THINK Z!NK! Special Thanks to

Agnieszka Chabros

Andrew Kruse

Elena Jasic

Jesper Hammarbäck

Joshua Alexandre Haines

Ružica Puśkaś

Sebastian Lang

I started writing about intuition to re-connect with passion because somehow it slipped off my radar during turbulent living. Passion feels like freedom and I was feeling trapped. As a “love-child” from the late 60’s, freedom’s not just another word to me.

It was time to walk on the razors edge of living without getting cut. Thinking intuitively is the liberty of an open mind. It feels like a quiet inner sense of direction, a surge of gentle energy bubbling, being in sync with yourself.

I decided to think with my senses and feel with my mind and began to eat, drink, smell and breathe life differently. Tuning in to our feelings is the best way to learn and stay in the present. Our intuition takes what we’re experiencing and pushes it up a notch so that colors are brighter, textures are hotter and the way is open. My degree in Philosophy and long standing habit of Zen meditation armed me for this crash course in amazement.

Sensual eating turned out to be a short cut to intuitive thinking. Being around food made it easy to tap in with my subconscious. It reset my point of view; searching for passion, I discovered intuition. I learned being true to myself connects with an uncanny completion of my most private desires. I realized I am able to maintain an open mind by acknowledging my freedom to choose what feels right. Zoning into one’s body subconciosuly, includes seeing, smelling and tasting what feels good with every bite.

When eating intuitively, savor the flavor and take it in slowly. Taste food as if it’s your last meal. It’s second nature to discover pleasure and satisfaction with your senses. You only fail when you give up. Pause, make eye contact and notice your surroundings. Thinking fully with your faculties feels vibrant. Never underestimate the power of your visceral connection.

Starving or forcing yourself to eat certain foods at certain times kills passion. Dieting is bad for your libido. It makes you tense up when you see something you like and trains you to ignore signals from within. Your body is the source of your pleasure, strength and health. Why would you ignore it?

Instead of focusing on self-control and dieting when eating, use the sensory connection with your priorities and personal boundaries. It’s easy, there are no rules about what to eat. Instead, choose what you want and enjoy it thoroughly.

In eating, as with most things in life, you will find there’s always a good option and sense of passion when you keep your mind open. Things change all the time. Be open to the excitement and connect with the sum of your potential. It’s always available.

Be sure to catch Jane Bernard's May 23rd talk on intuitive eating at The James Beard Foundation as part of their Enlightened Eaters series. The event will be held at The Beard House, 167 West 12th Street, New York, NY, 12PM EST.

Image Credit: "Bliss" by Aurora Crowley

Ear Candy

Fashion Audio LLC co-founders Nikki Carlson and Kailynn Bowling saw a need in the electronics market for products that combine fashion with function. With this concept in mind, the stylish duo created Chic Buds — eye-catching ear buds with flat, tangle-resistant cords. Not only will your mom be thankful for not having to deal with a jumbled mess before rocking out to her favorite tunes, but she will also be the envy of her morning run with any of these three trendy Chic Buds cord prints. Available styles include Blue Graffiti, Zebra Stripes and Pink Leopard. Check out Chic Buds and more fashionable electronics at ChicBuds.com

Udderly Terrific

Dr. Hess products (paraben-free) have been deemed skincare sensations for over 100 years due to their healing power. Beginning with an ointment designed to treat the chapped udders of dairy cows, Dr. Hess’ creations have come a long way. Now, this brand offers everything from diaper rash cream to skincare for diabetics. The newest addition to the Dr. Hess family is a line of lip protection, Udder Sticks, which promises to leave lips glossy and well moisturized. Formulated with SPF 15, the Udder Stick comes in four non-sticky flavors: Original Vanilla, Mango, Pomegranate and Vanilla Mint. Treat your mom to a four-pack that includes one of each, or design your own for a customized gift. Available at Walgreens and UdderOintment.com

It’s A Wrap

Add a little charm to her life this Mother’s Day with a wrap bracelet from Charmed Design. The jewelry company creates trendy bracelets made of colorful satin, silk and leather adorned with stones (like turquoise and amethyst) and peace inspiring charms. Purchase one of Charmed Design’s many different styles on their website or create one with colors and amulets that may hold personal meaning for your mom. CharmedDesign.com, enter LOVEMOM at checkout for 20 percent off of your purchase. — Rashad Webb

Photographer - Massimo Zanusso

New Orleans has nicknames: “Crescent City”, “The Big Easy” and “Hollywood South.” These nicknames combined offer insight into this jewel of a city: the shape of a croissant, film production and laid-back class. Food and drink are synonymous with the culture of Louisiana, and New Orleans is the mecca of that culture. Whether you’re here for New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April 27- May 6) or are planning to head to the sweet southern city for any upcoming festivals (see below), New Orleans is the place to experience fodder and fun. Here are a few Z!NK recommendations on local NOLA favorites to keep you entertained during your stay.

