is on a heist A pril 2014
83chela
85 NO
90 Niña Sandejas 18 STATUS MESSAGE 20 MASTHEAD
STATUSPHERE 23 THREADS 28 SETTING 29 BRICK & MORTAR 30 SCREEN 31 INK 32 BEATS
GADGETS
34 TECH PACK: RUN THE PARTY Throw a pocket-sized rave.
BEAUTY 36 FACE PAINT:
IN THE MOOD FOR MOD
Entice with the eyes.
38 ABOUT FACE:
BABY I’LL RULE
The magic of the Argan.
38 BEAUTY BITE: I DO NAILS
FASHION
STREET STYLE
40 GO SEE: COOL & COZY Limit to your layers.
43 STYLE ID: PRETTY PLEATS Wear your wrinkles well.
VISION BOARD
45
THE FINISH LINE
No end in sight for the wily coyote. By Ludo Hanton
53 EAST MEETS WEST
Uptown girls in a downtown world. By Eniko Szucs
63 DIVE SLOW
Strutting at the shallow end. By Shaira Luna
SHOPPING GUIDE
71 SWAG: TEAM SUMMER Varsity Jackets
72 INTO THE BLUE Blue Trousers
72 LIGHT WEIGHT Polo Shirts
73
STEP UP
Sneakers
74 SPLASH OF COLOR Tank Tops
75 EXTRA PACK Backpacks
76 BEAR IT ALL Crop Tops
77 CROSSED PATHS Strappy Heels
77 CHIC TREATS Satchels
78 HEADS UP Caps
78 HANDY DANDY Clutches
79 FIT PERFECT
Tailored Trousers
FEATURES MUSE
81 GET LUCKY
LA-based blondie Wylie Hays surfs into the perfect storm of runway shows. By Victoria Herrer
MAESTRO
83 KALEIDESCOPE WORLD
Visual artist with a voice Chela pulls viewers and listeners into her alt-pop universe. By Kitkat Ramos
84 UNCHARTED TERRITORY
Alex Willner a.k.a. The Field conducts a symphony of samples over the fast noise of EDM. By Jericho Umali
85 ECHOES OF WOE
Subdued sextet NO step out of the shadows of Echo Park, LA
with their debut LP, El Prado. By Ken Rafiñan
86 ELVES OFF THE SHELF
Ourselves the Elves listen to their inner duwende as they infuse indie into a pop-driven music scene. By Pola Beronilla
87 HIGH ALTITUDE
Rap-rock duo, Aer, breathe in the tour life and channel it into a fresh sound that puts fans in the zone.
MASTERMIND
88 SHOWSTOPPER
Designer bros, The Blonds, churn out head-turning hemlines that bang on people’s sensibilities. By JV Gonzales
89 WRECKING WALLS
Twin graffiti artists, Raoul and David Perre, prolong their 15 minutes of fame with a palette of red, black, and white. By Olivia Sylvia Estrada
90 THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS
Music journalist, Niña Sandejas, steps from behind the lens and reveals the sharp reality of being almost famous. By Pola Beronilla
91 THE METHOD MAN
TThe Giver lead, Cameron Monaghan, doesn’t play characters, he understands their humanity. By Olivia Sylvia Estrada
is on a heist A pril 2014
88 the Blonds
87 AER
89 HEAVY HITTER
BLOCK PARTY: HIGH FIDELITY
92 Emerald City
New rap kings Macklemore & Ryan Lewis know there’s nothing holding them from hunting even bigger come-ups. By Loris Peña
96
Raoul and David Perre
TEENAGE KICKS
The lads of The 1975 make no apologies for their explicit brand of 80s pop-rock groove. By Kix Suarez
98 Rockin’ Diversion
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have gone Around the World and to the Otherside but they stay together through humility. By Gian Cruz
102 IN THIS CLEAR HAZE
Nicholas James Murphy assumes the Chet Faker persona over waves of electronic textures and R&B adlibs. By Kitkat Ramos
The houses that set the record playing the sound of the underground.
104 LILYSTARS RECORDS 105 TERNO RECORDINGS 105 NUMBER LINE RECORDS
MORE
112 DIRECTORY
EVENTS
NIGHTVISION
110 ALL HANDS ON DECK 110 MARTIN SOLVEIG 111 SOCIAL SATURDAYS 111 MORE MORE GALORE
107 SUPER SOCIAL 108 STILL HATE MONDAYS 108 PLASTIC CREW VIBES 109 BOBBY MADDATU 109 RIO WARNER EXTRAVAGANZA
STATUS INVADES
114 STEPHANIE UY
Karpos Multimedia kingpin Stephanie Uy shows us the spoils of the jet set life.
In a game where it’s all about watching the throne, this pair rewrites the rules with their dynamic dualism. Shot by fellow Seattleite John Keatley, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are a throwback to a time when rap was emcees dropping toasts over bombastic beats of their trusty deejay.
statusmagonline.com
Blogsphere
the pulse of hip at your fingertips
go see
we’re all models off duty. smize!
FEATURES
there’s more to what’s in print
NightVision who’s spotted partying where
Photo Diary confessional for lensmen
Digital Magazine DOWNLOADS STATUS in pixels, not free mixtapes paper and wallpapers
STATUS MESSAGE
Red Hot Chili Peppers (98)
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (93)
is on a heist
W
ith new independent musicians popping in all corners of the Internet, we discover more collaborations, covers, and remixes that inject new energy in the music scene. Though it’s been happening for a while, the difference now is that they win awards, make waves, and create a new movement of independence while staying true to their craft. It was almost two years ago since we first featured Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Shortly after our feature, the duo became the poster kids of independent music, making fresh music with honest lyrics and positive messages. They’ve had a long journey towards their new level of fame. Red Hot Chili Peppers has been in the music game for two decades. Now considered rock legends, RHCP still carry the same attitude and energy as they did when they first entered the industry. After listening to The 1975’s “Girls,” “Sex,” and “Chocolate,” I was hooked to their pop rock sound. From being a bunch of kids on the Internet getting inspired by several people, they have now leaped forward to inspiring others. Chet Faker, another musician who garnered success thanks to the Internet, wasn’t just all hype. Aside from the million views of “No Diggity,” his smooth voice and acoustic arrangement had hypnotized us all. We also bring you the local heroes in our music scene–Clemen Castor (Lilystars Records), Toti Dalmacion (Terno Recordings), and Bobby, Mike, and Mick Benedicto (Number Line Records)–who are bridge the local and international beats in their own way. From where I stand, the people we featured in this issue are united in their love for music.
Editor-in-chief
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The 1975 (96)
contributors statusmagonline.com Rosario Herrera
@RosarioHerrera
creative director Patrick L. Jamora art director Paolo Geronimo graphic designers Nyael David
@padraick @PaoloStroodles @nyaels @bryanarcebal
Loris Peña
@_dizzyrizzy @zoelaurente @HiMyNameIsPola @angeladedios @MsOliviaSylvia
editor-in-chief
Bryan Arcebal
fashion editor
fashion assistant Zoe Laurente editorial assistant Pola Beronilla
GIAN CRUZ
Gian Cruz is an artist-slash-photographer-slashwriter who shifts back and forth through art, fashion, and few other mediums. Just like the boys of Red Hot Chili Peppers (98), this perennial multitasker likes to break barriers and explore all aspects of the world.
Angela de Dios Olivia Estrada
Tina Herrera Buenaventura junior account managers Gabrielle Bailon Ken Lim III sales & marketing consultant account manager Dan
@tinaherrera_ @danbuenaventura @gabybailon @keneatsmars tweet us!
contributing writers
Gian Cruz, Kathleen Curtis, Vicky Herrera, Kix Suarez, Jericho Umali contributing artists
Kate Aronsson-Brown, Shawnte Bron, Fernando Colon, Danica Condez, Crystal Die, Sarah Gentillon, Cybel Gonzalez, Ludo Hanton, Joyce Ignacio, Mirna Jose, Yasutake Kosaka, Czar Kristoff, Christophe Lambenne, Stephen Lavoie, Paulo Legaspi, Shaira Luna, Miguel Miranda, Maria Panina, Joseph Pascal, Mariah Reodica, Mara Reyes, Steffi Santiago, JP Singson, Nick St. James, Eniko Szucs interns
KATHLEEN CURTIS
Aussie girl Kath is a sucker for fluffy kittens and breezy hiphop beats, like the ones released by raprock duo Aer (87). Though our friend from down under is straight up G, she also gets down to jazz, neo soul, slow beat indie jams, and a few rock ballads. She adds, “I do occasionally enjoy slamming my head to the bass of dubstep.”
Maya Abellon, JV Gonzales, Gabbie Isabela, Andrea Lopa, Ken Rafiñan, Kitkat Ramos
What’s your STATUS? tell us. editorial editorial@statusmagonline.com advertising advertise@statusmagonline.com marketing marketing@statusmagonline.com general inquiries info@statusmagonline.com
DANICA CONDEZ
Photographer Danica Condez, who shot Wanderland mastermind Stephanie Uy (114), shares the same passion in life as Alice in Wonderland’s quirky heroine. Looking through her camera’s glass can make her see things in a different way, “I like to capture the beauty of an ordinary person or thing.”
read our digital version statusmagonline.com/digital-magazine like us facebook.com/statusmagazine follow us twitter.com/statusmagazine instagram: statusmagazine STATUS is published by STATUS Media Group. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
THREADS / setting / BRICK AND MORTAR / BEATS / SCREEN / INK
APRIL 2014
SPORTY AND SPICE S
triking out is not an option when you don FIRST BASE. The brand’s basics hint athleticism and turns every mini dress, basketball hoodie, classic men’s shirt, and leather cap into a closet staple. Taking their love for skate and surf, the latest collection is made for the beach-loving-laid-back chick and everything that goes with it. thisisfirstbase.com
OWN IT H
and crafted in Italy, YOUR OWN UNIVERSE aka YOU footwear takes pride in using natural and recycled fabrics that make bright-colored, printed, and eye-catching shoes. The Spring/Summer 2014 collection of running, plimsoll, sail, slipon, and ankle shoes will walk you through life. yourownuniverse.it
CARRY ON B
orne from a common love for random things in life, WITU is a youthful bag brand that takes familiar shapes into new dimensions by adding simple twists to each product. Its Wituland collection showcase structured bags made of a neoprene-like textile giving it form and structure. Unconventional circular totes and rectangular envelope backpacks make cameos in hues of gray and black. witu.com.au
BREAK IS OVER S
pruce up your summer with the latest TOPMAN takeover. Drawing inspiration from trailer parks, basketball courts, and music festivals, the brand keeps you covered for any occasion with its range of checkered suits, floral button-downs, technicolored knits and even distressed denim. topman.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
DOSE OF GRUNGE A
MERICAN APOTHECARY stamps social awareness onto its apparel. With tops cut in its simplest form, you can choose from T-shirts to tanks in classic greyscale choices and vintage prints filled with statements dressed in a rebellious grunge touch. These shirts are a go-to for extra vamp in your everyday wardrobe. a-apothecary.com
ARM BANDS RAISE W
ith great clothes come great responsibility and fashion designer and social activist KENNETH COLE gets a clear grasp of it with its new AWEARENESS ID bracelets. The adjustable wax cord band, offered in black, orange, and winter glow green, features a pewter and matte black ID plate etched with the words “Be Awear.” All net sale profits goes to the Kenneth Cole AWEARENESS foundation. kennethcole.com
SHAPED SINGULARITY D
ENT DE MAN’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection takes you down the street of matchless repute with its classic, tailored pieces of jackets, shorts, and pants amped up with Javanese patterns on Batik fabric. Break away from a monochromatic slump and layer on these prints. dentdeman.com
MIND BODY AND SOLE
DYNAMIC DUO A
DIDAS ORIGINALS teams up with TOPSHOP to create a collection of athletic wear and sneakers. Playing brand’s iconic logo with prints, expect a fun mix of and feminine pieces. You’ll never have to sweat that adidas.com
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20-piece up the sportswear style.
