…and a very, very long time to wait for a new episode of Modern Family. Even though it’s only been two days since the finale, we don’t blame you if you’re in MF-withdrawal. Since September’s a long time to wait, hopefully this video of Jesse Tyler Ferguson (“Mitchell”) covering Lady Gaga’s “Alejandro” will be able to give you a quick fix:
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged abc, alejandro, jesse tyler ferguson, Lady Gaga, mitchell, Modern Family, music, music videos, TV, youtube
While every other show is busy wrapping up its season (or series), Glee still has a few songs to belt out before school’s out for the summer. Of those remaining, next week’s Lady Gaga-themed episode, “Theatricality,” is probably the most hotly anticipated. Revolving around introverted Tina (Jenna Ushkowitz), the storyline will focus on self-expression, and culminates in Tina becoming a goth. Yeah. Keep in mind, this is the same show that recently named guest star Jonathan Groff’s character “Jesse” pretty much solely so it could use the song “Jessie’s Girl.” We never said we watched this show for the plot…
Regardless of the questionable storyline, we can’t lie about our excitement to watch “Bad Romance” and “Poker Face” as performed by McKinley High’s finest. You can download those songs from next week (and others from the rest of the season) for free here. I think it’s safe to say that as long as the show keeps up the quality of its musical numbers, Glee’s got a halo around its finger around me.
Are you in Glee's orbit? via TVovermind
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged bad romance, downloads, fox tv, glee, jenna ushkowitz, jessie's girl, jonathan groff, Lady Gaga, music, music videos, poker face, rick springfield, songs
Somewhere, Kara DioGuardi is crying. Last night we bid adieu to country crooner Casey James as Lee and Crystal advanced to next week’s finale. Has it really been 5 months? It seems like just yesterday that we found Casey James auditioning in Dallas. Since then, “Pants on the Ground“ went viral, Ryan went crazy, and the show rating’s have gone away. So, before we begin discussing next week’s finale, let’s say goodbye to Casey. While it’s unclear how his post-Idol career will play out, we’ll probably remember him for now for his rendition of “Mrs. Robinson” and the dizzying effect he had over Kara. While making it to the finale might have been preferable, Casey can take some comfort in knowing third isn’t bad (if you don’t believe me, ask Season five third place-finalist Elliot Yamin).
Here's to you, Mr. Robinson. via Flickr
So with that, let’s see where the finale lies with our final two…
1. Lee Dewyze – Although Crystal had all the early heat in this season’s competition, she has cooled as Lee has gone on a hot streak. Last night he gave two of the strongest performances of the season and proved that he’s in this contest to win it. Another thing Lee has going for him is his “transformation” storyline. If there’s one thing American Idol loves, it’s a strong narrative for its winner. Carrie Underwood went from country bumpkin to world-class pop star. Same with Kelly Clarkson. Lee has a similar narrative – evolving from the shy underdog to the confident Idol-heir apparent. With that said, the title relies on next week’s show. Will he once again blow us away to claim his crown? The momentum certainly seems to be on his side… (same as last week)
2. Crystal Bowersox – It’s hard to knock Crystal for anything terrible. If she could be summed up in one word this season, it would be “consistent.” I can’t remember a single week that she delivered a performance well below the audience’s expectations. Sure, some weren’t as great as others, but overall, she brought her best each week and competed like a star. However, the downside to consistency is that it isn’t exactly exciting. As much as they may claim to hate change or unpredictability, Americans love surprises. Crystal didn’t give us many – good or bad. And with Lee delivering his performance all season last week, it may be impossible for Crystal to reclaim any of the early buzz she had this season. (same as last week)
Sure, everything may change next week. That’s the beauty of Idol. But, if you’ve followed this season weekly like we have, you’ll know that you have two contestants in the finale with two very reliable track records. Will Crystal’s steady-and-safe approach win the race? Or will it be Lee’s dark horse-to-frontrunner momentum that puts him over the top? With two finalists who have never been in the bottom 3, it’s sure to be a nail biter either way.
