#NewMusicTuesdays: Indi’s List, VOL. 1 for ALITDOA

My homegirl Indira is my match in musical heaven. We share similar tastes across all genres, and she always introduces me to new artists or tracks that evoke a feel-good vibe. Her love of musical discovery made me approach her to bring her flair to A Life in the Day of Andrea. I bring to you “Indi’s List”; a Spotify list of new jams shared weekly, curated by none other than Indira.

Volume 1 brings sounds from Daft Punk, Alt J, Jessie Ware, James Blake, Tyler the Creator, Mansions on the Moon, Kid Cudi, and many more! Take a listen to the the list below, and if you like it, follow it!

MANday Feature: For the man that WANTs it all, Want Les Essentiels de la Vie accessories

You know this guy. He falls into one of the two categories:

• Super stylish creative that totes a MacBook Pro everywhere he goes because he is a freelancer
• Dapper finance/business man who lives in Excel and has a report due right now

These men rely on their computers for their livelihood, but sometimes the method of holding their computer falls flat. Just think of both these men. Super smart and on the go, great shoes, BUT he carries a less than handsome black nylon laptop bag with entirely too many pockets, and more rubber zipper pulls than should be allowed for an adult carrying case.

WANT Essentials: Trudeau 14″ Computer Bag in Cognac

Wouldn’t it be great if this man had a laptop case that was as stylish as his wardrobe? The founders of Want Les Essentiels De La Vie have solved this problem. Montreal-based twin brothers Byron and Dexter Peart formed the brand to satisfy the hole in the marketplace; stylish tech and small travel items for globe-trotting, professional men. The collection includes tech cases, wallets, totes, and toiletry cases made in the highest quality leathers and textiles that the world has to offer. Their spring/summer 2013 collection features west African textiles in addition to their go-to full grain leather pieces.

Want Essentials O’Hare Shopper Tote in Navy/ Frise

Like what you see? The collection retails from $150 for gifting items, upwards of $1,500 for full leather travel pieces. Hop on over to their homepage to see their list of worldwide retailers, including both brick & mortar and online locations. Happy shopping!

Nailed It: Pure Ice “Home Run”

It has been a minute since I posted anything in reference to nails because, let’s face it, I go long stretches without doing my nails. Given that spring has finally shown its face in the mean streets of NYC, I found it fitting to post on spring nail trends. Pastels are always a go-to this time of year, so I wanted to share a new color with you that I am currently rocking, “Home Run” by Pure Ice.

Home Run in natural light.

Home Run is a cool mint with slight blue undertones. To achieve the look, I used a base coat, two coats of color, and a quick-dry topcoat. The nail color is quite opaque and long-lasting. I am on day three now with no chips or nicks!

Home Run in indirect light.

Pure Ice nail colors can be purchased directly from their website or at your local Walmart for $1.99. A steal! By far one of the best quality bargain polishes I’ve ever used.

Many thanks to Shakiera at Socially Bella!

What I’m Wearing: Turn on The Brights

If you have been following my social media updates, you would have noticed that I’ve updated my imagery across the board. I am in a re-branding stage for my site, and in doing so, it was necessary to a full-on photoshoot. From a reader’s perspective, I know you don’t see me much, which can be a bit confusing given the name of the site, so here I am, showing you a little bit more of me and my personal style.

I did this shoot earlier in the month with my good friends Ernest Estimé (photographer) and Jessica Crocetto (hair & make-up artist) in a little neighborhood in Brooklyn next to DUMBO called Vinegar Hill. I’m taking a more editorial approach with these shoots, making it a step above a normal outfit post. Be on the lookout for more site updates and content. Here is Turn On The Brights.

What I’m Wearing:

• Tangerine Silk Blouse: Club Monaco
• Lace Print Skinny Denim Trousers: Club Monaco
• Neon Green Patent Leather Block Heel Pumps: United Nude
• Jewelry: One of A Kind Masterpiece

Since I’ve got you here, please be a pal and “Like” A Life in the Day of Andrea on Facebook. So much more in the works!

Jesse Boykins III Live at Target 1st Saturdays @ Brooklyn Museum 5/4

My second home, Brooklyn Museum, hosts their famous Target 1st Saturdays series this weekend and it is sure to be a treat! Along with hands-on arts and film programming, there will be a special performance by Jesse Boykins III. His set begins at 7 PM sharp, so don’t be late! Full event schedule below.

