* I may or may not be a member of the New Kids On The Block mailing list (*ahem*), but somehow the following info ended up in my Inbox: there will be a special reunion get-together on The Today Show on April 4th and there is also an exciting new vid on their website.

* Harrison Ford definitely is a trooper: he gets slimed and then continues to eat the green goo.

* I feel bad for people when they trip and fall. I don't feel so bad when it happens to a celebrity like Paris Hilton.

* We've seen it time and time again, but Kelly Clarkson continues to wear ill-fitting pants. Honestly, this has got to stop.

* Kate Hudson goes all "Night of the Living Dead" on Anne Hathaway. Run, Anne, run!

* And finally, safer sex advocate Johnny Depp might become the new face of Trojan condoms.

Oh yes.

Not only are the Gallagher brothers headlining Day 2 of Toronto's VFest (September 6/7), but they're embarking on a full blown North American tour (with Ryan Adams opening!) later this summer.

Oasis haven't put out an album since 2005's brilliant Don't Believe The Truth, but get this: a new album is expected to drop in September 2008, so WHEN you see them live this summer and at VFest, they'll be playing BRAND NEW SONGS (that's brand new Oasis songs...not Brand New songs).

MuchMoreMusic's presenting the tour, and so far (hint, hint) the following dates have been announced:

August 27 - GM Place, Vancouver
August 29 - Rexall Place, Edmonton
August 30 - Pengrowth Saddledome, Calgary

The presale password to buy tickets to all shows is wonderwall.

Dates & times for each presale, with Ticketmaster links are below.

N.B.: DO NOT CLICK ON THEM BEFORE THE ADVERTISED TIMES AND THEN COMMENT THAT THE PASSWORD DOESN'T WORK

Vancouver: April 1 @ 10am PST - April 3 @ 10pm PST (Buy Tickets)
Edmonton: April 1 @ 10am MST - April 3 @ 5pm MST (Buy Tickets)
Calgary: April 1 @ 10am MST - April 3 @ 10pm MST (Buy Tickets)

Stay tuned for more tour dates and presale details for more Canadian cities! In the meantime, listen to some exclusive live Oasis tracks right here...

I got an email last week about Toronto's status as the fourth biggest city in North America. Sounds about right. So I read it, and it was actually promoting a new Canadian MC called Famous. The video linked is wicked, it's about time people are calling out Canadian hip-hop issues. Really, Toronto is bigger than Houston, and Houston supported its artists long before the mainstream and they all stayed selling. Why can't Canada? We ignored Arcade Fire until Americans gave them respect and all of a sudden everyone's proud because they're coming from Canada? We should've been ashamed that they had no love earlier! I understand sometimes Canadian hip-hop isn't truly Canadian but there are artists repping. (Just wait for Kardinal to smash the mainstream, it's happening - you heard it here first) The Gee Wunder video is pure Canada and nice too, or Point Blank "Born And Raised In The Ghetto", or even (especially!) Classified. Anyway, support local hip-hop, it's about time someone is calling us out (yes I'm guilty too).

I just came across this Craigslist posting. For anyone who has maybe not felt "cool" enough, or who has ever been face-to-face with snobbery, this amazing letter is for you:

Dear Hipster Record Store Clerk,

Everyone Not Like You

Last night I went down to Back to the Underground's Canadian Regional B-Boy elimination, with 14 crews battling it out for a chance to represent Canada at the World B-Boy Championships in Seoul and Beijing.

From my vantage point up on stage, I could really see why some people call b-boying a "martial art" - the battles are intense displays of strategy, creativity, crew dynamics and highly technical execution. The semi-finals flew by, and at the end of the night it was Toronto's Supernaturalz crew (who performed on MOD just last week) who walked away with title of "Team Canada"!

After much speculation and rumours, it turns out it's all true! Tokio Hotel lead singer Bill Kaulitz is ill and after they've been forced to cancel some European shows we've just gotten official word that the North American tour has been postponed. But don't get too disheartened yet - the key word here is "postponed." After Bill's recovery phase, their tour will be rescheduled.

This is definitely sad news but Tokio Hotel will be back, folks! And of course, we'll continue to keep you updated with all the info.

Get well, Bill!

PS: Montreal tickets can probably be refunded at point of purchase.

Alright - the FINAL 2: Status Quo and JabbaWockeeZ. Who will it be... Who. Will. It. Be. ?.

Even though us Canucks couldn't vote for America's Best Dance Crew, our friends south of the border delivered a whopping 38 million votes! That's pretty intense - but of course we don't instantly get the results of said votes since this is obviously an hour long show. In true reality show style (a la American Idol) they will drag this out as long as they possibly can, so I simply must succumb to that. No worries - I gots me some sodie pop, snacks and my dancin' shoes - I'm in for the long haul. Now let's get this show underway....

Part 1

All the eliminated Crews are back(!), and introduced, in the following order:

Enigma!

Femme5!

ICONic!

Live In Color!

Fysh n Chicks!

BreakSk8!

Kaba Modern!

And the finalists: Status Quo! and JabbaWockeeZ!

