yungEgypt's AGAVE VOL. 1

Editor'sNote

Welcome to AGAVE. This publication becoming a reality is nothing short of a surprise even to myself. I never really thought about writing at an extensive level or communicating my thoughts through a magazine to begin with. The thought would vaguely pass in and out my mind but I feared I lacked both the talent and vision to make it an actuality. Behind every bold and expressive piece of media I produce whether it be photography, video or even now an entire magazine, lies an original fear of my inability to produce any quality material. The months leading up to AGAVE’s creation have been beyond testing although I don’t outwardly show it. Depressive spells, anxiety and true emptiness regarding my future endeavors and how to best capitalize off the God given gifts I had in front of me. There was a daily battle between me and my mind on whether or not I had amounted to a true failure after all this time. Being directionless in life is such an intimidating prospect and one I found impossible to be open about to others fearing they wouldn’t understand that similar feeling. But despite my sulking I did have an idea that awaited outside all of the fear of judgment, mediocrity and wandering that appeared clear as day in my mind. A compilation effort that would combine all the things that have gone into defining my life and creatively presenting it in a passionate display only I knew how to accomplish. And thanks to the effort of friends and family, I, for the duration of this magazine’s creation have been able to see clearly with no confusion the muses of my life that inspire me to do what I do. Making AGAVE was in itself

a leap of faith. I had no experience copywriting, formatting page layouts, and had never even bought a magazine let alone read one. My ignorance of what could be made, made me more open to things I didn’t know and gave me the opportunity to study why industries like editorial publication still stick around today. This was a lot of work. And it took a daily belief that this was a worthwhile step even if no one around me understood it. In the end, like any stubborn kid I took a gamble on my imagination and deeply hoped that the risk can be carried over to whoever takes the time to read this work of mine. I can't express enough how connected I am to the creation of this work and how much it has made me grow as a result of the first volumes completion. It warped into a hunt to be myself and be proud of it. So in that vein, for anyone adventuring to check out AGAVE I pray that you don’t stay bogged down in the fears often enforced by everyone around you and stick to the script that is sometimes hard to express out loud. I hope Volume 1 drives your imagination and provides more ideas, thoughts and creative feedback that will lead to future innovation and improvement. And whether this project and the works that follow it end up being a grand success or the shallow writings to an indifferent audience, I can genuinely say that right now I feel completely infinite and grateful. Thank you and welcome to the show.

Sincerely,

Jarell Gibbs

AGAVE ⿓

A sip of the unlimited growth and creativity that comprises the beauty of our world.

AGAVE deep dives into all areas of culture to enrich the passions worth devoting ourselves towards. An exercise in expression.

In short, Just do you.

EditorialDivision

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/ Miles Mouse

MANAGING EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

WEB DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

COPY EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

FASHION EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

ANIME/MANGA EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR/ Miles

Mouse

TRAVEL EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

DEEP THOUGHT EDITOR/ Miles Mouse

PRINT WRITER/ Miles Mouse

CreativeDivision

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

DESIGN DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

PHOTO DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

PHOTOGRAPHER/ Miles Mouse

STYLIST/ Miles Mouse

BusinessDivision

BUSINESS DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR/ Miles Mouse

HEAD OF FINANCE/ Miles Mouse

SpecialContributions

PHOTO DEPARTMENT/

Akinshola Jolaoso, Joshua Pollard, Cameron Stinson

CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT/ Justin Gibbs, Brighton Mills

FOR THE PEOPLE

HowTikTokchangedthefashion realmgivingthepowerbackto individualcreativityand expressionism.

At one point in time, premiere fashion was reserved only for the financially elite or artistic. There were very few avenues to showcase the unbridled expression that clothing has to offer besides magazines or in recent times on Instagram. This left a luxurious awe and spectacle when viewing how some of the world’s most premiere figures dawned their attire but also constructed a separation in the average individual expressing their own unique styles to the world at large.

Then TikTok came along.

Now this is no multi-layered essay glorifying all the platform has to offer nor any proclamation that social media based fashion influencing was birthed from the site. But what can’t be ignored is how accessible TikTok has made fashion for the public and the opportunities it affords creators to build a name for themselves in a field predicated on exclusivity.

TikTok grants more content concentrated on algorithmic preferences allowing anyone to go viral on any given day. This is a powerful feature of the site since this was near impossible to do on other platforms prior without large financial investment into promotion. Sure Twitter would feature the rare viral fashion enthusiast, but the app is more catered to verbal exchanges and memes than building a professional reputation for a new audience. And though Instagram centralized images as their claim to fame, building a following outside of your monetary reach of promotion is difficult. Besides a few

outstanding influencers, most fashion-based pillars on the app were celebrities in their own right and the clothes they dawned were crafted by a personal stylist using them as a mannequin of sorts. There was no true personality associated with the clothing.

But with TikTok the virtue of independence became key in broadcasting your own abilities to the world. Whether it was a high budget DSLR camera or an Iphone, everyone now has the ability to construct their own content and rightfully create professional headway.

The “everyman” appeal of the app makes you believe that no matter who you are, if you’re work is good enough you have the chance to get noticed from your work. And in several instances that has proven to be the case. Modern day fashion icon Wisdom Kaye got his start in 2020 posting videos of his everyday school outfits on the app and the audience bore witness to the unlimited stylized creativity he had to offer which may have been unnoticed otherwise.

Instagram would later go to mimic TikTok’s success by adopting video reels that can be uploaded to your feed (also known as Reels) further demonstrating the impact TikTok has had on the creative landscape of most fields. This evolution now puts much of the social

media success of your brand in your own hands and it can go as far as the ingenuity you invest into it. Once again reminding the public that fashion isn't all about luxury or popularity, rather it stems from each person's capacity for imagination and individuality.

Even the trends that sweep the app are inclusive and very doable. Most recently the “GRWM” (Get Ready With Me) trend has overtaken the site allowing a close intimate look at the extravagant or mundane attire that people design themselves with. And for hopefuls aspiring to get into the fashion realm, these short videos are a lifeline for furthered knowledge and insight on clothing. The amount of information supplied to the audience is nearly infinite and the power to replicate your findings in your own wardrobe is always present.

