Thrwd Magazine | Issue 3

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CONTENTS

On Cover

CONTACT

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Q&A: Simon Phoenix Q&A: Sean Reardon Q&A: Kayla Escobedo Q&A: Kevin McCarthy Jim Duran Fuck the Radio Glut Life A Day With Dallas Distortion Music George Quartz With the Lights On Artist to Artist Message Received Blame Blair Can't Buy Me Love Whore Your Art Out

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LMFAO The Internet

Casey Holder/Photographer Ryk VanRavenswaay/Assistant Photographer Tyzza. The Factory Glam/Hair and Make Up Katarina Lynn/Model

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WWW.THRWD.COM INFO@THRWD.COM @THRWD_MAG www.facebook.com/THRWD @THRWD

Contributors

Creative Director/Co-Founder: Javier Valadez Jr. Editor-In-Chief/Co-Founder: Lee Escobedo Art Director: Philip Thepkaysone Assistant Editor: Andrew Plock Public Relations: Renzo Pancorvo Intern Manager: Brandon Stewart Copy Editor: Vidwan Raghavan Contributing Writers: Ronald Meeks Lori Toerpe Cliff Dweller The Merry Prankster Blair Whatley Camille Rogers Feothore Forte Contributing Photographers: Casey Holder Taylor Knapp Nicollette Mollet Videographers: Justin Mosholder Christopher Daniel Designers: Paul Nilrach Jesse Estanes Interns: Pablo Arauz PeĂąa Cindy Campos Ryk VanRavenswaay Taylor Effin Cleveland

Editor's Letter

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s you will soon see, THRWD Magazine has taken a different direction with our format.

There’s a local renaissance of print publications across the DFW. Like any product within a competitive market, we took notice. And we were happy to find a collection of thoughtful and progressive magazines.

Although there are now more of us now, we stand alone as the comprehensive, and journalistic source for undiscovered talent in Dallas. We surveyed the field, and decided to narrow our format to a more structured standard. This meant cutting the creative pieces, and focusing more on long-form features, in-depth Q&As and thought-provoking opinion pieces. Don’t worry, shit’s still THRWD. Just more focused.

This issue is our strongest declaration. Our goal of covering the under-represented creative of Dallas has put us further within the trenches. We crafted this issue to open a discourse with our readers. We’re asking tough questions, pronouncing call-to-arms and challenging the major media market to catch up. We also developed a theme for this issue, built around technology, and the pervasive and innovative influence it has on our day-to-day lives. How does it change the way we communicate? Find out about new music? Date?

This process was paralleled with THRWD expanding beyond a publication and into a brand. Since Issue #2 we’ve worked to galvanize our readership through our monthly arts events and community activism. Since the beginning, our goal has been to expand our coverage beyond a print feature and into a full-fledged sponsorship campaign. This means being a presence at events our featured artists host, becoming sponsors and updating you on the latest news through our Facebook page and Twitter. Dustin Cavazos’ “1000 Words” release party, -topic’s April Foolin’ and Verum’s clothing line launch party were a few examples of us jumping in the trenches for front-line coverage. More importantly, we’re giving back to our communities through our monthly Poetry Night by partnering with The Latino Cultural Center. We created an open forum for you, the reader to exercise your creative expression, along with a headline roster of the best Dallas poets.

On a larger scope, this issue is a reflection of the changing culture in our dear city. The gallery, stage and exhibit are beginning to be put into question. And what a glorious, messy paradox it’s creating. THRWD is following suit, putting the artist in charge of their own narrative. Things will never be the same, and the city is better for it.

Forever THWRD, Lee Escobedo Co-Founder/Editor-In-Chief

SIMON PHOENIX Beers, bikes and beards, the three word title of Simon Phoenix’s Tumblr, is an apt description of how the photographer/music director/poet/master of ceremonies spends what little free time he has. The man stays busy.

Recently, Phoenix quit his day-job and started his own creative house, 13th Village. Since then, he’s shot the best talent from out-of-town (Saul Williams, Kendrick Lamar and Brand Nubian) and those who call Dallas home ( A.Dd+, Sealion and The Atomic Tanlines). A perfectionist none the less, Phoenix's style is marked by dark and dramatic photographs, making him the master of contrasts and shadows. Catch Phoenix riding round and gettin’ it on his bike in Deep Ellum, swagging out on-stage with his Team From Nowhere affiliates or hosting our monthly poetry night at the Latino Cultural Center.

How did you get started creating visuals?

I started creating visual media and digital content when I realized that something more needed to be done with the photos and videos I was accumulating.

When did you first pick up a camera?

I first picked up a video camera to record my spoken word / slam poetry performances, but ended up exclusively recording other people.

How do you stay consistently creative?

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I ingest and surround myself with creative, innovative material and people. A poet once said, “Your work is the residue of the work you’re doing on yourself and the influence of the things you take in. So, if you take in a lot of corny work, your shit will be corny.”

Who or what are some of your favorite things to shoot?

The things that I like. That way I can share them with others in hopes of building a community of like-minded individuals. As well as inspiring others who are wanting to try something but

need someone to show them it’s okay.

But, if I had to narrow it down to a single favorite thing I would say concerts, hands down. I could do that all day, erry day.

Best and worst parts that come with photography?

The least favorite part of photographing, is when people ask me to take their photo. My favorite part is when you catch that one moment that tells the entire story of what you’re shooting. There’s always one moment.

What do you do when you procrastinate?

What do you do when you procrastinate?

I meditate. My goal is to achieve complete I meditate. My goal is to achieve complete control over my atoms so I can change into control over my atoms so I can change into a Detomaso Pantera, a fighter jet, and a a Detomaso Pantera, a fighter jet, and a fucking Gundam like Michael Jackson did in fucking Gundam like Michael Jackson did in the “Moonwalker” video. Like a BAWSE! the “Moonwalker” video. Like a BAWSE! What elements do you keep consistent in What elements do you keep consistent in your work? your work?

I like shadows. I like to keep those I like shadows. I like to keep those pretty consistent. It’s a reflection of my pretty consistent. It’s a reflection of my personality. I don’t like to show too much personality. I don’t like to show too much of myself at any given time. Shit is mad of myself at any given time. Shit is mad awkward, b. awkward, b.

What is 13th Village?

What is 13th Village?

13thVillage is a collaborative effort to 13thVillage is a collaborative effort to build a community of like-minded people build a community of like-minded people through Knowledge, Expression and through Knowledge, Expression and Exploration, which I feel are the three Exploration, which I feel are the three KEY elements to self-improvement. The KEY elements to self-improvement. The 13thVillage uses the tools and resources 13thVillage uses the tools and resources at its disposal to SHOW people how to at its disposal to SHOW people how to do these things by providing tangible do these things by providing tangible examples of local artists’ efforts to make examples of local artists’ efforts to make improvements on their craft, community improvements on their craft, community and personal well-being. and personal well-being.

Do you feel that our ability to rapidly Do you feel that our ability to rapidly share information, especially photos and share information, especially photos and videos, is destructive or productive to a videos, is destructive or productive to a professional artist like yourself? professional artist like yourself?

It’s a double edged sword. It can suck It’s a double edged sword. It can suck super balls because it’s hella easy to super balls because it’s hella easy to get lost in the timeline/newsfeed flood get lost in the timeline/newsfeed flood of random crap. But, it’s an excellent of random crap. But, it’s an excellent opportunity to step your shit up and ensure opportunity to step your shit up and ensure your work stands out from all the weak your work stands out from all the weak boo-boo that’s out there. boo-boo that’s out there.

If you could collaborate with any artist, If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why? who would it be and why?

(Australian photographer and music (Australian photographer and music video and film director) Nabil Elderkin, video and film director) Nabil Elderkin, (Australian graphic designer, art director (Australian graphic designer, art director and album artist) Leif Podjasky, or (Parisian and album artist) Leif Podjasky, or (Parisian filmmaker and advertising creative) Mikael filmmaker and advertising creative) Mikael Columbu. These artists blow my mind every Columbu. These artists blow my mind every time they touch a project. EVERY TIME. time they touch a project. EVERY TIME. In your past experience, what would be In your past experience, what would be some advice for young readers trying to some advice for young readers trying to pick up a camera? pick up a camera?

Just do it. You’re gonna suck at first. Your Just do it. You’re gonna suck at first. Your friends will tell you that your work is good, friends will tell you that your work is good,

but it’s not. You suck. And they’re terrible but it’s not. You suck. And they’re terrible friends for lying to you. Get new ones. Then friends for lying to you. Get new ones. Then study “professional” concert photos. Study study “professional” concert photos. Study the photographer. Take note how your the photographer. Take note how your pictures suck in comparison. Then take pictures suck in comparison. Then take note how the “professional” shots can be note how the “professional” shots can be improved, then do THAT to yours. improved, then do THAT to yours.

What would you want the world to know?

What would you want the world to know?

I would want the whole world to know I would want the whole world to know that it sucks, but that’s ok because every that it sucks, but that’s ok because every day is an opportunity to suck less. I day is an opportunity to suck less. I would also want the world to know that it would also want the world to know that it doesn’t deserve shit, bad things happen to doesn’t deserve shit, bad things happen to good people because “fuck you” and you good people because “fuck you” and you just have to deal with it. As a result you just have to deal with it. As a result you should just do what you want, all the time. should just do what you want, all the time.

Whatever you’re passionate about, DO IT, Whatever you’re passionate about, DO IT, right now, no excuses, no expectations, right now, no excuses, no expectations, just DO IT, because “Fuck You.” As long as just DO IT, because “Fuck You.” As long as it doesn’t do blatant harm to yourself, or it doesn’t do blatant harm to yourself, or others, whatever you want to do is right. others, whatever you want to do is right.

There’s nothing else to life. Just get better There’s nothing else to life. Just get better at doing what you want, and whatever you at doing what you want, and whatever you believe in will support you. Otherwise you’ll believe in will support you. Otherwise you’ll die. Which is cool too, because by THIS die. Which is cool too, because by THIS point, you’ll DIE for what you believe in, point, you’ll DIE for what you believe in, because you LIVE for it. because you LIVE for it.

Are video games art? Do they have a place in museums? Reardon, senior producer and technical director at Gearbox Software, believes so. After successfully launching the immensely popular first-person shooter, Borderlands, and its sequel, Reardon sees his hometown as the next, “destination for the conferences and conventions that the gaming industry hosts.” Gearbox software was recently named one of the "50 Best Game Developers in the World" by Edge Magazine, and has set the blueprint for Dallas to become a gaming industry hub.

What do love/hate the most about your job?

I love stress, insurmountable challenges, random curveballs, important decisions and I love turning cheeseburgers into video games. It’s what I’ve done for 14 years now.

What I hate? This is harder for me to answer. In general, the stuff I hate I work towards fixing. Philosophically, I hate not learning from lessons.

What do you do when you procrastinate?

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When I procrastinate I find myself drifting over to reddit. I’m a junkie. The “TIL”

section consumes too many hours of my life.

I find my creativity ebbs and flows. I try not to beat myself up too much when it’s gone, and I try to capitalize on it when I’m on fire.

If you could describe your philosophy in three words, what would they be?

What are some of the obstacles you’ve encountered getting to where you are now?

Ready is actually the hardest. It’s about knowing yourself and what you want. Aim is fairly easy. It’s about studying, readying and training. If you find it’s hard to aim, then you’ve probably given yourself the wrong mission in ready. Fire is in some sense the easiest. It’s about pouncing when the time is right. It can be nerve-wracking because if you do it wrong, you might have to wait a long time before the next chance.

In high school I fell in love with programming. Then I discovered that Dallas had a great game development industry. My friend Steve Jones and I joined on with Gearbox Software as some of their earliest employees back in ‘99, and it’s been a crazy ride since.