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged American Idol, Carrie Underwood, Casey James, Crystal Bowersox, fox, idol hangove, Kelly Clarkson, Lee Dewyze, music, reality tv, TV
In case you didn’t catch last night’s American Idol (the last Lost Tuesday. Ever.), here are last night’s best performances:
Lee Dewyze– Last night was his night through and through. I haven’t seen a stronger reaction to any performance this season than his rendition of “Hallelujah.” While he nailed both performances songs, it was that moment that may just have won him the entire season.
Crystal Bowersox– Jem may have done it better, but Crystal’s version of “Maybe I’m Amazed” had me amazed. You could feel her reaching for the finale – and I think she may have just made it there.
Who’s in danger tonight?
I’m sorry to say it, but Casey, it’s looking like a Lee-Crystal finale. If the songs had been more exciting last night, things may have been different, but I just have a feeling it’s going to go down this way. Don’t lose all hope though, there is always that last-minute chance of a surprise…
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged American Idol, Casey James, crysal bowersox, fox, Idol Hangover, Lee Dewyze, music, reality tv, TV
Saw this video at a music video screening recently, thought it deserved a share. Your Sunday dose of quirk and intrigue. Oh, and the song’s wonderfun.
-MM
Contact the author at mmthesmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged beck, charlotte gainsbourg, heaven can wait, music, music videos, things that are awesome
Trace is Miley’s 21-year-old bro. Adopted.Was in that band Metro Station, which wasn’t the worst band in the world, but now they’ve broken up. Apparently owns a clothing company. Has been linked to Disney stars Demi Lovato and Brenda Song, that chick that’s not real-life famous yet. In case you aren’t aware of Trace yet, I’ve included a gallery for your viewing pleasure:
Oh, and here’s that Metro Station song that was catchy. Put all the pieces together… but don’t expect them to make sense.
-MM
Contact the author at mmthesmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged billy ray cyrus, brandi cyrus, brenda song, demi lovato, disney channel, famous families, Miley Cyrus, music, trace cyrus, TV, weird
Even on LSD, she still can't sing. via This Is Max
It'll leave quite a calling card. via NY Magazine
Nars’ Limited-Edition Multiple Tint Tubes [via NY Magazine]
If you're gonna get cuffed, at least make sure you look good. via Teen Vogue
Diane Von Furstenberg Woven Wire Bracelets [via Teen Vogue]
Into the Blue. via Mosley Tribes
Mosley Tribes Blue With Sea Enforcer Sunglasses [via Mosley Tribes]
For the Chicago and New York readers...fave fun. via ASOS
London Undercover Super Mini Folded Neon Umbrella [via ASOS]
Step it up. via ELLE.com
Vans Neon Classic Slip-ons [via ELLE]
Just don’t let it go this far:
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged 80's, accesories, ASOS, bracelets, Chicago, clothing, diane von furstenberg, elle, fashion, Ke$ha, lipstick, mosley tribes, music, music videos, nars, neon, new york, ny magazine, rain, style, summer, sunglasses, teen vogue, the 80's, umbrella, vans, your love is my drug
Just shy of becoming the longest running primetime series, Law & Order has been given a death penalty by NBC. [via THRfeed]
Go to the beach Saturday, be on an upcoming LA Magazine cover. [via LA Magazine]
If you’re going out this weekend, try giving one of these DJs a spin. [via LA Weekly]
Don’t know about the nightlife scene in Downtown? Check out this handy map! [via Bar Map LA]
Need a better view? via Flickr
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged Bar Map LA, bars, beach, djs, downtown, drinking, griffith park observatory, LA Magazine, LA Weekly, Law & Order, Link It Up, music, nbc, nightlife, THRfeed, TV
Being a rock star is cooler than being a movie star, let’s just get that straight from the get-go. So when celebrities decide to have their little band time, I get it. But celebrity-fronted bands don’t always equal talent. Let’s take a look at a few celebs that attempt to rock and how successful they’ve managed to be –
via socialitelife.celebbuzz.com
Band :: PRETTY RECKLESS
Who’s in it :: Taylor Momsen, the brat/only watchable character from Gossip Girl
Suck? :: You know it! Taylor’s voice is pretty powerful, but she uses it for evil in this whiny gothic garage band.
