GUVERMENT NAME

[elements]

2009-07-02T12:59:00.007-04:00

B-Boy BBQ is my favorite Roc city summer event. All elements of hip hop represented. FUA Krew making it happen.

[lost borough]

2009-07-02T12:11:00.000-04:00

Beyond Gotham Trailer from Juse One on Vimeo.

[king of pop aka moonwalker]

2009-07-02T06:29:00.000-04:00

[sammy and the delorean]

2009-07-01T12:59:00.000-04:00

[dj nu-mark]

2009-06-17T14:45:00.003-04:00

DJ Nu-Mark of Jurassic 5 will be at Dubland Underground tonight!

[!?%$!]

2009-06-17T13:22:00.000-04:00

[videogame-topia]

2009-06-11T12:39:00.005-04:00

Strong Museum is hosting a video game exhibit called Videotopia. Basically they have 100 vintage and new arcade style video games that you can play. I'm definitley checking this one out- I love old school video games. They're even offering adults a gamer pass- for $20 you can visit the exhibit as many times as you want until November 30. How could anyone who loved NES and Sega pass on this?

[8-bit]

2009-06-11T12:38:00.001-04:00

[i want those sweatpants]

[ayyy]

2009-06-10T19:29:00.003-04:00

June 13th Gucci Mane and the So Icey Boyz are at the Main Street Armory. Tickets on sale now.

[fancy]

2009-06-10T18:37:00.003-04:00

[kodachrome]

2009-06-09T22:49:00.003-04:00

From the NeighborWorks Rochester Website:

"NeighborWorks® Pix and Mix at the Public Market
NeighborWorks® Rochester 30th Anniversary Celebration

June 10, 2009
5-8 p.m.
at Rochester’s Public Market

Join us for an evening of celebration that will include an exciting photo competition with prominent guest judges in which participants will submit wonderful photographs of people, places and architecture in Rochester.

The event will also feature music by Rochester favorite Jumbo Shrimp, food and beverages provided by Public Market businesses, as well as an opportunity to shop in those businesses."

[technicolor]

2009-06-09T22:22:00.000-04:00

[altered image from : strange maps]

[word of mouth]

2009-06-08T17:44:00.005-04:00

Plenty of music to be experienced Jun 12-20 at the Underground Music Fest at Dubland Underground.

[floor to the ceiling]

2009-06-07T18:19:00.000-04:00

[remember]

2009-06-07T17:06:00.000-04:00

[more than beats]

2009-06-05T10:46:00.004-04:00

Tonight make sure you're at the Bug Jar for the Bronze Nazareth show. Detroit hip hop and Rochester's freshest MCs. Whether you're a devout hip hop follower or completely new to the sound come out and experience the craft.

[cut and paste]

2009-06-04T22:11:00.004-04:00

ApSci made this video using an Iphone, a webcam, and a portable printer. DIY.

[lucid moments]

2009-06-03T19:03:00.004-04:00

Lucid Music crew will be at Dubland Underground tonight- 6/2. Pittsburgh hip hop for the heads.

[football freestyle]

2009-06-02T18:02:00.002-04:00

Sefyu "Senegalo Ruskov"/

SEYFU

[shutterbug]

2009-06-01T22:48:00.015-04:00

[ladies room @soundlab in buffalo]

[stop sign near Towners bike shop]

[stencil on a building I used to live in]

[guiness @monty's korner]

[jawbreakers @regal theaters]

>taken on my crackberry storm<

[rock candy]

2009-05-31T15:27:00.001-04:00

J*DaVeY - Slooow

[GI Jamaica]

2009-05-30T20:09:00.001-04:00

[two wheels]

2009-05-29T13:43:00.006-04:00

TONIGHT!!! And every last Friday of the month is the

Rochester Critical Mass bike ride

The ride departs from the Wilson Commons clocktower on the U of R campus at 5:30pm and from the Liberty Pole at 6:00pm. And even if you don't ride a bike- please remember to kindly share the road with us! Or else... (if you've ever seen the biking movie 2 Seconds you'll know exactly what I'm talking about).

[triple stack skittle pack]

2009-05-29T13:01:00.001-04:00

If you don't know who the NuRoc Crew is- get familiar. They've been serving up funky breaks and house music for a minute. They currently have parties every Friday at Tilt Nightclub (which by the way is a gorgeous club with an open air courtyard). On June 27 NuRoc is throwing the Sunshine party. 3 rooms of music: line up looks tight! DJ Annalyze, DJ Fixx, McNasty, Nimbus, The NuRoc DJs (Arod, Clotho, Raj Marathe, Rich Kishita), A-ko, Boywonder, K-Gunz, DJ Val, Hellfire Machina, Boxygen, Rolls Royce, Bliss, and Looney Tunes. Booty breaks and house all night!

