Friday, March 30, 2012

SME x KOG 2nd Birthday Party

Our blogging friends over at S.M.E have decided to celebrate their second birthday tonight in style bringing Kids Of Grime along for the ride. Expect mayhem down at East Village for the celebration as Rinse DJ's Sian Anderson, Vectra and Spyro set the pace with CJ Beatz and SME DJ's too whilst Manga and P Money will be grabbing hold of the mic to each do their thing. It's also payday so no excuses plus it's free entry for early birds before 10pm, trust us when we say you won't be disappointed. 

Chanel: The Little Black Jacket

Ms. Coco Chanel invented the little black dress that's a fact but here the Little Black Jacket gets a style overhaul with Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld at the helm alongside some of the fashion worlds elites Anna Wintour, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kanye West and the trendy Theophilus London. To see the full collection head over to the specifically built Little Black Jacket website.

The Dark Knight Rises: Lego Trailer

Everyone is looking forward to what has been dubbed the film of the year The Dark Knight Rises but what do you know about the lego version?! Well Paranick Films have decided to give their hilarious take on the film by reproducing the trailer using well lego of course! If you like what you see then head over to the Paranick Films where there's other funny refixes of box office smashes.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

A*M*E: Ride or Die

This teen starlet-in-waiting unleashes another huge pop track for the fans with Ride or Die produced by MNEK, it's a pretty cool video especially if you like lot's of colour and rocking horses. Like what you hear (you all scream yes) well head here for a free download from the multi talented A*M*E  

i-D magazine Announce Monthly Music Mixtape Event

Our friends over at i-D magazine are taking their monthly mixtape that step further by running their own nights at the trendy east hotspot XOYO in the XO Bar. Refusing to be boxed in by genres the playlist which I'm sure you're all familiar with covers everything from hip hop to trip-hop and techno to folk so expect the eclectic line up which includes Geddes, Brey, Beaty Heart and i-D's very own Milly McMahon to tantalise your ear drums on Wednesday April 4th for completely nothing. Yes you heard right, it's FREE and you can get a taster by listening to the current mixtape below.

The Hundreds: Screen Resolution

The Hundreds are legends in the screen printing game but as their recent blog post will tell you none of their success came without a struggle. Now eight years old, the social merchandising company, (the first of it's kind) has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world including our fine selves here at G-Shock and Disney plus covering prestigious titles too such as New York and LA Times. 

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

G-Shock Sessions Off To Manchester



For everyone that made it down to Birmingham's G-Shock session last week, they'll be more than aware of what the tour is about, good music and good vibes. Expect to see MC R.I.O, the talented Tyler Daley and lyricist and producer respectively Blizzard do their thing alongside household name Sway plus set to spin the crowd up into a frenzy Steve Sutherland, Mark Hill (Artful) and even more if you can believe it. Follow @Gshocksessions for more info and basically get yourselves down to Moholive this Thursday from 7pm. Email sessions@casio.co.uk for guestlist and check out the flyer below.

SBTRKT Ft. Sampha: Hold On

It's the men that can do no wrong (musically of course because we don't know them that well) Sampha and SBTRKT give us some visuals for the beautiful Hold On exclusively revealed by MTV. If you are a complete waste of space and do not own this album then please if you do one thing today fix that. 


G-Shock Sessions x Birmingham

Last week G-Shock kicked off the tour in the Mids as the infamous sessions stepped out of east London and into Birmingham.

The line up reflected the vibrancy of the current scene mixing #SGangTheBestGang aka Stay Fresh with the likes of Malik MD7, RoxXxan and one to watch Dapz On The Map. Check out the picture gallery over at G-Shock sessions and as it's caused so much online hysteria since it dropped earlier this week over on Soul Culture check out Macca's video for the first single to be taken from debut album 25.





Don't forget there's no stopping the tour next stop Manchester tomorrow in conjunction with fashion's finest Flannels so look out for the blog post on that.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

MNEK: Get Along With You (Kelis Cover)

Still in his teens this incredibly talented individual otherwise know as MNEK has been showing fans just what he's about whether that's on a soulful vibe like below, a house tip alongside Rudimental or a pop stylee working with fellow one to watch star A*M*E. Look out for him but for now listen to MNEK and follow MNEK.

Genesis Project Pendleton Caps

The Genesis Project already got creative on their last snapback collection adding a floral touch to the retro caps now they've got even more arty adding a navaho graphic element to the classic NFL head toppers. Using lambskin leather, premium pig skin suede and gold buckle details just understand these are not your average snapbacks so head to The Genesis Project and part with a little more cash than usual.

