Culture Fiends: What U Need!?

NEW SITE

2010-09-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

Culture Fiends is no more. Check out the new site WWW.HEYRUDIE.COM.

MUSIC - NEXT

2010-03-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

"Caesar" by I Blame Coco feat. Robyn. PLANTAINS! 19-year-old Coco Sumner is the daughter of Sting, I repeat - Sting. The rhythm is addictive, thanks in part to Sweden's Robyn, who's new LP is being produced by Diplo...need I say more. Diplo has also provided a remix to this infectious track, you can download it here. I'm sold. I guess the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Rated - Next. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2010-02-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

"Dance Dance Dance" live in L.A, Lykke Li & Bon Iver. Sweden holding it down once again. Lykke Li with Wisconsin's Bon Iver, perform "Dance Dance Dance". Old footage, but classic nonetheless. -Mr.-

MESSAGE TO YOU RUDIE

2010-02-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

"Message To You Rudi" by Coco Sumner and Natty. Where my Rudies at??? Everything moves in cycles...feel me!? -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2010-02-21T12:34:00.001-08:00

"Marching Through Your Head" by Zeus. Arts and Crafts at it again...Toronto STAND UP! Band members Mike O'Brien, Carlin Nicholson, Rob Drake and Neil Quin are currently on tour, check out their Myspace page for details. Rated - NEXT! -Mr.-

INKED

2010-02-21T12:28:00.000-08:00

INKED...nuff said. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-21T12:16:00.000-08:00

Proper. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-21T12:13:00.001-08:00

"Harrington" by Fred Perry x British Millerain Dry Wax. Another fresh collaboration. Classic, clean and oh so dapper. Once again...staple piece. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

"Oxford Button Down Shirt" by Pretty Green. Classic. The washed cotton is soft to the touch and super comfy. A staple piece to say the least. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-21T11:46:00.000-08:00

"Royal Low" by Pro-Keds, Spring 2010 collection. Interesting fact, The U.S. Rubber Company (now Uniroyal) created the term "sneakers" for their first line of kicks simply known as Keds. Marketing at its finest. The new spring collection is a throwback to the classic design, but introduces quality leathers and solid colors for a classy well polished look. -Mr.-

BREAK THE RULES

2010-02-18T08:52:00.000-08:00

"Exit Through The Gift Shop" A Banksy Film. The man, the mystery, the legend. Responsible for influencing artists worldwide and changing the urban landscape one city at a time, Banksy is a pioneer in the world of street art. This film is long overdue. For more information check out the official website. -Mr.-

INKED

2010-02-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

Vintage! The origins of North American tattoo culture. No guns necessary. -Mr.-

ART FORMS

2010-02-17T13:11:00.001-08:00

Camouflaged stone House. Located in the Antiparos lands of Greece, this stunning piece of architecture was designed by Deca. "The presence of the house is revealed by the four courtyards carved into the flowing landscape. The courtyards separate the living spaces into five interior areas, an arrangement which resembles the fifth side of a dice. As a result, the house is protected from the elements yet is full of natural light, generous views and a compact but rich relationship to its setting." Brilliant! Reminds me of Luke Skywalkers home on the planet Tatooine. -Mr.-

INFLUENCED

2010-02-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

Cool Hunting Video. Diesel:U:Music Tour 2009: Miami. Santigold and Kid Cudi discuss their musical influences and the origins of their sound. -Mr.-

WHERE MY RUDIES AT?

2010-02-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

Where My Rudies At? At an attempt to break the mold and experiment with Toronto's bland recipe for night life, I developed a concept with an ally in the fight against 'the same', and labeled it Hey Rudie! What exactly is a rudeboy you might ask. Well, in the traditional sense a rudeboy, rudie, rudi or rudy were common terms for juvenile delinquents and criminals in 1960s Jamaica. The first rude boys in the 1960s were associated with the poorer sections of Kingston, Jamaica, where ska, then rocksteady were the most popular forms of music. They dressed in the latest fashions at dancehalls and on the streets. Many of these rude boys started wearing sharp suits, thin ties, and pork pie or Trilby hats; inspired by United States gangster movies, jazz musicians and soul music artists. In that time period, disaffected unemployed Jamaican youths sometimes found temporary employment from sound system operators to disrupt competitors' dances (leading to the term dancehall crasher).