March 7th

March 20

Supreme

Air Bakin releasing on March 2nd in two different colorways

dropping March 4th New Balance 9060 Blue Haze dropping Feb. 20

Born

Raised Nike SB Dunk Low dropping March 4th

X Nike

Fly Streetwear X SB Dunk Low

X

Nike Zoom Vomero 5 releasing March 1

Wolf Grey

Doernbecher

Tiffany & Co. X Nike Air Force 1 Low dropping

Nike SB X AJ4 Pine Green dropping

Represent Clothing

Slowly becoming a premiere name in fashion, Represent presents a diverse catalogue of accessories, clothing and footwear all meshed with western style comfort clothing so iconic with the region. Represent stands out with it's mastery of sizing, tailoring each article to a more oversized, loose trim that increases their appeal to a wider market. The bigger price point is definitely worth the guaranteed quality.

5

Lowkey Fashion Brand Recommendations

SAALT STUDIOS

SAALT Studios offers a modernized department store style catalogue of clothing ranging from your summer time essentials to decorated hoodies perfect for the windier seasons. Their color pallette is perfectly pale and easy to match with a wide variety of other apparel options making them one of the premiere uprising brands.

Vautour

A recent discovery in my never ending search for quality winter clothing, Vautour clothing embodies the futuristic/nomadic appeal that has been in the mainstream these past few years. With no shortage or cargo pockets or dangling straps, the coats and pants featured by the brand are beyond sensational. At a moderate cost with sleek colorways perfect for any occasion in the monochrome fall/winter season, Vautour should be a must have in your closet.

Entire Studios

Entire Studios presents itself as a all encompassing entry on this list, combining many of the oversized, minimalist and gender inclusive clothing fads of the modern fashion climate. This entry on the list certainly does the most to offer accessible high fashion looks to everyone and their collections of colors, styles and sizes appears infinite. From pants to coats to distressed wear, I recommended copping from Entire now before you miss your chance.

MEDORA

An often neglected aspect of our obsessive fashion culture is the essential use of accessories in stylizing our outfits to best express our personalities. Enter Medora to perfectly match their creatively personalized bracelets with any clothing option possible. Although the charms and pendants of the brand are where it found its origins, Medora has now stepped out to adding their same bold style to beanies and cozy wear clothing. The ability to add personalization to your wardrobe while advancing its brand to other avenues makes Medora one to keep an eye out for.

Perfect Harmony

TheSymbiotic RelationshipBetween Basketball&Fashion

The realm of sports offers a unique avenue to broadcast plenty of notable aspects of pop culture.

Because of the constant attention and media offered to this country’s star athletes, it is not uncommon for topics such as music, footwear and even attitudes towards life to become massively influential to the rest of the world. Nowhere is this more noticeable than the National Basketball Association. Basketball, being globally reported

as the third most popular sport in the world, places its emphasis on larger than life superstars who embody athleticism and determinati -on on the court as well as style and charisma off the court.

These facts alone make it no coincidence that the fashion industry and basketball have found such a mutually collaborative relationship that impacts the foundation of both businesses.

Now fashion among athletes is not a discussion solely applicable to NBA stars. The likes of Deion Sanders, former NFL star, and soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo highlight just a few examples of how impactful fashion is in other athletic fields as well. However it is fair to say with basketball’s emphasis on the individual and deeper connection to the urban culture of America, it has always held the most stand out figures when it comes to clothing.

This relationship can be traced all the way back to 1970’s superstar Walt Frazier who could be considered a pioneer for bringing a style so clearly influenced by the era he played in. Heavy fur lined coats, suits lined with every color on the spectrum, and a sleek fedora on every fit.

Playing for the New York Knicks, his appearance perfectly symbolized the “Dapper Dan” era of New York fashion that is now so heavily associated with the decade. The sport became an immediate representation of intense competitive rivalry but also elegant, well groomed ebony class.

Fast-forward to the late 1990s & early 2000’s and you see basketball’s most well known influence on modern day fashion. The “baggy era.” A time where the outfits represented by some of the most financially affluent individuals of our country were associated with urban culture more so than the professional subtly the public was used to.

Gone were the days of tailored suits and loafers which were instead traded in for denim 3x the right size and jewelry decorating head to toe. It was a style so noticeable and heavily penetrated all aspects of culture even outside of the sports world. The clothing told a wordless story about the roots of our favorite athletes, the culture they came from and what it is they represent. They were no longer there to just play a sport and collect a check, but to stand out as cultural influencers who direct the viewing audience on what’s cool or not.

This time in basketball became so recognizable, I’m certain there’s a few images that immediately pop in your mind whenever it’s mentioned. It also offered breakthroughs in many of the polarizing aspects of men’s fashion including braided hairstyles, tattoos and jewelry which are now commonplace.

And although league rules would eventually change to prevent this “unprofessional” method of self expression from continuing, the effect on the culture had already been made. Now no matter your level of competition, sports puts a spotlight on looking as good as you play. This evolution of professional attire and basketball has had multiple variants all unique in their own

right. The “skinny” era of the early 2010’s became a distorted reflection of its early 2000’s counterpart wherein all clothing was tailored almost too closely. The “sophisticated-casual” style of players opting to add glasses to every piece of button down apparel they wore. And other configurations that aren’t as easily defined but just as expressive. Players have no longer become conformists to the rule books of wealthy clothing, but symbols for

what the new trends will be. Figures like Russell Westbrook, Kyle Kuzma and Shai Gilgeous Alexander have been pushing the envelope for years as to what is defined as edgy designer fashion or a soon to be embarrassing passing fad. However, their platform initiates immediate uproar and inspiration to those whose eyes are glued to the ever present attachment between the evocative chaotic world of basketball and the abstract uncontained world of clothing.