Ready. Aim. Fire.

What is it like to be considered one of the top 50 greatest game developers? (source: EDGE Magazine)

It’s bizarre whenever we get recognition like this. It’s an incredible honor to be among the same ranks as those guys. We work really, really hard to bring great experiences to customers. We put just about 0% of our creative energies into these sorts of accolades, so it’s all the more meaningful when we get recognized.

What are your biggest accomplishments?

Shipping each of the games I’ve been involved with. I’ve shipped 15 games now, 10 of which directly. There’s nothing quite like shipping. The chaos, stress and beauty of living absolutely in the moment is incredible.

How has the “Borderland” series changed your creative approach at developing other games?

I don’t know about “changed”, but it’s certain cemented something I think we all know: It’s about people, not ideas. Being successful with something is 100% about making sure you have the very best possible people, in the correct roles. Great people will take a terrible idea and make it great.

Terrible people will fuck up even the most perfect of ideas.

What do you like/dislike about Dallas? And if you were mayor of the city, what would you do to make it better?

I like that Dallas is getting a great cocktail

culture. I like that Dallas has such incredible steak houses. I like that I can have an upscale night out at the Winspear, and wind up at the Lodge for debauchery that same night. I like to play disc golf and have a cigar, Dallas is great for that. I dislike either the fact that the weather is so miserable, or the fact that we haven’t erected a massive Logan’s Run style dome over the city yet to protect us from the environment. Take your pick.

If I was mayor? I don›t think my hours playing SimCity really qualifies me to make peanut gallery suggestions on what to do with Dallas (the crown jewel of Texas). If I could waive a magic wand though, I’d love to see the Dallas become more of a destination for the numerous conferences and conventions that the gaming industry hosts.

I’m constantly flying to San Francisco, Vegas, or San Jose for this convention or that. I’d love to have my friends in the industry visit us for a change. I’d definitely take them out for a night of drinks at the Cedars Social!

Recently the MoMA featured the first video game exhibit dedicated to those games that are visually aesthetic and revolutionary.

Do you consider video games art? Do they belong in the museum?

They belong in museums as much as anything else. I reject the label, “art”. When something is labeled “art,” it doesn’t tell me anything about it at all. I don›t think it’s a terribly useful label.

That said, I think game makers should be

afforded the same status and recognition as those working in more established media.

It’s an incredibly creative field filled with disciplines teaming with artists.

Who is the lamest video game villain?

No, better, let’s talk about the best.

“Shadow of the Colossus” is kinda the gimme answer, given that it’s a whole game of bosses. They’re all incredible though. I found myself moved by the ending of “Braid,” and discovering who the protagonist was.

Mario, Sonic, Zelda, or Halo?

A total nostalgia question. The game that brought me into console gaming was “Zelda.” Those early “Zelda” games are close to my heart. As far as “Mario” goes, I think I actually enjoyed the bizarre, “Mario 2” the most.

Worst video game movie adaptation?

The worst is also the best: “Mortal Kombat.” I’ve seen that in theaters, probably eight times. “Street Fighter,” the game was adapted into a movie. That movie was then adapted into a game. I bet if that game were made into a movie, it would be so bad the universe would assert and we’d all come to a halt.

What do you want the whole world to know about you?

That I love them, and wish them well.

KAYLA ESCOBEDO

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From her beginnings as a comix's artist freshman year at Harvard, Kayla Escobedo has turned her autobiographical characters into video art. Using GIFs and hand-made costumes, the dark and surreal world of her graphic novels, is turned startlingly, real-life. Taking cues from her heroes in the performance and video art fields, such as Vito Acconci, Bill Viola and Martha Rosler, her personas interact, in messy flesh and blood, with the absurdist, and cyclical discourse of her work. Escobedo graduates with a degree in art history this spring, and will return to Texas to pursue a career in the multiple mediums in which she creates.

What do you do? And how did you get started?

I'm an artist and a current student at Harvard University. Attending Booker T. Washington HSPVA in Dallas really helped to give me time in my youth to focus on my work and be supported by a community.

I probably wouldn't be where I am now it if wasn't for that amazing school.

When was the first time you picked up a brush?

I think I first painted with brushes in elementary school art classes, and in junior high I used brushes and glazes to make designs on the pots I made in art class. Where did you go to school for art? I'm studying visual art at Harvard and before that I went to Booker T. for high school and studied visual art there.

Last three movies you've watched?

"National Geographic: World's Most Dangerous Drug," "CNBC Originals: Cruise Inc.: Big Money on the High Seas," "Wreck It Ralph."

Did you use to doodle on your school notebooks? If so what?

When I was younger I drew a lot of 'dark' things in my notebooks: fingers hanging from chains, eyeballs connected to hands, creepy clowns with sharp teeth and fingers for limbs haha- a lot of finger

things. I think I did a lot of tropey angsty goth stuff. Before that I was obsessed with drawing these big eyed cutesy models wearing a line of clothing I invented called “Graffiti Gurlz�.

What do you do to consistently stay creative?

Hmm well I don't really have to do much, which I'm grateful for. I do watch soap operas during the day to get inspired by language and dialogue, which comes out in my artwork, especially in my comics.

Also my comic and art book collection keeps me excited. I really treasure my books.

What do you do when you procrastinate?

I've been really into doing puzzles, like real jigsaw puzzles, not computer puzzles. And my biggest distraction is my dog Chiz- she's so cute and I can dote on her and play with her for hours. The day just flies by sometimes and all I'll have done is hang with Chiz!

If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be and why?

Joe Brainard! I would have liked to have collaborated with him while he was alive. He's one of my favorite writes and artists and he produced some brilliant comic work that was a hybrid of his talents.

From what I've read of his journals and writing I think he and I would have gotten along.

Can you tell me a little about your new project with GIFs? KaylaTV is my current project that encompasses paintings, photographs, animated GIFs and video Gifs. The project is exploring a character named Kayla and the GIFs have her trapped in endless loops where she performs various actions that explore the implications and limitations of being a cartoon character.

How destructive or productive is the rapid sharing of information, especially GIFs, for an artist like you.

I think that because I'm relatively unknown, it hasn't had too much of an impact on me. I do love being able to share my work online in a completely free and accessible format, though. The internet can be soul-sucking and scary and I'm aware of both its potential to benefit an artist, but also to destruct one's identity.

How did you decide when to make the move to animated GIFs? What are some future projects you are working on?

Well, I don't really do that many illustrations- at least that's not my primary art form. I've animated in the past, and studied documentary filmmaking for a year at school so I had a little bit of experience to draw from when I had the idea to create GIFs. The video GIFs took a tremendous amount of planning and design before they were made.

It took months of building the set, making the costume and writing the script and storyboarding before I shot and edited them. The GIFs were a perfect form for me to explore the theme of character identity, the loop, and glitching that just didn't make sense in any other art form.

I'm kind of focusing on the KaylaTV project right now (which is actually functioning as my senior thesis), but this summer I'm starting a new Iseries of comics, which will possibly end up as a collaboration with a close friend. I'll be developing a new body of work as soon as this one is done.

What would you want the whole world to know? www.KaylaTV.net

KING OF NOTHING

Kevin McCarthy prides himself on finding a balance in life. It’s easy to find him at The Cedars Social, having a beer and chatting up friends. But, there’s also a side of him who prefers solitude.

An experienced visual merchandiser for retails such as Barneys New York, Kevin spends his alone-time thrifting for treasures to add to his massive collection of found objects. What might seem arbitrary to some each item is part of a plan for a future piece.

From the outside, his home/studio resembles a typical suburban home. Once inside, it’s like walking into an antique store, with pieces from across time.

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How did you get into visual merchandising?

Do you make art based around any theme?

I guess you can say I fell into it by chance.

I was studying Fine Arts in college when I started working for a department store, which later became Macy’s. I started as a seasonal employee, decorating the store during the holidays. Later I became visual manager. I liked the fact that you can get creative in a corporate atmosphere and at the end of the day I can go home to my studio and work on my stuff.

I’ve always done pieces around the “Seven Deadly Sins” and the “Ten Commandments.”

You know how the Ten Commandments are always telling you what to do? I shift it around and tell you what you should do.

What type of artist are you?

I’m really not about labels. I would like you to label me as the “King of Nothing.” That came about when I was in college, during my BFA while studying existentialist philosophy. The whole “King of Nothing” comes from the idea that the entire universe formed as a result of nothing. I lean towards science rather than theology, even though I was raised a Catholic, then became an Atheist because of Karl Marx. Now I lean more towards Eastern philosophy.

What do you enjoy the most about collecting items?

The beauty about collecting, is that I actually collect time. As I progress into what I’m doing, I find time is the hardest thing to collect. The whole time element, as much as we crave something immediate, forces me to step back, chill and let the process take its course. I have a hard time throwing shit away. I’m an organized hoarder. I’m possibly struggling with something that’s emotional, as a typical hoarder, but I’m a very compulsive person too. I keep my world very organized.

Who’s King Zulu Bong?

King Zulu Bong is Ben Lewis, Ray Banaban and I. We were all display merchandisers at Barney’s New York. We had such great chemistry working together that we decided to start a design collective. We install art display at different events in Dallas.

The first installation we did together was Strangeway’s Halloween party. It was bigger than any of us expected.

Tell me about your piece “I Knew You Once,” displayed at the Cedars Social.

My intention was to tell the story about a young girl who had a one night stand with a guy. She gets pregnant and the guy flees.

“I Knew You Once” is the reflection of her feelings about the guy that got her pregnant and left. When I hung it I had so many people approaching me thinking it’s about abortion. That’s not what I intended at all.

Do you like any shows like “American Pickers?”

Yes, I do. The only thing I hate about that show is that they barter the sellers so low.

I also like “Pawn Stars.” I’ve been watching that show since it came out. Those guys could teach history at any school. They learn so much just from owning a pawn shop.

What’s a normal weekend for you?

What’s the reason behind displaying everything you collect?

Because I’ve been in visual merchandising, it’s all about the display process. I need to know what I own because I’m constantly making stuff.

What is the difference between your visual displays and your art?

There’s a cross-over from what I do in retail, and what I do for art. It’s a process.

The foundation of who I am is based on an extreme approach at organizing my life.

The whole organization thing is all about providing a tranquil environment for your audience. It’s about how you present what you are selling and how I present my art as an artist.

I wake up, make breakfast, drink a cup of coffee and hit up some thrift stores. I go to the same thrift store once, to three-times-aweek. I’m just another shopaholic just like everybody else. The things you buy reflect who you are. The difference is, I shop at thrift stores.

What do you want the whole world to know?

The profound importance of anything, is directly associated with it’s insignificant. If you’re going to be profound in this world, do something so insignificant that nobody recognizes it. If you provide something to a mass audience, you’re no different from a person that makes shoes.

G Photo by Nicollette Mollet

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uys in Dallas have been taking the easy way out in the wardrobe department for far too long.

Jeans and plaid pearl snap shirts are great, but don’t you want more? I’m not talking about adding a cardigan; I’m talking about wearing a black, sheer, long-sleeved, button down shirt.

Thankfully, Jim Duran had a beautiful vision and made it into a reality with is clothing line, BLKLN. It’s about time DFW had a male designer with the brilliance to inspire a men to make a fashion metamorphosis. Thus, THRWD will share exactly how amazingly talented Duran is, and how men in Dallas have a new fashion messiah.

Word to the wise, look up almost anyone Jim mentions, trust me.

THRWD: How did you come up with the name for your brand? And when did vowels go out of style?