Time For: CreativeNerds


After starting design company CreativeNerds four years ago at the ripe old age of 15 Dirujan Sabesan has gone on to work with everyone from SB.TV, Mistajam, Tinchy Stryder, Sony and Link Up TV creating websites you want to visit again and again. Still a small team comprised of young creatively minded people we speak to Dirujan about his rise and plans for the future.

Breakdown CreativeNerds in a sentence.

We are an ever-growing creative powerhouse, with a fresh, young approach to design and development, creating bespoke web and graphic artwork for clients all sizes.

You started Creative Nerds at such a young age was this company something that you always envisaged?

It started out as a hobby, I really got to grips with Photoshop at the age of 15, and loved to experiment. Sooner rather than later I decided to create an online design forum which would act as a platform for other designers like myself to show-off their work and have access to resources for designing. I wanted to make my time designing worthwhile so I went on the hunt for some paid work, however no one would really want to pay a 16 year old designer with no experience or portfolio. So I reached out to artists on MySpace and got the job of creating Tinchy Stryder's layout, since then we seem to just keep growing.

What do you think attracts the major clients you've had so far?

I'm not really sure, I think its because of the style we have to all our work - its very vibrant, very modern and fresh. A lot of clients have come and said they've hired a more experienced agency or individual and they haven't been able to deliver the same kind of work as they wanted.

What is the toughest thing about your job?

Keeping on top of dozens of projects going on at the same time, trying to keep everyone happy and still finding time for a social life. 

What is the toughest decision you've had to make?

Dropping out of uni, it was a massive choice. I got a house to share because the Arts Uni at Bournemouth only gave accommodation to international students, that contract is running up until August. I also had to move all my stuff back to London from the house and pay my uni for a full terms tuition fees. Totally unfair but that was the only way I could get out of it. I've paid it all back since I left but I had to be sure that leaving uni didn't mean I was going to be unemployed and living at home learning nothing. My friend Niran told me 'the idea of teaching someone to be creative is a flawed concept'. It's so true and I think that three years in the real industry working for real clients is 100% better than sitting in a lecture, falling asleep and doing assignments just because you wanted to keep your tutor happy. I love what I do now, its fast paced, it keeps my adrenaline going and I don't really feel like its a chore.

What is the toughest part of your body? 

(Laughs) My fingers from all the clicking and typing I do! 

What are your plans for 2012?

Grow even bigger, I dropped out of uni after four weeks, I'm still paying rent on my house in Bournemouth until August, but its been worth it. I've been appointed as Digital Director for the Spirit of London Awards and I've also been appointed as Digital Media Manager for SB.TV which is where I now base myself to work from. So I haven a new office instead of working from my loft which can become lonely!

I took a risk by dropping out, but only because I could see myself missing so many opportunities, I've worked over three years to build up the reputation and portfolio for CreativeNerds, I didn't want to loose it all. The risk worked and the right opportunities presented themselves. We're trying to move out of the music industry and move into bigger projects which we've already kicked off, so the year couldn't have got to a better start! 

By the end of the year I hope to have a proper team in place which I can call on when I need bits done, each person will have their own speciality and it will make us one of the most powerful creative hubs in London (I hope!)

Find out more about CreativeNerds over on their website and follow Dirujan on Twitter


Monday, March 26, 2012

Plan B: iLL Manors (Funtcase Remix)


If you're having a little trouble getting into the swing of things on this beautiful Monday morning here's a little bit of filthy dubstep courtesy of Funtcase. Remixing the sick new track from Plan B's upcoming directorial debut iLL Manors, what's even better is it's out now on iTunes so you know what to do.


Donae'o Ft. Scrufizzer & Mz Bratt: Big Ben (Preditah Remix)

Funky don Donaeo already smashed it with new single Big Ben but Preditah already easily killing it on the grime seen took things the bassline route on this remis and brough along Scrufizzer and Mz Bratt for the ride. Have a listen to the track below and check out the original video too whilst you're here.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Publishing: What's The Future?


The Virgin Media Pioneers series looks at the future of publishing, both online and print. Featuring Joe Wade from Don't Panic, Hattie Collins from RWD (and G-Shock of course!), Paul Pryor from Topman Generation and presented by Reuben Christian, this tastily shot short offers a glimpse into the future of the publishing industry.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Wretch x Usher: Climax (cover)

He's got lyrics on top of lyrics and as if that's not enough he's also one of the nicest guys, like ever, Wretch 32 treats us fans to a special refix of Usher and Diplo's hit 'Climax'. If you're liking what you're hearing then just wait for the forthcoming EP where the Tottenham native gives you all a good old 'Wretchercise' of the mind with his powerful wordplay.

