STATUS MESSAGE
FAR EAST MOVEMENT, photo by Paul Sun/The Social Trust
GOING PLACES T
here has never been any other time when stars are rocketing to success. Yes, we’ve always featured successful Heavy Hitters and up-and-coming music Maestros and creative masterminds, but we have found new Asian stars that not only caught our attention but the whole world’s as well. Far East Movement has had hit after hit that leave us humming as we walk about the club. Their single “Like a G6” went to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and on iTunes, and now, their song “Rocketeer” is on repeat on my iPod. However, it’s not only their songs that have taken over our hearts but also their style. My good friend DJ Virman, the final member of this dynamic group, is also a style savant. So I’m wondering if he played a role in their distinct and unforgettable ensembles. We also nabbed sexy actress Jamie Chung for a feature. She first came onto our TV screens on MTV’s reality show The Real World, and back then, you could already see that this girl had star quality. She just recently played Amber in the comic movie Sucker Punch, and now, Jamie will be playing Stu’s (Ed Helms) fiancé in The Hangover Part II. I don’t know if this girl was born under a luck star, but she certainly shines like one. In this issue, we were able to round up four of the coolest movers and shakers in Seoul as well as newly hailed Ford Supermodel winner Danica Magpantay. We also interviewed globetrotting jewelry designer Waris Ahluwalia who is always spotted hanging out with celebrities; many of them wear his beautiful pieces. I don’t know why, but I feel a sense of achievement with the success of the talented people we are featuring in this issue. Maybe it’s because we are on the same path. But one thing I know for sure…now is our time.
Editor in Chief
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sky high april 2011
STATUSPHERE 15 18 19 20 21 22
BRANDS SETTING SUBCULTURE BEATS SCREEN INK
gadgets 23
TECH PACK
63 SURFER BLOOD BEAUTY 24 27
FACE PAINT ABOUT FACE
FASHION 28 29 30 36 46 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61
BRICK & MORTAR STYLE ID GO SEE WALK THE LINE REBEL YELL SWAG Graphic Pants Straw Bags/Printed Scarves Maxi Dresses/Bead Bracelets Thong Sandals Sneakers Striped Tees Canvas Sneakers Board Shorts
maestro 63 64 64 65 66 67 67
MUSE 62
17 VANISHING ELEPHANT 8 - statusmagonline.com
DANICA MAGPANTAY
65 ASOBI SEKSU
SURFER BLOOD THE TREES & THE WILD BAGETSAFONIK ASOBI SEKSU FUJIYA & MIYAGI 10 TRIPPLE NIPPLES
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sky high april 2011
MASTERMIND MARIANO CHING ARSETO ADIPUTRA TAJ REID BROOKE NEVIN JASMINE TUAN
HEAVY HITTER 72 78 82
82 WARIS AHLUWALIA
FAR EAST MOVEMENT JAMIE CHUNG WARIS AHLUWALIA
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK 84 85 85 85
Photo by Prarthna Singh
68 69 70 70 71
HONG SUKWOO DAVID SHELDRICK KO TAE YONG EDDIE SON
NIGHTVISION
STATUS INVADES
87 88 88 89 89 90 90
94 100
91 91
COCOROSIE + AFTERPARTY A-TRAK ONE WAY OR ANOTHER SHAKE! MEIDAY 3RD ANNIVERSARY SKY NELLOR RETNA’S HALLELUJAH WORLD TOUR: NYC AFTERPARTY CHECK YO PONYTAIL 2: YELAWOLF, DAS RACIST BODYROCK
BIGBOY CHENG “THE BEACH” IN REAL LIFE
statusMAGONLINE.COM Blogsphere Be on the pulse of fashion, music, and urban lifestyles that tickle our fancy through our community of bloggers worldwide. Go See Look to the streets for your fashion inspiration. From Manila to New York, we spot the most stylish kids trotting the globe. FEATURES Bringing you outtakes and more of our original interviews. Because we can’t get enough of all the awesome out there. Night Vision Your personal pass to pool parties, barbecues, festivals, and other events. Now let’s party! Photo Diary A photo is worth a thousand words, so we decided to find out what these talented photographers have to say. Digital Magazine Get STATUS at a click of your finger. You can browse the full digital format magazine at the comfort of your computer. DOWNLOADS Stay on top of the game with STATUS-approved mixtapes and wallpapers. All free!
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6710
I
f you’ve been mouthing the lyrics of Far East Movement’s “Like a G6” in the club but still clueless what it means, well, it refers to a G650—the aircraft maker Gulfstream’s largest and fastest business jet. It’s a proper comparison to this electrohop group’s high speed route in making it big. Paul Sun of The Social Trust directs his flash on the shadeshielded crew, jetting from city to city as they continue to rocket up the charts.
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CONTRIBUTORS
CHUCK REYES
PATRICK DIOKNO
MING HAN CHUNG
WINCY ONG
Having shot The Misshapes, Little Boots, and Nigo for JUICE (Singapore) covers, Chuck has every reason to jump out of his bed when waking up. Somehow, he manages to keep it mellow by listening to Frank Sinatra in the morning. See his portrait of fellow SG-slicker Jasmine Tuan (71). If he’ll make a book about any city, he’d always choose Manila, “beautiful/friendly/ exciting/significant/ ugly/dangerous/boring/ messed-up” as it is.
We suspect that our graphic designer Patrick is manorexic. Good thing he wasn’t busy counting calories when he shot the band Bagetsafonik (64) at The Collective. Inspired by the Hokusai wave, this surfer wants to visit Japan during autumn and bike there until he gets lost. But it’s unlikely; he knows how to map across city streets—like he once did barefoot and dressed as Frodo Baggins for STATUS’ Christmas party.
Based on our EIC’s snapshots from the recent New York Fashion Week, we love how Ming’s eyes smize. And it’s exactly this same pair spotting our favorite runway trends that you can see in Swag (53). From scarves to board shorts, he’s got it all covered. So forget that you weren’t able to watch some shows in front row; this guy’s shots grant you all access.
Inspired by the movies The Exorcist, Stand by Me, Ghost World, and Tremors, plus Douglas Coupland’s Generation X for his latest film, San Lazaro—Wincy is a number of things (musician, director, writer, and actor)—his instincts are revealed in Screen (21) as he shares how tired he is of formulaic horror movies. He says, “San Lazaro is a film that takes exorcism with a grain of salt.” Here’s a cool cat that scaredy cats should watch out for.
EDITOR IN CHIEF: Rosario Herrera ART DIRECTOR: Nicole Bianca Po CREATIVE MEDIA DIRECTOR: Patrick L. Jamora ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Nante Santamaria FEATURES EDITOR: Kristine Dabbay MARKETING DIRECTOR: Jon Herrera SALES DIRECTOR: Tina Herrera Skipping rope and dumbbells— we get health benefits aka get our ass off our chairs.
JUNIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Jerdan Buenaventura, Christine Rojas GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Patrick Diokno, Soleil Ignacio, Darwin Manibog EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: Viva Gonzalez, Reena Mesias, Loris Peña INTERNS: Carina Alejandrino, Shar Buendia, Gabriel Enzo Escutin, Troy Evangelista, Wendy Lagrimas, Alyssa Libao, Zoe Laurente, Aljan Lorenzo, Petra Magno, Kevin Mauricio, Sarah Policios CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Sarah Meier-Albano, Raymond Ang, Isabel Bayani, Karen Bolilia, Christine Braganza, Liza Constantino, Giano D. Dionisio, Vicky Herrera, Petra Magno, Wincy Ong, Carina Santos CONTRIBUTING BLOGGERS: Kristine Dabbay, Zoe Laurente, Alyssa Libao, Petra Magno, Reena Mesias, Loris Peña CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: adoborat, Carlos Castel, The Cobrasnake, Kat Cometa, Cedric Diradourian, Daniel Glazer, Karl Hab, Rosario Herrera, Kai Huang, Austin Irving, Katrina Isabel, Patrick L. Jamora, Brandon King, KirillWasHere, Reena Mesias, Ming Han Chung, Jackie Millonado, Miguel Miranda, Kinsey Packard, BJ Pascual, Darroch Putnam, Neil Rasmus, Chuck Reyes, Caesar Sebastian, Prarthna Singh, JP Singson, Paul Sun/The Social Trust, Paolo Zalameda, The XOXO Kids
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What’s your STATUS? Email us. EDITORIAL editorial@statusmagonline.com ADVERTISING advertise@statusmagonline.com MARKETING marketing@statusmagonline.com INTERNSHIP intern@statusmagonline.com GENERAL INQUIRIES info@statusmagonline.com Read our digital version statusmagonline.com/ digital-magazine Like us facebook.com/statusmagazine Follow us twitter.com/statusmagazine STATUS is published by Whiz Kids Publishing. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
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BRANDS / setting / SUBCULTURE / BEATS /
SCREEN / INK
APRIL 2011
color me good
T
ake a step back from all the blacks and greys, and take HIXSEPT’s newest collection to heart. From color block shirts and hat to scribbled lines on longsleeves, paired with orange tailored shorts, who could you possibly bore? Prove to be a good investment like a good piece of art. hixsept.com
project swag
P
HOSPHORESCENCE got its sight on big things. Behind their savvy tints is an elite design team including Erin Wasson, Sonic Youth’s Kim Gordon, Maria Cornejo, Opening Ceremony, United Bamboo, No Age, and Rockers NYC. So namedrop as much as you can. No one would complain if it involves Phosphorescence’s swoonworthy lineup. phosprojects.com
action reaction
B
e the champ with NIKE’s summer 2011 collection featuring bright hues from the classic shoes Cortez. Get extra points for sporting comfort and, at the same time, grabbing attention. Pick purple, aquamarine, and pink, and you’ll surely strike a good win. nike.com
feather weight
G
et blown away with SHAPESHIFTR’s WigWam collection. Let the wind breeze through its sheer fabrics. Slip into their white button down reinvented with off-shoulder sleeve details and paired with distressed cut-offs for that laid-back look. You can be all soft if you want, but no one can deny your style strength in leaps and bounds. shapershiftrnyc.com
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statusphere
ANYWHERE BUT HERE
C
IEGE CAGALAWAN can teach you how to get from point A to point B without the jetlag. Transform printed fabrics to beautifully draped dresses, metallic jackets to a skirt, and most importantly, the learn the art of wearing print over print via his newest Spring/Summer collection called Nomad. Wherever you want to go, no woman should be empty-handed, of a versatile outfit. fabulouslyciege.multiply.com
MADE IN BRAZIL H
AVAIANAS’ Graffiti collection goes back to their Brazilian roots and takes street art to your flip-flops. São Paulo artists Finók, Chivitz, and Minhau created these beauties not just for you to marvel at but to wear around at the beach or otherwise. The next time you need to get creative, just look between your toes, and get inspired. havaianas.com
TIME BENDER
H
andmade shoes from FEMININE AND MASCULINE mix classic and fashion forward designs. Classic oxfords in red, white, and black are strapped on sky high platforms, so you can get above everyone without tryng so hard. The collection is named Stardusters ‘cause, with shoes like these, how can they not see your star shine? feminineandmasculine.com
NO SWEAT
I
f you think knits are only for the cold weather, think again. Singapore-based menswear line SUNDAYS collaborates with Beluga for its new collection featuring light, breathable sweaters that are perfect for those out-of-town beach trips. Wear them alone, or keep your cool by layering them over tank tops. Breaking a sweat would be no worry. sundays.sg
SWEET & STRIPES
P
ENSHOPPE’s newest shoe collection will make you want to be sugar, spice, and everything nice with its stripes, floral, and leopard patterns. May it be Monday, Friday, or Sunday, their comfortable flats can go perfectly with an office meeting, brunch, or movie date. There’s no need to make excuses for buying two pairs at once. penshoppe.com
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statusphere
MILK MAID G
iddy up with MILK FROM A THISTLE’s newest collection as prints abound on its knee-length skirts, loose tops, and blazers. As its brown and Far Away Silk Dress - Stripe ( Brown / Navy / Marine Blue ) blue-striped dress, the looks are very casual but still very fresh. So set the barn alarm because this farm girl is bound to make some noise. milkfromathistle.com
SUPER DUPER I
t’s fast, slim, and extra good looking. No, this is not a superhero, it’s the ADIDAS Mega Soft running shoe. With its soft cell cushioning and colors like yellow and purple, you’ll find yourself running as if you’re Flash. Kick it off, tie those shoelaces, and don’t forget to save the day. adidas.com
ABRACADABRA
N
“
ONE WITH NATURE
ow you see it. now you don’t” best explains VANISHING ELEPHANT’s Them Old Cotton Fields collection. Casual pieces likes V-neck sweaters and, khaki pants are there for your usual thrill of everyday wear, but when you feel like hocus pocus-ing your style to another level, printed shorts and polka dot pants can do the trick. Need not wave a magic wand for that style cheat vanishingelephant.com
R
anging from owl and deer earrings to leaf necklaces, VERAMEAT’s accessories are made from recycled silver and pure gold. Owner Vera Balyura drew inspiration from woodcarving—its sculptural sharpness visible in the details, just like how she playfully manipulated one pendant showing a T.rex eating a chicken. For all animal-slash-jewelry lovers, these blings help to dress the part. verameat.com
CAST IN STONES W
hat makes a great piece of jewelry is its uniqueness. ABRAXAS REX designer Paris Kain knows that. He shapes his pieces from platinum silver alloy, semi-precious stones, and artifacts from all over the world into shark-tooth necklaces and crystal rings. Its going beyond all sorts of minimalist and being attention-grabbing is our weakness. abraxasrex.com
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/SETTING
/ BEATS
CORKAGE
LOCAL ZEST N
ow, Filipinos can enjoy Hawaii’s pioneer specialty cafe HONOLULU COFFEE CO. right at Jupiter St. in Makati City. Stop by for a quick snack, and try their lattes in cups that showcase artwork by the baristas. Try their Nutty Hawaiian Latte, served hot or cold, depending on your mood, or their Coconut Crème Frost. Sip as if you’re on an island vacation.
