The Luna Collective Issue 13 x Kari Faux

a note...

Welcome to Issue 13 - get ready to dive in and meet some incredible creatives. Each issue I am blown away by the talent we get to feature and

work with, so thank you for taking the time to read this and support us.

Putting the magazine together is always a stressful, though incredibly

rewarding effort and I am so proud of the final product each time. Each

issue is able to reflect our growth and changing tastes so I hope you’ll stick around to see what’s next.

I don’t need to tell you about how weird this year is - you already know that. However, I do want to mention the importance of grieving in order to

progress. I am really thankful that I allowed myself to grieve in the Spring.

So many opportunities, plans and rewards were taken away. It felt like

there was nothing but challenges and darkness ahead, but as time has progressed I have found the opposite. When I started viewing all of these

challenges as opportunities something lit up in my brain and has stayed aflame since. In a weird way, I have felt more inspired and motivated than

ever before. Nothing is possible but everything is possible at the same time. The box we have known for so long no longer exists and getting

creative to make things work has been taken to a new level. Acknowledge your grief, take time to heal and then - move on. View this as an opportunity to adapt like never before

Thank you to everyone part of this issue for having such good spirits about

this all. I feel so lucky and grateful to be able to continue to make such amazing projects and bring people together. Let us keep moving forward and bringing everyone up with us.

xox, Sophie

Join our community Exclusive interviews, photo series, submission open calls, creative grants & so much more.

Some Tunes For You Kari Faux - While God Was Sleepin’...

Zanski - Threes

Cruza - Plastic World

Serena Isioma - Valentina

Omar Apollo - Stayback

marcos g - switch up

Charlotte Day Wilson - Take Care of You (feat. Syd)

MICHELLE - Sunrise

Killumantii - Rules

Samia - Big Wheel

Aminé - Pressure In My Palms (feat. slowthai &

Elais Park - Been Busy

Vince Staples)

SZA, Ty Dolla $ign - Hit Different

Reijie Snow, MF Doom, Cam O-Bi - Cookie Chips

Gus Dapperton - Medicine

Alfie Templeman - Obvious Guy

Christian Blue - Leave It Unlocked

Arlo Parks - Hurt

The Hails - Heartbeat Pt. 2

Khamari - The Heart

Wallows - Nobody Gets Me (Like You)

A.K. Paul - Be Honest

Still Woozy - BS

St. Panther - Highway

Declan McKenna - The Key To Life On Earth

Spencer. - Maybe

girl in red - rue

Dava - ASOS

Deaton Chris Anthony - Tuethday

Ashes To Amber - Miss Future

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SAMONE ZENA Story By Saachi Gupta | Photos Provided By Samone Zena | Design By Will Catto

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Story By Isabella Vega | Photos By Carina Allen | Design By Olivia Boryczewski

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WITH ROOTS IN POP MUSIC AND EMPATHY, MICHELLE HAS STEPPED ONTO THE SCENE WITH AUTHENTICITY AT THE CORE. Consisting of Sofia D’Angelo, Julian Kaufman, Charlie Kilgore, Jamee Lockard, Emma Lee, and Layla Ku, MICHELLE is based in New York, though their upbeat and fresh sound transcends distance. After independently releasing their debut project

HEATWAVE in 2018, MICHELLE has crafted a charming sound that you can’t seem

to get enough of. Their summer release “SUNRISE” served as a breath of fresh air during a time of unrest and uncertainty in the United States, providing a temporary

moment of positivity for many. With a passion for their music of course but a deep commitment to activism, the members of MICHELLE are finding a balance between it all.

Despite the ongoing uncertainty of the world, all of the members of the collective have more or less gotten used to life in quarantine. D’Angelo, who is a current

student at NYU, has had to adjust to the odd world of online schooling, but is able to

find the positive. She notes, “It’s nice that I can do everything from home. I had class earlier, then I got to work out in my room, shower, and now I’m doing this interview!”

Along with their learning styles, their creative process has been affected but the group sees this shift as an opportunity rather than a road block. Writing sessions

that usually would take a more casual, relaxed route became hyper-focused and

preciously savoring every moment in each other’s company, while using masks and

social distancing, of course. Kaufman is excited about this new opportunity, and sees it as a way to grow as pop artists, “Pop music has been being made remotely

for almost a decade now, the song “Moves Like Jagger” was written over Skype.”

Kaufman explains, “It’s nice to get those kinds of skills under our belt as we try to move up in the music world and get experience working remotely because that’s the reality of the pop world.”

While their last few projects have taken on the stylistic elements of New York in the 90s, their upcoming project finds the band going back a few decades. D’Angelo

mentions that there will be “lots of 70s disco” and “earworm melodies that get stuck in your head”, and Kilgore attributes this sound to “a more experimental writing space, where we would throw around ideas of what we truly wanted our music to sound like.”