BRUNCH:
Dante’s Kitchen — Best grits in town. Brunch (Saturday and Sunday 10:30AM-2:00PM) is scrumptious! Be there at ten thirty on the dot or be prepared to wait. In case you show up late, there is a lush, shaded patio with seats to ease the passing of the time it takes to make it to your table. Coffee and cocktails (the brandy milk punch is one of my hubby’s favorites) are available at the walk-up bar inside. A waiter walks around and places orders for patio patrons as well.
DantesKitchen.com.

Atchafalaya Restaurant — Blues and breakfast is a smashing combination, especially when a do-it-yourself bloody mary bar is involved! Brunch, served Saturday from 11AM-2:30PM and Sunday 10AM-2:30PM, is a must. Yes, the bloody mary bar is real. Its components include, but are not limited to: bacon, spicy mustard, a plethora of hot sauces, okra, olives, cocktail onions, tomato juice, bloody mary mix, horseradish, celery, pickled green beans and cherry peppers. The entire process begins with a hefty (we’re talking 3/4 glass) pour of vodka at the bar. Now that’s a two for one special!
AtchafalayaRestaurant.com.

Cafe Du Monde — Legendary beignets (fried dough that melts in your mouth) covered with fluffy mounds of powdered sugar are just the beginning. The cafe-au-lait is perfection, especially as a compliment to the chewy goodness of the beignets. A note: one order of beignets consists of three beignets.
CafeDuMonde.com.

LUNCH:
Cochon Butcher — Caution! Meat lovers may indulge selves into a coma if brought to Cochon or Cochon Butcher. The sister (or brother) of Cochon, Butcher provides house cured meats and sausages with just about any flavorable accoutrement desired. Takeout sandwiches are perfect for the visitor on the go. The bar area at Butcher is a great place to sit and enjoy a good beer while you sample plenty of meats. Try the boudain, especially if you’re from out of town.
CochonButcher.com.

St. James Cheese Company — Sip on some wine and enjoy a vast selection of cheeses from all over the world. The sandwich specials change daily, but there are some staples that are not to be missed, for instance: Beecher’s Cheddar. There are several beers to choose from, so don’t be afraid if you’re a wine-a-phobe. The shop is located right off of Magazine Street, which is a hip place to walk and shop.
StJamesCheese.com.

DINNER:
Domenica — The happy hour special here is one of the best in town: half off gourmet personal pizzas, wine, beer, and well cocktails. Domenica is a John Besh restaurant inspired by authentic Italian cuisine. Enough said. Eat here. Don’t skip out on these dishes: whole roasted fish, brussels sprouts, squid ink pasta topped with crab, fried zucchini flowers with goat cheese.
DomenicaRestaurant.com.

Delachaise — For a relaxed dinner with a focus on wine, treat yourself on the patio of Delachaise. Unwind and watch the St. Charles streetcar pass nearby. The interior and exterior are decorated with twinkle lights, adding even more charm to the already unique physique of Delachaise. What to dine on while sipping your wine? We recommend the french fries cooked in duck fat, of course. There are also the delectable ham and brie or duck sliders.
TheDelachaise.com.

Jacques-Imo’s — Jacques is often the one opening the door to his restaurant, inviting you in. You’ll know him when you see him. He’s a character! There will most likely be a wait, even on a week night, so get ready to enjoy a drink in the bar, on the street or both. The cornbread disappears into buttery yumminess as it touches your tongue... and it’s just the beginning of your meal. Try Jacques-Imo’s if you are craving a one-stop-shop for a New Orleans evening.
JacquesImosCafe.com.

DRINKS:
Carousel Bar — A trip to New Orleans is not a vacation without a trip to the Carousel Bar within the Hotel Monteleone. The bar revolves, slowly and steadily, as you sit and sip your cocktail. Drinks are more expensive here, but the ambiance is well worth it. Past patrons of the hotel include: Hemingway, Williams, and Faulkner.
HotelMonteleone.com.

The Dungeon Bar — This bar makes for an interesting experience, regardless of your “type.” What you’re in for: stiff drinks, dark corners, sharp objects and lots of black leather. Try it, you might dig it.
OriginalDungeon.com.

Bacchanal Wine Bar — Located in a neighborhood bordering the lower ninth ward, Bacchanal is a bit of an oasis. The patio is strewn with lights and delightful music is never far off. Wine, of course, is the drink of choice. However, cold beer is also offered. Try the “chocolate bark” with a glass (or bottle) of red wine.
BacchanalWine.com.

UPCOMING FESTIVALS IN NEW ORLEANS:

Bayou Boogaloo. TheBayouBoogaloo.com. (May 18-20)

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. NOWFE.com. (May 22-26)

Essence Festival. Essence.com/Festivals/2012 (July 1-3)

— written by Karen Taheri / images courtesy of NOWFE, Cochon, Jacques Imo’s, St. James Cheese, Greg Rhoades, Monica Peters and Karen Taheri