Tulisa: We Are Young

Lets skip past the controversy shall we...Okay well here it is the build up is over N-Dubz member and friend Fazer and Tulisa came together to produce the pop/dance track We Are Young, her first solo single. There's a lot more to come from her having been out in LA linking up with top producers and songwriters  over the past few months but for now let us know what you think about Tulisa's new track video below.

Vans Off The Wall: Pop Up Shop

The skate scene is pretty vibrant at the moment with festivals like Wakestock and Streetfest plus the likes of Ghetts and co embracing the sport, so the style stakes have most certainly been upped. This week Vans teamed up with skate supremo's Slam City Skates, the result of which revealed a pretty cool pop up shop in Covent Garden, London. Now there's a slick setting to get your shop on in we're sure the contrasting colourways and luxury suede finishes of the new footwear collection at Vans will be snapped up in no time. Have a look at Ravi Sidhu's pics of the Vans Off The Wall shop and get yourselves down there!

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Eastpak x Kris Van Assche: Capsule Collection

Dior Homme's artistic director Kris Van Assche continues to collaborate with the slick carrier providers Eastpak to ensure whether you're stepping out to skate or of to a meeting your swag will be turned all the way up. Everything from the classic backpack updated with a sumptuous leather finish to luxury messengers and duffles are available in the third collaboration between the fashionable ones. Take a look at more of the collection here.

Tempa T For London Mayor: Part 1

If you're used to seeing the hype side of Tempz then be surprised as he's not always on a hype, in fact, he really cares about his community hence why he's running for London Mayor. You can find out over the next few weeks exactly what Tempa T is planning to change if voted in, first up the cost of housing in London. This video may possibly be the best reason to #VoteTempaT or at least head back over to Noisey next week to see part two of his manifesto.

Delilah: Breathe (Sub Zero remix)

Her voice is hypnotic and the original track also featuring the raspy soulful tones of Liam Bailey is great (check out Delilah's live version here) but now Sub Zero is up in the mix somehow it's got even better. We like Delilah on this vibe, still regularly rinsing the Chase & Status hit Time and with Breathe being given the Sub Zero treatment it's got some competition. 

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Introducing: Les Twins

This dancing duo and obvious gene sharers, Les Twins have been shaking their touches all over the globe, snapped up by the likes of Beyonce already for her incomparable stage shows, they've now caught the eye of head top specialists New Era. SBTV went behind the scenes on their advert and to get an even better idea of what the Frenchmen are about then check the innovative video which broke them into the world dance scene too.

Stussy: Varsity Collection

Masters of style, Stussy have been making their iconic and extremely limited varsity jackets for years, now with the fashion of the 80's and 90's making a resurgence they've decided to reminisce on all the awesome collaborations. Nike, Bape and their own innovative creations have been showcased by the brand over on their website. If you're a fan of the wardrobe staple then have a look at the jackets after the jump.

Time For: James Pearson-Howes


G-Shock recently caught up with the esteemed photographer and documentary maker James Pearson-Howes, his work has been featured just about everywhere from Vice, RWD, Dazed & Confused to New Order Magazine and The Independent; as well as commissions from major record labels Atlantic and Virgin Records plus outside of the box exhibitions backed by the likes of Mother. If you're a budding creative have a read to find out JPH's tips, his rise to success and the toughest thing about his job.

What made you get into photography in the first place?

Because I wasn't good at anything else (laughs) apart from art. I'm really dyslexic so that was the one thing I properly excelled at and I had a good run of tutors who actually encouraged me to go into it. Then I went to university because I wanted to make money from it, I went to London College of Printing which is now LCC and the rest is just getting into editorial photography and I took it from there really?

What do you think your first big break was then?

I remember my first sort of successful piece in an established magazine, it was really pleasing, I did that for The Independent. It's just nice because I grew up knowing those newspapers and thinking I'd like to get my work in those publications and by the time you achieve it, you know, you set your goals even higher.

What do you think has been the most exciting point of your career to date?

At the moment I'm doing this whole British folk project where it goes back to the traditions which is really nice, sometimes they become vanity projects but it's been an eye opening project and something that I've always wanted to do travel around England and I've nearly finished it now. I'll probably finish it by the end of this year it will have been five years in the making. 

As well as RWD's DECA exhibition which you recently worked on, what other exhibitions have you been really proud of?

