ARTIST SERIES: Merry Christmas, xo Amy Kuney!

AMY KUNEY’s debut record, Bird’s Eye View, have earned rave reviews from big time, high rollers like LA Times and LA CitiZine. Here, this One Tree Hill music star takes a quick break from her stardom and talks Hansons, Twilight, and Christmas with us.

The weather in New York is playing mind tricks again.

Yeah, I’m pretty spoiled here… weather-wise, I think California is the only place I could survive. But I was there recently for CMJ [College Music Journal Music & Film Festival]. It was so c-c-c-c-cold!

So let’s get this interview off its feet… don’t be shy, please introduce yourself!

Hey I’m Amy Kuney!

Short and sweet! Just to get the monotonous question out of the way, tell me… how did you become Amy Kuney, the Indie/Folk songstress?

Well, my parents named me Amy Kuney, so I’ve kept that name. As far as becoming the Indie/Folk songstress… I’ve been writing songs since I was 12 (the year the Hansons came out with “mmm bop”).

The Hansons??

We were all in a home school group together. When I saw them become famous so fast, and saw that “normal” home-schoolers from the Midwest could become superstars, it inspired me to start writing and singing.

They had great hair…

And still do!

Do you have any musicians that influence you?

Fiona Apple is a genius in my mind. I can’t hold a candle to her, but she inspires me so much. But I have everything from the Vienna Boys choir to Korn in my Ipod… I’m really into 90’s artists. I feel like we’ve really lost something in music since the 90’s.

Speaking of boy bands, I read on your MySpace that you met the Jonas Brothers.

Someone from my label was working on a project involving them. The person asked me if I wanted to meet them and I said sure! They were playing an exclusive show at the El Rey Theatre here in Los Angeles. I think they’re cute… I’m def’ a cougar.

So what’s this I hear about Twilight ?

I love to read. I’m usually reading 2-3 books at a time. Since everybody’s been talking about it… I had to get in on the action. The first one [Twilight] really held my attention, the second one [New Moon] I had a hard time getting through… Sometimes love quarrels just lose my interest.

This question is just begging to be asked – why Team Edward?

I like pretty, skinny boys.

Well I like the show, Dexter, and I hear through the grapevines that you do too?

I actually had to stop watching it. Trinity scared me too much and I was having nightmares… I’m a wimp.

No worries! Let’s shake those goose bumps out of you with a round of MFBAFC Hot Potatoes. You down?

Sure.

The rules are as follow: don’t think, just type. Ready, set, and blast off!

Kanye, you… should apologize to T-Swizzle.

America’s… got talent.

Tyler Hilton, I… want to write a song with you!

Kate Voegele is… one of the sweetest people I know.

My neighbor… has anvil feet. I’m afraid she’s going to come through my ceiling one day.

Ding ding ding! So we love how you are on a fall middle/high school tour right now! How’s that going?

I love it! I just started playing for younger audiences over the past year or so. I never thought they would enjoy my music since it’s so mellow, but they have been amazing. I enjoy it so much more than playing clubs and bars. I feel appreciated.

We were really excited for you when we heard you went to Iceland to play with Damien Rice!

That was amazing. It was a much-needed vacation. I’ve never spent so much time up close with one of my idols… it was a lot to take in. I still wake up sometimes and can’t believe it happened.

Tell us about your music on the WB show, One Tree Hill.

That was my manager’s doing… She was on that show a few seasons ago (she’s an actress when she’s not managing me). She knows everyone over there. Sophia Bush has been so supportive and she’s introduced people to my music, people who can help me… I have nothing but good things to say about that crowd.

It’s the Holidays! Is there something in particular you want this Christmas from good old Santa?

I want the Rosetta Stone Spanish Kit! I lived in Honduras for almost six years but I never learned Spanish correctly. While I was working with Sergio, I realized how much I was missing out – not being bi-lingual and all. So, I asked my mom for it… she thought I was joking.

Any big plans for 2010?

I’m hoping to release a new album. Not exactly sure about the details just yet… Right now, I’m completely independent. I may want to work with a label to put this out. So we’re weighing out options, trying to do our homework.

