playlist.

NXNE is a milestone in the classic Toronto summer. I feel like it was just yesterday that I was running around covering it. This year, NXNE is making me nostaligic.

I started reviewing concerts and albums for The Take Media during the summer of 2010. I trekked all over the city watching rock, indie, metal and pop shows and writing whatever I thought about the band, the performance and most importantly, the music.

Even though I've put my pen down as a music writer to pursue other projects, (although, I'll never say never if the opportunity comes up again), I'm finding myself drifting back into this world again.

I can't get enough of classic rock and new electronic music. I'm wearing clothing that my friends say makes me look like a roadie or disco queen. I'm inspired by the music, persona's and lifestyles of ages past that I want to tap into for a new dance project this fall.

Hey, just like Penny Lane said, "it's all happening."

With that, here's my refresher playlist of songs I'm loving when I come up for air out of my rock-heavy world. Think new Daft Punk, lounge beats and some oldies thrown in for good taste.

Enjoy.

playlist.

Happy Saturday!

Although I've been a bit under the weather this past week (pesky spring cold, go away!) I've been moving steadfast toward a couple of new goals, tying up some loose ends on some big projects and finally enjoying a touch of warm weather.

In honour of The Rolling Stones performing in Toronto tonight - it only makes sense to kick off the playlist with a mixup of one of their newer singles "Doom and Gloom". Normally I would shun any remixes of their music, but this version by Benny Benassi is actually pretty fantastic.

This past year I've really developed a taste and interest in electronic and dubstep music (who would have thought...) but I'm finding it the easiest to teach my warm up in class, and also tune out when I need to focus on work. The beat feels like a metronome - consistent and keeping time.

Here's a sneak peek into what I've been listening to over the past few weeks gearing up on new choreography, teaching class, and writing, writing, writing.

Enjoy and have a fabulous weekend!

top5.

I've hit a milestone - this is my one thousandth blog post! 

To celebrate, the sunshine has finally peeked her head out of winter here in Toronto - this weekend really does feel like the official start to sping.

With that, I feel like it's time to cap off March with a top five. Here are a few things that have been at the top of my playlist, heavily used in my kitchen or just on my mind.

Mexican lime juicer. 

Throw away any other juicers for lemons and limes, The Mexican lime juicer  is just the way to go. 

It's easy to use and has a small strainer so you'll never have seeds in your drink. 

This is my absolute must-have for my kitchen for summer 2013. 

High waisted shorts. 

Part pinup doll, part modern. Plus, high waisted shorts will make any one's legs look about a million miles long - just make sure to find the right cut for your hips and bum. 

Pair with cat eye sunglasses and a cherry cola for maximum effect. 

Adventure Club remixes. 

After hearing "Lullabies" and "Crave You", I have totally changed my mind about dubstep music. I realize now there are varying degrees of remixes - like anything, there's very amateur to professional. 

The team between the Adventure Club remixes are simply the best. 

Check out "Lullabies (Adventure Club Remix)" by Yuna above. 

Sergio Bustamante. 

 

Along the Malecon, a large pedestrian walkway in Puerto Vallarta, there is a plethora of public art. My mother's and my favourite artist, Sergio Bustamante created this amazing piece called "In Search of Reason". It's highly interactive, as you can climb up the iron ladder overlooking the ocean. 

I have a full post about Sergio Bustamante and other Mexican art coming up soon, but for now,  here's a little taste. 

WWBD. 

I'm always looking for new things to teach in class and inspire my students. For whatever reason, I came up with WWBD, and it has just stuck. 

When in doubt, what would Beyonce do? 

I saw smiles creep onto several of my student's faces, and instantly take on their "Sacha Fierce" character. Needless to say, I think it worked. 

Happy Easter and more to come next week! 

chase.

Currently at the top of my playlist this week - "Heartbeat (Chase and Status Remix" by Nneka. 

Enjoy! 

calvin.

This video is a bit wild, but I'm absolutely gaga over this song. For whatever reason, electronic music has completely taken over my playlists (maybe to keep me awake for those early AM shifts)

I've been a huge fan of Florence Welch since I first heard "Howl" by her a couple of years ago. Her voice hits you to the bones, so much soul.

I'm especially loving her David Bowie-esque ensemble/coiffure in this video.

My apologies for being a bit m.i.a. this week. I have been working mucho at the television station and dancing my feet off at rehearsal and performances. I'm one month away from being home for Christmas where I also will be teaching a plethora of classes across the Okanagan across the 10 days I am there. Stay tuned for details coming soon!

Expect to be hearing this in class for sure.

Calvin Harris featuring Florence and the Machine, "Sweet Nothing"