An Interview with "The Vietnams"

Before Christmas I was lucky enough to get an interview with the band “The Vietnams”. For some reason this post doesn't feel like being co-operative and won't load when you try and view it. Because I think the band are so great I thought I should publish it again, but hopefully this time it will work! When I did the interview they had only released two songs, they now have an alubum out. They are definitely going places fast!

First of all for the readers that haven’t come across your music yet, what other artist(s) would you compare yourself to?

That’s a tough one. All five of us bring different aspects of different genres to the table, and we all have our own influences. If you could image a mix of folk musicians like Fleet Foxes, The Band, The Lumineers, The Last Bison, and so on, with Indie like The Kooks, The Smiths, Razorlight, etc. and then bring in the prettier more acoustic based stuff like City and Colour, Bon Iver, Ed Sheeran, and even a bit of Beirut, that should give people somewhat of an idea of our sound.

And if you were to sum your style up in three words…

Cohesive, subtle, and multigenerational.

When did the “Vietnams” begin, and how did you all come together?

This is a random story that I’ll try and keep short. I, Sean, have known Brent for a while. We met through other bands when we were in high school. He and I decided to get together one day this past summer and mess with some music of our own. That day we wrote and recorded the demo of “Oh Miss Deceiver” and haven’t looked back since. Jake is an even more random side story that takes a bit more to explain, but basically we met him a couple weeks after and found out he played the banjo and was epically amazing on the guitar. We brought him in and the three of us wrote most of our album from then on. Byron and Seth have been good friends of mine throughout high school. Byron and I have jammed before and from that I knew he could sing and play ukulele, which fit perfectly with us, and Seth is a legend on piano as well as being pretty talented with music all around. Those guys joined us recently and made us a full band. And that’s the basic story behind how we came to be.

Your name really sets you apart from other artists on the scene, what made you choose it?

We get asked this a lot and we really don’t have too much of an answer. All I can say is that we saw a few upsides to it: it sounded cool; it had a bit of a controversial vibe to it (which makes it that little bit more memorable); it resonates a bit of nostalgia; and it wasn’t taken. But to be honest, it doesn’t have a meaning behind it, nor any intentional ties to anything.

You’re currently based in California; does this have an influence on your music?

It has to in some ways. We aren’t the stereotypes of the “Cali life” by any means, but where you live has to have an impact on your musical tastes and inspirations.

What inspiration is behind your songs?

We draw inspiration through our lives, things that are happening in the world, things that have happened in the world, and love… and not just the people we love but the things we love as well.

What are you all currently doing at the moment?

Well I, Sean, work with Byron. We own a design company here in California. Brent and Seth both attend local colleges and hold down jobs. And little ol’ Jake is still in high school, but is graduating this year. As far as right this second, it’s Thanks Giving here in the US so everyone is with their families.

What are your next plans? Are you thinking of coming across the pond any time soon?

Depending on how the Kick Starter goes for the album and how much money we manage to make, we really want to tour anywhere and everywhere. Being from England myself, I wouldn’t mind coming home and playing some gigs, so touring the UK is in the cards for the near future also.

Have you ever been to London, and if so where are your favourite hideouts?

I lived just north of the city a few years ago, grew up there in fact, but I’m the only one who’s been. I can’t really say if I had any favourite hideouts but the place is my home, and I can’t wait to tour there with the guys someday.

And finally, whilst we wait for more releases from you, what other songs or artists do you suggest we check out?

The Last Bison, those guys are awesome! If you like folk, you have to check them out. And read about them. Their story is really cool. They’re signed but not that well known yet, so check them out!

 

Thank you so much to the band for their time, and for more information, and release dates, check out their official website: www.thevietnams.com

My week in instagram

Making Earrings

Floral wallpaper and shoes and satchel

Pine cones making a boring corner a little more interesting

Me with new fringe and flicked eyeliner

Writing photoshoot ideas in a pretty notebook

Pacman street art

New Cath Kidston skirt

I hope you all had a lovely weekend. Yesterday I went to a fashion illustartion class in Shoreditch, and I can't wait to post all about it very soon!

Love Maddie x

"This is a really volcanic ensemble you're wearing, it's really marvelous!"

Pretty in pink is my favourite film. I know, I know, it's a cliche but it would definitely be the "one thing I would take on a desert island". I don't just love it for the sweet plot, or because I think Molly Ringwald is amazing, but I love it for the music, and the clothes. And I also love it because of the character Duckie. He has the best lines and the best clothes. One thing that I will never understand though is the fact that Duckie is unpopular because of his clothes, yet I spend much of my time dreaming about boys with quiffs, wearing tweed blazers, shirts and ripped jeans.