Can’t get enough of Amy? It’s okay! We don’t judge.

Check out Amy Kuney at her official website, MySpace, and YouTube channel.

P.S. Get into the holiday spirit with an Alvin & The Chipmunks-inspired video by Amy!

- ANNA LI

** Images courtesy of myspace.com/amykuney

ARTIST SERIES: Happy Holidays, xo Taghrid Chaaban!

In the online realm of fashion, it’s impossible to talk clothes or blogs without mentioning California native and stylista TAGHRID JOYCE CHAABAN. Already bookmarked as an up-and-coming style icon by major publications like Teen Vogue and Glamour, it seems like this American Apparel stylist and photographer is on the fast track to fashion success. Read our chatters on suits by Karl, Repettos flats, and other fun stuff.

Hey there Taghrid! So nice to finally chitchat with you – how are you doing?

Nice to talk to you as well. It’s super nice and sunny in LA today, so I can’t complain.

Ah! Don’t make me miss home.

Where are you from?

Pasadena! It’s so heavenly there.

Yes! I’ve got really close friends who live there. Basically, I’m an all over LA girl. I know every part.

So you said you just came from a shoot…

Oh, I’m at work. I’m a photographer for American Apparel. I was shooting some stuff on a boy for the website.

How did this come about?

I was recruited by AA through my blog. First, I started styling for them. But now, I style and shoot along with a gazillion other little jobs.

What’s a typical day at AA’s factory like?

Well in our studio it’s pretty hectic, but super fun. I usually get in around 10 AM. I put together the outfits I will shoot for the day. Then, models come in and we try to do as much shots with them as possible. Usually there are meetings to go to after too.

Since we’re on the topic of AA… we love the pieces featured in the photos on your blog! What’s your all-time favorite piece?

That’s so hard!

I can imagine. I would drop dead if I ever worked at AA. Cause of death: clothes overload.

Well I love the disco shorts and pants! Oh, I really love the bodysuits too. But recently, I’ve been living in the crewneck sweaters.

Your fashion blog is great! Out of curiosity… do you follow blogs? Any bloggers you would recommend?

Thanks! Some of my favorites are Sea of Shoes, Style Bubble, and Jak & Jill. Park & Cube is really good too.

Ever met a fellow fashion blogger?

Yes! Just to name a few - Lucrecia of Fashion is Poison, Raych of That’s Chic, Rumi of Fashion Toast, and Krystal of What Is Reality Anyway. All super sweet girls!

Sounds like a fabulous fashion friendship! Any fashion legends you are still dying to meet?

Yes! It would be a dream to meet Karl Lagerfeld.

We know that one of your style idols is Jane Birkin, who once had a bag named and designed for her by fashion house, Hermes. If you could have a bag made for you, what would you have in mind?

Good question! I’m not sure who would make it, but it would be a nice medium sized bucket bag with gold chains and a shoulder strap.

Maybe AA can back you on this project – Bag by Taghrid!

I know right!

So T, Santa is feeling real giving right about now… what’s next on your must-have-it list?

Since I work on my feet all day, heels aren’t as practical as they used to be. So I’m trying to expand my cute flat shoes selection. There are a couple pairs of Repettos I have been eyeing. Also, I really want a vintage Chanel suit, something sea foam colored.

One blog follower that recommended MFBAFC to check out your fashion hot spot showed us this post you had about your darlin’ sister, tell us about the post and her (of course)!

My little sister Nour is my photographer. She’s only 15. She has a true talent when it comes to photography, even though she’s totally self-taught. She helps make me look good. She’s the better version of me. Sometimes, I’m jealous she’s so much cooler than I am!

Oh I can’t forget! I’m about to head out for a Christmas dinner party in Soho. Any advice T? I work real close by an AA store…

Fun! Ok, I think the disco shorts are the ultimate party pants. They’re really fun and flattering. I would say get a pair of those and pair them up with our mesh button-up shirt with either sparkly tights or sheer luxe shapes pantyhose (grid pattern). Finally, finish off the outfit with some nice simple heels or oxfords. You’re good to go!

