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CONTENTS

3 CONTENTS 4 CONTRIBUTORS 5 ED LETTER 6 WALK ABOUT 7 DA FOODIE 8 A Year Without a King: My journey in mourning Michael Jackson 10 CULTURE CLUB + media + music + tv + peace of my mind + art 11 BOXED MUSIC 14 techno-town 17 JACKIE C IS OVER IT 18 SIMON CURTIS How SIMON CURTIS is taking over pop music with his army of robots 23 THE MUSIC’S NO GOOD WITHOUT YOU | featuring the photography of Gustavo vargas 30 god GAVE ROCK & ROLL TO YOU...PUT IT IN THE SOUL OF EVERYONE 32 YOU CAN BE ORLANDO NEXT BIG THING 33 THE DAVINCI CODE 34 jamesson off the wall 37 I MAKE MUSIC AND MUSIC MAKES THE MAN 36 CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF JACK 38 TALES IN THE CITY 39 CAROLINE KNOWS 41 THE BAROMETER

My name is Stephanie Crisan and I live a fabulous life in New York City. I am currently an Advertising and Marketing Communications major at the Fashion Institute at Technology. I am a certified makeup artist and a cosmetics fanatic. There is nothing I love more than a little retail therapy at my neighborhood Sephora.

Jonathan Woodard is a musician/educator who lives in the artsy borough of Boston known as Jamaica Plain. He can be found regularly at various local haunts, in which people thinks he works there. He spends his time away from his beloved Celtics working in his band Lono and watching far to many movies. He enjoys fine wine and cheeses.

Please feel free to send any threats, concerns, propositions, jokes, barbs, banter or any other form of correspondence to: woodardlovesyou@earthlink.net Mark Dodds, self proclaimed street philosopher and cloud-envy-ist. Rather be drinking, rather be reading, but mostly ends up sleeping.

Caroline St. Clair is a marketing brand manager and spends the weekends scouring thrift stores, hanging out in the backyard with friends, and dj'ing at venues around town. A talented listener, she has earned the unofficial role of "therapist" to many of her friends by analyzing and offering frank advice on their relationship issues. Caroline St. Clair lives in downtown Orlando with her Chihuahua-mix, Gibby, four cats and two pet chickens.

I’m Patrick Johnson and I live in Orlando, Florida.

I enjoy the entertainment business, particularly the animation film aspect. Working on a degree in advertising from International Academy of Art & Design. Three words to describe myself hardworking. Alphamale. Jackhammer.

Mary Seay talks too much, about all things kitsch, art, memes, trend, gossip and geek. Now she’s spreading her rabble-habit to the printed page. Just try to hang up on her this time! Ha! Jackie C.’s professional career has led her through TV news, film and Reality TV production, and social work. She holds degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Film, and continues to work as a writer and producer by night, while holding down a “normal” day-job. She’s been an on-again/ off-again O-town resident since the age of seven and resides on the East side of the metro area, which she lovingly refers to as “Upper-middle-class-suburban Hades.” She can be found hanging out anywhere there’s fresh air and trees, good beer or free wi-fi.

When Scott Moore is not adding Oscars to his mantle, the retired alpaca farmer & former Nobel Peace Prize winner for chinchilla relations during the Carter Administration, Scott Moore now currently resides in Los Angeles where he works in the entertainment industry.

4

ED LETTER Welcome to Summer issue part one of BRINK!

Summer issue part one is filled with all things music. This issue is so packed we decided to do a double cover with emerging pop artist Simon Curtis and another featuring the photography of Gustavo Vargas with local band Shut Up and Dance and more.

Photographer Gustavo Vargas paid a visit to various Orlando bands, artists and establishments and captured them in their element. Gustavo did such a great job that there were too many pictures to choose from, so check out the BRINK blog for some more shots.

The BRINK Launch + Connect event took place in late May and it was so much fun! I think its fair to say that everyone had a great time. Thanks to The Cameo, vitaminwater connect, Yelp, Makers Mark, the green line, Lola B and Sleazy McQueen, all the live artists and all the contributors! For more on our fantastic live artists, check next month when we feature them and their talents and how you can get in touch with them.

Enjoy!

Kyle M Menard

Editor-in-Chief

All photos except where noted are

www.rolandsmithphotography.com

Roland D. Smith

Photo by Lori Parks

THE MILK

Voci Dance's iMove_2.0: iCandy

THE SOCIAL CHAMELEON

DISTRICT

The tiny little space that houses The Social Chameleon is a great gathering spot for friends to enjoy a night out and indulge in the Chameleons extensive wine and beer list while sampling from an array of their tapa’s style food.

THE SOCIAL CHAMELEON 2406 East Robinson Street (407) 715-2138 www.thesocialchameleon.com

This small stripe of shops and eats houses some major local retailers, Stop by The Milk District across from TG Lee Milk Factory on Robinson Ave today!f

COVERT

ETOILE BOUTIQUE

Covert Skate Shop is a skaters paradise. The store is filled with decks and wheels but always plays host to an impressive amount of sneakers. Also housed under the space are skate clothing and some miscellaneous skater chic items.

COVERT SKATE SHOP 2428 East Robinson Street (407) 228-0804 Open Mon-Sat 12pm-7pm thinklivecovert.com

THE MILK BAR The Milk Bar, one of the newest additions to The Milk District, is a new laid back bar featuring a place to relax and play a video game. The Milk Bar features a large assortment of beer and some wine.

2424 East Robinson Street Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 692-8501 www.themilkbarorlando.com

Etoile Boutique is a Milk District staple. Featuring men’s and women’s clothing as well as owner Katie Reynolds A Rare Bird designs, this store boasts an impressive wall to wall collection of clothing, accessories and other fine items.

ETOILE BOUTIQUE 2424 East Robinson Street (407) 895-6363 www.etoileboutique.com/ 5

9

A Year Without A King:

I

My Journey in Mourning Michael Jackson

by Alyssa H. Chase

have a small scar on my forehead that I got from an accident when I was a toddler. I was dancing in my grandmother’s living room and stumbled into a metal TV stand. If I were to guess at exactly what I was doing in that moment, I would say I was trying to moonwalk. And I know that’s a very good guess because I have loved Michael Jackson since before I could talk.

June 25th will mark the one year anniversary of his passing. When his death was announced, my reaction was so violent and immediate, I knew there was more to the event than simply a celebrity dying.

It was as if I had lost a close family member. There was a deeper spiritual and psychological resonance in me. For a while, I couldn’t even listen to his music, as it was too painful to be reminded of his inspiration in the wake of losing him. Then when I did start playing the albums, it was the only thing I could listen to for a couple of months. I cried a lot. I read every stupid article that mentioned his name even though I despised the way the media treated him when he was alive. I went to the Apollo Theater in Harlem and signed a large banner to him outside. I dug out my original VHS (yeah, that’s right: V.H.S.) of “Moonwalker” and while I watched it, I pointed out all the little details I loved since I was a kid in each of those videos. Remember the Claymation in “Speed Demon”, the love shrine to Liz Taylor in “Leave Me Alone” and the crazy leaning stunt in “Smooth Criminal”? I got into a lot of conversations with my family about Michael’s death as they knew I was a major fan.

I reminded my grandmother of when I was seven and I begged my mother to buy me a red leather mini-skirt.

In my head, it was like Michael’s red jacket so if I wore that skirt, obviously I would be the most bad-ass second grader around. I did, however, let go of the idea when my grandmother told me I couldn’t wear it on the slide at the playground...After his passing, I got into a habit of singing “Man in the Mirror” to myself in front of the bathroom sink before I went to bed and for a while it made me sad but grateful for Michael’s influence in my life.

Eventually the original excitement and inspiration I had first felt about that song returned and I started singing

it in the morning before I went out for the day to audition or perform. This is all kind of dorky but it’s the truth and there was something re-inspiring about needing his presence so much again.

In that grief, I finally understood the impact of some other deaths of major public figures and celebrities who were other people’s idols or heroes. For example, the death of John Lennon created a similar type of mass mourning because he had spoken to so many people in a deep, profound way as MJ had as well. Admittedly, I didn’t expect much more new work from him in the years ahead. My god, even if the man left the business at the age of 15, he still would have had a legendary career. I figured he was shifting into another phase, maybe producing, but meanwhile he was trying to build up some kind of family life. I just wanted him to be happy and maybe gain some version of normalcy after a lifetime of chaos. Who knows what would have happened?

Lately, I’ve been mulling over all the different phases I’ve gone through in the past year in dealing with that loss.

Obviously I’m a big fan of Michael Jackson in particular, but what I want to emphasize is that my journey in relationship to one of my idols reveals the potential impact that our idols or heroes have on each one of us. Michael was a hero to me and became an idol of mine at a very young age. Because of that, he was probably my first major influence not only in deciding to become a performer but also in aspiring to be a confident and creative person. As Madonna has pointed out, yes, his work made you want to dance, cry, love or scream but it also made you want to fly. It was such a rare gift that it made you believe that anything was possible, which to me, made him a hero. We all need this kind of guidance and inspiration, particularly when we’re young because it lays the groundwork for the road ahead in our lives. It gives us hope for the future. For me, after a long day at school, my confidencewas boosted by trying to moonwalk in my socks on the kitchen floor whereas for you, it may have been seeing news footage of Dr. Martin Luther King or seeing Al Pacino in a movie or hearing a new Beyonce single. Or visiting with your grandmother. Your idols can be anybody, not necessarily a “celebrity.”

We all have idols: people we look up to who inspire both excitement and confidence in us for the possibility of all that we can achieve. They often exude power, creativity, wit and vulnerability but most importantly they make something very profound come alive in us. It’s a spirit that says, “This is the truth. This is who you are... Now make it happen.”

That is our first brush with passion. The bass line in “Billy Jean” still gives me chills but for you maybe it’s the opening to “Bad Romance.” We continue to acquire idols throughout our lives but I think it’s often the ones who affect us when we’re very young that have the most lasting impact. They awaken the possibility of the journey ahead with passion and confidence. Much of the structure of my life, even in the smaller everyday ways in which I choose to live, I can easily trace back to the spirit awakened in me by idolizing Michael Jackson and also, Madonna as a young child. Years later, I still think of Michael’s “Human Nature” when I see the NYC skyline at night and now, not only am I a part of that dream, but I actually own a little twinkle in that night sky. The effect is not as literal as adoring a pop star and therefore striving to live a driven, creative life, but it’s close. The difference is that the idols who first helped me discover my inner voice happened to be pop stars.

