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“I participate in Free Art Fridays because it’s my way of getting people involved in art. It encourages other artists not to be afraid of sharing their work and I see it as a random act of kindness; a gift to the world, it could even make someone’s day.” Miami artist Buddha Funk perfectly summarizes the essence of Free Art Fridays. Since discovering the global movement that is Free Art Fridays and joining the Miami group on Facebook my Fridays have not been the same. I have to admit I look forward to Fridays even more now and I am excited to go art hunting, participate and meet other group members. “Let me tell you first though what it is all about. Every Friday artists leave art works around town at random and leave clues as to where to find them on the Facebook page. Whoever finds the work first, whether someone who just happens to walk by and see it or a group member who is out hunting for art, can keep it and enjoy it. And what a joy it is to find a piece of art! I am a member of the Miami group but this is by no means confined to the magic city. Free Art Fridays has spread from Australia, where it originated, to the US to Japan and Trinidad. Artists and art lovers in Detroit, Tokyo and Port of Spain are now participating and the movement is growing every day.”
PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERT DEMPSTER
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HEIKE DEMPSTER
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FREE ART FRIDAYS
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The Miami Free Art Fridays Group was started by “Registered Artist,” who is friends with the people who had the original idea. For Art Basel Miami Beach 2012 the artist decided to give away pieces of his work. He soon was joined by a few local artists and 200 followers and eventually the group grew. Participating artists like Atomik, Rigo Leon, Luis Berros, Mahal Lagora and Ileana Prosper Holman want to share their art and be part of a group of likeminded people full of encouragement to continue their art practice. Artist Derek Wilson says, “I believe in giving, on all levels! I donate art to countless non profits; so when introduced to the movement by Registered Artist I didn’t hesitate. It’s a great way to improve your Artistic Karma!” Barbara M de Varona adds “There’s too much motive and agenda in our days. To do anything just because it’s lovely and you’re gonna be making someone happy is a wonderful reminder that not everything valuable has a ‘$’ before it.” FAF has also become popular as a family activity as many artists take their children to help find hiding places and search for art. Little Carly, 4-year old daughter of photographer JD Anson, was very excited when she found a work by Registered Artist. Says JD, “I have to say, FAF Miami has totally encouraged me in my work. I know a couple of artists and have gone to their shows. I came away with the feeling that the Miami art scene is a clique. I felt like a fish out of water. Snobby and cold is what I thought the scene was. Because of FAF, I have found the opposite to be true. Everyone has been warm, welcoming and encouraging. I feel like I made a bunch of instant friends, though I have only met a couple in person.” Free Art Fridays is bringing people together who share a love for art and it provides an opportunity to meet new people, make friends, learn about young artists and also explore your city and venture to parts you might not have visited before. It even encourages people to become creative and try to make art themselves. FAF groups have also started to organize art swaps with packages of various artists being shipped and then left in another city to make it more exciting and have a wider audience. The Miami and Trinidad groups, led by Shanice Gonzales, did a swap in June 2013 which created new bonds and introduced new artists to the respective local art scenes.
Now, meet some of the Miami FAFers:
ALYSSA DE SANCTIS LIFE
The 24 year old says she was “practically born with a pencil in hand.” She considers Free Art Friday a great opportunity for artists and enthusiasts alike to share their creations, network and gain exposure. Alyssa has had small shows in Miami’s Wynwood Art District and at the Patricia and Philip Frost Art Museum and has pieces in the collection at Florida International University. In terms of medium Alyssa loves to experiment. She has done everything from photography to sculpture to video and sound art, but her main love is drawing. Lately, she has tried to mix it up by using unconventional materials such as coffee, juices, berries and seeds to create her often “organic drawings and biological abstractions.”
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TESORO CAROLINA
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Photographer, tattoo artist apprentice and all-round talent Tesoro Carolina was raised in sunny Miami. She started making art as a child and then was encouraged by teachers as well as Miami gallerists and curator Anthony Spinello to do what she loves. With a new studio in the all girl complex Viophilia she intends to start curating her own shows this summer and continue to paint and draw beautiful, intriguing women inspired by concepts around Mother Nature. “I always heard about Mother Nature. I always saw her as a womanly figure. All of us women are Mother Nature,” says Tesoro. “I always want to evoke a feeling. My girls won’t be technically perfect but as long as you get some sort of feel from it, that is what I want to evoke. A woman is a person of feeling and a lot of soul.”
JANIN CRUZ MORALES
(JCM Photography) Photographer Janin Cruz Morales transforms her Miami landscape images with her artistic vision. Janin applies painting aesthetics into her images playing with duality, the lush colors of the tropics and perception. Janin has been involved with the FAF group since February 2013. Right away Janin went full throttle and recruited many new members and created awareness about the group around Miami. Says Janin, “I truly believe in this group because it’s a positive movement and I’ve heard from many that it’s changed their lives. Art is very therapeutic for some and people are striving to become better artists every week just for FAF. It has also been very beneficial to the business end as I have networked with many new people and have had the opportunity to share my photos to new eyes.”
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Miamian Nicole Figuerola’s first artistic inspiration was her painter mother. Nicole’s art is a true representation of our times. Her art is primarily done on her iPad as a digital image even though she also works with acrylic paint on canvas and paint markers. About her FAF experience she says, “It is inspiring to see so many amazing artists unite for a common purpose. There is no greater motivator for me than to continue working on my craft while making others happy. That’s what art is all about.” PS. Be warned! Art hunting at Free Art Fridays may be addictive, can cause excessive Facebooking and give you an intense rush every time you find a treasure!
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AUGUST 2013 | NO. 024 CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VP & CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER PUBLISHER ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
NATASHA VON CASTLE DOMINIQUE RAPHAEL L3 GROUP OF COMPANIES - KEVIN SMALLS PAIGE HARRIS
EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR & LIFESTYLE EDITOR ALLIE MASON CONTRIBUTING EDITOR & CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS EDITOR TRICIA SPENCE CONTRIBUTING EDITOR & MUSIC EDITOR TRE CARN TRAVEL EDITOR STACIA VON CASTLE MUSIC REVIEW EDITOR JILL MAHONEY BEAUTY EDITOR LONDYN NIKOLE COPY EDITOR XAVIER RAPHAEL SENIOR WRITER STARLEETAH BROWN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS HEIKE DEMPSTER, MARCUS WELLER, NIYAH MYC, KARLA ASHLEY, ANASTASIA SARADOC, AEYOLA GEORGE, MIMI MAMICHULA, MARCO, ZAKADA MILTON, LANRE DAVIES, KERRY K. TAYLOR, KENDON POLAK, JENNIFER MENSTER SHENEA ‘PIA’ JORDINE INTERNS EDWARD BISHOP, ALICIA KEMP, JONATHAN NEWTON ART ART DIRECTOR SANDRA HERNANDEZ SENIOR DESIGNER SANCHA DESIGNS ART ASSISTANT JAMALL THOMPSON RETOUCHER JEROME MABINI INTERACTIVE WEB DEVELOPER TENIKA JONES ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONS MANAGER ROHAN BECKFORD ADVERTISING ASSISTANT TERESA MAGLOIRE CIRCULATION CIRCULATION/MARKETING DIRECTOR RICHARD NEILSON SINGLE COPY SALES MANAGER NIGEL COLLINS
“L3” (ISSIN 1020-2000) is published monthly (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec) by L3 Group of Companies, 123 blank street, Scarborough, ON L1R2H2. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Copyright © 2011. Title “L3” registered CAN Patent and Trademark Office. Printed in Canada. MANUSCRIPTS AND ART: The Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES (CAN) 1-289-217-2800 or l3magazine@hotmail.com. SUBSCRIPTION RATES and Possessions: 14.95 CAD/Year plus applicable taxes. SUBSCRIPTION PROBLEMS call 1-289-217-2800 or email l3magazine@hotmail.com.
WELCOME
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR LIFE
I originally had my editorial planned and penned. This month I was supposed to write about how ‘advanced’ the United States has become … finding justice for Trayvon Martin and delivering a message that went something like ‘not one more of our own will be gunned down without account.’ Instead, the unthinkable happened; a not guilty verdict.
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I struggled to find the words to write this month. While browsing online, I came across a young man by the name of Alex Fraser. Mr. Fraser wrote the following on his public Facebook wall which I include in my editorial for August. Here are the words of Mr. Fraser….