Photos by Karl Hab
honolulucafe.com
GRUB
SUITE
YOU HOT THING
HOUSE PARTY T
hird time’s the charm for THE HOUSE HOTELS, the luxury hotel group that’s been cozying up Istanbul. Their four-storey Galatasaray hotel is a redesigned mansion, while the one in Nişantaşı is next to Prada and Chanel boutiques. Completing the triumvirate this spring is House Hotel Ortaköy, nestled on the Bosphorus waterfront.
T
Design company Autoban has been responsible for its interiors that maximize the home-style comfort of oldschool luxe. While taking its cue from the sleek Nişantaşı and the historic Galatasaray, Ortaköy was crafted to be in a class all of its own. Prepped for the classy housewarming yet?
thehousehotel.com
astemaker Nigo spices up the streets of Harajuku with CURRY UP. Named by Pharrell and designed by architect Masamichi Katayama, who created the BAPE stores, Curry Up has tasty Japanese variations on curry rice including the bestseller Butter Chicken Curry, Veggie-heads can go for the Saag Spinach Curry or Eggplant Brinjal. To wash down the burn, Curry Up also offers India’s bestselling beer, Kingfisher, alongside the more traditional Lassi.
DEUX EX MACHINA You will never eat mechanically with ROBOT’s sumptuous treats.
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Grilled Chilean Sea Bass - served with uni spinach ravioli and wasabi cream sauce
Wasabi & Yuzu Creamed Oysters - baked oysters with wasabi yuzu cream sauce
Smoked Tuna Belly Roll served with gobu wrapped in nori coated in tempura batter
Robot Coffee Capsule - filled with Kahlua crème sabayon served with espresso biscotti crumbs and sweet crumbs jelly
Photos by Paolo Zalameda
PL ATE
/ S U B C U LT U R E
TRIANGLE TRINKETS
C
ome together at WE ARE TRIANGLE in Cubao X. While musicians serenade the crowd, the pop-up shop has artists hawking their wares from bicycles to band merch. Championing the handmade, pre-loved, and well-designed, We Are Triangle is all about people sharing what they love. It’s this home-cooked camaraderie that keeps this shop popping up, and
the brevity makes these bazaars all the more special. The last one spanned the weekend of February 3 to 5, culminating with Meiday’s third anniversary, so if you want to party hard while clutching your newly-purchased art, stay on your toes, and keep those wallets chubby.
facebook.com/wearetriangle
MANIC ORGANIC D
on’t you just love it when your greens are fresh, local, and organic? In your average garden salad, you would only get two of three, but EMPORIUM ANTIPOLO promises all of that and they deliver, literally. They make homemade sauces and salad dressings, and they’re not afraid
to get their hands dirty as they plant and harvest their own food. Steadily updating their Facebook page with luscious pictures of bales of kale, seedless cucumbers, and more herbs you can shake a shovel at, it’s high time you get your greens.
LOCAL DRUNK
T
HE AMATS PROJECT covers all the dark corners of a night out by dispensing tongue-in-cheek fashion advice and recommending restaurants for your drunken hunger pangs. These aren’t your average frat boys either; their snarky capacity for social commentary is delivered with a smart mouth that can guzzle anything from Jameson Irish Whiskey to Vietnamese scorpioneating-cobra wine.
theamatsproject.com
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/ b e at S
/ BEATS MUSIC REVIEWS
ON THE SPOT
HIGHWAY REVISITED E
lmer Ona (vocals, guitars), Ben Riego (vocals, guitars), Vhall Bugtong (bass), and Shinji Tanaka (drums) named their band after South Superhighway, which winds its way out of the city and towards the sea. This is only appropriate because the members of SLEX come from all over Asia. Not only that, they’ve been living life in the fast lane ever since they launched their album Previously Unreleased. With their witty ditties and radio-friendly rock, SLEX is on the track to chart-topping recognition. If that wasn’t snappy enough, Elmer and Ben are fully responsible for their animated music video, “Sa Silid,” (In the Room) having learned a few
tricks from their day jobs at an independent video production house. Shinji is another multitasker, playing drums for Gaijin while managing his recording studio. With all these other obligations, what keeps SLEX on track? Optimism, and the undeniable fulfillment of a job well done. Despite describing the crowd’s reaction to ”Sa Silid” as “overwhelming” and “dramatic,” SLEX is quick to confirm that there is no pressure at all: “As artists, appreciation should come from us first... that’s what we like about being in an indie band.” PETRA MAGNO
LISTEN UP Fess up your sins in these music fests all over the world.
JOUJOUX D’ANTAN joujouxdantan.org
Son House – “Empire State Express” It breaks the day.
Joy Division – “Shadowplay” One of the best songs to listen to while you walk through London. Jon Spencer Blues Explosion – “Eyeballin” Just enjoyed their comeback here in London— amazing. Jimi Hendrix – “Bold as Love” It makes me think about people.
Tom Waits – “Shake It” Marc Ribot’s guitars are the guitars.
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Micaela Benedicto of OUTERHOPE
Cassie Ramone of VIVIAN GIRLS
outerhope.com
myspace.com/viviangirlsnyc
Koushik – “Nothing’s the Same” I’m not really a Koushik fan, but this track is beautiful. I feel like I’m in a moving car watching people and houses through trees. “Everything’s gonna be alright/ As I look around/ Feels like I’ve been here before/ Nothing’s the same…Everything’s changed.”
Widowspeak – “Burnout” It’s a new Brooklyn band. They have a very spooky, minimalist, classic sound. It’s not dissimilar from Mazzy Star, but [it’s] totally their own thing. I think this beautiful song is about sleeping all day, which I can really relate to right now.
Belle and Sebastian – “Write About Love” Not their best song, but I got so excited for this new album, and I’m a sucker for alternating boy-girl vocals. Also it has a fun line that sounds all too familiar: “I hate my job/ I’m working way too much/ Everyday I’m stuck in an office.”
Dutch Treat – “Tomber” They sound sort of like Fleetwood Mac. I don’t think there’s a good recording of this song yet, but it brings me to tears every time I see them play it live.
Memoryhouse - “To the Lighthouse” One of my favorite new bands. I liked this song instantly. “In sleep, I dream of houses in the sky/ And watch them go by”
Twin Sister – “All Around and Away We Go” This song has been on a lot of yearend lists recently, and I finally listened to it and understood why. It’s just a really good jam.
Band of Horses is playing at the SAVANNAH MUSIC FESTIVAL in Georgia, followed by afropop star Salif Keita and legendary sax funkster Maceo Parker. So what if you can’t make it to Coachella? LOLLAPALOOZA CHILE is bringing in Kanye West and The Flaming Lips alongside indie favorites like The National and Devendra Banhart. Brave the cold alpine heights of Mayrhofen in Austria for SNOWBOMBING, and party with dubstep trio Magnetic Man and psychedelic rock pioneers Aeroplane. Hit up the NEW ORLEANS JAZZ FESTIVAL for Lupe Fiasco, Wyclef Jean, and Arcade Fire. Those hankering for something sweeter should haul off to HONEYFEST in Wiltshire, England to catch The Magic Numbers alongside the ever darling Laura Marling.
/SCREEN
MOVIE REVIEWS
DIRECTOR’S CUT
san lazaro (2011) Director WINCY ONG, the man behind the music project Patience Dear Juggernaut, talks about his latest film in which he co-stars with Ramon Bautista.
M
a rollicking romp through the province, delicious goosebumps, and a David Lynchian character I created called The Black Ilustrado
y first full-length is named after San Lazaro, a fictional town in Northern Luzon, known for its local faith healers and exorcists. Two men journey north of Manila to bring a possessed man to a singing exorcist. Ramon Bautista is top-billing the film, which is structured like a website, it’s a style I’d like to call hyperlink cinema. I just want to make a horror movie that I would want to watch over and over again. The genre has gotten septic like a toenail. I just hate the fact that filmmaking can’t be as pure and personal as writing a novel. I even recommend budding filmmakers to be polymaths. Act in
CINEMANTICS
PL AYBACK
stealing beauty (1996)
B
succeeds in delivering a story of personal evolution
your own films! Don’t be ashamed to love yourself. It takes balls to tell the world that you love yourself, especially in the Philippines where modesty is a Catholic straitjacket that chokes all manner of artists. San Lazaro is an indie, but it’s not an uptight, Barong Tagalog-wearing one. Indies have become too self-important that whenever I watch one, it feels like I have to genuflect before I sink my ass down the theater seat. So expect a rollicking romp through the province, delicious goosebumps, and a David Lynchian character I created called The Black Ilustrado.
your highness (april 2011)
ack in the nineties, postTitanic Leonardo DiCaprio, with his boyish good looks, played Richard in the The Beach. If you’re wondering whether there’s a female throwback and travelogue counterpart for this, you should watch Bernardo Bertolucci’s Stealing Beauty. Just like Danny Boyle’s The Beach, Stealing Beauty is not Bertolucci’s magnum opus. But it succeeds in delivering a story of personal evolution, onscreen and offscreen, as Liv Tyler and Rachel Weisz were only in the turning points of their careers. Liv plays Lucy Harmon who visits an Italian villa after her mother’s suicide. Here, she looks for her father and ends up meeting her mother’s friends. Eventually, she confronts not only them but also her emerging self as an adult. Officially selected for the 1996 Cannes Film Festival, Stealing Beauty is a tour de force to the countryside and that side of oneself that’s itching to ripen in time. KRISTINE DABBAY
Y
a comedy for geeks, aND IT has big names donning armor for a knightly venture
our Highness shares its director and some cast members with Pineapple Express. But while Pineapple Express is a comedy for stoners, Your Highness is a comedy for geeks, and it has big names donning armor for a knightly venture. Hostage princess Belladona is portrayed by Zooey Deschanel who puts her doe eyes to good use, while James Franco plays Fabious, the prince who’s out to save her. Danny Mcbride plays Franco’s bumbling brother, Thadeous, by rehashing that slightly annoying yet hilarious chubby guy shtick that Judd Apatow invented for Seth Rogen back in 2007. Hijinks of the medieval sort ensue, including creature slaying and some wizard grass. If you were too busy leveling up your Paladin to see Hotel Chevalier, this is your chance to see Natalie Portman’s butt. This movie shows that you can’t box in popular actors in box office roles. Yes, they make you drool, but they can make you laugh too. PETRA MAGNO
TICKET
BLANK CITY Starring Jim Jarmusch, Bette Gordon, and Amos Poe among other talents, it shows how Manhattan cradled an artistic revolution in the 70s that gave birth to a new wave of independent filmmaking.
