Denver-based fashion designer, Fallene Wells

Applause and cheers rang through Beauty Bar on Thursday evening as Denver fashion lovers gathered to support local designer, Fallene Wells, one of the twenty contestants chosen for season 9 of Project Runway. Addressing the crowd prior to the show’s season premiere, Wells discussed her annual Forever Darling fashion show, Denver Designer Incubator, and commented on, “…the strong heart of fashion in Denver.”

The season premiere tested the twenty designers with two different challenges. The first challenge asked designers to go in front of Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia, and Michael Kors to make a case for why they should be chosen to continue on Project Runway. After four designers were bid “Auf Wiedersehen,” by Heidi and the remaining sixteen were taken to their NYC apartments for a good night’s sleep.

Tim woke the designers early the next morning to present them with their next challenge: Make an outfit of their choice using only their pajamas and one bed sheet. Fallene used her yoga pants to create asymmetrical piping on her white halter dress. With her yellow t-shirt, Fallene added a yellow belt to the dress and added the t-shirt’s logo, a clown vomiting rainbows into a toilet, to the lower corner. Successfully completing the challenge, Fallene was one of the fifteen designers to advance to the next round.

Prior to Thursday night’s premiere, I had the incredible opportunity to chat with Fallene about her career, the fashion world, and fashion in Denver.

Are you a Denver native? If no, where are you originally from and what brought you to Denver?
I was born and raised in Las Vegas Nevada, when I was 17 I spontaneously followed a guy I was dating to Denver.

What initially interested you about fashion design?
When I was 11 I toured a design college in California with my sister Christy. I clearly remember seeing all of the fashion illustrations on the wall and beautiful designs draped over dress forms, at that moment I really wanted to get more involved with fashion.

Did you go to school for fashion design? Where?
I never actually made it to fashion college, I enrolled at Brooks College in Long Beach when I was 15 but I felt intimidated and nervous to move out to CA by myself that young. My mother taught me basic sewing skills and I took it from there by deconstructing clothing and teaching myself how to make patterns. I would love to further my education in fashion.

What designers do you admire and why?
I have always been blown away by Alexander McQueen, who isn’t? He was so innovative, always put on an amazing show that embodied so much emotion. Right now I’m a fan of Anna Sui. She has a very distinct and ever changing style that is both playful and original.

Wells is one of this season's designers competing on 'Project Runway'

In five words how would you describe your design aesthetic?
Vintage-inspired, playful, flirty, feminine, sophisticated.

What thoughts/opinions do you have about the burgeoning fashion scene in Denver?
Denver is going through an exciting time in fashion and I’m happy to be a part of it. I think now that there has been 3 people on Project Runway from Colorado it really puts us on the map for fashion along with having Denver Design Incubator here to really move the fashion in Denver to a new level.

What have your experiences been like in the Denver fashion scene?
I think fashion in Denver has come a long way. Local designers are really trying to approach fashion with more intention to sell. Fashion Denver has grown a ton since Brandi first opened her doors, there are little boutiques popping up everywhere like I Heart Denver Store that help support local fashion. I really love that about Denver’s scene no matter what type of art medium you use fashion/art/ music people really have open arms out here to help you succeed. It’s a unique city in that way that people genuinely care to see you go far and there isn’t that cut throat competition.

Are there any fashion designers, makeup artists, hair stylists, models, etc. in Denver whose work you admire? Anyone whose name we should keep an eye out for in the future?
Since I produce my annual fashion show, Forever Darling, I have the opportunity to work with all of the above. I really want to mention my very talented photographer that I work with on every photoshoot, she has amazing talent and I think she is going to go very far in her profession, Valerie Williams.

Mary Wolfgang and Lily Marsh are both fantastic makeup artist.

Hairstylist is a hard one since I’m a hairstylist at Voila I’m going to say come to me! I do work with talented hairstylist Meredith Jaramus, Jen Brown, Bethany Johnson just to name a few.

The models I typically go to are Blair Griffith, Erin Kelley, Alyssa Vercler, Katie McConnell, Rose Silkey and Dana Egleston. I really enjoy working with Brook at Wilhelmina Model Agency she always helps me find the perfect model.

Designers to be on the look out for, now that’s a tough question
there are so many that are really coming out of the wood work here. I would recommend coming to my annual fashion show Forever Darling IV on Sept 30th to get a view of 10 fashion designers they will be showing a collection of 10 outfits. Visit www.foreverdarling.org to purchase tickets.

Who have been your favorite designers from past seasons of Project Runway?
I’m going to try and go in the order of seasons, I’m a little rusty on all of the seasons but these are all of the designers that stand out to me. Jay McCarroll, Seth Aaron, Leanne Marshall, Mondo Guerra.

So far how would you describe your experiences with Project Runway so far?
Project Runway for me was one of the most unforgettable challenging experiences I have ever had in my life. I feel that I went to Project Runway to discover myself as a person and I’m very proud that I was put to the test in so many ways and I kept my integrity my morals and remained genuine and real. I think it was an experience of a lifetime..

When you found out that you had been chosen to compete on Project Runway, how did you react?
I might have cussed I can’t remember. I was very happy it was a huge confidence boost to know that I got chosen out of a ton of designers that are technically trained and have been doing it for years, but I was the one that got the call I felt very privileged and terrified all at the same time!

What 5 pieces do you believe are essential for any woman’s wardrobe?
Light Trench, cute straight cut Jean, sweater to layer, go to dress (doesn’t have to be a LBD), boots.

