NICHE MOSLEY TRIBES
+ Cursive
Whyszeck Poketo NAM Kill Pixie Tigran Tovmasyan Peppermoon
no2
NICHE
MAGAZINE
no2
Cover Photography By Nick Asokan
FEATURES Cursive..............................................................................116 Whyszeck............................................................................20 NAM...................................................................................64 Mosley Tribes....................................................................128
CRESCENDO
MODUS VIVENDI
Peppermoon........................................................................96
Hope.....................................................................................6
Sin Fang Bous...................................................................102
Ideeën.................................................................................14
Molly Marlette..................................................................112
Minimarket.........................................................................30
Reckless Habits Crew.......................................................106
Poketo.................................................................................38
SE SENTIR: Mewithoutyou...........................................124 Ben Kweller...............................................126
CONCEVOIR
PICARESQUE
Ryan McLennan.................................................................50
Tigran Tovmasyan..............................................................88
Kill Pixie.............................................................................58
Cameron Charles Lewis......................................................76
Sketchy People....................................................................48
Pooneh Ghana.....................................................................82
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Content
Ideeën • 14
Whyszeck • 20
Hope • 6
Tigran Tovmasyan • 88
NAM • 64
Kill Pixie • 58
Cursive • 116
Peppermoon • 96
Mosley Tribes • 128
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NICHE Writer At Large Art Director Direcrtor Of Photography Website Designer Contributing Writers
Contributing Photographers
Tiara Chiaramonte Brian Vu Nick Asokan Melissa Liang Lisa Bielsik Katie Thorpe Parham Moini Elizabeth Field Joseph O’Brien Parham Moini Jonas Linell Hiroshi Manaka Vincent Lignier Sigfús Már Pétursson
Inquiries contact@fittheniche.com Advertising advertising@fittheniche.com Submissions submissions@fittheniche.com www.fittheniche.com
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Masthead
Artwork By Jay Cover Leeds, England
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Fall / Winter......................................................................................................................09
HOPE Minimalisim With A Twist
By Calvin Cupino
6 NICHE • AUGUST 2009
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“I wish that fashion was more individualistic.”
This scenario happens too many times. A fashion designer sketches clothing designs then makes and when it is finished gives it the haughty name, minimalistic. But, there’s another word that could be better used to describe your typical minimlastic fashion statement and that is boring. The designer Hope has clothes that truly do stand out amongst a crowd of arrogant minimalist designs. Rather Hope redefines minimalist with her carefully chosen materials combined with innovative cuts and detailing giving the clothes a classical feel, combined with a slightly “arty, bohemian” touch. Ann Ringstrand and Stefan Söderberg, her partner, create beautiful clothing under the name Hope. A name taken from an oil painting. They have a unique style that isn’t dependent on trends. The label focuses more on the products themselves rather than the collection concept as a whole. The label Hope started with a nine-year old girl from the outskirts of a small town in Sweden. Ann Ringstrand as an adolescent began by sewing and styling her own outfits. She would often stand outside waiting for hours to see someone’s reaction to her newest design. What began as a childhood hobby became a career for her. She is now discovering inspiration in classic tailored menswear and vintage uniform details with the label Hope. When asked to take Niche through Hope’s designing process, Ringstrand answered with, “Designing always starts with a large vision of the setting that we
will be in for the season. For example outdoor or in an old parts of a city. Then we place ourselves in the time and the places where the air of influences are present, for example a combination of the 40’s and the future. It is often about a mix of a time and sources of inspiration. Then we move into what type of fabrics that feels new and interesting and also the silhouette. At this stage we make a merchandise plan to fit in all the needs for the company such as innovation and volume etc. We make very rough drawings and mood boards in our design room. I start to make flat drawings in Illustrator and start to work with the construction team. We prepare artwork and prints and visit the PV fabric fair in Paris. After 6 weeks the prototypes arrives from the factories and we start to make adjustments. 6 months later we receive the sales collection and have presentations for the sale reps and press.” Despite being the designer of Hope, Ann Ringstrand wears her line. She especially loves the men’s trousers and men’s lace up shoes, combined with a seethrough blouse or t-shirt to give the look a slight feminine touch. “I think the state of fashion is nice with the masculine look for women,” she says. “I wish that fashion was more individualistic though.” For Autumn/Winter 2009, Hope has also collaborated with British glove designer Christine Bec to create a workwear-inspired glove. And a word of advice to all prospective fashion designers: “It is important to combined the creative mind with a smart business plan. Try to join with someone that has the sales drive and be aware that you have to give the market something new or extra.”
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Spring / Summer....................09
IDEEËN By Katie Thorpe
Forget pushing boundaries, Junko Hirata and Atsuko Yanase create new ones. Their line, Ideeën, has been the topic of conversation ever since their showing at New York Fashion Week for their Fall 2009 collection. It is no surprise, since their collection includes such an eclectic mixture of colors and fabrics, pairing furs with knits and reintroducing tie-died denim. The designers self- describe their label as “Organic, yet modern. Unisex, yet sexy. Elegant, yet eerie… Each item we design has strong character, yet it is easy to coordinate with other designers’ clothing,” said the pair. They even stated that they wear a lot of what they design. Hirata and Yanase are as meticulous in their designing process as they are intricate in their designs. It clearly pays off in the finished product. The two said that while designing, they decide their inspiration first, which comes mostly from nature, other cultures, and folk craft. They then research the topic and decide color pallets, core details, silhouettes, and fabrics. They focus on individual pieces and tie in the key look for the season. The materials come from all over. “We pick the best quality and price of the fabric each season, and depending on the styles, we decide which factory to work with,” they said.
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Never settling for one destination, they produce their garments in Japan, Hong Kong, China, Uruguay, and New York. As they explain, “Each factory has a different strength.” Still, much of the work is hand-produced by Hirata and Yanase as they state, “Our signature drapy styles as well as complex styles are draped by use. Also, we make patterns by ourselves to achieve exactly what we are looking for.”And it seems they achieve exactly what the buyers are looking for as well. They believe their strength in pants and outers differentiates them from other New York designers. “If anyone wants a unique pair of pants or outer, we are the ones you should look for,” they said. However, their collection is not limited to their own designs. “We are currently collaborating with a New York-based jewelry designed called Driftwood,” they said. Hirata and Yanase met while working at Catherine Malandrino as designers. Prior to that, Hirata studied fashion at Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and worked for designers Yigal Azrouël and Helmut Lang. Yanase studied fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design. For prospective fashion designers, the pair have one piece of advice—have patience. “You need a lot of patience, but you will find a tremendous amount of joy after finishing one collection,” they said. After completing four collections and gaining praise and respect among other top designers, the pair has much to be joyful about.
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S Standing Out Of The Crowd WHYSZECK Reminds Us That Fashion Is A Business
By Calvin Cupino Photography By Jonas Linell
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“We were not sure of what to expect, but these people liked our stuff & we got what we needed, the initial spark which led us to go further.”
