Pefect Presents: Last minute books & music

Naughty thing! Have you left your Christmas shopping to the very last minute and are now in a frantic rush for something cool but quick? Or maybe your giftee just isn't (*gasp*!) that into beauty products. Here's a few more ideas then... because Amazon.com and chapters.indigo.ca are always open!

Because beauty has many faces...




Forsaken, by Lana Slezic


Toronto-born photo-journalist Lana Slezic takes you through the daily lives of women in Afganistan with her poignant and beautiful photos. You may have seen her work in a recent issue of Allure. From the striking images of female police officers to prostitutes who must hide their faces for fear of death by relatives trying to maintain family honour, this book is a stunning visual journey.


Make-up for the Ears:

If we are to speak of Christmas CDs, of course I must mention the Toronto based and now-international jazz sensation, Emilie-Claire Barlow. Her 2006 release "Winter Wonderland" (my raving review here) is a lovely addition to any holiday soundtrack. Her latest release, "The Very Thought Of You" (pictured) is at times lush and subdued, while clipping along at foot-tapping body-swaying tempos at others. Clear, bell-like vocals, crisp enunciation, and fresh interpretations of the standards set this album apart from the masses!



To switch gears completely, I am also newly addicted to Dragonette's first CD, "Galore". Half the band are Canadian (they live in the UK now), and they play dirty, groovy, euro-electro pop with a rock edge. You can't help but want to dance when you hear it. They've been described as what would happen if Gwen Stefani fronted The Killers. I say, yes, but have them do it all under the tutelage of Kylie Minogue. True, not all their songs are absolutely stunning, but there are enough solid tunes on there to make this CD a good gift.


Okay! That's all there will be out of me until after the New Year, when I am back to internetted civilization. I hope you all have a wonderfully merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years, full of good friends, good food, and great memories! Stay safe, and I'll see you all in 2008!

This review was posted for me by the ever-fabulous Ex-Roomie, who is kindly administering the blog while I am gallivanting around Asia. I will respond to comments and emails when I get back. Promise!