Sidenote - Happy Halloween

From all of us at 21st & Ivy, have a happy and safe Halloween! And we hope you win the costume contest. ...we'd vote for you.

Music - Brandon White

Amid the many, already established folk acts that call Provo home, there’s one new musician on the scene you need to know about. His name is Brandon White.

The Orem native started playing guitar a few years ago, teaching himself how to play after taking only two lessons.

“I just felt writing words didn’t do the trick for me,” he said. “Music adds more feelings to things and adds kind of another dimension to it.”

“I don’t really consider myself a guitarist really. I taught myself how to play, but I’m not that good. I’m more of just a ‘write songs’ kind of guy.”

Some of Brandon’s influences include folk classics Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, but also extend to include music from an even earlier decade.

“Sometimes I’ll hear really old songs from 20s or 30s and I don’t even know who they are but I find those really inspiring.”

Brandon plays shows around Provo often, so don’t miss an opportunity to see his set. To listen to his music and see his upcoming shows, visit him on MySpace here.

“For me music creates feelings and kind of just adds a life to things and I guess that’s kind of the goal of my music. It’s not anything huge. It just creates feelings of whatever the song is about. I guess music does that anyway, whatever kind of music it is. Maybe songs never turn out the way you want them to, but they always create something.”

Posted by Spencer Flanagan
Photograph by Matt Clayton

Style - Headlines

On November 2nd, Gap welcomes Stella McCartney to their growing list of guest designers. McCartney has an impressive seventy looks for your favorite sprout, all true to McCartney's eco-friendly ethics.

Expect well-tailored military jackets, super hero tees, faded silk dresses and tulle skirts, all at Gap's affordable price point.

Only available at GapKids and BabyGap.

Posted by Emily Frame.

Goods - Zombie Watch

As Halloween draws near we divulge an exclusive frightfully colorful watch by Vannen. The creepy graphic content and limited quantity make for a wicked piece of wrist candy.

Artist and Canadian native behind the watch face, Donny Gillies, was no doubt born with a paint brush in hand. Gillies' art has transgressed through multiple mediums and has included: toys, skateboards, many rock 'n roll record covers, paintings, pinball machines, statues and cars.

Posted by Andrew Garlock

Music - Forest World EP

If you enjoy simple pop songs and see synthesizers as legitimate instruments you will probably really like Forest World's new 6-song EP "Super Bright Skullz." The local electropop duo Sam Dickens and Sean Ivins already have a few releases under their belt, this one showing that they know their sound and do it well. There are some songs that are difficult not to dance to with their simple, catchy hooks and beats. Or, if you're not exactly in a dancing mood there are also a couple slower, more laid-back ones such as "Jodie Jensen."

The use of vocals is pretty minimal but just when you think you're almost synthed out their clear voices come back, sounding so nonchalant that you forget there was even an absence. There doesn't seem to be too much to the songs, and of course it takes a lot of work to make it sound like that, but therein lies the beauty of this EP. Sometimes you don't want complications, you'd rather just dance or chill. It's definitely worth a listen, and their live shows are a lot of fun, too.

Posted by Amalia Smith

Giveaway - Michelle Christensen Original Illustration

Win this original illustration, created exclusively for 21st & Ivy, by illustrator Michelle Christensen. To enter, leave a comment here, telling us why you're excited for winter, before Friday Oct. 30. Winner will be announced on Monday Nov. 2nd. Good luck.

Goods - Made For Skate

"Made For Skate" is a 400 page collection of photographs, illustrations and stories behind skateboarding's first fashion statement - the footwear.
Organized in chronological order, "Made for Skate" takes you from skateboarding's early days in the 1960's to today and features commentary from some of skateboarding's greats, including Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero and Rodney Mullen.
We wouldn't mind adding this book to our library. Check it out for yourself here.

Music - Noah and the Whale album review

Noah and the Whale - the fun, catchy indie folk band we came to love with its debut album “Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down” released last year- has left behind some of its feet tapping tunes for a more toned down, serious album with the release of “The First Days of Spring.”

The new album uses a lot more stringed instruments, with a couple purely instrumental tracks that helps give the group a more mature sound. The softer feel of the album wasn’t exactly what I expected from the group on this release, but I loved it nonetheless from the first time I listened to it.

The title of the album is fitting. The very first track comes in soft and slow and peaceful, creating a feeling of rebirth – like the first day of spring. Most of the album follows in this same manner.

