SLOPE MAGAZINE
We are the 21st Century the faces of today
Volume 6 Issue 2
December2011
Inside
*What Dubstep Are You? *Style and Trends *Cornell in the Media
...AND MORE
The LETTER
The Mag Team EDITOR IN CHIEF Lindsay Rothfeld
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dani Gredoña
E P O SL MAG
CREATIVE ASSISTANT Shah Ahmed
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND LAYOUT TEAM Shah Ahmed Anna Ancona Alec Berin Elizabeth Brooks Katherine Bruce Trevor Burns Leela Chantrelle Olivia Duell Dani Gredoña Monique Hall Graham Harwood Natalia Jorbenadze Jake Kramer Emma Laurentine Arielle Lewen Yasmin Mohaideen Olivia Poglianich-Soria Sarah Roger Andrea Sielicki Jordan Simon Victoria Sobel Hannah Smith Ben Wainberg Ariella Weintraub Tim Weisberg
CONTENT HEADS Trevor Burns Leela Chantrelle Olivia Duell Maggie Merrell Alice Wang Tim Weisberg
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Colin Budd Tina Chou Andrew Fu Kelly Gordon Faye Tsakas
ADVISORS
Linda Mikula Tracy Vosburgh
THE LETTER
This semester has gone by too quickly. This letter marks not only the introduction of this issue of the magazine, but also my conclusion as the editor of it. I can say with sincere honesty that serving as the editor of this magazine has changed my experience at Cornell for the better. This semester, in particular, has allowed me to explore my creative ablitiies and work with other passionate and brilliant individuals. Our slope mag community has truly grown over the past year-I love you all. I will never forget the awesome, serious, and silly conversations we have had about music, Cornell, society’s expectations of us, and more. This particular issue focuses on the unique individual--who are you, who does society want you to be, and who were the people who came before you? Ahh Slope. Use that word wisely, my friends.
Lindsay Rothfeld <3
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CONTENTS THE SLOG.........................2 ENTERTAINMENT
Cornell in the Media...............4 Ithaca Venues......................6
POLITICS
2012 Election......................7 The Occupy Movement: What are we fighting for?......................8
FEATURE
The College Student: Throughout the Decades.....10
MUSIC
What Dubstep Are You?!............14 Rap in Class: Studying Kanye......16 Album Reviews.....................18
SPORTS
Inspiration off the Field.........20
FASHION
Urban Counterfeiters..............21 Style on the Slope and on the Runway.................22
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The ENTERTAINMENT
“Douchiest College, Home of the ‘chip on shoulder’ douche.” BY ARIELLE LEWEN
ornell In The Media
According to GQ’s “Douchiest Colleges in America: 2011 Edition,” Big Red holds the #1 slot beating out other notoriously “douchey” schools such as Brown, Stanford and Duke. The article accuses Cornell of being a fake member of the Ivy League and a producer of future Hotel bellhops. This stereotype is certainly not easy to discredit when the media plays off of it as well. Andy Bernard, current Regional Manager on the show The Office, is a quirky character with a tendency to mention his Cornell education every time he wants people to know how valuable he is. “I went to Cornell, ever heard of it?” Andy has good intentions and cares about his coworkers, but tends to come off particularly douchey, especially when his alma mater is brought up (mostly by him). Andy is not the only douchey alum mentioned by GQ. Others include: Keith Olbermann, Ann Coulter, Adolph Coors Jr., and Lauren Weisburger.
Sorry, but Tracy Jordan doesn’t do safety schools.
http://movies.yahoo.co m/movie
Chris Evans cheats his way to Cornell in The Perfect Score.
“Cornell: The Safety Ivy?” BY YASMIN MOHAIDEEN
Though Cornell receives few mentions in the media, Hollywood has provided some interesting commentaries. In a recent episode of NBC’s 30 Rock, Tracy Jordan, Tracy Morgan’s thinly-veiled alter-ego, says, “Cornell commencement address? Sorry, Tracy Jordan doesn’t do safety schools.” So how exactly does Cornell fit into the stereotype of a “safety school”? What seems most derogatory about the label is the implied comparison to other top-ranked universities. Sure, Cornell has the highest acceptance rate of the Ivy League (18% in 2011) but does that really merit “safety school”? There is no indication that this stereotype has value in the media’s portrayal of Cornell; in fact, fictional Cornellians rarely mention the applica-
tion process or competition with other universities at all. For instance, at the beginning of Water for Elephants, protagonist Jacob Jankowski is already attending Cornell’s veterinary school in the 1930s, highly prestigious then and still ranked number one now. Natalie Keener from Up in the Air and Sideshow Mel from The Simpsons don’t mention applying to Harvard or Princeton, and they just boast about their Cornell degrees. But nothing discredits the safety school jab more than The Perfect Score, where Chris Evans’ Kyle goes so far as to hijack the SAT scores in order to get into Art, Architecture and Planning. Perhaps Tracy Jordan wouldn’t be so quick to generalize if he were applying to Cornell rather than just giving a speech.
