Tag Archive: Indie


What’s The Buzz ?


Rachel Browne and Andrew Futral (Field Mouse) Photo Credit: Shervin Lainez

Rachel Browne and Andrew Futral (Field Mouse) Photo Credit: Shervin Lainez

Field Mouse is a four-piece dream pop band from Brooklyn, NY. Seamlessly interweaving influences from shoegaze, indie, and power pop, Field Mouse offers lush sonic textures and expansive soundscapes to complement the airy, wistful vocals of singer/guitarist Rachel Browne. Through complex and delicate harmonies, the songwriting of Browne and guitarist Andrew Futral breathes new life into common themes of lost love and renewal.The band has been honing its sound since its formation in 2010, and has solidified its lineup with the recent addition of bassist Danielle DePalma and drummer Geoff Lewit. Their first release on Small Plates Records (http://smallplatesrecs.com/) finds the group realizing its musical vision, incorporating rich synthesizers and feedback to give an edge to its soaring arrangements and pop sensibilities.Brooklyn’s Field Mouse are recording their first full length album this winter. During the process, they will be self-releasing a few songs. The first,
Tomorrow is Yesterday, is an energetic take on melodic early-90s indie rock, with singer-guitarist Rachel Browne’s sweet, wistful vocals over a surge of feedback mixed with dreamy pop.

See Field Mouse on Tour 2013

4/19/13-PA, Philadelphia @ MilkBoy
4/20/13-DC, Washington @ Rock N roll Hotel
4/21//13-NC, Chapel Hill @ Local 506
4/23/13-FL, Gainsville @ The Atlantic
4/24/13-FL, Orlando @ The Social
4/26/13-GA, Atlanta @ The Masquerade
4/27/13-TN, Memphis @ Crosstown Arts
4/28/13-TX, Dallas @ The Prophet Bar
4/30/13-TX, Houston @ Rudyard’s
5/1/13-TX, Austin @ Mohawk
5/3/13-TX, El Paso @ Gallery 127
5/4/13-AZ, Scottsdale @ Pub Rock
5/6/13-CA, San Diego @ Soda Bar
5/7/13-CA, Los Angeles @ Echo
5/8/13-CA, San Francisco @ Bottom Of The Hill
5/9/13-OR, Portland @ Doug Fir Lounge
5/11/13-WA, Seattle @ Sunset Tavern
5/13/13-UT, Salt Lake City @ Urban Lounge
5/15/13-CO, Denver @ Larmier Lounge
5/16/13-KS, Lawrence @ Jackpot Music Hall
5/17/13-MN, Minneapolis @ Triple Rock
5/18/13-IL, Beat Kitchen @ Beat Kitchen
5/19/13-MI, Lansing @ Mac’s Bar
5/20/13-OH, Cleveland @ Beachland Tavern
5/21/13-ON, Toronto @ The Drake Hotel
5/22/13-PA, Pittsburgh @ Club Cafe
5/23/13-MA, Cambridge @ TT the Bear’s Place
5/24/13-NY, New York @ Bowery Ballroom

Visit Field Mouse at http://fieldmousemusic.com/ and

Bandcamp http://fieldmouse.bandcamp.com/
Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/fieldmousemusic
Twitter https://twitter.com/fieldmousemusic
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fieldmousemusic




Rebecca’s Creations – Going Video!

Why video? Why change? To be honest, first, we’re changing formats because it’s the cool thing to do for cool contributions. Second, Rebecca is a communicator with an outgoing personality. Video lets you know Rebecca more personally and it gives Rebecca more flexibility. She can do more than write about the indie scene – she can actually show you what she’s talking about.

As most of you know, Rebecca Nobrega has been a regular contributor to HorizonVU Music both on and off-line for well over a year. She brings us news and reviews of the latest in indie fashion, design, and of course, the music scene. This week Rebecca takes to the streets of Toronto to find out what people are thinking about seasonal indie fashions, their thoughts on “Black Friday” and more. Enjoy!!!

Phil Cartwright
CEO, HorizonVU Music

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling. She keeps a close listen and watch on the Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.







Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling. She keeps a close listen and watch on the Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

Photo Credit: lookbook.nu

Photo Credit: lookbook.nu

This week’s article is about the shift in fall trends, but the focus is on how to achieve fall looks affordably, and places that one can go to find great deals! I walked around the streets of Toronto, Ontario asking young adults their thoughts on fall fashion and wear – and the best places to find that look!