[drastic rap tactics]

2009-05-28T19:05:00.003-04:00

Detroit will be in the house-June 5th at the Bug Jar! Wu disciple Bronze Nazareth will be performing in the Roc with The Wisemen and Beace. Hassaan Mackey, The Soul Slingers, Mdot Coop, and Moon Roc will all be representing the Roc. Hell on Earth will also be in the building. Not to be missed!

[thin white duke]

2009-05-26T16:16:00.005-04:00

[smoking gun]

[the grip]

2009-05-26T13:03:00.001-04:00

Art/Skating/Fam. Let's get a skate park in the Roc! Check out Roc City Park for more info.

[sliver in my pinky]

2009-05-26T13:00:00.001-04:00

I won't even lie- I recently heard about Passion Pit on Twitter of all places. I watched some of their videos, listened to some of their tracks and instantly liked their whole getup. Then by a stroke of VERY good luck I found out they're playing at Mohawk Place in Buffalo on June 17. We are going. Upstaters: Buy tickets HERE.

[writing's on the wall]

2009-05-25T21:22:00.005-04:00

Ayo - Lonely

Ayo is a wonderful singer.

[ties that bind]

2009-05-24T20:20:00.005-04:00

Invincible makes incredible music. Her album 'Shapeshifters' is available on Itunes, Fatbeats, and Emergence Music. Invincible is making moves- keep up with her. (This song also features Tiombe Lockhart who I love and have been trying to see live for a couple years. Everytime I'm in NY I somehow miss her performances. She's got a new project called Cubic Zirconia).

[possibility on a saturday]

2009-05-23T17:24:00.003-04:00

Little Dragon doesn't have to try at all. On my list of groups to see.

[jus gimme the lite]

2009-05-22T17:09:00.005-04:00

I just heard about this show today! I don't listen to the radio much but overheard it on DKX while I was thrifting. Perfect show for the holiday weekend. We just copped our tickets and we're looking forward to some dutty rock tomorrow night!

[buy local, eat local, be local]

2009-05-22T10:44:00.007-04:00

Obviously there are many, many reasons why you should buy your food and other goods from local farmers and local small businesses. If you need more info on this check out Sustainable Table or just google 'buy local'. I find it healthier and just more enjoyable to buy local. People selling goods locally usually have a more vested interest in their business and are very passionate about what they do. I have come across two Rochester businesses I want to share: Slim Goodie Boutique (530 Thurston Rd.) and Small World Bakery. Slim Goodie sells men and women's accessories, clothing, and shoes. Small World Bakery specializes in local and organic artisan breads and sweets. Folks in Rochester- check these businesses out. This weekend we will be biking over to Slim Goodie and to the public market so I will update in a couple days.

[she's gotta have it]

2009-05-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

"That Nola D" by Nola Darling" on Vimeo.

Fun, springy track that is a nice upgrade on the peas' beat. You should also check out Nola Darling's Pretty Gritty Mixtape.

[this is Africa]

2009-05-20T13:52:00.002-04:00

K'NAAN "T.I.A" music video directed by: NABIL

I first heard K'Naan while shopping in my favorite Toronto music store Play De Record a couple of years ago. I was instantly smitten with his sound and grabbed his album "The Dusty Foot Philosopher". K'naan is brilliant (say that in your best fake British accent).

[get buck]

2009-05-20T13:25:00.004-04:00

Go. Get Buck. Dance like you've never danced before. Friday May 22 at Bug Jar. {And on a side note- while searching for this flyer online I accidentally came across someone who calls herself White Kool-Aid. Not sure exactly what this means or why she thinks that's a good look but who am I to judge.}

[The Transcontinental]

2009-05-19T14:02:00.003-04:00

Wow. I'm glad I'm back on my blog grind because this song definitely deserves my attention and a place on my humble little piece of the internet. Hip hop lovers, supporters, aficionados, or anyone who's curious about some new freshness- make sure you check out IMAKEMADEBEATS and Roc C. Together they are The Transcontinental and their future album is one to keep your eyes and ears open for. Right now you can cop the track 'Warriors' ft. Rapper Pooh and Chino XL on Itunes.

[la-di-da-di we like to party]

2009-05-19T14:00:00.001-04:00

Slick Rick in the Roc! May 27 at Dubland Underground.

[back on track]

2009-05-18T18:00:00.014-04:00

Yes we took a brief hiatus- but now we're back. Just in time for the spring/summer warm-up. And we all know what that means- cook-outs, porch parties, 2-wheels, 4-wheels, toes out, picnics, sunnies. Our collage above is a nice summary of things we're currently digging on...

1. Fast Friday: this movie is just plain dope even if you're not into fixed gear biking. and yes there's always time to get addicted like we have. Our tiny-ass garage (but a garage nonetheless) has quickly become a bike warehouse and our computer goes straight to velospace when we turn it on.

2. Diplo: We've loved him for ages and have seen him perform at various parties including the Roots picnic, at Mod Club(Tdot) with Switch and recently at Soundlab in Buffalo. Never fails to drop the heat and make ya booty bounce. I'm guessing surfer tracks are the next frontier.

