February/March 2013

February/March 2013 brinkmagonline.com 1

2 brinkmagonline.com February/March 2013


brinkissue 26 | February/march 2013

this issue

6 ed letter8 street style46 the last page

features

10 vv brown The pop songstress takes us on a magical ride through her popular online shop and brand, VV Vintage and shares details on her forthcoming album.14 all that glitters bad Kitty Films tackles business one reel at a time. 17 ones to watch 2013 For The makers, David murray and Jamie bamber kick off our annual list of movers and shakers. 26 the one to watch: frankmusik The pop dynamo returns with a brand new eP, new outlook on the industry and new attitude as we crown him the one to watch in 2013. 36 innovation: banjo arwas Design meets editorial in this exclusive spread.45 the ultimate drunken cupcake spiked cupcakes have arrived. Take it in.

26

10

24

18

FranKmusiK: coVer PhoTo by JareD KocKaapparel by icemozz shirt, echo Park surf squad www.echoparksurfsquad.comGlasses, res rei from Dr. york spectacle maker 8302 West 3rd street Los angeles, ca


brink MagazineP.o. boX 2371 orlando, FL 32802

PubLisher/eDiTor-in-chieF Kyle m menardeXecuTiVe consuLTanT steven ozercamille chumichelle cameaucoPy eDiTorJacqueline carrcommuniTy reLaTionsneW yorKValerie navarro

conTribuTorsalexia JohnsonTaissa rebroffPedro rodiguezanais Vaillant

PhoToGraPhersbetsy hansenalexia JohnsonJared Kockabenjamin stonechristine Zona

inTernKayla henrandez

FinD us onLine www.brinkmagonline.com

FacebooK www.facebook.com/brinkmag

TWiTTer/insTaGram@brinKmag

aDVerTisinG [email protected]

LoVe, quesTions, [email protected]

additional words and photos credited where applicable. Disclaimer: The views expressed by our contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of brinK magazine, or its management or owners. brinK magazine has not verified the accuracy or completeness of the content of the submission but has relied on the warranty of the creator as to these factors. Please address any comments directly to the creator. no part of this publication may be reproduced or copied by any method, electronically or otherwise, without written permission from the publishing company. all information within is deemed to be true and reliable. The newsstand orlando LLc., and all those associated with this publication assume no financial liability for any misinformation or typographical errors in advertisements. We may at times recommend various businesses that advertise in the pages, but we make no claims as to their promises or guarantees or products or services. brinK magazine 2009-2012 contents The newsstand orlando LLc.

eDiTor’s noTeWeLcome To The February/march issue oF BRINK!

over three years ago, the first issue of BRINK debuted, but not too many people got to see it. i quickly removed the publication from online distribution and dubbed

that debut issue the “prototype” for what you’re holding in your hands today. That first issue — the prototype — was online only and consisted of only 20 pages. The basis of “BRINK” was in the guts — pop culture, fashion, entertainment and human interest with a connection to up-starts. i ended my first editor letter by saying, “the one thing every issue will have is passion.” in the middle of that issue i featured three up and coming new music artists. one of those artists is on the cover of this magazine right now, Frankmusik. in 2009, Frankmusik released his debut album and two years later his follow-up made its arrival worldwide. Today, Frankmusik is independent and releasing his new eP (Far From Over) this month. he’s gone through his share of ups and downs and label woes, but has opened up to BRINK about his experiences over the past few years and what’s to come in 2013. i first discovered Frankmusik (real name Vincent Frank) in 2008 through various music blogs. i had never heard anything like him before. There was no artist doing strictly pop music. none. Zip. Zilch. Justin Timberlake and usher were releasing r&b infused electro jams and i was looking for the male equivalent to a then-barely-known young lady singing about “just dancing.” The way he sung and used his voice was like i heard his songs in my head, but couldn’t get them

out. in the last couple years, Frankmusik fans have been treated to everything going on in his life thanks to the sudden influx of social media in the late ‘aughts. i took to one of those mediums in late 2012 and let him know that i wanted him to be our cover feature to kick off 2013 and ultimately, be our “one to watch.” not only did he happily reply and agree, he orchestrated his photo shoot and responded to our q&a lightning fast. everything i said leading up this point has one common connector — passion. i’ve seen some music artists have their share of woes and they move on from music and abandon the reason the fans originally started following their art. For example, they start cooking...and sharing. and i’m not buying their albums looking for tips on how to make the perfect risotto — i’m buying them to connect to their words and music. Frankmusik has that passion and keeps it moving, through thick and thin — he is our ultimate one to watch in 2013. Joining Frankmusik in the ones to watch edition is For the makers, David murray and Jamie bamber. For the makers is a Diy subscription service. you know we love our subscription services and we could not resist including the dynamic team behind this growing brand. Then, we have David murray who created an app called Goalsponsors. you might recognize David from bravo’s Start Ups: Silicon Valley that premiered last november. The show consisted of six very different entrepreneurs, but it was David who really had something tangible and that’s how we fell in love with his Goalsponsors app. The app helps you keep goals and your sponsor can be a friend at no cost or a sponsor for a minimal rate. he created it – marinate on that. Last, we have Jamie bamber, from Battlestar Galactica fame, who now is featured on David e. Kelly’s new TnT program, Monday Mornings. The program is already receiving its fair share of buzz and we had to pick Jamie’s brain to get some seasoned advice on getting into the business. also featured in this issue is VV brown who is heading towards a big year. a current obsession is VV’s online clothing boutique - VV Vintage – we had to dig into how the shop operates and where she is today with her brand nd her music. This is a very exciting issue — i hope you enjoy it, learn something and grow to love these featured entrepreneurs and talents as much as their fans do. They all have one thing in common – passion. much success to you in 2013, this is your year.