Now the judges are talking. I'm not going to write out what they say this time - basically 'cause I refuse to indulge their ramblings. It's obviously just a gimmick to fill time (and to throw in a shameless plug for Lil Mama's new album, apparently). We heard what this trio of professionals had to say about the final two crews LAST week - why we have to hear it again? So basically this is what I'm picking up:

Shane says, "blah blah blah Status Quo danced through injuries blah blah look on your face was saying you were the shit." Lil Mama says, "blah blah blah JabbaWockeeZ you guys have set the bar blah blah birth of a new culture blah blah I've travelled blah you are the future blah buy my new album." And JC says, "Status Quo you guys are masters of stunt work blah blah JabbaWockeeZ you guys are magicians blah blah I'm not dating Chace Crawford."

Okay FINALLY we get to some dancing - Reunion Style!

Representing the West Coast in the first group performance we have Fysh n Chicks, Kaba Modern and JabbaWockeeZ.

Song: E-40's "Tell Me When To Go."

That was pretty entertaining. Not used to seeing so many people dancing up on that whittle stage, but it's cool to see these three talented groups working together, but surprisingly it did feel a bit all-over-the-place and uninspired at times. And unfortunately it looked liked Kaba Modern took a bit of a back seat to the other two Crews. Bah - Kaba Modern once again doesn't get their time in the spotlight, like they rightfully deserve...

Part 2

WTF? Joey Fatone from 'N Sync Dancing With The Stars your local Starbucks counter is in the audience!

Now representing the South we have Enigma and Live In Color.

Song: Lil John's "Get Low."

Um, what's up with those pimp sticks? Either way, this was a stellar high-energy performance by two Crews that arguably got the boot a bit prematurely. And that Enigma flip over the Live In Color member was mighty impressive (even if the landing did look a bit, um, painful).

Mario Lopez has big news for us! ABDC is coming back in the summer for Season 2! Ugh - My fingers can't take the typing no more!

Part 3

Representing the East Coast: ICONic and Status Quo.

Song: LL Cool J's "Phenomenon."

Wow - that was oddly my favourite. Even though I feel ICONic is slightly dorky, their choreography has always been above-par (and they too were maybe eliminated a tad too early in this competition - especially since they get their inspiration from Broadway and Shane Sparks has openly commented that Broadway is the future of hip-hop... But I digress). Status Quo was impressive as well - it shows what they can do when they have a good choreographer working with them. The "club" feel was a nice touch. Hm - when it comes to these group performances, it looks like I'm an East Coast fan.

WTF? Geri Halliwell is in the audience!

Part 4

Now representng the Mid-West we have Femme5 and BreakSk8.

Song: Huey's "Pop Lock and Drop It."

Aw - that was cute. It was like America's Best Dance Crew was playing match-maker (hopefully Mario Lopez doesn't show up as Cupid, diaper and all... or hopefully he does....?) I bet these two Crews were hooking up like cwaaaazy. But ANYways, the dancing was aiight. Glad to see BreakSk8 still knows how to bring it, however Femme5 was a tad bland (even though their poppy bright outfits were burning my retinas). But then again, was Femme5 ever NOT bland. Until this reunion episode, I had completely forgotten about them. Oh well. Out of sight, out of mind. At least Mario Lopez thought it was "hot."

Now Layla is chatting with the 2 Final Crews. It's all pretty boring but wait - some of the boys of JabbaWockeeZ have kids?! I did not see that coming. And apparently Status Quo "has," "wants," and "needs." I don't know what that means.

Part 5

Ok ok ok... I've been hard on Status Quo, but that little video montage that shows where they're from and how far they've come was kind of heartwarming. It's easy to nag on these guys for not having the best choreo and dancing skills, but then again they haven't had any formal training. They do their stunts 'cause they do them well. They've come a long way and I give them credit.

Alright, these editors know what they are doing. This little video montage of the JabbaWockeeZ back story was also pretty touching. And these montages are a clever touch on the part of ABDC - they totally level the playing field for these two Crews, showing that the results really could go either way. I mean, these are just two Crews that have both encountered hardships and share a love of performance - they just happen to perform in two different styles - how can you fault any of them for that?

(Now that being said, my money is still on JabbaWockeeZ. Hey-O!)

And now. The ultimate showdown. Between the final two Crews. JabbaWockeeeeeeeZ and Status Quuuuooooooooooo! (as choreographed by Stomp The Yard's Chuck Maldonado).

Wow, stomp the yard indeed - that was pretty damn cool. You know how I was just saying how those video montages leveled the playing field? Well, this routine just did the same thing. Both Crews danced (stomped?) their hearts out. The voting is closed and so it doesn't affect results or anything but it shows that maybe these are the two Crews that were meant to be in the Final Two after all...? No?

Sidenote: If you love all things dance, check out Chuck Maldonado's demo reel - it's very impressive.

Lemme guess, we'll now go back to the judges to talk about these two crews once again. Like WTF? We get it! You think they are great! They made it their own! They are the future of dance! Blah blah blah! Geez, it's like pulling teeth in here.