A
volunteer trip to Peru sees the birth of PIOLA. The brand teams up with designers to create footwear that combines dress shoes and sneakers by playing with lines, colors, and materials. Trade in boring, old kicks for a pair of these and pay it forward as portions of the sales will be donated to finance development plans in Peru. piola.fr
THREADS
SONS OF ANARCHY G
rabbing inspiration from American subcultures, FELTRAIGER stays true to its ideas of rebellion. Its Spring/Summer 2014 collection dominates the coolest tones from navy to powder blue. Button-downs are splashed with stripes of white and blue, adding accents to the season’s plain canvas. Suitable for any time of day, these masculine pieces make a perfect first impression. feltraiger.com
ON THE ROCKS S
ABINE G knows how to treat her women right. Inspired by art deco, the Harlequin collection showcases gold metal ear cuffs, rings with colored stone accents, dangling necklaces, and brooches set in yellow sapphires, emeralds, and white diamonds. Handmade in Florence, these pieces are meant for a stunning young lady and a divine night out in town. sabineg.com
FIT FOR A QUEEN L
oose silhouettes ranging from full circle skirts to A-line tunics hit middle ground with angelic dresses and baby doll tops from IVANOVA. Flirting with silk, velvet, cambric, crepe, faux furs, knits, and prints of thorn wreaths and Greek crosses, the brand creates a contemporary masterpiece that becomes Your Own Crown of glory. lenaivanova.com
THE NEW MODERN D
are to SHRED AND SEW in every way possible. May it be a bomber jacket, football tee, hockey Jersey, or satin sweatpants, the new collection has a different take on the regular design with zipper details and a mix and match of fabrics. The brand’s logo, a unique pair of scissors, is a cut above the rest with their take on a new modern menswear street style. shredandsew.com
THE HILLS ARE ALIVE D
o you want to go to THE HILL-SIDE? Get the mileage from its latest collection that runs circles around your basic kicks with denim, camo, zigzag stripes, and floral prints for your daily wear and tear. Whether dressed up or down, these sneakers slide right into your wardrobe. Head on up and be the kings and queens that rule the hill. thehill-side.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
CULTURE SHOCK N
ew York-based brand HARARE was created by Caroline Fuss after her mother and grandmother’s birthplace in Africa. Inspired by this heritage, her designs concentrate on a wide display of ethnic fabrics, textured materials, and subtle colored accents. Earthy tones center the collection of coats and tops with geometric shapes woven in repetition giving it an authentic tribal touch. harareny.com
HOIST THE COLORS T
here’s SOME[THING] about a Man In The Storm that makes him look so neat. Maybe it’s the tailored perfection of his jackets, drop crotch pants, coats, and pullovers made with precise cuts and raw materials that add to the appeal. Edit your polished looks with grunge finishes, oversized volumes, and layers of dark waxed fabrics to create modern male contradictions. We see nothing but good coming out of this storm. smthg.fr
CLEAN SLATE K
eep it simple with AIMÉ LEON DORE’s 13-piece Debut collection. The street wear brand’s white button-downs, gray and brown trousers, nylon jackets, and variety of hats and beanies, merge minimalist, comfort, and functionality. This way, you don’t have to even try to look good, it just happens to you. aimeleondore.com
HEAD OVER HEELS
FAINT FEELINGS
T
L
urn heads like A-listers Charlize Theron, Cate Blanchett, and Natalie Portman with hair accessories from JENNIFER BEHR. Its silk turbans, metal diadems, and crystal barrettes dress up your brunches and top off your dinner parties with chiffon, leather, and Swarovski crystals on your crowning glory. With pieces like these, you’ll be the talk of the town. jenniferbehr.com
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ow key and minimal by design, MIMK puts a strong focus on details. Its latest collection of breast-plated playsuits, origami dresses, and structured coats keep things understated yet modern baring just the right amount of skin without looking overexposed. With a ton of leg here and a flash of rib there, the brand strips you down in simplistic garments that command attention. notjustalabel.com/minki_cheng
THREADS
KNITTED AND LOOSE
K-TOWN THROWDOWN
P
OTIPOTI’s Arlequin Spring/Summer 2014 collection keeps it fresh and fruity. Playing up knits with watermelon prints and geometric patterns, its sweaters, cardigans, tops, and shorts are rendered in bright colors made to take the summer heat. Topped off with knitted bags, espadrilles, and complimentary blankets, the brand will peel off your tropical style. potipoti.com
S
ticks and stones may break bones but LIFUK’s checks and stripes build up a good wardrobe. The Korean label keeps closet staples low-key, adding devilish details of dip-dyed gingham and two-toned plaid on button-downs, coats, and ponchos to keep them from being run-of-the-mill. If you’re looking for something with a bit more fun then try on its 3D glasses knitted pullover and see things beyond a 20-20 vision. lifuk.co.kr
NEVER APART D
Words by JV Gonzales, Zoe Laurente, Gabby Isabela, Loris Peña, Kitkat Ramos
esigner sisters Milla and Iina Kettunen created MONTH OF SUNDAYS with the silent, relaxed, and casual end of the week in mind. Inspired by granite rocks, the brand’s Sixth collection of soft denim, oversized coats, crop tops, maxi dresses, and structured handbags are easy like a Sunday morning and a good fit all year round. monthofsundays.fi
OVER DOSE O
ne can never have TOO MUCH of a good thing. Leading a new generation of youth culture, this London lifestyle brand promotes haute couture, graffiti, and the underground music scene with their statement pullovers and shirts like the “Double Trouble,” “Heads Up,” and “No. 2.” Tell me what your shirt says and I’ll definitely tell you who you are. toomuchposse.com
WEST COAST GUYS D
OCKERS keeps it casual and classy as it retraces its Northern California roots with its latest collection. Showing off a bolder and braver look, it takes a turn from traditional tones with colorful plaid shirts, pastel chinos, and bright-colored pants. Keep in check with the warm weather and wear these out like a true Cali boy. us.dockers.com
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SETTING
PLACES TO GO
CORKAGE PLATE
71 GRAMERCY, MAKATI
THE EUROPEAN CONNECTION
On top of the Gramercy Residences sits 71 GRAMERCY, the highest restaurant-cum-bar in the metropolis today. The minimalist interiors of the chic dining lounge offer classy NYC-style eats from seared foie gras appetizers to Chilean sea bass bites and artisanal ice cream. Take in the best unobstructed view of the city on cushy seating and below high ceilings and soft lighting. After midnight, the place turns into Makati’s club du jour with themed parties and attendance from Manila’s who’s who for that unforgettable high.
THE GLASS DOOR pays homage to the Italian, Spanish, and French roots of NYC’s 1920s bistros.
SALMON TARTARE Soft salmon, spicy capers, fragrant dill, and lemon juice encased in a crunchy, bitesized shell.
The Gramercy Kalayaan Avenue Makati facebook.com/71Gramercy
S uite
THE MAJLIS, KENYA
Off the northern coast of Kenya on Manda Island sprawls THE MAJLIS, the private home of an Italian couple built from local bleached-white coral transformed into a boutique resort hotel. Explore three villas, open-air restaurant, rooftop bar, and two pools with panoramic views of Ras Kitau Bay and the village of Shela on Lamu Island. Settle down in suites adorned with hand-carved furnishings and Swahili textiles, art, and ornaments. After a busy day at the beach and in the bush, catch a nap under the East African sun and acacia trees that cradle the compound.
SALPICAO Succulent slices of pan-seared beef cooked in aglio olio sauce.
Ras Kitau Bay, Manda Island Lamu Archipelago Kenya themajlisresorts.com
THE GLASS DOOR, BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY
Step over the threshold of THE GLASS DOOR and travel back to NYC’s roaring 20s. Modeled after a sidewalk bistro, gold-andblack furnishings evoke a casual glamour as you’re served delicately-seasoned European fare made by Michelin-trained chef Maj Lazatin. Sip an Old Fashioned to whet your appetite for shredded duck confit sprinkled atop homemade taglierini and garnished with onions, capers, and marmalade. Saunter in after dark to catch a local nightingale bathed in soft, red mood lighting crooning a love song. G/F Net Square Building 28th Street and 3rd Avenue Bonifacio Global City theglassdoor.ph
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SPINACH RAVIOLI Farm-fresh spinach and ricotta cheese wrapped in homemade ravioli atop a tart tomato base.
TARTUFO PASTA Homemade taglierini topped with prosciutto and mushrooms, drizzled with white truffle oil.
Words by Ken Rafiñan The Glass Door Photographed by Rosario Herrera
GRUB
BRICK AND MORTAR
STORES TO SHOP
OWEN, NEW YORK 809 Washington St, New York, 10014 owennyc.com Dime to drop: P9,000-P90,000 ($200-$2,000) Don’t leave the store without: An M2Malletier Bag, exclusive to OWEN NYC.
M
eet OWEN; a hip, young boutique in the streets of the meatpacking district. Always glad to meet your acquaintance, the store boast its neat aesthetic and offerings of young and current designers. A juxtaposition of industrial and chic, store architect Jeremy Barbour (who also designed Philip Lim’s store) designed and built out OWEN’s interiors, which include 25,000 paper bags affixed to the ceiling. A brick wall on the opposite side adds a pretty contradiction to the space, while the curved canopy makes a tunnel-like corridor with only clothing after clothing to discover. Steel rods carry men’s and women’s ready-to-wear by Acne Studios, Isabel Marant, Suno, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Carven. Tables and shelves in the middle and sides of the store display accessories and jewelry by Alison Lou, Jennifer Fisher, and Paula Mendoza, shoes by Jenni Kayne and Isabel Marant, and accessories by Alexander Wang. This high-end store offers a shopping experience fit for the likes of Queen B, owner Philip Salem’s fave. If that doesn’t excite you, maybe a beautiful selection of designer duds and an allaround, friendly staff in a well interior space will.
RONNIE AND JOE, MANILA 2F SM Aura Premier Fort Bonifacio, Global City, Taguig ronnieandjoe.com Dime to drop: P6,000-P24,000 Don’t leave the store without: Moscot Lemtosh
W
elcome to the new standard, says new optical store RONNIE AND JOE. Dedicated to housing the best eyewear selection from around the globe, there’s certainly more than what meets the eye. A space dedicated to quality, attention to detail, and heritage, the store shares the same values as their brand partners. The all- black matte finish space complemented by black blinders and concrete floors houses brands like Moscot, Illesteva, Native Sons, Matsuda, Ksubi, Max Pittion, Shwood, and Karen Walker. More labels like Garreth Leight, DITA, Thome Browne, and House of Holland are displayed around the store like a gallery waiting to be fitted and adored. As a retail experience that holds true to the culture of eyewear minus the eye chart, waiting room, and appointment, you are sure to find that all eyes are on you.
Words by Loris Peña
ECLECTIC EDITION
I
f your goal is to let your style speak for itself, then ECLECTIC EDITION has your name written all over it. Brands like August Street, Senso, Pink Stitch, Quay Eyeware, RES Denim, 8 Other Reason, and Rianna Phillips will supply your daily craving for style. After all, the online store’s motto is “We eat fashion for breakfast.” Yum! eclecticedition.com
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SCREEN
SCENES TO SEE
TICKET
REMOTE CONTROL TRANSCENDENCE Johnny Depp plays Dr. Will Caster, an artificial intelligence researcher who is attacked, and to save his life, colleagues and friends must upload his memories into the very system he is studying.
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER Following the events of The Avengers, Captain America lives as a common citizen, but an attack on a colleague has him teaming up again with Black Widow and newcomer Falcon to face the mysterious Winter Soldier. UNDER THE SKIN Jonathan Glazer’s low-budget adaptation of the Michel Faber novel stars Scarlett Johansson as an extraterrestrial sent to Earth to prey on hitchhikers where her journey of selfunderstanding brings her into conflict with her own sexuality. THE QUIET ONES When Brian McNeil (Sam Claflin) and his friends are recruited to participate in an unorthodox social experiment involving a disturbed student, their exploration triggers a force of unspeakable evil.
BRICK MANSIONS Set in a dystopian Detroit, Damien (Paul Walker), an undercover cop, has to work with an exconvict to infiltrate a dangerous part of town to save the city from a bombpossessing crime lord.
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TRIPTANK (COMEDY CENTRAL) Alexander Bulkley and Corey Campodonico (Robot Chicken) collaborates again for a half-hour series featuring fast-paced, borderline subversive animated shorts filled with slapstick humor. The likes of Wayne Brady, Jim Rash, Nick Swardson, Larry David, Zach Galifianakis, Paul Rudd, and Danny Trejo are among the writers, animators, and voice talents behind the adult toons.
TURN (AMC) Inspired by Alexander Rose’s novel Washington Spies, this historical thriller drama set during the Revolutionary War tells the story of America’s first spy ring. The 90-minute series stars Jamie Bell as Abe Woodhull, a farmer and the unexpected leader of the Culper Ring, formed with his childhood Washington in secret to turn the tide of the war.