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Dear George Zimmerman; For the rest of your life you are now going to know what it feels like to be a black man in America. You will feel people stare at you. Judging you for what you think are unfair reasons. You will lose out on getting jobs for something you feel is outside of your control. You will believe yourself to be an upstanding citizen and wonder why people choose not to see that. People will cross the street when they see you coming. They will call you hurtful names. It will drive you so insane sometimes that you’ll want to scream at the top of your lungs. But you will have to wake up the next day, put on firm look and push through life. I bet you never thought that by shooting a black male you’d end up inheriting all of his struggles. Enjoy your “freedom.” Always let me know what you think on Twitter >>> @NatashaVonC
Natasha Von Castle
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ART IN FOCUS SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS CONTRIBUTED
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SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS is a multifunctional gallery space promoting diverse forms of art while providing a forum for contemporary dialogue. SUBLIMINAL, was originally created by Shepard Fairey and Blaze Blouin as an artist collective in 1995. The group played an integral part in introducing skateboarding culture and design to the art world, showcasing artists such as Phil Frost, Thomas Campbell, Mike Mills, Dave Aaron, and Mark Gonzales. Shepard and Amanda Fairey continued to host and curate exhibitions that featured artists such as Ryan McGinness, Hunter Gatherer, David Ellis, Doze Green, Aesthetic Apparatus, Space Invader, Jim Houser and Andrew Jeffery Wright. In 2003, the SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS gallery was officially opened in the Los Angeles offices of Studio Number One. The scope of the gallery remained true to its roots while embracing new forms of graphic art, illustration, photography and time-based media. Now located in the historic Los Angeles neighborhood of Echo Park, Subliminal Projects continues to offer a platform for artistic exploration and innovation. The perennial schedule includes art exhibitions by established and emerging artists, as well as a lecture series, workshops and artist publications.
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Here’s a look at some of the work featured for the month of August…. BDX-LAX: FARAWAY SO CLOSE Opening Reception: Saturday, August 3 • 8 – 11 PM Exhibition Dates: August 3 – August 24, 2013
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More information can be found at: http://www.bdx-lax.fr/index.php/en/ and at http://www.bdx-lax.fr/index.php/en/exhibit-lax/partners-lax.
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BDX-LAX: Faraway So Close is a group exhibition featuring contemporary artists from Los Angeles and Bordeaux (twin cities since 1964). SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS is the first West Coast venue this ongoing exchange has been exhibited. The aim of the project is to support and promote the local art scene of both cities through an exhibition series that alternates between locations each year, featuring contemporary artists from both areas. Without a common program, nor strict uniqueness, these artists with very different styles meet at the crossroad of art and pop culture…they are influenced by all forms of counter culture elements: surfing, skating, graffiti, tattoo art, hip-hop, punk rock… Some audacious and powerful paintings, others childish or provocative drawings, the work is not elitist and draws from elements of folkloric art to cartoons to pets…These artists don’t lay claim to any school. From their words to their style, they are free, engaged, and unique. – Carine Dall’Agnol (Project Manager, Flash Association). Exhibited Los Angeles artists include: Andrew Holder, Andy Howell, Mel Kadel, and Jeff Soto. Holder is a Florida native who has resided in Southern California for most of his life. His work blends elements of nature and graphic design to create clean, distinct imagery that speaks of Nordic influences. Howell is a legend amongst the skateboarding community who has gained attention in the art world through his detailed paintings that combine surreal, graffiti-like caricatures of humans and nature with intense colors and stylized imagery. Kadel’s work is fluid, patterned and balanced, applying a colorful use of layers, interconnectedness, and activity. Soto is an artist, illustrator and muralist whose distinct and vivid color palette, subject matter and technique bridge the gap between Pop Surrealism and graffiti. Exhibited Bordeaux artists include: Derik, Olivier Specio, and Sylvain Havec. These artists bring with them a range, style, and playfulness representative of existing trends in the urban art community of Southern France. The content of their art wavers between raw paintings of fantastical characters to hyper-active imagery reminiscent of 80s video games to humorous, pictorial, and graphic narratives with imaginative characters inspired by everyday encounters. We would like to thank BULKO, the French Institute & Bordeaux City Hall, Fyasko, LA Boutique Paris, Les Crus Bourgeois, and Modelo for their contributions to our exhibition-related programming.
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RICK LONG MUSIC THROUGH MOVEMENT CONTRIBUTED
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With dance roots originating from Broadway Dance Center, in New York City, Rick Long has extensive training in the dance arts. Specializing in Dancehall, Jazz, and Hip Hop styles, Rick has studied with the most notable choreographers, ranging from the likes of Frank Hatchett (legendary Jazz Choreographer) to Wade Robinson (extraordinary Hip Hop Choreographer). Long is passionate about dance, because it’s in his DNA, “It’s in my blood,” he has stated. He was born into dance. It’s like part of his culture. His Mother, as well as many elders in his family, are dancers; dance just comes naturally. Rick has performed in over 50 major cities, some of which are international. He has danced and choreographed for artist like Lisa Lisa, and DaddyYankee. He has performed on the same stage for Salt-N-Pepa, Trey Songz, and SWV, just to name a few. Rick was recently in Step Up 3D, the Movie. As a choreographer, Rick’s style can be described as sensually artistic, yet incorporating a smooth groove and a Caribbean swagger. If you ever have the opportunity to work with Rick Long, or ever see him choreograph a dance segment or piece, you will find it to be quite unique and creative; a magical mantra, if you will. It is always radiant, filled with precision steps, and is lined with a kaleidoscope of fluidity. When asked what about dance motivates him, his response is simple, “Dancing makes me tick, because it has always put me in a joyful place, and it constantly reminds me to sustain confidence in myself. I have complete control over it, and peace of mind.” Currently, Rick teaches Dancehall and Hip Hop classes at Pearl Studios. He also teaches at David Barton’s exclusive fitness gyms in New York City. Rick was recently selected as one of the models for 2013 New York Fashion Week, for designer, Adrian Alicea. He also dances and performs for different artists on the road. Connect with Rick on Twitter >>> @dancehallwhine
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INFLUENTIAL WOMEN
ADVERTISE WITH US Contact Rohan ‘Dillinger’ Beckford to have your ad placed in L3 Magazine! Phone: 289.217.2800 (Canada) | 347.370.6829 (U.S.) Twitter: @Mangoheadilings 29
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Available Exclusively in Canada
Buy You YOLO Rasta Bracelets Now! 2-Lined Music Hut - Malvern Town Centre TreaJah Isle Records & Tapes - 1514 Eglinton Ave. W. Twitter: @2LINEDMUSIC | @TreajahIsle 30
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BREADED EGGPLANT WITH SESAME SEED SAUCE JIMMY TAMBOU
BREADED EGGPLANT INGREDIENTS
1 large eggplant, peeled and cut crosswise (I cut 1/2-1 inch wide) 1 tablespoon sea salt 4 cups breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon tarragon 1/2 cup of ground flaxseeds 1 cup of hot water 1/2 cup of wheat flour 6 tablespoons coconut oil
SESAME SEED SAUCE INGREDIENTS • • • •
1/2 cup Sesame seeds 1 tbsp sugar 3 tbsp Vinegar 4 tbsp light Soy sauce
Place a dry frying pan over a medium heat. toast sesame seeds for 5 minutes, stir constantly. Crush the seeds in an electric blender. Mix in sugar, vinegar and soy sauce. Drizzle sauce over breaded eggplant.
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Dipping process:. Mix flax seed meal with boiling water and allow to sit for 3-4 minutes then beat with a whisk- the mixture will appear thick and somewhat slimy. This is our egg substitute. Place about eggplant slices in flour and shake to coat lightly. Dip eggplant in beaten egg substitute(flaxseed batter) Dredge in bread crumb mixture. Line eggplant onto cookie sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until bottoms are lightly browned, and flip and finish cooking the other side. Remove and cool on a wire rack.
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Start by draining the eggplant: layer sliced eggplant with gentle sprinkle of salt in a colander and place a plate or lid on top). The eggplant will leak out about 2 tbs. of moisture (about a half hour-sometimes). I lightly wipe excess salt off with damp paper towel. Heat oven to 425 degrees. Prepare cookie sheet with half the oil and heat in oven while dipping/breading the eggplant. Mix together tarragon and breadcrumbs put in large Zip-lock bag.
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RAW SALAD FOOD
INGREDIENTS • • • • • •
2 cups bean sprouts 1 cup grated squash 1 cup diced tomatoes 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage 1 1/2 cups sliced kiwi 1 cup sliced cucumber
Toss everything together and serve.
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CURRIED SPICY BEAN CURD INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • •
1 package (12.3 ounces) bean curd, drained and cubed 1 teaspoon spike seasoning 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 small onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup light coconut milk 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper(you can add the seed for extra heat)
Sprinkle tofu with spike seasoning. In a large nonstick skillet coated with coconut oil, saute tofu in oil until lightly browned. Remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, saute onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes or until crisp-tender. Stir in the coconut milk, cilantro, curry, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4-5 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Stir in tofu; heat through.
