Zayna Daze|Zayna's DIary

Life lately

2012-01-28T05:54:00.002Z

Life as of lately has been progressive. Everyday I thank God for the wonderful opportunities I'm blessed with, the people who inspire me to do better and to grow artistically. I only wish to surround myself with big dreamers and positive thinkers and active spirits. It's never been a more esential time to kiss futile relationships goodbye. I'm currently working on several creative projects which will hopefully change lives and making the living experience a little sweeter for many. There's so much I wish to articulate right now but I somehow can't, I believe it's best to let my work speak for itself.

Toro Y Moi Live at The Garage Dec '11

2012-01-18T22:58:00.000Z

2011 was such a great year for gigs/events in London, I saw many shows that will leave me with much contentment for years to come. Toro Y Moi was the last of gigs, what a great way to round up the year! Chaz was kind enough to stay behind for a brief meet and greet with fans, we were lucky enough to take photos with him too (How sweet). The whole night felt so dream like, I'm glad to have experienced it with such lovely ladies, the beautiful Dee, Princess Aida and Illustration Queen Justina.

The infinite self

2012-01-13T01:52:00.000Z

Photo Diary: Light & scripture.

2011-12-31T03:22:00.001Z

“Let yourself be drawn by the stronger pull of what you truly love.” ― Rumi

Album Review: 'New Designer Drug' - J*Davey (guest post by Alex King)

2011-12-30T22:28:00.000Z

Track list:

01. Listen
02. Queen of Wonderland Ft. Thundercat
03. Whatchalookin@
04. Kill 4 Fun
05. Rock That Ship
06. Turn The Lights Out
07. Little Tramp$
08. Topsy Turvy
09. MaMa’s Back
10. This One
11. Anything Goes

I believe it's true when people say that things come around in circles time and time again. Just look at people's rejuvenated interest in Vampire related stories, the return of 3D effects in movies; a notion that was tried and failed in the 90's and early naughties. Look at the constant reboots of movies but more importantly at the fresh take of characters in the DC universe (see the new 52). But my main point: Look at the return of experiments in certain genres of music. The europop sound of the 90s was laughed at and considered awful but is now revisited and excepted everywhere to the point that the most popular rap and RnB artists have a europop track or two on their albums. The electronic experiments of the 80s is being revisited in Dubstep, Alternative Hip-hop artists and even the soulful crowds. The sound of the 60s/70s is being revisited through the sounds of modern soul. But every so often there'll come artists/musicians /writers etc that'll take influences from everywhere and make something old but totally new!!!

Enter Miss Jack Davey and Brook D'Leau, known to many as J*Davey; Miss Jack Davey's sultry vocals popping up on tracks by The Roots, 4Hero, and Sa-Ra Creative Partners (the list goes on...) while Brook D'Leau's synths have appeared on the work of Sa-Ra, Stephen 'Thundercat' Bruner, Shafiq Husayn, 88 Keys, and so on. Although initially appealing to Soul and Jazz fans, their musical influences are from EVERYWHERE! Brook sounds just as comfortable battling it out with Bruner on 'Jamboree' as he does creating bouncy, poppy pieces like 'SLOOOW'...ANYWAY!!! With many a song and 4 EPs under their belt, fans (myself included) have been waiting for the release of their official debut record

Well, via a download with incredibly detailed liner notes comes their debut album called 'New Designer Drug'. On first glance I was underwhelmed as I saw only 11 tracks, another anxiety that jumped to mind is that as there are more musical inflences being blended into the mix, the music may come off forced...I needn't have worried at all. Each piece has been created with care and influences have been drawn on genuinely. The very personal and vulnerable 'Listen' starts us off with an exciting build up in keys, reminding me of the nervousness that goes through a person when telling someone that they like them. The melody is slow but the harsh snares causes you to nod your head anyway, although I think that the acoustic piano section at the end is a grower. 'New Designer Drug' contains a wide range of sounds with lyrics to compliment them. The albums' single 'Queen of Wonderland' has a strong pop element to it, Stephen Bruners' bass chords giving it this attitude and extra oomph, the lyrics are about loving someone despite your ups and downs and flaws. Another pop and video game influenced track 'Topsy Turvy' can be quite deceiving on first listen. It sounds like Cartwright (Miss Jack Davey) is describing a sexual relationship whereas she's actually describing a drug-trip. The quirky energy in the hook evokes images of random colours everywhere although it reminds me of Sonic the Hedgehog's 'Labyrinth Zone'. A punk-rock type, rebellious energy is evident on 'Kill 4 Fun' although sounding very synthy, the lack to constant hammer of drums builds anticipation followed by climax to each verse. A strong dance element presents itself on 'Rock That Ship', echoey voices complimenting the "LIGHTS OUT!!!" Hook. 'Turn the Lights Out' conveys the fear of dealing with the aftermath of a potentially self destructive night out, the build up on the b-section revealing an uncertainty before the hook.

The rather sinister 'Little Tramp' (sinister in the sense that the bouncy percussion and synths brings images of fat cats in massive fur coats smoking exaggeratively large cigars, while laughing at anyone with less money than them) gives Brook D'Leau the chance to tell tales of egos being trampled on by bigger egos, his monotonous vocals complimenting the music really well. This is followed by a short intermission where Miss Jack Davey drops an insanely well delivered 32 bar rap verse over a chilled instrumental. The waning keys and wah wah pedals on 'This One' makes me imagine wilted to lifeless trees in a desert by an ever-shrinking oasis, the break down causing me to want to move again. The album closes with a relaxed vibe similar to 'Listen' with 'Anything Goes', a slow number mainly comprising of keys, and strangely enough a few sound effects used in 16-bit video games before fading out.

'New Designer Drug' is one of those albums that continues to push musical boundaries in a welcome manner. The fact that so many sounds and influences blur the actual genre this album could be in gives me hope that it will attract radio listeners and music collectors alike.

- Alex King

Previous review by Alex: 'A WHA HIM DEH PON' - Dego

The Four Agreements.

2011-12-30T21:50:00.000Z

'Drenched' View more

Be Impeccable With Your Word
Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love

Don't Take Anything Personally
Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you wont be the victim of needless suffering.

Don't make assumptions
Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With this one agreement you can completely transform your life.

Always do Your Best
Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best and you will avoid self judgement, self abuse and regret.

Every now and then I like to revisit 'The Four Agreements' (1997) by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book has helped me align myself accordingly and has taught me about living purposefully and stress free.

Now go out and make your mother proud.

Featured on: Random Got Beautiful

2011-12-30T21:07:00.000Z

First photo: 'Percy'

First Photo: 'Blue Sky'

First photo: 'Skin'
Second photo: 'Leafy crackle'

First photo: 'Spanish Adventures'
Second photo: 'Parisian Plight'

First photo: 'Walimah - Wedding story'

At the start of this wonderful year I wrote about Nikki Farquharson's brainchild 'Random Got Beautful'. The site has become one my favourite places to seek photo & colour inspiration. I'm so excited to have my photos featured on the site. Visit the site for more.

Photo Diary: Quadron live at C.A.M.P 1.12.11

2011-12-23T00:02:00.001Z

Much love to the Quadron family for giving a wonderful show despite the tech difficulties, now waiting on that sophomore album to drop.

Photo Diary: Gifts from INSA

2011-12-21T02:56:00.003Z

Thanks INSA, I feel lucky to be one of the few who got free wrapping paper (sold out in minutes) and a complementary postcard.

Currently listening to: fLako 'Lonely Town' feat. Dirg Gerner

2011-12-17T18:15:00.000Z

Not only does fLako make quality music, he's a cool character too. I've been listening to his recent track 'Lonely Town' taken from his recent EP 'Carving Away The Clay' (Project moon circle).