Jim Duran: Well, vowels just aren’t chic right now. It just sort of came to me one day. My friend and I were sitting in my apartment one day when BLKLN was still in the conceptual phase. I knew I wanted to do something with BLK but then I discovered that Johan Lindeberg was doing denim and it was B-L-K denim. So I was like, “Well shit. Black…black line? Yea, BLKLN!!”

THRWD: What inspired your line? I know music and various forms of art played a large role, but can you name any one thing specifically?

Duran: Inspiration comes from anywhere, at any time, from anything. Narrowing it down to four things, you know, music, fashion, art, and the male form is the easiest way. A lot of the time I get into music. Like, I already know I want to do something very ‘90s inspired because at the time I was listening to a lot of Hole, lots of Nirvana- stuff like that. It’s really hard to say when inspiration will strike. In my brain, I’m already six collections ahead.

THRWD: Have you always been interested in fashion or is it something you’ve grown to love?

Duran: I’ve always been interested in fashion. When I was younger my mom would come home from work with company t-shirts and I would sketch my own t-shirt designers for the company. For awhile that all fell to the wayside. You know, I thought I was going to be a paleontologist, an attorney, or a businessman. Fortunately, I got my first fashion internship when I was 18, in Austin, where I grew up. Ever since then I’ve been into fashion.

THRWD: Your line is marketed to men, but I could definitely see ladies wearing your pieces. Do you ever want to do a women’s line?

Duran: I want to establish myself as a menswear designer first, and then slowly incorporate women’s wear into the collection. I have done some capsule collections for various boutiques in the past, and some private clients, so women’s wear is not new to me. I feel very comfortable and confident in my ability to do ladies clothing so I really want to establish my men’s line first, and then maybe make the transition.

So many designers conform to this almost formulaic idea of what men’s fashion is and tend to stay inside of this box. That’s one thing I will never do.

THRWD: Where do you want your line to be in five years?

THRWD: Could you tell me a memorable moment from your career thus far?

Duran: I’d like to be based in NY, working there and showing there. BLKLN in specialty boutiques across the nation!

Duran: I guess it would be the very first show that I ever did in Bryant Park. I was like 22 or 23 and I was head of PR for a designer. We’re back stage and of course it’s chaotic. The finale dress was this red organza gown that took 22 yards of red organza to make. It was an over-the-top beautiful dress. The shoes that we had for it were these red crystal heels. So we are about two looks before the dress goes out and the heels must have walked away. I’m yelling, “Where are the fucking Zanotti’s?” About 10 seconds before she walks on the runway, someone found the shoes and threw them towards me. I felt like I was in one of those sports movies where everything goes in slow motion. I scored the winning touchdown.

THRWD: You seem to be a fashion virtuoso, you style, writing, design, and didn’t you do PR for a time? Which do you find the most rewarding?

Duran: The design. Everything starts with an idea that eventually comes to fruition.

Design is so much more personal than doing publicity or marketing plan. You take a garment and tweak it so many ways and then in the middle it could change and form into something completely different. Then you end up with all these different variations of the idea you had and it’s so freeing and liberating. Personally, I feel so fulfilled when I have the finished piece and people are smiling cause they love it.

THRWD: Which article of clothing do you think every man should have in his closet?

Duran: I think every man should have a leather sleeveless motorcycle vest. Throw that on top of anything and you look like a bad ass.

THRWD: Which celebrities would you love to see in your designs?

Duran: Prince Pelayo, Theophilus London, Frank Ocean, Kanye West, Jared Letto and Jordon Nicole. I would love to dress those five guys, and Rhianna.

THRWD: What would you never be caught dead in?

Duran: Boot cut jeans. Yes I have worn them in the past cause they were ‘in’ but I would never ever wear them again. Even if Tom Ford came to me and was like “Jim I made these pants just for you.” “I’d be like, “Tom, I’m sorry, no.”

THRWD: What trend are you terribly sick of?

Duran: For women, studded sparkly shoes.

It was great five years ago, but now it’s like every housewife in Plano and Southlake wants studded sparkly shoes. I think it’s tired. I think it’s time to pull in the reins, maybe do something a bit more elegant down below. Menswear, the whole bow tie thing. It’s over played. Like Brad Goreski did it well but then every gay fashion boy wanted to be him after that. It’s a staple in any gentlemen’s wardrobe, but it became trendy.

THRWD: What’s the most beloved item in your wardrobe?

Duran: I have so many, that’s really, really hard. When I shop, I don’t just buy clothes.

Every garment I have is very unique. I live fashion. It’s not just my wardrobe it’s not something I dabble in. It’s my lifestyle.

THRWD: Who do you see wearing your clothing? What is your target audience?

Duran: The BLKLN man is a man who is creative, free spirited, courageous in his fashion choices and who’s not afraid of what others are going to think or say. He’s confident in himself and he knows at the end of the day it’s just a shirt or a pair of leggings. It’s not life or death.

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FUCK THE RADIO

by Ronald Meeks

28

“This is the Indie-Verse,” he says.

Station manager Eric Landrum is standing next to a small desk with a computer and mixer that comfortably has enough room only for it and the desktop’s keyboard. He pulls out the single chair, sits down and flicks through the internet radio station’s song list.

T

he view at first is a little underwhelming. Seeing as how its name makes one think of planets and comets, the picture of just one man sitting at the helm of a relative indie-music spaceship is a little misleading. But, as Landrum picks through the songs, you start to see just how large the station’s implications are.

Running on the screen is a colorful array of music with the ability to be heard here in Dallas, Denton, North Texas, Texas, North America, the world — and then suddenly the name Indie-Verse seems to fit.

Here Landrum is giving Dallas a look at what traditional radio is missing out on — local acts and national bands that are only murmurs on blogs and Twitter feeds. With a 24-hour station that can play continuous days worth of music, Landrum has cultivated a radio station built to spill the information on what’s happening in the music scene.

Surprisingly enough, the Indie-Verse formed in the first half of 2008 when its parent company, CBS Radio, decided to go after HD Radio signals. Big wigs put this question to its program directors, “What would you do if you had you could run any radio station you wanted?” Soon it made it’s way to Landrum who had been doing promotions with the company for some time. Now given the chance to do program his own station, there was only one format he wanted.

“I knew it had to be a college/indierock station, that’s where my passion is,” Landrum said.

Like any other working-class joe, guiding people through the Indie-Verse is just an outlet for Landrum’s passions. A side-gig where, in between programming the station, he holds down his main job of marketing the hell out of CBS Radio’s KVIL station — also known as the home of Delilah, lite rock and the channel some flock to, or avoid, every Christmas.

Like anyone else searching for music in the 90s, Landrum made countless trips from Flower Mound to catch shows in Deep Ellum every night of the week. He grew up here as a fan of the local music scene — back from the early days of bands like Caulk and Slow Roosevelt — and still is.

“That culture has always been a part of my life, so I think anything I can do to help that, I’ll do it,” Landrum said.

Back before he even set foot in a radio station, he remembers when his girlfriendnow-wife was an intern for Josh Venable.

At the time, Veneable was at KDGE 102.1, and known for hosting The Adventure Club, a somewhat breeding ground for what Landrum is trying to accomplish today.

There, Venable brought in what wasn’t being played exclusively by stations, opening the doors for new talent to be heard, and the show’s claims of being the first to play the likes of Weezer, Oasis and Coldplay on the air. So radio was where it all kind of sparked for him. Fed up with his new job at a hotel — he’d only been there a week — he decided to do something he actually cared for, music.

He tagged his way into the business by doing promotions for Clear Channel’s KZPS before making the jump to CBS Radio in 2005.

Still, he attests his love of music and the local scene is what makes up the purpose for Indie-Verse.

And the station’s format does just that.

Two to three local artists get some airtime per hour on the station, as they tend to focus on all the great bands Dallas has to offer, Landrum says. Going through the list, Mind Spiders, Astronautlis, A.Dd+ and Leg Sweeper are just a few of the hometown acts that get airtime in between national acts at the cusp of breaking out.

Still he knows that traditional airwaves don’t have that kind of flexibility to program what they feel or have a tendency even like

THE INDIE-VERSE PARADE OF FLESH

THE LADIES ROOM

SIX DEGREES

C60 CLASSIC INDIE

Every Thursday at 4pm hear the award winning John of Flesh take over the airwaves.

Every Friday night at 8pm, The Dallas Observer's Audra, jamie and Deb in the Ladies Room.

Everything is connected.

Six Degrees is a journey through the different circles that make up music.

Listen every Wednesday at 4pm for an hour of classic indie trackswith Mark Sanford. www.klli.cbslocal.com

“We’re

not afraid to take those chances, _LANDRUM

“

for that matter. He doesn’t have to test songs with an audience or play metrics, he just goes with his gut, and if he likes it, it plays. That’s why he feels the Internet keeps that free-market accessibility to local music open and available.

“So when 35 Denton came into town, we dedicated the two weekends leading up to it would be nothing but 35 Denton artists. I don’t think you can do that in a traditional way,” he says with a laugh.

They’ve also pushed the limits by playing 24-hours straight of The Faint. “Live in the Lou” brings bands to CBS Radio’s 12th floor bathroom and belt out their best. Portugal.

The Man even made a guest spot in his marketing manager’s office. And all year round, artists come in for guest DJ hours — A.Dd+ was one of the most recent.

“We’re not afraid to take those chances,” he says. “We just have to look at it from the listener, think ‘would you get annoyed by it?’ and just give it a try.”

When A.Dd+’s Paris Pershun and Slim Gravy, aka Arrias Walls and Dionte Rembert, hit the ethernet waves, they wanted to give the Indie-Verse faithful an inside glimpse at their music and the fans that listen to it.

Even before stepping behind the mic on that session, Paris said, he knew the station was already highlighting the artists that deserve it.

“Indie-Verse is actually looking to work with quality artists, not just any artist, or ‘oh, they’re a new artist so we might as well mess with them.’ No. You have to have gotta have quality music and a good outlook,” Paris says.

Being a part of the generation that grew with technology, Paris says that saturation online, and the ability to play what they want, definitely helps the station cultivate local artists and help them gain notoriety.

That’s something he feels is necessary for people to really dig into new artists because they are able to tune in and hear a

plethora of good songs often, making people want to dive in further.

“I always say that people are extremely attached to familiarity,” Paris says. “So if you can play something more than a few times, or more than any other outlet, it resonates to the person that’s listening. ” Internet radio isn’t a new concept. Even Landrum’s station has been around for almost five years. But what it’s offering is something that can’t be done from the seat of a car.

Let’s take the 5 p.m. block on a recent Saturday. First song streaming through the Indie-Verse is calm and melodic. It’s former Girls frontman, Christopher Owens, who’s recently left the band for his own adventures. Seconds later, I’m googling his name, finding out what other singles he has and if he’s on tour. Going further, I get kneedeep in his history, learn about his style and breeze through a review of his newest album, Lysandre, on Pitchfork.

“

I mean how many people actually have a radio in their office anymore? Maybe a radio alarm clock?

Stuart Berman breaks down the album and gives his thoughts about the track I’m listening to in real time on Indie-Verse, saying: “The chirpy flute lines that cut through “Here We Go” and the buoyant title track cross the line from classy embellishment to garish distraction.”

I decide that I personally like the flute in this song, but respect the rest of Berman’s review. For what it’s worth, I’m only one song in, and already I’ve been exposed to something new.

Landrum says this is kind of the point.

From the beginning he wanted to program it with music and shows that people could talk about in Dallas.

“We’re riding the wave of what’s happening in town, and trying to help these bands become successful. It’s helping the bands on one side, and entertaining the people of Dallas on the other,” he says.

He says he loves that he’s able to provide playlists for parties, expose people to new or

less-heard music, and give people the desire to see these people on stage.