In a nut shell, a rudie is an outsider that creates a sub-culture in order to satisfy an unfulfilled need, at the same time disrupting the comforts of those blind-to-the-facts. We are fashionista zapatistas, with a flare for the finer things in life. We are sound system controllers, addicted to bass and the grimier forms of sound. We are the trends before they happen, the visionaries amongst those unaware of the preeminant change. We are societies rudeboys and girls.

So, what is a Hey Rudie! event? We at Hey Rudie! celebrate that which is international, exotic and diverse. Paying homage to Jamaican ska and all that it has influenced...from Baile Funk, born in the favelas of Rio, to Kudoro, Angolan influenced electronic crack, London’s UK Funky to Diplo's Major Lazer style mashups. We take the sounds of the streets, the melodies of the poor and blend them into one massive sound. If you're mind is too fixed on the comforts of what you know, and you are unable to open your mind to the sights and sounds of the international dance, then I warn you against attending. However, if you feel you might belong to the rudie diaspora at large...I strongly urge you to attend.

That being said...WHERE MY RUDIES AT???

MUSIC - VIDEO

2010-02-16T16:33:00.000-08:00

"When You Hear The Bassline" by Major Lazer. Fan vid by Sampology. Note the classic ska footage. Where my Rudies At!!! Safari, tell em what's up. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-16T16:27:00.001-08:00

"Stroll" by Brixton. Brown plaid, classic Brixton shape, clean brown lining...a staple piece. Everyone should have at least one fedora in their collection...ladies, that doesn't exclude you. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

"Manchu" by Carrera. Sleek and oh so classic. Carrera has a style that is not easily fu$ked with. The light Havana black/gold is just another remix to an already perfect design. Straight goods. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

"Knit Jacket" by KZO. Los Angeles based designer Joel Knornschild named his label after his grandfather Kazuo Iwasaki, and manufactures his designs in Japan. Made from woven organic cotton, acrylic, and wool, the knit jacket has a looser fit then most slim fits and breaks away from the standard black and charcoal grey. Top shelf. KZO...get familiar. -Mr.-

FASHION

2010-02-16T15:54:00.000-08:00

"Switchback" by Vans Vault. Keep it simple stupid...words to live by. I'm a big fan of simple design constructed with quality materials (distressed leather, need I say more). Far too often designers get carried away with the bells and whistles of a concept and in the end compromise the overall integrity of a piece. Keep it clean and classic. Vans Vault does just that. Look out for the butter orange and purple combo as well...brilliant! -Mr.-

FRISCO STAND UP!

2010-01-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Where my Bay area folks at? Not only San Fran...Oakland, Berkeley STAND UP! Adidas holding it down. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-14T14:17:00.001-08:00

"Born 2 Sin" by Bad News Brown. Montreal's in the house. Something a little left field for the masses. Shout out to Kenia "the zombie". -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-11T13:53:00.001-08:00

"Duhh" by Tabi Bonney. Washington to Togo, Mr. Bonney defines grind. Not only does he rap, he directs (Cool Kids Forever Films) and designs clothes (Bonney Runway Clothing). Do your thing homeZ. -Mr.-

INKED

2009-12-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the canvas can elevate mediocre work to something worthy of a second glance. Artistically speaking of course. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

"Kalemba (wegue wegue)" by Buraka Som Sistema. Where my Portuguese and Angolans at? Shout out to Safari for the heads up. Culture exchange in full effect. -Mr.-

ON BLAST

2009-12-06T10:16:00.000-08:00

"Pennies" (the updated rosters remix) by The Cool Kids, off the "Gone Fishing" mixtape. Proper like table manners - ZEEN!! -Mr.-

GENTLEMEN OF BACONGO

2009-12-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

"Gentlemen Of Bacongo" by photographer Daniele Tamagni captures the Congo sub-culture that is "Le Sape", short for Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes, or the Society of Tastemakers and Elegant People. Le Sapeurs, as they're called, dress in high Parisian fashions and maintain a solid moral ethic amongst the extreme poverty of the Congolese slums. Examining the strange merging of colonial and Congolese culture, Daniele also captures the “contradictions and paradoxes" of the tight-knit social network of Sapeurs. Interesting to say the least, definitely worth a closer investigation. Bottom-line: confidence is essential, especially in poverty stricken environments side stepped by capitalism twisted ideals. Whatever floats your boat - feel me?! -Mr.-

TILTED PT2

2009-12-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

Culture Tilt...ZEEN! Shout out to Nate Dog, Tilt and Kenia. It was a pleasure kicking it with you all.