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http://www.adweek.com/
Pragmatist with a dependeable career BY BEN WAINBERG Mitchell Pritchett from ABC’s Modern Family received an undergraduate degree from Cornell and a law degree from Columbia University. Mitchell’s personality is low-key and uptight, which serves as a counter to Cameron’s loud and flamboyant disposition. Much of Mitchell’s role in the show focuses on raising his adopted Vietnamese daughter Lily with his partner Cameron. Unlike other media depictions of fictional Cornell alumni, Mitchell seems to hit several stereotypes that are more realistic and relatable to the highly diverse student body at Cornell. He is intelligent without coming across as a bookish nerd. He has worked to achieve a respectable career, and cares deeply for his relationships with friends and family. He keeps an open mind and tries to politely inform others when they make homophobic remarks. In many instances, he comes across as a cultured individual: Mitchell’s inner wine-snob shines, suggesting he took HADM 4300: Introduction to Wines during his time at Cornell: Mitchell Pritchett: [after his sister Claire uncorks a bottle of wine with her teeth] Where did you learn to do that? Claire Dunphy: Where did you get a sailor suit at such short notice? Mitchell Pritchett: Fair enough. [Picks up bottle] Mitchell Pritchett: Eew! It’s Merlot.
http://mofamily.wordpress.com/
Mitchell Pritchett ( Modern Family) represents the “low key, uptight” Cornellian.
In a dysfunctional family filled with quirky personalities, Mitchell comes across as one of the most levelheaded and practical characters, ultimately giving Cornell a huge win for its image in the media.
Notable Alumni in the Media
t
http://www.film.com/
Jane Lynch (above)
t
Bill Maher
t
Christopher Reeves
t
t
Bill Nye
t
t t
E.B White
Dave Edgerton (co founder of Burger King)
Katherine Hicks (Annie Camden 7th heaven)
David Seidler (Won Oscar for “Best Adapted Screen Play” -King’s Speech)
t
Jimmy Smits (right)
t
Allen Funt (Creator of “Candid Camera.”) http://www.nndb.com/
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The ENTERTAINMENT
Get off the Hill BY SHAH AHMED AND OLIVIA DUELL
D
The music, the films, and the dancing. Take a look at what Ithaca has to offer us. Cornellians tend to remain on campus, but there is more to see and do in Ithaca than one might think.
an Smalls’92, the man to thank for most acts that play in Ithaca, has one criticism for Cornell students: so many never leave the hills until the end of their time here. He makes a valid point. We Cornellians are a busy group of people, consumed in our studies and confined to the libraries during the week. So why, when we get a spot of free time, don’t we hop a bus and take a ten minute trip downtown? Surely there are those who have attended small shows at Castaways or The Haunt, or have seen a bigger production at the State Theatre; yet, many students never stray away from campus. Perhaps Slope can convince those too afraid to venture into Ithaca to explore all the city has to offer. Arguably Ithaca’s most distinguished venue, The State Theatre offers concerts, student plays, and ballet. While the building dates back to 1915, the State has changed hands a number of times and made many improvements to its physical interior. The beautiful building, which in the late 90s was threatened with demolition, is experiencing one of its most successful seasons ever, after a rough season last year, running 16 shows this fall. Sold out shows included Garrison Keeler, Gillian Welch, and a Joan Baez-Kris Kristofferson double header. Smalls speaks proudly of the many acts the State has hosted and argues Ithaca
is ready to reclaim its lost title as a “music mecca.” If he keeps bringing noted artists such as Lyle Lovett, The Avett Brothers, Goo Goo Dolls, and Ray Davies to play the State Theatre, this claim could easily come to fruition. Across from The State Theatre and right by the Commons is Delilah’s, a recently established Savannah-fusion cuisine restaurant that houses a music lounge on the second floor. The lounge serves as another venue for Dan Smalls Presents and has hosted smaller acts such as Starfucker in the past. Weekly programs, including jazz and swing performers and local favorite Djug Django, offer a comforting, old-time atmosphere in a new and cool setting. Delilah’s is definitely a place to enjoy both a taste of Ithaca’s food and music. Those interested in movies should know there are more options than just Regal Cinemas at the Ithaca Mall. While movie
(
donors, and features a selection of recent pictures that satisfy both the indie film and mainstream film fan. Additionally, organizations, filmmakers, and moviegoers can take advantage of a lesser-known, unique service offered by Cinemapolis and rent out a private theater. Prices range from $100-$1000, depending on the time and day requested. For committed patrons, the theater also offers membership of a variety levels. Students can become a “Cinemapolitan” for $50, which includes discounts on ticket and concession prices year round. Every Cornell student should visit this classy little theater, check out the concession stand, and see films different than those Regal plays. Those interested in learning about shows coming to Ithaca in the spring semester should check out dansmallspresents.com or like the Facebook page by the same name. Smalls frequently updates both sites on acts
So why, when we get a spot of free time, don’t we hop a bus and take a ten minute trip downtown?
theaters seem a scarcity in Ithaca, Cinemapolis, found on East Green Street less than a block from the State Theatre, offers alternative options in a quaint setting. Cinemapolis is a non-profit independent theater that runs completely on ticket sales and
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coming to the venues mentioned above as well as to Castaways, The Haunt, the Hangar Theatre, and shows out of town. The State Theatre is also online at www. stateofithaca.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter (@stateofithaca).
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THE DEMOCRAT
www.whitehouse.gov
Mitt Romney
BY GRAHAM HARWOOD
As of printing we are still in two wars, Guantanamo is still open, nationalized healthcare remains about half implemented, the economy is precarious at best and floundering at worst, and wealth has
Romney has created his own private fortune; he also has significant political experience as a multi term governor of Massachusetts. Romney has implemented a program that
been redistributed but we are just not sure in which direction. The Democrats, though, still have this slogan to cling to: “Hey man, whatever we did in the past we are better than that.”
provides healthcare to all Massachusetts citizens who cannot otherwise afford it. Sadly this program just doesn’t sit well with Republicans, who also have some problems with some of what Romney has said in the past concerning abortion and gay marriage.
