I Shot a Warhol

Memory Lane - Onyx

2010-06-15T22:00:00.002-04:00

On any given day, while listening to music—whether sitting at my desk at work or driving to wherever in my car—chances are I'm listening to underground/independent Hip-Hop. It's not to say it's the best music in the world, but it's what suits me. However, don't get it twisted, underground/Indie is not synonymous with "substance" or "good". Like any genre of music, there is a fair share of greatness, mixed with complete and utter useless garbage.

In any regard, my recent focus has been on AOL Radio's '90s Hip-Hop channel. What Hip-Hop fan knows anything about anything can deny that the late '80s through late '90s were the shining moment of Hip-Hop? If they're intelligent, no one will deny that. In fact, they would probably get filled with nostalgia at the brink of discussion and start name-dropping their favorite artists and songs from the golden era of music (actually late '80s - mid '90s).

With that being said, I have reacquainted myself with one of my favorite groups of all time, Onyx. In the same respect as the Wu-Tang Clan, Onyx helped to pioneer East Coast Hardcore Hip-Hop with their debut album, Bacdafucup. The entire narrative of the album focuses on stick-ups, robberies, flexing your artillery muscles, and of course, the occasional sex talk.

Now, with the exception of Onyx and a very limited few, I've never been a huge fan of gang vocals in rap music, because most people have no real clue how to execute it properly, but Onyx get it done like a hardcore punk band, which is why they were able to team up with a band like Biohazard on more than one occasion (Judgment Night, Slam). When the chants come in at the end of a line delivery, it's not just to sound loud, or because members think they don't get enough mic time. No. The gang vocals not only add to the passion and energy of the crew, but they reinforce the brutal messages in the lyrics, adding extra emphasis to their dark, grimy street tales.

17 years later, Bacdafucup is still a gem, albeit others who followed over the years have attempted to one-up their predecessors. Few are memorable, but those mad face bald heads will forever be legends.

Do yourself a favor and listen to Bacdafucup, whether it's your first time or you're revisiting the album. Give yourself an opportunity to relive 1993. But as a fair warning, it is an extremely unrelenting, aggressive album.

Onyx - Throw Ya Gunz

Onyx and Biohazard - Judgment Night

Soundset 2011

2010-06-05T10:29:00.004-04:00

Last Thursday I took a trip out to Minneapolis, MN to spend time with some friends and check out Soundset 2010, the annual independent Hip-Hop music festival put on by Rhymesayers Entertainment. Curious about who performed? Check out the archives at SoundsetFestival.com. The site contains the show lineup, videos, and pictures.

With this year's show already come and gone, and being as amazing as it was, and last year's show being great too (I didn't see 2008), I developed a list of independent and legendary acts I feel deserve a shot at rocking the Soundset stages and tents.

Unfortunately, it looks like the majority of the acts I listed, I personally feel earned time on the main stage, so my other stage list will be a little light.

Main Stage

The Cool Kids
Blu & Exile
Slaughterhouse
A Tribe Called Quest
De La Soul
Outkast
Goodie Mob
Dungeon Family
Gnarls Barkley
The Roots
Common
Public Enemy
Pete Rock & CL Smooth
Bone Thugs N Harmony
Ice Cube
Jurassic 5
The Beatnuts
Kool Keith
Madlib/Quasimoto
Little Brother
Camp Lo
Sean Price/Boot Camp Click
Mos Def
Talib Kweli
Blackstar
Pharoahe Monch
Jean Grey
Mr. Lif/Perceptionists
Soul Position

Fifth Element Stage

Apathy/Demigodz
F. Stokes
Soulcrate Music
Joe Good
Oh No
Jay Electronica
Reef the Lost Cauze
J. Cole

B-Boy/B-Girl Tent

DJ Danger Mouse
DJ Shadow
DJ Qbert
DJ Premiere
DJ Honda
Mr. Len
RJD2
Flying Lotus
Gaslamp Killer
Exile
Pete Rock
King Britt
Dan the Automater
Kid Koala

Hosted by

Sway and King Tech
Fab 5ive Freddy

I'm not saying this should be the lineup for the next festival, but I am suggesting that any of these people would be great for the festival. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to post them here. Please keep in mind that this is an event put on by RSE, so certain performers won't fit the scheme of things. Trust me, I want M.O.P. too, but it's not going to happen. I'm also aware that it would be highly unlikely for Joe Good to accept an invitation, because he doesn't rap anymore, but a guy can dream, right?

Update of the American Fangs Update

2010-05-15T22:07:00.003-04:00

In the last post I labeled the new American Fangs song as Pressure. Well, I did some sleuthing, and I believe from the list of songs the band has recorded, Future sounds most likely to be the title of this heavy gem. If you have the AF EP, or you have at least heard it (highly recommended), a few of the songs will look familiar. If you haven't listened to Future yet, check the video below.

NEW American Fangs

2010-05-13T22:45:00.004-04:00

American Fangs wrapped up three dates with the Deftones recently, and posted this brand-spankin'-new video last week! It's for a new song off of their upcoming full-length album. I don't know the title of the album or the song, but I'm going to label it as Pressure.

Pressure is a huge relief in a world dominated by Warped Tour bands like Attack Attack and Bullet for My Valentine. If that's your thing, then more power to you. It feels like it draws influence from '90s bands such as Pennywise and Pantera. Maybe it's the deep bass, aggressive playing, the breakdown, and the gruff vocal delivery. I don't know. What I do know is that I want (that's read: need) more of it!

If you feel like you want to punch, kick, and possibly knock someone upside the head, then you're definitely feeling this track.

Keep an eye open, as the Fangs plan to tour this summer in support of their upcoming release.

Check out the video below.

American Fangs x Deftones

2010-04-27T11:53:00.003-04:00

First off, thank you once again, American Fangs for funneling people over here to read my stuff. I appreciate it.

News Flash! The American Fangs x Deftones concert for today, April 27 at Club 101 in El Paso, TX has officially SOLD the F OUT! Once again, if you're in Texas, and you like American Fangs or Deftones, you should try to grab tickets to one of the two other shows this week in Corpus Christi or Mission.

I would go, but the Northeast is a long ways away from any part of Texas.

DO IT!

American Fangs

2010-04-26T19:23:00.003-04:00

Have you heard of the American Fangs? You know, that band from Houston, TX. No…not them. The American Fangs! If you’ve read a past post of mine, then you would know I started following at the end of October of last year when they slid through Philly with Saul Williams on the Afro-Punk Tour.

I made a really bold move by purchasing the group's self-titled EP before actually seeing them perform, but I assumed I would like them anyway, and I was saving myself time and possibly a rush at the merch table later on in the evening. Well, I was right. I watched those guys tear up the stage, while after the show I listened to the EP on my way back home.

The very next day I was on the Fangs' Twitter page, and I let them know I gave them a little spin on my blog (this one). Well, they thanked me for it, and even reached out to me when they came back to Philly for their stint with State Radio. Regardless of the snowstorm that was taking place throughout the day, I braved the unforgiving interstate system and hit the Electric Factory for another great performance, even though I was late. After all, who ever starts a concert on time (I heard Wilco is very prompt)?

Since early January, the Fangs have been going through the numerous stages to release their debut full-length album. The band has taken road trips to and from New York City and back to Houston, rocked some shows at home, as well as in Louisiana, and are steadily knocking out step, after step, after step, and documenting it all with video.

Needless to say, I’m beyond excited for this band to drop some new work on the masses! Word on the street is that AF plans to do another tour this summer. In the meantime, the group is going out to support the Deftones Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday this week! Is that huge, or what? If you’re in Texas at all this week, be sure to nab some tickets to one of the few shows happening.

Be on the lookout for these guys. I guarantee they're going to be one of those groups me and a select few will know of in a few years when the rest of the world is just catching on. Do yourself a favor, and get with the program now. Nobody likes to have to catch up on a catalog of music. Nah uh.

Seriously...listen to them.

Dear Co-Worker

2010-04-21T17:11:00.000-04:00

I’ve been using Twitter I think since July of 2009, and somewhere over that short span of time, I started tweeting events occurring in my office that annoy me. Mainly, it was directed at one person in particular.

In any office setting, there is a certain amount of professionalism that is expected from all employees. While I may not be the most upright citizen, let alone ever being in contention for an accolade such as “Employee of the Month”, I still attempt to hold myself with a particular level of dignity and respectability.

Friends who follow me on Twitter have commented via Twitter, text messages, and in-person that they enjoy my passive-aggressive, yet humorous take on my daily workplace frustrations. After all, it’s much easier to vent about my frustrations in a comical manner, than it is to play nanny for an adult older than myself.

Essentially, I’m posting this, because I have given much thought to people’s requests for a “Dear Co-Worker” Twitter page, or a “Dear Co-Worker” blog. Honestly, I would love to do it. I think it would be great, and with all of the potential positive outcomes that could arise from such a venture, I regretfully have to decline to move forward on such an endeavor.

The reality of the situation is this; we live in a world where very little is sacred, and every man, woman, and child is held accountable for their actions in public and private, as well as virtual settings. While it would be entertaining for me to provide friends and strangers alike with a good laugh from time to time, I feel that the risk for exposure is too great. It’s not that my place of business would catch wind of my musings, but the fact of the matter is, it’s very possible, and the idea is a little too threatening to me.

I would hate to jeopardize my employment, because someone put the pieces of the puzzle together, with the resulting picture being my face. Unfortunately for all of you, that is not a reality I am ready to take on.

The thought of going “private” has already crossed my mind, but doesn’t lend itself to logic. A Twitter page or blog of that nature is one I would appreciate being seen by as many people as possible. Limiting it to those that I know is a defeated idea in and of itself.

I truly am sorry, but please understand that I need to be a responsible, mature human being about the matters at hand.

Thank you

Don't Blame the White Man

2010-02-05T18:00:00.003-05:00

Earlier today, I went to the public library up the street with a co-worker of mine, so that she could pick up some books and other materials for her kids at home. While she looked around in the reference section upstairs, I poked around at the DVDs. I always gravitate towards the movies, even if I don't actually carry my library card on me. On a side note: I do plan on eventually taking my card to the library and borrowing some documentaries and films I haven't seen yet (Vertigo, Metropolis, Brüno).