OAKLAND IS HELLA TIGHT

2009-12-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

Cool Hunting's Oakland: A Word-of-Mouth Guide. The town...seen! Yaira where you at? The Bay, second favorite spot in North America. San Francisco, Berkeley, and of course - Oakland. Misunderstood for the most part, slept on by visitors who only see SF. When I first saw the Giraffes I thought they would look great under the Gardiner, still do. "In Oakland we don't say really cool, we say hella tight". -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

"Love A Come Down" by Demarco. The Great Adventures Of Swagger Man...brilliant. The comic book styling's of director Jay Will are on point. I love it when her love comes down...BOOYAA!!! -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-04T16:05:00.000-08:00

"She Likes To" (Chew Fu mix) by Wiley and England 10 feat. J2K, Wrigley, Ice-Kid, Wretch 32, Ghetts, Bashy, Scorcher, Chipmunk and Griminal. UK grime royal rumble, mixed by Brooklynite Chew Fu Phat. Before Cudi hooked up with Crookers and introduced yall to electro mashups, London was getting grimy. -Mr.-

INKED

2009-12-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

I love a girl with ink. Not everybody's cup of tea...I'll take mine with milk and honey. -Mr.-

GET SCHOOLED

2009-12-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

PT1

PT2
On Thursday, November 19th Kevin Powell, Joel Human and Marc Ecko sat in front of a group of 150 “at-risk” students for Get Schooled as part of Entrepreneurs Week. Inspiring to say the least. Get Schooled was founded on the belief that we all can be made stronger by educating the minds and improving the skills of every American. The education system is due for a change. Brilliant! -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-12-01T09:13:00.000-08:00

El Tigeraso

MALUCA | MySpace Music Videos"El Tigeraso" by Maluca. Mad Decent holding it down as usual. I swear Diplo was latino in his last life. From the Favela kids to the Dominicanas...OIIIIIIIII! -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-12-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

"Classic Windrunner" by Nike. Straight up and down - CLASSIC! K•WAY where you at? -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-12-01T07:26:00.000-08:00

"Sherpa Lined Flannel" by HUF. Sherpa lined...come on now, it gets no better. Last night I was standing at the bus stop freezing my a$$ off dreaming of a Sherpa lined ANYTHING. HUF, keeping it practical and more importantly - proper. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-12-01T07:11:00.000-08:00

"Faded Hope Tee" by Freshjive. Strong statement, n'est-ce pas? I know it's kind of early in Obama's term to assume that hope has faded, but I'm pretty sure within four years we'll be seeing more of the same. I hope he proves Freshjive and myself wrong. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-12-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

Converse All-Star HI. Classic...grey...affordable. Need I say more? Oh yeah, everyone should own at least one pair of Converse All-Stars, can I get an amen? -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

"Bongo Jam" by Crazy Cousinz feat. Calista. Crazy Cousinz was formed in November 2007 as a producer collective consisting of two cousins (Flukes & Paleface) alongside two other members of the team (Kodi – Engineer/Producer & Play – Producer/DJ). UK house in full effect yall...Safari where you at homeZ? -Mr.-

RETNA AND EL MAC PT 2

2009-11-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

"Ava Maria" (Salt Lake City) by Retna and Mac. Over 44 feet high, commissioned by Utah's FICE boutique. Money well spent. -Mr.-

INKED

2009-11-26T08:54:00.000-08:00

It's been far too long since I paid homage to the wonderful world of ink...my bad. I present the art of the cover up. -Mr.-

RETNA AND EL MAC PT 1

2009-11-25T21:20:00.000-08:00

Retna and El Mac collaborate on a piece for the RVCA headquarters. Creativity, what a beautiful process...I urge you all to indulge in its brilliance. Power to the artist, and those of you that keep the flames of culture alive. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-25T11:09:00.000-08:00

"Avinjo" by Adidas. Apple green frame with a single green stripe, green lenses...I'm sold. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

"Harrington" by Raf Simons x Fred Perry. Belgian designer Raf Simons teams up with Fred Perry once again to deliver the charcoal Harrington jacket. This seasons theme is 'metal,' and you can see its influence in the charcoal wool, the copper zipper and buttons, and the metal laurel logo. Top shelf...can I get an amen? Ima take it anyways. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-25T11:06:00.000-08:00

"Arnold Shirt" by Wood Wood. The Berlin boutique has come along way since its conception in 2002, and the Wood Wood brand has rivaled some of the boutiques more established labels. The Arnold is simple and clean, I'm not a big fan of messy. Denmark holding it down. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-25T11:04:00.001-08:00