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PAYING HOMAGE TO VANCOUVER’S
MEATLESS MONDAYS FOOD
SAUTEED PUMPKIN & KALE WITH QUINOA INGREDIENTS
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½ cup quinoa 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup shredded kale ½ cup diced pumpkins 2 tbsp chopped sun dried tomatoes ½ tsp dried basil ½ tsp dried oregano 2 tbsp finely chopped garlic 1 ½ tbsp. of finely chopped onion 2 tbsp olive oil
In olive oil, saute onion & garlic (do not burn) over medium heat, then add kale, pumpkin, basil, sun dried tomatoes & oregano. Saute vegetables for 8-10 minutes, and then add quinoa followed by coconut milk. Bring coconut milk to a boil, reduce heat and cover, let it simmer for 15 minutes, remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, then serve.
PAN SEARED DASHEEN (EDDOE) INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •
1 large dasheen(eddoe) sliced diagonally(1/2 inch thick) 2 tbsp Mrs.Dash ½ tsp sage ½ tsp paprika 1 tsp sriracha pinch of black pepper 4 cloves (chopped) 2 bay leaves 1 tbsp olive oil 2 ½ cups water
Mix paprika, sage, sriracha, Mrs.Dash, black pepper and olive oil together cover and set aside. Par boil eddoes with chopped garlic and bay leaves, remove from heat and toss eddoes in the spice mix, let eddoes sit for about 5 minutes. Pan sear eddoes until a golden crust forms, serve eddoes with a salad. Jimmy is available for catering and special events by email: tamuchambo@ yahoo.ca
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Y T U A E B
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HAWAIIAN TROPIC SILK HYDRATION
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CAREENA EDWARDS
It’s hard to remember that Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ is a lotion sunscreen as opposed to a lotion! The company has lotion lovers hooked with their 2013 formula which includes the scent of ‘Lime Coolada’ and ‘Coconut Coolada’ all while hydrating and protecting our skin from the Suns UVA and UVB rays. We tested the 30 SPF sunscreen lotion and can confirm the companies claim of 12 hour protection. Not only were we protected, the lotion stayed active and did not wear off while we played water sports at the North Toronto Memorial Community Centre in Toronto. For after sun care, Hawaiian Tropic recommends their after sun ‘Lime Coolada’ which we enjoyed after a shower. This lotion is as much aromatherapy as it is about after care! For those of you not into heavy and thick lotions, you’ll like the fact that both are light and both include antioxidants. If you don’t want the lotion option, the company offers a clear mist spray that is just as effective as the lotion. Summer is almost over, but protection from harmful rays is not! Make sure you stay protected with these great products. Most are available at your local drug store such as Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada and CVS Pharmacy in the US.
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FASHION
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Available Exclusively in Canada
Buy You YOLO Rasta Bracelets Now! 2-Lined Music Hut - Malvern Town Centre TreaJah Isle Records & Tapes - 1514 Eglinton Ave. W. Twitter: @2LINEDMUSIC | @TreajahIsle 42
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T E C H N O L O G Y
TECHNOLOGY
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TECHNOLOGY
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LYNX RADIO
MARC SALTZMAN
If you’re one of the 2.1 million Canadians who subscribe to satellite radio, you’re probably aware of SiriusXM’s newest – and most versatile -- radio called the Lynx ($249.98). Not only can this pocket-sized player be used in your pocket over Wi-Fi, in the car (with vehicle kit) or in the home, but it boasts a “Tune Start” feature that automatically starts the song from the beginning whenever you chance channels and you can save up to 200 hours of programming to listen when you want. Integrated Bluetooth support means you can also wirelessly sync it with Bluetooth headphones, speakers and car systems. Now that’s music to our ears. | SiriusXM
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SIRIUSXM
TECHNOLOGY
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NOKIA LUMIA 520 MARC SALTZMAN
If you’ve been itching for a smartphone with all the bells and whistles — but you wallet is saying otherwise — the Nokia Lumia 520 is the latest Windows Phone 8 device that costs $0 on select three-year phone plans with Rogers, Telus and Koodo. Opposed to small and static icons, this smartphone features a home screen with “live tiles” — where info and images are pushed to them in real time — plus there’s integrated Microsoft Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and access to Nokia Music and its 18 million streaming songs (with no sign-up or subscription required). This four-inch smartphone also lets you access the touchscreen with long nails or gloves. | Nokia
TECHNOLOGY
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AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES! Grab your copy here today!
AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES! Grab your copy here today!
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Model: Shamari Alexandria Photographer: Jerome Dupont Stylist: Johnakeisha Thompson Make Up Artist: Erika White www.jeromedupont.com
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THE MONTH
SHAMARI ALEXANDRIA MODEL OF
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DJ NAZ: ‘GURL POWER!’
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Dj Naz is all about ‘Gurl Power’ and is known as the women empowering selectress who represents music at its best the same way any male can, except that she adds that “gurlpower” touch! Naz comes from a strong line of musical icons, being the daughter of Don Taylor, the former manager of Bob Marley and mother Joy White, who is popularly known for her hit song “First Cut,” (produced by Donovan Germaine of Penthouse Records), Naz studied studio engineering and while in pursuit of that dream, became fascinated by the idea of becoming a disk jockey. DJ Naz followed her heart and in 2009 made the transition! As the lone female contestant in the DJ competition Heineken Green Synergy competition (2009), Naz held audiences with her excitement. Not only did she do it in 2009, she did it again in 2010 where she placed third. Moving on to do more, Naz entered and won Fully Loaded 2011 which is one of Jamaica’s most elite forms of Sound Clash competition. Adding music production to her portfolio, Naz is 100% focused on the music!
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DJs WE LOVE TO HEAR SPIN AND YOUR EARDRUMS WILL FALL IN LOVE TOO! OLIVA LEWIS
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DOWNLOAD
L3’S
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BUSY SIGNAL
“Come Shock Out”
MAVADO
“Always On My Mind”
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KONSHENS
“Ah So Mih Tan”
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“Me Neva”
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BERES HAMMOND FT. SHAGGY
BEENIE MAN
“Fight This Feeling”
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CHRONIXX
“Judgement”
MIRIAM SIMONE
“Dem Ah Chat”
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“Bring Back the Love”
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“Stop Sign”
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RANDY VALENTINE KONSHENS GAPPY RANKS FT. EXCO LEVI
“Everything’s Gonna Be Alright”
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“Rastaman House”
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“Greedy Babylon”
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ANTHONY QUE JESSE ROYAL
SIZZLA KALONJI
“Good Love”
STEPHEN MARLEY FT. SPRAGGA BENZ & DAMIAN ‘JR. GONG’ MARLEY
“Bongo Nyah”
BUGLE
“Don’t Give Up”
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“Herbalist”
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“Love For Mama”
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“Wifey”
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“Baby It’s You”
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“Sweetest Thing”
KING ALI BABA DEMARCO CBLOCK
AMMOYE
CALI P
Charts are based on the most active DJ downloads via the L3 Music Distribution service.
RICO VIBE’S TOP 10 VIDEO PICKS
TOP 10 CHARTS
FOR AUGUST Compiled by Rico Vibes
TIFA FT. SPICE
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OMI
4
O
5
CHRONIXX
“WHY YOU MAD” “CHEERLEADER” “MONEY PULL UP”
“BEHIND IRON CURTAIN”
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JAH CURE
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JESSIE JAMES
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KONSHENS FT, DARRIO
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BEENIE MAN
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“THAT GIRL” “ROLL IT UP” “GYAL SIDDUNG” “HOTTEST MAN ALIVE”
LADY SAW “HEELS ON”
BEENIE MAN “HOTTEST MAN ALIVE”
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“DYE DYE”
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MACKA DIAMOND
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MIXTAPE FEATURES
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BEDROOM BULLY MIXTAPE
REGGAE/DANCEHALL OLDSCHOOL MIXTAPE
HOT GYAL PROMOTION VOLUME 5.2
MUSIC FROM MY HEART MIXTAPE
WHISTLE AWAY DANCEHALL MIX
https://www.box.com/neptune
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MAYOR OF BOOMTOWN
https://soundcloud.com/boomtownfair/mayor-ofboomtown-rompas
ON THE SCENE CARIBANA: JUNIOR CARNIVAL
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ON THE SCENE GROOVIN’ IN THE PARK
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GROOVIN’ IN THE PARK HAD US GROOVIN’ JENNIFER MENSTER PHOTOGRAPHY: MYFLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
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As soon as the line-up was announced for Groovin in the Park, we knew it was going to be a winner! Where else could you have the legend Patti Labelle and the legend Sanchez on the same stage in the same day? No other place but Groovin. Weather wise we didn’t enjoy the intermittent showers, but performance wise, none of the artists disappointed. Newly formed TGT (otherwise known as Tank, Genuwine and Tyrese) had the ladies in a frenzy, especially Tyrese who complained to security that he was too far away from the ladies, while Tony Rebel performed the depth of his catalog making fans want more. Organizers still have fans talking, so we thought we’d dhare a photo highlight of this years presentation. As soon as you hear the announcement for next year, make sure you’re there!
