Nu-Mode´ Issue9 %28Interactive%29.pdf

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T H E A W A K E N I NEmma Champtalou

Carine Roitfeld shaun ross Fabien Constant Femme En Fourrure Lapalux Shawn pyfromBang Bang Mike Carr john reuss Aja Frary Kimberly Shannon Murphy bevza

Austin Paul Patrick Li Chef kpe paul phung Nadine Goepfert

P H O T O G R A P H Y E M I L Y AAUTUMN/WINTER 2013 THE AWAKEN

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T H E A W A K E N I NRachele Schank



P H O T O G R A P H Y G R E G O RAUTUMN/WINTER 2013 THE AWAKEN


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T H E A W A K E N I Sha un Ross



P H O T O G R A P H Y R Y A NAUTUMN/WINTER 2013 THE AWA



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Engaging Innocence Pg.15Words Latoya P. Henry

Individuality, Versatility And Comfort Pg.16 Interview Irina Romashevskaya

Suzanne Rae Portal Pg.20Words Irina Romashevskaya

Dong Li Blackwell Watercolor Language Pg.22Words Latoya P. Henry

China Mike Making The Mark Pg.25Interview Irina Romashevskaya

Red White Black Pg.28Photography Gregory Keith

Measuring Up Pg.38Interview Alexandra Stevens

Zana Bayne Pg.45Words Latoya P. Henry

Separation From Normal Pg.47Interview Alexandra Stevens

Un nished Conversation Paul Phung Pg.50Interview Irina Romashevskaya

Together Now Pg.56Photography Amie Milne

Styling Ricky James Flynn

Milenas Rverie Pg.68Photography Karla Majnaric

Styling Kate Gaskin

The All Round Gentleman Shawn Pyfrom Pg.77Photography Allen Henson

Words John Mark

Genre Bending Pg.82Interview Alexandra Stevens

I Am ISIS Pg.86Photography Spencer Kohn

Words Melody Burdette

A r t i s t A J H a t e l e y / A n i m a l F a r m & S n o w b a l l

INSIDE THIS ISSUE


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Te op 5 Albums We Love Pg.87Alexandra Stevens

Justin MoranMelody Burdette

Bang Bang Pg.88Words Alexandra Stevens

Chef KPE Pure Imagination Pg.93Photography Sarah Kjelleren

Art Direction Shaun RossWords Melody Burdette

Te Artist Andres Angel Prada Pg.94Photography John CaballeroWords Irina Romashevskaya

Diamond District Pg.94Photography Florian Maas

Blending Dynamism And Structure Pg.112Interview Irina Romashevskaya

A ale Of wo Stuntwomen Pg.117Photography Daniel Rampulla

Words John Mark

extiles Into Art Pg.122Words Irina Romashevskaya

Waves of Emotion Pg.127Words Irina Romashevskaya

ake Me Away Pg.130Photography Amie Milne

Styling Kim Ellmer

extures Pg.136

Carine Roitfeld In Mademoiselle Pg.149Words Irina Romashevskaya

John Reuss A Modern Day Artist Pg.154Interview Irina Romashevskaya

Te Heart And Soul Of Shaun Ross Pg.161Photography Ryan Puger

Man On Fire Pg.168Photography Rakeem Cunningham

Styling Wilford Lenov

Stocklist PG.182

INSIDE THIS ISSUE


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N U - M O D E

EDITOR IN CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LATOYA [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

JOHN MARK [email protected]

FASHION & ART DIRECTOR

IRINA [email protected]

FEATURES & MUSIC EDITOR

ALEXANDRA [email protected]

NU-MODE TV DIRECTOR

DANIEL RAMPULLA

[email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

CLARK [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MELODY BURDETTE . VERA SHABAN . JUSTIN MORAN

PHOTOGRAPHERS

EMILY ABAY . GREGORY KEITH . AMIE MILNE . FLORIAN MAASRAKEEM CUNNINGHAM . RYAN PFLUGER . DANIEL RAMPULLA

ALLEN HENSON . SARAH KJELLEREN . JOHN CABALLEROTAKASHI HOMMA . MEGHAN SHARP . KARLA MAJNARIC

SPENCER KOHN . MARIA MOULUD . MARIA KULINA

CHRISTOPHER GABELLO

STYLING

KIM ELLMER . RICKY JAMES FLYNNNADENE DUNCAN . WILFORD LENOV

KATE GASKIN .JOHN-MARK

ADVERTISE

[email protected]