What are your favorite trends for the upcoming fall/winter season?
I’ve been out of the loop for a couple of months on fashion trends. I thought Vivienne Westwood’s collection was pretty sweet for menswear, but change the look for women. I love the look of layered clothing with mixed prints and textures; I think that is a big hit for fall and winter. I’m really gravitating towards tailored pieces mixed with a slouchy trouser with a heel.

What fashion faux pas make you cringe?
I’m not a big logo person, real fur, or 80s tacky looks.

What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
I think you always need to follow your heart and do what’s right for you. If that is opening a small store, or selling online or becoming a huge famous designer, do what makes you happy and keep designing fun. Once your passion feels like work then you need to change something. As Rafael from Project Runway would say, “Keep it cute!”

Twitter users should show your support for Fallene by following Project Runway and using the hashtag #PR9fallene.

Also, if you are in the Denver area and want to watch tomorrow’s night episode of Project Runway alongside Fallene, stop by the Runway Rendezvous at Beauty Bar. Additionally, starting next Thursday, August 11th, everyone’s favorite, Mondo Guerra, will be attending the Runway Rendezvous at Beauty Bar to watch the newest season of Project Runway.

Becky‘s passion for sharing and inspiring other crafty people like herself is evident by her next big project — Craftin’ Carnival which will be held on Sunday, September 11th, 2011, from 10am to 6pm at WorkBrite (4120 Brighton Blvd., Unit A40, Denver, CO 80216).

The event is intended to act as a launch pad for any type of crafter — from new to old to beginner to expert.  Currently, Becky is on the hunt for the best crafters in the city to come together, sell some of their art, and make some new friends.

I had a few minutes to chat with Becky about CC and her love affair with all things crafty.

What is Craftin’ Carnival and what can vendors and guests expect to see at the event?

Craftin’ Carnival is a community event that features local crafters, hobbyists, artists and artisans. We like to think of it as an opportunity for emerging and established artists to exhibit their work in a supportive marketplace and, more importantly, to share skills with their peers in a welcoming, conducive environment.
What vendors and guests can expect to see at the event is a representation of the local crafter community at its very best. A room filled with people that share in the undeniable lure of artistic drive, appreciation of peer talents, and willingness to learn something new and support the local crafter.
We’re also anticipating some delicious food and workshop opportunities that let people explore their crafty side!

Craft love. Photo: Shaun Asakura

Are there any types of vendors that you’re looking for?

We’re seeking folks that are ready to take that first nerve-wracking and show off their wares!
We want vendors that love what they are doing, who are enthusiastic about their talent, and want to share that with the folks around them.

Other than that…the sky is the limit! Welders, beadwork, pottery, friendship bracelets! Everything.

How can vendors register for Craftin’ Carnival?

We ask that vendors go to our website, www.craftincarnival.com, and hit up our online application!  We encourage everyone, no matter you level of experience, to apply! Although the event is juried, to ensure a broad spectrum of offerings, it shouldn’t discourage anyone from applying!

Tell me about the team behind Craftin’ Carnival.

Essentially, we’re all crafters in one way or another! We’re all either creating a dialogue amongst people in the community, taking photos, running a small press, baking goodies, or dabbling in whatever we can get our hands on. And knowing what we do about the crafts that we hone, we can appreciate the experience of other artists and artisans out there that are seeking a community.
We found that in each other and we want that to be what Craftin’ Carnival is all about.

I know that you have a massive amount of creativity that has lead you to work on some pretty amazing projects.  Outside of Craftin’ Carnival, what are your other ventures?

I’m lucky enough to be involved in some really wonderful projects right now!
I run the Denver Craft Ninjas and I am co-editor with my pal Spencer Keralis for the blogazine 12 Questions. These two on-going projects give me the chance to meet loads of new, wonderful people and allows me the opportunity to pick brains and collaborate with people in our community.

DCN in action. Photo: Shaun Asakura

Your work with Denver Craft Ninjas is inspiring to me because you allow crafters to share their knowledge with a large group of excited and willing beginners.  Over the years, you’ve offered a wide variety classes to fellow ninjas — from knitting to bottle cap creations.  Which has been your favorite session and why?

Screen printing. Hands down! We booked two projects with the good people over at Ink Lounge, here in Denver, and had a blast in their space.
I loved it because all the Ninjas were so excited to try something new and were thrilled with the final result. What made me happiest, though, was connecting with Ink Lounge, seeing their talent and experience being shared with our rowdy crew.

What is your absolute favorite area of crafting?

I’m kind of old school when it comes to craftin’. I’m down with all the newest modalities and experimentation, but all the women in my family were crocheters, knitters, and embroiderers. Back when my great grandmother was craftin’ it was out of necessity – it wasn’t a hobby. She’d take old sheets and embroider kitschy designs on them, embellish them with crocheted lace along the edges, and it became the table cloth they used when company was over.

I love the idea of continuing the legacy of the women in my family that did beautiful work.
Now, if I could find some time to sit down and do some embroidery…that would be rad.

Switching gears a little bit, what’s currently on your iTunes playlist?

Um. I just got a new MacBook Pro…So, I’m refreshing my selection right now.
However, I’m loving the ColdCave album, ‘Love Comes Close’.  It’s dance-y, but it’s got some sadness in it too. That’s my favorite combination. I’m sort of a closet goth.

Find Becky’s projects on the web:

Craftin’ Carnival on Facebook

@craftincarnival via Twitter

Cratfin’ Carnival on the web

Denver Craft Ninjas on Facebook

Denver Craft Ninjas via Twitter

Denver Craft Ninjas on the web

Young Cracka

You weren’t born in Denver, right?

I grew up in Montrose, Colorado. It’s a small little town. It was just me, my mom, my brother, and my two sisters, growing up. I ended up in Denver when I was about 18, and I’ve been out here since, on my own, trying to figure shit out and make some money along the way.