3. Organic Wine.

4. Major Lazer: Switch+ Diplo= music that makes you pretend you're surfing in your bedroom. Summer time madness!!! Pretty sure they're dropping an album. Love the track "Hold the Line" featuring Santi.

6. Mi Black Barbie she go go go.

7. Green smoothies/ juice: grab a good blender or juicer and go to town. Veggies are good in a glass.

8. Pins I had in the 80s: I can't remember all of them but I definitely had a SNAFU pin I got from Village Green Bookstore and a smiley face one from Record Theatre in Midtown. I can't even help that I'm humming Bobby McFerrin right now...

9. Carebears care-a-lot: If the Carebears, Rainbow Brite, and Cabbage Patch Kids could form a sweet army led by Punky Brewster and kick cancer's ass the world would be a better place.

10. Zion I: We had the privelege of seeing Zion I perform in the Roc last week. Good vibes, tight musicians, and lyrical skills to boot. Zion I has a new album out called "THE TAKEOVER". don't sleep.

[In and Out of Time]

2009-03-10T10:08:00.006-04:00

***Mdot Coop's Album Release party- March 20th@ the Bug Jar***

If you know Mdot Coop then you already know what kinda party this is gonna be. If you aren't familiar then here's a tip- make sure you come out on March 20th! Mdot is releasing his full length album "In and Out of Time" and the party at Bug jar will be a celebration of good music, good energy, and good art. Not only will Mdot be performing new music he's getting support from DJ Ease, Tim Tones, Destroy, and Zone (artist/FUA). So get your crew together, invite that girl/guy you've been eyeing, or just roll out for dolo and come enjoy a live party! More information: Mdot Coop, Bug Jar

[androids/cyborgs]

2009-03-07T15:19:00.003-05:00

Janelle Monae - Many Moons on Vimeo.

[fun to the 100th power]

2009-03-06T13:39:00.003-05:00

I go to Rehab every month- do you??? More info: Rehab Record Party

[poisson gras]

2009-03-06T13:09:00.004-05:00

March is that month us northeast folks always look forward to. March marks the end of winter (technically), it's when spring fever begins, and it's when we resume our usual party mode. It's also the month of Pisces birthdays including Mdot's. I happen to have a serious thing for Pisces people and this party is all about them fishes. If you don't know French the name of this party translates to fat fish in honor of Pisces birthdays. If we can't party in honor of birthdays- what can we party for??? See you at Pearl on March 12th! More info: RipRoc

[The Global Female]

2009-03-03T17:00:00.007-05:00

Rochester International Women’s Day

at Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo)

137 East Avenue

March 8th, 2009- 1:00 - 3:30pm

Formal Program begins at 1:30pm

Enjoy...

*Earth Tones Woman Installation: A Modern Gypsy’s Photo Journal

by Jamie Columbus

*Blessings by multi-cultural spiritual leaders

*Peace offerings in sign language by Trinity Montessori girls

*Proclamations by offices of the County Executive, Mayor, and Town of Brighton

*Ethnic hors d’oeuvres, tea, wine coolers, beer, International music, cultural dancers & performance groups representing women of the world,

*Goddess Make up, Henna Hands, Sacred Hand Art Project

friends, conversation, and surprises

More info and other Rochester events: http://www.riwd.org/index.html

[guverment name]

2009-02-20T12:11:00.000-05:00

[eat to live]

2009-02-18T12:40:00.011-05:00

Ryoko's in SF, best sushi I've ever had!

I am a sushi addict- no joke. I have to have sushi at least once a week or the cravings take over. So it was fitting that the first restaurant I went to in San Francisco was a sushi joint- Ryoko's in Nob Hill. Inside feels like an underwater cave (try to get one of the "booths" in the back) and the music is great. There's a grand piano, a dj on the weekends, and some great art on the walls. But the best part of Ryoko's is the food- the sushi is fresh and so tasty! Best sushi I've ever had and I eat sushi everywhere I go. The menu is a nice balance between traditional sushi and fun rolls. Everything we had was delicious including the Hot Tail and the Jumping tuna rolls. I'm not a fan of tempura rolls but even those were amazing at Ryoko's. I ate here twice while in SF- it's that good.

Mussels at Hog Island Oyster Co., sf

Seafood is perfect food. And oysters are the most fun shellfish to eat- eating them is like taking a seafood shot- a yummy, savory, refreshing shot! Hog Island Oyster Co. (in the ferry building) is an incredible San Francisco restaurant to eat oysters at. They have a happy hour special where their signature Sweetwater oysters are $1 and believe me you will want to take advantage of this deal. Oysters are really easy to eat and the average person can put away a dozen no problem. Hog Island has a scrumptious vinegar/cilantro sauce they serve with the oysters and it is all you need on these raw treats. Nic had the mussels which she said were heavenly. We also had the baked oysters appetizer, the warm olives, and a bottle of Sonoma white wine. A divine meal.

they love to put cucumber in their water on the west coast

Other SF food/drink spots:

Olive- a hidden gem. Their martinis are to die for. Example: "The Spicy Dirty One" -Ketel One vodka, jalapeño peppers, olive juice and house made jalapeño stuffed olives

Em's Place-cheap, fast breakfast spot. greasy spoon that's not so greasy. Also serves Chinese food. Mongolian chicken is yummy.

