Saturday, December 31, 2022

Our Picks: Top Albums of 2022


Another good year for music!  I always wait until the end of the December for this post because you never know who randomly drop heat this month.  Fresh, Loaf, and I compiled our personal lists of the top albums of 2022.  
Check out our favorite projects after the jump!

{Personal Post} Photos:: 2022 4th Quarter


As we come to a close of 2022, let's rewind through 4th Quarter's notable moments.  From seeing Kevin Hart live to Washington Wizards games to Christmas festivities.  It's all right here.   See it all below!

In Memoriam...2022

 

*cues up Crossroads x Bone

Gone but not forgotten
In memoriam...

James Mtume

Ronnie Spector

Sidney Portier

Friday, December 30, 2022

Douglas Gordon "Neon Ark" Art Exhibit


"I'm interested in the fine line between my intentions and the perceptions of others; that moment when someone encounters something and realizes that there is more to it than meets the eye."

Scottish Artist, Douglas Gordon, has created a buzz around his latest exhibition "Neon Ark"--dedicated solely to Neon signage.  Starting in the 1990s, Gordon is best known for his interpretations of collective memory and psychological security.  His first neon light installation being in 1998, outside of a Glaswegian pub.  


The Neon Ark installation is held at Gagosian, Davies Street location in London.  Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-6pm.  The installation is on view through January 14, 2023.  However, don't get any NYE ideas.

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Art Basel 2022 Pt. 3 - SCOPE x HIVE Wynwood

Day 3 and the final installment of the Art Basel 2022 series post.   SCOPE was overwhelming in a good way.  There was SO much art.  I mean SOOOO much art.  We were there for about 3 hours, but actually would've been better off if we came an hour early, just to take it all in.  I, also, noticed there were countless messages throughout this day to take heed to.  You will see plenty throughout the post.  A perfect way to close out the weekend.  Let's get started...



{Trailer} CNN Films presents documentary, "Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over"


I think you need love baby...

Written, produced, and directed by Dave Wooley (also directed by David Heilbroner), Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over takes us through her six decades career, life and legacy.  This documentary contains archival footage, personal photographs, news clips, and exclusive interviews.  Ms. Warwick's sons, Berry Gordy, Gladys Knight, Elton John, Alicia Keys, Cissy Houston, Snoop Dogg and so much more are among those featured.  

Dionne Warwick : Don't Make Me Over will air New Year's Day, Sunday, January 1, 2023 EST, on CNN with limited commercial interruption.  Watch the trailer below.

Thursday, December 29, 2022

{Watch} Late Night Munchies : South Central LA w/ Trap Kitchen


VICE follows the successful Compton pioneered Culinary brand, Trap Kitchen, on a cultural food tour through South Central neighborhoods.  On this episode of MUNCHIES, Chef Spank and Chef News bring their fun energy to showcase four black-owned restaurants and all that they have to offer.  Just a heads up: do NOT watch this if you are hungry. lol.  I'd just finish eating before watching and now I'm ready to eat again.   


Food Stops:
Taco Pete (Crenshaw)
Little Kingston (Crenshaw)
1010 Wine Bar (Inglewood)
The Court Cafe (Ladera Heights)


Watch the full episode after the jump!

{Trailer} Eric Benet's ALLBLK Psychological Thriller series, "Snap"


Singer/Songwriter/Actor Eric Benét created a new psychological anthology, said to be inspired by (my personal faves) Black Mirror and Twilight Zone.  ALLBLK is the tv platform host for this limited series.  Containing six parts, "Snap" explores socialism, ethics, systematic racism, identity and more.  


 Directed by Devin Hampton, the series premiered exclusively on the ALLBLK network, December 22, 2022.  Take a look at one of the trailers from the episode, Willie Lynch, featuring Clifton Powell below!

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Art Basel 2022 Pt. 2 - Jack Honey Art-Beats + Lyrics


Day 2 of our Art Basel adventure.  After dinner in Brickell, we changed and headed out to the first event: Jack Honey Art-Beats + Lyrics.  I was pretty HYPE for this one to say the least.  We'd attended a Jack event years ago and had a ball.  There was another event we had tickets to that took place after that, but I'll get to that later in the post.  
Jack exceeded my expectations with this one!  The atmosphere was absolutely amazing.  The art, the people, the weather, the DJ, the drinks etc.  Everything.  Just overjoyed.  Here's how the night went...


