Siren Music Festival

The wind was still, the sand was burning, and the sun was scorching. But none of that mattered because everyone’s mind was focused on what was to come.
The Village Voice independently produced its annual Siren Music Festival on Saturday, July 19th, at Coney Island. It’s a free all ages all day music festival on two stages! The festival brings together the Voice’s readership and the New York community through an event that celebrates the freedom of expression inherent in music.
From just a duo group to a band with a touring crew that tops off 15 or more, the range and diversity of bands is definitely a treat…with an assortment of guitars, drums, pianos, keyboards, and the list goes on and on. Stephen Malkmus & The Jinks, now on tour in the UK, blew us away with their indie rock sound and heavy grooves.
Beach House, Times New Viking, Film School, and Dragons of Zynth are just some more bands that were at the festival. Parts & Labor, however, might be one of my favorites out of the list. Maybe it’s just because we are Brooklyn Natives, or that we love brutal and intense music. Parts & Labors definitely put on a show for us and definitely set the bar high for the many more bands to play at the annual Village Voice Siren Music Festival.

The Joke's on Me...

Although Director Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight has debuted after numerous popular superhero films in the summer of ‘08, The Dark Knight should serve as the model superhero film for years to come. Before I viewed the movie, I believed that all of the hype was unnecessary and due to the untimely death of actor Heath Ledger. However, it's now clear that the hype is deserved and that it is not too early to declare Heath Ledger Oscar bound for his performance in the role of The Joker. All of the actors and actresses turned in tremendous performances in their respective roles, with Christian Bale (Batman) and Heath Ledger (The Joker) leading the cast. The film is action packed and should satisfy every Batman fan, new or old. The Dark Knight is refreshingly realistic, with tragedy being as much of a possibility as ‘good trumping evil.’ All in all, I believe that The Dark Knight has earned a 4/5 rating.
-Kevin

Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth

If you're looking for some sexy sweets, then Sugar is the place for you. Located on East Houston Street in the heart of the Lower East Side, Sugar is a great spot to enjoy delectable sweets that range from mouth-watering chocolate chips cookies, sweet cream filled canolis, and ice-cold gelatos. On top of all this, Sugar serves breakfast all day every day. Although some sweet treats might be a little pricey, it's definitely worth the money!

Sugar
200 Allen Street
New York, NY 100o2

Thai in Williamsburg

While looking for a bite to eat, I came across a trendy lounge-like restaurant called Sea, located in the heart of the up-and-coming Williamsburg neighborhood. Visually, the place is amazing. I was very impressed with the detail put into the interior design of the establishment…not to mention that the place is huggeee!!
The menu is comprised of authentic Thai dishes fit to impress any native familiar with the Asian culinary creations. Prices are just as good as the food…ranging from about $10-$12 per entrée. The large variety of wicked looking dishes and creative assortments of desserts includes Green Tea Cheese Cake, Fried Ice Cream, and Cream Cheese Dumpling. Sea proves to be a wise choice for anyone looking for a vibrant creative dining atmosphere. I’d say the place is fit for both large groups looking for something different to do, or for an intimate group of friends looking for a good, fun atmosphere. The loud music and contemporary style of the establishment doesn’t make it the most intimate of places if you’re looking for a quiet romantic couple’s spot. But, it's fit for almost any occasion. The busy area and vibrant location makes Sea a good choice for a Friday night out.
-Jason

Sea Thai Restaurant and Bistro
114 N 6th Street Brooklyn, NY 11211
(718) 384-8850

Sunday - Thursday 11:30am - 1:00am
Friday - Saturday 11:30am - 2:00am
The closest train stop is off the L line at Bedford Ave.