Kyle m menard editor in [email protected]


sTreeT sTyLe | Photos by alexia Johnson

Ray

What do you do? Professional boxer for 14 years. national champion for ireland 4-5 times.

Where does your style say about you? Laid back don’t really care what people think, comfy.

Where do you get your clothes from? everywhere, urban outfitters anything different.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? rich and famous.


Clare (Left)1. What do you do? creative writing major, play music with friends. Play guitar and sing.

2. What does your style say about you? recently dis-covered my femininity, used to wear boy shirts and just started dressing feminine. i appreciate it now. i think it’s good to embrace it.

3. Where do you get your clothes from? Different places, friends, love dresses, love going to vintage places and finding, love vintage fashion with modern under-tones.

4. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Probably in a boat or a tree house or something odd.

Caroline (Right)What do you do? i go o to Valencia college and i work at Juicy couture. i’m studying speak language pathology, which teaches speech to actors and children.

What does your style say about you? i like to keep it tomboyish and girly at the same time. i like to add lady-like things that are slouchy large/comfy.

Where do you get your clothes from? Thrift stores, it’s like a treasure hunt and you can get it a cool thing from $2 and up.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Teaching speech to actors and living in the woods.


the return ofvv brown

Ushered into the States alongside a bevy of English exports, VV Brown separated herself from the pack with a slickly produced and original

debut — 2009’s Traveling like the Light — and spawned the hit single “Shark in the Water.” After a string of near-releases and a scrapped second

album, VV is back in the studio and getting ready to release her most anticipated work to date. With her brand and portfolio increasing, her

music featured in multiple commercial spots, and her online vintage clothing boutique — VV Vintage — growing, VV Brown is

anything but lollipops and politics.

By kyle menard Photos courtesy of vv brown

You’ve been sharing a lot of great updates on your music and brand on Facebook and Twitter, is it fair to say your 2013 is going well so far? What are you looking forward to the most in the New Year? it’s going mysteriously – a fresh new approach. There is a huge feeling of liberation and ownership, and this combustion of creativity is inspiring. i’m expecting more life and creativity in my projects and especially in my comeback as a musician. being a business owner for my fashion line has opened my eyes…that you can own something fully and give it life.

How did VV Vintage come to fruition, and how did you go about establishing that brand? Personally, I love that it’s a great blend of pop culture, media and fashion. Is that on purpose? it came from the love of fashion, the love of pop culture, and…the love of the environment. bringing these things together in a way that involved the customer felt interactive and cool. We waste so much and the idea of recycling fabrics in a high-end way was a creative way to exercise my passion and hobby – turning it into a business.


vv vintage selects, clockwise from top left: Sheepskin vest, “An antique piece found in my parents loft”; wasps letterman Jacket “Sourced by one of our Ambassadors from Berlin in a backstreet vintage store”; Chiffon Shirt/dress “Stunning vintage Dries Van Noten chiffon shirt-dress”; mary benson X vvvintage “Our first capsule collection with Mary Benson”; Check rasha Swiss Trousers “Amazing tailoring and design by our Design With Oxfam Designer Rasha Swais”; Circus Cape “I love this cape, given to me by a stylist after a shoot in Russia”; Gold dior dress “Bought in a thrift store in LA, such a beautiful piece”; Paneled Sheer Jumper “Made by Jessica Au, one of our Design With Oxfam Designers”; Texture neon Skirt “Such a statement wardrobe piece, but so fun”


VV Vintage uses ‘upcycling (and vintage themes) throughout its selections. Is sustainability personally important to you and overall branding? it’s an important concept because it promotes a conscious awareness about our place in society and the environment and how we can make a difference and still be fabulous.

You’re quite involved with charity and a portion of proceeds from VV Vintage goes to charity. Is that something you knew you wanted to do from conception? Truly. charity is always a good thing. i think we should try and invest and give however way we can.

A couple years ago I caught you on the MTV program World of Jenks, and it showed your journey into artistry and the emotional toll it took with your family. What could you tell that VV in 2010 (when that show first premiered) that you know now? To persevere and to appreciate your loved ones. To enjoy the simple things of life and remember that your art is part of you but not all of you, which can sometimes cause you to go insane. be aware of reality.

How do you feel about “celebrity,” and what toll does that have on you as an artist? celebrity is a strange one — the celebration of another because they are more popular because of media. We are all to be celebrated. i find this side of the business a strange one and battle with the conflict of doing what you love and it being projected into media attention all the time. i try and live a simple life with extraordinary things from creating.

What do you think about the way music is released today and how do you think social media plays a role? it’s cool that independent music is having an opportunity to be heard and be released…easier than before. The internet is a great source for this — the idea that all forms and styles can be appreciated without it being forced down your throat. music is being appreciated for what it is.

How does your upcoming album differ from Traveling like the Light? Any album news you can share with us here? The album is being finished, and i am working hard to get it done. it has been a fun, long journey of discovery into this new transitional part of my life. 2013 will see its release in europe and available online worldwide.

“Love” is a common theme that runs throughout Traveling like the Light. Would you say that theme runs in your forthcoming album, or what would you say that theme would be? absolutely. Love is a central part again, but the love i talk about on this record is a lot more mature, sexual, dark, and mysterious. it’s coming from a person with more experience. i have never loved so deep before and so this shows. it’s an album from a woman where before i felt like i was a young girl.

What can you tell us about the recording process from the end of the Traveling like the Light era to “Children” to where you are now? What could you say about Lollipops and Politics and that era? The transition of Traveling like the Light has allowed me to get to where i am now with this brand new sound. it’s made me aware of honesty, and i’ve come to

respect the growth whilst running with it, despite fears that people may feel it’s changed a lot.