That’s where Parade of Flesh visionary John Iskander comes in. Iskander has notably been bringing acts to Dallas for years under his zombie-esque sounding booking business. He also has hosted a one-hour show every Thursday for the past three years on the station, and tracked 150th episode this year.

Every week, he comes in and plays music of bands he booked and songs he’s into lately. But just like what he’s doing to bring in bands, Landrum’s station is doing for local listeners.

“Everybody is sitting on a computer all day long so it makes sense to listen to an internet radio station,” Iskander says. “I mean how many people actually “have a radio” in their office anymore? Maybe a radio alarm clock?”

The two build off of each other, and Iskander knows that when he and Landrum

“

_LANDRUM

are matching up on stuff, they’re in the right direction. Landrum has multiple shows like Iskanders where hosts come in to diversify the station a little: C60 gets the classic indie scene as to where The Ladies Room brings about the ins and outs of the art and music scene.

Iskander says it’s only highlighting what’s great about Indie-Verse.

“If they keep having a variety of shows then they’re going to get a good variety of listeners,” he says. “They’re doing what, they’re doing, and it’s been a couple of years, so I think that should same something.”

Landrum seen some success here with the local scene and wants to spread the company out one, hopefully spreading the Indie-Verse model to cities like Austin or Seattle. But, until then, it’s just him commanding the ship.

32

by Feothore Fort Three Six Mafia summed it up best, “It’s hard out here for a pimp.” To be fair, it’s even harder for a foodie living in the hood. Options are limited, and if it’s more than cereal and milk, most O.G.s feel awkward in the kitchen. But what if you suddenly had a wealth of food knowledge, making combinations limitless? Well, that’s what the motivation was for partners-in-crime, Zach Wilkins and Jason Medina, to start their Dallasbased food blog, TheGlutLife.com. The guys sat down to talk with THRWD over booze and peanut butter & siracha hummus at Bolsa, on eating good in the hood, and a variety of other food subjects.

THRWD: So, how did this “partner-in-crime” story get started?

Wilkins: I was working at Central Market, then Jason got hired, and then we convinced our manager to hire two of our other buddies. So just imagine being 19, and working with three of your absolute best friends. (Laughs) We wrecked so much shit there. But I didn’t get fired because of my food knowledge. I can taste a cheese, and more than likely, tell you what style it is and what animal it came from.

Medina: You would never expect people like us to know what we’re doing with food.

THRWD: What was your inspiration for starting the blog?

Wilkins: We know food, and we’re cool people, and food can be cool too. It’s not a site for hipster douche-bags. We’re city kids, we were skaters, we did graffiti, we did a clothing brand, it’s been a constant evolution with us and we wanted to be ahead of the next trend and bridge that gap.

"DALLAS IS ALWAYS CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE. THAT'S WHY I LOVE OAK CLIFF, BECAUSE IT HAS ITS OWN CULTURE," -WILKINS Medina: And then most importantly, let people

Wilkins: And it’s a passion project, not about

where the drizzle and rolling it in the coconut

from our background know that you don’t have to

churning out material.

flakes came from.

be afraid of this.

Medina: It’s not about post count, we like to keep

THRWD: What do you think of competitive cooking

THRWD: Do you feel like you’re bringing the hood

people waiting, keep ‘em interested in what we’re

shows, and what would you do differently if you

& haute couture culture together gastronomically?

going to do next.

were on one?

Medina: Absolutely. We went from eating at

THRWD: How’d you come up with the infamous,

Wilkins: I love reality TV. I TiVo it all. I would take

Driftwood, a four-star restaurant, to drinking

peanut butter-siracha-ice cream cookie?

away the mascarpone from the dessert round. I

brass monkeys (a malt liquor & sunny delight mixture) on a crack house porch.

swear, every time someone uses it, they win. Take Wilkins: We had a big hit on our peanut butter

it away, and flip the script. Top Chef - I love Padma,

siracha post, and we’re always trying to stay ahead

except for that scar, but I still love her

Wilkins: We’re not trying to tell you how things are,

of the curve, so we started brainstorming, and up

I just know what I like and that’s what I want to share.

to this point we hadn’t done anything sweet.

THRWD: What do you do differently than other

Medina: Basically, we both hate baking. So thinking

“foodie” blogs?

of ideas and we were like, “This is The Glut Life, we

Wilkins: True. I’d definitely tell Tom that he looked

need to take this up a notch.” I was growing herbs

like a grown up Mini-Me. Emeril is a douche-bag.

Wilkins: Every photo we use have been totally

in my garden. So I told Zach about wanting to use

He’s like the Guy Ferrari of fine dining.

directed. This means no cellphone pics, and no

my Thai basil and maybe vanilla bean.

Medina: No man, I like that. I find beauty in imperfection, that’s hot to me.

Medina: I gotta say, anything Anthony Bourdain.

poor lighting. We’re like art food directors for our pictures. Each picture takes a lot of work.

Wilkins: So we just played around until it what you

He’s what we wanna’ be when we grow up.

saw came to fruition.

Medina: Absolutely no half-ass shit. And we never

THRWD: Let’s imagine each of you are going on a

Photoshop. What you’re seeing is how it was. And

Medina: But I told Zach, it’s gotta be sexy, we have

be sure that brand shows! Product placement baby!

to have that plating, make people want it, so that’s

date, where are you taking the girl?

Medina: Well, I’d have to say nostalgia plays a

Wilkins: Hell yeah, gotta do crispy crust. Also,

big part for me. Great night would be Tourelli’s.

when you pull out your cold pizza, put it in a frying

Pre-fire. You have that piano player right in front,

pan on the stove, and cover it with aluminum foil

neighborhood feel man. I’ll tell you, you could even have a girl that’s FOB, fresh off the boat, and she’d

Medina: Wait, what? You’ve been holding out on me?

love it. That’s my pick, hands down.

Wilkins: Nah, we just never have pizza left when Wilkins: Man, you totally beat me… I go out all the

we hang out.

time and I got nothing. I’d say to her, “Where are you going to take me?” That tells me how legit she is.

Medina: Yeah, yeah….

THRWD: With your expertise, is cooking on the first

Wilkins: So you get crispy crust again on the

date a deal maker with the ladies?

bottom, but the heat reflects off the foil and perfectly warms up the top.

Medina: That’s all Zach man, all him.

THRWD: Most over-rated restaurant?

Wilkins: Well, yes and no. I know food, so we’ll go out.

Wilkins: At its time, Campo. I worked there, I Medina: Me and the wife, we each like the kitchen

can say that.

a certain way, so right now, you know how people have his and her bathrooms, well, we’re doing his

Medina: Anybody that’s trying to put octopus and

and her kitchens, each with our own set-up.

truffles on their menu is on my chopping block.

THRWD: Wow, that’s dope. I think you’re going to

THRWD: What do you wish would disappear, food-

start a whole new trend there.

wise, from this city?

Medina: This is The Glut Life, baby! I know she

Wilkins: The media writing about the same spot,

plans to have a little fondue set with the pans and

reviewing the same places to go eat. It’s overkill.

everything for her side.

What about that cool place you haven’t heard of?

You’ll never know because they’re too busy telling

THRWD: It’s 2:30 a.m., what’re you buying/making

you about that ‘hot’ new spot.

yourself to eat?

THRWD: In that case, what’s this city missing?

Medina: So, I’ve got to go back to Oak Cliff, Caesar’s Tacos #1. You want a real experience, you

Wilkins: An identity. Dallas reminds me of Los

finish your night there.

Angeles ugly sibling. I go there a bit, I lived in New York. Those cities have their own imprints.

THRWD: You mean EXTRA real. What’s the best

New York is a true city. People don’t change.

three pizza joints in town?

They do what they love regardless of trends. L.A. takes other cities ideas, puts a spin on it, and try

Wilkins: Domino’s thin crust, not even gonna lie.

and make it their own. Dallas is always caught in

Pepperoni & Jalapeño.

the middle. That’s why I love Oak Cliff, because it has its own culture. Dallas has so much money,

Medina: You know you’re in the right spot when they

and that to me is dangerous. Because money

say they have Jalapeño in their Hot-N-Ready stack.

allows you to do whatever you want, regardless

Wilkins: I’m about to go back to my roots, Pizza

of style or taste.

Patron. Take it back to the hood.

THRWD: What’s next for ‘The Glut Life’?

Medina: Here’s a tip, when you go to pick up your

Medina: Staying ahead of the curve, keeping

pizza, preheat your oven to 355 degrees and toss

people guessing.

your pizza in the oven when you get back. I’ll wait those 10 extra minutes for my crispy crust.

Wilkins: Stay tuned to TheGlutLife.com man. Don’t want to give away the secrets.

O

#HOWT

OVER LOCA 50 IN teTIONS xas

Mesquite Grilled Chicken

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By A.J. Eaton

A DAY WITH

A

38

fan can be a great, powerful and terrible thing. Fans have started riots and begun movements. They have lifted up those few deemed worthy from obscurity to stardom. Every entertainer claims that they do it for the fans. Most don’t realize it, but it is the fans whom hold the power. They choose who makes it and who doesn’t – and most of those fans are amateurs.

Evan Henry, 15, and Matthew Vickers, 34, collectively make up Dallas Distortion Music. A project that began nearly two years ago when two fans noticed they were at the same shows, and were both blogging about the same things. In time, Henry and Vickers decided to go pro, and DDM grew from two guys talking about music and going to local shows into a full-fledged booking agency and label.

DDM is not the standard agency or label though. They cheer loudly and dance at the front of the crowd because at their core they simply love music. They seek out new bands and new music, regardless of genre. They put on shows and put out cassettes, because they can afford to, which is hard to believe considering, as they put it, “we get paid in T-shirts.”

THRWD spent a Friday night with the boys of DDM. The evening began at Good Records, on Lower Greenville. As the boys scoured through 45’s and spouted out obscure band names, THRWD gained insight into what it is they do and why they do it. Vickers made sure to point out that DDM is more than simply a booking agency.

“We exist as something with many facets: booking, promoting, releasing, documenting.

We really feel like we’re making something for the community that’s not disposable,” Vickers said. “It’s a love affair doing this.

We’re not stressing about making a profit.

Don’t get me wrong it would be nice to make some money, but at least now our shows at least get the bar fed. We’ve never had to pay to play a show.”

After buying a few records we turned to leave the store and grab some tacos before a show at Double Wide, where Japanather, Sealion and Deep Snapper were to play.

Before we could leave, Vickers noticed out of the corner of his eye that the display of cassettes on the front counter was devoid of any DDM tapes. He quickly ran to his car and grabbed the last of The Blackstone Rangers ‘Into the Sea’ EP’s he had. Henry said they

were always working, always promoting as he signed the paperwork and Vickers affectionately called him the CFO. “We devote around 50 hours a week to this. Right now it’s our second job that doesn’t really pay for anything now,” Henry said. “Our schedule’s been getting ridiculous. On top of regular life you have bands to contact, labels, compiling art with concurrent shows going on. It’s super easy to lose your shit.”

Even with a grueling schedule Henry still maintains an A/B average in high school where he is a junior. Aside from booking their own shows, the duo also attends a heavy number of performances, branching out, meeting people and networking. This year alone they estimate they’ve been to around 70 or 80 shows.

From their humble beginnings putting on shows at Bryan Street Tavern, which they called home base, DDM has grown and so has its following. The group was recently nominated for a Dallas Observer Award.

“At the observer awards Erika Badu said she’s heard of DDM, and that just blew our minds,” Vickers said.