ATLAS SHRUGGED: PART 1
CAVES OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS
THE ARBOR
Ayn Rand’s classic novel gets a film adaptation from director and lead actor Paul Johansson who plays railroad executive Dagny Taggart.
Legendary Werner Herzog takes us inside Southern France’s Chauvet Cave. Captured in 3-D, this documentary allows you to witness humankind’s earliest forms of expression.
BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Clio Barnard shares how Northern England housing project The Arbor left a lasting impact on playwright Andrea Dunbar before her death in 1990.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS Christoph Waltz, Reese Witherspoon, and Robert Pattinson star in this historical novel adaptation about the traveling circus called The Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth.
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/ink
BOOK REVIEWS
ONE-SITTINGS
THE AFTERPARTY By Leo Benedictus
E
verybody’s living in his own nook in this world. There’s Michael, nerdy workhorse at the bottom of the journalistic pyramid, and the glitterati including Hugo Marks, movie star-turned-recluse making a re-entrance into the world, his junkie supermodel wife, Mellody, and Calvin, the parasitic pop star. It’s almost chemical the way they react at The Afterparty—a change of scene for Michael, who agrees to attend on behalf of his boss. What he overlooked was that if you put together heat, fame, and lunacy in a London club, only fiasco could ensue.
The novel’s coup de grâce doesn’t just lie in Leo Benedictus’ take on celebrity culture but his reinvention of “crisis” and novel-within-anovel form. Wrap that around dry British wit, and Benedictus (Guardian writer and firsttime novelist once fired from an ad agency) has got it made. Beware; you may not be able to avoid getting sucked into this shindig. LIZA CONSTANTINO You may not be able to avoid getting sucked into this shindig
rea d ing group
THE PALE KING
By David Foster Wallace
H
ere comes the posthumous novel THE PALE KING, which is going to test your patience and blow your mind. Starring a group of IRS employees doing their job, it is about boredom, and it’s also a metamemoir featuring David Foster Wallace himself. Sadly, Wallace committed suicide before he could finish the novel, but he left behind a framework that his editor Michael Pietsch assembled into a book. The New Yorker took an immediate interest, publishing a short excerpt alongside a long homage. The Pale King
is a discourse on the beauty of life’s dreary particulars even as Wallace records them all with obsessive technique, gunning not for clarity but for enlightenment. His short story collection, Brief Interviews with Hideous Men, may have rambled with footnotes, and the postmodern tragicomedic Infinite Jest might have stayed true to its name and went on forever—but The Pale King proves that Wallace was surveying life through the magnifying glass of genius. PETRA MAGNO
it’s also a meta-memoir featuring David Foster Wallace himself
PICTURE BOOK
ARTHUR RACKHAM:
A LIFE WITH ILLUSTRATION By James Hamilton
B
efore Tim Burton took us to Wonderland in 3D, Arthur Rackham already drew the lines to get us there. In James Hamilton’s new book, Arthur Rackham: A Life with Illustration, he outlines Rackham’s life as a reporter and illustrator in the 1800’s. This 200-page volume showcases Rackham’s finest work in color and black and white, together with excerpts of his social correspondences and commentaries. This book illuminates his real character, having remained as a private figure throughout the years. His detailed illustrations of ethereal creatures, monstrous villains, among other otherworldly entities, define the simplicity
and complexity of some literary giants’ imaginings. We all know the Grimm brothers, Lewis Caroll, and J.M. Barrie. But bear in mind that their work fist came to life through Arthur Rackham’s drawings. Hamilton’s book succeeds in introducing us to the man who completed their vision, which in turn, continuously captures our collective childhood consciousness. ISABEL BAYANI
GRIMM, CAROLL, AND BARRIE’S work first came to life through THESE drawings
FOOTNOTES With MollaSpace’ all-black playing cards that recall The Pale King’s cover art, you’ll never get dealt with a boring hand.
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While you’re reading about celebrities, you might as well look like one by sporting some A-morir eyewear.
Carry your Rackham obsession close to your heart with these handmade pendants from Fairytales by Bluebird.
tech pack motorola xoom tablet • Powered by Google’s Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) OS • Built with dual-core processor, front and rear-facing cameras • Can be upgraded from 3G to 4G LTE • Features 10.1-inch widescreen HD display SRP: P35,400
ETON RAPTOR
KODAK PLAYSPORT VIDEO CAMERA/Zx5 • Shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof up to 10 feet • Captures 1080p HD video and 5-MP stills • Has image stabilizer • Features built-in effects—black and white, sepia, high saturation, 70s film SRP: P6,600
• AM/FM/WB radiodigital-alarm-clockcompass-flashlightbarometer-bottleopener-and-more-inone • Comes with a USB port for charging other gadgets • Waterproof, of course • Recharges via solar panel or AC adapter
ROAD WARRIORS Gadgets that will help you survive the outdoors… or even just your boredom.
SRP: TBA
SAMSUNG 4G LTE MOBILE HOTSPOT • Portable Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five devices • Can last up to 216 minutes • Connects to LTE and Verizon 3G networks SRP: TBA
Hamilton Time Player Watch • Recycled design from a clock they made for 2001: A Space Odyssey • Has eight movable tiles on its face • Features colour-coded printed dials that match four locations • Encased in 48 x 42 mm titanium SRP: P120,000
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face paint Bobbi Brown Peony & Python Collection, P3,000
MAC Blot Film, P750 MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner SPF 15 (Fuschia), P642.51
Jane Iredale POMMISST™ Hydration Spray, P775
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner, P449
Stila Sheer Color Tinted Moisturizer (Warm), P955
WANDERLUST A beautiful world is out there. Match it with these travel must-haves.
Smashbox O-bronze Intuitive Cheek Bronzer, P1,152
Shiseido Sun Protection Compact Foundation SPF 34 PA+++, P2,898
Bloom Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+, P440 Shu Uemura Morphorium Sunset Gold Palette, P4,000
Lush Helping Hands, P375 Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen, P1,850
Smashbox Baked Fusion Soft Lights Starburst, P1,650
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Juice Beauty SPF 8 Lip Moisturizer, P875
Tweezerman Grooming Kit, P2,295
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brick and mortar RAC BOUTIQUE, TORONTO 124 Cumberland Street, Toronto M5S 1M8 647 352 4433 racboutique.com Dime to drop: $200-1,000 (P9,000–44,000) Don’t leave without: Vivienne Westwood, Anglomania
I
f you find yourself in the busy shopping destination of Toronto’s Yorkville, make sure to step inside RAC BOUTIQUE. Inside, you’ll find yourself calm and collected with the all-white atmosphere. If it smells a little too nice, it must be the scent of new designer clothes or the French perfume line Etat Libre D’Orange. Store owners Glenda Weddle and Faith Orfus are proud of their curated designer selections including Sass & Bide, Jenni Kayne, Mara Hoffman, Ksubi, and Lover just to name a few. Accessories are found in little crystal tables while others hang on a deer’s antler. Specialty gifts, books, and magazines are scattered around the store; they make any girl stay longer than she should. Top that off with their offered available private shopping appointments, and a fashion stylist service, so you’ll surely feel and dress like a VIP.
THE RECKLESS SHOP, SINGAPORE Orchard Central, #02-08/09 Singapore 65-8200-0409 recklessericka.com Dime to drop: $39-400 (P1,700–18,000) Don’t leave without: Reckless Ericka jackets
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HE RECKLESS SHOP’s spanking new boutique is decked out to show off; it boasts high ceilings, big windows, and glass-lined walls. Whitewashed exhaust pipes contrast with the green carpeting onto which mannequins dig their bare toes. This store is no stranger to all sorts of design. Along their main line, Reckless Ericka and the casual alternative Odds, The Reckless Shop releases collaborations with players from fields like interior design and fine arts. This team spirit produces seasonal collections that have real flair. Spring/Summer 2011 takes its inspiration from an ultra-gourmet class of sea salt. With ultrafeminine draping for the ladies and no-frills, semi-tailored suit pieces for the men, the aptly named Fleur de Sel collection guns all-out for au naturel. It’s time to strip down from the straight line, and it’s best done recklessly.
I DON’T LIKE MONDAYS
W
e all hate a week starting bad, but nothing saves the day than clicking your way to the perfect outfit. Enter I DON’T LIKE MONDAYS with brands like Savant, Take Off Your Clothes, Stolen Girlfriends Club, Jeffrey Campbell, and many more that can keep off the blues.
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With it’s IDLM gallery which showcases specialty products from different artist and with its muy elegante newsletter to keep you updated, let’s just say this online store can treat your soul better than a good cup of coffee can.
idontlikemondays.us
This Barcelona guy wears an oversized animal print buttondown shirt from Versace.
style id
ANIMAL Rock and rawr! Release the animal in you with these eye-catching exotic patterns. By JP Singson
Willabelle Ong, fashion blogger, sports a comfy cardi from Cotton On.
Judy I., fashion consultant, rocks fierce cheetah print blazer from Zara with a snakeskin clutch by Margiela.
Tommy Ton of Jak and Jil, wears an 端ber sweet leopard print desert boots from Acne. Dennis Robles, entrepreneur, wears funky studded animal print Giacomorelli loafers.
This fashionista in Barcelona dons felineinspired Zara trousers.
Boop Yap, fashion stylist and designer, rocks a fierce cheetah print blazer from Zara.
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go see It’s getting hot in here! Instead of taking your clothes off, put them on just like these coolsome peeps do.Take a look,and remember to take down notes. Photographed by Ange De Leon, David Guison, Rosario Herrera, Lyka Orhel, & Nante Santamaria
Ripped Jeans
Patent Leather Boots
Ankle Wedges
One Shoulder Top Leopard Pants
Leather Jacket
Navajo Sweater
Fingerless Gloves
Maxi Skirt Oversized Sweater
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New York
Los Angeles
Las Vegas
Singapore
Tokyo
Manila
New York Los Angeles
Fur Vest
Striped Pants Ribboned Wedges
A-line Dress
Knee-high Socks Pink Tote
Flannel Jacket
Three Button Coat
Beige Motorcycle Vest
Suede Booties
ngeles Las Vegas Singapore
Denim Shirt
Tokyo New York
Los Angeles
Las Vegas
Singapore
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Eye Tee by Princess Kathleene Gabunales
Toothbrush Tee by Mario Jacinto D. Genoveza
No Parking Tee by Christopher Juergen Canela
Street Lights Tee by Clarence Paul Canlas
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KISS, KISS, BANG ,BANG
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TOP eyewear by A-morir necklace by Alberto Juan lion necklace by Judith Leiber leather tee by Versus Versace denim vest by Levi’s samurai brooch by Valentino, silver bracelets by Glen Yank leopard dress by Samantha Black
LEFT fur stole by Bill Bolland Couture shoes by Topshop stockings by Patricia Field watch and ring by Versace
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TOP earrings by Bill Bolland necklace by Paris Gotti gloves by Lacrasia t-shirt by Tom Tom bangle by Patricia Field
RIGHT earrings by Versace eyewear by A-morir dress & bracelet by Nostalgia gloves by Gianfranco Ferrè
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TOP blazer by Topshop brooches by Karl Lagerfeld and Alexis Kirk bracelets and ring by Patricia Field earrings by Charles Jourdan
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SWAG A
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CALIFORNA DREAMING Spring break is in, so let the beach bums walk the earth. Soak up some sun in one-piece swimsuits, board shorts, maxi dresses, and striped shirts. This might be your best summer yet. Product photography by Miguel Miranda Cover photo by Patrick Diokno
Topshop [2,395]
Debenhams [P3,150]
Topshop [3,595]
Swim [P8,125]
Red Herring [1,950]
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G R A P H I C PA N T S
PRINTED MATTER Light, loose, breezy, and printed
Red Herring [P2,150]
Photo by Ming Han Chung
Warehouse [P3,145]
Topshop [P3,045]
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Forever 21 [P915]
S traw B A G S / printed scar v es
HAY SACK The perfect carryall for your summer essentials.
