Wednesday, February 29, 2012

We're Ready for The Metro Times Blowout!

Tonight is the Kickoff for the 15th Metro Times Hamtramck Blowout at The Magic Stick/Garden Bowl! In case you have been living under a rock, The Blowout is a music festival in which some of the best bands in Detroit take over all of the bars in Hamtramck. The event starts tonight and runs through Saturday night. The best part about it is you don't have to worry about paying at each venue. You buy one wristband, that get's you in to every show throughout the weekend. If you buy your wristband today, it's $20. After today, it goes up to $30. For those of you that only want to go to one show during The Blowout, the wristband is actually the worst part about the festival.

Although most of the bands are going to be great this weekend, we wanted to let you know which ones we are looking forward to the most! So here they are:


Tonight:
10:20 p.m. - Flashclash - The Garden Bowl Lanes
1 a.m. - K.I.D.S. - The Magic Stick


Thursday:
9 p.m. - The Summer Pledge - The Painted Lady
10:20 p.m. - Wilson - The New Dodge
10:20 p.m. - Bars of Gold - Polish National Alliance Lounge


Friday:
9:20 p.m. - Big Mess - Atlas Bar   - POLISH VILLAGE CAFE 
11:20 p.m. - Destroy This Place - Atlas  POLISH VILLAGE CAFE
12:20 a.m. - Lightning Love - Bakers Streetcar
12:20 a.m. - FAWN - New Dodge
1 a.m. - The Sights - Small’s


Saturday:
10:20 p.m. - Amy Gore and Her Valentines - Polish National Alliance Lounge
10:40 p.m. - Glossies - Paychecks
10:40 p.m. - Phantom Cats - Whiskey in the Jar
11:40 p.m. - Golden Torso - Paychecks
12:40 a.m. - The Kodaks - Skipper's
1 a.m. - The Muggs - Small’s
1 a.m. - Phantasmagoria - New Dodge

So those are our picks! There are a ton of other great bands playing too! So make sure you check out the full schedule! We'll be there all weekend long! Hope to see you there!

~C

The Real Best of... Well at Least Some of Them...

Real Detroit Weekly released their "Real Best of" issue today! There are many things on the list that we are super excited about and totally agree with. There were a few surprises in there though that left us wondering, "Who the hell voted for that?" Here are our thoughts!

 Favorites:

 Best Band: Wilson - Hells Yeah! We told you these guys know how to party! Awesome band, awesome music, awesome live. Ok, that's enough of the word awesome. Check out our articles with them last month to find out more. (All Party & No Bullshit and "...And Now It's Time For The Wilsons!" )

Best Local Photographer: Joe Gall!!!! - Of course! We absolutely love Joe. One of the best guys around and by far the best photographer around. This guy can do it all! Best live shots we've ever seen, but even his shots of his kid are great. Whether its photo shoots with celebrities, shots of his gorgeous girlfriend, photo shoots with friends, the occasional wedding and of course his party cam, every picture is amazing. Even those that normally shy away from a camera love getting photographed by this guy. (Just take one look at Sadie's apartment and you'll know he's her favorite.)

Best Bar on Paczki Day: Small's - Duh! Paczki Bombs!!!! (Paczki!)

Best Place to Get Loose on the Dance Floor :  Luna - Everyone has a love hate relationship with this place. But, 9 times out of 10, you have a fun time and leave there drunk as hell! Why else would you get out on the dance floor?

Best Cocktail Lounge: Delux Lounge - This place is super cute. We know that they have the prettiest cocktail waitress around. She's one of our favorites!

Best New Club: Orchid - We've only been there once, but it was pretty cool. If you're in the mood for Luna, but you feel like being a little fancier, go here.

Best Michigan-Made Spirit: Hard Luck Candy - Hell Yeah! Rootbeer Vodka!

Best Beer Selection: Red Wagon - Definitely. Check it out sometime. They have everything.  My personal favorite is Duvel.

Best Art Exhibit: Rembrandt & The Face of Jesus - Ok. None of us saw this. There is only one reason that I am agreeing with this one.



I'm done kissing Joe's ass now. I swear. 

Best Concert Venue Scene: Majestic Complex - We all still hold this place near and dear in our hearts. Best place to run into old friends, catch up with friends, see great shows (the best ones are booked by Black Iris). Super fun place and still one of the first places I recommend to out-of-towners.

Best Rock Club: The Ritz - It impressed us when we were there for Wilson. This place has quickly changed from a place that sewer rats hang out, too a pretty cool venue. Well, sewer rats still like it too. Keep an eye out for it. I think you'll be seeing more of it soon. 

Best Bakery: Astoria - YUM! German Chocolate Brownie! I want one right now!

Best Broasted Chicken: Chicken Shack - Hells Yeah! Don't forget the broasted potatoes too!

Best Store To Open in the Last Year: Rust Belt Market - Awesome, awesome place. Tons of great local artists and shops. If you haven't been there yet, head down this weekend!

Best Local Detroit T-Shirt Store:  Funky 7 - I know Sadie and I used to buy our oversized band shirts there in Jr. High! If they're still around, they must be doing something right! How about The Road Show? They used to be one of my favorites too!

Best Gift Shop: Scout - Cute place. A little pricey, but lots of cute stuff. 

Best Place to Find Home Décor: Leon & Lulu - Becca took me here for this first time around Christmas. I must say, I think I like it better as a gift shop than the home decor. Mostly because that's all I could afford though!

Best Place to Shop the Latest Trends: Incognito - You know it! This place has been around for years and always stays with the times. It has only gotten better over time! Angie does one hell of a job over there! Probably my favorite place to buy shoes too!

Best Record Store: UHF - Great selection for those vinyl lovers! Don't forget, Record Store Day is right around the corner!

Best Shopping Experience:  Partridge Creek - Tricky, tricky! Although it might not have the best store selection for a mall (that's a 3 way tie between Somerset, Lakeside, and Twelve Oaks), it definitely is a great "shopping experience". Come on! You can bring your puppy dog!


Here are the one's we were surprised by:

Best Concert Venue: Magic Bag - No way! Small's! For sure. With The Magic Stick having a close second!

Best Bar to Visit for Any Reason: The Rock on 3rd - Ok. It's pretty cool. I think I would have rather seen Gusoline Alley or The Berkley Front on there though.

Best Bar On A Friday Night : Limelight - Yuck! Are you kidding me? Ok, my neighbor does sing one hell of a "Sweet Caroline" on Friday Nights at the Warren location. But, other than that, white trash central. Horrible. I think the last time I went there on a Friday, I swore I would never go back.