We moved along to grab some dinner

and head to the show. As noted earlier, we arrived a few hours earlier to avoid any hassle getting in, as Henry is under 21. DDM learned its lesson after some issues in the past, particularly an incident last year at the City Tavern when Henry was kicked out of his own show for being under 21.

“I can get into whatever show I want now and that’s cool. I usually just have to call ahead and show up early, which I do anyway to help set up and stuff when it’s our show.

It’s just that once you go in you can’t go back out through the door,” Henry said.

As the bartenders, fans and other bands shuffled about Double Wide, it was evident that Henry and Vickers were in their element, seemingly knowing almost everyone in the room. Those that didn’t know them by name at least recognized Henry’s long flowing raven locks. He stands out at a show, because he will be that kid at the front dancing enthusiastically and swinging his hair in all directions. Vickers’ running joke is that Henry should have his hair trademarked.

Henry and Vickers have been working rooms like this together for nearly two years now, and seem to work together beautifully.

They claim it’s their shared musical philosophies which makes the relationship work, despite the 18 year age difference.

“Evan and I have the same ideals toward music and the community. Plus his enthusiasm, people see that and it brings them in, whereas I take on other stuff,” Vickers said.

“We work with a broad range of age groups and it’s cool. Everything just seems to jive with a 34 year old and a 16 year old working together.”

Band members bullshit before the show,

carrying on over absurdities and oddities of being on the road. Stories of tours and venues are hashed and the guys who were once just guys who blogged about bands and shows, now come across as professionals.

But not too professional.

Paul Hernandez, bass player for Sea Lion and Doom Ghost, told his tale of buying switchblades combs in St Louis while a

warehouse burned down nearby before they set up for sound check. He’s booked several shows with DDM and thinks they really stand out from the other booking agents and labels out there.

“It’s been great working with DDM. They have a really good following. They don’t just promote and push the shows. They actually come out and hang and watch the shows and get into it,” Hernandez said.

People shuffled in and out as the hour for the show start got closer. Merch booths were set up and guitars tuned. All the while Henry and Evan wandered about shaking hands and meeting, essentially, the entire room. If someone there didn’t know them, that wouldn’t last for long.

,

Evan Henry

They cite their ability to communicate with people, whether in person or through their writing as a vital part of what it is they do. Nearing their second year now, they still strive to improve and put on better shows, put out more cassettes and meet more people.

“The process of putting on a show is something that I don’t even think we knew how much it takes to just do one show and to make it a good show. We’ve put on shows before where the turnout may not be that great but the people that are there totally thoroughly enjoy it and the bands enjoy it,” Vickers said. “We’ve been doing this closer to two years now and we still have the urge to put on a good show. We’re always continuously trying to put on better shows.”

Alex Velte of the electronica band, Cutter, became involved with DDM by chance. A random meeting at a record store led to a collaboration, leaving him with nothing but praise for Vickers and Henry.

“We met them at a cd store and they volunteered to put out our EP on the spot.

Working with them has been so great.

They’ve given us completely free publicity,” Velte said. “They share everything from a song we put up, to a concert.”

DDM has grown a reputation around North Texas for being giant fans, hard workers and men of good taste. They do not concentrate on one genre or style, but simply try to work with the bands they like. If a sitar player from India showed up one day and they liked him, he’d get booked right along with the rock acts.

DDM has set its sights on branching out with an updated website to come and more shows in Dallas, Fort Worth and Denton. With more cassettes planned and another SXSW showcase coming up, the boys of DDM are moving forward.

Back at Double Wide, as the show began with Deep Snapper, it seemed as if someone flipped a switch on Henry’s back. He flung himself about in front of the stage clueless to the fact that there was anyone else even in the room. He danced with wild abandon. He loves the music.

photos by: CAsEY HOLDER

,

Matthew Vickers

George Quartz

By The Merry Prankster / Photo by Kim Morgan Eden

T

he man! The myth! The legend! The one and only, George Quartz. The mastermind behind the sexiest YouTube interviews this side of the Trinity River sits down with The Merry Prankster for an exclusive, and very sexy interview about the man behind the myth, or better yet, the myth behind the man. In true Georgie fashion, there was no time to sit, so the interview was done on-the-go through the miracle of Google Chat!

Buckle your seatbelts, because things are about to get totally, OUT! OF! CONTROL!

TMP: Hello, George.

TMP: How are you.

GQ: Couldn’t be better.

TMP: So George, or is it Georgie? What are you doing at this very moment. Since I can’t see you.

GQ: Either is fine. I’m actually unconscious and floating in a glass egg over a small koi pond in Tokyo. I’m using a modified version of the new Telepathy app to communicate with you. Hope it’s working okay.

42

TMP: With a slight delay, I would give it two thumbs up. Three if I ate more KFC. I know you can’t see me but I didn’t want you to think I was interviewing you at my laptop naked. So I put on a suit.It’s a little wrinkled.

GQ: I sensed you were a professional.

TMP: Which sense did you use? I hope not smell. This suit is a little musty.

GQ: I actually used female intuition, which is yet another app. These guys think of everything. It does cause me to weep uncontrollably and hold grudges against women I’ve never met before, however.

TMP: By George that’s amazing! Aren’t women the best? That was a question by the way. I’m asking you that because I don’t know very many.

GQ: They are indeed the best. They are never not completely fascinating and enigmatic.

Men are obvious. You should get to know some more women. There’s quite a few of them out there. Eventually, there will only be women.

TMP: George with the homerun! Look at him go. You really are the ladies’ man. You’ve turned this interview around and inside out.

Now, to be serious. George, who is your finest interviewee.

GQ: It’s a toss-up between Joe Namath and Sammy Davis, Jr.

GQ: I enjoy tennis, chess and long walks on the beach.

TMP: I noticed a little sexual energy there, you know, a kind of “spark” between you and Broadway Joe. Was that real or just my perverse imagination?

TMP: Where could one find the great George on the sunny sidewalks of Dallas?

TMP: Seems like your last name shouldn’t be Quartz, but Ruby! Because you have had some Ruby Tuesdays!

GQ: Where’s Dallas?

GQ: That’s my 7th eldest daughter’s name.

GQ: It’s both of our burdens to bear, I’m afraid. With great power comes great responsibility.

TMP: It’s in-between New York City and Mexico.

TMP: Any parenting tips for those teen moms out there?

GQ: No, that was a Thursday, I think.

GQ: I meant, what are sunny sidewalks?

GQ: Location, location, location.

TMP: So you keep things pretty professional when your guests are in the hot seat aye?

TMP: It’s a quaint little bar in Pattaya.

TMP: Amen.

GQ: Of course. Though Muhammad Ali did insist on sitting on my lap.

George! All those ladies we mentioned want to know, are you single?

What new music has George’s ear?

TMP: I bet that gave both of you the shakes!

George, I must know. Where do you get those great suits!

GQ: Take my wife... please!

GQ: Love this kid, Leif Garrett. He’s got a very bright future.

TMP: Sure! Where can I pick her up?

TMP: Reminds me of an older Kurt Cobain.

GQ: Botany 500. Sajak, Dawson (RIP) and I would have some cocktails and go on a little spree. We had to stop inviting Chuck Woolery after a major incident on Rodeo Drive in 1987.

George! If fans want to send you unsolicited photos, what email address would they send them to?

GQ: Who?

TMP: Which brings me to my next question. 1987. What was the highlight of that year for you?

GQ: My cameo on Miami Vice as ‘Gunman #3’.

TMP: Did you die? Or were you born to live?

GQ: Death by Tubbs, I’m afraid. Though it was nearly death by Crockett after partying all night with Don Johnson.

TMP: I bet! Well, actually, I don’t. I’m guessing cocaine and strippers?

GQ: That’s just an apéritif for Don. TMP: My my! I think we are all better off that you survived.George, let’s talk about your childhood. We know about the abuse.

We know about the drugs. What don’t we know about ?

GQ: I was a boy, but I was never a child.

TMP: I wasn’t able to open that last pic babe. Could you send it again?

Sorry wrong window. George!!!!! We know what you do in the after hours, how about the before hours?

GQ: They should just send them to the home office in Pueblo, Colorado.

TMP: Better let that mailroom know a shipments coming in!

Har Har! George! Why have you forsaken me?

GQ: I’m back!

TMP: A/S/L/?

George! Welcome back!

Ready to start the interview?

GQ: Of course, but we’ll have to be quick.

Dinah Shore is on the other line. And she’s dead.

TMP: Give her my best.

George, when did you start being George?

GQ: When I became a real boy.

TMP: And when was this?

GQ: I think it was a Tuesday.

TMP: Was it the same Tuesday you found your calling? To entertain?

TMP: He was in that band Hanson.With the sweaters and long blond hair.Great melodies.

What new projects is George working on at the moment. Go ahead , let that cat of the bag.

GQ: I’m taking my live stage sequel of Caligula to the big screen. The working title is Caligula 2: Money Never Sleeps.

TMP: But it does sleep around. Just ask Helen Mirren.

TMP: Okay George, let’s get serious. There’s a lot of speculation as to the reality of your existence. Let’s take this opportunity to set the record straight.

GQ: I’m sorry, but my agent gave you a list of questions that you are forbidden to ask and this one was printed in bold type. Interview over!

TMP: NO MORE SHENANIGANS! We can talk this out. We’ve been through worse.

TMP: Goodnight folks!

TMP: Miss you George.

George Quartz is offline. Messages you send will be delivered when George Quartz comes online.

WITH THE LIGHTs ON Hair and Makeup / Tyzza Model / Katrina Lynn Photography / Casey Holder Assistant Photographer / Ryk VanRavenswaay

44

T S I T R A

TO

T S I T AR

nice

layALLY P

on

Robins Jenny

MC, Jenny Robinson and Atomic Tanlines front-woman, Ally Play-Nice represent the new school of their respective genres. These ladies are doing work. The Tanlines plan to release an album later this year, while Robinson will drop a collaboration record with producer, 8earcub. THRWD sat down with ladies for the third edition of "Artist to Artist" to find out what makes these trendsetters tick.

Interviewed, transcribed and edited by Lee Escobedo.

Photos by Taylor Knapp

THRWD: How long have you guys known each other?

Ally: And we got kicked out, it was our first bar show in Denton and we got kicked out way hard.

Ally: A year. We played a show together.

THRWD: What show was that?

Robinson: It was “The Experience.”

52

and I was trying to show them what’s up, and I did.

Robinson: You really did.

Robinson: It was so fucking good. There’s a video on YouTube.

Ally: And it was an experience…

Ally: I know I hate the video. I hate everything about that night except your performance.

(Both laugh)

Robinson: How could you hate it?

Robinson: It was a Brain Gang show that was supposed to be hip-hop and punk fused together.

Ally: I was trying to act a complete fool because there were so many hip-hop kids

Ally: This girl wouldn’t look at me in the eyes afterwards.

Robinson: (Laughs) Was that the girl who got hit in the head?

Ally: No it was just some girl who was like, “Whatever,” she wouldn’t shake my hand it was funny.

THRWD: Was that the first time you got to do

I think that’s why we attract people within our respected genres, we’re assertive on ins b o R about our femininity,

a show with an act of another genre?

Ally: Yea, that was one of our first shows in Denton.

Robinson: That was one of my first shows ever, much less with a punk band and a hip-hop thing going on at the same time.

It was really exciting.

“

“

anti-hip-hop. But I like to rap. Well, I used to like to rap.

THRWD: Do you guys see similarities between the two genres?

Robinson: I do.

Ally: It’s all connected. All genres in music are connected.

THRWD: How long have you been making music?

Robinson: I didn’t start until l came here.

I’m even surprised when I think about it. I was exposed to a lot of different music. We were constantly going to shows, so I had all this influence swarming around me. So when I first moved here and I didn’t have any friends, it just ceased. That was when I began to make my own music. Because I had no other outlet and I didn’t know where the good shows were.