Peep the video invite from Jesse himself below.

See you Saturday!

Quadron Live @ Le Poisson Rouge. A Review.

Coco O. dazzling the crowd with her sultry vocals.

It was an unseasonably cool evening. If you had not looked at the calendar month, you would have imagined it were October, not approaching May. The wind was crisp and excitement was in the air. A cue of people lined Bleecker Street, patiently awaiting to see the Danish duo that is Quadron, presented by the lovely folks at Giant Step. The crowd was calm, impeccably dressed, and oozed good taste. Rightfully so, as the music of Quadron is meant for a more discerning type of listener. Call them an audiophile if you will.

Movement indoors began in the minutes after 10:30 PM, a little late for a show, but exciting as such shows are devoid of openers. Concert-goers have the pleasure of sinking their teeth right into the main course; the headliner. Once inside, a crowd slowly took shape along the front of the stage, setting up shop for the sounds of the evening. A DJ played soulful tunes prior to the main event, almost teasing fans for what was to come.

Coco O

In the 11 o’clock hour, Coco O. appeared on stage with a full band. This was  something new, and Coco explained that they had four days to practice prior to the show. I’m sure this made a few fans nervous, but I can confidently say that was four days well-spent. They performed tracks from their debut album, seasoned with a few new tracks from their follow-up Avalanche, to be released on Vested in Culture/Epic in June. Robin Hannibal does not perform live with Quadron, but happily watched on from the crowd near stage right.

The show not only brought out fans, but fellow musicians. Spotted in the crowd were Jessie Ware (I choked and didn’t say hello), Raphael Saadiq, and Emily King. The crowd grooved and sang along to familiar tracks, “Tone”, “Slippin”, “Day”, “Jeans”, and “Pressure”. I was a bit disappointed that my favorite song, “Horse”, was not performed, but the live experience satisfied my anticipation and expectations after nearly two years of listening to their music.

Coco O. and band.

Their set winded down with current single “Hey Love” and “Neverland”, a tribute to one of Coco’s favorite musicians, Michael Jackson. It was in this moment that you can truly hear how much Michael impacted her tone. It was reminiscent of Michael in the Jackson 5 at points, crooning and full of vigor. Adding to this celebration of Michael, Coco came back for an encore and performed her rendition of “Baby Be Mine”; so sweet and so well executed.

This show was everything I had imagined from Quadron and a little more. It makes me even more excited for the new album, which I’m sure will delight audiophiles the world over. They are a musical force to be reckoned with.

 

*All photos by Andrea K. Castillo

 

Dose Of Mallane: A Solo Exhibition by Mallane Stanbury

Dose of Mallane. Exhibition information.

NYC’s movers and shakers were treated to something more than a shopping event yesterday evening. The Alice + Olivia SoHo boutique at 75 Greene Street hosted a night of photography from their own in-house talent, Mallane Stanbury. Presented by the woman behind the brand, Stacey Bendet, the boutique’s lofty walls showcased the works of Stanbury, which were a juxtaposition of Alice + Olivia behind-the-scenes photos and neon lights.

A glimpse of Stanbury’s work.

The crowd was beautiful, of course, and filled with creatives from the fashion and music worlds, among others.

Atmosphere in the store.

From L to R: Cleo Wade (A + O stylist), Brown Andrews, Liza Voloshin (A + O biz development)

In the last few minutes of the event, I bumped into Mia Moretti; one of my favorite DJs and huge Alice + Olivia supporter. We chatted about the brand and her current gig as host on VH1′s Master of the Mix. An unexpected surprise, but fun nonetheless.

Mia Moretti, Tennessee Thomas, friend, Cleo Wade.

If you happen to be in SoHo sometime soon, I encourage you stop in the Alice + Olivia store to check out the exhibition. Mallane Stanbury’s work is gorgeous, and the store is beautiful to boot!

 

*All photos by Andrea K. Castillo

Watch This: Disclosure feat Eliza Doolittle “You & Me”

 

With the recent audio release of Disclosure’s new single “You & Me”, featuring UK songstress Eliza Doolittle, I patiently awaited this day, the music video release. The visuals capture the essence of young love in all forms. It features a couple travelling throughout Europe, getting lost together, and sharing tender moments in their downtime. We see their ups and downs, how they yearn for one another, and how they bring the lyrics  below (in the chorus) alive.

