Title: “Kae Klang Tang [Half Way]”

Artist: Alone Tournament

Label: Independent

Alone Tournament is the side project of Aimcharoen “Aim” Rojthaworn, guitarist of the Indian-inspired instrumental band Yaan, who also enlisted the help of Chladni Chandi (and Yaan) frontman Yong. The duo kicked off their first performance at Goodcat’s Beatles night back in August, but only released this, their first single, in December. Here, sweet steel slide guitar is interwoven with Yong’s violin, while marching drums add some life to the overall dreaminess as Aim’s smooth vocals float above it all. Need more reason to be excited? The single was mixed by Off Anucha of Dot, so we’re hoping there’s more to come from that long-absent band.

Title: “4.58 AM”

Artist: White Light

Label: Independent

Fresh from Fat Radio’s Bedroom Studio program comes this very lowtempo ambient number. We don’t know too much about the band, but from what we can glean the song title refers to being awoken by an alarm at some ungodly hour and struggling to differentiate between dreams and reality. Here, the mellow piano and echo-ey vocals combined with the tick-tock of a clock throughout make for a truly soporific listening experience—and we mean that as a compliment.

Title: “Oh”

Artist: Seal Pillow

Label: Parinam Music

Parinam Music’s vintage pop band makes a brief return with this two-minute single, featuring lyrics supposedly composed to help someone recover from sadness. If you’ve heard one Seal Pillow song, you know what you’re in for here. Catchy and oh-so-pretty, the short running time works in its favor: a snappy ditty that doesn’t outstay its welcome.

Title: “Por Loey Por Kod Pause Kon Loey”

Artist: Nipat Newwave

Label: Independent

Of the many songs in Mary Retweeted, an interactive tie-in with the film Mary is Happy, Mary is Happy, this simple folk tune from Nipat really caught our ear. “Por Loey Por Kod Pause Kon Loey” means “let’s press the pause button for now,” an original tweet by Mary Malony, which Nawapol interpreted in the film. Using this sentence as the main hook, added lyrics support the theme by tossing up catchy-cries about capturing the moment. The meaningful lyrics are given an even more feel-good tone thanks to some lively acoustic guitar.

Printed Boy

The pre-spring collection of Italian fashion brand Gucci captures the warm tones of the 70s in both their men’s and women’s wear. Ladies are all about oversized and striped items, while menswear embraces bold prints with a touch of humor and monochromatic browns. Key looks pose a difficult choice: printed trousers with plain jackets or printed jackets with plain trousers? As for accessories, the line of big tote bags in the same color scheme should have you looking the part at the yacht club.

Available at Gucci Boutique, Luxe Galerie, 1/F Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7000. BTS Chit Lom.

Leather and Gradients

On the design side, the pre-spring collection by Louis Vuitton isn’t all that new—more of flashback than a preview. But the overall tones used are much livelier than in the past, and hint at things to come. The shirts and tees have sumptuous blue-and-red gradients, which can be paired with manlier pieces like the rock star-worthy black leather jacket and LV’s signature checked suit. Finish the look with accessories that give off that cruise-vibe like a red scarf or the black-and-white striped t-shirt. 

Available at G/F Gaysorn, 999 Ploenchit Rd. 02-656-1149. BTS Chit Lom.  

Mix the Unmatched

Seems like the launch of Givenchy’s pre-spring collection packs the most variety as, aside from the formal monochrome suit, the brand mixes and matches camos, florals, flames and other graphic prints within a single piece, such as t-shirts sporting both camo print and pictures of animals. The key is to dare to play with them by combining several prints on both tops and pants instead of attempting to pare them down. 

Available at M/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-610-8000. BTS Siam. 

Bright and Detailed

While everyone else is coming up with prints and color blocks for this pre-spring range, Bottega Veneta heads for a more breezy 2014 cruise collection where the luxury is in the details. The basics—shirts and trousers—go for light brown hues and loose linen fabrics. But dark brown and black leather accessories like bags and shoes really up the luxe factor, with details such as the brand’s signature intrecciato (leather weaving) pattern. 

Available at M/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-610-8000. BTS Siam.  