NEW RELEASES
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BOSS IT UP RIDDIM SAIME MUSICULTURE &
BRIXTON BOUNCE RIDDIM
FAMOUS
MYSTIC POWER
BAD COWBOY RIDDIM
WASHINGTON D.C. RIDDIM
SUMMER LOVE RIDDIM
DREAMLAND RIDDIM
MEDIATATION
VIRTUS MUZIK
JRX PRODUCTIONS
KARDINAL OFFISHALL & BUNJI GARLIN
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ALPHA BLONDY
WASS MUFFIN ACADEMY
J ROD RECORDS
BLUE STEEL RECORDS & AJANG MUSIC PRODUCTIONS
BREAD BACK PRODUCTIONS & 21ST HAPILOS
SUGA ROY & THE FIREBALL CREW
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SOUNDBWOY - HEATWAVE REFIX HERE COMES THE KINGS STYLOG VS STUDIO ONE
MORGAN HERITAGE
EARLY BIRD RIDDIM
YOU ALONET
GIRL SEGMENT RIDDIM
INCOMPARABLE TALENT EP
SOCA GOLD 2013
SHOW MI DI WINE
BOOM RIDDIM
STAR BLU ENTERTAINMENT
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BUSY SIGNAL
VARIOUS ARTISTS
THIRTY SIX DEGREES & 21ST HAPILOS
RED FOXX
BUSY SIGNAL
HEAD CONCUSSION RECORDS
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RED FOXX IS “HOT LIKE FIYA!”
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L3’s rating is 4.0 out of 5
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Good music from Red Foxx is nothing new to radio airwaves or Dancehall’s around the world as this veteran has been doing music for the past 20-somrthing years. What is new to radio airwaves and to Dancehall’s around the world is Reds latest release, and that chune is “Hot Like Fiya!” Courtesy of HOTTT-ED super producers from Sweden Coco Taxi, this chune was released on the Jambrum Records imprint, (the track was also released on their label), we hear Foxx, and his sweetly mature voice and released by the team at Jambrum Records. Here are the details … Coco Taxi are HOTTT-ED producers from Sweden, and teamed with one of the UK’s finest being Serocee and his label Jambrum Records. The collaboration resulted in a sweet riddim so, Serocee made some executive decisions and called in the heavy hitter, Red Foxx. The result is the chune “Hot Like Fiya.” Lacing this Dancehall track, Red Sing-jays: “don’t hate because I’m fly / well you know that I’m a maggalah / straight jeans / Clarks / well somebody call the coroner / drive up and park / yo valet not a scratch enuh / hundred gran yuh waan siddung inna / hey bouncer bwoy / mih say come out ah mih face / bruk all yuh bars tell him sell inna dih place / lock it dung / floss / champagne by the case / betta tell dem no time fih waste ….” Mercy! That’s how heavy Red is rolling! Musically, audiences appreciate the stripped down riddim that is beat driven and reminiscent of Dave Kelly’s productions. This chune will definitely have all crowds moving; from the Dancehall to Mixtape and of course, radio!
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CONTRIBUTED
THE ROUGH ROAD RIDDIM
CONTRIBUTED
From dub, to hip hop, to dubstep, Reggae is the root that links popular music trends. Award-winning producer Zeke Stern, aka Green Lion, responsible for the #5 Top UK Dancehall Tune in 2012 (“We Run England” performed by Mr Williamz), connects each of these dots on the Rough Road Riddim (Soul of the Lion Records). Recently released and featuring some of the most highly anticipated vocalists of our time, Jahdan Blakkamoore (iTunes Reggae Album of the Year, Major Lazer), Chronixx (Major Lazer), Kabaka Pyramid (Billboard Magazine’s #1 ‘Next Big Sound’), Dre Island, Zamunda and Cron Syncro, the Rough Road captures a unique generational milestone in both the music and the message. Rough Road travels a similar path to the one Reggae blazed, organically linking hip hop, dancehall, dub and dubstep for a subtly complete, and undeniably catchy, up-to-the-time musical experience. It’s an out of the box release yet one that easily fits into a multitude of playlists—Reggae, Dancehall, dubstep, pop, dub, EDM. The Rough Road riddim is a journey guided by the voices generating the most excitement and praise of our time, but as you’ve never heard them before. The ‘elder’ in the group, Jahdan Blakkamoore, captivates with the strength of poetic social commentary on “Life Is Greater” that has helped him land two iTunes Reggae Album of the Year awards (with Noble Society in 2008 and Dutty Artz the following year) not to mention his acclaimed collaborations with DJ Premier, Major Lazer and Snoop Dogg. Drawing on Kabaka Pyramid’s hip hop and dub poetry techniques, “Liberal Opposer” is a novel road map of black cultural philosophy linking ancient Egypt with modern Rasta ideals. Chronixx, whose engaging personal and artistic style have captured the soul of reggae and dancehall worldwide with a Rasta consciousness filtered through a subtly sweet pop star’s vocal pitch, takes aim at evil doers in “Life Over Death”. Dre Island superb effort on “What Is Mine Is Mine” is well positioned with a strong and effortless grasp of both gritty deejay chat and rich melodies. Zamunda levels the vibes, alternating between singing and deejay styles, as he gives no quarter, keeping the pressure on the “Gangsta” in an emotional stand for ‘truth and rights’. Green Lion is also pleased to introduce Cron Syncro whose anthem is a lyrical shout out to the root of the herbalist lifestyle, considered essential to spiritual living in many parts of Jamaica and around the world. Throughout the release, the emotional backing vocals contributed by Adena Myrie have the ability to shine a special spiritual light on either the music or the message. And the spirit of the Road Road is forever embedded in the riddim track which is also available on this special release.
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CHEZIDEK AND HIS ‘ORDER OF MELCHEZEDIK’
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CONTRIBUTED
Three years after the release of the critically acclaimed album Judgement Time, Chezidek follows up with “The Order of Melchezedik” which does not disappoint, rather it excites true Roots Reggae loving listeners who yearn for roots. Teaming again with Jahsolidrock Music, some of the musicians who helped this gem of an album come together include Rekesh Dukaloo, and the Skanking Monks, as well as extra contributions from a roster of dedicated Reggae musicians. 12 organic Roots Reggae tunes with strong lyrics and a great vocal delivery from one of the most unique singers in modern Reggae make up the Oder of Melchezidek. We held a listening party with 10 Roots Reggae fans who enjoyed every track especially “Faya Pon Dem,” “Tumbling Dwn,” “Plant a Tree” and “Praises to Jah.” tThis releases is available from Jahsolidrock Music / Heartbeat Europe L3’s rating is 4.0 out of 5
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BUSHWOOD’S ‘TIDAL WAVE’
CONTRIBUTED
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The band Bushwood is back with ten signature tracks of funky Reggae just in time for the Summer of 2013. Following the band’s well received self-titled debut album, their new release showcases an expanded six piece line-up and was funded through a KickStarter campaign where fans helped subsidize the recording of the album and in turn became a vital part of its creation. Due to their proclivity for playing live, they have grown tremendously since their debut offering, resulting in an album that shines brighter than the Florida sun, and puts their music on par with the popular modern Reggae acts of today. Of the new album, Bushwood shares, “After the positive response from fans and critics for our debut album, we are glad to finally reveal our new material to the fans who have waited so patiently. We’ve played many of the new songs live, but the recorded versions will have that ‘studio magic’ from all the time and love we’ve put into them. A huge thank you to everyone who helped us realize this vision.” Bushwood’s music is directly influenced by the beaches and atmosphere of living in tropical south Florida and is a potent mix of the Roots Reggae and positive lyrics of Bob Marley & The Wailers, the upbeat party vibe of bands like Sublime, Rebelution, & Slightly Stoopid, mixed with the passion and songwriting prowess of Zac Brown, all with the underlying funk of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The flowing guitar parts are resolutely melodic, prolonging themselves into ornately-layered solos that play delightfully off of the raw intensity of Steven Ross Voronkov’s much improved vocals. Adam Moskowitz’s bass lines undulate hypnotically, driving forward, buttressing the foundation laid down by Jon Cross’ extremely solid drums and Claudio Napoles’ magical keys. The additional layers of saxophone by Carl Dykes and percussion by Eric Schechter put the final touches on the vivid soundscapes that are evocative of the ocean, and of good times with coveted friends; a respite from the worry and the tediousness of the mundane day-today grind. Positivity and living life to the fullest; that’s what Bushwood is all about, and this new album reflects their ethos perfectly. Connect with Bushwood on Twitter >>> @BushwoodBand L3’s rating is 3.8 Stars out of 5
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LOVE ADVICE
2-Lined Music Hut Malvern Town Centre 31 Tapscott Road 416-264-3999
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LOVE ADVICE
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KASH IS ‘KALLING ALL
SOLDIERS HOME’ CONTRIBUTED
PHOTOGRAPHY: KING-ARTS PHOTGRAPHY
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On route and pursuing her musical career, Kash is one of the realest girls you’ll ever meet. Named Kandice from a long line of remarkable Afrikan Queens, it is only natural that her evolution to K*A*S*H (Kalling All Soldiers Home) would emerge as more than a name but the essence of her royalty. K*A*S*H defines herself as a messenger; as the one calling the lost home. Her journey through the ghetto has heightened her sense of strength and commitment to be such a messenger to all who face their own struggle. When speaking to a friend who needed an uplifting word, Kash said “follow your dreams and never cease striving until you have reached that ultimate goal of being home, because home is where the heart is.” Exciting the industry with her vocals, Kash delivers with the singles “I Love You Truly,” “Simple Girl,” “Baby” and “Must Be A Place.” She relates her life story through the tracks “What I Got (P.H.A.T) and “You Next to Me” alongside Jah Teff. Her unique style and charisma brightens up any stage while her unmistakable sound captivates audiences. Whether she performs in the R&B genre, or drops it hot in dub style, her words are always poetic and filled with love. Hip Hop, Reggae and R&B flows effortlessly through the veins of this born Trinidadian whose diversity has enabled her to sing alongside smooth jazz, gospel and calypso music bands too. This Vocalist Queen plans on humbly claiming her title and writing her musical journeys in the annals of the industry.