Grillz occupy a very odd yet prominent spot in the historic makeup of urban fashion. They have gone through multiple shifts that give a snapshot into the general state of culture at that period of time. What in one era could be viewed as the pinnacle of wealth and a flashy accessory to style could also be deemed as a tacky novelty in another. However you view them, they have definitely become a mainstay that still offer something in the way we view and express ourselves through the glorified luxury of jewelry.

Their subtle return to our wardrobe is just the most recent interaction with its main origins dating back to the 1980’s New York fashion scene. Most identified with rappers, it became a symbol of wealth and the all too common jewelry studded style synonymous with the era. Some of the biggest figures in urban fashion culture could be found with smiles traced with gold making it more appealing for everyone involved. So just like that, a status indicator for those in the music world leaked into everyday

wear with people adding the unique appearance offered by grillz to their own style. This new introduction to the masses led to future evolution of grillz themselves. Going from simplistic gold fronts to different variations such as fangs or even some having words transcribed across them. Whether performing at the biggest concerts in the country or just going clubbing on a Saturday night with your friends, these dazzled dentures could be found with anyone attempting to make a statement.

UNLIMITED SHINE

THE HISTORY OF GRILLZ AND THEIR RETURN BACK TO THE MODERN FASHION WORLD

The appeal drew so directly from what was loved in underground/African American culture wherein you take the essence of luxury and wealth that was historically separated from the black populus and brandish it proudly once you became able to achieve the same financial success as upper America. It was more than anything an unconventional sign of rebellion that played into music, art and pop culture. Heading into the mid 2000s they had reached an all time peak in popularity, and with that came even more ridiculous attempts to up the ante on cementing the look.

And as with any fad, once reaching its zenith of accessibility it slowly began to die out. It morphed into a stereotype meant to represent people with gaudy fashion taste who either wanted to flex the appearance of money they didn't have or had no sense of the current fashion climate. Eventually it became a rarity to see many celebrities wearing them at all, let alone your ordinary citizen. Incredibly enough, in its absence grillz still made strides towards creative modification that brought the concept back to the forefront. Most majorly was the accessory's "entry

into high fashion wear.” It became a contrast to some of the most well respected fashion houses who offered slim and clean fabrics opposite to the more urban nature associated with grillz. A simple case of opposites attracting. This, in part, restirred the interest along with more creative interpretations of the idea being brought out by mainstream and local talents alike. Now there is no singularly recognized image with the fashion statement today and it is able to take on as many forms as your imagination allows. From Lil Yachty’s multi-colored canvas of teeth to Erykah Badu’s subtle one-tooth grill designs.

In the midst of all the clothing movements that have come and gone within the past four decades, something as basic as “tooth jewelry” has found a way to turn heads after all this time. Grillz represent a rare phenomenon in fashion where the cyclical breaks offered to the complimentary item seemed to heighten the nostalgia surrounding it while giving time for new variations of the concept to reach massive success.

They communicate the innate beauty of fashion, the ability to tell a story that reinvents what is previously expected while adding the unconstrained individuality of whoever dawns them.

TYLER THE CREATOR

Maturation Through Music

Tyler the Creator has been a polarizing figure in the music industry for the better part of a decade now. His music not only served to challenge the listener with controversial subject matter but provoke a new sound that led a new age of hip hop during the early to mid 2010s. Tyler had created a brand associated with challenging what was expected out of music while marketing himself as a youthful, carefree persona immune from the introspective depth of his peers.

A chaotic and rebellious figure to say the least, it was believed his style would fade off as a byproduct of his generation.

All that changed with the release of FlowerBoy.

2017’s FlowerBoywould begin one of the most prolic three album runs in rap history as Tyler masterfully transitioned both his style and concepts into some of the most mature subject matters we’ve seen in modern rap. The contrast of his previous works makes it more staggering but even when stacked up with other headliners like Kendrick Lamar and J Cole, Tyler’s messaging still feels refreshing and nuanced in comparison.

Not to make light of his prior work, with 2015’s CherryBombstill standing the test of time in this humble writer’s opinion.

FlowerBoy.IGOR, and CallMeIfYou

GetLostdo a magnificent job reflecting an internal change that completely contradicts what was previously known of its creator and subverts what was expected from any album in the genre. The listener bears witness to the vulnerability, loneliness and confusion seldom artists are able to either experience or talk about, making the works sound like the progression of a person rather than unassociated volumes of music.

This trilogy dives into separate characters who have been victims to isolation or abandonment for a variety of reasons and tell their individual stories of how they handle it. IGOR specifically takes the perspective of an alter ego who can’t handle the abandonment of his partner who denies their relationship in favor of another partner.

Each new entry into the narrative Tyler crafts feels enriching and personable, far different than the ostracization that rap fans are often met with in popular songs of the genre. Whereas money, fame, and relationships are used as social credit for many modern rappers that garner them praise, Tyler opts to use them as compensatory muses to toggle with the loss he feels. Knowing that despite his status and acclaim, that isn’t enough to capture what he really wants in his life, an unrequited love.

The vulnerability offered gives an unexpected quality to each new record released, making the listener connect with the themes presented because it reflects aspects of themselves in its messaging.

PhotosCourtesyofRobb TheNewYorkTimes.

From a technical side, these past 3 albums have been Tyler’s most daring and successful as a producer. From the California meadows of FlowerBoyto the traveling countryside of CallMeIfYouGetLost, the beat production is unmatched giving elevating accompaniment with the synths and chords. The diversity and range of Tyler's musical ability can be praised continuously, but the thematic central points of his. work takes unmistakable mastery to complete. Although no work is perfect, most recognizably many of the core illustrative beats in Tyler's story telling become somewhat redundant in a

few instances. But the perspective shift of how this similar story concludes or affects the central focus of the album is what makes it interesting. Runs in music, especially in rap are rare nowadays. With great demand comes an audience skeptical to see if you can achieve their unrealistic standards. Many fall prey to the unexpected brilliance of their first work or fail to evolve what made them iconic in the first place. Through all his previous faults and aimlessness Tyler has done well to achieve a discography rivaling the trilogies of both Graduationand Good KidMAADCitywhich stand at the apex of hip hop. Hopefully this consistency and narrative orientated musicality can continue into his future works to without a doubt propel him to one of the greatest musicians of our generation.

