Music Monday

The Smiths - Please please please let me get what I want

The Knack - My Sharona

Mr Big - To Be With You

Tom Petty - Free Falling

A bit of old goodies for this week's music mondays! Loving the videos too :)

Music Monday

The checks - Jet Plane

Diaz Grimm - Clique Freestyle

Death Cab for Cutie - I'll Follow You Into The Dark

Checks Tribute.

Last week one of my favourite New Zealand bands decided to call it quits. After a good 10 years together making music The Checks have broken up.

I first fell in love with the band after seeing them play at Flow bar in Hamilton. For me The Checks some up what a good kiwi rock band should be. They don't try to be like anyone else and just make friken good music that I can chill to for hours.

They have the best stage presence and completely zone into the music. I remember the lead Edward having a good 10-15 minute mediation session on stage before actually busting out some song lyrics. This  honestly makes me so sad but hears hoping theres a reunion not too far down the track.

Get your ears listening to some Checks goodness here.

Three gigs one night

What a weekend. Three epic gigs crammed into one night but when has that ever been a challenge for us.
On Saturday we were lucky enough to do our first ever interview with one very talented band that both Jess and I love, The Leers. Make sure you check out there music and even download their EP here. The guys played at Biddys with two other amazing bands, Glass owls and Collapsing cities. Thanks to the team Issac and Robbie for helping out.

Once the first gig was done and dusted we headed over to Grand Central for Alley-oop. I must say for such a small space having a gig in an alley turned out to be quite the party. Cocktails in glass jars, fairy lights lining up the alley teamed up with live music makes for a sweet night out.

Our last stop for the night, Electro static! Our usual Saturday nights are normally spent down at Static and the good vibes and music were no different this night.

Overall we rate this night at least a definite 14 out of 10.

Photos by Robbie Gilmore.

Keep an eye out for our interview we did with The Leers up soon :)

The life

When we said we were just two girls living the life hanging with the cool kids, we did not expect something like this at all. A few weeks ago we were privileged enough to work at the AUSA presents Kimbra, The Black Seeds, Mt Eden, Ruby Frost, and Vandalism concert over at Vector Arena. 

It's amazing to see how things work out backstage at a big show like this and at a venue that holds so much music history. It was a tiring day but so worth it!  The experience left us inspired and it was just the big push we need to get back on track with our goals. Well done to Bianca and the rest of the AUSA team for such a successful event!

Photography by Robbie Gilmore.

Music Monday

How was that weekend?! Thank you so much to everyone that made it out for WTCK's Launch party, it was great to see such a packed crowd. Photos up shortly but while you wait heres a bit of music to start your week right. 

Who went to watch Florence and the Machine?? If so we would love to know what you thought of it.

If you like what you hear the official single release party is on this weekend. Check it here. 

PINCH &A PUNCH Meet the Locals ft Sampology AVDJ Set. June 15th

Amanda shoots bands

Keeping within the theme of celebrating kiwi music here are some amazing photos from one of my favourtite NZ band photographers Amanda Ratcliffe. If you've flipped through a copy of Rip it Up or sites such as Cheese on toast and Music.net chances are you've seen a photo shot by Amanda. I absolutely love these images and if you do to you can find more of her work at amandashootsbands.com or her facebook page here.

LDR

Lana Del Ray is a name that everyone seems to have an opinion on at the moment. From the media claiming she's fake and hiding her past to her performance on SNL she's certainly caused some controversy. Wether your for or against her, there is no doubt that she has an amazing and unique voice. Either way I'm loving her 'old hollywood' style and creative expression. The way she combines something so soft with a sinister spin on it makes her work just that more intriguing. I guess it has something to do with her influences from Britney Spears to Kurt Cobain, they really couldn't be more far apart. Formally known as Lizzy Grant her first stunt in music did not produce the same reaction as she is now, which only proves that good things take time. Born to die is out now and Im loving listening to it. The video for her latest single, 'Blue jeans' came out a few days ago. Take a look for yourself. 

WTCK's guide to Soundscape

One more sleep until Soundscape and we couldn't be more excited! Since it's basically one of the biggest events to hit this small town of ours, we here at WTCK thought we should put a little guide for all you cool kids out there to cover the basics.

Part One: Fashion

There is no dress code for Soundscape so if you wanna wear jandals, do it. If you wanna wear a costume and get crazy, do it. Or, you could also read on and get some ideas. .

Stuck on a wardrobe rut? Course related costs isn't enough for O-week? Chances are, all you need are already in your wardrobe. Be creative, mix and match, and don't hesitate to be different. Styling is also a big must. You'll be amazed at how much a difference tucking your top in or cinching the waist of your dress can make. Lastly, be yourself. We all have our hits and misses when it comes to fashion and if you do wake up the next morning and realise that you don't like how you looked, then no worries. The important thing is, is that you tried, you had fun, and you did something new. 

