H 77°, L 54° | Tomorrow: 
H 82°, L 64°“It was all a dream / I used to read Thrasher magazine,” goes Ezra Koenig’s suburban-white-kid version of the Biggie Smalls lyric. The Vampire Weekend front man sings the line over bright, echoey trumpet and cheerful xylophone on “Giant,” a bonus track from Vampire Weekend’s 2010 sophomore album Contra. It… Read more »
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Vampire Weekend blends dark themes, cultural commentary
A farewell to ArtsEtc., best wishes to exciting future
The ArtsEtc. section of The Badger Herald is twisted. On the one hand, it has the most flexibility in its organization, which can lead to both smooth workdays and stressful nights; on the other hand, ArtsEtc. gives new writers an easy pathway into transitioning from academic essay structure to the… Read more »
#SAVEAMANDA: Society to blame for Bynes’ imminent fame-fueled demise
Amanda Bynes needs our help. No, really. It’s easy to write off the “plight” of the rich and famous as they descend into irrelevance after their spotlight fades. Most child stars, or otherwise marginally famous figures, are content to go back to leading normal lives, raising families in suburbia or… Read more »
The Flight of Badger Aviators
Before going into any further detail about the Badger Aviators, a group of University of Wisconsin students with a unique fascination for flying, I should make one thing clear: I wrote most of this piece within the confines of an Airbus A321 flying above North Carolina. A man wearing an… Read more »
Choosing film streaming sites
Even in an embittered economy, there is a high demand for movies, television and more recently, online content. Today the world of media is fusing with the Internet ever more, leading to new ways to advertise. Additionally, Internet reviews are being posted straight onto original content, and the world of… Read more »
Low temperatures bring hot fashions
Winter is a hard time for fashion. It’s cold, and we really want to stay in bed for those few extra Zs (even more than usual, I mean). This makes it all the more difficult to try and think of a cute outfit. The moment the temperatures drop outside is… Read more »
Toronto’s Intervals provide instrumental intro to metal
A short while back, yours truly wrote a column on why everyone should give metal a chance, regardless of its apparent inaccessibility lent by the paint-peeling, bowel-churning vocals. As I mentioned then, although the vocals take some time to get used to, they generally impart an intelligent message worth spending… Read more »
Masticating Madison’s burger scene: Start with patties, buns
I had the opportunity to write about DLux, the new burger joint opened by Food Fight, a few weeks ago and it got me thinking about burgers. They’re just a patty and a bun, right? Sure, maybe at their core, but the styles of burgers have become so varied that… Read more »
Let your foreign fashion shine with styles from across ocean
Last week, you learned some how to look back to the ’90s to bring your style to the next level. Now this week, we’re looking for inspiration from different countries and cultures all over the globe. Sometimes being stuck in this little bubble we call Madison is limiting in terms… Read more »
Survival-horror franchise lives on in sixth installment
The survival-horror genre of video games has been around since the dawn of modern video games, and the “Resident Evil” franchise is a big part of what started it all. Today there are many games of the genre, but “Resident Evil” is still a name above all others. Always including intense… Read more »
For energy boosts, not all beverages are created equal
It’s no secret that college life can be draining. Pulling all-nighters studying for exams, staying up late on the weekends and waking up “early” for 11:00 a.m. kick-offs at Camp Randall can leave little time for sleep. When students need an extra boost, many of us turn to coffee, tea,… Read more »
Look no further to find quality sushi in Madison
I love sushi. While it may not be everyone’s favorite, I consider sushi to be the ultimate eating experience. The unique textures and tastes in each roll form a playground for the senses. But while sushi’s popularity has been steadily rising in the United States, there is a big misconception… Read more »
Amp up your wardrobe with long sweater, deep colors
Fall means colder temperatures, yet all you fashionistas out there probably agree that fall is seriously one of the best (if not the best) season for your style. From the colors to the fabrics to the comfort of the clothes, you would have a hard time trying to convince me… Read more »
Video game tester tells tricks of trade