As I was standing there sifting through the arrangement, I overheard a woman speaking to one of the librarians (is that a correct term for everyone at the library?). The conversation went something like this:

Woman: "Yeah, I'm homeless, see. And I just came here to Delaware recently on the train. I need to use the internet but can't get on the computer."

Librarian: "Okay. I think what we need is an ID from you. One moment please. *Looking to a co-worker* What do we need?"

Co-worker: "You would need to show us a valid ID and *something inaudible*"

W: "Here you go."

L: "I'm sorry, I can't take this. This isn't an ID, it's a social security card."

W: "Please, I just need to use the computer. I don't see what the big deal is."

L: "I'm sorry, but those are the rules. I didn't make them up, and I can't wave them just for you."

W: "That doesn't make any sense! I don't see what the problem is..."

L: "The fact of the matter is, ma'am, you came in here earlier, gave me a completely different story, you said you came to town on the Greyhound bus, then when I asked to see your ID, you just flashed something at me. You didn't even show me what you had in your hand. What you just showed me is a social security card. I can't use that. I need to see a valid, state-issued form of ID."

The woman continues to cause a scene, being loud, obnoxious, and rude. I can't recall everything that was happening, but I'll continue.

Remaining calm, the librarian says,

L: "Ma'am."

W: "I ain't your ma'am!"

L: "It may be best if you just leave."

The disgruntled woman continues to holler about whatever.

L: "Okay, you need to leave."

W: "This is ridiculous!"

L: "You need to leave."

W: "You should let me use the internet! It's Martin Luther King's birthday!"

L: "I didn't know that was part of the rules."

W: "Well, it should be!"

The woman storms out of the library, and proceeds to scream and yell on the street. I know this, because I still heard her as I stood in the DVD section, near a window.

Let's get a few things clear. What I am accounting really happened, number one. Number two, it happened today. Do you know what today is? It's Friday, February 5, 2010. Dr. King's birthday was last month. Yes, it's Black History Month right now, but it doesn't give any person of color a pass to behave like a complete jerk. Yes, the woman was black, and the librarian was white. The color of both women is completely irrelevant.

Allow me to point something out. Today's scenario was a case of a person trying to accomplish something (what I don't know), and when it didn't work out in that person's favor, there was an attempt to turn the tables, and be made into the victim of discrimination. Did the woman have a library card? No. Did she have a photo ID? No. A social security card does not guarantee that you are who you say you are. I know, a photo ID can be forged, but it's more likely to be of the person holding it.

I myself, like so many others out there, am beyond sick and tired of people trying to get ahead by using the struggles and accomplishments of others. Name-dropping Dr. King will not work in your favor, I'm sorry. What King stood for, and died for was not to have a person 40 years down the line, manipulate the rules, because they don't live according to the same standards as the majority. My president's black. So what?! Yes, I voted for Obama, but not because I relate to him racially. I also didn't look to Obama like he is that family member you don't speak to until they come across money. I voted for him, because he made me believe that it was possible for people to unite and achieve the greater good through both words and actions.

Honestly, I'm not trying to preach peace, love, and tolerance, but I would really appreciate seeing people act with a sense of accountability sometime before I die. For anyone refusing to get on-board with what should be happening, you're not forcing those who look down on us to search for a reason to look down on us any longer. If anything, too many are reinforcing negative, stereotypical archetypes. It's not racism every time a white person tells a person of color, no.

So where do the excuses and handouts stop? I would definitely like to know, so I can take a photograph of the last person in line.

I don't know where else to go with this, but let's try a little harder.

25 Hip-Hop Albums to Hear Before You Die

2010-01-26T22:12:00.005-05:00

Sorry, folks, but this is just the list. I've been working on/revising this list (on and off) since August or September, but battled with myself on how to execute it, or just flat-out got distracted and set it aside.

What I plan on doing sooner or later (hopefully sooner) is to do an extended version of the list, by writing small blurbs about each album, including why I think it's special.

Let me just say before giving you the goods, that this list in no way reflects my opinion of the 25 greatest Hip-Hop albums of all time, although some of these titles belong there. You can feel free to agree or disagree with this all you want, as we all have our ideal group of greats. By all means, please reply and even give me your idea of what you think belongs on a list of this nature, whether it's on here or on Twitter. I will say that I am unapologetic for the list being heavily East Coast in nature, as I'm from the East. And yes, I count 2Pac as part of the East, as he is from Brooklyn, NY, was raised in Baltimore, and even talks about NY in his earlier work. All the West Coast noise he was yelling didn't really come until Death Row signed his death certificate by getting him out of jail.

Similar to my music video list, this is not the first, and it will not be the last.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Now with no further ado, I present the list in no particular order (because I'm lazy):

1. 2Pac - Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.
2. Notorious B.I.G. - Ready 2 Die
3. A Tribe Called Quest - Midnight Marauders
4. Tha Pharcyde - Bizarre Ride 2 Tha Pharcyde
5. Ice Cube - The Predator
6. Public Enemy - It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
7. Wu-Tang Clan - Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
8. Nas - Illmatic
9. KRS-ONE - Return of the Boom Bap
10. De La Soul - 3 Feet High and Rising
11. Fugees - The Score
12. Deltron 3030 - Deltron 3030
13. Common - Resurrection
14. Run DMC - Raising Hell
15. Dr. Dre - The Chronic
16. Jay-Z - Reasonable Doubt
17. Black Sheep - A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
18. Pete Rock and CL Smooth - Mecca and the Soul Brother
19. Mos Def - Black on Both Sides
20. Kanye West - Late Registration
21. El-P - Fantastic Damage
22. Camp Lo - Uptown Saturday Night
23. Gang Starr - Moment of Truth
24. Outkast - ATLiens
25. Eric B. and Rakim - Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em

It's Almost Here

2010-01-20T19:45:00.003-05:00

I've been on a ridiculous hiatus. In November I spent time with my extended family for Thanksgiving, ran off to Minneapolis for the third time in one year in December for the Doomtree Blowout V, ran back to spend time with my extended family for Christmas, dipped to Virginia and DC, hit Maryland, and came back home. New Years I kept things pretty low (as always), but my stress levels went through the roof with my job, so needless to say, blogging wasn't even a consideration as far as priorities go.

It's now January, and I was working on a "Before You Die" list back in August/September that never saw the light of day. It's a list of 25 items that I was planning on doing a small write-up for each one, but my attention goes in whatever direction the wind is blowing. I'm sorry.

Like I said, I've been working on it again, because for one, it needs to get finished, but also, I want it to be tiiight...! I'm really digging this thing, and I can't wait to share it with others. Maybe people will benefit from my suggestions.

Please remain patient.

10 Music Videos to See Before You Die

2009-11-05T20:55:00.003-05:00

This is a list of some of my favorite music videos of all time. There is some amazing media out there, but it's a tough call, and ultimately it's my decision. Feel free to agree and disagree with me. With the exception of a few of these videos, most of them are pushing 5+ minutes. For the Prodigy video, you must sign into Daily Motion due to the video's explicit content.

Please enjoy!

1. Michael Jackson - Thriller
2. Pearl Jam - Jeremy
3. Prodigy - Smack My Bitch Up
4. Nine Inch Nails - Closer
5. Justice - Stress
6. Jamiroquai - Virtual Insanity
7. Portishead - To Kill a Dead Man
8. Aphex Twin - Windowlicker
9. Busta Rhymes - Dangerous
10. Madonna - Bedtime Story

Before You Die

2009-11-05T20:53:00.002-05:00

I'm starting a few lists of things I think people should experience before their time is up. I'm not sure how many of these lists I'll do exactly, but one will be posted very soon, while the other is rather demanding of my attention (which I haven't been willing to lend).

Stay tuned.

I'm Baaack!

2009-11-02T19:23:00.002-05:00

Hey readers. I've been absent from posting for quite some time now. I have some things that I'm working on that I know some of you will enjoy, but I'm slacking on getting them done. In the meantime, read my previous post (that I literally just posted within the past five minutes of writing this one) here.

The Niggy Tardust Experience - Philadelphia, PA

2009-11-02T13:47:00.005-05:00

Afro-Punk started as a documentary lived by James Spooner, in which he toured across America looking for people like him — people of color with an admiration for Punk Rock.

Accompanying the DVD release of Afro-Punk was a music compilation, comprised of artists and bands who are viewed as "Black/African American". Six years later, with an overhauled website, a community of thousands, hundreds of artist, four annual festivals deep, and a nationwide tour headlined by Black Stacey, Saul Williams, enter Afro-Punk.

The City of Philadelphia was wet and slightly chilly, but inside the Theatre of the Living Arts the temperature was warm, and the air was electric. Arriving early and walking through the venue, the merch booth was setup and ready to go, a large canvas and bags of paint were off to the right side of the stage in the crowd area, Cx Kidtronik was casually walking about, and a DJ held down the stage, mixing sounds of Hip-Hop, Jungle, and Rock while concert goers patiently awaited the start of the evening.

Everyone but the B-boys, that is. If the party won't start, start your own party. For as long as the grooves were spinning, these guys were the center of attention with their twists, kicks, and jumps. The crowd looked upon the troupe, hands clapping and smiles on their faces, but there was still more to come.

Tchaka Diallo aka Kiko of Krak Attack came out to host the show and introduce the first group — from Houston, TX, American Fangs.

A banner adorned the stage, reminiscent of the Rocky Horror Picture Show logo, the drummer was already on his stool banging away while the rest of the band walked out. AF plays with a need for attention. The energy flows through every member as they make their way around the stage, singing in unison, jumping on monitors, and spitting on the floor. Who can stand still? The drumming will force goers to bounce and nod, while the licks and melodies will cause everyone to let go and enjoy themselves. When frontman, Gus walks on in a light gray shirt, but his shirt looks like it's charcoal gray when he leaves, you have to know that he gave it his all. American Fangs were the standouts of the evening.

Diallo took the stage once again to introduce a new aspect to the show — flatland BMX riders! Jeff and Cooly had the audience in amazement. Tricks landed or not, there was nothing but respect.

The next act came out of Philadelphia, PA. Originally billed as Black Landlord, but for whatever reason, they weren't present, which is unfortunate, because I was looking forward to seeing them perform again. A new band by the name of West Vienna took their place instead. Something about these guys seemed very familiar, and maybe it was because West Vienna is actually Phil Moore Browne! Even though a member or two has been replaced, the feeling was relative. Whether you call them Phil Moore Browne, or you call them West Vienna, both bands are an act you need to see to truly appreciate. WV is not as rowdy as PMB, but they are fun to watch. Punk is alive in Philly, and its name is West Vienna!