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A new Swedish label is breaking down doors known as Whyszeck. Frederick is the designer of the amazing label and Niche recently had the opportunity to interview him. Fredrick takes Niche through his design process, tells us about the upcoming Fall/Winter collection, and even gives inspiring designers some great tips on getting in the business.
First of all, where did the name Whyszeck come from (and how do you pronounce it)? Whyszeck was originally a rock band that we were involved in and when we felt that we needed to find a new expression, after the band had dismantled, the name came along.It´s a name that has continued along the timeline and no one can really say where it came from. I´m not really a phonetics expert, but here it goes, Whyszeck is pronounced as vai –check How did you get started in the fashion industry? Our idea from the start was to make clothes for ourselves and people like us.We started out really small with a couple of t-shirts for our first collection & these were then shown directly to a couple of shops, we were not sure of what to expect, but these people liked our stuff and we got what we needed, the initial spark” which led us to go further. In the past we’ve seen lots of great things from you—from classic, tailored blazers, to bad-ass leather jackets, to funky, printed t-shirts. What should your customers expect from your newest collection? From our Fall/winter 09, you should expect a full expression, progressive meets a casual classic men´s wardrobe, A collection which is very tightly put together, that offers you what you need throughout the fall & winter. Where do you find your inspiration—designers and otherwise? Usually music, subculture, art or something that´s interesting at that time, How would you describe your label’s aesthetic? A minimalistic combination of progressive fashion, subculture and casual wear.
How do you go about designing? Take us through your process. This differs from time to time, but it often involves melting different ideas together. A lot of sketching and thinking. When it´s time to start the collection-work, I go into a “creative mode” where I gather all the different ideas I´ve had and throw them around until it gets interesting. At the end I´m usually unshaved and almost burned out, feeling like I´ve just left a recording studio What do you think differentiates you from other Swedish designers? The angle and the expression, is what makes the difference,It´s always kept within the frames of what´s interesting for us and we consider ourselves as independent and on a path of our own. How do YOU dress—do you ascribe to your own label’s style? Personally a lot of shirts and mostly dark raw denim jeans lately with desert boots. Casual and toned down in color. The clothes are for us and likeminded, so yes we do Do you like the current state of fashion? The current state of fashion is a bit unclear I think, not really sure what will come out of it, but I would like to see more people dressing towards a personal style, which people now seems to be doing and that´s good. Any collaboration plans for the future? Nothing that I can tell you now, but we are open to suggestions. Please share some advice for prospective fashion designers…. Keep struggling and prepare yourself to work hard, try to kick in some doors now, when there is financial crisis going on and brands are getting kicked out, you might have a shot.Don´t forget about the business side of your business. Thanks for your time. No problem, thank you
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Fall / Winter
09
MINIMARKET Three Sisters, One Sophisitcated Label. By Brian Vu
The Swedes have done it again. Many people are not aware of the up and coming Swedish fashion scene. But, Minimarket, a women’s wear label based in Stockholm will draw you into the Swedish fashion industry. Minimarket is designed by three sisters Jennifer, Sophie, and Pernilla Elvestedt. The trio was awarded “The Best New Designer of The Year”, for their Label by Swedish Elle in 2007. The line had began mainly with clothing, only later to include accessories and shoes. The Fall/Winter 2009 collection is based on masculine shapes and cuts, a shaded color palette, everlasting fabrics, oversized coats, warm gloves, and simple shoes with strong details. You can find Minimarket in thirty selected stores in Sweden, seventeen countries in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia.
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POKETO
Photography By Nick Asokan Artists Betsy Walton Chris Bettig Lisa Congdon James Gulliver Founded by Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung 38 NICHE • AUGUST 2009
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Betsy Walton Wallet 2
Chris Bettig Wallet 2
Lisa Congdon Wallet 1
Poketo Aussie Series James Gulliver Hancock 2
SKETCHY PEOPLE
JAY COVER
26, Leeds England patterns and everyday objects. I think these are the Materials: Brush & Ink, Pencil. Thats it. I like simplicity, using very few materials allows you to explore motifs most present in my practice. Please elaborate on what these pieces are about... your method rather than your aesthetic. These pieces are simple studies from my sketchbook of items / images I found interesting and renderings Inspiration: I like alot of East European folk art, of images I have imagined composed within them, I American folk art and writing on native Indians I’m also paradoxically inspired by the simplicity of Swiss generally spend alot of time inbetween my general practice making these studies, getting to grips with my design work. I’m very inspired by my fellow collective members William Edmonds, Nicolas Burrows & method and figuring out new ways of drawing with limited materials. These are some very early studies Tom Hudson in Nous Vous. investigating line work and tonal qualities. My current work is a more advanced application of these early What do you like to draw the most? I like drawing structures, people, hands, boots, repeat studies.
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Concevoir
JEREMY PERRODEAU 20, Paris Materials: I work a lot in Black and white, with just ink or wood, colored papers sometimes. Inspiration: Cartography, geometry, diagram, esoteric drawings, and also nature, mountain, desert, all environments without humans.
What is the meaning behind this drawing? This drawing is about community, like a small village lost into the wild. All structures have a function, and they work together, to make an ensemble. It’s more like a map, it’s not a simple landscape.
Favorite Past time? I study Grahism.
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Morgan Alexandra Ritter 20, Portland, Oregon I am twenty years old and live in Portland, Oregon, though soon in August I am lucky. I will be moving to New York City to take part in the scholarship for the New York Studio Program to work independently in a studio for four months! I plan on exploring the Cloisters Museum and The Poetry Center. Favorite things to draw... Recently, I enjoy drawing imaginary exotic worlds full of weird versions of snakes, butterflies and plants. I also revel in the wonders of eye contact as well as choreography and have been drawing crowds of people in specific symbolic gestures and dances whom possess mathematical gazes.
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A brief summary of what this piece is about... I am really excited about visual poetry and the use of symbols to perform non-visual functions. This is a LOVE SPELL. Although it appears to be a drawing, I am exploring ideas of intention and performance. ALL the LOVE and flirty charms in the world are with you because I felt warm while drawing this image. The actual drawing is a fragile thing, and the responsibility of using the word ‘spell’ is enchanting and empowering. Setting intentions is an important spiritual practice you might like to try. When eating dinner, you could light a candle, and assign that moment another role, a Designated Thinking Time. Intentions are fun and easy.
Concevoir
BRETT MANNING 20, Portland, Oregon I love to draw and I draw what I love. My work reflects my personality and the things that are most meaningful and sentimental to me. Man-made vs. Nature and the connection of all living things are common themes I enjoy illustrating. Combining that with my love for texture, balance, pattern, fashion, and femininity, my work can become quite surreal and dreamlike. Telling a story though my work is not a high priority, rather I find it more interesting when the viewer creates their own meaning. ... It’s pretty simple…. But very complex…. And completely absurd. I also love coffee, chocolate, cats, and 1960’s tunes.