So here are some of the things to remember that we think can help when you come up with your outfit: 

- Satchels to keep both hands free (especially when you're fist pumping! lol)

- High waisted shorts with crochet detail from Misaki Boutique. Crochet + denim = Festival chic

- No time to do your hair? These Wolf Cub floral headpiece is just the perfect accessorthrow on

- Boots are made for music festivals! They're functional and stylish, but won't give you sore feet. You won't need to worry about being stepped on (and we all know how much that hurts) either

- Stack on some bracelets to accentuate the wristband you'll most likely be wearing the whole night

- A pretty crop top would look good with highwaisted shorts, skirts, and even pants

- Nothing screams "rave" better than bright coloured shorts and studs like these ones from Dirty Rat

FUN FACT OF THE DAY: Soundscape was originally meant to be a rave. Now it has evolved into a 8 zone street party!

- Feathers are all the rage right now. To avoid being OTT, rock it in small doses like this necklace here

- A pretty vintage dress to throw on is also a must! Just remember to wear the right underwear with it (you don't want to be flashing everyone). This baby from Jeanswest has sleeves that's good for when it's chilly

This one is for the bois. We know, we know. You all are afraid to try something different when it comes to fashion and even worse, afraid to be called the G word based on your choices. But lads, there really is more to life than plaids and checks. No, we're not expecting every guy to suddenly be into florals and polka dots (We can only hope), but in keeping with "The March Challenge" that we are doing, we encourage you to try something different. Aside from the blatant floral shirt in the photo, here are some basics for you:

- A beanie to keep your head warm

- Baseball shirts are just about everywhere right now. There's surely some that would suit your price range. 

- Good ol' Chucks. Or your trusty sneakers.

- Button up shirt. Preferably not in plaid/checkered, but if you must. . . (Remember boys, wearing stripes won't make you look "gay". There's a whole lot of prints out there waiting to be found)

- Slim chinos. Roll it up for an added "oomph" to your look

-Skinny jeans or slim straights are always a classic

- Caps are a good alternative to a beanie. Plus chicks dig it when you let them wear your cap. 

- A denim shirt is a good basic to have. Throw it over chinos and you're halfway there

Part Two: Set Times and Map

Make sure you have your tickets as door sales will be priced at $60. You can still get tickets from Texas Radio and 1-night.co.nz. The set times and maps are all on the Soundscape website or if you've got a flyer, it would aslo be handy to look over it beforehand. You don't want to be running around trying to find the stage where Kora is performing, right? You can find the complete line up, set times, and map here.

Part Three: Final Note

So you've got your outfit ready, you know where to go, and you are amped for an unforgettable night! Before we let you go, here are a few more tips for you guys. 

- Come on early. Last July sold out to 4000 people. Imagine at least half of that lining up at 12. No wonder there's a line! 

- The weather is pretty unpredictable. Keep a light jacket handy to keep you warm (I'm contemplating on bringing a cute raincoat/anorak in case it rains!)

- Lock in is at 3am so be sure to be in the vicinity come 3 or you will not be allowed back in

- Book your taxi ride home, or at least keep a cab number handy. Getting a taxi on some nights is hard as it is. What more during a big event like that? You'll be fighting heaps more people off for a cab.

- Drink responsibly. Do you really want to get kicked out before you can even get in?

- At least try and be in the right frame of mind, and come with an open mind too. You may or may not know all the artists. You may or may not know any of the music in there. Maybe you only came because your friends said it was cool. Whatever the reason is, try and enjoy the music even if it isn't your thing. 

- Don't just stay in one place. There are 8 different zones there for a reason. Explore, walk around, go on the ride. 

- And last but not the least, remember that it's only as good as what you make it to be. Again, that's coming with an open mind and in good spirits. Have fun, rock out, and rage hard. We know we'll be!

See you all tonight! Love,

With The Cool Kids

P.S.

If you see us out, come say hi!:)

Ear Candy

Exactly a week from now, we will be jamming to these live. *cue high pitched squealing here*

INCUBUS

IN-CU-FRIKEN-BUS. Words cannot explain how AMAZING this show was, just to see Incubus for the first time live was a dream come true. We were so lucky to score one of the front spots, it honestly was the best gig ever. Incubus was formed in 1991 - the year we were born, so definitely was a band we grew up listening too. As quoted from Brandon Boyd, "Incubus may not always be the 'coolest' band around but it just means that the people who do like us are the right people and like us for the right reasons". Thats what I love about this band is that there real, you know they are making music simply because they love it. They don't dress up to impress (although we loved Ben's cat tee) and tie a pretty ribbon around everything but just play it how it is. They honestly are so talented and always so humble. Of course a rock concert would not be the same without a massive mosh pit, we ended up getting a bit pushed and pulled in different directions but it was great to see the fans getting into it. Biggest songs of the night had to be the classics, Drive, Meglomaniac, Wish you were here and Are you in? With everyone belting out the lyrics along with Brandon. Throughout the night there was one guy we could always lean on (quite literally) and when Jose threw out his drum stick we couldn't be more stoked that 'charlie' (renamed) was the lucky guy. I guess this was the closest we kinda got, getting a photo with the guy that got the drum stick that was used and played by the guy in Incubus... Most EPIC night ever, I'm going to wear my Incubus shirt everyday haha.