In truth, as Kaufman explains, this new project is the compilation of four writing sessions: one from two winters ago, one from that preceding summer, one from last

fall, and one from this past summer. A large contrast to their creative process for

HEATWAVE, where they put together the whole project in two weeks, this array in time will reflect their growth over the course of the project. Though the four sessions are drastically different time periods, Kauffman describes the new project, with an upcoming single, as “having more intention than our last album.”

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The visual aspects for their newest releases have all been

The Freedom Arts Movement MICHELLE’s commitment to

created while in quarantine, from their self-shot music

these causes is simply second nature to them.

videos to an animated video for “SUNRISE” created by

their own friend, Kohana Wilson. With plans to work with

Ku explains, “I think that we’re messengers and facilitators.

idea and shift to an animated video. “It was a post-COVID

little bit of that weight lifted off of their shoulders, which is

Wilson before quarantine, the group was able to adapt their

The people doing the groundwork are the ones who need a

decision, since the video allowed us to get that message of

lifted when it’s a communal effort to distribute information.

hopefulness and sunlight out during a time of quarantine.”

That responsibility can’t all fall on those people, especially

explains Lockard.

the people of color for whom these experiences are intrinsic to their everyday lives. If you look at us most of us

Not only is there a notable stylistic difference in this era, but

aren’t white. I think it’s definitely been a practice for us that

this is the first time MICHELLE is producing a body of work

extends beyond just what we think we should be doing as

with the support of a label, after being signed to Atlantic

a group with a platform, because this has definitely been

and Canvasback Records. Though hearing the word “label”

real life experiences for all of us in different ways. It’s not

in the indie music scene can sound like hundreds of eyes

difficult to just do the correct thing. I don’t feel like we’re

controlling your every move, the band has had an overall

doing some sort of laborious chore. It is a responsibility, but

positive and supportive experience with their record labels.

it is very simple when you boil it down, so it’s ridiculous as to

Each member has nothing but positive things to say about

why it’s not common practice to anybody with a connection

it, Lockard stating that, “Our label has expressed that they

to the Internet, the world or their community.”

are very much here to support us in any way we need.

They’re willing to be as hands-on or hands-off as we need,

Kauffman adds “I think it’s important to contextualize things,

“as we’ve grown into them, we’ve found this mutual trust,

500 in an issue that has been occurring for a very long time.

but we’re pretty self sufficient,” with D’Angelo mentioning

like thinking of this past summer not as Step 1, but as Step

which we are so blessed to have.”

Understanding that activism ebbs and flows, and when it

ebbs, it feels new, but it’s really the continuation. It never

For the members of MICHELLE, the current social uprising is

really died down, but it’s just that people weren’t paying

so much more than just a hashtag or posting a black square

attention. Trying to educate yourself and contextualize

on their feed: it’s using their platform as a mostly non-white

yourself in the time period of activism, we see how we can

band to uplift marginalized voices. The group recognizes

move forward.”

the varying roles people can take on to be part of this

movement in a meaningful and effective way. Lee Notes,

Lockard closes out the discussion by stating “People love

are good at one thing and someone that’s good at another,

they conveniently ignore that he said that he said ‘One

“It’s like the way people make music. You have people that

to quote MLK when he talks about peaceful protests, but

so it’s about bringing those things together, whether it’s

of the number one issues in America is Police Brutality’,

utilizing the art you create or the platform you have…All of

exactly what people are protesting.”

that is important, it’s not one thing over another. Everything is important to make this move.”

Getting to know MICHELLE’s happy and upbeat pop sound

By using their platform to educate their audience, provide a

lead the charge of authentic activism, while balancing their

is inseparable from their deeply rooted empathy. As they

space for those from underrepresented background to find

own mental health, self care and musical journeys, they

comfort as well as raise money to organizations such as The

make an impact in every community their music takes root

Loveland Foundation, the NAACP, The Okra Project and

in.

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SHIRLEY CARD Photos & Words By Zachary Francois | Design By Jas Calcitas

Shirley cards were used to determine how skin tones on portraits would be developed, being that whiteness is centered in everything.

Often times skin tones for Black subjects would not be properly lit.

The only reason that this became an issue is when furniture companies complained to film providers that they couldn’t tell the difference between wood textures and colors (yes really) they only cared to focus on darker skin tones because of furniture. Kodak rolled out a multi-racial Shirley card in 1995, but this still didn’t really solve the problem because the very chemicals used to develop film were catered towards white skin.

For this project, I decided to make my own Shirley cards that highlight the underrepresented voices in photography in a positive light.