Wednesday, December 28, 2022

We've Reached the Shortest Day of 2022


Last Wednesday, December 21, 2022, we reached the shortest day recorded of 2022 in the Northern Hemisphere.  This day marked the official kick off to Winter Solstice.  To give exacts, in Eastern Standard Time... it was recorded that the sun completely set at 4:47pm- 4:49pm.  

To break this down scientifically, the sun appeared directly 23.5 degrees south latitude of the Earth's equator.  During this moment, the sun's daily movement appears to pause and takes its lowest and shortest path across the Southern sky in the Northern Hemisphere.

Maybe I just never paid attention, but Daylight Savings Time has been showing its a-- this year.  It feels like it's been getting dark earlier and earlier.  Now that the shortest day has passed, we can all look forward to a little more sunlight as the days progress.



s.o. The Washington Post


Time Warp...1999: New Millenium | Cha Cha


Circa 1999.
Did any of you have the Dear Diary album?  Circling back.  I was presssssed for female rappers around this time.  Add this to the list.  An era.
When fact is they too intimidated to speak...

What ya'll wanna do???


Related Post:  Time Warp...1999: Amil x Mia-X SPRITE Commercial

Related Post:  Time Warp...1999: 4, 5, 6 | Sole' x JT Money x Kandi Burruss

{Documentary} PBS presents... "Fight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed the World"

*trailer added 01/16/2023


"The hip hop community has, from the start, been doing what the rest of the media is only now catching up to."
- Chuck D.

I love how frequent we are getting hip hop documentaries now.  Keep em coming!  
PBS and BBC Music is delivering "Fight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed the World", narrated by the one and only Chuck D of Public Enemy.

This will be a four-part series exploring four decades of hip hop.  The force.  The empowerment.  The revolution.

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Art Basel 2022 Pt. 1 - Sneaker Sip n Paint


Art Basel Miami.  We here!  For many years, I've always wanted to attend Art Basel but for some reason, the plan would always fall through.  This year, I forgot about it until several days prior to... I saw Curren$y advertise his show w/ a live band there.  "Art Basel!?  Oh Shit.  I HAVE to go!".  The rest is history.  

I played and missed out on those tickets though (long short story), but was able to grab tickets to super dope events the entire weekend.  First event took place that Friday... @ Yankee Kicks.  


Monday, December 19, 2022

{Photos} World of Flight: Jordan Brand opens First Flagship Store in Milan

 


Jordan Brand opened its first flagship store in Milan this past Saturday, Dec 16, 2022.  "World of Flight" is a retail store centralized for the Jordan brand's culture and legacy celebration.  The 363 sq. meter location, Via Torino 21 to be exact, is the new home for World of Flight; containing Jordan Brand footwear and apparel.  Consumers will have access to customizable product offerings, digital pickup experiences, NIKE Member- only events, and the latest products.  


Designs and murals were created by local artists in addition to, local materials used as a part of the store buildout; all inspired by the community's personal connection to the basketball culture.  Stefano Summo, Italian Illustrator and London/Paris based photographer, Tom D. Morgan's work are on display throughout.  

Sunday, December 18, 2022

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Tortola, BVI


Continuing on from the DR and Virgin Islands post.  Day 5 and the third stop of my birthday venture was... Tortola!  One of the things I grabbed in my redemption story was a swimsuit.  
*DJ Paul voice... It's on now...


{Watch/Teaser Trailer}- First Look: "Barbie" starring... Margot Robbie


 I'm a Barbie girl.  In a Barbie worlllld.
A few photos have surfaced the net this year for this highly anticipated film, which btw Margot Robbie is PERFECT for this role.  Now the first teaser trailer has arrived and if it's any indication of what to expect with the film, this is going to be great. 
Directed by Greta Gerwig, watch the first look after the jump!
Also keep a look out for Issa Rae's cameo 

"The Wu-Tang Clan: Legacy" 400-pound Book is Finally Here


It's WU-TANG FOREVER.  Muthafxcka.   

I initially posted the announcement of this here in March 2021.  You were able to sign up for notifications on updates for the book, which I did.  I checked and checked (even a couple months ago) thinking I missed the email somehow.  Nothing.  To my surprise, while casually checking my email a couple days ago, there it was.  The notification that the book is here!  It launched yesterday @ 3PM EST.  However, due to technical difficulties from the overwhelming response, the pre-orders were paused and will resume on #WuWednesday- Dec, 21, 2022; again @ 3PM EST. 