Lonely Town feat. Dirg Gerner by fLako

"The best is when I'm on my own, this is why I prefer to be alone"

Music: The Log.Os - λόγος

2011-12-14T15:02:00.000Z

The Log.Os is a free (alternative/soul) project from Ken Barrientos aka KenBts (producer/engineer/sound-designer for artist Blu, Bilal, Shafiq Husayn, J*DaVeYand more).
The LP features vocals from Nikko Gray, Bilal, Iman Omari, Ty$ (Of Ty & Kory). There isnt much information about this project and how it came to be, I sense the artists have deliberately tried to keep dominant focus on the music rather than the people involved etc. The first time I listened to it I almost had an outer body experience, I didn't know what had hit me. It may have had something to do with being half asleep in a dark room. Nonetheless this is some of the most creative music I've heard in forever, It's passionate, electronic, hypnotic, mysterious and pure beauty. It's a short body of work however its easily repayable, the more I listen to the LP in full, the more details it reveals. Have a listen and make your own mind up.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;"FALSE"&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

> Free download Link <

Photo Diary: Madrid (1/2)

2011-12-06T19:50:00.000Z

I love to travel & shoot. I ~~could~~ will do this forever.

Vibrancy coming from every direction I turned, from the holy blue upwards to the blessed greenery on the road sides/ The weather was nice everyday/ even when it rained it felt welcoming/ fresh/ it was easy to breathe in the city/ Passerby's stared at us (because we're black and beautiful obviously) and shyly looked away when confronted with mean eyes/ Afternoon siesta is the greatest/ Spanish food is odd/ I'm not fond of Tapas but the sorbets will do/ Everyone was always dressed up with somewhere to go/ Spanish people walk slowly/ Designer shops on every street corner/ A H&M was one store away from our hotel, I didn't go in once or else I would have spent all my money!/ I was hardly homesick/ my fellow travellers did get on my nerves from time to time/ I have a new found love for crazy card games/ I have a tendency to compare metro maps from other cities to the one of TFL/ Madrid is an ideal place for reflection and finding beauty/ London is such a hustle, regardless it's the place I know best.

(click on photos to view in lightbox)

Stay tuned for the second (last) installation, coming soon.

Video: Shabazz Palaces - "Black Up"

2011-12-03T20:36:00.001Z

'My body travelled, my mind waits behind the music.'

"Black Up" is a short film that portrays a fever dream induced by the music of Shabazz Palaces. The film features songs from Shabazz Palaces' album Black Up on Sub Pop Records, as well as various pieces of unreleased material. Directed by Khalil Joseph.

Music: November Mix (The Bossa Nova edition)

2011-11-28T20:37:00.000Z

This is my favourite music mix to date. I've curated a whole bunch of Bossa Nova tracks which I've fallen in love with over the years. Some dating back to the sixties all the way to recently recorded masterpieces. Unfortunately this mix is not downloadable for obvious legal reasons, however bookmark this page and return whenever you are in the mood for some pick-me-up rhythms. Feel free to add your own suggestions in the comment bar below and they may be added to the playlist. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do.

Long live Bossa Nova!

> Listen/ Download previous music mixes <

Photo Diary: Madrid x Foodstagram

2011-11-28T01:40:00.001Z

Dining related photos from my recent voyage to Madrid. Follow me on instagram: zaynadaze

'The Alchemist' Excerpt #1

2011-11-25T21:50:00.001Z

“People are afraid to pursue their most important dreams, because they feel that they don’t deserve them, or that they’ll be unable to achieve them. We, their hearts, become fearful just thinking of loved ones who go away forever, or of moments that could have been good but weren’t, or of treasures that might have been found but were forever hidden in the sands. Because, when these things happen, we suffer terribly.”

- Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Photo Diary: Shabazz Palaces x THEESatisfaction live at the Jazz Cafe 17.11.11

2011-11-25T01:20:00.001Z

One of the best nights of my life. I was fortunate to have a meet and greet with them backstage, I met Stas & Cat from THEESatisfaction too, they are the loveliest pair. They are about to blow, 2012 will be theirs indefinitely!

Much love to the Subpop records and the Seattle Music scene.

Music: 'Amends' Robin Hannibal

2011-11-22T15:49:00.001Z

Taken from Robin's Solo project 'Bobby EP', visuals are provided by the talented Melinda James (About Her Films). I'm pleased that a video was made for this song in particular as it is a favourite of mine, then again all I'm partial to all Hannibal productions (Quadron, Boom Clap Bachelors, IOU, owusu & Hannibal etc...)

Quadron are due to grace London with their presence once more next week 1st Dec with a live performance at CAMP. Tickets are selling fast, grab them here.

Directors notes:

Over the summer, I took a trip to LA to meet with Robin Hannibal [Quadron/Boom Clap Bachelors] and create two music videos for his solo EP, Bobby. I was more than thrilled and excited to not only meet such a talented individual, but to also collaborate and help bring his stories and visions to life.

Robin Hannibal is a bit of a mysterious guy so I thought that in this video, he should play a central role in it. Robin came up with the storyline and we felt things along as we were shooting. It was a fun and low-key day at the canals, the beach and in Los Feliz and I had a great time. Keep an eye out for the second video, but enjoy this one in the meantime (which debuted on OkayPlayer and CMJ)!

- Melinda James

Photography: Gerard Puigmal

2011-11-22T15:08:00.001Z

I have big admiration for this concept "Little Planets". Photography by Gerard Puigmal.

23

2011-11-17T01:06:00.001Z

Here's to another year of love and blessings.

'Creativity can solve almost any problem. The creative act, the defeat of habit by originality, overcomes everything.' - George Lois

2011-11-10T23:30:00.001Z

1. Photography by CoolHandLuke
2. Art by Fola
3. Photography by Beniot P
4. Video by Yumna
5. Photography by Hayley Rheagan

Let your heart be the compass

2011-11-07T22:14:00.000Z

My mum says worrying will bring you nothing but worries. She's right of course. As I sit nervously anticipate the new year ahead, doubts appear. I shoot them down and remember this quote:

Photo Diary: Paris, je t’aime!

2011-11-05T23:18:00.000Z

I love love love this city (not as much as I love Madrid though), I have such a blast on every visit. Europe really is a photographer's dream, there's always something interesting to capture. I wish to visit as many cities possible. I'm determined to make this happen. See you next year Paris!

Your world is a mirror.

2011-11-03T13:47:00.000Z

Producing radio programmes with my team in Madrid.

Your judgments about other people say more about you than they do about the people you’re judging. The reason you can detect the weaknesses and insecurities of others is because you have experienced those same weaknesses and insecurities.

Similarly, the reason you’re able to see beauty in others is because that beauty lives in you as well. The positive possibilities you see for others are, in many ways, your possibilities too.

It’s very helpful to think of the world outside of you as a mirror. Whatever you see beyond you in some way reflects what is inside you.

The most powerful and effective way to improve the world around you, is to improve yourself. The best way to bring real value into your life, is to create real value for others.

What you admire and appreciate and support in others, grows stronger within you as well. When you seek to understand, you will be understood, and when you listen thoughtfully, you will be heard.

Your world is a mirror, so choose each day to show it your best, most loving and supportive face. And you’ll be delighted with the face you see looking back at you.

— Ralph Marston

i. This year i've done more learning about myself than ever before.

ii. I have discovered what truly makes me happy.

iii. I have realised the mistakes I've made and have made peace with them.

iv. I've made peace with 'lonely'. I thoroughly enjoy solitude in some ways borderline antisocial.

v. 'If you know yourself, then you will not be harmed by what is said about you.' - Sufyan at-Thawrī

vi. '

To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others' - Christian D Larsen

vii. My attitude towards complaining has changed. I've come to understand that some forms of complaint have no purpose or outcome at all. Most of the time it only breeds negativity.

viii. Self awarness has forced me to look at myself inside out. To look at the daughter, sister, friend, artist that I am and make honest observations.

xiv.'

Decide that you want it more than you are afraid of it.' - Bill Cosby

Photo Diary: Could there be love beneath these wings?

2011-11-02T00:35:00.000Z

Song lyrics in title from 'Death' by White Lies

(click photos to view in lightbox)

Thoughts before my flight

2011-10-23T05:08:00.001+01:00

My flight to madrid leaves in a few hours, im currently sat on my bed wondering why I always leave things till the last minute. I guess I like the rush.