SILICON VALLEY (HBO) Mike Judge, the name behind Office Space, Beavis & Butthead, and King of the Hill, takes his directing chops to California. The eight-episode season has funny men Thomas Middleditch, Josh Brener, Martin Starr, Kumail Nanjiani, and T.J. Miller as a group of geeks incubating the scene’s next best startup to pitch to a venture capitalist (Christopher Evan Welch).
PL AYBACK 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) To me it was, “Oh this what the future looks like.”
Paulo Vinluan (Artist) paulovinluan.com Labyrinth (1986) I first saw it in Ali Mall at Cubao. I even remember the hand-painted poster on the katcha.
The Birds (1963) Because of the colors. And also, isn’t it just terrifying to chased by a bunch of birds?
Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer (1964) It’s a stop-motion that’s really well made. The character design is good and there’s just nothing wrong with it.
Dracula (1931) I saw it only a year ago across where I live, at the park. It’s great! Words by Ken Rafiñan
DOM HEMINGWAY The film follows an eponymous safecracker (Jude Law) after his release from jail who realizes that what he needs is to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Evelyn (Emilia Clarke).
ink
BOOKS TO READ
BOOKMARK
HOT OFF THE PRESS THERE GOES GRAVITY: A LIFE IN ROCK AND ROLL By Lisa Robinson Robinson gives us a glimpse of the rock n’ roll lifestyle from travelling with the Rolling Stones in 1969, to profiles of Kanye West and Lady Gaga, and tales of friendship with John Lennon, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson. Get the literary backstage pass to a parade of gigs seen through the eyes of an articulate fan.
STRANGE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC: A MUSICAL MEMOIR By Joe Satriani with Jake Brown Hailed by the NY Times as “a guitar god” and others as the Jimi Hendrix of our generation, Joe Satriani shares never-beforeseen photos and conversations with friends like Chickenfoot, Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Pepper’s Chad Smith. Get an insight from students like Steve Vai, Metallica’s Kirk Hammett, and Primus’s Larry LaLonde; complete with a foreword from Queen’s Brian May.
FACE THE MUSIC: A LIFE EXPOSED By Paul Stanley KISS frontman Paul Stanley reveals how he ignored his early struggles with hearing, being born with level III microtia and possessing a deaf right ear to make an iconic rock career. In his own words: “Certainly, people have had more adversity in their lives—and some less—but I would think some people would get a certain amount of inspiration and a sense that positivity and belief in yourself will ultimately lead you to a great place.”
SCAR TISSUE
By Anthony Kiedis with Larry Sloman
R
ed Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis bares all in his autobiography named after their Grammy Award-winning song off their critically-acclaimed ode to The Golden State. He details his vice-fueled childhood courtesy of his starving actor and druggie father, John, his polite estrangement from his doting mother Peggy, his troubled adolescence where he meets Michael “Flea” Balzary, and eventually forming the foundation of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame quintet. The memoir ends the way it starts, with the “Can’t Stop” addictions on the “Otherside” of a past life and the man who lived them singing a hopeful “Zephyr Song”. “I’ve wanted to feel pleasure to the point of insanity. They call it getting high, because it’s wanting to know that higher level, that godlike level. You want to touch the heavens, you want to feel glory and euphoria, but the trick is it takes work. You can’t buy it, you can’t get it on a street corner, you can’t steal it or inject it or shove it up your ass, you have to earn it.” “Every true artist is at war with the world.”
“I didn’t have to go all the way to India for spiritual enlightenment. The blue-collar spirituality of everyday life was right in front of me, it was in every nook and cranny if I wanted to seek it, but I had chosen to ignore it.” “Suddenly, we could all hear, we could all listen, and instead of being caught up in our finite little balls of bullshit, we could all become players in that great universal orchestra again.”
Words by Ken Rafiñan
FOOTNOTES When Lisa Robinson met Michael Jackson after the opening night of his Bad tour, he recognized that she was wearing Jungle Gardenia. She sent him a case to his suite, where he would wear it for his performance at the 1988 Grammys.
Some of Satriani’s most well-known songs and albums use science fiction, such as Surfing with the Alien that references Marvel’s Silver Surfer, Ice 9 from Kurt Vonnegut’s Cat’s Cradle, and Borg Sex from Star Trek.
Paul Stanely is an ambassador for AboutFace, a charitable organization that supports and educates individuals born with facial differences, appearing in fundraising events and videos to raise awareness for the group.
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BEATS
MUSIC TO HEAR
PL AYLIS T
OURSELVES THE ELVES Ponch Salvador (Drums) ourselvestheelves.bandcamp.com
LEO AND THE TOLSTOYS Rad Kauer (Vocals) soundcloud.com/leoandthetolstoys
NO Sean Daniel Stentz (Bass) noechopark.com
“Give It Away” Red Hot Chili Peppers It’s my favorite track from my favorite album of my favorite band.
“Everlong” Foo Fighters This is probably the song I’ll sing to that special someone.
“Undercover of Darkness” The Strokes I just love this for being so upbeat and catchy.
“Megalomaniac” Incubus The first song I tried practicing with an odd time signature (5/4).
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” Nirvana It’s a 90s anthem and Kurt Cobain is my father.
“Underneath It All” No Doubt This song is dope and lovely.
“Bittersweet Symphony” The Verve Because I’m a Katherine from Cruel Intentions.
“D’yer Mak’er Led Zeppelin DUH IT’S LED ZEP.
“I’m Aquarius” Metronomy It’s got a catchy bedroom beat and hook plus the video is like a lo-fi 2001.
“You Missed My Heart” Mark Kozelek & Jimmy LaValle Go ahead and have a good cry while you’re listening to this.
“Makes Me Wanna Die” Tricky A sparse trip-hop number perfect for late, lonely nights.
“Flirted With You All My Life” Vic Chesnutt Probably one of the few uplifting songs you’ll hear about death. RIP Vic.
R eleases
After the success of his EPs, Thinking in Textures and Lockjaw with fellow Aussie beatmaker, Flume, CHET FAKER is ready to release Built On Glass, his debut LP self-produced in his Melbourne home studio featuring his cool electro-R&B sound.
One half of alt-hip-hop group The Cool Kids, CHUCK INGLISH is upping his rap game with Convertibles, his first solo LP featuring friends like Mac Miller, Ab-Soul, Vic Mensa, Chance the Rapper, BJ the Chicago Kid, and Action Bronson.
MUSIC NEWS
To celebrate Trap Lord’s Billboard Top 10 performance, A$AP FERG returns to Australia to repay his fans with his trademark trap beats and skittish rapping. The four-day tour starts April 2 at The Corner Hotel then continues at The Hi-Fi, Metro Theatre, and The Bakery.
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Gen Y’s Woodstock, COACHELLA, is back with the three-day, two-weekend (April 11-13, 1820) festival featuring Ellie Goulding, HAIM, Skrillex, Pharrell, Lorde, Kid Cudi, Disclosure, and Lana Del Rey— just to name a few.
Rock-and-roll icons plus upand-comers will once again converge on Brooklyn’s Barclays Center for the 2014 HALL OF FAME INDUCTION which will honor: Nirvana, KISS, Peter Gabriel, Hall & Oates, Cat Stevens, and Linda Ronstadt.
Pitchfork darlings WOODS expands their tender folk rock portfolio with their latest album, With Light and With Love, this will be the first time the band uses a singing saw and saloon piano.
Words by Ken Rafiñan
Blur frontman and the voice and pen behind the Gorillaz, DAMON ALBARN compose Everyday Robots, an enigmatic alt-rock record inspired by a week-long trip to Mali and featuring Brian Eno and Natasha Khan of Bat for Lashes.
T EC H PACK SATCHMI MOTORINO MK. II • USB Port to PC for Vinyl-to-MP3 conversion with free Audacity software • Rechargeable battery for portable playback • RCA Stereo Out to connect to speakers or headphones • Moving Magnet Cartridge for lower noise distortion and better sound SRP: P7,799
PURE JONGO T4 • Music-streaming service support for apps like: Pandora, Rdio, Deezer, Spotify, etc. • 802.11bg Caskeid Wi-Fi Technology for wireless synchronization between multiple speakers • A2DP Bluetooth support for wireless audio playback • USB Port for PC Connectivity and software updates SRP: P13,379
RUN THE PARTY
Take the party with you and start a riot anywhere with these portable music gadgets.
SYNC BY 50 ON-EAR WIRELESS HEADPHONES (SPORT COLLECTION) • Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio playback • SMS Audio-patented ear hook design to keep it on your head even with vigorous activity • IPX4 waterproof rating to protect against sweat • OVALFITTM perforated leather memory foam earpads for comfortable long-term use SRP: P8,055
MONSTER GO-DJ • Touchscreen interface where you can swipe, tap, and control the turntables, equalizer, effects, sampler, and sequencer • SD Memory Card Slot for your tracks and samples • Mini-USB port for power and PC connectivity • Pocket-size dimensions: 9.8 x 2.6 x 0.7 inches SRP: P26,847
DOWNLOADS TRAKTOR DJ By Native Instruments GmbH
Experiment with a beatmaker that comes with a drum, bass, and lead synth powered by the developer’s awardwinning Reason.
Your iPhone becomes a professional-grade DJ deck with turntables, filters, EQ, and crossfader; controlled by swipe and pinch gestures.
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ORPHINIO By Bastus Trump Play melodies on a digital instrument with a sound formed by a combination of a glockenspiel and jaw harp.
Words by Ken Rafiñan
FIGURE By Propellerhead Software AB
FAC E PA I N T Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Kajal Liner P1,800
MAC Nail lacquer in Nocturnelle P750
NARS Contour Blush in Olympia Product P2,150
Napoleon Perdis Bergenia Faux Lashes P1,202
in the mood for mod Wing it in black and white like Twiggy and Eddie would.
NYX Super Fat Eye Marker in Carbon Black P481
Jason Wu for Lancôme Color Design Infinite Luminous Eyeshadow in Forever Noir P1,178.55
NARS Artistry Brush Push Eyeliner Brush #46 P1,550
NARS Matte Multiple in Altai P2,250
MAC Mineralize Eye Shadow X4 in A Waft Of Greys P2,530
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Cargo Eyelighter in White P962
Creed Love in White (75ml) P8,900
MAC Fantasy Of Flowers Lipstick in Fleur D’Coral P1,000
Cargo Texas Liner Liquid Eyeliner P962
Model photo by Fernando Colon
Bobbi Brown Brightening Lip Gloss in White P1,300
A B O U T FACE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME
The gentlest touch comes in the form of ACURE FACIAL CLEANSING CREME ARGAN OIL + MINT (4oz). This face cream with a menthol fresh hint removes makeup and dirt while leaving your skin moisturized. P670
LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION
Get that winning glow with JOSIE MARAN 100% PURE ARGAN OIL LIGHT (50ml). Leaving chapped skin out of the picture, this feather light serum absorbs quickly on your face. P2,145
HYDRATION NATION
Expert Advice
BABY I’LL RULE
Get the royal treatment with Morocco’s liquid gold.
Wake up to a head full of lush locks by leaving drops of Argan oil on your hair before bed.
Keep a dose of 100% PURE ARGAN OIL FACIAL MOISTURIZER SPF 30 (50ml) at bay to protect your skin from the blistering heat. Its moisturizing formula with vegan ingredients and antioxidants hydrates the skin and protects from UV rays. P1,162
SAVING FACE
DON’T PANIC, IT’S ARGANIC
Getting power straight from the source, KAHINA 100% ORGANIC ARGAN OIL (100ml) proudly offers the absorbent, non-greasy feel that the good stuff should bring. Soothe and improve your skin or tame your crowning glory with this all-natural quality elixir. P3,664
b e a u t y bi t e
SLEEPING BEAUTY
Let DR. ORGANIC MOROCCAN ARGAN OIL NIGHT CREAM (50ml) do the magic as you catch some z’s. This overnight wonder locks in essential vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants that firms, tones, and protects your skin. P708
Early aging will be the least of your problems with SWISSE ARGAN FACE OIL (50ml) to call for back up. Kicking fine lines and wrinkles to the curb, this serum heals sundamaged skin making it a go to choice for hotter days. P1,206
I DO NAILS
et hitched to the perfect manicure with a visit to I DO NAILS. Tracing back its roots as a home service nail salon, it quickly blossomed into a cozy boutique that sits high and pretty from a quiet corner of Eastwood Mall keeping its well-loved intimate feel with taupe leather couches and warm lighting. Whether you’re a gal on the go with a tight budget or in need of some serious rest-and-relaxation, the salon’s variety of services will suit the level of pampering you need. If you’ve been neglecting your tips and toes, treat them to an all organic scrub and massage before polishing them to perfection. Follow it through with a variety of lacquers for conversation-worthy tips or go long term with the salon’avs must-try gel manicure that keeps polish chip-free and locked in for up to two weeks. 3/F Eastwood Mall, Eastwood City Brgy. Bagumbayan, Quezon City tel. 0917 531 5365 idonailseastwood.com @idonailsservice
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Words by Gabbie Isabela and Zoe Laurente
G
GO S E E
COOL & COZY
Layer on and style appropriately because the sun may be out to play but the polar vortex is here to stay.
