Reserve Me Some of THAT…

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

NYC Indie Rock Band, Reserved for Rondee: (l-r) Fokas, Hemenway, Degnan, Magnussen and Vaughn (front)

What do you get when you mix 5 New York City men, a roomful of instruments, a distinctly unique sound, a passion for music and, oh, did I mention five very handsome men already? What you have is the Manhattan based indie band Reserved for Rondee…an exhilarating rock-melodic treat for your soul. If you are looking for the hottest addition to the NYC music scene – look no further.

Reserved for Rondee is quickly rising the ranks as of one of New York City’s most beloved emerging bands…selling out at venues like the Lower East Side’s famed Arlene’s Grocery and Mercury Lounge. And though they might be sophomore in their number of years as a “band”, there is nothing juvenile about the sound they produce when they take to the stage. With inspiration that draws from “…classic artists like Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, U2 and contemporary artists like the White Stripes, the Black Keys and Arcade Fire, Reserved for Rondee blends imagination and style into a mystic rock journey”.  And they deliver on that…and then some.

Comprised of soap opera vets, guitarist Billy Magnussen and bassist Tom Degnan (whom you no doubt eyed on As the World Turns and One Life to Live), front man Trevor Vaughn, guitarist Nick Fokas and drummer Warren Hemenway – this group of artists is just as diverse as the music that emanates from deep within them. RFR delivers a variety of tunes, drenched in emotion and passion, wrapped up with a bow in a theatrical attention-getting performance; one that keeps you transfixed for the entire set.  The only complaint from the fans (including me!) – we want MORE.

Now you can help Reserved for Rondee  expand their musical portfolio by pledging to their “Kickstarter” fundraising platform. Pledge one dollar or one thousand, but help them meet their financial goal by May 25, 2012, so they kick it in the studio and keep the music alive for us all to enjoy…and in my case do a little more “Jersey headbanging” to.
CLICK HERE TO PLEDGE NOW!

Like them on Facebook  and Follow them on Twitter

Listen to some of their current tunes…

Cool Peep of the Week: Alexandra Vino, HBO’s “How To Make It In America”

By Christabelle…

HBO's How to Make it in America: Alexandra Vino

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Blonde bombshell and actress extraordinaire, Alexandra Vino of HBO’s How To Make It In America.

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:

Random Knowledge:  I love learning about everything from where paper clips originated to human psychology.

Acting:  My love for acting has a lot to do with the need for physical and emotional artistic expression, as well as self discovery, and discovery of others. I have built an entirely fresh appreciation for the world since my first method acting lesson. I love being inspired and passing it on.

Animals: I love animals and have an amazing little white snugglebug rescue of my own.

A girls day with tea, mani pedi and tons of giggles -  Art -  Pottery -  A made bed to come home to!

ALEXANDRA’S FALL TREND WISH LIST:

Boots leggings and cozy cashmere sweaters!!

Personally I can’t stick to just one look! I have too much that I like…its all according to my mood. You’ll find me in biker boots and a leather jacket one day and a ruffled top with mini skirt and dark stockings the next. I no this year I am bringing in vintage styles and loving the tuxedo look a la Marlene Dietrich in the 20′s.

Its all about layering- I learned that Ralph Laurens motto is 5 piece minimum before you leave the house. This includes any layer or accessory.

WHAT ARE ALEXANDRA’S FAVORITE NYC HAUNTS:

Favorite NYC restaurant is Pure Food and Wine, Su En, Or Angelicas Kitchen.

On the run…Whole Foods salad bar is always a quick go to for me.

Chelsea Market has the best stores for gifts, food, and they have pop up shopping sample sales often! LOVE IT!

There is an old church on 20th and 6th as well that has new vendors constantly coming in and out with the coolest designer fashions that you can’t just find anywhere. Also I the place is great because it is ALWAYS changing so its  a new experience every time!

Casual 567 bar in meatpacking has the coolest underground cozy nook and cranny spot.

FRYING PAN as well…this is for when you are in sneaker and a tshirt and just want some fresh air with some great people. Its a giant ship that is permanently docked on the hudon river with all the original fixtures, so you can go below deck like the titanic and find all sorts of interesting rooms….great enviornment!

