The GOODS Magazine - Winter 2014

JAN/FEB 2014

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ODS GOODS

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goods thoughts

letter from the editor February is a time for lovebirds and single people ready to speed date or scroll through their EHarmony messages looking for that one. I’ve never been the type to judge. I’m more so a floats your boat type of guy. But, what I love about the beginning of the year is that you get a chance to reflect on the previous 365 days. The mistakes you made and most importantly the things you’ve accomplished.

Their things I could’ve have done better and will do better this time around. Things like devote more time to family, and eating healthier. You know the typical things everyone states once the ball drops in Time Square. There are so many GOODS things cooking with The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine this year. We’re welcoming back The G.O.O.D.S. Girls promotion team. I would like to thank everyone involved with making The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine possible.

What can you look forward to in the first issue of 2014?

I can’t let the cat out of the bag. Why doing you see for yourself. I would like to thank Michel Sproles for allowing us to share her story. I love you guys! Thank you for your continuous support!

Do you have The G.O.O.D.S?

Omarr O

GOODS team EDITOR IN CHIEF & FOUNDER Omarr Olasewere

contributors FASHION CONTRIBUTOR

Ashley Zubrai Ashley@thegoodsmagonline.com

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Johnique Woods johnique@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MANAGING EDITOR & DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

Solomon Osayande Jr. solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jessica Krantz jessica@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Alejandrina Love ale@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Vanessa Barnes vanessa@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Racquel Yarborough racquel@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR

Lindsey Washbourne Lindsey@thegoodsmagonline.com

LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Cyrillynn Chen Cyrillynn@thegoodsmagonline.com

LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Syltoya Sterling Syltoya@thegoodsmagonline.com

COPY EDITOR

Tien Nguyen tien@thegoodsmagonline.com

WRITERS: Kimberly Kimmel, Lindsey Washbourne, Lonnie

Lewis, Michael T. Brewer, Nicole Bowen, Ashley Zarubi, Jenelle Rebeca, Cy Chen, Dan Lawler, and Ray Pita

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Asami Zenri, Ezra and Jen Zuniga

on the cover PHOTOGRAPHER: Ezra and Jen Zuniga MODEL: Hailey Apostolu

enquiries EDITORIALS: alejandrina@thegoodsmagonline.com WRITERS: alejandrina@thegoodsmagonline.com ADVERTISERS: solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

connect

EDITORIAL DESIGNER Amy Ripplinger

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Leo Malevanchik

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GROOMING OUTSTANDING ORIGINALITY DEFINING STYLE PHOTO BY ONE-STAR-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM MODEL CRISTINA MARIA SARACUT

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GOODS Subscribe to the digital edition at

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in this issue FEATURED ARTICLES 10

OUT WITH THE OLD

28

BECOMING A BETTER YOU

74

LISTEN TO THIS

14

THE GOODS ON GRAMMYS

30

DOMESTIC DIVA

75

BAYONETTA 2 REVIEW

18

TREND DESIGNER REPORT

50

LOVE AND DECEPTION

76

RESOLUTIONS

20

ONE ON ONE

64

VALENTINE’S DAY

78

EXTRA GOODS

24

THE SPRING BLONDE

67

FONDUE

26

METRO TO MANDATORY

68

HOLY WARHOL, YEEZUS!

show us your

GOODS

submit your work at

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9

fashion

Out With The Old And In With The Fabulous!

By Nicole Bowen Every year, the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future….this is known as Fashion Week. These words, from fashionista Carrie Bradshaw, could not be more accurate! February 6th kicks off the first Fashion Week of 2014 in New York’s Lincoln Center. Poor fashion decisions of last year (wedge sneakers and peplum obsession anyone?) are cast aside as the world’s top designers set out to inspire us all to start fresh. February’s Fashion Week will showcase the Fall/Winter 2014 collections and highlight the upcoming trends. Whether you follow these trends or ignore them you cannot deny their influence on what you will be seeing in stores and what you will be wearing come September! For a list of shows and full Fashion Week coverage you can visit the official website: www.MBFashionWeek.com

Chanel Any designer of significance has a collection to show. For huge fashion houses the challenge lies in standing out in a whirlwind 7 days of shows and collections (over 100 to be exact). Karl Lagerfeld has taken the Chanel collection back in time to 1954, the year the French shunned Coco’s designs and the American’s embraced them with open arms. The collection has taken the classic Chanel suit and made the jacket a touch boxier, added length to the skirt, and exchanged the classic pump for a boot. The outcome?

A fantastic Ralph Lauren-esque Americana feel with the quintessential Chanel elements.

Lanvin Lanvin, a brand synonymous with evening wear, has taken the brand into the brave new world of day wear. Smoking jackets paired with track pants boasting tuxedo stripes and a leopard coat made of jacquard.

As for the evening line, the glamour brand will keep you guessing! A gown that is essentially a t-shirt (worn by The Great Cate Blanchett at January’s Critic’s Choice Awards) and a one shoulder gown with black feather detailing stand out.

Burberry Who else but Burberry Prorsum could create a line based upon the Arts & Crafts movement of late 19th century England?

Textured jacquard, tapestry brocade, and velvet appliqués make this line as iconic as that Burberry trench we all lust after!

Alice + Oliva What happens when a designer breaks away from frothy party frocks and shows a collection of menswear inspired separates?

Rave reviews and excitement for Alice + Olivia’s Pre-Fall line!

This collection is all about transitional dressing, Summer to Fall and Day to Night. Stacey Bendet has created a line for “The New York girl who is working all day and out all night.”

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Plaid With all these shows what trends stand out for September?

PLAID This grungy chic mainstay is expected to grace multiple runways at Fashion Week. The update for Fall will be the juxtaposition of plaid against more feminine silhouettes and fabrics.

PUNK INSPIRED FASHION According to the fashion predicting site, Trendstop, the punk trend will carrying into the cooler Autumn months with “styles that preserve a subversive undercurrent”.

1950S FASHION Move over Grace Kelly, the feminine silhouettes of full skirts and swing jackets are back in a big way this Fall! The throwback look is expected to rule the runway at multiple shows and be the go to girly look when the temperatures drop.

BOUDOIR INSPIRED

This trend will not be quite as obvious as Hugh Hefner’s quintessential silk jammies! Think more along the lines of silk, lace, vintage detailing and inspiration from Lauren Bacall.

Boudoir Inspired

Punk Inspired

1950s Fashion

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The GOODS on the Grammys

By Ashley Zarubi

So, the 2014 Grammys are underway and while the music is playing and the awards are given, I am here to immerse myself in the fashions of night and share with you my thoughts!

As a night for stars to get all dapper and dolled up, it was actually surprising to me that the fashions I saw were a little underwhelming, for Grammy standards that is.

First let’s start with my favorites.

First: The always lovely, Taylor Swift in this beautiful Gucci metallic gown, with its fitted, floor length bodice and shimmer overlay. It fit her perfectly and she sparkled on that red carpet.