Anyway, here is a montage of scenes from the film to give anyone who hasn't watched it, an idea of what it's about. And if you are one of those people, then go watch it now! You'll regret it otherwise..

I have done a full review of the film, but I'll give you a chance to watch it before I spoil the plot! Every time I watch the film I wish that I could be transported beck to 80's America. For anyone else feeling this way, below are some items on my wish list that I'll be more than happy to settle with for now, whilst I continue to dream about an American adventure filled with record stores, smokey bars, an 80's prom, and just generally living the Pretty in Pink life.

Boots from Office

Sunglasses from Giant Vintage Sunglasses

Bowler hat from Topshop

Pink midi dress from ASOS

all images are from the websites linked to the items.

I hope you enjoy the film as much as I do, and let me know what you think of it if you've all ready watched it!

Love Maddie x

"Oh take me, anywhere the sun shines..."

 Six months ago I was wrapped up in knit wear, sat by the fire and drinking tea. The SS13 trends seemed out of place when orange leaves were falling off tree's. Now, although I'm still coveting my favourite vintage jumper, the new season is nearly here, and I'm finally getting excited for spring. Although there are lots of clothes that are on my wish list right now, I thought I would share with you some interior accessories that have a SS13 twist.

Time for Tea



Retro Red



Stars In Your Eyes

A Plate Full of Spring

Safari-Esque Table Ware

Macaroon Inspired Flamenco Firlls

Orient Treasures

Say it Loud. Say it Bright

Upon Reflection

Geometric Graphics

1. This teapot not only holds a hearty amount of tea but also ticks the box for several trends. First it's floral detailing is perfect for spring, however the minimal colour and oriental feel are also perfect for SS13. Try Clippers green tea whilst doing yoga to complete the look. (I contemplated doing this, but then realised it was far too ambitious, so settled for breakfast tea and my favourite magazine.)

2. This retro coffee machine is a modern twist on a classic. If like me even Starbucks coffee is out of your budget, there are cheaper ways to try out this trend. Instead of a statement appliance, try using sundae glasses as trinket holders, and buy diner style condiment bottles and leave them on display.
3. These stars are perfect for the monochrome and minimalism trends this season. However, as simple as they are, they're a really interesting and different feature to a room.

4. It wouldn't be spring with out florals and yellow. This plate is so cute and also a step away from the usual floral patterns. Only a cupcake would look sweet enough to put on this plate, and even then I would be sad about covering up the design. Perhaps it should just be reserved as a display item.

5. Safari colours were all over the catwalk and these "latte" bowls are perfect for the trend, and the fluted texture of them makes them even more lust-worthy! They are only small though, so would be perfect for keeping earrings in (I'm always loosing mine) or perhaps snacks like jelly beans or nuts (I would probably stick to jewellery, i don't trust my self with a bowl of jelly beans!)

6. This shower curtain looks as if it was made for SS13. "Flamenco frills in pastel shades" will apparently be a big hit. It also nicely fits in with the ombre hype. However it is a bit pricey for a curtain that may not be as fashionable come next year, so soft furnishings with subtle frills and in pale greens, may be a better way to do this trend. Actually, as cool as it looks, who really needs a statement shower curtain? Having said that though when I get my own place, I will probably buy several shower curtains. (I'm a shopaholic!)

7. Again, another item that ticks the oriental trend, this cabinet would look perfect in a hallway, adorned with candles and gold trinket bowls. For such a statement piece, it's also quite a good price.

8. Neon is going to be big again this season, but it can be difficult to incorporate it into a room without it looking like an 80's nightclub. Although this sign isn't strictly neon in the sense that the fashion world is coveting it, it's still a really cute statement piece, that will fit in well with your interiors, and technically it is neon.

9. The catwalks have been adorned with metallic embellishments and this wall feature is catwalk worthy. It is quite very pricey (£3,800) though. A cheaper way of styling the "reflective" trend in interiors is to buy several old mirrors and large photo frames from charity shops. Prop them against a bare wall, and layer them on top of each other. The combination of mirrors and empty frames will create an interesting contrast. Use the mirrors and frames and drape silk scarves, fedoras, and long necklaces.

10. Monochrome and geometric graphics are set to be big this season and this bed spread and pillow set is a perfect match for this trend. This duvet cover makes me want to lie on my bed and day dream with my headphones on. (My song choice of the moment would have to be Elephant by Tame Impala.)

all pictures are from the websites that are linked to each item.