Ant-Man & the Wasp: Quantumania The Good, The Bad, The Overhated

The newest entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe starring our insect sized hero marks the 31st entry for the franchise. The usual comedic yet endearing acting chops of Paul Rudd, who plays Scott Lang, navigates his experiences post the conclusion with the Avenger’s epic final clash against Infinity War antagonist Thanos. The movie released February 17th to luke warm responses from critics and audiences alike.This continues a recent stretch of critically mixed results from the studio that has been known, at their best, to deliver some of the most epic and visually phenomenal content seen in cinema this century. So is the

reception to this new film a sign of the end for a cinematic genre that may have hit its peak or is there something more beyond the hate?

As stated prior, the film has Scott Lang searching for purpose after his world ending duel against the forces of evil. Most of the appeal of Ant-Man films to this point have been how microscopic they feel in connection with the rest of the MCU at large. Scott for the most part is an ordinary man thrusted into a world of mutants, monsters and aliens who essentially plays the straight man to the plethora of oddities that make up his world.

Although elements of his stand alone films do play important plot points in larger ensemble films like the use of Pym particles in CaptainAmerica:CivilWaror his car quantum generator in Avengers:Endgame, the stakes of his conflicts are usually belittled to match the size of the hero. So it is fitting that in this film, Scott moved on from the war-like conflict of the previous movies like any normal man would, profiting off his experiences. He writes books, attempts to make up for lost time with his daughter whom he missed five years of her life and creates a familial foundation with Hope (played by Evangeline Lilly).

The direction taken for this character feels organic and does a better job of tackling this type of predicament than films like Thor:Love&Thunderwere able to achieve. Although Scott is clearly searching for purpose on what to do with himself, his actions feel within character and it's given enough perspective that you understand why he wouldn’t automatically want to jump back into the realm of heroism. He witnessed suffering and the separation from his family which, although still handled in the classic comedic Marvel way, had a major impact on his character.

This movie presented plenty of quality moments that succeeded in sticking to the characters we had grown with over the past few films. The relationship focus between Scott and Hope has matured beautifully to a romantic and combative partnership that we have witnessed the development of. It feels easy for movies like this to create some artificial conflict between the two that will eventually be resolved, but they work like a harmonious team throughout the movie with Hope having her own focus acting as the Wasp. Hank Pym, played by Michael Douglas, is given more to do in this film as opposed to the franchise's sequel even if the intellectual genius who once rivaled Howard Stark in the original is now dubbed down to a comedic relief obsessed with ants. However, these movies still finding a way to keep the ants involved in their climactic conflicts is appreciated and admittedly difficult given the infinitely higher threats when comparing the current villains to those of the past.

Overall the story direction of this entry, well established familial ties of the main cast and the creative world explored make up some of the greater highlights from any of the Ant-Man films. The terrain in the quantum realm is akin to a hybrid of StarWarsand Dunewhich adds a very extraterrestrial vibe to the places explored. Many will complain of the CGI used but it held up to the usual Marvel standards we’ve come to expect when exploring these larger than life concepts. There may have been one or two comedic missteps but ultimately I think the movie did great to kick off a new phase for the universe.

And no, the MODOK scenes weren't that bad.

After the somewhat draining lows of Phase 4, the downsides of this movie still feel mundane in comparison. Some issues worth pointing out were character moments regarding Michelle Pfeiffer’s role as Janet Van Dyne who initiated many of the issues in this film through her inability to communicate. So many conflicts could have been avoided if she abandoned her selfimposed secrecy of the events occurring in the Quantum realm that ended up adding unnecessary inconvenience to the cast. Another miss was the inclusion of Bill Murray’s character, Lord Krylar, who served no real purpose to the film which seemed like a wasted opportunity for a franchise who has a decent track record of using lesser known characters in grand ways. The forced rebelliousness of Scott Lang’s daughter Cassandra, played by Kathryn Newton, also seemed misplaced in this film. The idea of having her echo her father’s criminal past is interesting but her new found freedom fighter mentality seemed forced to me especially in a world where her father saved the entire universe. Good concept but the

execution and the acceptance of her misdirected disdain towards her father’s inactivity seemed somewhat unfair. A recent problem developing in these film’s is the off-screen genius activity being performed by the cast. With most of the older generation of Avengers getting phased out, new members who more or less fit the same skill set are being introduced to foreshadow the next generation.

Characters like Ironheart from Wakanda Foreverand now Cassandra Lang's Ant-Girl follow the steps of their predecessors without any of the development or merit we witnessed those before them do. The notion that Cassandra was able to master the intricacies of quantum communication feels unearned, and the movie so easily dismissed this unrealistic genius of a 16 year old which continues a theme that comes across as forced.

Kang, who has been heavily anticipated by fans since the announcement of his introduction. Jonathan Major’s performance was stern and presented immediate intimidation and mystery regarding his background. He was a consistent threat who was never taken lightly or never seemed underwhelming. That being said, the mystery surrounding his being, skillset and ultimate goal made this appearance in the film more of an cameo than a genuine feature. Which is perfectly fine. Audiences have been sitting on their hands patiently awaiting the next Thanos sized threat who presents a perfect blend of maddening villany and charismatic philosophy, so with those expectations it is impossible to make a true judge of his character yet. But they did achieve in building interest in what lies next for the character, and for only the beginning of Phase 5, that should be enough.

