WINTER 2014: THE MUSIC ISSUE

MASCONSUMPTION.COM

WINTER 2014

THE

MUSIC ISSUE

FEATURING.... ERIS DUBLIN • LUSIVE • BRITTANY CRAIG • SYKEZ: THE MAN BEHIND

THE MUSIC • MIKE GRIOT & MORE. •MAKE A MINI-ZINE! • THE SCENE • GOALS FOR ARTISTS IN 2014

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“MASCONSUMPTION IS MORE THAN A ZINE, OR A MAGAZINE. IT’S CULTURE. OUR CULTURE, HERE IN THE VALLEY. “

WWW.MASCONSUMPTION.COM

23 | UPCOMING EVENTS

The Valley Arts District: creating buzz, one event at time.

24 | COMMUNITY

p.r. shares her experiences leading zine-making workshops at World Fellowship Center, and Willie Mae Rock & Roll Camp for Girls

5 | EDITOR’S LETTER 6 | CONTRIBUTOR PROFILES 10 | THE SCENE Find out what’s new on the scene in New Jersey’s Valley Arts District 11 | A LOVER’S PRAYER Poetry Submission by Delirius Muse 17 | LESS / MORE Goals for any artist in 2014 18 | TAR, AN INSTALLATION Eight artists join collaborative forces and transforms Ironworks Gallery only using black acrylic.

20 | MASCONSUMPTION QUIZ TAKEN BY DJ Short Beatz & one of the #domz, amanda 22 | FOOD. MUSIC. DRINK. ART The scene at Valley anchor, Hat City Kitchen PHOTOGRAPHED BY TYREE HUEY & LILY LUX

40 | EDITORIAL Photographed at ORNG Ink Studio

MASCONSUMPTION ZINE WINTER 2014 No. 5

27 |

THE MUSIC ISSUE

WINTER 2014 | 3

ART SUBMISSION BY AMONNIE NICHOLAS 1/3

editor’s letter on the last issue

First off I want to thank all of the writers and poets who submitted their work to the fall issue and trying the alphabet writing prompt for The ABC Series. Dedicating that issue to writing was very important to me, and it was a pleasure sharing it with readers and other writers.

on music in the valley

I can not think of the Valley without hearing an original band in the background. There’s the music department at Ironworks, the weekly musical jams & original music performed at Hat City Kitchen six nights a week p 22. Being in the middle of it all, is very exciting. Musicians feel at home here, and are able to explore their passions. Some for the very first time. p 32

on the music issue

Every conceptual idea I have when it comes to MASCONSUMPTION is heavily inspired by my life, childhood, and things that I feel touch everyone. As a kid, I do not remember having tvs in my house until my sister and I were 10 or 11. My Dad has an awesome record collection, so my house was always filled with music. Classics. Music brought my family together, in a way television and technology never could. I want to celebrate how music connects the world. So, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. Hopefully the first hip hop showcase in the Valley is epic and kicks ass.

future of masconsumption

2014 is our year. The year of the zine. Hopefully more readers, sponsors, advertisers, and artistic collaborations. No more talk, just action this year. Until the Spring issue.

to the readers

If you like what you’ve read and see please tell a friend. Connect to our social media and come out to the events happening here in the Valley p .23There is so much going on, and you are going to want to be a part of what is happening here. Subscribe to the zine, support art and community.

firsts this issue is also all about firsts. I went totally different with the creative team. I worked with new people, & past collaborators in a new way. The Music Issue Release Party is the first hip hop showcase in the Valley and at the live music venue, Hat City Kitchen. I am proud to bring that here, while conitnuing to bring NYC culture and the emerging culture in the Valley.

Behind the Scenes cover shoot, (from left to right) Eris Dublin, Day, Le’Trice DeShon, Mike Reilly, Lusive, & Patricia Rogers at ORNG Ink Studio

WINTER 2014 | 5

IN THE ISSUE: CONTRIBUTOR PROFILES Chalandrea

Professional Volunteer, Journalist, Mike Griot Interview p 38

ASHLEY RUTLEDGE

Music blogger, music event coordinator, & songwriter Bog Iron Bloom: The Return to Original Music p 40 Lives in: Jersey City, New Jersey Latest Discovery: Kaki King Travel Plans: Austin, TX for SXSW in March Playing on Repeat: Figure 8 by Elliott Smith Online Fixation: www.hypem.com Secret Skill: I have a ridiculously awesome sense of direction. If I go someplace one time, I remember how to get there forever. Comes in handy for sure.

Favorite Artist: Alphonse Mucha (Czech painter), Damon Albarn (Gorillaz, Blur, record producer/musician), Janelle Monae (musician) 6 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

How is music a part of your everyday life? Music helps set the mood for whatever I need to accomplish for the day. If I need to hype myself up for work, I listen to Beyonce. If I need to chill after a stressful day, I throw on some classical music.

Lives in: Newark, NJ Latest Discovery: Arctic Monkeys. I know I’m late with that one, but they’re fantastic.

Travel Plans: Trying to coordinate my first ever summer road trip to Maine with a group of childhood friends.

Playing on Repeat: Magna Carta Holy Grail.

Online Fixation: Tumblr and Pinterest Secret Skill: Losing things so they’ll never be found again.