Beachside Prints

Italian print-loving brand Emilio Pucci has revealed its 2014 cruise collection featuring easy-going day wear with a beachside vibe. Expect summer-friendly colors like raspberry red, peach, plum, turquoise and lemon yellow in both plain and print shorts, short dresses and jump-jackets. The girly style is toned down a bit in the bold and sporty accessories like black leather belts and gladiator sandals.

Available in January, at M/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-129-4390. BTS Siam.

Summer in the City

French luxury fashion house Kenzo has also gone big on the prints in its pre-spring collection. But rather than the cheerful and colorful look of Pucci, Kenzo presents a nostalgic and urban vibe in cooler hues like pool blue, pastel yellow, grey, soft pink and black. With inspiration drawn from designer’s Carol Lim and Humberto Leon’s youth, the collection adds a touch of masculinity to girl’s daily wear through oversized dresses and crop tops matched with high-waisted carrot trousers and jumpsuits. 

Available at Designer Lux, 1/F Zen Department Store, Ratchadamri Rd., BTS Siam/Chit Lom. 

Artist Inspired

American fashion house Tory Burch’s new cruise collection is inspired by paintings by French modernist artist Edouard Manet and is all about the mix-and-match look. Floral print dresses, trousers and shirts are the main attractions in both cool tones of blue and warm hues of pastel orange, while you can also expect summer-friendly accessories like floral print bags, basketwork handbags and Moroccan-style hats. 

Available at 1/F Central Chitlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-655-7916.

Warm Stripped

Italian high-end fashion brand Gucci has come up with a very striking summer look in their pre-spring collection. Inspired by the sunset, oversized items like knee-length dresses, jumpsuit and shirts come in warm, 70’s evoking tones like orange, brown, kiwi green and maroon. The highlight has to be the way designer Frida Giannini has blended these warm colors into striped dresses and handbags that look just stunning. 

Available at Gucci Boutique, Luxe Galerie, 1/F Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7000. BTS Chit Lom. 

“Rak Tong Perd”- 3.2.1 feat. Baitoey R-Siam

While you might not actually recognize the song title we think the words “Nan-Aok” might just jog your memory. Baitoey R-Siam’s most famous single has been a feature of playlists at most Bangkok clubs since May and, of course, there’s the small matter of those 78 milliion views on YouTube.

“Kor Jai Leak Ber Toh”- Ying Lee
The challenger to Baitoey’s dancefloor crown? It would have to be Ying Lee Srichumpon’s “Kor Jai Leak Ber Toh.” The new member of Grammy Entertainment hit big with 73 million YouTube views and continues to be a staple of any cover band's set in Thonglor.

“Tuet”- Kratae R-Siam
Baitoey wasn’t the only R-Siam lady to find success with an old-school electro-meets-look thung number. “Tuet” by muay Thai fighter-cum-singer Kratae was another big internet and dance floor favorite thanks to its incredibly catchy/annoying chorus that beseeched us all to come and dance.

“Kuk Khao”- Cocktails
Finally, a song to give us a break from Bodyslam’s “Ya Pit” and Getsunova on a night out. Cocktails’ latest rock number is now the one we get to hear at least three times a night when out in Muse or Funky Villa!

“Mai Bok Ter”- Bedroom Audio
If you find yourself somewhere that’s playing “Kuk Khao” this year, then you could pretty much guarantee that it would be followed by “Mai Bok Ter.” This pop-rock track really went massive after making it into the soundtrack for the even hotter teen TV series, Hormones. We actually kind of liked it, until we had it played to us 24/7.

“Eye” - Singhto Numchoke
The lion with the ukulele made his long anticipated comeback last year, but he continued to mine the album for hits into 2013 with the release of this, the third single. It had all his trademark tropes, lilting riffs, a sunny disposition and of course an insanely addictive singalong chorus.

“Lom Plien Tid”- Big Ass
What can be better than some good old fashioned pop-rock mixed with heart-wrenching lyrics that are easy to sing along to, even when you’re completely drunk? Big Ass’s “Lom Plien Tid” ticked all the boxes.  