Ally: I was in a hip-hop band, two, threeyears-ago called The Kitchen. It was all cyphers, but we would play shows. That wasn’t a big deal, but whenever I came to Denton I started the Tanlines, January 1st, 2012. The year the world was supposed to end, but it didn’t. I was planning on it ending but it didn’t, so we’re still going. I came to Denton a year ago and I didn’t have anybody.

I was asking everyone, “Where are all the punk shows?” I was super frustrated that I couldn’t find what I wanted. So I was like, “I’m just gonna start a band!” I met a guy at Waffle House who had on a Bad Brains t-shirt. He was like “I play bass. I’ll hook you up. And he did.”

Robinson: That’s so sweet.

Ally: I wanna start a band called Teen Bitch, you should be in it.

Robinson: Can I be in it?

Ally: Yes! THRWD: What made you switch genres?

Ally: I grew up on hip-hop but my hearts been in punk rock since I was a freshman in high school. I had a boyfriend who was really into hip-hop, which put me back in hip-hop, because I strayed away from it. I was

Robinson: In New Jersey, there’s a very prominent punk scene. I feel like New Jersey and New York are stuck in a time warp where Y2K never happened.

Ally: (Laughs) Nice.

Robinson: My friends group growing up in high school, half were hip-hop heads, who listened to ‘90s hip-hop, and the others were all punk. For me personally, the principals and the sub-culture of punk had a very heavy influence. Which is what makes my hip-hop very different from what you hear in Dallas.

I’m very pro-feminist. Pro be-yourself. Pro fuck-the-man-up-his-ass and all that shit.

I think a lot of new emerging female artists you see that. A lot of females in hip-hop are very sick of everything being “Bend over and shake it.” Shut up with all that.

Ally: Everyone is just really pissed off and trying being themselves. That’s what punk is all about. It’s about being utterly true to yourself. It’s not flamboyant, having patches all over everything. It’s an attitude.

It’s a mindset.

THRWD: Did that feeling of isolationism, and not knowing where the scene was, have an impact on your music?

Ally: Oh ya. Feeling unwanted and displaced, not fitting in anywhere. I’ve felt that my whole life, but coming into college and being on my own for the first time in my life, it was even more so. It was different being the different kid in highs school, now I’m the different kid in college and I know nobody and I’m gonna have to make it for myself.

Robinson: I don’t know what Belton is like…

Ally: Horrible.

Robinson: But I know that when you have an eclectic taste in fashion or music, if you can’t find a group of people to bind, or be a collective with to talk about this stuff, you just have to create it.

THRWD: Even though it’s 2013, do you think it’s still “interesting” that you’re white in hiphop and you’re black in punk?

Robinson: I’ve never thought about that before.

Ally: No. I guess it comes up a lot and I like to look at other black punks. I’m really excited when I see one. But I don’t think it’s that big of a deal anymore.

Robinson: In New York there are lots of black punks and lots of white rappers.

Ally: It’s harder to find down here and that might be why I get so excited. I came from a small area and there was no one I could identify with that looks like me and is in this genre of music.

THRWD: Why do you think Dallas is stuck in a time warp where it hasn’t advanced to where New York is?

Robinson: Like the fact that we even think I’m a white rapper and she’s a black punk and how that will affect our success.

THRWD: Do you think it will affect your success?

Robinson: Definitely in the southern half of the United States, where they seem to pay the most attention to it.

Ally: And the fact that we’re female.

Robinson: Especially since we’re “I’m woman hear me roar” females and not…

(Both laugh) THRWD: Do you think it’s difficult being females in two genres that are known for their masculinity?

Ally: It’s defiantly a struggle but it’s not

as bad as people perceive it to be. I do feel different. But that’s my own thing, I need to not feel different and just do my own thing.

Robinson: I agree with that. But we’re both masculine females in terms of asserting our dominance. And I think that’s why we attract people within our respected genres as well. Because we’re assertive about our femininity.

Ally: And also not so assertive. I don’t believe in gender roles. I try not to, but they do come up quite often.

Robinson: I 100% agree that it shouldn’t be factored in to what we do at all.

Ally: It shouldn’t be about it.

Robinson: Whether we’re male or female, or in-between we should just try to be the best.

Ally: We are the best.

(Both laugh) THRWD: What influences shaped your perspectives?

Ally: For me, Poly Styrene. I really love the

X-Ray Spexs because she was a woman, she was young and she was black. Same with Bad Brains, they were the first band I found, well I didn’t find them, they were introduced to me. Same with the X-Ray Spexs, they were introduced with me too, but sometimes you have to get introduced to stuff. But they defiantly had an influence on me to feel that it was okay to be myself.

I shouldn’t feel ashamed for liking punk.

Whenever I was younger I used to get made fun of if I listened to radio rock. I remember humming some song on the radio and I got beat up for it. You weren’t supposed to act like that because you were black. You were supposed to fit into the standard and I was always on the outskirts because I was mixed. Seeing other black punk bands influenced me to feel like it’s okay to be me and it’s okay to be myself.

Robins: You got beat up for listening to a song? That’s terrible.

Ally: People aren’t nice. But what can you do but beat them up to and move on?

THRWD: Jenny, what were you like in high school?

Robinson: I was pretty popular in high school. But I was a trouble-maker and listened to a lot of hip-hop music. I smoke a lot of weed. It was pretty cool but I was angry and pissed off, on a war path with anger aimed at no particular direction, but I had a lot of fun. I listened to a lot of music, hip-hop and other genres as well. We went to shows every weekend.

THRWD: what are some of your favorite local bands?

Ally: I love the shit out of DEEP Throat.

Another female fronted band here in Denton. I really like Black James Franco.

Funny name, but they fucking rule. Sin Motivo, they’re from Fort Worth. Really straight-forward, really hardcore. Indie bands, Senor Fin, I’m trying to go through genre here in Denton. DEEP Throat is sludgy, Sin Motivo is straight-forward 80’s hardcore, and Black James Franco is really nice soul. And Senor-Fin is indie. And hiphop, I like Jenny Robinson.

Robinson: I like The Atomic Tanlines.

My favorite shows to go to here are Atomic Tanlines shows.

“She’s a black punk, I can be a black punk. She’s a woman, I can be a womanly Al and front a band,

“

Ally: I was super excited to hear I would be interviewing with Jenny Robinson. I love Jenny Robinson.

THRWD: Jenny, what are your favorite locations to play at in Dallas, and do you think Dallas has good locations to play hip-hop?

Robinson: I think it has good locations, but you could always use more. I haven’t performed at too many places. I’ve performed at Hailey’s and Andy’s…

Ally: Fuck Andy’s.

THRWD: What happened there?

Ally: Not anything good. I mean at that show Jenny played and Brain Gang played and they were great. But I hate that place. That place can kiss my black ass.

(Both laugh) Ally: In-between the cheeks.

THRWD: Jenny, you mentioned earlier that you were tired of artists using sexuality as a marketing tool. Do you think there’s a revolt starting against that?

Robinson: I think tons of mainstream artists are still using it very heavily. And there are a lot of people like that sort of thing, including women. You can hop on “World Star HipHop” and you’ll see tons of women shaking ass and eating that shit up. But I do think it’s starting to fall back on itself. What I’m hoping is more women start speaking out against it in hip-hop, and maybe even some men too. I know for myself, I’m starting to write some songs on my own, like “Okay you want me to shake my ass, shake your dick motherfucker!” Like, “Do that for me really quick.”

Ally: I just want to be on the cover of Maximum Rock N Roll. That’s the only musical achievement I want. I honestly just want to have a good time. That’s why I started this band, so I’d have something to do. I could have fun. I want to have fun, and I’m going to do it by any means possible.

Ally: For me personally, I’m proud of who I am as a woman. Especially with my experiences getting into punk, it was exciting seeing other black punks. So, hopefully a little girl out there will see me and say “She’s a black punk, I can be a black punk.

She’s a woman, I can be a woman and front a band.” I don’t mind that I flaunt that I’m a woman, I’m black, that I’m queer as well.

Because that’s who I am. I hope I can inspire people. I don’t see very many people like me within in the music industry.

THRWD: What about upcoming projects?

THRWD: What are your goals, musically?

Robinson: My goal for 2013 is the same as my goal as every year, to rule the world.

(Laughs) (Ally sings Lauryn Hill’s “If I Ruled The World”)

Robinson: I’m dropping an album really soon.

Ally: Oooh, nice!

Robinson: It’s just about done. I want to throw a couple more songs on it. I was going to drop it a month ago and I started looking into copywriting some lyrics, and when I delayed that I got some new beats that excited me.

Ally: Who does your beats?

Robinson: I get them from a lot of different people.

Ally: Nice.

Robinson: 80% are from people I know on the East Coast that send me beats periodically. But every now and then I’ll get find something randomly, and I’ll hunt them down on every social networking site.

Ally: Who did that Frank Sinatra beat? There was a beat that sampled the shit out of a Frank Sinatra song.

Robinson: That was a kid I don’t know personally, but when I found him he was on Datpiff.com with one download, which is why I grabbed that beat like, “This kid isn’t going to give me any trouble.”

(Both laugh)

Robinson: Yea, and I know he’s been selling a lot of beats. He’s getting paid to make beats now. It’s good to see someone like that progressing.

Ally: Hell yea.

THRWD: Ally, do you have any upcoming albums?

Ally: We have a demo, but it’s almost obsolete because we don’t play it anymore.

We’re gonna record soon, but we don’t know how soon. February, I’m really busy and March we’re all really busy with SXSW and all that stuff that keeps us busy.

Robinson: I love the Atomic Tanlines demo. I really like it so much. But I need you to tell me the lyrics because I’ll be in my car making up my own words because I can’t like…

THRWD: Do The Atomic Tanlines have a Twitter?

Ally: We just got on Twitter @. Two of our band members are “famous Tweeters.” They have a couple 1,000 followers and they’re really witty and funny and they just post a lot of stupid stuff on our Twitter. They’ll be like, “Poop farts.” So if y’all want to follow us on Twitter, be prepared for some really silly stuff.

Robinson: I retweet all the silly stuff. My Twitter is @JennymfRobinson and my band camp is JennyRobinson.bandcamp.com. I found out from my co-workers if you Google “Jenny Robinson rapper’ all my social network stuff comes up.

Ally: Is that it?

THRWD: That’s it.

Robinson: Now, fast forward three years, he’s teamed up with the NORML Organization…

Ally: I will tell you all the lyrics.

Ally: Cool. This has been THRWD Magazine…

THRWD: Where can we hear the demo?

Robinson: …Issue 3.

Ally: Like NORML, smoke weed, NORML?

Ally: The AtomicTanlines.bandcamp.com page. Or just Google us.

Ally: Smoke us out.

TAQUERIA

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MESSAGE received HAVE YOU QUESTIONED YOUR TEXTLIFE?

by Camille Rogers

H

60

ere’s a recurring experience in my life: my cell phone will ring. I’ll glance at the screen. It’s one of my parents, my sister, or a friend. I reach to answer, but then pause. I have no reason to decline the call—I’m not busy at the moment and I’m in an area where I can talk freely—yet I do.

Five minutes later, I’ll pick up my phone and send the ignored person a text message that says, very innocently, “Hey. What’s up?”

Then we’ll pass a few texts back and forth, and what results is a sharply abbreviated version of the conversation that would have taken place earlier. Yes, I’m one of those annoying people who would rather text than call. It’s not that I don’t love my family and friends, or think they aren’t interesting. I just really like to text. It’s quick and convenient, and it’s quickly become my primary discourse method of choice. Still, I know all of my texting is snowballing into bad habit that I need to break. Conversing is a both a skill and an art, and it’s an ability you need to advance in life, both personally and professionally. I used to pride myself on being a

charming conversationalist, but I’m starting to feel like that part of me is deteriorating.