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THE SUSTENANCE OF
SUSTANE CONTRIBUTED
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Explosive with his stage presence, creative with his lyrical content and working with the confidence of pleasing fans, Sustane is one of the most promising emerging talents representing Jamaica. His love for music became obvious during his years in school in Kingston, Jamaica where he began his professional musical career. He participated in school talent shows and soon found creative ways to showcase his talents which included entertaining his neighbors, friends, family and most anyone else who would listen. With the encouragement of the people around him, Sustane began observing the veterans and soon developed his own unique style. With his vocals and style set, Sustane took to the recording booth, working with industry heavy hitters such as DJ Karim (Sizzla, Busy Signal), Black Spyda, Seanizzle Records, Kool Face, and King Jammy’s just to name a few. After working with Donovan Bennett a.k.a. Don Corleon, his popularity soared and the producer was a major force in fine tuning his talent. Their combined effort resulted in the song “No Talkie Talk” which was a fan favorite. Performing throughout the US, the UK, Canada and the Caribbean, Sustane recently wrapped a tour of Nicaragua. With collaborations with Superstar Beenie Man as well as ZJ Liquid, Sustane is sustaining his success. Sustane looks forward to performing for his fans, especially his upcoming performance for fans in Montreal at the 2013 Montreal International Reggae Festival.
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BRYAN ART 82
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THE ART OF
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Connect with the artist on Twitter >>> @bryanartmuzik
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With a name that truly describes his unique style of music, the multifaceted artist, husky voiced singer, witty songwriter and consummate musician, delivers music with passion, meaning and message. Born in St. Ann, Jamaica, Bryan recalls playing the guitar before the age of eight. His eldest brother, a recording artist known as Ray Grant, inspired his early interest in music, and his mother taught him his first primary chords on which he’d improvise for the next few years. Majoring in Latin, American & Jazz Studies at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, the young artist was discovered by George Miller (band leader), who gave him his first big break which was an opportunity to tour as guitarist and member of the Fire House Crew then backing band for Grammy Nominee Luciano, Sizzla and Mikey General. With that experience, Bryan toured and gained experience which allowed him to later become a cofounder of Bushman’s backing band Grass Roots with whom he did tours of several countries. When he wasn’t touring, Bryan was either teaching classroom music, or pursuing his long time dream of singing. He also wrote songs for artistes such as George Nooks, Singing Melody, Bushman, Luciano and Etana. Today devoted to his singing career, this artist has done well as he has appeared on major shows such as Rebel Salute 2006, 2007 and 2011, Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival 2011 and 2012, Reggae Fever 2009 and 2011 ATI, Fully Loaded, St. Mary Mi Come From, Unity Splash, Summer Sizzle, and Manchester Fiesta. Other appearances include tours of the United States, Europe and The Caribbean. This month, Bryan will perform at the 10th annual Montreal International Reggae Festival in Montreal!
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FROM NEW YORK’S UNDERGROUND
YUNG IMAGE CONTRIBUTED
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For several years New York’s underground has become increasingly familiar with the popular mixtapes of a rising sensation named Yung Image. Remixing popular tracks such as Laza Morgan’s “One By One,” Lady Gaga’s, “Bad Romance” and Drake’s “Light it Up,” Yung is fearless in the arena of taking chances and putting himself in a position to be compared with some of the best of the best. Born in the Caribbean island of Grenada, Yung migrated to the United States to live with his mother and brothers. Through his love for music he found a common ground with his new environment. He quickly gravitated towards artistes such as the late Notorious B.I.G, 2 Pac Shakur, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, adapting Hip-hop and mixing it with his Caribbean sound. In 2012 Yung teamed with producer Jude Robertson (JRE), of Ghost Town Music. They instantly became an awesome duo, releasing several songs including a gritty Dancehall/ Hip-Hop track called “All Black Everything” on the Secret Society riddim. In May, 2013 Yung scored 6th position on the IFE TOP 10 Chart, marginally behind Tarrus Riley’s “Gimmi Likkle One Drop,” I Octane’s “Gal a Gimme Bun” and Alicia Keys’ “Fire We Make.” Continuing to progress, Yung’s music has received airplay across the Caribbean, Europe and United States. DJ Alic of HOT 104.1 FM in Grand Cayman described “All Black and Everything” as a ‘wicked track.’ Yung Image is currently working on his third Mixtape and EP, which will be followed closely by his debut album which will include collaborations on tracks such as “No Worries,” “Work,” “Foreign Gyal,” and “Carnival Romance.” When asked what to expect from Yung in the near future, he responded with his motto, “music is the mission,” a testament to the relentless pursuit to take his music to higher heights. Connect with the artist on Twitter >>> @yungimage
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THE DYNAMIC DUO OF
SOJOURNAH AND AHKEE CONTRIBUTED
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Lover’s of conscious Reggae music are not used to seeing a duo consistently perform together, but Sojournah and Ahkee change that as the two share what’s in their hearts to do which is make good Reggae music and touch the hearts of listeners far and wide. Sojournah grew up immersed in music and was initially shy to be on stage. Musically inclined and encouraged by her Father, Llewelyn aka (Jah-T) and uncle Balford aka (Buff) from the Reggae band The Black Eagles, as well as her brother Nature, trips to the recording studio became grew on the young artist who eventually got her start doing backing vocals. That moment ignited a spark which unleashed Sojournah’s confidence to take centre stage. Not long after sharing her talents as a lead vocalist, Sojournah also shared her pen and paper with fellow artists, most notably writing for Makedah (“Promise You” and “Life Song” featured on the Twelve Tribes of Israel Shine Your Light CD) as well as her own material. Young and spiritually motivated, Sojournah has the ability to sing with soul gripping fervor and DJ truth and conscious hitting lyrics that is sure to resonate within. Her musical ambitions are to share in the beauty, love and healing that the world of music has to offer. She aspires to keep singing to do her part in helping to making the world a better place. Counterpart Ahkee is a musician who originally hails from New Haven, Connecticut and is known to intertwine his quest for wisdom knowledge and understanding into the fiber of his songs. Being in the Hip Hop industry for some 20 years, Ahkee opened for legend Heavy D as well as EPMD, DJ Red Alert, Jungle Brothers, Toni Terry and more entertaining and educating audiences whenever he performed. Ahkee’s insight coupled with his colorful expression makes him memorable. “If one person in the world comprehends the message that I bring, then I’ve accomplished my task on earth.” Together Ahkee and Sojournah bring great synergy; his years worth of experience in music and her budding potential makes for an exciting collaboration. Connect with this duo on Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/AhkeeSojournah
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THE REASONS WHY WE LOVE ALAINE!