Once again, Jeff and Cooly came out to battle. Meanwhile, the painting was coming along nicely.

Rushing back to the stage to see the next act, Saul Williams was seen walking back and forth off to the side. Suddenly, with makeup on his face and feathers in his hair, there he was on a bike. "My band doesn't know I'm down here," he said. Saul had a little chit-chat with the crowd until his band came out in support. The group consisted of a guitar player, a keyboard player, and Cx Kidtronik on an MPC. Niggy Tardust was at the forefront of the stage spouting off his list of poetic, musical, and cultural influences. Amethyst Rockstar was absent, but doing songs from his self titled album, as well as The Inevitable Rise and Liberation of Niggy Tardust, his daughter, Saturn joined him on stage for a few songs, grabbing the microphone from Cx Kidtronik, flailing about in a dance party fashion with her father. The TLA was in full party mode with Williams on stage. If there was any downside to the set, it was that Saul did not perform Act III, Scene II (Shakespeare). Covered in sweat with feathers from his 'do laying scattered on the stage floor, Niggy Tardust has left the building.

The night closed out with Krak Attack performing a few songs. They probably would have fared better, had they gone on before Saul Williams, because a sizeable portion of the audience vacated when Williams left the stage. Krak Attack definitely has the kind of music to give people a reason to act foolishly and cut loose, but the timing was off for that night.

With the concert all wrapped up, it would be a great disservice to call it a show. It was an experience!

Thanks to all involved for a great time!

Full Circle

2009-09-08T21:31:00.005-04:00

These are some crazy times. The music industry is trying to run my pockets, there's a lot to do at the office, and the art world is calling my name.

From September 30 through October 15, the New Wilmington Art Association will be exhibiting it's next group show titled, Eclosion. This show will actually overlap with the City of Wilmington's sponsored art event, Fringe Festival. The NWAA has taken the helm, and will be installing the work of roughly 12 local artists, in addition to our own talent for Fringe.

Full Circle is my latest work, made specifically for the aforementioned events. The officers of the NWAA have deemed "transformation" as the theme of our upcoming show. This is my way of expressing transformation. It's merely a statement of theology and science—not to be confused with science versus religion.

The lotus (theology) represents life that comes from undesirable circumstances, as lotuses can be found in swamps and muck, but grow to be beautiful flowers. The sunburst (science) in the background is an allusion to the death of a star/big bang, which in turn brings about the start of more life.

That's my simple explanation in a nutshell. It had to be about something, right?

Enjoy

Sneaker Pimps - Philadelphia

2009-08-09T13:07:00.011-04:00

August 8, 2009 in Philadelphia, PA saw the arrival of the Sneaker Pimps, the touring sneaker and Hip-Hop show. I checked it out upon Jon Jon's suggestion. Sneakers are cool, Hip-Hop is great, and I love Philly! Can't lose, right?

It was a recipe for a great evening, as I ran into a handful of people I knew, but didn't know were going. The music was good, but with as many acts as there were performing, each person/group took the stage for about three songs, then made way for the next performer. I didn't have too much of an issue with this, as it allowed for club goers to be exposed to numerous artists without having to sit through 20-30 minute sets if they didn't like the music.

Here's my gripe though: rappers and DJs talk too much. It's one thing to have prepared statements as part of your set, but it's completely different to just sit up on stage rambling on and on about things nobody cares about. The main problem was performers yelling at the crowd for not being into it enough. Biggest offender of that? Elixer and Dice Raw's DJ. Yes, we're in Philly and Dice Raw is from Philly. Yes, Dice Raw has performed with The Roots. No, Dice Raw is not in The Roots. No, The Roots were not in the building. I have a little bit of an issue with people who name-drop in order to hype themselves. But let me state that Dice Raw said he's not a fan of talking, he just wanted to do the show. His DJ was making all the noise.

Here's a kernel of knowledge for all performing artists: if the crowd has no idea who you are, or they didn't show up to see you specifically, don't be surprised if they just watch you and don't "party". If anything, you should be grateful people are watching you.

Despite that, once The Clipse came on, the venue errupted! The brothers interacted with the crowd, shook some hands, threw items out, and had everyone eating out the palms of their hands. The duo played cuts from their previous offerings, including "What Happened to that Boy", a song they were featured on. During the set, they were joined on stage by Philly's own, Ab Liva, and finished out the evening by performing, "Kinda Like a Big Deal". Philly showed The Clipse some love, and The Clipse showed it right back.

A couple of my friends got to meet The Clipse after winning a Verizon Wireless texting battle, but after the show we all met Ab Liva. He's about 5,000 feet tall, but he's a really nice guy. Big ups to him for shaking hands and taking pictures.

Next stop, Minneapolis, MN!

Other standout performers of the evening:

Joya Bravo - Brooklynite who sings, raps, and plays the violin!
Phil Ade - A member of the 368 Music Group. Definitely got the crowd going.
J. Cole - Newest artist on Jay-Z's Roc Nation. People seemed surprised, but his live show is nice, and a lot of people knew his lyrics.

Chirp!...I Mean...Tweet!

2009-07-28T17:45:00.002-04:00

I feel like a whore for doing this, but whatever.

I gave in to Twitter last week and joined.

Follow me here.

NWAA Group Exhibition (Closing) 7.23.09

2009-07-21T00:38:00.003-04:00

The NWAA July group exhibition is coming to a close this Thursday, July 23. If you haven't been able to check it out the first time around (like me, not counting the group install), swing on by to see what we're workin' with.

The fam will most definitely be in the building!

NWAA Group Exhibition (Closing)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
605 N Market St
Wilmington, DE 19801
(Above Villa)

Who knows, you might show up alone, but leave with somebody.

Afro-Celt

2009-07-19T17:35:00.002-04:00

Snoop dog. I didn't spell it wrong, I was being nosey. I came across something interesting in my travels. There are some good points made in this article, and after reading this, it would be nice if everybody knew about it. It probably won't change Black and White relations, but maybe common ground will bring about a sense of empathy.

White Slavery

Never Better

2009-07-16T23:27:00.004-04:00

I'm back to promoting the homie P.O.S. with a couple new videos. It may have been mentioned before that back in December, in order to push the release of Never Better, P.O.S. shot six videos in a week before heading out on the road with his band, Building Better Bombs.

Up until July 13, videos for Drumroll, Goodbye, and Optimist were the only videos out. Now the world has been blessed with the release of Purexed. There may be one or two more on the way. I don't have the full details on that part.

On another note, Cinemax interviewed P.O.S. during Soundset 09 to get his thoughts on...well, everything concerning what he does, how he does it, and why he does it the way he does.

My standard response at Warped Tour: No, I'm not P.O.S.

And, yes that's me in the video.

Go support P.O.S. on the road while he runs Warped Tour.

P.S. Doomtree has launched their new site. Go check it out!

Victory

2009-07-12T22:38:00.002-04:00

Sigh...I meant to have this piece done somewhere between mid to late last year. Then I meant to have it done by time the inauguration hit. Ho hum, I dropped the ball on this one, but it's complete now, and no longer haunting me.

I apologize for the lighting being so bad, and the quality of the photo being so poor. I took the snapshot with my phone while the piece was hanging up at the NWAA group exhibition, which closes July 23, 2009.

I'm relieved it's over now, but I'm truly sorry for making everyone wait so long.

This is spray paint on canvas, for those interested. It's all stenciled, with the exception of some line work I did on the face.

Paper Chase

2009-07-10T01:00:00.004-04:00

The art crew that I've been a part of for the past year has gotten a little more recognition recently. With our first huge group exhibition in a year, a webzine known as The Papermachine has done a little write-up about the NWAA.

It's not exactly a full-fledged interview, and none of our 71 members really get any shine, but it's publicity, right?

Our show will be running through July 23 with a closing reception running from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm that evening.

NWAA Group Exhibition 7.3.09

2009-06-30T18:13:00.012-04:00

New Wilmington Art Association returns to the Wilmington Art Loop in July with a massive group exhibition of artwork. The show will be on view from July 3rd to July 25th on the second floor of 605 N Market Street. The space is directly above Sneaker Villa, and right across the street from the Delaware College of Art & Design.

The opening reception will be held on Friday, July 3rd from 6:30 to 9:30pm. M. Snail from Plaxico Records will be performing with Sic Vibe a.k.a. Sicilian Vibration at 8pm.

http://paxicorecords.com/artists/m.snail.html

http://paxicorecords.com/artists/sicilianvibration.html

http://www.myspace.com/sicilianvibration

For those of you who will be out of town this weekend, fret not, for there will be a closing reception on Thursday, July 23rd from 6:30 to 9:30pm.

For Whom the Bell Tolls

2009-06-27T15:33:00.004-04:00

I already did the Michael Jackson R.I.P. post, but it doesn't seem to be enough at the moment. MJ is all over the internet, television, and radio right now, due to his recent, sudden, and most certainly unexpected passing, but not everything we hear or see is positive. I'm not shining a light on the turmoils of Michael's life, and I really would never want to. There are those more qualified to do so, and at some point they probably will. However, while the general populace celebrates and mourns simultaneously the life and career of the greatest entertainer that ever lived (in my personal opinion), some want to talk about the entire story right now.

Look, I'm not saying that we should turn a blind eye to the things Michael Jackson has done/allegedly done over the years, but being that he left us so abruptly, right now is the time to honor the man, not tear him down. The sad thing is, some can't wait to bring his demons to the forefront. But hey, that's just the way it works, right?

With this, I'm reminded that yes, this is the way it works. When you're famous and you pass, people want to put the full story on the front page. Let's not depict a fairytale world where this being has done no wrong, but instead, let's show them all the full Monty, so there's nothing to hide and no guessing work to be done later.

What really pushed me to do this was a visit to Jon Jon's blog, Sound Verité, in which Jon Jon posted his own tribute to the late MJ. One of the pieces on there was a video of a James Brown concert from 1983, in which James pulls MJ out of the audience to perform on stage, then MJ pulls Prince up to do the same. Epic? You betcha! Immediately after watching that clip, I watched a clip from a BET awards show where Brown was performing, and Jackson surprised him on stage. Once again, Michael did a little impromptu hustle.

