“Wet Dream” is Coming…
Just wrapped post-production on an exciting new short film featuring members of the Girl & Chocolate Skateboard crews. In addition to world class skaters tearing up the streets of Los Angeles, “Wet Dream” pays homage to Girl/Chocolate’s long line of iconic skate films, apt given that the sister companies are now celebrating their 20th anniversary (see Vice’s “Epicly Later’d” series).
Having worked on some of those films myself, I can honestly say that director Federico Vitetta’s vision raises the bar for head-scratching special effects. While skate enthusiasts will love the various cameos and easter eggs, “Wet Dream” has an ending that anyone with eyeballs and internet will enjoy.
In just a few weeks you can see the full 17 min short yourself via iTunes. If you can’t wait, grab the newest Thrasher Magazine (on stands now) for a sneak peek and hear about Girl’s Cory Kennedy’s rather unusual day at the office.
No puns were harmed in the writing of this post ; p
Autumn Grooves
Really liking the new solo record from Yeasayer’s Sinkane. On singles like “How We Be” his falsetto recalls a 21st century Curtis Mayfield. Should make for a good show at The Echo next Tuesday.
Other notables in this month’s mix are tracks from the Preatures long-awaited LP (produced by Spoon’s Jim Eno), Karen O’s heartfelt acoustic affair, rollicking baritone blues from Sean Rowe (like the lovechild of Tom Waits and Morphine’s Mark Sandman), and a rare pro-government rap from Homeboy Sandman. Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
BONUS:
The artwork above is by French artist Thierry Noir, the 1st graffiti artist to paint the Berlin Wall 30 years ago. I had the pleasure of DJ’ing a party at Caviar last weekend in honor of Thierry’s LA exhibition, which is going on now through Nov. 9 at the Howard Griffin Gallery.
Cold War Kid
Thirty years ago French street artist Thierry Noir became the first man to paint the Berlin Wall. While at the time he risked being shot by border guards, or even criticized as a sympathizer with the occupation, his work is now cherished as a symbol of Berlin’s triumph of self-expression over oppression.
Twenty five years after the fall of the wall, I’m honored to be DJ’ing an exhibit of his work this Friday in Hollywood. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to meet the man himself and maybe even make him dance a bit. ; )
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Summer Fade
This month’s mix features one of my favorite jams of the summer, “Attak” ft. Danny Brown, officially out now on Scottish producer Rustie’s album “Green Language.” You’ll also hear Major Lazer remixing Soca star Bunji Garlin’s hit “Differentology,” an acoustic duet with Cat Power and indie guitar god J Mascis, Frightened Rabbit side project Owl John’s take on LA, and much more.
Welcome Jungle
Photo courtesy of Eric Koretz, aka The Imagehunter
It was really hard only picking 1 song to include off the debut album from UK R&B act Jungle. This month’s mix also features music from young artists Alvvays, Majid Jordan, Jonah Tolchin, and Honeyblood, side projects Bleachers (Fun.), Puss ‘n Boots (Norah Jones), and strong returns from Jenny Lewis, La Roux, and Raveonettes.
BONUS:
As a little kid I remember sneaking into the theater to see Prince’s R-Rated “Purple Rain,” a cultural phenomenon whose soundtrack went on to sell 20 million records and an Academy Award. The Artist stars in a story loosely based on his early life and career (akin to Eminem’s portrayal in “8 Mile”). Celebrate it’s 30th Anniversary with an outdoor screening at the Autry in Griffith Park. Tix are $10 (no need to sneak in).
Eye of the Elevator
Awhile back we batted about ideas with Omeed Boghraty at the Esquire Network about shaking up the live music session format. We’re happy to finally share the link for the first (of what will hopefully be many) Elevator Music sessions, featuring indie duo Little Hurricanes.
Who knows who’ll be next on board? Hint: it won’t be Polyphonic Spree.
Unscripted Role
Our old friend El May just released the video for her bouncy new single “I Played A Role,” using impromptu reactions from strangers on the streets of NY, including subway car dancers (another reason we need a real subway in LA)! Check out the video and write up in Entertainment Weekly by clicking here.
Her new record “The other Person Is You” drops August 26th.
Mid-summer Mix
This month’s mix includes singles from Alt-J and Grimes upcoming albums, the return of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, J Mascis shredding on a Strand of Oaks tune, and arguably my favorite track ever from longtime soulster Lee Fields.
Btw, the pic above was taken during my friend Jayme’s awesome July 4th party, featuring LA Hootenanny’s distinct spin on live country. When I realized at one point the oddly familiar tune playing was a country cover of the Pixies “Where Is My Mind” (sung in German, no less!) well, my mind was indeed blown. Music will take you to strange, wonderful places, and hopefully this mix will do the same!
BONUS:
Speaking of “bringing ’88 back,” who knew Weird Al was still killin’ it? We’re assuming you’ve seen his “Blurred Lines” parody that took the internet by storm last week, the best track/video off his new album. Here’s another great parody he recently did (spoofing Mr. Thicke’s twerking partner) which you may have missed:
Mixinho