We did one recently with ad agency Mother and Will Robson-Scott, both me and him worked on a project about buses. Taking shots from the top deck of double decker buses for a year and it's just sort of nice for a project that you've worked on for a while to be resolved. We got a graphics company called Utile Creatives to help us design it all and Utile Clothing helped us sponsor it so it was nice to be a part of a little mini collective really and have it shown at a great place which is Mother, one of the biggest ad agencies in the world, hopefully we'll tour that as well.


Who has been your favourite music artist to shoot?

Dizzee Rascal without a doubt. He was the most fun we shot him for Vice years and years ago, I can't remember but that was before Boy In The Corner came out and he was so much fun and had so much energy. Professional wise Kelly Rowland was a lot of fun, really professional and great to work with, easy and open, you know not everyone high up is difficult to work with.

Who's still on the list of people to shoot?

Cor blimey. Loads…

Okay yes that is a bit much, what about the times you wished you would of taken a photo then?     

Well once I went to go document a prison and I got a chance to go and walk around this prison with all of these ridiculously hench, muscly murderers around me. The prison warden asked me if I wanted to go and visit one of the cells. I walked into this guys tiny little cell and he had all of his breakfast cereals stacked in pyramids, everything was in pyramids; it was the most amazing thing but I felt really weird taking a picture in his only private space for God knows how long. What I should of done is asked which I've never hesitated about before but I dunno I felt like I was invading his privacy. 

What other photographer's are you into?

Fashion-wise, I think Juergen Teller is incredible, Nick Knight, and documentary wise Bruce Davidson, Martin Parr, Stephen Gill my favourite contemporary journalist who just keeps on churning out work.

What is the toughest thing about your job?

People not turning up (laughs) and also the constant one man band show. You know if you don't wake up early and you're not constantly chasing new work… you need to be pushing it hard constantly.

What is the toughest part of your body?

My eyes hopefully.

Have you got any tips for budding photographers/documentary makers?

Ooh difficult don't do it (laughs).  No, no, no, it's just something technical I'd advise someone to do first, shadow someone who is really geeky and technical because if you want to make money then that's the way that things are moving and the rest will slip into place.

Tell us about your upcoming project?

I've got an exhibition coming up at the J&A cafe on the 5th April. It's a collection of images that I've taken in various fashion houses, from fashion creatives to directors and the studios they work in. There's one shot which is nice we went to Stone Island and took a picture of this woman working and it's just a lonesome shot of this woman and that's one of my favourite images from the exhibition. 

To find more of James Pearson-Howes work head to his website and make sure you check out his exhibition (details below).



Tuesday, March 20, 2012

G-Shock Sessions: Birmingham

Already G-Shock sessions has garnered a credible and huge following in it's east London home but we're taking things one step further and heading up north supported by Autograph; first stop, Birmingham. Reppin for their ends expect to see performances from RoxXxan, Dapz On The Map, Malik MD7, Stay Fresh and on the decks the likes of Artful and Steve Sutherland this Thursday down at The Custard Factory on Gibb Street. It's guestlist only so make sure you drop sessions@casio.co.uk an email to get yourself there. Click through to check out the flyer...

M.I.A & Romain Gavras - Behind The Scenes



You all remember those four minutes of epic video-ness, well now you can find out exactly how, what, when and why the 'Bad Girls' video came into being, courtesy of Noisey as they go behind the scenes with cutting edge director Romain Gavras and the lady herself M.I.A.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Time For: Context

Fresh from winning the MTV Brand New wildcard; voted in by his industry peers and fans alike, Norwich native Context talks to us about toughness and becoming an underwater action man in new video 'Drowning'.

D'Banj: Oliver Twist



Signed to Ye's G.O.O.D music that's exactly what this African artist is providing, finally the video for the afrobeat jam of the year is here. Enjoy! Also unless you've been hiding under a rock you'll have heard the remix that BBC 1Xtra has been hammering featuring BBK's Skepta and the wavey Sneakbo, click on the links for their individual covers.

Ridley Scott's Prometheus: Trailer



Fans of cult sci-fi film Alien released in '79 will be overjoyed about the upcoming prequel, 'Prometheus'. Starring man of the moment Michael Fassbender, Hackney lad done (more than) well Idris Elba and stunner Charlize Theron, the trailer is enough to get the most anti science fiction person excited. Look out for the film in cinemas June 1.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Commes Des Garcons SHIRT x Supreme: Capsule Collection

Commes Des Garcons are dons in this here fashion field and by teaming up with Supreme are adding just the right amount of cool without selling out the authentic Japanese vision. The capsule collection kicked off with the menswear shirts above and goes all the way through to polka dot T's and hoodies not forgetting the on trend 5-panel snapbacks complete with flip box logo. We don't need to tell you what you can match them all up with though do we...