So what’s with all the hate and commentary aimed towards this movie? It did well to serve as another developmental entry in a much larger story, and highlighted a character who historically never has any grand throughlines in any of his films. Well combined with the Kang hype, the mediocrity of Phase 4 and the questions surrounding Marvel’s future after Endgame, the masses are becoming more demanding with each new film. The calm build up that possibly went under the radar for the start of the Thanos saga is now non-existent and people are going to these blockbusters with unreal expectations for how this movie will serve the larger Marvel formula. So is it overhated? Yes. But this should bring a call to action to Marvel to either alter their all too familiar formula or give their fans something to sink their teeth into while the phase enters its stride. Something like a CaptainAmerica:TheWinter Soldierthat progresses a story and can stand alone as a good film. Time and ticket sales have proved that you can no longer sail solely on the hype of these films, Marvel needs to offer more product than promises. Until then every little film they have will continue to be held under a microscope.

MF DOOM THE BEST MC WITH NO CHAIN

YA EVER HEARD

MF DOOM redened an era of music and exploded the underground rap scene with an ability and outlook impossible to replicate. His life and career teach anybody searching to make it big that it's the art that come rst, not the artist.

What do you think when you hear the word “underground?” Someone who fails to meet the requirements for mainstream acclaim? A regional talent with a small but dedicated fanbase? Or, just maybe, a radical visionary who ignores convention and opts for his own unique ideals regardless of who wants to hear them.

Enter MF DOOM.

Born Daniel Dumile, his rap start came in the early to mid-1990s with his music group KMD alongside his brother Sub-Roc. The group found commercial success with a style more comedic and lyrically abstract than most New York hip-hop at the time. The trio Zev Love X (Dumile), DJ Sub-Roc, & Onyx would later get signed to Elektra Records and planned the release of their second studio album BlackBastardsin 1994. While recording the album, member Onyx left the group leaving only the two brothers to complete the project. However in April 1993, SubRoc was killed in a car collision while crossing the street.

KMD featured with DJ Sub-Roc (left), Zev Love X (center) & Onyx (right).

Burdened by grief, Dumile made it a mission to complete the album that he and his late brother longed for. Upon its completion in 1994, Elektra refused to release it in part due to the controversial nature of the album cover which depicted a racist caricature. They would then drop Dumile from the record label. Thus ensued a period of the next few years where Dumile wandered homeless around New York unable to see the last merits of his brother's life come to fruition.

The tragic events leading up to this point molded Dumile. He became more aware of the politics and excessiveness that took over the hip hop genre, all detracting from the music. He wanted to become someone who opposed that, a figure who would prioritize the sound first and not simply the lifestyle associated with it. He " swore vengeance on the industry that had disfigured him so badly." A villain.

At that time

I was damn near homeless, walking the streets of Manhattan, sleeping on benches and shit.

The villain represents anybody. Anybody in here could wear the mask. It's about coming from the heart and what you have to say.

MF DOOM contrasts so much of what we now associate with modern rap culture. He found a way to play towards his interests organically and interweave it with his lyrical messaging. It was a way of informing the listener the idea of “cool” is strictly defined by whatever you're into and should never lay victim to conformity. His discography is littered with songs on ridiculous topics, unorthodox rhyme schemes and innovative beat production.

"I was kinda like, if I ip the comic style of writing into Hip Hop, that's something niggas ain't done yet. I was looking for an angle that would be brand new."

It adds to the value of freedom, straying away from the formulaic solutions of what should work and playing closer to what works for you. The mask he dawns serves not only to reference the villain of the Fantastic Fourseries Doctor Doom, but additionally to illustrate that whoever’s behind the mask isn’t important, all that truly matters is the quality of music you're able to put out. A quintessential message for an industry where how you’re perceived reigns more than how you perform.

MF DOOM's story offers a combative foundation to what is seen in our culture today. The insistence of “looking the part” drilled in by social platforms and socially conscious mindsets prohibits many from fulfilling their passions for love but rather for attention. And that isn’t where the priority should be.

His unapologetic fearlessness and style lives on far past his passing in late 2020. His life carries an example of how adversity forces you to think outside the box and embrace the strengths that each of us represent. Most importantly he preached to everyone that lack of recognition should never deter the unique vision and art each of us has the power to create.

"Is he still a y guy clappin if nobody ain't hear it, and can he testify from in the spirit?"

His legacy exceeds music altogether and has become an icon for underground art and for everyone continuing the battle for substance over sales.

ONE PIECE

The Never-Ending Journey

Eiichiro Oda's historic series OnePiecehas been a long standing goliath in the manga industry for over two decades now. It has broken nearly every literary sales record and cultivated some of the most iconic characters in ction.

The longevity of the series serves as a testamenttotheconsistentquality presentedbyOda.Butwhatmany seeasanongoingmasterpiecethe likesofwhichtheyhopewillnever end,anequalmajorityisintimidated bysuchamassivecatalogofstory alienatingthemfromstartinginthe rstplace.AsofJanuary2023,there standsover1070publishedchapters andnearlyasmanyanimeepisodes adaptingthestory.Thisinvestment intotheworldisquitethetalltaskto askforamainstreamaudience, especiallywhentheanimedates backallthewayto1999.

OnePiecefollows pirate Monkey D. Luffy along with his crew members across the seas as he attempts to become King of the Pirates. The strengths found in the series are too many to count, adding so much depth to an otherwise childish premise. Themes of inherited will, friendship, being true to oneself all highlight the colorful world that our main cast inhabits. The underlying tenet drawing each character together however is the simplest of all, a dream.

As a reader, you follow these different aspirations and witness how how they shape your beloved characters. Some are physical destinations that they wish to visit and some stand more ambitious spanning over generations of cultivated hopes. Each step forward in their adventure garners applause and each failure elicits heartbreak. The arc by arc experience of climbing the indomitable ladder of Luffy’s dream in a world packed with larger than life antagonists is nearly unrivaled in its storytelling. The events that take place stir up emotions almost childish in nature.

It's worth asking, why does this journey never seem to end?

TheWanoCountry Arcspans149 chaptersandwas publishedfrom20182022.Makingitthe longeststoryarcto date.

Leaving us to wonder, with the same determination could we achieve our dreams?