Best Jukebox: Gusoline - It's still pretty good, but I think The Front has passed them up.

Best Microbrewery:  Rochester Mills - No Way! Kuhnhenn's!

Best Italian: Andiamo - Wrong again! Andiamo doesn't have shit on Roma Cafe!

Best Pizza (deep dish): Buddy's Pizza - I still love Buddy's, and any pizza for that matter, but I have recently found my new favorite deep dish. Malone's on Van Dyke South of 14 Mile in Warren. Try it. It's delicious. My new favorite. Get the nachos too! I work with Becca in Warren for my 9-5, so plan on seeing a lot of Warren restaurants mentioned on here.

Best Pizza (Round): Como's - Delicious, but I think Supino may have stolen my heart!

Best Farmer's Market: Royal Oak Farmers Market - NO WAY! Have you ever been to Eastern Market? Royal Oak doesn't have shit on Eastern Market!

Best Locally Produced TV Show: FOX 2's Let It Rip - Ummmm... Apparently you guys haven't seen the show I produce at TV Warren, with hosts Nick Candela and Becca Friedman. The Spotlight. Way better! Duh!

Best Local Blog: Detroit Moxie - What!?!?! This category even exists!?!?!? You better watch out Moxie, we're coming after you next year! 
 

Well there are a lot more that I agree and disagree with, but I could  be here all day. Let us know what you think and if there is anyone that you think should have made the list!

~C

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Get Ready to Destroy Hamtramck with Destroy This Place

 Photo Courtesy of Mikey Dew


Detroit Rock City is known for its music. Kiss may of sang about it and made it famous, but it's the bands that played here and have filled the Lager House, The Shelter, Clutch Cargos, The Magic Stick, The Majestic, St. Andrews, etc. that actually made this statement a reality.

Destroy This Place consists of members Ryan Allen (Thunderbirds Are Now, Friendly Foes), John Nelson (New Grenada), SeanSommer (The Cold Wave, Friendly Foes) and Monday Busque (New Grenada). All of these guys have been making wonderful music for years and they have finally combined forces. Imagine the Power Rangers forming into that giant, bad ass, super monster. That's kind of how you can describe DTP. When they joined forces something bad ass was formed. Something bad ass and very, very loud. 

This Friday, they are playing The Metro Times Blowout at 11 p.m. at Atlas Bar and we will be there loving every second. I got the privilege of asking Ryan Allen a few questions and because he's also a great writer, his answers are better than anything I could try to say about the band, so read ahead for a little insight into the band and what to expect this Friday!


HipInDetroit: You have been described as 90's indie rock, with a mix of 70's pop punk and loud as fuck Fugazi, playing 70's power punk. Is that an accurate description of the music Destroy This Place plays?

Ryan: When the band started, I think that, as far as our previous groups were concerned, we all wanted to do something that maintained a sense of melody, but came off as a bit more aggressive than what we had all been doing prior. Using Fugazi as a point of reference, while huge shoes to fill, was our way of saying that these pop songs we were writing weren't necessarily coming from the same place as our other projects. We don't necessarily even sound like them (there's bits here and there), but aesthetically, they are a huge inspiration - their way of conducting their band and dedication to putting on awesome live shows is really inspiring, so that's kinda where that comes from.


HipInDetroit: Destroy This Place was formed when The Friendly Foes and The New Grenada ended, but how did you all meet originally?

Ryan: For the past, I dunno, 15 or so years, John, Monday, and myself have all run in the same Detroit "indie rock" circuit, with lots of our previous projects all sharing the stage with one another for quite some time. John and Monday have probably been friends the longest, though only recently played together in the final incarnation of New Grenada. I've known Monday since his days playing bass in a band called the Trembling, which an old band of mine - Red Shirt Brigade - would play with from time to time. Same with John and New Grenada. However, it was only really in the last five or six years or so, that John and I became much better friends - collaborating on music, being there for one another during tough times, etc. In a similar fashion, Sean and I met about three years ago when we started playing in a band together called the Cold Wave. Sean and I - and, honestly, the rest of the guys in the band - immediately connected over a similar sense of humor, appreciation for the same bands, and love of song-craft. He also rules on the drums. Which, then, made him an obvious choice when finding a new drummer for Friendly Foes. It was a no brainer, that when Destroy This Place came about, that he would be the drummer in the band. Same thing with Monday and John. It didn't take much thought that Monday would of course be the bassist. Coming together was relatively easy, and we were all stoked to work together. And considering that John and Sean and Monday, and Monday and I weren't completely tight when we started, I'd say we're all very connected now that the band has existed for a year and a half. We have a certain telekinesis when it comes to songwriting, and we've also discovered other commonalities that have drawn us closer. We bros, fo' sho'.


HipInDetroit: How did you come up with the name Destroy this Place? I'm assuming it wasn't derived from the bible verse in Genesis.

Ryan: We're all super Christian, and... no, kidding. The easy answer is that it's a line from a song called "Brand New Love" by a band that was somewhat popular in the 90s called Sebadoh. It just kinda fit with the aesthetic we were going for, and, though it might imply that we're this super heavy kinda band - which, even though in our minds we'd like to think we are, we're really not - still kinda gives off the impression that we're loud and pretty high-energy when we play live.


HipInDetroit: I have seen you do a couple cover songs, including Nirvana and Foo Fighters. Is that a staple of your shows? Will you be doing any special songs at the atlas?

Ryan: We've never done a Foos song (I don't think John would go for that, and neither would I, after seeing that dumb Deadmau5 mashup on the Grammy's), but covering Nirvana from time to time just seems like a fun, relatable, and super-impactful thing to do. Everybody loves Nirvana. My dad loves Nirvana. People who grew up loving hip-hop love Nirvana.
But yeah, I don't really know if I'd call it a staple of the live show. Sometimes we just whip it out when we feel like the show could use a final nail in the coffin. If the energy is high and people seem to be having fun, why not end with something they know? It's fun to do.
As far as for our upcoming shows, we're really stoked on our new songs that we've been working on, so we'll probably be debuting some of those, in lieu of doing any covers... but you never know...


HipInDetroit: I know that each of the guys has toured with former bands. Can you tell me what is different about playing a show in Detroit, other than the fact that your friends and family can be there?