Closed beta versions of video games are like test runs distributed to a limited audience, and people with access often think of themselves as the “real” beta testers, but this is not the case. In a closed beta, only a fraction of the bugs remain undocumented, and the company wants… Read more »
To improve health, scrap food waste
It’s happened to all of us. You grab that anticipated item out of the fridge only to find that your carton of milk, fresh apple or container of potato salad has spoiled. You toss the offending item into the trash, destined for a landfill. As an advocate for choosing fresh… Read more »
Periphery creates potential metal album of the year
It’s a little early to discuss candidates for album of the year as it is only October, but I am going to go ahead and throw progressive metal band Periphery’s sophomore effort, the hilariously named Periphery II: This Time It’s Personal, in for consideration. Seeing as the album came out… Read more »
Delicious date spots for demanding denizens in the city
I know that a date for many undergrads might be an after-bar followed by a hasty exit the next morning. And even though a lot of you might not exactly be in date mode yet, the time will come soon. So if you’re looking for a good place for the… Read more »
Success of ‘Twilight’ saga no mystery: Classic romantic tropes
You either hate it or love it. The series that has grossed more than $2 billion at the box office is set to release its fifth and final film this fall. Yet, even during this long lull between parts one and two of “Breaking Dawn,” it seems like you can’t… Read more »
Glammed up or grunged out, these go-to looks are gold
We all want to look good. Cool, stylish, pretty — nobody will deny that these adjectives are desirable when it comes to appearance. But we also must ask ourselves: How do we get there? There is of course the “glam” route. Girly and fabulous, it does not deny the effort… Read more »
Being Tim Hadick: Vortex into mind of film critic
I went home to New Jersey over spring break and met up with my friend who goes to Princeton University. We hung-out on Princeton’s campus, ate a lot of unhealthy food and really just enjoyed ourselves. On my last day there, we saw “Pariah,” and I was surprised by how… Read more »
Isthmus attire: finding Madison’s fashion niche
L.A. beach babe. New York glamour girl. Southern belle. Many cities and regions bring up images of distinct styles, fashionistas and fashionistos who take their locale into account just as much as they do designer names and the newest trends. So doesn’t it make sense that Madison, a city known… Read more »
‘Hunger Games’ vs. ‘Battle Royale’
The popularity of “The Hunger Games” movie and book series has spurred a debate online. Fans of Japanese cinema are calling foul on series author Suzanne Collins, saying the central premise of “The Hunger Games” is ripped from popular title “Battle Royale.” “Battle Royale” is a 2000 Japanese film in… Read more »
New androgyny: Bending fashion norms
During the springtime, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of pretty floral dresses and bright girly colors. This color explosion is a welcome departure from the drab of winter, but that ruffled pink mini-dress seems a little been there, done that. That’s when androgyny comes into the picture.… Read more »
How movies end: 2 archetypes
Returning to a lover in death. Standing in one’s former glory against humanity. Realizing it was all just a dream. These are just a few of the most memorable movie endings that have us talking weeks after we see them. Endings are one of the most important moments of any… Read more »
Bars offer fulfillment of karaoke dreams
When the night gets to be not-so-young, karaoke can seem like a good idea. In a somewhat out-of-character move, my first Madison karaoke experience was at Karaoke Kid with a large group of friends last fall. In any other context you would not find me belting R. Kelly’s “Ignition,” but… Read more »
Guide to green, gold-themed gaiety
With several games left in the season of another unprecedented year for the Packers, chances are anyone in Wisconsin reading this column will be invited to a Packer party sometime soon. Yes, Packer parties are real. People in Wisconsin do not just get together to watch the game. They throw… Read more »
Insulating against cold season: How to stay healthy this winter
Though the weather outside has not turned frightful just yet, germs and viruses are still in the air and looking to wreak havoc on our bodies as the temperature outside continues to drop. Dorms, apartments and other heavily-trafficked places can be breeding grounds for sickness. The last thing anyone wants… Read more »
