is braving a new world m ay 2014
69ASGEIR
68
70 TURBO GOTH
lauren johNson
8 STATUS MESSAGE 10 MASTHEAD
STATUSPHERE
FASHION
STREET STYLE
28 GO SEE: COLOR CODED Break the basic.
13 THREADS 18 SETTING 19 BRICK & MORTAR 20 SCREEN 21 INK 22 BEATS
31 STYLE ID: MIRRORED IMAGE
GADGETS
50 SUN AND SAND
It’s time to reflect.
VISION BOARD
32
WILDFIRE
Blaze a trail. By Martina Giachi
42 FELINE INSTINCTS
Catching the cat’s eye. By Irvin Rivera
Goddess on the rocks. By Miguel Miranda
23 TECH PACK: High and Dry Surf n’ turf.
BEAUTY
25 FACE PAINT: BLUE LAGOON At one with the sea.
27 ABOUT FACE:
SMILES AND KISSES
Kiss from the sun.
27 BEAUTY BITE:
THE SPA WELLNESS
SHOPPING GUIDE
59 SWAG: STEP OUT Sunnies
60 SHORT TALES Shorts
60 STATEMENT PIECE Belts
61
GAME CHANGER
Sneakers
62 TOP GEAR Blazers
63 POLO SHIRT Print Theory
64 BLANK CANVAS Blazers
65 DOUBLE CROSS Sandals
65 CARRY IT WELL Totebags
66 ABOVE THE KNEE Skirt
67 SEXY THING Bandeau
67 SHOW OFF Tank Top
FEATURES MUSE
68 THE REAL DEAL
The allure of Lauren Johnson is au naturale. By Victoria Herrera
MAESTRO
69 KING IN THE NORTH
It’s just the tip of the iceberg for Ásgeir as he debuts his Icelandic folktronica sound. By Jericho Umali
70 INKED FOR BATTLE
Electro-rock duo Turbo Goth braves turbulence before conquering the SXSW stage. By Kitkat Ramos
71 RUDE BOY
MAGIC! pulls the rabbit from the hat and stuns with their debut reggae-pop hit. By Ken Rafiñan
72 LADY IN FLUX
Cruise to astronomical heights as Low Leaf enchants with her other worldly sound. By Ken Rafiñan
MASTERMIND
73 THE ART OF WARPATH
Booboo Stewart makes a dent as the destructive Warpath in the next X-Men installment. by Kitkat Ramos
74 RING MASTERS
Hit the road with engines revving as 13 Lucky Monkey breathes life into mountain silver. By Olivia Estrada
75 SHUTTER STUNNER
Live a backstage pass vicariously through Zoe Rain’s candid captures. By Olivia Estrada
76 SHADOW STORIES
Edric Chen brings the mysteries of women to light in intimate portraits. By Olivia Estrada
77 THE ARCHIVIST
Sean Dunne documents the deviants of American culture through gritty cinematography. By Ken Rafiñan
is braving a new world m ay 2014
76 edric chen
71 magic
72 LOW LEAF HEAVY HITTER
78 RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES
Nick Gentry repurposes digital artifacts from the past for futuristic portraits. By Pola Beronilla
82 STAY THE NIGHT
The National continue to rock the house with their ode to melancholy. By Ken Rafiñan
86 WALKING ON SUNSHINE
Originating from Nebraska, Emily Kinney took to NYC to pave her way to an acting career. In between slaying walkers and taking care of Judith as Bethe Greene, the actress-turned-singer shares her Expired Love for stoner boyfriends and lost loves.
BLOCK PARTY: SHEER ART ATTACK
Immerse yourself in the art of these halls.
93 LIGHT & SPACE CONTEMPORARY
94 BLANC 94 PABLO
MORE
100 DIRECTORY
EVENTS
NIGHTVISION
STATUS INVADES
94 STATUS X TATTOO SUNSET PARTY
97 SLAVE TO THE RAVE 97 TWO GIRLS ONE CUP 98 VERY SEXY FRIDAY 98 BAKUNAWA XV 99 SEVEN DAY WEEKEND 99 SATURDAY AT SKYE
102 ANGELA ALARCON
95 COME BACK KIDS TRAP HAUS 96 THOMAS GOLD 96 WILDSTYLE STYLE WILD
Angela Alarcon balances boyish comfort with girlish grace for a worldly wardrobe.
You’d never think that a face this sweet could walk past a zombie apocalypse still with a glimmer of hope in her eyes–well at least before she got abducted in latest season of The Walking Dead. Shot in the city that never sleeps, NYC-based photographer Nina Duncan exposes to us where Emily Kinney has been hiding all along.
statusmagonline.com
Blogsphere
the pulse of hip at your fingertips
go see
we’re all models off duty. smize!
FEATURES
there’s more to what’s in print
NightVision who’s spotted partying where
Photo Diary confessional for lensmen
Digital Magazine DOWNLOADS STATUS in pixels, not free mixtapes paper and wallpapers
STATUS MESSAGE
The National (82)
is BRaving A NEW WORLD
Emily Kinney (86)
W
e have entered a new realm where we are multi-slashers. Social media is the avenue for self-expression and communication, all within a push of a button. In this issue, we want to showcase how entertainment can take us into alternate realities, art can repurpose our past to our future, and music can keep us rooted to our soul. We have all seen zombie flicks, but there seems to be a secret sauce in AMC’s hit series, The Walking Dead, that makes their audience rabid fans. In between re-releasing her album, Expired Love, and taping for the post-apocalyptic drama series, actress-slash-musician Emily Kinney shares to us how she encompasses her passion into both music and acting. London-based artist Nick Gentry doesn’t limit his artistic expression to just paint on canvas; he creates art out of our memories. Influenced by “the development of consumerism, technology, identity, and cyber culture in society,” Nick takes his art to new heights with discarded mediums such as floppy discs, VHS tapes, and cassettes tapes. With the fast-paced life of this generation, it’s musicians like The National that keep our spirits up. Aside from writing songs for Game of Thrones and Catching Fire, the indie rock band has been creating music relatable to every aspect of our lives. In their interview, the band expresses how humor and sadness intermingle and resonate in their lyrics. Also, check out model Lauren Johnson as she redefines beauty in the world of modeling in Muse; musicians Turbo Goth as they relivw their SWSX adventures in Maestro; and filmmaker Sean Dunne as he goes into the depths of America’s outcasts in Mastermind. As we progress in this evolving world of art and life, we always need the chosen few who will forge the way to our creative evolution.
Editor-in-chief
Nick Gentry (78)
contributors statusmagonline.com Rosario Herrera
@RosarioHerrera
creative director Patrick L. Jamora art director Paolo Geronimo graphic designers Nyael David
Bryan Arcebal
@padraick @PaoloStroodles @nyaels @bryanarcebal
Loris Peña Pola Beronilla Angela de Dios Olivia Estrada Kat Ramos
@_dizzyrizzy @HiMyNameIsPola @angeladedios @MsOliviaSylvia @KitKatRamos
editor-in-chief
fashion editor editorial assistant
IRVIN RIVERA
In between running his own enterprise and dodging flakers the LA-based photographer had enough time to grace us with his Feline Instincts (42). He may be a long way from the motherland, but home is a deeper connection. Filipinas like JJ Gaines (Photogenics) inspire Irvin because “her blood makes her really easy to work with.”
Tina Herrera Buenaventura junior account managers Gabrielle Bailon Ken Lim III sales & marketing consultant account manager Dan
@tinaherrera_ @danbuenaventura @gabybailon @keneatsmars tweet us!
contributing writers
Vicky Herrera, Jericho Umali contributing artists
Paloma Alcantar, Ilaria Borgiolo, Edric Chen, I Hate Flash, Martina Giachi, Francesco Gusti, Brandon Niquolas Ho, Art Brandon Hunter, Mark Hunter, Jun Lopez, Shaira Luna, Steven Meiers, Miguel Miranda, Ina Moro, Ronald Ramos, Irvin Rivera, Elisa Sedoni, JP Singson, Anne Strydom, Khai Van Kampen, Whitney Willison, Palma Wright interns
Mia Catedrilla, JV Gonzales, Mixi Ignacio, Therese Luna, Andrea Lopa, Ken Rafiñan
VICKY HERRERA
Though her mother is the muse who personifies “Love, beauty, and strength in every sense of the word,” Vicky knows Lauren Johnson (68) is the real deal. Aside from nurturing a healthy affection for being lost in translation, the multi-slashed creative is adding more lace, leather, and leopard to her closet— textures every girl needs in their closet. That and a pair of boots.
What’s your STATUS? tell us. editorial editorial@statusmagonline.com advertising advertise@statusmagonline.com marketing marketing@statusmagonline.com general inquiries info@statusmagonline.com
KHAI VAN KAMPEN
With a penchant for nighttime high-contrast flash photography, Khai adds a daytime element to his portfolio with a stint at our Sunset Party (94) and a shoot with a duo inked for battle, Turbo Goth (70). While he’s on a fever hunt for that elusive party shot of N*E*R*D, the guy miraculously still gets six hours of sleep per night.