Ryan: I can only speak for myself, but it always seemed that in past projects, other cities seemed to come around and enjoy what my bands were doing a lot quicker usually than a hometown crowd. People don't know you personally, so all they can do is judge you on your music, which, sometimes, has it's advantages. I know we've all had different experiences on the road, and have all played our fair share of bummer, unorganized, too long, under attended, and energy draining shows. But we've all played ones where afterwards we've felt on top of the world. It's just the chance you take when you get into a van and see what else is out there besides jamming at the bar down the street.
With that being said, though, there's a weird pressure when it comes to hometown gigs. You wonder if people that you know will go. You hope that the Facebook invite - the one showing 150 people attending - is somehow accurate. You want to impress your friends, and even make new fans of strangers, just to prove to them that, yes, there are great bands, right here, in your own backyard. Either way, at the end of it all, there's a show to play, no matter who is there, or how many people show up. And I would like to think that no matter what, we're going to put on a rad show, because that's just what we do.


HipInDetroit: DTP announced that they are doing a Split 7" with Chicago band, Hospital Garden, as a follow up to their release "Resurrect the Mammoth". Can you tell us how this came about?

Ryan: Yeah, we're super psyched about this project, namely to just share a piece of wax with a band as awesome as Hospital Garden. We played with them upon recommendation of my friend Eric from the band Congress, when we were looking for bands to jam with us at an already booked show in Chicago over the summer. They agreed, and we were all super blown away at how badass they were when we played with them. To top it off, they're great kids, really funny, outgoing, friendly, humble, all of that... so it's really an honor to have this project to work on together. A label called Forge Again Records, from Chicago - run by an old friend, Justin Wexler - is releasing it, so that makes it even more exciting for us. He was at that same gig, thought the bands were a great match, approached us about the idea, and this weekend we're going in to High Bias Studios with Chris Koltay to lay our shit down. It should be out sometime in May, most likely.


HipInDetroit: Does Destroy This Place plan to tour or are the 9 to 5's and cute kiddies going to keep the band local?

Ryan: There aren't really any plans to do any touring, as of right now. We're all in our 30s with kids and full time jobs and all of that big boy stuff. However, I wouldn't rule out the possibility of some weekend trips - probably a trip down to Chicago when our 7" is released -  and maybe, when our next record comes out, we'll go on a little adventure, if time, money, family, etc. permits. With the internet, you can still get your music out to people, so that helps. But we're all really proud of our band and we know that we put on an entertaining live show, so who knows? We aren't gonna rule it out.


HipInDetroit: I love the sound of this band! How do you guys write? Is it a group effort or is there a primary composer?

Ryan: Thanks! When the band started, John had a handful of songs and so did I that were basically fully formed, written from top to bottom, without much collaboration. We really felt a need to start the band and play shows immediately, instead of just toil away in the basement for years before getting ourselves out there. So the first handful of songs that we all learned were put together quickly, kind of revolving around the "first idea = best idea" philosophy. As time progressed, some of the last songs we wrote before we went to record "Mammoth" were a lot more collaborative - "Exhausted" and "Rifled", which are probably our two favorite songs from that record, are a result of this. So when it came time to start writing songs for our next record, we picked up from where we left off with those two songs, and started running with it. I think we all feel like those two songs really represent what we want to sound like as a band - they're both the product of all of our influences kinda coming together, and manifesting itself as the sound of the four of us all locked in together, banging it out in a room. No disrespect to our other songs, because we're proud of those as well, but it's a lot more fun approaching the band as if it were a musical Voltron-type thing, where we're completely a sum of all four of our parts, instead of a few guys playing one of the guys in the bands' songs. So with our new jams, we all feel extra connected to them, and we're really psyched to start playing them, so people can get a taste for what this band is really capable of.


HipInDetroit: What band would you say is your biggest inspiration?

Ryan:  That's a pretty tough question to answer, so I'll do so with an analogy: Sometimes I like to compare this band to the 1989-90 Detroit Pistons. They weren't the prettiest team in the league, didn't have a big name flashy player like Jordan or Magic, but were fucking workhorses. Those dudes, up until that point, were viewed as washed up, their best seasons maybe behind them, and nobody expected a bunch of wild, aggressive, hardheaded bullies from Detroit to win the championship (nor were they expected to come back the next year and win that shit again). So that's kinda how I view this band - we're inspired by the fact that, yeah, maybe we're not playing music that's considered hip or cool. We aren't out in the scene as much, hanging in the bars, going to tons of shows, etc. But we work. We work super fucking hard. We work on our songs, we work on our shows, and we work on promoting our band as best we can, because we believe in ourselves so much. We want to prove people wrong - that it's still possible to make viable, exciting, energetic, thought-provoking music in your 30s, when you have other life responsibilities to worry about as well. In other words: BAD BOYS.


HipInDetroit: Since you have all been around for a long time, can you tell me how you have seen the "scene" change over the past 15 years? Are there more or less people going to shows? Is there a better or worse vibe from the crowds?

Ryan: Well, I'd say that for as much bad as I could hoist on the "scene", there's just as much good. People still go out to shows, and Detroit still seems to have a bevy of great bands - more than other cities, I would presume. Sometimes I feel like it's more of a social thing for people to go to a show, and doesn't really have much to do with the music or band playing, but that's not a bad thing, I guess. People are there, right? But, I don't go out as much anymore, so I can't really fairly judge. Sometimes when we play, the vibe from the crowd is weird. Sometimes it's not. Sometimes people are really responding and into it and giving us more energy to keep playing harder. Sometimes they politely clap and go back to their beer and conversation. I guess as long as people are still interested, bands are gonna keep playing, putting out music, selling t-shirts, whatever. Then we'll get older, and not care as much. But, there will probably then be a younger crop who will come up and do it all over again. Hey hey, my my...


HipInDetroit: Ryan, how does it feel to be playing shows with your brother again. Not in the same band, but sharing the same event?

Ryan: My brother is more than a brother. He's a best friend. And he's also incredibly talented. Any show we get to play together is a treat - he's there rooting me on and I'm there rooting him on. "Biggest fan" is an understatement. Plus, I think we feel a real kinship with Big Mess. They aren't hip or cool or trying to appeal to some kind of idea of what they are "supposed" to be. They just write good-ass songs and play like animals. They rule.


HipInDetroit: For the fathers - Has having children changed your approach or taste in music? Has it changed how you feel about playing shows/ going to shows? Do you share your love of music with your kids? Will you encourage your kids to play?