Materials: Mostly ink, a bit a colored pencil... sometimes I oil paint. Influence: Everything. The universe is amazing and I enjoy living here and soaking up all that it has to offer.
What do you like drawing the most? Cute girls, charming boys, and furry creatures. What musicians are you currently listening to? Vivaldi and Tom Waits.
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Ecology, Natural History, And Evolution Ryan McLennan Calls His Artwork Research By Elizabeth Field
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“Things can’t change too much once I start making marks on that stark white paper. ”
In the wake of artist John James Audubon, Ryan McLennan has strayed from the conventionality of naturalism in art, depicting nature in order to advocate ecological and environmental protection. McLennan describes his art as research, stating that each is a brief lesson in ecology, natural history, and evolution. Each of his works depict changing patterns in the behavior of North American wildlife as a direct result from the destruction of natural habitats and overall public negligence. McLennan preserves the sanctity of North American wildlife with the immortality of his art. Where are you located? How old are you? I’m 28 and I live in Richmond, Virginia. Why Wildlife? I have been interested in wildlife since I was young. For years now I’ve wanted to learn as much as I can about the animals close to me. Painting has been the best way to educate myself. Describe the symbolism behind the animals and the environments you choose for your work. This world I am creating is a
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reflection of our own. The animals must survive by maintaining their limited resources. The plant forms represent what is absent from their environment. What materials do you use for your pieces? I always use acrylic paint on gessoed paper. Take us through your design process. The most important part is the research and the forming of narrative. I can sometimes spend twice as much time on the idea than on the painting. I
don’t sketch much. Once I get a clear image in my head of what I want I get to work penciling in the composition. Things can’t change too much once I start making marks on that stark white paper. What are some artists that you currently admire? Matthias Weischer, Alessandra Sanguinetti, Mark Dion, Bruce Wilhelm. What is currently on your music playlist? Girl Group Sounds Lost and Found
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KILL PIXIE Mark Whalen Gives us A Different Point Of View By Elizabeth Field
Voted Sydney’s current Best Visual Artist, Mark Whalen, under the pseudonym Kill Pixie, has made his way state-ward, following his latest show “I’ll Hit You Up Tomorrow”. Originally known for his eccentric street art, Kill Pixie’s gallery work follows suit, offering up colorful, geometric patterns playing on the idea of human struggle. Follow along as he collaborates, designs, and creates his way through the barriers of traditional art.
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Concevoir
Future Living
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Why (the name) Kill Pixie? Why the hell not? Nah, My name is Mark Whalen, Kill Pixie was a graffiti tag that i used to write which most people in Australia know my work for. What kind of materials do you use for your artwork? What is your favorite? I use rapidograph pens, ink, arcylic and gouache on paper which is mounted to wooden panels, resin finished. How would you describe your artwork? Narrative paintings with a humorous twist on the human struggle, games people play with each other, our constant fights for freedom. Basically issues or situations that cause controversy set in a forecast for future living. Although my paintings do mean this to me, I also like the viewer to discover their own meanings and leave the narration open for them to depict there own interpretation. Tell us about your collaboration with Autolux, why did you want to collaborate with them? One of my good friends Carla Azar is in the band, we’ve been talking about doing a collaborative installation for a while now and this was the perfect show to do it for. I really love their music, and Carla has always related thier music with my paintings, so we got to finally work on a collaboration together.
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Why did you move to Los Angeles? What places do you like to go on your free time? I moved there because there’s a lot of good stuff happening in the art scene here, so there’s always something interesting to check out, and I love the states. In my spare time I usually just chill and go for a beer. What inspired your artwork for your latest art show at the Merry Karnowsky Gallery? I’m generally inspired by detailed things, basically I wanted to explore what my work is already about but in more depth so that was enough inspiration for me, and have a lot of fun with the narration of it. It’s about characters which are like puppets compelled to enact roles prescribed by powers beyond their control. The machinery and structures are all made up of much smaller objects, giving the impression of a kaleidoscope opening up into ever more intricate worlds. Im also using alot of new elements in my work so it was inspiring to see what i could create with them. What is on your playlist right now? Autolux, my bloody valentine, the cure, deerhoof, radiohead Where can we buy your prints? The best place is to keep checking my website, i am releasing prints soon.
Royal Flush
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Players
All-In-All-Out
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Q&A with
NAM By Joeseph O’Brien
Graphic designer Takayuki Nakazawa and photographer Hiroshi Manaka have made visual contact in an unordinary way. In a collaborative effort to bring dream like images to life, Tokyo artists of NAM produce a unique blend of photography and graphic design that is just beginning to break surface in the art world. The breath taking atmospheric work these Japanese artists create will leave any viewer astonished.
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The Spirit of The Beehive
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Where are you based? (city, country) Nakazawa: We are based in Tokyo, Japan.
We consider our work as a place to experiment, without being bound by any genre. This is possible because of our curiosity to include something that are not usually shown in the photographs like graphic design point of view, cinematic way of thinking, using everyday tools as art objects and so on.
What motivated you to start NAM? Where does the name NAM come from? Nakazawa: It was formed in May 2006. At first it was to grope for the experiment of expression realized by the mixture of graphic design viewpoint and photography without being bound by genre, together with the photographer Hiroshi Manaka. It was completely our personal activity. It became a bigger group in the course, with increased members who support our concept. The name came from a meaning less play with words. It can be read “man” in reverse (as the most of the members happened to be males) and it sounds like a prayer word in Japan when we pray with our palms together in front of our faces. I like the way it leads us to think of something else. We have no connection to the country Vietnam though.
We are especially conscious of cinema. I consider that in the process editing the cuts together, the essence of film itself resides in the way that how to assemble the images. There are works of ours inspired by the actual films, by what we learn from the way film editing shows the images. Also, the act of watching films on screen in a dark cinema, I think there is something in common with having (watching) dreams while we sleep, in the sense of experiencing images. We are thinking of making a collective book of our works soon and are thinking of editing it based on the cinematic way of thinking. And we consider each cut in this book as a scene from a dream and the book will be composed on the concept of a girl falling a sleep four times. We got this idea from a film “Un chien andalou” by Luis Buñuel and Salvador Dali.
Where do you get the inspiration to do this type of art? Nakazawa: In my case I get inspirations from films and various movies and also music, from a part of lyrics and so on. There are many things that inspire me. I like to start from somewhere seemingly unrelated to the graphics. The other day my mother said unmeaningfully “I am at the dusk of life. And I don’t know why but the setting sun looks so beautiful to me”. It stuck to my mind and I want to make a piece from it.