Your song “10 Ft. Tall” is currently used in the Weight Watchers commercial, and that commercial is based around the belief of making things happen. Do you feel like that draws a parallel comparison for your year ahead? i have many personalities and will continue to write for other artists and for film and advertisement. This displays different colours of me as a musician. This song was written for this advert. For the future, i will hold those two personalities – the artist for myself and the writer for others. it’s a weird schism.

What has this business taught you that you never expected to learn?That peace is better than success and life is better than a cage and music is not more important than the people you love, but still, it’s magical. appreciate the magic, and be human about the industry.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? be patient and own your art.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into the business? use the internet to your best ability, be true to your art, educate yourself, and build your craft. always be ready to learn and listen, follow your instincts and be patient.

What are you most looking forward to this year in terms of your brand? That it will continue to grow and people will become more aware of it and that people will see me as a house – fashion, music, whatever i want to do to express myself.

Anything else you would like to share?be happy, my friends. and thanks to anyone who has supported me or shown love. i look forward to meeting you one day.

www.vvbrown.comwww.vvvintage.com

“Peace is better than success and life is better than a cage and music

is not more important than the people you love, but still, it’s magical.

Appreciate the magic, and be

human about the industry”


all that glittersSelf-proclaimed film buff and cat lover, CEO of Bad Kitty Films,

Christina Carmona, remembers, even as a child, she loved to entertain people. But it wasn’t until her teenage years when she

figured out her destiny was in the film industry.

By PEdrO rOdriquEz PhOtO By AlExiA JOhnSOn

“in our TV production class, we wrote our own scripts, shot the footage, did the voiceover’s and edited the package ourselves. i remember almost being in tears because i couldn’t figure out how to get through the hours of footage or what i was going to cut with what, and then it clicked.” not caring about long hours editing and taping video, she was excited to see the faces of the audience once they saw her work. after graduating, carmona moved to orlando, Florida where she began work as an actor/performer for Walt Disney World. There, she met Fernando Torres, another film buff. They became good friends sharing a passion for film. “one day, i pitched the idea to pursue filmmaking more seriously and boom! c.e.o and c.o.o. of bad Kitty Films L.L.c.; co-founded in 2011.” carmona came up with the company’s name. “What can i say...i’m a cat person, and i’m sure you can guess that yes, i am an owner of a cat, but not just one...two bad and mischievous kitties. coming up with the logo was a no brainer for me. my favorite Disney character is the cheshire cat, so i automatically knew we had to come up with our own version and with some time and help from one of our talented friends, chester was born...yes, he has a name.” starting the company wasn’t easy. being a young Latina woman in the filmmaking industry is tough, but carmona doesn’t let that get her down. “The hardest thing about being a female in this industry is the fact that you really do have to work harder. There was a

time Fernando and i held auditions and everyone spoke directly to him assuming that he was the director. When they found out it was actually me, their looks were priceless. i don’t let things like that bring me down; rather i use them as fuel to work harder.” Today, the hard work has paid off. bad Kitty Films can set itself apart by being an original and unpredictable film company dabbling “in a little of everything, such as shorts/features, Psa’s, documentaries, campaigns, music videos, commercials, promo videos, and we even conduct our own photo shoots. is it safe to say that we are a one stop shop? meow!” bad Kitty Films has produced a number of short films and documentaries, such as Lasting Memory, which focuses on a man overcoming post traumatic stress disorder (PTsD). now, they are working on a film, The Conversation, about an estranged relationship between a son, who feels that even though villainized has become the very thing his father intended him to be, and a father, who, despite his son’s betrayal, still loves him and offers one more chance at redemption. bad Kitty Films is shaking their way up and advises others to educate themselves to someday have their dreams come true as carmona’s have. “We want to take bad Kitty all the way to the top, so we have our paws in everyone’s litter box. and that’s one of the many reasons we’re so cool... we can pull off lines like that.”

www.badkittyfilms.net

all that


Create and not simply wait

Four diFFerent entrepreneurs and talents

spill the tea on suCCess, Failure and lessons learned.

starring For the makers, david murray, jamie bamber and Frankmusik

Have a plan, but don’t be afraid of risk

We shipped out of our apartments

at night and on weekends and wrote

blog posts on our lunch breaks

i’ve been working

on it for eight months and

counting — it’s my

full-time job

the ones

to watch


this one’s For the Makers

For the Makers is the virtual embodiment of the perfect craft store trip: a seamless walk down the aisle where all your needed materials await

whatever DIY adventure you may have in store for them – with the added perk of absolutely no lines at the checkout. Oh, and did we mention

complete step-by-step instructions to all projects? That’s right. For the Makers brings all the joys of crafting into your life – well, into your mailbox

is more like it – without any of the fuss. Co-founders Katie Covington and Janet Crowther wanted to create a corner of the Internet where

tackling DIY projects would be simple and, most importantly, fun! With their passion for creating unique DIYs and past experiences working with

designers like Marc Jacobs and Kate Spade, these ladies have a bad case of the craft-bug and a knack for entrepreneurship.