- Self preservation is key; 'Cut negative people out. Cut everything that doesn’t contribute to your happiness and growth OUT. Be proactive and aggressive in this.' source This is a re-tweet I saw on my twitter timeline a few days ago. It really struck a chord with me. I care too much about things and people who don't reciprocate the same energy and sentiments. I gave up this self seeking habit a while ago. I've been happier ever since.

Life is so much better when you stop living under a magnifying glass. Now beloved readers, I have a flight to catch. See you in a week.

Photo Diary: Recent Instagrams

2011-10-22T02:30:00.004+01:00

1. Finding stillness within. I can hear myself now, this is a breakthrough.
2. Southwark Tube Station, Jubilee Line.
3 & 4. Photos I took from a friends wedding [See more]
5. I'm going to see Azealia Banks Live, this young lady is fierce.
6. I wrote a song today about... well it's just a song for now.

Music: October Mix

2011-10-22T01:56:00.002+01:00

A mix of tracks I've been listening to lately. I hope you enjoy this audio delight.

1. Smooth - P.Y.T. (Playa Young Thugs)
2. Azealia Banks - 212
3. Common - Blue Sky
4. James Blake - Enough Thunder (live on KCRW)
5. Jazmine Sullivan - Fly & Sexy
6. Amenta - Mesmerized
7. Quadron - Wounds (Unreleased simili life version)
8. BUG - Astral Love Affair
9. Shabazz Palaces - 32 leaves dipped in blackness making clouds forming altered carbon
10. Terrence Martin ft. Lloyd - In The Sheets
11. Lianne la Havas - Don't Wake Me UP
12. Oddisee - For Certain ft. Diamond District
13. Full Crate - Never Never

OCTOBER MIX.zip

Music x Photo Diary: Native Sun

2011-10-22T00:53:00.000+01:00

I wrote about Sarina Leah a while back sharing her wonderful talent in fashion and dressmaking. I also mentioned that she is a multi disciplined artist with various projects under her belt, one being Native Sun.

Native Sun is a London based duo consisting of bilingual rapper Mohammed Yahya, born in

Mozambique, South East Africa and singer-song writer Sarina Leah born in London with Caribbean roots.

Joining forces in 2010 Native Sun was born fusing Hip Hop and African rhythms with the aim of promoting a positive message of Universal Peace, Equality, Social Justice and Environmental Change.

Both artists over the years have received a great deal of publicity through collaborations on a variety of compilation CDs, Albums, International Tours across Europe, Africa and U.S, features of on a wide range of publications as well as TV appearances from UK based TV Channels such as BBC and ITV to Channels across Europe.

Now together, Native Sun's sweet melodies fuse addictive head bouncing Hip Hop undertones, conscious bilingual lyrics and catchy hooks perfect for a climate in need of an uplifting message.

I saw Native Sun perform Live earlier this month for the first time and I was impressed. Their performance style is dynamic and uplifting, these two are clearly masters of their craft.

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://nativesunofficial.bandcamp.com/track/native-sun-the-anthem"&amp;amp;gt;Native Sun (The Anthem) by Native Sun&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Visit their bandcamp to download this track free.

For all things Native Sun visit: nativesunmuzik.tumblr.com twitter: twitter.com/nativesunmuzik

Photography: Cuba Gallery

2011-10-12T21:03:00.000+01:00

I'm a really big admirer of Andrew's photography. His site is always a staple place to visit for artistic stimulation and inspiration too, it clears my mind and calms me to gaze over his beautiful photographic visions. I'm not big on hanging things on my wall, but if I ever get the chance to purchase fully blown prints from the cuba gallery series, I sure will!

Visit Cuba Gallery's site and Flickr.

Music: Put Me On It 'Last Night On Earth' - Eric Lau

2011-10-12T15:58:00.000+01:00

I often get approached to compile mixes and have free reign to do whatever but this time I was given a theme, ‘Last Night On Earth’ - I was like okaaay, this is a challenge. Many thoughts and images came through but I never really thought about death as being my last night on earth, more that I would be flying to another place somehow. Probably on some craft or I would suddenly have the ability to fly, either which way I can picture myself with my iPod and Sennheisers on. There’s isn’t any contemporary music in the mix apart from Dilla because I would like to think everyone would be leaving Earth too! The selection is based on a combination of good memories and what I personally look for in music. This is what I would like to listen to on my ascent away from Earth, I hope you enjoy is as much I do!
- Eric Lau

Eric Lau's Last Night On Earth (#001) by Putmeonit on Mixcloud

This mix has gotten me through some recent challenges and sleepless night. The undeniable warmth and uplifting vibe in this collection of music is a testament to why Eric lau is THAT guy, I salute thee sir. Many Thanks to PMOI too who has recently moved to a new site, go check it!

Full tracklist and notes after the jump:

1. Hugh Hopper & Alan Gowen - Morning Order - Two Rainbows Daily (1980)

Just so calming, I like listening to it either very late at night or when I first wake up! Thought it

would be a nice way to start. (Dilla also used it for Common ‘Nag Champa’ one of my favs too)

2. Truth is The Key - Tarika Blue - Tarika Blue (1977)

Lyrics are so on point, I love the message and definitely resonates with what I stand for.

Musicianship is next level too, especially guitar and synth solos!

3. We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue - Curtis Mayfield - Curtis Mayfield Live (1973)

This was the first song I heard in my life that was inclusive of ‘Yellow’ people and it really touched

me. I was like, wait, he’s actually talking to me too! I played a live video of this to some students of

mine once and found out that the performance was in aid of the charity ‘Save The Children’. I had

just released a project for ‘Save The Children’ and it really choked me up. Made me realize I was

on the right path.

4. I think I’ll Call it Morning - Gil Scott Heron - Pieces of a Man (1971)

Reminds me when I was at Uni being all young and confused! This song reassured me that

everything was gonna be okay!

5. I Love You - Weldon Irvine - Sinbad (1976)

This song just makes me feel good, Master Wel + Mr Blackman = Magic

6. Lucky Fellow - Leroy Hutson - Huston (1975)

Remember hearing this before I knew what sampling was, and found out that Erykah’s ‘No Love’

came from a whole different song. I rinsed ‘No Love’ at the time and loved it, but Leroy’s original

version is next level.

7. Kevin Moore - Speak Your Mind - Rainmaker (1980)

This was used in one of my favorite Dilla beats ever. Once I found it I was like woah, this song is

incredible! Lyrics are on point and its so funky even without drums.

8. Visions - Stevie Wonder - Innervisions (1973)

Reminds me of when I was truly falling in love with music. The songwriting is just out of this world.

Thought I would cut the song at ‘all things have an ending’ which I thought suited the theme of the

mix!

9. Rainy Day - Shuggie Otis - Inspiration Information (1974)

From one of my favorite records, I could listen to this all day.

10. Dedicada A Ela - Arthur Verocai - Arthur Verocai (1972)

Reminds me of recent times with my father. He stayed with me for a month and it was the best

time we have ever had together. Arthur Verocai was the soundtrack to this period of time.

11. Luiza - Beto Guedes, Danilo Caymmi, Novelli, Toninho Horta - Beto Guedes, Danilo Caymmi,

Novelli, Toninho Horta (1973)

Mr Mensah put me onto this, the runs on this just do something to me. Stupidness!

12. Lihue - Nohelani Cypriano - Nohelani (1979)

Came across this through Karriem Riggins’ Music Kaleidoscope mix (One of my favs mixes of all

time!) I’v always wanted to go to Hawaii but never had a chance, this song takes me there.

13. Tell Me What To Do - Johnny Hammond - Gears (1975)

Had to Mizell it again, the groove is ridiculous. Makes me wanna move.

14. Music Is My Sanctuary - Gary Bartz - Music Is My Sanctuary (1977)

Came across this through 4 Hero LifeStyles Comp a few years back. Ultimate cooking song. Try it.

15. Instant Love with Minnie Riperton - Leon Ware - Musical Massage (1976)

One of the first records I bought, loved everything about this LP especially the cover! Had it on my

wall when I was at Uni.