While Giuliana Rancic can pull off anything with her amazing figure, this deep, red-coral, dress screams spring and vibrancy. As your eyes start at her halter neckline with the beautiful embroidered detailing they seamlessly trickle down the pattern to the bottom of the dress, such a showstopper in this bold color.

Lastly, Anna Kendrick in this beautiful embellished bodice, silvery-cream colored dress.

Her hair and makeup complete this chic look to a T. It looks like old Hollywood glam but updated and fresh.

It seemed that there was a common theme tonight of NUDE on the RED carpet, and no I do not mean the naked nude here. I mean the Next, Colbie Caillat did me proud. As a big fan color, a ton of fleshy tones, and not pleasant of seeing a red dress on the red carpet. This creams or ivories either. I am talking about the textured, floral detail and asymmetrical cut is colors that just wash people out, and really who eye catching. Simple hair and makeup is also the perfect accompaniment for a dress that is so bold. wants that?

From left: Taylor Swift, Anna Kendrick, Skylar, Grey, Kacey Musgraves, Sara Bareilles, Katy Perry, Colbie Caillat www.thegoodsmag.co

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And do not even get me started on the (musical) number on Katy Perry. This Valentino dress looked better on the runway than on her tonight. That dress should’ve stayed on the runway in my opinion unless her hair was different this one is a miss it comes off way too cheesy and young.

As for the men tonight… well some (a few) got it right.

But others… (Pharrell) what was going on there? I love Jamie Foxx and his choice of navy, as well as my admiration for Robin Thicke and Mackelmore for sporting some velvet suits. That fabric will always scream elegance on a red carpet; and in my book, a man being that daring with fashion always deserves some credit.

As far as the looks during performances of the night, I must mention Beyonce and Jay Z’s performance. I love them together, what a power couple right there. She looked amazing in this cut out leotard and tights. It was like Chicago met The Fifth Element… now that is a combination of favorites.

The power couple also rocked the red carpet. Look at this gown she is wearing… Maybe I should consider this as my second wedding gown? Probably not, I will just let her rock it. And boy did she. That bright white damask pattern on sheer netting. BEAUTIFUL, the only thing that wasn’t was her ombre hair… not as chic as the dress is. Jay Z rocked the carpet alongside her though with that textured blazer and sophisticated bow tie.

So congratulations to all of the award winners and the best dressed of the night. For the one’s who missed it on the red carpet, better luck next time, there is always next year.

Until then, for my ALWAYS fashionable readers, red carpet or none.

Stay Stylish. xoxo Ashley

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Trends Designer Report My Personal Picks!

By Jenelle Rebeca

It’s about that time again fashion lovers!

New collections from some of the best designers in the industry and in my opinion, some of the best trends are dominating the runways. I’m a sucker for a good print and the unexpected.

I will be sharing my personal favorite trend and designers from this season.

One of the trends that I am absolutely in love with is Art Pop, displaying bold brushstrokes and Picasso inspired designs. Designers like Chanel, Prada, Dior and Louis Vuitton are just some of the few designers that made this trend come to life. I could go on forever talking about each designer but instead, I want to just share my personal favorite designer that displayed this trend and stayed true to herself and that is designer Serafina Sama for Isa Aren. For this collection Serafina kept it classy and clean with a hint of color. Basic, neutral color palettes and straightforward looks

were the highlights in this collection.

She incorporated simplicity, and sorbet colors as well as unexpected designs. From the anoraks made of satin to the horizontally striped capes and trousers piece this line is by far my favorite for spring. It basically screams femininity! Serafina also collaborated with illustrator Marcela Gutierrez for the eccentric pieces.

My absolute favorite piece from the collection is the white dress with the giant painted eye printed on the back which is definitely a part of the “art pop” trend!

fabric such as netting, below the knee pencil skirts and sport like inspirations.

Look forward to seeing texture combinations like leather and wool as well as sheer chiffon and netting. With structured crop tops, structured mini skirts and asymmetrical hems this collection is speaking volumes with the “put together” look. My personal favorite is look 7, the black top and pencil skirt number with mesh netting on both the top and the sides of the skirt. His main colors were cream, black and white. His pieces create an hourglass shape for any figure. I can definitely see a couple of my fashion Another of my favorite collections this forward celebrities like Rihanna and season that displays one trend comes Solange wearing a pieces from this from Jonathan Simkhai. He described collection. This collection is two of the this collection as a “refresh” using only most important things to have in any neutral colors and combined fabrics. collection, modernism and tailored He gave us lots of silhouette and looks. Take a look below at some photos from both collections! Like it or love it?

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ONE ONE

By Cy Chen

on

with Michel Sproles

7 Image Salon is owned by Michel Sproles, who is not only the wife of famed New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles, but she is also a certified Image Consultant and Life Coach. Coupled with her passion to ensure people look good and feel good, her certifications also put in a position to help her overcome some personal obstacles in her life, like beating cancer, which she explains in this exclusive interview with The Goods Magazine.

The GOODS Magazine: What is the name of your salon?

How did you cope with the decision to have the Mastectomy?

Michel Sproles: My salon is called 7 Image. It is located at 6050 Mission Gorge Road, San Diego CA 92120

I coped well because I knew this was the best decision for me to make sure I am around for my husband and kids and to have peace of mind.

What was your vision when establishing 7image?

When establishing 7 Image, I wanted to create a beautiful space that people would be proud to come visit. My goal is to make each guest feel special while receiving personalized service tailored to fit their individual needs.

I want each guest to feel beautiful both inside and out.

Beauty starts from within and it’s important for our guest to know that.

What made you want to pursue business as a career choice and why beauty?

I’ve always wanted to start my own business so I can be in control of my career and potential earnings. I also love to make people feel beautiful both inside and out.

How did you find out you had DCIS? I noticed a thickening in my breast while doing a routine breast exam on myself at home.

Does breast cancer run in your family?

No. Breast cancer does not run in my family and I am BRCA Negative so I’m not carrying a mutated gene.

When you were diagnosed and decided to have your double mastectomy what thoughts and emotions overwhelmed you most?

I have always been a confident woman so what overwhelmed me the most was wanting to make sure that I was still comfortable with my body after the surgery.

What was Darren’s reaction to your diagnosis and decision to go ahead with the double mastectomy?

Darren was extremely supportive and in fact encouraged the double mastectomy so we could have peace of mind and not worry about this in our future.

If you had to offer advice or words of wisdom to someone newly diagnosed, what would it be?

Allow yourself the time to mentally process your diagnosis, then begin to educate yourself about the disease and make sure to stay off the internet. Not all internet websites are regulated and you can receive false information and unnecessarily scare yourself Make sure to ask your doctors questions that pertain to your specific diagnosis.

How did the diagnosis affect your marriage and two young children?

It brought my husband and I closer. Our children were too young to know exactly what was going on so we made sure to shield them from this. Our oldest daughter just knew that mommy had a boo-boo and would be ok.

How did your diagnosis affect your career?

In a positive way.

Did your diagnosis have any negative or positive ramifications on your career?