"Thompson" by Clae. Clae shoes are like the 'grown up' kicks, the sneakers that get in to the 21 and older while the other brands hit the all ages. Look ma, my kicks are all grown up. -Mr.-

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

2009-11-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

Sir Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity? Wisdom over intellect, creativity over conformity...two very important distinctions that can make a world of difference in the way you contribute to your surroundings. For too long the intellectual, blinded by dictated thinking, has assumed a position of authority over the wise in a world that worships the conformist. All I've got to say is...the opposite of bravery is not cowardice, but conformity. In order to secure a progressive future we must shift our priorities and rethink the aspects of our lives that we so blindly assume are essential and important. A new way of thinking, educating and existing is long overdue. -Mr.-

ART FORMS

2009-11-24T08:08:00.000-08:00

Parisian photographer/street artist extraordinaire - JR. Large-scale street art should be a visual staple in all urban landscapes. With a three-dimensional landscape defined by limitless canvas possibilities the two-dimensional canvas seems rather passé. Don't be restricted by your canvas, and don't let the definition of accepted art limit your creativity. I urge all artists WITH TALENT to help enhance the aesthetics of their surrounding environments. -Mr.-

COLLABORATION IS A BEAUTIFUL THING

2009-11-20T17:32:00.000-08:00

"What You Do To Me" feat. Jim Jones, Billy Danze, and Nicole Wray. My favorite track on the album...just letting you know. Available on black Friday (Nov. 27/09). Don't sleep. -Mr.-

TILTED

2009-11-20T08:21:00.000-08:00

In celebration of Nate's bday/graffitti party this weekend...I present Tilt. More to come... -Mr.-

MUSIC - NEXT

2009-11-19T20:17:00.000-08:00

"Blakroc" is a collaborative album produced by Ohio natives Dan Auerbach(vocals/guitar) and Patrick Carney(producer/drummer) a.k.a The Black Keys. Blakroc features 11 collaborations with Raekwon, Rza, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Jim Jones, NOE, Mos Def, Nicole Wray, Pharoahe Monch, Ludacris, Billy Danze, and Q-Tip. The album was conceived after Damon Dash approached the duo in regards to laying a track with Jim Jones, while recording Mos Def stumbled into the session and entered the fold, several more artists followed suit and after 11 days of recording "Blakroc" was layed. This is what good music is all about, passion, talent and the ability to act in the now without a formula to follow. My faith has been restored. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-19T12:48:00.000-08:00

"Cats 5000" by Ray-Ban. Classic Ray-Ban design, classic tortoise gradient frame...what more can I say? Top billin! -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

"Harrington Waxed Cotton Shooting Jacket" by Fred Perry. Fred Perry has teamed up with textile company British Millerain and released the waxed cotton shooting jacket. The waxed cotton gives the classic Harrington a modern look without reinventing the wheel. The plaid lining is a nice touch as well. In a nut shell - proper, real proper. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-19T06:58:00.000-08:00

"Blue Train Sessions Tee" by Supreme pays homage to the legend John Coltrane. Blue Train was an album released by Coltrane in 1957 at the Van Gelder Studio, classic! Supreme obviously has good taste. The tee is clean and simple - four black and white images on heather grey assorted in rectangular crops...boom. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-19T06:57:00.000-08:00

"Boston Super" by Adidas x Bodega. Boston's Bodega has reworked the old 80's running design and locked down a winner. The Super is a great mix of fabrics and colors that work well together, providing variety without being too loud or chaotic. Straight goods. -Mr.-

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM

2009-11-18T19:42:00.000-08:00

Oprah...I don't get it. Why give PR opportunities to people like this? By focusing on people like Sarah Palin you blindly promote her celebrity and provide PR for an individual undeserving of anyone's attention. View this interview and browse through some of the comments left in YouTube for a better understanding of the demographic Oprah is promoting and providing legitimacy to. Oprah is a rich white man, don't let the skin suit fool you. Does anyone out there even remember what true leaders look like? It's been a long time since the civil rights movement and people like Trudell and Martin Luther King Jr. It is frightening that this woman was so close to becoming Vice President of the United States. This post is dedicated to all you Oprah fans...read between the lines and be weary of who you choose to idolize. Once again...where's the standard. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

"No Mans Land" by B.O.B. a.k.a. Bobby Ray. Dope track. I was wondering when Mr. Ray was gonna resurface. Taking it into left field once again, do your thing homeZ. -Mr.-