Favorite Artist: Jay Z Favorite Song: “September” Earth, Wind & Fire

MASCONSUMPTION NEW ONLINE EXCLUSIVES . COM E-ZINES

new monthly photogra- DOWNLOAD ALL PAST ISSUES phy editorials. Available OF for free downloads.

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FEBRUARY E-ZINE 02.01.14

READ W13, SP13, THE FASHION ISSUE (S13), THE ABC SERIES (F13), THE MUSIC ISSUE (W14) & ALL OF THE MONTHLY E-ZINES: ZINETAKEOVER, KAT DOLLY BLACK, WHAT WE LOVE: EDITOR’S EDITION, A YEAR IN ZINES & SUBSCRIBE FOR PRINT ISSUES.

quaintrelle new online boutique. masconsumption.com/boutique OPENS SPRING 2014

THE SHOOTS: BEHIND THE SCENES check out exclusive photos & videos from behind the scenes Bad Girls?

Photographed by Lily Lux & Tyree Huey @MASCONSUMPTION

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ART SUBMISSION BY AMONNIE NICHOLAS 2/3

TH E S C E N E WATCH & VOTE

VOTE THE ROBYN CHRONICLES IN INTERNATIONAL MOVIE TRAILER FESTVAL

Upcoming crime series, The Robyn Chronicles has been entered in the International Movie Trailer Festival. Watch the trailer and vote for the series: internationalmovietrailerfestival.com/ therobynchronicles therobynchronicles.com @therobynchronicles

CONTRIBUTE

THE WOMEN’S ISSUE & SHORT FILM Inspired by a recent video, How Media Failed Women in 2013, the Spring 14 issue of masconsumption is all about finding out what truly empowers real-life, women, by real-life women.

continued on p 26 SAVE THE DATE BIZARRE WORLD ART & HAIR EXHIBIT MARCH 15TH 6-10PM THE LOFT, MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY

ART. HAIR. MODELS. POETRY. MUSIC. FOOD. WINE FEATURED ARTISTS: “THE BONE ARTIST” TIA JANNAH & EDITORIAL HAIR STYLIST, AMIRA JANNAH @THEBONEARTIST @AMIRAJANNAH FOR THE LATEST NEWS, HAPPENINGS, PHOTOS AND VIDEO FOLLOW @MASCONSUMPTION ON TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM

10 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

When he touches me My eyelids flutter.

My breathing; my heart beats, all of time eradicates.

And his tongue slides to the base of my neck and they all return, Furious acceleration occurs.

I’m breathing so fast, I wonder if I am breathing at all.

Deep gasps, and small airless sighs on desperate exhalations...

5–4–3–2– Oh! When he’s touching me My toes tingle.

My fingers; my tongue, my hair curls in anticipation.

As the perspiration builds, and the temperatures intensify.

I blow a tiny puff at the sweat slicked curls on my brow.

His tongue swirls around the tiniest of hard candies and I am so close to coming undone.

1–2–3– Fuck!

It’s too hot.

It’s too much.

How can I forgive myself for these sins?

How delicious must the edge of hell taste, If his sharp whacks peppered across my bared behind are any thing to go by?

Lord, forgive me.

As I’m rubbing his earlobes, and his tongue caresses me.

Lord, forgive me.

As I call out Your name in vain to the sweetest of pleasures and the worst of my pain.

Lord forgive me, as I continue to count to my heart’s 1 – 2.

A LOVER’S PRAYER 1 – 2...

When will it end?

Do I even want it to?

Lord, forgive me.

As my knees start to shake; my thighs begin to quake, and my lips erupt.

Thrusting forth all the yesyesyeswantyesfuckyesloveyesneedyounow’s, As I attempt to suffocate him with my hand at his nape, and my legs framing him.

Forgive me, as the litany pours up into the too hot, too cold, tingling air that makes my feet grow cold and my back stiff; Makes my tongue touch my teeth and outpour all manner of disturbing delights.

Forgive me as I let my soul wander far away from me and I go mad from wonder, and taste whichever fruit You bid me leave be!

Forgive me, that I don’t know why I should be forgiven.

For something so good, so pure, so joyful.

Forgive me for not being sorry.

Forgive me, because I cannot stop.

Forgive me.

poetry SUBMISSION BY delirius muse WINTER 2014 | 11

CREATING BUZZ IN THE VALLEY, ONE EVENT at a TIME

WINTER 2014

OKTOBERFEST @ ORNG INK

10.12.13 orignal beer tasting, earth oven pizza, group art show, fall 2013 zine release & more!

EVEN PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMONNIE NICHOLAS

ORNG INK GROUP SHOW @ HAT CITY KITCHEN 10.28.13 what a proud moment! ORNG Ink artists, Marco Dorce, Naeema Campbell, Briana Heart, Stephen Batiz, Khari Ricks, Mike Mal, Salem philemon, added Hat City Kitchen to their list of cool galleries they’ve showcased their work. This was a great project for ORNG Ink visual art department because it reminded us that talent and dedication will speak for itself, and if we are patient the world will see it too. The dining room looked amazing. Laura Campbell curated the show and it was beautiful. we made it unique and posted a short biography about each artist, with social media links and official website, to set a part from any other show in Hat City Kitchen. The show had a short, yet sweet run (two weeks). I can not wait until next year. -patricia Rogers 12 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

TAR AN INSTALLATION @ IRONWORKS GALLERY

11.16.13 ORNG Ink artists exhibit their work in the dining room of Hat City Kitchen, kicked off with an opening reception.