WHAT SONG PLAYS IN THE ROOM WHEN YOU WALK IN:

Israel Kamakawiwo’Ol “Somewhere over the rainbow”

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ALEXANDRA NEXT:

You can check me out as the Fashion Diva’s Secretary on the Second Season of HBO’s  “How To Make It In America” premiering Oct 2, 2011 – TUNE IN!

Also A must see is Steve McQueens newest film just picked up by Fox Searchlight.  I am one of Michael Fassbenders many addictions until his sister Carey Mulligan discovers his painful path. Keep an eye out for when it will be released in theaters.

Also I am working as the lead for an amazing comically, sexy, angry play written and Directed by Michael Bregman. “Vixen” to be showing the end of the year!

Follow her on twitter: @alexandravino

Cool Peep of the Week: Kelli – “Gave up on Love”

By Christabelle…

Kelli's Next Appearance in NYC is on 9/24/2011

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Many know of Kelli Brooke Tomashoff from starring in Bravo’s NYC Prep, aka the real-life Gossip Girl. Since then, the pint-sized fashionista (known just as Kelli now) has shed her schoolgirl image by impressing crowds all over NYC with her strong vocal chops and powerful performances of her recently dropped hot dance club single “Gave Up On Love.”  The controversial music video for the track showcases Kelli’s energetic and unfaltering determination, setting the bar high for future expectations from the entertainment dynamo.

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:

Wesley Nault:  He is a true, young talent + his leather bows make me tingle
Garo Sparo: His pieces are crafted in this far off magical world of Garo
Alexander McQueen: Because he defined innovation and rebellion.
Logan Neitzel: Because he is my fashion soulmate, my kindred spirit.
JR Malpere: Because his millinery work is museum quality.
Giuseppe Zanotti Design: Epitomizes a sexy shoe
Pierre Balmain: his designs for women are so chic and sophisticated. He’s dressed both Brigette Bardot and Vivien Leigh, two of my female icons.
Givenchy: BREAKFAST AT TIFFANYS, what more needs to be said.
YSL: Le Smoking Tuxedo and so much more.
Chanel:Eternal Classic

KELLI’S FALL TREND WISH LIST:

Knee high Boots – Leather Jackets – Marilyn Monroe-esque Bodysuits – Bardot styled High Waist Leather Shorts

Graphic Leggings – Red/Black leather Gloves – Hepburn inspired LBD and veil – Dark + Dramatic Lip

WHAT IS HER FAVORITE NYC HAUNT:

My bedroom in NYC.

WHAT IS IN KELLI’S HANDBAG RIGHT NOW

lipstick, download cards for Gave Up On Love, change, sunglasses.

WHAT SONG PLAYS IN THE ROOM WHEN YOU WALK IN:

Of course, Gave Up On Love..I Put a Spell On You

WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER NEXT:

Sept 23, 2011 -  Six Flags Great Adventure, NJ
Sept 24, 2011 – Club 57 in NY, NY
Oct 20, 2011 – Sullivan Hall, CMJ

Gave Up On Love Official Video: http://youtu.be/ynWQcj2tiyU
Gave Up On Love YouTube Stats: 745,198
Gave Up On Love Chart History: Billboard Hot Shot Debut, #4 Billboard Breakout Hot Dance Club Chart

Cool Peep of the Week: Jacqui Stafford, Style Guru

By Christabelle…

Jacqui Stafford, Style Guru

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Jacqui Stafford, the ultra-cool, uber hip and ever so talented style guru, who can dress you in the perfect outfit with her eyes closed.  World-Renowned Fashion Editor, Body Shape Style Expert, and National TV Personality. (Boy…that’s a whole lotta titles!!)

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:
My 3 year old daughter, my friends, and my Tag Heuer Monaco watch.

HER FALL WISH FOR FASHION:
REED KRAKOFF’S PRINTED HAIRCALF BOXER TOTE (ummmm – ditto!)

HER FALL WISH FOR BEAUTY:
For celebrity dermatologist, Dr. Brandt to move into my apt, and a lifetime’s supply of Jo Malone’s  French Lime Blossom Body Crème.