So please don’t let go
‘Cause you know exactly what we found
So please don’t let go my darling
You keep me hooked up underground

Check it out.

Meet Alexander, my Nikon D60

Meet Alexander, my Nikon D60.

Call me strange, but I like to nickname my electronics. My MacBook Pro is Matthew Parker, my iPhone 5 is Boo Boo, and my Nikon D60 is named Alexander. I acquired Alexander last year around this time from my uncle Stephen, AKA Big Steve. Big Steve (who also happens to be my godfather) has been an avid recreational photographer my entire life, documenting my family over the years with only the best equipment that Nikon has/had to offer. He would make every family dinner, birthday, and holiday an event, shooting with multiple lenses and capturing moments, both candid and posed. It was he who inspired my love of photography, gifting me a point-and-shoot Nikon for my high school graduation. From that moment forward, the rest is history.

Alexander (center), hanging with the homies. Nikon N60 35 mm on the left, and Nikon Coolpix P500 on the right.

My uncle has been away for some time now, so I was a bit nervous to ask if I could use his camera. What would he think? Would he see me as being an opportunist in his absence? Would he think I would misuse his equipment? These thoughts ran rampant in my head, but thankfully, he kindly obliged to my wishes.

Springtime in New York City…

I love springtime in New York City. It is the time before our hottest, most socially enthralling months of summer where we plan, observe, and take in the crisp, fresh air. We watch trees and flowers slowly blossom, and heavier layers of clothing lifted in the lukewarm breeze. It is a time that is incredibly inspiring, creative, and hopeful.

Cherry blossom in the neighborhood

Smiles appear across faces with a glare of sunlight. New lovers play-fight while taking a stroll in the park. Cherry blossoms are abundant and nestled among private residences and public spaces alike. Springtime in New York City represents growth and the transformation of scenery from one that is bleak and barren in to one that is colorful and bustling.

Daffodils abloom.

Springtime in New York City is a time of collaboration. Those we may have missed in the winter months are out of hibernation and willing to mingle and create something larger than themselves. Dreams are limitless, but certainly attainable as ideas flow like water. Eyes are open. Ears are open. Minds are open. Hearts are open.

What are some of your favorite springtime moments?

What I’m Listening To: Quadron “Hey Love” + NYC show Details!

It goes without saying that I love the Danish musical duo that is Quadron. Since discovering their music in 2011 and having the wonderful opportunity of interviewing Robin Hannibal in the same year, I have been hooked. The first single off their second album entitled “Avalanche” (to be released in June of this year) is called “Hey Love”, a danceable love-song containing Gospel, electro, R&B, and Hip-Hop elements. Lead singer Coco’s vocals soar over the track and call you to bust a move.

Below is the music video for the song. I love that we see Coco a little glammed up and dancing; a diversion from previous efforts. I especially love her dance break with Robin at the 1:47 mark; it’s lighthearted, and above all, fun. Take a look.

Next Thursday, April 25th, they will be performing in NYC at Le Poisson Rouge. Tickets are still available at the LPR Box Office. Note, this event is 21 +. Support good music!

From A Fan’s Perspective: Coachella 2013 WKND 1 Highlights

Coachella sunset PANORAMA!

Back on the East Coast in my beloved Brooklyn, I am happy to say that I survived Coachella 2013, weekend one! I survived extreme temperatures and a lovely sandstorm on Sunday night, along with my feet surviving the hours of standing. This year was a treat for me as it hosted some of my favorite acts right now, a large number of them hailing from across the pond.

I have arrived. Long arms, closed eyes and all.

In total, I counted via my snazzy Coachella 2013 iPhone app that I viewed over twenty acts in the three-day festival, so on average, I watched approximately seven shows a day. Not for the faint of heart, patience, or those that insist on wearing heels; it ain’t gon’ work boo. All tents are named after deserts, Mojave (hosting the majority of UK acts) and Sahara (EDM acts) being the largest, Gobi hosting an eclectic mix of acts, and Yuma, the newest addition to the festival, hosting smaller international DJs. The two headlining stages are the Outdoor (which hosted Wu-Tang on the final night), and Main (which hosted the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the final night).

Pink’s Chili Dogs and a Taco stand in one of the food concession areas.