read our digital version statusmagonline.com/digital-magazine like us facebook.com/statusmagazine follow us twitter.com/statusmagazine instagram: statusmagazine STATUS is published by STATUS Media Group. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
THREADS / setting / BRICK AND MORTAR / BEATS / SCREEN / INK
may 2014
REAL DEAL H
omeboys know the deal with PEB CLOTHING’s latest collection. The color palette of black, red, and white mean business while detailed parkas, sweaters, pullovers, and harem pants shout “No BS” with his street cred. Dressed to take matters in their own hands, a tilt on that hat will seal the deal. pebclothing.com
UP ALL NIGHT Q
ueen designer Zoë Lea draws out to create her own UNEMPIRE. Her latest collection of “Spaghetti, Meatballs, N’ Garlic Bread,” “Eastside/Westside,” “Sausage,” “Cheezzz Dreamzzz,” and “Prawny” sox will have you dancing on your toes. No party poopers allowed here, just shut up and put a sock on it. unempire.bigcartel.com
LITTLE GOLD THINGS T
his season, MR. KATE introduces you to the magic of springtime. The brand’s Ars Magika collection features ethereal jewelry inspired by Native Americans. Pieces like the “Sorceress” earrings, “Solstice” necklaces, “Alchemist” rings, “Unicorn Horn” bracelets, and Beautymarks “The New Makeup” will bewitch the goddess in you. mrkate.com
IN RUBBLES S
tar-crossed lovers are dressed in OXYGEN’s 90s Grunge collection coloring the present wreckage in stylish nostalgia. Floral button-downs, statement tees, leather caps, and denim vests are the formula to the era’s rebel spirit. So, salute to the decade and wear that cap backwards; summer is here. oxygenfashion.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
PIXEL PERFECT P
ioneers of digital prints, BASSO AND BROOKE shows us their vivid world through design. The brand’s statement floral, abstract, or graphic prints put ordinary apparel and accessories to shame. Match a floral button-down with a floral pair of shorts to maximize a full look that’s easy to spot and hard to forget. bassoandbrooke.com
OLE’ TWIGGY M
eet the modern mod girl courtesy of designer LYN DEVON. Groove back to the 70s with her latest collection of jumpsuits, trousers, coats, pencil skirts, and dresses made with clean lines, structured silhouettes, and subtle use of bold colors and prints. Retro hairstyle: optional. lyndevon.com
MORE OF MORE Y
ou have 8 OTHER REASONS and more to love these bejeweled beauties. Here are a few of them: “Van Gogh” necklaces, “Unforgettable” ear cuffs, and “Stone Cold” earrings. Made out of clear class jewels, metal chains, and acrylic stones, these statement pieces give you no excuse not to love them. 8otherreasons.com
SUMMER ESSENTIALS I
n case of intense heat, apply GIORDANO generously to your wardrobe. The brand’s A Line Story collection of button-downs, v-neck cardigans, jersey crew neck dresses, and cropped pants are made of lightweight linen cloth that can give you a breather from the intense heat wave. An outfit that’s cool and durable even when the temp is not is definitely a must have. giordano.com.ph
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tropic thunder
17 One Piece with Fringe
M
15 Top with Mesh
Bottom with Mesh
18
ILETI’s got your front and back this bikini season. Taking inspiration from tropical surroundings, rainforests, and beaches, the Elba collection features digital prints on the brand’s signature chic colors of bronze, cool peach, petrol blue, and shiny black. From simple, well-cut tops and bottoms to intricate maillots, you are sure to make waves with these pair of swimwear. miletiswimwear.com
16
THREADS
CENTER STAGE M
umbai-based label MIUNIKU performs a balancing act with their play on contrasting textures and details. A circus of wonders in one’s closet, the brand’s latest collection of bright colored oversized coats, minimalist jackets, and structured dresses and shorts puts the wearer front and center. miuniku.com
GOOD AS IT GETS Step Hype N
ike kicks off the summer with another edition of their Roshe Run line. Nike Roshe Run HYP boasts of intricate panelling, reflective materials, and full mesh designs. Whether it’s in tri-color, neon, or classic black, these shoes will get you where you need to be. nike.com
BACK TO BLACK T
he first and only vegan high fashion label UMASAN creates calmness with ever-changing trends for its Autumn/ Winter 2014 collection of basics and avant-garde pieces like blazers, blouses, kimonos, men skirts, and trench coats. Their minimalistic designs, monochromatic palette, and use of natural fibers, like bamboo, seaweed, and organic cotton, pledges a style that values comfort and the environment. umasan-world.com
D
esigner NICKLAS KUNZ continues to dissect tailored menswear with his Championing Vigilantes collection including exposed zippers, surfaced pockets, and graphic cuts are included in his jersey tees, denim pants, wool cashmere pullovers, and leather jackets for a minimalist sportswear finish. nicklaskunz.com
THROUGH TIME P
ledging to make eco-friendly products, ENA COLOURS promises to deliver on the style department as well. Using scrap natural and printed leathers to create handbags, clutches, pouches, and wallets, the products have a pre-loved feel and continue to age while worn. Perfect for all bag hags that want to support a cause. enacolours.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
DOUBLE DUTY V
OY VOY is dead serious when it comes to innovation. This New York menswear brand upgrades classic shirts, like flannels and tees, and inserts micro patches inside the pockets to clean your glasses or phone. Talk about form and function, they take your shirt seriously and so should you. voy-voy.com
FRESH AIR L
ondon-based designer MIN WU takes a different turn when it comes to designing. Her Atmosphere and Automation collection of unusual silhouettes, with hints of digital printed colors of blue, orange, and green that gradually disappears into white, merges lightness and elegance together. Donning her three dimensional coats, jackets, and dresses is like floating in a space that we don’t mind being in. 5minwu.com
UNDER CONSTRUCTION D
econstructing traditional ideas and modernizing conventions, 3.PARADIS is on a mission to redefine menswear. Floral bomber jackets, quilted trousers, and oversized shirts from the The White Door collection reinvents shapes and plays with texture. Made with the finest materials, only time can tell what direction they’ll bring us. 3paradis.com
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TRIPPIN’ VIBES L
ife’s a beach according to designer Faris Du Garf’s namesake brand FARIS. Inspired by natural and urban landscapes, her Tropical Modernism collection takes the sun, shells, pineapples, and bananas with you everywhere you go. Pack the “Solar” bronze sphere necklace, hand carved “Piña” ring, and silver “Chiquita” earring for added rays and juice to each of your step. farisfaris.com
BAG LADY C
lassic takes a turn with minimalistic luxury bags by VASKA. The brand’s Aura collection of satchels, handbags, and sling bags uses a unique fold technique, invisible brass hardware, and soft, velvety texture for a clean silhouette finish. These handbags are poised for the gal that believes simplicity is the key to great style. vaska.es
THREADS
Sun and splash G
et ready to jump into the water with SUPERDRY’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Ladies can soak in the “Storm Cloud” print bandeau and razor mesh bikinis, while the men can surf up in the “Honolulu Flower Mellow” and “Paradiso” panel board shorts. British classic glory and all that in a range of colors captures the summer fun. superdry.com
DIAMOND CUT Words by Olivia Estrada, JV Gonzales, Loris Peña, and Kitkat Ramos
T
here are many shapes to the OCTA bag and each is as chic as the other. The “Asscher,” ”Shallow,” and “Facet” bags stand out with its classic leather look and unique silhouette. From clutches, cross body bags, top handles, and wallets that come in pastel, bright and jewel-toned colors, this is easily “a girl’s best friend.” octabag.com
BEAUTIFUL WORLD I
n cooperation with the UN International Trade Center, STELLA JEAN’s latest collection uses handloom fabrics made by women living in villages of Burkina Faso. Proving that style is worldly and doesn’t need continents, the brand’s printed garments combine embroidered and painted fabrics from different cultures. stellajean.it
NO LIES D
on’t worry, MIDNIGHT SOCIETY will tell it as it is. The brand’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection of statement shirts like “You Are Such A Drag,” “Sweet Valley Lies,” “Fatal,” and “Eternal Youth” are tonguein-chic brutal. No wonder loud mouth society girls love them. Preach sisters! midnightsociety.co.uk
WE MADE IT L
ondon-based streetwear brand TWOANGLE are technically OG’s at the game. Inspired by hip-hop culture, they continue to bump heads with rap industry and fans with their latest collection of tropical florals, urban safari, and renaissance inspired silk prints. From tees, pullovers, and tanks, they got your back plus more. twoangle.fr
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SETTING
PLACES TO GO
CORKAGE
PLATE
SPEAKEASY, MAKATI
LEAN AND MEAN
SPEAKEASY’s comfort food is not for the fainthearted.
No need for speeches at SPEAKEASY. Just tell resident mixologist Alyona Vingradova about your day and she’ll prescribe the drink you need. But if you opt to stay on menu, try house specialties Speakeasy Standard, a blend of gin, lychee, and mint, or Exit Strategy, which comes with a kick of Tabasco. Partake of Chef Mike Santos’ comfort food that boast homemade secrets in their dark, blue, and gold interiors, high ceiling, and golden alcohol shelves.
GNOCCHI Potato pasta with rich, creamy truffle sauce
G/F Alphaland City Club Ayala Avenue cor. Malugay St., Makati City facebook.com/speakeasymakati
S uite
AZUMI BOUTIQUE HOTEL, MUNTINLUPA AZUMI BOUTIQUE HOTEL offers sanctuary inside Alabang’s Madrigal Business Park. Find inner peace in the neutral-toned lobby infused with red and green. Suites channel Japanese minimalism, mixing modern lines and earth hues with pops of orange and wood paneling, awash with natural light from floor-to-ceiling glass doors. The infinity lap pool atop the building has a 360° view of the city’s skyline. Commercial establishments and the international airport are just a quick drive away so you can begin your tranquil meditation with ease. 2205 Market Street Madrigal Business Park Phase III Muntinlupa City azumi.ph
BRAISED PORK RICE MEAL Generous portions of pork in a rich sauce served over an egg on a bed of pilaf
SPEAKEASY BURGER 100% all-beef patty nestled in between homemade buns, lettuce, arugula, tomato, an egg, and gruyere cheese served with fries
GRUB
Whereas most cafes are cozy, TOBY’S ESTATE’s interiors are cosmopolitan. White-tiled walls around wood and metal furnishings put the focus on their proprietary Woollomooloo blend. Served in just one or two sizes, it invites the drinker to sip slower and savor their rich, full-bodied roast. Baked goods from Bucky’s Not a Brownie and Baked by Anita serve as gooey accompaniments to their coffee. Let yourself into a Sydney studio apartment for cups of black gold sourced globally from Indonesia to Costa Rica. 3/F Century City Mall Kalayaan Avenue cor. Salamanca Ave. Makati City @tobysestateph
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GAMBAS Spicy shrimp with a shot of tequila (instead of the traditional white wine) and secret spices
SALMON PESTO Linguine bathed in pesto, pine nuts, and sprinkled with smoked salmon bits
Words by Olivia Estrada and Ken Rafiñan
TOBY’S ESTATE, MAKATI
BRICK AND MORTAR
STORES TO SHOP
FELTRAIGER, BROOKLYN 155 Grand Street Brooklyn NY 11211 feltraiger.com Dime to drop: P540-P19,000 ($12-$420) Don’t leave without: An “America as Fuck” Tee and patches
M
enswear label FELTRAIGER opens a flagship store in Brooklyn bringing “New American Classic” to where it’s represented the most. This retail space is dedicated to all things Americana with everything 100% American made. Brick walls, wooden floors, vintage photographs, and a crushed 1972 Dodge Darts table at the center with an American flag shows the proud heritage of the Williamsburg store. The place is stocked for the classic gentleman with T-shirts, polos, button-downs, eyewear, leather jackets, and caps by Feltraiger and Ratmouth ready for the taking. Limited handpicked vintage pieces, Chippewa boots, Heartbreaker pomade, classic Playboy magazines, and motorcycle art are displayed around the store, in authentic Brooklyn woodcrafts and wired glass. The red, white, and blue’s glory can be brought home and made your own. Since most of the products are meant to be treasured and passed down, Americana heritage is alive and well.
ARCHIVE, MELBOURNE Level 5 Mitchell House 358 Lonsdale St., Melbourne 3000 archivemelbourne.com Dime to drop: P1,026-P82,092 (AU$25-AU$2000) Don’t leave without: A piece of Melbourne brand Verner
T
he next time you hear the word ARCHIVE, you’ll immediately think of the retail store located in Melbourne’s iconic art deco building, Mitchell House. Tucked away in the fifth floor, this studio and gallery space houses contemporary fashion, artist installations, and pop-up sales. Designed by SIBLING architects, this all-white space and concrete floors with marble islands may seem clinical, but designer garments hanging on modular steel and rope displays give the place colors and textures. A mix of high and low, local Melbourne brands and international labels such as Chanel, Alexander McQueen, Chloe, Comme des Garcons, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, and Verner have articles of clothing and accessories to choose from. As the store promise, “where experience can be real,” fashion and art books lie around the space and are free to be browsed by everyone. While you’re at it, learn how their ‘consignment set up/model’ works so you can potentially resell your own clothing and accessories over a cup of tea.
Words by Loris Peña and JV Gonzales
Young and Able
Y
ou are only YOUNG AND ABLE once so might as well live it up while avoiding some major fashion faux pas. This online retail store has a platform for designers and consumers to interact, learn about their inspiration, and support their future. That way when you don their latest collection of leather cropped tops, pant suits, and chunky sweaters from brands like Sunghee Bang, Study NY, Angelique Chmielewski, Alder NY, and Abacus, they’ll be part of the story that you want to tell. shopyoungandable.com
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SCREEN
SCENES TO SEE
TICKET
REMOTE CONTROL NEIGHBORS This Is The End’s Seth Rogen and Bridesmaids’ Rose Byrne star as a young couple enjoying the birth of their newborn child but is disturbed when a fraternity moves in next door.
PALO ALTO Adapted from a series of short stories by James Franco, Gia Coppola makes her feature directorial debut leading the cast of Emma Roberts, Val Kilmer, and Nat Wolff to display the darker side of teenage drama and vices. X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST Marvel’s latest film sees the X-Men universe in peril, with the doom of both mutants and humans, and Wolverine returns in time to prevent an event that would become the catalyst for his present reality. A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane takes us to the Wild West following a cowardly farmer trying to find courage to fight an outlaw for the woman he’s fallen for.
MALEFICENT Starring Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning, Disney goes to the dark side and twists the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty exploring the villainous life of Maleficent.
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THE SIXTIES (CNN) Emmy award-winning producers Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman, alongside Mark Herzog, collaborate to bring us a CNN original 10-part documentary about the 1960s. Starting with the British invasion that aired last January, the docuseries leads us through a decade that shaped world history, exploring The Beatles’ arrival in America to JFK’s assassination.
PENNY DREADFUL (SHOWTIME) Skyfall writer John Logan creates an alternate reality in Penny Dreadful weaving together the likes of Dr. Frankenstein, Dorian Grey, and Dracula. Starring Josh Hartnett and Eva Green, the psychological thriller sees classic literature’s most horrifying characters roaming around Victorian London.