FOLLOW @MASCONSUMPTION

FOR MORE ExCLUSIVE pHOTOS, EVENTS, CONCERTS & MORE GOING ON IN NEw JERSEY’S VALLEY ARTS DISTRICT

MASCONSUMPTION.COM/EVENTS

NTS ALSO VISIT pAGE 23 FOR ALL THAT’S GOING ON IN NEw JERSEY’S VALLEY ARTS DISTRICT

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRIANA HEART

WINTER 2014 | 13

T H E S C E N E MAXIMIZE

ORGANIZE YOUR CLOSET!

Don’t let the dark, wintery weather affect your look! Let Pat N Kat organize your closet, add a pop of color & add some hotness to your wardrobe. patnkatstyle.com @patnkatstyle

PERFORM @ WEEKLY HAT CITY KITCHEN JAMS! TUESDAYS-THURSDAYS ACOUSTIC, ALL STYLES, JAZZ, & R&B/ FUNK, 8PM @hatcitykitchen WWW.HATCITYKITCHEN.COM continued on p 22

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READ URBAN ALCHEMY Restoring Joy in American’s Sorted-Out Cities

BY MINDY FULLILOVE What if divided neighborhoods were causing public health problems? What if a new approach to planning and design could tackle both the built environment and collective well-being at the same time? What if cities could help each other? Dr. Mindy Thompson Fullilove, the acclaimed author of Root Shock, uses her unique perspective as a public health psychiatrist to explore ways of healing social and spatial fractures simultaneously. Using the work of French urbanist Michel Cantal-Dupart and the American urban design firm Rothschild Doyno Collaborative as guides, Fullilove takes readers on a tour of successful collaborative interventions that repair cities and reconnect communities to make them whole.

Buy on Amazon.com

ART SUBMISSION BY AMONNIE NICHOLAS 3/3

T H E S C E N E

TRUE STYLE BLOG

NAKED2FASHION.COM

Shelly George continues to inspire those that have a real love for individual expression through fashion. On her style blog, she posts outfits artistically put together, and what appears to be candid, is all deliberate, and pieces designed by Shelly, and meant to send a message. Be sure to subscribe to see what the fashionanista is rocking next! @naked2fashi0n

SPONSOR

THE EXIT FEATURE FILM

Join filmmaker, Marco Dorce make his latest short film, The Exit into full length feature film. Marco already has the script, and creative team. Now, the right equipment to make this crime thriller into a classic.

Watch the short film & find out how you can help:

heavylunestone.com @marcodorce

FOR THE LATEST NEWS, HAPPENINGS, PHOTOS AND VIDEO FOLLOW @MASCONSUMPTION ON TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM

GOALS FOR ANY

ARTIST IN 2014

LESS

MORE

TALKING PLANNING COMPLAINING WORRYING DOUBTING LAZING AROUND FROWINING INSECURITY WEAKNESS IGNORANCE HATE UNGRATEFULNESS

LISTENING DOING ENCOURAGING HOPING BELIEVING WORKING OUT SMILING TRUST CONFIDENCE UNDERSTANDING LOVE GRATITUDE

WINTER 2014 | 17

11.16.13 IRONWORKS GALLERY Eight artists come together and transform the walls of Ironworks Gallery with only black acyllic paint and markers. In a week, the masterpiece was complete.

ARTISTS: VLADIMIR JEAN * LAURA CAMPBELL * STEPHEN BATIZ * SHAMIKA WILLIAMS * KRYSTLE LEMONIAS * KHARI RICKS * MIKE MAL * GAMAL JONES

“ The idea for TAR came together quite organically. Myself, and the other visual artists knew that we wanted to have a show but we were craving something never done before. with a gallery space already set up, one tends to adopt the very classic “art show” concept: framed artwork on white walls. But we thought, “Let’s do the polar opposite of that. Draw directly on the walls and cover as much of the room as possible. “ we wanted to transform the space.

Stephen Batiz had the idea to all paint with the same black acrylic paint. This gave the illusion that the final product was one entire piece, existing without separation.

The finished product was unlike anything we expected and the experience was that much more rewarding. what we didn’t expect was how much it would break us out of our artistic shells.” - Laura Campbell

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MASCONSUMPTION QUIZ AMANDA W. @MANDAPNYC What did you eat this morning? cereal or yogurt. Love my rice crispys What is your biggest passion?

My biggest passion making music. I wanna move people and bring them together with it.

What shows are in your Netlix queue right now?

Homeland!!! Absolutely and Family Guy. American Dad too. Good stuff What was your most memorable birthday?

My 18th spent it with some of my favorite people. And got my first tattoo. Definitely a good birthday.

What is your favorite thing in the Valley right now?

The music. I’ve listened to some amazing musicians lately.

What were you doing 10 years ago?

I was living in South Orange. I played softball and the sax.

Favorite color?

Blue....absolutely.

How do you get inspired?

The people that are around me inspire me. The people I’m close with inspire me or even just kickin back and watching me surrounds.

Going for a bike ride through town, anything really. Just finding what makes my creativeness click and relating it through music. I have a constant soundtrack bumpin in my head. My thoughts are musical.

Describe an average day in your life Um, get up still wanting to sleep more. go to work or class. Work on music. Even just dropping a baseline. Try to always work on a little something.