http://mittromneymormon.net/
Herman Cain
http://www.lifenews.com/
Michelle Bachmann It appears that there are still enough moderates and social liberals who object strongly enough to her inflammatory comments concerning praying the gay away and her husband’s clinic to cure SSAD (Same Sex Attraction Disorder) that she will have a tough time actually being elected. As far as vaccinations, the
Cain in a nutshell: your racist uncle who has his own theories about how to fix foreign policy and the economy that are half baked at best, irresponsible at worst. Cain has said that he doesn’t need to know what the capital of “Ubeki beki beki stan” is to be able to dictate what our foreign
THE REPUBLICANS The Republican primary race right now looks less like a race to become the leader of our country and instead more like a strange reality show where contestants take turns attempting to say something crazier than the next guy in order to win a house on Pennsylvania Avenue.
policy should be. This is a problem considering we run major supply lines through Uzbekistan. While his 9-9-9 plan would certainly simplify the tax code, it has been projected to be several hundred million dollars short.
http://bachmann. house.gov/
evidence is not fully conclusive that vaccinations cause mental retardations and many have made the argument that the number of lives saved far outweighs the risk.
The NEWS
The race for the 2012 Presidential Election is off to an interesting start. Let’s take a look at some who attempted to contend..
http://www. governor.state. tx.us/about/
Rick Perry
Like George Bush he makes the American people feel like they have a strong man at home to take care of them. Sadly the areas where he most resembles George Bush are those of foreign policy, economic policy, and public speaking. Economically his plan is an optional simplification to a 20% flat tax then you list your deductions, a plan which conveniently fits on a post card. He has bumbled through debates causing his poll numbers to drop faster than he can draw a pistol.
As for the rest of the Republican field, Ron Paul has some feasible ideas to fix our economy as well significant political and foreign policy experience. As for John Huntsman, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Santorum: if they hang in there and start saying some crazy things, they might be able to land a Fox News Job.
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The NEWS
The Occupy Movement and America’s Obsession with Protests BY NATALIA JORBENADZE
BEFORE AFTER
CORNELL?
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Protesting isn’t new for America. We’ve done it before, and it has worked. WHAT ARE WE FIGHTING FOR? Recently, when I’ve read a newspaper or gone online, I’ve seen a story that pertains to Occupy Wall Street. The protest has grown to include hundreds of thousands of people from all over America, but also many critics, who question what is actually being protested. What, exactly, is the big unifying message of Occupy Wall Street? The main argument with the movement is that the protesters are disorganized and waste time. But shouldn’t these people have the right to speak out after many of them were affected by the 2008 financial crisis? Isn’t having a voice and equal say in daily decision making an essential part of democracy? Is this really so different from any other protest? When I heard a lecture by Bruce Reynolds, a long time labor leader and Cornell alumna, my opinions toward this issue cemented. According to him, the Occupy Wall Street movement is crucial to facilitate change. In his words, “accomplishing change takes time.” He also emphasized that change has to come from the students, just like it did during other events like the Vietnam War or the Civil Rights movement. Arguably, if one looks at the Occupy Cornell movement, college students are indeed at the forefront. Additionally, the movement actually affects students, as they are the ones who will be searching for jobs in this economy in one to four years. Reynolds also stated that, in general, protest movements contain two crucial aspects: organization, and “taking it to the edge.” He adds that as time moves forward, protests will become more organized and coherent in their message. Now that the Occupy Wall Street movement has grown in popularity, the “edginess” of the protests will
also amp up, and we may see the Occupy movement resemble similar, large-scale protest movements of the past. Though these protests are similar to those of previous decades, I feel the Occupy protests are unique and accessible to a large number of people. The movement involves all, and isn’t dictated by only one person or group. A number of people have lost faith in the government after the Dodd Frank Bill, which was supposed to address “Too Big to Fail” (the government protection of large financial institutions), arguably accomplished nothing. Still, it is problematic that many still do not sympathize with the protesters. Their message does not reach those who need to hear it, and therefore the government, media, and others, who may refuse to listen, accuse the protesters of being unclear. Don’t the protesters have a right to protest a government that makes promises but doesn’t follow through? These types of demonstrations, in a country where people have a right to elect power and also to take it away, should be understood; however, the Occupy protests are still widely criticized. Additionally, violence within the movement creates a tenser atmosphere, as seen at Occupy Oakland, and which recalls violence from movements past. Yet, Occupy Wall Street is not what threatens America; on the contrary, it symbolizes America’s strength as a nation, for if dissent does not exist in a country, then the government, or a handful of very rich individuals, easily control the power. Therefore, people should stop turning their heads from the protests with disgust. Change is only possible to those who fight for it, not to those who stand on the sidelines and watch.
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The COVER
The College Student
1960’s The Office character Creed Bratton once said, “I’m not offended by homosexuality. In the 60s, I made love to many, many women – often outdoors, in the mud and the rain...” This fictional statement accurately captures the type of sexual freedom that was seen in the 1960s. Indeed, political and social freedom (not just sexual), and more importantly, the struggle to attain it, describes the tumultuous 1960s. The 60s saw the rise of several movements including the feminist, free love, hippie, and Civil Rights movements. Ironically, these movements emphasized freedom from society’s constraints yet classified and categorized the youth. We saw the conception of birth control, which gave women control over their futures. Casual sex became more widely accepted, a component of the casual “hook-up” that we all know to be a staple in today’s youth culture, and this empowerment contributed to the spark we know as second-wave feminism. The decade’s fashion reflected its change of norms. Mary Quant created the mini-skirt and called it a form of liberation. Other iconic figures such as The Beatles and Twiggy also popularized different fashion trends. Ultimately, the 60s was a period of change, influenced by our involvement in Vietnam. Indeed, the war was a catalyst for the aforementioned counter-culture, and it also sparked a number of college campus protests nationwide. In fact, Cornell participated in a protest of its own, as students took over Willard Straight Hall at the end of the decade. Youth today can relate to youth of the past and we continue to look behind us for inspiration.