16. Baby, This Love I Have - Minnie Riperton - Adventures In Paradise (1975)

I love most of her music but chose this because it reminds me when I first started sampling and

studying how people like ATCQ and Pete Rock used the this track. On another note I wanna marry

Minnie, she is an angel. Hopefully meet her in another lifetime.

17. I Want You (Vocal & Rhythm Section) - Marvin Gaye - I Want You ‘Deluxe Edition’ (2003)

18. I Want You (Vocal) - Marvin Gaye - I Want You (1976)

If I could be any singer it would be Marvin. Sooo pimp without even trying. This record was played

over and over.

19. I Wanna Be Where You Are - Michael Jackson - Got To Be There (1972)

Wow more Leon Ware written music, shows how much of a great songwriter he is. Not an obvious

choice for MJ but I just like the purity in this.

20. All About Love (Outro) - Earth, Wind & Fire - That's The Way Of The World (1975)

Probably the best interlude ever.

21. Konda - Miles Davis - Directions (1981)

Reminds me of Japan, great memories.

22. Aisha - John Coltrane - The Heavyweight Champion: the Complete Atlantic Recordings (1995)

Flawless, makes me at ease. Nice in the winter. Could play this all day.

23. Yutaka - Evening Star - Love Light (1981)

Had to have something east asian in the mix! Plus it was recorded the year I was born. The sound

is just beautiful!

N.B

I HAD to do a little Dilla section. To be honest I could do several Dilla mixes showing why I like his

music so much and what I’ve learnt from his music but wanted to stick with the theme.

24. Im So Glad Your Dorothy - Jay Dee - Beat Tape (1998)

Dilla turned Evening Star into some sacred geometry.

25. Marvine - Jay dee - Voodoo Demos (1998)

So simple, but the split second timing of the way he releases the guitar chops really gets me for

some reason.

26. Interlude - Slum Village - Fantastic Volume 2 (2000)

Funky as hell, makes me go crazy. Loved the way he did the fades to make it impossible to loop!

27. Keep It Coming - Frank n Dank - 48 Hours

No one ever talks about this track, the patterns are craaazzy.

28. Ma Dukes (Original Demo) - Jay Dee - Da 1st Installment (2005)

This track is just eerie, it haunts me in a good way. The way the guitar just floats, the voice, synth

rise just makes me shake my head in disbelief...

29. Fantastic Intro (Original Demo) - Jay Dee - Fantastic Volume 2 Demos (1999)

One of the most perfect chord sequences ever, this demo version also includes some other chops

not used in the final version which seems to do something to my face muscles. If anyone knows

the original sample please contact me!

30. Fall in Love Remix - Slum Village - Fantastic Volume 2 (2000)

"Whenever I listen to this I see picture the sky opening up. I feel that my last night on earth would

probably look this."

Divine intervention 3/3: Permission

2011-10-10T01:44:00.000+01:00

Self portrait (October '11)
-

Firstly I give my self permission to be passionate.

To assert my beliefs. Speak openly, freely and candidly when I wish to.

To wear lipstick any time and any day of the week as it suits me.

To love my self unconditionally, on my good days and bad days too.

To accept all my perfect imperfections.

I give myself permission to dance, dance like it’s nobody’s business.

I give my self permission to indulge in life’s pleasures (with moderation) such as food, music and laughter.

I give myself permission to wear my hair however I wish to without the fear of judgment from my counterparts.

To treat myself to a brand new pairs of shoes when I feel I have accomplished something significant, without the guilt of spending money on myself.

I give my self permission to stand up for my religion even when others may dislike it.

I am a chronic procrastinator (at times). It’s often a result of fear, fear of producing low quality work. So, I give myself permission to make mistakes, screw up and start anew (over and over again) as many times I need to with motives of improving each time.

I give myself permission to be vulnerable (the hardest one) even when it may be painfully uncomfortable.

I give myself permission to be the artist that I want to be, to be nobody’s slave to taste, direction or standard.

Lastly, I give myself permission to be happy because I deserve it.

This post was inspired by the amazing Jonathan Mead, author of Illuminated mind. Read more

Brianna McCarthy's Zine

2011-10-09T15:55:00.002+01:00

I'm so delighted, this came in the post recently all the way from Trinidad.
Much love to Brianna for sending me a copy of her wonderful zine.
Peep more at briannamccarthy.blogspot.com

W.M Hunt's Top 10 Tips for getting ahead in photography.

2011-10-08T20:05:00.001+01:00

Source

I really like the tips given here. Every now and then it's good to revise and re evaluate where you are going with your craft and how well you are doing it.

1. Be talented.

2. Be smart. Think. Don’t be a jerk. Be engaging. If you are determined enough, you can meet anyone at least once. Take the situation seriously; don’t blow it. Take stock of yourself. Is the work fully realized and are you ready to approach museums or dealers?

3. Be focused. Be single minded. Be ambitious. Think in terms of the long haul and the full arc of your career.

4. Be clear. Be able to articulate what you are doing, not so much why you are doing it but literally what it is. Rehearse what you are going to say. Keep impeccable records about your work.

5. Be ready. Have prints, have disks, have a resume, have business cards. Don’t tell me they’re at home or that you are still working on them. Give me something to remember you by. Send a thank-you note.

6. Be full. Have a life. Teach. Get commissions, commercial work, stock, whatever. Get money, make love, be happy. It will inform the work positively.

7. Be active. Be your own primary dealer. Take responsibility for museum and magazine drop-offs. Approach collectors yourself. Develop a mailing list. Market yourself. Send postcards. Donate prints to charity auctions. Go to openings. Make friends with your contemporaries. Use them. Always ask to be referred. Publish or get published. Get patrons, mentors, advisors. Use them. Bear in mind that if you set your mind to it, you can meet anyone once. It’s that second meeting that proves difficult. When you do meet that person, be prepared.

8. Be receptive. Take notes. Bring a pencil and paper to appointments. Do your homework. Know what sort of work galleries show before you approach them. Go look. Say hello, but be sensitive to a dealer’s time demands (unless you’re buying something). Have a sense of what’s out there.

9. Be merciless with yourself. Edit, edit, edit. Edit, edit, edit. Take out anything marginal. Make me hungry to see more of your work.

10. Be patient. Please.

- W.M Hunt

Shine Shine Fabrics

2011-10-04T13:59:00.000+01:00

Artwork and fabrics by South African design company Shine Shine.

Currently listening to...

2011-10-04T13:51:00.000+01:00

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://theesatisfaction.bandcamp.com/track/foliage"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Foliage by THEESatisfaction&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/track/untitled-feat-oddisee"&amp;amp;gt;Untitled (feat. Oddisee) by DTMD&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Some recent cuts, some from the vaults, all in all great music.

Photo Diary: Shabazz Palaces live at Madame Jojo's (London)

2011-09-30T15:19:00.001+01:00

I went to see Shabazz Palaces live this Tuesday. It was their London Debut which they were both really excited about. They thanked the audience numerous times for coming out to see them, such a humble pair of gentlemen. I enjoyed every minute of their set including the encore. I can’t wait to see them again in November where they will be supported by Femcee Duo 'THEESatisfaction'.

Photo Diary: Office rooftoop

2011-09-26T23:37:00.001+01:00

My office has the most amazing scenery from the top floor.

Music: Plug Research Podcast #10 - Shafiq Husayn

2011-09-22T13:55:00.000+01:00

Having collaborated with various musical heavy weights such as Erykah Badu, John Legend, Jill Scott, Bilal and many more, Plugresearch blesses us with a solid hour of Shafiq's ever so impressive production catalogue. If you love it, it's yours to keep by clicking the downward arrow on the player. Enjoy.

Plug Research Podcast #10 - Shafiq Husayn (mix by Garth Trinidad) by Plug Research

For all things Sa-Ra visit: sa-ralovers.tumblr.com

Film: 'Say grace before drowning' by Nikyatu Jusu

2011-09-22T13:40:00.000+01:00

Synopsis: West African countries plagued by civil unrest often wage war on women in the form of rape. GRACE is one such victim, birthing a daughter, HAWA, as a consequence of this rape. Having been separated from her child for 8 years, Grace finally joins young Hawa in the U.S., ushering in a new life with her estranged daughter’s surrogate family. Seen through the eyes of 8 year old Hawa, Grace’s already unraveling mental state surfaces in violent and self destructive behavior as she struggles to adapt to American life.