Mousumi Shaw, founder and CEO of Sikara and Co., has made it possible to travel the world through her globetrotting inspired jewelry company. With collections named after some of her favorite travel destinations, Shaw and her talented team of designers create cultural pieces that reflect the modern architecture of Spain and Egypt, the warmth and sophistication of Italy and the vibrant colors of India and Mexico. Shaw, who founded Sikara while working on her MBA from Harvard’s business school, took the name from the Indian word Shikara, which means houseboat. “It symbolizes the journey we take in life,” Shaw explains. With stunning gold and silver pieces that incorporate semi-precious stones, Sikara will take you on a voyage that is rich in culture and dynamic in style. Shop the collections in-store at her San Francisco, Boston and — soon to be — Austin locations or online. SikaraJewelry.com — Rashad Webb

As the 2012 winner of the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation award for Sustainable Design, Titania Inglis’ Spring/Summer 2012 “Lumina” womenswear silhouettes are organically chic. What is unique about this eco designer is her depth of involvement in the design process. Each season, she employs a new handmade technique in creating her collection. Her productions have involved the use of bees-waxed cotton, rust dyeing, dip-dyeing and zero-waste cutting and pattern making. Through the implementation of such special techniques, Titania Inglis achieves natural pastel coloring in her fabrics and maximum use of available materials.

Inglis drew inspiration for her S/S 2012 “Lumina” collection from her Nordic travels, choosing palettes reminiscent of Icelandic landscapes. “I was working from ideas of light, shadow and transparency, and from the extremes of light and dark that one encounters in Scandinavia,” she explained. “I visited Iceland last year in January and again in June, and was struck by the relentless somberness of the Icelandic winter as well as the endless sunsets of their summer nights; the infinitely black lava rocks and the spongy pastel moss that covers them.” Such light and dark contrasts are apparent throughout her collection.

Inglis’ thoughtfully created designs can be described as basic with a dramatic, ethereal demeanor. She works with a “less, but better” philosophy in mind. “For me, that means a small, tightly edited collection made up of pieces that are minimal yet lush, designed with [attention] to the smallest details and beautiful fabrics and construction. The absence of decoration serves to highlight the subtle twists in the construction, and each garment is meant to be visually striking, yet versatile and easy to wear,” said Inglis. Oversized collars, high-low hemlines, full flirtatious skirts and sexy cutouts are just a few elements characteristic of her style. Each piece is well tailored with impeccable craftsmanship, and hand-draped by the designer in her Brooklyn atelier.

Her minimalistic approach is both appealing to the eye and good for the environment. This green line is manufactured in a small New York factory using sustainable fabrics. Inglis sources Japanese organic cotton, French vegetable-tanned leather and dead stock from New York’s garment industry for production. Some of her garments are also made to be worn reversible through her use of contrast binding, providing an added bonus of two looks in one. An efficient zero-waste fabrication technique is applied to create styles such as her T-shirt-like tops (blouses cut on the bias and stitched so no fabric goes to waste).

Inglis developed her design, draping and patternmaking skills as a student at the Design Academy Eindhoven and the Fashion Institute of Technology. She later apprenticed under New York designers Camilla Stærk, Jean Yu and threeASFOUR before branching off to start her own collection. Today, Titania Inglis pieces can be purchased at specialty stores such as End of Century in New York and Chemline in Los Angeles.

Ecco Domani Award: Every year, Ecco Domani chooses seven winners and awards each of them a $25,000 grant to showcase their collection at New York’s Fall Fashion Week. The contest categories are: womenswear, menswear, accessories and sustainable design. The competition is stiff. This year’s winners were chosen by top industry leaders from a pool of nearly 200 applicants. Past winners include the likes of Alexander Wang, Rodarte, Doo Ri, Rag and Bone and Zac Posen among others.

TitaniaInglis.com / www.EccoDomani.com - Jennifer Swanson

Photographer - Donat

Stylist - Izabel Soucy

Production - High Creations

Makeup - Joanna Rudowicz

Model - Catherine @ Folio

Featured brands: Helmer, BCBG, Birks, Love Moschino, Marie Saint Pierre, Maison Martin Margiela, Michael Kors, Van Cleef & Arpels, Alexander Wang, Chloe, Pamela Love, Emilio Pucci, Gucci, Giuseppe Zanoti and Patterson J. Kincaid

Happy hour gets a lot happier this Thursday, April 26th, when a pop-up shop hosted by retro shoe label Swedish Hasbeens and American Rag Cie serves up shopping with a twist. The trendy Hollywood retailer invites shoppers to get Has-bombed with a cold PBR, while browsing the latest men's and women's Swedish Hasbeens Spring 2012 collections. As if scoring cool, eco-friendly kicks and trendsetting fashion isn't enough, the pop-up also includes a gift with purchase, and a special appearance that will make this one-night only event, one you won't want to end. Don’t forget to RSVP: http://paperless.ly/J4iCV4. AmRag.com SwedishHasBeens.com — Rashad Webb

Whether it was Spielberg’s Jaws, Disney’s The Little Mermaid or even Piranha 3DD, there comes a time when everybody questions, “What lies beneath?” Well for underwater photographer Christopher Pulitzer Leidy, he has made a career out of this very fascination, offering a fresh and vibrant take on the beauty that is submerged beneath sea level. Shooting an array of subject matter, his body of work showcases both incredible seascapes and abstract imagery within these aquamarine environments.