Living in Toronto, Canada’s fashion capital, there are a variety of little boutiques and stores offering many divine and trendy pieces. Of course, these come with a wide spectrum of prices, but the possibilities are endless.

When asking people to spontaneously (top of the head) list the stores they would recommend to both men and women shopping for pieces of high quality at a good price, the stores that came up most often were Forever 21, H&M, American Apparel and Zara, and though not necessarily high class, a thrift shop. The shops in are clearly different in their ranking as far as “value for money” is concerned. Quality, prices and appeal to personal taste in fashion vary.

Photo Credit: SFcheaply.com

Photo Credit: SFcheaply.com


Considering different price ranges within each store, I asked them how they felt about paying for higher ticket merchandise. Most people did mention that at least some of the stores they had in mind have high prices, but in their minds the shoppping experience is not necessarily all about finding super cheap items. There is clearly a willingness to give on price in exchange for higher quality. One individual mentioned that Zara for example, is known for their trendy and timeless pieces. Also, their quality is recognized, so sometimes spending a fair amount is worth it. Hopefully, by
Photo Credit: zimbio.com

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

purchasing a long lasting piece that will not go out of style you’ll get more use and satisfaction from it. When it came to thrift stores like Goodwill, I was a bit surprised by the candor with which people acknowledged their visits to these outlets, but it is clear that people who like to express their independence find a lot of pleasure in wearing something obscure that they found in a thrift store. Many people encouraged visits to thrifts. You can find a lot of branded merchandise and if you know how to put together an outfit it’s a great and inexpensive way to achieve a chic fall look.

Photo Credit: weheartit.com

Photo Credit: weheartit.com

The people I asked were young adults who had preferences for different styles and followed different trends. Some had more of a hipster look, where others more of a sophisticated look. I asked them each to describe their favourite fall outfit, and not surprisingly, I got a large variety of answers. Many mentioned that they liked the over-sized trench coat with baggy sweaters and scarves look, while others described a clean peacock with high fall boots and over-sized totes. For the guys, there was talk of skinnies with a plane V-neck t-shirt, or to dress it up a little more, a dress shirt with a belt adding either denim or some sort of jacket to make a finished look.

Photo Credit: FAVIN.com

Photo Credit: FAVIN.com

Stopping people on the street asking them about their taste in fashion world and where to shop for “good value”, revealed the diversity of people and their tastes. Clearly, you consider yourself to be a member of he indie community, there are so many ways to look stylish without giving up your independence and you can stay within a budget.

If you have not heard of these or have not had the opportunity to visit these places, be sure to find the locations closest to you and catch some great deals! Remember when putting together something, it is not all about how much you spend, but rather the quality and the impact of the outfit. Feel good in whatever you wear and wherever you wear it.

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling. She keeps a close listen and watch on the Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

samantha moore1This week I’m featuring the talented Samantha Moore. Moore grew up in Colborne, Ontario, Canada. She attended East Northumberland Secondary School and began performing in summer singing competitions around Ontario. She was ‘discovered’ in 2002 at age thirteen while competing in the Kingston, Ontario Fall Fair Talent Contest. Six months later she was signed to a standard one record deal with Geffen Records and moved to Los Angeles to write and record music.

Samantha collaborated with well known industry songwriters such as Curt Frasca, Sabelle Breer and many more. By the time she was 16, Samantha had written and collaborated on more than fifty songs. Many of these songs were recorded, but the release of her debut album was delayed. Her second album, “Finally” was released in August 2008, and contains a number of the more popular tracks like “Deadly in Pink” along with the previously unreleased song “They’re There”. She has signed a million dollar music publishing deal with BMG Music Publishing and has formed her own publishing company, “Sammy Jo Productions Inc.”

Being an Indie musician offering yourself and what you have to give to the music world less the bells and whistles that sometimes go with the “big label” deals. You can see that with her sound and lyrics, Samantha traces out her signature style. Samantha looks youthful and natural. Her style is simple, but that certainly doesn’t mean she’s anything but an amazing musician. For the “average” person wanting to recreate a celebrities style, but on a budget , taking a “buy what I love attitude” is a great beginning. Simple T shirts played up with something that’s a little dressy looking can launch your look. From skinny jeans to leggings to a nicely fitted or flattering dress, it all works. Loose accessories and a more natural look is what it takes. The natural look is defines a person letting the world see behind the “mask”. Samantha inspires us through her music and her style. So, when adopting Samantha’s look, make sure you include your own identity and remember to not to be who someone tells you to be. That’s the best kind of artist.