Download: B.O.B. vs. Bobby Ray Mixtape

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

"Wild International" by One Day As A Lion. For those unaware One Day As A Lion was formed by rage against the machine’s frontman Zack De La Rocha and Mars Volta drummer Jon Theodore in 2008. The EP is out now and the full length was scheduled for a 2009 release, no word as of yet. This is an old track, but the video's new to me. Once again, documentary style/gritty as hell. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-16T09:58:00.000-08:00

"Corduroy Snapback Cap" by Norse Projects. Denmark holding it down. Keep-it-simple-stupid, words to live by. Black corduroy, classic Norse tag, anything else would be over the top. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-16T09:19:00.001-08:00

"Jaggered Camo Gore-Tex" by BAPE. Slick and oh so sweet. Fairly standard as far as snowboard jackets go, what separates this piece form the rest is the detailing. The BAPE camo print (black on black) is subtle enough to add texture without being in your face...I'm not a big fan of camo. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-16T09:12:00.000-08:00

"Radiant" by GRN Apple Tree. Gorgeous...I'm talking Jessica Alba, no make-up necessary. Clean, vibrant design. I'm a big fan of GRN's new logo, and the colors work well against the black. The streaks, color strokes and lighting effects are top-shelf and are perfect examples of well structured design. Two thumbs up Brasil style. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

"Mountain Edition Hi" by Vans Vault x Knoll. Vans teamed up with design firm Knoll to remix the Mountain Edition Hi's. The upper shell is made of a synthetic fabric (I believe to be nylon) with a contrast logo panel. I'm not big on shine, a.k.a. anything vinyl, but these are subtle enough to fly below the radar. Comes in four colorways - black, green, purple, and blue. Solid. -Mr.-

SUCO DE LARANJA 100% FRUTA

2009-11-14T19:46:00.000-08:00

Brasilian TV ad for do bem juice. CLASSIC! This ones for you Gramps. -Mr.-

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM

2009-11-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

Straight up and down - where's the standard? I live my life by a code, a standard of living that economically doesn't always pay off, but pays in full when it comes to the people that surround me and the growth that manifests through our exchanging of ideas, discussions, likes and dislikes. The reason I'm bringing this point up is because I love culture and everything that encompasses it, but am growing tired of the lack of taste dictating its present state. Sure, I could boogie to the West Indies, lime out, live ital and meditate like a Buddha, but something will always draw me back in the mix. Sure, I could work for a production company, record label or clothing line and bite my tongue every time poor decisions are made in order to secure longevity within the business, but fortunately - I have an opinion. We're in an age when film/television is reinvented, repackaged and resold, instead of being created, developed, and promoted. The music industry is more concerned with marketing campaigns than it is about talent and setting a standard of quality. MTV and Much Music promote reality television that is focused on twisted versions of reality that promote vanity, apathy and the worshiping of morons, instead of focusing on music videos or reality television that is progressive, creative, and groundbreaking. Worshiping false idols and focusing on our imperfections with vain interest rather than constructive criticism and suggestions for change - MUST END! True, art is perceived and its value is dictated by the individual, but we are capable of so much more. In essence, I am a rudeboy at heart, my thoughts are one step beyond, and it's time to call yall out. Where my rudies at?

First to be called out: Chris Brown and all his fans

Chris Brown is guilty of destroying Rihanna's face, point blank period. Now, before we proceed let me break something down for you...I've heard the argument that she must have provoked the incident, and to be quite honest I'm with Sean Connery when it comes to the business of laying down the law when called for, this incident however WAS NOT called for, and went way beyond justification. Now, back to the point...Mr. Brown is a)a monster for beating up Rihanna, b)a moron for his pathetic appearance on Larry King and c)a herb for not learning from his own personal experiences with spousal abuse (break the cycle homie...I mean, dang). Therefore I pose the question - why do we pay people like this any mind?

Conclusion: By worshiping morons we destroy the cultural fabric of the times. You know I'm a culture fiend...I'm just saying...why fuck with polyester when you can rock silk. It's all about standards - feel me!? -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-13T11:31:00.000-08:00

"Doowutchyalike" by Digital Underground. CLASSIC! I peeped this on facebook and had to post it up. Memories boy, beepers and starter caps - feel me!? All I gotta say is OAKWOOD DANCES. If you know, you know, if you heard about and never experienced...you missed out, smell me? -Mr.-

CINEMATIC DOPE

2009-11-13T10:11:00.000-08:00

"Favela On Blast" (2008) written and directed by Wesley Pentz (Diplo), produced by Mad Decent.