Well, you heard T! Go have yourself a Merry Christmas with some American Apparel!

Want the “Taghrid-Approved” Christmas party outfit? Shop for it now at AA’s official online store.

Nylon Spandex Micro-Mesh Long Sleeve Button-Up, $45

The Disco Short, $46.

Sheer Luxe Pantyhose, $28.

Unisex Hartwick Skimmer Shoe, $97.

Check out Taghrid's blog here.

- ANNA LI

** Images courtesy of taghrid.cc

American Apparel presents Nail Lacquer

Who can do better in the color department then the savvy peeps at American Apparel?

Well, they have done it again! Just this time with your nails. Yeah, we’re talking about 18 attractive, high-quality shades for your ten fingers. So that now you can finish off your perfect multicolored outfit yourself with a touch of Nail Lacquer (only for $6!).

I know we have our eye on Berry Berry already. Oh wait, and Dynasty. Fuck, and Office! Okay, we’re just going to get everything.

Want it all too? Save a bundle by getting a pack of three for just $15 at AA’s official site today.

Now go throw a nail polish party and send us some snap-happy shots!

** Images courtesy of americanapparel.net

Some Polaroid Fun w/ Andy Warhol

Some hidden treasures from the man that made Campbell soup delish pop art.

So sweet, but just oh so late! Man does a time machine sound pretty swell right now…

What we’re killing ourselves over is the “Andy Warhol Polaroid” exhibit we missed this spring at the USC Fisher Museum of Art! This beautiful exhibit, shown from February 25, 2009 to April 18, 2009, showcased USC’s “… recent acquisition of 100 original Polaroid photographs and 50 original black and white gelatin silver prints dating from 1972 to 1985 granted through the Andy Warhol Photographic Legacy Program” (USC Fisher).

At the exhibit, one can expect to see classic, raw shots of some of today’s biggest starlets – including the one only Vogue editor-at-large, Andre Leon Talley, supporting a tongue and tuxedo bow tie.

Well at least… it’s never too late to check them out online?

Hit up USC Fisher Museum of Art’s official website to see the rest.

** Image courtesy of USC Fisher Museum of Art.

Matt Costa x Youth in Revolt

Here at MFBAFC, we're big fans of Matt Costa - California-native infamous for his foot tapping, finger snapping Indie tunes. So we are really excited to announce that his best tune yet, "Mr. Pitiful," is being played in the trailers for the up-and-coming flick, Youth in Revolt.

Which really brings us to talk about... this new teen romance film based off the darlin' novel by C.D. Payne. In this movie, set to be in theaters on January 8, 2010, viewers will see a timid Nick Twisp (played by quirky heartthrob Michael Cera) create a rebellious, mustache-wearing, cigarette smoking, alter-ego, Francois Dillinger. All this, of course, just to capture the ardor of the adventurous, beautiful Sheeni Saunders (played by Portia Doubleday). Here, we will also see how Nick's love for Sheeni takes him on this wild journey full of unpredictable consequences.

So, that's our plug! We're excited for you Matt! Oh and don't forget to check out Youth in Revolt when the new year rolls around.

P.S. There is an off-the-wall, hilarious scene in Youth in Revolt that features a nearly naked Michael Cera (!!) failing miserably at faking his on death.

Want more? Well, we got more!

Check out the trailer at Youth in Revolt's official website.

Check out Indie/Folk artist, Matt Costa, at his MySpace.

** Image courtesy of imdb.com

ARTIST SERIES: Happy Holidays, xo Kiersten Holine!

A couple of years ago, a rebirth in Folk emerged out of the ever-so-popular site, YouTube. Not before long, stunning covers from YouTubers of all age started to grab the attention of the world. Here’s an exclusive interview with KIERSTEN HOLINE, one of the fearless leaders of the revival. We talk about everything from creating a “Feist” genre to marrying Mr. Vernon from Bon Iver.

Just to get this interview rolling, give us a brief introduction Kiersten!