24: LIVE ANOTHER DAY (FOX) After a four-year wait, the ticking clock is back for Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer comes out of hiding to go on the run to stop a terrorist attack that could cause a global disaster while evading the task force sent by the President for his capture.
PL AYBACK
NIÑA SANDEJAS (Photographer) @RosariOko rosarioko.com
THE DUCHESS (2008) Georgiana became the ancestor of Princess Diana and the love she gave up became the first Prime Minister of Britain. None of which would have happened if they pursued their love.
SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE (1998) I love how Gwyneth Paltrow’s [character] did whatever it took just for her to be able to do what she loved, and in turn found the love of her life.
YENTL (1983) Barbara Streisand’s passion for knowledge in this motion picture inspires me on so many levels.
ALMOST FAMOUS (2000) I can relate to both William and Penny Lane. I see some of me in each of them. I’m in the music industry, I’m home.
THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY (2013) As a photo editor, this hits me in the heart more than most films that touch on photography. I love how the film appreciates the people behind the scenes.
Words by Joanna Ulatan
FRANK Inspired by Chris Sievy’s comedic character Frank Sidebottom, the film follows Domhnall Gleeson who takes a strange turn after joining a band led by the eccentric Michael Fassbender.
ink
BOOKS TO READ
BOOKMARK
HOT OFF THE PRESS ACT 4 – 25 YEARS: 1989 - 2014 by WK Interact This collection compiles over twenty years of French street artist and muralist WK Interact’s work. With all his exhibitions, installations, street art captured in indulgent pages, this volume creates an informative, secondary perspective of his awe-inspiring art. “I attempt to capture an instant during an action,” says WK. However, the artist is never caught in inertia–WK will always move forward to the next project in a New York minute.
EXHIBITING FASHION: BEFORE AND AFTER 1971 by Judith Clark and Amy de la Haye Authors Judith Clark and Amy de la Haye have a combined experience of forty years in curating and organizing exhibits. Together, they produce a book that covers the art and development of exhibiting fashion. The anthology includes 150 photos of unpublished shows and some out-of-print documents that ultimately demonstrate a new appreciation for this art form.
PHARRELL: PLACES AND SPACES I’VE BEEN
by Pharrell Williams
W INDEX A TO Z: ART, DESIGN, FASHION, FILM, AND MUSIC IN THE INDIE ERA edited by Wendy Vogel Claiming to be “the bible of indie culture,” index magazine compiles their most memorable interviews and photographs in the convenient form of a dictionary. Bringing together Generation X’s cultural figures, the volume is packed with features of the likes of Bjork, Willem Defoe, and David Sedaris, to name a few.
ith the massive waves he’s been making in the music industry, any attempt at an introduction will do him no justice. Pharrell is the arbiter of cool on all possible creative spaces from music to fashion and design. In his book, he traces his artistic journey, along with friends such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, Nigo, and Anna Wintour. Here are excerpts attesting to the brilliance of this unparalleled genius:
“Achieving and maintaining friendship, in itself, was like artistry. What better way to do it but to make an album and play it. That’s hard work.” – Chad Hugo
“It’s like in archery. You account for the wind. You shoot over to the left a little bit. Every industry, everyone accounts for these…” – Jay-Z
“N.E.R.D. was ahead of the time in terms of tastemaking, the tastemakers of the game, from music to design and photography, you name it.” – Shae Haley
“The thing that keeps us going is the idea that there is something out there that we haven’t experienced… I felt it was like that for Pharrell.” – Hans Zimmer
Words by Kitkat Ramos
FOOTNOTES The song Pharrell wrote for Despicable Me, entitled “Rocket’s Theme,” was written after his son, Rocket Man.
WK started a memorial in Williamsburg, dubbed “Project Brave,” that encapsulated the bravery of firemen, police, soldiers, etc. who helped during the 9/11 disaster.
Judith Clark first established her costume gallery in 1997 at the 112 Talbot Road. Since then, she has curated over 40 exhibitions of dresses.
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MUSIC TO HEAR
PL AYLIS T
MAGIC! Nasri Atweh (Vocals) ournameismagic.com
TURBO GOTH Sarah Gaugler (Vocals) turbogothworld.com
ÁSGEIR asgeirmusic.com
“Stir It Up” Bob Marley It’s a cool and sexy song.
“Isn’t She Lovely” Stevie Wonder That was my first Stevie Wonder song that I loved and I really learned a lot as a writer from him.
“Come Together” The Beatles I sang it at a Halloween party with my bandmates. It’s now my favorite Beatles song.
“Carolina In My Mind” James Taylor This track just makes me relaxed.
“Instant Crush” Daft Punk feat. Julian Casablancas As if Julian Casablancas could not get any more attractive, this song definitely lives up to its name.
“Fineshrine” Purity Ring Once you get it, it’s a beautiful song.
“Falling in Love” Crystal Bats It’s an ultradanceable track that’s a throwback to the days of disco.
“Wolf Girl” (Slow Magic Remix) Simian Ghost It’s got a dreamy, cinematic vibe.
“I Gotsta Get Paid” ZZ Top A song that we have been listening to on the road for a while and always gets you in a good mood.
“Open Eye Signal” Jon Hopkins I love the beat and how the bass line mixes into it.
“Without You” Thundercat From Apocalypse, it’s smooth but at the same time a messy song. He’s a great musician.
“Before I Move Off” Mount Kimbie I love the sound on that track and it’s one of the tracks I’ve been getting back to every now and then.
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British singer-songwriter SAM SMITH is no longer In the Lonely Hour with the release of his debut LP featuring his signature falsetto and catchy hooks over buoyant dance-pop beats.
Even after two critically-acclaimed albums, LYKKE LI says I Never Learn, the defiant conclusion to the trilogy of concept albums that bare her heart and soul through a seductive sound.
Eat with nu-disco ensemble HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR at The Feast of the Broken Heart, a record full of fat basslines and stormy synths with vocals from friends like Gustaph, Krystle Warren, and Rouge Mary.
MUSIC NEWS
Karpos Multimedia tries to break their sophomore slump as they host the second iteration of the Wanderland Festival at the Globe Circuit Event Grounds in Makati featuring international acts like The Drums, Paper Kites, and Architecture in Helsinki.
R eleases
The MGM Grand Garden Arena will be the brightest light in Las Vegas as it hosts the 2014 Billboard Music Awards on May 18 with Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Lorde, and Drake up for awards.
Forget the week’s worries through a night of Armin van Buuren’s brand of euphoric trance as he shakes the walls of the Mall of Asia Arena on May 30 for the latest leg of his Armin Only - Intense World Tour.
Britrock quartet COLDPLAY end a three-year hiatus to tell Ghost Stories with a tracklist of strippeddown acoustic whispers over experimental beats that expand their exploration in new directions for the genre.
Words by Ken Rafiñan
BEATS
TEC H PACK
CASIO G-SHOCK STB-1000 • Connect to fitness apps like Run, Walk, and Cyclemeter GPS with Bluetooth 4.0 LE technology • Designed to be waterresistant up to 100m • Has a two-year battery life for longer timekeeping • Carries a 1/100 second stopwatch for accurate lap timing
FUGOO Bluetooth wireless speakers
• Choose between the Style, Sport, and Tough jackets that protect against mud, snow, water, dust, and shock • Consists of six drivers placed on all four sides to create a 360° sound • Their Core-X technology keeps the path of the music digital to prevent radio frequency interference • Supports Siri and Google Now for smartphone flexibility
SRP: P4,500
SRP: P9,100
HIGH AND DRY
These devices made for a wet and wild summer make sure you have fun under the sun.
SONY XPERIA Z2 TABLET • World’s first IP55/58-rated tablet making it dustproof and waterproof up to 1.5m for 30 minutes • Scroll through a 10.1” TFT screen with TRILUMINOSTM 1920 x 1200 Full HD IPS display • The lightest and slimmest tablet for its size at only 6.4mm thick and weighing less than 16 oz. • Powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 CPU with an Adreno 330 GPU and 3 GB memory for lag-free performance
OLYMPUS STYLUS TG-2 iHS • It’s rugged design is waterproof up to 15m, shockproof up to 2.1m, freezeproof up to -10oC, and also dustproof • Shoot with a 12-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor with 4x wide-angle optical zoom, ISO range of 100 to 6400, and F2.0 lens • Uses a TruePicTM VI Image Processor for DSLR-quality detail in a point-and-shoot body • Equipped with a GPS and manometer to detect your current position, even under water SRP: P17,200
SRP: P33,990
DOWNLOADS TRIPIT! By Concur
DUOLINGO By Duolingo
KURRENCY By Alex Tarrago
Forward your confirmation emails to the app and let it plan your entire travel itinerary for you.
Gamify your language learning by translating web pages in another language to earn Lingots for your character.
Calculate your converted cash with the ease of a minimalist interface designed specifically for iOS 7.
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FACE PAI N T VINCENT LONGO Crème Gel Eyeliner P1,203.46
MAC Pro Longwear Eyeshadow in Styledriven P1,150
ESSIE Go Overboard Collection Nail Polish P406.74
DOLCE AND GABBANA Dolce P4,306.7
MAC Pro Longwear Eyeliner in Mountain Air P950
CARGO Color Eyeshadow Palette P1,444.15
blue lagoon
SMASHBOX Photo Finish More Than Primer Blemish Control P2,021.81
KA’OIR Force Lipstick in Teal Green P758
Model photo by Fernando Colon
Splash through summer in this season’s teal obsession.
GUERLAIN Écrin 4 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette P3,014.69
Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint for Eyes P813.49
ESTéE LAUDER Pure Color Eyeshadow Palette in Emerald Oasis P2,550
BOBBI BROWN Longwear Gel Eyeliner P1,450
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AB O U T FACE berry Very
Extra care comes with SUPERGOOP ACAIFUSION LIP BALM SPF 30. It contains a super berry acai formula that hydrates lips and helps repair oxidation damage and antioxidants vitamins C and E that renew cells while protecting your lips from smoke, smog, and sunlight. P409.18
Fresh Dew
Taste lemons and orange with JANE IREDALE LIP DRINK LIP BALM BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 15. Made with antioxidants like Coffee seed, Blackberry, and green tea, it has no petroleum-based ingredients that can dry out lips. P577.66
Expert Advice
Use gentle lip scrub before applying lip balm to remove dead, dry, and flaky skin.
lips don’t lie
Protect and pout your lips with SHISEIDO SUN PROTECTION LIP TREATMENT SPF 36. Not only does it shield against UVA and UVB rays but it also hydrates and soothes your lips. P1,059.04
b e a u t y bi t e
smiles and kisses
Pamper your lips with a coat of SPF and tender lovin’ care.
like a rose
going green
Compliment your lips with VINCENT LONGO CUSHION LIPS CONDITIONER SPF 20 by bringing out its most natural color. This gel texture conditioner maintains moisture for several hours while protecting your lips against environmental exposure. P861.3
Summer soft kisses brought to you by FRESH SUGAR PETAL TINTED LIP TREATMENT SUNSCREEN SPF 15. Keeps lips moisturized for 6 hours with a mix of nourishing oils, meadowfoam, and black currant seed oils, while leaving that pink blossom tint. P1,083.11
The spa wellness
T
Words by Loris Peña
he doors to the secret garden of modern royal treatment are finally open with THE SPA WELLNESS at Shangri-La East Wing. Offering relaxation, fitness, and beauty through The Spa, barre3, and Skin Dermatology & Laser center are yours for the taking. Enter a tranquil environment with modern, earthtoned interiors with a relaxing ambience and a distinct fragrance. Royal treatments like premium spa massages and yoga classes guarantee lux pampering and an experience worth spoiling yourself for. THE SPA WELLNESS Level 6 Shangri-La East Wing Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City 656-7878
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GO S E E
color coded Mission is to layer in vibrant colors and prints. At all times, go for the kill.
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Photographed by Steffi Santiago and RJ Roque
S T Y LE I D
Fashion designer Andrea Renosto is easy to spot thanks to his bold orange mirrored reflectors.
Bright colors and mirrored specs are the perfect summer getup.