“Rak Tae Yu Nue Kan Wayla” - Pop Pongkul
Another hit tune that was related to a hit TV series, this time the lakorn Suphab Buruj Jutathep. It took annoying to a whole other level by releasing five different versions for each of the five episodes, ensuring we got to hear this saccharine hunk of pop everywhere.    

“Event” - Season Five
Perhaps one of the most covered pop tunes of the year, you might not even know that the original version was done by Season Five. In our opinion, it was definitely a real step in the wrong direction for the band, as we quite liked their first album. 

Good Boy – Taton
A case of so close yet so far for Taton whose single shot up the radio charts this year. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on your tastes, her time at the top didn’t last long as the electro-pop scene was taken over by the R-Siam look thung queens.  

BIG CROWD

Asiatique Festival Countdown 2014 .

Held right by the river, this countdown party features fireworks, lighting installations, international food and a concert by pop singers Tata Young, New-Jew and Pop Pongkool. Dec 31, 5pm-1am. Free entry. Charoenkrung Rd. Free ferry from Saphan Taksin Pier.

Countdown 2014 @ CentralWorld .

Held in front of the mall, one of the most recognized countdown spots in Bangkok returns with live concerts by popular artists. Dec 31, 6pm. CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111. BTS Siam/Chit Lom.

NIGHTCLUBS

Narz Countdown . Four rooms with DJs, one live band room and an outdoor stage. 8pm. Narz Bangkok, 112 Sukhumit Soi 23. 02-258-4805. B800 (1 drink).

2014 @ Sukhumvit  11 . The three Soi 11 giants celebrate their partnership with a party across the three venues promising live performances, sexy staff and new laser lights. Reservations at 082-308-3246. Dec 31, 9pm. Levels, Q Bar and Bash, Sukhumvit Soi 11. BTS Nana.

Great Gatsby Night Extravaganza . Drawing inspiration from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, this 1920s-styled celebration goes for a glitzy feel, with dance shows and DJs. Reservations at 02-108-2000. 9pm. Ku De Ta Bangkok, 39-40/F Sathorn

Square Building, 98 North Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. BTS Chong Nonsi. B1,500.

One Night in Bangkok . The international party production team Fierce Angel from the UK organize a countdown party with founder DJ Mark Doyle spinning house alongside the crew’s DJs. Dec 31, 11pm. B3,388 before 12:30am (1 glass Champagne and 3 drinks) and B999 after 12:30am (1 standard drink). Heaven, 20/F ZEN World, 4-4/5 Rajadamri Road. BTS Chidlom and Siam. 02-100-9000.

BK PICK Brown Sugar Moulin Rouge. A New Year’s party drawing inspiration from the Baz Luhrmann film featuring music by Mint Blues, Pongsiri Quartet Jazz Band and June Kumarika & Attention Please Band, along with DJ DCXIX. Reservations at 092-616-7829. Dress code: Moulin Rouge. 8pm. Brown Sugar, Phra Sumen Rd., 08-1805-7759. B900 (open bar all night). 

Altitude: Midnight Kiss . A countdown party held at three venues within the hotel, Roof Bar, Pool Club and Theatre Bar (10/F), with DJs Lee Cabrera and Aaron James (New York City) , Kid Chris (Ibiza) and Tech12 (UK). 9pm. Mode Sathorn, 144 North Sathorn Rd., 02-623-4555. Free entry. BTS Surasak. 

Countdown at Nest Rooftop . This rooftop countdown party lines up international DJs including Breaksjunky, One Touch, Morphelius and Soulboy, who will be joined by MC Emon and local DJs Job and Monte, plus live performances by saxophonist 7EVEN and guitarist Triple AAA. Reservations at 02-255-0638. 9pm. Nest, Rooftop/F, Le Fenix Hotel, 33/33 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-2550638/9. B800 (2 drinks, free entry after 2am). BTS Nana. 

Dudesweet New Year: Tomorrow is the Best Day . A countdown party by the much-loved organizer promises a more chilled vibe than previous years’ events, with music by resident DJs and Chubby Chain on the Rock and an exhibition by visual artist Kob B.O.R.E.D, plus toy and gift giveaways. 9pm. Absolut Artelier, 42/F Column Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 16. Free entry. BTS Asoke

Countdown Under Siege at Maggie Choo’s . A countdown party taking you back to New Year’s Eve 1937 which lets you take refuge in the venue decorated as an underground cabaret, with instrumental duo Jul & Co. Reservations at 02-635-6055. 10pm. Maggie Choo’s, Underground @ Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd., 02-635-6055. Free entry. BTS Surasak. 