For 20 years, a subculture has emerged in Brazil under society's radar. It is the culture surrounding 'funk carioca', a musical rhythm which mixes the American electronic funk of the 1980s with the most diverse influences of Brazilian music. 'Baile funk' is one of the most interesting musical movements in the world, but it comes from what is at times one of the most violent and poorest places in the world: the slums of Rio de Janeiro (favelas). This music is the personalization of the raw element. Bombastic rhythms coming from the American Miami Bass and samples are fused with powerful rap vocals using Brazilian slang. This documentary tells stories of sex, love, poverty, and pride among Rio's marginalized people. They have their own language, style, and heroes. It's a film that's fast, heavy, and violent like the city itself. -Mad Decent-

I haven't had a chance to peep this film, but will gladly jump at the opportunity. Two years ago I was lucky enough to experience Rio's baile funk movement first hand, in the favela environment as well as a club with 3000 strong. PLANTAINS! The favela was a little sketchy, but the sub-culture experience was beyond anything I've seen. I stumbled across this trailer and fell into nostalgia. Shout out to Sandro and Fahrina. Crazy. Gramps, where you at homeZ? -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-13T09:00:00.001-08:00

"Flip Down Fitted" by Nitraid. The ear flaps aren't as bulky as most flip downs, which makes this piece a little more attractive to those shying away from bulky caps. The Nitraid logo is clean and classic, the grey/black is nice and neutral. Conclusion - top shelf like cookie jars. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

"Outdoor Zip Up Hooded Sweatshirt" by Supreme. Clean lines, quality detailing, 100% cotton...simple, yet effective. Supreme holding it down once again. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-13T08:40:00.000-08:00

"Playful Border Tee" by Clot. I'm feeling the color palette with this one. At first I doubted, now I believe. Quality craftsmanship, subtle detailing, a nice piece all around. This Hong Kong based lifestyle brand is definitely worth keeping an eye on. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

"Turino" by Creative Recreation Italy Collection. Look ma, my kicks are all grown up. Hand made wrinkled leather, gum rubber sole...low profile, yet high profile - feel me!? Available in black, with a moderate price tag of $295(US). Brilliant! -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

"Knocked Down" by The Cool Kids. This is the last track off The Cool Kids/Don Cannon mixtape "Gone Fishing". Bangin right? Once again...raw, documentary style gets the salute. In an age of reality television and YouTube networking, why waste money on an over the top video? If the beat bangs - keep it simple. -Mr.-

Download: Gone Fishing Mixtape

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-11-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

"Simple As" by Kid Cudi. Nothing beats vintage footage. Yeah, yeah, I know digital SLR's and HDV cams are revolutionizing the game, but come on now, VINTAGE! My dads wedding photo looks like half the hipsters downtown...who would think? -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-11T11:46:00.000-08:00

"Top Beanie" by Perks and Mini (PAM). Nothing new, just nice to look at. Quality is key for a product as common as the beanie. Set yourself apart...feel me!?. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-11T11:31:00.000-08:00

"Melton Wool Award Varsity Jacket" by Wings and Horns, from the Fall/Winter 2009 collection. Straight goods...no curves whatsoever! Can I get an amen? Melton wool body, leather sleeves, shawl collar...a beautiful piece. The cut and sew quality is second to none, not to mention clean. Also comes in blue wool/brown leather. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-11T11:25:00.000-08:00

"High and Dry" by Deluxe. Even though the market is over saturated with plaid button downs and prints, it's refreshing to see a piece that distinguishes itself from the same. The high and Dry illustrates this quality. The detailing is subtle, yet effective, and the fabric selection is rich and bold. I'm sold. Deluxe holding it down. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-11-11T11:06:00.000-08:00

"Everybody Flood Leather" by Alife. Part of the 2009 Holiday collection. Clean, solid design. The vintage leather selection sets the standard, the cut and sew quality seals the deal. I'm not a big fan of Alife's brighter, more comical designs, but when it comes to their finer pieces...top shelf. -Mr.-

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

2009-11-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

"Mercury, Autism and the Global Vaccine Agenda" Once again...I'm just saying. Before you jump to the conclusion that video's like this promote "conspiracy theories", and assume a defensive stance based in blind faith with no real reference other than disbelief...take a moment out of your precious day and research. Fu$k Perez Hilton, OV movie guide, clothes and music blogs for just ONE day and dedicate that time to tapping into the vast resources of information available on the world wide web. I'm neither pro, nor con, just an open minded seeker dedicated to anything beneficial to mankind as a whole. Health care is a joke, big pharmaceutical companies are motivated by profit rather than healing, and most of you are too lazy to ask questions. Wake up! -Mr.-