It has positive ramifications because I can share this experience with my clients and hopefully be an inspiration to help them overcome their own personal adversities.

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Did you become an advocate before or after your surgery?

I do not consider myself a breast cancer advocate, however I do consider myself a healthcare advocate and encourage everyone to be diligent and proactive in their own health. We are ultimately responsible for our lives and early detection starts with us.

Did you or do you have any body image issues as a result or your double mastectomy and if so how do you cope?

Removing my breast was me unselfishly choosing to be here for my family. In the beginning it was a challenge to look at my breast in the mirror or be naked around my husband but the reality is this procedure saved my life and I’m eternally thankful for that. I feel like I’m a beautiful person inside and with or without breasts, my outer beauty reflects what is on the inside so I rest confident in that. My husband also tells me how beautiful I am so that helps as well How has this affected your faith?

This experience has drawn me closer to God and I know with him and through him anything is possible.

Has your diagnosis and survival influenced your career in a positive light? If so please explain how so.

My diagnosis influenced my career in a positive light in a sense that it has given me a bigger voice and platform to share my testimony with others and show that despite certain circumstances, I overcame and am victorious. It also shows that no matter how much money you have, or how big your house is, or how nice your car is we are all human and not exempt from life happening to us. My business is about empowering women both inside and out and my experience with cancer has given me a story to share with the women I encounter daily.

Do you require follow up care and if so how often and what does it consist of?

Due to the fact that DCIS is only in the duct, I didn’t have to go through any chemo or radiation. With that said, my follow up care is rather simple and I get checkups every 6 months for the first 2 years and once a year after that. The doctor checks the skin and makes sure there are no lumps forming under the arm or skin.

What was it that made you want to pursue your field in beauty?

What was your strength going through this process?

I enjoy people looking and feeling beautiful.

My strength going through this process was my faith in God. Knowing the power of discernment and early detection gave me comfort in knowing that everything was going to be fine. I also drew strength from my husband and beautiful daughters.

What is your true passion in life and how does that coincide with your career?

My true passion in life is helping people tap into their inner beauty and translating that into their outer beauty.

What was your inspiration in becoming a survivor and how does that affect your day to day living post cancer?

DCIS is not cancer in the form that we are all accustomed to hearing about, so in my case this was never lifethreatening and I didn’t approach it as such. I knew this was a serious medical condition and I took an aggressive approach in terms of my treatment and removed both breasts so that I wouldn’t have to revisit this in my future.

My inspiration to overcome this mental battle came from knowing that I had a purpose and calling in my life and that is why God blessed me with the gift of discernment and I was able to find this disease in its earliest form. I only consider myself a survivor in a sense that I overcame a mental battle and didn’t allow the devil to defeat my mind while experiencing this medical challenge.

How do you think that your diagnosis and overcoming cancer will affect you and your family in the future?

I think this experience will affect my family and me in a positive way. It encourages us to stay close, enjoy each other daily, and to be proactive in our healthcare and lead an active healthy lifestyle.

What are your goals from here on out?

My goal is to continue to exercise, eat healthy, work, travel, and enjoy my family and friends. Anyone that has had an experience like this or not, it’s important to enjoy living and appreciate life.

What advice do you have to give to other women who face the same diagnosis?

Make sure to do your research on this disease and have a lot of questions for your doctor to really educate yourself on the best treatment and future prevention of this disease as it specifically pertains to your case. www.thegoodsmag.co

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beauty

The Spring Blonde do’s and don’ts

By Lindsey Washbourne Spring is the time of new beginnings. For a hairstylist, it’s the time that we anticipate our clients desire to change in the direction of lighter and softer.

Blondes are a special breed - fabulous, bold, and sometimes hesitant to change.

As you explore hair color trends, you’ll find that it’s not necessarily about going as light and bright as possible or a full head of highlights. Spring 2014 is about rich tonality in many directions. Dare to be (subtly) different and follow these Do’s and Don’ts as you visit your stylist this spring:

The Strawberry Blonde: Rich, Warm, Spicy, Unexpected DO: Ask your stylist if this change in tone is appropriate for your skin

tone. Fair skin with yellow/pink undertones usually look best in this buttery blonde. Think of Blake Lively, Lindsay Lohan and Nicole Kidman.

DON’T: Ask for “RED.” The word red has so many different

connotations and means something different to every individual. Going “red” usually means adding a lot more depth and darkness to your color. If you want to stay light, stay away from this word.

DO: Invest in home care that will support the longevity of your new hue.

Wella’s Brilliance Shampoo and Conditioner is my favorite for color support.

It’s designed to not just be color safe, but color prolonging. You wouldn’t wash a silk gown with generic soap – treat your locks like expensive fabric.

The Beige Blonde: Cool, Classic, Sophisticated, Luxurious DO: Ask your stylist if they are familiar with freehand painting or balayage.

While foils will always be a staple tool for stylists, current trends focus on subtle transitions of color and tone that is best achieved with a painting technique. If they’ve never heard of these techniques, it may be time to find a more trendsavvy stylist.

DON’T: Ask for “OMBRE.” While the ombre trend helped soft color to hit the map, the true “ombre” is out the window. Focus more on asking for subtle highs and lows and for your color to look as effortless as possible.

DO: Focus on shine! The cooler and lighter your blonde, the harder it is to

maintain a shiny finish. Wella’s NEW Oil Reflections is a shine enhancing oil that can be used on damp hair prior to heat styling or on dry hair for a glossy finish.

Regardless of texture, this oil remains weightless and allows hair to move.

The Pastel Blonde: Daring, Sheer, Surprising, Youthful DO: Your research! Pastel shades have taken on a new life for 2014. Last

year was focused on soft peaches and tangerines, where this year we are seeing more swirling of soft lavenders, pinks, yellows and baby blues. Make sure you are looking ahead with pastels.

DON’T: Try this at home. Artificial hair shades were originated in a punk generation that revolved around do-it-yourself individualism and rebellion.

This trend has now evolved into a look that is much more glamorous and expensive-looking. Leave this trend to the professionals!

DO: Get into a twice-a-week hair washing regimen. It’s common knowledge that the more often you wash your hair, the more your color will fade. Sheer, soft tones are the most delicate and challenging to keep. Invest in a good dry shampoo that will help to absorb natural oils on your “off” days.

Inspiration Manager & Tier 3 Educator – Bellus Academy Brand Educator & Master Colorist – Wella Professional

LINDSEY WASHBOURNE.COM

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From Metro to MAN datory The Evolution of Men’s Grooming

By Lindsey Washbourne This past year has been an incredible whirlwind for Men’s Fashion. It’s boldly official: unkempt swag, tattered threads and bedhead have lost their appeal. The new year of 2014 is continuing to ride the wave of the classic, well-groomed gentleman. The best part of this self-indulgent trend for men is that it’s no longer a closeted “metrosexual” secret. More and more, men are becoming proud to share their secrets to suiting up and looking sharp. High-end barbershops are popping up everywhere and the business of men’s grooming products are quickly on the rise. Jon Hamm, Joseph Gordan-Levit and Ryan Gosling are masters of their craft, when it comes to polishing their charm. But how does the every day man keep up? Here are a few starting secrets that are easy to come by. Stop sneaking your girlfriend’s floral-scented soap - it’s time to build your own kit!

