Snickers Commercials: Betty White, Aretha Franklin, Liza Minnelli

If you watched the Super Bowl, you may have seen the ad for Snickers featuring Betty White. Easily the best commercial during the broadcast (and now being played all over TV). It was actually funny, thoughtful, and looked like they actually spent time considering the concept unlike most of the other offerings during the game. Now, Snickers is also playing a commercial featuring Aretha Franklin and Liza Minnelli. Very funny stuff. The concept is that you "aren't yourself" when your hungry...so eat a Snickers. We live with commercials these days, TV, online, phone...It does make it a bit easier to cope with when they are as funny or thoughtful as these two by Snickers.

Taylor Swift: Artist?

Needless to say, I am not a Taylor Swift fan by any measure. I can tolerate what I do hear of her music when I have no ability to stop it: When shopping for groceries or cheap clothes, mostly. But, I do not knock anyone who is a fan. Everyone's tastes are different and I would not expect everyone to like all the music I do (though I do love suggesting). With that in mind, I was a bit surprised but also intrigued and slightly happy that folks took an opportunity to critique her recent performance on the Grammy Show this past Sunday. I was surprised because I did not think that, in the spectrum of Pop music these days (And Taylor Swift is a POP act, NOT a country act. C'mon people!), it was a prerequisite that you actually have the ability to sing well. I thought the Pop Music World had moved beyond that notion in recent years (Auto Tune anyone?). I am happy because while people point out the flaws in Swift's performance, which I too think was lacking in raw vocal talent, I see a glimmer of hope: Hope that we have not completely thrown out a want for musical acts to deliver a nice sounding vocal performance. If you are not going to "blow the audience away", at least sound "OK". During her performance, Swift was a few notches below OK. To put it one way: If she had been a performer in a talent show at my former High School, I don't think she would have won. Perhaps the performance was a fluke. A one off bad showing. Whatever the case, what is fascinating about the entire ordeal is that she is being crticized and what the criticism says about the level of talent that we might expect from a "musical artist."

Great singing talent does, indeed, exist in today's Pop music. Despite its tackyness, American Idol does showcase singers with good voices (for the most part). But not just from American Idol (I only use it as an example). Talented "artists" are making their way to the forefront and have made their way without the help of TV shows. There were a few good examples of such artists during the Grammy Show on Sunday. But, the idea that Taylor Swift is a really great singer, is not believable. However, many people argue that this fact is beside the point. The CEO of Taylor Swifts record company (Big Machine), Scott Borchetta, commented in Swifts defense (of course), "This is not `American Idol.' This is not a competition of getting up and seeing who can sing the highest note. This is about a true artist and writer and communicator. It's not about that technically perfect performance" (AP). I think that this quote points out key factors in the career of a successful artist. But isn't another key factor in the art of song and performance the ability to please the "ears" of listeners? The only time this may not hold true would be in cases when the point of the art is to cause displeasure and audible discomfort purposely (Maybe something avant garde, etc.). But Taylor Swift is in the business of "pleasing." While communicating a message and aesthetic to your audience is important, I do not feel that these aspects of performance should ever trump the most important "act" of all. That is, the act of delivering musically pleasing art. Remember, we are talking about a musical performance, not a speech, painting, novel et al. It should sound good. If you do not believe that it should sound good or that one should even go about the critiquing of a singer's vocal instrument, then maybe this says more about what you consider to be "art" and who you consider to be "artists." To a music company, Taylor Swift is a commodity, a product. What matters to the company's bottom line is how effectively their product is "communicated" to a targeted "audience." Music companies need to remember that while an "artist" may "speak" to their audience on several important levels, if you are going to call someone a "musical artist," you cannot neglect the level of musicality. Many have called Taylor Swift, "the voice of her generation." Whoa! Big words, right? What a message. But if this is truly the case (I know millions would beg to differ, but if it is) it means that the messenger seems to be communicating with an audience pretty well (biggest selling album of 2009). But the message and the story are louder and placed in greater importance than the music itself. With Taylor Swift's poor performance being called into question, maybe there is hope that in the Pop Music World an artists talent will need to match all the hype. Otherwise, in my opinion, we need to refrain from a labeling a Product as an Artist.

AP story HERE
Photo by Reina Ltd.

Herbivores: Can this new wave of manhood take root in the U.S.?