“Diary of the End of the Summer”

By Athena Merry

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Story By Astrid Ortega |Photos Provided By Blackksocks & Alfie Templeman | Design By Olivia Boryczewski Born from a musical family that led him to be

can never really process that as an artist because it’s

Templeman dived into making music at the young

of different people connecting to it.” Beyond

surrounded and open to the world of music, Alfie

just unbelievable how you have literally thousands

age of 13. Now at the age of 17, he’s released

grateful for his fanbase and listeners, Templeman

multiple EPs, including his most recent project

believes the best way to say thank you is to keep

Happiness In Liquid Form, and singles full of

putting out more music.

vibrancy and flowing sounds. Inspired by rock and

indie music, Templeman takes his favorite elements

Since he’s been making music from such a young

truly one of a kind and true to himself.

always stays true to himself. His earliest work is rawer

age, Templeman’s sound is constantly evolving yet

and creates his own unique sound, making his music

as it’s made in his bedroom from bursts of creativity,

Based out of Bedfordshire, England, Templeman

though as he’s grown he still enjoys producing on

has become quite the hit in the U.K. and was

his own. One of his proudest accomplishments has

honored as one of the U.K. indie’s brightest lights

been getting better at music engineering thanks to

supported by Radio 1, BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X

a music technology class at his school. Influenced

and Beats 1. His rise is no surprise after his debut

by Radiohead, he started experimenting with more

single, “Like An Animal,” that now alone has over

digital elements like synths and kept asking himself,

two million streams.

“What would Radiohead do?” You can see these

aspects in his latest EP, Happiness In Liquid Form,

As his inspirations vary, Templeman’s music has

in songs like “Obvious Guy” and “Maybe This Is

many elements to it. His music has layers of different

Time.”

genres ranging from indie-pop to bedroom pop to

hints of psychedelia and funk. Finding inspiration in

Quarantine has become a significant part of many

day he can include a more edgy sound like theirs in

into new hobbies and flows, as well as producing

Led Zeppelin in particular, Templeman hopes one

artists regarding their creativity. Many have gotten

his own music.

their art seamlessly. For Templeman, he’s been

writing about everything that has been making

Through his side project, Ariel Days, Templeman

him nostalgic. Being home a lot, he has more time

creates a space for music that doesn’t fit his typical

to sit at home and try new things. One of those

sound but still wants to share with his listeners. His

new things is stepping out of his comfort zone of

range in sounds, and feelings, shows how his music

playing the guitar to make music and instead using

is capable of bringing in new people and letting

the piano, which makes things more unpredictable

them find what resonates for them. He notices how

for him. This has opened him up to making more

people vent under his Youtube videos and how

mistakes but he says, “the best ideas for songs

much his music means to them, explaining “You

come from mistakes.”

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Despite the circumstances, quarantine has not kept

Coming off as an outgoing person due to the nature of

artists. “It’s not different because we’re still coming up

notes that he’s actually rather quiet and shy. His label

Templeman away from wanting to collaborate with other

his videos and his music being so upbeat, Templeman

with good stuff,” he explains as he’s used to it. The only

allows him the flexibility to do what he desires and voice

difference between being in person and doing work via

what he wants without feeling like he has to follow a

online is that it just takes longer and it’s not as easy to

certain path. His social media presence is sparse though

bounce off ideas. The atmosphere when making music

genuine, checking in with his fans once in a while and

is also really important, Templeman shares, “If you’re

using his platform to touch on social and political

writing in a really nice place the song sounds good

movements. As a supporter of the BLM movement,

straight away but it’s more hard writing in a place that’s

Templeman tries his best to get information out to his

pretty dull between four grey walls and you’re trying

audience via his social media, “It doesn’t matter who

to make something sound good in such a dull place.”

you are, on the internet everyone has the same amount

That’s why he finds comfort and ease making music in

of power.”

his bedroom because it feels more like a process that he’s used to.

Admiring Greta Thungberg for being young, passionate

Templeman’s projects serve as a little recap of his life to

keep people from doing what’s good and changing the

and making a change, he sees that age is not a limit to

show what he’s been up to, what he’s thinking about,

world. At the end of the day, the younger generation

what music he’s been listening to and what lessons he’s

has to deal with the things ahead and grow up with that

learned. “I put out an EP every six months and it’s like a

responsibility so he believes the time to make a change

little segment of my life,” he explains. Just like people

is right now, “It’s about coming together instead of

his age are going to school and learning new things, he’s

staying apart,” he says.

doing the same but with his music and at the end of that he wants to show his audience what he’s learned. Rather

Templeman has a positive attitude for the rest of 2020,

just keep putting out more music without thinking about

COVID-19 or the social and political movements going

than peaking and then just falling down, he wants to

hoping for some more peace whether it be about

the results that follow, Templeman shares, “Even if you

on. Right now the only thing getting him through all

don’t have the same amount of fans than the previous

of the world’s troubles is making music. Focusing on

album it’s better to know you’re not lying to yourself

positivity, moving forward and putting out music for his

and you’ve actually done what you wanted to make and

audience to enjoy, Templeman notes, “Even the smallest

you progressed as an artist.”

things can make a big difference”.

