD. Honestly, we are loving every bit of it. It's hard to put a finger on why this girl would want to cover a Poison song (see "Every Rose Has Its Thorn") - it must be a family favorite - but somehow that does not take away from how pretty awesome this album is. She can't be tamed, y'all.
Most notable tracks: "Liberty Walk," "My Heart Beats for Love"


Monday, June 21, 2010

It's officially summer!


Kickoff the summer!


Plan a getaway! Find a perfect summer vacation destination that fits your lifestyle! You deserve a break from work and/or summer classes!

Are you a...
Fashionista? Plan a trip to New York City, the Fashion Capital of the United States!

Camper? Plan a camping trip in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Try a beautiful spot like Pictured Rocks (shown above):
http://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/index.htm


Fudgie? Drive across the Mackinac Bridge and take a ferry ride to Mackinac Island! It's known for its great fudge and has breathtaking views!

Beach Bum? Visit Traverse City, Mich., home to beautiful sandy beaches along Lake Michigan's shoreline, rated number 8 on AOL Travel's America's Best Beach Towns. Dine downtown or drive out on the peninsula for some wine tasting and cherry picking! The "Cherry Capital of the world" holds its annual Cherry Festival July 3-10.

Start planning and happy summer! 8-)


Lauren

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Album Review: Shout It Out



Hanson's 7th release has them testing the waters on a new style of rock: rhythm and blues. And you know what? It works quite seamlessly. Most people write these boys off as a result of their 1997 smash "MMMBop" but, in reality, Hanson is so much more than that. The band self-produces, self-writes, self-distributes (since their breakaway from Island/Mercury records) and self-plays every one of their tracks and have a much-hyped U.S. tour this summer with opener California-based Rooney. Check them out locally in Grand Rapids (Aug. 16) or Royal Oak (Aug. 17).
Most notable tracks: "Thinkin' Bout Somethin'," "Give a Little"

Since this is our first time reviewing anything, the ratings system is as follows: best = four kisses; worst = half a kiss.