To me, MJ and Madonna are powerful performers who climbed a summit in their work with immense confidence and then turned around to offer you their hand with surprising vulnerability, especially Michael. To illustrate:

I’ve often heard people speak in awe about seeing Maria Callas perform live years ago. They say that even in a big opera house she had the gift of making you feel as if she was singing directly to you, right in your ear. I never had the opportunity to see Michael perform live but in every other medium: filmed performances, the albums, his videos, etc., he made you feel that same way. It was just for you and at the same time you could feel tightly bonded to a stadium of people surrounding you who were also sharing this intimate yet epic experience (see “Live in Bucharest” if you haven’t already). There was a vulnerability and generosity with his audience that was unmatched. Look at how many different nationalities make up his fan base. The appeal crosses cultural and generational lines because his work touches something in the gut, something profoundly human. For me, the “invitation” was made through the passion, creativity and generosity of his performances. It said, “I’m worth it, and so are you,” which made me feel it was also possible to create my own path towards achievement.

As a performer, I see my awakening in both Michael and Madonna’s work as “the invitation:” my first understanding of what it meant to be a storyteller in front of an audience. I identified strongly with that idea then and continue to as an actor and singer today.

Whether you idolize a pop star, a writer, a doctor, a politician, your dad or whomever, the “invitation” from all our idols is to step up into the possibility of power through the truth of who you are and how you can connect to the world around you. As we journey through life, this passion we first discovered through our idols comes under attack through negativity and doubt both from others and from ourselves. It takes such effort to keep that fire alive.

Over the last year, I have felt shock, pain, anger and despair over Michael’s passing. With my long time idol gone, it raises questions like, “Am I on the right road?”, “Am I strong enough and clear in my convictions to build a journey that truthfully responds to the vitality and passion within me, without the person who first awakened these feelings?” These are overwhelming questions that challenge myself to make a decision and commit to my life’s path in a different way than I have before. It’s scary because this is ultimately about responding to the truth in me. Not what others think about me but to me and to the passion that goes WAY back to that first inspiration from Michael. That incredible, squeaky voice on “I Want You Back,” the choreography from “Beat It”, his yellow eyes in the “Thriller” video, the tears at the end of “She’s Out of My Life” and of course, the white glove. It’s a call back to the “invitation,” to be persistent and fearless in order to step into the greatness of my possibility.

This wipes away the cynicism of adulthood and connects me back to the hopfullness of childhood, the expanse of possibility that we are so quick to diminish.

With this in mind, I feel inspired anew to honor Michael by actively reconnecting and responding to that passion for life that he first awakened in me so many years ago. It’s a lesson for all of us. Who did you adore as a kid? Why did you get so excited when you saw them on TV or heard them on the radio or read about them? Or maybe they just visited or finally came home from work after a long day.

Many of us find our idols and heroes within our own family.

The point is to ask yourself, “What was that early fire all about and where is it now?” Remember that? It is easily buried in the momentum of our lives. Truly, the greatest lesson I’ve discovered in this last year is that the “invitation” still stands-- for all of us.

Alyssa H. Chase is a writer and performer living in New York City.

9

Peace of My Mind with LORI PARKS

Practicing Gratitude

There are times in our lives when it seems not much is going our way. Sometimes we feel we are not seeing the fruits of our labors fast enough. If everything in our life is not exactly how we want it, it can be challenging to not worry and to not feel disappointed. It is in times like this, that we need to dig deep within ourselves and recognize the blessings all around us. Once we have noticed we are feeling negative about the lack in our lives or our lives are not quite the way we want them to be, we will want to do what we can to shift our energy and thoughts to a more positive place.

One way this can be achieved is through writing what is commonly called a “gratitude list.”

A gratitude list is a place where we express our appreciation for the people, things, circumstances, etc. in our lives. By writing out a gratitude list, we will begin to feel better about what we already have in our lives which helps us attract more to be grateful for. We will want to explore past, present and future appreciation. When we express gratitude for that which will occur in the future, we are sending out a strong signal to the universe we believe it is on its way. Based on the Law of Attraction, a universal law recently getting more attention, circumstances and events will line up to bring forth that which we truly desire.

Our list can include simple things, such as a good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, getting to work on time, feeling great, or having a lunch date with a special friend. Our list can include

necessities like having a car, a job, a home, a refrigerator stocked with healthy food or our loving and supportive families and friends. Our list can include our dreams and goals such as going on a tropical vacation, running a 5K marathon, finding the spouse of our dreams, writing and publishing a book, tapping into our creative abilities or living in complete abundance.

We can write a gratitude list at any time.

We can create a list each morning before we start our day or each evening before we go to sleep. We can write out a list while waiting at the doctors office or anytime as a stress relief activity. We can set up a time to do a weekly gratitude list, reflecting on the past 7 days.

We can list 25 things or 125 things. There are different ways to start of our list such as, “I am so thankful for...” or “I am expressing deep and sincere appreciation for...” - find what works best for you. Through this practice we will generate a powerful and creative space for manifesting our dreams. So remember, when we begin to think nothing is going right, a simple practice of writing down what we are grateful for, reminds us of just how rich our lives truly are. I am grateful for YOU! Thank you for reading. Peace be with you!

You may enjoy reading...:

The Secret, by Rhonda Byrne Simple Abundance, by Sarah Ban Breathnach Ask and It Is Given, by Esther and Jerry Hicks

BOX IT UP boxed music

When most hear the word drum they think: snares, toms, and cymbals. Boxed Music’s drums are none of these- what they are, is a modern take on one of the world’s oldest instruments.

Early man would thump out a beat on a hollow log to keep time, and then later cut slits to make two different tones. Flash forward a few thousand years and you have the modern day Tongue Drum.

Adam Crowell, owner and creator of Boxed Music, is putting his spin on this melodic piece of percussion. Each drum is tuned to a scale, giving them a very rich, warm musical sound that you would not expect from a wooden box. Veering away from the traditional boxed shape, he also started applying a curve to the drums. This not only makes the drum aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but also lets it fit comfortably around the player.

Boxed Music’s newest creation, “The Songa.” is a blend of both rhythm and melody that is a musthave for any percussionist. Whether you are a full time musician or just someone who likes to tap out a beat, Boxed Music has the drum for you. www.boxedmusicdrums.com

You may be stuck on the LOST Island iF You have been wearing the same clothes for years - and are perfectly fine with it.

You have survived two plane crashes, an emergency helicopter landing, a few explosions, dozens of shootouts, and a Dharma shark or two.

“You see dead people” – and so does everyone else.

You have a hard time remembering what year it is, but it doesn’t matter since you don’t age You have an affair in a polar bear cage.

You find yourself stuck at a desk pushing a button every 108 minutes ... bruthah.

You know to stay away from black smoke.

You like listening to Petula Clark’s “Downtown” while baking muffins.

You fly only Oceanic due to the abundance of alcohol on board.

You are perfectly okay with the fact that Drive Shaft, your favorite band, produced only one song.

You know electromagnets = trouble.

You are wary of giving your father a kidney.

You know that, when in doubt, your pal Desmond will show up to make things more complicated.

You’re aware that if your name is Kate, you will be involved in a love triangle that never seems to end.

You learn the hard way that it is never a good idea to have a one night stand with your stepsister.

You know to always carry a marker with you to write last minute messages on your palm.

You learn to never trust a man named Henry who sailed to the island on a hot air balloon.

And you know nobody gets around by hot air balloon.

You should probably brush up on “what lies in the shadow of statue” You enjoy the slightly meteoric taste of the chicken served at Mr. Cluck’s Chicken Shack.

You had a weird feeling taking an Apollo Candy bar from that blond haired guy in the hospital.

You know that your husband Bernard takes too long while using the bathroom.

You know not to climb deserted airplanes that teeter on the edges of cliffs.

You have a past, present, and a future* 12 (*terms used loosely)

Soundtrack to your life

by scott moore

GOT KUSH?

by NICOLE GIRATA

Now, now, now, I know what you’re thinking and I don’t mean the “kush” that’s illegal a.k.a the “mari-ju-ana”.

Nope, it’s actually Kush UltraLounge & Hookah Bar conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Orlando. It’ hidden inside Kathmandu, a shop that sells a variety of incense, bohemian jewelry and an array of hookah pipes. As you walk in you’ll be a bit confused till you speak to the store associate. He will show you to the entrance that’s at the top of the stairs where you will have to punch in a code to open the door. Talk about feeling like “V.I.P”, you get a secret code to open the door in order to enter the lounge.

As you walk in you are presented with stairs that lead you directly to the lounge. The lights are flashing and the mood is right. The beats of reggae sounds filter through your ear so you can feel the vibe of the lounge. The room is full of white sleek couches and each section feels like you’re V.I.P except you’re not paying a ridiculous amount of money for a bottle of Vodka or Rum at a trendy club. They sell a variety of flavors of hookah and they also offer different kinds of wines and beers to indulge your thirst. The vibe is continuously changing as the color of the lights transforms the room. Even the genre of music varies throughout the night from reggae to hip-hop and to the soothing sounds of r&b.

To add the cherry on top of this decadence, there is a room that can only fit about two to three persons, it is somewhat hidden in the lounge, and has a pole so the females that are feeling a little sexy that evening can “exercise” and brush on their dancing techniques (wink, wink).

If you want to experience a great night at Kush UltraLounge & Hookah Bar, make sure to get there early so you can get yourself a couch of your own in order to enjoy your hookah experience. You can also call to make reservations for the night. It’s definitely a lounge that you will want to be seen and recognized. You’ll be pleasantly impressed by the essence of Kush’s sexy, sleek lounge.