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Photographed by Steffi Santiago, and RJ Roque
S T Y LE I D
Boys blur the lines by rocking skirts on the streets.
Photos by jponfashionspeed.com, lelook.eu, deathbyplatforms.blogspot.com, and hugohase.net
Senior Editor of Glamour Russia Oksana On takes a see-through spin on the pleated midi.
This gent incorporates a kilt into his wardrobe proving not only girls can have fun with pleats.
PRETTY PLEATS
Stylist Michael Hastreiter wittily layers a pleated skirt over a pair of shorts.
Lea goes full-length with her maxi skirt. Go androgynous with a classic accordion-pleats paired with a masculine double-breasted blazer.
Upgrade the iconic prep school staple to its full high fashion glory as Salvatore Ferragamo takes the lead this Spring/Summer 2014 with folds that are straight as a star student’s As.
By JP Singson
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sweater by Melinda Gloss shirt by American Vintage pants by Black Balloon sneakers by Melinda Gloss for Spring Court
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the finish line Photographed by Ludo Hanton Styled by Kate Aronsson-Brown of C’est Chic
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shirt by CarharttÂ
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sweater by Bellerose shorts by Marcel boots by Mellow Yellow
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shirt by Black Ballon pants by Black Balloon shirt by American Vintage sweater by Bellerose
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blazer by Black Balloon shorts by Black Balloon shirt by Bellerose boots by Frye
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coat by Jean Paul Knott shirt by Black Balloon sweater by Bellerose shorts by Marcel
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pants by Black Balloon boots by Frye
Makeup Crystal Die Hair Christophe Lambenne Model Anthony Sadin of Dominique models Location Studio 202
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On Mariana top by Douglas Hannant skirt by Douglas Hannant On Lindsay top by Jason Wu skirt by Jason Wu
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Photographed by Eniko Szucs Styled by Sarah Gentillon
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On Mariana dress by Zuhad Muhair On Lindsay dress by Zuhad Muhair
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blazer by Katie Ermilio top by Pamella Roland Corset corset top by Pamella Roland shoes by Walter Steiger
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dress by Katie Ermilio
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top by Josie Natori pants by Josie Natori
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jacket by Lie Sang Bong shirt by Lie Sang Bong pants by Lie Sang Bong
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dress by Zuhair Murad
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top by Katie Ermilio
Makeup Mirna Jose Hair Yasutake Kosaka Prop Stylist Cybel Gonzalez Stylist Assistant Shawnte Bron Photo Assistant Maria Panina Models Mariana Dante of Wilhelmina and Lindsay Phenix of RED models
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jacket by Pamella Roland crop top by Pamella Roland bottom by Pamella Roland shoes by Alexandre Birman
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D
I
hat by Firma jacket by Ben Sherman sweater by 21 Men shorts by Topman socks, stylist’s own sandals by Pedro
S
L
V
O
E
Photographed by Shaira Luna Styled by Loris Pe単a
W
hat by Firma blazer by 21 Men sweater by Ben Sherman pants by Topman
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blazer by Topman hooded shirt by 21 Men shorts by 21 Men
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jacket by Ben Sherman hoodie by 21 Men shorts by Topman socks, stylist’s own sandals by Pedro
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jacket by Springfield sweater by 21 men pants by Oxygen socks, stylist’s own sandals by Pedro
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hat by AC + 632 blazer by Springfield shorts by Topman socks, stylist’s own sandals by Pedro
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jacket by Topman top by Ben Sherman pants by Oxygen socks, stylist’s own sandals by Pedro
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SWAG A p r i l
2 0 1 4
TEAM SUMMER Only way to enjoy this season is by diving in style. Gear up with varsity jackets, sneakers, cropped tops, backpacks, and caps to guarantee winning at all times. Product Photography by Miguel Miranda
Clockwise: Adidas Original [P4,795], 21 Men [P1,295], 21 Men [P1,025], Topman [P3,995]
B l ue T r ouse r s / Po l o S h i r ts
INTO THE BLUE Trousers are your new homies.
Oxygen [P1,149]
Springfield [P2,650]
21 Men [P915]
Lac oste r 2014 s p r ing /summe
Oxygen [P1,149]
Topman [P2,045]
LIGHT WEIGHT
Easy like Sunday morning.
Marc by Marc Jacobs [P5,750]
Springfield [P1,650]
Lacoste [P4,050]
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Topman [P1,295]
S nea k e r s
Pony [P3,590]
Pony [P2,995]
Creative Recreation [P3,795]
Adidas [P4,895]
Vans [P2,798]
Vans [P2,798]
STEP UP Let your sneakers do the talking.
Creative Recreation [P4,795]
Adidas [P4,895]
Vans [P2,798]
Pony [P3,590]
Lac oste r 2014 s p r ing /summe
Creative Recreation [P3,495]
Vans [P2,798]
Vans [P2,798]
Pony [P3,590]
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T an k T o p s
SPLASH OF COLOR You are what you wear.
Oxygen [P499]
Penshoppe [P499]
Topman [P1,445]
Oxygen [P449]
fe r r agamo sa lvato r e r 2014 s p r ing /summe
River Island [P1,190]
River Island [P1,290]
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Bac k pac k s
Extra Pack
Carry your weight.
Topman [P1,895]
Penshoppe [P849]
River Island [P1,690]
Oxygen [P799]
DKNY r 2014 s p r ing /summe
21 Men [P1,700]
Call It Spring [P2,395]
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c r o p to p
BEAR IT ALL If you have it, flaunt it.
Topshop [P595]
Aldo [P555]
Oxygen [P399]
Topshop [P745]
ige r T ommy H il f r 2 0 1 4 s p r ing /summe
Forever 21 [P665.50]
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S t r a p p y Hee l s / S at c h e l s
CROSSED PATHS Stand high and tall.
Charles David [P3,950]
Forever 21 [P1,870]
Pedro [P3,195]
j il l stua r t 0 1 4 r2 s p r ing /summe
Call It Spring [P2,695] Steve Madden [P4,450]
Chic Treats
Satchels on the go.
Marc by Marc Jacobs
Jimmy Choo
Bally
Lacoste
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c a p s / c l ut c h
HEADS UP Your new crowning glory.
Oxygen [P299]
Forever 21 [P505]
10 Deep [P2,290]
Penshoppe [P299]
DKNY r 2014 s p r ing /summe Forever 21 [P505]
10 Deep [P2,290]
HANDY DANDY
Never let them go. Forever 21 [P1,505]
Pedro [P2,995]
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Pedro [P3,195]
Forever 21 [P1,420]
ta i l o r ed t r ouse r s
FIT PERFECT
True to size and style. Warehouse [P2,795]
Dorothy Perkins [P1,645]
River Island [P2,890]
Suite Blanco [P1,695]
fe r r agamo sa lvato r e r 2014 s p r ing /summe
Oxygen [P1,299]
Forever 21 [P715]
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M U S E
WYLIE HAYS knows that nothing lasts forever; the real trick is to take advantage of every moment. By Vic toria H er r er a
Teen Vogue April 2013
Her infectious vibe may be credited from her active lifestyle–hiking, surfing, and doing yoga. And then there’s her curiosity, “I am learning how to play the guitar and have become an awesome cook.” Add that to her sweet personality, and you’ve got yourself a rising star.
Alexander Wang Spring 2013
F
rom walking in shows for Alexander Wang, Missoni, and Proenza Schouler to appearing in Vogue Italia and Interview Magazine, she’s taking every experience with such high energy level. Wylie Hays once tweeted, “Keep telling myself this morning: It’s scary… really scary. Do it anyway!” Her twitter feed gives the impression that this 18-year-old model is having the adventure of her life. But unlike other teenagers who exaggerate their simple encounters online, Wylie (signed to NEXT Model Management LA) is all truth.
CITIZEN OF THE WORLD The biggest highlights of the past two years have been getting to meet new people and traveling the world. I’ve gotten the chance to work with people from everywhere and I love how fashion gives people creative outlet. I’ve also been able to spend time in some of the world’s greatest cities and to stay in cool places.
IN THE MOMENT
VIP TREATMENT
FOR ALEX ONLY
STAND OUT STYLE
My first season of fashion week was crazy! There was an [exciting] energy that time, and it was cool to be a part of it. I was most nervous for New York fashion week because it was my first one. As soon as I booked the Alexander Wang exclusive (my first show), my nerves settled. I just tried to have fun with it and take advantage of getting to have this amazing, crazy, whirlwind of a month. I knew it wouldn’t last forever.
I met with Alexander Wang and walked for him in August before Fashion Week started. When I met him, I crossed my fingers that I would get to walk in his show. He was so cool and down to earth. I was thrilled to find out about my exclusive! I tried on a stunning glow-in-the-dark white dress to walk in. Once I stepped onto the runway, it was like a giant light show.
One of my most memorable experiences was a shoot I did for the Alexis clothing line. We all flew in a private jet to Bimini (an island in the Bahamas) and we shot there and had fun all weekend. It was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been and they were such a great team. It was so memorable because that shoot took place right before my first season in New York. What a perfect storm of events.
It is hard to stand out in this industry because there are so many amazing girls. My height helps get me noticed for sure. I’m really tall even for a model. Other than that, I try to go in with a positive attitude and a good energy. I find most people respond to that.
@wyliehays
M A E S T R O
KALEIDESCOPE WORLD Alt-pop, lo-fi electro singer CHELA has paved her way through the unpredictable waters of the music industry. Equipped with visual art that rivals erratic paint on blank canvas, she carries music that feed listeners who are always hungry for a new sound. By Kitkat Ramos
I
“
will always experiment with visual and performance art with a kaleidoscope of color,” says the Aussie chick. After taking a break from a failed punk band, Chela ventured in the film industry to hoard knowledge in the visual arts. Infusing optical tricks with her new oriental disco sound, she incorporates this new-found wisdom to her music videos to entertain and connect to her audience. A handful of her songs are already out in the airwaves, like “Fullmoon,” “Guts,” and “Vegas Nights” that rupture with nostalgic lyrics and reverberating dream-like synths. Her hit single, “Romanticise,” has a steady beat with disco hooks adding to her voice sounding out a dance anthem. The up-and-coming material that Chela has lined up is a cause for excitement. We can’t wait what she rocks on the mic, and our screens, next.
did visuals for Clubfeet on their tour, and I loved what he did. I thought it’d be great to collaborate on something fun down the track, and when the Romanticise remix idea was hatched it seemed like the perfect opportunity.
Hey Chela, your single “Romanticise” is out with a video remix made by Ego. What convinced you that you were an ideal match? I first saw Ego’s work when he
When do you know when it’s time to step back and take a break from making music? These things happen naturally, I don’t feel like ever taking a break from music but sometimes
You’ve been able to collaborate with artists like Ben Ely (Regurgitator), Le Bruce (Clubfeet), and Goldroom. How do you decide on your collaborations? Somehow, whilst joining the dots in life, I found these guys at different times and enjoyed their work. I think it’s always good to give things a go so I collaborate on most things that offer themselves to me, as long as I like what I hear. There’s a lot to learn too, I’m sure I’ve taken something with me from all of those guys along the way. Even if it’s just learning more technical things on how to produce my demos better.
(and in my old band’s case) an unfortunate event will take place and you suddenly find yourself at a halt. In another interview, you said that Triplejunearthed.com’s forty-days-forty-nights tale about your music break was just “a fake bio” and that you worked in film a little bit. Did this have any influence on the music you made? Most definitely, I’ve always had a passion for films. But after my experience in [filmmaking], it was easier for me to bring my visual ideas to fruition. I’m always grateful for having that extra capability.