Part 6

AND THE WINNER IS...
....................
....................
....................
....................
....................
....................
....................
....................
JABBAWOCKEEZ!!!!!!!!

(Notice all those dots? I was trying to draw it out as long as Mario Lopez did. But just not possible. Not enough blog space).

So Status Quo... your banner must fall. See ya!

And now a final victory performance from JabbaWockeeZ...

THEY DITCHED THEIR MASKS! That was a smart move. Stop hiding boys - you've successfully beaten them all. Kudos.

So that brings us to the end of America's Best Dance Crew. Goodbye Mario. Goodbye Lil Mama. Goodbye Shane. Goodbye JC. Now all your metaphorical banners must fall.

'Til the Summer, boooooy!

(Creepy backwards hugs all around)

Photographs Courtesy Warner Bros.

Previous Recaps:
Episode 7
Episode 6
Episode 5
Episode 4
Episode 3
Episode 2

* This weekend, the blogs were abuzz that Brad & Ange got married. Buuuuuuuuut they didn't.

* Pics from the Kids Choice Awards Red Carpet..

* Does the latest Bachelor just need a green card?

* Did Simon Cowell really buy Leona Lewis a house??

* Tyra brings out the 1st Annual Fierce Awards on her talk show, which is basically just another way to talk about Top Model. Not that I'm hating.

* Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child has a new look and a new sound...

* Paris Hilton judges the 'Miss Turkey' competition. And belly-dances. Sort of.

* I'm jonesin' on Justice music videos right now, even if they aren't official. Check out this bizarre unofficial music video for Phantom Pt. II.

* Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, will be on American Idol next week. She will appear as mentor of all things singing (and plastic surgery) to the impressionable finalists.

* And in honour of our Top 10 Worst Hairstyles In Music post [see below], Jared Leto is sportin' a new 'do that ain't half-bad.

* Give Madonna $30 million and she'll sing Like A Virgin. Give me $30 and I'll sing Like A Virgin.

* Katie Holmes might star on Broadway. She has the experience - remember when she warbled her way through Les Miserables' On My Own on Dawson's Creek?

* And finally, Chace Crawford Gossip Girl spoiler! Now if only I watched that show...

These pics are so fresh, she's still in the building! But just cause I love you, here are some pics of LC on MOD!

Bigger pics here!

My view!

I saw Lupe perform at the Phoenix in 2006, but missed his Circa concert last December. So yeah - I was pretty psyched to see him again last night, especially after his insane (and insanely adorable) MOD appearance earlier in the day. I've had his album "The Cool" in high rotation for a few months now, so I couldn't wait to see what he'd do with it.

A lot of super cool things happened at the show (makes sense, considering the name of his album, right?), but there were also things that made me want to punch my own face, too. This had nothing to do with Lupe, so I'll keep my beefs short - let's just say the venue (Circa) was cramped and narrow, the dead clown decorations creeped me out (I'm a wimp) and I've never had so many people dancing up on me in my LIFE. Also I could hardly see the stage, but you know, that happens when you're a girl.

But Lupe was *on*. I really enjoy the format of his show - he started with tracks from Food & Liquor and then moved on to The Cool. Actually, the very first thing he brought to the table was "Touch The Sky", aka the song that introduced him to the world! Then, instead of having a show opener, he brought his friends out onstage to play short intermissions, like Matthew Santos, who's been featured on the songs "Superstar" and "American Terrorist" (among others). Speaking of "American Terrorist", my favourite quote of the night happened when Lupe was introducing the song. He goes, "I'm not sure if you're interested in the election down south..." and some dude behind me screams out, "IT'S A PRETTY IMPORTANT ISSUE!" Haha. The audience yelling promptly returned to "LESS TALKING, MORE RAPPING!" and "PLAY DUMB IT DOWN!"

I don't think I'm going to remember everything here, but Lupes kicked the show off with "I Gotcha", "Kick Push", "Sunshine", "Daydreamin'", "American Terrorist", "Real", "Cool" and "Never Lies" (not in that order). My personal favourite "Daydreamin'" was actually not in top form, whereas when I saw it live the first time, I almost had tears in my eyes (I SAID, I'm a wimp!). Then he launched into tracks from "The Cool" - "The Coolest" (a cappella - was awesome), "Gold Watch", "Paris, Tokyo", "Go Go Gadget Flow", "Hip Hop Saved My Life", "Streets On Fire" (better live than on the album!), "Dumb It Down" and of course, "Superstar". Actually, the longest rendition of "Superstar" ever, with a finale so epic that I was convinced the show was ending. But it wasn't - he still had another go 'round of "Kick Push". Gotta say, at this point I skedaddled (it was almost 1am!) so although I'm pretty sure THAT was the ending, I could be wrong.

At one point, Lupe held up his cell phone to the mic, with T.I. on the other line. He told the audience to say, "welcome home, T.I.!" (I guess cause T.I.'s prison sentence was reduced that day). Later, he told us that his little sister just had a baby girl earlier in the afternoon, and we all sang "Happy Birthday" so he could put the video up on YouTube. Aww!