For Leidy however it was not a blockbuster movie that sparked this intrigue it was a childhood growing up in Palm Beach, Florida. “Since day one, I was brought up in and around the water…I think I learned to swim before I could walk,” he says. The ocean itself was actually the inspiration for Leidy to learn photography. “I was drawn to the beauties of the ocean before being attracted to the camera. After seeing the natural beauty that lies beneath the ocean’s surface, I fell in love with it immediately.”

Leidy’s initial endeavor wasn’t photography at all; he initially studied and sought out a career in film. “After graduating from film school and furthering my career in Los Angeles and New York... I realized [after five years] that I wasn’t happy. I packed up and moved home with every intention to follow my heart and do what made me the happiest – combining my love for the ocean with my love for the camera.”

Upon his return from New York, Leidy went on a five-month escape to shoot a series in the far southern chain of the Bahamas. For most people, spending half a year in paradise would be the ultimate escape from reality, but for Leidy, it marked the beginning of a career that would encompass his passion for the sea. “I went into this venture knowing that this wasn’t going to be some hobby to pass the time. I knew that this is what I wanted to do with my life... diving and fishing every day… getting very personal with sharks, and having my camera in hand for every experience...I just knew that I had found my calling...and being happy as a result of following my heart is the coolest feeling.”

A career in underwater photography, Leidy explains, is as physically demanding as it is rewarding. Traveling across the globe for his work, he has been exposed to some of nature’s most beautiful and dangerous habitats. “I dive and free dive where there is beautiful sea life and I wait for the opportunity to arise to frame up something special. I feel so comfortable in the water, both during the day and at night that I don’t really take different precautions [for the different environments].” Leidy believes it is all about giving his photos an impact punch even if that means shooting Mako sharks at night, putting himself right in the impact zone of 12 foot Tahitian swells breaking on a dry reef, sliding his hand into the home of a massive Moray eel, or shooting a frantic Blue Marlin feeding frenzy in 10,000 feet of open ocean. “You have to do whatever it takes to get the shot. I’ve been charged quite a few times, but luckily I still have all my limbs in tact!”

At the speed of a Great White shark with a taste for blood, Leidy’s career is going swimmingly. Next on his agenda is a show in Times Square, opening this month. “The venue is perfect…big walls for big, powerful art,” he says. Whether you’re a fellow aquatic enthusiast, or just a fish out of water, you won’t want to miss Christopher Pulitzer Leidy’s big splash in the city. LeidyImages.com.

Jessica Olm

On a sunny afternoon in the chic, water-lined neighborhood of DUMBO, Brooklyn, we sat down to chat with Katie Christopher, manager and assistant buyer for fashion-forward Brooklyn boutique, Zoe. Dressed in a vintage leather jacket, Proenza Schouler t-shirt, high-waisted Levis and Acne boots, Christopher — who started at Zoe as an intern and sales associate in 2007 — talks about what labels make her swoon, her love of effortless style and how DUMBO may be experiencing a baby boom!

RW: Who is Zoe’s owner? Is she from New York?

KC: Her name is Lisa Brock. She is originally from Bucks County, PA but went to FIT and moved to Princeton, NJ during college, which is where the first Zoe location was opened after graduation. The Princeton location just celebrated its 17th year anniversary and we have been in DUMBO for 5.

RW: There seems to be a lot of items, especially shoes and handbags, in the store that you don't see in Manhattan. Does Zoe look to sell exclusive styles?

KC: I actually hear that comment from a lot of people and I would say, yes — that is something we think about. It’s New York, so you can buy Lanvin at the Lanvin store. We want our customers to buy it here, so we try to offer items that you can’t find anywhere in the city. Lisa has always had a great eye for style and because of that we offer a well-edited mix of things. I have never seen a boutique that carries these types of lines, and the fact that Lisa is able to, says a lot about her as a businesswoman.

RW: What items sell season after season?

KC: Anything by Proenza Schouler flies out of the door as soon as it comes in. Also Alexander Wang, Celine bags and Lanvin flats do really well.

RW: What designers excite you the most as the manager?

KC: I lose my breath over anything by Givenchy! Also, Proenza Schouler and Celine items. I really love Proenza; I think it’s what every cool and edgy girl wants to wear.

RW: How would you describe your style?

KC: It’s pretty casual. I don’t like when people look they try to hard. I like when someone’s style is effortless. I think it’s cool to throw on a beat-up leather jacket a pair of jeans and a vintage tee!

RW: What is the customer experience when they walk through Zoe's doors?

KC: When customers come in, we want them to experience the store the way that they feel most comfortable. Of course we are here to sell, but I don’t like to go into a store a feel like I am being followed or feel bad because I leave without buying something. Eighty-five percent of our customers are repeat ones, so it’s kind of like we are shopping with our friends.

RW: Do you feel like the current economy slump and high unemployment rate have affected business at all? Is luxury shopping still alive and well?

KC: Luxury shopping is still alive! It is up and down at times but what I have seen is a shift from buying trends to buying things that are timeless. People still love beautiful things. Celine doesn’t make trends, so you might pay $3000 for a dress but you will have it for 10 years.

RW: Zoe recently began hosting a pop-up shop for Theyskens Theory and Helmut Lang. How did this collaboration come about?