I’m probably not alone. In 2011, data from the Pew Internet & American Life Project showed that 83% of American adults owned cell phones and 73% of them sent and received text messages; 31% of these texting users said they preferred texting to talking on the phone. (This preference was stronger in “heavy texters.” In this case, people who exchanged more than 50 texts a day; for this group, 55% said that they would rather receive a text than a voice call.)

While I wouldn’t label myself a “heavy texter,” I do text frequently, and I would definitely align myself with the 31% of American adults that felt more likely to respond to the sound of a text beep than a phone call ring.

The study only stated these texters preferred texting to talking; it didn’t suggest that texting, even heavy texting, was the reason why they didn’t like talking on the phone.

I can’t speak for everyone, but I strongly suspect that the biggest culprit behind my plummeting desire to engage in voice calls

is my increased texting. It’s hard to admit, but voice conversations don’t feel “normal” anymore—texting does. It’s what I’m used to doing. Talking on the phone, in the traditional sense, actually feels a bit awkward to me.

I think it’s because, for me, texting is an empowering form of communication.

Often, when people call me, I feel like I’m at their mercy, and that I need to ride out the conversation until they’re ready to sign off, so I don’t come across as rude. I have much more authority through an exchange of text messages. I can initiate a text whenever I choose; likewise, when someone sends me a text, I can respond at my leisure. It’s not so “of-the-moment,” so the pressure to be funny, interesting, to have the answer someone is seeking for an extended period of time isn’t there. Further, the contextual factors that tend to constrain the flow of a voice conversation, like timing, tone and inflection, don’t have the same impact in a text exchange. To me, it makes the experience less reactive, and in some ways it feels like I’m talking to…no one.

83% owned cell phones

of AMERICAN ADULTS

73% SEND RECEIVE

TEXTS

31% TEXT

55%

TALK I <3 TEXTING

would rather receive

TEXT over

VOICE CALL

“Talking on the phone, in the traditional sense, actually feels a bit awkward to me,” And, really, maybe that’s whittling down my conversation skills: I’m becoming more accustomed to talking at abstractions, than talking with people. When I text, the only thing I’m really engaging with is my phone— and, buzzy and beepy and vibrant as it is, it’s still a device. It’s a mediator that, most of the time, dissolves any potential intimacy that exists between me and others. The people involved in my text exchanges are little more that filtered, compressed, and

digitized pieces of information resting in the palm of my hand.

Perhaps I can take on this problem myself, as one (of many) New Year’s resolutions, and just make an effort to engage in voice calls more often. But what if the issue is broader than me? One-third is not a throwaway portion of American adults.

Technology has done so much to expand the ways in which we communicate, but maybe the findings from the Pew study are

an indication that our more traditional forms of communication are shifting into cultural retirement. Perhaps my discomfort with talking on the phone is shared by others and, as cell phones become more ubiquitous in our society, this sentiment will become more broad and salient.

In other words, I may not have a problem.

I may just be ahead of the curve and, eventually, everyone else will be just like me.

Blame Blair

by Blair Whatley

62

I don’t know what possessed me. I thought that I could write an article about online dating, having never actually dated online. Everyone has seen the commercials with dating websites specifically targeted, “Just for you!” With slogans like, “Do you love God more than you love sex?” Christian Mingle! “Are you willing to pay someone to match you? You know, for optimal time between courting, marriage, and children.” Match.com!” Are you just a horny, awkward, young adult who can hardly make rent?” OkCupid is the site for you! Even though I’ve never been on one of these sites, I’ve had the occasional Facebook creeper message me some random line, but I’ve never sought this kind of attention. To be honest, I’ve always laughed at the thought of online dating. Why can’t you just go out in public and wrangle yourself a lover?

W

ith that being said, two of my very best friends are still in successful relationships that began on dating websites. Personally, I think both can do better (sorry boys).

But honestly, I don’t give a shit how you met, as long as you’re making her smile. For better or worse, I decided it was time for me to experience the world of online dating.

Really. Honestly. I just wanted some unprovoked dick pics from someone on Christian Mingle. Upon trying accessing the site in hopes of getting a few I found out, Jesus, or God, or whoever, will not let you read messages unless you pay for his services, i.e., become a paid member. You can’t even wink at people.

You have to take their equivalent of a psych evaluation, then the site puts your personality into one of three colors.

I’m a yellow. Meaning, I just like to have fun. But the worst part about this site isn’t the fact that it takes around 36-hours for them to approve your profile. It’s the fact that without paying, you can ONLY read the subject line and first line of any message a paying member sends to you. I guess that’s Satan working his magic on Christian Mingle. Wanna see more? Like a dick pic? Just fork over ten dollars a month and it’s yours! Seeing as I’ve always refused to pay for porn, I’m not starting with Christian Mingle.

Howdy. My name is Joe and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m from Rockwall, TX Hello there!

Heeyy! bet you smoke weed a lot

Hey there beautiful :) How are you doing today?...

#nodickpics

I like your upside down cross shirt :)

Hey there! hey, message me back, lets talk.

Your image is cool...that is all.

You have wonderful eyes. Your friends look like...

“The Internet has created the online

”

version of making awkward eye contact, Next, I signed up for OkCupid.

Here, you upload photos and describe yourself via questions in an “original” way. It seems you’re supposed to get to know someone without actually saying a word to him/her. I decided early on that I was not going to use my real name or zip code. The only authentic things I used were my pictures and personality traits, exaggerated times ten. I was on OkCupid for about a month, but couldn’t bring myself to actually respond to the messages in my inbox. Mainly because there weren’t any dick pics. I have yet to receive any. One thing that creeps me out about this site is the fact that you can see your profile views. If my profile is viewed 120 times during a two-day period, I’ll probably have about 50 messages. I feel like a conceded bitch just typing those words. This website can really get to your head. And honestly, I feel like most of these men wouldn’t approach me in real life. Their computer acts as a shield of sorts. I mean, we all look way better on the Internet as opposed to real-life, right?

Around month two, I finally got drunk enough to play along. I started responding to the wittiest, and dimmest messages possible. Granted, I did have good conversations with some of these men, some of whom appeared quite genuine. I even found myself thinking, “Wow, if I met you in person I’d probably hang out with you.”

That’s where these dating websites get you. It’s literally a virtual meat market. You prowl for members of the desired sex, find a thumbnail you find desirable, open this persons “profile,” AKA your Internet personality, and maybe send them a message. Even if there’s no contact, they will know that you have visited their Internet persona, and then in-turn, visit yours too. The Internet has created the online version of making awkward eye contact.

I mean, it’s nice to know that you’re attractive, and sometimes people need a little pick me up. These websites are for lonely people who grew up in the age of the Internet and perhaps are lacking social skills in relation to their age. And let’s be honest. If I get a message on OkCupid, I have every right to believe that this man wants something. Whether it starts with simple conversation and moves on to exchanging phone numbers, eventually you’re supposed to meet this person, and it all goes back to the beginning.

It’s like the awkwardness of seeing a one-night stand weeks after the deed.

Except there was no sex to be had, so where’s the fun? Well I mean unless you’re into sexting, but that’s a whole different article.

These websites do have their perks, such as really pumping up your confidence. You just have to learn where the confidence ends and the cockiness begins. I’m rarely approached by strangers in a public setting, and for a while just attributed that to my outrageous personality.

Since I’ve been on these dating websites I find myself thinking, “I know you all want to bang me. You totally should have seen my profile views yesterday!”

With mass communication being so readily available, and the lines between reality and virtual so distorted, it’s hard to know how to keep yourself grounded.

This social experiment stunned me at every turn. Little of what I expected actually occurred. I have to hand it to some men out there, they have their opening lines polished to perfection. My personal favorite was the guy who wrote a poem about my name and what my profile said. After I praised his creativity, we exchanged a few messages and by the end of our communication, he asked me to accompany him to a trendy Dallas

brunch place. Naturally, I promptly stopped talking to him. Now, this guy made me smile via words, he seemed good looking, and I’m sure if I were to run into him organically, I would have no fucking idea I’d ever talked to this person. But I still chose not to meet him. Which poses a burning question: could I ever use the Internet to legitimately find a partner?

At 22 years old, I believe that I’m desirable enough to find a mate without help and pretty cautious as to the Internet creating love between two people. Truthfully, I’d like it if all these damn websites crashed, the same day at the same time, so people would actually go out in public again. Most of our generation is already addicted to Facebook, and dating sites are providing another useless habit.

Adoring readers, if you’re a dating website user, I’m not trying to make you feel bad. I understand the appeal.

I’m hot shit online, but in reality I’m an opinionated young lady with too many thoughts. I’m not knocking the online hsutle, just don’t forget the old-school approach. Keep in mind there’s also really cool people at bars, clubs, colleges, stores and even at our favorite pancake spot. Get up and go talk to a cute stranger. Stop relying on technology to portray your personalities. I fear that if we keep slipping down the slope of anonymity, soon we’ll have an “OKBABY” website where I can answer a list of questions, and then the site will suggest whose sperm should fertilize my eggs.

And you know what? After this experiment I’ve found myself guilty of my own critiques. Because even though I think everyone should just walk away from these black holes of cyber love; I still can’t decide if I’m going to delete my profiles.

C AN’ T B UY ME LOV E by: Lori Toerpe

I

definitely haven’t mastered the title of girlfriend, nor do I have any idea what it might take to be a decent wife. And my very traditional family makes it really obvious that they notice. Like asking if I’m a lesbian during Holiday dinners, and or awkwardly using my age to come up with baby making time frames. I try and take it with a grain of salt, but I wasn’t at all surprised when everyone pitched in and purchased me a subscription on eHarmony. It was a little embarrassing, but I tried to be open to it. I thought maybe, just maybe, I’d meet one of these mythical creatures called “decent men” that I’ve heard so much about. Not to give too much away, below is a list of what transpired during my three months on the site.

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J OHN , 3 3 — P H O T O G R A PH E R

MATT, 26 — ACCOUNT MANAGER

BRIAN, 34 — SMALL BUSINESS OWNER

The most important thing John is looking for in a person – “I want someone kind, who’s willing to settle down without getting boring, if that’s possible.”

Some additional information John wanted you to know – “I used to be in the military, and then I was a teacher, now I’m a freelance photographer working on my Masters.”

I was kind of into this guy at first. He seemed well-rounded, educated, interested in some of the same things I was and his pictures were kind of cute too. He sent me a wink (which is the equivalent of a poke on Facebook), so I decided to say hello. Over the next few weeks, we exchanged a long series of lengthy emails, but when we finally exchanged phone numbers, neither of us called. I don’t know why I didn’t call, but he didn’t call either. Just one of those things, I guess. Back to the drawing board.

The most influential person in Matt’s life has been – “Probably my best friend, Julie.

I’ve known Julie for over half my life, in both friendship and love. I probably care more about her well-being than I do my own.”

Yeah, because I want to date someone who’s in love with his best friend, right? Why the hell would you ever put something like that on a dating profile? Listen Matt, I’ve been in love with my best friend before too, and it’s really not a situation I want to be on the other end of. Just propose to Julie already, she’s probably been waiting.

I didn’t have anything bad to say about Brian, until he showed up to our first date with cocaine in his nostrils. I’m going to stop for a second here and say this: I really do believe in taking full responsibility for every aspect of your entire life, including the people who fall into it. Did I know Brian would show up tweaked out of his mind? No. But this incident made me really sit down and question what kind of energy I’m putting out into the universe. Even via the Internet, I attract guys who are no good. What. The. Hell.

