Fritz Helder and the Phantoms at Strangelove

Fritz Helder and the Phantoms sure know how to stir up a crowd. They don't even need pick up instruments.

Strangelove, a small bar in the heart of College Street's little Italy, was packed to the tune of one hundred and eighty guests. The occasion - the release of Fritz Helder's new music video for the track Lagerfield Lady.

Arriving promptly on time for the release party was prime evidence that I am truly not cool. Had I been fashionable, hip, or even just plain sensible, I would have realized that you are clearly supposed to show up at least twenty minutes late. Otherwise, you are likely to be stuck having an awkward conversation with a bartender who really doesn't care about anything you have to say.

Then the party starts.

Good looking crowd, a live dj, and Fritz Helder and the Phantoms (FHATP) mingling with friends, all contributed to a successful launch. The open bar didn't hurt either.

At twenty minutes to nine the music stopped, the crowd quieted, and the music video began. The audience claps, cheers, and the party continues. Instead of the DJ, Lagerfield Lady plays loudly in the background and I quietly slip out.

Comfortable vocals and an easy electronic vibe propels the bands' music into your ears, while their outrageous fashion style makes them difficult to ignore as they walk by. Runway models? Rock stars? You don't know. Not really.

FHATP are off to play with Lady Gaga in New York City, but will be back in town to play at Fashion sCares.

All photos by Tanja-Tiziana Burdi.