KC: We have always had a great relationship with Helmut Lang and Theyskens Theory, though Theyskens Theory is fairly new. We used to have menswear but don’t anymore and wanted something to put in its place. Both of the labels fit well with the space and have done really well.

RW: What else do Zoe customers have to look forward to in the future?

KC: DUMBO is always changing. There are a lot of families here and the women are always in some stage of having a baby, either having one or just had one. We just want to keep offering beautiful things that are edited well and continue to grow with the neighborhood. ShopZoeOnline.com.

Rashad Webb

Mark your calendars. The fifth annual Record Store Day is this Saturday, April 21st. In honor of the occasion, Warner Brothers Records and affiliated labels such as Reprise, Rhino, Nonesuch and Sire are offering an incredible series of special vinyl albums and singles. Warner Brothers is a proud sponsor of Record Store Day - a celebration of the unique culture surrounding over 700 independently owned record stores in the USA, and hundreds of similar stores internationally.

What are the most anticipated releases this weekend? They include a pair of highly sought-after 7" vinyl limited edition pressings: Mastodon / Feist split 7", otherwise referred to as FEISTODON and the Mastodon / Flaming Lips Side By Side 2012 series 7" single. Currently in the middle of an extensive US tour, the members of Mastodon are avid participants of Record Store Day and want fans to know: "Mastodon are proud to uphold their long-standing commitment to supporting Independent Record stores on Record Store Day. The vinyl album and single format remains an important part of our culture and heritage as recording artists and we hope you'll enjoy our interpretations of these songs by artists we admire and respect."

Additional special releases are as follows:

THE FLAMING LIPS AND HEADY FWENDS: A double album pressed on two high-quality, multi-color vinyl discs housed in separate custom art jackets and poly bagged together. No two discs will look exactly alike. This double album will be very limited and released exclusively for Record Store Day. Once it's gone, it will not be repressed again making THE FLAMING LIPS AND HEADY FWENDS the most anticipated RSD release this year.

The track-listing for THE FLAMING LIPS AND HEADY FWENDS is as follows:

Side 1:

2012 (featuring Ke$ha and Biz Markie). Ashes In The Air (featuring Bon Iver). Helping The Retarded To Know God (featuring Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros).

Side 2:

Supermoon Made Me Want To Pee (featuring Prefuse 73). Children Of The Moon (featuring Tame Impala). That Ain't My Trip (featuring Jim James of My Morning Jacket). You, Man? Human? (featuring Nick Cave).

Side 3:

I'm Working At NASA On Acid (featuring Lightning Bolt). Do It! (featuring Yoko Ono). Is David Bowie Dying? (featuring Neon Indian).

Side 4:

The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (featuring Erykah Badu). Thunder Drops (featuring New Fumes). I Don't Want You To Die (featuring Chris Martin of Coldplay).

The Black Keys: El Camino (Deluxe vinyl album). A stunning and highly collectible deluxe vinyl issue of the critically acclaimed 2011 album from The Black Keys. Cut for vinyl from the master tapes at Bernie Grundman Mastering and pressed at Pallas for sonic perfection. This album will never sound or look better. This RSD exclusive package also contains a bonus CD, a limited edition poster, and a two song 45 rpm 7" single featuring previously unreleased live tracks: "Sister" and "Money Maker."

Gary Clark Jr.: Gary Clark Jr. Presents HWUL Cuts Vol. I (12" vinyl single). A RSD exclusive contains two previously unreleased live tracks, "If You Love Me Like You Say" and "Bright Lights" capture over twenty minutes of music from one of the most anticipated guitar players in music today. This first-ever vinyl release from Clark is sure to be sought out by fans and collectors alike. Cut at 45 rpm by Bernie Grundman Mastering for the very best in analog sound quality and presentation.

Eric Clapton: Blues (Deluxe Vinyl Album Box Set). Released to critical acclaim leading up to RSD's Back To Black Friday 2011, this limited edition box set is close to selling out. The set includes all three of Eric Clapton's seminal blues albums, From The Cradle, Riding With The King (with B.B. King) and Me And Mr. Johnson, remastered from original source material for vinyl. First time vinyl versions of these albums afford the listener an absolutely stellar new audio experience. With little more than 1,000 box sets left, it's time to get your hands on this audiophile treasure.

Common: The Dreamer/The Believer (12" vinyl album). A limited edition offering featuring exclusive album art of Common's ninth studio album for Record Store Day. The Dreamer/The Believer reunites Common with producer No. I.D., who produced the rapper's most acclaimed CDs. Robust tracks revere and update the past, such as the retro-soul, Curtis Mayfield-influenced "Lovin' I Lost" and tremulously beautiful "Gold."

Wilco / Billy Bragg: Mermaid Avenue: The Complete Sessions (3 CD and 1 DVD). On Record Store Day, Nonesuch releases Mermaid Avenue: The Complete Sessions, which includes: Mermaid Avenue; Mermaid Avenue Vol. II (re-mastered); Mermaid Avenue Vol. III, comprising 17 previously unreleased recordings made during the Mermaid Avenue sessions; director Kim Hopkins' 1999 film Man in the Sand, which documents those sessions; and a 48-page booklet with new liner notes by Nora Guthrie, full lyrics, archival photographs, and facsimiles of lyric sheets and sketches by Woody Guthrie.

Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr.: We Almost Lost Detroit EP (12" vinyl EP) A Record Store Day exclusive containing three remixes and three covers, including Madonna's "Like A Prayer," "I Think Of You" by Sixto Rodriguez (both exclusive to this release only) and the memorable Gil Scott Heron cover "We Almost Lost Detroit" from their debut album IT'S A CORPORATE WORLD and remixes by Stepdad, Phantasmagoria, and Chuck Daniels. This six-song single disc is cut at 45 rpm by Bernie Grundman Mastering.

Disturbed: The Collection (Vinyl Album Box Set). A five-album, six-disc offering of the band's complete studio album discography featuring The Sickness (2000), Believe (2002), Ten Thousand Fists (2005), Indestructible (2008), and Asylum (2010). A career retrospective spanning ten years and 18 Billboard Top 100 hits of sophisticated and life-altering heavy music. For this box set, each album has been carefully mastered and pressed on 140-gram vinyl for the very best in audio quality. Each album has been meticulously showcased in a stunning art presentation that is unique and exclusive to this release. This is a limited edition box of only 2500 units worldwide.

Dr. John: Locked Down (Vinyl album). The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-inducted boogie and blues pianist with an inimitable growl of a voice, Dr. John's most enduring achievements have fused New Orleans R&B, rock, and the Mardi Gras party spiritto come up with his own brand of "voodoo" music. Dr. John's new album, Locked Down (due April 3rd), is a bold statement produced by The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach and will be Dr. John's first for Nonesuch Records.

Fleetwood Mac: Fleetwood Mac (Deluxe and Standard vinyl editions) Originally released in 1975 and representing not only a rebirth of the band, with the addition of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, but really a second debut for a group firmly rooted in the rock genre, now reinventing themselves into a pop rock force in a way that few other artists can lay claim to. The album includes the iconic songs "Rhiannon," "Say You Love Me," and "Over My Head." Cut for vinyl at Bernie Grundman Mastering from the original analog tapes and pressed in both 33 rpm and 45 rpm for the very best in audio presentation. A collectible and definitive version for any generation.

Jeff The Brotherhood: Upstairs at United Vol. 3 (12" vinyl EP). This release is a 3-song EP of JEFF The Brotherhood as a 5-piece band (recorded live to tape) performing "Master Of The Universe" by Hawkwind (from the album In Search Of Space), a brain-melting new track called "In Space, Nobody Can Hear You Scream" plus a reprised "cover" of "I'm A Freak." Pressed at 45rpm for greater sonic impact at United Record Pressing and distributed by URP Music Distributors and 453 Music. You have no idea what you're in for...

Kimbra: Settle Down (Deluxe CD EP). International newcomer Kimbra's digital EP is being re-released as a physical CD just in time for RSD and her tour with Gotye. The five-song release, which now includes the sultry "Good Intent," also features title track "Settle Down" as well as a remix of "Cameo Lover".

Metallica: Beyond Magnetic (12" color vinyl EP). Beyond Magnetic consists of four outtakes from the 2008 Death Magnetic sessions and is available for the first time on silver vinyl just for RSD. A potent and exceptionally well-produced example of Metallica's most recent work, which can hold its own with anything within their vast heavy music cannon. Previously unreleased on vinyl and includes a limited edition Metallica sticker.

Mastodon / Feist "A Commotion"/ "Black Tongue" (7" vinyl single, made in conjunction with Cherrytree/ Interscope Records). A very exclusive and highly anticipated RSD pressing features Mastodon covering the Feist song "A Commotion," (from her album Metals) while Feist covers Mastodon's "Black Tongue." A unique and highly buzzed-about Record Store Day prize.

Red Hot Chili Peppers: Stadium Arcadium (Deluxe 180 Gram vinyl Box Set). On April 14, 2012, the Red Hot Chili Peppers will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and to commemorate this historic event, this classic Deluxe box set of the band's first number one album will be specially priced for Record Store Day. The Deluxe package was mastered for vinyl by Steve Hoffman and includes two 16-page booklets - "Jupiter" and "Mars." The Red Hot Chili Peppers won four Grammy® Awards for Stadium Arcadium including: Best Rock Album, Best Boxed Or Special Limited Edition Package in addition to Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group for their chart-topping, record-breaking single "Dani California."

Ximena Sarinana: Maps / La Llorona (7" vinyl single). A two-song 7" from an exceptionally original and emerging artist, featuring two audio tracks: "Maps" (a Yeah Yeah Yeah's cover) from Rolling Stone Live and "La Llorona" (a Latin America folk song) from KCRW's "Morning Becomes Eclectic." A special release to celebrate her Coachella 2012 appearance.

Regina Spektor: "The Prayer of François Villon (Molitva)"/ "Old Jacket (Stariy Pedjak)" (7" color vinyl single). A RSD exclusive features two b-sides from Regina's upcoming album What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, due in May. This single on white vinyl, mastered by Bob Ludwig, features two songs originally penned by Russian Poet/Musician Bulat Okudzhava, and are performed completely in Russian.