Given this new perspective on facing the music industry, tell us about your future plans. I have the songs ready and I’m looking forward to sharing them with the world! I’m just looking for the right producer and label at the moment. From my past experiences, I’m being cautious so I won’t make [the same] mistakes again.
facebook.com/chelamusic chelachelachela.com
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MAESTRO
U NCHARTED TERRITORY Axel Willner, aka THE FIELD, puts his two cents into how electronic music should be these days. With tracks like “Over the Ice,” “Comenius Garden,” and “Cupid’s Head” under his belt, he’s diving into a place where no man has ever been before. By Jericho Umali Interview by Kristine Dabbay
I
“
really find it boring the way things are right n ow. I would rather listen to a track that takes 60 minutes to fully develop than something that happens in 3 minutes only,” says Stockholm-born, Berlinbased Axel Willner. While the hook-drop feel of a fast and melodic EDM track is relevant to the noise-hungry youth of today, there are still artists out there who like to take things to a different level. Producing tunes that are pure instrumental yet give the sense of wanting to go on an adventure is no easy accomplishment, but The Field manages to pull it off. Having sprung into existence in 2003, Axel blends of looping electronic upbeat sounds that resemble the likes of M83 with synths, drum, and bass and will give you a hint of Toro Y Moi, that all in all take you to a different place just like most of what Explosions in the Sky tracks would. In a recent
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interview, The Field claimed that making music for him is like making risotto. Having influences from punk rock to early electronica, he has the right recipes in producing tasteful tracks. But whatever dish he compares his creative process with, the result is just delicious. Little is known about your personal life, but I do know you wanted to sing like Glenn Danzig before. Tell us about your early influences, musical or otherwise. When I was a young teenager, I was very much into punk rock, like Ramones and The Misfits. I used to play guitar and sing in various constellations from an early age. Traveled from there through post rock, and got into electronics. I think one of the earliest encounters were the Orb and Plastikman. By the time when Daft Punk released Homework, I was hooked. After that album, a friend and I started to make electronic music together.
There are different ways on which electronic music can be viewed—there’s the dance-driven angle and the atmospheric side. Somehow, you’re at your best when combining both. How does this translate to your temperament? Are you more of a party-hardy or a wallflower? I haven’t been privately to any club in a long time. I was more into it before, but also, I´ve always loved ambient music. So the combination of them both is probably why my music sound as it does. Nowadays, I’m more of a bar person. Even though I do enjoy going to clubs, but mostly when I’m playing live. Critics and fans alike rave about “Cupid’s Head” buildup and how it can take you down the rabbit hole. If you have all the freedom for production, what’s your dream concert like? It would be great fun to break down all the samples and do all acoustically. But that would require a lot of electronics, a choir, strings, drums, bass, guitar, piano,
you name it. And I would be more of a conductor. I think it would be quite interesting if that could happen. One challenge you encountered before was “feeling drained and not knowing that you actually have something in you that can be good.” How do you overcome these episodes? It was a very tricky one as I´m not the type of musician who sits down and tries until something comes. I´ve always made music when I had somewhat of a feeling in me that needed to get out. But this time around, I really had to force myself to sit down and really try. When I got the loop going for “No. No…” I got the feeling. After that one, it all came very natural and smooth so the album was made pretty fast. The hardest part was just to get over the threshold.
facebook.com/thefield
“I´ve always made music when I had somewhat of a feeling in me that needed to get out.”
MAESTRO
ECHOES OF WOE Echo Park rockers NO wax melancholic on their debut LP El Prado as they draw on their love for Johnny Cash and Lou Reed to sing solemn numbers on life, love, and pain. This is music for lonely nights and cocktails.
“Maybe life is meant to always be [changing] and that could be what some might define as the ‘living’ part.”
By Ken Rafiñan
D
“
on’t worry if it’s a cold night, ‘cause we all go up in flames / We fall heavy but we’re so light / So leave the door wide open,” croons NO frontman Bradley Hanan Carter on lead single “Leave the Door Wide Open” as Michael Walker (drums), Sean Daniel Stentz (bass), Reese Richardson (guitar), Simon Oscroft (guitar/keys), and Ryan Lallier (guitar/keys) build a haunting melody fit for a nighttime drive to an aftermidnight tryst. Clad in black and strumming songs of woe, it’s easy to lump the band as the inevitable third wave of sad rock following recent pioneers The National and Interpol, who listened to Joy Division, Bauhaus, and The Smiths—among others. While comparisons are expected in an industry where everything is said to have already been made in the 80s, the band thankfully takes it in stride. “It’s always a compliment to hear comparisons to more well-known bands,” quips Sean.
For a group that’s already gotten love from NME and TIME, there was a significant possibility that the sextet wouldn’t even be jamming together at all. Native New Zealander Bradley found himself divorced and bankrupt in 2010 and it was a chance meeting with Sean at a local diner over shared heartbreaks and love for Johnny Cash and Lou Reed that changed everything. Bradley shares, “It’s true, we met through a friend one morning at a diner, then over time two became four, and before we knew it, it’d turned into six of us.” He continues, “Maybe life is meant to always be [changing] and that could be what some might define as the ‘living’ part. Probably the best thing I got to learn was, no matter what it is you believe, keep asking questions!” A symbolic release of their debut EP Don’t Worry, You’ll Be Here Forever on 11.11.11 proved to be just the charm they needed to get out of
their rut. Featuring songs that venture into various corners of the genre from anthemic (“Another Life” + “Stay With Me”), hard (“There’s a Glow” + “Big Waves”), grunge (“The Long Haul”), and indietronica (“Coming Down”), it stirred the LA Times and local listeners to rave reviews. Hailing from Echo Park, LA’s hipster haven and “an amazing community full of differing styles and amazing talent,” the hometown co-sign paved the way for stateside and European tours with The Smashing Pumpkins and The Naked and Famous leading up to their February 2014 debut LP El Prado with label Arts & Crafts. Love and its accompanying pain is a recurring theme in their music, on songs like “What’s Your Name,” which tells of a broken connection with a woman in red, and “North Star,” a cautionary tale on the sacrament of marriage. Others
may call it obsession; the band sees it as curation: “Live life, document it.” Though rock is less flexible with its sound compared to other genres like hip-hop and electronica, that doesn’t mean NO wouldn’t experiment. Reese muses, “When we’re creating something, it’s all about the ideas we’re trying to get across. If a synth tells the story better than a guitar, then we’ll go with the synth. It’s all about serving the song.” While we’re on the topic of experimentation though, we think we found the best way to sample their music—just like how the band likes to unwind after a long rehearsal: as the soundtrack to bad TV on mute and in between sips of a Manhattan.
noechopark.com @NO
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MAESTRO
ELVES OFF THE SHELF Indie folk trio OURSELVES THE ELVES will drench your ears in jangly pop tunes and make your heart melt with woes of young love. Though they might be made of sugar, spice, and everything nice, cute is not what they aim for. “We appreciate it if [the audience] genuinely thinks we’re cute and all, but we like to think that we’re more than that,” shares vocalist Aly. By Pola Beronilla Photographed by Mariah Reodica
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hat started out as a dream of Aly Cabral and their former bassist Telle Delvo soon became a full-blown band when they met guitarist Akira Medina and drummer Ponch Salvador at a dorm during their freshmen year in college. Aly shares, “We would play in the dorm lobby and sometimes in Telle’s garage, over burgers and all.”However, just like their rock idols The White Stripes, they were eventually left bass-less. “The greatest struggle so far has to be trying to find a new permanent bassist,” says Ponch. Good thing their inner elves did the trick to keep their spirits high. “Pakinggan ang sarili mong duwende (Listen to your own dwarf),” says Kidlat Tahimik, a filmmaker who they highly look up to. “When he said duwende he meant the ‘creative little voice inside your head’,” Aly continues, “To us, this doesn’t only apply to when we make our music, but also to how we get by in life.” And as far as clichés go, great things do come in small packages. She adds, “Doing
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little things can incite a big and powerful change. We’re a small band, but we dream and are capable of doing big things.” Being the college students that they are, one couldn’t help but wonder where they get their musical inspiration. Aly quips, “There’s baked goods, mumblecore films, offensive jokes, falling in love, being torpe, Satan, and hugs.” Though they deny being actual elves, there is a certain magic floating around, not only heard in their recent EP, It’ll Be Alright, but as well as in their live shows. These dorm buddies have found the chemical x to their sweet and perky lofi aesthetic producing alt-pop tracks reminiscent of today’s indie surf pop purveyors such as Best Coast and Cults. However, this direction in their sound was unintentional. “Most of our songs on the EP we’re written even before we listened to Best Coast, discovering them made us pursue that kind of sound more,” Aly admits. “But imitating anyone is lame obviously, we realized
“Doing little things can incite a big and powerful change. We’re a small band, but we dream and are capable of doing big things.” it was just a phase, so we’re definitely open to exploring other sounds,” they continue, “In fact, we’re currently in the process of writing new songs that sound different from our first EP.” Though they wouldn’t mind if you take a bite out of their cheeseburger, getting stereotyped as an ‘adorkable’ band brings out their claws. “To be honest, we do mind being labeled as ‘cute’ or ‘cutesy,’ but we understand if some people may think of us that way,” admits Aly, “We’ve only released four songs or so and we’re just starting out. In the course of our lives, we hope people can see our sad and angsty side eventually.”
Indie pop has yet to seat comfortably in OPM’s grounds, but that doesn’t bother these musical elves. “The problems are found on the business and mainstream audience side,” they share, “We can’t really force anyone to listen to music they don’t like, and everybody knows about the overall poor reception of local music here in the country, so we accept our current independent-starving musician state.” But they do promise to play more gigs, continue to write songs, and not give up, “We won’t settle for it for too long, however.”
ourselvestheelves.bandcamp.com @ourselves_elves
MAESTRO
HIGH ALTITUDE How do you breathe without AER? Step into the shoes of David von Mering and Carter Schultz’s Fresh Aer Movement and you shall find out. By Kathleen Curtis
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reating buzz comes naturally for this rap-rock duo, especially after the release of their LP The Bright Side, which debuted at no. 1 on iTunes. After that chart-topper, it was a kumbaya moment for these Boston nationals. From producing infectious beats from their makeshift bedroom studio, it took them time to realize the significance of the achievement. It all started when David and Carter decided to take a gap year after senior year and “do their worst.” Luckily, their worst resulted in the inception of Aer. David shares, “We definitely didn’t aim to do our worst; the craziest thing that happened was playing at the House of Blues in Boston in front of 2,500 people.” Like a rush of adrenaline, their speedy rise to fame is described by Carter as “so surreal,” especially in light of the duo sharing the stage with some of hip-hop’s current heavyweights such as Macklemore and A$AP Rocky. But despite all the notoriety, these guys still live a normal life. David quips, “We play a lot of basketball, watch movies, and mooch off my friends’ college parties.” 2014 started with a bang due to the release of their anticipated self-entitled album, Aer. Carter shares, “I hope this album rollout will be as fruitful as possible, but expect a whole lot of touring, festivals, European runs, more videos, more music, and hopefully making it down under at some point.” The inspiration for Aer was written from a
collection of ideas over a long period of time. “We spent some time out in LA to record, but finished it off in Boston, we just tried to be transparent and honest with our work.” After playing a show at Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine, the duo capped the weekend off with some skiing and whisky. Carter adds, “Tour life is my inspiration, so the more we’re on the road, the easier lyrics come to me.” According to David, the creative process behind creating most of Aer’s beats start with the music. “I think the best songs tend to start
with beats because it lets you make sure that the words aren’t forced.” He continues, “Let the music channel through you and trigger you to say something.” Their visual production follows a theme that they stick to and the group effort, when they start filming, makes it fun. David adds, “It’s important to work together with a videographer and create something new so that you can enjoy the experience.” When everything comes together almost harmoniously, it results into something fluid, such as Fresh Aer Movement. David reveals, “We
like to be all over the place when it comes to style, some songs will be really goofy and ridiculous, and some will be really emotional and melodic.” At the end of the day, they do it for the love of their fans. David shares, “We like to make them feel like they know us from top to bottom through our music and that we are comfortable doing almost anything as long as it’s true to us and it keeps us inspired.”