Let's Dive into the Book Details...
  

NEIGHBORHOOD x Pharrell Williams Incense Chamber


Yessir.  
Skateboard P is forever associated with swag in all forms.  A new collaboration with NEIGHBORHOOD introduces the Pharrell Williams x NEIGHBORHOOD incense chamber.  You guessed it.  This sculpture was modeled from Pharrell's right hand.    

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Time Warp...2003: Crush on You | Mr. Cheeks x Mario Winans


Circa 2003.
Love this song.  Was always and still is a feel good jam for me.  
I wish it gained more attention than it did.  
I'mma make your pretty ass mine...




Last Minute Stocking Stuffers:: Mike Tyson & Evander Holyfield "Holy Ears" Edibles x Action Bronson Grove & Vine Olive Oil

Can you believe that Christmas is nearly 10 days away?
Here are two great last minute gift suggestions for the cooking and/or ouid lover.   

Boxing legends Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield teamed up this holiday season for a unique edible line based from their infamous 1997 heavyweight boxing match.  You remember.  When Mike bit a huge chunk of Holyfield's ear?  Well... the "Holy Ears"thc-infused edibles are ear-shaped, natural/vegan/gluten-free snacks that come in four flavors: Watermelon, Cherry Pie Punch, Sour Apple Punch, and Black Eye Berry.  25mg per piece.  

If I was on cannabis, I wouldn’t have bit his ear.”- Tyson via HuffPost
He's got a point there.

img via uncrate

On the other side of the kitchen...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Hoodie Season Vol. VI

 

Last month, the fam and I got together for "the last Barbecue of the Year"... Hoodie Season Vol. VI.  The Hoodie Season event takes place with 'purpose to preserve Black culture, expand our reach for mass liberation, and to invest in the generation following our footsteps'.   Of course, the mandatory dress code is Hoodies!  To everyone's surprise, this November Saturday was unseasonably warm.  80 degrees.  

Proceeds went to two D.C, based 501(c)(3), non-profit organizations that mentor D.C. students to consider S.T.E.M. careers.  In addition to live tunes, DJs, vibes, and black owned vendors, food was included in your ticket.  BYOB for the drinks.  We had a great time!  Take a look at the photo recap below: 

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Time Warp...1999: Amil x Mia-X SPRITE Commercial


Circa 1999.
The XXL mag with this photo is at the crib Right Now.
Play some No Limit and I got you on Mia's verses there.  However, with this particular commercial... I was stuck on my girl Amil.  Even still, can recite her verse without pressing play and actually is the reason for this post because it was stuck in my head randomly.  SPRITE had a series of these with female rappers.  If you remember them, which one was your favorite?  They need to bring em back!
Even wit nails done and somethin tight on...




Related Post:  Remember | Amil

Notorious B.I.G Sculpture unveiled at the Brooklyn Bridge


I wanted to create something monumental, something regal to coincide with his king of New York status.  He was king of New York [and] he was well known, well loved.  I hope this dedication to him and his family is appreciated by the community and by the culture as a whole.
-  Sherwin Banfield, Artist.

The Downtown Brooklyn + Dumbo Art Fund held an open call art showcase for local artists.  Banfield's piece "Sky's the Limit in the County of Kings" was selected.  Together, they produced an amazing art sculpture in honor of the Notorious B.I.G. 

B. I. G. P. O. P. P. A.! 

Locals and visitors can find this 9-foot sculpture standing tall at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge;  specifically at the northeast corner of Prospect Street and Washington Street. 

{Personal Post} PHOTOS:: Halloween 2022 x Land of Skulls Art Show


It's the most... wonderful time... of the yeeaaaaaaarrrrrrr.
Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday.  It brings me cheer like Christmas does for others.  This year, I went to a Superhero/Villain themed Halloween party and Art Show on the actual night of Halloween.  Two costumes.  Two nights to remember.  Take a look...

A$AP Rocky Premieres his Furniture Design Studio, Hommemade.


Over the last decade, A$AP "Pretty Flacko" Rocky has proved himself not only as a successful rapper, but as a notable style celebrity in fashion culture.  It was only a matter of time before he made a mark of his own.  Last Week, Rocky announced Hommemade- a furniture interior design studio founded by Flacko himself.  


The first collaboration from Hommefade features the Italian furniture manufacturer, Gufram, whose signature is the Cactus.  Gufram is celebrating their 50th anniversary of the original cactus inspired piece from 1972.