Schu [P1,280]
Nine West [P3,950]
Schu [P930]
Aranaz [P1,400]
Aranaz [P2,200]
Aranaz [P1,400]
WRAP IT UP
Style on ‘em with printed scarves.
Red Herring [P1150]
Promod [P995]
Promod [P1,495]
Accesorize [P1,500]
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MAXI DRESSES/ BEAD BRACELETS
Tint [P3,398]
SUN
Tint [P3,698]
GODDESS
Photo by Ming Han Chung
Leave an ethereal trail with these floor-length items.
Sinequanone [P8,950]
SON CHARLOTTE RONS/ S 2011
CPS [P3,095]
BEAD Aldo [P1,755]
Forever 21 [P305]
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Accessorize [P530 each]
Oimichikoi [P249.75 each]
Oimichikoi [P549.75 each]
Forever 21 [P495]
-A-
HOLIC
Metals tarnish, but these don’t.
T H O N G sandals
THONG SONG
Accessorize [P2,650]
Here’s a tune that’ll keep you on your toes.
Schu [P2,299]
Photo by Ming Han Chung
Topshop [P3,095]
VNC [P1,870]
Nine West [P4,950]
M VIVIENNE TA S/S 2011
Schu [P2,299]
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SNEAKERS
SOLE FLAME
Keep your feet from getting burned on the hot pavement.
Nike Sweet Classic [P3,675]
Gravis Skate Viking [P5,490]
Vans Zapato Slip-on [P5,798]
Android Homme Mach I [P9,552.4]
DC Trust [P3,790]
Puma [P3,190]
Photo by Ming Han Chung
EA GENERAL ID S/S 2011
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Generic Surplus The Warf [P3,126.21]
Creative Recreation Cesario XVI Mid Plaid [P3,038]
Vans Zero Lo [P4,298]
Adidas Adirise [P3,437.60]
STRIPED TEES
Folded and Hung [P599]
Penshoppe [P399]
Folded and Hung [P599]
ANCHORS
AWAY
Walk nautical miles and still stay fresh.
Folded and Hung [P599]
Penshoppe [P459]
J.Rocha [P1,750]
Springfield [P795]
Topman [P1,095]
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C A N VA S S N E A K E R S
COTTON SOLE No worries about sand getting between your toes.
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Gravis [P3,590]
Topman [P1,595]
Topman [P1,595]
Red Herring [P1,550]
Red Herring [P1,750]
Vans [P3,298]
BOARD SHORTS
SUMMER BOYS Wear them with shirts or with nothing.
Volcom [P2,395]
Folded and Hung [P699]
Photo by Ming Han Chung
Vilebrequin [P8,950]
Volcom [P2,895] Billabong [P3,195]
general idea S/S 2011
Vilebrequin [P8,950]
Folded and Hung [P779] Topman [P1,595]
WET AND WILD Arm candies that don’t melt in the waters. Tommy Hilfiger [P4,950]
Wize & Ope [P2,750]
Alessi [P5,350]
Nixon [P5,350]
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M U S E
Google DANICA MAGPANTAY, and you’ll see the words “winner,” “star,” and “dreams” accompany the name. The last time we caught up with this first Filipina beauty who bagged the Ford Supermodel of the World 2010 title was during Philippine Fashion Week last year. Now, busy with castings, we’re sure we’ll see this fine art student again in another Fashion Week although, this time, in New York. Finally, the model industry (and the whole world) has another definition for beauty—feminine features and hard angles blending into one exotic, striking look. Photographed by BJ Pascual
“I felt blank when my name was announced but, at the same time, happy. I couldn’t fully absorb it at that moment, but I was happy that I won. The search was a great experience; I mean, it wasn’t like we were all at each other’s throats. We were all just having fun and enjoying the moment!”
“I really can’t pinpoint what it is that impresses [the judges] because it’s really hard to decipher how they think, but I believe it’s that kind of soft and rare exotic look they see in us that makes us unique. And besides that, we were chosen because we are able to express ourselves well and also because we are fast learners!”
“Modeling is something that I saw myself trying but not really getting into too much, but when Joey, [my agent], talked to us, he said that when you get into something, make sure you’d be the best that you can at it.”
“In my castings, I’ve met models who are 23 and even 25, and there’s no stopping them! As long as you take care of yourself, you love what you’re doing, and you want to keep doing what you’re doing, your career can last longer! My plans are simple really—I want to enjoy modeling first. After that, I’ll send myself to school [in the States], get my diploma, and start my own business.”
“I love art. When you love art, it’s much easier for you to see beauty in everything! New York is a really beautiful place. There is always something to be excited about everyday!”
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M A E S T R O
Coming from the sunny shores of Florida, SURFER BLOOD is no longer coasting. The quintet knows exactly where to go and has become “more anal when it comes to anything studio-related.” They look readier than it sounds to release a sophomore album with the release of their EP, I’m Not Ready. By Kristine Dabbay
T
he critically praised Astro Coast was the album that launched a thousand ships for Surfer Blood. With hits like “Swim” and “Floating Vibes,” we’ve come to witness their guitar-driven power pop reminiscent of The Pixies and Pavement. Despite the record’s cheery tone, it was actually written in a point when JP Pitts (vocals), Tyler Schwarz (drums), Tom Fekete (guitar/vocals), and Brian Black (bass) felt that they were stuck in one place because of doing conventional things. Finally moving on, Tom shares how he floats and rocks the band’s boat to be able to go the direction they want to take. Hey, Tom! Tell us about your new EP. It’s a nice step forward. It was written somewhat sporadically
while on tour, so at times, we are sort of concerned that it does not flow as nicely as Astro Coast did. We sincerely feel it’s our best work yet. Take Fugazi for example; like them, we don’t want to bore anyone. How much have you changed since your debut? We are still nice guys who just want to be treated like anyone else. We consider our fans our friends... We take our live sound much more seriously than we used to. We rehearse to a metronome—something we probably would have laughed at back in the day. How was it like to leave school so you can leap into making music? I used to skip school in my high school days to go play out-of-
town shows. I just didn’t care about anything the second a musical opportunity came about. Now that things are steady, I decided to finish up my degree. Believe it or not, it’s nice to take a break from all of the tour madness and focus on a textbook every now and then. How are you able to balance “conventional things” like school to music? JP and I spoke recently about how difficult it is for people like us to face “reality.” We always worked jobs as long as we had to, and then we would quit. I have never put in my two weeks; I always disappeared when I raised enough money for my next project. I never really gave a shit about what anybody said when I did these things; I just knew it was what I had to do. I’m not going to lie to you,
I’m happy we are a successful band, and I am able to live a more steady life, but if none of this happened, I would still be doing the same exact thing. You mentioned before that “there’s no reason why you should be competitive and jealous of other people’s success.” How do you define your success as a young band? Being in a band is like working a job. This just happens to be a job that we absolutely love... we never once questioned why we are doing it. There is simply no other choice. As far as jealousy, I can guarantee you it will get you nowhere. We are all going for the same goal, and if you burn bridges, I promise you it will come around in full circle and bite you in the ass. Competitive people do not last long in music.
myspace.com/surferblood
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maestro
OUT OF THE WILD THE TREES & THE WILD swiftly shifts from out of-school buzz in Indonesia into a resounding international consciousness.
Post-hardcore lyric wizards Thursday has summoned enough collective rage to put out a sixth album, No Devolución, even if it now sounds a little more ambient than angry.
By Karen Bolilia
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alk about lyrical precision—while Andra Kurniawan (bass), Iga Massardi (electric guitar), and Remedy Waloni (vocals) compose songs that allude to places (“Berlin” and “Irish Girl”), of sentimental strumming that can only be aptly chaperoned by a cool mountain breeze, of atmospheric folk music that persuade nature to be on the foreground; they are also stationed in Indonesia, an archipelagic hub of humid air, scenic coastlines and volcanic activity. Describing their music as “somber tropical,” Remedy clarifies, “Well, actually, the lyrics are optimistic. But sometimes, the music tends to be quite somber… That’s because we arranged those songs in a dark and not well ventilated space.” Their debut album, Rasuk, has been a publishing darling since
their MySpace breakthrough, and it has gone intercontinental when it comes to airplay. There’s no stopping the music motorcade as this band which first started out in school, just played alongside The National this March, while flexing some philantrophic muscles through a documentary on the preservation of the pinisi boat. Gaining momentum, The Trees & The Wild, influenced by musicians like Low, Christopher Komeda, Arvo Pärt and Suarasama, claims that their sophomore record is going to take the natural, leisurely course. Remedy says. “It takes 22 years to write your debut album and only two years to write the next one. So as for now, we’re…looking at all the possibilities.”
Minimalist garage rock couple The Kills follows up the dark vibes of their 2008 Midnight Boom with the lo-fi madness of Blood Pressures.
myspace.com/thetreesandthewild
BAGETSAFONIK’s name is all about the duality of humor and seriousness; and by using both “raw edge and perfect harmony” for their next album, the band shows that a little music schizophrenia can actually work wonders. By Kristine Dabbay Photographed by Patrick Diokno
Singer-songwriters Thao Nguyen & Mirah team up for an eponymous album of cheerful estrogen-laced, guitar-driven ditties.
M
y interview with Bagetsafonik’s Ace Cada (vocals), Doi Lagos (drums), Tom Barba (bass), Paolo Francisco (guitars), and Marcus Nada (synths) led to a number of conclusions when we tallied the consensus of their music preferences. First, they prefer Oasis over Blur, Katy Perry over Ke$ha, MGMT over Vampire Weekend, and John Lennon over Paul McCartney. But even if they have varied biases in music, that doesn’t mean that it won’t work for them. Marcus, who’s half of the design duo Electrolychee, says, “It actually doesn’t matter much what kind of art you dig or do; it’s about using each medium as a pressure to improve.” With a new album produced by art director Ronnie Dizon, they depart from their experimental debut Travelogue by “focusing more on songwriting arrangements to cause a more emotive impact,” Marcus says. Travelogue isn’t over for them though as they continually consider each experience a journey. For Paolo, it was a trip to New York to chase the woman he loves that changed his life. “Wherever you go, what matters is what you carry within you,” Ace shares. Bagetsafonik
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agree to disagree, and it’s this candor to stand up for their obsessions that enable them to make two, or five, ends meet.
myspace.com/bagetsafonikband
Art punk experimental and slightly insane, Ponytail’s third album Do Whatever You Want All The Time sounds like a cracked-out lovechild between Deerhoof and No Age.
maestro
“I didn’t know if ASOBI SEKSU (playful sex) was a real Japanese phrase,” singer and keyboardist Yuki Chikudate explains the band name even if she thinks that the “Japanese tend to be modest about sex.” Though comfortable in defying norms, the band is not as naughty as you think—anything music-related is serious business. By Reena Mesias
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all their sound shoegaze or dream pop, Asobi Seksu frontman Yuki Chikudate, guitarist James Hanna, bassist Billy Pavone, and drummer Larry Gorman won’t really mind. Yuki says, “I’ve realized that we are just trying to be us.” There are three things that define them: “female vocals, interesting textures, and compelling melodies.” But with the release of their fourth album, Fluorescence, Yuki illuminates how they’re continuously defining and defying the band’s essence. How did you realize making music was what you wanted to pursue? When I was a kid, I was drawn to the piano and just playing it...coming into singing was a very happy accident. I’ve been asked to join a band, and I was very terrified. I don’t know how to sing at all. But nobody wanted to sing, so I ended up doing it. You guys have been together for a while. How does your friendship translate into your music? Music is about communication and... shared experience. In order to give it a true or honest performance, we try our best to keep a good relationship with each other. When you’re in a band and travelling, you become a family. Being a part of a family is never easy. But it can also be truly rewarding, fun, and exciting. You sing alternately in Japanese and English. How do you choose which verses you want to sing in Japanese? It’s not always a science necessarily— it’s just a lot of trial and error.