What are your thoughts on the current art scene in your location? Nakazawa: There are many artists whom I truly respect in the Japanese graphic design scene. I think the overall level is very high. Same goes for the photography. However, recently everyone seems a little too conservative. It might be because everyone – as one of the characteristics of Japanese – tends to follow the trend. Also the worldwide economical depression have dropped a huge shadow in Japanese creative scene as well that made us put our priority to very conservative and safe methodology.
Takayuki Nakazawa(graphic designer) and Hiroshi Manaka(photogrpher) from Nam have answered to the interview.
Manaka: Inspirations are difficult to get if I tried to. They come into my mind when I’m drinking and talking about stupid things without thinking. How would you personally describe your artwork and the meaning behind it? Nakazawa: Our concept is “a fantasy in life”. It is because I think a life itself is not something especially dramatic. I think the essence of life exists in the accumulation of everyday life. The major rule is to experiment how we can make everyday life objects into an artistic expression, so to say. I hope to make our activity where photography meets the graphic design viewpoint.
On the other hand, there are increased number of artists who searches the new way of expression as if to rebel against such tendency, even though the force is not yet strong. Overlooking this, it seems as though each genre-less small group that goes out of existing confines is trying to form a certain scene. One of the biggest factors that lets them do it without much difficulties is the technological development. I feel a certain possibility in this situation.
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Fall Room
Are there any Art Galleries that we should be looking forward to checking out? Nakazawa: I think the Japanese art market is not established like it is in Europe and in the States. Especially for graphics, there are few galleries specially dealing with it.
where graphic goes out from itself, meets with photography or other expressions and overlaps. In this sense, I am not so conscious about genre but I have no idea how “fine art� world sees our activity. I think maybe our activity is basically to expand a little bit the confine of graphic or photographic expression.
Would you consider yourself a designer or an artist? Please elaborate. Nakazawa: I am working on the project as a graphic designer standing point. I am interested in the point
Manaka: I do not care much about genre but I am interested in how the art experts think about us.
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Brazil
Panic Room
Q&A N O R E CAM RLES CHAWIS LE
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Picaresque
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Age/Location? 24, richmond, virginia How did you get into photography? I graduated with a graphic design degree and I never really spent much time with photography because I was really into drawing and designing at that point. It was almost a year after school that I picked up a camera and really started getting passionate about it. Landscapes or Portraits? Why? I enjoy photographing people because you can find so much information in a persons eyes and in their face.
You can really capture an individuals spirit. Film or Digital? Why? I shoot digital simply because it’s more affordable. I don’t go to school so I can’t access the film department for free. I’m not saying I don’t miss the darkroom or wish I did more work in it; it’s just not what I’m doing right now. Where do you see yourself as a photographer in 5 years? I’d love to really have it down, you know? there is so much to understand in photography, and so much
to learn. it would be nice to be paying all of my bills making photographs. I’m not talking about senior portraits or weddings either.
What is your favorite location to shoot? In lush, vegetated areas or against a clean wall next to a big window.
What are you currently listening too? I’ve been listening to a lot of Grizzly Bear, The Tallest Man on Earth and Dinosaur Jr. the past few weeks.
Some photographers you look up to... Paolo Pellegrin takes some really powerful pictures.
Have you done any commercial work? I’ve done a little bit, it’s interesting. It’s a lot like graphic design. You’re just pushing buttons to create someone else’s idea.
Do you have any advice for aspiring photographers? It helps to have interesting friends.
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POONEH GHANA Music and Photography Keeps Her From Losing Her Mind By Lisa Bielsik
According to Pooneh Ghana, film has the ability to create more of a connection with a photographer’s subjects. Fortunately for Ghana, her subjects are very special people. Ghana’s focus in photography is musicians, and the fact that she mainly uses film on her subjects, sets her apart from the rest. Ghana describes music and photography as two of her top priorities, and both serve as constant inspiration to her. Her impeccable taste in music and her keen eye for photography always leave us with interesting captures.
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Why Musicians? Music and photography are literally the two things that keep me from completely losing my mind. Listening to music brings out emotions, ideas, and motivates me everyday in ways that movies or no other thing can. Thus, the people who create the music I listen to are the ones I always feel honored to document through my photos. Shooting musicians, whether live or candid, is one of the only things that genuinely makes me happy. Why Polaroids? I was speaking with a fellow photographer a while ago, and I think he put it best when he said that the polaroid definitely creates a connection or sense of intimacy that something like a big black digital camera cannot. I get a better reaction from people when I take their photo with a polaroid, as it’s still kind of a quirky camera to use, and it feels less invasive. Plus, older cameras are so much more fun to play with. I got my first polaroid just about a year and a half ago, and have been in love ever since. How do you feel about the “death of the polaroid?” Oh god, I’d rather not think about it. Isn’t some country in Europe saving the polaroid? I think it’s Switzerland? Though I hear it’ll still be pretty expensive. Either way, I really hope this is all a conspiracy and the polaroid will be here forever. For now, i’m stocking up on what I can through e-bay. How long have you been in the business? I began doing the whole ‘band polaroid’ thing on my own since the beginning of 2008. Toward the end of last year, I crossed paths Gorilla Vs. Bear (A music blog based here in Texas) and became a photo contributor for them in Austin. Then everything just kind of went off from there, and I began getting photo gigs with other places. When did you start taking photos? How did you get interested in photography? Ever since I was 14, I loved taking photos at shows. That was just for personal enjoyment. It really wasn’t until late 2007, when my dad passed me down his Pen-
tax K1000 and I bought my first Holga, that I realized how much fun I really do have with photography. So I decided to pursue it more seriously, and see where it took me. I’ve pretty much been taking photos nonstop ever since. Not fun for my wallet though, especially with e-bay and a crapload of cheap, strange-looking cameras selling for less than $20. I think i’m going on about 30 cameras now. Where do you see yourself as a photographer in 5 years? Hopefully still taking polaroids, first of all (please don’t die polaroid!). I kind of really love what i’m doing now, with the live shows, candid shots, etc. I’d love to do more formal photo shoots in the future, like with musicians and whatnot. The whole process of setting up a photo shoot and getting creative with it is awesome. I just hope to have more opportunities open for me on a bigger scale. Who knows though, right? What motivates you? Where do you find inspiration? I always come down on myself with my photos. I tend to nitpick the hell out of them, then tell myself I can do better. That kind of helps with the whole motivation aspect. I have these weird visions in my head about how I want my photos to look like. Trying to transfer those onto my photos in real life is also what motivates me. And I honestly can’t tell you where my inspiration comes from. I’ve been sitting here for the past 5 minutes trying to answer this question and haven’t been able come up with anything in particular. So in that case, I guess I’m inspired by everything. People i’ve met, my global travels, vintage photography, music, blah blah blah.. Digital or Film? Film film film! No digital camera can ever replace the love I have using film. I did buy a digital SLR a few months ago. I had to with all the concerts i’m covering, and the convenience obviously. I am beginning to embrace it more (though at first I felt like such a sell out), but film is something i’ll never stop using. Even with my digital SLR, one reason I love it so much is because on numerous occasions, people have mistaken the photos i’ve taken on it for film.