A bonus feature of the album is that when you purchase the CD in stores, it comes with a DVD of a film the band made in conjunction with the album. The film is a series of short scenes set to the music of the album. Each scene is set to a different track on the album, providing a different way to listen to it.

I really enjoy “The First Days of Spring” and can’t seem to stop listening to it. It is definitely worth a listen, but don’t just download it; go to your local record store and pick up the actual CD and get the band’s film as well.

Favorite Tracks on the album:

“Blue Skies” and “Love of an Orchestra”

Posted by Spencer Flanagan

Style - Runway to Everyday - Legwork

Watching Marni's Fall 2009 Ready-to-Wear slide-show you may have noticed a pattern. After the twentieth look, Marni was hitting us over the head with it. Dresses, skirts, trousers, and culottes all had one thing in common: patterned tights.

Adding a pair to your stems gives you that extra layer for a blustery day, and spices up your most boring combinations.

Find a plethora of options all under $28.00 at Nordstrom, or $13.00 or less at Forever 21.

Posted by Emily Frame

Michelle Christensen

Michelle Christensen will probably be apart of your life in the future. You’ll be tired and putting your kids to bed. They’ll be begging you to read them their favorite story and you’ll pull it out and begin to read to them. And you probably won’t notice, but there she’ll be, in those pages. Drawn for you to be able to put your kids to bed, to entertain them, to fill their minds with adventure and far away places. And you’ll be grateful for her.

Michelle has known for a long time that she has wanted to illustrate children’s books. “Since I could hold a pencil, (at age) 3 or 4. I know a lot of people say that, but I’ve always wanted to be an artist.” She actually has already illustrated her first.

She grew up in Asia (Beijing, Taiwan, Hong Kong), and went to the University of Utah to study graphic design, which she quickly learned wasn’t for her, transferred to BYU and is now graduating in Illustration in December.


“Graphic design just wasn’t my thing. I could do it, but it just wasn’t as interesting, I just loved drawing people and I loved telling stories.”

Which is what she plans to do after she graduates. She’s working right now for the Deseret News, out of Salt Lake City, as an illustrator. But keep your eye out for her. Because one day, you’ll be reading to your kids and she’ll be there, you just may not notice.

Check out more of Michelle's work here.

Posted by Coby Gerstner
Photographs by Matt Clayton

Goods - The Indie Coloring Book

As another addition to your library we endorse the Indie Rock Coloring Book. This graphic volume offers an interactive and colorful journey of creativity, artistic expression and music.

Wiggle yourself through the intricate Broken Social Scene maze, marvel in the colorful carnival of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, color Bon Iver's enchanted water supply, or slide down the psychedelic playground of MGMT.

Don't forget: all profits from this colorful venture go to charity. Oh and no rules here, we even encourage you stay outside the lines!

$9.95 Urban Outfitters

Posted by Andrew Garlock

Style - Back in Black

Guys, as the days go dark, so should your wardrobe.

Pea Coat $79.50 Old Navy // Slim Straight Jeans $49.50 American Eagle

Mossimo Watch $19.99 Target // Argyle Socks $6.50 Gap

Beanie $2.99 Target // Warmest Vest $69.50 Gap

Photographs by Matt Clayton

Music - LSTN #7

25 sweet tracks, compliments of Urban Outfitters, just waiting for you download here. Enjoy.

Music - New Moon Soundtrack Review

When I heard about the musicians that were to be featured on the soundtrack for the new Twilight movie I was totally floored. I just couldn't believe Thom Yorke would write a song specifically for it. He did, and because all of the music is new and exclusive to the soundtrack that means that Death Cab for Cutie, The Killers, Bon Iver, Sea Wolf, and others did, too.

At first I thought that either they were starting to sell out or the music director was trying too hard to increase the movie's street cred. But then I remembered how I was first introduced to Radiohead. It was through the soundtrack for Romeo and Juliet, a movie I watched almost every day for months back in my Leonardo DiCaprio phase. I didn't get into them until much later but it was a start, so perhaps that's what this will be for others.