PHOTOGRAPHY: MARVIN BARTLEY
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f you’ve never met Alaine Laughton, you won’t regret it when you do. Her personality is always effervescent. Her eyes always bright like a kid at Christmas and she has a charm that could disarm any Army General or dictator. That’s perhaps the reason from an early age she caught the eyes and ears of Advertising Agencies. Armed with an Honors Degree in Management and Psychology, she decided to make the bold step of moving back home (to Jamaica) in the Summer of 2004 from the United States of America after a successful, but unfulfilling career in Finance. Who does that? Alaine does. The interview was pushed back by an hour due to delays in her rehearsal schedule, but I knew the wait would have been worth it. Any artiste who takes rehearsals seriously, especially weeks before a show, clearly appreciate the value of their artistic talent. We met up at the recently refurbished Jamaican Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston. Walking with the glide of a model, the first thing I noticed was how stream lined her physique had become; she had lost some weight. Well unlike some Jamaicans who would make the ill assumption of illness or stress, I asked straight up what accounted for this svelte appearance and so the animation began.
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TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE
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You also have your own record label and you are also producing, are you in the process of putting out an EP or an album? Well yes. I have a lot of songs that I have recorded over the years and so I am indeed working on an album. It is not concrete yet, but definitely by next year.
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Have you found that this flowed over into your artistic expression and the way you think about writing music? Yes it has. My whole life has changed. I also saw what you wrote on Instagram, you have to take time to take care of you first and it’s not about being self-centred but more about self maintenance and self preservation. You are able to deal with whatever you’re doing from a much clearer place and so there is order and there is peace of mind. I have found that the songs that I have been able to write over the last four years have expanded to deal with different types of love. I used to just focus on the man and woman kind of love and dancing music, but I have expanded now to really discuss other topics. If you listen to songs like ‘You are Me’ and ‘Tahrir Square’ you will see I am a better writer, singer and performer. I know it is all from God so it is all good.
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Wow, very unusual for a Jamaican artiste, since many of our artistes like to bleach (party late hours), eat whenever they want and go to bed, drink and smoke a lot. Talk to us about your regimen because you are glowing. I meditate, pray, worship. It takes the form of different things, sometimes I just sing, sometimes I read books in order to learn from greater minds than myself. That is what we are here to do; unfold, evolve, to become more than what we were yesterday, so I search because I am in the process of being a better me. I draw from people who set examples like Jesus Christ, Buddha, Oprah Winfrey, Marcus Garvey, Deepak Chopra just different influences and it’s working for me. I am just like expanding my knowledge base. You do what makes you feel good and this is what makes me feel good. Every morning I have a shake with fruits, vegetables, nuts. It’s always a mixture with like okra, callalloo, broccoli, cashews, bananas, papaya, just any fruit and vegetable. It makes you feel so good and if you put ginger in that it makes everything tastes so much better; that is every morning. I used to be a vegan, but it’s so hard when you have to be traveling so I eat some fish. I don’t eat meat, not because I think anything is wrong with eating meat, but because I choose not to. No sugar, no flour. It’s about happiness and these foods brings me joy. I don’t know if it’s psychological, but eating them makes me feel better. I run, lift weights and I am strict about following that because it gives you energy. The more in shape you are the more energy you have for your day. I have been doing it for a couple of years. Sometimes I actually do yoga when my body is tired of the weight training.
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Bwoy you’ve lost a lot of weight! What’s going on, is it exercise or is there a modeling contract in the works? Speak it into being Sister! Speak it into being! Just living a happy and healthy life. I follow you on Instagram and see that you are living and choosing to eat some good things for your body. Your body just falls into place as it should naturally be when you eat foods that are meant for it. I have been eating healthy, exercising, living happy, thinking happy.
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Bwoy you’ve lost a lot of weight! What’s going on, is it exercise or is there a modeling contract in the works? Speak it into being Sister! Speak it into being! Just living a happy and healthy life. I follow you on Instagram and see that you are living and choosing to eat some good things for your body. Your body just falls into place as it should naturally be when you eat foods that are meant for it. I have been eating healthy, exercising, living happy, thinking happy.
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One of the things about the Jamaican Entertainment Fraternity is that people tend to think that in order to survive in this business or to have a presence you have to be coarse, aggressive and excessively hype, but that is not your demeanor. You are more centered and focused, do you think that has helped or hindered you? I guess a little bit of both, but life is about balance so I am ok with that. I have to be myself and this is who I am. I am not trying to pretend to be anybody that I am not, this is me. As imperfect as I am, I am ok with it. I do my best and that is that. I keep hopeful that it will be embraced the way that it has been and more, I can only keep being me because that is the only person I can be and want to be. I was watching you in performance recently, I was very impressed. I said to myself ‘you go girl!’ Your performance reminded me of an Alicia Keys performance. Your whole look, your delivery and how your fingers caressed the keyboard. Was she an influence? What determined that change in your entry? Thank you. Well you know what, I grew up studying classical piano, it’s something that I always did. When Alicia Keys came out initially and at that time I used to wear a lot of braids as well, one of my friends called me asking ‘how comes you didn’t tell me that you got a recording contract and that you are playing piano on television’ (She bursts out laughing). I was a big fan of hers since the beginning of her career; I love her music. I have been influenced by a lot of artistes, but I grew up always singing and writing at my piano. What I have always done, that has not always been highlighted, is to play and sing with my keyboard when I travel and even on Sumfest. It’s something that has not been highlighted before now so I am looking forward to doing it more. Every time I have ever seen you, you are always smiling, you are always bubbly and your smile is so pretty. People should just love interviewing you, what is one of your most memorable interviews? There are many, but Jambi in Kenya. While I was doing the interview, there was a man calling from a village to say that he had cows and goats to marry me. That was memorable. (She laughs hard). Situations like that stand out.
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What are some of the things that you have learned from your extensive travels that have aided the growth of your career? (She answers as deadpan as possible) To always carry food with me. What aids my career is my belly full of food. I cannot function properly without food. I always walk with my Solomon O Gundy and I used to always have my Excelsior Water Crackers (I don’t eat crackers anymore so now I have to find a substitute) and my box of teabags. You will get hungry on the road and hunger and performance just don’t work well together. Ok seriously now (she switches gear), I have learned patience and to stay calm because the road is unpredictable. It is not always great with accommodations and different types of people that you have to deal with. You have to stay calm and humble especially when you face a tumultuous situation. With a spirit of consciousness and peace it works out. I have also learned not to judge.
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Your song with I Octane ‘Lighters Up’ is a brilliant song, how did that collaboration come about? I have a song on Frass’ riddim Diamonds and Gold that we just shot the video for. He said to me ‘yo Alaine you and Octane need to do a song together.’ I agreed but it was just a matter of time. He played some tracks and I sang ‘shine your lighters high up in the air’, he loved it, called Octane and we headed to Markus Records studio a couple weeks after that. The chemistry and vibe was positive as is the message of the song. It’s about the message of life, no matter how much darkness surrounds you if you decide to be on the side of light, darkness cannot win. Let me let you in on a secret which I have not said to anyone before, but since you are the artiste and you are here I will say it. When I first heard the song, I thought to myself that ‘this is a song if Jamaica is making a sound track for the Olympics in Brazil, this is a song they could put on it. It’s a very inspiring song. What are you working on? I know you like to keep things close to your chest. Right now the song I did with Wyre, a Kenynan Dancehall artiste, it has gone over 250,000 views. The video was shot in Jamaica, the title is Swahili and it means I Love You Too. I am happy for what that means for my career in Kenya because I am trying to expand my brand in Africa. The people in Africa, especially Eastern Africa have embraced by music. I will be going to Uganda with Konshens in August, Pepsi is bringing us there and I am heading to the Montreal Reggae Festival. A lot of positive things are going on; working out the specifics of a big tour as well. What do you have to tell the readers of L3 Magazine? Remember how awesome a gift it is to be happy. Really appreciate every moment of health, love and victory because they are so important to your well being. Just love with all of your heart. Connect with Alaine on Twitter >>> @Alainesinga
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A THE RUSH OF
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e came decked out in an azure blue polo tee and an ash grey slim fit jeans. I had to hand it to the kid, his swag was delicately sexy. His lanky tall frame sported the clothing well; frankly the designers should pay him to wear their clothes. When he spits lyrics he moves like a turbo charged machine, but as he sits in the studio, he is composed and tempered. He speaks thoughtfully, never rushing to answer any question.
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TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE
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AJRENALIN
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TS: The public knows you as Ajrenalin, but tell us, what’s your Birth Paper? A: Keith Bolt. Say what? Did you just say Bolt? Are you related to Bolt (Usain Bolt)? You know what, I don’t actually know. My grandmother told me her husband, which is my Dad’s father had family in Trelawny (the parish where Usain Bolt is from, Jamaica is broken up into Parishes). Even though Bolt, Christopher Martin and I actually par, it’s not something we have ever spoken about.