How’d you first join up with Nino and Stellar?

It was simple – one of my homies introduced me to Nino [Lansky]. I had never really taken the idea of making music seriously. I had messed around with recording a little bit, but it was a long time ago, just some homies in a trailer and shit, more of a hobby.

But when I met Nino I saw the setup he had and the kind of shit he was trying to do and the serious direction he was trying to go. He was trying to set up a business, to make some money, and actually do this for a living. He asks if I wanted to be a part of Stellar, and I was really into the way he was going, I trusted his business sense, so I was down. It was an easy decision to get on board that train.

Is the business aspect the most important part of that relationship?

Hell no. Me, Nino, and Utica, we’re like family. We’re homies. We hang out even when we don’t have any kind of business to take care of – it’s cool like that. You need a favor, they need a favor, it’s back and forth.

The three of you share a somewhat common sound, on the production side, but lyrically you all have pretty different things to say. Do you feel there’s a strength in that diversity, or do those kind of differences create problems?

I think the three of us, the three personalities, the three styles of music, it comes together easy. Like Utica‘s shit might not be as hard-edged as mine, lyrically, but it’s still hype and it’s still crunk, so I’m able to get out there when we do shows and still relate. I rap about hustling and drug selling. I mean, there’s some stuff in there for the ladies, some club kinda stuff, but that’s what I rap about, because that’s how I live. But I keep it pretty basic. I see Utica singing and I wish I could do that shit, but I can’t.

Nino, too, he’s got that background, where he’s a little from the streets, and he reps for his shit, so it’s easy to relate to that, too. We can all relate to each other when we’re together. But when you’re alone in the booth or you’re writing your songs, you do your own thing. You tell your story. You feed off the beat.

You say you tell your story but you feed off the beat – but a lot of your lyrical content is a little edgier, especially put again, as you said, some of those club-style instrumentals. Do you think your story is getting watered down?

No, because I want to tell it to whoever I can. If could get my album in everyone’s hands, and never get a dollar for it, I’d be cool with that. But if I make a million off that shit, I won’t complain. On C-Dot, I tried to mix in shit that’s popular right now, a little bit of a techno beat, a club beat, something for the ladies. I want to expose it to all kinds of people, not just one type of crowd.

The beat is just something to put your story on top of. Everybody’s got their own story, their own style. It could be hard, or soft, or political, but what matters is where you come from, and what you want to say. If you grew up in a nice home and were never exposed to anything nasty, it’s hard for you to rap about the streets. If you’re from the streets and you never watch the news, it’s hard for you to rap about Obama.

I started getting in trouble real young, I ended up in the Division of Youth Corrections and kept going on that route until I hit like 19, 20. Then I got outta that shit, decided to try and stay out of trouble – but those experiences brought me my voice. Most of the things I rap about now come from that. No matter what kind of music you do, that’s what you gotta bring to it. How you’re living, or your background, where you come from, that’s what you have to speak about.

Some guys fade in and fade out, and that’s ’cause they don’t know what they’re talking about. They wanna live a lifestyle that’s not theirs. But the ones who stick around in the game for a long time, those are the ones talking real shit, telling you about what they do and what they’ve been through, places they’ve been. And they’re the ones who were able to stick around the longest and make the most money.

You get a club beat, and people dance to it. But you talk the street shit that you wanna talk.

It’s not for me to say who’s real and who isn’t, but I think a lot of people get lucky. I hear a lot of music that’s watered down lyrically. The MC obviously doesn’t know what they’re talking about.  It just isn’t real to me. Some of those people are making it and those people make it harder for those of us with a real story to stand out.

Are some of those people from Denver?

Nah, because no one from Denver has blown up yet. There are a lot of flaky people that crowd and wash up the game here. People that talk a lot of shit, you know, say they’ll put you up in big venues, say they’re doing this or that, but really no one from Denver has taken that step out of Denver, and put us on the map. There’s a lot of people trying, and there’s some really good artists, and I don’t know who’s gonna be the first one to do it, but for all the talk there is here, no one’s done it yet.

What do you think it’s gonna take for someone to do that? Do you think we need to create our own regional sound/identity?

Somebody is gonna make it out of here. Whether it’s a new style or a mix of sounds from different regions. The thing about us is we’re in the middle of the country, so we got all the styles, you know, we listen to the radio and it’s playing Young Jeezy, Wale, Wiz Khalifa, Dre and the people here feed off of all of those styles. So it’s hard to say which one will blow up out here or even if Colorado has our own sound.

Now that we’re talking about the local scene a little bit, there’s been some controversy about your MC name and your use of the term “cracker.” Where’d your MC name come from?

I got my nickname when I went with a homie of mine back to his hometown of Belize – just to visit, vacation, whatever. I ended up staying out there for 6, 7 months, and while I was out there I got to know everybody in the village. There were Black people, Asians, Haitians, Jamaicans, all kinds of people, and that’s just what they ended up calling me – Young Cracka, or Boy Cracka. It wasn’t disrespectful to me, it was just ’cause I’m a white guy. It didn’t mean I wanted to whip their backs like a slave, nothing stupid like that. It was just a homie thing.

And I was out there so long and they called me it every day – that sticks. I came back to the states with my homie, he kept calling me that, so everyone took it up with him, and I’ve had that name ever since.

If you knew me as a person, you would see my name has nothing to do with anything racist. I understand where the complaints are coming from, I see their point of view, I see the viewpoints of someone like Naeem Oba, what he believes, the kind of music he makes and listens to. That’s cool, do your thing. But people are stepping out and being disrespectful without even knowing who I am. I don’t take that lightly.