EMMA Z. @DJSHORTBEATZ SOUTH ORANGE, NJ

SOUNDENGINEER, Institute for Audio Research graduate 20 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

Bronx, NY Digital content manager, #dom domineermedia.com

What did you eat this morning?

My usual breakfast would include a bagel toast, eggs, and orange juice or my favorite, cranberry juice. I also like to have a Veggie shake around brunch hours.

What is your biggest passion?

My biggest passion in life would have to helping people whether its participating in charity events, through my work in the media or music business or giving my family and friends advice on different topics.

What shows are in your Netlix queue right now?

A lot of mystery, horror, or scary shows. I am a forensic TV junkie to the core, so you would find anything from the show, The Killing to any show on the ID channel. I’m also a fan of documentaries and following people’s livesa and stories.

What does it mean to be a #dom?

Being a Dom is going after you want in life and being fearless despite obstacles and difficult times. It is having grace,ambition, being royal, and reigning with positivity in one’s own life and field. Being a Dom also takes working hard and knowing how to mix some fun in there too for a healthy balance.

Favorite color?

Purple! Almost everything is purple from my room to my nail polish!

Describe an average day in your life My day starts off like a party as everyone in my house would say lol. I start my days with blasting music in the shower and while I’m getting dress, usually Power 105.1. I have to wake up early, everyday, so it gets me in an energizing mood to start off my day and plus I’m a music lover!! I grab breakfast on my way to work, eat it at my desk while answering and sending top of the morning emails. Then, I go through my daily routine and work of checking media stories, events, and handling some marketing stuff.

T H E HAT CITY KITCHEN S C E N E FOOD. MUSIC. DRINK. ART.

EAT BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN

EAT BOURBON GLAZED PORKCHOP

DRINK FRENCH 75

Generous 14oz Marinated Chop,Grilled witha Sweet Bourbon Glaze and Cinnamon Apples, with a choice of a side .

Ask Tess Rose, to make you a French 75, Inspired by the New Orlean’s favorite. This refreshing cocktail has a little bit of a kick. Made with Bombay Sapphire gin, freshly squeezed lime juice, topped with champange and garnished with a lime.

ENJOY ARTIST SALON

2ND MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Come, have a drink. Bring your artist friends and meet your artist colleagues from the Valley Arts District and around the region!

DRINK PEACH COSMO

COUPON BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET 11-3pm

This Happy Hour favorite is so delicious, you’ll have to have to 2! Made with Peach Ciroc, Triple Sec, Fresh Lime Juice & Cranberry Juice

Mention “The Zine” to your server & enjoy a buy one, get one FREE Sunday Brunch Buffet.

Eggs & French Toast Made to Order, homemade sausage gravy, fried chicken & waffles, $3 mimosa/ bloody mary, red velevet cupcakes & more.

@HATCITYKITCHEN 22 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

459 VALLEY STREET ORANGE, NJ

Coated in the signature Buttermilk batter, served up freshly prepared, hot & crispy, topped with homemade honey pepper sauce with a choice of a side.

JAM WEEKLY MUSIC JAMS

TUESDAYS 8PM ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC W/ MICHAEL REITMAN Come chill out with the soft sounds of acoustic guitar. This Acoustic Open Mic welcomes singers, songwriters, and musicians to serenade our welcoming audience with whatever originals or covers their hearts desire.

WEDNESDAYS 8PM OPEN JAZZ JAM W/ MIKE LEE You’re invited to a wonderful night of jazz music brought to you by the best in local talent. Hosted by Mike Lee, this open jazz jam welcomes all styles and levels of musicians to share the stage and create great music.

THURDAYS 9PM JT PROJECT PRESENTS PROJECT GROOVE Join The JT Project for a weekly open jam that is sure to blow your mind!

Featuring local and regional musicians who have worked with artists like Beyonce, Estelle, Chaka Khan, Lauryn Hill, Justin Timberlake, Kenny Garrett, Joe and many more, all are encouraged.

FIREHOUSE GALLERY 580 FOREST STREET ORANGE NJ

VALLEY ARTS DISTRICT: Located on the border of Or ange and West Or ange around the NJ Tr ansit Highland Avenue Tr ain Station, the Valley Ar ts District is a fifteen-square-block area dedicated to the ar ts. HANDS, INC, VALLEYSARTS & ORNG INK inspire the neighborhood to recognize the ar ts as essential to community health and vitality; help build up and ser ve individual ar tists, ar ts organizations, and creative entrepreneur s; and encour age ever yone to par ticipate in ar ts, culture, and creativity as par t of ever yday life.

UPCOMING EVENTS GALLERY VALLEYARTS FIREHOUSE GALLERY 580 FOREST STREET NUOVAARTE WORKS BY ROBERT RAMOS & JEREMY MOSS OPENING RECEPTION THURSDAY JAN 23RD 6-PM (ARTISTS WILL BE PRESENT) “MEET THE ARTISTS” SUNDAY FEBRUARY 23RD 3PM VALLEYARTSNJ.ORG

GALLERY ARTS UNBOUND 544 FREEMAN STREET ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES (ONGOING) CALL Call from 9:30am to 4:30pm M-F to speak with an Arts Unbound specialist to make arrangements for yourself or someone you love. In-home solo lessons also available. Phone: 973-675-2787