There are certain things that can only be communicated through Japanese. I’m tied in my Japanese roots in a lot of ways, so there is a certain part of my brain that is just Japanese. That duality is who I am. You’re having an extended tour at the moment. Is this the biggest so far? No. We’ve done a lot of long tours. I remember one time we had four months of touring. We’re kind of used to it. It’s been a while so I’m really excited to be back on the road. I love playing shows, I love meeting my fans. It’s so cool to hear that they love your music, give you gifts (especially when they give you hand-painted ones). I still have them. Somebody gave me a letter on a piece of wood. You said that if [an album] weren’t so different from what you’ve done before, you wouldn’t see the point of making it. So for Fluorescence, other than the clear pink vinyl, what makes this album different? Citrus was our first real studio album. So we were just so excited about being there that we wanted to do everything. That energy was just captured in making the album. We were ready to try new textures... icy, glassy, sort of pretty textures. Sort of hollow as well. But when we were writing Fluorescence, we wanted to capture what this band sounds like...we have a pretty good idea who we are at this point. We are not going to over-think it—we’re just going to be ourselves on this.
asobiseksu.com
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maestro
Alt rap group Atmosphere’s last release rhymed about issues on the street, but their seventh and most personal album, The Family Sign, definitely hits closer to home.
As they release their fourth album Ventriloquizzing, FUJIYA & MIYAGI prove that while they don’t know karate, they do know good beats. By Raymond Ang
T
he Karate Kid series has given us the legendary Mr. Miyagi, the Oscar-winning Hilary Swank, the cheeseball classic “You’re the Best,” the late-career resuscitation of Jackie Chan, and a star-making role for Jaden Smith. But just in case the pop culture cache of The Karate Kid has not yet been met, electropop quartet Fujiya & Miyagi fills the gap, with a name that salutes everyone’s favorite karate master. “We were just pretending to be Japanese,” goes a line from Fujiya & Miyagi’s “Photocopier.” Five years after that song’s parent album, Transparent Things, caught the attention of music rags like NME and Pitchfork, the band, composed of bassist Matt Hainsby, programmer Steve Lewis, drummer Lee Adams, and vocalist David Best, found itself popular enough not to have to answer “Are you or are you not Japanese?” anymore. It’s no surprise what Matt would do first when he goes to Japan. “I know it is possible to find a Karaoke bar in most cities, and usually, I would decline the offer, but in Japan, how could you refuse?” After spending the first several years in relative obscurity, Fujiya & Miyagi found themselves unlikely indie darlings, between 2003 and 2006, when rave reviews from music authorities snowballed into a drastic spike in online popularity. By 2006, Fujiya & Miyagi found itself on an episode of the MTV2 series This Is Our Music. 2007 continued the winning streak, with both Jaguar and Millet Lite using their songs for ad campaigns. A third studio album, Lightbulbs, followed in 2008, as well as big personal developments aka marriage and family life for the members. Surprisingly, or perhaps, unsurprisingly, it has led to a sort of creative rebirth for the group.“I’ve started reading a bit about
Greek mythology, and I’m still listening to Terry Riley’s music a lot,” David says. “I’m relearning nursery rhymes and taking enjoyment from watching my son’s expressions and the funny noises he makes. He rolled his first R yesterday. It’s in the genes.” If David takes inspiration from his kid, Matt takes inspiration from a different kind of baby. “Throughout 2010, whenever I had spare time, I recorded a lot of songs and ideas. Once or twice, I have referred to these recordings as my ‘baby.’ I am really proud of them…” However inspiration struck, real baby or otherwise, the quartet released their fourth album, Ventriloquizzing, January of this year. Produced by Devendra Banhart-compatriot Thom Monahan, the new album stays within their established electropop sound. Thematically, it is more of the same, too—with consumption and materialism as its main theme. Still, Ventriloquizzing offers an update on their sensibilities. “It would be easy to carry on in the same fashion, but aside from that, being boring for anyone buying our records, it would be boring for us, too,” Matt says. “I would like us to make more records and release them quicker; that way you have less time to stand still and mull over what went wrong or right and just keep moving forward.” “Starting the recording of the album seems like a hazy dream to me now,” Matt confesses. “Our American visas were delayed, meaning that we missed our flights and had to travel a few days later than planned. This meant that we didn’t have the chance to acclimatize to Californian time, and we were straight into recording on the first day. Amazingly, the rhythm section doesn’t sound jet-lagged.”
The self-titled debut album from synth junkies Holy Ghost! has got us digging hard on how they’ve made new wave sound new again.
fujiya-miyagi.co.uk
“I would like us to make more records and release them quicker; that way you have less time to stand still and mull over what went wrong or right ...”
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Crystal Stilts ups the old-school post-punk ante with their second album In Love With Oblivion, proving that moody is best made melodic.
With 29 people in the band, I’m From Barcelona should be making music all year long. Pick up Forever Today for their latest dose of gleeful eclectic pop.
maestro
PERFECT FORMULA
Before the ungoogleable pop duo 10 formed in 2005, they were two separate forces of nature. There’s performance artist Itta from Korea and experimental noisemaker Marqido from Japan. After four albums of mindblowing electronica and drone, or what they call “emotional noise,” Itta and Marqido formed the ultimate team by tying the knot on October 10, 2010. By Petra Magno
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he two couldn’t be any more different. Marqido explains, “Marqido [is] old school... Itta [is] new wave.” Their frenetic performances feature the multicolored Itta singing like a banshee while Marqido remains static behind his keyboards that look archaic compared to Itta’s instruments. From toy melodicas to lollipop drumsticks, 10 has made music out of everything but the kitchen sink. “The balloons are my favorite toys,” Itta says, “I call them ‘Boo’ because they have different sounds, and I can [improvise] with them.” Their fifth album, Natureplex, will be their first as
a married couple, and what makes it new is actually the sound of cheap and old YAMAHA keyboards. Itta adds that while the previous albums boasted computerized drum loops, they recorded with real drums this time. “Marqido’s drum playing is much, much better than mine,” she admits. Even if they “are still rivals as solo musicians,” they’re first to praise each other’s projects like Itta’s interactive installations and Marqido’s limited edition Democritus albums. Individually brilliant and together forever? Itta sums them up in a sentence: “10 is... perfect collaboration.”
10rgb.com
MILKY WAY It’s difficult to predict what TRIPPPLE NIPPPLES would do next for their upcoming album, but we can only imagine it would be so tasty—even the lactose intolerant will suck in. By Karen Bolilia Photographed by Cedric Diradourian
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rea Nippple and Yuka Nippple, collectively called the Trippple Nippples, specialize in volatile party music rooted in infectious electropop with hints of underground new wave and some punch-drunk punk. The other thing they specialize in? Chaos. “We want to deliver a mayhem and show people that it’s fun and okay to be insane,” says Yuka, alluding to their organic
to orgasmic performances that include squirting milky alcohol showers from their prosthetic tits, props that have become a part of their signature aesthetics. Turning shows into explosive productions with the help of mastermind Joseph Lamont, Trippple Nippples assemble their concert couture in rice helmets, eggs, glitter,
feather bombs, spaghetti, and even mud. This brand of indulgence hasn’t escaped the attention of fans from South Korea, Japan, and Paris—even more so in China, where they weren’t just chased by fans but also by the police. “So lucky we are here now,” is all Qrea would say. Austerity might not be their greatest virtue, but their
unaffected attitude is exactly how they’ve shifted from Meat parties in underground Tokyo to being the subject of a VICE documentary, and playing with Die Antwoord. Yuka says, “We actually don’t care about the Tokyo club scene. We are busy making our own kingdom!”
trippplenippples.com
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“Portrait Series, Dews,” 2011
“Comets on Fire Series, No. 4,” 2009
If he had the talent for it, MARIANO CHING wants to be a musician. Or a record bar owner, like Rob Gordon in High Fidelity. Or maybe a proprietor of a bookstore. What he is good at, though, is making art. By Carina Santos Artwork courtesy of Mariano Ching
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fter studying at the UP School of Fine Arts, Ching received the Monbusho Japanese Grant and studied printmaking in Kyoto Arts University between 2002 and 2004. “In Japan, they’re more specific,” he says. “They have several departments with subdivisions. In printmaking, for example, they have lithograph, serigraph, wood block printing, and etching under it.” Ching himself, however, dabbles in other media. Most of his work is painting-based, but Mariano also plays around with sculptural pieces and different materials—from sheets of laser-cut metal to birdhouses, knitwork, and found objects. He collaborates frequently with his wife, Yasmin Sison-Ching, another local art favorite. His work is mainly graphic, but it also assumes a certain surprising quietness and sparseness that sifts through all of his influences, most especially music. “When music videos were still well-made, I got a lot of ideas from them, too,” he adds. Aside from having a series of crocheted LP sleeves cleverly called Homespun Records, he has named his shows after albums and songs, including Yo La Tengo’s We Are Not Afraid Of You And We Will Beat Your Ass and Spoon’s “The Way We Get By.” Last year, he curated a musicdedicated group exhibit called Siren’s Hall. Mariano and Yasmin listen to mainly audiobooks in the studio they share, but he admits that, left to his own devices, he likes to listen to music he has loved since his student days: Galaxie 500, Beautiful South, Joy Division, The Cure, The Ramones, The Clash, and Lou Reed. Ching’s work has made rounds all over the world; we’re talking shows in Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia as well as in France and the United States, and it’s no surprise because he approaches his work with a very distinct voice and personal style. There is a muteness and cohesion that pushes through his use of colors. His influences are apparent but not glaringly so. With him taking heavily from the boldness of Japanese pop aesthetics—the playfulness and dynamics of anime, a sensational pop of colors, a hint of music—it’s easy to get lost, but Mariano never seems to be. “I just go for it, letting them take shape as I move along,” he says. The result is always a visually satisfying display of his skill and interests, a visual assault but always coupled with an understated elegance. His recent solo exhibit, Even Bad Days Are Good, which opened last February, featured four large paintings of beings that look human but with alien faces. This style of mixing the sometimes-hideous and unusual with natural and funny elements is exactly why Mariano is a big figure in the local art scene. “There is definitely more variety today as compared with the 90’s,” he says. “It has to do with the accessibility of the Internet and the wider range of books available right now.” He thinks that it might be problematic, as similar influences and styles appear in different artists’ works, but believes that the future of Philippine art looks exciting, and he’s happy to be a part of it.