Check out www.KushUltraLounge.com Location: 23 South Court Ave. Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407-843-kush Hours: Mon-Sun 9:00pm-3:00am

Music adds such an important element to your everyday life. Think of the times you put in your favorite mix on the iPod when you’re feeling a certain way or want to! Think of what it adds to your favorite movies and TV shows. What would Jaws be like without the classic theme whenever he was around? Or the Imperial March used for Darth Vader in Star Wars? And who doesn’t know the words to The Brady Bunch, or The Flintstones by heart or hum along to The Simpsons?

And of course music is everything on American Idol and Glee and soon-to-be newest import next season, The XFactor. The list goes on and on.

Not only do these TV shows and movies rely on themes to brand them, but these songs, scores and theme music are ever so important at eliciting specific thoughts, feelings and emotions for a particular scene, show or movie over all. Musical elements are key to portray a scene so you know right away if it’s scary, comedic, tear-jerking or action-packed. Naturally music is a huge business here in Tinseltown. For movies and TV you will have a music supervisor, music mixer, not to mention a full orchestra or band depending on the movie or show, just to name a few plus many, many more involved in getting and licensing your favorite artist’s songs. And a big money maker is that ever present movie soundtrack.

Movies and TV would be certainly a miss without these music and musical elements--so the next time you kick back to watch your favorite show or movie take notice at just how much they really are a part of it all. Now if we could only get rid of that canned audience laughter!

13

shark in the water

by Mary Seay

Techno-town readers, behold Grooveshark, a site that just might be the new music revolution. Before you fling your favorite-online-music-service vitriol at my head and taunt me with how often that cliché is readily applied to the latest in melodious methamphetamines, hear me out. Er, read me out. That sounds perverted (but you like it). Anyway, pay attention.

Say you’re a self-proclaimed music maven who thrives off fresh sounds, retro synth and all the chords in between. You’re constantly in search of the best way to get that auditory fix. There are plenty of online options nowadays, from the ever popular internet radio to bit-torrents (hush your mouth), but each has its pros and cons. Grooveshark combines the best of both worlds and then some: listeners can live-stream “free” music but have ultimate control over what, when and how they listen. You are the DJ instead of the site DJing for you, but you also don’t have to wait eons for tracks to download – while sneaking glances over your shoulder – before enjoying them.

Getting started on listen.grooveshark. com is simple. Its intuitive interface enables easy exploration through a song library millions strong and counting. Scope out popular and recently played tracks while managing your song uploads, playlists, tagged faves and your fellow music-savvy “sharks”.

Grooveshark playlists are fully customizable, like a modern version of the beloved mix tape without the annoying DJ talking over the best part.

When you miss the thrill of discovering new music, Grooveshark Radio

automatically recommends tunes based on songs in your playlists, your favorites and your listening queue.

Because sharing is caring, Grooveshark has devised several ways to disseminate songs in a snap. Send a direct URL link, share internally with Grooveshark friends, broadcast through Facebook or StumbleUpon, Tweet viaTinysong.com or export single tracks or full playlists to your blog using Grooveshark widgets.

While you don’t need an account to listen to music, you’ll miss out on most of Grooveshark’s best features without at least a free one. A VIP account available for $3 a month or $30 a year removes ads from the Grooveshark platform, expands Grooveshark’s social functions and grants access to downloadable desktop apps, Grooveshark Mobile, exclusive skin designs and IMO, the yummiest VIP perk: Last.fm integration.

Instead of viewing internet radio/music social network powerhouse Last. fm as competition, Grooveshark syncs with Last.fm’s popular “scrobble” feature, which adds your listening history to your Last.fm profile and opens the door to a near-infinite database of user-driven recommendations.

With VIP, you also get a backstage

pass to the latest Grooveshark improvements. On the agenda: an expanded and fully integrated social network and access to Grooveshark Mobile across all cellular devices. Currently the Grooveshark Mobile app is available for Android, Palm, Blackberry and jailbroken iPhones.

Chair dancing to badass songs is great, but say you’re an artist who’d sell half their soul and the Skittles in their couch to get their music to such avid listeners. With Grooveshark, there’s also a site for that.

When I first sat down with Aaron Ford, Grooveshark’s VP of Industry Relations and Business Development, he 14

began our meeting with a question of his own.

“Are you familiar with our Artist’s page?”

I knew why he was so enthusiastic about artists.grooveshark.com. When I stumbled upon it earlier that day, it blew me away. This subwoofer in the Grooveshark stereo system employs graphs, demographics, geo-targeting tools and other forms of valuable data to connect fans and artists behind the scenes. It monitors listening trends from user feedback, measuring front end features such as favorited songs, skipped tracks and user demographics associated with those listening choices, and then applies that data toward endless possibilities for an artist’s promotion and overall creative growth. Imagine a science that could analyze which bands would best tour together, which album track would best perform as the newest single and other tangible means for artists and record companies to make smarter decisions.

Imagine no longer, you’ve got artists. grooveshark.com.

While promoting nutritious artists to hungry listeners is pretty fab, Grooveshark is just getting started. Say you’re a record exec pulling out your hair because the music industry is imploding upon itself. There’s a reason I put Grooveshark’s “free” music in quotes, because their business model works to the advantage of the industry as much as it does listeners. When the time comes that streaming just isn’t enough, and your heart won’t go on until you’ve burned a CD to cuddle with at night, a quick click will download your special songs from iTunes or Amazon. The joy is that users aren’t obligated to shell

out cash in order to sample music, but record companies, and most importantly, beloved artists, are duly compensated. It’s not just legal, it’s economically sustainable. For an industry whose mainstream business model is stuck in the dark ages, it’s also a renaissance.

And because Grooveshark loves everybody, say you’re a business.

Many companies use music in their ads to connect with audiences on a visceral level, because our heartstrings are often tied to our purse strings. Yet up till now, hunting for catchy tunes embedded in media required elephant guns, interpreters and an off-road Jeep retrofitted by Bear Grylls. You’d think companies would make it easy to find artists associated with their brand because of that instant emotional connection.

The Grooveshark team, who walks around with eco-friendly CFL light bulbs glowing above their heads, recognizes the opportunity to do just that. They’re working with brands to promote artists heard in advertising through Grooveshark’s music sharing tools, such as widgets on company and product homepages.

Do you see where I’m going with this? Grooveshark is not your average music streaming website. It’s an intricate musical ecosystem, perhaps the next step in the industry’s evolution.

Although Grooveshark has amassed enough minions to get voted “Best Music Streaming Service”

by Lifehacker.com, it’s still technically under the radar of mainstream music culture. It’s probably the most popular online music service

you’ve never heard of, and if you have heard of it, your fandom likely stems from blog plugs or other word of mouth.

Grooveshark doesn’t mind, and encourages organic growth, finding it more important to spend money on bettering the product vs. over-hyped marketing.

Their goal is to establish a long-term presence in the music industry. Any self-promotion is intimately tied to music itself, like giving away 1,000 free VIP memberships at the Florida Music Festival for example. Exposure in such environments enforces their commitment to propagating great music.

But business aside, Grooveshark’s ultimate mission is to resurrect music’s spirit, that nomadic search for the source of personal and universal inspiration. Grooveshark knows when you see a concert, rock out in your car (yes, everyone can see you) or croon in the shower (here’s hoping no one can see you), you’re not thinking of research mechanics, sales figures or chart position. You’re feeling it, dancing like Elaine and not caring in the slightest, because music embraces all that is epic about life. Grooveshark builds its precision tools and polished platforms to make sure the entire experience feels like second nature. It’s best-practice technology that first and foremost taps into your soul. And R&B. And classic rock, can’t forget the classic rock.

Or an eclectic mix if that’s your thing.

It sure is mine. You’ll find yours in BRINK’s “2010 June Music Exclusive” Grooveshark playlist, which highlights the great local bands Kat Peabody extols in this month’s Rant, as well as every song featured in June’s special Music issue. I wouldn’t get my fix anywhere else.

15

johnny

can you hear me

Like most of the blogs featured in BRINK, I have no idea how they are discovered. One click leads to a trail of media greatness. The latest find is Johnny Five.

Johnny five consists mostly of pictures and the rare occurrence of videos, quotes and questions. However, my favorite part about Johnny five is the music. Somehow Mr. Five always seems to find the latest pop tracks that barely exist. Better yet, Mr. Five never gives a download link or any illegal download click through, the reader gets the power to simply play the song and listen. That’s what keeps me going back for more time and time again.

When not listening to music on the blog, the reader gets to sift through Mr. Fives pop culture hits and misses.

Usually, the blog explodes when a favorite TV show of Mr. Five’s is coming to an end or has hit their climax, i.e.

“Skins” and “LOST.”

Johnny Five has become part of the daily routine and is definitely worth checking out for the music alone. Head over to www.johnnyfive.tumblr.com and discover something new.

twitter around Orlando @shibooya Hm, wish I could just writhe around all day in a mansion RT @girlwonderful: Is that Nelly Furtado in the new Rihanna vid? http://ow.ly/1Rd4g @Kikomo_p I really want a pointand-shoot for when I go out and chill. I sometimes dont wanna think about f/stops and shutter speed #justsayin @BrianFeldman See: #FringeNature #OF2010 RT @OMAOrlando Today’s counterculture day at OMA. Let’s all go out and create something today. Defy the norms! @ BougieonaBudget 5a jam sessions on my living room floor with @DaggersOn, FTW :-) Singing along to Against Me! and others...

@beenas I need a new temporary job until august! Projects? Summer positions?

@SitDownDisco Big stuff!!! RT @ TheDailyCity: Orlando Art Incubator in @dwntwn_orlando is a hit on its first day (photos) http://j.mp/ incubatethis @rickandchristie Dear Brighthouse, you provide cable for Orlando tonight may be one of the biggest nights in #magic history. Please turn my cable back on @KimberlyTaylor And just like that, the weekend begins!

JACKIE C IS OVER IT

CRUDE SLAVERY by jackie c

If you haven’t been to the beach in a while, you may want to

make a trip... before our shores are covered in crude. Between a bad economy, freezing temperatures, losing the shuttle program and now the oil spill, since the start of 2010 us Floridians have been getting screwed more than Jesse James. You could say Tennessee’s had it worse since Nashville looked like New Orleans after Katrina not too long ago, but we haven’t hit hurricane season yet.