From the cool kids, WE LOVE YOU INCUBUS your the coolest band ever, cannot wait to see you again soon one day! And a sneaky Happy Birthday soon to Brandon xoxo

 :)

Wish you were here

So we've finally got our tickets, I honestly would have cried if we missed out. Thanks to my bestest buddies as they ended up paying for the tickets for my birthday. Only 2 more days till we will be in the same room as Brandon Boyd singing with Incubus and boy am I ready to push through for that front spot. Gahhhh so excited :)

Incubus

So we were all excited for Big day out and even had a whole week off planned for my bday to go. Turns out Big day out cant live up to what they say and have let down alot of people to put it nicely. Time for plan B! There are quite afew good shows coming up but one that I am super excited about has to be INCUBUS. Me and Jess have been big fans since way back in our high school days, they defiantly bring back alot of good memories and how good looking is brandon! Such a good way to celebrate my 21st :)

Soundscape Teaser

I am way too excited for tonights soundscape in Hamilton that I thought Id put together a post which gives you a little taster from what to expect tonight.


Dem Slackers (NL)

Dem Slackers - Swagger (Kannamix Remix) by Kannamix

More Info: http://demslackers.com/

Octane & DLR (UK)

Also known as Chris and James.

BTK - Vengeance (Octane & DLR Ripping and Tearing Remix) DUTTY AUDIO 02 by Octane and DLR

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Octane-DLR/309514086993

Tiki Taane

Tiki Taane - Soundtrack To Forever by StopStartMusic

http://tikidub.com/

Nadisko (Aus)

Also known as Alex and Blake.

Nadisko Soundscape Mix by Nadisko

http://www.facebook.com/nadisko

Jody6

Hi Oktane 006 - Jody 6 - Green Eggs & Ham by Hi Oktane Records

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jody-6/119885668079547

Aural Trash

Also known as Angela Fisken and Greg Churchill.

Luke Walker & DJ Loki-Seamrider (Aural Trash Remix) by Aural Trash Tracks

http://www.facebook.com/aural.trash

Kyle Bourke

Techtronik Sessions - Kyle Bourke by Kyle Bourke

http://www.kylebourke.com/

There are plenty more amazing acts on tonight!
For more info on soundscape check out these links.

http://www.soundscape.co.nz/index.html
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=110725545682651

So long, Farewell

Johnny Barker with his band, The Aristocrats

I love road trips, especially to attend a farewell show of one of my favourite NZ bands, The Earlybirds located at Juice Bar on Saturday night as Jess mentioned. It was our first time in Parnell, the fairy lights on the trees hooked me in straight away so a trip back has definitely been noted.

I finally made my way to the chocolate boutique which we labelled as 'the department store' of all chocolates and one place I'll be coming back too is the Yellow Brick Road boutique. We had a sneak peak through the windows, they have the cutest dresses I swear. Ive always wanted to check it out since it was featured in Frankie.

Anyways - back to the gig, the night kicked off with one of Johnny Barker's band The Aristrocrats. It was a good start with the catchy little tunes and the piano rift. There new single 'Dust' is out now, while their album 'Cue Playback' comes out on the 25th of May. Ekko Park followed them led by front man Joe Walsh whom we managed to have a quick chat too. The band definitely pumped up the rock vibe setting the scene for the rest of the night, leaving Juice Bar with Ekko Park flyers scattered everywhere. Their new single 'Let the Games Begin' is out today.

For the birds final show I have to say overall set was AMAZING! They really went all out for this one and I loved the new songs too. There was a bit of everything you could expect from an rock gig, the moshing, smashed glass all over ground, the sweat, even blood - and who can forget the epic crowdsurf. One reason I love this band is the interaction with the crowd. It's hard not to get into the music with these guys constantly keeping you on edge. Towards the end of the night everyone was singing along to the words - by this time nobody gives a fuck if they look stupid raging in the crowd.

Heres a clip from the night, The Earlybirds singing 'The one we need'

Also nice to spot Bronwyn Turei from go girls and a possible Frankie Adams from shortie enjoying the music. Such a great start to NZ music month 2011!

So farewell guys, youve definately made NZ music proud, all the best for the future!


x

steph <3