Director's statement: I felt compelled to tell this story because, having witnessed the long lasting effects that civil war wages on its female victims first hand, I am in a position to shed light on the prevalent issue of diasporic women forced to raise children bred from rape. I chose to tell this story through the child’s eyes because I believe that children witness life in a very objective manner—not yet mature enough to form too many discriminating opinions—similarly Say Grace Before Drowning, is not a barrage of manipulation on its viewer, but rather a sensory sequence of events that will be sure to move its audience. Read more

I've seen a number a great short films this year, but this is the most powerful and daring I've seen yet. I congratulate Nikyatu for her incredible efforts to make this film. I look up to her, she is one of my biggest female inspirations for filmmaking. I look forward to seeing more of her work.

Divine Intervention 2/3: Happiness

2011-09-16T14:57:00.001+01:00

Self portrait (Sept 2011)

“Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes even travel around the world looking for it. You have to participate relentlessly in the manifestations of your own blessings. And once you have achieved a state of happiness, you must never become lax about maintaining it. You must make a mighty effort to keep swimming upward into that happiness forever, to stay afloat on top of it.”
― Elizabeth Gilbert

Photo Diary: Barcelona

2011-09-11T01:31:00.000+01:00

Barcelona, Spain 2011 ="FALSE" Doris Day 'Perhaps perhaps perhaps' - Latin For Lovers 1965

Music: September Mix

2011-09-09T04:34:00.000+01:00

Track list:

1. All Alone - Toro Y Moi
2. A Long Time (Chromeo Remix) - Mayer Hawthorne
3. Yellow Sound - Funkineven & Fatima

4. Beauty & The Stone - BOSCO

5. You Don't Like it (So What) - Jean Grae

6. Blueberries - Mark de Clive-Lowe

7. Where'd You Go - MeLo-X,/Jade

8. Mattered Much (feat. Olivier Daysoul) - Oddisee

9. Still Doing It (feat. yU) - Oddisee

10. You - DTMD

11. Saturday Love - Toro Y Moi

12. Transit - Robin Hannibal

13. I love everything I hate about you - Rozzi Daime

Thirteen beautiful tracks, all for your aural pleasure.

> Download Link <

Music: Robin Hannibal 'Bobby EP' Bonus version

2011-09-07T23:57:00.002+01:00

Genius producer/Musician Robin Hannibal (Quadron & Boom Clap Bachelors) releases the bonus Version of his Debut solo EP 'Bobby'. The first volume was released a year ago which features the songs below. The bonus version can be includes four new brilliant tracks. I swear this is the sexiest music I've heard in a long time.

Robin Hannibal - Bobby by Plug Research

"Normally I work with another singer, but I just felt that I wanted to play around more with my own voice, and use the time I normally use on other people voices, on my own instead. It was very much an experiment, and it took some time before I actually got pleased with the results, and found my sound, and I've always listened to a lot of music, but what has always fascinated me was melodies and maybe its because Iʼm also so heavily involved in the production work, playing instruments etc, that I often hear the voice as an instrument, that needs to fit with the rest of the elements and instruments in the song. "

iTunes Link

Boom Clap Bachelors site

Write it down.

2011-09-05T19:07:00.001+01:00

Source

Recent learning.

Unless you can write down exactly what it is you want in life, you will never receive it. You will only keep dreaming and speculating over possibilities. And what is a life without definition or direction?

Get writing.

Event: Shabazz Palaces live in London

2011-09-05T00:05:00.001+01:00

Shabazz Palaces are making a London Debut, and you can bet that I will be attending BOTH shows. I somehow feel like I've been waiting for this my entire life, well it's about that time! Black Up is definitely shaping up to be my album of the year as previously mentioned in this post.

Purchase tickets:

Shabazz Palaces at Madame JoJo's 27th September 2011

Shabazz Palaces at Jazz Cafe 17th November 2011

Stream the album in full below and thank me later.

More info at www.shabazzpalaces.com

Updated Portfolio

2011-09-03T15:41:00.001+01:00

"Photographers have fragile egos. We are terrified people won't like our work. We remember the one slight but forget the other hundred people that Loved our photos."

- The recession proof photographer

I will admit that in the past I've been very shy and precious about my photography due to the fact that most of it is personal work. Often fearing critique, scared that others wont think 'Im good enough'. These fears and insecurities are long gone. As I've grown in my craft and purpose, I've come to understand that I am greater and these fears. People will always have something negative to say just because they can. I love my creations and I'm very proud of all I've accomplished, furthermore I'm very optimistic about the projects I have in the pipeline.

The journey continues.

Take a visit to my updated portfolio

Divine intervention 1/3

2011-09-01T21:29:00.000+01:00

Self portrait (Aug 2011)

“Sometimes in order to help, He makes us cry. Happy the eye that sheds tears for His sake. Fortunate the heart that burns for His sake. Laughter always follows tears. Blessed are those who understand. Life blossoms wherever water flows. Where tears are shed, divine mercy is shown.”

—

Rumi

That moment, I could look at myself, look at my life and admit with ease not all is perfect but is blessed.

Event: Put Me On It Live with Dego, Tanya Auclair & Eric Lau

2011-08-30T23:59:00.000+01:00

Put Me On It live is back. I'm mad excited about attending this and you should be too. RVSP on Facebook and get your tickets because they are selling fast!

Thursday 15th September (9pm-1am)

Dego "A Wha' Him Deh Pon?" (Live)

Tanya Auclair (Live)

Eric Lau (DJ set)

Mrs Mck's Pudding Club (Cake)

Sri McKinnon "Mindscapes" Exhibition (Art)

United 80 (Pop up shop)

The C.A.M.P. (Basement)

70-74 City Road, EC1Y 2BJ (Old St Tube)

£5 advance/ before 10pm (£7 after)

www.putmeonit.com

http://putmeonit.ticketbud.com/live-2000black

See you there!

Music: Robin Hannibal podast

2011-08-29T14:47:00.000+01:00

When the day is over, grab a drink, sit back and turn the volume up. You deserve it.

Robin Hannibal - Plug Research Podcast #12 by Plug Research

kalimba 1 - robin hannibal - unreleased
plastic - robin hannibal - bobby ep
voltaire - robin hannibal - bobby ep
samba de verão - quadron - red hot rio 2
if 6 was 8 - szjerdene - single
knight of the black book - IOU - this is IOU
monster - owusu and hannibal - living with.
kalimba 2 - bobby august - unrealeased
million babies - owusu and hannibal - living with.
look ma - robin hannibal - unreleased
mor - robin hannibal - unreleased
skynd dig langsomt - boom clap bachelors - mellem dine læber
let u go - robin hannibal - unrealeased

www.plugresearch.com

'Passion is the genesis of genius' Tony Robbins

2011-08-23T00:47:00.000+01:00

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;"FALSE"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

1. Shabazz Palaces, Artwork by Leif Podhajsky. 2. Full Album stream of Shabazz Palaces 'Black Up' My album of the year as of yet. I recommend this if you're interests are experimental/jazz influenced Hip Hop and I suggest you use nothing less of good headphones/monitors. 3. 'The Three Bears' by the ever so talented graphic designer/ illustrator Justina Bailey. 4. Self portrait of New York based photographer Andre' D. Wagner (I think I'm in love). 5. The Passion project by Andre' D. Wagner, a series of photographs of individuals simply loving and living their passions. 6. An allegorical short film/music video for Shabazz Palaces shot in Watts, Los Angeles, directed by Kahlil Joseph, Photographed by Matt Lloyd. Featuring a cameo of Dante (Ernest Wadell) from "The Wire" in homage to Charles Burnett's 1977 classic film "Killer of Sheep".