OnePiecedirectly challenges that notion, acknowledging the infinite vitality of dreams and the free will to choose how we go about fulfilling them. Characters in the story find themselves challenged, belittled and mocked for aspirations that sound ridiculous in nature which presents perfect symmetry to how they are received in the real world.

Fictional characters achieving their dreams through unwavering tenacity is nothing new in literature, let alone in manga. There are countless good and bad examples of shows hammering home this message and its potency varies.

Where OnePieceexcels in this regard is not always the method towards the dream but the dream itself and how it is a reflection of the reader. Luffy’s goal is abstract, there isn’t a clear definition of what the title King of the Pirates means in his world. It is a goal that encapsulates the freedom and

wonder that we all at some point were striving towards. And that is the biggest strength the series offers.

We all come to a stalemate with our desires where we are faced with two options. Either moving forward or taking a different path. For some this may mean abandoning a hobby for a more financially fulfilling occupation or refusing to sacrifice the effort for a dream that has a statistically miniscule chance of coming to fruition.

It embraces the childish romanticism that we all have had in our lives and demands the reader not to reject it.

Except, those who succeed in the context of this story don’t abandon this joyous desire they have in their lives, choosing rather to dedicate themselves fully to their passions regardless of the praise or resentment.

The expansive story is just a greater illustration on where these dreams have the power to take you and the lengths life challenges you along the way. Both success and failure within the story are met with prior dedication and effort that, similar to real life, aren’t always rewarded.

OnePiecehas found its place as a historic piece of fiction due to its ability to infuse the true depths of every person into a compelling story exemplifying the beauty of dreams. It leaves you pondering whether the once insurmountable trails of our own lives can be overcome.

And in a similar fashion, it gives you strength to chase down a never-ending wish that you alone have the power to embrace or abandon.

Put simply, the story inuences you to hold to that 'hopeless' dream because it's reality does exist.

A Powerful Resurgence How Seasonal Anime Reshaped the Anime Community

In the past few years, Japanese animation or “anime” has struck a chord with mainstream audiences bringing in the greatest commercial success we’ve ever seen from the medium. What was just a rare pastime for a minority viewing audience in the west just 20 years ago is now a global industry dominating with lucrative titles that are known all around.

Gone are the days where the term anime is solely attributed to shows like Dragon Ballor Naruto, whereas now many other modern titles have found themselves in the position of cultural relevance. Speaking from a western world perspective, it is now uncommon to go to your local mall and see stores littered with merchandise all advertising the hottest animes you could imagine. There’s a new standard of cultural acceptance present now that wasn’t always the case.

So what changed?

Broadcasting channels like Adult Swim’s Toonamihave always been a gateway for audiences to get introduced to the thrills of anime even before it reached peak popularity. It became one of if not the only network to consistently dedicate an entire broadcasting block to new anime that introduced an entire generation to the genre. But creating interest in a market, although impactful, can’t be the end all when looking to generate success for an entire country. Adult Swim may have introduced audiences but there were still many shows gaining popularity that unfortunately either weren’t broadcasted or weren’t updated with the newest episodes. The network created a demand but needed more representation through broadcasting outlets to fulfill the supply.

The solution?

Revise the broadcasting method.

In the anime industry there are two primary methods in adapting the written work of a manga into animation.

The first being a week to week production schedule that produces a new episode every week. This was at one time the most optimal strategy, especially when animating written work where the story had not concluded yet. This way you can give the audience a consistent product that they won’t have time to forget while simultaneously not overstepping the story as it exists.

The second method for anime adaptation is a seasonal schedule. This strategy has been implemented by countless studios and can be credited for why anime has exploded with popularity in recent years. Seasonal anime sacrifices the constant exposure element of a weekly schedule instead choosing to have a set season number. This allows animators to completely devote their artistic ability to a slate of 10 to 24 episodes in a season. These production methods are vital in the current landscape of televising primarily because most audiences consume media through streaming platforms. So crunching down a show into digestible seasons that can be streamed is a long term investment that allows the show to still capitalize off its popularity even when the season has concluded.

The error in this method arose in slow pacing issues as you could only adapt one chapter at a time to stay on schedule or in some instances having to make filler content as to not outpace the written work. Another fault in this method was the budgeting for animation. Creating a neverending show week by week, animators had less time to make otherworldly animating feats so the product would come out less polished. But many studios believed this was the preferred way to broadcast their show in fear that without constant exposure to their product, their show would be forgotten by the masses.

A xed seasonal schedule allows for quicker pacing, a more allocated budget for animation and more often an improved nal product. Shows have been divided into release schedules in accordance with each season, so even when your favorite fall anime inevitably concludes, there’s still an extensive winter anime schedule around the corner to look forward to.

The rotational release scheduling of seasonal anime premieres affords audiences the opportunity to try new series that they may not have had any appeal towards with the older format. It’s easier to convince a newcomer of a series to invest three seasons of their time to a series than demand they keep up with the large episode numbers a week to week anime offers. And with a new series dominating each season, the audience is afforded a break to build anticipation for the future while they get invested in another show. And with our culture's new inclination to binge an entire series rather than patiently waiting for more content, it’s no surprise that seasonal anime has revitalized the anime industry worldwide.

STEEL BALL RUN

HEAT OR HYPE

*LIGHTSPOILERS AHEAD*

Steel Ball Run is the 7th part to Hirohiko Araki’s ongoing legendary manga JoJo’sBizarreAdventure. Since 1987, the story has followed the illustrious Joestar bloodline and their battle against fate through a variety of peculiar obstacles to say the least. Each new part of the story involves a different protagonist in their own story carrying on the inherited burdens and drive of their predecessors. The creativity and masterful artwork of the series has made it an icon in the manga community, and its popularity was further bolstered by the magnificent anime adaptation by David Productions started in 2012.

Amongst all the praise hurled towards the series, there is one part universally heralded over every other. Running from 2004 to 2011, Steel BallRun,otherwise known as Part 7, is championed as Araki’s greatest work to date. Everything from the themes to the characters are held in such high regard that many come to know of the part’s notoriety prior to reading their first page of the story. Though deliberately unconventional, JoJo’s has always been able to produce some of the most stylized and ingenuitive stories in modern fiction even prior to Steel Ball Run, making the expectation somewhat high for new readers.