~Dani Gredoña
1970s
A typical college student in the 1970s wore nylon, sequins and glitter. She worshipped John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever while he wore platform shoes and 3-piece suits when he went out dancing to Donna Summer and Gloria Gaynor disco. She wore bell-bottoms, midi-skirts, platforms and wrap dresses, listened to Bob Dylan, The Byrds and Carly Simon. He wanted to be the smooth-talking Fonz from Happy Days. She listened to Barbara Streisand, Helen Reddy, Arlo Guthrie, Billy Joel and The Jackson 5. A 70s student lived during Roe v. Wade, the oil crisis, the Kent State shooting, and Watergate. After Nixon’s Watergate scandal, people grew suspicious of the government, especially after their president broke their expectations. Women became more visible in the workplace and college; for example, college enrollment for women increased by 44% between 1970 and 1975. Even though there was much political action in the Middle East and in Vietnam, students were reluctant to act on campus because of what had happened to their peers at Kent State. How were they supposed to know the government wouldn’t shoot at them, too?
~Sarah Roger 10
Throughout the Decades
1980s
The 80s introduced America to the king and queen of pop: Michael Jackson and Madonna. The decade also gave us the fashion that we draw from in our outfits today: bleached jeans, leggings, crop tops, and over-sized jewelry— watch Flashdance or Ferris Bueller’s Day Off for fashion notes. Additionally, the decade delivered MTV, Pac-Man, John Hughes movies, and Hughes’ Brat Pack actors. College students, in an attempt to be an individual, make a statement, and attract attention, would emulate what they saw in these movies and music videos. The 80s marked the rise of home computers and video games, and the first Apple Macintosh was introduced in 1984—who knew that someday Apple would surround us? The decade also underwent a television revolution, as cable became more available to college students keeping up with Cheers, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Growing Pains. In a time of conservative government under Reagan, there was a stress on a different kind of individualism than in decades past. Rather than actively participating in politics such as the students of the 60s and 70s, 80s college students took more of a laissez-faire approach, and some, for example, chose to further their wealth and become, let’s say. bankers on Wall Street.
~Anna Ancona
1990s
In the 90s we saw grunge in music and fashion. Flannel shirts and Doc Martens, classics still seen on fashionistas today, reigned supreme. The 90s also had its missteps, including “mom jeans,” brightly colored harem pants a la Fresh Prince of Bel Air, overalls, scunchies, and stretch choker necklaces (why did we EVER think that was acceptable?) We wanted our family to be like the Camdens from 7th Heaven – a mom and dad with all the answers. We wanted our college experience to be like that of Felicity’s, a girl who followed her unrequited high school crush to college, and somehow had him fall in love with her. Then, as we ventured into the ‘real world,’ we hoped to live like the cast of Friends, unemployed and living in a massive apartment in NYC. The 90s marked the beginning of the electronic age. But technology was still in its youth and was unreliable and finicky. Internet wasn’t at our fingertips.. If we were to meet someone at 12 PM for lunch, we would be there, for we couldn’t send a quick text or email saying we were busy/ tired/’something came up.’ Although the 90s seem not that long ago, as a result of technology, things have changed drastically. College students today probably cannot fathom college life in the 90s, when Wifi, laptops, smartphones, iPods, chequered.com and Facebook were not at our fingertips. Without the distractions, college kids of the 90s probably, shockingly, actually went to library and got work done.
~Hannah Smith 11
Well, we’re officially big kids now. We’re signing big kid Collegetown leases and declaring our big kid majors and, come the weekend, drinking lots and lots of big kid beverages. It’s kind of hard to believe we’ve chipped off 11 years from the 21st century. But the dawn of this century, for better or for worse, has shaped, and will come to define, our generation. Think about it: Who were you ten years ago? We were just kids, self assured and innocent, unaware of the dangers and trouble the world would face in the years to come. When we were kids, terrorism was a word saved for elusive, exclusive niches of society; now, a day doesn’t goes by when the word isn’t laced through the front page of the Times. College kids today spent their formative years with the memory of 9/11 looming over them. We grew up while doubt loomed over this country, wondering whether we would ever be truly safe again. We’ve grown up in an era of unprecedented speed. The spread of widely available high-tech gadgets has made information find-
Models from left to right Paige Mollineaux, Lesley Young , Mark Mahagaajala, Adam Webb, Justin Morant, Kelly Gordon, Sarah Angell, Subashiny Gengatharan, Christopher Fieschko, Talia Siegel, Larry Slaughter, Margaret Szczerbicki, Liz Wheeler, Grace Choi
ing, creating, and sharing fast and easy. In the time it took to open a web page using dial-up back in the day, Usain Bolt could run 100 meters. Seriously. Today, not only can you load that same web page almost instantly, you can simultaneously watch Usain Bolt run that same 100 meters on YouTube while also face-timing your longdistance boyfriend on your iPhone. And then there’s MySpace, and Angry Birds, and Skype, and iTunes… the list goes on. The novelties of 1999 are commonplace today. As kids, dealing with our own changes, like raging hormones and schoolyard crushes, how did we ever manage to keep up with the world around us? While we listened to Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, and Britney Spears on the radio, pop music now is Lady Gaga and Ke$ha, and, well, Britney Spears (some things never change, albeit her persona most certainly has) who croon about their wild nights out and brushing their teeth with whiskey (that is not good dental hygiene, children). Meanwhile, technology spreads to younger and younger audiences. Kids get onto Facebook and capitalize on its anonymity