That being said, it really is a great compilation, especially as an introduction to the genre but enjoyable even for the well-versed. Each track is solid in its own right, with some gems including Lykke Li's "Possibility," Bon Iver & St. Vincent's "Roslyn," and Grizzly Bear's "Slow Life." While there is enough variation to keep things interesting it's a surprisingly cohesive album, one song flowing seamlessly into the next. It should also be noted that as somebody who has read the books the overall tone for the soundtrack seems to fit quite nicely with the plot line of the movie, kind of dark and somber (there are a couple up-beat ones, don't worry). However, the real test may be whether Twilight-haters can ignore the context enough to take it as seriously as they should.

You can stream it right now or pick up a copy this Friday.

Posted by Amalia Smith

Music - Passion Pit

If you had no idea where you were, you might have thought you were at an Urban Outfitters fashion shoot. Girls in tights, boots and flowery blouses and guys in flannel shirts and skinny jeans filled Urban Lounge in Salt Lake City. The hundreds of people who showed up weren’t there for a photo shoot however; they were there to see electronic indie band Passion Pit.

Passion Pit didn't take the stage until after midnight, but it was worth the wait. The band started out with the first track off its debut full-length album, “Manners” and the first thing I noticed was the singer’s voice - it was soft and high pitched and it felt like he was struggling. Once I got over the initial shock, I could ignore that part and enjoy the other aspects of the show and by the end it didn’t even bother me. Passion Pit went through a mix of songs from its album and previous EP. My favorites of the night were “Sleepy Head,” “Folds in Your Hands,” and “Little Secrets.” The crowd sang along to most of the songs and danced and jumped as they recognized the familiar electro tunes.

The band left the stage for a short minute but returned and played their popular song “The Reeling.” They couldn’t have left without playing that one - a perfect way to end the night.

Although they only played a 40 minute set and the singer’s voice didn’t sound quite as good as it does on the album, Passion Pit brought a fun, energetic night to Urban Lounge. Not bad for the band’s first time in Salt Lake.

Posted by Spencer Flanagan
Photograph by Elizabeth Weinberg

Adam & Darcie

Adam and Darcie are cuter than any couple playing music, right now. Signed to Indiecater Records out of Dublin, Ireland along with Village Ten Collective from Portland, Oregon they also are pretty successful. Unlike a lot of other bands, theirs doesn’t have a shelf life.
“Our marriage is pretty key in the longevity of Adam and Darcie whereas other projects always reach an end when band members go separate ways. No separate ways here, except when Adam stays up to watch Conan,” Darcie says.
Their music is perfect for October, November, December or really any month. Give them a listen and be glad you did.

THE SAME SEVEN QUESTIONS FOR ADAM & DARCIE

Who or what inspires you?
Adam: Whenever I hear something that really moves me I feel compelled to write, record, or perform. Listening just isn't enough at that point and I feel motivated to be a part of music in a more active way.
In general, kind people are such an inspiring element of life. You know when you walk away from an encounter with someone and you feel lighter and happier just because of their kindness? Nothing anyone can do musically or professionally tops that.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Darcie: I need to ditch the laziness. There is some mind-numbing genius that could be happening if I could overcome that. Adam: I can overanalyze things, so I guess I'd like to be less hyper-critical.

What makes you happy?
Darcie: Our family is high on the list. The times when we're able to give our full attention to our son are the brightest spots of the day. I frequently find myself replaying that kind of stuff in my mind. "Remember when we went to the park and [our son] went down the slide and he saw that bug and..." But come on, good food has its place, too. We both have phenomenal parents, siblings, and friends who matter more to us than anything else.

What is your greatest fear?
Losing someone we love. It's so debilitating to imagine that possibility but it's a part of life. Also, I (Darcie) have issues with death and injury involving water. Drowning, a water slide collapsing mid-ride, a bridge collapsing, a car driving into a river...

What makes you laugh?
Grave things Darcie's mom says. Tracy Morgan. People under 3. The Space Olympics. Gob Bluth (Arrested Development)
Who are you listening to right now?
Darcie: I've been revisiting Midlake a lot recently. Their music feels so appropriate for autumn, so woodsy.
Adam: Reverie Sound Revue, Grizzly Bear, Department of Eagles, The Very Most... and I'm looking forward to the new Kings of Convenience.

What fictional character do you identify with most?
Me (Darcie) and Po from Kung Fu Panda have some striking similarities (creature of comforts, cheerful, preoccupied with food) while Adam is somewhat of a [Ron] Weasley (red hair).