Ryan: Having kids, families, full-time jobs, or any other responsibility just makes us want to work harder. It drives us. It makes you realize that time spent away from doing all those aforementioned things (well, not work, I guess) and spent on music instead should be considered precious. We're lucky to have families that support us and cheer us on when we play. I mean, shit, Monday's son Owen has been video taped numerous times singing along to our songs. That rules!
As far as sharing music, and encouraging the little dudes to rock... there's no doubt that we would love it if that happened. But I will say, my Dad never forced me to play music... he simply just made it available to me if I wanted to pursue it, and I plan on doing the same for my son. We do sit around and listen to lots of records though, so he better have good taste when he grows up!


HipInDetroit: Favorite venues, local band, bar and restaurant?

Ryan:
Venues: I'd say Small's... we've played there more than any other spot, and it sounds great, the people are sweet, and we feel good on the stage when we play.
Local band: It's hard to pick just one, but I'd say some easy picks would be Big Mess, K.I.D.S., Glossies, Waxgordon, and FAWN.
Bar: If there was a bar any of us could be found in, it'd probably be the Loving Touch or Sneakers... but we aren't much for bars, these days, honestly.
Restaurant: John really likes the Olive Garden.

~S

Monday, February 27, 2012

Mikey Hynes!!!! - Part Dos

So, last week we introduced you to our friend Mikey Hynes and told you to watch out for him and his new music project. If you missed the post, check it out and then come back to this one!

Well, Mikey was kind enough to send over one of the first tracks from his solo project. In turn, we are kind enough to share it with you! 
We effing love it and we hope you do too!!!


~C

Get Down, Downtown on Monday Nights

Last week, after grabbing a Paczki Bomb at Small's, we headed over to Woodbridge Pub for Monday Night Slow Jams. We had all been to Woodbridge before, but never for Slow Jams. So we weren't quite sure what to expect. Honestly, we kind of were expecting a bunch of uppity hipsters hanging out. Instead, we found very diverse crowd, listening to great music, chilling, dancing and having a good time.

Slow Jams is a weekly event held at Woodbridge Pub. Eastside Jon (Funk Night) and Erno the Inferno (Tour Detroit) spin some of the best music ever, from funk to Motown and everything in-between. The question we all kept asking ourselves throughout the night was "How do they know all of these awesome songs?" Although some songs were familiar, many were hidden treasures that got past most from our generation, but not past these guys. 

Well that's enough of me babbling on about how cool this event is, I'll let Eastside Jon and Sadie tell you the rest.


So, now you don't have an excuse anymore to stay in on a Monday night! Go out, listen to some good music, play a board game with friends and grab a shot and a beer for $5! Slow Jams at Woodbridge Pub happens every Monday starting at 10 p.m. Hope to see you there!


~C

Oscars 2012 - Recap

Well another Oscars has come and gone. We watched, we judged, and somehow we made it through 4 hours of Billy Crystal being incredibly unfunny and at times slightly racist.

The show was too long and very boring. None of the speeches were very good and none of the award winners were a surprise. Best picture went to "The Artist" and Best Actor went to some actor that did not talk in "The Artist". I love Meryl Streep, but I was routing for Michelle Williams. If you have not seen "My Week With Marilyn" yet, I highly recommend it. She does an incredible job of bringing my favorite icon to life.

Sasha Baron Cohen showed up as The Dictator and threw pancake mix, I mean Kim Jong Il, all over Ryan Seacrest.
He was quickly kicked off the premises.


So without further ado here are my picks for best and worst dressed:

Best Dressed:

Michelle Williams - Louis Vuitton - This dress is so perfect and so sweet and so cute and so sexy! Paired with the lips, she was my favorite for the night.

Jessica Chastain - McQueen - You cannot look bad in McQueen, period. The brocade, the bodice, I die!

Milla Jovovich - Elie Saab - The lips, the shoulder, the hair! This is what a movie star wears to the Oscars!
  
Emma Stone - Giambattista Valli - She looks pretty and age appropriate! I loved this look on her!
 
Angelina Jolie - Atelier Versache - I hate to admit it, but she looks perfect. That leg was the hit of the night.
 
Natalie Portman - Vintage Christian Dior 1954 - I love this dress. Not traditional Oscars, and she just looks great!

Octavia Spencer - Tadashi Shoji - I think she looks awesome. Whoever tailored this did a great job!

Tina Fey - Carolina Herrera - This is sooo good for Tina! She looks put together like a movie star! Loved it!

Anna Faris - Diane Von Furstenburg - Love this look. I feel like this is exactly how I would look if I went to the Oscars! Love it!

Maya Rudolph - Johanna Johnson - Mama looks good! Loved the back!

 Ellie Kemper - Armani Prive - Love the colors in this dress, especially with her hair.



Worst Dressed:

Gwyneth Paltrow - Tom Ford - Bitch wore a cape. Wtf was she thinking? -wrong -veto

Rose Byrne - Vivienne Westwood - I usually love this designer, but this dress and the styling are boring and wrong!

Viola Davis - Vera Wang - I hate the bodice, I hate the fabric and I hate the color!

Rooney Mara - Givenchy - Someone glued her bangs to her head! Fire your hair dresser, fire your tailor and try again!
 Jennifer Lopez - Zuhair Murad - Absolute worst dressed of the night! She took someones curtains stuffed her boobs in them and left her house! Epic fail!

Sandra Bullock - Marchesa - How old are you? 40's or 80's all wrong!

Penelope Cruz -Armani Prive - How old are you? Who dressed you! Wrong!

~S

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Oscars 2012


This Sunday, February 26, 2012 at 7pm The 84th Academy Awards, better know as the Oscars, will be airing live on ABC. Billy Crystal somehow is returning for the 9th time as host of the event, even though many, including me, cannot stand him! Presenters for this years awards include Tom Hanks, Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Penelope Cruz, Emma Stone and the cast of "Bridesmaids".



Jimmy Kimmel Live will be hosting its 7th Annual "Live After the Academy Awards" immediately after the broadcast. He will have appearances from many of the presenters, as well as some of the night's winners. I actually usually enjoy his after show much more than the awards.

The Oscars tend to be boring, but also have some of the best red carpet fashion. So yes, I watch more for the gowns then the awards. This year that statement really rings true because I haven't seen half the nominated films, and probably won't see most of them. A little too serious for my taste.


The gossip is that Sacha Baron Cohen plans to show up as his latest character "The Dictator" and the academy is stating they won't let him in "in costume". So, that might be some fun drama to watch for and see if something funny happens.