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Notice and embrace. That’s the mantra for ARSETO ADIPUTRA who shares the beauty of Asia in his fashion photography, styling, art direction, and set designs. By Christine Braganza Photos courtesy of Arseto Adiputra
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rawing inspiration from the works of photographers like Mert and Marcus, Mario Testino, and Steven Meisel, Arseto Adiputra is also significantly Indonesian in his work. He adds “a little bit of Asian soul—something warm and down-toearth” in each of his photos. Indonesia is his world, the source of his inspiration and his hometown; it fuels his aesthetic vision. It also reminds him to see the beauty in Asia and of its models. “It’s an irony actually that, in reality, we always think that Caucasian models are better than Asian ones,” he asserts. “So as an Indonesian, I try to change that perception. Asia is beautiful, and we have to be proud to be part of it.” “I grew up in an artistic family. When I was a child, my father gave me a camera. And since that moment, I knew photography and started to learn it by myself,” Arseto recounts how he started. “Later, I filled my free time by joining a men’s lifestyle magazine where I learned photography from the fashion angle—and I fell in love with it.” From then on, he stuck with fashion photography, which eventually led him to venture into styling and art directing— giving him a 360-degree view of the industry as well as the edge among other fashion photographers. Aside from that, he is also a set designer, whose studio has been featured in Elle
Decoration and Harper’s Bazaar. These outlets not only provide him with a way to express himself; they also help him keep things fresh. “Sometimes, I fill my life with something new so it’s not gonna be boring, and for sure, it’s good to make your account bigger,” laughs Arseto. “No, I’m kidding.” Switching disciplines with ease from design to photography is, in fact, part of his talent. “As an artist, you’ll be interested with other parts of art,” he says. “Like me, I’ve loved to draw from when I was a child, so sometimes, I’ll be designing something for men’s clothing or even the interiors.” While it takes a lot to be appreciated in the global industry, Arseto is trying to prove that “Asians can be good, [sometimes even] better in taking part globally,” alongside his hard work and determination, that is. After all, we can find proof of his success in his vibrant work. But despite success, having shot numerous editorials for magazines like Gogirl!, Maxim, and Prestige Indonesia, there’s still a constant struggle that pushes him to grow. “The hardest thing that I’ve been facing up to now,” Arseto admits, “is to maintain an existence in the industry, and that pushes me to create memorable and timeless pictures.”
arsetoadiputra.blogspot.com
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Ready, The best recommendations come from friends who know you. Now, if you’re searching online for the best travel recommendations, WeJetSet’s TAJ REID is your best friend. By Vicky Herrera Photographed by Brandon King Taj Reid is the founder of wejetset.com, a modern travel store and online magazine, which focuses on hidden gems that reveal a deeper and more personal views of cities around the world. I talk to Taj about travel, people-watching, and getting lost in adventure. Why did you decide to start WeJetSet? When I was young, my family and I traveled a lot… I really enjoy learning about cities and different cultures; travel is the best storyteller. So with WeJetSet, I wanted to create a brand that encouraged people to see the world and [to] get inspired by other cultures and cities. The great thing about travel is that people can either find themselves or lose themselves. Which do you prefer doing? I like losing myself in a place. I love the full experience of being present and totally absorbed with the area. It helps me mentally record everything.
"...travel is the Best Storyteller." Do you think people-watching is just as important as the scenery? Yes! I love observing the rhythm of cities and how they move, how people dress, how they interact. I watch it all. It might be one of my favorite parts about travel. When my wife and I travel, we like to take the first day to find a bench, café, or park to sit and just watch people.
You love.... creating: Videos. I’ve become obsessed with capturing every moment on my phone or camcorder. sharing: Music… I used to DJ, so that part of me is still alive. learning: Coding. Right now I’m teaching myself how to code. Eventually I’d love to develop apps for all the new mobile technology out there.
wejetset.com
BROOKE NEVIN guest-starred in shows like How I Met Your Mother and in the film My Suicide. Relatively small roles, yes—but the showbiz gods knew it was time for her to take the lead. By Reena Mesias Photographed by Kinsey Packard
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ot having enough money to attend an audition for a talent competition in New York, Brooke Nevin settled on a modeling school course instead. “I flunked—something about my three-point turn and not wanting to pluck my eyebrows,” she starts her story about how she got into acting. “I discovered an on-camera class, and I never looked back.” The shift from her modeling attempt to acting is probably the perfect metaphor to how she handles the lead roles in her new comedy TV series, Call Me Fitz (a new comedy TV series), and Breakout Kings, (a fugitive-catching story from the creators of Prison Break). “Filming multiple episodes as lead on both shows affords the type of character development and nuance that’s
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sometimes just not possible in a guest-starring role,” she explains. “I feel like I’ve gone from one extreme to another between the two [roles].” And for Brooke, the best part is actually cycling through all these genres. “I always try to find the most truthful moment in a comedic piece or a humorous moment in a dramatic script.” In her downtime, she does photo shoots with her friends— without having to fail another three-point turn as she’d rather be the one behind the camera. “My closet is full of idea boards, props, and dress-up pieces,” she shares. “When I’m not taking pictures, I’m drawing or painting them.” It’s always good for celebrities to have a back-up plan. But let’s just say that, at the moment, she’s right where she belongs.
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JASMINE TUAN, co-founder and managing director of Blackmarket, co-owner of fashion label FrüFrü & Tigerlily, and the media designer at Zouk Club explains why she hopes for a mad scientist to clone her. By Reena Mesias Photographed by Chuck Reyes
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When it comes to style, a girl’s gotta do what Jasmine Tuan’s gotta do. +Be “fashionably late.” I dress at my best whenever I’m rushing. +Always wear heels. +Invest in good leather/quality bags. +Never ever leave home without your shades. +Accessorize.
ometimes I’m wishing to have a few clones to help sort out what’s needed to be done at different points,” Jasmine Tuan says. But she never needed duplicates when she first started in the fashion retail industry. Most would-be fashion professionals are desperate for an education from prestigious fashion schools, but Jasmine made it on her own. “I’ve been a shopaholic since the day I possessed the power to spend. I’ve been dressing up since the day I embraced vanity,” Jasmine explains how her love for fashion came about. “I especially love to travel and shop. Through that, I value the importance of retail experience and learn how to spot a good design based on my personal taste.” Sometimes extending until after dinner but mostly during the morning, she’s engrossed with Blackmarket, a concept boutique that promotes local and regional designers. Thanks to her impeccable fashion sense, the store’s rising influence, and her slew of networks, Blackmarket added “no. 2” to its name for the new branch at Orchard Road. “At Blackmarket, we don’t blindly follow trend but celebrate style,” she explains the shop’s concept. “When we look at a brand, we will study its design principle, attitude, attention to details, quality control, and finishing. A good story behind a label or collection never fails to intrigue us.” At night, find her emitting glows behind Zouk’s DJ booth, but please don’t even bother passing a note with song requests. Jasmine works as a DVJ; she uses an audio-visual music equipment to flash those funky special effects and graphics to go with the club’s funky and soulful music. It was primarily the arts that led her to becoming the triple threat
she is today. “It was pure Arts and Crafts [that] led to graphic [design], photography, typography, illustration, packaging, and then majoring in multimedia where I ventured into website [design], video, animation,” she says. “When I worked at…Zouk, I was exposed to music, fashion, marketing, PR, events, media, and the creative industry.” Although people come up to her, mistaking her as a DJ several times, she would just laugh about it. It was, through DVJ-ing where Xavier De Rosnay of Justice went up to her to request not for a song but for a picture. “He told me he’s been waiting to do this the whole night,” she recalls. “My heart melted.” She also shares the experience with Geordon Nicol and Leigh Lezark of The Misshapes when they came to play for Blackmarket’s anniversary last year. “We hung out in Singapore and then went to Bali together for their next gig,” she recaps. “The best time was when we spent the whole afternoon at our villa, just drinking, swimming, and chatting, listening to Leigh’s iPod with a crappy speaker which we got for free...” An active participant in Singapore’s flourishing creative scene, she fearlessly stretches the boundaries of performance. It’s amazing how Jasmine only needs four things to get fired up: “coffee, alcohol, good music, and travels.” How proper that the last three are noticeably present in her lines of work? She’s just making a living out of the things she loves doing. Looking ahead, she shares her future plans. “Perhaps, I’ll start my own label or develop a lifestyle brand for Blackmarket. Let’s see.”
theblackmarket.sg
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California—This is where the story begins, and unlike most tales of L.A. stardom, the boys of Far East Movement (FM) didn’t venture from small towns across the country to the palm tree-lined city to chase their dreams. Nah. Kev Nish, J-Splif, Prohgress, and DJ Virman have the intimate ability to call this bustling entertainment capital their turf. We snag an interview with Kev right after the crew wrapped up a Tokyo visit, so there’s a hint of exhaustion in his voice when he comes on the phone. But as the conversation rolls out, the unmistakable undertone of all-encompassing passion and gratitude seeps through the line. The appreciation for the mentors in their scene rings present and genuine, and so the love for the city that raised them is total. “[One of] the advantages of being in L.A. is being around with so many motivated people who share the same vision…” Kev says. The professed disadvantages of being “a needle in an ocean,” meanwhile, rotate around the struggle of capturing and holding the attention of a fan base with so many options. “There are so many people pursuing the same thing. As much as there are a lot of resources out there, it also dilutes the opportunity,” he adds. Yet with the bonds created and strengthened, in a community that shared the Far East Movement vision, came love and support, most heartwarmingly in the form of “people that supplied us with a lot of our gear back in the day, for free, when we couldn’t afford any clothes” and the distinct respect for the DJs who helped get their music the ears it needed to reach. As a matter of fact, one of the group’s earliest mentors was a household name in the Los Angeles DJ circuit, a fundamental contributor to the radio legacy of hip hop station Power 106, DJ E-man. “He really guided us and gave us a lot of good advice on how to approach different people in the industry,” Kev shares. Also ranking as one of the most influential forces in Far East Movement’s journey was once voluntary advisor, now able manager, Ted Chung—known most imminently for his role as one of Snoop Dogg’s most trusted, as the rap icon’s manager and business partner (Chung is President of Doggy Style Records). Now, let’s pause for a second because I hear the beginnings of “Well, there you go; that’s why they made it” type of thoughts forming. As instrumental as these namedropped individuals were the nurturing received by the free-wired four. It would be irresponsible of me to allow you to form the notion that connections made planets align for them.
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fans across the globe turn on and tune in to Far East Movement’s frequency via music videos, blog posts, Twitter feeds, live performances, interviews, and pictures, the high velocity imagery accompanies their distinguishable sound at center stage. You see it, too, right? It’s crazy—we love it.But wait. Take the signature eyewear off. Mentally erase the skinny ties. As a matter of fact, defocus the entire picture, and envision a group of kids trekking to live hip-hop shows they got wind of by scouring the newspapers, angling themselves through crowds to get to the front where they let seep in the energy and nuances of stage performances. Now, watch as they slip hands into their backpacks and pull out flyers handed to whoever will take them. No bigwigs or tailored suits here. Just the raw drive that stems from people put on this planet to create and share music, sounds, sights, and messages. We’re discussing a product which formed from four individuals whose personal lives were tinted by the work of artists who came before them be they hip-hop possibilities from Outkast, alternative affection from Radiohead, dance influences from Tiesto, or pop viability from Michael Jackson. We’re understanding the growth of a commitment to translate the experience of a multisensory live show as part of their craft. We’re highlighting the journey of kids reaching for their dreams even if it meant, in some cases, straying from those of their parents. Kev Nish lets us in. “J-Splif’s story— his parents didn’t even know that we did music until they saw us on TV. Prohgress— his parents are our extreme supporters now. At first, they wanted him to be a lawyer. My parents were very indifferent, saying “Do the best, whatever you do.” And then you have Virman’s parents who were always very supportive; they bought him his first turntables.” In any case, the past is accounted for, and it’s all about what’s on the horizon for these airborne artists. But as they propel forward, some things about their formative years will always retain relevance. Far East Movement carries over the old school practices of “maintaining a sense of knowing your audience, interacting with them,” and “always digging for music— staying inspired by staying in touch with music as close as we can, never getting distracted, doing our research,” Kev lists their habits. He continues, “We started this music as fans, and we want to continue to stay fans.” Still, they have come a considerable distance from the crew that used to sit in parking lots with the car door open, freestyling (“horribly,” Kev relates) to whatever came on Power 106. It’s 2011, and the world of the internet has inserted itself as a crucial tool to maintaining a music career.