by TaiSSa rebroff PhoToS benJamin SToneShoT aT SandboX STudio ny / diy PhoToS CourTeSy of for The makerS

as the co-founders themselves put it, For the Makers is “one part magazine, one part coolest craft store ever,” which is a pretty ideal recipe for success if you ask us. by skipping those tedious and seemingly never ending trips to craft stores, For the Makers jumps right into the action and brings its Diy enthusiasts the coolest and most sought-after craft materials. From material scouting locations like asia and manhattan, you can always expect authenticity in all of their Diy materials. becoming a “maker” is easier than you think. The subscription service is only $29 a month, and shipping is always free. The subscription cost will not only unleash your inner wild craft-child, but it will also get you four of the hippest Diy projects you can lay your to-be glittered hands on. Past projects include The Great Gatsby-

inspired necklaces, calendars, bottle stoppers and even galactic jewelry and paperweights. although simple to follow instructions are included for each Diy, Katie and Janet encourage their fellow crafters to put their own spin into each project and to share them with the For the Makers community via instagram, Pinterest or Twitter. hashtags and crafting: a match made in BRINK heaven! We had the delight of chatting with Katie and Janet about everything from For the Maker’s sweet beginnings to their travels and tips on finding the best crafting materials. BRINK even challenged the ladies with a Diy scenario, and they totally showed us why they are the craft queens! Finally, the glitter game: we talked about it, we love it, and there’s no shame in it!

| ones to WatCh 2013


For the Makers seems like the ideal ‘doing what you love’ gig, and we’re dying to know: how did it all begin?We’d been thinking about how we could work with makers, and each other, for a while. one day we came across a blog that had taken a necklace we designed for a client and broke it down step by step for Diyers. it was such a great tutorial, but it fell a little flat without the right material. all of our design experience, sourcing trips, and production meetings sort of fell into place after that. We talked a friend into setting up a really basic website and just started shipping. it was super tiny at first. We shipped out of our apartments at night and on weekends and wrote blog posts on our lunch breaks. We still don’t sleep, but we’re fortunate to have our developer rachel and designer mari who do an amazing job making the online experience just as special as what is in the box.

Pinterest is famed for being the ultimate DIY paradise. Were you

inspired by this online sensation in any way? Has Pinterest facilitated For The Makers’ success?We use Pinterest every day. it sends tons of traffic our way, and it’s a great way to have a visual dialogue with other makers. it’s not only easy for subscribers to digest the inspiration behind each collection with a pinboard, but it’s also a great way for them to share what they’re making with us. We went to a Pinterest meet-up a few years ago and have definitely been inspired by ben’s vision and the way he’s scaled the company.

What’s the most unique crafting material you’ve encountered? about a year ago, we bought antique glass buttons with holes smaller than any needle we’ve ever seen. after a few months of trying to work them into a project we realized without a magnifying glass they were never going to work. The sparkle distracted us.

Scouting for materials has taken you


as far as Asia. Which location is your absolute favorite and why?We have a vintage problem. every year, we make the pilgrimage to brimfield, massachusetts for their annual antiques show. sometimes we pick up materials for For the Makers, but it’s also an amazing resource for new (old) techniques and gives us endless ideas for using materials in new ways.

We love to keep it local and do a surprising amount of our sourcing right here in manhattan. The fashion district is alive and well, and we have suppliers we know can come through for us in a pinch.

For the Makers has paired up with Anthropologie in the past. Any upcoming collaborations you can give us a sneak peek to?We’re working on a few that we’re super excited to share in the next few months. We’re about to kick off an online class with skillshare where we take a more intense project and really dig

into it with video tutorials and new techniques. makers from all over are going to be making their own statement necklace with some killer agates from brazil.

OK, crafting challenge time! You have Mod Podge, glitter and an item of your choice. What wondrous craft can we create?We just made a John Derian-inspired paperweight with mod Podge in our last box. With three custom illustrations, it was a huge hit. Did you know that they make glitter mod Podge? if we use that, does it count as just one material or is that craft cheating?

We’ll leave the crafting challenges to For the Makers, but speaking of glitter: yay or nay? everything has its place, but glitter makes almost everything better.

www.forthemakers.com


after struggling with weight issues for years, David murray tried dieting in high school and through college, but saw no results thus causing low self-esteem. When his weight reached 205 lbs he decided, “enough is enough.” he realized he needed to make a change for the better. “i started the easy way using pills, injections, anything that let me be lazy — but the sleepless nights and stomach troubles from the pills got to be unbearable.” David says, “it took two years and eventually i hit 40 lbs of weight loss, but i had many yo-yo’s along the way, because when i had trouble motivating myself, i would stay isolated, keep to myself, and just eat or play video games.” When keeping to himself didn’t work, he soon realized that when he discussed his problem with other people, he made progress and had real self-discipline. he quickly learned from this process: the key is accountability. “People are more likely to do things if they know others are expecting them to and they care about what those people think. it really flips the idea of ‘caring what people think’ on its head from something destructive to something constructive.” he researched the idea and compared his own life experience with that of recovery programs, which also hosts sponsors. Focusing on weight loss, he started designing the app. it took much iteration, dozens of screen mockups, designs, testing on person after person, a full 30-day private beta, and then the publicity of the bravo TV show to get out to a large audience. “i’ve been working on it for eight months and counting, and it’s my full-time job.”

Goalsponsors’ mission is to help anyone with any type of goal succeed. Download the free app, then choose a ‘Goalsponsor.’ From busy moms to people with degrees in nutrition and Kinesiology, sponsors are available to help guide your diet and exercise program. “as such, we keep things open — you pay what you can afford, pick the kind of expertise you think would be helpful to you, and go from there. if you’re not satisfied with your sponsor, you can change at any time without paying extra.” David is also focusing on having clearer expectations from both clients and sponsors with check-in calls during their time achieving the desired goal. as for tips and advice, it’s a soon-to-come feature that they are working on now. For those who try and cheat, “this isn’t a game — when people have a sponsor, they usually know that by cheating, the only one they’re cheating is themselves.” murray has reached his goal and feels accomplished with what the Goalsponsors app has done so far. “besides helping people lose as much as 10 lbs within a couple weeks, we’ve helped people achieve sobriety goals, work goals, and many goals people could barely imagine. because of that, i have to say that our biggest achievement isn’t one thing — it’s the thousands of goals we’ve helped people achieve and the thousands of people we’ve connected that otherwise wouldn’t have found each other’s help.”