Interesting note: This video was from a conference in 2005.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

2009-11-03T21:06:00.000-08:00

True or false? You tell me. I'm just saying...be aware of all the possibilities before you draw conclusions. -Mr.-

SOMETHING FOR THE FELLAS

2009-11-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

This little clip is from the Supreme Book Vol.5 photo shoot for the Autumn/Winter 2009 Collection, shot by Terry Richardson, and featuring the lovely Rosa Acosta. I stumbled across this fine piece of documentation and had to post it...sorry boo, but they say sex sells. -Mr.-

WHERE MY RUDIES AT?

2009-11-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

"Soldier" by N.E.R.D. feat. Santigold. Big tune! Where my rudies at? I'd like to extend a thanks to all those who came out to the Skalloween party and showed their support, and those of you brave enough to try something new...obviously N.E.R.D. and Santi are on the same page. Safari where you at homie? If you build it, they will come. -Mr.-

Download: Soldier

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-31T18:10:00.000-07:00

"Empire State Of Mind" by Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys. In my opinion, Jay's flow has fallen off, but Ms. Keys...blows this track out the water. Baddest chick in the game, hands down. -Mr.-

LIFE IS COMPLICATED

2009-10-23T06:06:00.000-07:00

"Helicopter downed as 12 killed in Rio violence". I learned about this story earlier this week and overheard someone on the subway say "Rio is full of criminals". She was right, however I was thinking more along the lines of blue collar rather than oppressed poor. Since last weekend 33 people have been killed in Rio due to a rival gang turf war and several police crack downs. A helicopter was shot down over the "Hill of Monkeys" near the Morro dos Macacos favela, and three of six police officers were killed, three severely wounded. Apparently this is the first time a helicopter has been taken down in Rio. The violence errupted two weeks after it was decided that Rio would host the 2016 Olympics, and what makes this so incredibly disturbing is that the president has now offered $60 million in federal money to help Rio de Janeiro police combat drug gangs. Translation...there will be a slaughter. For every gang member killed there is easily another three innocent residents that get caught in the crossfire. Brasils socio-economic reality is twisted and complicated and often oppressive and elitist. Rio getting the Olympics is probably the worst thing that could ever happen to the residents of Rio's roughly 1000 favelas. The situation is far more complex than most care to imagine, and the police are far more brutal and savage than most outside of the favela reality care to accept. Straight up and down - I pray for all those caught in the crossfire, and all of the poor born into circumstances beyond their control who are at the mercy of desperate gang members and corrupt police. Shout out to Villa Curzeiro, I heard you guys have been affected as well. Power to the poor, and a middle finger to the corrupt. Life is complicated. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

"Pon De Floor" by Major Lazer. I tried throwing this up when it first dropped, had some problems with my server and forgot about it. This one's for you boo. The REAL dirty dancing - feel me? No disrespect Patrick Swayze (RIP) but your moves were tame. -Mr.-

MUSIC - NEXT

2009-10-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

"Strange Love" by Fashawn feat. Rob The Voice, from "Grizzly City Vol.2" (2007). Two years old, but new to me. This is what the west is capable of...feel me? Reminds me of some Cody Chesnutt type ish. Crazy track. Atl has held the spotlight for a minute now, I think the west is long overdue. This track was recently thrown on a mixtape put together by The Beehive, which in essence is a compilation of Fashawn's seven previous mixtapes. Definitely worth a listen. -Mr.-

Download: The Beehive Presents Fashawn: 21 to Grow On (Mixtape)

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

2009-10-14T20:32:00.000-07:00

Whether you believe or not is irrelevant. I'm posting this video because it is more interesting then TMZ, Perez Hilton, Kanye West or anything MTV has to offer. All I ask is that you open your mind and shift your focus occasionally. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

"I'mma Fool Wit It" Killer Mike feat. Big Kuntry King. Now this is how I like my south. Lil Wayne has single handedly stolen the limelight from the south's rightful rulers. Killer Mike...holding it down for those that remember a little click by the name of The Dungeon Family and cats like MJG, Three Six Mafia, Scarface...the list goes on. Keeping it crunk, all day every day. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

"Solid Knit Fedora" by Stussy. Black, ribbed knit, fedora...need I say more? Sometimes a fitted just won't do. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-11T13:31:00.001-07:00