Food at Coachella is as exciting as the musical acts. There is a mix of famous food trucks including Coolhaus, Border Grill, Green Truck, LA staples like Pink’s Chili Dogs, a good array of vegetarian options, full bars, and more taco variations than I have ever seen in my adult life. The grounds are huge, but food facilities are nestled in each corner so you never go hungry. New this year is the Red Bull Speakeasy; a 1920s themed air-conditioned lounge that serves cocktails and hosts live dueling piano players, and a photo booth.

Dueling piano player at the Red Bull Speakeasy

The famed ferris wheel is a must! For 8 bucks, you get one of the best views one can imagine of the festival grounds. Definitely worth it.

View from the ferris wheel of the Coachella grounds.

With that said, I bring to you some of my musical and scenic highlights of the weekend, from the perspective of Andrea the music & nature lover/ people watcher. Get ready for weekend two!

Baauer during his set in the Sahara tent

BAAUER.

The man behind the hugest dance craze in recent history to sweep the world, “Harlem Shake”, rocked the crowd with a a set of  booty-shaking down south tracks. My friends and I were right up front for this, and it was thoroughly enjoyed by all. I unfortunately missed “Harlem Shake” as I had to run to another stage, but it’s all good, another act re-enacted this. Read on.

2 Chainz performing at the Mojave tent.

2 CHAINZ.

Despite being twenty minutes late for his set and having a semi-exhausted crowd boo in spurts, Titty Boi AKA 2 Chainz performed a memorable set for his first Coachella experience. I was caught somewhere in the mid-front of the crowd of this set. I thought I was going to be trampled numerous times, water was thrown on me, and I was pushed, BUT I sang every lyric at the top of my lungs like I was on stage. His performance of “Crack” was definitely the climax of his set. #TurnUp.

10 Acts I’m Psyched to see at Coachella: US Edition

US EDITION

10. Allen Stone (Washington): A self-proclaimed “hippie with soul”, Allen Stone is on my list of blue-eyed soul favorites. Such a great tone in his voice.

Twitter: @allen_stone

9. Action Bronson (New York): Queens stand up!

Twitter: @ActionBronson

8. Vampire Weekend (New York): I’ve been hooked since “A Punk”. Super catchy beats and lyrics, fun jams.

Twitter: @vampireweekend

7. Theophilus London (New York): I always support a fellow West Indian out of Brooklyn, especially when I dig their music. Even better, I can shimmy to this.

Twitter: @TheophilusL

6. Pusha T (Virginia): Coke-laden, though-provoking rap.

Twitter: @Pusha_T

10 Acts I am Psyched to see at Coachella: Euro Edition

 

EURO EDITION

10. La Roux (UK): I missed them last year because of stage conflicts, and I just need to sing “Bulletproof” at the top of my lungs.

Twitter: @larouxofficial

9. Simian Mobile Disco (UK): I dig their funky electro sound. Makes me feel like running around in a field with a bunch of hippies. Oh, you say that’s I will be doing at Coachella? Correct. I suppose this is the proper venue for them.

Twitter: @smdisco

8. Benny Benassi (Italy): I’ve wanted to see Benny Benassi for a few years now, but have missed all his stints at Electric Zoo. I can finally let out my inner raver to his jams in the desert. Splendid.

Twitter: @BennyBenassi

7. Jamie Jones (UK): I discovered Jamie Jones this year after seeing his name in the 2013 line-up. I was pleasantly surprised with his soulful house hybrid.

Twitter: @jamiejonesmusic

6. Hot Chip (UK): Great vocals. Great production. Music to dance to.

Twitter: @Hot_Chip

#DoChella at Ace Hotel & Swim Slub in Palm Springs Sunday April 14 & Sunday April 21

The Do-Over x Coachella. #DoChella. Taking over Coachella Sundays in Palm Springs. All deets below:

• Date:  Sunday April 14th and Sunday April 21st in
• Location: Commune of Ace Hotel and Swim Club (701 E. Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264).
• Time: Doors open at noon and the party chugs along until 6pm.
• This event is 21+ with valid I.D.
• RSVP includes entry to The Do-Over event in the Commune event space at Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Palm Springs, CA. RSVP does not grant access to other Ace Hotel events.
• RSVP does not assure entry. Early arrival is highly advised due to demand.
• No outside food or drink is permitted. Food (cash only) and beverages (cash /card) will be made available.

RSVP HERE: WWW.THEDOOVER.NET/DOCHELLA13