And since Tennessee couldn’t even beat Florida when they had Peyton Manning, I doubt they’ll finish the year on top.

I don’t know about you, but I was under the impression that everyone on God’s green (not for long) planet was required by some form of government to have some type of worst-case-scenario crisis plan factories, military bases, schools, churches, etc. So, one would think oil companies would surely be included in that requirement. But, plan? “We don’t need no stinking plan!” says our government. As a result, there are a bunch of guys sitting on boats in the middle of an oil slick, scratching their asses while as much as 100,000 gallons of oil a day could be spewing into the gulf. I was over it before this, but now, I am even more over our forced dependence on oil.

Yes, our dependence is forced. If products that run on renewable energy were available and affordable, don’t you think consumers would choose them? I think a majority of people would, especially when most of the people I know actually spend MORE money and expend MORE effort choosing to be earth-friendly.

Consumers in a capitalist economy only have power when they have a choice, and without the availability of affordable options, we don’t have one.

For example, I would love to buy a hybrid car, however like a lot of people, they’re out of my price range.

Small, economical cars used to be in my price range, but since gas prices went up, the car companies jacked up the prices on those. Consequently, I pray every day that my 2001 Honda keeps kickin’.

Since public transportation isn’t as stellar in the states as it is abroad, we spend lots of time in our cars, so families especially want some comfort. With some larger fourdoor and SUV hybrids now, at least families (who have the bucks) actually have some kind of choice, but the rumored minivan hybrids still haven’t hit our market.

With not much choice in what we drive, you’d think we could get more choice in what we put in our cars?

Nope. Our cars are not made to use ethanol gas, so we have to pay to convert them, which would be a waste since not much corn is grown locally and as a result, no gas stations here actually sell ethanol. Our cars are also not made to handle diesel. If we wanted to use biodiesel, we’d have to buy a European car with a diesel engine. European cars are more expensive and cost twice as much to fix. I know; I gave up “farfegnügen” for that exact reason. If you could afford to buy a diesel car, you’d then have to then have to become neighbors of “The Governator” in order to be near a gas station that sells biodiesel, a great option for fueling those cars.

Since biodiesel is oil from plant matter, it can be made from soybeans or even recycled cooking grease.

California actually has drop stations for people to dump their cooking grease for recycling, and waste management picks up grease from restaurants to take back to their biodiesel blending stations.

Residents there are choosing to use B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% diesel) and B5 (5/95) fuels in their diesel cars. The biodiesel reduces total emissions, reduces acid rain, is less toxic, and can extend the life of car engines.

However, there are cons, mostly because car companies are not manufacturing parts to accommodate the change in oils. Fuel filters need more frequent changing, biodiesel could put more wear and tear on current valves, hoses, and rubber seals, microbial growth could occur, and it just slightly reduces performance. Pure B100 fuel reduces performance around 11%, but most manufacturers won’t warranty cars and parts running on B100.

European car companies are making accommodations for B20 and less, but American companies are still

holding us hostage.

The government is also lacking in providing tax breaks for those who choose renewable energy. Presidential hippy Jimmy Carter put solar panels on The White House and gave breaks to others who did the same. Then, Reagan took them off and repealed the breaks. To this day, families who have solar panels on their houses sometimes actually get checks from the electric company instead of having to pay a bill.

Solar power is efficient, and it does work. So much so, our own Lynx public transportation system (that, btw, is now blending biodiesel for its busses) is said to be looking to add a solar-powered bus to its fleet. So, if we’re on the verge of powering 40-passenger vehicles with the sun and electric batteries, where the heck are our solar cars? We live in the freaking Sunshine State! Obviously, the car companies, the oil companies, and the government insist on us being dependent on a scarce, toxic, dangerous-to-produce fuel in order to line their own pockets, so I still have a car that uses petroleum gas and the whole entire economy and ecology of the Southeastern region is about to be destroyed.

You want things to change, start using your vote. Research little-known candidates and back people who actually care. Buy green if you can afford it, and even if you can’t, try to make the sacrifice every now and then. Let’s also start a “freeware”-style revolution. Have you noticed how all these smart programmers ticked off at Bill Gates have created copycat software products and offered them up online for free? Well, let’s find some smart engineers who want to give the car companies the finger, send them some donations and see what carconversions they can create. Maybe they’ll come out with some great kits we can purchase for turning your car into a solar hybrid or solar, batterypowered car. Necessity is the mother of invention, and this spill proves, we are in great need to free ourselves from crude slavery. http://www.sccd.org/biodiesel/facts. shtml Facts about biodiesel. www.inhabitat.com/2007/12/18/ transportation-tuesday-tindo-the-solarpowered-bus-arrives/ See “Trindo,” the solar-powered bus!

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SAYS s i h d n a t o b o r k a t y a bo of droids is one c i y s m u r a m p o t p u r o e d v ing o t a time. fin ays a s d s i n t r e u tr c n o m i s what DS R SHIEL E L Y T Y B ARD PHOTOS LE MEN Y K Y B IEW INTERV

perspective at least. I’m excited to prove what I can do without a label.

That just means that I will be able to be more of an artist of my own design by the time I am able to work with one.

How did the intro‘s like “Boy Robot” and “Brainwash” evolve? I love them, I feel like their introducing the story.

Well, I am a bit of a nut when it comes to the album creation process. If I have an idea, I run with it, expound upon it, foster it, and try not to ever second guess it. There are layers and themes and hidden meanings that I like to lace my music with, and the little nuances like the intros only help me to further develop them.

BoyRobot was a bit of an homage to Pinocchio, and was a great way to wrap up the album in a thematic package, in my opinion.

Speaking of a story, 8bit Heart feels like a story is being told – where did this concept come from?

There is very much a story within the album, & the concept came from my heart. I always find that when one writes his own experience, writes what he himself truly knows, the final factured by anyone but me ;) Hi Simon! How did you get your piece of work will convey that in a start in music? genuine way. Yes, there is a charac8bit Heart is currently free to ter that I’ve created within the music, download on your website, www.

I started performing in musicals and yes it is pure pop & very theatrical in simon-curtis.com, I would have to operas at age 10, and was an avid its own way, but at the end of the day say that not many people would theater performer, but by the time I 8bit Heart is my heart & soul, laid out give away an album for free – I reached my teens, I set my sights for all the world to listen to... for free. personally think its genius and on pop music. I stopped performing haha I’m inspired by fantasy, scigracious of you.

From a music in musicals and worked on writing ence fiction, 80’s movies, 8-Bit video marketing stand point, you want music and finding my own voice games, Mozart, etc. so why shouldn’t people to hear your music and instead.

I put all of that into my music? Like I discover you, no matter the cost.

Before 8bit Heart, your persona said, I never second-guess myself ;) How did this come about? was a bit different. What caused Well, one of my best friends, Andrea In “Diablo,” I recognize the Britney the switch? How did “8bit Heart Spears influence and nod to “If Lewis, was on Degrassi with the Simon Curtis” evolve? artist now known as Drake. She kept U Seek Amy” – is she a big influWell, interestingly enough, I really me up to date on what he was doing ence? feel like 8bit Heart is the first “ofin the mixtape scene well before As soon as I wrote the chorus to ficial” Simon Curtis persona, as it he became the household name Diablo I actually said out loud “this were. I’ve always had a very distinct he is today, and I was completely is a Britney song,” which in turn lead vision as to the kind of pop artist fascinated by his meteoric rise to me to inserting the If U Seek Amy that I wanted to be, and in doing prominence. So many people are lyric. I like to wear my influences my first album completely indepen- making a name for themselves with on my sleeve, & if I am going to let dently, I was able to create everyfree music (Mike Posner, Dan Black, myself be so inspired by something thing from the ground up in that Drake, just to name a few), & I truly or someone as to write a song that’s vision. Before that, any semblance believe that it is the way of the future. such a clear product of influence by of a public persona I might have This is me, as an artist, working that inspiration, then I am probably had was me as a Nickelodeon kid. toward a fanbase without the aid of a going to give it, or she, or he a direct I’m glad that people are getting to label, and in a way, having the marshout out. In the case of Diablo, it see that I have a little more up my ket like this now signals a shift back was Britney Spears. She’s definitely sleeve, and that none of it is manu- to genuine artistry & talent, from my been a huge influence & idol of mine.

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She was my gateway drug to pop music.

Recently, I have seen your name and your work all over the blogesphere and on Twitter. How did it feel to be a trending topic on the world chart for Twitter and getting all this great blog love?

It was incredible! I’ve been so fortunate to have so many people really taking to the album, and now that I’ve started performing, I can’t wait to share it with everyone in person.

So you’re a boy robot, made, not created. Is this true?

Made by himself. A bit of a paradox I know, but so it is indeed true. Haha Artists such as Janelle Monae and Robyn are big into creating an “other worldly” persona and references in their music much like yourself. How did the “robots” come about to you?

Well, I was making an album with 8-Bit video game music samples & writing about mind-control & other sci-fi things, it was somewhat inevitable.

I notice a lot of Twitter posts to UK pop guru Frankmusik. Is something developing there? I must admit, a Frankmusik/Simon Curtis collaboration would be poptastically good!

Yeah, we’ve been in his studio together quite a bit recently, & I am really thrilled to say that there is something big coming ;) Shhh...

What’s next for Simon Curtis and his legion of robots?

Well, I am typing this from my hotel in Kampala, Uganda, where I’ve been in the jungle and out in the wilds for 2 weeks as part of my work as an ambassador for the Uganda Wildlife Authority & their Friend A Gorilla campaign (visit friendagorilla.org to learn more), but I am excited to get back to the states and back to work with my beloved Robot friends. Haha I will be opening for La Roux in Kansas City on June, 5th (which I am really thrilled about), and after that hopefully performing a lot more around the country and starting work on the 8Bit Heart sequel.

Now, I’d like to switch it up and do more of a “rapid fire.”

Growing up I… had the most vivid imagination imaginable, still do!

My perfect night is… spent with my best friends hanging out, eating food, watching movies, and laughing.