But at the same time, that’s just how it is in the game. People are gonna go out of their way to try and bring you down. Why? i don’t know. I’ve never met them. I don’t know what they look like. But I guess you can’t knock people for having an opinion. But some people are starting to really press my limits.

Young Cracka’s album C-Dot drops tomorrow, May 19th, at his release party at the Twisted Olive on 8270 Northfield Blvd. You can find more information about the show on the Stellar Music ENT website here.

On Saturday, April 30th, Chonz will sit at the judging table for the 2011 Colorado Regional DMC Battle, along with legendary X-Ecutioner Rob Swift and Dj Deus of STA fame.  Once a fierce competitor, Chonz now believes that judging is actually more fun than competing.  I recently had a chance to catch up with my good buddy Chonz about his relationship with the battle scene, his sharp eye for talent, and the introduction of Serato for the first time within the DMCs.

Tell me about the first deejay battle you competed in.

My first real DJ battle was a heads up one at a graffiti art show in Boulder against Dijon in 1996 when I was 18.

What’s the difference between a heads up battle and something similar to the DMCs?

It’s similar to a boxing bought so and so versus so and so.

What did your first real battle set sound like?

It was a mix of blending records, doubles , body tricks, and a little scratching at the 45 speed on the turntable, and a couple of disses in the intro.

You mentioned body tricks — how much of competitive djing is actually skill versus maneuvers like body tricks that are specifically aimed to hype up the crowd?

I mean, it takes talent to do both… But it’s all about doing it tastefully.  Just because it looks cool doesn’t mean it is. So basically, just because you got the crowd hype by doing something but really you ain’t doing anything.  I know the difference. Body tricks anymore to me are just like a spice on a dish —  it adds a little more flavor and showmanship.

When was the last time that you competed in the Colorado DMCs?

2000

How have the DMCs have changed over the past ten years?

Well, when I was coming up, the United States was running things.  Now, it seems the torch has been overseas for a minute and with that, their sound has been adapted. Yet with Serato being allowed this year, I’m curious on what kind of sets DJ’s bring out.

Do you think that being able to use Serto will help or hurt the DJs, knowing that they have the ability to use beats that they may have altered or even created within their set?

Tell you the truth, I don’t know.  This is a first and I’m excited to see. I actually think it’s what the DMC needed to do in order to roll with the times. The cool thing is, I do know if the DJ’s are actually doing something rather than just letting something they made at home play on stage and just doing a good acting job. It should be interesting!

Honestly — which is more fun:  competing at the DMCs or judging the DMCs?

Judging (laughs)!  You don’t have to stress your routine and practice it and then go home in second place. You can chill and see the other dudes stress… Maybe even enjoy an ice cold beverage (smiles).

If you could give a word of advice to the 2011 Colorado DMC competitors, what would it be?

Be original, do you. Pay attention on what’s going on out there but don’t let it fully influence who you are and what you do. Just because it may not be dope to one person it maybe to someone else.

Find Chonz:

DjChonz.com

Twitter: @djchonz

Facebook Fan Page

About the 2011 Colorado Regional DMCs:

Follow us on our Facebook event page

BUY ADVANCE TICKETS HERE

Go To CASSELMAN’s WEBSITE Here

PopularLemonade is extremely happy to be a sponsor for the Colorado DMC Regional DJ Battle.  Stay tuned in the coming days for exclusive interviews, event updates, giveaways, and everything you may need to know before getting your DMC on.

Cat F. -- better known as vintagegal -- gives California heatwaves a big thumbs down

I like Tumblr a whole hell of a lot.  Although my page doesn’t do much by reblog everyone else’s awesome content, I enjoy the effort that one person in particular throws into the mix.  Known better as vintagegal, Cat F. is wholly dedicated to sharing vintage and pin-up images with her massive network of followers.  The photos shared below are from Cat‘s personal favorite collection and are just a taste of what she’s offered the world of vintage on the Internet.

I was truly interested in learning more about the woman behind the scenes and recently had a chance to catch up with her.

One thing is for sure:

Cat is not your average housewife.

Rudy Nappi: She Tried To Be Good (paperback cover)- courtesy of vintagegal

How did you first get started with Tumblr?

I heard about it through a Classics community.

1940s pinups - courtesy of vintagegal

Your posts thrive on vintage culture and you seem to have a vast collection of photographs and images from years ago.  How did you begin collecting these images?

I’ve been collecting books, vintage film magazines and original stills since I was a teenager. I’d get a lot of the stills and books from various collector shops in L.A. The collector’s shops would have thousands of original photos of movie stars, stills and pin up models. I used to buy the Bettie Page photos for $5.00 a pop when I was in high school.

Bettie Page - - courtesy of vintagegal

What are some of your favorite photos?

Some of my favorite images are of classic pin-ups, classic period films and classic horror. They all had a beauty and glamor that’s not seen in contemporary media. Each photo contains a different facet of my interests.

Marilyn Monroe by George Barris - courtesy of vintagegal

Where do you find your favorite material?

Books (anyone can find good images here), thrift stores, eBay, flea markets

Who is the woman behind vintagegal?  Where do you live?

I’m a married woman in my 30′s with one little boy – our cat Pandemonium. I’m an avid reader of horror, comics, sci fi, and dystopian novels. One of my hobbies is graphics and photo retouching. I’m an average housewife who won’t leave the house without my red lipstick. I was born in the South Bay and raised in Hawthorne and Long Beach, where I still live today.

Ava Gardner and Lana Turner - courtesy of vintagegal

I’m a complete horror fanatic as well.  Why do you think that there aren’t very many women who enjoy horror and science fiction?

Women want romance and sentimentalism, but I’ve noticed a lot of younger women are into horror – especially zombie movies with an “undead love” theme. I think it appeals to their sense of both love and death.