Stooshe: Lego House (Ed Sheeran cover)

The trio who the world can't get enough of right now Stooshe put together a treat for MSN Music, covering the fantastic Mr Ed Sheeran's 'Lego House', have a look and listen after the jump.

Time For: Lianne La Havas


Sultry and seductive vocals with an added edge, south London's Lianne La Havas is warming the hearts of music folk on both sides of the Atlantic. Following her Jools Holland performance last year the Warner signee has kept the buzz going with the infectious 'Forget' and now 'Lost & Found', so we caught up with the Jamaican/Greek songstress to get to know her a little more.

Tim Burton's Dark Shadows: Trailer


Johnny Depp's role as vampire Barnabas Collins in Tim Burton's upcoming flick Dark Shadows sees the blood sucker dragged out of his medieval tomb and plonked straight into the 60's. We already know exactly how capable Mr Depp is at playing ultra weirds characters, this time he's complimented by the equally uncanny Helena Bonham Carter and a couple of gorgeous women, Michelle Pfieffer and Eva Green. Check out the trailer below and look out for the film in cinemas this May.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

B.Traits: Fever


B.Traits - Fever on MUZU.TV.

This young female producer, born in Canada, living in London, is pretty amazing, we think you'll agree. Hotly tipped by many a magazine and loved by everyone from Annie Mac to Fearne Cotton, this is the new single from B-Traits, featuring Elizabeth Troy and released on Digital Soundbwoy. This makes us want to rave. Hard!


J Cole Ft. Missy Elliott: Nobody's Perfect



One of our very favourites, we're so happy to see Miss E back. The Hip Hopstress makes some noise on this new J. Cole single, Nobody's Perfect.

G-Shock Aviator GW-4000D: Preview


We headed to Basel, Germany, recently to announce the launch of the new GW-4000D-1AER at the Basel watch trade show. If you thought you'd seen it all with G-Shock (you haven't btw, but anyway), this is about to blow your mind even more. The Aviator features tough solar charging and radio control for perfect timing. There's also the expansion of the 'Sky Cockpit' line, previously seen on the GW-2000 and GW-3000 - a feature that draws (*dusts our shoulders off) a whole lot of love.

When it came to the design of the watch (we know, it's a beauty!), we asked some of the world's most extreme pilots for their input. With that in mind, prepare to be impressed with the 'Triple G resist' technology, creating a watch that is able to maintain accurate operation under the most extreme acceleration and deceleration. A new polyurethane gel protects the internal components, while the finely balanced hands maintaining accurate operation in excess of 12G. 12G!

G-Shock premium, including the Aviator GW-4000D is available from select Goldsmith and ROX shores, Selfridges London, Liberty and G-Shock East. Pop yourself here for more stockist details.

Hypercomplex: New Season




















































The sun is shining, spring is most definitely here and we are feeling good here at the G-Shock blog. What makes our day even better right now is the arrival of this Spring/Summer GA-110FC Hypercomplex watch in two new contrasting colour ways; red resin strap with a contrasting blue, yellow and orange watch face and a navy with green, orange and yellow watch face. 

Look at the colours! Look at them! Gorgeous we're sure you'll agree.

Living up to their reputation for big case designs, this Ana Digi “three-eyed” phenomenon measures in at a whopping 55 x 51.2 x 16.99mm size with an attention to detail that is second to none - making it second to none! Large anti-skid buttons provide easy embossed indexes, gives a 3-D look and a rivet bezel design adds strength to its overall appearance.

What else can we tell you? The Shock Resistant (you know how we do) protects against impact and vibration, while the LED illuminates the face - perfect for those among us that need to know the time whether in the club or diving in deep waters (both are suitable for swimming and snorkelling up to 200 metre/ 20 bar). 

As well as a standard stopwatch, there's a countdown timer, meaning a stopwatch that counts backwards. Not only that, there's five - five!!! - daily alarms and you can activate hourly time signals. Finally there is of course the World Time - so you know exactly what time it is elsewhere in the world whenever you need to. Or, as you travail the globe, you can switch timezones quite literally at the press of a button.

We know, we know, it's a lot.

Head over here to pick up yours or get down to G-Shock EAST on Dray Walk, London, to try yours for size.



Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Time For: Josh Osho





Mr. Osho drops his EP, the Manifesto today. Showcasing his incredible vocal and thoughtful songwriting, you can download it for free from here!

We caught up with the south London singer with the amazing voice for a quick chat to find out more about the EP and what Josh has up his sleeve for this year.


