Stephanie Sokol

Editor-in-Chief; www.stephanieannsokol.com; www.lifesacupoftea.com; sasokol92@gmail.com
  • Indie pick of the week: The Deals

    If you’re looking for that guitar-filled, classic-rock sound, this might be your band. Self-described as a “a late 60’s power trio sound with aggressive, expressive, and inventive playing on behalf of each and every member,” The Deals draw influence from some of the biggest names in rock ‘n roll....
  • Eliminated ‘Idol’ contestant Ben Briley talks experience, future

    On Thursday night, Ben Briley became the first male contestant eliminated from American Idol season XIII. Briley said his song choice (Elton John’s “Benny and the Jets), which broke away from his traditional country performances and spotlighted his piano skills, was probably the reason he was eliminated. While it...
  • ASIA’s ‘Gravitas’ album brings new spin to classic sound

    British band ASIA brings an update to their music style with their new album “Gravitas,” introducing both a new sound and new guitarist, Sam Coulson. John Wetton and Geoff Downes wrote and produced the album, which will release on March 25 in North America on Frontiers Records, as both...
  • Emily Piriz eliminated from Idol, reflects on experience

    Emily Piriz, 18, was eliminated from American Thursday night, March 6 following her performance of “Stars.” The Florida native said her parents and boyfriend were her biggest support system, and she enjoyed being on Idol. The experience and constructive criticism, as well as many new friendships, are what she...
  • Andre 3000 stars as Jimi Hendrix in upcoming film, clip released

    Rolling Stone released a clip from the long-anticipated Jimi Hendrix biopic Jimi: All Is By My Side, which premieres next week at South by Southwest 2014. The movie tells the story of the famous guitarist and singer’s life leading up to fame.  The film, starring Andre 3000, actor and Outkast MC,...
  • Indie pick of the week: Holoking

    At first listen, Chicago indie hip-hop duo Holoking resembles a more rhythmic early Lupe Fiasco sound, meshed with a touch of Kid Cudi. But the rhythms and uniqueness of each song is what makes this group different– artsy rhythm and instrumentals compliment the strength of influential lyrics. Vocalist “MC...
  • Kristen O’Connor eliminated from ‘Idol,’ looking to the future

    After making it to the top 13, contestant Kristen O’Connor was eliminated from American Idol XIII Thursday night, February 27, after her performance of “Beautiful Disaster.” O’Connor, 24, said she chose that song, which was performed by 2002 winner Kelly Clarkson in the first season of Idol, to show...
  • Grape Wulong Oolong: a sweet, springy tea

    My desire for warmer weather was subtly fulfilled this week with the release of Teavana’s spring teas collection. New flavors include Jeju Island Green Tea from Korea, the citrusy Strawberry Grapefruit Xue Long Green Tea, the sweet-smelling Marshmallow Macaron Herbal tea and Grape Wulong Oolong. While all of the flavors were enticing, I decided to try the...
  • Tea review: Tazo Zen

    Lately I’ve been feeling somewhat stressed, so I decided to try a new tea designed for relaxation. While at Whole Foods, I spotted Tazo’s Zen, which is “a harmonious blend of green tea with lemongrass & spearmint.” I’ve tried other sleepy and calming teas, but this one is my...