After Shave: L’Occitane - ‘L’Occitan’ After Shave Balm After a good, clean shave, your skin is at it’s most vulnerable state.

Sensitive and in need of intense moisture. High quality ingredients and minimal synthetic fillers are a must. Loaded with shea butter, this luxurious after shave will help repair your skin into it’s softest potential.

Shampoo & Conditioner: Nioxin - System 1 Thinning hair is one of the #1 concerns for men. If it runs in your family, it’s important to start early. Nioxin’s mission is to create a healthy environment at your scalp, so your hair will continue to grow as thick as possible. Best part? The minty, tingly refreshing feel.

Consistency with this system guarentees results. Consider this the fountain of youth for your follicles!

Gel: Davines - Artifixture Gel

Facial Hair: Clubman - Mustache Wax

No gimmicks, no questions. For the slicked, sexy look, this is the way to go. Apply a small amount onto wet or dry hair. Doesn’t dehydrate or make the hair oily. Excellent to create a wet-look effect.

Perfect for bringing your look into the classic decades woman’s dreams are made of.

We can’t forget the art of a good mustache. Facial hair has taken on an entire new persona, and the men of 2014 have serious pride in the work of their impressive beards and ‘staches. Clubman is a classic, and classics never go out of style. It’s stuck around for one main reason: it works. Keep your work of art in place all day, with the added benefit of blending away pesky grays. Also great for taming unruly eyebrows!

Cleanser & Moisturizer: Kiehls - Facial Fuel Your girlfriend’s stash of anti-aging concoctions isn’t as over the top as you think. Starting early is the key to preserving your boy-like charm.

The cleanser removes the dirt and impurities of a tough day’s work without overdrying your skin, and the moisturizer is gentle, non-scented and includes an SPF.

Pomade: Jonathan – Dirt This yummy, vanilla-scented paste is ideal for the more matte, textured look. Easy to use without bulding up, this has been a go-to product for men for years. Being water soluable makes this product easy to shampoo out. While the bed head look may be out, this allows for control with a lived-in feel.

Fragrance: Tom Ford - Tobacco Vanille I don’t think I’ve ever come across a more intoxicating scent. Nothing is worse than a man being drenched in and reeking of cheap cologne.

This Eau De Parfum is warm, masculine, soft and cozy; it screams for an evening of close encounters.

An extremely high quality fragrance, a little goes a long way and a bottle will last you a lifetime.

Lip Care: Jack Black - Lip Balm Every man needs a chapstick now and then, but the key is to not make it look like your applying a layer of lipgloss.

This lipbalm is intensely moisturizing with aboslutely no shine and the added benefit of SPF. Available in multiple flavors, this is the most masculine balm you’ll find.

Shaving Cream: Origins - Blade Runner Don’t skimp when it comes to your face.

Investing in a quality shaving cream can make the world of difference, and this is the one most swear by. Loaded with skin-conditioning Kukui Nut Oil for easy gliding, and infused with skin-cooling peppermint, eucalyptus and coriander.

Your skin will absolutely thank you.

So, whether you are trying to build your own grooming kit, or if you are a girlfriend looking for the perfect Valentine’s gift, these are great starts. Enjoy creating the ritual of treating yourself, daily. Us ladies have had the right idea, all along! www.thegoodsmag.co

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BECOMING A BETTER

By Kimberly Kimmel

Everyone is making New Year’s Resolutions this time of year. They want to lose weight, make more friends, make more money, be more stylish, and be more popular. But, how about making a resolution to be a better you?

Everyone has his or her own unique qualities. A few key things that make them authentic, have their own style and be different from everyone else. If you want to proudly stand on your own, and be the special you only you can be, here are a few key things you can do to become a better YOU.

If you love wearing jeans and a t-shirt, but fear you look too dressed down in some situations that may call for slacks or even a dress, so what? Wear those great jeans and a nice tee and dress them up with a great pair of leather ankle boots, a gorgeous necklace and beautiful earrings. Have your make-up perfect and a cute hairstyle, and you are ready to go out for dinner at any trendy restaurant.

Hair styles – if really long hair is in, and you want a pixie cut but fear it won’t look good on you, go to your stylist and ask them their opinion. You may just have the perfect face for a short do and you could end up looking fabulous.

Forget what colors are in this winter. What is your favorite color? What colors do you think you look best in? What shade looks good against your skin? Beige Or perhaps you are into accessories. You like having a verses white, or perhaps pastels verses vibrant hues? scarf around your neck, wearing a funky hat, or chain Or maybe purple is your signature color. Wear lavenbelt or clunky bracelets. You’d rather carry a backpack ders, periwinkles or your favorite plums and feel alive. than a purse, or you only like wearing sneakers instead of heels. Whatever puts a stamp on your unique style, As far as make-up goes, instead of wearing metallic don’t be afraid to go for it. blue eyeshadow because it is all the rage, what color looks best on your eyelids? Purples? Browns? Greens? If no one had the guts to be their authentic selves, we Choose the colors you feel most comfortable with and wouldn’t have a Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna wear those colors with pride. Or, if you are earthier, or Jennifer Lawrence. Be true to your own unique and going more natural is your thing, forget eyeshadlook and don’t worry about what other people think. ow all together and claim a fresh faced, natural look.

Go with what fashion suits you, rather than following trends. After all, no one can be a more original you than you.

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Domestic

Diva

PHOTOGRAPHER Asami Zenri asamiphotography.com info@asamiphotography.com • (714) 469-1907 STYLIST Charity Baker • charitybaker.com MAKEUP Lexi Jo • lexijo.com HAIR STYLIST Nycole • hairbynycole.com MODEL Karen Ferreira @ Hollywood Model Management www.thegoodsmag.co

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Undergarments: Love Claudette; Ring: Confection Jewels

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Scarf: American Apparel; Bra: Love Claudette; Shorts: Free People; Shoes: J. Crew

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Dress: 8000 Nerves; Shoes: Juicy Couture; Ring: Club Monaco

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Top: Marc Jacobs; Bra: Love Claudette; Pants: Michelle Rose www.thegoodsmag.co

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Dress + Earrings: H&M; Bracelet: The Shangri-La; Rings: Confection Jewels

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Bra: Love Claudette; Shorts: Ingenue Collection; Earrings: H&M; Necklace: Forever 21

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PHOTOGRAPHER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ezra and Jen Zuniga of 135fotografiks, (www.135fotografiks.com), MODELS Hailey Apostolu; Cc Munoz Pyle at Models International; and Joshua Beard at Otto Models, LEAD MAKEUP ARTIST AND HAIR STYLIST Henry Rasu (www.henryrasu.com), MAKEUP ARTISTS Alex Tran and Ellisse Herrera, WARDROBE STYLIST Paula Parisotto at Dettamoda (www.dettamoda.com), WARDROBE ASSISTANT Maelen Nakasawa (www.facebook.com/maelen.nakasawa, PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT Moises Pedraza (www.facebook.com/lovesoulmedia)