BK PICK Sundance Asia. The Sundance party series, held to advocate the rights of LBGT people and those living with HIV, returns with DJ and producer Eddie Elias from New York and DJ Big Kid from Singapore taking to the decks to spin tribal and tech house. 9:30pm. Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Nua Rd., 02-624-0000. Free entry. MRT Lumphini. 

SKY-HIGH RESTAURANTS

Crowne Plaza Bangkok . A red-carpet party with Hollywood-themed decor and live music, with optional New Year’s Eve Buffet available (B4,999). 8pm. Crowne Plaza Bangkok, 952 Rama 4 Rd., 02-632-9000. B1499 (open bar). MRT Lumphini. 

Millennium Hilton . B5,900 for international buffet at Flow or B12,000 for 5-course set dinner with free-flow at ThreeSixty, on the top floor of this riverside hotel. Charoennakorn Rd., 02-442-2000.

Holiday Inn Bangkok Sukhumvit 22 . Indian buffet with DJ, open bar and count down at THB 2,500++ located at Maya on 29th floor. To make reservation 02 683 4745, and Indian buffet at B2,014 at Zeta Cafe, which is perched on the 22/F of this new hotel. Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-683-4704. 

Banyan Tree . B21,999 for 7-course set menu of Mediterranean cuisine at Vertigo, the hotel’s dramatic rooftop restaurant. 21/100 Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200.

Pullman Bangkok Hotel G . Seafood buffet at B2,999, including a welcome drink, at Ballroom 38, with stunning views of Silom. Silom Rd., 02-238-1991

Hotel Muse . B4,750 for a platter of seafood and a bottle of Prosecco or B1,500 for two glasses of Prosecco at The Speakeasy, a 1920s-style rooftop venue. 25/F, Langsuan Rd., 02-630-4000

Long Table . B5,999 or B7,999 (depending on the table location) for 3-course set dinner. Most of the table don’t really have views, but there’s a terrace overlooking Benjakitti Park to get started and see the fireworks. 25/F, Column Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-302-2557.

RIVERSIDE RESTAURANTS

Royal Orchid Sheraton . Gala dinner at B7,900 at this well-positioned riverside terrace.  2 Charoenkrung Soi 30, 02-266-0123.

Shangri-la Hotel . Chef Omar Ugoletti serves up Italian cuisine and river views. B2,400. Or get on the Horizon Cruise at B7,200 on Dec 31 for an international buffet and a view of the fireworks. Charoenkrung Rd., 02-236-7777. BTS Saphan Taksin

Mandarin Oriental  . B19,500 for gala dinner at Riverside Terrace. 48 Oriental Avenue, 02-659-9000.

The Siam . B6,500 for 6-course set dinner or B8,700 with wine pairing at Chon. B6,500 for Champagne and snacks on the cruise. Khao Rd., 02-206-6999.

The Peninsula  . At five venues: The Peninsula Lawn and River Cafe and Terrace offers a gala dinner buffet, accompanied by live music by a 23-piece orchestra. Dining is priced at B15,990 (B7,995 for children under 12) At Thiptara, a six-course Thai set menu alongside contemporary Thai dance performances, B13,990 per person. The Lobby Terrace: a six-course western set menu accompanied by a live orchestra, at B15,990. Mei Jiang: a six-course New Year’s Eve Chinese feast for B9,900. Dress code: elegant casual. Fireworks at midnight. 333 Charoennakorn Rd. 02-861-2888

STAR CHEFS

The Sukhothai . Italian Chef Maurizio Menconi cooks up a B5,500 set dinner at La Scala. 13/3 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-8888.