Before I write a novel here, I'll finish y'all off by saying that as always, Lupe was on fire - he's super engaging to watch on stage, he's got some serious flow and his band is tight - AND he played for 2 hours. The show wasn't as amazing as the first time I saw him live, but I'll give it a 6/10 (factoring in my inability to see, and all the jerks bumping into me. Everything factors into your whole experience, right?) Lupe, I'll be seeing you in a couple of months when you rock the Glow In The Dark tour!

Lupe was on MOD yesterday and he was pretty much the best thing ever. Such a ham - he gave an audience member a hug and then continued his interview, not letting the girl go. When his video "Superstar" was being played, it was amazing - the whole audience sang along to the chorus and he conducted them, orchestra stylies. There was not a frown in the house, I tells ya.

PS: He played at Circa nightclub last night ... review coming soon!

Rockstar Games has just released the final trailer for Grand Theft Auto IV. Just a little background on the game, the main character is Niko Bellic has decided to move to Liberty City from Eastern Europe. He is convinced by his cousin Roman to move to Liberty City because he's living the fabulous life of money, women, and cars and wants Niko to live the same life. However, in reality Roman owns a taxi business in which he wants his cousin, Niko, to work for.

If you've played any previous versions in the GTA series you know exactly what this game is going to be about. For those who don't and like to game, I suggest you pick up a copy, or at least rent it and you'll end up enjoying the game.

GTA IV is going be released on April 29th, I've already pre-ordered my copy, so be sure to comeback at the end of April to read my review of the game! Here are a few screen grabs from the final trailer.

Like Nickelback, we all yearn to be rockstars. But being a rockstar is tough for many reasons - not the least of which is landing a good stylist and securing a 'look' that'll be memorable, but in a good way. Here's a list of ten musical hairstyles that we wish we could forget.

Mike Score
Almost too obvious to mention, the 'Flock of Seagulls'
haircut gets placed on our list for two reasons: 1) The fact that it is still parodied in the media, so that we can all relive the horror and die a thousand tiny little deaths every time it comes up on screen (Shame on YOU, diet Pepsi!) and 2) Prior to hitting the big time with their hit, "I Ran (So Far Away), (*shudder*), Mike Score was a hairdresser. His 'do was not the fault of some overzealous stylist, but sorely his own creation. Wowzers!

80's Hair Bands
Not wanting to single out one band (ahem, Poison - or Cinderella, pictured above) for this atrocity perpetrated by many, 80's hair bands belong here simply for the pure wuss-factor of this style. For some reason, rock bands spent hours teasing their hair instead of rocking out. For the sheer oxymoron-iness of the look, (and for the power ballad), 80's hair bands earned their spot on this list.

Britney Spears
I think the MTV Music Awards have proved to us all that if you shave your head in a fit of crazy, you shouldn't buy extensions for $9.99 from a place called 'Skeevy Weavey.'

Billy Ray Cyrus
Although Billy Ray was certainly not the first to give us the mullet, (thank you Canadian hockey players), he inspired legions of followers to get a 'Business in Front, Party in Back,' style by portraying himself as a sex symbol. Firmly believing in their sex appeal, the two-haircuts-in-one are still being sported by Cyrus' biggest fanbase much to the chagrin of those of us with, you know, taste.

A.J. McLean
"Look at me! Look at me! Even though I'm in a boy band, I'm still a man. I can grow super-cool facial hair, and can shave it into rebel patterns that really let my audience know I'm dangerous. Sure, I sing love ballads to 11 year old girls (ew!), but as you can see by my tattoos and goatee I'm really badass."

The Emo Cut
Just so you know, if you and all your friends share the same haircut, you're no longer unique and trendsetting. Now, you're just kind of a loser with a haircut that makes mothers all over the country want to scream, "Get your hair out of your eyes!" P.S. You look stupid. P.P.S. Cut your bangs.

Michael Jackson
I know, I know, stop picking on Mikey! Although it is kind of easy, Jackson's hair is included more as a cautionary tale than anything else. Not only was the Jheri Curl pretty nasty to look at, (and if you ever see someone still sporting this look, stay away, as it's greasier than a vat of oil), it was also highly flammable. When shooting a commercial for Pepsi (again Pepsi?) in 1983, sparks showered on his Jheri Curl lathered head, causing Second degree burns to the King of Pop. Also, Rick James sported the Jheri Curl as well. 'Nuff said.

Bill and Tom Kaulitz
Amazingly enough, these two twin boys from Tokio Hotel have separate looks for their hair, but each style is equally questionable. Tom sports dreads worn underneath a toque AND a baseball hat in a ponytail fashion. But that's nothing compared to Bill's 'do, which looks like he just touched the elecrticity ball at the Science Centre. It's like 80s Metal Hair on drugs, with a new-school penchant for giant weaves thrown in for good measure. Listen, twins. Dressing alike is unnecessary, but your mane style may be even more unnecessary-er (yeah, we went there). We know you've got a kabillion fans and while we do enjoy your attempts at being avant-garde, please consider a good visit to the barber in your 5 Year Plan.