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TIGRAN TOVMASYAN By Nick Asokan
It was December 2008 when I met the UCI Graduate and studio photographer named Tigran Tovmasyan. A native of Armenia who has also lived in Mexico and San Diego who now has a studio that is located in Fullerton, California (a suburb of Los Angeles). Tigran is a talented free spirited individual whose skill ranges from having the ability to manipulate a photograph to creating a modern work of art. But he also combines the technical process to ensure that his shot will be pristine and an expertise to photograph people in and out of their element, and last but not least the ability to jump really high. I recently sat down with Tigran, my friend and colleague, to discuss his take on photography and the many things he has learned through his years of experience. Of all the cities you’ve either lived in or toured around, which do you think has inspired you the most photographically and why? No specific city has inspired me more than any other I just love being outdoors shooting regardless of my location. If I would have to choose a metropolitan city that has inspired me significantly it would have to be either downtown San Diego or New York City. When did you begin shooting and when did you realize that this was what you wanted to do as your career? I began shooting with a camera I borrowed in the dorms at UCI in 2003. When I launched Tikko Studios it really clicked that this was what I wanted to do as far as careers are concerned. What aspects of photography do you find most appealing?
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I see it as a challenge which invigorates me. Putting vision on paper and capturing people in their element to bring out something genuine in the individual. I love to capture people doing the things they like to do and creating a universal sense and appreciation of my vision. Some people like to write music, some people like to paint; it is simply my medium of artistic expression. You have a wide range of photographic skill. From commercial, lifestyle, artistic, products, etc. What is your personal favorite thing to shoot? I love finding the beauty in people whether it being through commercial, lifestyle, or a combination of both. What camera do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens and why? I shoot with a Canon 5d Mark II. My favorite lens is the 85mm prime. Photographing with this lens has really honed my skills in portraiture. In the feature I plan on venturing into wider perspectives such as a 16-35mm range so I can expand my mind to aspects of photo that I am not as familiar with. But for the time being the 85mm is my lifeblood. Any tips for photographers that are just starting out? Shoot for yourself and find your vision and strengths. Apply to whatever market interests you and discover what makes you your own photographer. Look into yourself to find what sets you apart from others and why no one else can see things the way you do. Find your channeled expression. When you follow your vision and shoot for yourself it will appeal to others as well.
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N. Trigg Wilcoxon Independence, Missouri
DESPONDENT TRIBUTARIES
Steady stream, pillow-mint, disillusionment. Care-free-skies of pollution and opaque reverie. Having your way with me, within these fields. Re-calculating the end all, of all cliff-ledges. Steady getting nowheres fast. A meet and greet with yesterday’s postmark. Embraces meant for palpable planets, prospecting and plummeting...more cloud 9 plummeting. Front lines armed with dreadful yawns… drawing forlorn conclusions...quaint coffin graffiti. Crevasse gripping and petrified…holistic paralysis. The spoils of a flawed progress… casket found, casket bound.
ZILCH PARTY
Square pegs making nice in a round-holed-world. Triple A, double A, frivolity with C and D. Universally accepted, acidicly forged, rechargeable, discard able. The polar +oppositeof us. Whether smoke filled rooms or flash flood warnings, we 9 volts step up. True, we don’t fit in like you. We don’t let go that easy.
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Poetry
Ryan McMahon Chicago, Illinois
Biológica Like the calm and the moon of midnight. For you you are my true love, my unique love. The Mother Nature, the one that does not give me for the wings of any castle. Mother to me does tired and Weezy and not to go fast from the stomach of a sea horse. Memory they gave me for the wings of a castle. Now, the sun and the moon guide to me threw here, with my feet in the turf hills. The creatures of the round world I show to footpaths I would have left. To maintain my security and not of hunger,
COMMON SENSE TO AN EMPTY ROOM Why don’t you just worship the sun and the earth, those are the things that give us life. Worship emotions and humans and all living things because we are all connected. and when you die, just like everything else, you’ll decompose into the earth and become the spinning globe that once helped you survive. worship experience and reality and how everything and everyone around you effects this universe as much as anything else. you just have to realize that you are your own god and you control anything and you can do anything just by being strong in your mind. when you hit that point, you’ll feel it. You’ll feel the power and you’ll know that you will never be powerless and the thing about this power is that its not materialistic power. It’s a power that everything in this universe holds at it’s most simplified point. feel the love, the sadness, the anxiousness, the happiness, feel everything. realize your alive instead of trying to live.
Turn it off. It’s when you stare into my eyes that makes me feel uncomfortable. Your glazing pupils make my legs weak and my voice tremble. I am speechless every time that expression comes up. I have nothing to say but so much to feel. I hate the way you sail your body closer to mine like it’s nothing. You give me no time to act on it. You make me appear as if I don’t want you. Stop jumping to conclusions. What is wrong with you? What is wrong with me? Please hold my mouth shut with your lips.