Visit Samantha Moore at http://www.myspace.com/samanthamooremusic/music

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling. She keeps a close listen and watch on the Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

Marianne Le Gendre

Marianne Le Gendre

This article is about an artist working her way to stardom. She calls herself Marianne Le Gendre. Now, there is not much info on her or her biography, so many have to get an impression based on her music and style. Her voice, sound, lyrics as well as her friendly personality shape her as an artist . Being an Indie Musician requires much more then the choice of lyrics or sound of music. Behind the music there is a person working to incorporate the personality into the music. In addition to the person’s music and personality, style and fashion is another key factor. Marianne is an artist that does, in fact, embody the whole of her personality, music and style. She has spent a lot of time doing what she loves in order to make it to where she wants to be. Her hard work and dedication stands out and is magnified by the positive feed back from all of her fans.

When it comes to style and the media side of the music business, the artist shows off visually, not just verbally. As seen in her pictures, you are able to tell what kind of look she has. Many are inspired by artists looks, they but do not think they have the capability to copy it. In this day and age there is so much talk about how “designer is better”. One does not have to wear the most expensive piece of clothing to look fabulous. All it takes is going to your favourite stores and picking out what looks similar. The key to creating a look is not finding the identical pieces, but rather what is almost the same. Following this path, your own indie side and individualism can be shown to the world.

The pictures show Marianne’s look. She wears what makes her happy and that which best defines her as a musician and person. You can achieve this look affordably by purchasing items that are not that Hollywood flash pieces. The trick is to do classy and stylish without all the bling and to do it with moderation in mind. Wearing a nice simple dress or shirt will definitely work. Wearing leggings, skinny jeans or a nice skirt also work. Again, the trick to making a simple look fit is in how you chose to put the the pieces together. When creating a look, remember to capture yourself. Represent yourself Sure, let your talent show through, but don’t forget to think about your special look.

Visit Marianne Le Gendre at http://www.myspace.com/mariannelegendre/music

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Andrea Soler is an Australian singer songwriter with compelling vocals and insightful lyrics who has just recently toured the UK summer festivals including Isle Of Wight, Larmer Tree and the Sunrise Festival. Musically inspired by the passionate joie de vivre of her French ancestry she exudes a distinctly European influenced sound, yet maintaining her own take on indie folk. Likening herself and her music to the old ways of gypsies and travelers; expect a swathe of moods and emotion from Andrea’s soulful live performances.

Andrea, it’s really a pleasure to meet you and to be part of your journey! We know a bit about you from earlier talks and your bio, but tell us a bit about your musical path and how has your career has developed.

AS: When I was 18, I went to the Woodford Folk Festival here in Australia. I’ll never forget the feeling I had watching band after band blow me away. I knew then, one day I would play that festival, all I wanted was to be a musician! So, I then bought a guitar and started playing and writing songs. I went busking on the streets with my sister. After recording a home made demo, I decided to try my luck overseas and bought a one way ticket to Paris. I ended up living there for over a year and played in bars in Montmatre and even Fete De La Musique in 2007! I then went to the UK where I was then sponsored to record my first EP ‘Better in The Sunshine’ at The Sonic Kitchen Studios. I played festivals such as the Larmer Tree, Isle of Wight and Sunrise Festival, UK. I got on so well with my producer that I went on to record my debut album ‘Earth On An Axis’ with him as well. Since coming back to Australia I achieved my dream of performing at many festivals and lastyear I played at the Woodford Folk Festival, the place that kick started my musical career!

Is there anybody who has really helped you along you path, Do you have a mentor?

AS: I am very lucky to say that I have had so many people help me along the way. My biggest mentor is Alan ‘Big Al’ Hill. He was the incredibly brilliant man who produced my first two records. He believed in me and taught me so much about the recording process, about music and about life. He truly was an incredible man, a world class musician (played bass for Jack Dejonette – Miles Davis’s drummer, produced for Shirley Bassey & many more). Sadly, Al passed away a couple of years ago, is greatly missed today by so many people around the world. I still count him as my biggest mentor. I always think – what would make Al proud?