Vampira - - courtesy of vintagegal

What’s on your iPod/record player / cassette deck / CD player?

A lot of different stuff. Specifically – The Damned, The Meteors, Iron Maiden, The Animals, The Sweet, Flamin’ Groovies, Murder City Devils, Portishead, Tricky, PJ Harvey, Bikini Kill, New York Dolls, Toy Dolls and The Dwarves. Note: this list is subject to change according to moods.

I Love Lucy - - courtesy of vintagegal

Do people request photos from you?  What’s the weirdest message that you’ve received on Tumblr?

Very rarely, mostly I receive kind comments from people regarding the pictures I post. I think the weirdest messages are the few incoherent sentences that I can’t decipher.

Why do you think that vintage has caught on yet again?

I don’t think it went away. For example, in the 1980′s the 1940′s fashion made a comeback. Full skirts, high heels, a-line skirts and LBD are classics that never go out of style. Not to mention the music of that era was so creative for its time. Every generation picks up on it and re-discovers those songs at some point. As far as movies go, new Hollywood can’t compete with the films of classic Hollywood. The magnitude of these films made a very deep impression on people. Then there are everyday objects – cars, furniture, etc. Everything from that period had a unique style and personality. It wasn’t like the present where everything is boring and identical and looks like it came out of the same cookie cutter mold.

George Petty - courtesy of vintagegal

Marlene Dietrich - courtesy of vintagegal

Harriet Hoctor - courtesy of vintagegal

Lili St. Cyr - courtesy of vintagegal

You can follow Cat via Tumblr here.  While you’re there, be sure to follow poplemon as well.

I caught up with TiRon recently to rap about his love of condiments, his dream collaborations, and potential love of snow bunnies.  Check it out.

PopularLemonade named your project, Ketchup, one of the best mixtapes in 2009.  Shortly after, you released MSTRD.  What’s up with the condiment-named projects?

They serve as condiments to the album  — much like ketchup and mustard bringing the flavor out of a hot dog or something.  These versions of Ketchup and MSTRD will help your musical pallet understand the next shit.  It started out as a way to help people catch up to my music since I had been releasing so much material via blog sites and stuff.  Then, I kind of just continued with the running gag because so many people made fun of it.  Like, “Well what’s gonna be the next tape…MUSTARD!?!?” very sarcastically.

Who would be your dream collaboration and why?

Dream collaborations…. hmm ….never really thought about it to tell you the truth.  I definitely wanna work with Will.i.Am and Mark Ronson.  I would love to work with Vampire Weekend also.  I have a ton of folks that I would really love to work with… Tom Waits would be awesome too.

How have you set yourself apart from the ‘new west coast class,’ which, in my opinion, includes artists such as Pac Div and Dom Kennedy?

I think mainly from just staying in my lane and doing my shit instead of collaborating with them.  I think all of our styles and sounds could be lumped in a new west category but the beauty of this whole scene is that everyone has their own shit.  Dom Kennedy being Dom allowed me to set myself apart by default, same with Pac Div and anyone else you can think of.

It seems that you work with your crewmate, Ayomari, quite a bit.  Have you ever thought about releasing a project as a duo?

We are actually focused on releasing one in April called Sucker For Pumps.  We just leaked a song from it called No Wonder produced by DJ Dahi.  Sucker For Pumps is sort of our ode to women.

What are you listening to right now?

Washed Out from ATL, Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, Radiohead, Arcade Fire, French Kicks, The Pixies, John Lennon, Bob Dylan…. a bunch of shit.

What does 2011 have in store for Cafeteria Line?

Music, music,  music, and more music.  Oh, and trying to see as much of this world as possible before I’m not able to see it anymore.

Is there anything that you’re looking forward to checking out during your trip to Colorado?

All of the great food spots, good breweries and snow bunnies.

Colorado: You can catch Tanya Morgan, TiRon, Whygee, King F.O.E. and a few special guests on the Ahead of the Class Tour. Details below.

Thursday, 3/10 -> Black Sheep in Colorado Springs (2106 E. Platte Ave) – Doors at 8 /// $10 for 21/$12 for all ages /// Plus special guests The Boombox Saints for their official album release party & the performance debut of Play Cousin (Boonie Mayfield & Jordan Craft). Buy tickets now.

Saturday, 3/12 -> The Marquis in Denver (2009 Larimer St) – Doors at 9 /// $10 for 21/$12 for all ages /// Buy tickets now /// Plus, the Denver debut of Play Cousin (Boonie Mayfield & Jordan Craft) & an Akomplice Fashion Show. Tickets also available at Family Affair (21st & Larimer downtown) or from DJ Low Key, Lazy Eyez or Whygee with no ticket fees.

Tuesday, 3/15 -> Round Midnight in Boulder (1005 Pearl Street) – Doors at 9 /// $5 before 11, $10 after for 21+ /// Plus special guest, world renowned turntablist DJ Vajra and an Akomplice Fashion Show.

.:Download The Ahead of the Class Tour Sampler (right click on a PC):.

Left: Von Pea, Right: Donwil

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the Tanya Morgan crew a few times due to their relationship with my good friend, Dj Low Key, who djs for the group while they’re on tour.  They’ve been compared to hip hop greats such as De La Soul, and collectively have released close to ten projects, solo and together since they met online in 2003.

I had the opportunity to chat with Von Pea about what they’ve been up to and Low Key‘s love of Mexican food and beef jerky.

It’s five years after the release of your debut album, Moonlighting.  How have things changed?

So much has changed! Ilyas left — on good terms! He has a new project out now called Double dragon 2k11.  We’ve toured the whole country numerous times, been to Europe, gotten love from our idols and we’re still going.