Break down The Manifesto EP.What can we expect?
It's my musical and narrativemanifesto, in that the whole concept of the EP encompass the lessons learnt fromthe politics involved in the transition from creative expression tocreative responsibility. Then musically, I feel I have taken the a lot of thecore elements of my forthcoming album then concentrated and explored them, soalthough I'd say this is a touch more intense, I feel the general dimensionsof it act as precursor to the album.
Who's producing on there?
I self produced for the firsttime actually! I also have a production duo called Jack &Max, another production duo named Parallel and then there's Empdy on there too.
Why did you choose to workwith Etta Bond, Smiler and Rize?
100% Etta was in the plansfrom day one. I met her yonks ago and she has a beautiful soul then obviously Iclocked her talent, and so I was eager to get her on board. Smiler is flyingat the moment, I slept on him but recently stumbled across his freestyles and his single, Delorean and went all out to get him on board. Rize is a friend of who I'verated for a while; his grasp of lyricism is something else, he has so muchpassion and this was a platform I could give him.
The track, RIP Johnny Oakes, is prettyamazing. Can you tell us what inspired that song?
My own experience really, my perspective on life is that we all have a purpose and a journey and alongthe way there are so many potential split decisions, faultlines, that can throwyou off and at times - and I've seen it - be fatal.This song is about thatlesson, and how that lesson has been reinforced thus far on my journey withmusic.
What does The Manifesto sayabout Josh Osho? What you bringing to music in 2012?
II try and speak and create from my heart; no matter what the musicalenviroment or subject I just try and connect with myself then others.
What are your hopes for thisyear? Your next single, Giant is out soon, when are you dropping the album?
This year I hope to growmore, learn more, meet more people and connect with more people - and make some money(laughs)! The album should be dropping summertime.


You've worked with Ghostface,Childish Gambino, Krept and Konan etc - who might we see on the album?
Well we have Nas’s pops, Olu Dara, singing us a lovely little sample on a track. I'm sure they’ll be somemore surprises but I'm happy thus far; I've been blessed a lot on that front (laughs).
What'sthe toughest decision you've made to date?
The toughest decision thusfar has got to be to risk a lot to pursue music, I guess.
What's the toughest part ofyour job?
Realising it's not just aboutcreating and also the self criticism and analysis that you're not goodenough; constantly trying out do yourself
Where can people see you next ?
Giants is dropping on 23 April, so look out for that. Then I'll be supporting Emeli Sande on tourand then Rizzle Kicks so hit up my website for all the dates!


Follow Josh


Time For: Brenmar

Amazing DJ, brilliant producer, and all round top dooode, Brenmar is a man that loves his R&B, hip hop and house. If the beat is banging and the vocal hypnotic, it's basically up this Chicago creator's street.

His last release, Slow Grind, Deep Hustle was an absolute must-have, as is its follow-up, Vol.2. Stuffed full of Destiny's Child remixes, there's also newness from The-Dream and Dirty Money. Check it out, above, riiiiight now.

We hit Brenmar up on the old email to find out more about the mixtape and what he has in store for this year's SXSW.


The second instalment - blam! What can we expect?
(Laughs) Throwback late '90s/early 2000 R&B jams mixed in with a fewer new ones to balance it out.  All songs that still sound fresh and relevant even though some of them are over 12 years old.  

How do you go about selecting tunes, esp. from the '90s to now - is it what works well together or just what you're feeling?

Nothing - to me anyway - sounds dated on this mixtape, which just goes to show you how ahead of its time R&B once was.  It's a combination of nostalgia for me, some of these tunes I grew up with, as well as finding certain gems I had never heard before that still bang.  

Shout out on behalf of the UK for the Craig David inclusion! Still a big tune. What's your personal favourite/s on there?
I know! I found that remix and was like OMG, this is amazing!  He definitely had his moment, he's a personal favorite of mine.  Right now I can't get enough of Mariah Carey's Sweetheart.  

How would you describe Brenmar's hustle?
I work everyday, just making music, staying busy. Really trying to make the best music I can possibly make, my own personal hit records.  If I'm not in the studio I'm probably performing.  

You're off to SXSW - what are your memories of last year?
Getting really drunk the last Saturday with the RBMA [Red Bull Music Academy] UK fam (laughs).  I barely remember it to be honest.  

What you looking forward to most this year? Bands, DJ sets, parties, food etc etc?
The-Dream at Fader Fort!!!

Which track do you think you'll be spinning the most at SXSW?

THIS is a steady one in my playlists as of late.

What's the toughest decision you've ever made?
Leaving School to pursue music... always a risky move but it had to be done, no regrets here. 