What’s next for you? What’s coming up for you live and recorded?

AS: I have just finished recording my brand new EP called Daydreamer. I’m going to be launching it here in Australia at the beginning of June, and then embarking on a twelve week tour through the UK and Europe! I’ve booked 18 shows already which includes four festivals in the UK. We’ll also be making a documentary about this tour to inspire independent musicians to manage themselves and book their own international tours. I am very excitied about this trip, especially to return to Paris!

Do tells us a bit about your latest album.

AS: Daydreamer is a five track EP. It’s a collection of songs I’ve written on the ukulele. A lady once said to me that you can’t write a sad song on the ukulele. Well, one day I was sitting at home and wrote a song called ‘Heart Break Floor’. It’s about my first heart break. At least I can prove to the lady you can write a sad song on the ukuele! Then there’s ‘Love at First Sight’ which is a true story about a guy who was lost, walked into a cafe to ask for directions and fell in love with the girl behind the counter, and there’s Daydreamer which is the title track. It’s a song to remind people how important it is to believe in their dreams. Lonesome Traveller is a haunting tune, and The Palmreader is a song about.. well, I guess you’ll just have to hear it and find out!

It’s hard to believe that anyone would have the nerve to break your heart! Let’s take a few minutes out to let everybody in on what’s going on as we watch “Daydreamer EP”

We work with a lot of young emerging artists. Can you share a certain moment in your career – good or bad – that’s kept you moving on?

AS: I think I’ll share a good and a bad if that’s ok? The bad moment was when I lost one of my best friends and producer Big Al. He means so much to me. He always assured me along the way. Gave me advice, feedback about my songs and made me laugh too! He brought out the best in me, and I’ll never forget all that he did for me.

A good moment – I think it was just recently, when I walked onto the stage to play at last years’ Woodford Folk Festival! It had been myAndrea Soler_010 dream for over ten years to play at this festival. I had to pinch myself a couple of times to realise that I was literally living the dream. It taught me to never give up on my dream, keep working hard, and enjoy the journey!

I always like to ask our guests about personal heros, so here goes…who is your hero? Why?

AS:There are so many people that inspire me. When I read the biography of Edith Piaf, I felt so inspired by her zest for life and for everything she achieved from her humble beginnings as a homeless girl on the streets of Paris. Then there’s Joni MItchell who got Polio at the age of 8 and started singing to get better. She is another woman who overcame obstacles in her life and achieved her dreams. I think another of my heroes would be Sally Dastey. She is an Australian singer and is such a beautiful person and gives her whole heart to her audience. I like artists that give their all.

I have to tell you, that my colleagues here at HorizonVU Music are not to wild about that question (they’ve heard me ask it so many times), but I think you saved me…we’re all Joni Mitchell fans! Andrea, again, thanks so much for your time and we look forward to going live in September. We’ll be posting your gigs!

Visit Andrea Soler at www.andreasoler.com
www.reverbnation.com/andreasolermusic
www.myspace.com/andreasoler
www.horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling. She keeps a close listen and watch on the Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

This week’s column is a contrast piece between two talented Indie musicians, Abbie Rhode and Adaline. Abbie was born

Abbie Rhode

Abbie Rhode

and raised in the extremely small town of Virginia City, Montana. She became very interested in music at a young age – she always told her parents how she dreamed to be a star. She began by writing songs when she was in the fifth grade and decided to take up guitar when she was thirteen. Abbie’s main influences are her family, loving friends and the Beatles. Being an indie musician takes much dedication and passion. Abbie demonstrates that through her will and love for music. She defines herself through the words of her music.

Adaline

Adaline

Adaline, on the other hand, expesses a very different experience growing up with music. From pulsing rock, to cabaret, to orchestral ballads, she creates meticulously crafted sound scapes where brass, strings, and vibraphone meet electric guitars and programmed percussion. Classical and pop sensibilities produce soundtracks that are both artistic and accessible.

Both of these musicians embody the characteristics of what it means to be independent, wholehearted and original. They believe in the power of song writing and what it means to entirely represent them. Just like a song taking creativity and input from one’s true character, their personal style makes for their individuality and careers as a musician.

From the pictures of both musicians, one is able to see their sense of style and who they are appearing as, as a person. Abbie carries herself with her curly locks and that can represent a laid back independent style. Adaline on the other hand is seen with many looks from different outfits to different hair styles. She is seen dressing both up and down. On stage, she stays casual with her tees versus dressing up with dresses and heels.