ORANGE PUBLIC SCHOOLS & VALLEYARTS PRESENTS SATURDAY ARTS ACADEMY @ LINCOLN AVENUE SCHOOL VALLEYARTSNJ.ORG SAVE THE DATE: VALLEYARTS PRESENTS 2ND ANNUAL HAT CITY STREETS FESTIVAL SATURDAY JUNE 14TH

GALLERY YEMA GALLERY 540-B FREEMAN STREET CATFISH FRIDAY WOMEN’S ART COLLECTIVE For women in the visual and literary arts. Bring your art work and food or beverage for the potluck dinner. FREE. SATURDAY JANUARY 11TH 7PM Seasonal Art Show & Sale Continues Great selection of fine art prints, paintings and crochet garments and felted bags. Gallery open Saturdays from 12 – 5PM. Saturdays through Feb. 1, 12-5pm Alter Egos Part 2, Dollmaking workshop with Janice Anderson, Time: 10-2PM. Cost: $20. Info/registration call 908- 531-5992.

Knitting Circle with Jody Leight, Time: 3-5PM, Cost: $5/person. Instruction available.

THEATRE LUNA STAGE THEATRE COMPANY 555 VALLEY ROAD NEW MOON READING EVERY MONDAY 7PM LUNA STAGE PRESENTS STRANGE DOG AT LUNA STAGE *WORLD PREMEIRE* Enchanted Arms: An Evening of New Plays

by John Wooten, Stacy Lents, Nikkole Salter, Joey Palestina and Ben Clawson FRIDAYS. SATURDAYS, AND SUNDAYS 3PM $10 Directed by Artem Yatsunov

WINTER 2014 | 23

ZINE-MAKING WORKSHOPS Editor, p.r. finds leading zine-making workshops both rewarding and fun and sadly missing in today’s youth. as told to Kyani Miller The first time I saw the effect these workshops can have on youth was during my collaboration with POC Zine Project’s workshops at the Willie Mae Rock and Roll Camp for Girls. It is hard at first to get a group of junior high school kids attention. There is always so many more important and interesting things to talk about with your peers than listen to information being poured at you or read to you from a power point slide show. However, as soon as they learned how to fold the one sheet of paper into a blank book of their own, the chatter stopped. It was interesting to see how many got straight to work, and those who needed more time to think.

These workshops are rewarding for me just as much as it was for those girls.

Some of these kids have never even kept a real journal, most of them said they have a diary app! I could not believe it. I think these workshops taught them to write physically sometimes, and draw and be able to give each other actual tokens of appreciation that did not involve a screen.

When I went to the World Fellowship Center with ORNG Ink, it was the same thing. The group varied in age, but the result was the same. The individuals in the group appreciated doing something with their hands, and taking some time out to write a story or draw something. The environment in New Hampshire inspired us all to share our thoughts with the world.

In a world, where we are all pretty much glued to screen, it is healthy, and feels good to take a break and think and be creative enought to full 11 blank pages with stories, pictures and a message to give the world. I’d love to lead these workshops in all schools, camps, and anywhere that needs a little inspiration.

24 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

WHAT IS A

ZINE? : a

noncommercial

often homemade or online publication usually devoted to specialized and often

unconventional TRY IT! Cut out the diagram, and make your own mini-zine! That quick and easy you can express yourself. Write something, draw something, take it a step further and make newspaper or magzine collages in the pages!

subject matter

WINTER 2014 | 25

TH E S C E N E

A CALL FOR.....

BUILDING CREATIVE TEAM FOR THE SPRING 2014 ZINE THE WOMAN’S ISSUE

pHOTOGRApHERS A majority of this issue will be photography edtorials.

MODELS Get featured in editorials, short film & more surprises.

VIDEOGRApHER Direct the short film, The woman’s Issue, inspired by gender quality essay penned by Beyonce’.

FASHION DESIGNERS Have your designs represent the individuality of the “stylish” woman.

For more information

MASCONSUMPTION.COM/SUBMISSIONS BLOG REVAMP

BLOGGERS JOIN THE BLOGGING TEAM. ATTEND EVENTS, INTERVIEw ARTISTS AND wORK wITH OTHER MEDIA ORGANIZATIONS.

WELCOME TO THE MUSIC ISSUE “Where there is music, there can be no evil” Cervantes The first cover of MASCONSUMPTION featured the psychedelic rock group, Kosmic Daydream. Who literally blew me away after performing at Hat City Kitchen. For the first official music issue is dedicated to the connection the world has to music and how it is a part of everyone’s life.

Whether you are creating it, listening to it, watching new music videos, or sounding off on social media about who you are listening to, and why.

In the next pages you will read about the queen of the musical jams p 35, two emcees bringing hip hop back to New York p 30, the Man Behind the Music p 37, Mike Griot and more.

WINTER 2014 | 27

THE MUSIC ISSUE

FEATURING...

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

28 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

32| ERIS DUBIN 33| LUSIVE 34| BRITTANY CRAIG 36 | SYKEZ 38| MIKE GRIOT 40 | BOG IRON BLOOM

DOMINEERMEDIA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

Harlem, NY @erisdublin ErisDublin.com Who Is Eris Dublin?

Producer for myself and peers, grew up in the Bronx my first 16 years, moved to Georgia where I first started recording music. Was introduced to the hip hop scene by fellow peers Superfly Ky, Sidney LeRoy & Lusive (other Unsigned Hype artists residing in the Bronx, NY).