Street style photos courtesy of jponfashionspeed.com and lelook.eu Runway photo courtesy of Seoul Fashion Week
Fun tip: Colorcoordinate your hair with your eyewear.
MIRRORED IMAGE This summer, add an ounce of mystery to your so-called life by sporting mirrored sunnies as seen on Tommy Hilfigers Spring/ Summer 2014 runway. By JP Singson
A pair of brightly colored reflectorized lenses makes you a head turner.
Susie Lau of Style bubble wittily pairs her lovely blouse and purse with her blue mirrored reflectors.
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sweatshirt by Hand pants by Drawer boots by Drawer
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Photographed by Martina Giachi Styled by Elisa Sedoni
sweater by Drawer jacket by Drawer pants by Numero 00
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sweatshirt by Hand coat by Drawer
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jacket by Drawer sweater by Fast Money pants by Numero 00 boots by Drawer
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sweater by Drawer jacket by Drawer pants by Numero 00
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sweater by Drawer shirt by Drawer jeans by Diesel
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dressing gown by Drawer shirt by Calvin Klein jeans by Diesel
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dressing gown by Drawer shirt by Calvin Klein jeans by Diesel
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jacket by Drawer boots by Drawer pants by Numero 00 sweater by Fast Money
sweatshirt by Hand pants by Numero 00 boots by Drawer scarf by Rossoforte
Makeup and Hair Ilaria Borgioli Model Jakob Henrik Klasson of Independent Men Milano
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Photographed and Art Directed by Irvin Rivera Styling by Brandon Niquoloas Ho X Art Brandon Hunter
shirt by Anna Sui pants by Miu Miu sweater by Faubourg Du Temple
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shirt by Anna Sui pants by Miu Miu sweater by Faubourg Du Temple shoes Miista at Nasty Gal
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romper by BTFL People shoes by Senso
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dress by Olena Dats’ sweater by Faubourg Du Temple fur collar by Faubourg Du Temple
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dress by Mossee coat by Faubourg Du Temple shoes by Jeffrey Campbell
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shirt by Dior coat by Maison Martin Margiela skirt by Olena Dats’
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dress by Olena Dats’ coat by Calvin Klein hat by Zumies shoes by Stuart Weitzman
Makeup Paloma Alcantar Hair Whitney Willison Hair Assistant Heather Andrews Model Keely King of LA Models Cat Veera
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earrings from Firma top by Forever 21 skirt by Dorothy Perkins
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Sun and sand Photographed by Miguel Miranda Styled by Loris Pe単a
cropped top by Forever 21 skirt by Forever 21 sandals by Zara
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necklace by Herbert Custodio jacket by Zara bikini by I Love Koi
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cropped tube top by Forever 21 necklace by Firma
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top by Forever 21 skirt by Zara sandals by Zara
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cutout onesie by I Love Koi necklace by Zara
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bandeau by I Love Koi skirt by Forever 21 necklace by Forever 21
Makeup Maui Manalo Hair Nikki Dogma Model Kamille Nassif of Ideal People Model Management
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SWAG
Sunnies photographed by Paolo Geronimo
M ay
2 0 1 4
STEP OUT Go outside and enjoy the sun while dressing down to this season’s essentials like shades, printed polos, tailored shorts, bandeaus, tank tops, and strappy sandals. Product Photography by Miguel Miranda
From top to bottom: Call It Spring [P599], Call It Spring [P599], River Island [P990]
S h o r ts / B e l ts
SHORT TALES Easy does it.
Cotton On [P1,599]
Topman [P1,895]
Penshoppe [P799]
River Island [P1,999]
dkny r 2014 sp r in g /summe Superdry [P3,250]
Topman [P1,895]
STATEMENT PIECE
Pedro [P1,495]
21 Men [P564]
Penshoppe [P279]
Weave them up.
Basic House [P980]
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Basic House [P1,280]
S n ea k e r s
Vans [P2,498]
Adidas [P4,895]
GAME CHANGER Step your game up.
Adidas [P4,995]
Vans [P2,498]
Call It Spring [P2,495]
Call It Spring [P2,495]
Vans [P2,798]
Vans [P2,798]
Adidas [P4,895]
Superdry [P3,650]
Lacoste r 2014 sp r in g /summe Creative Recreation [P3,795]
Nike [P6,000]
Nike [P4,095]
Creative Recreation [P3,795]
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Blazer
TOP GEAR
Blazers upgrade your outfit.
Basic House [P5,680]
21 Men [P2,465]
Topman [P7,997]
Topman [P7,997]
p r a da r 2014 sp r in g /summe Penshoppe [P1,399]
Cotton On [P1,999]
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Polo Shirt
PRINT THEORY Never too much.
Topman [P2,245]
Penshoppe [P799]
21 Men [P1,025]
Oxygen [P999]
r c j acobs ma r c by ma r 2014 sp r in g /summe
Marc by Marc Jacobs [P10,750]
Cotton On [P1,199]
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Blazer
BLANK CANVAS
Paint the streets with these blazers.
Miss Selfridge [P9,695]
Oxygen [P1,299]
Forever 21 [P1,535]
Forever 21 [P1,535]
f e r r agamo sa lvato r e r 2014 sp r in g /summe River Island [P3,990]
Miss Selfridge [P7,095]
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S a n d a l s / totebags
DOUBLE CROSS
Strappy sandals can do no wrong. Steve Madden [P2,950]
Penshoppe [P599]
Pedro [P2,595]
Call It Spring [P2,195]
ige r tomm y h il f r 2 0 1 4 sp r in g /summe Forever 21 [P960]
Steve Madden [P4,250]
CARRY IT WELL Stylish totes to stash your summer essentials in.
Topshop [P2,745]
Pedro [P2,975]
Warehouse [P2,795]
Forever 21 [P1,590]
Miss Selfridge [P2,395]
Call It Spring [P1,755]
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S KIR T
ABOVE THE KNEE A little leg goes a long way.
Topshop [P1,195]
Topshop [P1,495]
Warehouse [P2,095]
Basic House [P1,480]
rs m ic h ae l ko 2 0 1 4 r sp r in g /summe Miss Selfridge [P1,595]
Forever 21 [P555]
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B A ND E A U / T a n k top
SEXY THING
Confidence is key. I Love Koi [P880]
Oxygen [P999]
River Island [P1,290]
River Island [P1,290]
ige r tomm y h il f 2 0 1 4 r sp r in g /summe I Love Koi [P880]
Oxygen [P999]
SHOW OFF
A little skin wont hurt.
Penshoppe [P649]
Penshoppe [P499] Forever 21 [P715]
Cotton On [P799]
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M U S E
Natural beauty LAUREN JOHNSON is a breath of fresh air. Her trademark curly locks, sun- kissed freckles, and toned physique have made her a health and wellness favorite. Add to that her positive outlook and down-to-earth personality, it’s no wonder why she’s the ideal model for good living. By Victoria Herrera Photos by Aaron Feaver and Lucas Passmore Special thanks to Nous Model Management
I
n modeling, there are tons of ways to change one’s look. A makeup artist, fashion stylist, photographer, and of course, Photoshop, can all transform images far from what one really looks like. But when it comes to Lauren Johnson, she wakes up like that. This model/actress grew up in Maplewood, Minnesota and is now signed to Nous Model Management in LA and FORD models in Chicago. Initially, Lauren thought she would be a fashion designer or equestrian, “I had always been told I should try modeling or acting, but it seemed like such a far reach. But with parents like the ones I have, anything I wanted to do or be, was always a possibility.” From joining pageants to modeling in Minnesota, she eventually made the jump to try her luck in bigger cities. The jump paid off, with commercial projects coming in, most notably with Nike and Old Navy plus a cover for Natural Health Magazine.
B EA U TY W I TH I N
Beauty is someone who can be confident and comfortable within their own skin, while pushing others to do the same. In our society today, others decide if we are worthy of being considered beautiful, but it has to start from yourself. For me, my inner beauty is what I am most proud of.
JUST DO IT
[With Nike], I remember flying to Portland and just having one of those moments where you fall into your mind and watch the world pass you by. I was in awe that this was my life, and within the next few hours, I’d be working for a client that I had only dreamed of working for.
B O D Y B A S I CS
There are just a few health basics which I work with. My choice of drink is always water: you’ll never go wrong with just
choosing water. On the other hand, I am a big believer in mixing up your workouts, don’t be afraid to try a dance class, or anything that looks fun! I am currently obsessed with booty exercises. But I also think what you feel on the inside radiates outwards so taking time to self-reflect on what makes you happy is a big one for me. And lastly, if something or someone no longer serves you well, it is time to move on.
PRA CT ICA L ST YLE
My style changes day to day, but my number one priority is comfort. I always tell myself, if you don’t love it, don’t buy it. Shopping is about balance to me. If I am buying something over a few hundred dollars, I match that amount I spent and put it into savings, or to a charity.
DREA M S- IN- PROGRESS
I am working a campaign right now centered around body and beauty image. It is in the beginning stages, but I hope to move it along quicker within the next few months. This is also
my travel year, I am planning to backpack around Europe and travel with friends to Haiti. On top of those, my big wish is to go skydiving!
M A E S T R O
KING IN
THE NORTH
Melodic folk artist ÁSGEIR breaks the ice with his debut album, Dýrð í dauðaþögn. Geared up to takeover the southern hemisphere, his freshman effort is just the tip of the iceberg. By Jericho Umali
F
rom the post-rock oddities of Sigur Rós to Of Monsters and Men’s indie folk sentiments come Iceland’s newest folktronica treat, Ásgeir. With Bon Iver comparisons surrounding his radar, he forms a glacial beauty between the layered harmonies of his traditional folk music and electronic beats. Though his debut was written in his native tongue, that didn’t stop the 21-year old from breaking charts and language barriers. Ásgeir Trausti grew up juggling between his two loves: music and sports. “I’ve always been interested in music since I was six years old, and at the same time I began training track and field,” he continues, “Although I was playing classical guitar in school, my main interest was always to write my own songs.” It was a miracle in the form of an injury that made his heart beat for one. He recalls, “When I was 18, I got injured and had to stop throwing javelin, which was both a good thing and a bad thing, Since I started to focus more on music then.”
With Justin Vernon, Baths, James Blake, The Bad Plus, and Sigur Rós on repeat, he produced the biggest and fastest selling debut record ever in Iceland– even outranking Icelandic legend, Björk. Not that he’s trying to impress us, but apparently, one in ten of the population of the country owns a copy of his album. Aside from his luscious melodies, people were hooked with the evocative poetry he used; and it’s quite a shock that most of them were actually written by his 72-year old father, Einar Georg Einarsson. Bagging awards from the Icelandic Music Awards, Nordic Music Prize, and European Commission, he doesn’t feel the pressure of a sophomore slump explaining, “It doesn’t affect me too much. I don’t really believe in competing in music. But it was great and encouraging to get awards.” He continues, “It doesn’t add any pressure on what I do at all. I’m making music that I love and it just happened that people also liked it. This could change on the next albums. I don’t know, but right now we’re focusing on touring with this album.” Now that he’s doing rounds on promoting his triple platinum LP, we asked if he had any pre-show traditions, “I just hang out
with the guys before we go on stage. If we are lucky enough to have more than one dressing room, I like to stay by myself for a little while before the concert begins,” he goes on, “I guess it really just changes with how you are feeling each day and for every gig.” Though one could say that touring would be the best part of an artist’s journey, it’s something that he’s still not used to. Ásgeir shares, “Always being on the road, a long way from home, is probably the hardest part.” But if it wasn’t for tours, he wouldn’t have met alt-rocker John Grant. John was in Iceland working on his recent album when he took Ásgeir on tour with him. It was him who helped produce an English version of Dýrð í dauðaþögn. While still containing the same melodies of the said album, the English vocals were a perfect fit. Thanks to his touring partner, more people could now get on with his folktronic groove. With the release of In The Silence last January, Ásgeir is ready to make some global noise.
asgeirmusic.com @AsgeirMusic
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MAESTRO
INKED FOR BATTLE “ Pe r f ormi ng for one of t he b i g g e st mu si c f e st i va l s i n t he worl d , we we re ab le t o re l at e t o p eop l e t hrou g h ou r mu si c.”
