Archive for October, 2008
Relocation, Relocation, Relocation
I suppose it’s something that few independent 20-somethings consider, let alone explore; the fine art of reducing the collective possessions of their adolescent years down to the one or two large suitcases, on their last legs (due to relentless bashing from airport luggage handlers). Many verbalise their experiences and adventures in witty blogs and obsequious emails to the family. The psychological repercussions of moving to another country, though, are hardly something one can express through Microsoft Word. And contrary to popular belief, the move itself is not nearly as easy as it looks. “Have I made the right decision?” “Why is it that I made this decision now?” “How long are people betting I’ll last?” These are three of approximately twenty-nine thousand questions that have been circling through my head since ricocheting myself all over the greater states of America and landing firmly in London proper. So, how does one survive the distant and unknown territories?
St Helens
Melbourne’s St Helens are the latest troupe to join Remote Control Records, and I’m a little bit in love. The band stars ex-New Season’s Jarrod Quarell and Hannah Brookes of Spider Vomit — with contributions from members of Love Of Diagrams, Kes, Panel of Judges and basically every other Melbourne band that we’re into. I dare you listen to Quarrell’s vocals on “Don’t Laugh” and not want to ‘lie in the leaves’ with him twice and buy him breakfast in the morning.
The Finders Keepers — applications open!
The birth of Hope Street Markets in Winter 2007 was a bit of A Thing. There was live music, yielding couches and enough wine to warm up the sleepy shoppers as they perused of the dozens of indoor stalls manned by local young artists and designers. Begun by Surry Hills locals Sarah and Brooke, the non-profit collaborative market happened thrice more over the next three seasons, swelling visibly each time — and now they’ve gotten so big for their vintage lace-up ankle boots they’ve had to change their name and home.
Tsumori Chisato
You know when all your friends know something and you’re the last to find out and you feel a little sad, a little angry and a little envious all at the same time? That’s how I felt when I discovered Tsumori Chisato on a recent trip to Japan. Holy cow. This shit is amazing! The textures, the fabrics, the silhouettes. This isn’t just fashion, this is art. From the intricately designed fabrics to the little touches of embellishment, even on the panties and bras! Tsumori Chisato is whimsical and charming and made me fall in love with her in one quick glance at her store window.