@TheAerMusic freshaermovement.com
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M A S T E R M I N D
Show Stopper You know what they say, blondes do have more fun; especially in the case of designers Phillipe and David of THE BLONDS. After recently working with Miley Cyrus for her Bangerz Tour, the pair just can’t stop and won’t stop. Though the Can’t Be Tamed superstar is most likely to streak nudity, the design duo did their magic to suit her au naturel style. By JV Gonzales
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ew York-based designers Phillipe and David Blond have been creating clothes for almost a decade now. They are known for putting together outfits with crazy, over the top embellishments. We’ve seen their clothes on celebrities like Katy Perry, Rihanna, and Beyonce. They have also hemmed that famous red dress that Samantha wore in Sex and the City 2. Last New York Fashion Week, The Blonds presented their fall collection, which was about feline glamour. The inspiration of which was Selina Kyle meets Bettie Page in Gotham City. When it comes to creating the next collection, the duo shares, “We start working on it directly after each show. Typically, it would take four to six months to finish one collection.” The collaborative design process of the dynamic duo comes naturally. “We’re constantly dreaming up with new possibilities for the collections and clients,” they continue, “It’s a very organic process and inspiration can come from anywhere at any time. We’ve
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worked together for so long it’s practically seamless.” Phillipe and David’s partnership with Miley is no shocker. They have been working with Simon Harouche, Cyrus’ stylist, for years and have had the opportunity to dress her couple of times; recently during the Bambi Awards and New Year’s Eve in Times Square. Working on the tour has been a blast for David and Phillipe. Miley’s crazy ideas might be too much for your average designer, but not for these overachievers. The pair says, “Artistic freedom is what it’s all about, non, je ne regretted rien (no, I regret nothing).” Listening to the entire Bangerz album has helped fuel the creative process of working with the costumes. “Inspiration varies for all the costumes. We created a bodysuit with 3D-printed bright gold and green crystal cannabis leaves that wrap around the body and added swarvoski elements to enhance the 3D quality and make it sparkle,” the duo continues,
“Another piece was a modern take on the Jessica Rabbit character, the look also had to transition on stage, so it features a rip away skirt that reveals a crystallized cartoon heat onepiece bodysuit.” They add, “We also did a large scale print of Miley’s portrait by Terry Richardson in her signature tongue pose. We paved her lips, eyelashes and earrings to add a 3D effect.” The Blonds have had a banging start to their year and have already moved to planning their future. After having a crack at menswear in the past, they are more than ready to dabble in it again. They share, “It would be a natural evolution”. Producing a fragrance line is also on their to-do list. Though they have already dressed big celebrities, they have bigger fish to catch. “Madonna, of course,” quips the duo.
theblondsnewyork.com @TheBlondsNY
MASTERMIND
Wrecking Walls In their art and life, twin brothers Raoul and Davide Perre, also known as HOW AND NOSM, hardly stay inside the lines. They show us the broader strokes of what it means to be graffiti mural artists in the international scene. By Olivia Estrada
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aoul and Davide are not just adults who refuse to grow up, still carrying spray cans and “dirtying up” city walls. Born in Spain, raised in Germany, and now based in New York City, they draw the line between street art and vandalism, “We used to do so-called vandalism, although we rather call it defacing. Nothing really gets destroyed by a little bit of paint. As far as street art, we don’t see ourselves part of that, in fact we dislike that term. We do graffiti, mural, and fine art.” When asked if commercial use of graffiti art betrays its counterculture spirit, they clarify, “Only if the artwork for the advertisements are created by a tacky ad agency
that copies the style of our culture. Artists have to make a living. Working with a brand is one way to pay the bills and to continue to live off your own art. Some may call that sell out, but they clearly don’t know what it means to be a ‘starving artist’.” The Perre twins collaborated with Donna Karan NY for their larger-than-life installations last year, stealing the show from all the other displays along Time Square. In Brazil, they confronted the country’s issues on freedom and speech as documented in How & Nosm: The Brazil Diaries. On top of that, the duo boasts of exhibits in over sixty countries from Ecuador to South Korea.
“ Nothing really gets destroyed by a little bit of paint.”
Such variety comes in contrast to their limited palette. Raoul and Davide’s signature is their use of only black, red and white. It is their “distinct calling card” that was at first because of convenience but is now their constant challenge as it has allowed them to push spray paint to a new level. Their murals command your attention not only due to their sheer size but also because of the intricate details. Raoul and Davide draw you into their world in every way possible, “We enjoy when the viewer takes his or her time to decipher what we painted. They create their own TV series in their minds. It is mental and visual stimulation through your own imagination.” And though they may have recurring images in
their works such as hearts and split faces, “Every work we do is unique and we never reuse any drawing again. You might see the same imagery or different How and Nosm icons like our split face character but it’s never a duplicate of something that has been been painted by us before.” From young and eager twentysomethings who ventured out to the Big Apple, the duo is now a force to be reckoned with. They are unfazed by change and ready for anything, “Nowadays a lot of kids paint a few big walls and [through] the internet an immense hype gets created. But everybody has their fifteen minutes of fame but the actual challenge is to stay on top, evolve, and reinvent yourself.”
@hownosm www.howandnosm.com
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mastermind
THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS Music photographer NIÑA SANDEJAS is not just another girl at the rock show. With a decade worth of snapshots under her lens, she doesn’t believe in overnight success, “Your lucky shot may go viral, but if you want sustainability, you have to be able to consistently follow through.” By Pola Beronilla
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iña is a punk rocker. Growing up in a family who loved video cameras, it wasn’t long before her passion for motion picture shifted into stills. It was in her teen years when her aspiration for music journalism turned rock solid while juggling swimming practice, schoolwork, (and cute guys). She recalls, “I knew that I wanted to be a journalist when I stepped into high school, but my focus then was more on boys. [Laughs]” She has been living the life of a rock journalist, building a portfolio that overflow with snapshots of Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, Muse, Smashing Pumpkins, Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, and Kanye West among others. She has also interviewed the likes of Kasabian, Hurts, and Ziggy Marley. Though her overseas stints are off the roof, Niña is an active spirit in the local
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rock scene. “People have no idea how massive [the rock scene] is and how large the following is,” she expresses, “I could say the Philippines is a country that really loves to rock.” According to your site’s bio, you’re duly educated in fashion, what drew you towards music photography and rock journalism? Fashion is constantly changing. The only way that it could be immortalized is if people took photos of it. I worked as a fashion stylist for musicians and music videos and realized that being an observer and documenting what was unfolding in the music scene at the time was more interesting. I just felt that there was something big about to happen and I had to shift my focus. It’s a constantly evolving documentation that I’m sure will last until I die.
A lot of people view your job as the greatest job ever, but how hard is really to be a music photographer? Being treated seriously as a music photographer is difficult to come by. People think it’s just as simple as how any other person would try and capture the concerts with their smartphones or tablets. Each year, more and more inexperienced kids are willing to shoot for mere tickets, worse, some just love the thrill of being in the photo pit and treat it not as a working ground, but as some sort of extended VIP area. What they don’t know is that music photography involves research, a lot of waiting, plus the skill to present compelling photographs from, more often than not, impossible lighting. After the event you have to immediately sort your best pictures and submit them right away for news reporting. It’s fast-paced and involves so much focus. You’ve covered a lot of shows around the globe, what’s one to keep in the books? Fuji Rock Festival in Japan was my favorite. I have a lot of favorite moments, not exactly artists, it could be as simple as how the stage lights in such a majestic way that you just stop and admire it. Speaking of favorite moments, any worst memory you can recall? I think in order for you to survive in life, you have to acknowledge the mishaps you
encounter along the way and let go of it. I have my pet peeves like how other photographers misbehave in the pit, but it’s nothing something I always think about. The concert scene in the country has a perpetual growth. Do you think the Philippines is slowly shaping up to be the region’s new music festival capital? It’s good that the Philippines is trying to compete in the regions festivals, but the mark of a good festival isn’t just one off events but people who are fans of the festival as equally as they are with the artists performing.
rosarioko.com @RosariOko
“The mark of a good festival isn’t just one off events but people who are fans of the festival as equally as they are with the artists performing.”
MASTERMIND
THE METHOD MAN
“Use every experience (on and off-camera) as a lesson to grow and mature.”
In a perfect world, there would be indeed a CAMERON MONAGHAN. The cute face and red locks lure you into his wise approach to life on the big screen. by Olivia Estrada
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ameron’s steady ascent to fame is credited to his performance in the TV film adaptation of The Music Man, co-starring with musical veterans Matthew Broderick and Kristin Chenoweth. Coming this November, we will see him hold his own beside acting legends Meryl Streep and Jeff Bridges plus crowd favorites such as Alexander Skarsgård and Taylor Swift in The Giver. But Cameron has been building his career for quite some time now. At twenty years old, he has already appeared in a number of TV hits (Criminal Minds, Monk, Malcolm in the Middle) and not to mention headlining in Shameless as Ian Gallagher. It looks like Cameron can already give us lessons about the limelight, seeing as he knows more about what lies beneath. How was your experience portraying Asher in The Giver? Incredible. It was a particularly peculiar challenge, as the story takes place in a community that lacks emotion and empathy. I had to figure out how to convey that, while still making the character grounded and relatable. The experience was overall incredible. What are the biggest challenges you face whenever taking on a new role? The biggest challenge is always to find and understand a character’s humanity. There can be that initial temptation to try to just play the label, the
surface descriptive traits of a character, and I think it’s an actor’s job to delve past that. For example, you can’t play a “crazy person”, instead you have to gain some understanding of their thoughts and motivations. Among all the characters you’ve portrayed, who do you think would be your best friend? I’ve sort of made a career of playing erratic, damaged, and oftentimes dangerous people! I recently starred in a movie called “Jamie Marks is Dead”, and the character I played, Adam McCormick, is a genuinely sweet, quiet, sensitive, well-meaning kid. I think I’d enjoy spending time with him. Now that your career is on a roll, are they any fears about the industry that have been debunked? Any new insights that you have discovered? There is a bit of an old myth that the more successful an artist is, the ruder and more egocentric they become. I don’t really think that’s true. Yes, many people let a bit of fame and fortune get to their heads, but they most likely won’t last long. The majority of the TRULY successful actors I’ve met, the ones with career longevity, are genuinely nice, hard-working people. That’s because everyone wants to work with people who are like that, they want to know it will be an enjoyable, constructive experience. Can you name some actors in the business you’d kill to work with? There are living-legends like Robert Deniro and Helen Mirren, soon-to-be legends such as Cate
Blanchett and Sam Rockwell, talented young actresses like Elizabeth Olsen and Brie Larson, I could go on and on…
Macy as well. Bill is just such a good, admirable man, and he always brings so much to his scenes too.
Who among the actors you’ve worked with influence you the most? Well, Meryl Streep is a person I’ve admired for most of my life, so she was a huge influence before I even got to work with her, and she certainly lived up to my expectations. William H.
What is the one lesson you’ve held on to as an actor that you will always follow? Never stop learning. Use every experience (on and off-camera) as a lesson to grow and mature.