Here's the list of nominees in the bigger categories. I don't have any pics because the nominees are so boring that it's hard to care. I will say, I'd love to see Michelle Williams win for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe because it was really great!

Best Picture
:
"The Descendants"
"Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"
"The Help"
"Hugo"
"Midnight in Paris"
"Moneyball"
"The Tree of Life"
"War Horse"

Actor In a Leading Role
:
Demian Bichir - "A Better Life"
George Clooney - "The Descendants"
Jean Dujardin - "The Artist"
Gary Oldman - "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy"
Brad Pitt - "Moneyball"

Actress In a Leading Role
:
Glenn Close - "Albert Nobbs"
Viola Davis - "The Help"
Rooney Mara - "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"
Meryl Streep - "The Iron Lady"
Michelle Williams - "My Week with Marilyn"

Actor In a Supporting Role:

Kenneth Branagh - "My Week with Marilyn"
Jonah Hill - "Moneyball"
Nick Nolte - "Warrior"
Christopher Plummer - "Beginners"
Max Von Sydow - "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"

Actress in a Supporting Role:

Berenice Bejo - "The Artist"
Jessica Chastain - "The Help"
Melissa McCarthy - "Bridesmaids"
Janet McTeer - "Albert Nobbs"
Octavia Spencer - "The Help"


~S

Saturday, February 25, 2012

How Does That Guy Move His Legs Like That???

One thing that I have learned since we started doing this blog, is that the music scene is still alive in Detroit. There are a lot of great bands around here, some old and some new. Whether it was just me getting older, or the fact that bands around here were just not my style anymore, I went from going to a show almost every night, to MAYBE a couple of times a month. I got sick of hearing the same music over and over by bands that all thought their shit didn't stink. (Wow, I really do sound old throwing a phrase like that out there!) 


In the past few weeks we have got a chance to see a lot of great bands, but last night was by far the most energetic, entertaining band I have seen in years. Bars of Gold put on one hell of a show last night at Small's. I had been hearing a buzz about them for a while, but never made it out to one of their shows. Do yourself a favor! Go see them the next time they play! They are super nice dudes, playing awesome music and loving every second of it! Watch the video and you'll see what I mean!

Awesome, right? Make sure you also check out The Fencemen and The Summer Pledge. Both of those bands put on great shows too!

~C

Brunch Time!!!

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of enjoying a new restaurant in Detroit called Seva. I went with 4 friends and a baby and we had a great meal! This restaurant specializes in vegetarian cuisine, fresh squeezed juices, Sunday brunch and has a full bar!
Seva is located at 66 E. Forest in Detroit, between Woodward and John R., near Warren Avenue. It is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. This location opened a few months ago after having success with their first location in Ann Arbor.

All of my fellow diners had breakfast, but I ordered an amazing stir fry covered in peanut sauce. It was so spicy and so delicious that I ate every single bite! My friends all had a version of Mexican eggs that included beans, eggs, cheese, sour cream, and tortillas. We had really good service, a nice table to ourselves and loved the fresh brewed coffee. I think I drank a full pot while we were chatting! 

This restaurant is very big and has tables of all sizes. So you can go with a small or a large group and find seating easily. I also thought that it was reasonably priced, compared to other restaurants that feature vegetarian and vegan choices.

Below are a few pictures of the great food that we had! Check this place out sooner than later because once word gets out I have no doubt it will start to have a line out the door!



~S

Friday, February 24, 2012

It's Time to Bring Out Your Sunday's Best!


Saturday night is the 3rd Annual Punk Rock Winter Formal at The Magic Stick. This show is like taking an awesome punk rock show at one of your favorite venues and putting it in the middle of your high school prom. Except now you won't have to worry about getting in trouble for spiking the punch. We wanted to make sure you know how awesome this show is going to be, so we went right to the source, Amado Guadarrama from Bill Bondsmen, to get the scoop. 


Hip In Detroit: So, this is the 3rd year that you've put on Punk Rock Formal. Where did you get the idea? What made you decide to start organizing this event?
 

Amado: About 2 years ago, we were putting together a record release show. We wanted to do something a little more special and different. We thought "What would be the most and least punk thing you could do at the same time?" So we came up with the idea of a Formal, mostly because we thought it'd be funny to see some of our friends and fans dressed up. It was so much fun the first year that we decided to try to do it annually. Plus I feel people like having a reason to get gussied up for a night.

Hip In Detroit:
  I'm pretty sure most people that have been to a punk rock show in Detroit have at least heard of Bill Bondsmen. How long have you guys been together? How did you get together? What's the band's story?

Amado: Bill Bondsmen have been around for about 9 years now (sheesh!) It started off as kind of a side band to Robert and myself's other band (Bump-N-Uglies), but took a life of it's own. Tony (the singer) and I were DJ's at Smalls and would talk about putting a band together. Rob came aboard and then we had a few drummers. Counting all the 7"s, splits, 12"s and LP, we've done about 7 records with an 8th on the way. We've toured both coasts, all over the midwest and went to Europe a few years back. We've had a lineup change in the last year with a new drummer, who's working out great. We should have another 7" in the spring, followed by a new album.

Hip In Detroit:
What can you tell me about the other bands playing that night?
  
Amado: 

The Arrivals: They put out one of the best solid no bullshit pop punk albums of the past 10 years.   They're from Chicago, have one guy from Minneapolis (Paddy, who's also in a little band called Dillinger 4) and have been fighting the good fight for at least 15 years. "Simple Pleasures In America" is easily one of the best songs ever....trust me.

Frustrations: Local boys. Creepy, Weird but tuneful. Not necessarily punk in sound, but definitely in spirit. Check out Negative Reflections on their own X! record label.

Golden Torso: Heavy (sounding and looking) sounding rock n roll. Not "Rock N Roll" Flaming Dice, Hot Rods and hands making devil horns bullshit. But real deal stuff. Also...good dudes all around .

Hip In Detroit:
If someone hasn't ever been to Punk Rock Formal, what should they expect?

Amado: Expect a bunch of slobs dressed like a bunch of snobs acting like even bigger slobs. Good times, cummerbunds, and great bands.
 

Hip In Detroit:  Last year you had the bands, the photo set up, and a super fun night overall. Anything new that people can look forward to this Saturday? 

Amado: We're playing some new songs, along with a new cover. I know some of the other bands have some suprises in store, but if I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise!