Why the mention of these events? It's quite simple really. When James Brown passed, there were those who mourned the loss of the Godfather of Soul, and there were those who felt the only thing worthy of discussing as far as James Brown was concerned, were his problems over the years. Now they're doing the same thing to Michael Jackson. Will it happen to Prince? It's quite possible.

I just hope things don't get too out of hand.

R.I.P. Michael Jackson 8.29.1958 - 6.25.2009

2009-06-26T20:32:00.005-04:00

One of the world's most iconic, influential figures has moved on. Let's remember him for all the good he did before he left.

Gone Too Soon

The Verdict

2009-06-24T23:12:00.005-04:00

Refer back to this post to see what I had to say prior to viewing TRotF.

A few weeks back when I heard Fandango.com placed the tickets for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen up for sale on their site, I acted with haste in securing my seats for the nationwide premier. Since then, slowly but surely, the reviews and ratings was making their way in. Most of them were quite unfavorable on the the new Bay film.

Last evening was the first chance to see Transformers if you're not a Hollywood A-lister, and the fans came out in droves, displaying their allegiance proudly on hats, hoodies, t-shirts, etc (I'm not exception). Naturally, like many midnight premiers, the environment was full of angst and ready to blow. After all, Transformers fans have been waiting for this sequel since seeing Starscream fly back into space after the defeat of Megatron in the franchise's first iteration.

This isn't a review, but really just me saying, despite the general consensus, I loved Revenge of the Fallen! I can understand why some people don't like it, or others aren't completely satisfied, but as I stated previously, let yourself go. Revert back to your childhood and ask yourself how much character development and plot matters. I didn't make up stories. My toys transformed and fought one another. That's all that mattered then, and it's all that matters to me now.

I went back to torture myself with more Rotten Tomatoes reviews, and I came across this reply to a review:

Adam A. writes:
on Jun 24 2009 07:48 PM

This is the point where I'm grateful to have a little perspective. I can appreciate great movies, but I'm not too pretentious to have fun.

It's a movie about giant fighting robots, based on a poorly animated 1980's cartoon with no purpose than to sell toys. I can't imagine what you haters were expecting.

Agreed.

I F*cking Hate Rappers

2009-06-23T21:12:00.002-04:00

Yeah, you heard me. If you've ever been to my MySpace page then you've probably seen my default image that states, Rappers are Snitches. If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. I'm not a follower of the Stop Snitchin' train, but rappers are hypocrites to the fullest. They point the finger, point the finger, point the finger, but then they turn around and do exactly what they're accusing others of being guilty of.

So if you're anything like me, PackFM of QN5 and Extended Famm, Masta Ace, Poison Pen, Sadat X, and many others, then you fucking hate rappers too! Check the videos and join the movement.

Don't Fight It

2009-06-21T12:20:00.003-04:00

Maybe it's the fanboy in me. No, it is the fanboy in me. Like most power players out right now, I'm a Reagan Baby. Yes, the '80s have come to inherit the earth. In the next 10 to 20 years, the kids born in the '90s will have the thrown. In any case, everything from the '80s is a golden ticket.

Fashion has come back, and now everything from live-action television shows, movies, and cartoons from the time period have progressed from mere references to being reworked for "modern" audiences. I'm sorry, but it wasn't that long ago. However you look at it, I'm not upset. I run on pure, unfiltered nostalgia.

Thundercats, He-Man, Voltron, G.I. Joe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, etc. are all in the works. A few of the previously mentioned titles have already seen reincarnations, but there's still more to come. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen will be released in a few days, and I couldn't help but to be curious as to what the very particular people at Rotten Tomatoes had to say about it. Clearly, they're a bunch of haters. It's too long, coming in at 2 1/2 hours! There's too many explosions! Where's the creativity? Blah blah blah.

You see, Transformers is a movie based on a cartoon, comic book, and toy line from Hasbro. It was created for little boys with imaginations, not so much for adults hell-bent on criticizing the dreams and imaginations of others. I loved the first Michael Bay rendition, and even if this new installment is more of the same thing, it's exactly what it's supposed to be. For the love of (insert your god here), it's a film based on a toy line! If you're looking for Citizen Kane, then stay home and watch TMC. I'm just glad to see the diecast and plastic figures I played with as a child do all the things I used to pretend they did.

I guess I'll have my definitive answer come Wednesday morning. I'll be the guy in the office too tired to work, who also forgot to change out of his Decepticon t-shirt into his work clothes.

Twin Cities Week

2009-06-20T19:15:00.004-04:00

Minneapolis/St. Paul. It's come up a few times here on this blog. People close to me know I have a chubby for the Twin. Really, it's Mpls, because I've only spent a couple hours in St. Paul, and that was to eat at one of the best burger joints in the world.

Minneapolis is a great place to hang out and chill. Everybody out there hates snow as much as people in the UK hate rain. I don't know why everybody's crying, because I love the snow and the rain! What really grabbed my attention about the TC was the music/arts/entertainment scene out there. During my first hoo-rah back in December I visited MCAD to see what they're about. That has to be one of the best art schools I've ever seen in my life. It made me want to go back to school...there, of course. But all in all, the music is phenomenal. Prince is great, but we're in the 2000s here! It's all about Hip-Hop right now.

The group Atmosphere has done so much in terms of promoting their city. Each album is littered with references of their hometown, but also outright name-drops. Add a good portion of the Rhymesayers Entertainment roster, along with the Doomtree collective and you've got the North Star confederacy. Let me clarify. People in the South are very "patriotic", and the people of Minneapolis will defend their territory to the death. It's not about America, it's about where they lay their heads first and foremost.

Beyond the tangents, on May 24, 2009, RSE put on Soundset 2009 in Shakopee, MN. It was the follow-up to last year's Soundset 2008, held at the Metrodome parking lot. The first event garnered so much attention that this year things ballooned, with interest coming in from MTV (it really helps that they're all over. P.OS. right now, and Atmosphere just last year).

MTV decided to run what they titled, Twin Cities Week on MTV2. Artists such as P.O.S., Mike Mictlan of Doomtree, Slug of Atmosphere, Toki Wright, and Brother Ali of RSE were all interviewed by the station to show it's viewers what their scene, music, and lives are all about. The artists spent some time online hyping up Twin Cities Week, understandably so, to let their fans know to keep an eye out for them.

Look, I know how this works, and it played out exactly how I knew it would. MTV does not do true features on artists. Instead, they force people to sit and watch their lifeless programming in anguish in order to see what you're truly after. These guys' segments were played during commercial breaks and in between shows with 10 minutes of mindless waste preceding and succeeding it. Needless to say, I couldn't bring myself to be turned into a troll by the one-time cutting edge music station. The people I was looking out for are great artists and nice people, and I enjoy supporting them. However, I wasn't up for it on this go 'round. The Twin Cities Week link above will give you a small taste of some of the coverage, but it's definitely not everything they did. So the next time you hear that your favorite artist(s) is/are being featured on MTV, don't put yourself through the agony. Just pretend you never heard anything. Seriously.

MTV, what did I ever do to you?

Hit the Blue Note

2009-06-16T23:17:00.002-04:00

There's a little slack in my pimpin'. I've posted some recent events over on MySpace, but I've sort of neglected this gig for a little bit. I'm still dropping in on others' blogs, but mine has received little to no attention.

The Greek Festival here in Wilmington wrapped up a couple weeks ago at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, with a Saturday date since that Friday was rained out. It was a fun time to be had by all. Lots of food, family, friends, and well...Greek people.

St. Anthony's Italian Festival just came to a close this past Sunday with Vice President Joe Biden in attendance. Why was he here? Because he's from here, and unlike all the other "important" people in the world, Biden isn't a deserter.

Moving along. Due to my tardiness, we're now two days into the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival. This is an annual, week-long music festival to honor the late Clifford Brown, held here in downtown Wilmington, DE. It's free, for all ages, and hosts some of the most talented acts around. Last year brought George Duke and David Sanborn to the stage in Rodney Square. If you weren't there, you weren't doing anything. This year's main attraction for the festival is Kem. In addition to all the great music are various food offerings, as well as art sales, live art demos, and other amazing items to pick up for yourself or someone special.

The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival will conclude Sunday, June 21, 2009.

MGMT - Kids

2009-06-04T10:15:00.004-04:00

The band MGMT has released their latest video last night for the song Kids. I don’t know much about MGMT, but I checked out a few songs of theirs to get acclimated. Honestly, I can’t say that I’m into it, but I don’t not like it. Get it?

Anyway…my good friend, Henry Thurlow did the animation for this video (around the 4:50 mark). If the work reminds you of the Adult Swim show Superjail, well it’s because Henry and the other animator involved also worked on that show. See how that works?

Think Little Monsters with Fred and Ben Savage, meets The Beatles' Yellow Submarine. Terrifying, then tripped-out...but still terrifying.

Eat it up, digest it, and spread the word. You’ll like it.

You Like?

2009-05-19T00:03:00.005-04:00

Do you like free stuff? Yeah, me too. So does a good number of people in the Indie Hip-Hop scene.

Previously mentioned, FranzDiego.com of Illuminous 3 and Listen to MPLS has blessed the world with another FREE release before his full-length album drops this summer. The Quick and Dirty Mixtape. You like? You will.

On another front, those kids you wish you could be, wish you could have been, or even wish were your friends have dropped another freebie. That seems to be their M.O. The Cool Kids have a new FREE summer release with Gone Fishing. If you're familiar with Totally Flossed Out EP, That's Stupid Mixtape, and The Bake Sale, then this is for you. However, this offering serves up less party joints and is a little more on chill mode.

Finally, New York's favorite dysfunctional Jukie, Cage has a new EP out for -- you guessed it -- FREE! It's titled, I Never Knew You, and it's preceding the upcoming full-length album, Depart From Me, due out July 7, 2009. The only downside is that it's on MTV's Subterranean site (I hate MTV with a burning passion).

Enjoy.

You Don't Belong Here

2009-05-03T00:05:00.007-04:00

Familiar with the story of Luis Ramirez? He was an undocumented Mexican immigrant living and working in Shanedoa, PA. Last July, he was walking down the street with a friend when a group of teens verbally assaulted him...then physically assaulted him, ending his life two days later.

The trial for the offenses recently took place, with two of the young men being tried for third degree murder. The verdict? NOT GUILTY.