www.goalsponsors.com

targetpractice

In November 2012, Bravo premiered, Start Ups: Silcon Valley and introduced new talents and entrepreneurial efforts from six very different personalities. One of these entrepreneurs, David Murray, utilized the show

as a platform to demonstrate a new app that’s revolutionizing the way people maintain and achieve their personal goals at the palm of their

hand. From weight loss to making decisions, the GoalSponsors mobile app is the result of David’s own beginnings.

by Pedro rodriGuez PhoTo ChriSTine zona


What inspired you to become an actor? Were you influ-enced by any particular performer, film, or television series?it was very much the theatre. mark rylance as hamlet at the rsc in the 80s, michael Gambon as Volpone at the national Theatre, and the influence of my mum who first cast me as a six-year-old as the Wicked Witch of the West in a kids theatre group she taught. Film and TV were another world that i never really contemplated.

Is there any story that comes to mind that led you to where you are today in the business?i’m not sure where i am today. L.a i guess. and i got here because i met my manager, alan, in London for breakfast at the st. martin’s Lane hotel about 14-years ago. Didn’t know him, but he said whilst ordering off the menu that i should go west. i’d been once before after being invited to tea at The Dorchester by another agent and was not enamored of my first

trip to L.a, but i went. and [i] kept on going back until, [while] staying in alan’s lovely basement suite, he dropped a script called Battlestar Galactica on my table. i cringed but read on, and the rest is, as they say, history — and hopefully the future too.

Battlestar Galactica is widely acclaimed, and its fan base is constantly expanding (as seen recently in a very accurate Portlandia sketch featuring Edward James Olmos and James Callis) and while we won’t ask the infamous fat suit question, we do want to know how BSG prepared you for your current career?it gave me confidence. about what i bring to the party, but also about how powerful and provoking TV can be. The people i worked with there showed me how rich a creative life can be — even on the most maligned medium.

We heard that you and Edward James Olmos developed quite a friendship throughout BSG. What’s the most

cULt cLassic

Jamie Bamber has traveled light years as Commander Apollo in the cult-adored remake of the Battlestar Galactica series, but his career has traveled just as far. Bamber’s passion for acting began at an early age in the Paris stage thanks to his Mum’s influence. Today, the renowned actor

stars in the upcoming TNT show Monday Mornings, a medical drama based on a novel written by Sanjay Gupta. In this Q&A, Bamber breaks

down his journey with acting, his inspirations, and gives upcoming actors some solid advice.

by TaiSSa rebroff PhoToS maGnuS haSTinGS



‘fatherly’ advice he has given you?he is an inspiration for his energy, gener-osity, and his sense of social responsibility. The advice that sticks with me is “have the discipline to do what you love to do, even when you don’t feel like doing it.”

You star in the upcoming TNT medical drama Monday Mornings. Tell us about the show and how your character fits in the fabric of it all.it is based on sanjay Gupta’s novel, and the title refers to the morbidity & mortality meetings that occur on a monday morning at our fictional chelsea General teaching hospital. m&m meetings happen, to some degree, in every hospital, but at chelsea, they have become legendarily rigorous. When a surgeon loses a patient or has caused an unforeseen deficit during a procedure, they are summoned to give an account to their peers. They are questioned and cross-examined so

the entire department may learn something from any errors or dis-coveries. The meetings have become a crucible where some surgeons are

forged and others melt. so, long after the patients have left the theatre, the surgeons must submit to their own. my character, Tyler Wilson, is a natural surgical athlete, confidence and God-complex personified until he makes the ultimate mistake. Then we see that his confidence is built on a childhood scar. he is a loner whose personal life is limited and complicated and who lives for his patients and is arrogant toward his colleagues.

Speaking of, what advice would you give to hopeful actors?not to limit yourself. start writing, producing, directing as soon as you can. so you can create and not simply wait.

www.tntdrama.com/series/monday-mornings

“thE PEOPlE i wOrKEd with thErE ShOwEd

mE hOw riCh A CrEAtivE liFE CAn BE — EvEn On thE mOSt mAlignEd mEdium”


the reinvention

of frankmusik

BY ANAIS VAILLANT PhOTOS JARED KOCKASTYLIST KRISTY BENJAMIN STYLIST ASST AShLEY BOGUE MUA CLAIRE MARShALL

These questions upon questions of serious and weird thoughts are goggles created when thumb meets index, when an artist sees in color rather than

societal expectations a form of freedom attainable rather than spoken about; this man of who we speak of who we’ve asked to speak, to be blunt and wipe off the lies of Pop, tells us his story on the pursuit of mastery, exploiting raw

emotion whilst getting lost recording his new EP, Far From Over, sticking to the fizz and the bang of the good old days; these are the answers of

Frankmusik, a reinvention, a symbol that awesome ain’t going to make itself.

the one to WatCh


What did you want to be when you grew up? When i was little, i just wanted to play with LeGos and race micro machines! i love to play, and the simplicity of my toy collection really let me run buck wild with my imagination. i loved building and exploring. i think that lead me to thinking i could be a designer of some sort, but sadly i didn’t have the academic edge i would have needed to make technical design a possibility. but my creativity still took precedence, and i ended up in a more audible version of design instead!