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PEPPERMOON By Tiara Chiaramonte Photography By Vincent Lignier
Peppermoon’s music is perfect for listening to on a sunny summer day curled up with a good book. Their playful French pop sound goes perfectly with a good cup of coffee and some close friends. The band formed in 2005 when Pierre realized he needed a good guitarist and a different singer to bring a new light to his music. Pierre began playing music alone with the piano at “pocket-sized Parisian theaters” but, he knew something was missing. This eventually led him to being introduced by a friend to the current guitarist for Peppermoon, Benoît. A few weeks later Pierrre met Iris the lead singer of Peppermoon after his good friend Buzy’s concert in Paris. Buzy had been planning to introduce the Pierre and Iris to collaborate on music together. Iris remarks about how Buzy would tell her about Pierre, “Pierre is a wonderfull poet and I love his songs, you could maybe play together?” The two exchanged demos and after a few days they met at Pierre’s flat to record songs. The meeting went extremely well they worked together naturally, and after that Peppermoon had been born. What is your biggest challenge? Pierre: Just to make a living out of music has become a challenge for every indie artist nowadays. You have
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to cope with the business side of things, to duplicate videos, to oversee mastering, artwork, everything... And at the end of the day, you don’t make a lot of money out of it. That’s why I’m constantly working on different projects. I have a solo album in the pipes, produced by Jay Alansky (a.k.a. A Reminiscent Drive), it’s a different kind of songs, a mix of electro and lo-fi sounds. I’ve produced Erica Buettner’s debut album, she’s a young folk songstress living in Paris, and I’m really in love with her songs. Beautiful voice, lyrics, melodies... She’s a siren. I’m absolutely certain she’ll get somewhere, sometime soon. This summer, I’ll be working on the sophomore peppermoon album. We’ve already picked up the songs and we plan to release it next year. I’m also producing my friend Egon Kragel’s album, in an experimental folk mood, and I’m writing songs for other french artists. I’d love to produce Timothy Rabbit’s album too, his songs are lovely, it would be great to spend time on this material. I guess my challenge is just to keep the pace! Iris: The most important thing to me is to play music all the time, to build my life all around it, to succeed writing songs and to know my voice better ! Another challenge and dream would be to sing my songs in front of millions of people. Hear the people aplause is like a wave in my body, it is a very strange sensation... What inspires you? Pierre: Well, inspiration is a cat, it’s very independant and moody. I guess it enjoys reflections on the water,
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constellations in a summer night sky, and it needs a little boredom too, white pages on the diary, so you have space and time to dream. Tell us about your new CD. What was the inspiration? Pierre: To make it short, old love affairs and boarding passes. Explorations. My only inspiration is within my emotional bubble. It’s true that I often name drop cities or countries, because I’ve been traveling a lot. But the lyrics are never descriptive; it’s not postcards that I send from here and there. It’s just that places make me think, make me react, and discover new feelings. “Barcelona”, for instance, is not really a song about Barcelona. It’s about being a Northern soul in a Southern culture. That sense of distance, that bubble around you... It lately realized that Barcelona is the very first foreign city I visited, as a kid, so I guess it challenged me to adapt to that wavelength, to understand what’s happening there. But don’t be afraid, it’s not a conference about cultural differences, it’s just a light-hearted pop song. Music wise, I was looking for a balance between acoustic instruments (cello, flute, guitars) and programmed sounds, I think we really managed to make it sound as good as possible - being considered that’s completely home-made, in a very indie way. What one song that you have never recorded would you want people to listen to and why. Pierre: “Nos ballades” because I never get bored of it, even after playing it so often, and spending months on the recordings. I feel like this song is a good friend to have, it’s always nice to see her again. I wrote it as a birthday present, for a Pisces friend, and I like to think that this song encapsulate the friendship we had at that time. I don’t see this friend anymore, because she left France and she’s extremely busy now, but we never had a fight or anything like that. I have the feeling that we could just hang out and have a cosmo anytime, it would be as nice as it was back then. Iris: I agree with Pierre, I first spotted “Nos ballades”as the single of the album. It was also the song I first recorded with Pierre which is the symbol our collaboration. I reckon the piano gimmick of this song stays in mind, it reminds me of my “ballades” in the forest next to my childhood’s house. What bands are your major influences? Pierre: I compose on piano, and my first influences were piano players. French 70’s songwriters like Wil-
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liam Sheller, Veronique Sanson, Serge Gainsbourg, Alain Chamfort... Some of them aged well, some others not, but they all were part of my mum’s record collection. I grew up with them, it would be stupid to deny it. Then, as a teenager I discovered my own territory with David Sylvian’s “Secret Of The Beehive”, Ryuchi Sakamoto, and classical music too. I love Gabriel Fauré’s chamber music, for instance. And then came the 90’s, with The Divine Comedy, Tori Amos, Belle & Sebastian... There’s a link all way through: all these artists are into sophisticated chords, they have a subtle sense of harmony, it’s not just the basic pop-rock chord progressions. Some people think that we’ve been influenced by The Bird And The Bee, Au Revoir Simone or Camera Obscura but it’s not true, I haven’t heard about them before I wrote the songs of this first album. Iris: I have always loved the melodies of The Beatles, especially “Something”, “Black Bird” and “Penny Lane”. I love Jane Birkin too, for her tenderness and innocence, and Michel Berger - more as a composer than a singer. When I listen to his creations, songwriting seems so easy, so clear... This is for peppermoon’s influences. But I also enjoy rock and soul artists, I just love receiving their energy : Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder... More recently, I fell for Camille, a french arstist who plays a lot with her voice and makes vocal games that creates nice atmospheres. Niche Magazine: Describe your process of writing a song? Pierre: I sit at the piano, and I look for chords matching the mood of that day. Chords that create in my head a certain quality of light. Usually, the melody comes along. Sometimes, words too. Because there are obvious landscapes and settings, when your chords really have something special. If it’s just C-G-E, well, yes, it could be anywhere, anytime, there’s nothing specific in the music. But when the chords have a real character, you just have to translate to words what they’re saying. Sometimes, it’s obvious : it can only be springtime, outside, by a sunny afternoon. Sometimes, it can only be fall, 6pm, in Paris. Well, you have clues. Pictures. Characters. A direction. And it reminds you of personal, intimate emotions, feelings, messages you’d like to send to friends or lovers...
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SIN FANG BOUS By Brian Vu Photography By Sigfús Már Pétursson
Sindri Mar Sigfusson has made a “search game in terms of pop music” with his solo project, Sin Fang Bous. Sindri is from Reykjavik, Iceland, where he formed his band, Seabear. After his success as a musician with Seabear, Sindri decided to perform, write, and record as Sin Fang Bous. There are clear differences between Seabear and Sin Fang Bous, but both display the newfound talent. The work of Sin Fang Bous is produced with a wide variety of instruments, perfectly blended with electronic elements. Sin Fang Bous will be holding a US/Europe tour with Múm this fall. Be sure to check for a date near you.
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This is very cliché, but what inspires your music (this could be anything from favorite bands, movies or even places to visit)? Lots of things in my life I guess and the music I listen to. Also my instruments i think...And coffee. What is the meaning of the name ‘Sin Fang Bous’? I wanted to make up a name that didn’t exist before. Sin could be from my first name, Sindri, fang could be my teeth and bous I dont know where that came from. I think it sounds awesome. I really like your cover of Landslide from Fleetwood Mac. What’s your favorite Fleetwood Mac album, and why? Thanks. I love Fleetwood Mac too. I would probably say Rumours is my favorite. I don’t know why it’s my favorite but it’s the album I listened to the most. The Drawings and paintings on your Myspace are very vibrant in color, and personality. I think it reflects your music very well. Are you going to pursue a career in art in the future? Yes I like to draw and paint a lot. I graduated from the Icelandic Art Academy in 2007 as a visual artist and I’ve been participating in exhibitions all around the world since then. Your music video seemed like it took a while to edit and put together. Did you take part with making it, if so…how?
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For Advent in Ives Garden my friend Kjartan þór Trauner made that from scans of drawings he got from me and my girlfriend, Inga. For the Clangour and Flutes, Inga made that animation. There seems to be a booming music scene in Iceland. Since Iceland is such a small country, I’m assuming you’re all very close. Yes? Yes most people know each other here and help out. I would say the music scene here divides into small groups within. Any favorite cities? do you know any friends throughout Europe that you are visiting? I’m just really excited for playing some fun concerts. most of the time I have the most fun in bigger cities. The last show of the tour is in Berlin and i’m really looking forward to that. Is there going to be a tour in the United States which we Americans can look forward to? Sin Fang Bous is opening up for the band Múm in October in their US tour and seabear will play some shows in US in 2010 I hope. What’s the best part about performing live in front of an audience? When the people are happy to be there and you play a good show.