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FROM HOUSE TO HOME

Nash, Malakai & Taylor By Logan Delaney

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I R A K FAUX Photos By Quil Lemons | Inte

rview By Sophie Gragg | Desig

n By Khristine Le

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KAR FAU KAR I FAU X KAR IF FAU XK

SLOWING DOWN FOR NOTHING AND RISING ABOVE IT ALL KARI FAUX MOVES FORWARD REGARDLESS OF THE TIMES.

With constant ideas and creativity flowing, Faux doesn’t

FAUX: It was very strange. I already had the date picked

have time to put anything on indefinite hold - rather

out way in advance, I had everything set. I was already

she adapts and is making the best of the circumstances.

gonna do it. So it just kinda felt like a test of “Are you

After releasing her hit mixtape Lowkey Superstar at the

gonna still put it out? Are you gonna hold off?” So I just

beginning of the pandemic in April this year, Faux took the

stuck to it because I felt like I’ve been working hard at this

time to reflect on the release and what it could have been

and I’m just gonna go with it.”

- and then moved forward. Shifting her creative energy to clothing for the time being, the artist continues to show

Granted, I didn’t get to do a whole press run or any of this

her versatility and ability to be so much more than just

physically, so I do wish that I could have done that aspect.

one thing. Her hands-on nature comes through in every

But it is what it is. At the end of the day, you can’t control

project she touches, with an authentic and individualistic

what’s happening in the world. I’m happy with what it is,

nature always at the core.

I’m happy that people enjoyed it.

With a newfound excitement through clothes, Faux makes

LUNA: Ultimately that’s what’s important. I also like to

it clear the sky is the limit when it comes to her creative

think by now, there’s kind of a slight wave of optimism

endeavors. Home decor, some music futures and maybe

since we are having to adapt. Do you think there’s any

even vlogs - plenty is on the table for her. While we were

kind of opportunity that this pandemic can create in the

in sunny Los Angeles we hopped on a call with Faux in

music industry at all?

stormy New York to talk her clothing line, the color purple and plenty in between. Read what’s the latest with Kari

FAUX: It’s so funny because I literally just said this

Faux and keep your eyes peeled for her slew of projects

yesterday to my best friend. I was like, “Isn’t it so weird

planned.

how you get so optimistic when everything around you feels so bleak?”

LUNA: You really hit 2020 running with the release of your mixtape, Lowkey Superstar, which was released just

LUNA: I think something shifted in July - the energy in

at the beginning of quarantine in April. I’m sure you’ve

July just shifted where it was like, “Okay, this is what’s

had a lot of time to reflect on this release and everything

good. Let’s figure it out.”

that came with it, so how did it feel to put out a really FAUX: Yeah, and I think that in this time it’s an opportunity

long-awaited project during this time?

to self-reflect for the entire music industry.

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RI F AUX UX K ARI KAR F I A F U I FA A X U KA XK UX ARI KAR XK ARI FAU I FA F UX AUX FAU K A XK K R A RI F ARI KAR AUX FAU I FA XK UX ARI KAR I FA UX

LUNA

There are so many fucked up things that happens in the

but just what direction do you see this new music headed

music business. I think now that the plug has been pulled

in compared to this previous work?

on a lot of things, it’s making people in the industry who perpetuate and turn a blind eye to the fucked up things

FAUX: Oh, I haven’t been making music. I’m just focused

sit completely still. Then on the other end of that is the

on just making tangible things. It has kind of restored this

people that have to deal with the fucked up things.

joy in me that I haven’t felt with music recently.

They’re starting to realize that they don’t have to play by LUNA: Oh, that’s awesome. So is that just clothes or

the industry’s rules if they don’t want to.

are there other mediums as well that you’re getting to I feel like for a lot of independent artists that felt like,

explore?

“Oh, I need to be signed. I need to be this and that to have the success that I want.” I think a lot of them are

FAUX: Right now, it’s just clothes, but I eventually wanna

understanding that all of these systems and structures are

make home decor. I just wanna do other shit!

bullshit. I feel like the pandemic has really pulled back LUNA: Yeah, why be limited? Why be limited to one

the veil.

thing? Just because you make music doesn’t mean that’s It’s really evened out the playing field for indie and

your title.

mainstream artists, you know? There are a lot of mainstream artists who just aren’t doing anything because

FAUX: You’ll be surprised the amount of people that

they don’t know how to be resourceful in that way like an

when I tell them I’m not really focusing on music right

independent artist would be.

now are confused. They’ll say “What? You don’t wanna make music?” I’m like, “No. Not really.” I can do it. I can

LUNA: When your come up and your foundation is you

always do it, I just want to do other things right now.

doing everything or being hands-on with everything, that just will carry you so far because you don’t have to rely on

LUNA: That’s been proven for sure. So when you’re

anyone or anything.

saying you’re working on clothes and other projects, are you able to create for yourself? Or is it more so like you’re

FAUX: Yeah, you’ll know how to quickly pivot.

creating with the intent of for others?