COAT: KLEIN EPSTEIN & PARKER, SWEATER: MORGANO, PANTS: PERRY ELLIS, BRONZE DRESS: ADOLFO SANCHEZ, JEWELRY: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY, GOLD DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, EARRINGS: DEEPA GURNANI, RING: BCBG, BELT: DEEPA GURNANI

Love Deception

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SUIT: KLEIN EPSTEIN & PARKER, SHIRT: PAULIE GIBSON

SUIT: KLEIN EPSTEIN & PARKER, SHIRT: PAULIE GIBSON, LAVENDER DRESS: ADOLFO SANCHEZ, BELT: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWLERY, EARRINGS: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY, LACE DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, NECKLACE: DEEPA GURNANI www.thegoodsmag.co

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LACE DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, NECKLACE: DEEPA GURNANI, LAVENDER DRESS: ADOLFO SANCHEZ, BELT: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWLERY, EARRINGS: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY

LACE DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, NECKLACE: DEEPA GURNANI www.thegoodsmag.co

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LAVENDER DRESS: ADOLFO SANCHEZ, BELT: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWLERY, EARRINGS: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY

DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, SHIRT: J CAMPBELL, VEST: KLEIN, EPSTEIN & PARKER, PANT: KLEIN, EPSTEIN & PARKER www.thegoodsmag.co

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DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT

DRESS: VINTAGE/HAND-MADE (STYLIST’S OWN), NECKLACE: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY, EARRINGS: MIKIMOTO www.thegoodsmag.co

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DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, JEWELRY: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY, SUIT: KLEIN EPSTEIN & PARKER, SHIRT: J CAMPBELL, LAPEL PIN: KLEIN EPSTEIN & PARKER

DRESS: MICHELLE HÉBERT, JEWELRY: MARGARET ROWE COUTURE JEWELRY www.thegoodsmag.co

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POWERED BY

The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine now available in the iTunes store

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Valentine’s Day

By Ray Pita

Love brings an undeniable brightness to daily activities: eating, working out, and even waking up can become slices of heaven when one is in love. Valentine’s Day is a holiday that acknowledges how love transforms us. It’s the perfect time to take your special someone to a romantic restaurant and show them how much you cherish them, whether it’s the first date or the thousandth. The menus from some of San Diego’s top restaurants can connect you intimately over candlelit tables, amazing views, romantic ambience, and superb cuisine. Here are five of the most romantic restaurants in San Diego:

The Melting Pot - Gaslamp 901 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, (619) 234-5554 The Melting Pot is a one-of-a-kind restaurant without the traditional chef in the kitchen. Guests are given the opportunity to dip to their hearts’ content. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter’s very first skyscraper, the unbelievably decadent menu of cheese, broth, and chocolate fondue options, can satisfy any savory or sweet cravings. To complement the menu, the restaurant offers a number of signature cocktails and specialty drinks. The wine list is equally impressive, with an extensive collection of Old and New World varietals. A unique feature of the restaurant is a section dubbed “the lover’s lane,” a row of private booths located in a hidden, intimate corner. The restaurant is offering a prix-fixe Valentine’s Day menu with five alluring courses for $55, $79, or $86 per person, each with a complimentary champagne toast. Optional romance packages and gifts, such as long-stemmed roses, bottle of wine, or chocolate-covered strawberries, are also available.

George’s California Modern 1250 Prospect Street, San Diego, CA 92037, (858) 454-4244 George’s California Modern is the fine dining restaurant located inside the beloved George’s at the Cove in La Jolla.

The location is perfect for romantic sunset dinners and offers guests unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Featuring a sophisticated yet relaxed dining room, an international wine list and seasonal cocktails, California Modern prides itself on being both welcoming and intriguing. The diverse menu celebrates fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients while incorporating global influences. Executive Chef Trey Foshee’s masterful touch is one reason the California Modern dining experience has been called one of the best in San Diego. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an intimate 3-course dinner. Price is $75 per person and includes a champagne toast with optional wine pairings.

Bertrand at Mister A’s 2550 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103, (619) 239-1377 Impeccable service, excellent cuisine, and an extensive wine list are to be expected at any Bertrand establishment.

Perched atop a skyscraper on the brink of downtown, Bertrand at Mister A’s offers an outstanding dining experience and the most spectacular views of the San Diego skyline including Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and Coronado Island. Expect to be pampered by the extremely attentive staff and enticed by Chef Stéphane Voitzwinkler’s exquisite cuisine. From start to finish, a meal at Bertrand at Mister A’s promises an incomparable indulgence. Couples can choose from three 3-course dining options for Valentine’s Day: a lovely lunch menu ($45.50 per person), a chef’s tasting dinner menu ($75 per person), or a special holiday dinner menu ($95 per person).

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Island Prime 880 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 298-6802 Located on the edge of Harbor Island, just out of earshot of the airport, Island Prime’s stilt-supported structure extends over San Diego Bay, giving diners the sense that they are floating along on a dinner cruise. The location offers exceptional views of the downtown skyline and Coronado Island. Guests can watch yachts, cruise ships and Navy ships navigate the bay as the sun sets against San Diego’s almost always clear skies. The retro, yet sophisticated menu features juicy steaks, delicate seafood, and other decadent dishes that will make your jaw drop. Between the nostalgic cuisine and the breath taking view, Island Prime will keep you coming back for more. To celebrate Valentine’s Day and to showcase her cuisine, Chef Deborah Scott has put together a special 3-course dinner menu, with shared dessert, priced at $64.95 per person.

The Prado Restaurant 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101(619) 557-9441 One of San Diego’s crown jewels, Balboa Park is one of the most romantic places for a date. Any couple can find something to do, whether visit a museum or simply stroll in one of the gardens.

But inside the historic House of Hospitality is a restaurant that complements the romantic atmosphere of the park. The Prado offers California cuisine paired with truly exceptional service in a striking Moorish-Spanish interior. There are four main dining areas, each with its own decor and ambience: the Terrace features outdoor seating, the Courtyard room overlooks the courtyard and fountain, the Solarium overlooks the Terrace and features skylights, and the Lounge serves up two happy hours with several signature drinks.

With Executive Chef Jonathan Hale at the helm of the highly skilled culinary team, The Prado is a well-oiled gastronomic machine in the heart of Balboa Park. Couples will enjoy the beautiful 3-course Valentine’s Day dinner menu at $59.95 per person.

FONDUE

By Cy Chen

The Sexy Dessert Alternative When it comes to a romantic meal or dessert, fondue is wonderful way to share the experience. A favorite among fondue connoisseurs, and a great one for beginners is a chocolate fondue. Chocolate is synonymous with romance and Valentine’s Day, and sharing desserts dipped in this decadent sauce can only enhance any romantic night out.