WHAT’S IN JACQUI’S HANDBAG RIGHT NOW:
Chanel  Glossimer lipgloss,  Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes liner in 14L, Dora the Explorer stickers,  T. LeClerc pressed powder in Banana, keys, iphone, Chanel wallet.

WHAT SONG DOES SHE HEAR PLAYING WHEN SHE WALKS IN THE ROOM:
The wildly-campy THIS IS MY LIFE by Shirley Bassey

WHERE CAN YOU FIND HER NEXT: 
On NY1 News this weekend (all weekend), and a personal appearance on 9/21/11 at the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey between 6.30-.8.30pm. Oh, plus a soon to be published fashion book!

Follow Jacqui on Twitter @Jacqui_Stafford

Read Jacqui’s blog.

Book an appointment with Jacqui and have her re-style you for Fall!

Cool Peep of the Week: Mindy White of States

By Christabelle…

Mindy White, front woman for Indie Band States

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Mindy White, the drop-dead stunning front woman in the indie-pop band States. Mindy is a vegetarian who loves fashion, beauty and most of all to sing and play piano.

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:
Being on the road touring and having to sing every night, she takes great care of her body and style. Some of her favorite designers are Alexander McQueen, Wildfox, Betsey Johnson, Jeffrey Campbell, All Saints, Alexander Wang, Cheap Monday, Steve Madden, Burberry, Yves Saint Laurent, Joyrich, Chanel, D&G, Motel, Michael Kors, MiuMiu, Siwy, Vera Wang, Miss Selfridge, Jane Norman, Monsoon, G by Guess, BB Dakota, American Rag, Supertrash, Alice & Olivia, Rebel Yell, Ray-Bans, Mars and Valentine, Dannij, Mixology, House of Harlow 1960 and more.

MINDY’S FALL TREND WISH LIST:
She is hoping to see a lot of the following in Fall trends: Stacked bracelets, flatform shoes, capes (female sherlocks!), sequins, military jackets, fringe, prints on pants and jeans, lace, thigh-high stockings and socks, total Cher Horowitz in “Clueless” 90s style, and 50′s dresses like Lucille Ball and Judy Garland.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER NEXT:
ON TOUR ACROSS THE US…States is releasing their debut album “Room To Run” on October 18th (which happens to be my half birthday!). You might also spot her outside of Lincoln Center this season – checking out the shows for NYC Fashion Week.
For tickets and more information, please visit: www.statesmusic.com

A note from the Christabelle: the boys of the States band are not only uber- talented, but are EASY on the eyes…Guitarist brothers Bryan and Stephen Laurenson, drummer Jonathan Bucklew and bassist Dean Lorenz…you gotta love band boys…you just have to. Mindy is a lucky gal!

2011 Tour Dates:
Sept 22      Chameleon Lancaster, PA
Sept 23      Headliners Toledo, OH
Sept 24      The Loft Lansing, MI
Sept 25      Durty Nelies Palatine, IL
Sept 27      The Magestic Theatre Madison, WI
Sept 28      The Blue Note Columbia, MO
Sept 30      Slowdown Omaha, NE
Oct 01       Aggie Theatre Fort Collins, CO
Oct 02       Fox Theatre & Café Boulder, CO
Oct 04       Senator Theatre Chico, CA
Oct 05       Rio Theatre Santa Cruz, CA
Oct 07       Fox Theatre Pomona, CA
Oct 08       The Rock Tuscon, AZ
Oct 09       Sunshine Theatre Albuquerque, NM
Oct 11       Jake’s Sports Café Lubbock, TX
Oct 12       Mohawk Austin, TX
Oct 14       The Marquee Tulsa, OK
Oct 15       New Daisy Theatre Memphis, TN
For upcoming announcements, tour dates and more, please stop by:
www.statesmusic.com
www.facebook.com/statesmusic  

Who Needs an Ipod?

The Easiest Music You Will Ever Hear…by SandiBelle

Sometimes we just aren’t as computer saavy or literate for this day and age. I think about what my parent’s can’t understand and scoff, but then I look at myself and realize I DON’T UNDERSTAND A THING my 16 year old nephew tells me and then he scoffs.  Lesson learned…don’t throw stones at glass houses.