I think this is definitely a moment for everybody to reflect

FAUX: I think now I’m more consciously trying to create

and understand how we can make the music industry a

for myself. I know in the past I’ve said like, “Oh, I make

better place instead of it being something that just sucks

music for myself.” But it’s like, “No, I make music because

and takes from us.

I want other people to listen to it.”

LUNA: Well, I agree, I think that this could definitely,

With the clothes, granted I’m gonna make clothes for

hopefully, change our shit. The whole system needs to be

other people, but I think with the colors and the graphics

completely redone.

that I put on these, they’re very me. So it’s just another way of me expressing myself while also allowing other

FAUX: Everything’s gotta go. We gotta rebuild it.

people to enjoy it too. Since I’ve made this hat, I literally wear it everyday.

LUNA: Yeah, and we’re ready! Going back to the mixtape - it really has a fun, good energy, good flow to it, very

LUNA: I guess it probably changes a lot, but with more

palatable. It’s so easy to just listen to on repeat no

recent work, what are some of the key elements that

problem. I have no idea where you’re at with new music,

you’re drawn to when you’re putting together clothes or a look?

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FAUX: Right now, I love purple and green. I’m very attracted to those colors. Today I have on a lavender button-down shirt. I have on a green and purple hat that I made and then under my hat, I have my hair wrapped in a lavender bandanna. My nails are also lavender and dark purple. I’ve been on a purple wave for the last two years, I would say.

I was really into purple, just any shade of purple. When I started DJ-ing I called myself Violet Waters. I went and got my aura picture taken for the first time, and my aura was fucking purple!

LUNA: What does purple symbolize?

FAUX: Mine was purplish and pink, which means I’m very concerned with my relationships. So not just romantically but my relation to other people, I care a lot about other people. It also has to do with creativity and intuition. They also said that I think a lot - I think a lot and I may tend to overthink and that I have a lot of ideas, which is all very true. Purple is like the crown chakra, so it’s the mental aspect of your personality.

LUNA: Is that something that you’re into or is this a new territory for you, the aura stuff?

FAUX: Oh, no, no, no. I guess you can say I’m spiritual. I would like to think that I am. All my friends say that I am, but I feel like I’m not as spiritual as I could be. I could get really into it, but I’ve been feeling spirits and ghosts and all that shit, which is a little scary, so I’m like, “No, thank you.” I don’t really wanna communicate with people on the other side. I would rather not.

LUNA: Yeah, you’re like, “I would rather just mind my business, enjoy my aura readings.”

FAUX: Right, I’ve definitely had these moments where I feel like there’s a spirit in my space and I just try to act like I don’t know what’s going on.

LUNA: Have you ever gotten your tarot cards read?

FAUX: Oh, yeah, I read cards. Before I started reading cards, I used to get tarot readings from this woman years ago. And she was like, “You know you’re a card reader right? You know you’re a profound card reader,” and I was like, “What?”

She was like, “You’re a card reader, you’re supposed to be

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reading cards.” And I’m like, “Girl, what?” [chuckle] So

LUNA: Agreed. Has that been something you’ve been

I bought cards and started reading. I would never make

able to translate into clothing now? Are you able to

a business out of it but it is something that I do. And my

work with others on that as well or has that been a pretty

friends will come to me and be like, “Hey, can you pull

independent project?

some cards for me?” And I’d just be like, “Oh my God. FAUX: Yeah, it has. Actually, the first drop that I’m putting

Yeah, I’ll do it”.

out, a couple of the designs were made by a homie of LUNA: No, that’s very cool. I’m so into this stuff, I can

mine named Theo Martins. He has a cereal brand called

literally talk about this forever, so I’m just gonna put the

“Cereal & Such”. He also has a clothing brand called Good

cap on that ‘cause I love this stuff. That’s very cool. One

Posture. He’s just a super creative dude. So I just reached

more thing with the music and we’ll move forward to the

out to him and asked him to help me start a clothing line.

visual side of things, but I did see the recent track and

We sat down and we had a bunch of conversations about

video with Tkay Maidza - fire! How did you guys kind of

what I’m trying to do, and he sent me some designs. He

get together for that?

literally went through my Twitter and pulled from there.

So I got to have a shirt that says “Beat yo meat 4 world

FAUX: It was 1000% during quarantine. She hit me up

peace,” and another shirt that says, “In 3 easy payments

on Instagram and said she had a song she thought I’d

of Free.99, you too can mind your own business.”

be great on. I said of course because I love her - I think she’s great. So she sent me the song and I loved it and I

He found tweets where I said those things and then just

recorded my verse for her. She then said “Oh and by the

put ‘em on a t-shirt. He did his research and was just like,

way we wanna shoot a video.” And I’m thinking, “How

“Oh. Yeah, if this is Kari’s clothing line, let’s put Kari’s

the fuck are we gonna do that?”

personality into it.” Which I really appreciated. I’m very excited about it. I hope people fuck with it as much as

So basically, her team reached out to a company that

I do.