Dubbed a “sexy electronic rock music attack duo,” TURBO GOTH’s descent to the music scene has glided freely from local radio stations to SXSW, and destroyed all barriers that could have stopped this coastal catastrophe. By Kitkat Ramos Interview by Ken Rafiñan Photographed by Khai Van Khampen
P
aolo Peralta (vocals, guitars, synth) and Sarah Gaugler (vocals) were first featured in our Rebellion issue way back in March 2009, claiming that “There are some songs you can dance to, some you can riot to. And absolutely nothing is boring.” This statement still stands after two albums, a remix CD, and a single called Coastal Catastrophes. Now they join us again in a shoot, entering the set in all black and leather, and shone with a luster of a band that just played in one of the biggest music festivals in the world, South by Southwest. Clad in an image that screams Goth, Sarah explains that this is not the case, saying, “’Turbo’ means something at its best, something intense or at a maximum level, and we give our best when we make our music. ‘Goth’ doesn’t refer to the ‘fashion’ but more of our appreciation for gothic
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architecture, and what it stands for.” Whether it’s the fashion or not, their visual style jaunts along with their ambient, electronic, pop-rock sound. Their invitation to perform in SXSW came through an unexpected email and it wasn’t an easy road to get to that stage. In spite of the emotional and financial restraints, their struggles came through, “We believe in what we do. We want to share our music and hope that people locally and internationally appreciate it and believe in our efforts. And if they do, then we are happy.” I heard Austin, Texas became a fan of Paolo’s dancing and Sarah’s cool vocals that night. What did that feel like? For the bands that went before us, everyone was seated because the venue had seats, but when we started to play, they started dancing in front. It felt
amazing because it meant that even if we were in a foreign country performing for one of the biggest music festivals in the world, we were able to relate to people through our music. Despite being far away from home, being in a place where we didn’t know what to expect, they danced and we felt the appreciation and love. When the band got invited to SXSW, the confirmation for your set wasn’t as easy as just saying yes. What were the struggles you encountered just to make this SXSW gig work out? Paolo’s visa got denied the first time he applied, so we had to wait to schedule the reapplication. We asked for urgent help from SXSW regarding an expedited visa, but they said there was nothing they could do and had to drop us off programming. We called and emailed the people from SXSW explaining our situation and finally with one week left before the festival started, everything fell into place with a better venue and better time slot!
Take us through the process of song-making. What inspires that dark, gritty, and sometimes dreamy sound throughout your songs? Our music, melodies, and lyrics all come from our hearts, experiences, and everything around and inside of us. It’s a feeling that is indescribable. We just try our best to let it out and materialize it by using words and melodies, so that others may experience it as well. It’s pretty magical. Your debut album, Destroy Us All, was released back in 2011 and we still can’t stop listening to it. Are you guys working on a new album? Yes, we’re working on our next album. We have lots of new material, and we are still in the process of selecting the songs that would make the cut for the next album. What happens in the second album will be a surprise!
turbogoth.bandcamp.com @turbogoth
MAESTRO
RUDE BOY Hitmaker Nasri Atweh quits his solo gigs to form MAGIC! with his buds and cast a spell on fans of The Police, No Doubt, Pink, and Katy Perry. By Ken Rafiñan
A
s one-half of prolific songwriting duo The Messengers, he’s found quiet success and even a Grammy as the ghostwriter behind the hits of Justin Bieber, David Guetta, and Chris Brown. But if you can write songs, you probably can sing them too. Inevitably, the day arrived when he decided to shift the spotlight onto his obvious talent. Now he’s the frontman for pop-rock-reggae group MAGIC!, along with Mark Pellizzer (guitar), Alex Tanas (drums), and Ben Spivak (bass). “I was getting somewhere and being offered deals but I just felt unhappy. I felt alone and missed working with somebody,” rues Nasri. “[Singing for a band] happened naturally and I embraced it because I work well within a team. I add to the team and everybody adds their strengths. We’re stronger as a cohesive unit.” The obligatory storybehind-the-name question is asked and he explains, “We called it MAGIC! because of a song we wrote called “Don’t Kill
the Magic” on the album, then we just kept on playing with magic and how everything was magical, so we called ourselves MAGIC!.” As our conversation continues, I’ll discover that their rationale isn’t as elementary as it sounds. “Don’t you know I’m human too / Why you gotta be so rude / I’m gonna marry her anyway,” resounds the incredibly catchy chorus of their yet unnamed album’s first single, “Rude.” The reggae-pop song is the only one the band’s released so far and it’s already gone platinum in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. For having such an addicting rhythm, the track finds its roots in the absurd. “That song was just made up. I don’t even know how [or] where it came from, really,” quips the frontman. With success comes expectations and fans of the song will be intrigued to know that a lot of the songs on the album don’t have reggae. “Instead [they’re] driven by guitar or [elements of] soul or rock,” says Nasri.
That said, the band knows how to stick to its strengths. In their vocalist’s own words: “I wouldn’t expect us to stay in one place, but if we’re doing it, we’ll make reggae forever.” Despite the obvious parallelisms between their work and ska rockers Sublime, Nasri shares, “No matter who you’re compared to, you’re always going to be yourself. Sublime has a lot of great fans and if we could get all those great fans to love us too then we’re happy to be compared to them.” Some bands employ a playful gimmick like personas or costumes to attract attention. For MAGIC! it’s all about what listeners want to hear. Nasri
explains, “We just put on shirts and jeans and play shows.” With international tours following the anticipation of their debut album due to be released this June, the band knows that keeping it simple allows their music to enchant fans. “This is our life. It’s everything. We’re putting our heart and soul into everything right now.”
ournameismagic.com @ournameismagic
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MAESTRO
LADY IN FLUX
LOW LEAF tunes her harp to the frequencies of the heavens and composes songs that orchestrate the cosmos.
“Once my heart became my compass, I began to learn how to appreciate and live life in a way that validated my purpose.”
By Ken Rafiñan
L
ow Leaf, as Angelica-Marie Lopez identifies herself, is someone who isn’t necessarily defined by labels but by something more abstract. Some call it an aura, others an energy. Whatever it is, it’s a good feeling. However, her long braided locks, flowy clothing, and indigenous accessories and tattoos tempt the naive into stereotyping. “It’s easy to categorize me as ‘New Age’ or a ‘hippie’ because we perceive the world and others a certain way, rather than seeing our interconnectedness,” she continues, “People pre-judge based off appearance. The image and symbol of something doesn’t necessarily hold the substance of the actual thing itself.” Impelling towards a broader mindset for appearances with the examples of her strong sense of character she says, “I express myself through certain pieces I choose to wear, but it’s not fashion. I assign meaning to what I choose to wear on my body. Everything that manifests itself in my appearance is an extension of my spirit.”
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Low Leaf shuns conventional classification and offers a harmonious solution instead, “They label me as ‘spiritual,’ when in fact we’re the same.” Low Leaf wasn’t always this grounded. For anyone wondering how to get on her level, she offers sound advice: “In early 2009, I began to see myself in the other. I’d been asleep for 22 years. Once my heart became my compass, I began to learn how to appreciate and live life in a way that validated my purpose to be of service. It gave me guidance. Once you wake up, you keep waking up.” Her heart is in tune with the universe because the music Low Leaf makes isn’t an easy fit into the “world music” genre. “Translucent through the Sun I am / Emerging through my purple organs / Transitory states of in-between moments / I arrive at zero point zero,” raps Low Leaf on “yUdUyU”. There’s more emphasis on spacey instrumentation but the words she speaks seem curated from another dimension. The ethereal feel of her production comes
from her harp, an instrument her mother asked her to play one day. Lately, the LA-based musician is adding to her sonic exoticism by collecting sources for native instruments during her brief return to her homeland, the Philippines. The gathering is for her next album, AKASHAALAY, a bilingual portmanteau. Low Leaf gushes, “Akasha in Sanskrit means ‘ether’ Pag-aalay in Tagalog means ‘offering’ It’s a vibratory offering to The Philippines. After centuries of colonization, bloodshed, repression, not to mention the recent natural disasters, it’s a message to the collective Filipino psyche. There are themes of empowerment, love, and peace throughout. It’s my favorite project thus far.” There are so-called indie artists and brave ones like Low Leaf who work sans label and also pro bono. Her taste for professionalism strays away from artificial interests. “I’m just
creating music, and will release it when the time is ready. The value in pursuing music solo has been rewarding because my foundation and growth of a support base has been organic,” she continues, “My form of promotion has been the listeners themselves spreading the music because they wanted to. I like having creative control. I won’t ever compromise the vision and message. We’ll see where the music takes me.” And the music seems to always take her to an otherworldly state as she insists on taking the time to just zone out. She says, “Rituals are most sacred and necessary,” as she indulges in prayer, meditation, and yoga before recording and listening and just being after. All towards her ultimate purpose: “To heal and reawaken the world as a cosmic family.”
creatordiy.com @_LowLeaF
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THE ART OF WARPATH BOOBOO STEWART comes back with an extensive list of acting gigs, longer hair, and a new hot role in another hit movie franchise, X-Men: Days of the Future Past that makes us swoon over the changes his past brought and what the future has in store for this charmer. by Kitkat Ramos
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work out every day, so I [feel] pretty good,” Booboo says in our LOVE issue way back in 2011. Well, we see the results, alright. And oh, we do love it. Besides the mercy of pubescence in his favor, the actor, model, and martial artist quickly dabbled in music with his sister, Fivel, in the same year after achieving star status in film. In a span of three years, he’s worked on more than ten roles in films and TV series, including a music video with Ceelo Green. He reveals, “All the roles were enjoyable and brought something new out. White Frog was very nerve-racking because I wanted to make sure I got the portrayal correct and my role in the feature The Well was the most physically demanding–having to drop down to 111 pounds.” In 2012, Booboo’s first starring role came with White Frog, a drama about a teenager dealing with the death of his brother and misguided parents. The role pushed him to delve into his craft more; a complete departure from his earlier work.
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“I am still excited and grateful for being asked to play [Warpath] and be included in an amazing film like [X-Men].”
In the post-apocalyptic thriller, The Well, he plays the character Dean who helps the lead heroine in a drought-stricken valley. Given this kind of setting, this burly boy had to drop his weight to look like he survived the apocalypse. On the whole, these two roles stood out the most to the budding actor, as he explores his acting potential and aims to break away from his early Disney-dancing days. But it’s the 20-year-old’s breakthrough role as La Push wolf cub Seth Clearwater that people, mainly female, have imprinted on–as the wolves say. It remains to be his most memorable character on film–until now. This year, Stewart will be in X-Men: Days of the Future, one of the most anticipated movies of the year. With Booboo cast as James Proudstar, aka Warpath, he had to get physically prepared for the role, adding back a total of 30 pounds of muscle. Of course, portraying an Apache Native American who has mutant superhuman strength and speed would be easy for Booboo–what with his charming veneer and nascent masculinity. Several young actors have made the mistake of portraying teenagers and the pretense becomes the
doom of their career. However, there are a few who have crossed over, like Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp. “With my role as Warpath, I think I will be seen more as a young adult and begin the transition organically,” Booboo explains, promising more in his growth in the highly-critical industry. But really, he is no stranger to this dog-eat-dog world, having gone through a big-budget movie series backed by huge anticipation from fans of the original work. Yet Booboo still maintains a humble approach to his roles, “I [am] still excited and grateful for being asked to play [Warpath] and be included in an amazing film like [X-Men].” Isn’t that just admirable coming from a strapping young lad with a promising acting career? And he loves what he does for sure, “I think it’s fantastic to be able to play young [roles] and will do it as long as I can.”