In San Diego, we’re lucky to have a restaurant specializing in fondue, and they offer a few iterations of the decadent chocolate. The Melting Pot has two delicious locations (La Jolla and Downtown), and you can sink a variety of yummy dippers such as strawberries, bananas, pound cake, brownies and cheesecake into their luxurious chocolate goodness like The Original (milk chocolate swirled with crunchy peanut butter), the Flaming Turtle (milk chocolate, caramel and candied pecans flambéed at your table), or you can mix your own decadent creation from a selection of chocolates and liquors.

Are you feeling like staying at home and getting cozy with your loved one?

Here is a lovely fondue set for two, made to share the experience privately.

Create your own sweets to dip in chocolate melting slowly by candlelight. Put on a romantic movie or background music and you’ve got a lovely night in.

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Art for Sale: Holy Warhol, Yeezus!

By Dan Lawler

“I’ll endorse with my name any of the following; clothing, AC/DC, cigarettes, small tapes, sound equipment, ROCK N’ ROLL RECORDS, anything, film, and film equipment, Food, Helium, Whips, MONEY!!”

—Andy Warhol Although unapologetically brash, after the whips and pangs of criticism from the TMZ gossip gatherers, quote-outof-context collectors, and cheap music critics have settled, Kanye West deserves a closer look as one of the premiere artists of our time. Begrudgingly to snobby art critics, Kanye is perhaps the current day epitome of Pop-Art in the vein of Andy Warhol. It is all too easy to criticize Kanye based upon quotes and short sound bytes that would have us to believe that Mr. West is cocky, overconfident, arrogant, deranged, and most despicably, stupid.

Disclaimer: As a hip-hop fan, I don’t absolutely love anything after Graduation with the exception of some of 808’s.

Further, as a music fan, Yeezus is not particularly my cup of tea; but for what it’s worth, I’m not sure the piece was meant to be listened to over a cup of earl grey and a blueberry scone. It’s a purposefully offensive album; much to the liking of Andy Warhol friend and collaborator, Lou Reed.

“Kanye West is a child of social networking and hip-hop. And he knows about all kinds of music and popular culture. The guy has a real wide palette to play with. That’s all over Yeezus. There are moments of supreme beauty and greatness on this record, and then some of it is the same old shit. But the guy really, really, really is talented. He’s really trying to raise the bar. No one’s near doing what he’s doing, it’s not even on the same planet.”

—Lou Reed Reviews Yeezus on TheTalkHouse.com

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P

erhaps everything after the aptly titled Graduation has been the start of Kanye’s career as a true Pop-Artist, as opposed to his previous title of Hip-Hop/Pop Musician. His soirée into shoe design and fashion with Nike’s Yeezy and Yeezy II, another 20 shoe models (!) for Adidas set to drop, and collaborations with Louis Vuitton under his belt, has shown that he refuses “to be put in a box as a musician and nothing more” (Power 105’s The Breakfast Club Interview). As the opening Warhol quote would point to, fame and notoriety serve as nothing more than the creation of a brand with which to endorse with. This concept has very real consequences for what can be considered “Art” or not. The line between commercialism and the avant-garde has been blurred, maybe for good.

As facebook, tumblr, and twitter would indicate, we live in the “15 minutes of fame” era in which everyone has the ability to “be somebody” at the click of a mouse.

Who we are as avatars, names, brands, and/or symbols, are creatures capable of accruing or losing followers, influence, fame, and money. Andy Warhol was among the first wave of artists to perceive and promote the concept of “Business Art,” the practice of becoming an entity of which people can purchase in order to feel artsy, rich, elite, hip, etc; much like consumer goods such as Coca-Cola, Campbell Soup, Cadillac or Louis Vuitton. He used his knowledge of art history coupled with his area of study, Commercial Art and Design, and created a business out of his art. As Kanye’s predecessor and mentor, Jay-Z once said, “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man.” It’s no coincidence that Disney is a hero to both Warhol and Kanye,

for he revolutionized the concept that you are your product and everything associated with you is just an advertisement for your product which is also an advertisement for your product. Your symbol is your product that represents a phantom cloaked in the charades of colorful creative expression and marketing.

To purchase a ticket to Disneyland, a stuffed Mickey Mouse mascot, or to buy entrance to a Disney movie was and still is to actually purchase a part of the world famous Mr. Walt Disney.

In short, Andy Warhol brought to the art world, and the public at large, what seems so obvious now; the realization that art and individual expression are commodities to be bought, sold, and traded on the open market.

“I’m more of a Walt Disney or something. Rap is just a chamber of my thoughts; something that I really wanted to express as a modern day poet. Because, ya know, if I had lived

in a past lifetime maybe I would have been a playwright or something but in this lifetime, to be the most pertinent and the most relevant is to be a rap-rock-star.”

—Kanye West on Power 105’s The Breakfast Club Ironically, I pulled this quote from Perez Hilton’s shallow mess of predatory celebrity journalism (sadly, another form of Pop-Art, albeit tasteless and petty) that is his website. To call this comment outrageous or ignorant, as the headline entails, “Kanye West Makes ANOTHER Comparison of himself to Walt Disney!

Quote of the Day!” is a mockery of the spirit in which Kanye said it. With all due respect to Perez, I believe this quote requires a more critical analysis than he cares to offer (big surprise). It may be hard to swallow but “rap-rock-stars” are America’s main export.

No one generates more money and media attention consistently via consumption of culture than the rap-rock-star. Even the President of the United States is presented as this strange hybrid between politician and Rap/Rock Star. Coincidentally, Kanye is the only current music artist that has garnered repeated praise from rock‘n’roll art god and Warhol collaborator, the late, great Lou Reed (as mentioned above). Kanye has said, “Rap is the new rock ‘n’ roll. We are the real rock stars and I’m the biggest of all of them. I’m the number one rock star on the planet” (Kanye on BBC’s Radio 1).

Kanye’s usage of Disney or Steve Jobs in interviews is a provocative pop-culture analogy in order to align him with characters that are substantial contributors to mass cultural innovations. Much like Warhol depicting Marilyn Monroe, Campbell’s Soup, or Mao. Images that everyone knows that can be used in a new pastiche to make new affirmations or criticisms of culture.

While Kanye plays it coy with the Breakfast Club’s Charlemagne tha God, calling himself Disney, Jobs, Warhol, and the like; he annunciates his affinity for his heroes much more humbly, articulately and perhaps accurately in his discussion with friend and collaborator Bret Easton Ellis (Less than Zero, American Psycho, Rules of Attraction) when he says: “I just want to explain to people out there that are listening who, maybe, have some perception or, maybe, heard some brash comments I’ve made, like, doing like Disney or Steve Jobs comparisons, and, you know, I have the right to do that, I have the right to say that, and its fun for me, you know, to set your goals that high.” —Kanye on Bret Easton Ellis’ Podcast

It’s no coincidence that Kanye uses Kim Kardashian, the reality-TV star of “leaked” sex tape fame in his video for “Bound 2”. Even Kanye’s relationship reeks of performance Pop-Art; a camera worthy couple capable of tabloid and gossip column takeovers; two “beauties” as Warhol would say. The glamour would be all for not if it wasn’t for West’s ability to walk the walk with groundbreaking albums and popular products with Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Louis Vuitton and BAPE.