My favorite music video growing up was…

Michael & Janet Jackson, Scream My favorite time in music was…

Late 90’s early 00’s!

I describe my style as…

Nerdy and hobo-esque My glasses make me… feel like I can get into character easier I have always been obsessed with…

Magic People would be surprised to know that I… have never had a pet, despite my love for animals One thing I think is overrated is…

Frozen yogurt One thing I think is underrated is…

Frozen custard!!!

I’m happiest when…

I am comfortable & lounging with my closest friends and family.

The craziest thing that has happened to me so far…

Getting grabbed by a baby East African Mountain Gorilla (one of the most endangered animals on Earth) while hiking in the jungles of Uganda on the Congo border. Insanely, astoundingly, mind-blowingly incredible experience. Words can’t do it justice!

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the music’s no good without you featuring the photography of M

gustavo vargas

y dad got me interested in photography, and I have been taking pictures for about 20 years now. Having started prior to digital, I learned how to process my own 35mm negatives (film) and make my own prints in the “wet” darkroom (I shoot digital now).

Being a lover of the arts, I was excited when I found out I would be doing BRINK’s music issue!

(Music is another one of my passions.) Besides the types of images featured here, I love shooting old cars, portraits, abstract, and travel photography. I’m an avid traveler, and my love of travel and photography helped me realize one of my long-term goals last year: my first-ever photography exhibition! In the fall of 2008, I traveled to Japan and China, and I used my best images as the subject of photo exhibitions at Tatame Lounge and, later, Ichiban!

You can find me at Cup O’ Soul, possibly taking pics, definitely enjoying a quiche and a latte!

What was your first concert?

The Cure. “Wish Tour” (1992) What is your favorite record / album?

U2, “Achtung Baby” Top three records / albums:

1.) Morrissey, “Vauxhall and I.”

2.) Thievery Corporation, “The Mirror Conspiracy.”

3.) Radiohead, “In Rainbows.”

What’s on your iPod? / What are you listening to right now?

My taste in music is pretty diverse: Tokyo Police Club, Maxwell, Vivaldi, Rachmaninoff, The Budos Band, Miles Davis, Chris Isaak, and Tiësto are a few.

Favorite artist / band:

Coldplay Favorite new artist / DJ / band:

My favorite up-and-coming DJ is Masashi Osaku Find Gustavo at www.gustavovargasphoto.com

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park AVE cds

Park Ave CDs has been an Orlando staple for years. Once located on Park Ave in Winter Park, the store now resides in the hip Audubon Park area. The store boasts an impressive music and vinyl collection, Park Ave also houses a lot of items that make great gifts and trinkets. Think twice before going corporate and swing by Park Ave CD’s first and support a local shop. Park Ave guru Shellie was on hand to fill in the blanks.

What was your first concert?

My first concert was Barry Manilow! I feel asleep (go figure) but I’ve actually met him twice in Park Ave over the years!

What is your favorite record album?

This is a tough one for anyone, let alone someone working in a record store half their life...so I’m going to cheat and pick a mix CD, but it’s a great one...”Love Break” by Cosmo Baker, every time I listen to it I get goosebumps, incredible soul chosen by someone who knows it best!

Top three records / albums: DJ Keef “Nuthin But Nate Dogg” No Doubt “Rock Steady” Astrud Gilberto “Astrud Gilberto” What’s are listening to right now?

Right now, I’ve been taking lots of beach vacations so it’s loaded up with lots of reggae and dancehall, goes perfectly with a pina colada and sand between my toes.

Favorite artist / band: This is practically impossible to answer, but I would have to say both Stevie Wonder and Willie Nelson always end up at the top of my list.

Favorite new artist / DJ / band: Passion Pit, I’m so stoked to see them in town this summer!

Park Avenue CDs | parkavecds.com 2916 Corrine Drive | Orlando (407) 447-7275

JAMES

ROQUEMORE Unsure of where to stand, singer/songwriter James Roquemore develops his craft quietly in the corner, a paper plate project of glue and glitter shared with a few fellow Orlando kindergardeners. Some walk back to their crayon boxes, many pull out their mats for nap time, but those left standing are subtly suspended in curiosity, if only until craft time is over.

My favorite music video growing up was... In high school, one of my favorite music video intros was from Sum 41’s “Still Waiting,” where the record label rep tosses a pack of cigarettes to the band, saying, “You guys smoke? …You do, now!

Smoke ‘em up, Johnny.”

I describe my musical style as... indie folk peppered with 60’s pop.

What does that even mean?

I have always been obsessed with... collecting random stuff: vinyl, glass bottles, ticket stubs, stickers, patches… mostly useless nostalgia.

I’m happiest when... I’m driving to a good record or sharing new experiences alongside old friends.

The craziest thing that has happened to me so far... would have to be living in an RV for several months during a coastto-coast trip when I was 12.

After a gig I usually... pack up, talk to the kind people who came to see me play, and grab a bite to eat with other night owls. myspace.com/JamesRoquemore | youtube.com/JamesRoquemore | facebook.com/jamesroquemoremusic

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sleazy MCQUEEN Last night I...DJd in Philadelphia at a disco party with my partner in crime, Matt Brownell for a part called Headgames in North Philly.

The last time I embarrassed myself was...I don’t know the last time I embarrassed myself. A few years ago, I had to throw pride out the window. you can’t be a musician or artist and be easily embarrassed, you’re constantly exposing yourself, in the process, you have to try to sell your art and skill to be financially successful.

My favorite music video growing up was...My favorite song growing up was either China Girl or Let’s Dance, both by David Bowie.

My favorite time in music was...early 80s and late 70s RnB. I describe my style as...culturally confused funked up house sound.

The craziest thing that has happened to me so far...was when matt Brownell and I played in Albany a few years ago.

While I was djing, I repeatedly yelled at the promoter’s girlfriend to show me her panties-- she replied she wasn’t wearing any. After they kept bringing me copious Patron, I pulled her pants down and bit her ass whilst still djing. I spent the better part of my set mixing and rolling drunkenly on the ground. After the gig, we went back to the promoter’s house and he tazed me while she videotaped it. I didn’t find out about it until the next morning when I did my usual check on my camera to see what events transpired over the course of the previous evening. as a result, I play in albany on a fairly regular basis, have a number of close friends there and DJed at the promoter’s wedding last fall. sleazymcqueen.com myspace.com/sleazymcqueen

PLAIN JANE AUTOMOBILE

We are gearing up to record our next full length album, and we are doing it sans record label. This means all of the funds have to be raised by the band. A friend of ours turned us on to a brilliant website called Kickstarter.com They give artists, filmmakers, musicians etc. the opportunity to spread the word and help finance their projects. It works like this- You donate money, and you receive cool prizes from the band. Prizes range from early digital downloads of the album to private shows at your house! Its an amazing way to help your favorite band and to be a real part of the recording. At time of print we have 40 days left to hit our goal.

If we don’t hit our goal in the allotted time, no gets charged for their donations. Its an all or nothing deal, so we are asking everyone to visit our kickstarter.com page, watch our video and be a part of the next PJA record by donating funds!

My favorite time in music was...Outside of the band it would have to be running into Elvis Costello in line for the toilet at a U2 concert. With the band? I can’t speak for the other guys, but I would guess touring is our favorite. Music has taken us all over the country and shown us how small things can feel inside of your own world.

Its humbling to go to a place like Joshua Tree park, climb mountains, sleep outside under the stars on a day off, then wake up and play a rock show 4 hours later. Who could argue with that? www.plainjaneautomobile.com www.facebook.com/plainjaneautomobile People would be surprised to know that we... Don’t subscribe to the stereotypical www.twitter.com/pjaduke “Rockstar” lifestyle. People often ask us how much time we spend partying on the road, and are quite surprised to find out we don’t take our time for granted. PJA can Link to Kickstarter party with the best of them, but only if we have a few days off, and if its okay with our http://kck.st/9ZP76H moms.

Growing up I always listened to... The Beatles, U2, Beach Boys, Ride, Echo and The Bunnymen, Pixies, Radiohead, I know Luis is a huge Abba fan.. loads of others...

The best way to find out about new music is to...Talk to your friends and peers. My bandmates usually turn me on to new music.

Of course the internet. I am a big fan of Pandora. Most importantly, by going to shows. I can’t stress this enough. I have discovered more new bands by going out and seeing a band who may not be the band of the moment, but later became my favorite artist. You never know who you are going to see.

After a gig, we usually...Strip down naked, start a fire and dance around singing Elvis songs....Kidding. Normally you can find us at the merch table meeting everyone we can. It’s very important to us to be approachable at every level. We know we are nothing without our fans and we love to hear feedback about the music. Also, we want people to bring us baked goods.

The craziest thing that happened at a live show was...Hmmmm...I will tell you after the show on Friday:) 27

SHUT UP and

Born out of years of experience, creativity, hard work and perseverance Shut Up & Dance! bursts onto the music scene ready to take center stage. With a”no limits” attitude, the band is set to take their music wherever their creative passions lead them in order to bring you the music you’ve been waiting for.

Armed with a genre-crossing sound aimed at pleasing even the most discriminate of listeners, Shut Up & Dance! is ready to make their mark on the industry. Now take into account their solid line up (including two lead vocalists of opposing genders) and it’s not hard to see why they easily stand out from the crowd in any musical scene.

With a wealth of attention and buzz already surrounding them, it goes without saying that Shut Up & Dance! is definitely a band to watch as they bring a fresh sound and attitude to and industry in dire need of innovation. There’s really nothing left to say except Shut Up & Dance!

DANCE

We have always been obsessed with...Vitamin Water and Smart Water.

We love our band name because...it’s a call to action, we are a high energy band and love audience participation!

Our favorite songs to sing are...”Let This Be A Lesson” from our first EP and “I Do What I Want” from our upcoming album we are currently in the studio recording.

After a gig, we usually...make time to interact with our fans, then go eat!