boobooandfivel.com @RealBoobooFivel
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RING MASTERS Forged out of ambition and the biker culture, 13 LUCKY MONKEY’s jewelry is far from fine but well within our rebel desires. Inspired by the grind of motorcycles and the grit of rock and roll, Noli Coronado and Dante Dizon are artists unbound to everything except their own rules. by Olivia Estrada
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t started out when Noli Coronado and Dante Dizon were in search for the perfect skull rings, but nothing seemed right. They wanted their love for rock and roll, beautiful women, and motorcycles to be plated into the elusive piece. Doomed to only dream but never to own, the partners decided to make the coveted rings themselves. They journeyed to the highlands of Baguio to be silversmiths. It‘s also the reason why they still use the silver from that area. “We learned our craft there, it’s time to give back” says Dante. A couple of collections later, 13 Lucky Monkey is now the authority in handcrafted, biker jewelry. They have expanded their projects with tie clips, bracelets, key fobs and knife beads while still carrying the same aesthetic as their skull rings. But to call these masterpieces as just jewelry would be ignoring the fine engraving. Coronado and Dizon’s vision are present in the design and beyond the physical properties. Every piece comes with a history as most are named after women who are significant in their lives.“Sculpture is an extension of how we communicate what is inside our heads. It translates to whatever material we use, so whatever we gain, learn, and experience translates into the jewelry and sculptures,” summarizes Noli. Hence, the rings resemble medieval armoury, warrior symbols, and indigenous
deities. Or as they put it, “wearable sculpture.” As much as 13 Lucky Monkey is a business, the partners are keen on keeping it as a platform for their art. “We just keep rolling along because as we get to spread our art more, the proceeds allow us to explore other forms we have been wanting to do and funding has allowed us to keep moving.” Dizon says. Though they accept customized orders, the partners don’t plan on ditching their beliefs. They admit to being hesitant in adjusting completely to their client’s requirements. “If it’s something we don’t feel comfortable with, we usually agree to turn it down.” Moreover, they know that key to their process is connecting to their audience. “It’s usually about communicating properly and always agreeing on pieces before releasing them and taking on jobs.” Every collection made by 13 Lucky Monkey are always limited editions to ensure that Dante and Noli are perpetually conditioned to generate something new. Though their inspirations may be varied, they will always return to their love for motorcycles. When asked what is it about these machines that speaks to them, they answer unanimously: “Freedom.”
13luckymonkey.com
MASTERMIND
SHUTTER STUNNER ZOE RAIN’s photographs are a backstage pass to a world of fever pitch emotion. Whether it’s minutes before the show or right where all the action is, nothing can escape her eye. By Olivia Estrada
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resh out of high school, Zoe Rain pursued photography following Macklemore and Ryan Lewis for their US and Europe tour in 2013 up until the Grammy awards. Among many other projects with labels such as Nike and publications like Billboard and Rolling Stone, she has also managed to snap photos of Lorde and catch Miley Cyrus on tour. We checked in with Zoe if she’s recovered from what she’s been through in the past few years. From the Emerald City to the City of Angels and back, Zoe tells us about life behind her lens. How did you get from the streets of Seattle to the Grammys? I was in shock the entire trip. Originally, I wasn’t going to document their journey. I let go of the idea. I emailed Rolling Stone briefly after tour, basically putting myself out there and letting them know I would do anything to be able to contribute to them. The editor was really helpful and came up with the idea of Macklemore’s “Road to The Grammys”. I love the candid shots in your personal portfolio especially your photo of Miley among her crew backstage or that shot of Lorde texting in front of the mirror. Is it luck, skill or both? I like to think it is a little of both? It’s more of boldness. Both of those situations were very spur-of-the-moment shots. With Miley, I was probably the only female photographer shooting as she was walking by. I think she felt a little more comfortable when I gave her eye contact while twenty male photographers were taking her photo. With Lorde, that was some luck for sure. I was only there to chat with them and not
take photos. As I was leaving, I saw that moment in the mirror, and literally took one shot as I was walking out. It felt like I was invading her privacy, so I only took one and moved on. I knew if I didn’t take it, I would always regret it. I also admire your composition. Is it natural or is it planned? I think it’s extremely subconscious at this point. I just go with my gut, and generally, my sense of composition leads me in the right direction. I like to play around with composition; sometimes it looks horrible and sometimes it works out better than I expected. Lorde
You’ve accomplished so much at such a young age. What’s one challenge you had to defeat? Self doubt was a huge obstacle and still is. I am my worst critic. There are times when I consider just finding a day job because the pressure and competition can be overwhelming. I was lucky enough to be in a city of incredibly talented youth, who are pursuing the same thing I am right out of high school. But it is always intimidating just starting out and comparing your work to people older than you are. I just have to remember how far I have come, and how much time I have to grow and learn. What are your plans after getting your college degree? I can do whatever I want if I work hard enough for it, and network with the right people, so it’s all about where and how I want to invest my time. At this point I love shooting women, so possibly working for a magazine and doing some sort of editorial or fashion work would be killer.
Miley Cyrus
Even though you’ve traveled a lot, what other places do you want to visit? I would love to go back to Africa, or some other third world countries, and document for nonprofits. Working in that setting would be so rad, because ultimately, I think my photojournalistic skills are the most refined at this point, and I would be able to provide for
a good cause or raise awareness over social issues.
zoerainphotography.com @zoerain
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Shadow Stories EDRIC CHEN’s photography is not just about portraits of beautiful women or scenic views. He captures your secrets with his lens and exposes them on film. By Olivia Estrada
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dric Chen is not a fan of keeping things in the dark. “Every woman is different. I just have to look for their secrets,” says Chen about his portraits. A quick survey of his website would indeed tell us that women can’t hide much from Edric. His models are neither afraid to show their vulnerability nor their visceral strength. “I am fixated with interacting with people.” explains Chen and why he neither can pinpoint a model he wants to work with nor a favorite one so far. It would be easy to assume that Edric goes the extra mile for his shots, aggressively dictating what should be. But Edric tells us that he does not need to do anything other than observe. “My mind is like a head-up display in a video game. I see every element I have to work with and I make the most out of it.” This is the same approach with which Edric produces his scenic shots, “I believe every photograph exists in its own space. It’s my job to look for the most interesting way to portray anything. I am fascinated by improvisational jazz and how people who play it just let the music flow through
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them. Most of the time, life is a certain way and I just roll with it.” Edric waits for when the moment is ripe for the shot. When asked how far he would go to get that perfect photo, his philosophy is simple: “If I can, I will. If I can’t, I won’t. However, anything is possible at the right time.” Indeed, Edric’s got his timing right both in capturing a muse in motion or the buzz of a location. If other photographers take us to another world with their works, Edric wants us to be fascinated by what is right in front of us. It’s then no surprise that he laments how a place loses its identity and he can’t really name a favorite place to shoot. Still, Edric knows that the life he so diligently preserves can only last for so long. “Every time I have specific plans, things always change. I suppose what’s next for me is change.”
edrichen.net @edrichen
MASTERMIND
scripted film. Whether it’s a doc, commercial, film, or music video, I value innovation over emulation.
The Archivist Bike Week
Award-winning director SEAN DUNNE peels the surface of strange away from America’s collection of misfits and outcasts to reveal profound anecdotes of honest humanity.
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By Ken Rafiñan
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aul Mawhinney is a blind record store owner with the world’s largest collection, Jimmy Tarangelo lives in his van to avoid Manhattan rent, and Rocky Salemmo hustles his bowling skills. Documentarian Sean Dunne and his team weave stories that leave audiences questioning larger truths about the human condition, despite the unglamorous characters they choose to portray. He’s won controversial praise for Oxyana, an intimate look into a small West Virginia town at the quiet center of an Oxycontin epidemic. His next film, Cam Girlz, humanizes the lovely ladies of the cybersex world. Dunne’s bona fide cinematography of the mundane also tells stories for corporate giants like Shell and Google. We press play and watch his cutting self-awareness that shuns fame and criticism. What are your thoughts on winning Best New Documentary Filmmaker at the 2013 Tribeca Film Festival? I’ve always had [difficulty] with awards for art. It seems unnecessary and perpetuated for the wrong reasons. It was flattering to be named Best New Director but I can’t let criticism affect my work and let praise go to my head. I’d prefer to stay out there [documenting] than patting myself on the back. That $25,000 for winning paid for the first half of Cam Girlz filming, so there’s that. Will you be filming documentaries or have you entertained thoughts of other genres? I’m a lifelong documentarian, but I love exploring. I’m currently working with a screenwriter named Billy Chew on “Phrogs.” [It’s] about Florida teens slipping through the cracks. [I’m having] fun so far and I’m excited to [use] my documentary tricks in a
In American Juggalo and Oxyana, some people on-screen were in altered states. When you edit, how do you maintain the credibility of the story without compromising aesthetics? We don’t make compromises in camera so it makes it easy to maintain the aesthetic throughout. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with talented cinematographers. Hillary [Spera] understands how people move and where to focus. She can read a situation and make it beautiful. There’s rarely a moment where we [delete] because we don’t like its look and that’s a testament to the people operating the camera. Your Nike and Microsoft commercials also continue your style of filmmaking; why do you approach them in the same manner? I get hired for commercials because I bring something real and relatable out of people. I treat the campaigns with the same respect that I treat my films. I go into them to carry out the agencies’ vision in a way that honours the people we’re filming. It’s the only way I know how to do it. There’s a risk of exerting effort towards something that won’t be accepted well by the audience. How do you reconcile between putting a subject into film and what the reaction to it might be? I make films for myself. Hopefully, the audience will continue to follow my work. If they don’t, I doubt I’ll do anything differently. There are things you can control but becoming overly concerned with how a film will be received isn’t worth thinking about. I’d rather have it be a tremendous failure than pander to a certain crowd. I honor our subjects, trust our instincts, and respect the audience’s intelligence.
veryapeproductions.com @seandunnedirector
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B r it i s h ar t i st NI C K G E NTRY h a s a thin g fo r the past, “ Obso le te mate rials have bu il t- i n hi story a nd t h ey are som eh ow m ore a uthe n tic than anythin g that I c an pain t.� Re n de ring n e w a rt from ol d fi le for m ats, he prove s to u s that his c raft is n o flo p. B y Pola B e ronilla Photograp he d b y M artin Pla s e k
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Metropolis
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past helps me to make sense of the present.
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ure, floppy disks can only store data up to 1.44 MB but there are clever folks out there who can work around that memory: Insert Nick Gentry. Using discarded media such as VHS tapes and film negatives as canvas, the London-based painter creates futuristic human portraits with perfect proportions and symmetry that exude a beautiful stoic expression. Drawing inspiration from the labels and letters written on the materials he acquires, Nick doesn’t only breathe new life into these mediums but also forms connections to the personal information contained in the
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objects that are forever locked down underneath his paint. With early beginnings of art at the young age of three, it was inevitable for Nick to ignore the obvious. He was enamored by the sociological impact of today’s reigning Internet culture when he grew up in a technological age where floppy disks, VHS tapes, and cassettes ruled. Struggling to make a name for himself, he broke into the urban scene when he decided to take his art to the streets of London. He recalls, “I took to leaving my works in the streets for passers-by to pick up. After a while, galleries noticed my work and started to exhibit through them.” Now, his works have been shown in Paris, Switzerland, Miami Beach, and various private collections around the world. Though his main drive is looking back, his artworks go
beyond what you usually see during #ThrowbackThursdays. While society continues to make technologic advancements, Nick Gentry stands as a beacon who muses over the past and paints over fragments of time. Hey Nick! How are you? What have you been up to? I’ve been in the studio working on some new pieces for my upcoming show in New York. I’ve been putting a lot of time into developing my concepts, so it will be interesting to see how the new ideas come together in a gallery setting. How were you first inspired to start using discarded media as art? I started to see the beauty in the mundane and the outdated. Maybe it’s part of getting older and aging, but I like to look back and reflect more now. The
Where do you source your floppy disks, VHS tapes, and film negatives? Is it difficult to acquire these forgotten materials? Initially, I had to go out and search for them and it was a real challenge to find what I needed. Now, when people see my art exhibited (or online), they make the connection and send me their materials. So I don’t have to search anymore and naturally seems to have created a creative cycle: contribute, create and exhibit. Can you tell us about the initial process of your paintings? The way I work is different to other artists as the process starts with other people. They send me their old materials and I assemble and make sense of them by building them into the fabric of my canvas. There are often handwritten notes in these boxes, sent
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“We ’re getting ever c loser with our techno logy, but t he h uman aspect requires rea l wor l d interaction and painting is a pure ex pression o f th at. ”
from all corners of the earth. These people that I have never even met feel that they want to connect and to get involved. That is one of the most inspiring parts of what I do. Do you ever knowingly invoke a theme or message in your artworks? Do they have a collective narrative? I believe concepts should develop iteratively. There are breakthroughs and moments of importance, but overall it’s about developing ideas slowly, day by day. The messages and themes are open to interpretation. I have my own views, but I don’t put a limit on things by prescribing what my art is about. What’s the most interesting part in your working method? The social aspect of my art is something that makes me different. I’m trying to combine the stories of many into one coherent form. We are all connected in many different ways that we don’t even see. I’ve noticed in your floppy disk paintings that you have the tendency of concealing the eyes of your subjects, was this done on purpose? The eyes have always been the most important thing in portraiture. Even when we look at each other, we often sense the most from the eyes. So I wanted to do something different with that part of the portrait, in this instance concealing or subverting the eyes. To me,
Yesterday’s News
it’s the most important aspect for an artist to do something different. You’ve mentioned before that you tend not to take on any private commission requests. How far do you compromise your esthetics for a commission? Usually I resist them as I want to create exactly my own vision in my art. When I do take on a commission, I tend to regard them differently to my other works as it has to be truly biographical. I need the subject to contribute their history to me so I can work with it. With the rate of how technology is going, do you think that the process of actual art would ever die and be taken over by digital art? I think we will always have art in the physical sense. As humans we have always had painting and we always will. In a sense, the act of painting itself is completely obsolete, but we’re still human at heart. We’re getting ever closer with our technology, but the human aspect requires real world interaction and painting is a pure expression of that.