Amy Winehouse
Bundling a nasty rat's nest on your head doesn't make you alternative. Although I appreciate people that buck the trends, there's something to be said about a hairbrush. And shampoo. And that something is a little thing I like to call hygiene. (Of course, if she took down the beehive, she'd have to look for a new place to put her crackpipe.)

The Faux Hawk
While it started off as a semi-cool look, it's been brought down to all-time douchey levels in recent years. We get it, you're hardcore. (Not quite as hardcore if you'd gotten an actual Mohawk but whatever). Here's a helpful tip: When guys like Ryan Seacrest, Jack Osborne or Chester Bennington start sporting the same haircut that you have - it's time to get a new look.

Photographs Courtesy Getty Images

* You may have heard that Obama is a distant relative of Brad Pitt - well, he just addressed the situation on The View, saying that Brad got all the good looks. Hee.

* Madonna on the cover of Vanity Fair's green issue, looking ferosh.

* Leona Lewis is the first British woman in over 20 years to top the US charts. Innit!

* Terror Squad's leading lady Remy Ma could face 25 years in prison after being convicted of four major charges.

* Casting news for Joss Whedon's latest show Dollhouse...

* Will Lohan star in a Charles Manson movie? Did the little Lohan go under the knife?

* Did Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo get married? No one seems to know, except the Aussies.

* Grey's Anatomy star Justin Chambers gets a bit out of control.

* Speaking of "out of control," it certainly best describes Adam Brody's dogs.

* Amy Winehouse wears her heart on her sleeve. Well, Blake's heart. And moreso on her chest.

* Fall Out Boy cancel their trip to Antartica. Too damn cold, if you ask me.

* Juliana Hatfield spills the beans about her love-hate relationship with The Hills.

* And speaking of The Hills, a Hills feature film?!

So you've watched America's Best Dance Crew, but you've maybe found yourself wondering, "Man! Us Canadians need us some Dance Crews, eh?" Well we do have talent north of the border - need proof? Make sure to tune into MOD tomorrow Friday, March 28th @ 5pm ET. Canadian Dance Crew Supernaturalz will be in the house to showcase their sweet, sweet moves.

And then if you're in the Greater Toronto Area this weekend, watch local Dance Crews battle in their own tete-a-tete of all things bounce:

Attention all Torontonians: Breakers Take Over the Guvernment!

If you enjoy dancing, or you love real hip-hop culture, this is an event you cannot miss. With DJ Dopey and DJ Starting from Scratch, the music will be the best the nation has to offer. For more ticketing and event information, check out www.backtotheunderground.com

Now where are JC, Lil Mama and Shane Sparks when you need them?

Gears Of War 2 is schedule to be released in November of this year and after seeing some teasers (I'll post them soon for you to watch!), I couldn't be any more excited. I never had the chance to play the first Gears Of War since I didn't have an Xbox 360 then, but since I do have one now, this is a game I will definitely be picking up!

At the Game Developers' Conference back in February, Epic Games announced that Gears Of War 2 will be using their updated Unreal Engine 3 and did a tech demo of how Gears of War 2 would look if was released in February. For gamers of all kinds, this is huge! The update to the Unreal Engine will bring more realism to a game that's already great. In the tech demo, the CEO of Epic Games walks through some of the updates. There's no doubt in my mind that when the game gets released in November it will be one of the best games to be released on the Xbox 360 platform.

The updates to the Unreal Engine will bring great visual aspects to the game. It will not only make the gaming experience better but will make it look and feel more realistic then ever! The tech demo video outlines what some of the updates that they added to the Unreal Engine.

Here's my take on the updates. A destructible environment is great - it makes the game fun and realistic at the same time. Usually when I'm playing a shooter game and I get stuck or bored I like to shoot random things but the majority of times all I'll see is a black mark where I shot at. But with this update you'll be able to shoot anything and cause realistic damage to it! You know that's going to be fun!

They've also updated the way shadows are rendered. In the video they show a before and after shot comparing the two engines and there is a huge difference in the way the character looks. This will for sure make the game look crisp and smooth, not to mention realistic!

Another update that adds to the realism of the game is the detail to water and how the character reacts to it. If you're like me, you want the game to be as real as it can be and with this update it sure is real! In the demo video they show how the water ripples according to where your character is walking.

Finally, an update that I've seen other games already incorporate that adds to the experience of the game is the ability to render crowds of characters. I've seen it in Assassin's Creed and it was a far different experience walking through crowds and crowds of people, so it'll add another dimension and difficulty to Gears of War2.

So there are my thoughts on the updates to the Unreal Engine, stay tuned for a few teasers later today and let me know what you think of the updates to the Unreal Engine and to Gears Of War 2!

The boys and girl of Paramore, who have just stated they are not breaking up.

Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time for Music Festivals galore! We've already blogged about Virgin Festival and the new Pemberton Festival - well now here is some 2008 Vans Warped Tour news.