@CameronMonaghan
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heavy hitter
The yellow brick road wasn’t always smooth for Seattle’s MACKLEMORE AND RYAN LEWIS but they weathered through the bumps and slicked down their path with their independently released album, The Heist. Now, we’re not saying they’ve gone on cruise mode, but its a crime not to enjoy their well-deserved sweet ride with enough room for packed worldwide concerts and four Grammys. By Loris Peña Photographed by Magic Liwanag and Stephen Lavoie
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he greats weren’t great because at birth they could paint. The greats were great ‘cause they paint a lot.” Even an arena of six thousand screaming people couldn’t drown out Macklemore’s voice as he hit Manila for the second time since he was 19 years old. Despite my head rushing and adrenaline pumping, all I was thinking was that it would make sense if he starts the concert with “Ten Thousand Hours,” not just because it’s the first track on the The Heist, but also because it must have taken him and producer Ryan Lewis more than 10,000 hours of practice, hard work, and dedication to get where they are today. Call it a rags-to-riches story if you want, but it’s been more than two years since I last talked to him—he and Ryan were in Seattle working on an album that has yet to be titled. You can safely say that 10,000 hours isn’t tattooed to Macklemore’s wrist simply because he believes
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“You never want it to be a routine. You never want it to feel like you’re going through the motions when you’re on stage. I hope to get nervous every show.” it; he’s marked himself for life because he’s lived it. I think about it today, being on the phone with Macklemore last August 2012. The Heist was just about to drop and he was just coming back from a trip to the thrift shop when we started chatting. “The name was actually made up by myself,” he told me. “I was in a graphic art class and we had a superhero in a plastic… but he had no name and logo. It was our job to create those for him. I came up with Professor
Macklemore. That same summer, I went to live in New York City. I was 17 and whenever I would go out thrift shopping, I would buy crazy costumes and outfits and go out on the town in New York and kick it. I would be Professor Macklemore… Eventually, I dropped the professo and Macklemore [became] my rapping name.” Underneath the superhero digs, Macklemore is Ben Haggerty, and after meeting partner-in-crime Ryan Lewis on Myspace, the two set on an
industry-defying career that says you don’t need a major label deal to hit it big (and win a couple of Grammys, too). “Ryan is definitely one of my bestfriends in the world,” he says. “He is somebody that I pretty much see every single day. There are definitely times that we get on each other’s nerves and we probably take each other for granted but I think overall, there’s real respect, admiration, [and] love between us. That’s just what you get when you work with someone all
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the time and you put everything in your craft. He is a big part of my life and you know, he supports me and I support him.“ Together, they’ve served us with songs like “Thrift Shop,” “Can’t Hold Us,” “Same Love,” and “White Walls” and have recently won them four Grammy Awards this year: Best Rap Song, Best New Artist, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Album. Beating out hip-hop heavy weights like Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake, they cement their position as independent power players and gained respect from their peers and critics. From tackling social issues like drugs and alcohol addiction, consumerism, and same-sex marriage to dance songs with upbeat rhymes and DGAF attitudes, they’ve created a new movement and sound to ride alongside hip-hop’s usual guns, booze, and bitches lyrics. Macklemore shares, “My music is inspired by everything that I come in contact with. It’s more [than] inanimate objects, it’s about life. [It’s about] certain people, certain meanings [with] any one person. All the rappers that come before me, past or present, anybody. I’m inspired by everyone. But more than that, I’m inspired by life and the life that I live.” With such a wealth of references and inspiration that flow in and out of Macklemore’s rhymes and Ryan’s beats, it’s clear that they don’t follow a strict formula for a hit record. He says, “Sometimes, I don’t write raps at all and just let the writing continue out of the page.” The sheer amount of hits they’ve made is a testament that they’re onto something, but then again, huge tracks have never
mattered to either of them. Great as they are, they’re not the reason why he and Ryan got into music. “I care more about having music that lasts for a longer time than having an immediate explosion and blowing up and being immediately famous.” Beyond the success of their album, the road they took to get there makes them more compelling artists. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis refused to sign with a major record label, instead taking an independent route, which earned them a substantial fanbase that supported their self-produced, recorded, and released album despite having no mainstream support. In his Grammy speech, Macklemore took the mic to say, “Before there was any media, before there was any buzz about us, before there was a story, there was our fans and it spread organically through them. So without them, there would be no us.” Taking a step back, he admits, “I’ve always wanted to make music and be on tour and support myself out of it. I’ve gone to places I’ve never been and the fanbase is incredible [in] places I’ve never travelled, [which] has always been a dream of mine. It’s just incredible. I try not to take anything for granted and be grateful all the time.” Through the crazy ride he and Ryan have both been on in the past couple of years, some things remain the same. He still takes time to prep for every show, stretching and warming up before bringing it into a circle and hitting the stage. Despite this being only the latest leg in a huge
world tour, he admits that nerves still eat at him—but that’s a good thing. “The day that I’m not nervous makes me more skeptical of what I’m putting into the show,” he says. “I always want to be nervous. I always want to be excited. It’s really what nerves are: excitement and the unknown. You never want it to be a routine. You never want it to feel like you’re going through the motions when you’re on stage. I hope to get nervous every show.” He hits the stage and it doesn’t feel like he’s going through the motions. You know he doesn’t just tune it, he turns it up. The crowd roars for an encore and Macklemore and Ryan
Lewis perform “Can’t Hold Us” again. The ground shakes as they drop every beat and the crowd drops with them, jumping up and down with the same amount of excitement the two give into their performance. There’s no doubt that it’s the same for every show these two play. The audience cheer them on because of what they stand for, and like any long journey, their triumph over years of struggle in a road less-traveled makes this—the stage, crowd, support, and gratefulness—feel like home.
macklemore.com @macklemore
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British buzz rockers THE 1975 have made a fruitful fixation on 1980s production tics and John Hughes’ Brat Pack in their self-titled debut. Whether you’re looking for chocolate or sex (or both), these lads from Manchester can deliver sweet jams that would satisfy your cravings. By Kix Suarez
“We are not in search of the validation of other pop stars, but of course it’s a really nice moment where your reality tilts.”
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att Healy (vocals, guitars) and bandmates Ross MacDonald (bass), Adam Hann (guitars), and George Daniel (drums) have been making music since the early age of 13. Inspired by John Hughes classics, they collectively
wrote the soundtrack of their small town lives in an effort to immortalize moments from their youth. Matt explains, “The Breakfast Club explores so many ideas that I explore in the [album]–small town romance, the depiction of yearning of getting out somewhere, that kind of apocalyptic sense of being a teenager where nothing
that preceded or predated it mattered.” The 1975 have been in and out of the music scene for the past couple of years, surfacing first in the early 2000s as Drive Like I Do. A year after their latest rebirth, they’ve finally taken Europe and the US by storm with their unapologetic 80s-infused pop rock sound. When
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we met with them in Hong Kong, it had just been a day after they graced Clockenflap’s main stage. The lads seat at the W Hotel with a view of the harbor soothing them, as well as the surreal high of how their online breakout got them into touring with rock gods. You guys started making music at a young age, what got you in to it? Just the uncontrollable gravitational pull that music had towards us. Someone just asked us a while ago what music meant to us. It’s the most powerful thing, but doesn’t tangibly exist. To be so defined and consumed by an idea is what subconsciously got us into music. The idea that commands you how to feel, but isn’t actually there. A year ago, we were just kids on the internet like you, being inspired by other people. It’s funny now to us that people are so inspired by our band. It’s strange. We, now after a year of touring and meeting people, are starting to come to understand it. And instead of it freaking us out, we find it really flattering and very humbling.
Did you get any formal training? On and off, but the musical training does not define us at all. As Jamie would say to labels that didn’t want to sign us, it’s very rare to get a band that has a strong musical knowledge and history in the application and playing of music but also with wealth of ideas, you know? I think the better the musician you are, the less you have to show off. It’s the kids trying to play everything that aren’t that good. Who did you listen to growing up? I listened to your older stuff and your sound was very raw/punk. Reminded me of At The Drive In. Yeah but we were never quite as good or as cool as At The Drive In. [Laughs] I think our history that’s kind of pop punk/post punk is still relevant in our energy live on stage. We still move around like we’re playing Glassjaw, but we’re not. Our musical style was informed by black American music when we were kids. Motown, R&B, and ‘80s pop music was always there. When we were like 15 or 16, it was Glassjaw, ATDI, Hundred Reasons, kind of a lot of teen angst. We were in to skate punk, in to skate clothes, in to the culture, but never actually skated. We spent too much time getting high and
“A year ago, we were just kids on the internet like you, being inspired by other people. It’s funny now to us that people are so inspired by our band.”
playing music. Ambient music was a big time for us when we got in to Sigur Rós and My Bloody Valentine. I like the way you guys write, it’s very honest and almost conversational. You probably relate to it because you’ve been in the same things as me and all that I did. I started writing music without wanting to be in a big band, without knowing that I was going to be in an established band. So when I wrote music, I had the confidence to write lines like, “I’m not trying to stop you, love. If we’re gonna do anything, we might as well just fuck” because that was something that I said. It’s just really a scrapbook of conversations, situations, and ideas. I was provided with that environment because I was genuinely writing music for me. People who don’t write music for themselves end up writing generic stuff about boring things. We just wrote
about what we knew about. That’s why people like you are invested in it. Who do you want to impress next? Is that something you think or care about? We used to think we cared about it, but we don’t really anymore. To be honest, we’ve been given the privilege of not caring. We are not in search of the validation of other pop stars, but of course it’s a really nice moment where your reality tilts. Like The Rolling Stones, at that time we were doing a gig. I wasn’t embracing the moment, but at one point I looked to the side of the stage and there was Mick Jagger. I look behind and there was George with our big banner. I looked ahead and there was my dad. It’s like the moment your reality and your concept of rockstardom are actualized. It’s really quite potent.
the1975.com @the1975
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R O C K I N ' DIVERSION
Love them or hate them, there's always a bit of that undisclosed candid charm about the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS. And though it has already been three decades since they started, we are still addicted to their shindig. By Gian Cruz
heavy hitter
"We always know where all our shit is; keeping track of your shit is important" STORM IN A TEACUP
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he band will be the first to admit that the most controversial thing they’ve done is “stay together for the past thirty years”. That’s really saying something since the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s history is filled with shock and shift. They’ve changed band members with almost every album, put their jocks in socks, and sang shamelessly about sex and drugs. Yet somehow, RHCP has proven that fame and staying power is all a matter of humility. One can sense that they still don’t take themselves seriously despite the age and acclaim. As they say, the best thing about being rockstars is getting a good table at restaurants. When it comes right down to it, RHCP knows what is really important: “The music industry has changed, but we will continue to write music and play from our hearts. That will never change.”
It’s hard to believe that a band as influential as they were dealt a hard hand in the beginning. Anthony Kiedis, Hillel Slovak, Flea, and Jack Irons were the first quartet to be known as the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Slovak and Irons would constantly leave RHCP for other endeavors up until the death of Slovak which also prompted Irons to leave Kiedis and Flea for good. A number of changes (happened) until John Frusciante and Chad Smith officially signed on with RHCP. It was this set that staged the unbelievable run of massive record sales, multi-platinum awards, and several world tours from 1998 to 2003. Frusciante, however, would still come and go until his permanent departure in 2009. The young Josh Klinghoffer would pick up the lead guitar to move the band forward into the second decade of the new millennium. The bigger picture that drew fans to the band is not how many members got replaced. Rather, it is how the band has triumphed in surpassing all the obstacles presented to them in creating music. Indeed, it is through this struggle that they’ve created a particular niche for themselves. Of course, they have their own way of describing this: “We always know where all our shit is; keeping track of your shit is important”
Concert Photos by Stephen Lavoie
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"The music industry has changed, but we will continue to write music and play from our hearts. That will never change." 100 - statusmagonline.com
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Around the World 2014. The Red Hot Chili Peppers are still conquering new territories. It was their first time in the Philippines as they headlined the 7107 International Music Festival last February. Asked about their expectations prior to their visit to the Philippines, the group replied: “We love going to new places to rock and have fun, fun, fun.” Taking things in retrospect, what a lot of bands today have failed to do is be fun. Most bands now are too consumed by image and self-obsessed with what they wear to their overall identity, but RHCP still run around like the naughty kids misbehaving for no good reason they were when they first started. Remember when they parodied every other music legend in “Dani California” or their installation art antics for “Can’t Stop”? Don’t forget how they keep it tongue-in-cheek when they wanted rain in “The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie”. RHCP has gone through a lot of serious life lessons but when asked who they want to play the lead if a movie was made about them, they exclaim: “Denzel Washington.” And when we followed-up by asking what would be the last song they would play when the world ends, they quip: “The one note samba. And then run like hell.” They also wonder about their fans and groupies as they have been told that they “…have lots of children all over the world.”
Higher Ground If they still wonder about their offspring and what they’ created, they could always take a look at their faithful fans who’ve stuck with them through every album. Let them not forget about the new ones who’ve discovered their albums through their older siblings, parents, or simply because they still hold their own in music charts despite younger acts coming in. They could always take note of how they have grown from a band which simply sings about the pleasure of illicit affairs (“Sir Psycho Sexy”, “Catholic School Girls Rule”) to emotionally intense love songs (“Warm Tape”, “Hard to Concentrate”). How they counterbalance the fun is also key in their career. Let us remember how their songs can also be painfully reflective (“Tell Me Baby”, “Brendan’s Death Song”, “Porcelain”), showing a wisdom they have possessed since “Californication” and “Under The Bridge”. It’s no surprise that it’s because of these elements combined, they’ve been declared by MTV as “one of the very few rock groups of the 80’s that broke down as many musical barriers” along with so many other praises and awards. It’s always good to have a band to look up to with that drive to keep on making music. the Red Hot Chilli Peppers is definitely one of those bands. Age, change, time, and history will never slow down the wily LA spirit that the band has shared and enriched. As they constantly work on their style and continue to surprise fans they share, “Brace yourselves, we will change and grow taller.”
@ChiliPeppers redhotchilipeppers.com Concert Photos by Stephen Lavoie
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“I just experiment and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. It’s not something I force.”