does camera work and backdrops and green screens in Little Rock. They pulled up to my house and they set up

LUNA: I’m sure people will. With that been said, how

the green screen and then my cousin shot my part on an

has quarantine impacted this creative process for the

iPhone, and then we sent it to them and then they edited

clothing?

it and put it in the video. I’m really happy for her. The last FAUX: The thing is, I was supposed to be releasing

few singles she’s put out have been really fire.

these clothes with the mixtape, and then the pandemic LUNA: Yeah, she’s really blown up. In addition to her,

happened. The person that was supposed to print them

you’ve been able to work with a lot of awesome artists

couldn’t print them. So I basically was sitting on these

like Childish Gambino, Black Party and Amindi. Can you

designs wondering if I was ever gonna put them out. Then

touch on the role of collaboration in your career and the

I decided I’ll just do it because I don’t have a reason not

value that has had for you?

to. Granted, it was supposed to come out with the music, but this line is gonna exist long after Lowkey Superstar.

FAUX: Very important to me. I think honest collaborations

It’s the same name, the brand is called Lowkey Superstar.

are the best ones. When I say that, it’s people that I could hang out with even if we weren’t making music. If we

LUNA: That branding really comes through whether it be

never made a song, I would never feel any way about

through music, through fashion. That’s tight.

not collaborating. I thoroughly just think that the more authentic the relationship is, the better the collaboration

I was kinda going back through some older stuff and I was

will come out.

watching the video for “Gahdamn”, and one of

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the comments mentioned how they could see

If you love my music or you love my clothes or you

the track being a “TikTok” song had it been

love something that I created with my friends or

released now. I was just thinking how crazy is it,

anything, that’s cool, but for you to be obsessed

that”TikTok” songs really are a thing now? How

with me as a person, to me it’s weird. I don’t care

do you think TikTok or social media has impacted

for it. That’s how you just have people in your

the way artists are creating and people are

business a lot. Then you’ll have people put you

consuming stuff?

on a pedestal just to try to tear you down. I’m not interested in any of that.

FAUX: I understand that TikTok is necessary in the way it can help artists out. There have been

LUNA: So we won’t be seeing vlogs from you any

independent artists whose songs have been out

time?

and TikTok is what boosts it forward. I remember there was this one guy who had a song from

FAUX: Well, honestly, I don’t know. If I made

the ‘90s and he was an independent artist from

a vlog, it would be a very random-ass vlog.

the ‘90s. I don’t know how true this is because

It wouldn’t be, “We’re going to the grocery

somebody told me this, but I guess somebody

store, guys.” I would probably try to shoot it

found the song and made a TikTok and then it

documentary style where it’s little to no talking.

went viral. So, of course, I’m sure he got hella

It’d just be me doing random things. I might

royalties from that shit, which is beautiful, you

make a beat to use for it and just treat it more as

know what I mean?

an artistic film than a vlog.

But then also, I think on the other side of that, is

LUNA: Saweetie is doing kind of what you’re

when artists are creating for the sole purpose of

saying. It’s definitely professional and more of a

TikTok. It’s like their sole purpose is to go viral on

docu-series vibe. I feel like that’s a different kind

TikTok. It’s definitely a whole genre now.

of route with vlogging where, yeah, it’s not the, “Hey, guys, today I’m doing this.”

LUNA: Also in terms of longevity if you pop off on TikTok who knows how long it’ll last you know?

FAUX: Yeah, yeah, yeah, I think it would be more

I saw in an old interview with Vice, you mentioned

of just trying to document the time. I was honestly

you don’t really wanna blow too fast because you

thinking about doing it for Lowkey Superstar, just

want people to stick around long-term and make

like starting to document the process of me doing

sure there’s that space to grow, which I think is so

all these things. So then I may not put it out now,

smart, and I don’t think we see that as much these

but in years to come, I’ll have enough footage to

days. Do you think you’ve been able to build a

put together something that’s really cool.

fan base open to that change in artistry?

FAUX: Yeah. I was just definitely one of those

LUNA: That’ll be really cool. This is more big picture but of course, now especially more than

people that was not trying to blow up too fast.

ever, there’s an expectation for an artist to be

I definitely had the opportunity to do that, but I

an active advocate for something and use their

felt like I needed to think about 10 years ahead

platform for more than music. I saw in the Pitchfork

of my time.

interview from earlier this, you mentioned you don’t want that to really overshadow you just

I’m also a pretty private person. I share what

expressing yourself in your music. So how are

I wanna share, but I’m very private and I’m not

you finding that balance between advocating

really interested in the idea of people obsessing

for what you do genuinely care about, but also

over what I’m doing or who I’m dating. People

keeping the focus on your creative work?

don’t need to be obsessed with my person.