Anyway, if you need a little boost before we meet up, grab a Red Bull. Or at least clean out your nose before you walk in the door. At the end of our date, Brian stood in the middle of the street, arms outstretched, yelling, “LORI! You’re not gonna fucking call me, are you?” You’re right Brian, I’m not. But thanks for the awesome story that I get to tell all my friends.

Like you, Tate also enjoys ‘foreign films.’

His favorite movies include – “Amelie” Alright, so at first I gave this guy the brush-off.

“Amelie” is one of my favorite movies too, but I was apprehensive to communicate with someone from one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the TATE, 30 — FINANCIAL ANALYST entire state. I always assume that guys with lots of money are extremely wary of girls who fall into lower tax brackets. And I probably would be too. So for that reason, I didn’t reply when he messaged me. But then he nudged me. You nudge someone when they haven’t responded to your endeavors in over seven days.

It’s like saying, “Hey, pay attention to me!” I’ve never nudged anyone, because I think it looks a little desperate, but whatever.

So he nudges, I finally respond to the list of pre-written questions he’s picked out for me, and we exchange a few short emails. He mentions something about being financially stable, and I’m quick to point out that “financially stable” is not a term I’d use to describe myself at this point in my life. And guess what? I never heard from him again.

Some additional information Dan wanted you to know – “I often enjoy breakfast for dinner. Nothing like some bacon after 5 p.m.”I actually liked that. It was kind of stupid and really simple, but it made me laugh and it made him seem down to earth.

And there really is nothing like some bacon DAN, 32 — SALES after 5 p.m. So Dan and I text back and forth for a while, and then one night we finally go out.

We met up at a bar in the suburbs. The date wasn’t spectacular, but it wasn’t horrible either. He was a little too quiet, but it didn’t bother me. He even made sure I got home ok, and then called the next day to tell me what a nice time he had. So we went out again.

We went to the movies this time, and he didn’t pay. Not only did he allow me to pay, but he then asked to borrow money for refreshments. I’m pretty traditional when it comes to romance, and the second date is way too early for me to be paying for things, let alone, LENDING YOU MONEY. I can’t view someone as a man after a scenario like that, so I stopped picking up the phone when he called.

Sadly, Dan and I will never eat bacon together after 5 p.m.

I don’t remember exactly what it was that drew me to this guy. It wasn’t the fact that he was a pilot, that’s for sure. I’m pretty sure he emailed me one day and we just started talking. He seemed fun and easy going, and he was pretty CHRIS, 27 — PILOT cute too. He was wearing a fedora in one of his pictures, but it looked good on him—natural, not forced or contrived. So after a week or two I gave him my number. THE GUY BLEW UP MY PHONE. We hadn’t even hung out yet and he was already texting me every day. Numerous times, every day. It honestly scared me a little. I started playing out murder scenes in my head, retracing our conversations to see if I’d made the mistake of mentioning where I work. So I lied and told him that I’d met someone else. Sometimes lying is ok, protecting your own safety is one of those times.

Ultimately, the online dating thing just wasn’t for me I guess. I’ll admit it was kind of awesome having a million dudes trying to holler at me every day, but other than that, it was pretty much a waste of time. Maybe I just didn’t take it seriously enough. Or maybe, I write people off for really stupid reasons, which is something I have a problem with in real life too.

And that brings me to my point; online dating is just an extension of real life dating. If I’m bad at one, I’m probably bad at the other. All the hangups you have going on inside your head, the bad habits you can’t seem to overcome in the real world and the bitchdicks that exist in everyday life—all that comes out on the Internet too. And a bunch of boys winking and nudging you all day on a dating site is the same thing as a bunch of them grinding up on you at the club while they pour booze down your throat (I’m not complaining about that last part). They’re both one big cattle call.

So maybe, in one sense, my traditional family has had the right idea all along. Maybe the fairytale ending finds itself in the occurrences that seem least exciting at first. Maybe I should smile at the guy in Borders, despite the fact that he’s perusing the Computer Programming section. Maybe I shouldn’t be so quick to say no when I meet people through work. And maybe old school values can meet new school swag at the grocery store.

What I do know is, I’m not a failure, I’m just single. And for the record, the other day someone came into my work and told me that he was an actor in one of those eHarmony commercials.

An actor. So when the commercials say “Janie and Michael, matched on December 6th, 2009,” it’s total bullshit.

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It takes skills to pay the bills H

by Cliff Dweller

ere's an idea. Let’s make profits. Let’s sell out.

Let’s not do it for the love. OK? Cool. Once you start seeing increased profit, integrity and virtue, principle will slowly fade away. Now, let’s get started on this whole sellout thing. First, forget about yourself, the part of you that rationally decides deep inside ifsomething bothers you.

You'll need to become a shell of yourself in order to succeed here. Next, regard your creative medium as a weapon, an impersonal tool of influence, exploiting its capacity is key to your career. Erase culture from your judgment, your allegiance is to the bottom line. Honor will be replaced with cowardice. Cheating replaces diligence, and so forth.

The bigger question is: What do you want todo with all the money? Cause let me tell you, the money is real.

You see everyone has a price, or vice.

Take your pick. Fuck it. Let’s be real. Your rent, utilities, car payment, child support, credit cards, insurance, groceries, college tuition, probation and recreation depend on accumulating mass amounts of money over the span of your life. Your "career" is a long list of deficits and rewards that only you can determine their value. You want the modern mansion, or the $800 apartment? The A-list of society, or the locals at the bar?

Being that you have the advantage here, your talent, this should be a no brainer.

The only thing holding you back is what you think people will think of you. Let’s address that. Everything everyone ever told you about integrity was completely slanted. For starters, if your artistry has to be validated by the people around you, there’s something wrong. Then to make it worse, we band together in little collectives just waiting for one of us to get launched.

Relying on chance, instead of drive. Maybe you bitch about the successful ones who “don't deserve it.” That deep rooted selfrighteousness, that comes from being threatened by the rich. It’s because you’re poor, not because you did something to change your condition and the rich stopped you. No, the blame is wholeheartedly yours. Not the government, the shadow government, the "scene", the critics or the public’s response to your art.

As long as we're being real here, we should also consider that artistic integrity and personal gain are at war inside of you. Somewhere along the line you let the world condition you to believe that your value is not equal to your passion. How many times have we all witnessed an artist negotiate price? Only to see them settling for a compromise of ideals and finance.

This becomes a lifestyle. Meanwhile, entire industries generate millions portraying the

very life you live today, only to sell it back to you tomorrow. This isn't anything new by the way.

When New York galleries first began showing graffiti as fine art, the hiphop culture had to make a decision. At that moment, the connection between street art and the fine art world was born. Corporations caught on, and those connections evolved into a new global industry. Graffiti artists can now make a living doing what they love. You might say, “I can’t believe those dudes sold out.”

But selling out has many levels, and even its value can only be determined by the perpetrator. The cultural backlash towards those that profit from their ideas only shows the cultures insecurity in itself. The people who yell “Sell out,” are usually the people not selling.

Let’s further consider why the term "starving artist" might apply to you. There’s

a reason why you never hear of "starving pharmacist," or "starving banker.” For the sake of argument let’s say you're lazy.

No, better yet, let’s say you're moderately driven but horribly organized. Better yet, let’s say you’re barely driven at all, but full of talent. You want to make your passion your career but you don’t know how because the less talented artist with twice the determination is blowing up and you’re not. Suddenly it’s a competition. You start thinking about the odds, the chances you have at making yourself standout from the crowd. You eventually adapt to your surroundings in hopes it will reinforce your status. Your art “suffers” because suddenly you’re not feeling it anymore. Good, you will have to suffer, you will have to lose your identity as an artist in order to find your identity as a person. The longer you want to possess your works of art, to call them yours after they’re done, to sign them and

promote the fact that you alone were the creator, the longer you will remain poor. If art is an extension of the soul and you want to sell your art, you are already selling your soul. The real question is, “How much soul do you have and what is it worth to you?”

The value you give yourself cannot change the facts, food costs money, rent is due and life is not getting any cheaper.

I’ve never seen a painting stop a war, or a drawing save a relationship, or a photograph pay a bill. You are starving because you chose not to eat. You are a starving artist because to you it means more than money. Your passions have no price, but trust me the gas pump does. If your sense of principle truly supersedes the material world then why buy Nikes made in sweatshops, why pay taxes that support wars, why listen to a Clear Channel station on the way to a real hip-hop show?

The fact is, we all sell out. We do it every

day of our lives. We sell out because we feel that we can’t change the way the world works, so we adapt and bury the guilt with our own version of reality. Culturally we are simple anthems of resistance, murals of revolution, paintings of freedom, but nothing tangible.

The only thing that can change is you, the artist. Play by your own rules. That’s true freedom. You can get rich and still have integrity. You can reach the top of your field and not starve. You can preserve and honor your culture and not lose your soul. You can work harder to perfect your craft. You can create new disciplines in your life to help you succeed. You can cultivate the world you want to live in. The only thing you can’t do, is sell yourself short.

LMFAO THE INTERNET thrwd2013

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An interview with the internet.

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Noam Chomsky 50 years ago The internet could be a very positive step towards education, organisation and participation in a meaningful society.

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Top Comments Darklancer951 1 year ago WOOT IM FIRST YAHHHH! i have no idea what this guys reaaly getting too, but sounds verrry inteligent :PP Reply

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syborius 1 year ago nice insight...thanks Noam, occasionally he spills a lot of truth despite being a gatekeeper on 911l.

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DeweyZinnChomskyFisk 11 months ago a "gatekeeper of 911"? you've been watching too much alex jones. he describes 9/11 rather well - that al qaeda is an off-shoot of a terrorist organization that the US during the Reagan administration created, armed, funded, and trained (Mujahideen). the US was indirectly responsible, similar to the US being indirectly responsible for the Indonesia's genoide of the people of East Timor Reply

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wajohnso1 1 year ago This has to be one of the idiotic rambling fools I've ever seen.The quote that "everybody knew this except for the economists" shows a huge misunderstanding of logic. And somehow biotech and oil are related by military contracts? I'm surprised this guy can find his way home at night.

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DeweyZinnChomskyFisk 11 months ago chomsky vs. whining youtuber.... i wonder who wins that one?

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wajohnso1 11 months ago Crazy conspiracy theories vs. reality... I wonder which one wins? The high tech industry and the military are very distinguishable. What are Apple's annual sales to the military compared to its total annual sales? Not all of the military is high-tech either.

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Mark Zuckerberg 7 weeks ago Right now, with social networks and other tools on the Internet, all of these 500 million people have a way to say what they're thinking and have their voice be heard.

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Top Comments qwertypluss 20 hours ago I know I wlil nver be as successful as him but it really makes me thankful that Im not a creepy, awkward, fun sapping, depressing creep like him lol Reply

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ramonaiiigh 3 hours ago He's successful. And you're obviously not. You're sat alone judging him without knowing him. Who's the better person, huh? :) Reply

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lcls94 1 month ago zuckerberg= stalin saverin=trotskyon, huh? :) Reply

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RaffinDK 2 weeks ago many people should just shut the fuck off. the dude is a rightful self-made billionaire. he doesnt give a fuck about pretentious dump chicks nor his money.

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anerman234 1 week ago facebook is useless Reply

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Murat KARAHAN 1 week ago Mark Zuckerberg you are so awkward lol. I feel like every time he talks he will stutter Reply

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Christian Nuñez 2 days ago Thumbs Up if you have a Facebook Reply

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RIDEthaTHUNDER 2 weeks ago That man right there has more info about youre mum Reply

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