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RECKLESS HABITS CREW A Group of Young and Driven Entrepreneurs
By Parham Moini Photography By Nick Asokan
Do what you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life is the embodiment of the men and women of the Los Angeles-based Reckless Habit’s Crew or as they affectionately call themselves, RHC. These motivated and talented young individuals find themselves in the midst of a challenging industry, trying to make a name for themselves. RHC is led by rapper, break-dancer, and entrepreneur Aliwood. It consists of a wise range of talented artists from musicians, models, actors, photographers, promoters, and everything else in between; this gives these “young pros” a hand in almost every aspect of the entertainment industry from television to dance to music. The artists in RHC come from all different backgrounds and countries but their goals are the same— make it big. From humble beginnings they managed to build a solid reputation as break-dancers. Aliwood explains that over time RHC began to expand and “evolve” by meeting new friends who would eventually became apart of their crew. They were then able to host annual break-dancing and inline skating competitions known to the bboy and the skating subcultures as All Out. Through these competitions they generated sponsors such as Red Bull and quickly moved to the forefront of these sports. From this support, they decided to shift their focus to music and currently have quite a few artists such as Aliwood, Jay, Briana Nicole, Ak-Tiv, and Young Giz working towards fame. To any young artist, the life of RHC may sound like an exciting prospect, but becoming part of the crew is not easy. Each new candidate, after proving themselves worthy of being considered must go through
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a yearlong trial period in which they have to show themselves to be talented, driven, loyal, and most of all trustworthy. Aliwood explained it best, “We’ve all been through the ups and downs of this business together. These people are my family and I trust them completely. To be a part of this crew the person has to put in as much hard work as us and be as dedicated as us to makin’ this happen.” Currently RHC, have multiple projects in the works including a new song released on July 1st by Aliwood that features Cash Money and G Malone, a television show that is currently in pre production about the sport of break-dancing, and a performance on July 12th at the Crazy Horse in West Covina, California. Haven’t heard of RHC? You will. Whatever your niche, keep an eye out for these up and coming superstars and you will not be disappointed with what you see (or hear). You can listen to Aliwood’s music at ww.myspace. com/aliwood or you can keep tabs on the whole crew at www.RecklessHabitsCrew.com. RHC is: Aliwood-CEO, Jamie Kaylor-V.P., Jay Pakzat-Artist, Niko-Actor/Model/Promoter, AliQuest-Music Producer/Manager/Promoter, Danni Boi-Music Producer, Pablo-Master Builder, Bryan Melgar-Promoter/Model, Danny Gomez-Promoter/Model, Ak-Tiv-Artist (rap), Young Giz-Artist (rap), Briana Nicole-Artist (pop) RHC Shout outs: Bobby Vash, JDub, Rome, Miester Watch, and Flawless Vodka
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MOLLY MARLETTE By Tiara Chiaramonte Photography By Nick Asokan
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It’s like a math equation…. There are a lot of singer song writer’s out there. I guess you have to differentiate rather then conform.
Molly Marlette was born into a musical family. Her dad played guitar and piano and raised her on the classics in music. As Molly explains, “My dad was set on me not listening to the top 40.” After seeing the Wizard of Oz at six years old Molly realized she wanted to go into musical theater. So she went to work in Broadway shows that came to Orange County which eventually led to 17 years of tap dancing. Through her father’s musical influences and love of musical theatre Molly developed a love for classics like, Judy Garland, Simon & Garfunkle, the Velvet Underground, and the Beatles. But she explains in Junior High she rebelled against that and started listening to mainstream music, as she puts it, “at some point you have to go through that stage.” She began experimenting in writing music began when she was thirteen years old. At the time she was doing commercial which was not very inspiring. So writing music became a way for her to get her creative juices running. She now feels that music is number one in her life but, if acting happens she’d still love to pursue it. In Molly’s newest demo she is trying hard to create a unique style of music. As she explains, “Writers nowadays treat writing a song like homework filling in the blanks. It’s like a math equation…. There are a lot of singer song writer’s out there. I guess you have to differentiate rather then conform. You need to go to the core of all your influences rather then marketing what’s popular.” Molly is now trying to raise money to move to Nashville, Tennesse to further her musical aspiration if you’re interested in supporting her, tour dates, or buying her latest demo check out www.mollymarlette.com
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In The Now “Mama, I’m Swollen” A Thought Provoking & Intuitive New Album From Cursive By Tiara Chiaramonte Photography By Nick Asokan
Cursive’s prolific music career ranging over ten years is reinforced by their new album “Mama, I’m Swollen.” The thought provoking lyrics and captivating melancholy sound on this newest album create an unforgettable listening experience.
Kasher, Matt Maginn, and Ted Stevens. As we began our interview we embarked on a lyrical and musical discovery of Cursive’s new album “Mama I’m swollen.”The album has a new mature and intuitive sound which has a reach to audiences of all ages.
The moment Cursive entered the stage at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, California the crowd went wild with excitement. Their performance was a genuine and introspective presentation of their newest album.
So, the CD is named “Mama, I’m Swollen”, and I noticed you started a few of your song titles with a similar line, “Mama, I’m Satan” and from the bonus materials, “Mama’s Baggage.” Where did this “Mama” theme come from and is it a personal or religious context? We like to leave the interpretations of our songs open because everyone reads into it differently. But, I’d say the “Mama” reference in this CD is closer to the universe interpretation and used a lot of different ways.