Achieving Adaline’s look is pretty simple. One can go to any store of their choice and find some simple cut shirts with any sleeve type. They can be a solid colour or have a desired print to them. Jackets can be good too. From leather, to a simple nice denim, it works with the look all according to what it is paired with. As far as bottoms go, skinny jeans, boot cut jeans or leggings work. The styles and colour will reflect on the shirt and jacket and what one thinks looks best and what they feel comfortable in. Also, simple dresses work really well with look as it can be dressed up or down by basic shoes and/or accessories. Shoes are very open ranges as well. Tall boots, to heels, to flats, it all works! Another great way to achieve this look is through accessories! One can wear something a little more bulkier to achieve a more loud look versus something more simple which still makes the look, but in a more simplistic way. So you see, anyones look can be recreated in a simple and affordable way. Anyone is able to achieve not only the look, but any musician’s look at an affordable price. It is about strategies and creativity. It does not mean buying the exact article of clothing, rather manipulate and find something similar that fits both the look and your own personal style. Abbie and Adaline are creative  - showing passion with their music. Be sure to visit them at:

Adaline: http://www.unsigned.com/adaline

Abbie: http://www.unsigned.com/abbierhode

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular, bi-weekly column for HorizonVU Music. Rebecca was born  in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling.  She keeps a close listen and watch on the  Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

On September 14th, 2011 I had the opportunity to visit with  Shawnee, lead singer from the emerging Canadian Band, “She King.” She was only

Shawnee SheKing

Shawnee SheKing

five years old when she discovered she could sing. She would dance around on picnic tables and have fun because she loved entertaining people and making them laugh. Shawnee not only knew how to sing, but she took her dad’s guitar and realized her natural ability to play and write music. Growing up she found that she was growing as a writer and her putting words down on paper became easier. Along the way her major influence was Melissa Etheridge.  Her mom first introduced her to Etheridge’s music.

I  asked her about what it was like performing and the ups and downs. With anything that anyone does there will always be some downs. But for Shawnee, the ups are being able to write and have people relate to her music. To her that’s what is most important and that overcomes any downs. When Shawnee was younger, she was a Shania Twain impersonator. She would sing all of her songs and she was sure she was going to become a country singer until she was 17.  After that, she started to branch out to different genres of music like rock, pop and more. And that is was She King is about as well. She King’s music ranges across many styles of music and it will still continue to evolve. Through her music she has an important message that she wants to send. It was just this year, she said, when she truly realized it. To her, it doesn’t matter if she becomes huge or touring Canada for the rest of her life. The only thing that matters is being yourself and doing what you love. It’s by remembering who she is and why she chooses music that keeps her motivated and makes her happy. I want to let you in on a great vid…This One’s For You (Shawnee Unplugged)…

With music comes creativity and branching off to different styles. That is how she would describe her look as well. It changes and she gets to be anything she wants to be. Her style is her personality as she acts on her individualism and is no one but herself. She has a very feminine side where she loves to dress up. From wearing dresses to her “insane show collection” to her nity gritty masculine side. She pulls off both looks like no other because for her, it’s effortless and that is all as a result to her confidence of being herself.

Right now, She King is focused on finishing their album. They are currently working with Allen Frew, lead singer of the Canadian band Glass Tiger. She King is still exploring different sounds,  they want it their sound to be real, they want it to be “them”. Looking forward, their goal for the future is to perform for an arena of people but even if that does not happen, she will never give up. She is a determined artist who strives for success and will always keep going. She will keep writing and singing for people. She told me that no matter what, f whether she becomes very famous or not, she will always share her passion for singing and performing.  She King will continue to evolve and take n new looks and sounds. For Shawness, a band is about a relationship – sometimes disagreements happen –  but at the end of the day, and when all is said and done and the decision is made, it is all completely worth it. Shawnee  is a business woman as well as an artist. The band and music is her business and whether it is her manager or bandmates, she wants others to be involved. She has her artistic side and she wants people and fans to follow the music, but  there’s her business side and she knows that the job has to get done.