N
icholas James Murphy, more popularly known as Chet Faker, broke into the internet music scene and blossomed overnight in the wake of his sensational cover of Blackstreet’s “No Diggity.” It was the first song he released online under the alias–changing Nick Murphy since another Aussie singer had the exact same name. Heavily inspired by
the 50s jazz giant Chet Baker, Chet took on the world as a musician and embodied Baker’s influence through his name and music style, which he describes as “broken, close-up, and intimate.” Since setting the version loose back in March 2011, he has been acquiring praise for his minimalistic vocal pitch on layers of rhythm and blues magnified by electronic synths. “Lonely sun, enough of lies / Sleeping naked in the night / Got to take it off my mind / Old enough to make you mine / I believe in human lies,” his
resounding, dreamy drawls spell out melancholic lyrics to the tune of robust beats like in one of his early singles, “Love and Feeling.” By the time he came out with his first EP, Thinking in Textures, his musical method was established: emotions and sensations with a lyrical depth of skillful distortion by ambient, cerebral, and headbobbing downbeats. Because of the strong tug on emotions, I asked if he favors the emotional aspect of making his music more than the technical. “They go hand in hand,” shares Chet. He
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IN THIS CLEAR HAZE CHET FAKER’s chosen moniker may be built on glass, but his genre-bending music that pulls strings from R&B and electronica proves to be a substantial sound heard all the way from down under. By Kitkat Ramos Photographed by Lisa Frieling
aims to develop his sound by incorporating more instruments and equipment in fine-tuning his craft. “I just experiment and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. It’s not something I force,” he says when I asked him about his latest single, “Talk is Cheap,” a song that opens with a saxophone–an instrument which he claims is a big step for him. Yet despite his unlimited access to several rigs and instruments, he still maintains a selective manner in choosing them, “[I limit] what equipment I use. Setting restrictions is really good.”
As a result, he produces wellrounded songs that balance a meticulous sound and an intense emotion. The reception for his songs has been great in both Australia and the US–two hotspots he’s been playing for and increasing twofold after the release of Lockjaw. He shares the hit EP with fellow Aussie musician Flume who is more easily classified under electronica because of his upbeat and dubbed-out songs, as opposed to Chet’s slower, more relaxing tones. Their collaboration generated a hybrid
record, and they have been fast friends since. In a local feature, Chet described their natural chemistry: “That record doesn’t sound particularly like Flume or specifically like a Chet Faker record. It really is a hybrid of both sounds going to one and I feel like everything we did with that EP […] was collaborative and I think that shines through.” This difference in style has helped Chet to evolve his own technique and he does not deny the influence. He assures us that the new material he has been working on includes faster
and more upbeat songs, but still preserves the music he currently has. He’s been busy touring for the past months, building anticipation for the release of his first album, Built on Glass, set to release this April. We’re prepared to be shattered by a new series of calming tunes rising to the mix of rigs and beats from this bearded genius.
soundcloud.com/chet-faker twitter.com/Chet_Faker
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The Internet may have killed the radio star but that didn’t stop these indie music labels from keeping the record spinning. By Pola Beronilla
Lilystars Records How did the Lilystars Records start out? When Orange & Lemons disbanded in 2007, I ventured back as an independent musician and formed The Camerawalls. The idea of Lilystars Records arose in order to house my own releases in 2008. But eventually, we started signing other artists and releasing international acts as well. The vision was simply to provide a home for quality pop releases. Do you have specific criteria when signing artists? We support indie pop/rock/folk/ electronic and its derivatives and prefer English releases. But this month, we will make another exception by releasing our second non-English track called “Te Quiero” by the London-based artist Cineplexx. The first nonEnglish track that we released was “Canto De Maria” by The Camerawalls.
Describe the local music scene today. The local music industry is ever changing. Rich in terms of diversity and equal opportunities for success as long as the artists are willing to adapt to the changes and start to learn the business side of music. Promoting and developing a career has never been this easy with tons of resources and platforms on the internet. It is even becoming cheaper to invest in a home recording suite. Geography is no longer an issue. Filipino musicians should really think of tapping foreign market and communities. Which acts from your roster should we look out for? Dragonfly Collector, Bing Austria, and Cineplexx.
lilystars-records.com
“The local music industry is ever changing. Rich in terms of diversity and equal opportunities for success…”
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Lilystars Records Photo by Paulo Legaspi
Clemen Castro (Owner/Label Manager)
BLOCK PARTY
Terno Recordings Toti Dalmacion (Founder/Owner)
What led you to put up a record label? It was inevitable, given that I’ve been in the business for almost 30 years. Starting from DJing to bringing in foreign acts and DJs way before everyone else. I also had a record store called Groove Nation. Eventually, [putting up a record label] was the natural thing for me to do next. What did you have in mind when you started Terno Recordings? It’s basically to raise the bar and provide that option that no one here seems to provide. Not just for the artist but for the audience. That’s what Terno is about; it’s about quality and about local music being globally in sync. It’s not just all about balladeers or typical love songs with Pinoys because that’s the impression that most foreigners have. That it’s all very pop here. But when I say that, Terno
for me is pop but in a more adventurous kind of way. Are there any local acts you wished to have signed? Honestly, none. Because I’m not really into OPM, from the beginning it was really like that. That’s why when Terno originally started, it was supposed to be a record label that just compiles independent music from around the world. That was the original plan, that’s how most indie labels are. I get bands from Japan, Sweden, and the Philippines, but they’re tied together because of that indie pop sound. But it got diverted when I got local acts already. Which acts from your roster should we look out for? Sky Marines, Pulso, Mod, Land the Moon, and Ringmaster.
ternorecordings.com
“It’s not just all about balladeers or typical love songs with Pinoys because that’s the impression that most foreigners have.”
Number Line Records Photo by Joseph Pascual
“People need to support artists more by being willing to pay more for live shows.” putting out records from artists like Honor Gavin, who is from the UK, and the French Pop Dream.
Number Line Records
Bobby, Mike, and Mick Benedicto (Co-founders/Owners)
What’s the story behind the name? The three of us siblings have always been fond of math and still have an ongoing aesthetic interest in geometry, so “Number Line” was a pretty natural name for us to adopt. There’s no deeper story behind it unfortunately.
What is the vision of Number Line Records? We want to release intelligent, interesting, sophisticated music—whether it’s pop or experimental—that can reach a global audience. In the beginning, we only released work by Filipino artists (whether based in the Philippines or elsewhere), but now we’re also
If you could change one thing about the current OPM scene, what would it be? People need to support artists more by being willing to pay more for live shows. The amount artists get for playing live is ridiculously low. That’s got to change. Which acts from your roster should we look out for? Big Hat Gang, Love in Athens, No Rome, and Outerhope.
numberlinerecords.com
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NIGHTVISION Super Social by Walter Vroegop
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NIGHTVISION
still hate mondays by I Hate Flash
PLASTIC CREW VIBES by Walter Vroegop
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ZERO FEATURING BOBBY MADDATU by Mikhail Arce-Ignacio
RIO WARNER EXTRAVAGANZA by Mark Hunter
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ALL HANDS ON DECK by Walter Vroegop
Martin solveig @ Republiq by Jun Lopez
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social saturdays @ Aracama
more more galore by Palma Wright
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DIRECTORY BRANDS 10 DEEP 10deep.com 100% PURE 100percentpure.com 21 MEN SM Megamall, Ortigas City, AC+632 Greenbelt 5, Makati City ACURE acureorganics.com ADIDAS Greenbelt 3, Makati ALEXANDRE BIRMAN alexandrebirman.com.br AMERICAN VINTAGE am-vintage.com BELLEROSE bellerose.be BEN SHERMAN Shangri-La Plaza, Ortigas City BLACK BALLOON blackballoon.be BOBBI BROWN bobbibrowncosmetics.com CALL IT SPRING Greenbelt 3, Makati City CARGO cargocosmetics.com CARHATT carhatt.com CHARLES DAVID Greenbelt 5, Makati CREATIVE RECREATION cr8rec.com CREED creedfragrances.co.uk DOROTHY PERKINS SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City DOUGLAS HANNANT douglashannant.com DR. ORGANIC drorganic.co.uk
FIRMA Greenbelt 3, Makati City FOREVER 21 SM Megamall, Ortigas City, FYRE thefyrecompany.com JASON WU jasonwustudio.com JOSIE MARAN josiemaranconsmetics. com JOSIE NATORI natori.com KAHINA kahima-givingbeauty.com KATIE ERMILO katieermilo.com LACOSTE lacoste.com LANCÔME lancome-usa.com LIE SANG BONG liesangbong.com MAC maccosmetics.com MARC BY MARC JACOBS Greenbelt 5, Makati City MELINDA GLOSS melindagloss.com NARS narscosmetics.com NYX nyxcosmetics.com OXYGEN SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City PAMELLA ROLAND pamellaroland.com PEDRO Greenbelt 5, Makati City PENSHOPPE SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City PONY pony.com RIVER ISLAND SM Aura,Taguig
SPRINGFIELD Greenbelt 3, Makati City STEVE MADDEN Greenbelt 5,Makati City SUITE BLANCO SM Aura, Taguig City SWISSE swisse.com TOPMAN SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City TOPSHOP SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City VANS Vans Concept Stores, SM Department Stores, Robinsons Department Stores, Landmark Department Stores, Urban Athletics, Toby’s Sports, Olympic Village, Shoe Salon, American Rag, Sole Academy, Greyone Social WAREHOUSE SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City WALTER STEIGER waltersteiger.com ZUHAIR MURAD zuhairmurad.com ARTISTS Kate Aronsson-Brown (Stylist) katearonssonbrown.com Fernando Colon (Photographer) fernandocolon.com Danica Condez (Photographer) behance.net/danicacondez Crystal Die (Makeup) crystaldie.wix.com/makeup-artist Sarah Gentillon (Stylist) sarahgentillon.com Ludo Hanton (Photograhpher) ludohanton.com Joyce Ignacio (Hair and Makeup) joyceignacio.com Mirna Jose (Makeup) mirnajose.com
Yasutake Kosaka (Hair) yasutakekosaka.blogspot.com Czar Kristoff (Photographer) behance.net/czarkristoff Christophe Lambenne (Hair) christophelambenne.com Paulo Legaspi (Photographer) pauloclegaspi.com Shaira Luna (Photographer) shairaluna.tumblr.com Miguel Miranda (Photographer) miguelmirandaphotography.com Maria Panina (Photo Assistant) mariapanina.com Joseph Pascual (Photographer) josephpascual.tumblr.com Mariah Reodica (Photographer) mariahreodica.tumblr.com RJ Roque (Stylist) inaninstax.com Steffi Santiago (Photographer) kerasaku.carbonmade.com JP Singson (Photographer) jponfashionspeed.com Nick St. James (Photographer) nickstjames.com Enico Szucs (Photographer) enikoszucs.com
S TAT U S IN VA D E S PHOENIX BAND SIGNED VINYL ALBUM
“Pour tout le magnifique voyage, Merci Stephanie”–Thomas Mars (For the magnificent journey/voyage, Thank you Stephanie). Bringing Phoenix to perform here in Manila and getting to know them personally on a deeper level gave me a lot of great memories that I’ll cherish forever. I gained four awesome Parisian buddies!
PASSPORT
I love to travel, unwind, and discover different places and cultures! A trip abroad is usually my reward for myself after a big project.
MAC “GIRL ABOUT TOWN” LIPSTICK
I love this lipstick because of its shade and its name fits me. This shade is perfect for when I’m attending meetings or having dinner with friends.
STEPHANIE UY
Bringing in international acts like Phoenix and The Temper Trap are just a few things crossed out on STEPHANIE UY’s bands to see list. The mastermind behind Wanderland Music Festival has us itching for the next lineup and left us wondering for more.
MARC JACOBS MIRROR
@stephieuy
This quirky find makes me want to look in the mirror.
LOOK UP! AND DREAM (TIAN TIAN XIANG SHANG) FIGURINE
JIMMY CHOO EAU DE TOILETTE PERFUME
It’s my all-time favorite scent because of its natural and fresh fragrance that lasts all day.
2PM BAND KPOP ALBUM
I’m not really into Kpop but I love 2PM because of their charismatic aura. I lined up in customs for 2 hours just to get my package!
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EIFFEL TOWER MODEL
I used to collect a lot of Eiffel Tower figurines because I love its structure. And of course, I dream of one day touring the city of love.
FRANKIE MAGAZINE
I discovered this magazine online and purchased it right away. Whenever I get a creative block, I just read this magazine. It became my daily inspirational read.
Portrait and Product photography by Danica Condez
I have this Chinese figurine by Danny Yung, which means “Look Up! and Dream.” It always reminds me to dream and be passionate about my aspirations in life.