There you have it folks. You're justice system hard at work. Protect one of your own, and damn anyone else. The man was an undocumented immigrant right? Why should we care what happens to him? Maybe because he had a wife and children, or for the simple fact that he two was a human being.

Naturally, the defense says that there wasn't enough evidence to support that the boys had actually killed the man. They were charged with simple assault, but the full story on CNN tells you why that's both heinous and absurd.

This story couldn't come at a better time. It helps support a cause that has been brought to light recently at Obey Giant. Head over to read a couple statements by Shepard Fairey and Zack de la Rocha. Then stop shrugging your shoulders and do something. Act like you give a damn. That's a healthy start.

What's even funnier (that's read: sick), is on May 5, also known as Cinco de Mayo, a bunch of people who don't care or want the immigrants to "go home", will be celebrating festivities they don't even understand.

Got Brains?

2009-04-23T10:50:00.003-04:00

Last week a student came into my office to ask a few staff members for support. She's participating in the Race for Hope in Washington, D.C., which is a walk/run that raises money for the continued research of a cure for brain tumors.

The student, Jamie Bartholomay, is taking part in this event in honor of her father who passed away due to a brain tumor.

I opted to help Jamie simply because it's a worthy cause to promote and support, not so much because my family has a history of dying from cancer (not brain cancer though).

She has met her initial goal of $500, and has since then moved up to a goal of $800. I'm posting this not just to shed light on it, but also to drum up support for Jamie. She's a good person, doing a great thing for someone she loves. My aim is to have anyone who reads this find it within themselves to give anything they can, even if it's $5.

Times are tough, but nothing is tougher than death.

One love

Welcome Back

2009-04-22T23:38:00.002-04:00

The good folks over at Listen to MPLS are back in full swing with Season 2 Ep. 31! It's been a long time coming. Head over and peep it, because they love the love. I think I plugged it before, but I'm plugging it again.

Enjoy

It Can Only Get Better

2009-04-22T23:01:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Glen E. Friedman over at WHAT THE FUCK HAVE YOU DONE? for posting this video.

This clip demonstrates the "power" of religion. When a baby talks and people listen...something's up.

Truthfully though, all I heard was, "SATAN, SATAN, SATAN, SATAN, SATAN!" Lovable little tyke.

Berserker Barrage

2009-04-18T15:09:00.006-04:00

I've been meaning to post about this for about a week now, but I kept forgetting.

Exactly a week ago I was house sitting for someone, and in their collection of entertainment was X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Now, let me just preface this with my relationship with Marvel Comics. I grew up on Marvel Comics, always preferring them to DC, until Image came along with titles like Youngblood, Savage Dragon, and Spawn, among some other things. Then at some point, Marvel started making movie adaptations of their franchise staples, such as X-Men, Spiderman, and the Fantastic Four.

The problem is/was that all of those movies are bad. There is no arguing to convince me. I don't like any of them. Spiderman flicks are weak, Fantastic Four is über campy, and X-Men is just pure drivel. Set aside the inconsistancies and the omissions, the movies are just done poorly. Out of those three series, the only sole film worth recognition is X2.

Blade was never a staple in the house that Stan built, but the first movie in the series was incredible, the second was exciting and entertaining, and the third tried too hard to follow-up on what the first two films had already done. Regardless, sometimes you have to break a few eggs to make an omlette (allow the movies to be R). Along came Iron Man and The Icredible Hulk (not Hulk), both of which were amazing to see! Did Marvel get their mojo back?

Hardly. The whole purpose of Wolverine is that the character is a fan favorite. People love Hugh Jackman as the Canadian beast. The problem is, Marvel took a film I initially didn't want anything to do with, to almost making it look convincing to me, to me losing interest again, to me seeing it and coming to a final verdict.

Wolverine is a big, hot, steaming pile of elephant dung! I know, I know! You really want to see it! I'm not telling anyone not to see it (although I really am), but what I am saying is that nobody, and I mean nobody, should spend....no...waste $10 to see this film! Like any movie, some things in it work, but the majority fails to live up to anything worth a fan's excitment. Nevermind that the leaked version was incomplete. The unfininshed scenes and cables showing on the actors does nothing to take away from the experience. If anything, it adds flavor a pot of vegan gumbo. The acting in this film is fine, but the storyline is extremely flawed, among other things comic book fans may find troubling (I'm looking in your direction, Deadpool).

If you decide to waste your time, stay for the credits to get a hint for a sequel.

Ugh...

That's What I Been Sayin'!

2009-03-31T23:22:00.002-04:00

There CNN goes again digging around in my head. Years ago I was screaming about celebrities (Angelina Jolie and Madonna) adopting children from foreign nations. Look, I don't have beef with children from other countries being adopted, but what I do have an issue with is the fact that there are so many children here in America in need of a loving home that doesn't consist of 15 other kids ready to pummel on them because they're the runt in the litter. In the words of Joker from Next Friday, "Charity starts in la casa!" I couldn't agree more.

Read Roland Martin's words here.

Thanks

Need a Fix?

2009-03-24T20:05:00.006-04:00

In my typical fashion, I was reading CNN.com today to see what the skinny was in the world (that's read: America), and I came across a couple interesting things. No, I'm not referring to the Larry King Live Megan McCain interview transcripts. I'm referring to a proposal that has been made, not for the very first time ever, but nonetheless one CNN actually ran. How exhilarating!

Let's preface the point with this story.
President Obama wants to up the security along the U.S./Mexico border to help prevent the spillover of drug violence in Mexico onto U.S. soil. What that really means is, "That's your problem, not mine. Keep it over there." However, economist Jeff Miron has a plan that may help to alleviate drug-related violence, as well as corruption, extortion, bribery, and needless arrests. In two words: legalize it. "It" does not solely pertain to marijuana, because marijuana is the least of anyone's worries. It's things like heroine, opium, and cocaine.

So what do you think? Do we need more security, or do we need to just let people do what they want to do. Read Miron's article before replying. He has many valid points, such as his reminder to all of us about the Alcohol Prohibition from 1920 - 1933. It makes perfect sense. I'm not saying I'm all in favor of junkies walking around the streets high as a kite all the time, but it would be nice to see the violence drop, not just here in America, but all over the world. If we solve this crisis, maybe we can all sit down and share some stories over a beer.

WHOOP! WHOOP!

2009-03-12T21:44:00.004-04:00

That's the sound of the police!

I was listening to RSE Radio today, and Toki Wright (recently signed to Rhymesayers Entertainment! Congrats!) was discussing something that happened recently in Seattle, when a police officer brutally beat a 15 year old girl in custody, because he claimed he was trying to prevent any further assaults from said teen. I don't need to say anymore. Instead, I'll direct you to the site, and you can watch the video for yourself.

www.PoliceBrutality.info is a site dedicated to informing the American people about the heinous acts of our police forces. They're meant to "Protect and Serve" the citizens of this nation, but for every good cop, there's a bad cop out there to overshadow his/her positive accomplishments.

Check it out. Read. Watch. React.

Rack 'Em

2009-03-01T20:05:00.003-05:00

I'll make this quick.

On Saturday, February 28, 2009, I hosted a pool tournament here at the school where I work. The brackets were setup for a total of 32 participants, but only 26 people played. A couple left for the weekend, and the rest were too lazy to come out of their rooms around or anywhere after Noon.

All in all it was a good day. The event was planned for Saturday and Sunday, but the games went by quicker than I expected, so we knocked it all out at once. The best moment had to have been as I was handing out the trophies to the final four contestants, the young man who placed 3rd was so proud of himself for what he accomplished. He had the smile of a child on his face as he looked down at the trophy in his hand and said, "Wow, I've never won a trophy before. This is my first one."

And that's part of why I do what I do. I can't get that gratification all the time, but if I can help make a difference or help someone else make a difference, then all the other headaches and stress that come with the territory are worth it.

Steady Yellin' Bangarang

2009-02-14T20:23:00.003-05:00

So far, the Never Better Tour seems to be going well (although Mike is apparently sick). Make sure to pick up Never Better, by P.O.S. This album is one that any fan of music should own. That's right, not Hip-Hop, music. Don't want to get it now? That's fine. Pick it up on the tour! To keep up with all the antics of the Doomtree crew, follow Jeff Luger's Never Better Tour photo doc on flickr.

Nothing ever gets done.

NOOO...!

2009-02-13T23:28:00.002-05:00

I really messed up this time. There was a piece I was going to make about Obama, and since I slept on it so long, somebody else used the same concept and ran with it. Now it's being mass produced on a t-shirt. I'm still going to make it, but it's no longer one of a kind. Sigh...

Food for Thought

2009-02-05T23:13:00.002-05:00

"The squeaky wheel gets the oil."
—Anonymous

Yeah, well, the barking dog gets the muzzle.

Think about it.

Just a Friendly Reminder

2009-01-30T21:04:00.011-05:00

I Shot a Warhol's Quarter-Century Birthday Bash!

Never Better Tour
featuring:
P.O.S.
DJ Plain Ole Bill
Sims
Mike Mictlan + Lazerbeak = Hand Over Fist

Friday, February 20, 2009

Rock & Roll Hotel
1353 H St. NE
Washington, D.C. 20002

10 pm Doors/10:30 pm Show
$10 Adv/$12 DoS

Join me for a birthday celebration, along with good friends, the good people of D.C., and members of Minnesota's Doomtree!

And don't forget to pick up P.O.S.' new album, Never Better, coming Tuesday, February 3, 2009, on Rhymesayers Entertainment/Doomtree Records.

Drumroll, Take Two!

2009-01-30T12:48:00.002-05:00

This is the same video posted as before, but it's more accessible and uncensored, thanks to its uploading to YouTube.

P.O.S. - Drumroll (We're All Thirsty)

2009-01-28T14:42:00.003-05:00

This is the first video released for the upcoming P.O.S. release, Never Better on Rhymesayers Entertainment/Doomtree Records. The video was shot on-location in Minneapolis. It was a 20 degree day in MN, with snow falling as the shoot took place. Cameos include Ander Other, Abjekt, and another person you may or may not know.

Never Better releases next Tuesday, February 3, 2009. Pick it up at Best Buy, Amazon.com, Fifth Element, and iTunes.

I'm Beautiful Dammit

2009-01-26T00:05:00.004-05:00

Props goes out to Uncanny Alliance for the reference. However, that song has nothing to do with this post.