So when I came across the SanDisk slotRadio Player, I thought this would be the perfect gift for my dad for father’s day (one, mom can for sure borrow as well!).  An instant load music player bundled with a 1,000 song slotRadio™ Mix card. No downloads, no PCs and no work involved. Simply pop the card in the player and enjoy a near-endless supply of full-length tracks. It’s great music, made effortless and with little to no confusion on how to upload/download/import from iTunes etc.

It is an easy, PC-free experience for digital music with songs featuring artists from Billboard®’s charts preloaded onto a tiny microSD card with handcrafted playlists that include hundreds of handpicked artists. Like FM radio, songs are played in sequence. From Country to Modern Rock and everything in between, there’s a slotRadio™ card to match your mood or activity. Simply insert a slotRadio™ card into the slotRadio player and feast your ears. Digital music has never been easier, thanks to the SanDisk slotRadio Player. And when you want more music…you just purchase another pre-loaded card from SanDisk. EASY and AFFORDABLE – now I like that!

SanDisk slotRadio Player, SRP $99 includes music player and one pre-loaded card full of over 1,000 songs. Available at www.slotRadio.org and in Radio Shack stores.

A Star Shoots Over Long Island…

HAMPTONS EDITION:Goose Bumps Down Your Legs Good by Christabelle

I wait with baited breath every year for Memorial Day to roll around once again, so I can travel to my dear, sweet Montauk.  Though traditionally not the warmest weekend in the NYC area – nor the sunniest – it is a tradition. For as far back as I can remember, we always open the season of beaching, sanding, surfing and lobstering in Montauk on Memorial Day weekend.

Ryan Star performing in Long Island (5/21/09)

But this year, I was even more anxious to begin the summer sojurn to the Hamptons because I was serenaded by a Star at the “opening pitch”. Ok..me and about 50 or so other people were serenaded by a Star. No ‘twinkle, twinkle little star’ here – after all, I am talking about Ryan Star – armed with the girth, power and heat of the Sun-kind-of-star. 

Ollie’s in Amityville, Long Island was the venue…an unassuming bar in the small sleepy town whose claim to fame was a possessed house. The crowd formed thickly at the stage in anticipation of Ryan Star’s “acoustic” performance – a long awaited for show, since he has been touring with American Idol winner David Cook since February!  I, a grown woman, found myself pushing people over just to get to the front – like a teen-age crazed fan of NKOTB.  And then it began…Ryan Star walked out on stage and the room stood still.  Clad in a Kristen Farrell pendant worthy of a rockstar of his caliber (see next post), as he opened his mouth and intense, passionate music effortlessly flew out, Montauk became a distant thought in my head.  As Ryan engaged with his fans from the low, dark stage – his playful rhetoric with his followers was endearing and at times hilariously obnoxious (he called for his publicist to come in for “damage control” – and the crowd ate it up like ice cream on a hot summer day). 

The set list had something for everyone…a little new, a little old…drummer Justin from the days of  ”Stage” (Ryan’s childhood band) even made a guest appearance for a song. Opening with his new single from upcoming 11:59 (dropping Summer 2009), Last Train Home, sprinkling in the ever ethereal song Breathe, rockin’ Right Now and blasting “oldie” crowd pleaser Psycho Suicidal Girl. Ryan, in true, hard-core rocker mode, ended the show 10 songs performed with a sweat-soaked shirt and a busted guitar string. Need I say more?

Though I consider myself a die-hard fan of Mr. Star, I realized the girls in front of me who drove 10 hours and the ones to my left that flew in from Chicago JUST TO SEE THE SHOW, put me to shame. My only complaint…it had to come to an end. I could have sat in Ollie’s the whole weekend and skipped Montauk all together (and those of you who know me personally know that is a BIG BOLD statement). 

Ryan Star…your are on fire RIGHT NOW…and forever. You have a fan for life. You should be a fan too…I promise you won’t be disappointed CHECK OUT RYAN’S NEWEST CUTS HERE

CHECK OUT RYAN’S TOUR DATES HERE