Fantasy
Are there any untested media that you’re dying to try? I focus on the things that are around me. I’m using film negatives and x-rays now, which I find to be the most fascinating images I have ever seen. They are these very personal and completely unique moments captured in time, almost like ghosts.
nickgentry.com @NickGentryArt
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The cerebral quintet of THE NATIONAL wear their hearts on their sleeves and dwell in darkness comfortably with the realization that the sound of life is a heady mixture of serene and sorrow. By Ken Rafiñan Interview by Kristine Dabbay Photographed by Deirdre O’Callaghan
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“The record industry fell apart in a lot of ways and that’s when we snuck in and came through the side door, where nobody was paying attention.”
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on’t leave my hyper heart alone on the water / Cover me in rag and bone sympathy / Cause I don’t wanna get over you / I don’t wanna get over you,” intones Matt Berninger in his deep baritone for the 108th time as Aaron and Bryce Denner (guitars and keyboard) and Scott (bass) and Bryan Devendorf (drums) descend from anthemic heights. The place is the MoMA PS1, NYC and The National is the centerpiece of Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson’s performance art, “A Lot of Sorrow,” a sixhour live loop of “Sorrow,” their ode to woe off of 2010’s High Violet. Matt gushes over Kjartansson’s pitch to the art institution: “He’s somebody that knows how humor and sadness mingle; the drama, darkness, and lightness of life. The sadness and the fun of every beautiful and awful situation often are tangled up together. He knew the song was dramatic and sad, but also sweet, warm, and uplifting. He wanted to see what would happen if that song was just put on repeat. We went through all these different emotions while we did that for six hours. We laughed and got emotionally worked up in different ways. That’s what he does and we trusted him that he knew what he was doing. We just went with
it.” While others may scoff at the lack of imagination in such an act, the vocalist touches on an oft-ignored aspect of art: its emotional influence. That it could affect the band—who you think would be immune to the song’s charms after spending hours composing it—in such a deep way only shows the sublime genius of the artist. Aaron was likewise enthralled by their unassuming magnum opus, which was ticketed at a mere $15, “It was one of our favourite days as a band; one of the greatest moments and we’ll always remember it. The fact that we agreed to do it, got through it, and it was beautiful and transcendent meant a lot to us. It’s the day that we realized the songs that we write have something more than we can understand.” He explains, “You can lose yourself in them for whatever reason. As we do every night, we close our eyes, play the songs, and we could probably do it with most of them. Not that people would want to hear it, but it’s beautiful.” Kjartansson’s choice of song would be prophetic as music historian Alex Ross, who writes for The New Yorker, would later publish an editorial discussing a set of chords throughout the modern history of music that signified sadness. True enough, “Sorrow”—whether premeditated or not—contained the same chords. “It was the perfect song to have done in that event and I think Ragnar knew that,” says Aaron. Matt continues on with the pure
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“I think it’s important to absorb and steal ideas from other things in the world.”
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serendipity of the moment, “We don’t know how he knew that. We didn’t know that he knew that. Maybe it was a good guess, it’s the song we have that we think would make the most sense, yet is not one that we would have picked.” Though The National are known for their gloomy tones, they’re a band instantly recognizable by the voice of their frontman. Yet, his start in singing is abstract. Matt confesses, “There was never a moment where I realized, ‘Oh, I can sing.’” He confirms, “I didn’t worry about not being able to sing, even from the beginning. I started in a college band; I [loved] Pavement and Guided by Voices—those guys aren’t really about how they sing. It made me realize that you can just do and sing whatever you want. Then again, there are people like Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, and Nick Cave. It’s mostly about delivery and what you’re saying than your voice. I think I’ve gotten better at it, but I never cared.” For a band that’s carried the de facto mantle of sad rock after the passing of pioneers like Joy Division, they’ve recently ventured into temporary gigs that effectively break the monotony of their melancholia. A cameo on The Mindy Project as the headliner of a fictional music festival is a quiet nod to the Midwestern brand of humor and their Ohioan origins. “A lot of it is self-defacing. We’ll never be a band that thinks we’re the greatest because we’re constantly making fun of each other,” quips Aaron. “The music and lyrics that we put together are sometimes melodramatic, earnest, sad, and dark, but I think we’re comfortable with that because we also know that there’s a funny side to it. There’s something funny about our music because it’s often so ‘heart-on-yoursleeve.’ We know how that can be embarrassing; we’re just not worried about embarrassing ourselves anymore,” adds Matt in agreement. Writing records for Catching Fire and Game of Thrones exercised their unheard-of inner literati. Matt waxes poetic, “These guys probably read more than I do, but I think it’s important to absorb and steal
ideas from other things in the world. There have been a handful of books that I think about and go back to when I’m writing. One is called “Play It As It Lays” by Joan Didion. It’s beautifully written—the weirdness and strangeness of the narrative; she pulls it off in this crazy, beautiful way. I think not specifically of what happens in that book, but the courageous style that she wrote it in. It made me want to try things.” Sometimes change is good and the frontman acknowledges that it lets them step outside of their shells for a fun and healthy experience. Their cameos on-screen have expanded from movies and TV series to recently, cartoons. While seeing your favorite solemn strummers animated as gravy people on the hilariously absurd adult toon Bob’s Burgers won’t be to all of their fans’ tastes, the quintet knows it’s important to chart their own course in an industry sadly dictated more by corporate interests rather than artistic aesthetic. “The record industry fell apart in a lot of ways and that’s when we snuck in and came through the side door, where nobody was paying attention. We were lucky to never get courted. They never wanted us. We figured out a way to do it ourselves and the industry changed around us. They started coming to us on our terms. We weren’t offered the traps that a lot of bands fall into and by the time they were, we knew not to go there,” muses Matt. One so-called trap life offered them, the band found in alcohol. The sweet liquid is the world’s problems distilled in a bottle, so it’s not so much an escape but rather a naïve return. It’s no wonder then that their songs have a drip or two of liquid inspiration. Aaron sums up the spirit of the band best: “We’ve seen the dark side of rock. A lot of people can go too far and lose their way. We all have our ways of getting through performing in front of people because it’s not natural to any of us. We’re all slightly awkward or shy. Alcohol has been a part of our band since the beginning. The first songs we wrote happened ‘cause we were hanging out drinking as friends, and it hasn’t really changed that much.”
americanmary.com @the_national
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By Pola Beronilla Interview by Nicole Nequinto Photographed by Nina Duncan Produced by Rich Rama Production Coordinator Dorian Douglas Styled by Helene Heath Makeup Jane Trieu Hair Bobbie Yanoupeth
Spoiler alert: We know exactly where Beth Greene is and we’re blowing her cover. She’s last seen taking the persona of a dollfaced, Nebraska-born actress and songwriter known as EMILY KINNEY. And when she’s not slaying walkers for another shot at life, she’s on the run to tell her Expired Love for stoner boyfriends and ex-lovers.
WALKING ON SUNSHINE
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“I think of all art as a way to comment honestly on what it means to be human.”
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mily Kinney moved to NYC to pursue her two loves: acting and music. After some heavy hustling in the city that never sleeps, she landed a role on Broadway in the musical adaptation of Spring Awakening. However, it was the awakening of the dead that lit her name up in bright lights. After releasing her debut EP, Blue Toothbrush, in 2011, she landed a peripheral character on AMC’s The Walking Dead. Though she’s had acting stints on several television series like Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: SVU, The Good Wife, and The Big C, it was the post-apocalyptic drama that made her acting career come to life. For at least a season and a half, we merely knew Beth Greene as the passionate teenage caretaker who gets a hefty airtime whenever she lends her cherubic voice to her fellow survivors in a condemned penitentiary. But ever since her Tom Waits cover (and the destruction of the prison), she has found herself a kickass survival partner in Daryl Dixon and has escaped the horrors of being a wallflower. It turns out that all she needed to do to be noticed was to hold on. Unlike most of the characters, Emily’s character wasn’t in the original graphic novels. Without any backup literature to rely on, she still managed to deliver Beth’s most traumatic onscreen experiences such as seeing two of her family members become walkers, losing two boyfriends, being separated from her sister, and watching her father get killed. “Sometimes it helps to write an inner monologue out in a journal just to help me feel prepared for scenes,” she continues, “That way I know I have a point of view in the scene, even if I’m just supporting a bigger story line.” Working in the league of actors like Andrew Lincoln, Scott Wilson, Norman Reedus, and Melissa McBride favors her blossoming career. “Basically, I’m always watching what they are doing and learning from them,” she goes on, “They are beautiful, committed, and creative people who work hard. They hold on to themselves and don’t have huge egos.” Though she’s dead-serious about her music career, Emily owes a lot to the zombieinfested series. She digs deeper saying, “[The show is] about
humanity, morals, and people who are in extreme situations. It’s about survival, death, identity, and grief. It is about living in a world different than the one we are used to. It’s about a lot more than zombies and that is why it’s so popular.” However, it’s no secret how notorious the show’s mortality rate is to its characters. With Beth’s future still a mystery to everyone, Emily knows that the worst may come any day. She shares, “Working on [The Walking Dead] has strengthened my acting skills and I’ve learned certain tools that I can take with me. But mostly, I’ve learned to really soak up any experience because nothing lasts forever.” Taking a breather from those cold-blooded walkers, Emily ditches her knife and equips herself with a guitar to promote the re-release of Expired Love. And just like her character in the TV series, she comfortably wears her heart on her sleeve when it comes to her music, “I just write what comes out, make sense, and sounds right, somehow.” Before the post-prison arc on The Walking Dead, Beth’s strongest scenes featured her singing. Did her passion for music help you delve into her character more? Yes. It’s something Beth and I share. Were you a fan of Tom Waits way before you covered “Hold On” on the show? I love Tom Waits, [especially the way] he tells his stories. He’s very simple and clear. He doesn’t try to be anybody or anything but himself. Talking about Beth’s passion for music and you being a singer, did you have any input in the songs used in the episodes? Sometimes. I had some input into the use of “Hold On,” it was that or another song. Though I was more involved with “Be Good,” I’m a huge Waxahatchee fan! Scott [Wilson] and I came up with the song together. Of late, you’ve been touring your latest EP, Expired Love. How has the reception differed from your first release, Blue Toothbrush? More people are interested in my work than, 3-4 years ago. I’ve had a bigger response to Expired Love because I have a bigger audience now. When I made Blue Toothbrush, it was me and my friend Conrad’s own little project. I didn’t do a tour, have press for it, or anything like that. I have a lot more
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heavyhitter
“Working on [The Walking Dead] has strengthened my acting skills…But mostly, I’ve learned to really soak up any experience because nothing lasts forever.” 90 - statusmagonline.com
heavy hitter
naturally, would it be possible for you to make an album, or at least a song, based on your experiences in The Walking Dead? How do you think it would it go like? Who knows? My life in Georgia, the relationships I’ve made, and all the traveling that have come with working on the show would definitely seep into my stories and my songs. people helping me now. I used to book shows around the city by myself. Now, I have great managers, publicist, a business manager, and even a booking agent. Having people helping me has definitely helped to expand my audience and help me make it possible to do more shows and more things even with the demands of being on The Walking Dead. You also played in this year’s SXSW, how did it go? It was a blast. I like to talk to the audience because I usually get nervous. Having some audience participation makes it feels more like a communal experience rather than, “Oh, I have to impress them with my songs.” It’s more about letting people into the experience. Do you have a specific approach in writing your songs? I just have thoughts that won’t go away until I finally sit
Does songwriting feel therapeutic for you in a way? Yeah, it somehow gives meaning to the mundane and the ups and downs of my life because of the feeling that I might connect with others who feel the same. Everyone wants to feel understood, so this helps. And it’s also fun to make stuff up.