Musical acts have been announced - scheduled to perform are:

Paramore, Gym Class Heroes, Jack's Mannequin, Against Me!, Pennywise, Reel Big Fish, Cobra Starship, Every Time I Die, Angels and Airwaves, Aggrolites, As I Lay Dying, the All-American Rejects, Academy Is..., All That Remains, Dr. Manhattan, Relient K, Say Anything, Norma Jean, Story of the Year, the Color Fred, the Pink Spiders and the Vandals.

This will be the 14th edition of the tour and it kicks off on June 20th in Los Angeles. The four Canadian dates are:

July 19th - Toronto, ON
July 20th - Montreal, QC
August 5th - Saskatoon, SK
August 6th - Calgary, AB

Some tickets are already on pre-sale! Check out warpedtour.com for all the details.

* Axl Rose responds to Dr. Pepper's offer (see post below), and assures he will share his soda with Buckethead.

* The Hills season premiere on Monday broke rekkids!

* Need a new Beyonce fix?

* Was Britney really offered a role in Streetcar Named Desire? STELLAAAAAAA!!! In other Spears news, I guess the other one is engaged.

* Fefe Dobson on the comeback trail. Did you know she wrote Miley's "Start All Over"?

* This user pic makes me LAUGH.

Hey nerds,

Lupe Fiasco will be dropping by MOD today (yay!) so if you've got yourself a webcam and a question to ask the guy, email us at redhot@muchmusic.com, k? Doooo it!

* Mariah Carey channels her inner (outer?) mannequin in her new heavily-airbrushed promo pics.

* Remember the good ol' days of mixtapes? Now it's time for online Muxtapes.

* Dr. Pepper seems to love Guns N Roses. Or Guns N Roses love Dr. Pepper. Whatever the case may be, Dr. Pepper will give a can of their delicious sodie pop to every American if the long-awaited GNR Chinese Democracy album gets released this year.

* Let it be known that JC Chasez is not dating Chace Crawford, ya hear? (crickets crickets)

* And finally, a hilarious Tom Cruise impersonation from the up-coming comedy Superhero Movie.

Tonight's episode of The Shift features Steve, an aspiring musician who was surprised with a music label A&R meeting. Nice! Watch him co-host tonight at 9pm ET, ya hear?

Steve's blog:

I would like to start off by saying that Matte Babel is probably one of the most down to earth people I have met so far in the entertainment industry as far as Television faces. The whole day was nothing short of an amazing experience. When we were at the video shoot I got to meet a Label A&R Representative, which gave me a broad outlook on what I need to do in order to make it in the music industry. It really opened my eyes to a lot of new things.

Later!

Don't forget to send us your own applications to be on The Shift!

Guess who's back to her old tricks?

Natalie in full effect, y'all! And thank god for it. Easy breezy Natalie was much too likable for my comfort.

Big N kicks things off by telling Chrystina that being pretty is a talent. People are drawn to beauty, and as such when people see her, they want to talk to her. They want to be her friend. They want to slap her in the face. And THEN she comes with the quote of the episode, which deserves a whole new line:

"Not everybody is born beautiful. It's a fact. I'm not the best singer, but one thing I have over these girls is beauty. Beauty is a talent. Jamie was my biggest competition cause she was gorgeous. I'm glad she went home!"

Well, I think it's time to dust off some of my archive pictures. Beauty is finite. It's a fact.

Aaaaaand I'm done.

Jenna admits she's not surprised that Ilisa also went home last week, as we won't be surprised at her inevitable elimination. In yo face! She then touches on the topic of her weight, which - let's be honest here - she's not fat. She's got a great figure. But she's slightly TV fat, as is anybody over a size 4, apparently. (Society!!!! *shakes fist*) Jenna says she's making an effort to eat healthier ...

... while the edit shows her concocting some monstrous chex mix filled with chocolate icing, peanut butter and icing sugar. Other girls look on, terrified.

No, sorry, with their best "watching a chubster eat junk food" face. It's that fine mix of pity, disapproval and judgment. Nichole is the master of this face at all times and for all reasons.

PCD Mail! This week's theme is Vocal Expression. The only other PCD who sings says, "if you've been hiding behind a smile, we're about to find out." Actually, I think that was said by one of the PCDs who doesn't sing, and the irony is so delicious.

Robin says that to her, vocal expression means being a "total diva". I guess? Jenna is all, "I'm a diva cause I have a very different voice from everyone else." Last time I checked I don't think that had anything to do with being a diva, but what do I know! Anyway, here are the groups:

Nichole, Natalie, Charlye, Jenna - "Emotion" (Destiny's Child arrangement, originally a Bee Gees song)

Tiffanie, Carrie, Chrystina - "What A Feeling" (from Flashdance)

Robin informs them that the whole thing will be performed as a medley, with all 7 girls appearing at the end of "What A Feeling". And suddenly, Kenn Hicks is demonstrating his own vocal expression by busting out some opera:

This makes Charlye very sad:

And this is not the first time we'll see ol' Charl cry this episode. By the way, did you watch the Bachelor on Monday night, where like three chicks busted out into impromptu song (including one opera)? It's break-out-into-song week, yay!