via msnbc
Band :: 30 Odd Foot of Grunts
Who’s in it :: Russell Crowe
Suck? :: I don’t even know what to call this music. Shitty English pop from the mid-90’s? Oh, Russell… I expected more from you! Please don’t beat me up…
via 30 seconds to mars
Band :: 30 Seconds to Mars
Who’s in it :: Jared Leto
Suck? :: If you listen to 30 Seconds to Mars and you’re 15, then you’re cool. If you listen to 30 Seconds to Mars and you’re 25… we have a problem.
via wicked wisdom
Band :: Wicked Wisdom
Who’s in it :: Jada Pinkett-Smith
Suck? :: Okay, we get it, Jada. You want an outlet to scream when your husband is more successful than you, which is always. Wicked Wisdom – which… really? – makes gothic-punk tunes that will be a great soundtrack for the next Wizard Video game title (yeah, that’s right, I looked up shitty video game publishers for that lil’ joke. I’m awesome.)
via the boxmasters
Band :: The Boxmasters
Who’s in it :: Billy Bob Thornton
Suck? :: No. They’re actually pretty good, the first win on my list! The kind of music you want to listen to while driving down Route 66, with a fun, modern rockabilly vibe.
-MM
Contact the author at mmthesmogger@gmail.com.
Britney Spears’ boyfriend has quit being her agent to focus all his time on their relationship. Uh oh… [via DListed]
Brentwood has a new ice cream shop! But this begs the question: do the Real Housewives of the West Side eat full-fat, processed, whole-milk, dairy, and sugar products? [via Eater LA]
Yesterday, the LA City Council voted to boycott Arizona. I know it’s kind of old and it’s easy to forget about because it doesn’t tweet or update its status, but doesn’t the Constitution say that’s a no-no? [via AZ Central]
Los Angeles jails: less secure than airports. We live in scary times, indeed. [via LA Times]
The Sherman Oaks Farmers Market is berry, berry yummy. via Flickr
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged agents, airports, arizona, Brentwood, Britney Spears, city council, constitution, criminals, history, ice cream, immigration, jails, jason trawick, laws, Link It Up, music, safety, the law
You’ve probably seen this video, but if you haven’t it’s worth checking out. Whether you love or hate Lady GaGa – this Justin Bieber-lookalike’s performance of “Paparazzi” is incredible. You’ll be able to see it again live tomorrow on The Ellen DeGeneres Show where he’ll be performing it for the host (and Lady GaGa fan).
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged ellen degeneres, justin bieber, Lady Gaga, music, music videos, paparazzi, the internets, viral videos, youtube
It’s been a rough year for American Idol. After the news that Simon will be departing after this season, the show has been rocked by criticisms of lower quality contestants than years past, a ho-hum new judge in Ellen DeGeneres, and slumping ratings. While the show is still America’s #1 most watched TV show, the cracks in the goliath’s armor are starting to glare more visibly than ever. So, what has the show done to stymie this wave of bad press? A survey! I guess for a show that relies so heavily on fan support, opening up the program to the criticism of its supporters may be the one thing that can save it. And some of the questions are mighty revealing. Viewers can give their thoughts on the addition of Ellen, the prospect of Paula returning, rankings on all four judges (and Ryan), and thoughts on the talent level of this year’s contestants. It sounds like they don’t even need the fans’ input – they seem to already know what’s off in the Idol-verse!
The show's become just as plastic. via Review St. Louis
And most importantly…
We want to love you, Idol. We really do. We know you’re the number one show in America, but you’ve gotten lazy being on top. Maybe like the rest of America, it’s time to go on a diet. So please, for your own good, cut some of the fat, and we’ll once again taste the good life with you in 2011.