21st Century 12
to be cruel to their peers; they use the web to be, well, kids. But the results are even more catastrophic, as a result of the combination of the isolation and speed of the internet. So who are we now? We are adults who grew up in a confusing and ever-changing time. We are technologically savvy consumers, fluent in lol’s and emoticons, and adorned in iPods and earbuds. We online shop and submit papers to professors via email. We dance to music created entirely by computers, mourn the deaths of Michael Jackson and Steve Jobs with equal zeal, and watch Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert to get a trustworthy political perspective. We are better read in David after Dentist and Double Rainbows than we are in Faulkner and Hemingway. We are expected to be constantly in the know, updating and uploading, via Facebook, via YouTube, via Twitter (but god forbid not MySpace, that is so 2007). We are instantaneous cultural consumers. And now that we’re in college, we’ve created unbelievable standards for ourselves. We can’t stop moving; Cornellians are intensely
driven. We are kids determined to be doctors and lawyers and business executives. So what are striving towards? And, more importantly, what are we missing? In this hyper-competitive, super driven atmosphere, what are we doing? Furiously completing problem sets in order to beat out your peers for an A isn’t what college is meant to be. This is probably the only chance we’ll have in our lives to learn whatever we want without regard for career and familial responsibilities. College is meant to shape us as individuals, not churn out a bunch of med-school-bound twenty-somethings. So, while our entire adolescence has been defined by a world in constant motion, let us take this time to enjoy our youth. You don’t need to have it all together right now; you don’t need to know exactly where you’ll be in two years, let alone ten. For though after we graduate Mitt Romney might be president, Snooki and the gang might be back for Season 17, and it might be the end of the world as we know it, right now, we’re feeling fine. Let’s take our big kid beverages and enjoy these four years while we have them.
~Katherine Bruce
FACES OF TODAY Photo by Colin Budd
Shoot Coordinated with Thread Magazine 13
The MUSIC
The Many Faces of Dubstep
V
Where do you fall?
The 60’s had The Beatles, the 70’s gave birth to Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson made his way in the 80’s, and today we’ve got...Skrillex? Face it, the oddball electronic dance music that is Dubstep has made it to America and wormed its way into the hearts of our youth. This music is raunchy, raw and rough. It is the grime on our sleeve that we secretly lick because sometimes it proves to be tasty. To most of us, we can’t tell the difference between dubstep and Transformers dirty talking. But within this mega genre, sub-genre identities have begun to spring up. Confused on where you fall within the dub continuum? Need some help on developing your brand image? Wanna look cool and have something to talk about during parties?
BY TREVOR BURNS
THE INDIE mostly A’s
Look at you. You’re probably tall, and, if not, you’ll feel elevated enough from the pure music gold you hold over everyone else. You dress well: tight pants…but not too tight, layers, and perhaps your father’s 20 year old jacket. You get your music not from the radio, but from a guy who knows a guy who works in a studio in Europe or from some dope music website we do not know about. Your dub is classy, refined, original. Dubstep has taken a turn for the worse. After going mainstream (gasp!) Prince James Blake confirmed your qualms stating it’s become “who can make the dirtiest, filthiest bass sound, almost like a pissing competition.”
Take the quiz!!!!!
BASEMENT DWELLER mostly B’s
You’re on a different level. You’ve probably got 5 different networks of file sharing and some sort of DJ interface on your computer. Your speaker system puts the rest of us to shame. You post hidden gems of music tracks on public dubstep forums. You know a thing or two about computer programming, ride a long board, have an extensive collection of hoodies, and cargo pants. You definitely got some cargo pants. You May Enjoy: The Glitch Mob, Excision, Magnetic Man, Datsik, Borgore, Pretty Lights
You may enjoy: Jamie XX, SBTRKT, Burial, Joy Orbison, Joker & Ginz, James Blake, Mount Kimbie
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1. A knock comes at your door. You: a.Quickly turn off the music so they don’t hear it. b.Tell them you’ll catch up later cus you gotta finish this song/ you’re in the zone. c.Tell em’ to come join you and crank that shit up. d.I’m not in my room. I’m tripping balls walking through the labyrinth of Collegetown.
2.“Pre-Game” drink of choice: a.A nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. b.Monster & Vodka. c.Keystone Light. d.Robotussin.
3.You’re having a great conversation. The music changes to a tune that trumps the cutie you’re talking to. Time to dance: a.Feel the music. There are some hand motions and head movements but not enough to make you look stupid. b.Stand in the corner and move your own way. Whichever way that is. c.Grab that cutie and grind it up. d.Your neck looks elastic the way you throw that sucker around. Flail and rage. YDGAF.
FRAT DAWG mostly C’s
Oh shit, mixer this weekend? You’ve been assigned to make the playlist. Nothing could be better. People come to you because they play their best games of Root when they’ve got a dubstep soundtrack to work with. To you, it’s all about how absolutely filthy the drop sounds…panties will hit the floor after this drop. The dirtier the drop, the higher your status. Dubstep should just get to the point. Screw the 4 minute build up. To you dub is a mass of electronic soundbursts with the distant remnants of a melody. Your drink of choice may or may not be Keystone Light, and you might own a pinny.
4.What type of venue do you see shows? a.Some hole in the wall bar/club. b.Live over webstream. c.Don’t matter where, so long as my fist is high in the front row. d.Arenas, campgrounds, clubs.