So with over a decade passed since the part’s conclusion, was SteelBallRunreally as good as many hype it up to be?

What separates this part from every other one prior is the in-story universe it takes place in. All six parts leading up to this point had taken place in the same timeline as well as all being produced for Weekly Shonen Jump. However, for this part Araki decided to restart the story from the beginning to create a form of ‘renaissance’ that allowed his story to be free from the former 15 years of storylines and plot threads. As well as switching his publication to Ultra Jump which would allow him to publish a more mature story and release his chapters in a monthly format. Because of

this, the art in Steel Ball Run is some of the best the manga medium has to offer. The additional time given in a monthly release as opposed to a weekly format enabled Araki to create some of the most jaw-dropping set pieces and character designs to date. I is well known that prior to any release of a new JoJo part, Araki actually travels to the location’s real world counterpart to provide inspiration and reference to his art. And Steel Ball Run, taking place primarily in the country side of the United States, explodes with intense realism that defies the genre.

We follow our part’s protagonist, ohnny Joestar, a former star jockey who was tragically paralyzed in part to his own egotistical past. He encounters our deuteragonist, Gyro Zeppeli, who with the work of his spinning steel ball shows Johnny there is a possibility for him to walk again. Along the way the two encounter dinosaurs, fossilized body parts of Jesus Christ and duel off with the President of the United States.

Ever since the power system of “Stands” were introduced in Part 3’s StardustCrusaders, the story has held a “villain of the week” format with an overarching story thread tying everything together. This story telling practice has had mixed results in the series and is a divisive topic amongst the fanbase. Some praise this strategy as an opportunity to produce more creative characters and abilities while others feel this leads to ultimately useless fighting against pointless characters until the climactic battle with the antagonist. So for Part 7, Araki decided to weave in many of the familiar weekly Stand battles into the narrative to where the altercations felt less like a mandate and more so character building interactions crucial to the development of the story.

The story premise is simple, a horse race across the United States for a reward of $50 million.

Typical JoJo stuff.

Many of the exchanges that both Johnny and Gyro go through leave a lasting impact on each character that serve to later inform their actions down the line. Iconic characters like Ringo Roadagain and Wekapipo push our protagonists into making valuable internal realizations or shifts that impact their progression. Each new enemy is layered and has a resonant story that is connected to the narrative and logically brings them into the fold. This change makes the events appear more fluid and allows you to connect more with each and every character introduced. The themes of the story are more complex than any JoJo story up

Johnny uses the prospect of regaining the ability to walk as seeking redemption for his past wherein he did wrong by those around him. Gyro enters the race to free an imprisoned young boy but ultimately finds the freedom from his patriarchal lineage to start making his own decisions and choices. A light is cast on what “resolve” really means and the dark nature that also dwells in that tenet. Also a major focus on fatherhood, and the importance parenting styles can have on graphing what kind of people we eventually become. Despite the larger than life oddities that accompany the story, all the larger and minor themes presented make the part feel reflective to the real world. The race is simply a setting to analyze and break through the past trauma afflicting our heroes.

This series is no stranger to outstanding antagonists. Dio Brando from Part 1’s Phantom Blood/Part 3’s Stardust Crusaders (and also appears in Part 7 as a maniacal secondary antagonist) and Yoshikage Kira from Part 4’s Diamondis Unbreakableboth served as iconic threats to our leads in their respective stories. However, Part 7’s Funny Valentine stands out as one of the greatest characters Araki has ever crafted. Standing as the 23rd President of the United States, Valentine acts as an unwavering, calculated threat throughout the entire story. His goals are understandable and teeters the utilitarian line of being a profound savior to some and disgustingly sinister to others. He is offered the same realistic motivation and depth as our heroes making him less of an evil persona to overcome but rather just a character with his own sense of justice that embodies the same resolve as Johnny in his fight.

Araki’s growth as a writer shines brightest with this character, diverting from his “evil for evil’s sake” style of writing to a more down to Earth threat who mimics many of the actions most real life politicians make in the modern day on a smaller scale. And without adding any additional spoilers, Valentine displays one of the most objectively cool yet confusing Stands in the story up to this point.

But speaking of heroes, let’s address the best aspect of this story. The monster known as Funny Valentine.

A phenomenal primary and secondary cast of characters, unique story, improved writing, powerful themes and stunning artistry, it’s safe to say that Part 7 Steel Ball Run definitely does stand as the best JoJo’s story to date (completion of Part 8 JoJolion pending). It by no means negates reading any prior parts nor does it rank superior to its counterparts in every regard, but it does so much in such a cohesive story that it stands out as a distinctive masterpiece of fiction. Certainly a bizarre adventure that everyone should try.

YungEgyptScore:

Plot:8.5 Theme:9.2 Characters:9.3

9.0/10

What Are You Watching? BLUE LOCK

ブルーロック

Recently I decided to invest in the sports anime series BlueLockby Yusuke Nomura which highlights soccer standout, Yoichi Isagi, on his path to conquering the highly competitive live in soccer experiment known as Blue Lock. Led by a mastermind known as Ego, Japan hopes to nd a miraculous new talent to lead their nation by having rising teens compete through a variety of competitions to discover who will stand above the rest. Along the way Isagi begins to change internally and contemplates the true qualities needed to fully embody becoming the world’s best striker.

As someone never interested in soccer, I wondered whether the series could hold the attention of casual watchers without getting too bogged down with the intricacies of the game. But the story does an amazing job of appealing to everyone with any background in sports. It fantastically outlines the difficulties that often accompany team sports while simultaneously trying to achieve individual greatness.

Our main character Isagi fits as the embodiment of blending in for the sake of team cohesion, and the show offers a rarely heard perspective on where that mentality can lead you. That is, although the concept of “teamwork” has been conditioned into most athletes, is this quality strong enough to propel us to greatness?