I moved back to Harlem in 2007, where I built a studio out of one of my bedrooms. From then, I grasped the idea of recording, engineering and producing.

eris DUBLIN 30

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Bronx, NY @uknowlusive lusivemusic.com Who Is Lusive?

Lusive hailing from North Bronx NY, has been on a musical journey that has developed him into an elusive artist that displays his life wisdom and experiences through his unique sound.

Playing instruments such as the piano and violin at the young age of 7 has allowed him to become a self producer of his own unique sound. He is no in the process of releasing his second solo project “ The Development� Spring of 2014.

L U S I V E

WINTER 2014 | 31

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

What is your message?

What do you want to say to the world?

My music arrays from helping you enjoy a club setting, to helping you getting over your biggest fears. I encourage listeners to be themselves and highlight their imperfections.

Once you overcome the battle of what people think of you, you can never take offense to anything else in life. I want to make people feel a sense of awareness, from their surroundings to who they are as individuals, nothing fabricated and nothing scripted.

Why Should You Be Featured in the Music Issue?

Since 2007, I’ve managed to release 3 successful mixtapes, engage in Video production, where I’ve created 3 successful videos on YouTube. My name speaks for itself, I consider myself a true independent artist. Just google “Eris Dublin” and you may stumble on something I was apart of.

I also feel it’s important to give back so I’d like to be in the zine so I can later teach new artists how to grow on their own and not to feel overwhelmed by the pressure of creating an image.

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Download “A Way With Words” on DatPiff (link also onErisDublin.com). Check out my first and only video “Let Me Find Out” on YouTube. Last but not least, stay tuned for the upcoming Until Then 4: Planet Eris EP set to release the first quarter of 2014 on iTunes. Visit ErisDublin. com for upcoming show dates & latest Every Week Eris blog material!

Why Should You Be Featured in the Music Issue?

Since 2007, I’ve managed to release 3 successful mixtapes, engage in Video production, where I’ve created 3 successful videos on YouTube. My name speaks for itself, I consider myself a true independent artist. Just google “Eris Dublin” and you may stumble on something I was apart of.

I also feel it’s important to give back so I’d like to be in the zine so I can later teach new artists how to grow on their own and not to feel overwhelmed by the pressure of creating an image.

What is yourmeesage? What do you want to say to the world?

My musical message is to always keep self awareness and worth in mind at all times.

With those two principles in mind your life should be lived FRXX of any limitations and feasible to express your creative talents.

Describe your musical journey My musical journey has been full of hurdles. Starting my career at the age of 14 being in a hip-hop duo , allowed me to get the experiences of recording professionally, performing at live shows and being around musical influences that will help towards my career. Unfortunately the group took a turn due to business and creative disagreements, which caused me to break apart from parties and reconstruct. This was a negative yet positive career move that allowed me to build up my musical team I now refer to as FRXXLANCX. FRXXLANCX is about expressing your art and musical talents freely through all resources life has provided for you. The most important part is having fun while you do it!!

“ The Development” is set to release Spring of 2014. Listen to my new single, Own Key featuring Cienna Jade.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

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ms. BrIttany craIg What inspired me most about watching Brittany Craig on stage, was how much she was in her element.

Then she told me that it was her first time singing in front of strangers, I was very surprised. She has a unique, and soulful voice made popular here in the Valley with Lorde’s Royals, and the stage at Hat City Kitchen is all hers on acoustic open-mic on Tuesdays and the jam during Project Groove on Thursdays, p 22. Since then she has performed at different showcases in New York City. She was like me, 2 1/2 years ago when I discovered ORNG Ink Studio after coming to the Valley for the first time. It was not until then I gained the courage to follow my dreams, and look where I am now. I caught up with the songbird after she performed. Her story is exactly what the Valley is about, attracting young artists, and expanding the network of creatives that work here. I asked her to talk about discovering herself, and talents in New Jersey’s Valley Arts District. - Patricia Rogers I remember the first day I stepped into Hat City Kitchen. I was riding around with a friend, job searching. And on a whim I decided to go in. I was pretty pessimistic that I would even get the job.

After applying it wasn’t until at least 3 months later that I got the call from Mark Lyons that I had been hired. By then I already had a secure job working as a Preschool teacher and didn’t think I could handle a second job. Against my better judgment, I went in for my first day of training and instantly fell in love with the atmosphere, art, music and ridiculously creative and ambitious coworkers.

Since working at Hat City Kitchen, I have worked up the nerve to sing live in front of people which has always been a long time passion, but until I got the support from my coworkers and encouragement from family, I have never decided to actually go through with. But, because I have, I now have several projects coming up and the stage is now my favorite place in the world.

I was in a pretty bad place before coming to the Valley and now that I am here, sharing the stage with my coworkers, performing, meeting local artists, photographers and other creative individuals I feel like I have found my niche and the path to my future has never been more clear. I was meant to be exactly where I am, at this exact moment and from the depths of my soul I thank everyone in the Valley Arts District, HANDS, INC. and especially my manager Mark Lyons, of Hat City Kitchen, for supporting me and encouraging my passion from the moment they realized I had it in me. I look forward to making so many more memories and I can’t wait to look back and remember where it all started for me.