Brenda's French Soul Food- Do yourself a favor- eat at this Creole inspired spot. Just get there early as the wait can be serious- or go on an off day like I did. Read my review on Yelp.

Squat and Gobble- I really can't stand the name of this brunch spot but the food is delicious so I can't complain. Crepes, omlettes, you name it. Huge portions!

[fillmore to the mission]

2009-02-12T12:28:00.001-05:00

[jazz lives on the west coast too]

I woke up early on my born day...then promptly fell back asleep. I was a bit hungover from the previous night of partying at Yoshi's. (Yoshi's is a jazz spot in the Fillmore district- which is referred to as the Harlem of the West). Brooklyn Circus (check them out!) had thrown a dope soiree and everyone had made sure I was extra saucy when the clock struck 12! The music was on point- everything from Jay-Z to Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, some dancehall riddims, and of course 2Pac! After those tequila shots (that a very friendly stranger bought for me) I don't remember much- but yezzir we got it in!

[get a burrito and try all of the salsas]

On my birthday day, after getting some much needed rest and pomegranate juice, we headed to the Mission to wander the streets, do a little birthday shopping, and just let the day take us where it would. We ate at Pancho Villa Taqueria (see picture above). If you like Mexican food you will love Pancho. It's affordable, offers huge portions, and seems to have a cult following in sf. After lunch we happened upon Clarion Alley. Here are pics from this artistic walkway:

[street art: little saigon]

2009-02-11T22:41:00.016-05:00

beautiful wheat paste in Little Saigon, sf

My girl Nic lives in the Civic Center/Tenderloin hood of San Francisco. She is also right next to the area called "Little Saigon" which is on Larkin st. One night while strolling back to her place I noticed an incredible amount of street art in Little Saigon and surrounding blocks. Shepard Fairey's work was right near a dope art gallery called The Shooting Gallery (love the name!). I wasn't able to experience the gallery but I will definitely visit when I go back out west in May. Here are pictures I snapped on my crackberry :

[Celebrate Black History]

2009-02-10T12:00:00.010-05:00

Legacy: Treasures of Black History. by Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, Thomas C. Battle, Donna Wells

FREDERICK DOUGLASS -photographer unknown, ca 1850. Daguerreotype mounted in brass frame and mat. Frederick Douglass Collection, Howard University Museum.

"COME AND JOIN US BROTHERS," printed by P.S. Duval & Son Lithographers, Philadelphia, ca 1864.Broadside. General Museum Collection.

FISK JUBILEE SINGERS, photograph by Allen and Howell, ca 1890. Prints and Photographs.

WOMEN ATTENDING THE SECOND NIAGARA MOVEMENT CONFERENCE, photographer unknown, 1906. Freeman Henry Morris Murray Papers.

[creative thievery]

2009-02-10T10:32:00.002-05:00

[bay area music pt. II]

2009-02-09T23:59:00.006-05:00

While I was in San Francisco I checked out True on Haight Street. They have a men's and women's store loaded with fresh clothing, accessories, and a respectable selection of music. I picked up an Acrylick ladies T and a bunch of Cd's. Here's the music I got:

Also picked up Dj Gary and Dj Romeo- Bay Flavor 8, and True Mixtape 12: DJ Supreme Nothing Special.

[the bay]

2009-02-08T20:48:00.017-05:00

fat, lazy a** sea lions at fisherman's wharf, SF

I was quite lucky to have spent my birthday in San Francisco with my homegirl Nicky Nick Nic! Coming from upstate NY a week in the Bay area (in late January) is basically like a vacation in Barbados. I flew out of the Roc in a snow storm and stepped off the plane in sunshine and 70 degrees. After a brutal winter on the east coast SF felt tropical. Enough about the weather (which I will tell ya'll was perfect. Stayed around 70 degrees and sunny the whole week). If you're like me when you travel then you go to other places to experience the culture- music, art, fashion, food, and to learn how people do what they do in their hood. Music is an essential part of my life so I always make sure to pick up some mixtapes/cds/vinyl whenever I go someplace new. I especially like to hear what local musicians are doing and get that local flavor in my ear.

In SF I quickly realized that there aren't people slinging mixtapes on every corner like you find in NY or down in the subway in Philly. I asked around and ended up at Rasputin Music in union square. Here a very energetic employee (who reminded me of Jack Black) was literally jumping up and down with excitement to help me find some Bay area music to take back with me to the East Coast. Here are the cds i copped:
Outside Rasputin Music I talked to a dude named M.A. who was selling the "Been Official" mixtape hosted by DJ Mind Motion. I had heard Mind motion on 106 KMEL and he was pretty good so I flirted until M.A. gave me the cd for free. While I was on the west coast I also heard a bunch of tracks from this dude: Laroo. Now that I'm back in the Roc i'm delving into my new Bay area music collection and there's way more to it than just goin dumb, gettin hyphy, and thizzin with the homies. Yay area!