What's the toughest part of your job?
The best and worst part of my job is the traveling. I get to see the world but everyone knows that flying isn't exactly someone's idea of a good time.  The food, the security, the turbulence... it takes it toll at times but I never take what I have for granted, I've been given an amazing chance.  

What else you working on right now?
I'm working with a lot of vocalists right now; Hip Hop, R&B and House. I'm really excited to start getting some of these original tunes out there.  I've been messing with samples for a long time so it's really refreshing for me - although much harder! The next Brenmar release will either be for Grizzly or Mixpak, it depends which I finish first.  The Grizzly record is more dance/house and the Mixpak more R&B /Hip Hop.  



Quintin: New Brand Arrives In UK


LA based lifestyle brand Quintin's newest collection arrives in the UK this week.  

Known first and foremost for its hats, the brand solidifies its position as a market leader in headwear this season, with its largest collection to date. Taking in mainly pastel colours and summer shades, the collection is truly a taste of California. 

Head over to Quintico to see the full collection and find your nearest stockist. 


BAPE x Comme De Garcon: New T's

Our favourite primate clothing company joins with Comme for a new line of T's.

Priced at £85, they are available exclusively only at the BAPE store, London (4, Upper James Street, W1F). Hit up BAPE for more details, and to see the full range on offer.

Plan B: iLL Manors


 A #trendingtopic on Twitter, this is the new video from Plan B, taken from his forthcoming directorial debut, out in May.

Here's what Ben has to say about the song and the video, which comments on last year's riots:


“The world, and this country especially, is full of contradictions. I’m just highlighting them, I’m not condoning anything. I aired my feelings about the riots very publicly when they happened and I still feel the same way.

What happened in Tottenham in some ways I can understand but what happened everywhere else in the country was opportunism. I won’t justify it because I don't agree with it. In fact it upset me so much I want to change it, so I wrote this song to bring the issue back to the forefront of public conversation. I feel it has been swept under the carpet and forgotten about, and it still needs to be properly addressed.

Since the riots happened I haven't heard enough people within the public sector asking the two most important questions; 'why did it happen and how can we prevent it from happening again?' I do have a theory as to why and how but first I need to make my point. And I’ve chosen satire to do so.
The point being made in my song ‘ill Manors’ is that society needs to take some responsibility for the cause of these riots. Why are there so many kids in this country that don't feel they have a future, or care about having a criminal record?

I think one of the reasons is that there is a very public prejudice in this country towards the underclass. These kids are ridiculed in the press as they aren't as educated as others, because they talk and dress in a certain way... but they're not as stupid as people think. They are aware of the ill feelings towards them and that makes them feel alienated. I know because I felt it myself growing up. These kids have been beaten into apathy. They don't care about society because society has made it very clear that it doesn’t care about them.

An example of this is the word ‘chav’ that means council housed and violent, a derogatory phrase that is openly used by certain sectors of middle England to label and define people from poor backgrounds. It’s a derogatory phrase no different in my opinion to the ones concerning race or sex. The difference is that the papers use it publicly. If they did the same with racial or sexist derogatory terms it would be deemed, and rightly so, as offensive and politically incorrect. 

That in my opinion is hypocrisy.

If you're born into a family that’s has enough money to educate you properly, you are privileged. You’re not better than anyone else you’re just lucky. Certain sectors of middle England, not all of them, but the ignorant ones need to wake up and realise that ...and stop ridiculing the poor and less fortunate. That is what this song is about.”



Monday, March 12, 2012

Time For: Sub Focus


He's known as one of D&B's best, though Sub Focus in fact roams the world of bass, from dubstep, to electronica, future garage to straight up club classics. We loved his single, Falling Down, with Kenzie May (as did 1.5 million other people), and have fallen even harder for the new track, Out The Blue, featuring Alice Gold.


Beginning his career in jungle after leaving behind his teenage indie band, Sub Focus has since toured the world as a DJ and producer. Like other greats before him – Daft Punk, the Chemical Brothers – this self described ‘audio geek’ is really pushing the boundaries of both live and recorded music. We counted at least seven different types of keyboards in his studio, but were most impressed by the motion sensor he’s had made, which allows him to alter both the pitch of a tune and a light show with his bare hands! “I'm trying to incorporate some improvisation, but in an electronic way. It’s a massive light show, basically. I want to take the ideas that have gone before and push them that much further.”


We had a chat with Nick 'Sub Focus' Douwma about the track, as well as his forthcoming album...