I absolutely love that you all met on the okayplayer message boards, and I think that a lot of heads sleep on the power that online networking can hold.  How do you think that the Internet has revolutionized music?

The Internet has evened out the playing field for sure. I think it’s too much at times though. On one hand, its great that anyone with good music can get noticed everywhere but then again people are so used to free stuff now entitlement has kicked in.

With that being said, a lot of folks have commented on the decline of the “hip hop classic” since the advent of the Internet.  Have there been any songs released in the past five years that could be considered classic?

“So Damn Down” (laughs)

What has been your favorite collaboration?

The most fun collaboration was 88 Keys because he was so inviting and cool around his family.  We felt like we known them forever. He was making beats while I was laughing with his baby girl, and then we just chilled out and talked about Polo (laughs).

You all have always impressed me when I’ve had a chance to catch you live, and it seems like you tour often.  Best and worst tour experience?

Best experience was hands down the Hiero Tour. Low Key was with us and he’ll tell you we had a BALL. He and Donwill ate like 20 pounds of beef jerky (laughs).

2010 was the year of the Tanya Morgan solo albums (Donwill’s Don Cusack in High Fidelity and Von Pea’s Pea’s Gotta  Have it, respectively).   What inspired you to create individual albums rather than focus on another Tanya Morgan album?

We’re solo artists that came out as a group so once we had the chance to officially release albums we had to. We met as mutual fans and decided to stick together as a group but still do our thing.

I know that you all roll deep with Dj Low Key on tour and when you all are in the Mile High City, and he’s quite the foodie.  Any great spots in Colorado to recommend for grabbing a bite to eat?

Low Key cooks (laughs).  He’s ill with the cooking on the low, Mexican food is his specialty as far as I can tell.

Colorado: You can catch Tanya Morgan, TiRon, Whygee, King F.O.E. and a few special guests on the Ahead of the Class Tour.  Details below.

Thursday, 3/10 -> Black Sheep in Colorado Springs (2106 E. Platte Ave) – Doors at 8 /// $10 for 21/$12 for all ages /// Plus special guests The Boombox Saints for their official album release party & the performance debut of Play Cousin (Boonie Mayfield & Jordan Craft). Buy tickets now.

Saturday, 3/12 -> The Marquis in Denver (2009 Larimer St) – Doors at 9 /// $10 for 21/$12 for all ages /// Buy tickets now /// Plus, the Denver debut of Play Cousin (Boonie Mayfield & Jordan Craft) & an Akomplice Fashion Show.  Tickets also available at Family Affair (21st & Larimer downtown) or from DJ Low Key, Lazy Eyez or Whygee with no ticket fees.

Tuesday, 3/15 -> Round Midnight in Boulder (1005 Pearl Street) – Doors at 9 /// $5 before 11, $10 after for 21+ /// Plus special guest, world renowned turntablist DJ Vajra and an Akomplice Fashion Show.

.:Download The Ahead of the Class Tour Sampler (right click on a PC):.

Dyalekt

If you haven’t had a chance to check out Dyalekt and the rest of the Diamond Boiz, you can catch them this Saturday, March 5, at Benders Tavern for PopularLemonade.com presents: 2509’s Big Top Denver.

When I first met you, I was excited to learn that you’re also an artist.  How did you get into art?

It’s all thanks to being a geek, really. I started just with web design because I wanted to have my own website at the time and was astonished at how easy it initially was. I mean, it was easy, but I was 12, so you can’t expect my website’s to have been the greatest on the planet. Still, it wasn’t long before I was inspired by other graphic artists to try and emulate the kind of shit they were doing. And that’s really where it started. Never really been the type to draw, paint — though I’m okay at both — and definitely was never the graff writer, though I always wanted to be. I just never had the patience and focus for those things, no matter how badly I wanted to or was inspired. But for some reason, my patience and focus kicks in the moment I grab a mouse. And that’s where I still find a piece of myself today. I love photo manipulation. That’s probably my favorite.  I love incorporating photo manipulation or any abstract graphic work into, like say, web or flyer design. In my eyes, it’s really the second dopest practice a computer can handle, next to music of course.

Free My Soul by Dyalekt (click to enlarge)

What can someone expect when they catch a Diamond Boiz show?

Energy. Energy is kind of the focus behind our set. I don’t mean the kind of energy you get when you drink 7 mochas and a 5-hour energy shot, either. I mean, don’t get me wrong, our set is very in your face, but I think that part of our set is less to look like we are going crazy, and more to make you feel like YOU are. We choose songs that we think will capture your attention, and we give them to you in a way that we hope sticks. It’s kind of like, you don’t have to like our set the best, but when you leave, it will be our song that’s stuck in your head. That’s the kind of energy you can expect from us. And we’ll try to do that with any style song we decide to perform. From smooth to hardcore, mobbin’ to political, we love music and we love what we do, but most of all, we want you to love it, too.

Your brother, Zome, is also in the Diamond Boiz with you.  Is it hard to mix family and business?  What about brotherly rivalry?

(laughs) Ooohhh man. Let me tell you. It really is hard sometimes, but we do it. Don’t know how, but we do it. And I think we do a damn good job. A rivalry has never really been a part of our relationship though, it’s never been a competition between us, and I think that’s really the only thing that keeps us from ripping’ each others heads off at times. We don’t compete. I’m proud to see him do anything he does, and I’m pretty sure he feels the same. Sometimes it may feel like one is being left out or something or he still sometimes believes that I should have less opinion because I am the “little brother”, but never an I’m-Better-Than-You feeling. Even in the off-feelings, there are a million times where he doesn’t even want an opinion, he wants me to make the decisions. More like brotherly disputes rather than rivalry.

