The Young Victoria Movie Review

Portraits and photographs throughout history have shown Queen Victoria as a mourning widow- dressed in black, drab clothing with a quizzical brow. However, Queen Victoria was young once.
"The Young Victoria" follows the troubled life of the Queen and the moments that lead her to power.

Victoria played by Emily Blunt, is compelling as the energetic, good-hearted Queen, with several examples of her righteous annoyance of society. As for, Prince Albert, played by Rupert Friend, is depicted as the opposite of what men during the Victorian Era were suppose to be, instead of being domineering and power- hungry, Albert is shown as a partner and well-informed advisor.

"The Young Victoria" is the first to show the young side of the Queen Victoria, but it also shows the devotion between the young royal couple.

SPIN Print Media Review

April's issue of "SPIN" magazine was the special anniversary edition, featuring modern artists and the musicians that inspired and influenced the music they create.

"SPIN" created multiple versions of cover stories showcasing nine stars meeting their idols, including Billie Joe Armstrong of "Green Day" meeting Paul Westerberg of "The Replacements" and "SPOON's" Britt Daniels meeting Ray Davies from " The Kinks."

Finding out where some of my favorite musicians received their inspiration, introduced me to a larger spectrum of music.

Of the Blue Colour of the Sky

The Chicago based band "OK GO" has not only left their major label Capitol Records, but has also re-released their latest album, "Of the Blue Colour of the Sky" under the band's independent label Paracadute Records on April 1, 2010.

"OK GO" has had two previous successful albums, winning a Grammy in 2007 for "Best Short Form Music Video" for their worldwide hit "Here It Goes Again."

The band's latest album stays consistent with their traditional sound but introduces new instrumental techniques. In the song "This Too Shall Pass" combines powerful lyrics with guitar solos and a strong downbeat.

"WTF?" has a couple quirky accompaniments such as handclaps and chimes adding to the raw sound. The only softness comes from lead singer Damian Kulash's unique vocals, while his lyrics express a binge of romantic confusion.

"Of the Blue Colour of the Sky" is reminiscent of the bands earlier albums, but also has a unique and original perspective. This album is one to add to the collection.

Hawthrone Heights Music Review

The members of "Hawthorne Heights" hit the mainstream in 2004, with their breakthrough album "The Silence in Black and White."

In two years, they have become more than the once garage-band; they are now one of the leaders in the new rock scene. Their debut album "The Silence in Black and White," was a huge success, breaking sales records and receiving platinum record status in 2005. Followed by their 2006 album "If Only You Were Lonely," receiving a Gold certification.

The band's newest album, "Skeleton" has a similar sound to their previous work but has a more mature technique. The song "Unforgivable," is a combination of strong rock undertones with meaningful lyrics. For fans of the band's pervious work, "Skeleton" does not disappoint.

"Til Morning Light" Book Review

Picking up from where "Leaving Ireland" leaves off, "Til Morning Light" tells the final chapter of the story of Gracelin O'Malley.

Gracelin finally arrives in New York City, after surviving both the long and strenuous journey to America and the horrific events of the Irish Famine.

The author Ann Moore, create an atmosphere of realism and hope, when describing the events in the lives of Grace, her family and to her friends.

The audience becomes captivated by the struggles that the O'Malley family is faced with, in this classic tale of the underdog.

"Valentine's Day" Movie Review

This film has a huge celebrity cast including Julia Roberts, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner and Ashton Kutcher.

The movie revolves around the lives of several people who are either single or in a relationship. "Valentine's Day" is the perfect film to watch if you're in a mood for something happy and mushy--in other words a great "chick flick."

So, if you want to be in a cheerful, chipper mood this Valentine's Day go catch the movie at a theatre near you.

"The Time Travelers Wife" Movie Review

Recently released on DVD and On Demand. Robert Schwentke's screen adaptation of the bestselling novel presents a couple stuck in the midst of an ongoing obstacles. Eric Bana plays Henry, a Chicagoan we meet at age 6, when he discovers his ability to time travel.

On one of Henry's trips through time, we are introduced to his love interest, Clare played by Rachel McAdams, whom he meets as a young girl.

If you can get past the chaos of events, "The Time Traveler's Wife," is a sweet film about love, life and the importance of family. Bana's and McAdams' performances rise above the shaky material, the film is gorgeous to look at.