Tegan and Sara: Get Along (12" color vinyl album). A RSD exclusive - never before on vinyl. Featuring music from the 2011 Get Along release, comprised of 15 favorites like "Alligator," "Call It Off," "Monday Monday Monday," and "Sentimental Tune." This single live disc, pressed on 12" white vinyl, finds the duo waltzing through its 15-year career with the kind of ease and amiable confidence that can only come from longtime friends who also happen to be siblings.

Grateful Dead: Dark Star - 5/4/72 - Olympia Theatre - Paris, France (12", 180-gram vinyl). "Dark Star" was their ultimate improvisational vehicle, allowing the band to really stretch out and jam freely, often times for over a half hour. DARK STAR - 5/4/72 - OLYMPIA THEATRE - PARIS, FRANCE includes one of the longest versions of the song in Dead history, clocking in at over 40 minutes. Mixed by Jeffrey Norman and mastered by David Glasser, the vinyl features nearly 20 minutes of the song on the first side followed by a mid-song drum solo and the song's epic finale on the second side. Released in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Dead's legendary Europe '72 tour.

T-Rex: The Electric Warrior Singles Box: (Six 7" vinyl singles). This RSD exclusive comes housed in a clamshell-box featuring the entire album, plus the non-album b-side "Raw Ramp," spread across six singles. When combined, the six picture sleeves form an image of T. Rex founder Marc Bolan in his prime. Chris Bellman used the original analog masters to cut each disc at Bernie Grundman Mastering.

Misfits: Walk Among Us (Color vinyl album - 3 different colors). Rhino will also offer three colored-vinyl versions of the Misfits' WALK AMONG US to mark the 30-year anniversary of the band's 1982 full-length debut. It is a faithful reproduction of the original with music cut from the original analog masters and packaging that duplicates details down to the printed inner sleeve. The album will be pressed on red (1,250 pieces), blue (1,250 pieces) and clear (500) vinyl. Color variations will be distributed randomly. There will also be a purple vinyl pressing released internationally that will be limited to 1,500 copies.

Side by Side 2012 Series:

A continuation of the well-received Warner Bros Records "Side by Side" series, which was initially introduced in 2011. All are exclusive for Record Store Day on uniquely colored and extremely limited edition 7" vinyl singles, featuring Warner artists covering other historic and personally influential iconic artists. This year's series includes:

The Flaming Lips / Mastodon: "A Spoonful Weighs A Ton" (7" baby pink vinyl single). The mighty Mastodon faithfully covers the Lips classic "Spoonful Weighs a Ton," from The Soft Bulletin album. Ferociously beautiful!

Sara Watkins (Featuring Fiona Apple) / The Everly Brothers: "You're The One I Love" (7" olive green with blue/black splatter vinyl single). Sara Watkins covers The Everly Brothers classic "You're The One I Love" and features co-vocals from a very special guest, Fiona Apple. From Sara's new full-length album available later this spring.

Michael Bublé / Ray Charles: Georgia On My Mind(7" Georgia Peach vinyl single). Michael Bublé's first ever 7" vinyl release featuring a cover of Ray Charles' classic "Georgia On My Mind" on "Georgia Peach" colored vinyl.

Carolina Chocolate Drops / Run-DMC: "You Be Illin'" (7" Coke-bottle green vinyl single). The Run-DMC classic rendered in an entirely new way by old-time string band the Carolina Chocolate Drops. The Drops' version was recorded at the same sessions as their February 2012 release Leaving Eden, which was produced by Nashville legend Buddy Miller.

MC5 / Afrika Bambaataa: "Kick Out the Jams" (7" White with red splatter vinyl single). The incendiary original coupled with a cover version from the pioneer of The Electro Funk Sound.

Otis Redding / Aretha Franklin: "Respect" (7" gold vinyl single).
The seminal classics meet for the first time together on vinyl.

Blouse by Marc Jacobs, Dress by Hugo Boss,Shoes by Marc Jacobs, Vintage Hat Gloves Stylist Own

Photographer - Whalen Bryce

Photo Assistant - Gerardo Martinez

Wardrobe Stylist - Donald Hicks

Hair & Makeup Artist - Victor Noble (using MAC)

Props & Set Designer - Amelia Loren Smith

Model - Cierra Skye @ Muse Models NY

Dress by Comme Des Garcons, Gloves by Michael Kors, Hat Stylist Own

Blouse by Victor & Rolf, Belt by Michael Kors, Skirt by Vanessa Bruno, Socks by Flake, Shoes by Marc Jacobs

Jacket by Topshop, Top by Vanessa Bruno, Skirt by Marc Jacobs

Dress & Belt by Narciso Rodriguez, Gloves by H&M, Shoes by Marc Jacobs

Dress by Comme Des Garcons, Gloves by Michael Kors, Socks by H&M, Shoes by Alexander McQueen

It’s Spa Week! From April 16th - 22nd, enjoy deluxe spa treatments at incredible discount prices. With deals going quickly, there is no better time to treat yourself to a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, waxing, laser, botox or other enticing bodily treatments. To take advantage of this national event, visit www.spaweek.com where you can search by city, state or zip code for participating spas near you.