Sofitel So . Befitting the stunning view of Lumpini Park, Park Society’s Chef Paul Smart will create a 5-course set dinner at B8,900 (B11,500 with wine pairing) at Park Society, which enjoys views of Lumphini. Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini 

Siam@Siam . The new Chef Gilles Poitevin is taking La Vue to new heights befitting its 25-story views. B6,500 for 5-course set dinner or B2,400 (with three standard drinks) for the countdown party at Sky Bar. 865 Rama 1 Rd., 02-217-3070. BTS National Stadium

Siam Kempinski . Ranked no. 29 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2014, Sra Bua offers an 8-course set menu at B2,599 and B4,500 for 12-course gala dinner on Dec 31. 991/9, Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000. BTS Siam

BK PICK Lebua Hotel. Thomas and Mathias Suhring, the twin chefs at Mezzaluna are renowned for doing some of the most inventive and cutting-edge cuisine in town. B25,999 for 9-course set (free-flow Champagne 7-8pm) or B21,999 for 7-course set at Sirocco (free-flow Champagne during 7-8pm). 27 South Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3333

Maduzi Hotel . Chef Yuya rolls out a 5-course set lunch at B1,000 with soft drinks and a B2,500 set dinner with soft drinks. Sukhumvit Rd., 02-615-6400

Metropolitan . David Thompson’s renowned Thai restaurant, Nahm, serves up a B8,000 set dinner with a countdown party at Met Bar. 27 South Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3333.

Water Library Thonglor . B2,800 deal with food (by Michelin-star chef Juan Amador) and free-flow cocktails, long drinks and wine. Grass, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-714-9292.

Dusit Thani . The new chef, Wilfred Hocquet, who left Quince, comes from a background with the Pourcel Brothers, who brought us D’Sens in the first place. Views of Lumphini Park, too! B3,300 for five courses. B8,000 for 8-course gala dinner on Dec 31. 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000. MRT Silom

Plaza Athenee . B8,500 for two-person 7-course set dinner with a bottle of Champagne by Chef Daniel Bucher at The Reflexions. 61 Wireless Rd., 02-650-8800.

Okura Prestige . B7,999 (with wines) for 8-course set dinner by Elements’ new Chef Henry Jordan. 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000. BTS Ploenchit

DINING & DJs

Fire & Ice . Celebrate the New Year with a gourmet buffet BBQ dinner and an open bar alongside live shows, dances and DJs. 8pm. Koi, 26 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-258-1590. B1,500-2,500 (BBQ dinner). 

amBar . The rooftop bar offers an international buffet dinner with free-flow drinks B3,900 or B2,000 without buffet, with indie-centric countdown tunes spun by DJs Soma and Odyszey, plus a luck draw. 7pm. amBar, 8/F, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-309-3113. B2,000-3,900 (buffet dinner and free flow drinks). BTS Asok. 

G Night Extravaganza . Solo rocker Earthcollide Erathem performs at a dinner party along with DJs and a seafood buffet (B2,999). Additional free-flow sparkling wine on offer (B1,500). Reservations at 089-108-8744. 6pm. Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd., 02-238-1991. B500 (1 drink). BTS Chong Nonsi. 

Hansar Hotel . The new (and handsome) Chef Charles Christiaens presents a set dinner at B5,500 (B7,000 with wines) at Eve. If you just want to party, they also have a rooftop shindag: B1,000 with one drink. 3 Soi Mahadlekluang 2, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-209-1234. BTS Ratchadamri

Bangkok’s Biggest Countdown . The third countdown party by Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel will take place at the hotel’s two rooftop spots offering up a range of food and DJs, with 3D visuals and a fireworks show. 8pm. Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-261-9000. B2,900 (welcome drink and free flow from 9-11.30pm).

Viva Aviv . Held right by the Chao Phraya River, this New Year’s Eve party includes dinner from 7-11pm, along with music by resident DJs and guest DJ Seaman. 7pm. Viva Aviv, B/F, River City Shopping Complex, 23 Yotha Rd., 02-639-6305. B2,014 (welcome drink). 

BK PICK Opposite. The first NYE party held at Opposite Mess Hall offers a buffet spread of wonderful dishes and an open bar (7-10.30pm) for B2,500 before an after-party with snack buffet from 11pm (B500). With live DJs, film screenings and video mapping. Reservations at oppositebangkok.com. 7pm. Opposite Mess Hall, 27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6330. B500-2,500 (dinner buffet). RT Lumphini. 