No bones about it: Calcium critical mineral for overall health
Living in the heart of America’s Dairyland, we Badgers are no strangers to the saying “Drink milk for strong bones.” However, young adults nationwide continue to disregard this advice. In America, the calcium intake of adolescents and young adults has been continuously declining. Since calcium is the most abundant mineral… Read more »
Herbivore, Omnivore irrespective, better eat your veggies
So there you are, going through the line at Pop’s or perusing the menu at your favorite restaurant, and you spot it: the tell-tale “vegetarian option.” Maybe you’re tempted to try it, or perhaps a vegetarian dish is the furthest thing from your mind. Either way you’ve probably been curious… Read more »
Up-close look at symptoms, dangers of binge eating
This week I want to cover a topic that I feel is crucial to discuss because it is often overlooked: binge eating disorder. It is estimated that over 8 million people in the United States suffer from an eating disorder, and that 10 percent of college women develop one. Binge… Read more »
In defense of fat: Dissolving common misconceptions
I know the column is titled Low-fat Tuesday, which is why I think it would be all the more appropriate to dedicate a column one week to all the research that shows that fat doesn’t need to be vilified and only certain types of fat are unhealthy. — Elliot Dear Elliot,… Read more »
Power moves: Don’t let midterm week become midterm weak
10 quick moves for a killer workout Increasing amounts of homework, midterms not too far off and only 24 hours in a day — finding time for exercise during days like these can prove to be troublesome. But don’t fret! Here is a total-body sculpting workout for even the busiest… Read more »
Pumping up readers’ knowledge of protein, carbs
Hey Herald readers! I am the other writer of Low-fat Tuesday, Rachel Werts. I am a senior majoring in dietetics at UW-Madison. Every other week I will be heading the nutritional portion of this column by answering all your questions about food, diet and nutrition! I don’t want to pretend… Read more »
EA Sports snipes it home with newest hockey game
As summer comes to a close, the average student will undoubtedly feel somewhat melancholy at the prospect of shorter days, foreboding tests and quizzes and frigid walks to morning class. Thankfully, with Tuesday’s release of Electronic Arts’ “NHL 12,” the exciting smorgasbord of new game titles that is the pre-holiday… Read more »
Inaugural health column asks: Water you drinking?
Hello Herald readers! My name is Jenny Slattery and I am a sophomore here at the University of Wisconson. I am currently an undeclared journalism major, a writer for the Arts Etc. section and one of two voices that will be present in The Badger Herald’s new column, Low-fat… Read more »
Thin-skinned program on verge of cancellation
“Skins” is pretty much dead. The controversial MTV show adapted from the British program of the same name continues to lose advertisers and face the wrath of organizations like the Parent Television Council, which labeled it “the most dangerous show for teens.” Yes, it’s bad when Taco Bell pulls its… Read more »
A quintessential protestor playlist
Walking by the Capitol Wednesday morning, after a ceaseless night of testimonies against the budget repair bill heard within, pedestrians and protesters alike were greeted by the sounds of crowd commotion, chants, cheers…and “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. Not to entirely criticize whoever decided to exercise their… Read more »
Dock your boat shoes, embrace winter boots
Cue the sad Green Day music, it’s time to say goodbye to a loyal friend. Get the credit card ready Bro, it’s time to replace those boat shoes. I know, I know. Boat shoes are awesome! Not only are they perfectly molded to your feet, but I’m sure they’re the… Read more »
Those aren’t pants: A leggings tirade
Staring out the window onto State Street is one of my favorite ways to pass the hours blocked off as “study time.” Learning much more about society than I ever could in a sociology class (so I tell myself), I observe all sorts of phenomena, including the effects of… Read more »
Home is where connections are made
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we’re all getting excited to see family, friends and of course enjoy the big feast. As you make your plans for time at home, why not utilize the time off to connect with local professionals? While the time home is short, a one-hour conversation… Read more »
Cardigans are not just for gramps anymore