The most personal song we’ve performed is...”Let This Be A Lesson” Apart from singing, (I’m) we’re pretty good at... bringing the party The craziest thing that happened at a live show was....during an outdoor show, there was a huge gust of wind that knocked down a lighting fixture and almost killed Greg. Luckily he moved! www.myspace.com/officialshutupanddance

east west

music & more The small space that occupies 4895 South Orange Ave is packed with to the ceiling with music and more. Posters and flats insulate the walls. CD’s and albums line the floor ways. The owner of East West, Hanna, has to be one of the most knowledgeable music experts this side of the Mason Dixon. This is a music lovers paradise. Everything you ever wanted can be found here: hard to find titles, imports and more. Looking for something that might “only” be digital or exclusive to another store, check here and support your local CD haven.

I have always been obsessed with...all things music.

I never worry about...my soul.

My favorite musical artists are...david byrne, jon spencer, john lennon, joni mitchell, dusty springfield, randy newman, james mercer (at least right this second).

People would be surprised to know that I...am a great seamstress and cook.

One thing I think is overrated is...human beings.

One thing I think is underrated is...plants and animals.

The best advice anyone has ever given me is...if you can’t change the outcome, quit obsessing.

EAST WEST Music & More 4895 South Orange Avenue Orlando, FL 32806 (407) 859-8991 29

God Gave Rock ‘n Roll To You… Put It In The Soul Of Everyone Wow, BRINK readers, I’ve missed you! We mustn’t stay on a break for this long ever, ever again, babies. Are you excited about this special music issue? May I tell you how excited I am about it? Just say yes and avoid the conflict… it’s my column; I’m going to say it anyway!

In all truth music is like air to me. I have tried to imagine a world without it and I can’t. And why would anyone want to? There has been a song or twenty in every imaginable genre or style of music that has moved me, inspired me, and summed up all that was twirling in my head or my heart. I used to make homemade mix tapes off the radio and pretend I was interviewing artists for Rolling Stone.

I’ve played instruments, sang along, even written songs, but there has always been something else about the music that I’ve been drawn to. You guessed it. I love musicians.

I come from what you could call a musical family. I remember listening to albums of people who are known as icons today as a child and the thing that always intrigued me most was the musician who told the stories. Knowing the stories behind the songs, the stories that shaped the songwriters and musicians and inspired the music that inspires generations is the joy of listening. And one of the greatest ways to find that place of joy is to check out those musicians in your neighborhood who are telling some awesome stories.

I am going to open up the musical vault in Ms. Peabody’s mind and share some of my favorites. But, as always, there’s a twist. What’s better than fantastic musicians playing their hearts out on a stage near you? It’s even greater when those musicians share their hearts and souls with their community. I am here to plug some outstanding local talent who give back by involving themselves with charities and helping others. Here are a few to check out and I highly encourage you to search these artists on www.

grooveshark.com, my fave Internet music site! The first are some honorable mentions who have a great sound and have their hands in different projects. Check out Sugar Free Music (www.myspace.com/sugarfreemusic). They can rock out!

A Cover Story (www.myspace.com/acoverstory) is another group that brings the rock and power pop to your ears with some of the smoothest lead vocals around. If you like roots music and some soul-driven bluegrass, you must see Jubal’s Kin (www.jubals-kin.com). They truly put the soul in their sound. Shak Nasti is another well-known name around town.

Their sound is a sweet mix of jazz, funk and rock that brings you back to earth and you can find out more at www.myspace. com/shaknasti. These are some of the great bands doing different things out and about in Orlando. Allow me to introduce you to the following. These I will refer to as “the wedding party” because they are there marrying two of my favorite things effortlessly together- music and serving others.

BUFFALO GUN- SOUTHERN ROCK WITH SOME COLD, HARD STEEL This Oviedo-based band has a sound calls forth any great classic southern rock act. They can transform even the kindest, sweetest wall flower into a rebel child, swaying to their hard hitting rhythms and shredding. And they have a heart too. They have been involved with the Heal Haiti Relief Show along with some other great acts, at Back Booth. What to try on: “Son of a Gun”, “Get Along” -- www.buffalogun.net THE BEAUVILLES- EAST MEETS WEST IN SWAMP ROCK JIM WOULD LOVE

The Beauvilles are electric live. In fact, they are probably one of the most energetic trios I’ve seen in a while. Combining some eastern musical sounds with the electric rock made famous in the 60’s and 70’s (The Doors specifically), they bring a show that will keep you engaged from the first hop-riff from the guitarist to the moment they make their exit. They also have an interest in Harvest of Hope, a non-profit which provides financial and educational, and service oriented aid to migrant farm workers (www.harvestofhope.net). Represented

by Orlando’s talent group www.monsternature.com, I urge you to follow them to the swamp any day.

What to try on: “Lips (Four Teens)”, “Tropic of Cancer” -- www. beauvilles.net HEATHER LYNN- ACOUSTIC POP THAT COVERS SOME GREATS AND PUTS THEM TO SHAME I will admit that I haven’t heard Deland’s Heather Lynn live. I went on the suggestion of a friend, who sports some of the best new clothing here in Orlando from RISE UP AND GO (www.riseupandgo.com shameless plugs abound!), and I was amazed. She has a remarkably clear voice, bridging between 30

the earth and heavens effortlessly on multiple lifts. I respect some of the artists she’s covered, but when something is sonically more pleasing, it just is sonically more pleasing. It doesn’t matter how many albums you’ve sold or if you have a Grammy.

Some of the best musicians in the world barely have clean drinking water or freedom, let alone a Grammy! That is another reason I really love her. She’s been involved with Invisible Children, an organization dedicated to making long-term goals in Uganda to establish quality education and financial stability to end the night commuters and soldiers that children are forced into (www. invisiblechildren.com).

What to try on: “Run”, “Come Back Down” -- www.myspace. com/lalaheatherlynn KING BEE- PSYCHADELIC ROCK + DELTA BLUES+ SOUTH GRIT= SO GOOD IT STINGS

the pain that led to some of the most deeply moving songs I’ve encountered. There is a message of inspiration with these Believers as they conceive a musical sound from classic and southern rock and soul, Americana, roots, western and gospel. And the product is like the moment when your soul has been spoken to and it’s been called forth to move and breathe. God sure gave rock ‘n roll to these folks and they have taken it and given it back to those in need.

From playing shows for the Russell Home Charity Poker Run (www.russellhome.org) to their support of Musicians on Call, an organization dedicated to bring live and recorded music to the bedside of patients to promote and assist in their healing and care (www.musiciansoncall.org), Thomas Wynn and The Believers encourage truth and believe in helping others, which is maybe the biggest reasons you should check them out and become a believer for yourself.

What to try on: “You Can’t Hurt Me “ (like giving the finger to Satan), “ I Don’t Regret”, “Lifeline Woman”, “Hard Time”, “Long White Dress” – I really could go on but check them out at www.thomaswynnandthebelievers.com .

The Rant

Also playing benefits for Invisible Children is Miami’s King Bee. Do you remember your first shot of whiskey? It went down your throat so quick there was a little sting but it instantly felt better afterwards. This is King Bee. Their melting pot of sound combines a little Hendrix, a little Young, a little Lenny, a little King and a little Wilco and you have a playground to romp on with every note. There is a dark, slightly dirty character behind the music.

It’s music for a cross country drive, for a lazy night under the stars, for a slow and steady dance in the living room, a wild, hipshaking, bone rattling night out at the local bar with your friends.

So good, it stings a little, and then it feels good. Real good.

What to try on: “Juniper Rose”, “Turquoise Moon”, “Million Dollar Blues” – www.kingbeehive.com THOMAS WYNN AND THE BELIEVERS- SOUNDTRACK THE MOMENT YOUR SOUL BREATHES I am going to be brazen and say they are my favorites. If I could ever have anything truly favorite about music, especially the local music, one would see a picture of Thomas Wynn and The Believers at the top of that list. In the day when Redlight Redlight was a tiny, upstairs joint in Winter Park, I strolled in one night with some pals and there was this loud, electrifying, soulful, genuinely good group of musicians playing their hearts out.

I was instantly mesmerized. I loved their look—rootsy, natural, like a band of gypsies without a care. I loved their sound. I was so engaged by the mind-blowing shredding of Justin Beckler that I immediately tried to find everything he had worked on.

Chris Bell’s harmonica was sick; a wailing, guttural sound that one couldn’t fathom could come from one person. Todd Warsing’s bass, Thom Damon’s drums, and Olivia Wynn’s beautiful harmonies all came together in syncopation but without restraint!

And I looked at Thomas Wynn and I saw why there was no restraint to the music. There was freedom engraved on his face, in every strum of his guitar, every note he sang. It would be some time after my discovery of Thomas Wynn and The Believers that I would learn about the demons Thomas Wynn fought to overcome, the faith he had to fight for to gain his freedom and

with Kat Peabody

You can be

“Orlando’s Next

Big Thing” by gretha mccandele

Where can you find a singer-songwriter with upbeat sounds and insightful lyrics, a quartet with rocking guitar riffs, a scat singer with a unique voice and a singer-songwriter with honest lyrics? No, I’m not talking about America’s Got Talent. I’m talking about “Orlando’s Next Big Thing.”

The showcase is a competition open to local bands of all genres and features 24 bands out of over 50 applicants. The preliminaries shows started in May and will continue throughout June at the Haven. One winner is announced after every show. The final winner will be announced July 24 and will receive a start-up kit that will send them on the road to success.

The kit was donated by local sponsor/judges of the showcase and includes a custom built guitar from Spawn Guitars, a spotlight interview and promotion from Orlandobands.com, two hours of facility use from Revolution Rehearsal Rooms, vocal coaching or performance coaching from Andrus Coaching, kick drum graphic and custom merchandise from Green Thumb Graphics, three hour studio photo shoot from Bonnie Whicher Photography, on-air performance and interview with Q and Q’s House Radio, a clothing line sponsorship from Menace Clothing and promotional photo shoot from ENB Photography.

“Orlando’s Next Big Thing” was formed by local band Anyone’s Guess, whose members are Clint Chambers, Sanja Jovanovic, Jack Demetree and Benji. The band created the showcase last year after discovering that a competition in which they participated centered on making money for the organizers instead of helping bands.

Anyone’s Guess joined forces with local music industry leaders to create a showcase that would benefit bands and help them succeed.