At rehearsal, Kenn decides to go the road less traveled, offering the song opener to Chrystina instead of the obvious choice, Carrie. This makes Chrystina very happy.

Kenn tells us that Chrys hasn't been creative enough in showing us what she can do with her voice, and hopes she uses this opportunity to the fullest. Tiffanie is all, "she's not that great a singer, in my opinion."

For once, Charlye is having problems in the dance studio and Mikey lets loose his particular brand of critical bombardment. Natalie points out Charlye is not used to criticism and she's letting it stress her out.

Robin is like, "what's up? You're a better dancer than this." Mikey frowns upon her with his Mr. T jewelry from 1985.

Back at the piano, Kenn tells the girls that whoever impresses him the much will get a full hour session with him. Natalie then proceeds to throw her reputation down the drain. It goes roughly as follows:

1. Natalie wants to sing a certain line. Kenn won't let her have it.

2. Natalie tells Kenn that he has a bad attitude, is feeling negative, and storms out of the room.
3. Natalie sits in a huff with the other group and tells them what happened. The other girls are shocked that she did that to Kenn.

4. Kenn is shocked that Natalie did that to Kenn. Tiffanie says, "to sing in front of Kenn is a privilege, and she walks out? Beyonce doesn't walk out. Who the heck do you think you are?"
5. Kenn tells the other girls that walking out is the most unprofessional, disrespectful thing you can do. He goes to find Natalie.
6. Kenn: "How could you disrespect me like that?" Natalie says that she was trying to ask him a question in a positive way. This is a lie.

7. Natalie politely asks for Kenn to take his tone down. This is also disrespectful in this situation.
8. Kenn tells Natalie she's a child and has an ego like she's not a child. "They fly me across the world and you walk out on me? How dare you."
9. Natalie looks like a scared puppy and offers an apology. She then gives Kenn an awkward hug.

10. Kenn tells Natalie to apologize to her group.

First of all, how amazing is Kenn Hicks? Second of all, my new favourite thing about Natalie is her loyal dedication to chi. She's all like, Positive Energy Pollyanna. "I'm trying to do X in a positive way." "I feel negative energy in the room." "Please take your tone down." Natalie feels your low energy and she wants to bring you to a state of calmness. But the truth is, just cause you're a quiet bitch, it doesn't make you less of a bitch. You know?

The next day, les filles ship off to Geffen studios to record the first Girlicious track "Leave You Alone". Nicole Scherzinger stops by to offer encouragement to let their vocal expression shine.

Each girl steps into the booth to lay down their vocals. We get to hear the inspiring lyrics, "Keep trippin', I don't wanna keep slippin', I don't wanna be bitchin' I think I might as well leave you alone!" Meaningful? Of course not. This is Girlicious we're talking about. Plus, I've had that part in my head for two days now.

Anyway, Jenna is happy with her performance and looks forward to the day she can record a full album and win Grammys. It's good to dream.

Carrie kills it, Tiffanie kills it, Chrystina is lifeless, Charlye lets her emotions affect her performance and Natalie comes through with what Robin calls a "surprise attack". This makes Natalie feel positive energy in the room.

Although Natalie is offered an honourable mention, Tiffanie wins the challenge, which of course means she'll be safe from elimination.

Look at that face! Tiffanie is a diva in the right way!

Later, Charlye feels more homesick than ever, and gets upset when she can't use the phone.

Some of the girls feel that Charlye has a command over the phone station and at times, they give up phone time to let her talk to her family. Charlye tells us that since she lost her father, there's an emotional impact when she can't talk to her mom in times of need. Later, she crawls into bed and tells Tiffanie that the past few days have been extremely tough and she freaked out when she couldn't talk to her mother. She explains that when her father died, she was on a college trip and couldn't get back to be with her family, which has affected her security when she's away from home.

Tiffanie tells us that Charlye is a strong person and to see her break down was hard. Agreed!

The next day Kenn offers his hour long personal session to Charlye, which the girls are easy to relinquish. Kenn says that he could sense her mind, voice and emotions buckling under the pressure. Charlye feels blessed to have this opportunity and cries again. Let it all out, girl.

All seven girls rehearse the final sequence and it really looks like things are falling apart. Chrystina can't remember the words, which frustrates Robin and Mikey to great levels. Chrystina's like, "it was a reality check that ok isn't good enough." Ya, really? The only time ok is good enough is when you're working the late shift at Arbys, and even then you have to make a quality sandwich. But I digress.

The interesting thing about this scene is that although they make it seem like the rehearsal is taking place the night before the big performance, everyone is wearing the same clothes from day one's rehearsal. Sooo, props to the editing department for creating extra tension, you sneaky buggers.

At sound check, Chrystina is still having some issues and Robin switches Carrie to the lead. Naturally, Chrystina is pissed and feels like crying.

Hey, it's the theme of the episode. Let it happen.

I love Lil Kim's face when Mark introduces her, if the editing is honest. She's so out of it!

Performances! Nichole, Jenna, Natalie and Charlye kick things off with "Emotion". If by "vocal expression" Robin meant "sing it exactly the way Destiny's Child did, vocal trills and all", then these girls were bang on.