So we’re on a third lesson and by now you’ve surely gotten a chance to try out a few variations of the fall classics we discussed previously. My goal was to build some credibility with you guys, because the next fall classic is going to be a tough sell. It… Read more »
Excommunicated law scholar prophesizes Oscar contenders
Wedding season is over — that is if you abide by Rule No. 114 from The Rules of Wedding Crashing. Football season is in full swing. TV season is just getting started — and already ending for some network shows. And while the film award season is still months away,… Read more »
Recognizing video games as art form
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution states: “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech.” This freedom is subject to certain stipulations such as obscenity, speech that incites violence, libel, slander, etc. Currently, the state of California, led by Governor Schwarzenegger, is embroiled in a case against… Read more »
How to optimize your social skills to get a job
Resume? Check. Ironed shirt? Check. Sanity? Check. These questions should be part of your mental checklist as you prepare for your first job fair or interview. It’s safe to say that my first experience sophomore year had me nowhere near prepared for the basics. I entered the Fall Career Fair… Read more »
Nostalgia Sickness
Gamescom 2010 wrapped up in Cologne, Germany, on Aug. 22, providing to hype-hungry gamers roughly what they expected: recap and extrapolation on stuff they’d already heard at E3 and Comic-Con earlier in the summer. I was looking over a list of the big-ticket games exhibited at Gamescom, and it… Read more »
Sex guru reanalyzes hookup etiquette
I love writing about sex, I love talking about sex and until recently, I thought I knew everything there was to know about sex. For the past year, it’s been my responsibility to guide our student body through the sticky world of relationships, hookups and everything in between. I’ve… Read more »
City of Madison will always play host to endless artistic mediums
As a new resident in Wisconsin’s capitol, that first breath of the air is a sweet one. The breeze carries a foreign scent of a new city in a manner not that different from the fresh odor of a new house. Along with that scent comes a certain eagerness, a… Read more »
82nd Oscars: Who will make the cut?
At this point last year, the nominees for one of the most predictable Oscars in the history of the event had already been announced, with little to no surprises. While the 81st Academy Awards did manage to improve on the ratings of the previous year — due in large… Read more »
‘Firsts’ shouldn’t determine final dating potential
The first date, the first kiss, the first fuck. For some these are things that only happen once in a lifetime. For others, it’s more like once every two months. There’s a popular song that talks about getting your heart broken and then “tripping and stumbling” back into love.… Read more »
Satisfying meal options to cure the Mifflin munchies
Waking up at eight in the morning, drinking beers in the shower for breakfast and immediately taking shots of J�germeister can be all fun and games, but when the steam runs out things can easily go awry. This might be a passable pre-gaming routine for the fall football season;… Read more »
Latest music genre unlikely to get many listeners ‘crunk’
Norrin Radd used to have a pretty shitty job. As the Silver Surfer, Radd was given a portion of the Power Cosmic by Galactus in exchange for acting as his herald. As the Herald of Galactus, the Surfer would find planets for his master to devour. He would arrive at… Read more »
Spring break hot spot dining guide
Spring break is just a day away, and for some that means working more or going home. For a lucky few in these trying times, it means getting drunk and possibly hooking up with some mysterious hottie (who will probably be of questionable hotness the next morning). While surf… Read more »
‘Hipster’ defined by more than clothing, music taste
It was Socrates who noted, after a lifetime of studying and learning, the surest thing he knew was that he knew nothing. That’s how I feel this week, as I prepare for an intellectual task for which I am categorically unequipped. I’m sure you’ve heard the news already, but… Read more »
Strife in hip-hop paradise: Superstar domestic dispute
When the lines between pop culture and news blur, the meanings of terms such as getting “Chris Brown-ed” or “Michael Phelps-ed” become common knowledge. The recent extensive coverage of the legal mess that ensued following Brown’s alleged assault of pop idol Rihanna has caught the public’s attention. Due the… Read more »
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