Each year, Japanese publishing company, Jiyukokumin-Sha, helps sponsor the New Word and Buzzword of The Year Grand Prix. The competition highlights Japanese words or phrases that have had significant cultural impact that year. The winners are voted for by readers. In 2009, a phrase that created a lot of buzz, making the Top 10 List, was Soshoku Danshi, or "Herbivore Boys." This is the newest label given to men in their 20's and early 30's who are collectively debunking the status quo of gender roles and behavior in modern Japan. Since the term was coined in 2006 by Japanese columnist and Editor Maki Fukasawa, a good deal of attention has been given to this group of men. 2009 saw the ranks of the Herbivores increase.

Who are the Herbivores? They aren't necessarily vegetarians. However, their habits are in stark contrast to those typically associated with men in Japan, particularly Nikushoku Danshi (Carnivore Boys) or "salary men" who are infamous for putting in long hours at the office and then eating, drinking, and chasing after women with their peers, before returning home late in the evening or in the early hours of the morning. Herbivores are more homebody than busybody, preferring the comforts of home over loud, flashy bars. Instead of all night benders with work buddies, the Herbivore might stay in, create a classic cocktail using only fresh ingredients, and listen to a rare jazz record on his antique player.

A Herbivore is less likely to procrastinate on or ignore a little housework. He may also enjoy cooking and trying out new dishes. He is a man who takes care of himself physically: eating healthy, staying well groomed, and dressing smartly. But, do not get him confused with the metrosexual of the early 2000's. The Herbivore's priorities are not based solely upon his looks, but are based on an overall sense of well-being and sense of self. He prefers regular or even flexible hours at work that allow him more time to focus on his passions with less concern on climbing the corporate ladder and staying late at the office. He is not afraid to show a more sensitive side and could be found reading "Shojo" comics (those with a humanistic and romantic emphasis) or joining a "dessert club." As a self-proclaimed Herbivore has stated, "We don't care at all what people think about how we live." And the Herbivore can live with or without women. The newest breed of Japanese men are making it harder for Japanese women to find dates due to their passive and sometimes resistant attitude towards dating. Many have decided to forgo any romantic relationships with women altogether. They see dating as too expensive or time consuming. Others want to avoid losing the simplicity and ease of their lifestyle by getting wrapped up in the often time complicated world of traditional relationships. Whatever the case, with "toys" and the internet, there are a number of alternative means of gratification Herbivores have at their disposal.

Japan's Herbivores are not interested in participating in acts of overt machismo like those associated with businessmen during the boom of the 80's. They are not spending money on big ticket items or status symbols like cars, expensive watches, or luxury condos. Herbivores take pride in keeping strict budgets and saving money by searching for the best deals and lowest prices. Thrifty habits like growing their own food or making their own clothing are not doing much to help stimulate Japan's sagging economy.   A recent New York Times article noted that Japan's unemployment rate reached a record high of 5.7 (10/09) and that the nation's economic decline could accelerate as China captures many of its export markets. The recent election of the Japanese House of Representatives resulted in the Democratic Party of Japan winning in a landslide against the long time ruling Liberal Democratic Party. In fact, this event spawned the number one Japanese buzzword of 2009, Seiken Kotai (Regime Change). The new party won, in part, by vowing to turn the Japanese economy around. Best efforts to do so will most likely have to include economic stimulation of Japanese domestic spending, but the Herbivore's prudent nature could create some obstacles for the new government to overcome.

Finding a way to change some of the financial habits of Herbivore's may become part of a new Japanese economic plan. However, concurrently, Japan's economic climate may itself be a contributing factor in the growth of this new segment of its society. Income inequality and poverty are on the rise and "lifetime" positions at Japanese companies are quickly becoming a thing of the past. A report provided by The Japan Institute For Labour Policy and Training shows that nearly 40 percent of the Japanese workforce are working in non-regular staff positions The development of the habits and lifestyle preferences of Herbivores are likely results of young men looking for ways to cope with this economic shift. With fading incentives for putting work first, Japan's Herbivores are finding it easier and more personally rewarding to explore and engage in aspects of life that have been ignored by previous generations of men. A 2009 survey by the Lifenet Seimei Life Insurance Company of 500 Japanese men in their 20's and 30's saw 75 percent respond that they identify more as "Herbivore" than "Carnivore." The number of men who identify as "Herbivore" may continue to grow as men look to find fulfillment and happiness in places other than work and careers.

If the economic climate in Japan has contributed to the emergence of Herbivores amongst its men, it is also possible that the condition of the economy in the U.S. could do the same. According to a recent survey conducted for The Conference Board by TNS, only 45 percent of Americans are satisfied with their jobs. This is the lowest level in two decades. And with U.S. unemployment rates reaching record highs, many out of work individuals are finding new ways to pass the time and are reining in their personal budgets. American optimism is slowly being replaced by a growing sense of realism as people are becoming more often exposed to the fragility of personal wealth and the overall national economy. Habits associated with Herbivores could very well become assets as we enter the next decade. Would be "American Herbivores" may be wise to take cues from their Japanese counterparts.