Well. I am born and raised in Minnesota and have always been incredibly interested in art and music. In high school, I decided I just wanted to do my own thing… so I found a school I liked on the West Coast and have been in Seattle ever since.

So one of our lovely MFBAFC followers recommended me to check out your YouTube channel (and I was instantly impressed)… I’m just curious, how did you get into YouTubing your music?

I believe it was my junior year [of high school] when that started… I wanted to see what people thought of my voice/style. I grew up with a chronic case of stage fright so not many knew I sung at all. I wanted to see if it was more than just my mom saying “Kierst… I promise, you’re good.” I was desperate for an honest critique from a stranger.

What’s the genre of music you play on your channel?

It’s hard for me to classify it. I almost just want to create a “Feist” genre, but I suppose it’s Acoustic/Indie/Folk.

What are some other musicians that influence you?

Currently blaring from my MacBook speakers is Bon Iver, who I typically have playing on a daily basis. I keep finding new things in “For Emma Forever Ago” that sort of baffles me. I’ve never had that experience with an album. Besides Mr. Vernon, I’m outrageously inspired by Bob Dylan’s lyrics, Andrew Bird’s creativity, and Wilco’s chord progressions.

We’re sorry to interrupt you with this brief announcement…

MFBAFC has a challenge for you Kiersten (if you choose to accept…)! Put your Itunes on shuffle, and show us the 10 songs that play.

1. “Paddling Ghost” – Dan Deacon
2. “When They Fight, They Fight” – The Generationals
3. “Carbon Monoxide” – Regina Spektor
4. “Prelude On The Esplanade” – Sufjan Stevens
5. “Angie” – Rolling Stone
6. “I Still Miss Someone” - Ryan Adams
7. “With God On Our Side” – Bob Dylan
8. “Promising Light” - Iron & Wine
9. “Fingertips” – Emilana Torrini
10. “I Was Only Going Out” – Loney Dear

And now we return to our daily broadcast…

Getting candid… Everyone has a crush on at least one musician (undeniable fact), who’s yours? What’s your wedding going to be like?

As much as I am inspired by Justin Vernon, I am also convinced he is potentially my one and only. I would imagine our wedding to be outrageously Midwestern (out in a field or something). A bunch of banjos everywhere… I feel like everyone in the audience would have a great voice or be talented at a super obscure instrument. Perhaps the whole wedding would just be done in flawless falsetto via Justin. A beard on every man. One beard per man though!

So MFBAFC is a big fan of Jeff Pianki too! How has it been working with him?

Really great. I went to Chicago this summer to play a show with Jeff Pianki and JT Royster, and we just played music from morning until night. It was incredible to have that creativity around me. I wish Jeff lived in the same side of the country as me, but I am quite thankful for this Postal Service-esque process.

But what is this I hear, a collaboration with YouTuber 0AcrossAmerica0?

I’ve been dying to do something with him since I discovered his Animal Collective covers. He’s going to be singing/playing with me for a video of an unreleased original of mine.

MFBAFC is really excited to see your EP ‘Ignoble’ up on big, badass Itunes! What’s this project about?

Mainly just a learning experience I’ve gone through within the past year. Most of the songs allude to this story… from curiosity to closure. It was a big release writing it.

So how did the magazine, Rolling Stone, end up rolling your way?

It was really random actually! I looked at my inbox one night and saw an e-mail from someone who said they wrote for Rolling Stone and wanted to write about me. I didn’t exactly believe it, but I didn’t see any harm in saying yes. A couple of weeks after, I got a message from a fan saying they just read the “Hot Issue” that I was recommended in. So I raced over to the nearest record store and saw it for myself. Still can’t believe it.

Although MFBAFC is a relatively new blog, we already have some exciting stuff coming up. For example, for December, we’re hoping to give back to our dedicated viewers. Is there something you can help us give back? Our blog followers would love to get an exclusive look or listen!

I’m almost done with an original that no one has heard yet (Jeff Pianki will be featured on it too). I would love to share that.

We love! Well, you heard her… exclusive first listen and free download to her new song “Realigned” ft. Jeff Pianki. Enjoy!

LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD HERE

Want more of Kiersten? www.myspace.com/kierstenholine

- ANNA LI

** Images courtesy of myspace.com/kierstenholine

Rodarte x Target

MFBAFC is excited to blog that the Rodarte collection is going to be in Target stores worldwide in less than 10 days! Mark your calendars ladies.

Some fun little facts we learned this week...

1. The Mulleavy sisters, founders of Rodarte, graduated from the hippy uni' Berkeley.

2. The movie, Harold and Maude, was one of the three movies that inspired this collection.

3. 13-years-old blogger, Tavi Gevinson, is best pals with the sisters (she did a great behind-the-scenes video on the Rodarte Spring 2010 collection).

P.S. We are lovin' the fierce feline come back (ahem, leopard print)!

** Images courtesy of fabsugar.com

What a Stud!

Take a look at this beauty.

What a stud right?

Recognize it?

Well, it's by the one and only Alexander McQueen!

And guess what?

Now you can get it too.

Urban Outfitters, a clothing brand decently priced for everyday hipsters, has now recreated a silver and gold version of Alexander McQueen's precious ring ($279 on Zappos).

Get it on Urbanoutfitters.com today!

P.S. It's only $16! What a steal.

** Images courtesy of Zappos.com and Urbanoutfitters.com.

Teens R' Us

A serious case of deja vu...

I recently fell - hard, fast, and crazy - in love with the band Phoenix (literally I've been playing their song "1901" on mad repeat!).

But as I was MySpace Music Hoppin' between the pages of XL Recordings' artists, I came across this nifty Parisian band that I just had to stop for.

As I looked through The Teenagers' blogs, I saw "1901" and "Phoenix" fly past my eyes.

Wait, what?? Scroll back up! Up!

"Phoenix 1901 The Teenagers Remix"

No fucking way...

Loop this shit!

So I did... and I fell - hard, fast, and crazy - in love (again), but this time with the band The Teenagers.

So what did I learn from this whole experience?

1. Dem' boyz designed a shirt for A.P.C.

2. They named a song after Scarlett Johansson (hello, Scarlett!).

3. They are going to be jammin' like some bad mamma jammas in Hamburg, Germany in Feb. 2010!

Check out their remix of Phoenix's hit song "1901" at Big Stereo.

** Image courtesy of myspace.com/theteenagers

Tis' the Season!

Tis' the season to be jolly because MFBAFC has presents for you!

Follow our blog this December to see what goodies we have...

Sincerely,

** Image courtesy of google.com

CASXIO's Boiling Point!

It's been a while since I heard a peep from these guys and I have never been more grateful.

I came to know CASXIO all because of the lovely bird - YELLE.

They opened for the electropop princess at the El Rey Theatre back in April 2009.

Although it's impossible to top one of YELLE's performances, they sure did come close.

They got me bumpin' and groovin' like no other when they covered Billy Jean - Michael Jackson (RIP).

Naturally, they got me at "Billy Jean is not my lover..."

Ever since, I have been a fan.

But I do admit, it's been a while since I heard their jams... thank god for the shuffle button on my Ipod.

Today, I found myself reliving the glorious beats of CASXIO's "Seventeen" right in the middle of Washington Square Park.

They are officially on my radar again.

And here's what I recently discovered about them...

1. Their EP Seventeen is up on Itunes.

2. FRESH KILL worked with them (!!) to make a kick-ass short movie/music video for their song "Boiling Point."

3. They have you know... good old Sam Sparro #1 on their MySpace Top Friends!

Check them out, if you don't believe me.

http://www.myspace.com/casxio

** Image courtesy of http://www.myspace.com/casxio

Ello' World

Hey, hi, hello -

Welcome to MFBAFC!

A blog completed dedicated to all the coolest stuff today in music, films, books, art, fashion, and culture.

Feel free to make it your home here because we're here to stay.

If you ever have any suggestions, please send it our way at mfbafc@gmail.com.

P.S. We're obsessed with cute animals here. So pardon our future 483759876257784 animal pics.

** Image courtesy of flickr.com