"M-65 Jacket" by Head Porter Plus. Japan's HPP has knocked it out the park with this one, I'm talking parking lot windshield...feel me!? An M-65 is an M-65, what separates the leader from the pack is the detailing. The paisley lining and HPP crest separate and elevate this piece to the front lines. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

"Pink Diamond Tee" by BBC. I'm a big fan of keeping it simple. This graphic is just that. Pink on black...come on now, it gets no better. Hell, you can fu$k with color combination's all day, but seldom does anything compare to pink on black. The only thing questionable about this tee is the price tag - $114 @ Colette, can I get an OUCH! -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

"Air Zoom Talache 1 Mids" Royale Collection by Nike. Yeah that's right...NIKE. Royale Collection, is there any other way to label such a kick? Premium leather, beautiful cut, sleek and oh so pretty. I meant to throw these up awhile back, for those in the know...nothing new, for those in the dark...now you know. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Mercedes-Benz" by Sway, a.k.a. Derek Safo. London mixtape king holding it down. Shout out to Biz Markie...timeless. -Mr.-

ART FORMS

2009-10-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

"Women Are Heroes" a project and an exhibition by JR. Nuit Blanche, Paris 2009. Now this is what Nuit Blanche SHOULD BE (I'm talking to you Scotia Bank/Toronto...WAACK!) Cutting edge french photographer JR holding it down world wide, taking a medium, and a concept to new heights. Everyone claims to be a photographer nowadays, and photography has always been applied to billboards and large format printing, but taking these two artistic staples and displaying them in abnormal locations and abstract ways is what separates the leader from the pack. Straight up...I'm labeling homeboy a cultural hero. Without street artists like JR and Banksy the urban landscape would be a waste of space. That being said, I would like to thank all those who have chosen to step beyond the confines of convention and redefine the meaning of canvas - I tip my hat to you all.

This clip is from BKRW Magazine and documents the last hours of JR and his team as they finish the "Women Are Heroes" exhibition in Paris. Brilliant! Shout out to Safari for the heads up. -Mr.-

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

"Do You Believe" by The Beatnuts. Dedicated to those that know, those that experienced the times, and those that remember when. Let me take you down memory lane...-Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

"Homerun" by Elm Company. Low key, quality detailing, front and back script - come on now, say it with me...plan...tains! Elm Company, always pleasing, never cheesing.

FASHION

2009-10-04T14:48:00.001-07:00

"Firefly Jacket" by Nike x HUF. Where my K-Way heads at? So practical. It's cool, it's warm...living in Toronto you need to be prepared. Pack it up, or bust it out. The firefly...ready when you are. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-04T14:37:00.000-07:00

"Strength Through Unity" by Ideall Clothing. Referring to a poster used as propaganda by the corrupt governing body in the film "V For Vendetta", Ideall replaced the 'V' with 'LL' and has produced another brilliant graphic. Rated - proper. -Mr.-

FASHION

2009-10-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

"Uno Canvas" by Gourmet. Slick, and oh so pretty. Just make sure you got yourself some clean pretty socks as well, that little ankle window can make or break your fashion status...NO WHITE SOCKS. -Mr.-

CINEMATIC DOPE!?

2009-10-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

"Fantastic Mr. Fox" from director Wes Anderson, based on the book by Roald Dahl...SAY WORD!!! Nah, nah...say Genius! Wes Anderson is one of Hollywood's most treasured assets in my opinion, and the cast he rolls with is nothing less than grade A. In an age of computer animation and Pixar dominance it's good to see old fashioned formats are still an option, and who better to prove this fact than Wes. Classic story, brilliant director, and a concept so left field it's gotta work. Cinematic dope? I hope so. Set for release November 25, 2009. -Mr.-

WILLIAM KAMKWAMBA = THE ANSWER

2009-10-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

The extraordinary true story of a Malawian teenager who transformed his village by building electric windmills out of junk. If William Kamkwamba can do it...why can't we? 1st world citizens are some of the most apathetic, lazy people I know. We possess all the tools necessary to manifest change and yet we fall victim to the same, and why... because it's comfortable. Shout out to Nate Dog, thanks for the heads up homeZ. -Mr.-

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

MUSIC - VIDEO

2009-10-01T09:17:00.000-07:00

"Little Booty Girl" by Thunderheist. Isis has come a long way. I remember when she took off to Montreal to start this little endeavor. I guess all you really need is a backpack and a dream. -Mr.-