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the gentlemen in question, however, it’s not just a matter of digital marketing. It’s about one on one relationships as much as it is about uniting the globe in a musical experience. “We stay online and do active internet chats. We do online parties for anyone around the world who wants to go in a chatroom and listen to our streaming music…” I bring up something that has jumped to my attention: the name of their group and their singles—from the roots of “Round Round” to more recent chart-toppers “Like a G6,” “Girls on the Dance Floor,” “Rocketeer,” and “Go Ape”—all possess some sort of reference to the concept of motion. The chuckle on the other end of the phone line lets me know that not only was it unintentional, it was also something the group hadn’t noticed before. “That’s interesting that there is a lot of movement in there. I guess maybe, way back in our heads, it’s there, but no, we don’t make a conscious effort to write about anything in particular except on how we’re living. But we’re definitely on the move,” Kev confirms. “Maybe that’s where that comes from.” And as we go over their itinerary for the next few weeks (Australia on tour with Rihanna, Manila, Singapore, Tokyo, Korea, Taipei, Malaysia, Indonesia), it’s solidified—Far East Movement, as transitory as they appear to be, are ironically in a state of constant flux…because they’re quite likely here to stay.
fareastmovement.com
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Against all odds, JAMIE CHUNG has escaped reality show purgatory—not to mention Hollywood stereotypes—and emerged a genuine Hollywood player. Not too bad for someone who got her start on an MTV reality show. Snooki, there’s hope for you yet. By Raymond Ang
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just have to take the leap of faith and dive right in.”
2004, the legend of Jamie Chung began with a simple website description: Jamie Chung is “a hard-working student who works two jobs to pay for her tuition, but who,” it is quick to point out, “also enjoys partying.” Her fate was almost inadvertently sealed with that MTV.com write-up for The Real World: San Diego, the fourteenth season of MTV’s neverending reality series. With that line, visions of wet t-shirt contests and sorority girls gone wild came into focus, lumping Jamie with illustrious Real World alumni like Eric Nies and Ayiiia Elizarraras (Who? Exactly), even before the first episode aired. But something happened between 2004 and 2011. Incredulously and, perhaps, defiantly, Jamie Chung became a legitimate movie actress, with roles in big-budget Hollywood productions like The Hangover sequel and Sucker Punch under her belt. On top of origins in the reality show wasteland,
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the land of the neverwas and ever-flowing delusion, Jamie is also very clearly Asian—a second-generation Korean-American raised by parents so traditional she prays a copy of The Hangover never makes it into their hands. She recalls, “I think my mom was a bit embarrassed when she saw me in [I Now Pronounce You] Chuck & Larry.” Being Asian hasn’t exactly helped the careers of the Tia Carreres and Zhang Ziyis of Hollywood. If they’re not pigeonholed into the karate box as Hollywood’s little Chun Lis, their distinctly Oriental features turn them into fetish objects for the NASCAR set. It seems, as far as Hollywood is concerned, Asian girls are only either silent karate-chopping warriors or personal little porn stars to jizz over. Against all odds, Jamie has successfully freed herself off the double handicap of being a reality show veteran and an Asian girl in Hollywood. She has negotiated the transition from potential also-ran to movie actress. Perhaps, predictably, Jamie downplays any talk of her Hollywood triumph. “Negotiate the transition?” she asks, a bit bewildered. “There is nothing to negotiate. You just have to take the leap of faith and dive right in.” But what Jamie has achieved is nothing to scoff at. She’s broken the mold for Real World graduates and, more importantly, Asian women everywhere. While her roles have, admittedly, taken advantage of her Korean-American features and Maxim-ready body, she has been allowed to be something not many women in Hollywood are allowed to be—funny. Against all odds, Jamie has emerged as the kind of up-and-comer who replaces a star of the moment like Emma Stone (in Sucker Punch) and gets the backing of Adam Sandler. “I don’t really have anything to say about that,” she says about being on the edge of full-fledged fame. “I honestly haven’t really thought of it. I’m just looking forward to the next project… I’ve been doing a lot of traveling for work, so now, I’m just trying [to] chill and plan my next ski trip.” But don’t let her seeming nonchalance fool you. Jamie’s success was planned, a product of hard work and strategic thinking. As the MTV.com writeup said, she did work two jobs to support herself. This is a woman determined, with the intelligence and work ethic to back it up. “Growing up, I was always financially independent,” she says. “My parents taught me, at a very young age, the
importance of work and financial stability. If I wanted a new pair of Nikes, I had to work to pay for them—and I owned a lot of sneakers growing up.” It was in this childhood born out of traditional Korean-American values and a conservative world view that Jamie Chung the Actress was born. “[Acting] was my adolescent dream and favorite pastime…” she says of her acting aspirations. “I grew up watching movies like The Black Stallion, The Goonies, Gone with the Wind, Mommie Dearest, and Breakin’.” She found herself on a detour to fame when Real World came to the college bar she was working at. “I thought it would be pretty fun to audition. This was my second year at university. When I got the spot in the San Diego house, I thought it would be a fun, three-month experience—rent-free which was amazing [for] a poor college student—and the exotic vacation that cast members were promised was all very enticing.” After the season ended, she finished her degree and contemplated life plans. “My last year in college was when I really started to think about what I wanted to do with my life,” she says. Eventually, she took the aforementioned leap of faith. “[I] was scared out of my mind.” Now, Jamie finds herself in the middle of another transition—this time, from movie actress to movie star. Jamie Chung will be inescapable in the next twelve months, with three films in the pipeline and one just recently wrapped. First up is Sucker Punch, set in the 1950s at an asylum where young troubled girls are held before they’re lobotomized, the action-fantasy film stars some of Hollywood’s next top actresses—Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Jena Malone, and Vanessa Hudgens. In this Zack Snyder-directed movie, Jamie plays Amber, a role Easy A’s Emma Stone was attached to before dropping out. Then there’s a role in sure-shot blockbuster The Hangover Part II, which as its name suggests, is a sequel to the 2009 comedy that catapulted Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifianakis to fame. Jamie rounds out the twelve months with Premium Rush, going head to head with leading-man-on-the-rise Joseph Gordon-Levitt. “Funny story,” Jamie says. “After I finished filming Premium Rush in NYC, my boyfriend surprised me with a trip to Boracay. It took us 23 hours to get there, and we spent the whole next day on the beach. That night, I got a call from my manager, ‘You have to get yourself on the first flight and come back to LA.’” It was for The Hangover Part II. “I got my butt on the plane the very next day and promised my boyfriend I would make it up to him. He was very understanding. When I booked the job, I brought him with me to Thailand!” Jamie sure makes a sweet bargain. But for all her newfound Hollywood cache, Jamie remains proud
of The Real World, attributing the show for helping mold her into the person she is today. “My team and I didn’t feel like we needed to put The Real World credit on my resume. If the casting director recognized me from the show, which was rare, I would make a comment about it and then get right down to business.” In the end, The Real World has become a part of Jamie’s real world, less a career credit than a oncein-a-lifetime experience that left a mark. “I’m proud I did the show, and I would do it all over again if I had the chance.” So what’s next for Jamie Chung, rising Hollywood actress, mold-breaker, and Asia’s unofficial ambassador to Hollywood? “I have no idea,” she says. “I’m still trying to figure out what I should have for lunch!”
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the last two months I’ve been to Bangkok, Bali, Jamaica, and sunny Los Angeles,” says jewelry designer Waris Ahluwalia. This modern pilgrim frequents Rome, Paris, Rajasthan, Jaipur, and Japan, but he’s based in New York, where he’s now comfortably situated for this interview, although about to jet off again, this time to Columbia in less than a month to film a new movie. Today, he doesn’t know yet how wellreceived his first New York Fashion Week jewelry presentation will be. It’s a luxurious event complete with champagne,
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his own tea brew, and, of course, the finest selection of brooches, pendants, rings, cuff links, and more—another runaway hit with precious rubies, pristine gold chains, and premium diamond frosting. The collection was massively inspired by ritualistic chanting, volcanic ash walls, and the typical tropic thunder of Bali. Although the strange land’s strange charms were undeniable, he says it wasn’t all sunshine and palm trees. “I got hit hard when I got back from Bangkok and Bali… I had no control of my sleeping—going to sleep at 10:00 a.m. and waking up at 7:00
p.m.—not a fun feeling.” Surely, it’s not something new to the manic jetsetter, but he asserts, “I always say I don’t have time for jet lag, and that usually works. Mind over body. Europe, India, California—no worries… with India, the culture shock feels more like time travel… things are a bit slower and a bit dated. It’s not so much about East or West, more like past and future.” Not a big fan of the airports/TSA/jet lag side of travel myself, I continue to pry, and he laughs, “I love being randomly selected every time at every airport. Funny how random works.”
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describes himself primarily as an explorer, his life journey unfolding through opportunities that arrive organically, aided by his prevailing penchant for saying “yes” and rolling with it. Though his family had been in the business of fine jewelry for many generations, House of Waris began when the owners of Los Angeles boutique, Maxfield, were admiring the rings Ahluwalia had on. They asked to place an order. He agreed. Film came when Waris met Wes Anderson, whose cuff links he was fitting. The two have since been great pals and recurrent co-workers for Anderson’s movies. Other film credits include roles in the recent film fest circuit pleaser Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Undead and the Tilda Swinton-topbilled I Am Love. Even fashion’s best dressed Sikh isn’t immune to the harrows of stereotype, something Waris certainly isn’t. The man, besides running an acclaimed jewelry line and soon playing a cop role in a still undisclosed movie, owns a tea shop under the Chelsea High Line, attends all of NYC’s VIP events, and reads heavily verbose literature in between. I ask about the Wim Wenders book that sits on his desk, his references to Steinbeck, and love for verse. “I consider myself a storyteller first and foremost, everything else second.
These writers you mentioned use words to weave worlds; for now, I use gold and diamonds. Rene [Ricard] is a poet whose words have a way of penetrating my exterior shell and lodging themselves within a deep, dark crevice… My busy schedule revolves around the arts. It’s in everything I do; without it, I’m lost. It’s all connected. Movies are stories; I get to be a part of other people’s stories by acting; I tell my own stories through objects of beauty. It was Stendhal who said ‘Beauty is nothing more than the promise of happiness.’ It’s a simple promise, isn’t it?” It’s a promise he himself has kept from the very beginning. “Everything I create has to stand on its own, so a lookbook isn’t just a lookbook. Packaging isn’t just packaging. They must stand the test of time without the jewelry or me,” he smiles. Every material—handcrafted leather binding for line sheets, fine-grain wood for boxes, gems and stones of the purest quality, all sourced primarily in India—goes through the perfectionist’s scrutiny. The man once mentioned that jewelry was a way of preserving himself in history through each regal, timeless trinket. Archaeology was one of his earlier interests: how crowns, tiaras, and necklaces of the ancient civilization’s kings and queens were the first artifacts to be excavated. However, never content with
staying put, Waris finds other ways to leave proverbial footprints in history. Not to screw with the rest of us dealing with what-have-I-done-with-my-life crises, but Waris Ahluwalia also happens to be co-founder of the Mumbai, We Got Your Back charity, and back in 2008, he published To India with Love, a personal memoir-slash-scrapbook, whose proceeds went exclusively to The Taj Public Service Welfare Trust, an organization aiding the victims and families of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. “Besides money, we also wanted to raise morale. We wanted the milkman to read in his local paper that there were people on the other side of the world sending their love and care,” he grins. It’s funny how, as the interview continues, I realize Waris’ quips are very studied, and his words carefully edited and selected. He often recycles meaningful one-liners and phrases from one interview to the next, but his answers don’t come off as jaded. His sincerity is evidenced by his openness, the same trait that fuels his voyages. His favorite maxim, maybe his philosophical life motto, which he also appends to his e-mails to friends, puts this attitude in words: “The adventure continues.”
houseofwaris.com
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NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
Why did you name your blog Your Boyhood?