Well there you have it! Sounds like this year's Punk Rock Winter Formal is going to be just as fun as the last couple of years! So doll yourself up, grab a date, or go stag and maybe you'll find someone at the show! The party starts at 8 p.m. and it's only $6 if you wear proper attire! If you want to be a party pooper and just go in the same shit you wear everyday, you have to pay $10...and everyone will make fun of you. Head on over to Flickr to get some fashion ideas from last years guests! 

~C

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Story Time with Mikey Hynes & Rookie of the Year

Mikey Hynes. The dude is a party. That's the best way to describe him. Some of you may remember Mikey as the front man for Girls!Girls!Girls! If so, you know 2 things about him. 1. He's super talented. 2. It's always Spring Break when he's around.
Mikey has been tour managing for tons of bands for years now. The past couple of years he has been spending most of his time on the road with Rookie of the Year. However, now he is doing his own music once again and getting ready to release his first solo album. Last night we got a chance to hang out with Mikey and Mr. Rookie of the Year himself, Ryan Dunson.




We were definitely the oldest people at the show, other than parents. But, all joking aside, the show was great. All the dudes in Rookie of the Year and School Boy Humor put on a great show and were super nice. And Mr. Hynes, it was a pleasure, as always.
We can't wait to see you guys when you come to town again! Until then, keep an eye out for the release of Mikey's new project! 

~CS

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Erotic Armpits & A Good Sense Of Humor - What More Could You Ask For?

For those of you that know Jenny Bloomer, you know she is one of the funniest girls in the Detroit area. Both her witty Facebook posts and her everyday personality are hilarious and straight up awesome. For those of you that don't have the privilege of knowing Jenny personally, you are in luck. You can go see her being her funny self on stage at Go Comedy! Well actually, she's usually playing a character of some sort, but you get the point!

Sadie got a chance to sit down with Jenny before one of her improv shows and we also got some clips from the set!
Enjoy!


If you would like to see Jenny perform, head on out to see "The Tim Machine" running now through March 2nd! You can also catch her on stage most Sunday nights for just $5!

 

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

There are Some 'Bizarre Foods' in Detroit

In case you didn't catch it Monday night, Travel Channel aired their episode of "Bizarre Foods" that was shot in Detroit! 

On "Bizarre Foods" host, Andrew Zimmern, travels across the planet tasting weird and unusual foods. If the description of a type of food makes you cringe, this guy has at least tried it. Even more likely is that he loves it.

 During their visit to Detroit, the show takes viewers to many places throughout the city and it's suburbs including Hamtramck, Eastern Market, and Dearborn. They even made a stop at one of our new favorite pizza joints, Supino's!

 So take a second and check out Andrew's 'Top 5 Moments in Detroit'. But, at some point you should definitely try to catch the entire episode...unless you are a vegetarian... something tells me vegetarians might not care for this show. 

 Photo Courtesy of TravelChannel.com

~C

Paczki!!!

Today the Midwest will be stuffing its fat faces with glee as we celebrate Paczki Day. There is no better place to celebrate than Hamtramck, center of Polish people, culture and food.

Paczki Day started in the middle ages and was created because people were forbidden to consume eggs, lard, sugar, and fruit during the Catholic holiday of Lent. So everyone had to make a treat that would use all of this food up that was in their houses.

Paczki are deep fried pieces of dough shaped into a flat sphere and filled with your choice of fruit or custard filling. They are different than a donut because a donut gets dipped on each side but a Paczki gets totally submerged when it is fried. They are also a little less sweet than a donut, more doughy and less cake like.

Today this holiday is celebrated in Poland and predominately in the Midwest due to our large Polish population. Notable celebrations are held in Boston, Chicago, Illinois, Detroit, and Wisconsin.

Six years ago, Small's Bar in Hamtramck started throwing a huge bash beginning at 10 a.m. and going until 2 a.m. on Fat Tuesday (Paczki Day). They open their doors to approximately 500 people for the day, serve drinks and give out free paczkis. But, the best part is that the mix masters there, including Mike, Rob, Natalie, Melody, and Remi, have figured out how to make a Paczki Bomb! A Paczki Bomb is a 2-3 bite size piece of a paczki packed with your choice of liquor. You can get fat and drunk at the same time! Literally the best idea ever! Mike says that his favorite is stuffed with the famous and amazing Hard Luck Root Beer Vodka, but they also have them made with Raspberry Vodka, Blueberry Vodka, Vanilla Vodka, Bailey's, Lemon Drop Vodka, Red Fish Vodka, Spiced Rum and for the first time this year, Orange Dream Vodka. They said they go through about 25 dozen paczki making the Paczki Bombs, so yes they are a huge hit.

This year they also have The Polka Floyd playing "The Wall" in its entirety beginning at 6 p.m. They will also feature a bar room sing along with "The Captains of the Head" during intermission. All this fun accompanies the other great festivites in the Hamtramck, including the parade that goes right by Small's.

Paczki Bombs are only $3 each! The bar will also be making Polish Sausage and will have souvenir t-shirts and posters for sale! Make sure you head down and join in on all of the fun!


Friday, February 17, 2012

Snakewing - Like a Snake, but with Wings

So you may have met Phil at the W.A.B. when he brought you some delicious nachos or ran into Kevin at Ronin, but you might not have known that these guys are in a bad ass metal band with their pals Nick & Chris. Their band is called Snakewing and they played an awesome show with Golden Torso last night at The Loving Touch. We got a chance to catch up with them at Sneakers before the show. 


~CBS

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Get In The Mood

So today is not only Valentine's Day and Vagina Day, it is also the annual Dirty Show in Detroit. It takes place every Valentine's weekend and is going on now until February 18th.

For those who may not know already, The Dirty Show is an erotic art exhibition that has become one of the largest in the world. The show features performance artists dancers, and the spoken word and draws people from all over the world.


We had a chance to catch up with a couple people involved in the show.

HipInDetroit- How long have you been involved in The Dirty Show and how did you get involved?
Bri- I've been involved with the dirty show for four years. I started off modeling and doing shows for Noir Leather and we did a skit at the dirty show a few years back. I took a year or so off from the modeling and dancing in the show and then came back to the dirty show in 2010. 

HipInDetroit- What is your role in the show?
Bri- I'm a go-go dancer. I dance in the cages for most of the night. Then walk around amongst the crowd.
HipInDetroit- How would you explain The Dirty Show to someone who has never been?
Bri- The dirty show is the place to go if you want to see people be who they really are, no judgment, no bullshit, just real people. The art is amazing and racy, as well as the acts that perform on stage throughout the night. Its nothing like you will ever see, but it opens your eyes to a whole new world that most people shy away from.
HipInDetroit- Do you have an inside tip about this years show? Or is there something that makes it different from years past?