5.Do you DJ? a.Not so much, I’d take away from the artist’s intent. b.I have Traktor, Reason, Dubturbo at my fingertips. c.Yeah I got a pretty sick mix on Virtual DJ. d.No time. Limits my dancing.
6.Describe your pants:
a.Pretty tight. Got em at Urban full retail. No big. b.Shorts even when it’s cold. Or cargo’s. c.Sweatpants and sport shorts. Let em breathe. d.Neon yellow.
7.WOMP-WOMP-WOMP?
a.Womp-ma-womp. b.WOMP-EEEE-REEE-WAMP WAMP. c.WOMP- WOMP- WOMP- WOMP- WOMP- WOMP. d.WOMP -WA-WA-WA-WA-RANANANANAN-WOMP WOMP WOMP.
RAVER
mostly D’s
You smoke neon crack rocks before going out. That’s how hardcore you roll. To you, dubstep brings people together…in a sweaty mass of glowsticks and paint. You hit festivals like DayGlo, Identity, Ultra, and EDC so hard they might as well give you a press pass. You see no difference between being a great dancer and shaking it like you’re epileptic. You May Enjoy: Afrojack, Laidback Luke, Nero, Sweedish House Mafia, Steve Aoki
You may Enjoy: Skrillex, Rusko, Flux Pavillion, Doctor P, Bassnectar
Illustrations by Andrew Fu 15
The MUSIC
The Merits of Studying Rap Lyrics in Class: Yeezy Taught Me BY LEELA CHANTRELLE AND MONIQUE HALL
http://glamazonsblog.com/
Whether it’s the theme song to Fresh Prince of Bel-Air or old school Tupac, everyone, at some point, listens to rap. The avenues through which hip-hop and rap have spread have changed throughout the years, but undeniably, rap is everywhere. While the popularity of rap has changed, the contents of its lyrics have also evolved in order to keep up. Some colleges, in order to encompass the rising relevance of rap, have started offering courses on hiphop. For example, the University of Michigan offers “College Writing on The College Dropout” while Georgetown offers “Sociology of Hip-Hop: Jay-Z,” both of which are creating buzz in the blogosphere. Additionally, because Kanye West, one of the most prolific rappers in the game, has changed how rap is perceived and defined, he is therefore the controversial subject of many classes.
Tessa Brown, a University of Michigan graduate student, teaches the previously mentioned class on Kanye’s album The College Dropout. When asked about the evolution of rap lyrics, Brown touched on syllables within song lines. While lyrics traditionally have eight syllables per line, they now have sixteen, or sometimes even more. Brown also brought up Jay-Z’s book, Decoded, which highlights the hidden meanings behind certain lyrics and exposes certain parts of the rap game. Furthermore, Brown addresses the broadness of current lyrics, and that the only certainty about rap is that “it will continue to grow, to expand, to adjust itself to new cultures and new young people looking to make their voices heard and express themselves creatively.” When asked how students react to taking her class, the University of Michigan grad admitted that the
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meaning behind videos, sampling, and rappers’ messages (in Brown’s case, Kanye’s message) surprise students. Brown also argued that the study of rap lyrics can fall under many disciplines, such as English, Sociology, Business or Gender Studies, which shows that rap consistently maintains relevancy, especially among today’s youth. As Brown mentioned, sampling of other artists’ songs is a signature part of Kanye’s music. The songs he samples often play into the overall theme or meaning of his songs. For example, in the song “All Falls Down,” Kanye samples Lauryn Hill’s “Mystery of Iniquity,” using its hook as the
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everyone deals with the same issues. In the “All Falls Down” music video, Kanye is at the airport with his love interest who is waiting to catch a flight to a possible permanent destination. Interestingly, this video is filmed in a way to put the viewer in Kanye’s perspective: we see what he sees and experience what he experiences. The listener, or in this case, the viewer, is forced to feel everything he feels, for as Kanye raps, he becomes more and more human, and thus, more relatable. Kanye’s lyrics are a great example of how music, as a whole, is a reflection of current issues and ideas of certain
The only certain thing about rap is that “it will continue to grow, to expand, to adjust itself to new cultures and new young people looking to make their voices heard and express themselves creatively.”
song’s chorus. Hill’s song discusses the many faults of the American justice system, as well as her conviction that, if things aren’t improved, everyone, the rich and poor, the victimizers and victims, will ultimately “all fall down.” Kanye ties this theme into the ideas of vanity and selfconsciousness, which he discusses in his own song. His song stresses that no matter how much or how little you have,
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generations. Rap is arguably a form of poetry, and can now be analyzed in the classroom alongside poems. Because of the evolution that rap lyrics have undergone, and due to the lyrical depth they now possess, lyrics prove their relevance as an area of academic study. Who wouldn’t have fun in a class that requires listening to Kanye as homework?
JUSTICE THROUGH MUSIC “All Falls Down” examines the cracks in the American justice system. Ultimately, if we do not fight against it, we will “all fall down.”