C’est La VIE . Three venues inside the hotel offer different countdown options: a Bon Vivant Dinner at VIE Wine & Grill (B2,350), a rooftop chillout at VIE Pool (B600, 2 drinks) and a DJ party at VIE Lounge. 6:30pm. VIE Hotel, New Petchburi Soi19 Phayathai Rd., 02-309-3939

Indus . Bangkok-based DJ Xunny Dey who has performed with Bollywood big names like Atif Aslam, DJ Aqeel, and H-Dhami returns for this free-flow countdown party, along with fireworks and an international buffet (B2,800/ticket). Reservations at 02-258-4900. 8pm (or B1,200 for free-flow drinks only from 11:30pm). Indus, 71 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-258-4900, 02-661-5279. 

The Continent Bangkok . B1,999 for 5-course set dinner at Medinii and countdown party at Axis & Spin. The Continental, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-686-7000. BTS Asok

Hyde & Seek . Festive a la carte menu (from B230-695) and DJs. Athenee Residence, Soi Ruamrudee, Wireless Rd., 02-168-5152. BTS Ploenchit

Transparent Thinking

The décor studio of interior designers Ploypan Theerachai and Decha Archjananun has been on the rise this year after joining Milan Design Week in May and returning to Bangkok to scoop the Thai Designer of The Year prize at the annual ELLE Decoration Thailand Design Awards 2013. Thinkk Studio’s signature design is all about functional geometric shapes, like their latest award-winning item, the Weight Vase, made from waterproof concrete with powder coated steel. The overall design is modern but not too minimal. 

Price: B7,600-12,800

Available at: Thinkk Studio, 7/8 Yenakard Rd., Chongnonsi. 02-671-9317. Order online at [email protected] or [email protected]

Living Texture

The debut collection from furniture brand Momoest, a collaboration between photographer and founder Supachai Ketkaroonkul and designer Apirat Boonruangthaworn, just won a design gong at the ELLE Decoration Thailand Design Awards 2013. Pieces like the rounded coffee table see Supachai’s passion for abstract paintings and photography provide the unique surface texture, framed by Apirat’s glass and steel accents—easy to match with any style of room. 

Price: Lenya B37,750 and 27,200-29,500 for Pilu.  

Available at: Yothaka Showroom, 1028/5 Rama 4 Rd., 02-679-8631/32. and Asana Showroom, 235/32 Sukhumvit 31. 02-662-3118. Or order online at [email protected]

Functional Wood

Local décor brand Niyahm specializes in minimal wooden design. The brand started out doing made-to-order furniture through Facebook before getting more exposure by joining the recent BIG+BIH exhibition. What we find most interesting is how they complement their beautifully designed core products—beds, sofas, tables and chairs—with functional add-ons, like the sofa with removable pad (pictured). Suited for stylish, no-fuss bedrooms.        

Price: TBA

Available at: Showroom & Office at 4/F Pen’s House Building, 1/6 Ari Soi 2, Phahol Yothin Rd., 081-812-2470 and 081-450-5140. [email protected]

Sitting on a Piece of Art

Back in September, hip art space Speedy Grandma hosted their first furniture exhibition which featured the debut of newly launched home décor brand, Cast. The one-of-a-kind furniture exhibited as part of Claiming the Reclaimed was inspired by the raw irregularity of nature. Designer Saran Yen Panya uses contrasting materials like aluminum, thick wooden logs and steel. The furniture is now on display and put to actual use at the designer’s recently opened Potion Bar on Sukhumvit Soi 31. Despite the raw materials resulting in a rustic-meets-modern vibe, the pieces like the aluminum molded stools are quite easy to match with any room.

Price: Ebony B15,000; Notch B8,900; and S-Spruce B14,500-49,500.  

Available at: Potion Bar, 235/10 Sukhumvit Soi 31. 091-868-9974.