Bri- The show gets better as the years go on, everyone that works it finds ways to make it better and more enticing each year. The people that put it on have grown and found ways to make it run more smoothly (from a behind the scenes perspective). I don't really have any inside scoop. I just think that everyone should go and experience it at least once, its an eye opener.

Our other friend had this to say about the show: 
'Doing The Dirty Show for the second year in a row is great. Being around all this creativity and self expression is such a breath of fresh air. Another reason why I love performing at it is because it makes me feel comfortable with my body and to appreciate the human anatomy'

We think it all sounds pretty great, so if you're feeling dirty, you better get your butt over there.
~CSB

Happy Vagina Day! Holidays That Leave Others Out Are So Lame!

While many couples will be getting together tonight to spend way too much money on a meal, flowers, or chocolates, I will likely be at the gym. That is beside the point, though. The point is that I am not one to celebrate Valentine's Day, although I do have quite an amazing Valentine. I'm not bragging, just saying its not my kind of tea party.

Instead, a few years ago, I started celebrating Vagina Day! Rather than making your coworker or cousin Cindy feel bad for not being half of a two person love team (because that's the be all, end all right?), you can celebrate the fact that you are an amazing woman or man, who came from an amazing woman, or loves a amazing woman or is father or mother to an amazing woman. Basically, everyone came from and loves a vagina and that's a fun thing to celebrate. I always send cards to the women who made me the woman that I am and I celebrate the women who help me get through the day. A few years ago I made shirts that said "I love vagina!" and threw a huge party, that surprisingly was one of the best attended parties that I ever threw, go figure!

But, it was fun to celebrate strong women throughout the world, and remember that there are still women fighting for the right to vote, be born, go to school and to fulfill their dreams. Women are being abused, degraded, and paying outrageous prices for birth control! We forget how amazing those vaginas are!

Take a second today and tell the many amazing women in your life how special they are!

Check out VDay.org to learn more about the fight against all violences against women.
I'm all about celebrating the vagina for Valentine's Day, go tell you friend, your mom, your sister, your coworker, your teacher and your girlfriend that you love their vagina. That shouldn't be grounds for termination right?

Sidenote: For all you smart assess out there that say "what about penis day?" I say to you- everyday is penis day, that's kind of what this whole fight for equal rights thing is all about! So boom!
Touché!
 ~S

Monday, February 13, 2012

Grammys Shammies

Well the 54th Annual Grammy Awards aired on CBS last night and were a GIANT disappointment, unless you tuned in to see Adele give thank you speeches! Poor GaGa got all dressed up in Versace and didn't even get many camera shots! Sad mother monster!

All of the performances, except Adele, were disappointing in my opinion. So I guess we can just talk about who was the worst! Adele sang amazing, which was the big talk of the night, but all she did was stand there and sing a song that has been overplayed. So how exciting can that be??? The Foo Fighters were okay, better the second time they came out, but then some giant mouse interrupted them and that performance fell flat fast. Katy Perry did an embarrassing Lady Gaga-esc interpretation of her horrible space love song that bored me, Nicki Minaj had the lame exorcism coupled with a horrible song and horrible rhyming, Bruno Mars did the same performance we've seen 5 times (MTV awards), and I think Chris Brown flipped around. At some point a country artist wore an ugly puffy skirt and sang and some old guy joined in. Basically, one performance was worse than the next. Jennifer Hudson's tribute to Whitney could have been good if she would have said something, or sang more than half the song, kinda sad and half assed. Sorry, Whitney.


Adele won all 6 awards that she was nominated for. So there were no surprises, except for Bon Iver winning best new artist. His speech and hairline were sad and retreating and didn't do much to help him win people over . Kanye and Hova didn't even bother to show up, which was sad because Kanye won Rap Album of the Year. Guess he meant it when he said he wouldn't come back after being snubbed a few years ago.


I vote Amber Rose (Wiz Kalifa's girlfriend) best dressed of the night, and Katy Perry worst dressed by far. GaGa was cute but typical and Adele was cute for a 40 year old going to a wedding. I'm not even talking about Fergie because what she has on was wrong, and if you liked it I don't like you!


At least I got to drink and smile with friends. So the night wasn't a total bust, but it left much to be desired. Rock and Roll needs to rip through the airwaves and breath some life back into this shit, because I love awards shows, but I may even give up watching soon. I don't know how many hours I can waste watching this drizzle!!!


~S

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Grammy Picks 2012- How Many Grammy's Can Adele Win In One Night? (How bad do you think that dude that dumped her feels now?)

Tonight, CBS will be broadcasting the 54th Annual Grammy Awards from The Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The First Grammys were in 1959 and were created to honor people who were being recognized by NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) for the Hollywood Walk of Fame. They decided that just like TV and film stars, musical artist deserved a chance to be recognized.

Every year thousands of members of NARAS receive ballots in the mail and get the chance to vote for their pick in each category. They are urged to vote according to quality of the song, artist or album and not vote based on sales, chart performance, or personal friendships. Once those votes are tallied up, they air a three hour live broadcast (7 hours if you include the awards they hand out before the show goes live) complete with live performances and tons of celebrity's to help announce the winners.


This year the pre-show will air online at
Grammy.com at 1pm eastern time and continue until the show starts at 8pm eastern time on CBS. The show has performances scheduled from Chris Brown, Katy Perry, Adele (her first performance since throat surgery), Chris Martin of Coldplay, Bruce Springsteen, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Bruno Mars, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift, Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters, and Jason Aldean.

So, here's a rundown of the categories that actually matter and who I would like to see win.


Record of the Year
:
1. Adele - Rolling in the Deep
2. Bon Iver - Holocene
3. Bruno Mars - Grenade
4. Mumford and Sons - The Cave
5. Katy Perry - Firework

 I would love to see Bon Iver win this to make all my friends happy, but I'm pretty sure Adele will take this category with no problems. She is anticipated to be the big winner of the night and this category should be a lock. No one in their right mind would vote for that annoying "Firework" song unless they were into meth!

Album of the Year
:
1. Adele - 21
2. Foo Fighters - Wasted Light
3. Lady GaGa - Born This Way
4. Bruno Mars - Doo Woops and Hooligans
5. Rihanna - Loud
 

I can't imagine anyone but Miss Gaga taking this category. Yes, Adele got more play, but "Born This Way" was not only amazing from start to finish but it also permeated our culture this year and changed fashion, helped along the fight for gay rights, and introduced us to a women who can sing and play the piano as good as the Elton Johns and Billy Joels before her. I think this one will either go to GaGa or Adele but I would love to see it go to either Gaga or the Foo Fighters, I personally enjoyed those records a lot more.