Video: Postcard from Spain

2011-08-21T00:24:00.002+01:00

I was going through my archives, looking at the footage I had shot over recent months when I found this short clip. My friends and I were in Spain, Calella to be precise. We were set on discovering more of the country so we took an hour long train to Barcelona. It's a good thing that we did because it felt like we had arrived back to civilisation. Calella is a small town mostly inhabited by old folks. It's a lovely and peaceful place, unfortunately a bit too peaceful for us. So we got to Barcelona without much of a clue as to where we where going, nonetheless we had a great time sightseeing. Something kept on pulling us towards a particular direction. It was the sea. I remember being so captivated by the rhythm of the water and the way it moved under the sun. A cinematographers dream perhaps. For a long time I didn't know what to do with this 60 sec clip, finally I figured that beauty needs no reason nor excuse, right?

Music From Spanish film Cria Cuervos (1976)

Incase you missed it: my Spanish Photo diary

Horn of Africa crisis

2011-08-20T04:39:00.001+01:00

Horn of Africa Crisis: By the Numbers. InfoGraphic by Rich Clabaugh/ Monitor staff

The Horn of Africa is dealing with the worst famine in 60 years. The crisis represents the most serious food insecurity situation in the world today, in terms of both scale and severity.

There are so many things you can do to help.

Spend 5 minutes today reading the news. Get informed.

Talk to 5 or more friends in person. Tell them about the crisis.

Post on 5 Walls, Tweet 5 Friends, Email 5 people.

Write a blog post. Use your voice. You won’t reach everyone but you will reach someone.

If you can – Donate. Whether it is only Five Pounds/Dollars whatever. Every little helps

£0.50/$1.00 = 4 Full meals < think about this!

Please donate: worldfoodprogramme.org

p.s If you also believe if a Divine Power (God), send a prayer for the families.

“He who sleeps on a full stomach while his neighbour is hungry is not one of us.” ~ Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Film: MADE moments chapter II - Erykah Badu, Jaybo & Miki's String Quintet

2011-08-19T23:01:00.001+01:00

Absolute beauty. Badu is queen.

Produced by made-blog.com

The manifestation of change

2011-08-17T00:33:00.000+01:00

Graphic illustration by Leif Podhajsky

“There is so much about my fate that I cannot control, but other things do fall under the jurisdiction. I can decide how I spend my time, whom I interact with, whom I share my body and life and money and energy with. I can select what I can read and eat and study. I can choose how I’m going to regard unfortunate circumstances in my life-whether I will see them as curses or opportunities. I can choose my words and the tone of voice in which I speak to others. And most of all, I can choose my thoughts.” — Elizabeth Gilbert

I'm making changes to my life and the way I live it. Positive changes, in hopes that they will blossom into a future full of success, prosperity and happiness. It's about time I did.

Photo diary: Madame Pepper

2011-08-15T02:47:00.001+01:00

A truly inspiring woman. Talking to Janice always fills me up with optimism and light.

For all things quality, visit

www.madamepepper.com

Untitled

2011-08-14T21:56:00.000+01:00

Brown Sugar (2002) Dir. Rick Famuyiwa

“Have you ever been in love? Horrible isn't it? It makes you so vulnerable. It opens your chest and it opens up your heart and it means that someone can get inside you and mess you up. You build up all these defenses, you build up a whole suit of armor, so that nothing can hurt you, then one stupid person, no different from any other stupid person, wanders into your stupid life...You give them a piece of you. They didn't ask for it. They did something dumb one day, like kiss you or smile at you, and then your life isn't your own anymore. Love takes hostages. It gets inside you. It eats you out and leaves you crying in the darkness, so simple a phrase like 'maybe we should be just friends' turns into a glass splinter working its way into your heart. It hurts. Not just in the imagination. Not just in the mind. It's a soul-hurt, a real gets-inside-you-and-rips-you-apart pain. I hate love.”

- Neil Gaiman

This is one of the funniest things I've ever read.

To do list

2011-08-12T14:13:00.001+01:00

I wrote this a few minutes ago and I plan to stick it. I'll be back in the evening to hold my self accountable. I hope to keep procrastination & daydreaming to a minimum today.

UPDATE: I managed to cross 7/10 off my to do list. It's amazing how productive I can be away from my laptop!

Film: In the mood for love

2011-08-11T18:02:00.000+01:00

Photo Diary: Pandora's Box

2011-08-11T17:43:00.001+01:00

Sarina Leah & I (Side note: How cool is Sarina's iPhone case???)

Congratulations to Janine 'J9Star' Francois for putting on such an entertaining and dynamic event. Pandora's box was a night filled with great music, games and delicious cupcakes. Who could ask for more. I got see Howaboutbeth perform live for the very first time after knowing this talented lady for a few years I was left astonished and speechless by her performance. Her vocals are orgasmic, I definitely recommend you check out her music myspace.com/howaboutbeth . Much love to all performers and on the night; Sarina Leah, Teach Em and Anarkali on decks. Also many thanks to Janine for having me.

More photos below

My City ablaze

2011-08-09T20:24:00.000+01:00

I'm finding it really difficult to sum up my thoughts and feelings about what is happening in the United Kingdom right now. I'm upset, frustrated and deeply concerned that the worst is yet to come. I can't concentrate fully on anything solid right now, I keep watching the news only find further violence spreading throughout the cities. Police sirens outside the window and a general feeling of sadness in my home. I pray we get our shit together, real soon.

I'm grateful for the positive people who have collectively decided to tidy up the mess made by rioters/ looters, this is the kind of solidarity and harmony we need right now.

Music review: A Wha' Him De Pon (Guest post by Alex King)

2011-08-05T15:01:00.000+01:00

Possibly one of the greatest albums of 2011 thus far. Many thanks to my good friend Alex for guest posting. Read on....

Mr Goodgood, Pavel Kostiuk, Tek 9, MM Black, DTX, these are but a few of the names that musician Dennis 'Dego' McFarlane has acquired over the years. Most know him of course as one half (once a quarter) of the Broken Beat pioneer group '4Hero'. His partner Marc 'Mac' Clair had already released a number of projects (arguably including 'Extensions' as most of the covers are of Clair's works). But a question remained: Where was Dego's solo project? Hearing of one being developed through the grapevine, I did wonder if it would ever see the light of day. So one day, taking the occasional glance at up and coming releases, THERE IT WAS: Dego's solo project titled 'A Wha him deh pon?' ('what's he on?', 'what's he doing?', and so on.

Music wise, it does NOT disappoint! Dego presents us with a 20 track journey through Broken Beat/Soul Jazz/Funk/Electronic 80s goodness. The range of featured vocalists and musicians on this record serves to convey the dent that the Broken movement has made in past few years, while the music- distant from the harsh and rapid drum patterns that provided the back beat for layers of melodic keys on 4hero's 'Two Pages' and 'Creating Patterns', serves to show us where Dego is musically at the moment. From the bouncy bass, synths and movements of 'Start a New' we get a feel of familiarity (check the sounds of 'Something in the Way') through the always very human lyrics that McFarlane writes for featuring artists; the message in this track: Don't be afraid to make mistakes in life. Remaining in the same positive and bouncy key, we're slapped in the face with a lash of synths, bass and 'Wah wah' pedals with 'Sparkling Minds' followed by a rather menacing moment of unpredictable key and bass movements, as if the positive message in the song itself is being challenged.

A Wha him deh pon?' presents us with a range of emotions and musical influences throughout, pieces like 'Da Fuzz' is again bouncy but quite strange with a low eeriness streaming throughout. Songs like 'All That She Knows', 'Love & Hate You' and 'Pushing you to Begin' have a very strong 80s Soul feel to them through the rather light drum samples, bouncy pace and quite high pitched vocals. The piece 'We are Virgo' shows a strong jazz influence particularly through that signature movement change building up as strings and a piano breaks through toward the end. 'Late Night Fright' achieves what Ryota Nozaki (Jazztronik) did with his piece 'JTK': Travels through genres ending with a peaceful Jazz feel. However, Dego achieves this by simply adding a piano and string layer to the already menacing Drum'n'Bass/Dance groove of the piece. We get our dose of vitamin Soul from the forlorn 'They Never Know' and very human 'It's Nothing'; speaking on the tricks our minds can play on us. 'Monday Blues' provides with a very human, "Bloody 'ell, here we go again" feel through the almost bored pulse of bass and a repeated cycle of synths in the key of "life goes on".