Dek Hi-So: Selfies BBQ

It’s a Sunday afternoon; the sun is shining through your Tom Ford sunglasses and there’s a spring in your step. It’s the perfect weather for an outdoor BBQ party at your daddy’s seven-bedroom house in the Sukhumvit ‘hood. Your elite group of friends roll over from Thonglor in their new Audi Q5, or Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition, heck, even a humble Mini Clubman. You're no snob. Snarky girlfriends walk in with their new Balenciagas, dressed in American Apparel Disco Pants and cropped tops. Guys show off their Tod's and Ralph Lauren polo shirts. This BBQ will be the talk of the town. 

Hipster Party: House Gig Chic

Too broke for Stone Free ‘cos you blew all your cash on a ticket and an overpriced hostel for Laneway Festival in Singapore? Not to worry, a friend of a friend knows the organizers and… Anyway, wasn’t it a blast at Clockenflap in Hong Kong? You bumped into [insert band name here] at the after-party and they said they’d love to come play Bangkok this weekend! No venue? Sounds like just the excuse for a house party. OK, maybe Tegan and Sara won’t turn up, but here’s how to get things stylishly swinging at home.

Q&A Somrak Sila, WTF Bar & Gallery Owner

What makes the best house party? Lots and lots of booze, cushions and a bit of improvised lighting.   If you could invite any band to perform at your party, who would it be? Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeroes. I just saw them recently. Their energy is massive—it’s like seeing an evangelical preacher.   Top 3 tracks for a rocking house party. 1. “Home” - LCD Soundsystem 2. “Home” - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros 3. “Bangkok” - Alex Chilton 4. "Need You Know" - Cut Copy 5. Any track by Sound of Siam

Maft Sai,  DJ and Zudrangma Records founder

What makes the best house party? Good sound system, music and friends.   If you could invite any band to perform at your party, who would it be? Locally, The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band with Waipod Petchsuphan or Chaweewan Dumnern. Internationally, Hailu Mergia & The Wallias Band.   Top 3 tracks for a rocking house party. 1. “House Party” - Fred Wesley 2. “Porry” - Sorry Bamba 3. “Zoumana” - Horoya Band National 4. "Freedom Sound" - Skatalites 5. "Kao Mai Rak Rao Rhok" - Sroeng Santi

1. Vibratosax

2. Echoslap Cajon

3. Vanilla Guitar

4. Shark 

Top Rehearsal and Recording Studios in Bangkok

E.Q. Studio

2755/2 Soi Chok Dee, Rama 4 Rd., 02-258-2880. BTS Phrom Phong (Exit 2). Open daily 10am-10pm. www.eqstudiomusic.com

Suited for: Rising young stars. 

Facilities: Three-room studio with a variety of amplifiers such as Eden Worldtour Made in USA, AMPEG SVT Classic + SVT 610 HLF and Fender Tone Master. Guitars and bass include the likes of Fender American Deluxe HSS Stratocaster and Gibson SG Special Faded. Drum kits, snare drums and keyboards available, too.     

Rates and room types: Normal room (B250/hr), VIP room (B300/hr) and demo mixing and mastering (B700/hr).

 

 

Guitar Lab Studio 

21/99 RCA Block D, Rama 9 Rd. 081-144-5255, 02-641-4183. Open daily 24 hrs. Facebook.com/guitarlabrca

Suited for: Pros

Facilities: This studio, which doubles as a guitar shop, provides two rooms for rehearsal. The house provides full band equipment, including amplifiers like Fender Twin Reverb and Aguilar Ag500SC + Cab 4*12. Drum kits include Tama Starclassic Maple, while the Roland RD700SX keyboard comes with the Roland KC550 amp.    

Rates and room types: Standard room starts from B250/hr and the big room from B350/hr. Demo recording can only be done in the big room at B600/hr.

 

 

Horizon Music 

442/21 Ladphrao Rd. 02-938-3647/8. MRT Ladphrao (Exit 1). Mon-Sat 11am-10pm. www.horizonthailand.com 

Suited for: Dream hunters.

Facilities: Five different rooms, with the recording room featuring the latest Logic recording software for Mac. Rehearsal room includes full band equipment like the Pearl ELX Ludwig drum kit, Peavey Hartke VX3600 bass amp and Marshall Line6 Peavey Laney guitar amp.      

Rates and room types: Studio for demo recording starts at B500/hr up to B2,500/6hr for mastering one full album. Rehearsal rooms start from B200/hr in the Ocean room, which is slightly smaller than the standard room. Standard-medium B230-250/hr and the biggest room at B300/hr.   