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged Adam Lambert, American Idol, Carrie Underwood, changes, ellen degeneres, host, jennifer hudson, judges, kara dioguardi, music, ratings, reality tv, Ryan Seacrest, season 10, season 9, Simon Cowell, survey, TV
via the music stories
Hearing rumors of a possible Limp Bizkit reunion, I couldn’t help but reminisce about one my favorite years: 1999. Allow me to take you back for a moment, 11 years prior. Napster was in full swing… I think I had a few thousand songs on there. Jackass was at it’s finest. TRL played full music vidoes. Carson Daly could recommend a band, i.e. Hoobstank, and we would actually seek out said band and give them a listen and they would become an actual success in the music business. No joke – Carson had influence. Kid Rock was the shit. Or at least to me, he was. And there was this grand anticipation of the year 2000 and all the mind-blowing things that were supposed to come with it.
And what do we have now? Well, it looks like that pop-punk-rock type of music kind of died off, especially after Kid Rock did that duet with Sheryl Crow. The Millennium came and went, and left us with an iPhone and YouTube, and some other cool things, but no robots. TRL is gone, Jackass is over. MTV no longer rules the world. As I see it, we’ve lost as much as we’ve gained.
So there’s your reminiscing for the day. Cheers, 1999. And here’s hoping for a renaissance.
-MM
Contact the author at mmthesmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged 1999, carson daly, hoobastank, jackass, kid rock, limp bizkit, music, napster, reminisce, trl, TV
Pandora, you’re great and all, but I wish you knew me better. I wish you could tap deeper into my psyche, my being… like Stereomood!
via stereomood
All right, so it’s only 2010, people. We’re not in the Space Age quite yet, so let’s keep expectations in check. But with Stereomood, you choose from a huge list of moods (from “happy” to “just woke up”) or choose an artist and the mood of his/her/their songs that you want to hear. It’s a fun site to play with, and is keeping my going after the demise of my darling muxtape. Slow, but fun.
So let’s see… mood: perpetually amused/bored… artist: Beck… song: “Sexxx Laws”… perfection.
-MM
Contact the author at mmthesmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged beck, listen, mood radio, music, online radio, pandora, stereomood
I don’t think I’ve felt more satisfied by another elimination this entire season. Goodbye, Aaron Kelly, and so long. You should have been gone back in there were 12 singers vying for our attention, but America made us painfully sit through this season and listen to you each week. It’s been a long wait, but it’s worth it now that you’ve been eliminated – have fun in Idol irrelevance land and make sure to say hi to Sanjaya for us.
Adios, Aaron. via LizzieLikesJBieber
1. Lee Dewyze – I think everyone pretty much agreed that Lee was the standout this week. His performance was way above everyone else’s, and he came off as the only one capable of holding up Sinatra’s legacy. His confidence has consistently grown in recent weeks and his commercial appeal is probably among the strongest of any of the finalist. Like I’ve said before, we’re increasingly looking at a Lee-Crystal finale. (same as last week)
2. Crystal Bowersox – Her performance last night garnered a split decision among critics, but I was certainly a fan. Throughout the competition, she’s shown an ability to adapt to different musical styles and still remain true to her own personality. Crystal’s limited appeal, however, may ultimately keep her from winning the competition. Then again, past winners like Taylor Hicks and Fantasia didn’t have the mass appeal that Kelly Clarkson or Carrie Underwood did. (same as last week)
3. Casey James – Frank Sinatra was not a good luck charm for Casey. This week was rough, and even Ellen, who seems to struggle when searching for negative vocabulary words, didn’t like it. Next week, he’s going to really have to bring his a-game to impress the judges and the audience to gain some momentum as the competition moves into the last round. (same as last week)
4. Michael Lynche – He has one of the stronger performances last night, but that’s not enough at this point. Having been eliminated once, he has to do something so incredibly over-the-top to put him back into contention to win that it seems almost impossible at this point. With that said, he has clung on for this long… (up one)
As we look forward to next week’s theme “Songs of the Cinema,” with mentor Jamie Foxx (eww, but probably better than Harry Connick Jr.), it’ll be interesting to see who makes it and who ends up on the cutting room floor.
-MK
Contact the author at mksmogger@gmail.com.
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged Aaron Kelly, American Idol, Casey James, Crystal Bowersox, fox, Idol Hangover, Lee Dewyze, Michael Lynche, music, reality tv, sinatra, TV
Smogger 