Before Cursive’s performance Nick, our director of photography and I were introduced to the three main members of Cursive backstage. We sat in a small room littered with couches and speakers with Tim
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“It’s more crucial to write records you believe in. You can’t always decide what becomes relevant.” “We’re Going to Hell,” is probably another one of my favorite songs on the album, especially the ending “boom, boom…” Is it an Edgar Allen Poe reference? What are the religious connotations in the song and album? The end of the song is a Poe reference. On all of our records sometimes more or less there is always a context of religion. But on this one it’s more of an ethics vs. morals statement. After over a decade of being together what do you find as your biggest challenge? Relevance. Every time you do a recording you wonder if what you do will remain relevant. You hope the end result remains relevant but it’s more crucial to write records you believe in. You can’t always decide what becomes relevant. If you could listen to three last songs before you die what would they be? Tim Kasher •Kate Bush – This women’s work •Violent Femmes- Good Feeling •The song, “Forgiven” I can’t remember the musician’s name but it’s from a Nicole Holofcener movie Matt Magnin •Pink Floyd -Childhood’s End •Bruce Springstein - Spirit in the Night •Talking Heads - Burning Down the House Ted Stevens •U2 - Bad •Genesis - Mama •The Sound of Silence – Simon and Garfunkle Describe your process of writing a song? It starts with the music. It could be months before lyrics get written. I don’t want to waste time on lyrics that won’t get used with the song. I noticed that lyrically in the song, “From the Hips there’s a reference to Shakespeare’s sonnet “All the
World’s a Play.” Was it intentional? It was actually unintentional but, it’s no surprise that theme’s from Shakespeare get recycled. We had a contest for our readers to ask Cursive an interview question and Anaisa Garcia asked, what was the story behind Art Is Hard? This was actually one of the last songs I wrote before recording. I knew musically it was strong but, I wrote and rewrote different versions. Ultimately the lyrics were shitty because I really over emphasized dramatics so I rewrote it to take a sardonic approach. And the title actually came from a joke from the original Beverly Hills 90210 So what is the joke? We were all bored watching Beverly Hills 90210 with a good friend and what happens in the episode is a new bad boy enters the cast who is an artist. So he’s the very brooding and angst ridden type I take it? Yes, And in one scene he can’t seem to be inspired and paint a picture. And Jamie exclaims, “Art is hard…” Where did you get the idea for the video of Art is Hard? It’s actually a theme we have tried to do a lot in our videos. It’s about the voyeurism of cameras. Another winner from our contest was, Chris V. and he asked, “I was wondering what was your inspiration on writing your CD and how did you become Cursive, what did you go through in your experience in being a band?” Musically, I wanted it to be melancholy. Lyrically, we didn’t want too much of a theme, because we get theme heavy. We set out to write about our current experience in our thirties. Because we haven’t been through it before. We’re writing from our perspective not necessarily as teenagers. But, teenagers can comprehend it when you’re young you’re able to enjoy things written from other perspectives even better sometimes.
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: r i t n e S Se tyou
u o h t i w me
Bielsik By Lisa y Brian Vu aphy B Photogr
The sporadic conversations that filled the floor of the Glasshouse in Pomona quickly came to a halt. A clothesline with small lights and tattered clothing was being hung up behind the drum set, which was already in it’s place on the stage. The music stopped and the lights went out. Everyone cheered. Aaron Weiss walked onto the stage, and the night began. mewithoutYou chose to open with A Glass Can Only Spill What it Contains, a song off their third album, Brother, Sister. The song was performed flawlessly, which had the audience even more excited than they already were. Weiss then proceeded to the right of the stage, where he sat down at his keyboard. The band then broke into Every Thought a Thought of You, the first track off the new album, It’s All Crazy! It’s All False! It’s All a Dream! It’s Alright. After a couple
more songs off Brother, Sister, the band played Goodbye, I!, a definite favorite from the new album. The song translated beautifully live. The rest of the set had a handful of songs from each of their three albums, ending with Disaster Tourism off their sophomore album, Catch for Us the Foxes. The band exited the stage, but we all knew it was not over yet. The band reappeared for an encore after the demanding roar of the crowd. January 1979 had the whole crowd releasing their energy while singing every word. They ended the night with In a Sweater Poorly Knit, the final track off Brother, Sister, and I don’t think the crowd could have asked for more.
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: r i t n e S e S ELLER
W K N E B sik isa Biel
By L rian Vu B y B y aph Photogr
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The El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, was filled with folksy attitude the night of June 19th, 2009. Opening acts, Jones Street Station and Local Natives, started off the show and set the mood for an enjoyable evening. Both delivered performances with variety and energy, which built the audiences’ anticipation for Ben Kweller. Ben Kweller’s most recent release Changing Horses was being showcased at the show, but he did not forget where his career started off. When Kweller opened with Commerce, TX (off his album Sha Sha), the crowd cheered with excitement. Even with Kweller’s recent CD release his set list provided the crowd with a taste of each of his previous three albums. In between songs, Kweller developed a relationship with the audience. He performed his fun twist on the song Ice Ice Baby, known as BK Baby, through request from the crowd. The audience stayed interactive as Kweller talked. Whether he was talking about his van, how his dad loves The Beatles, or his webisodes, he kept the crowd laughing. It would be difficult not to enjoy a show with such a personable musician. Kweller chose to close with a favorite off Changing Horses, called Fight. He then smiled, waved, and exited the stage. His newly made friends in the crowd pleaded for another song, and before we knew it, Ben was back for an encore. The one-song encore, entitled Penny on the Train Tracks, had the crowd singing along relentlessly.
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MOSELY TRIBES
Photography By Nick Asokan Contributing Photography By Parham Moini
Modeled By Katie Thorpe Sean Ryan
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Modus Vivendi
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Flynn Matte Chocolate/ Matte Tortoise/Brown
Free City White/Superblack
Lyndel Royal Gingham/Grey
Raynes Forest/Peridot Gradient
Free City Yellow Checkerbird/ Superblack
Lyndel Red Gingham/Grey
INDEX
B
K
www.kweller.net www.myspace.com/benkweller
www.killpixie.net info@killpixie.net
BEN KWELLER
BRETT MANNING
www.brettisagirl.com www.myspace.com/pynx1
C
CAMERON CHARLES LEWIS www.cameroncharleslewis.com
CURSIVE
www.cursivearmy.com www.myspace.com/cursive
KILL PIXIE
M
MEWITHOUTYOU
www.mewithoutyou.com www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou
MOSLEY TRIBES www.mosleytribes.com
MINIMARKET
www.minimarket.se/
MORGAN ALEXANDRA RITTER
H
HOPE
www.flickr.com/photos/morganalexandraritter mother-morgan@hotmail.com
POONEH GHANA
www.flickr.com/photos/pooneh www.poonehghana.webs.com pghana3@yahoo.com
POKETO
www.poketo.com/shop
R
RECKLESS HABITS CREW www.recklesshabitscrew.com
RYAN McLENNAN www.ryanmclennan.com
RYAN McMAHON
www.myspace.com/worldsbestrizzle
S
www.hope-sthlm.com www.hopeshoponline.com
MOSELY TRIBES
I
N
T
www.ideeen-newyork.com
www.myspace.com/bemyrosemarycross trigglet9@gmail.com
www.tikkostudios.com tigran@tikkostudios.com
IDEEﾃ起
J
JAY COVER
www.jaycover.co.uk jay@nousvous.eu
JEREMY PERRODEAU www.lageometrie.free.fr jeremyperrodeau@gmail.com
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www.mosleytribes.com
N.TRIGG WILCOXON
NAM
www.n-a-m.org info@n-a-m.org
P
PEPPERMOON
www.peppermoon.fr www.myspace.com/peppermoon
SIN FANG BOUS
www.myspace.com/sinfangbous
TIGRAN
W
WHYSZECK
www.whyszeck.com
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www.fittheniche.com