Song of the Year
:
1. "All of the Lights"- Kanye West/Rihanna/Kid Cudi
2. "The Cave" - Mumford and Sons
3. "Grenade" - Bruno Mars
4. "Holocene" - Bon Iver
5. "Rolling in the Deep" - Adele

There is no question that Adele will win this one, I can't walk into a store, turn on a radio, or walk into a bar without hearing this song over and over again. I would love to see Kanye take the Grammy along with his crew, but I do not think this will be his big break. I think Kanye will see more wins in the Rap Categories but will likely lose the Grammys in the other categories to bigger pop albums of the year.


Best New Artist:

1. The Band Perry
2. Bon Iver
3. J.Cole
4. Nicki Minaj

5. Skrillex

This category is a little more difficult to predict because it is usually the one with the most surprises. I would love to see My Pink Friday Hoe, Nicki Minaj, take it down, but I am not sure that she will be able to beat out Bon Iver and Skrillex. Both of those artists also had big years! I will be sitting fingers crossed hoping for Nicki tonight. No former guy from From First to Last should win a Grammy over the newest queen of rap.


Best Pop Solo
:
1. Adele - "21"
2. Lady Gaga - "You and I"
3. Bruno Mars - "Grenade"
4. Katy Perry - "Firework"
5. Pink - "Fucking Perfect"

My first question is, how the hell did Pink and Bruno Mars even get nominated in this category? Someone has been smoking something! This battle will be between Adele and Lady Gaga, but in the end I think Adele has this one too. I would love to see Gaga take the award, especially after seeing her preform this at Lalapalooza this year, but I think this will be another easy Adele win.


Best Pop Vocal
:
1. 21 - Adele
2. The Lady Killer - Cee Lo Green
3. Born This Way - Lady Gaga
4. Doo Woops and Hooligans - Bruno Mars
5. Loud - Rihanna

Gaga or Adele will take this, but I bet it'll be like Adele's 4th thank you speech of the night. I hope Gaga gets up there at least once!


Best Rock Performance
:
1. Coldplay - "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall"
2. The Decemberists- "Down by the Water"
3. Foo Fighters - "Walk"
4. Mumford and Sons - "The Cave"
5. Radiohead - "Lotus Flower"

I would love to see the Foo or Radiohead win this category, but that Mumford and Sons seems to be the apple of everyone's eye for some reason unknown to me. I think we are likely to see them take this category. And for me to likely go get another beer or take a pee while they blubber on with their thank you's.


Best Hard Rock/ Metal
:
1. "On the Backs of Angels" - Dream Theater
2. "White Limo" - Foo Fighters
3. "Curl of the Burl" - Mastodon
4. "Public Enemy #1"- Megadeth
5. "Blood in my Eyes" - Sum 41
 

Who the fuck nominated Sum 41!?!?!? You should be ashamed of yourself! Mastodon should win this but the Foo Fighters will likely take this category and I will enjoy every second of Dave Grohl on screen. Em em good! I'm here, Dave. I'm still waiting for you, Everlong.

Best Rock
:
1. Jeff Beck - Rock 'n' Roll Party
2. Foo Fighters - Wasting Light
3. Kings of Leon - Come Around Sundown
4. The Red Hot Chili Peppers - "I'm With You"
5. Wilco - The Who Love

Honestly , who cares? Crappy choices, and there are no rock stations on regular radio anymore! Foo Fighters for sure! 2nd win of the night for them, if I'm right.


Best Alternative Album
:
1. Bon Iver - Bon Iver
2. Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys
3. Foster the People - Torches
4. My Morning Jacket - Circuital
5. Radiohead - The King of Limbs

Radiohead or Bon Iver, but this category has that "I don't give a fuck" feel to it.


Best Rap Performance
:
1. "Fame" - Chris Brown/Little Wayne/ Busta Rhymes
2. "The Show Goes On" - Lupe Fiasco
3. "Otis"- Jay Z/ Kanye West
4. "Moment For Life" - Nicki Minaj/ Drake
5. "Black and Yellow"- Wiz Khalifa

 I like every nominee in this category except for Chris Brown, but the record was called "Watch the Throne" for a reason. This will be the time of the night to pop a bottle, throw your diamonds in the sky, and realize "It's a celebration bitches".

Best Rap Song/ Collaboration
:
1. "Party" - Beyonce and Andre 3000
2. "I'm on One" - DJ Khaled/Drake/Rick Ross/ Little Wayne
3. "I Need a Doctor" - Dr. Dre/ Eminem/ Skyler Grey
4. "What's My Name" - Rihanna/Drake
5. "Motivation" - Kelly Rowland/ Lil Wayne
6. "All of the Lights" - Kanye/ Rhianna/ Kid Cudi
 

I would love to see Kanye take this one home too, but I think good old Detroit boy Eminem deserves to get a Grammy this year after getting raped by them last year! He was nominated like 15 times and just got wrecked last year. I always love some redemption.

Best Rap Song
:
1. "All of the Lights" - Kanye/Rhianna/ Kid Cudi
2. "Black and Yellow" -Wiz Kalifa
3. "I Need a Docotor" - Eminiem/Dr. Dre
4. "Otis" - Kanye/ Jay Z
5. "The Show Goes On" - Lupe Fiasco
 

Diamonds in the sky girls and boys! The rock is in the building! Hova and Yeezy all the way

Best Rap Album
:
1. Watch the Throne - Kanye/Jay Z

2. The Carter IV - Lil Wayne
3. Lasers - Lupe Fiasco
4. Pink Friday - Nicki Minaj
5. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West
 

This one is actually hard for me, not because I don't think for a second that Watch the Throne won't win, because it will. But, because all of these albums are amazing, and Kayne's solo album was even played on college radio. It reached across genres and it may very well be more deserving of the title. But, when you put 2 of the greatest rappers of all time on an album and couple it with an amazing tour, you have something unbeatable. Kudos to Kanye for two nods in the same category. Either way, I think we will see him and 30 chains on stage dedicating this shit to his mama, and for me that's good enough.

Well, I can't wait to get my friends together, pop a bottle, and enjoy the 54th Grammys. Let us know who your voting for and what you think of my picks!


~S