How do you describe the music you make these days? Dubstep, D&B, electronica...?
I think my sounds are always hard hitting but melodic underneath.I don't want to define it too much because It's always a work in progress for me. I'm inspired by the trends that have changed over the past few years. Especially in dance music now, there's not much pressure any more to stay in just one genre. People were tribal in what they would and wouldn't buy in the early days. I remember being weird about D&B producers when they started writing more housey tracks. It was almost frowned upon. D&B people are just into their scene though. Coming out of that, it was refreshing. I like writing different types of music, so I threw caution to the wind and started putting stuff out and the response was great. The whole scene is evolving and a lot of people are doing that now - branching out without fear of the stigma.

You produced Kickstarts for Example, remixed Dizzee and worked with Chase & Status. How does your own material differ to when you work with other people?
It's a different discipline. When I'm writing for myself I'm trying to please myself and I write to my own criteria. I want to feel like a credible artist in that respect. I'm wary of doing anything too poppy. I like my music being popular but without being commercial I guess. It's the holy grail of being a musician - trying to strike that balance. That's the aim anyway. I think it's important for me to do something credible. It's nice writing for other people but when you do that you're aiming to please them rather than yourself. It's a different set of rules. 

What can you tell us about your forthcoming album?
There will be another single after this one, and then the album won't be out until around October. It's quite a long term thing. Right now, I'm trying to get together things that I like, so I'm looking at all sorts of things. After a while, I'll find a common thread. The last record I had sort of worked out - everything I was doing had to revolve around the bassline. This album is a similar thing but I'm trying to weave in elements of other music I like. Stuff that's different from what I'm known for doing. I like Friendly Fires, M83, I'm even feeling those future garage guys called Disclosure. When I can make all that stick together, I'll know the record is ready. I like pulling threads from places that maybe aren't meant to go together. It's how I sort of look at music - in a magpie-esque way. 

What's next for Sub Focus?
I have ambitions but I try not to set myself any targets (laughs).  I'm going to play Coachella this year, which will be awesome. I guess I always listen to music and think, not in an arrogant way, but 'I can probably do that better'. I'm just competitive with it. 








Dan Witz: Mosh Pit

Love a bit of hyper realism. Take a closer look at Chicago native's Dan Witz's 'photo' and all is not as it seems. The US street artist has been described as one of the greatest artist's of his generation and has been at the forefront of street art for the last two decades. Hope he gets over to London for a show soon.

Via Hypebeast

Scrufizzer: Steam

Ohhh, Fizzy, you have so much flow!

Love this track, love what Scrufizzer is doing right now.

Skepta: Make Peace Not War


In which Joseph Junior Adenuga gets his boobs out....! That is a VERY deep v, Skepta!

This song has split opinion, we personally absolutely love it. LOVE IT!

Friday, March 9, 2012

Josh Osho: The Manifesto (Artwork)

We love Josh Osho at G-Shock. Yes we do. The singer/ writer from South London is not only very very talented, he's also a generous boy, and has decided to drop a free - FREE - EP on Monday. It's called the Manifesto. We miiiiight have had a sneak peak at the EP and we miiiight be able to say it's pretty ace.

Here's the artwork in the interim. Hurry up Monday!

Follow Josh


Thursday, March 8, 2012

Time For: Natalie Duncan

#internationalwomensday Part 3.

We've been a bit obsessed with Ms. Duncan since seeing her perform last year.

The voice. THE VOICE! This girl is just so incredible and we can see her being absolutely massivehuge this year.

We had a quick chat with the Nottingham born singer to find out what this grim reaper of pop is about.



Making music is what I've always done... 
I won a talent show at school, I guess that was the first time I performed. I’ve always liked writing songs and playing the piano basically. At the age of 16 I went to college, did music there, and then got in a few bands, we just open mics and gigs really. I always knew I would do it but I'm not from a musical background.

My sound is...
I guess my music has an element of soul and songwriting, but also melody and misery (laughs).  I have a track called Uncomfortable Silence, which is very depressing. It’s when I lived alone in my flat and my boyfriend had left me, so I had no money to pay for our flat and I had to live in this crap place. Some people were round at my house after a party and I just felt like I was in a massive hole. I didn’t want to be by myself at all. There’s no happy ending! (laughs). I’m definitely a welcome grim-reaper for the pop world.

My songs are… 
All quite abstract. I like to think they’re more interesting than a love song or a pop song. I like to explore and mess around with melodies as well, being quite intricate and delicate with parts of melody – having classical elements and then making it into blues. I don’t really have a formula; I want to write a song that sounds a particular way, so I do.

If I wasn’t making music I’d…
Still be working for a mental health charity, and doing function gigs for money. I can’t see myself doing much else…