Random Trivia: Nickname: Britt, Brilly, Brittanica, Brit-Brat Color: Olive and puce (green and gray) Movies: lord of the Rings Books: Scott pilgrim (graphic novels) Artists who influence me: Amy winehouse, Lana del Rey, Janelle Monae My style: 90s grunge meets NY street style 5 things I can’t live without: A book, any book. Blistex, Family, a beanie, my stuffed Tigger 34 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

no stage name

necessary

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE REILLY AT ORNG INK STUDIO

THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC 36 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

AS TOLD TO PATRICIA ROGERS

WHO IS THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC? The man behind the music is a philanthropist and I like to think of myself as a harvester of talent. I like to bring out the talents in people that they themselves have given up on. Growing up in a multitude of different environments has taught me that I don’t need to wear a mask, but as a musician I wear many hats. The man behind the music is also someone who is a nerd a wrestling fan someone who’s just into understanding the human condition.

My vision for what I want to bring about is the modern incarnation of the civil rights movement for all the disadvantage people in society.

WHO IS SYKEZ THE EMCEE? Sykez the emcee is kind of cocky but a sharp lyricist and storyteller. I never put myself in a box. I work with different artists to get different sounds and experiment with different flows cadences voices tones and beats. One of the most important tools I’ve discovered as an emcee is the ability to improvise and to have a good ear for beats.

WHOS IS SYKEZ THE ENGINEER? As an engineer there’s two different tasks that I usually have to endure. One being working on my own stuff and the other is with other artists. The most important job in music in my opinion is the engineer because without us the music doesn’t sound good. Working with other artists is integral to the engineer experience. You get to learn vocal ranges and get the best possible recording before mixing. Working with people over time gets you to the phase of being comfortable and you get your best recordings like that even with mistakes and adding them in can create art.

TALK ABOUT SOME OF THE PEOPLE YOU HAVE WORKED WITH? Working with everyone is a great experience. I like to be somewhat hands off. To me it’s like you bounce your talent off and vibe off the aura. Sounds kinda hippie but its true. They all inspire me Brit, AIM, Ty, SBB, Ode, Mouse etc...to me they’re better than what’s on the radio.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE COMING FOR 2014?

What I have coming is a lot of shows and projects for 2014.

Hit me on Facebook google Soundbox check. Sykezmusic.com Sykes.bandcamp.com 2014=sykezseason

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MIKE GRIOT

BY CHALANDREA FILEDS

Orange native and current Valley Arts Firehouse Lofts resident Mike Griot is: a HANDS Community Leadership Award recipient, NEA Our Town Grant recipient, Founder and Executive Producer of the North Jersey International Blues Festival, Executive Producer for the Hat City Streets Festival, and Talent Consultant and Artist in Residence at South Orange Performing Arts Center - and those are just his accomplishments from 2013. He’s also an incredibly talented bassist who has been fortunate enough to travel the world doing what he loves - playing great music.

I was fortunate to score an hour of Mike’s time one freezing cold Monday night at his home away from home, Hat City Kitchen, where he graciously agreed to meet me after a long day of meetings in and around Orange. After the always difficult task of deciding what to eat and drink (big thanks to Kat for making Mike one of his favorite Brazilian cocktails, a Caipirinha), I got to ask Mike a few questions about his experience as a young musician, and for his advice to young artists out there.

Q: Can you tell me a little bit about your life as a young artist?

A: While at Howard University, I put together and was bandleader for a jazz/funk band called The Projekt, with a K...I guess I thought I was cool or something. Anyway, as a student, I performed 4 nights a week in Washington DC and the surrounding suburbs and had the most popular band of that time period for most of my time at Howard. When I graduated, I came back home to Jersey and just wanted to perform with as many people as possible. Like so many before me, I descended on Greenwich Village with my bass on my back and sat in anywhere with live music hoping to get noticed, hoping to get hired. I knew that I knew a lot of songs by memory, and I also knew that good bass players are hard to come by. I got to know the bass players, hoping I could sub in for them – and that’s what happened. Within 6 weeks, I was playing gigs for very little money. Lots of small gigs for very little money. But that turned into less gigs for more money. I was still writing and producing on the side. We were in the hip-hop era, and after a while, my original material was recognized and picked up. In 1994, I was signed to Motown Records.

[Note - after telling this story, Mike casually mentions that while all of this was going on, he was married with two infants at home, as if it was no big deal.]

Q: How did you keep yourself from getting discouraged when you felt like your talent wasn’t getting the attention and recognition that it deserved?

A: The way to avoid that level of disappointment is to create options so that you don’t have a chance to be disappointed. If your top goal is publishing, and you don’t get a publishing deal, you’re crushed. If your top goal is publishing, but you have secondary goals, then working on all of those goals simultaneously will give you outs. I never worked on one thing at a time – always 8-10 things at a time. You have to go through a lot of nos before you hear yes.

Q: How did you find work/gigs when you were coming up?

A: I used basic psychology – I went to lots of open mics where anyone can play. There is always a house band that plays. The one thing that everyone hates is playing for a long time. They want to stop playing and socialize after 30 minutes. I knew I was the perfect guy to pass the gig off to. The bass player got to know me and would seek me out when I walked into a venue. That was a win-win – I got to play, they got to take a break.

38 | MASCONSUMPTION.COM

Q: What do you look for when agreeing to work with a new artist?

A: Obviously passion is number 1. Independent study – show me what you’ve done on your own. Nothing is more inspiring than a mentee that has shown the resolve to do due diligence because the mentor has done the same thing to get to where they are. Game recognizes game.

Q: What advice do you have for a young artist who is looking for a mentor?