“We’re here to encourage bands to do their best, go forward and grow,” Chambers said.

And last year’s winner, A Show of Hands has done exactly what Chambers hoped. They have gone forward and grown as a band by opening for The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

I had the opportunity to take a close look at the showcase. Anyone’s Guess invited me to be a guest judge on the preliminary show on May 19 that showcased four performers: In Visible Ink, Whitney Hogan, Legacy and Silver Cord.

In Visible Ink was the first performance of the night. The quartet delivered rocking guitar licks and made the crowd bop their heads. The second performer was Whitney Hogan, a singer-songwriter with a strong voice, upbeat guitar melodies and insightful lyrics that received plenty of cheers from the crowd. Legacy was a scat singer and guitarist who shoot out fresh and unique sounds, which captured the audience’s attention.

At the end of the night, it was the judges’ turn to see who would go on to the next round of the showcase. Performers were judged on their musicianship, performance, stage presence and promotion. Each one would receive a score on their performance as well as written critiques.

On this night, the judges were Sanya from Anyone’s Guess, Ben Gardner from Orlandobands.com and yours truly.

After all the points were counted, the winner of the preliminary show was Whitney Hogan. She was excited to win and be able to move on to the finals but wasn’t sure how she was going to fair on the showcase. “I think I will give 110 percent and do my best,” Hogan said.

“That’s all I can do.”

Hogan won some talent shows in high school and has been performing for about five years in the Central Florida area. She hoped to get to play at Lilith Fair when it visits Florida. But for now, Hogan was happy to have won and also had a few words for other fellow musicians: “Never give up. Always keep an open mind when someone gives you constructive criticism, practice and try your best.”

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THE

DAVINCI CODE

by MARK DODDS

Since DaVinci has reopened (formerly Caffe da Vinci) in fall of last year under the new ownership and stylings of Joshua Curry, the musical/social epicenter of Deland has been at its peak. Few places offer such a personal and intimate invite for live shows, whether you are seeing local bands ( like local love, The Cook Trio or Dish) or your nationally named favorite band (West Palm’s Surfer Blood, Boston’s Spiritual Res, or Austin’s Shotgun Party just to name a few) the vibe is always on point and always enchanting. The outside court-yard brings a hazy eve of historic ambiance crossed with vintage hippage and a outside stage, perfect for nightly shows.

Inside bar serves up a beer list for miles and wines for every taste, add in the friendly flavor of the staff and well diverse patrons for a good time all around. Between shows and parties or relaxed evenings in the courtyard, there is something for everyone, every night. Whether passing through or a local native, DaVinci is definitely the place to be.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LORI DANIELS OF SLEEPYHOUS PHOTOGRAPHY 112 West Georgia Ave Deland, FL 32720 Phone: 386.873.2943 www.wearedavinci.com www.myspace.com/wearedavinci

33

n o s s e m a j off the wall

Photo: rey Brian Sto tyling: S e b ro rd Wa Beane Jamesson e: Wardrob le esa Dechoes R & Vintage : akeup Hair & M ran & Jennifer T glein S n a Meg ton

25

Hey Jamesson! what are you up to?

I recently began working on some new material with local singer/songwriter/guitarist Whitney Hogan which I’ve previewed during a couple performances and I will be re-tooling my sound this summer. I’ll be working with several local talents including Beatnik Castle, Ohsha Kai, Jeremy Gloff and Keats’ Handwriting, all based in the Central Florida and Tampa Bay areas.

What does your music sound like?

I’m often asked this question and it’s a difficult one to answer. The one constant I try to incorporate into all my tracks in a sense of positivity and hope. I want people to learn from my experiences whether they be good or bad.

Who are your icons?

Deborah Harry will probably always remain my biggest influence. I have always embraced her ability to cross genres and defy labels or limits. That is most certainly the direction I want to take with my music -- I never want to be forced into a box as a specific type of musician. Creativity is bound by no restrictions.

Are there any comparisons to your music?

I’d say most of my early material took on a more electro and new wave type of energy, but I’m segueing into a more acoustic rock and rock-based sound for the moment. I definitely try to mold my sound around my mood at the present time, which is constantly changing.

Whats your favorite part of the music process?

First and foremost, I enjoy the exact instant when inspiration hits whether it be during the songwriting process or when I actually sit down in the studio with a producer hammering out the final track. When the light bulb flashes on, the sensation is truly orgasmic.

I’m currently working on.... making more time to hone my craft, which includes learning to play guitar. It’s sitting in my closet waiting, so I need to get on the ball.

Right now, I’m really into... Julian Casablancas, cutting the sleeves off Vintage Tees and a 4-pack of PBR Tallboys.

I’m obsessed with... the nightlife. Nothing is more exhilarating than a night on the dancefloor moving to my favourite tunes surrounded by like-minded individuals.

My favorite music video growing up was... Madonna’s “Open Your Heart.” As a young boy, it was my first brush with an artist who embraced her sexuality in a way that was accessible to the mainstream yet still titillating without being salacious.

The soundtrack to my life would include... Stevie Nicks, The Smiths and Vanity 6. facebook.com/jamessonbeane myspace.com/jamessonbeane

cloudy with

a chance of jack

by melissa hebert

Opinions of The Dead Weather may be bias depending upon which member of the supergroup you may or may not be somewhat partial to. I willing admit that Jack White has appeared at the top of my playlist for what feels like years now. Whether it be The Raconteurs, duets with Loretta Lynn, or documentaries with Jimmy Page, I own and thoroughly enjoy it all. The Dead Weather is no exception.

Alison Mosshart (The Kills) and Dean Fortita (Queens of the Stone Age) are just an added bonus at the bottom of my cereal box.

Their debut album ‘Horehound’ has been immediately followed up by a second studio attempt entitled ‘Sea of Cowards’, thus rendering another tour supporting the new release. The anticipation leading up to the start of the show was the most excitable part of the experience. Once the lights went out and the obnoxious confidence of ’60 Feet Tall’ blares out of the system, a tiny wave of disappointment rolls over me and, perhaps, the crowd. White gives up guitar (for the most part) and leads the pack from behind his drum set.

While Mosshart struts around the stage with the fashion sense of Keith Richards and the swagger of Mick Jagger all rolled into one rather small body. The White Stripes withdrawals I had been experiencing only ceased to exist in a few short minutes when White hopped off his drum stool and wailed out a trademark sound in ‘Will There Be Enough Water’.

The set felt short, overworked, and over rehearsed. Although like most supergroups, the projects aren’t intended to be a permanent fixture. As most rarely are able to live up to the hype. All in all, the show was sort of like a delicious bowl of Capt’n Crunch that you need stitches on the roof of your mouth in order to finish.

UPCOMING notable RELEASES 1 June Tuesday Clay Aiken Tried & True Futureheads Chaos Hawthorne Heights Skeletons Jack Johnson To The Sea Tift Merritt See You On The Moon The Melvins The Bride Screamed Murder Quitzow Juice Water 8 June Tuesday Against Me! White Crosses Christina Aguilera Bionic Crystal Castles Crystal Castles Darkness Death Squad Hanson Shout It Out Hot Hot Heat Future Beeds Iggy Pop California Hitchhike [Live] Jewel Sweet And Wild Lil Jon Crunk Rock Travie McCoy [Gym Class Heroes] Lazarus Nada Surf If I Had A Hi-Fi Grace Potter & The Nocturnals Rooney Eureka The Roots How I Got Over Saving Abel Miss America Sia We Are Born Teenage Fanclub Shadows Tokyo Police Club Champ 15 June Tuesday Cowboy Junkies Renmin Park Drake Thank Me Later Sarah McLachlan The Laws Of Illusion The Steve Miller BandBingo!

Papa RoachTo Be Loved Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Mojo Pitbull Armando Ozzy Osbourne Scream We Are Scientists Barbara 22 June Tuesday American Hi-Fi Fight The Frequency Chamillionaire Venom Chemical Brothers Further Miley Cyrus Can’t Be Tamed Eminem Recovery Front Line Assembly Improvised. Electronic.

Device.

Macy Gray The Sellout Herbie Hancock The Imagine Project Cyndi Lauper Memphis Blues Kele Okereke [Bloc Party] The Boxer SiaWe Are Born 29 June Tuesday 3OH!3 Streets Of Gold Camron The UN: Gunz N’ Butta Korn III Remember Who You Are M.I.A. [Title TBA] Three 6 Mafia Laws Of Power

I Make Music and Music Makes the Man

is revealing, for it is what I do. I’m a musician. I make my living off of music, I communicate more easily through it’s means and in many instances is the one thing that makes the most sense to me out of anything in the world. It’s my blood, my spirit, my sadness and my joy. This can be said for many people but I am only me, and through this understanding I’ve come to understand more about others than I could ever have imagined.

Many years and a good many stories later, I find myself looking back and realizing that for more than a majority of my life I’ve been tied to my Mistress Music.

I’ve sacrificed a lot. I’ve backed myself into many a corner so as to not fall from her arms. She is my goddess and my strength.

I’ve stepped away from personal relationships as to not make her jealous. I’ve paid testament to her in (actual) blood and sleepless nights. I am her servant.

In truth, this may all sound rather odd, but it is what it is.

There’s a real predicament in

By Jonathan Woodard our lives right now and in no short term do I see an easy solution to the problem. My Mistress Music is hiding in plain sight. She’s become so popular and has been taken around the town so much that she’s (in ways) been taken for granted. She’s been forced to do things no decent lady should do and manipulated over time to not be appreciated for her own simplistic beauty. She needs extensions and spray tans and fake The line above is attributable lashes to make her more desirto many arguments in its origins. able. She wants to sell you a car.

Some say its credit goes to Elvis Commerciality in the industry Costello who quipped the line to is not a new topic, nor will it ever Musician magazine back in 1983. not be; this is not a problem as Elvis himself suggested it came in it is a concern. Rolling Stone from comedian Martin Mull. The last month proclaimed Wil.i.am a list goes on from there, but regardgenius for his ease at blurring the less of its origin I find it to be the most singular truth in regards to the lines popular music and commercial jingles. How this has helped subject matter. to establish him as viability be My name is Jonathan Woodard. cause he can infiltrate the public I am a musician. It is my blessing, consciousness with greater sucand my curse. cess through multiple means of exposure. It’s true- cat’s a genius, I know my articles have been but I don’t necessarily always feel read by you in the past (in whatlike tonight is going to be a good ever form of interest that may be), night, nor do I always feel like getbut let me pull back that curtain ting it started. However, a lot of some and show you around a bit.