How do you think that your solo projects have differed from the Diamond Boiz releases?

I wouldn’t really say they differed, to be honest. I’d say each of our individual projects really define the Diamond Boiz. We’ve only really had one project together, Calm Before the Storm. Since, I’ve dropped Dreams, Caffeine & Nicotine and November Hates Me, Zome‘s dropped Diamond in the Flesh, and Zé‘s dropped Advanced Placement. And we aren’t stopping soon. As far as a Diamond Boiz project…it’s still less of a priority than doing what we each do best. As far as a group goes, our performances are the closest we get. We’re more of a clique, or gang if you will. Hold it down. Diamond Boiz por vida. Anything we do, solo or together, are what the Diamond Boiz are.

In the old days, if an artist shared the same name, the two similarly named people would battle it out, whether that be rap battle or fist fight.  There’s another rapper that goes by Dyalekt out of Brooklyn.  Have you confronted him?

Peace to Mr. Dyalekt out in NY. No, I’ve never confronted him. I’ve listened to his music before, and I think really that we are on two entirely different ideologies. I think it would be a shame to battle for the name, considering we don’t have the same motives.  I know that’s super non-emcee of me to say, but it’s real. Plus, he and I have been battling enough to be the first to catch the Dyalekt name/URL for all the new social networks and emails. (laughs) I’m not sure how he feels about it but I always find it a friendly battle lost when I go to sign up for a new network and he’s already taken the username.  You know, it’s funny you ask, recently I’ve been considering tweeting him and asking him if he’s down with doing a track:  less of a battle, more for fun.  Now, I can’t tell you how he feels about it all, but me, I feel if I ever copyrighted the name, I’d still leave some space for him to use it.  I mean, the only reason we even know about each other is Google, really.  And I chose the name spelling to be unique, but in a world as big as ours, it’s almost impossible. I’m sure most rappers have an identically named person somewhere, it’s just weird because Dyalekt is such a retarded spelling, it’s like, “who else in their right mind would spell the word that way?” At the same time though, there is another kid in Missouri or somewhere in the surrounding area, with a small-buzzing YouTube video about beer pong, rappin’, makin’ the NY Dyalekt and myself look like damn fools. I’d battle and fist fight for that fucker to stop tarnishing the name. I’d even take his lunch money. Believe that.

I love the idea of battling emcees via social media URLs for names.  How else do you think that the online world has changed the music industry?

It has its perks. We’ve hooked up with so many people outside of our own neighborhood and city because of it. Tech Groove, almost an honorary Diamond Boi, has only been to the city twice, and I kicked with him at the bus station both times. I talk to this cat online more than I talk to some of my homies down the street. It’s absolutely nuts. I know some in the city look down on the internet, and going out-of-state of beats or verses, but I don’t get it. Why not take advantage of it? Why not extend an offer to a rapper of the same name and spelling who lives in NY? Why not link with crazy producers in other states? Just because I do, doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten my own city’s network. I’m open to almost anything. The online world’s expanded those possibilities. My blog. JClassTV. Fan pages. Take advantage, man, take…advantage.

You recently got arrested for a pretty bullshit charge during one of your shows.  What happened?

1, 2, 3…FUCK THE POLICE. It’s like that. To break it down to basics, we had a show at a venue that is pending the approval of its live entertainment licenses. Not something you ask or even care about considering most the times cops don’t come running in like it’s a meth-bust. I was standing next to the stage; about 5 ft away from the mixer, and a regularly-clothed cop (who didn’t have a badge out) asked me who was in charge, then to turn off the music. I told him I didn’t work there, but asked if it was too loud or something.  I thought he was security for the complex or the landlord or something. He yelled at me to turn off the music, I told him I didn’t work there and apparently he didn’t like that. He took me outside, basically called me a liar, told me I DID in fact work there, and I was getting a ticket. You know we Romeros don’t really play the take-shit-and-shut-up game so I told him I didn’t work there, and to get his hands out of my face. He didn’t like that either. I was arrested and charged with Disobeying a Lawful Order, Amusement Without a License, and spent a night in jail. Court is next month. He’s going to be pissed when he realizes I wasn’t an employee… Dick.

Do you think that the police targeted the event?

I know they were. I saw them with flyers in their hands as I sat in the back of a squad car. But I think they were expecting to find something extra, and make a major bust, then when they didn’t, their pride wouldn’t let ‘um live it down if they didn’t take someone to jail. That person was me. I don’t care, though. The Denver Police Department is known for doing’ worse things, and I told ‘um that too — after I was detained. I said it before, Egypt, Libya. The least that I can do is tell the cops to stop killing’ everyone they pull over or beating’ every kid with a camera phone. Fuck ‘em. You know, some officers would have a rebuttal but my attitude towards cops is the same they have towards me: if one of y’all did it, you ALL did it. FREE MUSIC.

What are you listening to right now?

Easy. Snoop Dogg – Puff Puff Pass Tuesdays mixtape, Laws – 5:01 Overtime mixtape, and Big Sean – UKNOWBIGSEAN mixtape. Waitin’ to buy the My Chemical Romance – Danger Days though.

What does 2011 hold for the Diamond Boiz crew?

It holds about whatever we can fit into it. Multiple new projects for each of us, some solo, some collaborations. Hopefully a REMIXtape. Three new music videos by the summer. As many shows as we can book while still having time to put everything together. And I’m willing to make a beat for anyone in any of my spare time, just name a price that’s more than $20, cause a playa gotta eat. Two Thousand and Eleven will be a year to remember for Diamond Boi Music, there is no doubt about that.