[home again home again]

2009-02-04T11:11:00.008-05:00

[street art in little saigon- san francisco]

I am back from the west coast! The bay was incredible. More pictures/stories/anecdotes to come shortly. (To sum up my experience all you need to know is that I can't get Tupac's "California Love" out of my head. Here's the video for ya).

[respect the architect]

2009-01-24T23:38:00.005-05:00

N.A.S.A. "Hip Hop" feat. KRS-One, Fatlip, & Slim Kid Tre

[blues harp interlude]

2009-01-23T16:53:00.005-05:00

Ane Trolle/ Siebenhaar- "Sweet Dogs"

[handlebar or dali]

2009-01-23T14:00:00.005-05:00

Have you ever wanted to have a moustache? Or just fake it? Well here's your chance- The Mustache Party is going down January 28 at the Bug Jar! Not only will there be art, music, and general mischief-making there will be mustaches (hopefully on everyone). Party starts at 6pm so get your faux mustaches ready and get there early. I will already be in the bay area so just party without me.

[beats for boards]

2009-01-21T17:36:00.004-05:00

You gotta be at the Beats for Boards party at the Bug Jar on Jan. 30. Not only will you be supporting the movement for a Rochester skate park you will also get to hear some brilliant music from some brilliant artists. Tim Tones, Mdot Coop, Emilio Rojas, Ric Rude- they will all be in the building. Party happens to fall on my birthday, however, I will be in Cali so you go head and party without me! Check out: Krudco

[reaffirm our enduring spirit]

2009-01-21T16:12:00.005-05:00

"...people will judge you on what you can build and not what you destroy." - Barack Obama

[neighborhood ball]

2009-01-20T00:03:00.003-05:00

[inspiration]

2009-01-19T23:00:00.002-05:00

[keep it sho]

2009-01-17T19:01:00.004-05:00

K.I.G.- Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes

[find a good one and give]

2009-01-16T15:19:00.007-05:00

Watch the new video------> Q-tip ft. Amanda Diva- Manwomanboogie

Q-tip's new album "The Renaissance" is the truth! I bought it on vinyl from Record Archive and I can't stop listening. Manwomanboogie is one of my favorite tracks- the message is positive, the beat is hot, and Amanda Diva kills it on the hook!

[dream more]

2009-01-16T13:13:00.008-05:00

I really like this book by Dallas Clayton. I want a car that runs on jellybeans...

[laughter = best medicine]

2009-01-15T20:20:00.008-05:00

On the spur of the moment last night decided to join a friend and attend an amateur stand-up comedy contest. The venue was The Comedy Club in Webster, which turned out to be a way better spot than what I had imagined in my head. The contest is "The Last Comic Sitting" of Upstate NY and runs each Wednesday night (7:30 pm) at The Comedy Club. It was free to attend- we had a couple of drinks- and there's food at the spot too. The comedians definitely had us laughing and the drink prices were great. I've never really gone to stand-up events and this contest kinda has me hooked- I really wanna see who wins! Heading back next Wednesday.

[justice for Oscar Grant]

2009-01-14T10:21:00.010-05:00

Please educate yourself on the murder of 22 year old Oscar Grant, who was shot by a police officer in Oakland, CA. Grant was shot as he lay face down on the ground, unarmed, and restrained. We cannot allow police brutality to perpetuate in our communities any longer. I am posting a few links- do your own research and make sure you speak on this senseless crime with your fam and friends: The Huffington Post, KTVU News, Color of Change, 5 Things You Can do Right Now about the Oscar Grant Shooting. I will actually be in the Bay area in 2 short weeks to visit a close friend. I will definitely be blogging about my trip and what I learn about Oscar Grant's murder while on the west coast. Demand justice!

[technical difficulties]

2009-01-13T11:38:00.004-05:00

My good old Sony VAIO laptop broke up with me. As soon as the new year started I guess it decided it was moving on. I can't complain too much since it served me well for almost four years. Now i'm going back to my first computer love- the Mac. My first personal computer was a Mac Performa (yes i'm dating myself). In college I had an iMac and then somehow someone convinced me to get a PC. Now here I am three PCs deep and I know it's time to return to Apple. So posts may not be as regular until I get my hands on my MacBook but when I do- watch out!

[who wants to be a slumdog]

2009-01-08T08:54:00.004-05:00

Saw the movie Slumdog Millionaire. It truly lives up to all the hype. Go see it.

[canary in a coal mine]

2009-01-04T13:28:00.004-05:00

"Since I Left You"- The Avalanches

[stop-motion]

2009-01-03T21:45:00.000-05:00

This Is Where We Live from 4th Estate on Vimeo.