Funny that you should mention that, so where are you from? I was born in Kingston 13, which is a garrison. Then our family moved to Portmore; things looked up for my Dad and we moved to Uptown Kingston, so right now I live in the Smokeyvale (the hills of St Andrew). As a result I am not easily welcomed. Oh, they feel you did not go through enough ghetto struggles. You were not born uptown though, your family worked their way up. Exactly. So you find that because they can’t relate to you since we have different backgrounds they always try to shut you out. It is a never ending battle to prove yourself. My coming up is slow, but I give God thanks for where I am right now.
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How did you get started in the business? I just loved music from High School. From High School I pursued it as a hobby. I used to go to Buju’s studio after school. When I left school and was doing a 9 - 5, I made a link with Robert Livingston (Shaggy’s former manager). Really, I would say I started professionally about the time that Mr. Joe came out. It has just been hard work since then because for those who don’t know Ajrenalin, I am not the average Dancehall artiste. In Dancehall when you don’t come from a corner or a lane or a garrison it’s hard to break in. When you go studio and say you are a dj, the rest of the community dis would mutter amongst themselves ‘where is the uptown yute going?’ So, I have always been under pressure to prove myself.
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Tell us, how you have been able to overcome that struggle as a young artiste because you have many who would have just given up. I had to listen a lot and Buju was the first to tell me. ‘Drenalin, the words you are putting in the song them, people don’t want to hear that. You are moving too fast.’ I listened to him and I had to ease back and fit in, even though that is not how I spoke. I started making my music more marketable. I still try to think out of the box with respect to concepts, but that was the turning point in my career.
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Which criticism did you get and in listening to yourself now and then, you now look within yourself and realize that the criticism was true? Strangely, there was never a criticism that I didn’t look into. I am not arrogant like that. I spent a lot of years writing music the wrong way. So I had to change. I used to choose a meticulous way to write because I was trying to define myself; I didn’t want to write in the regular way. As you know there is still the stigma associated with deejays that we are dunce. I wanted to separate myself from that. So it took a while for me to simplify my material. Artistes go through stages, some artistes plot out their career. They might say this year I want this, next year that and in 5 years I want to be here? What is your approach? Well, right now, I just want that breakthrough song. The breakthrough song that will make people look at me and wonder who I am. Once I get that song, I will be better able to mold my brand. I have a lot of things to say and I want to say it in a different way. I have my own ideas as to what music should sound like, but I realize that when you are working with people and other producers you can’t get too crazy with it. That is what I rate about other genres and artistes like Outkast. Remember music is here to suit many moods, but when you work with certain producers, they feel like X style ‘shot’ and that is what they are comfortable backing their money on so you end up having to do that. Suppose I want to do a song about someone going through a heartbreak, I am deejay but I can do it. So that is why right now I just want that break out song, so I can just make music of all styles.
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Your name has been popping up more and more in mainstream media and you are now on a number of shows, you are working with a team? Yes, although it’s a very small team and a lot of hard work. I approached, Christopher Martin, I consider him to be like a brother to me and I asked him to bring me on some of his shows. It was never with the intention of making money, I just wanted to open up, no matter how small. After all, how else would I gain the experience? From that experience you try to make a mark. The business is structured in such a way that it makes sense for you to hang around people who you get a good vibe from and Christopher Martin is someone that I get a good vibe from. I know that a lot of young artistes would not want to open up in a small club in the Caribbean, but I want the experience. Over the years, persons who know me will tell you that I par a lot with Christopher Martin, D Major and singers because I realize over the years that deejays do not get along. Why do you suppose that the singers get along better than the deejays do? I think this business is so unpredictable, that you have to find genuine people to rally around. Deejays tend to pree (be suspicious) one another and wonder if I hang with this next deejay his career might surpass mine, whereas I find that singers do not operate in that way. Do you think that it’s because deejays tend to think that their careers are more shortlived, therefore, they have to be in a hustling mode, however, with the singers though their careers tend to have more longevity. I suppose. I just click more with singers. I love melodies and I love melodies with writing. It works for me. How important would you say rehearsals are to an artistes presentation? It gives you the opportunity to feel out your songs. I never like going on stage having to worry about hitting a particular note at a part of the song that I have not practice to hit yet. I like to be prepared. I like to be rested as well. What?! Rested did you say rested? Most Jamaican entertainers believe in doing road every night! What gives?! Yes and then they end up going to a show and can’t work it properly. You know what the thing is when you are entering a business you have to analyze it; so if doing road every night works for you, do it, but before my shows I get anxious and because of that I like to get my rest. I do what works for me! What do have to leave with the readers of L3? Never waste an opportunity, once you do that you will never miss out an something that could possibly work out in your favor. Connect with Adjrenalin on Facebook >>> Ajrenalin
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K A THE REIGNING
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KING ADDIES NATASHA VON CASTLE
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ound Clash is a very delicate business that operates in a very delicate market. It has changed significantly from its original days where, if a sound lost badly in a Clash, they would be parked, and not heard from within a year. Today, and similar to the movies, a sound dies today and is resurrected tomorrow. King Addies represents one of a few sounds with an international reputation for being fierce gladiators in the arena. Founded by Father Ethan, Addies is a sound built for Clash because of the era in which it was born, and embraces the ‘juggling’ aspect of the sound system business because of the era it lives in. I sat down with King Pin to discuss the sound, Sound Clash in today’s environment, and how they feel about being managed by Irish and Chin. His answers….
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NVC: It is impossible to discuss Sound Clash, and not include the sound King Addies. With that in mind, does the name King Addies come with a heavy burden in terms of the expectations on the sound, or is it a heavy burden in terms of others sounds preparation to face you?! KP: Well, it’s both; you have to think of it as both. The fans of King Addies place a high level of expectations on the sound because of the level set by Danny Dread and Babyface and Matterhorn so there are high expectations and then on the other hand, the preparations the other sounds have to go through is high because of who we are. Addies is that sound that everyone wants to beat and in order to do that, a lot has to be prepared for before entering a Clash with us.
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You come from the Biltmore Era, and not many sounds today can boast of that history. Is that an advantage for you in today’s market place in terms of Clash? Yes you could say that because the Biltmore era was a big thing; that’s where a lot of sounds studied the music and artists like Bounty Killer and Mad Cobra. We have an advantage because we can go that era [play style] or we can go the new era [new artists]. That era definitely helps our box. From that era, who would you say were your fiercest opponents? Killamanjaro, Bass Odyssey, LP International, Earth Ruler and Body Guard. In the original days of Clash, we played to lock off a sound and make sure they ‘parked.’ That element is missing in today’s landscape, is there a desire on your part to bring that element back?! I mean … when you go in a Clash, that’s what you really want to do; you want to win and lock off the other sound; that’s your goal. Once you do that there’s nothing else a sound can do; they can’t really redeem themselves, so yes that is the goal. That’s one of the best feelings and that’s big. From that era, how many body bags and toe tags (approximately) would you say King Addies bagged and tagged?! A lot. Addies is one of the sounds that I can say has been around the world; has done this globally. We’ve been killing sounds in Europe, killing sounds in the Caribbean, killing sounds in America; a lot. I can’t give a number but I know it’s a lot. Big up Matterhorn and Babyface and Danny Dread. Some of your fiercest arsenal comes from Bounty Killer but who are some recent artists that you’ve been cutting that your opponents may not be ready for? We’ve got a well rounded dub-box with a lot of well known and upcoming artists from Jamaica. Mavado, Konshens; young artists from Brooklyn also; can’t really give out the secrets because you know, when we tell people we ‘voiced such and such’ they’ll run out and voice the same artist in the same way so I’m not going to let it out, but trust me, we’re going to buss a lot of new artists!
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There is an art to cutting dubplates as well as re-writing chunes in a Clash style. Do you have an agreement with artists whereby if a chune is performed a certain way for you, it cannot be duplicated the same way for another sound? No, not really. The thing about Addies is that we’ve been in the business for so long that people respect Addies; artists respect King Addies; that’s one thing I can honestly say. Artists who do a special for us, are not going to violate that and cut a special in the same way for someone else. Big up Father Ethan. He set this thing on a level. Artists respect Father Ethan in such a way that that line won’t be crossed. As for the song writing part, it’s us and the artist. We sometimes go to them with an idea; we’ll tell the artist we want it like such and such and the artist will put his / her spin on it but for the most part, when we go to the artist with what we want, we get it that way. Certain artists we can work with, and then others have their style. Either way, we get what we want. One of the things your fans appreciate about the sound is the fact that you do your homework, you research and you prepare, never taking your opponent for granted. Who on the sound determines that strategy to use on any given Clash night? When you see the strategy part come in to it, that would be my good friend A1. A1 would sit down and study the cassettes / CD of the sound we’re about to play with. He’s the selector on the sound and he plans the way he wants to attack. After that, he’ll come to me or Killa Boo and say this is how we’re going to do it. We might say we want this song at this time and he’ll line it up so it drops perfectly. Most of the preparation for war comes from A1. It’s a collective thing, but mainly him; that’s his job. Your most recent major Clash was versus Poison Dart last year. The majority of people feel Poison Dart won that Clash. Looking back at that Clash, do you agree, and if you do where would you say you went wrong? Well to correct you, the last major Clash we had was with Earth Ruler (this interview was conducted in July, 2013), but last year was the Poison Dart dance and to be honest with you I feel they walked out the dance. We should have turned on the sound a little bit warlier so they wouldn’t have had the chance to do what they did. That was my fault. I was selecting that night, and I should have turned on the anthem earlier. I honestly do not feel they won that dance, I honestly feel they ran out. Do you look forward to facing Poison Dart again and when I say you, I literally mean you King Pin! Yeah … anytime! It could be tomorrow. Anytime (King Pin laughs, but there is a seriousness to the laughter). I confess that I didn’t know about the Clash with Earth Ruler. How did that Clash go? Well we beat them very, very badly. We beat them in every round as well as chune fih chune. It went well for us, and not so well for them.