The Liebster award

Sally from Sally Blogs kindly nominated me for the Liebster award and I was thrilled! The award recognises upcomming/ new blogs that have 200 or less folowers. To accept the award you must:

Answer the queation that the person who nominated you set.
List 11 facts about yourself
Nominate 11 other bloggeres
Set them 11 questions and link back to their blogs
Link your acceptance post back to the person who nominated you.

The questions that Sally asked me, and my response:        

1. Who/What inspired you to start blogging?

I spent a lot of my time reading fashion, music and photography blogs, and there are so many things that I want to share with people within these genres, so I thought a blog would be perfect! It also acts as a little excuse to constantly take lots of pretty pictures!

2. What is your favourite blog?

This varies daily, but at the moment I really love The Briar Rose Blog and Red Brick Lipstick

3. Tea or coffee?

Tea (I love breakfast tea with milk or black nettle tea, and I drink LOTS of it!) unless it’s Christmas time, in which case it’s salted caramel lattes all the way!

4. What are your favourite shops/brands?

Topshop is my go-to shop and I love Urban Outfitters. I also love Monki. If I had all the money in the world then I would definitely buy the Dolce and Gabbana baroque inspired collection (yes the whole collection)

5. What is your pet hate?

Hmmm I’m not sure that I necessarily have a pet hate, but I can’t stand people touching my feet.

6. Bacon buttys with ketchup or HP?

HP

7. What is the one thing you can't live without?

Oh no there are too many things to choose from! Maybe my trusty brogues or my copy of pretty in pink, or perhaps my ipod. I don’t know!

8. Who is your favourite band/singer?

This again varies on a daily basis. Florence and the Machine and Vampire Weekend I have loved for ages, and will always love, but at the moment I am listening to French Films and Tame Impala on repeat. I also think that Alt J are brilliant. I also have a bit of a thing for 70’s and 90’s music (sorry 80’s!)

9. If you could give a piece of advice, what would it be?

It’s easier said than done, but you should try and find the right balance between spending too long deliberating over decisions, and rushing into things. I have made some awful decisions in the past because I decided to go one extreme or the other (namely my a level choices, chemistry was a BIG mistake!)

10. What would you liked to have achieved in ten year time?

To finally have decided what I want to do as a career, and be well on track with it!

11 Facts about myself:                                                                 

1. I was born in Cheltenham, grew up in Hampshire and now live in *whispers* Essex.

2. I’m intolerant to wheat and dairy although I do still occasionaly too often have them anyway. I’m also allergic to soya milk, and I could never give up milky cups of tea!

3. Next year I hope to study architecture at UCA Canterbury, and if not then I’ll attend an art foundation course and perhaps go travelling around Italy for a bit.

4. I love music, which seems generic, but I would really love it to be a part of my career, but seeing as I can’t sing, or play an instrument then perhaps I’ll manage a band one day!

5. Although I’m planning on studying architecture I would love to maybe work in journalism, or perhaps have my own architecture/ music/ fashion/ general art and culture publication.

6. I make crafts and cakes with my mum and sell them at vintage fairs. I also collect old furniture and do them up. I wouldn’t mind doing this full time actually (basically I don’t really know what I want to do career wise, but I’m a Libra, I’m allowed to be indecisive!)

7. My favourite season is autumn, but I also love going to the beach in winter.

8. My favourite foods are pineapple, mango and grapes, bacon, olives and seafood.

9. My favourite magazines are The Fly, Company magazine and Country Living (a bit of a mix I know!)

10. I have a love for 80’s films and my favourite is Pretty in Pink.

11. I’m a brogue-aholic!

 Who I Nominate                                                                  

Laura Through the Lens
Little Paper Swans
Ebony Vintage
Tartan Brolly
The Frill Seeker
Lisa Takes Pictues
Arabella Luisa
Life Time of Memories
Miss Strange Name
Chloe Scares Fashion
A Cup of Tea Please

 My Questions to you:                                                                   


1. What is your favourite season?

2. What is your favourite item in your wardrobe?

3. If you could only listen to one album ever, what would it be?

4. Your perfect Sunday?

5. Favourite colour for clothes and why?

6. Statement necklace or subtle bracelet?

7. What piece of make-up could you not live without?

8. What film do you think everybody should see?

9. Do you prefer city life or country life?

10. One trend that you think will be key this season?

11. And, most importantly, marmite. Love it or hate it?

Thank you again Sally for nominating me!

If I nominated you please leave a link in the comments, so I can read all of your answers!