She King recently went on tour in Halifax and Windsor. Performing she says is phenomenal and there aren’t any words to describe it. She becomes  like a whole new Shawnee when she is on stage. It is like nothing else matters, no one can break her. The show is about chaos and thrill. She is a true born entertainer who truly only wants to express her love and passion for music. Even if all she did was play an acoustic guitar and sang for 5 people and all those people like it, that would be good enough for her. An important message that Shawnee wants to make  -  just be you. For her, she feels that if it wasn’t for that, she would not be where she is today. With anything you do, there is always going to be somewhere telling you that you are not good enough or no, try this and that shouldn’t matter. What matters is knowing what you have to offer is good enough regardless what others have to say. She tries to encourage that it doesn’t matter what people say, but what you do and it is your confidence and the belief in yourself that allows one to succeed.

Shawnee is nothing short of very, very cool! From her look to her personality, I enjoyed every minute of the interview. Shawnee is a genuine and outgoing person. I definitely look forward to interviewing her again in the future.

Be sure to check out She King at:

http://www.myspace.com/shekingband

http://twitter.com/#!/SheKingBand

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular, bi-weekly column. Rebecca was born  in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling.  She keeps a close listen and watch on the  Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.

This week’s contrast piece is focused on Laura Marling and Indie musician Allie Moss. Laura Marling is singer-songwriter from Eversley,

Laura Marlind

Laura Marling

Hampshire. She rose to fame through the London folk scene and later found prominence as a solo artist. Marling has toured with a number of well-recognized indie bands and her own work is acknowledged for her bold melodies and poetic lyrics. In 2007, Laura Marling appeared on ‘Suspicious Eyes’ by The Rakes, a track from their album Ten New Messages, after their singer Alan Donohoe discovered her on MySpace. She went on to collaborate with Mystery Jets on their single ‘Young Love’. Laura Marling’s second album, I Speak Because I Can

Allie Moss

Allie Moss

was released in 2010 and was produced by Ethan Jones. The debut single released from the album was ‘Goodbye England (Covered In Snow)’. Also, just this year at the Brit Awards, she finally won British female solo artist. She is definitely an artist that a lot of people can look up to.  Allie Moss on the other hand is an unsigned artist who is slowly building her ladder of success. She regularly performs as lead guitarist for singer/songwriter and friend Ingrid Michaelson. While not performing on Ingrid’s 2010 European tour, Allie returned to the fold during the summer of 2010 for a State-side tour.

Listen in to Laura  preforming her second track ‘Goodbye England’ on Later With Jools Holland.

Allie is known in the UK for her song Corner which has been used for a television commercial for BT Infinity. The single reached number 70 in the UK. Given the above, it I evident that both of these artists are so different yet very similar talented artists. Here’s the vid….

Like music, sense of style and how one chooses to carry their look out is a form of expression. Each of these artists has a similar yet different style. This is so because they both dress to represent themselves and are able to add themselves in their look. Based on pictures, Laura Marling has more of a laid back/edgy style. Allie on the other hand is settle and soft. For Laura, a loose solid colour tops whether they are tanks or long sleeves. That allows for both a laid back and edgy look. Also, oversized stylish sweaters and cardigans will allow achieving a look like hers. For Allie, tank tops of any neckline and colour/print are very nice and can be warn either alone or paired with a nicely cut jacket or cardigan. For Laura, leather jackets and edgierlooking trench coats really accent the outfit. Cut and style are very important and something to consider because they can either bring out ones features in a positive or in a negative way. The jackets and shirts are not all to an outfit. The bottoms are a huge factor as well. For both artists, jeans can be worn. Laura would be seen more in skinny jeans where Allie would be seen in bothdepending on the rest of her outfit. Leggings are definitely a piece that can be worn by not only them but anyone because they are very simple and versatile for any outfit and any season. On that note, even though an outfit is made of those components, accessories and footwear are what tie all the pieces together and they provide a nice touch. Long and simple necklaces are very nice, along with a simple ring and earrings. Now, when it comes to footwear, they both can wear similar styles. Tall boots whether they are leather or not can be paired with an outfit. They can be black grey or tan. Those three colours are neutral and will go with anything. A simple flat can be worn as well. An outfit is made up of many factors and even though it may seem complicated or expensive, it is really not. Anyone can achieve not only these two artists looks but any with an inexpensive budget.