Is it possible that the U.S. will see its own version of the Herbivore? Will there be or is there already an American Herbivore? The U.S. and Japan have very different histories. While the U.S. has waged several, and is currently engaged in two, wars since 1945, Japan has remained a mostly peaceful nation. Some scholars, like Masahiro Morioka, professor of philosophy at Osaka Prefecture University who was featured in an article on Herbivores in the Japan Times, believe that Japan's non-confrontational past 6 decades may be contributing to the rise of Japanese men who find it less necessary to display "manly" traits. Aggression and toughness are slowly giving way to a quieter sensitivity. The U.S. has been more actively engaged in world conflict. It is home to a higher number of veterans who have taken part in arduous and tough warfare. Perhaps this fact makes it less likely that the U.S. will see large numbers of men who are willing to identify as "Herbivore" crop up in the short-term. But this may soon change.

Despite the differences in cultural and social histories, the U.S. and Japan have had one major theme in common for sometime: Both nations have been the leading economic powerhouses for decades. With the rise of China, Americans, like the Japanese, could soon see their nation's standing on the global market take significant shifts downward in the decades to come. The ripple effects could be staggering, giving rise to an environment in which American Herbivores and aspects of the Herbivore lifestyle grow to be more prevalent. Emphasis on prudent behavior, health, pursuit of passions, and creating a happier balance between work life and home life could very well be ideals that American men grow to accept more openly. The American Herbivore may not turn out to be exactly like its Japanese counterpart, but just as we have had our Beats and Hippies in the past, Herbivores may soon take root in American Culture.

*Image from SLATE

Bowie and Nomi on SNL

David Bowie & Klaus Nomi - The Man Who Sold The World from André Goldvasser on Vimeo.

This classic clip is David Bowie doing "The Man Who Sold the World" with help from Klaus Nomi. The entire setup was most likely artistically directed by Nomi. I remember seeing a very interesting documentary about Nomi, "The Nomi Song," a couple of years ago. I recommend it if you are into art, performance, music, quirky people, et al. Check out the website HERE. I love this clip because it showcases the type of out there performances that Bowie is famous for. Find out more about the clip and performance from Lurve Magazine HERE. I am also happy that current trends in musical performance are finding inspiration from these types of  innovative works from the past. Still, it's not enough just to DO, you must also FEEL it. Remember that...Lady GaGa.

More on the "Herbivores" of Japan

 The story from the BBC World Service starts at the 9.30 mark on the player.

Link HERE

This story gives more coverage to Japan's Herbivore Culture. This growing trend with men is a big sensation in Japan. The reporter here talks with the guys themselves, but also with the women who would be mates (that is if the herbivores were more inclined to asking them out). As the reporter here puts it: The herbivore trend is a, "Laid back model of manhood." I find the trend facinating, particularly in light of the fact that Japan's economic standing is falling and this new wave of manhood could have a major impact. I hope to write some on herbivores in the future. I don't think this is a trend that is going away any time soon. There is more to be said about Soshoku Danshi (Herbivore boys) VS. Nikushoku Danshi (Carnivore boys). 

More on Herbivores:
http://therogueprince.blogspot.com/2009/11/japans-herbivores-make-npr.html 
http://therogueprince.blogspot.com/2009/09/grass-eaters-on-slate.html

The Sound of Arrows: From Sweden with Unicorns

The Sound of Arrows - Into the Clouds (Music video) from
The Sound of Arrows on Vimeo.

Duo from Sweden, now working on an album in London. Over-the-top live performances and huge choruses will definitely increase their mark on the radar screen. But, to be honest, my first thought when seeing the video was, "The new Pet Shop Boys??" However, love the song and video. Check out The Sound of Arrows Myspace Page for a great interview they did for The Manchester Evening News by Gary Ryan.

These New Puritans

WEBSITE

"Signs" by Patrick Hughes

This is a nice little film by Patrick Hughes. It's won a couple awards and such. Enjoy.

Xavier Martin: Sleek and Modern Designs

Xavier Martin is a designer located in Barcelona, Spain. Most of his work seems to be in the realm of interior design. However, he has also worked on projects in graphic design and architecture. It's not everyday that a designers website gives good browse, however, Martin's site is very interesting. His interior designs, like that for a Pharmacy above, are sleek and modern, allowing the product contained in the shops to shine. I also love the idea Martin gives for a shoe store based on Cherry Blossoms in Japan. See it for yourself on His Site.
 