Y E K W O L Y E K W O L R A T S R E P SU R A T

LUNA

FAUX: Well, I don’t really think I have to find a balance. I

FAUX: It’s just gonna make you understand that I also

just live my life and I care about the things that I care about.

understand what’s going on but I already understand it and

I don’t really see the things that I care about or that I speak

I don’t need to prove that to anybody. I don’t need to prove

about overshadowing my work per se. I also don’t want

to the world that I care about Black people or that I care

to center myself to make people care about me because I

about LGBTQ rights. I don’t need to prove that to anybody.

speak about certain issues. It’s bigger than me.

I live that shit every single day.

It gets really tricky to not be put on a pedestal. I guess you

LUNA: I really like your point about just being open to

can’t really help what people do or if people choose to

growth and change because I feel like that’s the most

idolize you. You can’t really help if people do that, but I

important thing. This can be as broad as you wanna take it,

know for me, I’m just very conscious of how I present myself

but what intentions do you have for the rest of 2020?

or come off because I don’t want people to idolize me.

FAUX: Staying sane. The thing is, it’s literally something I need people to understand that people need space to

every fucking day and so I just feel like I can’t plan for

grow and I’m not saying that for everything that a person

anything. I can only just try to stay sane in this moment and

could do or every action that could be seen as inappropriate.

make sure my friends and family are good as well because

I’m saying there are certain things that a person could do

I can’t make any plans. You see I made plans this year and

or could say that I feel like if they got different information,

look what happened.

they may have a change of heart, and should be given the space to change their mind.

LUNA: Despite not being able to make plans, what can we expect from you in the coming months?

I think more for me, I would just rather find a way to do something through action than speak on it, you know what

FAUX: Right now, it’s just the clothes. I’ve been working on

I mean? Because I feel anything I want to say has already

music features too - I still do music. It’s just my own music

been said and 1000 times better than I could articulate.

I’m not super focused on. So you’ll see me on features,

I don’t need to reiterate points that have already being

you’ll see me on people’s projects.

made, I just need to find ways of making actionable change.

LUNA: Your tweet isn’t gonna necessarily change the system.

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UNITY

Photo By Josh Murray / Eugene Spread Design By Julia Im

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Evie Grimmittt / Indianapolis

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Unity When we come together, we create a catalyst effect for positive change. The bright smiles and voices that collectively unite to be heard, the shouts of our greatest ally’s that brings hope into our hearts. In the face of uncertainty, we fight, we chase, we strive.

There is always something to share, something to hold and I feel for every person searching for love. The kind of love that makes them feel a part of something. In this world, we can never be truly alone. We are all the same organic matter that remains universally connected. Together, we can create a better world. Together, we can unite and become something beautiful.

- Alessandra Salviani / Melbourne

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Alicia Karsonopoero

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Victoria Campa

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back to my childhood home i walk through the door straight into the warmth of open arms, beaming smiles greet me from frames on the wall. i sidestep the creek of the seventh step, making my way to the second door on the right to see everything is exactly as i left it. as the harmonious kitchens sounds and laughter from my brother reach me i realise i will never belong anywhere as perfectly as i belong in this home - Holly Berry / Essex

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Sarah Ritter By Alex Rose Lang / Los Angeles

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two sun obliterated

on the blade that is

— you

breath like a murmur just like dusk under

the moon’s commentary silver discs

balanced upon the

shoulders of our youth spanning out quietly across a body that is

— yours

things that belong to

the sunshine on tuesday

or green swimming pools the pinpoints of light a chosen malady

we drape around us beads made of clay

and children outside

running through houses remind us of

— youth

not a greased token

to simply be swallowed but water pulsing on the bottom of the riverbed

sometimes early

sometimes sleepy

but all the same to

— me

- Kari Trail / Menlo Park

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Kate Anderson / Oakland

Le Quyen Nguyen / Berlin

LUNA

Spencer.

Story By Joy Saha | Photos By Michael DeCristo | Design By Cassiel Arcilla

INCORPORATING LO-FI BEATS AND ELECTRONIC INFLUENCES, THE GENRE-BENDING SPENCER. CONTINUES TO NAVIGATE THE CREATIVE SCENE WHILE SEARCHING FOR HIS OWN DISTINCT MUSIC IDENTITY. In 2018, Spencer Allen, better known as Spencer.,

D’Angelo and Erykah Badu – 2000’s music, new jazz and

Back” --

that he “fucks with Thundercat” and loves any music that

made his musical mark with the hit single “Want U

modern rap. As an honorable mention, Spencer. adds

a silky tune that showcases the richness,

melodious and almost honey-like qualities within his

features a thumping beat he can bounce and vibe to.

prominent vocals. Continuing his streak of viral hits,

Spencer. released his popular bop “Automatic” in

Spencer.’s own creative artistry and music define

latest singles “2much”, “Hold It Down” and “Maybe.”

months have introduced an extra bit of creative

2019 and now in 2020 he’s back yet again with his The

20-year-old

setting

off

and

artist’s

he

creative

recently

journey

transitioned

is

his identity as a musician. Although the quarantine

just

from

stagnation, Spencer. is going against it all and striving

a

to pursue his passions and goals to the fullest.

solo musical project into a collaborative one after signing a record deal and partnership with 4AD.