What I'm really here to discuss is how telling a person how beautiful he/she is in regards to their work is more of a diminishing quality, rather than a compliment.

The internet is a realm in which people from all over the world muster up the courage to say things to others that normally, they would only think to themselves, if they were to stand face to face with a certain figure. For all the women out there drooling over Hollywood dreams such as Brad Pitt, Denzel Washington, Johnny Depp, or Steve Buschemi (refer back to the title of the post), would they ever say to said man's face, "Oh my God! You're so hot!" Probably not. They might squeal, cry, or even take on a slight case of verbal paralysis, but I highly doubt that they would compliment them on their appearances.

The same goes for the male adoration of starletts. Natalie Portman is an astonishingly attractive person (even bald in V for Vendetta), but would I tell her that to her face? No. I would much rather try to have a converstation where she can say more than an uneasy, "Thank you" (read: I get that all the time, thanks for reminding me). Or what about Jessica Alba? Well...maybe all anybody can do is tell her how pretty she is, because she's not winning anything prestigious any time soon (Fantastic Four, anybody?).

These entertainers should be lauded not for their psyichal prowess, but instead for their talents. What made me think about this? It's simple, really. MySpace.

While on MySpace, I tend to stop by the page of an entertainer by the name of Dessa. Dessa is a spoken word poet, a rapper, a singer, a music instructor, and a beautiful person. Regardless of how great her work is, people can't seem to stay on topic. Instead, they tell Dessa how gorgeous she is. When praising a song of her's, "Dessa, you're so beautiful". When she posts writing samples, or links to interviews she has done, "Dessa, you take my breath away. You're such a beautiful soul". Yeah. Don't believe me, go to her page and see what the people are saying in the comments or in her blog.

I am a fan of Dessa's work. Her singing voice is both soothing and melodic. As a rapper, she can put many to shame with her abilities (she can rap in English and Spanish). And as a poet, her words are nothing short of remarkable. Needless to say, she's gifted. But for some odd reason, others can't quite figure out how to compliment her without reverting back to, "Dessa, you're so beautiful". Is it easy to see how the compliment of her physical appearance dwarfs her talents and achievements? When listening to her music, or reading her musings, Dessa's appearance is irrelevant.

Really, how do those kinds of remarks help an artist improve? Try critiquing the work. Artists need to know from their fans what material is effective, as well as what may not work for someone, and why. Parallel this situation to that of a business person. If a worker does a great job on a report, and is told, "You're so gorgeous," as opposed to, "Good job on that," I think that would be constituted as sexual harassment. If Campbell Brown were told that she is attractive after giving an important presentation, I think her response would be a fiery, "Did you pay attention to anything I just said?" No, because I was lost in your beauty. Bleh!

I just want people to think about what it is that they are truly saying, when they speak. The intention may be innocent, but it gets percieved in numerous lights by a plethora of personalities.

For the record, I have spoken to Dessa a few times, both online and in person. She is kind, highly intelligent, and more beautiful in person than in any photo found on the internet. Did I talk to her about any of this? No. There are far too man other things in the world to have conversations about. Honestly, I have no idea how she feels about any of this. As far as i'm concerned, she's just one of the guys.

I'm just saying.

FREE MUSIC!

2009-01-22T19:43:00.005-05:00

Support my homie from Minneapolis, FranzDiego.com, by copping his new EP! FranzDiego.com is a member of the Mpls, MN Hip-Hop group, Illuminous 3.

You can't go wrong with free music, right? It can't hurt. Who knows, you might become a fan.

Trust, he's dope.

Oval O

2009-01-22T09:52:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure if people are making a stink, making a big deal out of nothing, or trying to create news, but whatever the cause...when it's time to get down to business, you have to take off your coat and roll up your sleeves.

Obama gets down

Thoughts?

It Could be Worse

2009-01-18T23:29:00.002-05:00

The Arizona Cardinals wanted it more. That's all it really came down to.

Sigh...

Today (Yesterday) in Wilmington, 01-17-09

2009-01-18T14:00:00.005-05:00

Barack Obama came back to Wilmington on his Whistle-stop Train Tour. As the whole world knows, he started his journey in Philadelphia (GO EAGLES!), en route to Washinton, D.C., in order to retrace the steps of Abraham Lincoln. The stops on the trip included Philadelphia, PA, Wilmington, DE, Edgewood, MD, Baltimore, MD, then comes to a hault in Washington, D.C.

With police and secret service intact, roads closed, and a prohibition of just about anything and everything on the park grounds, Obama stepped off the train, down to ground level with the people, and spoke for about 15 minutes, before boarding the train for his next stop.

Originally, I told myself (and others) that I wasn't going, but why skip out on this journey when I only live five blocks away? Last February Obama gave a speech in Rodney Square in front of approximately 20,000 people, so it was only fitting that he return to give thanks.

You're welcome.

Another One Bites the Dust

2009-01-11T20:24:00.004-05:00

I will go to war any day, in any town, with this crew right here, in the National Football League!

—Andy Reid, Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach

Oh, you didn't know? 23 - 11. Nuff said.

Remember the Pigeons

2009-01-02T17:47:00.004-05:00

Recall the clay pigeon I mentioned before? The clay pigeon with the brand name, AirTran? Well, it's back, and it's pissing more people off. If you haven't heard, read this story here:

AirTran Doesn't Care about Muslim People

I had my own problems with AirTran already, but c'mon!

Social injustice is so 2001.

Here's the Truth

2008-12-29T22:49:00.003-05:00

I was going to make a flyer, and there's still plenty of time, but why bother?

I Shot a Warhol Quarter-Century Birthday Bash aka Never Better Tour
Friday, February 20, 2009
Rock & Roll Hotel
1353 H Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002

Performances by:

P.O.S.
Sims
Mike Mictlan + Lazerbeak are Hand Over Fist

$10 in advance/$12 at the door

Come celebrate my quarter-century mark with me, while partying with the guys of Minneapolis, Minnesota's Doomtree! I'm going to have a blast by default. It'll probably be the best time of your life, so start saving your money to get through the door, get your train/plane tickets, taxi/bus/Metro fare, and hotel accomodations.

Hold Me

2008-12-24T14:53:00.005-05:00

Hold Me is a custom made longboard fabricated by the father of a friend, who made this deck specifically for another friend of mine.

Once my buddy got his hands on the board, he opted, rather than put grip tape on it for control, that he would place artificial turf on it, because he rides barefoot.

He was happy with the board up until that point, and this is where I come in. He asked me to lace his longboard with a graphic, and naturally I accepted the request.

What kind of imagery fits with artificial turf? I'm not entirely sure, but I didn't want anything that screamed, Obvious!

I struggled for months (yes, months) with an image to stencil on this board, but being that it's Christmas, I figured now is the best time to get crackin' on this piece. Mental revision after mental revision was made, but here we are. Low and behold, when pandas attack! Hold me!

Loyalty

2008-12-24T10:29:00.004-05:00

Loyalty is a stencil piece that I did for a charity event earlier in the year called Barkitecture. Without getting into too many specifics about the event, it raises money through selling art, in order to benefit the Faithful Friends no-kill animal shelter here in Wilmington. So, it was for a good cause.

Out of all the dogs and cats on the planet, I went with Lassie. Why? Why Lassie? My question to you would be, why not Lassie?

When I think of loyal pets, I think of Lassie, in all of her splendor, attempting great feats of courage, strength, and loyalty. I view Scots as being the same way (or at least the few that I've met and know). The breed of dog is a rough collie, which originated in Scotland, hence the tartan.

The tartan is not made from a pattern I happened to dream up. In fact, the tartan is based on that of the Scottish royal guard.

Everything on the canvas is stenciled or was taped off, with the exception of the overlapping blue stripes. That part I'm not giving away, but nothing on there is free-hand, or crafted with a brush. Even the script in the lower left-hand corner is stenciled.

This is something I wish I still had, but I'm glad it was able to help the animals a little bit.

Never Got Above 25 Degrees

2008-12-22T01:13:00.003-05:00

I meant to post on this a couple weeks ago—with pictures—but I ended up not really documenting it too well. Therefore, this is what I have.

I went to Minneapolis during the first week of December for a huge concert known as the Doomtree Blowout IV. The group Doomtree has made the Blowout an annual show, and this year was the fourth iteration of it, held at First Avenue (as made famous in the movie, Purple Rain).

The night before was the Happy Holidays Tour at the 7th St. Entry (a part of First Ave.), put on by Black Clover Records.

Both shows were fun, but the Blowout was absolute insanity! Just pure bananas!

That Sunday was a lot of sitting around, and Monday...well, I'll talk about that Monday when the day comes.

For the most part, I want to thank everyone who made my trip so great. So shout out to Plain Ole Bill, all of Doomtree, Mac Lethal, Alicia Steele, Noam the Drummer, FranzDiego.com, and all the folks over at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.

And yeah, it was cold, but so what. I was born in the winter, I'm not phased by it.

This is the BIG One

2008-12-20T23:02:00.001-05:00

I Shot a Warhol's Quarter-Century Birthday Bash

Friday, February 20, 2009

More details to come!

Thank You, Kind Sir

2008-12-16T19:03:00.002-05:00

I sit here in my apartment on my couch, taking part in my daily ritual of vegetating on my couch while watching The Simpsons in syndication. Anyone who's seen the show knows that it's one of the greatest series to ever grace the television.

Now, many people who have had meaningful conversations with me know where I stand when it comes to domestic and foreign relations. Essentially, I feel that, "charity starts in la casa..." With that said, I have no problem with people who attempt to aid others in foreign nations, but there are so many here in our land who need our help just as much.

Even still, many people in some of the worst situations here in the United States of America are better off than people of many nations throughout the world. My dad told me that people in the projects here live like kings compared to people in Iraq (he's in the military). Why wouldn't I believe my father?

During a break, a commercial came on about a laptop that can be purchased and sent to children in developing nations. The laptop goes simply by, XO. The computer can be purchased for $199, then gets sent to children in countries abroad. To find out more about the device, visit www.amazon.com/xo, or stop by www.laptop.org.