All in all 'A Wha him deh pon?' is everything you'd expect of a Dego record; Great pieces of music that make you want to move your feet, thoughtful melodies, signature time changes (occurring fairly often), and human lyrics covering denial, positivity, self belief and the ups and downs of love. My only qualms are the lack of vocalist 'Face' (I mean, really?) and I was secretly hoping for a bonus track (preferably the tune Spec Boogie did with Dego and Kaidi). But knowing that the 2000 black team are still around gives me hope that we'll hear more from them soon.

-Alex King

Buy Album here

Today I feel powerful.

2011-08-02T20:41:00.004+01:00

Whilst researching for my uni dissertation 'The Hypersexualisation of The Black Woman In Hip Hop'
I came across this...

Strength is the ability to take a hit, however, resilience is the ability to bounce back from that hit. I think many of you would agree with me in saying that as black women we are very capable, we very skilful and resourceful and most importantly we’re RESILIENT! For hundreds of years we’ve been bouncing back from what the world has thrown at us, we’ve been pillars of our families and communities, providing nourishment and care while making use of the resources available to us.

Sadly this image of the strong resilient black woman is slowly fading. We need to allow ourselves to be vessels of positivity. Our families and communities are hurting and wounded and they need us to bounce back. Being sexy or stylish is cool, however, presenting yourself solely as a sex object and dressing scantily isn’t. Taking pictures with your breast and backside out and placing them on the internet just isn’t cool, it’s degrading and tasteless not to mention that you’re exploiting your body. It cheapens the image of all black women, there’s enough of that in the media already. Our younger generation can only be uplifted if they have respect for the image and concept of black womanhood.

The black woman is beautiful by nature, allow people to see you for the beauty you naturally have. It is impossible to be become more beautiful than the way you were naturally born. Stop trying to change yourself physically, pay attention to yourself, learn about yourself and be yourself. Let your words flow freely and let them reflect your intelligence!!!! Words are powerful, speak to educate, speak to comfort and to uplift. It’s important to smile and be pleasant; anyone who gazes upon a black woman manifesting her womanhood knows that she is the most beautiful of all.

- Laila Jean

Music: AUGUST MIX

2011-08-01T22:20:00.000+01:00

Things are warming up here in London so I bring you 12 tracks full of good summer vibes, Enjoy.

1. Work To Do - Mayer Hawthorne

2. Overwhelmed (feat. Bilal) - Daedelus

3. Ghetto Dreams (feat. Nas) - Common

4. Freak Love (Freddie Joachim Remix) - Toro Y Moi

5. Last Night (Sa-Ra Remix) - Kevin Mark Trail

6. Solidify (feat. Jamie Woon & Om'Mas Keith) - Subeena

7. Um Girassol Da Cor Do Seu Cabelo - Mia Doi Todd & José González

8. Spanish Sahara (Mount Kimbie Remix) - Foals

9. Sweetest Day (feat. Kissey Asplund) - Daru Jones

10. For Love I Come - Thundercat

11. Zoner - Jesse Boykins III

12. Recollections of the wraith - Shabazz Palaces

> DOWNLOAD LINK <

Previous Mixes

JULY

JUNE

Photo Diary: Children of Shorditch

2011-08-01T20:15:00.000+01:00

The Light

2011-08-01T14:27:00.000+01:00

"This morning, I woke up and the kings came,

I saw a rainbow after the rain.

Sunshine, I was blinded by the rains,

They say the time has come, lift up your veils,

Walk into the sun."

sa-ra - love czars by redgee

The Rain

2011-07-29T23:30:00.001+01:00

Source

This is what my world feels like right now. Some light and ease would be a blessing, anytime soon please.

Lonely Lonely Lonely by The Candle Thieves

Photo Diary: Lavender & peace

2011-07-27T13:17:00.000+01:00

iamthenewblack feature

2011-07-27T01:23:00.000+01:00

Many thanks to Gabrielle for having me. Read the interview here

Photo Diary: Dalston run

2011-07-24T23:01:00.002+01:00

I dont know why I ran all the way to the canal that day, I secretly wanted to see if he would run after me which he did after having little choice.

I caught a raft of ducks soon after, paddling away. They do fascinate me. I think its the sense of togetherness and closeness they share. The ducklings are so vulnerable and the mother Ducks are very guarding, they're such a joy to watch - I'm obviously turning into mush.

re:start

2011-07-21T05:42:00.000+01:00

Source

After much contemplation I've come to the decision to continue blogging here (hence the new header).
I grew tired of the format and style. Consequently I de-cluttered the space and now it all feels alot more cleaner and spacious. More room to express my self and explore further forms of art.

I sat in class at film school the other day realising how one dimensional life can be. We were having a lecture on surrealist film, my mind struggled to grasp certain concepts of surrealism. Some areas seemed as natural as Charlie and the chocolate factory, other areas were totally foreign. Nonetheless I enjoyed it for it opened up my mind . I wondered, have I become passive? Am I stuck in a repition of familar habits? Am I even trying to live to my fullest potential?

A previous manager of mine once said to me that humans should seek to place themselves outside of their comfort zone at least once a month in order to encourage growth. That same afternoon we climed a Mountain at Peak District (pictured above). I was absolutely terrified and very stubborn about it, I really didn't want to do I actually hid in the toilets until she came and talked me out of my resistance. 50 metres up in the air seemed like such a milestone at first, but once we had climbed to the top and had descended back to ground, I realised that things weren't so bad. They never are, we just have to embrace the fear in order to fight it. After all, its a hologram of nothingness.

False
Expectation
Appearing
Real

I believe I need to dig deeper to become better. I hope you stick around to witness my journey. By the way, a note to my beloved subscribers, I see you all and appreciate you for being here.

Goodbye?

2011-07-20T18:23:00.001+01:00

Source

Hello beloved readers, whether you've just joined or have been here a while, I've come to the decision to no longer continue this blog in the way it is. I feel like I have outgrown this space. This blog somehow put's a restriction on how much I can share and how personal I can be, long story short I dont feel comfortable here anymore. It's not out of misery, it's out of positive action to progress and grow as a creative. I will continue to blog. Not just here/or in this way. Thank you so much for your visits, interaction and support. Stay tuned for further developments.

Peace.

Photo Diary: Portugal '09 (throwback)

2011-07-18T23:29:00.001+01:00

I was going through my old photos today when I found these two gems. Taken on a holiday to Portugal Algarve back in 2009. A lot has changed since then, yet we'll always have photographic memories.

I think I have writer's block

2011-07-12T00:51:00.002+01:00

Either that or a great difficulty with keeping my concentration for more than 20 seconds. Today I found this and so far it's helping.

Write every day. Write something. Every day.

Easier said than done, right? Here are some suggestions for making it happen.

1. Commit to writing for at least two hours every day. (Why? Because 1½ to 2 hours is the maximum that most of us can endure mentally and physically before needing a break.) So write for at least 90 minutes without getting up from your chair. Seriously. No breaks, no distractions, no getting everything else done first. And especially no e-mail and Facebook.

2. Write every day for two weeks. For most of us, that is enough to make it a habit. And I promise that if you do this, you’ll find out how much more productive you become as a writer. Try it.

3. What to do when you have holidays to observe and celebrate? Or when you are too ill to write? Or when you can’t possibly find even 90 minutes in your day to write? That is when you must write even 15 minutes each day. No matter how tired or busy or even sick you are, write 15 minutes each day. Here’s why this works:

- The hardest part of writing is getting started. We amateurs procrastinate minutes, hours, and days. (The pros – some of the best and most prolific writers – report procrastinating weeks and even years.) We’re afraid we won’t have anything to write. We’re afraid that what we write will be terrible. We’re afraid we’re not up to the real pain that good writing requires. For some of us, it’s only when the pain of what we would lose by not writing – fellowships, degree completion, book contracts, jobs – feels more real than the pain of actually writing that we even begin to write.