I like fashion and garments, but I don’t like transparent names like “fashion snap.” When I was 22, I was interested and focused on childhood things like skating, boys, and the streets.
What makes Seoul special?
It’s still growing. Tokyo, New York, London, and Paris are already grown, but Seoul is a new global city focused on culture, fashion, design, and any contemporary development.
Who’s your favorite Korean style icon and why? Mr. Han Sang Hyuk who’s creative director of MVIO. He has defined the taste for fashion and menswear.
yourboyhood.blogspot.com
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Your favorite spot in Seoul:
Itaewon. The restaurants are amazing; you can get food from all over the world there, and the nightlife is very close-knit and personal.
How has your dual background helped your craft?
I rather enjoy the idea that I do not belong exclusively to any race or country. As a child, it caused me a lot of confusion and, sometimes, pain, but as I matured, I came to terms with being different.
How different are you as a model and photographer?
I am different to others merely in the fact that I do both…I feel like I was born to create images, shapes, and forms.
Do you plan to venture into music or acting as most Korean idols do?
I will soon be starting to act…I just can’t wait to be in front of the camera, evoking emotion from my viewers—that is the essence of what I do.
davidsheldrick.com
Fashion forecast:
The focal point for fashion in Asia will be initiated from menswear in five years.
Favorite brands:
My favorite is a Korean brand called Rolait. This brand is more well-known in Japan. The brand features looks that are soft and edgy at the same time, focusing on the basics but with a twist in how it’s tailored.
How would you relate Beyond Closet to your overall aesthetic? When you translate the word closet, it can be just the furniture that’s in your bedroom, but when you think beyond, I believe that a closet represents that person’s style and personality in one simple glance. Beyond Closet is a brand that doesn’t overlook one’s style and personality but upgrades it with a twisted look.
beyondcloset.com
Best thing about being Korean:
Food, fashion, and the fastest internet.
How is it like to put up the biggest club in Seoul?
The Ellui itself is a world-class hotel on the banks of the Han River in the upscale neighborhood of Cheongdam. Whatever you imagine the Ellui to be, you will be surprised to see more.
What makes Seoul special?
You can see the energy from people everywhere even at dawn, like Dongdae-moon which is a fashion-mall for 24/7; it’s moving as a huge human factory.
Describe the Korean nightlife.
For people my age, it’s like heaven to go out in Korea—you can go out 24/7, and when you’re all partied out, there are lots of tasty meals for curing a hangover.
ellui.com
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NIGHTVISION cocorosie + Afterparty Photos by The XOXO Kids
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nightvision
A-Trak
@ Lavo, NYC Photos by KirillWasHere
ONE WAY OR ANOTHER Photos by The Cobrasnake
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nightvision
shake!
@ Myoungwolgwan, Hongdae Photos by The XOXO Kids
MEIDAY 3rd ANNIVERSARY Photos by Kat Cometa
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nightvision
SKY NELLOR
Photos by KirillWasHere
retna’s hallelujah world tour: nyc afterparty
Photos by Neil Rasmus
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nightvision
CHECK YO PONYTAIL 2: yelawolf, das racist Photos by Caesar Sebastian
BODYROCK @ Palladium
Photos by adoborat
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Where to find stuff in this magazine BRANDS A-MORIR a-morir.com ACCESSORIZE Greenbelt 5, Makati City ADIDAS Greenbelt 3, Makati City, karmaloop.com ALDO Bonifacio High Street, The Fort, Taguig City ALESSI No Curfew, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City ALICE + OLIVIA aliceandolivia.com AMERICAN APPAREL americanapparel.net ANDROID HOMME karmaloop.com ARANAZ Power Plant Mall, Makati City BEBE bebe.com BILLABONG Aloha Boardsports, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City BILL BOLLAND COUTURE billbollandcouture.com BLOOM Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City BOBBI BROWN Rustan’s Department store, Makati City CALLIOPE SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City CARBON Greenbelt 3, Makati City CARIN WESTER carinwester.com CHARLES & KEITH Bonifacio High Street, The Fort, Taguig City CHARLES JOURDAN charlesjourdanusa.com CPS Bonifacio High Street, The Fort, Taguig City CREATIVE RECREATION Complex Lifestyle, Eastwood Mall, Libis, Quezon City, djpremium.com DIOR Rustan’s Department Store, Makati City DC Bratpack, Greenbelt 5, Makati City DEBENHAMS Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City DELPHINE CHARLOTTE PARMENTIER dcp-corp.com DETAILS Power Plant Mall, Makati City DIESEL Power Plant Mall, Makati City DKNY Greenbelt 5, Makati City DOROTHY PERKINS Power Plant Mall, Makati City FENDI fendi.com FOLDED AND HUNG SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City FOREVER 21 SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City GAP gap.com
GENERIC SURPLUS karmaloop.com GIANFRANCO FERRÈ gianfrancoferre.com GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI giuseppezanottidesign.com GRAVIS Bratpack, Greenbelt 5, Makati City H&M hm.com HOUSE OF HOLLAND houseofholland.co.uk JANE IREDALE janeiredale.com J.CREW jcrew.com JEFFREY CAMPBELL solestruck.com JUDITH LEIBER judithleiber.com JUICE BEAUTY Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City KARL LAGERFELD karllagerfeld.com LACRASIA lacrasia.com LANCÔME lancome-usa.com LAURA MERCIER Rustan’s Department Store, Makati City LEVI’S Greenbelt 5, Makati City LUSH Glorietta, Makati City MAC maccosmetics.com MARITHÈ ET FRANÇOIS GIRBAUD Glorietta, Makati City MENTAL SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City NIKE Nike stores and shoe departments nationwide, Urban Athletics, Greenbelt 3, Makati City NINE WEST Power Plant Mall, Makati City NIXON Segnatempo, Greenbelt 3, Maxims Hotel Resorts World Manila, Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Robinsons Department Store Galleria, Landmark Trinoma, Watch Republic Shops SM Mall of Asia, Trinoma, Powerplant Mall, Galleria, Ermita. NOSTALGIA nostalgiavintage.net OXYGEN TriNoma, Quezon City OMICHIKO Beach Catastrope, Greenbelt 5, Makati City PATRICIA FIELD patriciafield.com PARIS GOTTI parisgottiandluke.com PENSHOPPE SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City PRADA Sunglass Hut, Resorts World Manila Complex, Pasay City
PRESTIGE Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City PROMOD Greenbelt 5, Makati Cit PUMA Puma stores and shoe departments nationwide REEBOK karmaloop.com RED HERRING Debenhams, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City SABRINA DEHOFF sabrinadehoff.com SAMANTHA BLACK sammybdesigns.com SCHU Glorietta, Makati City SHISEIDO Greenbelt 5, Makati City SHU UEMURA shuuemura.com SINEQUANONE Greenbelt 3, Makati city SMASHBOX Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City SPRINGFIELD Greenbelt 3, Makati City STEVE MADDEN Greenbelt 5, Makati City STILA Rustan’s Department Store, Makati City SWIM Power Plant Mall, Makati City TATCHA Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City THE RAMP Crossings Department Store, Glorietta, Makati TINT Greenbelt 3, Makati City TOMMY HILFIGER No Curfew, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City TOPMAN Power Plant Mall, Makati City TOPSHOP Power Plant Mall, Makati City TRINA TURK trinaturk.com TWEEZERMAN Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, Makati City VALENTINO valentino.com VANS American Rag, Athlete’s Foot, Landmark Department Stores, Olympic Village, SM Department Stores, Sports Warehouse, Toby’s, Urban Athletics, Vans boutiques. VERSACE versace.com VILEBREQUIN Greenbelt 5, Makati City VNC SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City VOLCOM Aloha Boardsports, Power Plant Mall, Makati City WAREHOUSE Greenbelt 5, Makati City
WILDFOX COUTURE wildfoxcouture.com WIZE & OPE No Curfew, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City ARTISTS Jonathan Caballa cabsphotography.tumblr.com Bruce Casanova (Photographer) flickr.com/photos/brucecasanova/ Aliver Cedillo (Photographer) blog.adoborat.com The Cobrasnake (Photographer) thecobrasnake.com Kat Cometa (Photographer) katcometa.daportfolio.com Patrick Diokno (Photographer) patrickdiokno.tumblr.com Dookie Ducay (Photographer) armyofmark.multiply.com Cecilia Glik (Photographer) ceciliaglik.com Karl Hab (Photographer) flickr.com/karl_hab Rosario Herrera (Photographer) statusmagonline.com Kai Huang (Photographer) hungryalien.com Austin Irving (Photographer) austinirving.com Brandon King (Photographer) jamesbrandonking.com KirillWasHere (Photography) kirillwashere.com Stevyn Llewellyn (Photographer) modernglossy.com Ming Han Chung (Photographer) runwaynewswire.com Emman Montalvan (Photographer) web.me.com/emmanmontalvan Jackie Millonado (Photographer) jackiemillonado@yahoo.com Miguel Miranda (Photographer) miguelmiranda420@yahoo.com Lyka Orhel (Photographer) thesdaproject.blogspot.com Kinsey Packard (Photographer) kinseypackard.com BJ Pascual (Photographer) bjpascual.com Neil Rasmus (Photographer) billfarrellagency.com Chuck Reyes (Photographer) chuckreyes.com Prarthna Singh (Photographer) pixelsynthesis.com/clientspace/prarthnasingh Caesar Sebastian (Photographer) caesarsebastian.com/blog Paul Sun/The Social Trust (Photographer) thesocialtrust.com The XOXO Kids (Photographer) thexoxokids.com Paolo Zalameda (Photographer) paolozalameda.multiply.com
: Mist’s “Lucius”
“Mist gave this to me when he last visited us here in the Philippines.”
“Monkey Queen” by Banksy
“Banksy is this pseudonym of a British graffiti artist, political activist, and painter whose identity is unconfirmed. I love the thought of being famous yet “unknown”; it’s like the underground movement for art.”
DJ Equipment
“I love music! I make it; it defines me (besides the love for art). I can’t imagine life without it.”
BIGBOY CHENG
BIGBOY CHENG is a DJ and art enthusiast. This man behind Manila’s Ronac Art Center and Secret Fresh defines the “toy” (particularly, urban vinyl and designer) in “toys for the big boys.” Sneaker and street culture obsessives, feast your eyes on his personal favorites. Photographed by Jackie Millonado freshmanila.blogspot.com
Eames Elephant Chair
“Being an art enthusiast, I think this chair is a work of art. Plus, it’s useful.”
KAWS Book
“This is a signed book by KAWS; he’s my most favorite of all the toy designers.”
Tilt’s Adidas Stan Smith
“Tilt gave this to me before he left for Switzerland for an exhibit. He knows I’m an avid fan of sneakers, so he made a point on the artwork that he made.”
Tilt Bean Bag
“I love how we could incorporate art in such stuff like these.”
“MC SUPERSIZED” by Ron English
“I just love this MC SUPERSIZED toy by Ron English!”
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Casio G-Shock Glorious Gold Line DW6925E-7 “We don’t wanna be late, do we?”
KAWS x Nike AF1
“KAWS and sneakers—it’s the best of both worlds!”