Although, if the $199 price tag is a little out of your budget, you can always give the gift of a LifeStraw. I first heard about the LifeStraw during a presentation by an industrial designer, who mentioned the wonderful invention, which makes any water, no matter how dirty it is, possible to drink. How much will the LifeStraw set you back if it's peaked your interest? Well, not much at all. The water purification device will only cost those interested a mere $5, which allows for the purchase of multiple straws.

What's a few lives, right?

Shooting at Clay Pigeons

2008-12-10T20:47:00.003-05:00

Recently I took a trip to Minneapolis, MN for the Doomtree Blowout IV. The trip itself was the best time of my life, but I'll save that for another time. Another time just may be my memoirs, should I live long enough to actually have memoirs.

What this is really about is my flight to Mpls, and my flight back from Mpls.

I booked my trip through Expedia.com, and props to them for their great service, so they weren't my problem. My issue is with AirTran. I had some minor setbacks in booking my trip, but I'm not really trying to point any fingers here or there. Essentially, I unintenionally delayed my booking of the trip by about three weeks, due to the involvement of other parties. Not a single party, but a few different ones.

Rather than having a direct flight to the Twin Cities, I ended up stuck on a connecting flight. That's partially my fault, because I opted to spend less money, rather than shelling out an additional $60 or so, to which I later regretted. The flight was to take me from Philly, to Atlanta, GA, to Mpls. The return trip was the exact opposite.

I boarded the plane in Philadelphia, and as the plane was about to take off, the captain announces to all of the passangers that the ceiling has fallen in ATL, forcing us to stay put until further notice. They didn't expect the delay to be long, which is why I would have left anyway, and arrived on-time. Then again, I'm not a pilot. We finally left after I have no clue how long, and made our way down to Georgia. Reaching our destination, I made my way off the plane, but had to run from one terminal to another. On my way I stopped to look at the Arrival/Departure screen to see where I stood in the world. Apparently I stood stranded in Atlanta, because my connecting flight still left at it's scheduled departure time!

Wait a second! My flight gets delayed, because of the weather, no planes are allowed to leave ATL, or fly into ATL, yet after the weather clears up, everything is back on to it's original schedule? I'm plumf***ingconfused here! I understand that delays happen, but for passengers to be penalized for something they have no control over, is absurd!

After the AirTran personnel told me they couldn't do anything for me until the next morning, I scrambled for a way out of Atlanta, because I refused to stay in the airport overnight, mainly because I had an appointment to keep in Mpls the following morning at 10 am, not to mention I still had to check into my hotel. Making my way over to the Delta gates, as they had a flight out to Mpls within the next 20 minutes, I asked for seat availability. The associate at the desk assured me that seats were in fact available, but that I may not want one after he tells me the price. Telling him that he has no idea how desperate I am, I asked for the seat. $379.50! I'll take it. I needed to run down the terminal, hop on a phone, and book the flight with Delta.

I watched the time on the clock tick, tick, tick away, as I sat on the phone awaiting the voice of a representative to aid me in my departure from Atlanta to Minneapolis. With about three minutes to go until the flight was to depart, a voice answered and took my information. With the charges tacked on, the total now came to $399.50! This is where shelling out the extra $60 or so would have come in handy.

The Delta flight was quaint in comparison to the AirTran flight, simply because it wasn't sold out, the seats were nicer, the plane overall was nicer, and there was no sense of clostraphobia present. I had room to breathe, and no reason to feel confined by my seat, the other passangers, or even the recirculated cabin air. Rather than a 10:30 pm arrival in Mpls, I got there around 11:30 pm, and made it to my hotel around 12:30 am.

The return was once again on AirTran. They were already batting an average less than Michael Jordan's when he played for the Chicago White Sox minor league team.

There was a delay in the Twin Cities due to snowfall, so the plane needed to be de-iced before take-off. How long we waited, I'm not sure of, but we made it down south with time to spare. In a sense, I'm happy for that delay, because it kept me from goint stir crazy in the terminal. The flight to Philly is a different story.

To my left on the airplane was a family: a mother, father, son, and daughter. In front of me was another family: a mother, father, son, and baby daughter. Behind me was yet another family: a mother, father, and child who kept kicking the back of my seat. Try to guess how thrilled I was. The baby in front of me was reassuring me that it's quite okay not to have children, as did the child behind me. Every once in awhile, the fresh smell of baby poop would waft in the air, taunting me, knowing that I had no escape route.

What really got me was when the stewardesses were walking about the plane offering refreshments, everyone around was served, but I was ignored. I didn't exist in this woman's eyes. I looked straight at her as she kindly inquired about what the man and his son to my left would like to have, then brought them back to them, but still neglected to look toward the window. At first I thought families were being served before the rest of the plane, but it turns out that everyone was actually being served—just not me.

Between the neglect, the screaming/crying/pooping baby, the child kicking my chair, being pressed up against the window in an uncomfortable seat, hunger, thirst, overheating, and knowing that your breathing the same air in as all these other people, irritability sets in, and it's enough to drive a man to near meltdown.

I have always loved Philadelphia, so seeing the city from the sky, was a welcomed sight. Stepping foot off the plane was enough to make me want to kiss the ground. And I would have, should Philly not be so damn filthy.

I called AirTran to complain, and as I suspected, they told me that they weren't responsible for the weather, blah blah blah, so there's no compensation or anything else. As for the lack of service on my way to Philadelphia, they gave me a $25 voucher for my next trip with them, which is good for a year from the date of the incident.

Hooray, a whole $25 for an airline I refuse to ever do business with again. Disgruntled people suck, because they do things like this, and recommend to everyone they know not to use a particular group's services in the future. That's pretty much what I'm doing.

AirTran, you lost a customer, and potenially a lot more.

Long Overdue

2008-11-30T13:32:00.002-05:00

Did we really just elect Barack Obama as our president? Really? Barack Hussein Obama is the 44th president of the United States of America? As much as I see it on the internet and on the covers of newspapers, it’s still a little hard to believe.

I’ll try not to ramble on about this for too long, because everywhere you look there is some form of analysis regarding what just took place.

I woke up on Tuesday, November 4, 2008 with a good feeling in my heart. Figuring, “Today is the day that America names Barack Obama the next president of our country,” I walked across the street to my polling place and waited in line for about 40 minutes. After what took place that evening, the importance of that 40 minutes cannot be measured, though many will try to relay their feelings on to others.

Two beautiful things happened while I waited to vote. Both cases showed the magnitude of this election, as well as how much this day meant to so many people. The majority banded together for a common cause, feeling what was at stake, weight on our shoulders like a child during a lengthy parade. There was excitement in the air, but it was visible too.

A father stood in line with his son, who I guessed based on his looks to be just 18, and they waited patiently. The father grabbed his cell phone and began a conversation. Meanwhile, another young man walked out of the gymnasium of the school, passing the line of anticipating voters. The two men, recognizing one another, greeted each other with words and hugs. The one who was exiting the facility told the other to tag along with im, to which the father immediately whipped around and said, “No! Get back in this line! This ain’t that kind of party! Get over here, you’re voting!” The son disappointed, complied with his father, hood up and lip poked out.

The other thing that took place was a woman standing a couple spots in front of me grew weary of the wait and began to get antsy. She voiced her displeasure and made a gesture as though she was soon to leave without voting. At that moment, a volunteer looked her in the face and pleaded, “Please don’t get out of that line. Whatever you do, do not leave here without voting.” The man showed anguish and a great need for a call to action.

November 4, 2008 started off as a day of desperation for millions of Americans. The American justice system and electoral system has let so many of us down it seemed as though all hope was lost. That Tuesday was the day for all of us to prove ourselves wrong. And we did!

This past Election Day was more than electing the first African-American the president of the U.S.A. Obama’s election shows the change and progress that has taken place in this country for all people of this nation. All parents can look their children in the eyes and say to them proudly without feeling like they’re telling them a half truth, “When you grow up you can be whatever you want.”

Hope. Change. Progress. Vision. Yes we can. Yes we did.

I'm Late

2008-11-30T13:29:00.002-05:00

I have an entry written up about Obama that I did right after he won the election. I haven't posted it yet, because I've been meaning to complete this artwork to accompany it. I've been too lazy to finish the piece, so it will have to come later. I really don't want to hold on to this any longer.

Like I said, there will be some artwork coming soon enough.

Thanks.

Today in Wilmington 11-18-08

2008-11-18T21:34:00.003-05:00

Sometime in the late afternoon in Wilmington, DE it snowed for the first time this season (Fall), but hopefully not the last of the cold season (cold as in Winter, not sick). It was a beautiful day outside while it lasted.

The other thing that I have the displeasure of announcing is that Souljah Boy came downtown to Villa to do an autograph signing. Yes, the same guy that danced while rapping about finishing his business on a woman's back, then throwing a sheet on her as a cape. And your kids love it!

The block filled up with anxious girls and children, screaming and flailing their arms. The outside scene was a frenzy that I admired from a fourth story window.

Needless to say, I'm no fan, I wish he never came here, and I heard from some others that he simply signed some posters and folks were sent on their way. There was no meet and greet. No pictures with fans. Just take the signed poster and leave.

Why is he supported? Say hi to your fans, dude!

But what do I know? I'm just a hater. I wish somebody would Superman Souljah Boy. That would be priceless!

Pheeling Pheverish

2008-11-09T22:50:00.011-05:00

The City of Brotherly Love. Yeah, that’s what they call it, but to those who have ever been there, they may see it differently. Maybe not. For those in the sports world, that title couldn’t be further from the truth.

Philadelphia, the home of the Phightin’ Phils, the Iggles, Sixers, the once-known Broad Street Bullies, the Flyers, and the country’s most iconic sports figure, regardless of his lack of existence, Rocky Balboa. This is a city full of love for its brothers, but with very little tolerance for opposition. Call it a hive-minded mentality if you will, but we call it family.

Even with the celebration of our beloved teams, Philly fans are no strangers to disappointment. The championships won by our teams can actually be counted on both hands, but one hand for each team (if division and conference titles are to be excluded).

A short review of Philadelphia’s history shows that the Eagles last won a title in 1960 (lost title games in 1980 and 2005), the Flyers in 1974 and 1975 (lost title games in 1976, 1980, 1985, 1987, and 1997), the 76ers in 1967 and 1983 (lost title games in 1977, 1980, 1982, and 2001), and the Phillies in 1980 and 2008 (lost titles in 1983 and 1993).