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The MUSIC
ALBUM
COLDPLAY - MYLO XYLOTO
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Probably one of the biggest and most successful bands of our generation, Coldplay has displayed stark emotion and raw intensity through their melodic instrumentals and Chris Martin’s voice for years. Mylo Xyloto is an album that is meant to bring out the positives in life. The opening song “Hurts Like Heaven” might be the catchiest Coldplay song yet. It starts off strong and glides into a swift chorus surrounded by a piano ballad and quick guitar riffs. Chris Martin’s energy is relentless. “Paradise,” “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall,” and “Princess of China” (a song with Rihanna) are all radio friendly, unlike Coldplay’s norm. Though unexpected, they all provide captivating choruses and draw audiences into a
Penning new seasonal melodies and reviving old standards for “Under the Mistletoe,” the Bieber musical team is also gearing up for the release of the artist’s highly anticipated second studio album Believe (expected to be released in early 2012) – which will without a doubt be among the most anticipated musical events of the year. Maybe, just maybe, Under the Mistletoe will be enough to hold off droves of teen girls for a couple more months. The record itself is a mixed bag, with songs ranging in style from upbeat pop to slow, soulful R&B, and hits the mark as far as Christmas music goes. “Mistletoe”, the first single, is a catchy pop piece, which could have easily come off his next album, if not for its seasonal lyrics. That being said, the groove is nice and it will probably be the song most people remember from this record.
brighter world than their own. Although “Princess of China” seems to be more of Rihanna’s style - together her and Martin end the song with a fiery passion, matching each other’s emotional touch. It’s an album that instills hope for the world and love through its uplifting melodies. Perfect for the December cold that is upstate New York, Mylo Xyloto is for those with an eclectic music taste. This album isn’t exciting solely for its uniqueness, but because it elevates Coldplay as one of, if not the most, distinctive bands out there today. / JAKE KRAMER
Collaborations with the likes of Usher and Mariah Carey are also among the highlights, breathing new life into “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” and “All I Want for Christmas,” respectively. On the track “Drummer Boy,” Busta Rhymes does what Busta Rhymes does best and flows over an interesting arrangement of the classic song. Numbers like “Christmas Eve”, “Fa La La”, and “All I Want Is You” are very different for Bieber and might begin to reveal his future; he has certainly grown out of his 15 year old voice. With singles “Mistletoe” and “The Christmas Song” already on the charts, Under the Mistletoe is the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone on your holiday list, be they pre-frosh or professor. / ALEC BERIN
BIEBER - UNDER THE MISTLETOE
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REVIEWS Kelly Clarkson, the American Idol that started it all, released her 5th album Stronger this past October. And the album, chock full of Miss Independent-esque breakup songs, proves to be just that, a strong and much awaited follow up to 2009’s All I Ever Wanted. Her first single off the new album, “Mr. Know It All,” was an instant hit, reaching the iTunes Top 10 just days after its release. It’s definitely the best song of the album; just one listen will urge you to drive around, music blaring, on a nice sunny day. “Mr. Know It All,” combines a uniquely new Kellyless angry, more confident- with the old girl who bashed the men in her life for not giving her the respect she deserved.
M83 - HURRY UP. WE’RE DREAMING
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However, some tunes take creative license just a tad too far. “Einstein,” for one, does have a catchy beat that serves as good background music while climbing the Stairmaster. Lyrically, however, “I may not be Einstein but I know Dumb + Dumb = You,” isn’t exactly empowering. The album’s big surprise track, “Breaking Your Own Heart,” packs a real punch. Kelly really slows it down with this one, focusing on a beautiful, deep melody instead of her usual dance anthems. Closing the album with this one may prove the rumors true- country-crossover album here she comes. Yehaw! / OLIVIA POGLIANICH-SORIA
You know that feeling you get when you hear a song and are instantly transported back to the place and time where you heard it? That’s what Anthony Gonzales did for me 22 times in Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming. M83 definitely pulled it together after taking 3 years in the studio. The band stayed true to their roots at a time when we wanted them too. Similar to previous albums, each song is strung together to create an experience with a blend of vocals and instrumentals. The drum beats on “Steve McQueen” fuels the train of sound that continues throughout the album. Fun child-narrative “Raconte-Moi Une Histoire” reminds me of smiling to the catchy tune “Animals” by Baths, while
CLARKSON - STRONGER
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“OK Pal” feels like the closing credits of a 1980’s John Hughes film. Gonzales mastered his well-known new-wave synth pad sound by adding a modern update to the electro accompanyment on the album. Most recognizable is in the crowd favorite “Midnight City” where the synth pad drives the song and our emotions up a hill of intense sensations. Needless to say after hearing the saxophone solo at the height of the song I needed a change of pants. Overall this album has some timeless moments on it for me, moments to add to my soundtrack of life. / TREVOR BURNS
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The SPORTS
this past season, became the only the second sophomore to ever be elected as co-captain of the Big Red. “That was a huge honor for me, and I think one of the biggest honors that I have ever received because it is given to you by your teammates,” he said. “That’s the people who you play for…you do everything together with your teammates.” Big Red Head Coach Kent Austin recognized the fast progression of Mathews as a player. “His progress right now is probably, quite honestly, faster than we had anticipated, and so much of that is due to his dedication and commitment to wanting to (play well),” Austin said. “Jeff has all the qualities (of a great Photos courtesy of Maddie Scollick leader), all the intangibles,” Austin added. ATHLETIC INSPIRATION Jeff Mathews, who went from backup Quarterback to starter One of his primary targets this season, and co-captain in his sophomore year, in a home game against Wagner Oct. 1. senior wide receiver Shane Savage, also believes Mathews is a leader far beyond the inherent role of the quarterback position. “We’re all lucky to have him for another two years. It’s going to be great.” Beyond the scope of football, Mathews carries