In short, an effective Pop Artist such as Warhol or West utilize what is most popular given their cultural context in order to reach the most ears, win the most hearts, garner the most haters. To get attention! In our day and age it seems that the rap/ rockstar accomplishes the level of celebrity that Andy Warhol achieved as a Pop-Artist, a commercial success, a celebrity, an invaluable brand. Art is the ability to hold people’s attention, to provoke thought or emotion; this gives the artist a lucrative position as cool, modern, symbolic of the times.

In short, anyone that can, as Kanye puts it in Yeezus’ “I’m In It” track, “Pop a wheelie on the Zeitgeist,” or in other words, stunt or perform with www.thegoodsmag.co

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great showmanship using themes and concepts central to the current moment and climate of our collective existence.

“Making money is art and working is art and good business is the best art.

Being good in business is the most fascinating art.” —Warhol

Breakfast Club might be that Kanye doesn’t make albums for “the streets” or for “the people” anymore, it’s fairly obvious that Kanye doesn’t just want to sell rap albums, he wants to sell himself, his symbol, to anyone who will buy it, black, white, rich or poor AND he wants to own those images

statement, highlighted by much of Magna Carta Holy Grail with songs like “Picasso Baby” is his ascent into the ranks of elite society, as a cultured purchaser of sports teams, expensive paintings, and designer brands. Kanye’s latest statement is rooted in his desire to be seen as an

The more exceptional you are, the more influence you should have on culture and society.”

Like his heroes: Picasso, Disney, Warhol, Steve Jobs and Jay-Z; Kanye understands that being a good artist means making the biggest impact you can on culture and society.

“The more exceptional you are, the more influence you should have on culture and society” (Kanye on Bret Easton Ellis). The aforementioned businessmen, you can argue, offer nothing “productive” other than aesthetics that vibrate with the masses. Art can be useful or wasteful, political or not, there is no clear-cut rule. However, how many people your “product” speaks to is perhaps the only measurement of a successful artist that seems relevant given the inability for art to be categorized or relegated to a solid definition.

Art loans itself fairly willingly to commerce and the laws of supply and demand. Good art demands attention, energy, admiration, or even repulsion, which, like it or not, is completely tied to economic value. As angry as Charlemagne tha God of the

and ideas. His aim is to push his brand into the stratosphere of Warhol, Vuitton, Dolce & Gabana, CocaCola and other omnipresent brands/ personas that garner mass appeal. I think this is a fairly reasonable goal for one of the more successful artists/ creators of our age. Kanye’s message and style is not limited to albums, and why should it be; as Warhol quips in his semi-autobiography, The Philosophy of Andy Warhol: From Point A to Point B and Back Again, “You can do so much more with a chair than you can with a painting,” meaning, why should a painter confine himself to paintings? Why should a musician confine himself to music?

Some will argue that folks like Diddy and Jay-Z already perfected “Business Art” as it pertains to HipHop, which is dually noted herein, however I think ‘Ye is a new breed.

While Jay-Z is a more successful business, man, his latest artist

elite visionary and “creative genius” accepted by the Art World at large.

His collaborations with Bret Easton Ellis, George Condo (My Dark Twisted Fantasy cover art), musicians like Justin Vernon and Daft Punk, and cult filmmaker Spike Jonze, have shown his versatility and ability to be well respected by his artist peers.

In short, you won’t find Lou Reed absolutely glowing about the latest Jay-Z album. Jay-Z is a master hustler, Kanye is an artiste extraordinaire.

Pop-Art and Hip-Hop Andy Warhol and his fellow PopArtists, Jasper Johns, Duchamp and Lichtenstein, are arguably the forbearers of basic tenets of hiphop culture by virtue of their use of sampling.

Pop Art n.: A form of art that depicts objects or scenes from everyday life and employs

techniques of commercial art and popular illustration.

colors, images, slogans, and popular products. Diego Rivera and Basquiat weren’t just making high quality art for the rich, but brought it to the everyman. Warhol loved America because the rich and the poor both consumed the same products, and it was his goal that his art would be consumed the way a Coca-Cola is consumed; ubiquitous, omnipresent, a symbol of the times for all and none, a cultural staple.

In essence, Pop-Art is among the first forms of art to actively and unabashedly sample images and ideas from elsewhere, anywhere, commonly utilizing and expropriating popular aesthetics and ideas into a new substance; borrowing the popularity, or pop, of other ideas to attract the masses, many of whom may not be familiar with “high art” or the avant-garde. Parallel to Pop-Art’s ability to utilize pop-culture, hip-hop signaled in music the same method of borrowing, stealing, and using samples of others to craft a new art form, a new context, geared towards the masses, or “the streets”. It’s no coincidence that Warhol himself was very interested in underground music (having produced perhaps the most popular cult album of the 20th century Velvet Underground and

The lyrics of Yeezus are particularly “Pop” oriented in parts but also very dark, rebellious, and at times, charged with socio-political commentary on consumerism and blackness. The compositional element, the music itself, harkens to very specific music-historical concepts; some that are harder to trace than others. He also was very much so inspired by Parisian architecture, as well as, Bauhaus

Nico) and also graffiti/street culture with his fascination and collaboration with Basquiat. In commercialism, graffiti, hip-hop in general, and in Basquiat’s art, Warholism can be found as an avenue for high art to reach the masses. Graffiti and its predecessor, muralism, ushered in the age of accessible visual “high art” while commercialism introduced

master, Corbusier. Clearly on “Bound 2” and “Blood on the Leaves” you can hear Kanye’s usual suspects, soul and R&B samples and loops, but the majority of the album finds its bold inspiration from various lesserknown genres. I believe the average rap fan, or even rap aficionado like Charlemagne tha God of Power 105’s Breakfast Club might say, “Yeezus

was whack to me.” On the other hand, more studied music and art critics will recognize the strong presence of minimalism, along with fringe electronic/urban movements “ ‘80s Chicago acid-house, 2013 Chicago drill music (the sound of Chief Keef and King Louie, both of whom have prominent cameos), ‘90s industrial, and the avant-rap of Saul Williams, Death Grips and Odd Future” (Greg Kot, Chicago Tribune). Kanye managed to do what both Pop-Art (specifically Andy Warhol) and HipHop culture often seek to accomplish in two ways. 1) He brings different forms of art, sound, imagery, and aesthetics to the ears and eyes of fans that may not have been privy to them before. 2) He brings the avant-garde to the masses in a highly consumable form; the most popular hip-hop artist in the world brings acid-house, industrial, and minimalism to the radio and MTV. I am elated that HipHop can once again be a groundbreaking format to present diverse ideas and concepts. Maybe the old guard and more staunch advocates of Hip-Hop/Rap can’t stand Yeezus, but I think it is a great composition of not only where Hip-Hop seems to be headed, but also where it came from; the ruthless chameleon conglomerate of culture clashing, sampling, and reinvention of old forms. Older generations always scoff at the new, either out of jealousy or misunderstanding and are usually the last to accept the prevailing modern standards of “cool”.