Italy introduces a new flair to shopping.

On March 27, the Fidenzia Village in Italy welcomed British designer Matthew Williamson during the grand opening of his chic pop up boutique. As a designer known for his colorful array of prints, Williamson's boutique displays a similar aesthetic. The pop of lively pink along the crisp white walls compliments the retail space. The outside atmosphere also resonates the ongoing theme. Surrounded by peace and beauty of the countryside, the Chic Outlet Shopping boutique offers a new serene style to shopping. Within the boutique, Williamson's displays his personal selection of the Spring/Summer 2011 womenswear collection. The mix of bold fashions accessorize the pop up space, adding to the vibrant decor. The innovative pop up boutique closes its doors the end of July 2012.

This month, Easter candy won’t be the only source of your cravings when the newest trend in nail polish, the Caviar Manicure by Ciate, launches in three deliciously addictive colors. The UK-based nail polish brand will soon be available in the U.S. at Sephora, which will offer Caviar Manicure kits in black, white and multi-color options. To get the sexy three-dimensional textured look, coat each nail twice with the included Ciate Paint Pot base shade and hold them over the top cover of the packaging. Using the cover as a tray to catch any excess Caviar pearls, pour the pearls over your wet nails for the perfect Caviar Manicure. Will the new Caviar Manicure beat out the crackle nail craze of last year? It may be too soon to tell, but with your nails resembling this luxurious treat, you’re sure to be a hit at your next wine and cheese party.  Caite.co.uk — Rashad Webb

Show off your gaming skills, while mixing a hot new track with Songster-Facebook's first and only collaborative music creation game. Anoop Desai, Pop/R&B singer and former American Idol contestant, took advantage of this new music sharing and gaming trend by partnering with Mowgli games - the company behind Songster - to release his new single "OoWee." The partnership and launch were recently celebrated during the SXSW music festival, where Desai was featured on the Songster stage. Songster players follow a start-up band or artist as they make their way through the music industry, playing gigs and unlocking achievements like hiring a manager or getting a record deal. In addition to the gaming part, Songster also allows you to take songs like Desai's, and create your own remixed version by adding vocals, or layering instruments. The new tune can be a collaboration between friends and then shared on Facebook, making it a fun and interactive task for all. PlaySongster.com - Rashad Webb

Photographer: Farzam Hosseindoust

Makeup and hair: Erin Heather for Camera Ready Cosmetics

Model: Tia Guzzo (Ford Toronto)

Brands showcased: Floral print dress - Calvin Klein, Orange lace dress - Moon by Jeanne Beker Green button down - Jones New York, Blue jacket - Vero Moda, Jewelled necklace - Adrienne Vittadini, Floral top - Stylist's own

For those in the fashion and design world, Pantone has long been known as the go-to expert on color-trend forecasting. For all us make-up and beauty lovers Sephora is the go-to. The two experts happily collide over the debut of Sephora + Pantone Universe Color of the Year Collection. The color is Tangerine Tango, a bright happy color reminiscent of a blazing sunset. The collection includes everything from a lip-gloss set, to bright orange brushes and eyelash curler, to fun attention-grabbing fake lashes.

For a limited time, an interactive Pop-Up Color Shop will be set up in NY then LA to allow visitors to see all the products and get free express eye, lip or cheek make-up application from a Sephora specialist. Now through March 30th New Yorkers can experience the pop-up shop setup in the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Plaza (at 14th & 9th just in front of the Apple store), Wednesday March 28 till 9pm and Thursday March 29-Saturday 30 from 10am-10pm. West-Coasters can visit the pop-up shop at The Grove in Los Angeles from April 18th through April 22nd. And for all you in-between the coasts and unable to visit the pop-up shops, you can purchase this Limited Edition product at Sephora.com/go/pantone/. Get your color on! - Carolina Rommel

Alexander Esguerra - Photo Credit: Loren Wohl//Village Voice

The recent celebrity-filled fete in celebration of Alexander Esguerra's newest exhibition, Love and Paint: Vernal Equinox, gave viewers gift ideas for that special someone who has it all. The event, which was presented by Van Gogh Vodka, was held at New York's burlesque-themed Lower Eastside hotspot, The Box, and displayed over a dozen new examples of what Esguerra calls couple paintings. "Vernal Equinox" is the seventh exhibition of Esguerra's Love and Paint concept in which shapes created by couples making love are brought to life on canvas. Each couple is covered in paint and their intimacy becomes the brushstrokes in a customized abstract art piece. Esguerra's Love and Paint exhibitions attempt to eliminate the taboo associated with sex and instead celebrate it for its beauty and expression. Love and Paint has exhibited shows both in New York and Los Angeles and has two new shows for 2012 planned for the Hamptons and London. LoveandPaint.com - Rashad Webbs

Oliver James Liegey, Alexander Esguerra, Kiera Chaplin - Photo Credit: Loren Wohl//Village Voice