SUBMISSIONS & ENQUIRIES

[email protected]

SPECIAL THANKS

JERRY BEERSDORF . KENYA SCOTT . PATRICK OLCUTTFLORENT BELDA . CJ SWANTON . EDUARDO MORALES

LONGHOUSE PROJECTS . REP . SAMANTHA PHILIPSOMEN PR . AGENCY V . CAPTION LONDON

NU-MODE MAGAZINE PUBLISHER LATOYA P. HENRY

BROOKLYN, NY 11238T. 7 1 8 . 8 1 2 . 5 8 1 5

WWW.NUMODEMAG.COM

WWW.TWITTER.COM/NUMODE

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NUMODEMAGAZINE

NU-MODE THE AWAKENING A/W 2013 .10

EMMA CHAMPTALOUP WEARS WHITE COAT MICHAEL LA SORDOFUR COAT VINTAGEEARRINGS PETITE GRANDPHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ABAY STYLING NADENE DUNCAN AT DLM

SHAUN ROSS WEARSSHIRT RAMON LAWRENCENECKLACE RENA REBORNPHOTOGRAPHY RYAN PFLUGER STYLING JOHN MARK

WEARS RACHELE SCHAN K STILA COSME TICSPHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY KEITHSTYLING | PROPS GREGORY KEITHMAKE UP ARTIST AZRA REDHAIRSTYLIST RYUTA TANAKA
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CONTRIBUTORS

GREGORY KEITH

Im 27 and I m an Australian Fashion Photographer. I rst picked up a camera at a veryyoung age, being as my mother and grandfather are both photographers, I knew what aLeica Camera was before I knew what cable television was and all through my teens Icarried the scent of stop xer rather than expensive perfume. Ive been actively shootingfor the last 9 years. I ve been very fortunate to work with some very talented creative peo-

ple, and I love that Im constantly learning. Big thank you to my mother and grandfather.

www.emilyabay.com

EMILY ABAY

Gregory Keith lives and works in New York City.

www.gregorykeith.com

FLORIAN MAAS

Florian Maas is a young photographer based in Hamburg, Germany. Besides his fashionwork, he is also a lover of architecture and always searching for places that inspire him.

www. orianmaas.com

Born in 1992, Rakeem Cunningham fashion/portrait photographer residing in Los Ange-les. His work aims to capture the essence of the subject. Rakeem incorporates differentforms of light and locations to bring the subject to life, while his personal work exploresthemes of self-discovery.

rakeemc.com

RAKEEM CUNNINGHAM

KARLA MAJNARIC

Karla Majnaric photography exudes a fusion of timeless allure and razor-sharp moder-nity. Represented by Viviens Creative, her seamless approach embraces art direction andexpert post-production. Renowned for creating visionary lighting directives, Majnaricservices high-end fashion and beauty clients in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia. Herepic editorial narratives have graced the pages of both national and international maga-zines.

www.karlamajnaric.com.au

AZRA RED

Azra Red Makeup artist and reamer based in NYC. Inspired by art, music and lights of the city.

www.azrared.com

NU-MODE THE AWAKENING A/W 20


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EDITORS LETTER

REBIRTTHE

Reformatting, Reshaping, and becoming anew, The Awakening centers on the rebirth of Nu-Mode.We wanted to create a space where we could deliver an exhibition in the palm of your hands, creatingaccess to the most inspirational artist within design, art and culture. Weve been trying to nd a goodway to sum up exactly what the awakening entails, but it seems like the talent we feature can say it allfor us. The awakening is capturing ideas youre passionate about l ike Sandra Tervonen of Femme EnFourrure, concentrating on creating strong moods and atmospheres like photographer Paul Phung,and in the mindset of tattoo artist Keith Bang Bang McCurdy - Whatever Im doing at the momentI love. I wont do something if I dont love it. These are a few of the pioneers we nd inspirational

featured in this issue, who are breaking barriers, jolting fans, viewers and followers, to wake up and pursue what inspires them, without the glass ceiling, pushing forward towards limitless possibilities. Sohow would we de ne the awakening? For us its knowing who we are, avoiding the robotic process and

being true to ourselves. So here we are, issue number nine!! Nu-Mode Design Art & Culture MagazineThe Awakening