[other people's stuff]

2009-01-03T17:35:00.005-05:00

It's fun to take a peek into other people's homes isn't it? Well photographer Todd Selby has a whole project showcasing creative people and their creative spaces. The photographs are lush, colorful and fun. Check them out: Todd Selby

[hep on the mellow side]

2009-01-02T19:01:00.009-05:00

I've always been a jazz fan but it was around '98 when I really started listening and collecting my jazz favorites. My friend KB had made me a lovely mixtape and included plenty of Cab Calloway, Sarah Vaughn, and Billie Holiday. Anyone who listens to Cab Calloway knows that you are quickly drawn into his energetic style. And it's a fact that Mr. Calloway was born in Rochester, NY. There's even a plaque on Sycamore Street commemorating him.

Last year we saw Stormy Weather at the Dryden Theater. Amazing movie with incredible musical performances by Cab Calloway and Lena Horne. Plus the dancing by the Nicholas Brothers and others will literally blow your mind.

I'm loving black and white film again, and vinyl, and vintage everything. Starting the new year in a very "old-fashioned" mindset- embracing the classics and inventing the rest.

[imani]

2009-01-01T16:05:00.003-05:00

Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year! Today marks the last day of Kwanzaa and the first day of 2009. The last principle of Kwanzaa is Imani (faith) : To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. -The Official Kwanzaa Website

[kuumba]

2008-12-31T15:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Kwanzaa! On New Year's Eve the Kwanzaa principle is Kuumba (creativity): To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it. -The Official Kwanzaa Website

[ball droppin/champagne poppin]

2008-12-30T12:38:00.007-05:00

Wishing everyone a Healthy and Happy New Year! A little before 10pm tomorrow night we will be heading downtown to see the Big Wish globe set on fire. The globe, a 1500-lb steel sculpture full of paper wishes sent in by Monroe county residents, will be set aflame right before the fireworks display. This I gotta see.

After that we will be heading to One. Enjoy and see ya in '09!

[nia]

2008-12-30T12:19:00.002-05:00

On this fifth day of Kwanzaa the principle is Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and development of our community in order to restore our people to their tradiitonal greatness. -The Official Kwanzaa website

[ujamaa]

2008-12-29T11:45:00.003-05:00

Today is the fourth day of Kwanzaa. Today's principle is Ujamaa (cooperative economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together. -The Official Kwanzaa Website

[ujima]

2008-12-28T14:42:00.004-05:00

Happy Kwanzaa! Today's principle is Ujima (collective work and responsibility): To build and maintain our community together, make our brother's and sister's problems our problems, and to solve them together. -The Official Kwanzaa Website

[kujichagulia]

2008-12-27T17:48:00.005-05:00

Today is the 2nd day of Kwanzaa. Today's principle is Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): to define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves. Check out the official Kwanzaa website to learn more.

[umoja]

2008-12-26T15:01:00.007-05:00

Happy Kwanzaa! Today marks the beginning of the seven day celebration. Today's principle is Umoja (unity): To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race. "Kwanzaa, which means “first fruits of the harvest,” is a time of reaffirming African American people, our ancestors and our culture. We seek to honor our past, evaluate our present and commit ourselves to a more productive future. Africans and African-Americans of all religious faiths and backgrounds practice Kwanzaa." -Baobab Cultural Center

Celebrate Kwanzaa in Rochester, NY:

Kwanzaa 2008: A Change is Gonna Come

Umoja (Unity): December 26 - Wheatley Library, 3-5 pm. 33 Dr Samuel McCree Way.

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): December 27 - Baobab Cultural Center, 3-5pm. 728 University Ave.

Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility): December 28 - Memorial Art Gallery, 12 noon -5pm. 500 University Ave.

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): December 29 - Rochester Museum and Science Center, 6-9 pm. 657 East Ave.

Nia (Purpose): December 30 - North Street Recreation Center, 3-6 pm. 700 North St.

Kuumba (Creativity) December 31 - Dunwoody Studios, 6-9 pm. 34 Elton Street.

Imani (Faith): January 1 - Celebrate at home with family.

For more information: call the Kwanzaa Hotline at 585-234-KWAN (5926).

[gee whiz, it's christmas]

2008-12-25T15:20:00.003-05:00

Holidays and music go hand in hand. For another spin on the Xmas mixtape head over to That Real Ish and get a free download of "A Funkadelic Christmas". This mix features Tribe, Snoop, The Roots, Mr. James Brown and a whole bunch of other artists I love. So sip that eggnog, chill with the fam, and love every minute of it.

[santa's got a big bag of soul]

2008-12-24T19:11:00.008-05:00

Enjoy the holidays! For a seriously funky Xmas mix head over to Daptone Records and download JBX's "Soul Santa" (it's FREE Merry Xmas). I am loving all the tracks on this mix and will be playing it tomorrow for the fam. Spread some soul and love around.