1. Olympus Pen E-P5

Inspiration: The original Pen, born in 1959, used regular 35mm film, but was the most compact camera to do so. By shooting half-frames, it also got over 70 shots out of a single roll of film.

Specs: Wi-Fi, 16.1 MP full HD video. Micro Four Thirds sensor, ISO 100-25,600. 3” touch screen (1,040k pixels), RAW/JPEG.   

Verdict: It’s definitely the best styled and most capable of the Pen series. Its sub par video and inability to correct camera shake are compensated by one of the most compact designs in this segment and good Wi-Fi tethering with your smartphone, allowing you to post pics on the go.  

Price: Range from B33,990-B39,990

2. Sony Alpha 7

Inspiration: Those gorgeous all-black magnesium bodies hark back to Nikon’s 35mm film reflex cameras. But while retro-style cameras tend to be a bit baroque (and silly) in their attempts to look just like the real thing, the Sony has a clean, sleek design of its own.

Specs: 24.3 MP full-frame sensor, 2.4 million dot electronic viewfinder, full HD video with uncompressed HDMI output, RAW/JPEG, Wi-Fi with NFC capability and downloadable apps. 

Highlight: If you’re still watching Nikon and Canon duke it out for the top DSLR spot, you’re looking at the wrong fight. Sony has been putting both to shame lately, and this particular model is just superb in terms of design, build quality and performance.

Price: B49,990

3. Nikon DF

Inspiration: It looks like a classic 35mm Nikon FM, particularly because of its large, angular optical viewfinder, which promises an image area a nudge above Canon’s 6D. 

Specs: Top continuous shooting speed at 5.5 frames per second (full resolution), ISO 100-12,800, 16 MP full-frame sensor, RAW/JPEG. 3.2” (921k dots)

Verdict: This camera’s guts are the same as the insanely high-end D4, minus the video. That, and the fact that it comes with a similarly retro looking 50mm lens, shows you’re really meant to use this one as a serious photographic tool. 

Price: B87,900

4. Fujifilm FinePix X100s 

Inspiration: The Finepix X100 really launched the retro-style trend, evoking the rangefinder Leicas of great photo journalists like Cartier Bresson. And the X100s looks just like its processor.

Specs: 16MP sensor, RAW/JPEG. 2.8” LCD Screen (460k pixels), full HD video, 2.8” screen (480k pixels), Built-in flash.

Verdict: The compact magnesium alloy body makes this a favorite for stylish photographers. But do note that this camera comes with a fixed 35mm equivalent lens that is not interchangeable. That’s a pretty serious limitation that old-school street photographers actually feel boosts their creativity, but it might not work for those seeking a casual camera. The sensor, lifted from the Fuji X-Pro1, is superb, though.

Price: B30,990

5. Leica M240

Inspiration: Its very own ancestor, the Leica M3, which launched in 1953, was the first Leica to combine a viewfinder (for framing the picture) and rangefinder (for determining focus) in one big bright window.

Specs: 24MP sensor. RAW/JPEG. 3” TFT Display (920k pixels). Full HD video (25 fps only).

Verdict: No-delay start up (750ms), long battery life and a much quieter shutter than its predecessor (the LEICA M9) show Leica is still clearly aimed at dedicated street photographers. Still, owning a Leica is a bit like owning a luxury car. You’re paying a lot for design and branding, too.

Price: B270,000

6. Panasonic - Lumix DMC-GM1

Inspiration: As you can now tell, this is another rangefinder lookalike based on old Leicas, except the scale is off. This thing’s face is about the size of a credit card, making it more Rollei 35S than Leica M.

Specs: 16 MP sensor, RAW/JPEG, Wi-Fi, 3.0-inch, 1036K dot 3” touch-sensitive LCD, full HD video recording at 60i/30p, built-in pop-up flash. Micro HDMI output.

Verdict: The size is truly amazing, given that this thing packs as much might as much larger competitors. And we love the-wide angle 24-64mm equivalent kit lens. Probably the most likely to compete for attention with your phone.

Price: B24,990