A central argument of the show is speaking to the benefits of ego. The most successful athletes within the show are praised for having stubborn, borderline obnoxious levels of confidence in themselves that are believed to produce their otherworldly skills in their craft. Each of the episodic antagonists have some strength in their game that they’re uncompromisingly committed towards honing often at the behest of the rest of their teammates.

And it is rewarded.

Because in reality, the whole team can’t always break the mold to achieve super stardom. Only the most physically gifted and talented individuals get to stand at the biggest stage of their craft, so directing the viewer's attention to this truth and crafting a character to embody it is incredibly appealing.

Between the high octane matches and intense character battles, we get small appearances from the previously mentioned Blue Lock Coordinator Ego who bluntly states the message the series is going for. His appearances detail the cutthroat philosophy of athletics serving as both a call to action for Isagi and a rude awakening for the viewing audience. He acts as a calculated figure who completely embodies the analytical perspective of soccer and only concerns himself with producing an individual who can produce victorious results. There are no second chances given or participation awards offered. Losing means permanent failure which heightens the tension of each match and offers deeper introspection into the athletic realm.

The series also has a great artistic tone, it has a sharp and expressive character design that stands out as unique. Many of the larger than life athletes have a larger than life design to accompany their athletic talents which serves to contrast the somewhat underwhelming design of the main character. Isagi serves as the every man that the viewer can instantly associate with, lacking any major innate talents so he has to compensate with mental ingenuity and work ethic. The “glow” in each character's eyes that animates the player's resolve is a spectacle to see and the color palette expressed in each episode makes the action scenes stand out. The pace never feels too stagnant with games between teams never overstaying their welcome and some much needed character dynamics are fleshed out in between matches making you understand motivations outside the field that provide quality depth to some of the cast.

The direction of this series has unlimited range in where to take its story. Its egocentric story focus invigorates new life for a genre of anime often hard to market. The realistic philosophical perspective on sports intertwined with an underdog’s plunge into a world of talent denitely deserves all its praise and more. Blue Lock achieves where most sports series should, using the game as a catalyst to detail a good story which certainly makes this a must watch.

Deep Thought 深

In an unconventional turn of events, I found that my growing passion for stylistic arts, captivating Japanese storytelling, and beauty of my outdoor surroundings brought me to a deeper self reflection of who I am as a person. The concept of philosophy far exceeds the one track lane that I precluded it to. It's an intersection of infinite lanes and perspectives that simply try to find answers that allude us in the chaotic nature of life. These pieces of art that we digest have the ability to teach us who we are or who we are trying to be. Fashion gave me the means to embody how I wanted to feel outwardly. Anime visualized creative figures that often exemplified struggles I was attempting to manage (usually at a dramatic scale) and gave points of view of how to combat them. In traveling you find the calmness of the world and witness how incredibly vast our surroundings are, somehow minimizing your struggles. Art itself is philosophically rich and therapeutic. It's a compelling feeling to be pulled in by what we love, have it spell in no uncertain terms what this life has to offer and ponder over what that may mean to us. That’s why I dedicate this section to the strides these powerful past times have provided my intellect and how that impact has come to evolve the way I view my life altogether. I hope you enjoy it.

Change in itself stands to be one of the most difficult crossroads to encounter in life. Because it acts as an admission of doing something wrong in the first place. You don’t just make alterations to your thinking or actions when you think you're in the right, it usually implies identifying the error in your path that needs necessary correction.

And there lies the challenge. Having something so essential to development but off putting to our ego seems like a cruel joke especially when we are wired to believe in our pride. There’s rarely one action that can communicate immediate changes in our life and that consistency can still go unnoticed by many people from a distance.

We’ve all had moments where we witness other people around us reinvent the wheel of their decisions and it is often agonzing to watch. Change itself is accompanied by scrutiny. Whether you inevitably change for the better or worse, there tends to be an audience observing you constantly reminding you of how you were.

So why change at all?

In my experience, in realms such as fashion or photography, change is met with brutal criticism at times. Putting yourself in the proverbial stage of social media makes you believe the spotlight is on you after each submission. And when navigating through trial and error, the pressure from your believed perception can make it immensely difficult to hit that reset button. You fear changing the style that brought you praise in the first place. The fear of no longer having the guaranteed response you’d grown accustomed to.

The inevitability of regression feels absolute and it can hinder unfounded gems around the corner. The audience for art rebukes change but mastery in that skill requires it. It is an unending process of challenging yourself through the sensation of feeling lost to dig your way out with pure passion.

The wonder of change lies in the result not being a re-written edition of who you are but a compiled version of all you’ve experienced. It’s a graceful evolution that flashes your new strengths of which wouldn’t be capable without your former weaknesses.

But how does this apply interpersonally? The countless mistakes we make can’t always be brashly worn on our sleeve. In many instances they serve as scars of shame and regret. The inability to go in the past and convey your current revelations to yourself is a pain that lingers. The endless opposition of what could’ve been versus what is now

I struggle with regret often and futile emotions of wanting to undo actions with figures who have long since left my life. Any amount of change I offer my being now will never be observed by those I most wish to notice. The thought of many people entering and exiting my life before I reach my pinnacle of growth bothered me because what appeared as an unconscious or indecisive action has become years of contemplative thought for me. And the desire to reveal some “final” form of myself that would cast aside their preconceptions ate away at me.

But in truth this fully formed version will never come. That regret will never end because there’s no finished development for any of us. The opportunity to evolve is infinite and always changing. The strides of today may soon become trivialities down the line. In the same way an artist has to embody his mistakes of the past into his evolution so must we mold ourselves diligently to overcome what hinders us.

Embrace what has brought you this far. Denial and regret, although unpreventable, drag down the progression for the you of tomorrow. The steps we make in our lives are impossible to predict and the developments you make can impact figures you have yet to meet. It’s monotonous, introspective and insanely difficult at times.

But the rewards from growth can only be garnered when you alone decide to make that first step.

LIFE THROUGH MY LENS