What is your inspiration? How have you been breaking down the barriers? my inspiration is exploiting raw emotion. i write and produce my best work when i am totally furious and full of vengeance. it seems to most people to be a very negative

Caught Inside Shirt, Echo Park Surf Squad www.echoparksurfsquad.com Re-engineered vintage Levis jacket with

Napa leather & black French terry drop-crotch short with leather details by Antonio Barragan, Akai Ito Boutique 241 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA Sunglasses by Finest Seven from

Dr. York Spectacle Maker8302 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA

PREvIouSShirt and Hat

by Jonathan Burdine


way of working. They would be right if you had a normal job to go to everyday. but i believe it is my job to channel the emotions that bring us to our knees. i explore the parts of ourselves that hurt the most. i exploit this dark energy in two ways: one, it allows a complete interaction with truth as i deal with very personal situations we all go through and put them straight into my work; secondly, the power of rage and anger in my work allows me to not over think what i am doing. When i am being polite and forgiving, i don’t take myself on creatively, i am just pandering to the fluffy side of myself and others and, that to me, is boring. Despite what i’ve said above, my work does not always come across as negative or even slightly angry, but that’s because i am not trying to punish the listener with my problems. i have enough sensibility most of the time to keep the context upbeat or at least bittersweet enough as to not lose the listener along the way. i have tried the past 10 years to write under many different conditions from more positive places, but the final outcome always feels contrived and convoluted. inspiration only passes over me when i let the sky fall down on top of me.

What is it like or what are the challenges faced with going independent?The biggest pros can be the biggest cons. you are free, but freedom comes with responsibility — mainly to myself and the creative process i hold dearly. you are your own boss, and from my own lousy experience, it’s hard to be your biggest cheerleader at all times. For myself, doubt is a key hurdle to overcome on a daily basis. When the world is unaware of your work and you only answer to yourself, it becomes very easy to say your work is never done; it can always be better; it can always break a few more boundaries; the hooks can be stronger and that ad-lib at the end could be way more wild. but like anything that starts to become a problem rather than a joy, [you] eventually have to just let it go. another issue, of course, is money. how do you make money being independent? Well you have to have a strong work ethic that’s bulletproof for a start. i make money by being multi-faceted in my work. i write and produce for others as well as

myself. That financially tides me over so i can invest in my own solo project. but ‘artists’ chasing record deals working part time jobs are wasting their time waiting for their ship to come in. Labels Don”T GiVe a Damn abouT you until you have proved yourself on your own two feet. There is not enough talent, money, care or interest at labels to invest in an unknown artist these days. if you haven’t blown all your dignity on a talent-finding TV show, then your best bet is to really graft your pretty little butt off, learn how to write songs, and learn how to produce, because, to me, that’s what being an artist is. i mean, fuck, that’s what being a human really boils down to — the pursuit of mastery! i want a generation of self-sufficient artists to come up with a definitive sound and style that is truly theirs! That’s why DJ culture has blown up again, because it allows an immediate connection between an artist and their craft due to the plummeting cost of electronic studio recording. There is no interference from the outside world. it’s just a nerd and his laptop making as many awesome sounds as possible, and then [he] goes to play them in a nightclub and gets more tail than he ever would have done learning that Gsm code no one ended up using back in school. Look, don’t get me wrong, i love amazing singers who never wrote their own material or ever produced it. but i feel we are living in a different age. no one has money anymore, so the more you can do, the more likely something will stick for yourself. independent means independent. not co-dependent. We only want to buy a drink for the person at the bar who seems to be having quite a party all on their own without our attention. you ain’t buying nothing for the person who desperately won’t stop bugging you for attention.

What made you want to get into the music industry? i was at the London college of Fashion wasting tens of thousands of pounds learning how to do something i didn’t love because our society makes us feel a degree is the only way you are ever going to get anywhere at life. Well, i decided i would rather fail at something i love than succeed in something i cared very little for and being stuck in debt before i’ve even thought about getting a mortgage.

You said in your interview with Clash that you didn’t want to be an electronic act, you wanted to be a pop act. What exactly do you mean and how have you accomplished this?Pop, to me, isn’t just the usual stuff you hear on Top 40. i feel radiohead is more pop than say Pitbull. radiohead had a popular following whether they were on radio or not. Pop is seen as quite a dirty word these days. but i am describing my work through a different context. First and foremost, i write songs. i am not just a ‘beats guy.’ it just so happens that instead of a guitar, i have over 50,000 sounds at my finger tips from my computer. i am just as much a singer/songwriter as any cliché you would find in a dive bar with a broken heart and a 12-string. i just found a different way of expressing a similar emotion. Pop, to me, is anything that is mindful of its audience and has an intended structure that is based around deliberate melodic hooks and production techniques.

What are you listening to these days?Kyary Pamyu Pamyu.

Is there any story that comes to mind that led you to where you are today in the business?absolutely! Just looking at that question triggers the story. it’s the never-really-

“i GoT ouT oF La, came home, anD FounD myseLF aGain. iT Was simPLe reaLLy. noT be aFraiD To JusT be me.”


fully-knowing-what’s-happening. i have no idea how i ever got this far. i have no idea why i put myself through half the stuff i did. but, i feel, perhaps, that the story is the music, because the music has always been there for me when everything else has failed, and it’s a medium that has allowed me to experience the world, women and woe in a way that i would never have done if i had not taken a risk in this game. The only other point i would add is that i have learnt that being true to your art is the only thing keeping you from going stir crazy. as soon as you have given up on your art and what you stand for, you are worthless. you have no shape, and that will inevitably be projected in whatever work you do in that state.

Do you have a preference when it comes to being behind the scenes or front and center in terms of your artistry? i prefer a balance. i think having both avenues is healthy. i would never only want one or the other. They actually help each other. i love being the front man on stage when performing my songs. but sometimes, i just like to smoke a box of cigarettes sitting in front of my computer for 28 hours working on the same four bar loop on my own.