Both Laura and Allie are very talented artists that not only have phenomenal music but great style! Be sure to visit Laura at http://www.lauramarling.com and Allie at http://alliemoss.com/home

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

Rebecca Nobrega, Media Writer, Design and Mode

Rebecca Nobrega and “Rebecca’s Creations…” is a regular, bi-weekly column. Rebecca was born  in Toronto, Ontario. Her interests include marketing, design, and of course, styling.  She keeps a close listen and watch on the  Indie music and fashion scene . She loves working and always strives for success.


Christine Ohlman

Christine Ohlman

This week’s piece contrasts the Americana/Blues musician Christine Ohlman and Folk Rock/Pop musician Katrin.

Katrin

Katrin

Christine is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and a recording artist. She is from the Bronx in New York City and her nickname is, “The Beehive Queen” which refers to her distinctive hairstyle. She leads the band Christine Ohlman and Rebel Montez consisting of Michael Colbath Larry Donahue, Cliff Goodwin, and founding member, guitarist Eric Fletcher. With him, she has recorded six albums. Also, she is the long-running vocalist for the Saturday Night Live Band.  Katrin is from Boston, USA. She is a singer, guitarist and a song writer who captures the attention of her audience through her provocative lyrics. She has evolved from that humble start to winning National songwriting awards including “The Mountain Stage Newsong Festival” and “Solarfest” in VT.  She tours Europe often, where she recently as to support of her newest release “Soul Wide Open”.

Not only are the words an artists chooses to put in a song or the beat and sound of their guitar that express who they are, but so does their sense of style. Christine is Americana meets blues where Katrin is folk rock meets pop. As seen in the pictures, one can really have a feel for each of the artist’s choice of attire and how they chose to present themselves. Just like any person, these artists dress to their personal liking and it provides  one way to express their individualism. These looks carry  contrast and give a person different styles and views about the mechanics of fashion. Many people are inspired by other peoples look and want to adopt it, though finances can be an issue. What one needs to realize is that the clothing you buy does not need to be identical, rather similar and to that style. Also, it should definitely represent apart of ones self. As a result, with the patience to look and an open mind, anyone can achieve any look successfully and in an affordable way.

Christine Ohlman has more of a brighter and loud look. Katrin is more soft and quiet. In Christine’s pictures, she is seen wearing bright and lively colours. An outfit consists of many pieces and through each piece does it allow for a particular look. She is seen wearing a lot of button up collard shirts. They are comfortable and very trendy! With this style, it is about experimenting with lots of colour and print. From bright yellow to leopard print, it all works! Also, with prints or even the solid colours, try using texture such as a fabric with depth or natural crimp. Think of this outfit as an old vintage being incorporated. With the pants and jackets, just by thinking of that one will be able to find anything and that will definitely add for completing different looks. A definite trade mark of hers is her accessories. From simple to chunky jewellery – pick what ever you’re in for and rock it! Two things that cannot be forgotten to fulfill her  look are the sun glasses and of course her groovy hair style! Get a simple pair of black shades and tease, tease, tease your hair! And by doing the above, any one is able to achieve the Americana look that Christine Ohlman possesses. Katrin on the other hand is much different. Her style consists of a natural colour scheme and perhaps closer to pastel colours. From tanks to tee-shirts or even long sleeved, anything along neutral colours will provide this look. One could even chose to wear a country print! As far as bottoms go, any type such as jeans, skirts or shorts can be worn. A boot cut pair of jeans would probably be best inperhaps a wash jean. Next comes the jackets! Jean jackets are definite! But even leather one will work.  A simple brown leather jacket will add an endgier look where jean will give it more of a country look. Now, even though this makes an outfit, accessories and footwear are very important as well. Belts and scarves add a nice touch. The jewellery that Katrin is seen wearing is more simple chunky meets bulky and it completes an outfit! The footwear can be anything really. Leather boots or a simple flat work depending on the rest of the outfit.  Given the above, it is evident that these two artists are very different in terms of their style. Remember that if you want more of a brighter statement, go for Christine’s look. But if you want something more quiet, stick with Katrin’s style. Each of the artist’s style represents a part of them selves and makes a powerful statement. One thing to never forget is that anyone can achieve this look on a budget and to just have fun with it. Add a part of yourself to it because – no one can rock you better then you!

Visit Christine at www.christineohlman.net and Katrin at www.katrinrocks.com . Both Katrin and Christine appear on the HorizonVU Music site and CDs and downloads are available through SHOP HorizonVU Music!

Please post comments or suggestions in the space provided or contact Rebecca at rebecca@horizonvumusic.com

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