How would you rate your performance compared to Poison Dart? I didn’t play that night. I was on the sidelines; that was Killa Boo and A1 that night and they won every round.
You have a European tour coming up and Europe is not generally known to host clashes. You’ve called the tour the ‘Rebirth tour. Why the name rebirth? Is this a new King Addies we’re dealing with? Yes. European fans haven’t seen us in so long, and now they’re going to see the new Addies. We brought it to them as a ‘rebirth’ because when they see Addies they see Babyface and Matterhorn. This is new! This is Killa Boo, A1, Swoogy, King Pin … all new and a rebirth! Are there any sounds you plan to ‘draw out?!’ Laughs. I don’t want to get anyone scared, but a Love Injection or Saxon would be great. As a young selector I looked up to those sounds; Immortal as well. I wouldn’t mind seeing those sounds. We hear you may be performing in Montreal during the weekend of their Reggae festival. If you do perform, and I repeat if, are you going in with guns loaded, or will it be a work out night? I mean, we’ll be playing and doing what we do, but if a sound decides to flip up, we’ll do it. We’re not going to rush it, but if a sound flips it, we will attack. You also have a Clash planned with Bass Odyssey. A Clash of that caliber will excite the marketplace, but I have to ask, how does that Clash excite King Addies internally? Wow. It’s a big challenge. Everyone is stepping up, putting in work, contributing ideas and strategies about how to attack the dance. This is big. Bass Odyssey is one of the biggest sounds out there; they’re with all the big sound. They juggle, they Clash; they are a sound to be reckoned with so everybody [on King Addies] is on their ‘A’ game preparing for this. I’m on mine, A1, Killa; everyone.
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Did you learn anything watching the Clash not only as a cheerleader for the sound but as a spectator for the sound as well? Did you learn anything in watching it from that perspective? Yeah! This is the first dance that I haven’t been a part of since joining the sound. Being in the crowd, you get to feel the chunes as a fan and it’s a good vibe. I got to see mistakes that were made and I’ve calculated that the next time I’m up there, I won’t make those mistakes. It was a good experience; a learning experience.
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Who was selecting that night? Lee Major … he didn’t do so well that night and he came in late.
Let’s fast forward in time and pretend that you Clashed Bass Odyssey and you’ve won. Is there any greater accomplishment that King Addies can earn for 2013? Yes! Bass Odyssey is the first step. Next is World Clash. That’s something we want to win and we can win. There are other things to accomplish, but that’s it.
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You are now managed by Irish and Chin. Give us the real on how that partnership came to be? Well I don’t know how it came about. I heard the news and I was happy about it. Irish and Chin is one of the biggest promoters [of Sound Clash] in the world; they’re a force. On the other side, we have Andrew Digital, so right there, we’re managed by two of the greatest forces in the world. Big up to Irish and Chin anywhere he stands. Not that I’m looking for controversy, but was there any concern about I&C managing you and managing Mighty Crown? Nah. That never came up with us. We never thought of it like that. Big up to Mighty Crown anywhere dem deh. We know when it comes to Chin Mighty Crown ago do dem ting, and we gonna do our thing so that’s not a concern for us.
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The sport of Clash has received a lot of cross over attention thanks to the promotion of our culture by Irish and Chin. How do you think the Puma’s and Nike’s and Ciroc’s of the world can benefit from our culture / industry? I think we represent a whole other market that is niche but important for their brands and all corporate brands. We have a lot of people who follow the sound and we’re global. Fast forward to 2013! King Addies is a Clash sound and you also take dates as a juggling sound. Is there anything you enjoy most about a juggling dance? The women! Every man loves the ladies and we love to mix them up in a juggling dance! R.E.S.E.T is coming in October which will be here in the blink of an eye. How do you feel about Clashing on that level in front of your home town of New York? It’s a big thing and a dream. We don’t really feel pressure … remember we’ve won Global Clash three years in a row. We’re at the stage yes where New York is relying on us to win, but that is something that we’re used to. World Clash is something that I can’t wait for, and in New York City?! We’re leaving with that trophy! How do you intend to balance your playing of older era artists and newer era artists as well as riddim selection? Well it’s something that has to happen. We won’t Clash and leave a group of people out of the mix. We will balance it and that’s all I can say. King Addies in part is known for bussing new artists. Is that a little bit of a driving force for King Addies? Yes. There is a lot of talent in New York that we will be sharing with the world. A lot of talent. We also have talent from Jamaica and we will buss them … it’s just something that has to be done. The name of the magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first is for Life, the second for Love and the third for Lyrics. What general advice can you give readers on Life, Love, Lyrics. I would say; simple and plain, cherish Life, cherish Love and cherish the lyrics. Connect with King Addies on Facebook >>> King Addies
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SOUNDS FIH LOCK OFF? LY R I C S
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AN OPINION FROM A SOUND CLASH AFICIONADO
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ack in the earlier days of Clash, I’m talking the 1980’s and 90’s, we had an expression: ‘sound get lock off.’ When that statement was issued, it was done because one sound completely eliminated another sound from competition. There were a few memorable instances of a sound being locked off. The first that comes to mind is Saxon locking off Luv Injection in 1993 (classic cassette tape) and 1994 when Killamanjaro locked off Silverhawk Sound … neatly. Silverhawk was parked for several years after that classic dance. For a sound to experience a ‘lock-off,’ it meant that the sound was literally parked, shamed and couldn’t show their face. No one wanted to hear them or see them much less. To be locked off was a sound system disgrace. In today’s Sound System environment and culture, focus is not placed on locking off a sound, the emphasis is on killing a sound … for that moment. The next day, the sound lives and goes on to plan another dance or event. Times have changed.
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Canada’s King Turbo is a self-inflicted lock off sound. To be clear, and to emphasize a point, another sound did not lock off King Turbo, though their past few performances have left fans shaking their heads. When competing against Silverhawk at their selfproduced event Real Steel (January, 2013) fans pelted them with boo’s, and more recently, at When Dubs Did Nice (March, 2013), utter disappointment. To be fair, the round where they brought Freddie McGregor on stage was a saving grace. No matter how King Turbo tries, they just can’t seem to get it together. The chemistry between King Sharp (micsman) and Spex (Selector) is not working. Do they need more time to gel? Looking deeper into their roster, Slingshot provides counsel / guidance and performs at select dates. Jahmin is administration and Ricky … well Ricky is a rogue agent who performs under the name King Turbo, but not with the crew. I would hazard a guess that his disgusting attitude and inability to listen or reason keeps him on the outside. The irony is out of all the crew (outside and inside), Ricky has the most fight and is most ready for war. The Gods blessed and cursed Ricky with the same hand. The last time Capleton (one of King Turbo’s managers) spoke publicly about the sound, he said they are taking time to regroup to strengthen the sound. This problem is deeper than ‘regrouping.’ If it wasn’t for radio (Spex playing on G 98.7 FM and Slingshot playing on CIUT 89.5 FM) in Toronto, we would hazard a guess that King Turbo would not be getting dates beyond Weddings, Anniversaries and special occasions organized by fans who grew up listening to them, and who still hold them to a high esteem which greatly differs from the core Sound System listening audience. King Turbo’s problem is King Turbo. King Turbo is a lock off sound because of King Turbo and not because any sound definitively killed them in a clash … that’s the positive. Just as the days of old, when a sound gets lock off, another sound reigns supreme. In the case of Canada, the new reigning sound would be Super Fresh, who, observing carefully the movements of King Turbo, knows exactly what to do to make sure they don’t get lock off! And by the way, why do we care so much about King Turbo? We care because they were one of Canada’s mightiest sounds who should be in their prime. Instead they are a sound searching for keys.