Check out the music of Adam & Darcie here.
Posted by Coby Gerstner
Photographs by Matt Clayton

Style - 31st & Ivy

This generation is not known for their thoughtful planning skills, we like to be spontaneous. When the holidays roll around this means that if you don't check Facebook every hour on the hour, your social calendar tends to fill up on the fly. This Halloween, look stellar in any of these costumes, all found from inside the 21st & Ivy closet, no purchase necessary.
{Boo-tiful}
Show the afterlife a thing or two about fashion with one shredded old bed sheet.
//Rip a bed sheet into strips, tie or string over a belt of your choice //Take a pair of footless tights and pull them over your shoes instead of inside //Switch up your bronzer for baby powder to create your ghostly glow from top to bottom.
{Graveyard Smash}
//Black long sleeve t-shirt //Black pants //White craft paint. Done.
{Bandita}
This look is all about layers of patterns. //A paisley button-up, a tweed vest, a floral blazer, and 4-5 belts will give you the disheveled prairie look. //Throw on some tough boots, a mask made out of a headband, and some red lipstick. {Tumbleweed and rattlesnakes not included.}
{Brave}
Show off your physique and fading tan with simple pieces from your wardrobe.
//Cut off some old khakis and add a simple strip of fabric, fringed with scissors //Throw on your favorite vest //Stack up those leather cuffs you haven't worn in years //Borrow a little lipstick to show your true warrior colors.
{Hello Dolly!}
It's simple really.
//Babydoll dress of your choice //Half or full apron to match//Knee-high socks//Mary-Janes//Tight ringlets//Pink blush swirled to perfect circles over the apple of the cheek//False eyelashes

Make-up Tip: No false eyelashes to complete the look? Draw them on with black eyeliner, a la Twiggy.
{Teen Wolf}
This costume brings together our favorite elements: rockabilly and a hairy werewolf. //Letterman jacket, white v-neck, ripped up jeans //Using brown craft fur, add bits of fur to your cuffs, sneakers and jeans.

Styling by Emily Frame
Hair & Make-up: Bethany Kartchner
Photographs by Matt Clayton
*Special thanks to Charity Kartchner for additional wardrobe.

Music - Imagine Dragons EP

Looking for a new pop album that still has that indie feel to it? Look no further than local favorites Imagine Dragons’ new self-titled EP, released last month. The band recorded the five- song EP this past summer after moving to Las Vegas to dedicate the entire summer to recording and touring.

The EP is one of the catchiest CDs I have put into my CD player in a long time. I didn’t really know what to expect from the band, but as soon as the first track came on, I just wanted to turn up the volume as loud as it could go and learn every word so I could sing along; needless to say I was pleasantly surprised. I’ve tracked the band’s progress over the year or so they have been together but have never really gotten into them; however, I must say that the EP is well-crafted and I think it will appeal to just about anyone. Heavy synths and keyboards, pounding drum beats on each track and singer Dan Reynolds’s unique voice all help create the distinct pop sound that is Imagine Dragons.

Although the band experienced some rough spots in its lineup early this year and had been searching for its own distinct sound for some time, I think with the release of its new EP, Imagine Dragons have finally found its voice.

Favorite Tracks: “I Need a Minute” and “Uptight”

Posted by Spencer Flanagan
Photograph by Corlene Byrd

Goods - The Timex

In collaboration with J.Crew, the all-American brand Timex re-released its vintage unisex military watch for a limited time. This 1940s style icon coupled with any 10 nylon bands offered makes for a great conversation starter.A fusion of traditional elements and modern materials: the watch face is strategically distressed to appear worn with time and features a contrasting bright red second hand. Stainless steel casing and luminescent hands that glow in the dark so you'll always know what time it is.

Posted by Andrew Garlock

Style - Runway to Everyday - Marc My Words

For the second installment of "Runway to Everyday" let's highlight a fall look from Marc Jacobs' fall line. Marc Jacobs, who is known for his eccentric designs for men and women, is also a master of mixing print, pattern, and texture effortlessly.

Taking the structure of Marc Jacob's seamless combinations, you can create this look for less.

Already in Your Closet// Throw on your favorite worn-out tee, top that with a solid or printed button-up, and trade in your everyday denim for a pair of khakis or trousers.

Essential Splurge// Polish your layered look with cool weather staples: Navy Collared Sweater $48.00 Plaid Cardigan $39.99 Urban Outfitters
//Invest in a boot. Rugged, or sleek, you can find either of these looks for $39.99 at Target

Wearable all year round and all for under $100.00

Posted by Emily Frame