During the past couple of months, he’s been bouncing

“I feel like the label’s just been a nice powerhouse

-- experiencing the best of both worlds in each

back between Rochester, his hometown, and Brooklyn

for my music and I just definitely get to focus more

city. Even though the ongoing pandemic has put

on making songs,” says Spencer. “It’s cool because it

a halt on his tours and live performances, he’s not

doesn’t really interfere with my process that much…

letting those setbacks dampen his creative aura.

it’s definitely like leaning on each other which is nice.”

“Being in Rochester made me feel a little more

Within his new musical chapter, Spencer. is experimenting sonically and

and

synthetic

transitioning sound

that

to

a

more

incorporates

creative than if I was going to be in New York,”

electronic

he

software

said.

“So

yeah,

[quarantine]

has

definitely

impacted me positively in terms of creativeness.”

instrumentals and beats. His signature lo-fi sound

and drum-break features are now being intertwined

His time in Rochester and his own upbringing in New

evidence that he recognizes his range and isn’t afraid to

a “cooler” sense of style. Musicians in Rochester and

with software drums and more electronic elements –

York have impacted his music and inspired him to adapt

expand beyond the creative box he was previously in.

the local shows he attended – like live rap shows – all inspired Spencer. to experiment with the musical beats

“I love a lot of electronic stuff like Charli XCX, that

featured in his tunes. In New York, Spencer. found

whole group of super future girls are so sick to me,”

inspiration amongst different forms of music and the

he shares. But his music taste goes beyond that and

flourishing creative and urban scenes within the city.

stretches back to old school R&B – like the works of

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LUNA

“I definitely was [drawn] to a lot of musical stuff

platform, it’s important to set an example

everyone in New York was making music that’s

recently organized a T-shirt collaboration to

and instrumental detail,” he says. “But then

really cool. So I was like, ‘Yo! I also want to make music that’s really cool.’ It definitely has an impact

for others.” Spencer. adds that his roommate

raise money and give back to their community.

on how I make my own music too,” he adds.

Currently, Spencer. is writing new music and also

Dapperton,

he’s exploring more of. He’s working on a few

Spending part of 2019 touring with Gus collaborations

and

musical

features encourage refinement in Spencer.’s

work, even though such opportunities usually arrive towards the end of his musical projects.

“The people that I collaborate with are super

special to me because they get the musical vision of what I’m going for,” he says. “It’s cool because right before or right after I finish doing all my touches, I’ll bring it to somebody and…we get to build a whole track together.”

Within the current political landscape and amidst the ongoing social justice movements, Spencer. is striving to use his platforms for

change,

some video-work for other artists and creatives.

“Music is a little bit thematic and it only feels

right to be paired with a visual and sometimes it helps to get the point across just a little bit

more,” says Spencer. “Also, making videos is just so fun and having multiple videos is sick!”

After

releasing

a

collection

of

individual

singles and EPs over the last three years, Spencer.’s main goal for both 2020 and

2021 is to finally put out a full-length album.

“I feel like [an album] can also connect with

organizations. Spencer. recently raised money

get attached and listen to it for a while

governments,

particularly

self-directed projects but hopes to one day do

within

local

social

dabbling in videography – another creative outlet

administrations

and

and donated proceeds to the Rochester chapter of the Boys & Girls Club of America.

“It’s a very big time for activism right now,”

a bigger body of work where [people] can

and digest it,” he adds. “So I’m definitely

looking forward to doing that because it’s not

Spencer. says, “To me, if you do have a

89

something

I’ve

done

100%

before.”

Photos By Darrell Jackson

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MIDSOMMAR Photos By Andrea Riba

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LUNA THE

COLLECTIVE

The Luna Collective is a platform for the creative community spotlighting a variety of young artists. Our film only magazine highlights talented individuals we come across as well as the work of our readers. The magazine is only one part of The Luna Collective so join us to see what else we get up to.

SAY HOWDY

Email: lunacollectivemag@gmail.com Twitter: @lunacollective

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THIS ISSUE’S TEAM Founder & Editor In Chief: Sophie Gragg Creative Director: Nikoli Partiyeli Graphic Designers: Cassiel Arcilla, Olivia Boryczewski, Jas Calcitas, Will Catto, Julia Im & Khristine Le Photographers: Carina Allen, Donnee Buetussa, Michael DeCristo, Logan Delaney,

Zachary Francois, Darrell Jackson, Quil Lemons,

Athena Merry, Andrea Riba, Jonathan Roensch & Samone Zena Writers: Saachi Gupta, Astrid Ortega, Joy Saha & Isabella Vega

FUELED BY CREATIVES, FOR CREATIVES www.thelunacollectivemag.com

THE LUNA COLLECTIVE â„¢ 2020