How do you feel about the way music is released today? i hate how the industry obsesses over singles. i understand the need for them like i understand the need for the un, but sometimes i want to see career artists get their fair break too. some people actually have albums of things to say!

What is your favorite part of the whole (album) process? Getting lost in the moments that you didn’t even know happened until you stopped recording and take a look at what you’ve done in the past five hours that actually felt more like five minutes. Those are the moments i truly live for.

Is there anything you would change about the Complete Me or Do It In the AM eras – was there any part of the process that wasn’t exactly what you wanted it to be?of course, i was trying to do as ‘i’m’ told. i hate doing as i’m told! but really, i wouldn’t change a thing. i don’t like to live in regret. i got paid to do what i loved, but sadly i refused to do it the way the labels wanted. it only ever caused conflict and eventually damaged my image and my music.

Did any of the subjects of any of your tracks realize or know that it was referencing them (i.e., “Ludicrous,” “Cut Me Down”)? If so, care to elaborate?i think you’re saying did anyone know i was writing songs about them? if so, then i still to this day have no idea. other than Complete Me, which, at the time, i made clear was mainly about one girl. The second album was much more vague. This new album will be very specific. it’s a sacrifice i have to make. if it hurts, it goes in the writing, and the words are only a reaction to what someone or a situation has done to me. if i ever loved you or met you and rubbed me the wrong way, i’ve probably written about you somewhere.

You’ve reinvented yourself a few times over the past few years. What was it like for you getting critiques (one way or the other) from the fans? i find i invite the criticism as i am very transparent with my creative process. i want my fans to be as honest as i am. i listen to them, and they know i do. That’s what makes it very special.

Do you ever feel pressured to be something or do something that you don’t agree with, and how do you handle that?i used to until about four weeks ago from career to relationship. i got out of La, came home, and found myself again. it was simple really. not be afraid to just be me. no one else makes music the way i do, and no one sings the way i do, etc., so that really is my answer. i just had to get back to where i was happy on my own without any distractions. i can honestly say i am back in a happy place, stronger and wiser than ever. That will only change when i stop believing in myself, and that generally starts to happen when i listen to other people.

How did “Fast As I Can” come about? Will it be included in the track list for your next release? it was a song that i produced but someone else had written the top line for. it sat around doing nothing, but i loved the backing track. so i got my pen and pad out and rewrote the top line and decided to put it out! it has a 50/50 chance of making the album at this point. i would rather try and make an album full of entirely exclusive material bar “captain.”

How do you think social media has played a role in your journey to developing a third album?


IceMozz Shirt by Echo Park Surf Squad www.echoparksurfsquad.com Glasses by Res Rei From

Dr. York Spectacle Maker8302 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA


it has been so crucial. i recently put a lot of dumb stuff up on Twitter regarding a past relationship that did me no favors, but to some degree, that’s part of the charm about what i do. i am a little off kilter sometimes, and my real fans know that’s part and parcel of my demeanor. i love having full control over my social networks. it’s helped me have a very real reach to a solid core fan base that i will never give up on.

What can fans expect from your third album? And what are your expectations for that third album? This is the album i want to make. every day i ask myself new questions regarding its direction and outcome. it will be full of the fizz and bang that harks back to my earliest demos that got people into me in the first place. i think this record will be loved by most of my fans because they know just how i got there through the social mediums like the live ustream’s from my studio in La to the constant supply of soundcloud demos. Fans really do get to see the step by step process. also doing interviews like these really are the cherry on top, as i get to explain in more detail what’s going on in my head. i love being candid, and that will never cease.

If you could say anything to those trying to branch away and start something independently, what would it be?have a plan, but don’t be afraid of risk. if going independent is even a slight question in your head, then that means you are more than likely not happy where you currently are. but it isn’t for everyone. Wannabe singers and theatre performers steer clear. This is a rough road, and it requires canidae-like abilities to get noticed and respected. if you want a potentially ephemeral fame fix just go on one of the plethora of TV talent shows out there, but if you really want to have substance and a really full existence, then maybe independent is a road to wander down. remember, just because you like listening to music does not mean you are going to enjoy making it. independent is no longer relegated to the trashy grunge kids of the 90s. it’s a massive breeding ground for entrepreneurship.

Has there been any life lesson about working/collaborating in the business? yes, and i have pretty much fought against all of my life lessons. as you can see, i have

no problem slamming the very industry i work in. many artists and label press officers would run screaming to the hills at some of the things i say. but that’s probably why i struggle, because i do call people out. i do not kiss ass like so many people do. i choose not to anymore, because eventually you will get walked all over. The entertainment industry as a whole shuns honesty, and i think that is a major factor that is sorely destroying the industry. more people need to be critiquing the way things are so we can move forward with a better plan for the future (i feel that way across the board from politics to religion). currently the agenda is to dupe the public into thinking everything is still awesome and amazing in the industry, when in reality, it really isn’t so wonderful, and it’s going to get a whole lot worse if the few powerhouses at the top don’t start getting innovative and agile during these trying times. you see, the film industry would be at its knees if movies were as easy to download as music. but until we all have 40 mbps internet lines, the film industry can sit quite pretty for a while. [Laughs] i am such a douche with my opinions.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?my mum saying that’s she’s never going to worry about me. i’ll always land on my feet. it’s not really advice, but that total belief in me has really helped me stay on top of things most of the time.

but if i was to think of something, it would be what stuart Price once said to me, “no one has a magic wand. no one.”

What’s one piece of advice you could share with anyone reading this right now? awesome ain’t going to make itself!

Via social media followers:@artgirlsrock Will he marry me? i am atheist therefore marriage is merely a business contract. i’ll pass. but thanks.