In an interview with Rolling Stone you said, “Writing is being able to say something exactly how I want to say it and not worry if it hurts someone’s feelings.” Do you think this statement also applies in your work as an actress? Being an actress means being able to explore different parts of your imagination or personality that you may not let out in everyday life, similar to what writing a song is sometimes. Ultimately, I think of all art as a way to comment honestly on what it means to be human. It can be a way to tell a story. Even when I’m saying made up lines or pretending to be someone else, there is an element of being as honest as possible within the character. Honesty and point of view is at the center of all art.
Considering that writing about your experiences comes
emilykinneymusic.com @emmykinney
down and write it into a song or poem. Sometimes, a bunch of little thoughts store up while I play around with my guitar; they come out more out of the blue. What usually inspires your music? Relationships, loneliness, and the good and bad days seem to inspire my songs. My musician friends really inspire me as well, but mostly just to keep plugging away and be disciplined.
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Sometimes, our creative juices can dry up and leave us with a blank canvas. If you’re looking for some motivation, hang around these artists’ blocks. By Pola Beronilla
LIGHT & SPACE CONTEMPORARY Run by Jason Tecson, Joseph Tecson, and Geronimo Cristobal What did you guys had in mind when you started Light & Space? The vision is to become a leading contemporary art gallery that employs pioneering and innovative standards for promoting cultural awareness and bridging local and international art. The vision hasn’t changed since. How rich is our art industry? One can gauge the wealth of the art industry on the dramatic change of fortunes of artists and players in art. Relative to this, I still live in the same apartment and drive the same old broken car. So it doesn’t matter if the art scene is rich or poor.
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Do you think that there is a distinct trademark in a Filipino’s artwork? I don’t think its necessary to point out a trademark in Philippine art. There are certain characteristics, which I can say speaks of certain issues concerning the political and social situation of our country or of our identity as a people, but to say that this is exclusively Filipino is futile. There are far greater things to explore than being able to distinguish a trademark or establish a national form of art. What kind of art gallery do you want to be known for? We’d like to think we maintain
a system but our edge has always been the fact that we lessen the red tape by dealing personally with issues and problems. This doesn’t mean the lack of accountability and responsibility to our artists and audiences; it just means we do things on a more leisurely
pace. I kid you not when we say we are persevering to represent not merely a look and feel but a philosophy concerning art’s role in a broader intellectual, cultural and social milieu.
lightandspacecontemporary.com
BLOCK PARTY
BLANC Run by Jay Amante What’s the story behind the name? The obvious is that ‘blanc’ is French for white and white suggests a blank space. What we wanted the viewers to know is that ‘blanc ‘is just a space, nothing; it is with exhibitions that this void is filled. What usually catches your eye in an artwork? There are no strict rules when an art piece appeals to
me; there are absolutely no boundaries as well. You just know it. When an artwork hits you it hits you good. According to Mikey Samson, a Filipino art collector based in Singapore, there is a “point of contact” between the art piece and the viewer. This point of contact is undeniable. Canyou describe the local art scene? The art scene has been vibrant since Blanc started out. But now it’s explosive, better than ever. Collectors worldwide are starting to take notice, and it’s about time they did.
What’s the most memorable show you’ve hosted so far? If I had to choose at gunpoint, it would be the “No Past, No Present” exhibition I organized with abstract artist Lao Lianben. We exhibited 100 small
drawings and came out with a monograph of the show with the exact size of each painting in the book. It was an exercise in art, life, and love.
blanc.ph
Blanc Photos by Clarissa Martin
PABLO Run by Osie Tiangco Ocampo and Yo Garcia Why did you guys put up Pablo? How has it evolved? We started PABLO at the now defunct Cubao X in 2005. Its primary focus is to provide a venue where young, up and coming artists can present their works. And then we opened PABLO Fort in 2010, which is an exhibition space for established artists. Last 2012, PABLO Cubao became POST, an artist project space under the direction of artist Manuel Ocampo, he also curates shows for PABLO Fort. Both spaces aim to exhibit contemporary art and initiate dialogues and projects between local and foreign artists, institutions and the public audience. What type of artworks do you prefer to exhibit? Staying true to the galleries’ program, we only exhibit contemporary art. Although we select the exhibiting artists, we give them the freedom to curate their own shows. We
support their creative vision and endeavors the best we can. PABLO’s “claims to fame” are the dynamic and diverse shows that the artists have exhibited at our spaces. What can you say about the local art scene? Filipinos are inherently creative, especially in the arts and its fields and disciplines. It’s no surprise that there’s a Filipino in any art scene around the world. What would you want people to say about the gallery once they’ve stepped out in one of your shows? Given that our society is not yet ready to fully accept or recognize contemporary artists and their works as art, the mere fact that they’re curious enough to check out our shows is good enough for us. pablogalleries.com
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@ 71 Gramercy by Khai Van Kampen and Art Alera
NIGHTVISION come back kids trap haus by The Cobrasnake
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NIGHTVISION
thomas gold @ Republiq
by Jun Lopez
WILDSTYLE STYLE WILD by Palma Wright
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NIGHTVISION
SLAVE TO THE RAVE by Anne Strydom
TWO GIRLS ONE CUP by Steven Meiers
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NIGHTVISION
VERY SEXY FRIDAY @ URBN
by Ronald Ramos
BAKUNAWA XV
@ Black Market by Ina Moro
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NIGHTVISION
SEVEN DAY WEEKEND by I Hate Flash
saturday at skye by Mark Alvarez
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DIRECTORY BRANDS BRANDS 21 MEN SM Megamall, Pasig City ADIDAS adidas.com ANNA SUI annasui.com BASIC HOUSE Greenbelt 3, Makati City BOBBI BROWN bobbiebrowncosmetics.com BTFL PEOPLE btfl-people.com CALL IT SPRING Greenbelt 3, Makati City CALVIN KLEIN calvinklein.com CARGO cargocosmetics.com CLINIQUE clinque.com COTTON ON SM Aura, Taguig City CREATIVE RECREATION cr8rec.com DIESEL diesel.com DIOR dior.com DOLCE & GABBANA dolcegabbana.com DOROTHY PERKINS SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City ESSIE essie.com ESTEE LAUDER esteelauder.com FAUBOURG DU TEMPLE faubourgdutemple.com FIRMA Greenbelt 3, Makati City FOREVER 21 SM Megamall, Pasig City
FRESH fresh.com GUERLAIN guerlain.com HERBERT CUSTODIO FIRMA, Greenbelt 3 I LOVE KOI ilovekoi.com.ph JANE IREDALE janeiredale.com JEFFREY CAMPBELL jeffreycampbellshoes.com JOUER jouercosmetics.com KA’OIR kaoir.com LANCOME lancome-usa.com LIPSTICK QUEEN lipstickqueen.com MAC maccosmetics.com MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA maisonmartinmargiela.com MARC BY MARC JACOBS Greenbelt 5, Makati City MISS SELFRIDGE Greenbelt 5, Makati City MOSSEE mossee.com MIU MIU miumiu.com NASTY GAL nastygal.com NIKE nike.com NUMERO 00 numero00.it OLENA DATS olena-dats.com OXYGEN SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City PEDRO Greenbelt 5, Makati City
PENSHOPPE SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City RIVER ISLAND SM Aura, Taguig City ROSSOFORTE rossofortestudio.com SENSO senso.com.au SHISEIDO shiseido.com SMASHBOX smashbox.com STEVE MADDEN Greenbelt 5, Makati City STUART WEITZMAN stuartweitzman.com SUPERDRY superdry.com SUPERGOOP! supergoop.com TOPMAN SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City TOPSHOP SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City VANS Vans Concept Stores, SM Departmet Stores, Robinsons Department Stores, Landmark Department Stores, Urban Athletics, Toby’s Sports, Olympic Village, Shoe Salon, American Rag, Sole Academy, Greyone Social WAREHOUSE SM Mall Of Asia, Pasay City VINCENT LONGO vincentlongo.com ZARA Greenbelt 5, Makati City ZUMIEZ zumiez.com
ARTISTS Paloma Alcantar (Makeup) palomamua.com Art Alera (Photographer) arturoalera.com Ilaria Borgioli (Makeup) ilariaborgioli.com Edric Chen (Photographer) edricchen.net Fernando Colon (Photographer) fernandocolon.com The Cobrasnake (Photographer) thecobrasnake.com Aaron Feaver (Photographer) aaronfeaver.com Martina Giachi (Photographer) martinagiachi.com Brandon Niquolas Ho (Stylist) btfl-people.com Art Brandon Hunter (Stylist) btfl-people.com Mark Hunter (Photographer) thecobrasnake.com Khai Van Khampen (Photographer) theilladvised.tumblr.com Shaira Luna (Photographer) shairaluna.com Miguel Miranda (Photographer) miguelmirandaphotography.com Lucas Passmore (Photographer) lucaspassmore.com Martin Plasik (photographer) martinplasik.com Ronald Ramos (Photographer) ronaldramoslens.ph Irvin Rivera (Photographer) graphicsmetropolis.com Elisa Sedoni (Stylist) elisasedoni.com JP Singson (Photographer) jponfashionspeed.con Whitney Willison (Hair) whitneywillison.com
S TAT U S IN VA D E S GREY ANT CAT EYE SUNGLASSES
An impulse buy! But I never regretted it. They are mad and I love them.
DRY SHAMPOO POWDER
Perfect for transitional days where you work all day then party or attend an event at night.
LOMO CAMERA
Given to me as a Christmas present from the boy I love.
ALAIA BOOTIES
Snow leopard calf hair hiking boots. Incredible piece of art by a man I idolize that I can wear on my foot. How cool is that?
ANGELA ALARCON
Making frequent stops at the fashion capital cities of the world, self-proclaimed perpetual dreamer and stylist Angela Alarcon brings worldwide class and effortless glamour.
JOSIE MARAN ARGAN OIL
@angealarcon
People think oil based products will make their face oilier but this totally neutralizes the oiliness on my T-zone and hydrates my skin at the same time.
STYLIST: NEW FASHION VISIONARIES BY KATIE BARON
Learning about the relevant fashion vanguards today is incredibly important for me.
BRALETTE
I don’t remember the last time I wore a regular bra.
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CHANEL CELTIC BOY BAG
It’s my ‘the’ bag; the one I take with me everywhere because it just goes with everything I own. It’s the easiest fashion decision I make every time I use it.
LA MER CREAM
Ridiculously expensive but does wonders to my skin so I’m a confessed slave for this sea kelp nonsense.
Portrait by Edric Chen
LOAFERS
Style is all about comfort. I’m most comfortable dressed as a boy and these loafers have been such good friends.
THE NEW NIKE FREE 4.0 FLYKNIT EXCEPTIONAL NATURAL fLEXIbILITy EUNICE SUM 2013 WORLD CHAMPION, 800M