life lessons from his sister Katie off the field to help guide him. “When someone tells you you’re not going to be able to put BY TIM WEISBERG your pants on, or be able to function as an To expect the unexpected. A life lesson said. “I don’t know if she knows how much individual…How can I not work hard lifting that quarterback Jeff Mathews ‘14 had to I’ve learned from her. I’m so proud of what weights or working out more, throwing the learn at a young age, and a lesson that has she’s doing and all the things she’s been able football extra, whatever I can do to be bethelped him develop into one of the premier to do. It is really a huge motivational tool.” ter?” he said. “When I see that she is workquarterbacks in the Ivy League. Since the accident, Katie has spoken at ing hard just to get back to where she was The unanticipated became a sudden numerous schools about the effects of talking it’s really incredible. She’s such a motivating reality on May 6, 2006, when Jeff was 14 on the phone while driving, as it was her use factor and special person.” years old. His older sister Katie suffered a of the phone while driving that contributed C67 incomplete spinal cord injury in a car to the accident. accident, unable to use or feel her legs, and Years later, Jeff, a Camarillo, Calif. native, losing feeling in her fingers. propelled to stardom as a senior at Camarillo For Mathews, the event not only helped High School, passing for over 3,000 yards him grow as a person, but also as a player. his senior season and earning the Ventura “There’s a great quote and it says someCounty Player of the Year award in 2009. thing to the effect that football is a metaphor But as a freshman heading into his first for life: it’s not a game of action but a game collegiate game in 2010, Mathews was the of reaction,” Mathews said. “In Katie’s second-string quarterback. A season-ending situation for example, to have that happen injury to then-starter Adam Currie moved to her was very unfortunate that you never Mathews to the starting spot, and he became would have guessed would have happened, the first true freshman in program history to but it’s how she reacted and how our group, start at quarterback the next week against our family reacts to that situation. And that’s Yale. true whether it be on the football field or in “I ended up getting an opportunity (due life, it’s all about reacting to a situation in a to injury). Once I got that opportunity, I positive way, in a way that is going to set you did feel very confident that I was prepared up in the future to be successful.” properly and that I would have the opportu- Family Matters Katie and Jeff in Feb. However disheartening the situation nity to be successful and move this program 2009. Katie remains an inspiration to Mathews, who went from backup QB to starter and co-capwas, her progress through the accident has forward.” tain his sophomore year. inspired Mathews to develop his passion for Despite the team’s 2-8 record in 2010, football. Mathews was the unanimous choice for the “I have learned so much from her,” he Ivy League Rookie of the Year award, and
Quarterback Finds Inspiration Off The Field
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The STYLE BY ELIZABETH BROOKS
Counterfeiters? Wandering through the Brooklyn Flea, you might find Lilian Crowe’s table full of edgy metalwork. If you ever wanted to wear a miniature ribcage around your neck, here’s your chance. However, her table isn’t the only place you could find her work. Urban Outfitters carried an eerily similar necklace a few months after Crowe released her design. However, Crowe has received wholesale orders from Urban Outfitters and saw the mimicking as flattering though invasive. About a year later, Urban copyed another jeweler. This time they knocked off Stevie Koerner’s work, and she was not as flattered.
Lilian Crowe
pendants without collaborating. Regardless, the strong similarity between Koerner’s and Urban’s verbal branding is the strongest indication that Koerner was ripped off. The website www.urbancounterfiters.com cited many persuasive instances of possible design infringement on the part of Urban. Examples shown featured many clothing items such as t-shirts in addition to jewelry. Curiously, the site is now shut down and only accessible through web archives. Urban Outfitters undergoes additional consumer skepticism because of the company’s image as a “hipster” or “indie” brand that supports creativity. Though Urban’s conflicting image may make them seem hypocritical, mimicking designs is a widespread practice in the fashion industry. Though this, by no means exonerates Urban’s possible actions, they aren’t the only ones who have “stolen” or been “inspired” by other designs. With seasonal trends and runway reports, the fashion industry almost functions through a hierarchy of copying. The boundaries of crossing ethical lines of originality is certainly up for debate.
Urban Outfitters
Koerner lost her job and turned to Etsy.com for financial support. She began making a collection of necklaces with pendants shaped like geographical locations such as countries, continents and states, with hearts cut out of them. Urban took Koerner’s line entitled “A World of Love,” with items bearing names such as “I Heart New York,” and subsequently made their own “I Heart Destination Necklaces.” In addition to the design similarities, Urban adopted Koerner’s message to “Wear your Love,” and told customers to “Wear Your Locale Love.” Urban outfitters responded to Koerner’s tweeted allegations on their online blog. Their argument primarily rested on their company’s ideal to promote independent designs. The company’s most compelling argument, however, is the Regretsy.com references to other Etsy artists who all made remarkably similar
Stevie Koerner
Urban Outfitters
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The STYLE
trends Off the Slope
Bold Patterns
and On the Runway
BY ELIZABETH BROOKS AND EMMA LAURENTINE
Rich Colors
Miu Miu
Philip Lim
Philip Lim
Dark Washes ther a e L s of d a o \\\\\ \ L \ \ \ \ \ \\\ \\\\\\\ uts C Sleek \\\\\\\\\\\\ \\ \\\\\\\ Shapes Mixed \\\\\\\\\\\\ \\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ Givenchy
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Maria Stanciu ‘14 Style: Takes inspiration from her mom’s clothing and adds to it. Mixes dark with foliage colors in the fall.
Style on the Slope At Cornell, studen ts mix comfort wit h a dose of Ivy Leag ue inspiration: fro m classy to sassy, bu t always refined. Check it out for yo urself. Joanna Guy ‘13 Style: This year all her roomates are pretty hipster so she’s been borrowing from them.
Kim Murphy ‘12 Style:She’s slightly ecclectic, and has a flair to be unique. But, classic at the same time.
Photos by Kelly Gordon and Faye Tsakas
Jeff Ayars ’13 Style: Jcrew. Likes to keep it classy. Lots of blue, white, black. Pops of neutral.
Dan Marino ‘12 Style: Dresses in clothes he can handle in the woodshop but also a dinner date.
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