I’m not going to layout my life story, people do… or think they may. or the facts and accomplishments What this speaks to is a sublithat make me who I am, but I am mative reality that has imprisoned going to discuss the one thing that my Mistress Music in her tower makes me, well, me. That in itself for quite some time. When the

“Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.”

- Source debatable.

first Elvis came to popularity in the 50’s he sparked a riot of teenage consumerism. The Beatles helped that along, but quickly took stock of what they were there for (and saving my sweet Mistress from god knows what). Now we have Justin Beiber and the Disney production houses filling the halls of education, ushering a generation of unassuming youth through a dangerously misaligned pubescence. Perhaps in some ways that’s why I got into teaching… to help drop nuggets of wisdom to the youth, a musical Johnny Appleseed if you will. Hoping that maybe, just maybe that they can help break the chain that has kept my lady shackled form being more than a shill campaign for the next X,Y or Z. The way my Mistress has been treated recently has got me down.

Rock is more dressed up than rebellious; most bands are three steps away from being the biggest tribute act to something else than something that is pure. Did you know that Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” induced a riot at it’s premiere in 1913? Nothing of the sorts that Jim Morrison tried to muster in the late –60’s, but the perspective is similar in scope. Rock isn’t dangerous anymore. It’s cookie cutter on the surface level. The underground is ripe with potential, but it’s so scared of being turned on it’s head for other people’s profit. I bet if we could get a time machine, 20-yearold Billie Joe Armstrong would beat the living tar out of his middle aged self. The only one in contemporary music I feel gets it is Lady Gaga, say what you will, but she has ascended the rapture of MTV blatant sexuality and hedonism and turned into living art. David Bowie must be proud.

Good music is out there- but you must find it. Technology has limited an artist’s broader statements by making music so easily click/downloadable. Single serving songs. Go to a record store and dig through the racks and find something that speaks to you even though you may have never even heard of it before.

Take a chance, because you may find your new favorite thing. Go to a show and see more music, even if you have to drive an hour to be part of that big communal experience it’ll be worth it. Exist in her brilliance and live, for we’re going to need all the help we can get in climbing that tower; for my Mistress Music needs to be free just as much as we need her to be.

tales in the city When I was in 6th grade my best friend

and I were wondering around our old elementary school when we happened to stumble upon a Penthouse magazine hidden under some pine needles behind an air conditioning unit. We had no idea who hid it there, but it was pretty much the closest thing to buried treasure I’d ever find, and we treated it as such.

It spoke to a part of me that I was a bit unfamiliar with, and the fact that it was “forbidden” made it all the more precious. We looked at with bewilderment and amazement, and hid it in a secret location of our own. It was great, and it was my first experience with any type of pornography.

Now if I told the modern day equivalent of this story it might sound more like this... In 6th grade my best friend emailed me a bunch of nude pictures of Jessica, she was a cheerleader one grade above us, she was beautiful, and was posed in some very provocative positions.

My friend had gotten the pictures from his older brother, who was friends with her ex boyfriend Billy, who had sent them to most of his friends after they broke up.

She originally sent them in confidence but they soon spread like wildfire. I viewed them all the time, and kept them in a hidden folder on my hard drive.

And although these separate events are driven by the same concoction of hormones, innocence, and curiosity, there are some grave differences in the modern story that should be noted. First the person in the modern story has possibly already seen his share of pornographic material on the internet , and as a consequence might not have such “reverence” for the material as someone would have 14 years ago. And second, depending on the state of residence and its laws all the parties involved could quite possibly be charged for possession of child pornography, and some with distribution of child pornography.

The brutal truth is that the landscape our youth traverse across is very different from the one we did. As shown by a recent study from The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy of 1,280 respondents 653 being teens 13-19. They reported that 20% of teens overall said they have sent/posted nude or semi nude pictures or video of themselves, and 33% for young adults. The old conception of child pornography where an older man takes photos of a unwilling of naive child has been replaced by kids taking these photos by themselves, for themselves, and distributing them themselves. Many teenagers use “sexting” as a part of the courting process, often times premeditating any sexual activity. They can be used in lieu of sexual activity if a partner is not ready to move forward, or to start or maintain a relationship with a significant other, and they can also be used as a joke, for fun, or as a

with ASHTON MORRIS form of entertainment passed among friends.

But this 21century version of “show you mine show me yours” is not limited to relationships, budding relationships, or friendships. There are other reasons to expose oneself to the world, such as acceptance, popularity, and excitement. There are image boards, and Webcam sites online where teens routinely post nude images or video of themselves in real time to hundreds of completely anonymous users, friends, or classmates who egg them on to continue, and ask for specific acts to be photographed. In these cases its more often about getting attention for the person performing, then anything else. Many teens are dying for acceptance from their peers or anyone, and instantly having several hundred people viewing you live and commenting about you could act as a substitute for that sensation and make you feel “special”. The loud emotional cacophony that deafens you from making responsible decisions as a teen is largely to blame in most of these situations, and all knowing ill intended viewers use that to their advantage. In many circumstances these teens performing are duped, coerced, or convinced into doing more than they originally intended or wanted to do. By peer pressure, gentle persuasion, or any psychological trickery in use by the viewer- who could be anyone, a stimulated teenager, or and older man posing as one, who knows.

And in a generation where everything is expected in real time, the consequences from these actions are no different. The most obvious being that these images are never going away once sent or posted, and may effect future relationships, job or educational opportunities. Imagine how difficult it would be for your relationship if your new partner had pictures of her having intercourse with her ex boyfriend floating around your school. Or if a college you were applying to found photos of you and declined your enrollment. And quite often these photos or videos get into the hands of local law enforcement, in which case the legal ramifications could stick with you long after your images have become old news. Consider Orlando native Phillip Alpert who had just turned 18 when he sent a nude photo of his 16 year old girlfriend, which she had taken by herself and sent to him, to dozens of her friends and family after an argument. He was sentenced to five years probation for sending child pornography, and required to register as a sex offender.

Fortunately these new concerns are being noted and we are progressing in a direction that acknowledges them. The Senate recently unanimously voted 37-0 on a bill that would create punishment for teens sending nude or suggestive images of themselves to one another, while easing up on the current laws that allows them to be prosecuted under child pornography laws and labeled as sex offenders. Sexting has become an integrated feature into culture of the upcoming generation, and will be to all subsequent generations thereafter. And our society might not have the proper perspective until the children that grew up sexting become adults, have children of their own, and vote on new laws. Until that point we must do our best to remember how foolish we were at that age, but not to focus on that so much that we don’t see on the real criminals, who are out there, constantly looking for cracks in the system to squeeze through.

We are living in a brave “nude” world, and we appear to be faced with new ethical and moral decisions along with every technological advancement we make. Every second new lines must be drawn in the sand. Lines that separate us from the monsters, and tell us where we stand. And with such acceleration as our modern world has, these lines become blurry, old mores decay, and new questions of etiquette, and right and wrong cloud our every move and reflect who we really are.

with CAROLINE ST CLAIR

Dear Caroline, My girlfriend and I have been together for almost a year and she is beautiful, funny and everything I want in a woman. About two months ago we decided to move in together and things are great--except for one thing. See, my girlfriend is very hairy and has to shave every day. And I mean shave everywhere. When we lived apart it was never an issue but now that we live together she has started to ask me to help her “reach” some areas where she can’t get to…including her buttocks. I don’t want to hurt her feelings so I have complied but honestly the whole thing grosses me out. I think my girlfriend is incredibly sexy but I am afraid that I will start feeling less attracted to her the more I assist with this “personal grooming”. Sometimes when we are having sex the image of her bent over the bathroom sink while I gamely run the razor in her nether area flashes in my mind, and everything just deflates from there. I really love my girlfriend but if this keeps up I’m afraid I might turn off completely. How can I tell her I’m grossed out being her assshaver without totally hurting her feelings?

--Haired and Confused Dear Haired and Confused, There are certain, ahem, grooming rituals that all of us as human beings must attend to in order to feel attractive. Trimming toe cuticles, plucking nose and ear hair and flossing teeth are all things that I feel should be done in privacy. Why? Because it is just plain GROSS to watch someone do them! The removal of body hair from unwanted places is something that most people, men and women, have to do on a regular basis but ones romantic partner should not have to watch this, much less participate! There are different situations with shaving: your girlfriend sitting in the steamy bathtub, one leg extended as she delicately runs a razor down a sudsy leg?

Sexy. Same girlfriend bent over as you scrape off the hair growing in her crack? For most people, NOT sexy. Your girlfriend should know better than to ask you to help with this but since she obviously doesn’t here’s what you do. Go to a nice, reputable salon that specializes in body hair removal. Buy her a gift certificate for a pedicure, maybe a facial, and—wait for it---a hair removal treatment. Present the gift certificate along with a bouquet of flowers or a bottle of wine or whatever. And when she looks puzzled, just smile, tell her you have retired from the shaving business, and lay a huge wet kiss on her. With any luck, the next time you are faced with her buttocks they won’t be covered in shaving cream. got a question only caroline would know how to answer? email or facebook us.

the barometer The “Rockin’ Lake Eola” concert series takes place evry Saturday from 3pm to 11pm. Great live bands and artists each week plus vendors and more.

Lily Allen and Professor Green’s, “Just Be Good to Green.”

“Fashionably Alive Event, Artists for the Environment”” Super culture night on June 19th! Music, art, fashion, fun and more all at Lyrica,

Orlando Live. Have you seen this? Orlando live entertainment streaming....live!

Which was better, the American Idol guest performances or... ...the American Idol contestants?

Comparing any artists that has an electronic/ Euro element in their song to Lady Gaga.

Digital only albums. Come back Virgin Megastore and carry the music that no one else does.

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