[crazy cousinz]

2008-12-23T11:25:00.002-05:00

Kyla- Do You Mind {Crazy Cousinz Remix}

[let the rhythm hit'em]

2008-12-22T14:05:00.004-05:00

Start celebrating early. Tuesday night head to Spike's- 655 Monroe Ave- for hip-hop, funky beats, and some ill mcs. Merry Merry!

[jingle bells around his feet]

2008-12-21T12:47:00.004-05:00

'Tis the season for holiday songs and traditions! Last night we went to a fabulous holiday party at our friends' place. Throughout the night we all took turns at computer dj'ing and one song that was in heavy rotation was "Dominick the Donkey." Neither of us had ever heard this Italian-American Xmas tune and it's one catchy little song. The hostess of the party told me that the song was one of her Xmas traditions and and how as a child she had loved envisioning Dominick bringing presents to kids in Italy. She explained that Rudolph could never make it up the hills of Naples so Dominick did the work. A cute little donkey climbing hills so he can bring presents to children? This song has Xmas cartoon special written all over it.

[tundra zone]

2008-12-20T18:53:00.001-05:00

If you are reading this blog from a location in upstate NY then you already know that winter has arrived and that the snow is serious. If you are nowhere near upstate NY you should know that once you live in a snowbelt area and survive some winters you are pretty well equipped to live anywhere. Right now in the ROC you can cross country ski (or snowshoe) anywhere- even downtown. Wind chills are approaching negative numbers and there's blizzard conditions when the wind kicks up. But believe me we are some tough tundra warriors up here- we might drive a little slower but the weather doesn't stop us.

[eat it like couscous]

2008-12-19T10:28:00.002-05:00

[blue-eyed soul]

2008-12-18T13:35:00.006-05:00

The folks over at Stones Throw are geniuses. Heart shaped vinyl- i'm head over heels! Plus the track is addictive to say the least. Mayer Hawthorne manages to create a new soul song that sounds like an old soul song with some serious breaks mixed in for good measure. Looks like the vinyl is sold out at Stones Throw but I'm sure some internet searching could turn one up.

"Just Ain't Gonna Work Out"- Mayer Hawthorne & the County

[potential life]

2008-12-17T14:50:00.007-05:00

For a while now I've been meaning to check out the gallery at Potential Life Studios (34 Elton St. 1st floor). I've picked up several of their flyers at Lakeshore Records but somehow I have yet to make my way over. Today I stumbled across their website and it all clicked. This gallery/musical space is currently exhibiting "reMIXED MEDIA"- mixed media work from Rochester artists kurt ketchum, chicken bone, jeremy dziedzic and r. scott oliver through January 2nd, 2009.

In addition to showcasing works of art Potential Life also has a weekly "improvised musical collaboration"- Sundays from 6-9pm. So even if you go every sunday you will never have the same muscial experience. Sounds exactly like my cup of tea. Check out Potential Life Studios and support local artists.

[lo-fi/ lo-tech]

2008-12-16T11:42:00.013-05:00

Real cameras are back! Yes digital was fun but haven't you missed loading the film, manually focusing your camera, and the excitement of getting your pictures developed? Haven't you missed all those strange imperfections and color variations that only film can produce? Digital cameras are great for immediate gratification and internet posting but there's just something magical about a still film camera. The camera that I am obsessing over right now is the Holga. The Holga was invented in China during the '80s and is a simple plastic camera that produces gorgeous photos with all the details that digital loses! Plus the "fundamentals of Holga" (created by the Lomographic Society International) are brilliant:

1. Free yourself from rules

2. Embrace random results
3. Disarm your subjects
4. Engage individuality
5. Get your hands dirty

I can't wait to get my own Holga. I will use Kodak film exclusively since I am a Kodak baby (being from Rochester and all).

[these are the breaks]

2008-12-15T14:36:00.002-05:00

This Friday NuROC is throwing their 4th anniversary party at Tilt Nightclub. As you can see on the flyer they have major support from some very talented djs. Guaranteed to hear them booty-shakin back- breakin beats! Gonna be a late night so wear your dancing shoes. For more info check out: NuROC

[chalupa- scrilla-scratch-paper-yaper-capital]

2008-12-13T14:34:00.005-05:00

N.A.S.A. "Money" feat. David Byrne, Chuck D, Ras Congo, Seu Jorge, & Z-Trip from Paul Griswold on Vimeo.

[musical devotion]

2008-12-12T18:01:00.014-05:00

If you had to pick one musician/group to solely listen to for 6 months straight- who would you pick? I ask this question because I once overheard a man say that he listened to only Prince for 6 months. When I heard this I immediately thought well yeah- I could listen to Prince for 6 months too. Prince's musical catalog is not only extensive but extremely diverse. Dude's got some 30+ albums, his music has been featured in countless movies, he's won a billion awards, and his career spans thirty years or so. Plus I happen to be a fan of the artist formerly known as... My other votes for a 6 month musical devotion include:
Syl Johnson
Bettye LaVette
Bad Brains

Nina Simone James Brown

And my new favorite group that I want to devote 6 months of listening time to is the South African group BLK JKS. I can't stop listening to their Mystery EP- which is free at Other Music.