Then there's Carrie, Chrystina, and Tiffanie, leading to the full girl extravaganza with "What A Feeling":

I gotta admit that I love watching Carrie on stage. She doesn't over think, she just goes up there and has fun. Plus her legs are supa fiehce.

The judges tell the group that there were moments of greatness and weakness, but overall they were great to watch. They tell Charlye that it was her night, Chrystina was a little off, Jenna was off, and oh yeah - Robin admits her displeasure with Nat's earlier diva move. The girls go backstage, and nobody is sure who could be eliminated. Chrystina is extra worried that she could...

The judges make their deliberations. Ron thinks that Chrystina isn't ready to "fly the plane", and Robin envisions Girlicious to be "firey", which Jenna just ain't. The girls come out.

Tiffanie, Carrie, Charlye, Nichole, Natalie are safe. Nat gives her at-danger BFFs a hug before she goes to the safe zone:

That's her best "I'm actually really happy inside but I'll pretend I'm sad for my friends" face.

Robin tells Chrystina that she has all the tools to be in a girl group, but she hasn't shown them all at once. Jenna, meanwhile, has a lot of swagger and cool, but is that right for Girlicious? (No).

And so, it is Jenna who leaves us, one week after almost quitting.

I know it looks like Chrys is the one leaving in that picture, but it's not true. Anyway, Jenna says she'll miss her BFFs and that she knows she's gonna make it.

Sorry Jenna - not everyone is born Girlicious. It's a fact.

Next week: A clip show?! Oh no you didn't.

PS: Two things.

1. Props go to the editing team, cause for the first time it wasn't blatantly obvious who was going home. Up to a certain point it could have been Chrystina, Jenna, Natalie or even Charlye.

2. My first pick for group shoo-in is Nichole, although there's something I still find off about her. She always addresses a situation with a higher-than-thou comment while over all managing to come across as cute. But in any case, I think she's a definite.

See you next week!

Previous Recaps:

Episode 1 Weecap
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4
Episode 5

While scrolling through the current issue of VICE magazine on a flight back from Montreal this weekend, two things struck me immediately:

First, if we can use current American Apparel advertising as a benchmark then the idea of subtlety has been completely lost on this generation. The new AA ads feature one of the most beautiful girls I can think of in recent memory lifting up her skirt to reveal an equally incredible behind. Now, while this is all well and good for most of us guys and while it gives me something else to think about on my hour long flight, it also brings up the aforementioned question...what the f&%# has happened to subtlety in culture and advertising??? Is this what it really takes to sell socks these days?

Secondly (and, in my opinion, more importantly), doesn't the fact that absolutely EVERYONE seems to be a hipster these days completely cancel out the importance and necessity of VICE magazine? Years ago when I was in university, VICE Magazine magazine reflected all the things mainstream culture and media was afraid to. The articles were simultaneously and equal parts: cool, informative, ridiculous and self-indulgent. It reflected the counterculture most of us would never live in or get to experience. However, now that everyone over the age of 16 seems to dress like a Technicolor clown, listen to Justice or a hipster status equivalent and mimics the lifestyle caught in the witty headlights of the editors of VICE magazine, is it still really important in the way it used to be (despite the fact that VBS.TV is the coolest thing I've ever seen in my life)?

Back in 1993 when Calvin Klein released a "grunge"-inspired runway line, the same argument was raised and I suppose will continue to be raised. Counterculture will always eventually fuse with actual culture. So perhaps my argument and this blog itself is completely meaningless...at least I've still got my AA ads and perfectly shaped models to occupy my thoughts until I land.

Devon

* I don't even watch The Hills and I'm lovin this: scenes from the show performed by old people. HA!

* You can buy Madge & J-Timb's "4 Minutes" today, if you want...

* GASP!! Say it ain't so? Drama on the Top Model set, so much so that Tyra is considering leaving the show?

* Will Sinead O'Connor write a song for RiRi?

* Julie Benz from Dexter has been cast in Saw 5. Sigh. This is just another case of "she's better than that".

* Britney's paps have moved on to Miley?

* Last night I finally saw Stephen King's The Mist (not to be confused with the Tom Welling stinker, The Fog). The Mist is out on DVD today and if clever, creepy horror movies are your thing, definitely check it out. It's a goodie.

* Universal Records (home to Eminem, 50 Cent and Marilyn Manson) yanks three songs from the U.S. version of Be Your Own Pet's brand new album Get Awkward for being too violent.

* It seems Paramore are fighting no more - they are reportedly not breaking up.

* Knut, the vicious insecure German polar bear, gets likened to Britney Spears. I see the resemblance.

* Speaking of Brit Brit, her episode of How I Met Your Mother was a ratings success last night.

* Ex-Saved By The Bell-er and current America's Best Dance Crew host Mario Lopez has a new work out book. Does it involve hanging out at The Max? I hope so.

* Some fancy Speed Racer movie posters!

* And finally, yes we all love The Price Is Right, but not as much as Sarah does.