In my lifetime I’ve seen the Phillies go to the World Series…and lose. I’ve witnessed the Sixers go the NBA Championships, win game 1 against the Lakers, then throw the next four games, the Flyers have made it to the Stanley Cup Finals, almost won convincingly, then blew it, and the Eagles went to the Superbowl, led the entire game, then lost by a field goal. After the Eagles loss, I fell into a slump of depression for a week. The Philly fans’ dedication runs that strong.

Enter the 2008 Philadelphia Phillies.

I started this season saying to my father during a phone conversation, “I think this is the year. I have a good feeling. I think the Phillies are going to the World Series this year.” My dad being an older version of me simply replied, “They have to get there first.” Well, they did. And they won. Convincingly.

I have waited 15 years since the last Series visit, and all my life for a win. The feeling is inexplicable. The assumption is that anyone supporting a team in a drought understands the emotion involved in a championship win.

The evening before the second half of game 5, members of the Tampa Bay Rays, while staying here in Wilmington, went to one of our local pubs. The Washington St. Ale House. I’m not sure if that was a wise decision on their part or not. The people I met were nice, and some got harassed by a few locals (Philly Phaithful). All in all, it was a fun and exciting evening. However, and I mention this once more, I’m not sure if it was wise of them to hit the bar the night prior to a Do or Die evening.

In typical celebratory fashion, the night the Phillies won the 2008 World Series, people flooded the streets, fireworks were set off, funs were shot off, drinks were shared, and cars were flipped. Enter the parade.

I rode a school bus up to Philly with my sports league, the Delaware Sports League. The day started off with a broken down bus (not mine, the other one), drinking at 9:30 am, and urinating in plastic cups and bottles on I-95 en route to the parade (yes, that includes me). Once we made it into South Philly, we were greeted warmly by our Philadelphia brethren. Horns were honking, people were screaming, first were pumping, and index fingers were raised to indicate, “We’re number one!” Hell yes.

The second our bus came to a complete halt in the Linc parking lot, the DSL members cleared out with the quickness, linking up along the parking lot fence under I-95, and watered the sports complex vegetation. Truly a sight to behold, the line included men with beer in their hands, and girls squatting in groups of twos and threes. Aside from public exposure, the rest of the time in the lot was spent drinking and tossing around a football.

Everything else that occurred between our arrival and the Phillies showing up an hour and 20 minutes late can easily be told in pictures…minus more public urination (the lines for the port-a-potties were too long, so lines formed on the backsides of the johns).

Our day ended with a certain young lady going to relieving herself on her boots, while another young woman dropped her phone on the ground, possibly had it pissed on then, tried persistently to get the device to cease vibrating and actually function properly. Said young woman later said that her cell phone was now her second dildo. Yes, she said her phone doubled as a vibrator. Classy.

Departure took approximately 45 minutes to reach I-95 from the Linc parking lot (I-95 runs parallel to the sports complexes), but the wait for the trains was much worse, as they were backed up over two hours. That mob was beyond ridiculous.

We made it home, and I ended my day with a pepperoni calzone and some hot wings. Grease makes everything better. Delicious.

Amen.

Dazey X Dynamite

2008-11-09T17:23:00.004-05:00

The last post was about a series of skateboards that I did two years ago called, Rotten to the Core. During that same time I worked on a couple more decks. The difference is, the deck series was hand-painted, while the two in this post were stenciled.

There are no real explanations for these works, because other than imagination, there is nothing concrete that was of any true influence. Maybe childhood cartoons had something to do with it.

Who would have ever imagined seeing a bee approaching a flower while wearing a gas mask? Me evidently. Some flowers looks beautiful, but it's all part of their perennial plan to deceive us.

And men in purple hoodies smoking sticks of dynamite? Do tell! You love it.

Dazey (left) and Dynamite (right) are no longer in my possession. Both items have been offered to friends as gifts for Christmas and a birthday.

The photos provided are the only ones I have. Sorry for the lack of details.

Buzz, sting, BOOM!

Rotten to the Core

2008-11-09T12:35:00.009-05:00

I have these skateboards that I made two years ago. Many people have seen in their homes, in my home, on the internet, and hanging in a couple art shows. But that's just it...people have seen them. Rarely do I willingly, or get the opportunity to speak about work. There is a thought process behind the manifestation of these decks, allowing them to be more than just graphics.

Rotten to the Core started with a project I did as a senior in college. Long story short, on that project was a graphic of a banana. The response to the banana was so positive, I opted to go bigger with the banana, turning it into something for me to play with later on.

As I played with the idea of the banana, my mind started to wander, and I dreamed of a deeper exploration of the fruit. "What if I had a hatch of spiders pouring out of the banana peel?" Eureka! I had my plan—discuss the the relationships of fruit and insects/arachnids. Each fruit is paired with a bug that can be associated with it in some fashion. Each skateboard is hand-painted with acrylic paint on a California maple.

The first deck completed in the series is titled, aXc, or Apple Core. Pairing the apple with a series of cockroaches came to me easily. When I was younger, my seventh grade science fair project was to raise crickets in a tank, with their food source being apples. Then for almost two years I worked in a natural history museum in the education department. In that department we had a tank of cockroaches. Aside from lettuce and potatoes, the roaches were fed apples. I wouldn't recommend leaving any sliced apples out in your home to find out if this is true.

The second completed deck was wXc, or Watermelon Core. The name doesn't make much sense, but it doesn't have to. I have artistic liscense. wXc is by far my favorite of the bunch. What fruit would come to one's mind when thinking of a picnic? Watermelon perhaps? What else comes to mind when thinking of a a picnic? How about the invasive ants? The explanation behind the watermelon, as well as the next board, are rather simple compared to that of the apple and the closer.

I struggled briefly with pXc, or Peach Core (peaches have pits, not cores), not with the style of execution, but rather, what do I couple the peach with? Worms and maggots—while creepy and fascinating—are not insects. I eventually considered the state of Georgia and how it's known for peaches. I also thought about the Southern United States and how people complain that there are too many bugs in the summertime. One of the main offenders to which people seem to be bothered by is the fly. When any kind of food is left out, flies will rear their ugly faces, eating and vomiting in the same sitting.

Finally, what started it all, but also brought it to a close is bXc, or Banana Core. While I was working with the banana, I got to thinking about agricultural exportation and importation between the United States and South American countries. Sometimes in the freight comes unwanted surprises, such as harmful snakes, spiders, and other insects unnatural to our region. It's not always as easy as discovering these offenders in the crates while receiving the shipments. From what I've come to understand, it tends to be more about snakes and spiders laying their eggs inside the produce before it is gathered and sent elsewhere. Can you imagine peeling a banana and being greeted by a brood of creepy, crawly spiders? I can, but I wouldn't want to.

Stay hXc.

NWAA

2008-11-09T11:13:00.000-05:00

If you're reading this blog, be sure to check out my family over at the New Wilmington Art Association (NWAA). We're an art collective comprised of people in/near Delaware, representing different ages, sexes, races, school affiliations, and artistic styles.

NWAA members exhibit their work during the Wilmington Art Loop series, every first Friday of each month in Wilmington, DE.

The NWAA is sponsored by Delaware's Dogfish Head (As seen on Reno 911).

Thank you.

I Shot a Warhol

2008-11-08T22:42:00.000-05:00

What a name, right? Where did it come from? What's it about? Well, I'll tell you.

First and foremost, the name, while implying that someone with the name of Warhol (Andy) has been shot, it has absolutely nothing to do with harming another soul. That explanation by default cancels out any reference to the 1996 film, I Shot Andy Warhol.

Originally borrowed from the 2005 album, Felt 2: A Tribute to Lisa Bonet by the Hip-Hop duo, MURS and Slug, the closing song on the album matches the title of this blog. However, their song was not about Andy Warhol or art, and even though there is mention of guns and violence, it's more expressionism than anything else.

I personally feel that Andy Warhol's work, while overrated, was progressive for it's time. Some of his work is appreciated, but much of it is taken at face value. If you screen print the Brillo packaging onto a series of wooden boxes then stack them like a grocery store display, I will not applaud your efforts. It's not for me to say it's not art, but I don't care for it. But I digress.

Regardless of how I feel about Andy Warhol and his work, his name is synonymous with art. Even with my dislike for the late Warhol, he is still an influence, and without him, I would have looked to another as a muse. I'm fond of Peter Max's work, but it helps to be deceased. I will take aim at art, music, politics, and everything else in my sights. There should be some [quality] stuff on the way. Hopefully someone will enjoy it.

Enjoy.

I Shot a Warhol

Memory Lane - Onyx

Soundset 2011

Update of the American Fangs Update

*NEW* American Fangs

American Fangs x Deftones

American Fangs

Dear Co-Worker

Don't Blame the White Man

25 Hip-Hop Albums to Hear Before You Die

It's Almost Here

10 Music Videos to See Before You Die

Before You Die

I'm Baaack!

The Niggy Tardust Experience - Philadelphia, PA

Full Circle

Sneaker Pimps - Philadelphia

Chirp!...I Mean...Tweet!

NWAA Group Exhibition (Closing) 7.23.09

Afro-Celt

Never Better

Victory

Paper Chase

NWAA Group Exhibition 7.3.09

For Whom the Bell Tolls

R.I.P. Michael Jackson 8.29.1958 - 6.25.2009

The Verdict

I F*cking Hate Rappers

Don't Fight It

Twin Cities Week

Hit the Blue Note

MGMT - Kids

You Like?

You Don't Belong Here

Got Brains?

Welcome Back

It Can Only Get Better

Berserker Barrage

That's What I Been Sayin'!

Need a Fix?

WHOOP! WHOOP!

Rack 'Em

Steady Yellin' Bangarang

NOOO...!

Food for Thought

Just a Friendly Reminder

Drumroll, Take Two!

P.O.S. - Drumroll (We're All Thirsty)

I'm Beautiful Dammit

FREE MUSIC!

Oval O

It Could be Worse

Today (Yesterday) in Wilmington, 01-17-09

Another One Bites the Dust

Remember the Pigeons

Here's the Truth

Hold Me

Loyalty

Never Got Above 25 Degrees

This is the BIG One

Thank You, Kind Sir

Shooting at Clay Pigeons

Long Overdue

I'm Late

Today in Wilmington 11-18-08

Pheeling Pheverish

Dazey X Dynamite

Rotten to the Core

NWAA

I Shot a Warhol

NEW American Fangs