- If you make yourself write 15 minutes a day, you have overcome the biggest hurdle – getting started. I’ve never known anyone with the goal of writing 15 minutes a day actually limit writing to just that 15 minutes. Once you start, I promise you won’t watch the clock. You’ll write for 30, 60, even 90 minutes before you realize it. (The trick is that you tell yourself you only have to write for 15 minutes and that you can endure anything for that long. Once you start to write, the anxiety will begin to disappear and you’ll write longer.)

- Writing everyday contributes to continuity of your thinking and generating the ideas you need to write. Your mind will function differently when you write every day. We all think about our writing every day. But the cognitive processes involved in writing are different from those involved in thinking. Your project moves forward when you write… even if you write a gosh-awful first draft.

source: Writing advice

Music: Zayna Daze 'Golden Girl'

2011-07-11T22:39:00.000+01:00

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://zaynadaze.bandcamp.com/track/golden-girl"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Golden Girl by ZAYNA DAZE&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Golden Girl is a story of a femme fatale, a seductress who wont take no for an answer. She shines and radiates supremacy. Her enigmatic charisma attracts many, however once you get close you'll discover that glitters isn't gold. 'And if anybody falls in love with her, you can blame it all on the devil's work.'

This track features exclusively on untold songs Vol.1. I'm currently working on new music so watch this space, soon come!

Peace

Photo Diary: Parisian Plight (Prt III)

2011-07-08T12:22:00.001+01:00

So here it is, the final installment of my Paris Photo Diary. I had a fabulous time and I cant wait to visit again. I have been to Paris and other cities in france several times before, but this time I really got see the city for all its grandeur and beauty. I indulged in a proper tourist experience which is always fun when you're with good company and pleasant weather. A little ice cream doesn't hurt too. Incase you've missed my previous entries: part one & part two. Till the next time... au revoir.

Music: JULY MIX

2011-07-02T02:33:00.002+01:00

Nothing but 13 tracks of summer goodness, you will love this.

1. Come You Can Go - Quadron
2. Why Even Try - Theophilus London
3. Fluorescent Nights - Echo Shade
4. Deep Inside Your Love - Sa-Ra Creative Partners feat Irinsa Gayle
5. All The Kisses - The Foreign Exchange feat. Paris & Amber Strother (of KING)
6. Back Home - Jesse Boykins III
7. Blast Off - Sonnymoon
8. Work Out - J. Cole
9. Venting - JoLeon Davenue
10. Summer So Good - H.I.S.D feat The Legendary K-O
11. Is This Love (Bob Marley Cover) - Mara Hruby
12. Walk On The Moon - Mansions On The Moon
13. Smile - Jamiroquai

> FREE DOWNLOAD <

Previous: June Mix

Photo Diary: Untold songs Launch show

2011-07-01T23:09:00.001+01:00

More photos are the jump >

1. Madame Pepper/ Zayna Daze 2. Jewelry Stall 3. Kersha Bailey 4. Belinda Zwahi 5. Delicious Cupcakes 6. Sarina Leah 7. Sri and her fabulous artwork

Many thanks to Wasi for taking photos on the night. View them all here

Press: Love from Bloglovin

2011-06-30T21:22:00.000+01:00

The other day I was on bloglovin going through my favourite blog subscriptions as I usually do when I spotted my Parisian photo diary ranked #2 in the popular category (United Kingdom). I must say, I was pleasantly surprised and pleased. It's nice to know people take an interest in my work, its also great to receive recognition for it too. Massive thanks to the beloved who visit daily, regularly and every now again. I appreciate you all.

Dont forget you can subscribe via bloglovin too here.

Photo diary: Postcard from Aida

2011-06-30T01:29:00.000+01:00

I received something special in the post today. My sweetheart Aida sent me a postcard whilst on her stay in Istanbul. Seriously, I dont remember the last time someone did so thoughtful, I dont even remember the last time someone wrote to me, I miss this. By the way, dont you just love her handwriting!

Note to self, send postcards & letters to friends more often.

Related: Photo x video diary - Aida in Istanbul

Photo Diary: Parisian Plight (Prt II)

2011-06-24T20:38:00.000+01:00

As promised, the second installment of my Paris photo diary, final one coming soon. View more photos after the jump.

previous: parisian plight prt I

Illustration inspiration: Missy McCullough

2011-06-23T17:48:00.005+01:00

View More of Missy's portfolio

Photo x video diary: Aida in Istanbul

2011-06-22T22:57:00.000+01:00

My good friend Aida recently visited Istanbul Turkey, here are some beautiful visuals from her trip.

"istanbul now ranks as one of my favourite places in the world, it reminds me of all my favourite places (tangier, london, singapore) and right now, at this very moment, i miss every single person that i have met while travelling. every single one of you. from the street hawkers and buskers, to the helpful people who have pointed me to the right direction, the ladies i prayed with in the mussolahs, the passengers-in-waiting, the crowd at each and every gig but most off all, my friends, whom i love and miss so so dearly, and the families who have welcomed me to their homes.

i can only offer every single one of them my prayers. "

Keep up with Aida's journey through life over at her site aidaazlinforco.com

View more photos after the jump

Music: DEGO - 'A WHA HIM DEH PON?'

2011-06-22T20:00:00.000+01:00

Dego - Love and hate you feat. Obenewa Taken from Dego's (2000 Black) debut solo LP 'A WHA HIM DEH PON'

Some funky music to dance to this evening. Buy here

Photo Diary: Yarah Bravo

2011-06-21T21:54:00.000+01:00

I managed to steal some minutes with Yarah Bravo just before the Untold Songs Launch. We briefly spoke of life and our ambitions, I was even fortunate to hear a couple unheard joints from her forthcoming album, its sounds amaaaaaazing. She's such a beautiful spirit, creative and very strong. I love me some captain love bubble.

Peep her track 'Freedom fighers' featured on Untold Songs Vol.1

<a href="http://juslikemusicrecords.bandcamp.com/track/freedom-fighters">Freedom Fighters by Jus Like Music Records</a>

Photo Diary: Parisian Plight (Prt I)

2011-06-19T21:31:00.002+01:00

I took a visit to Paris this weekend, what an interesting EXPERIENCE. There's so much to say about the trip but all I'll say is that the city of Paris has my heart again. Peep more photos below and stay tuned for more installments.

Photo Diary: Nature's gifts

2011-06-17T03:31:00.000+01:00

Event: Zayna Daze Performing live @ Pandora's Box 27.07.11

2011-06-16T12:54:00.001+01:00

I will be doing a live set here next month alongside Sarina Leah, How about beth and Teach em. It will be a fantastic night full of great live music, games and cupcakes so come down!

Free entry // RSVP HERE

Music: Untold Songs

2011-06-16T12:46:00.001+01:00

Curated by wonder woman Belle, the 23 track compilation is available right now listen in full and purchase for a mere fiver. Released on Jus like music records, the album features your truly as well as some extraordinary female artists.

Theres so much great music on this, I'm very blessed to be a part of it as its for a great cause, a percentage of the proceeds will go to Amnesty International's Stop Violence Against Women Campaign. Have a listen and share too if ya dig!

Keep up with Untold Songs on Facebook // Bandcamp // twitter // blog and Amnesty International

Art work by Sri

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://juslikemusicrecords.bandcamp.com/album/untold-songs-volume-one-curated-by-belle"&amp;amp;gt;Untold Songs: Volume One curated by Belle by Jus Like Music Records&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Music: Shafiq Husayn - 'Shafiq En' A-Free-Ka'

2011-06-13T22:34:00.000+01:00

Shafiq En'A-Free-Ka (2009) remains a favorite amongst LP's released in the last couple of years and I'm sure it will stay in my top ten in decades to come. Shafiq En'A-Free-Ka is the debut solo LP from Shafiq Husayn, one third of the mighty Sa-Ra Creative Partners. This album keeps me motivated and deeply inspired. I hope ya'll enjoy it as much as I do.

Shafiq Husayn - Shafiq En' A-Free-Ka by Plug Research

Get some more Sa-Ra in your life here.

M.I.A X ZAYNA KALA TAKEOVER

2011-06-11T03:45:00.000+01:00