@actionfigureattack Does he like performing more in the states or overseas?Give me a stage, and i will happily perform on it. i come from planet earth. it doesn’t matter where that stage is set.

www.frankmusik.comwww.facebook.com/frankmusik

“JusT because you LiKe LisTeninG

To music Does noT mean you are GoinG To

enJoy maKinG iT. inDePenDenT is no LonGer reLeGaTeD

To The Trashy GrunGe KiDs oF

The 90s. iT’s a massiVe breeDinG

GrounD For enTrePreneurshiP.”


Shirt by Rojas8250 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA Napa leather moto pant

by Antonio Barragan available at Akai Ito Boutique 241 E 2nd St Los Angeles, CA Sunglasses by LGR Luca

Gnecchi Ruscone from Dr. York Spectacle Maker 8302 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA


innovationBy Benjo aRWaS

Styling: Amit Sidimodel: mArinA V. @ Pinkerton modelS

mAkeuP And HAir: rikki ronAeASSiStAnt: Sidney krAemr

Video PoSt Production: roy ArwAS


innovationBy Benjo aRWaS

Styling: Amit Sidimodel: mArinA V. @ Pinkerton modelS

mAkeuP And HAir: rikki ronAeASSiStAnt: Sidney krAemr

Video PoSt Production: roy ArwAS

innovation


ClassiC looks:BlaCk ClassiC Noa G dress: $800

GoldeN skirt Noa G: $220PurPle dress, ViNtaGe: $180

edGy looks:shorts h&M: $79

shoes steVeN MaddeN $129laCe toP Guess: $59

leGGiNGs: PriVate ColleCtioNGoldeN toP uNder leather jaCket h&M: $89

leather jaCket: ViNtaGe. $210shorts h&M: $79

shoes steVeN MaddeN $129

ViNtaGe Greek hat: $40ButtoN uP shirt h&M: $110

leather PaNts, Guess: $69


“i.D. please,” she says. Was this some cruel joke? is there a new law against those with the sweetest of sweet tooth? sorry those born after 1992, these cupcakes aren’t for you. i stare at my innocent treats unaware of the ride they’re about to take me on as i sit and chat with mrs. Tamira Williams, founder of the ultimate Drunken cupcake. The alabama-raised baker wouldn’t tell me the amount of alcohol in each treat, but, let it be known, these dangerously deceptive cakes have enough to get i.D.’d over. The Florida-based company began over a rum cake gone so right that friends were begging for more. creating cupcakes ranging from margarita to irish car bomb, Tamira provides the perfect treat for parties, gatherings, and a damn good time. customers, Tamira states, “don’t just want an open bar, they want the dessert to be the bar.” The drunken menu of treats is inspired by various mixology concepts and provides beverages both genders can appreciate. cooking with alcohol creates a unique vehicle of flavor because, as the proof evaporates, the infrastructure of organic components enhances and allows you to appreciate all the hard work and history of the liquor. however, Tamira doesn’t seem to face this problem at all. in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Playing a brief game of how many cakes does it take before driving becomes out of the question, we quickly realized these cupcakes are no joke. Frosting warmed by spiced rum, champagne, tequila or beer, create a lick punched with flavor topped on cakes oozing sweet goodness of Long island ice Tea, cosmopolitan, White russian and brandy alexander — to name a few. inspired by drink menus, these subtle yet powerful cupcakes might not have you giggling right away, but give it time to digest a bit and enjoy the long-lasting ride of drunken fun.

With full support from her husband and family, Tamira appeared on Fox35 merely six months prior to the company’s inception. using social media — Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest — as a main form of advertisement, The ultimate Drunken cupcake focuses more on quality by limiting the size of the batches in order to ensure freshness. in order to prevent buyers from receiving leftovers, clients are limited to two flavors per dozen. however, good luck narrowing it down to just two. The sweet business operates through their website, and costumers are provided delivery dates/times in order to know when to expect their cupcakes by the dozen (averaging approximately $40). “you have to be ready to work eighty hours a week for yourself,” Tamira says, “just to avoid the forty hours a week for someone else. besides, if you can work this hard for others why wouldn’t you work that hard for you? in the end you feel so much better knowing that you’re doing something you love for people who love it too.” still a new company, Tamira has high hopes for the upcoming years. in search of an investor, she strives to open a storefront in the near future for the 21 and up dessert-lovers. it’s about starting a business passionate about the subject, curious about how to make something popular unique again, and enticing people where they can’t resist — our stomachs.

www.theultimatedrunkencupcake.com

the ULtiMatedrUnkencUpcake

Sitting, fidgeting, pupils salivating at the thought of my dozen drunken

cupcakes when I see her — my deliverer of home baked goodness.

by anaiS vaillanT PhoTo beTSy JohnSon ShoT aT biG fin Seafood


The Last Page

INsTAGRAM FeeD @BRINKmag

@JaJaJaredThomas

one more look for the @TheFranKmusiK shoot. Killed it. We are going to slay @brinkmag

@YelpOrlando

@brinKmag i see huGe things for you guys in 2013! <3

@jenvargas

@brinKmag bTW, i can’t wait for your next issue!

@audreyeve

Fitting since brinK maGaZine rocks too! rT @brinkmag: our new intern rocks!

spot yourself in our Twitter feed?

Tweet us and we’ll send you a free BRINK Tshirt!

FACeBOOK uPDATes /BRINKmag

A year of BRINK. Which issue is your favorite?

MOST LIKED

“i don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” - bill cosby

TWITTeR FeeD @BRINKmag


we can’t promise inner peace.but inner purity? yeah, every

bottle comes with that.

PUREZEN

©2009 glacéau, glacéau®, smartwater®, bottle design and label are registered trademarks of glacéau.

February/March 2013

Documents

Transcript of February/March 2013