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this in review

By Michael T. Brewer

LISTEN TO THIS Bright Light Bright Light Album: In Your Care – EP Label: Self Raising Records Genre: Electronic Release Date: November 24, 2013

British Singer/Songwriter and ‘90s Dance Music aficionado Bright Light Bright Light releases his follow up EP to his critically acclaimed emotional debut entitled In Your Care. Akin to Lady Gaga’s Fame Monster to the Fame, this EP is a great cohort to the previous LP. If Make Me Believe in Hope was the movie then In Your Care would be the epilogue after the credits roll.

Taking on more of a sanguine approach this time, In Your Care has less gloomy melancholy and more ideas of hope, faith and dare I say happiness. The EP’s ambient intro and title track explains his exodus from his lover and home to follow his dreams in New York. Despite being across the sea, he’s hopeful seeing life in new colors. The EP contains the buoyant “Open Heart” that dances on quiet synths; the high energy pulse of “Same Dream;” and the piano-laden whisper of “Movement in the Dark.” Once again, Bright Light Bright Light brings a vulnerability to electronic music that is simply magnificent. Outstanding vocal arrangements, poignant and witty lyrics accompanied by rich and multifaceted production. As with all his music, it’s made with much care.

LISTEN TO THIS Sariah Album: Holiday Heart Label: J-2 Records Genre: Pop Release Date: December 3, 2013

Up-in-Coming Dance Pop Pixie, Sariah follows up to her Billboard Dance Chart hit “Deep N Luv” with her charming yule tide EP Holiday Heart, which features contemporary pop renditions of many Christmas classics. From her reggae influenced take on “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” to her Urban/Pop romp of “Sleigh Ride” Sariah lends her bubbly and infectious voice that cascades on each song like a gentle snowflake. The highlight of the album has to the forlorn Dance anthem “Only One Wish” that tells the sad tale of love lost during Christmas. Nothing worst than heartbreak during the Holidays.

Platinum Games Nintendo Yusuke Hashimoto Atsushi Inaba Hirono Sato (lead) Mari Shimazaki (character) COMPOSER Masami Ueda PLATFORM Wii U RELEASEÂ DATE 2014 DEVELOPER PUBLISHER DIRECTOR PRODUCER DESIGNER

The Wicked Witch Returns in Bayonetta 2

By Michael T. Brewer The stylish Femme Fatale returns in the long awaited sequel to the 2009 cult-classic Bayonetta coming exclusively to Wii U in 2014. Once a considered a dead franchise as resurrected from the brink of obscurity by Nintendo, who have dashed in as the game’s publisher. Bayonetta is equipped with witch weave and gun-stilettos, strutting her stuff while she decimates her enemies. Not much has been revealed in terms of story, but the game play is what you would expect from a Platinum Game action/adventure.

Highly stylized and cinematic sequences, tongue-n-cheek humor and feisty dialogue all are present in this new title.

Be sure to keep an eye for this must-have Wii U exclusive.

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resolu

By Lonnie Lewis An open field allows you to stroll at leisure, taking up whatever sights or smells you feel like enduring. As we walk this life, it’s reminded that fields are dreams. With each field having its own significance. Perhaps a chance encounter that changes your idealism, or maybe even a simple gesture of words that can bring clarity to a clouded mind. It’s truly up to the individual to decipher the meanings behind all sensations that happen to them. Our hope is that along this journey through our fields, we may find some sort of peace. That comfort in knowing our choices have been made without to much regret. After all, lets be honest, we all have some sort of regret in some way. I contemplate it’s this regret that helps us find our path in the field, it allows us to seek such beauty when the dark clouds cover the sun.

Not all is bad, this message is clear. Although it may seem clouds lay overcast in our nestled homes. It is us who determine rather the rain will bring self-indulgence or self-inspiration.

Yes, our choices do have consequences, much like everything we do has some type of effect on this universe. This is not to say one is good or bad, just simply each action has an opposite and equal reaction, like we’ve been taught.

When the seasons change, so do the people. Here it is again, the time which each of us reflects back upon the last year and pays remorse for our choices. Somehow, each year on Dec 31st, we find it expectable to hit this so-called reset button. As if some magical force is going to make everything better. We make promises to ourselves that most won’t keep

utions before January’s end. Yet, we are sucked into this traditional belief that all things will erase come the first of the year. What are we resolving anyhow? Is it some unforgivable deed that was committed and we are so scared to speak of? I don’t think any of us really regret the obstacles we’ve encountered. After all, these are supposed to be lessons in life to learn from. So I present this question to us all. What is it this year you will want to change when the magical hour hits midnight on Dec 31st? First of all, don’t regret anything that you’ve done, instead embrace it. Welcome yourselves to the opportunity to do it better the next time around.

Remember, were only as good as our last mistake has taught us to be.

It could be said that with each year in passing, we are forcibly aware of the changes needing to be done for ourselves. It’s a system of selfreflections that continue to burn inside our heads. Telling us what is right and which is wrong. Although our decisions in life have been made, there is no Doc with his “DeLorean”

allowing us each to take a ride to change our past. Simply put, there will always be a entity of the past without change. I tried to look back at this last year and find the change to be made. Should I eat right, take life more seriously, or perhaps start at a new gym? Many of these resolutions are just that, simple changes that we find ourselves wanting to make to help promote our emotions into a better lifestyle. Yet each year, at the stroke of midnight, we are obligated to come up with some genius invention that will forever change our lives. As if the last year you lived was is such desire for improvement.

Instead, think about how each of our choices made, regardless of regret or thoughtful change has indeed played a significant role in our lives. Would you still be the person you are if you hadn’t met that heartbreaking lover?

Its these types of questions I would hope one ask themselves before taking an oath to change who they are. Take the time to recognize that each change or mistake is made for a reason. Sometimes these reason

aren’t clear until the biter end, but so goes life. This does not mean that you shouldn’t want to progress in your life, or even make positive changes that may help make for a suitable upcoming year. Lets just be aware of false claims and meaningless promises to ourselves. Keep in mind; nobody is going to hold you to your resolution except for you.

Change is everlasting, no matter what time of year it is. We shouldn’t feel obligated to hold it in until the next year. So regardless of what your resolution is this time around, be sure to think thoroughly about what it is your want to resolve. Make a conscious decision as to why your making this resolution, then perhaps you might find your resolution is a simple change to an excising moment in your life. Take a hold of your life throughout the year, make the changes when you desire. We move together in this ever-flowing existence. Put one foot in front of the other, raise up your glass, and resolve.

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GOODs? are you

G R O O M I N G O U T S TA N D I N G O R I G I N A L I T Y. D E F I N I N G S T Y L E .