Remix hand picked by Big Top Denver ringleader, Trent Gillespie

Be sure to check out PopularLemonade.com presents: 2509’s Big Top Denver at Bender’s Tavern on March 5, 2011 to catch an exclusive set from the Diamond Boiz, along with a variety of other talents.  Details below.

I had the opportunity to chat with Zez as we ramp up for PopularLemonade.com presents: 2509’s Big Top Denver.  Along with performing with his group, The Staff, Zez will also be in the house rocking a live painting and has donated gift certificates for the stellar raffle for the ink hungry.  Seriously, what doesn’t this guy do?

How did you get into art and when did you realize that you could rely on a sustainable career in the art industry?

I have been into art my entire life.  I started drawing and creating things at a very early age; mostly religious art and then I became a graffiti artist when I was 13.  I was doing a lot of skateboarding, so the 80′s skate art was a huge influence on me, as well as hot rod and chopper art from the 60′ and 70′s.  Jim Phillips, Spike Jones, Ed Roth, Robert Williams, Andy Jenkins, Mike Giant, Keith Collins, Kenneth Howard, and Mark Gonzales are just a couple of influences in my art career. I started seeing some far out stuff and I wanted to be able to do that — I figured, someday I may?

Owls, Zez

I am still not entirely sure I can have a sustainable art career. When it comes to tattooing, you have to work really hard to be basically part-time employed.  Some days are better than others. Luckily, I have a pretty strong work ethic and I stay busy — even if I don’t have tattoos to do.  I work on art every day, I get better, and I have some paintings to sell for ramen noodles. We have fun here at Newspeak and that helps me stay productive too.

If you had the opportunity to get tattooed by your favorite artist, tattoo or otherwise. who would it be and what would you get.

Maybe Mike Giant or Ed Hardy. I think I would get whatever they wanted to do and be grateful for having it. I really want to get a tattoo from one of my all time favorite skateboarders. Eric Dressen!  Greg Irons, Norman Keith Collins or Kenneth Howard. It would be really trippy to meet them since those guys are all dead. I sway towards old school, lowbrow hot rod, and chopper art from the guys who were really doing it right. I like getting fun tattoos from my friends and good people.

Zez skates!

What do you think of the mainstream reality shows, like LA Ink and Miami Ink, which profile tattoo shops? Are these shows accurate?

I think they cheapen the experience of getting tattooed.  They make the tattoo artists in the shows look stupid, even when they are not.  They also put a weird pseudo-importance on tattoo meaning and energy. I blame the network jerks more than the tattoo artists.  Not every tattoo is will have deep “mystical” meaning although some do. It is an art and you should do research on the tattooist you like try to find someone who will not only give you what you want, but what you need to have the best tattoo possible. I sometimes watch those shows —  I like a couple of the artists and it is good to know whets going on in their worlds is similar to what goes on in mine, minus the mirrors and wires. The best artists do make it look “magical.”

What is the least favorite tattoo request that you’ve had?  What about your favorite?

When it comes to favorite or not favorite, I don’t really trip.  It’s not my tattoo, so I approach all of them like they are my favorite because my clients believe in their tattoos and so do I.  That’s the power they have, I believe in the ideas so I give it my all and create their idea in my way so we can carry that energy into the piece.

My least favorite tattoo situation is when someone is wishy-washy.  In the end, they are never satisfied because they didn’t totally believe in the idea in the first place.  I really love sitting down with people and turning their ideas into cool tattoos.  When something goes really right, it is quite the reward. It’s not magic; its age old tried and true traditions.

Switching gears, tell me about your band.

Our project is called the Mile High City Soldiers or The Staff we are a lyrical militia with strong constitutionalists and conspiracy poetry with a raw old school hip hop feel.  The Staff has been a lot of fun because it’s an all skateboarder group. We have a lot in common.  We can spend long hours writing, preparing, and rehearsing tracks and not get too bored or hate each other.  Our punk rock band is called the CO-JAKS.  It’s a skateboard team band with some of my Jaks team bros. I have been making hip-hop and punk music since the 90′s in Denver and in San Francisco.   I enjoy making music it helps me maintain a semblance of sanity.

How did you get into hip hop?

Hip hop got into me.  I had no choice, really.  I never was like, “Oh, I am going to ‘get into it.’” It was just happening all around me.  I have always been into graffiti art through the years.  It’s just what was happening in the skateboard/hip hop/art/ and music world when I was growing up? My friends and I would beatbox and spit freestyle rhymes.  I wanted to be better so I wrote a lot on the side and over years it became a real addiction to write these “psychological” thrillers and prose combat chants. I have fun doing musical things —  I need it.

How can people book a tattoo appointment with you?

If you want to get tattooed you can check out my work at www.sincerelyzez.com if you like the work and want to get a piece of my work you can call Newspeak Tattoo at 303-355-2171.

Like Zez’s paintings?  Want a chance to get tattooed for him without breaking your wallet?  Interested in hearing him rappity rap rap rap?

Be sure to check out PopularLemonade.com presents: 2509’s Big Top Denver at Bender’s Tavern on March 5, 2011.  Details below.

Jay Meezy :: Roots2Rap co-host

I had the privilege to rock with the Roots2Rap crew last night for a bit.  For those of you that are unfamiliar, I spent a steady four years on the radio with Basementalism and being on-air is one of the most comfortable places that I can find myself.

Jay Meezy and crew came at me with some rough questions — where local hip-hop fails, when I fell in love with hip hop, what makes a successful live performance, and my humble beginnings as a flyer bitch.  Outside of my interview the crew also rocked a few tracks from B-Simp and Mr. Midas.

Check out the live stream below, or click here to download the episode.