A: Step #1 – Look for who inspires you Step #2 – Study your field completely before you seek help. Don’t ask for help unless you know why you need a mentor. If you come to me for help, and you don’t know what you need help with, I’m probably not going to help you because you don’t know jack about jack.

Step #3 – Send an introductory email or introduce yourself in person. You have to be bold!

Q: What areas do you mentor in?

A: I mentor and consult in Songwriting, production, Event production, and Music Education.

Q: You mentioned your time at Howard University. How relevant was your college degree to your success? What was your degree in?

A: My degree was in Communication, Broadcast Communication, with a minor in Music. My college degree...you know as well as I do that it’s everything and the education that makes it worth going to college. The experience, the sense of completion. The guy I did my first internship for at NBC is still a mentor and connection to me today. without college, I wouldn’t have that connection. Going to... graduating from college gives you the sense of being able to complete a task. But if you’re awake and aware, you also build relationships that can help you down the line. However, I did not need to go to college to get where I am today... I wANTED to go to college.

Q: How do you maintain those relationships that you’ve made along the way?

A: I always make circling back administratively part of my way of doing things. There are people who meet someone once, and don’t follow up 6 months later. people aren’t temporary to me. If we’ve made money together, or connected in some way, I keep in touch.

That mentor I had [from his college internship at NBC], now he comes to me. we’re colleagues, I’m a consultant for him.

Q: If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?

A: Actually, before I went to Howard, I went to UVA (University of Virginia). I got an Air Force scholarship. I love flying. If I wasn’t a musician, I would probably be a pilot.

If you’d like to be bold and contact Mike, he can be reached at mike@pwimedia.com.

WINTER 2014 | 39

THE RETURN OF ORIGINAL MUSIC

BY ASHLEY RUTLEDGE As a talent buyer, I am constantly exposed to new music. Working at Hat city Kitchen has allowed me to witness many performances and really get to know what makes a great show. Enter, Bog Iron Bloom. This classical, folk, rock ensemble seamlessly blends different styles of music into a sonic concoction with universal appeal. This band is truly impressive and they courageously deliver original music with integrity and grace.

Consisting of guitarist/vocalist Matthew Brown, bassist Declan O’Connell, drummer Abel Tabares, cellist Teresa Kemp, and violinist Nicole Costello, Bog Iron Bloom hails from different parts of the Garden State. They manage to integrate genres in a way that is appealing rather than overwhelming or jumbled. The haunting string section adds depth to the heartfelt, honest songs penned by Matthew. What results is a sound you can get lost in; a sound that simultaneously soothing and stimulating.

They released their first EP Welcome to Bears in August 2013 with a very successful record release show at Hat City Kitchen. I was instantly impressed with how tight that band was and how engaging the performance was. Matt’s vocals over the picking of the guitar, funky bass lines, and ephemeral strings created an atmosphere of beauty. To top it all off, each member of the band is completely humble and grounded, making them one of the easiest bands I have worked with to date.

I cannot wait to see how this band develops and what new musical boundaries they will push. I believe they will be on e of the pioneering forces of the resurgence of quality original music coming out of New Jersey.

@BOGIRONBLOOM

BOGIRONBLOOM.COM

BE INSPIRED.

WINTER 2014 • THE MUSIC ISSUE 1 NO. 5 EDITOR - IN- CHIEF PATRICA ROGERS EDITORIAL BOARD MOLLY ROSE KAUFMAN, RAY W. SYKES III ART & DESIGN DIRECTOR MIKE MAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR LAURA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR MIKE REILLY VIDEO DIRECTOR TYREE HUEY FASHION DIRECTOR KAT DOLLY BLACK CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHALANDREA FIELDS, DELIRIUS MUSE, ASHLEY RUTLEDGE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS AMONNIE NICHOLAS, NAEEMA CAMPBELL, BRIANA HEART, MIKE REILLY, RYAN EDWARDS, TYREE HUEY, LILY LUX COVER PHOTOGRAPHER MIKE REILLY STARRING LUSIVE, ERIS DUBLIN ART FEATURED ARTISTS AMONNIE NICHOLAS, LAURA CAMPBELL FASHION EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR BRITTANY CRAIG, PATRICIA ROGERS STARRING BRITTANTY CRAIG, AMONNIE NICHOLAS PHOTOGRAPHER TYREE HUEY, LILY LUX STYLED BY PAT N KAT STYLE, MODELS OWN WARDROBE HAIR & MAKE-UP LILY LUX MUSIC FEATURED ARITSTS ERIS DUBLIN, LUSIVE, BRITTANY CRAIG, SYKEZ, MIKE GRIOT, BOG IRON BLOOM MASCONSUMPTION VIDEO VIDEO EDITOR TYREE HUEY SPONSORS HAT CITY KITCHEN, DOMINEER MEDIA GROUP, LADISAV, PAT N KAT STYLE, ORNG INK, 91 FILMS STAY CONNECTED: MASCONSUMPTION.COM • @MASCONSUMPTION • ISSUU.COM/MASCONSUMPTION • GET FEATURED/CONTACT: VALLEY.ZINE.EDITOR@GMAIL.COM SUBSCRIPTIONS ONE YEAR FOR $20.00. DELIVERY IN THE U.S. PAYMENT VIA CREDIT CARD MASCONSUMPTION.COM/SUBSCRIBE

WINTER 2014 | 41

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