BLK JKS- Summertime

[soothe]

2008-12-11T15:59:00.003-05:00

Beanfield- "The Season"

[cut/mix/scratch]

2008-12-10T14:06:00.002-05:00

To get you in the mood for tonight's Ugly Sweater Party. Here's a video of the headlining dj- Klever:

[happy hour art]

2008-12-10T10:34:00.007-05:00

Rochester now has a First Friday gallery night! Every first Friday of the month (from 6-9pm) local galleries host a community night for folks to experience and share art. This winter there's even a free shuttle to take you between galleries. Basically you get a chauffeured ride to and from spots filled with art. That's like finding a portal through other people's imaginations. Plus don't you find it amusing to have random conversations with strangers about the "meaning" behind a painting/sculpture/modern art piece? Check out the First Friday website for info and a map of the participating venues. Initiative by ROCO.

[kudoro]

2008-12-10T10:19:00.000-05:00

Buraka Som Sistema ft. M.I.A. - Sound of Kuduro

[radio roulette]

2008-12-09T20:22:00.027-05:00

Does anybody really listen to the radio anymore? Ipods, the internet, and satellite radio have pretty much made AM/FM radio an antiquity.

There's a bunch of reasons I rarely tune into on air broadcasts anymore. The number one reason is the frequency and amount of commercials. There are more ads than music on most radio stations these days. My number two reason is that most radio stations play popular/mainstream songs that are backed by major labels. Independent music is basically ignored. On FM radio you hear the same 20 pop songs all day/everyday until the rotation is switched.

I watched the movie Before the Music Dies and I understand that radio is a business not just an art. It's still a pity that radio can't introduce listeners to new, innovative music on a regular basis. Enough of my soapbox ranting. Here's some FM radio stations that I still tune into when the mood strikes:

My favorite FM radio station of all time is 104 WDKX- straight out of Rochester, NY. It's the only locally owned and operated station in the Roc. The call letters for DKX stand for Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X. I grew up on this station and it brings back memories every time I tune in. 104 has some unique radio shows including the Quiet Storm, Oldies on Saturday mornings, and the live mix shows on Saturday afternoons. You can now listen online.
College stations have a great deal more freedom when it comes to radio programming. Commercials are far and few between and djs are more apt to play indy/underground music because they're allowed to! My favorite local radio show is "the slowFlow show" on 89.7 WITR (RIT's station). This hip-hop and R&B radio show was created by Jaythreeoh. As the host/selectah Jay plays a diverse mix of music- making sure to showcase local artists and underground/independent talent. Not only are the tunes on point- Mr. Jaytreezy has personality for days. Tune in weekdays from 9am-12pm. You can listen online.

NPR (National Public Radio) has always had a diverse lineup of radio shows. I don't listen religiously but whenever I catch a show it usually sparks my interest. WRUR 88.5 broadcasts a few NPR shows including my favorite World Cafe and the not-so-traditional talk radio show called All Things Considered. "World Cafe" profiles contemporary musicians and features live performances and interviews. "All Things Considered" features quirky human interest stories and news from around the world in a creative format.

Honorable mention: WBER 90.5 is a self-described alternative radio station. WBER is one of my car radio presets so when I feel like playing radio roulette this happens to be one of the choices.

[Petal Power]

2008-12-08T10:24:00.011-05:00

The other day I was browsing at Abundance Co-op when I discovered four locally made products- Petal Power Salve/Balm and Green Power Salve/Balm. Each formula comes in a thick salve for the body and a lip balm. The amazing thing about these products is that they are made by Rochester students who are enrolled in a school-community garden project. Their pamphlet and website describe the program:"An...organic farmer and an educator work with elementary school students, teachers, and the community to develop school-community gardens on or near the schools. Students learn sustainable agriculture techniques. The gardens are located in low-income areas where food insecurity is high. Having the students research, design and process a product that is marketed and sold to the public is one of the goals of the project." Wow. Not only is this an incredible project that benefits local kids, schools and our communities but the products are natural and beautiful. Plus 100% of the proceeds from every purchase go back into the Rochester Roots program. Make sure you purchase Petal Power/Green Power products- they will make excellent stocking stuffers and help someone survive that dry skin and chapped lips we deal with in the winter! I'm giving them to everyone on my holiday list. These products are super affordable and can be purchased at the Abundance Coop (62 Marshall St. ) or online: Rochester Roots.

[Roc Native]

2008-12-08T10:00:00.004-05:00

Ric Rude "Native of the City"
directed by Mike Dispenza

Check out the Soul Slingers for that realness.

[Rehab Record Party]

2008-12-08T09:58:00.002-05:00

Oh yes it's Rehab time again. Every 2nd Friday at the Bug Jar we get down with the get down. Djs playing vinyl just like in the good old days! And by old days I mean circa 1996. Make sure to say happy b-day to Miss Rachel on Friday. See ya on the dance floor! [more info: Rehab Record Party]