Xavier Martin SITE HERE

Japan's Herbivores Make NPR

More on the "Herbivores" of Japan. I posted awhile ago about the new trend in Japan which finds the country's men rebelling against the long standing norms of gender, sex, machoism, and all around lifestyle decisions that have been apart of the Japanese culture for decades (original Post here). The new breed of younger, twenty and thirty somethings are breaking the mold and pursuing their passions without shame.



NPR has recently produced a story to investigate the trend further. My original post was made after reading an article on Slate.

Find out more about Japan's "Herbivores" HERE and HERE

Null Stern Hotel: Switzerland

This video is a short film that gives insight into a very interesting feat in hospitality taking place in Switzerland. Null Stern means "No Star." No star hotels could very well be the new trend in travel accommodations.The entire project is a part art installation and part real functional hotel. This being so, guests are treated to unique experiences as well as comfortable beds. The set up may not be for every traveler, but definitely for those looking for a refreshing and original approach to hospitality.

Null Stern SITE

2 Trios to check out

Micachu and The Shapes & Kitty, Daisy and Lewis

Both groups have built great word of mouth for their music. And both groups include talented musicians. The videos (below) are fun, and reflect the flavor of each act.

Micachu is a student of music and experiments with sound like a "noise researcher." She is joined by two friends to help her in doing so. Kitty, Daisy and Lewis are a family act heavily influenced by music their parents introduced and made apart of the family fabric.

Check out their sites to learn more and to hear some great stuff.
Micachu Site
Micachu Myspace
Kitty, Daisy and Lewis Myspace




Kitty Daisy & Lewis 'Going Up The Country'

Sunday Best | MySpace Music Videos

The Theo Adams Company: London

Theo Adams is a performance artist from London and this is a video of a piece put together and presented for W Magazine. Adams has a vision and he goes for it along with fellow creatives and members of his eponymous Company. He is the kind of person who wears braces on his teeth well after they were due to come off. The company is all self funded. I am sure that will soon change.

Theo Adams Company will be performing for one night only in Tokyo, Japan at the end of November. If you can't make it, check out the video above or the links to the Theo Adams Company blog.

You can truly get pulled into the pieces and may also feel slightly disturbed while watching. The artists do pour so much of themselves into their work. I find it poetic, exciting, and great to watch.

Interesting Theo Adams Interview
Theo's Blog site HERE

Obamitas Cookies: Based on President Obama

A Branding and Design firm in Spain have created a cookie inspired by President Barak Obama. Maybe you have seen this before. The firm, Neos Brand, gained some coverage on this chocolate treat in various publications, but I am just coming across it. My first thought is: Is this racist in any way? In all fairness, I am sure that the firm did not intentionally make the cookie as a racist gesture and to be mean spirited. On the contrary, it is probably a nod and a compliment to America's first Black President. But, the group must have known that there would be questions about RACE raised by their design. And maybe that is part of the project. Unfortunately, I do not speak nor read Spanish. If you do, however, Neos Brand have provided a case study for the "OBAMITAS COOKIE" (link below). 

I suppose my main concern is that, unless you count the addition of slightly large ears on the "face" of the cookie, there is truly no likeness to President Obama. And giving nods to the ears is pushing it, I think. And a chocolate cookie nonetheless... The cookie does give an example of the power of the "Obama Brand" and the president's apparent mass appeal. But where do we draw the line? Black gummy Obamas anyone?

Learn more about the "cookie" project HERE

Nous Brand site HERE

Obamitas dot Com

Kris Van Assche: Londerzeel

I was taking a look at Kris Van Assche's website to see his SS 2010 Menswear collection. But I found more than fashion on his pages. Kris Van Assche is a designer. He is also an artist and the Artistic Director for Dior Homme. What I found, and what I have linked to below, is a magazine put together by Kris with help from several artists and creatives. Londerzeel starts with a quote from The Little Prince; to tame… something too often forgotten. It means to create ties.”Ties between him and other artists, between him and men, between him and you.

The magazine showcases work by Van Assche, including an installation entitled  Poet On Strike (pic below), and others such as Ali Kazma and Andrea Mastrovito (the drawings by Mastrovito, like the one above, are very moody and incorporate looks designed by Van Assche).

I recommend taking a look at Londerzeel for inspiration and/or thinking about the life of a creative individual as he relates to the world around him.

As for Kris Van Assche's Mens Fashion designs: I feel like the man who wears these clothes may be introverted yet there is some "thing" that is a created product of his deeply inward thinking and lifestyle and this "thing" is shared with the rest of the world and "ties between men" continues.

Kris Van Assche site HERE

Londerzeel HERE