LatoyaP HEnry Latoya P. HenryEditor In Chief


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WWW.BEVZA.COMBEVZA


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MASKA 2012

ACRYLIC & OIL ON C ANVAS, 120/100 CM


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A graduate of the Fine Arts Academy in Wroclaw, Polish painter HannaIlczyszyn now resides in Belgium, where she creates stunning sequenc-es of paintings in which she reveals the individuality of children throughcanvas portraits. Behind Hanna Ilczyszyns work is a portrayal of uncer-tainty and innocence, manifest through the perspective of youthful emo-tions. Ilczyszyns gurative compositions display children, carefree andspontaneous, expressing their emotions without restrictions. Playing with a heavy use of monotones, hints of color and

blurred scenery, each piece resembles a dream sequence of an unpleas-ant and blissful moment. One might nd the daunting atmosphereuncomfortable, faced by children with distorted expressions, facelessfeatures and unusual characteristics. However, the artists surreal ap-

proach translates her subjects into a fascinating series of illustrations.The young contemporary artist has sold her paintings to collectors inter-nationally, exhibiting her work at several group shows in Belgium and

Poland.

E N G A G I N I N N O C E N C E

HANNA ILCZYSZYN ONE TO WATCH

WORDS LATOYA P. HENRY

TEDDY BEAR 2012 ACRYLIC ON CANVAS, 80/60 CM


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D E S I G N

Individuality, Versatility A N D C O M F O R T .

B evza is a Ukrainian womenswear line that started in 2006 under direc-tion of Svetlana Bevza. Since then it successfully emerged as a smart,sophisticated, minimalist clothing collection for independent womenthat appreciate quality and craftsmanship. The line is currently sold inselect stores and boutiques around the world.

I started BEVZA in 2006 and it has gained an incredible amount ofsupport, which meant I was lucky enough to be named Best Womens-wear Designer 2013 at the Best Fashion Awards arranged by UkrainianFashion Week. All of my efforts now go into the continuous develop-ment of BEVZA as I spend all my time researching and designing formy next collection. Its a lot of work, but Im really happy with the

brand and what Ive achieved so far! The brands aesthetic is anchoredin building an individual point of view within a clean, minimalist cloth-ing line. BEVZA is simple, sophisticated

WORDS IRINA ROMASHEVSKAYA

SVETLANA BEVZA INTERVIEW


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and clean. My designs are always comfortableand versatile. Our must-have item [of everyseason] is a white dress. Bevza was also cre-ated with a particular customer in mind. Ayoung, professional woman who is sophisti-cated and enjoys quality things in life its awoman that respects herself and lives in herown unique way.

Back in her studio in Kiev, Ukraine, Svetlanacreates her notable pieces, drawing her inspi-ration from a variety of sources. I draw my

inspiration from everywhere Sometimes I just read books or watch lms, but then Imalso inspired by my immediate surroundings;

previous work and sometimes just by ideas thatcome into my head when I least expect it. Theusual design process consists of research anda few visual references. I start with an initialidea that has come to mind and then I begin re-searching. Its a mix of trend research, my ownvisual inspiration, key fabrics, and putting it alltogether to t the brand identity. Once I havea better idea of what I want to design, I startexperimenting with fabrics and silhouettes un-til I have something Im really happy with. Mycollections are usually built around a handful

of key pieces.

A part of Svetlana inspiration comes from hernumerous travel adventures. I love travelling!It ful lls me with new emotions and its alwaysa feast for my eyes. Indirectly, it inspires me al-ways. I think its incredibly important for everyfashion designer to immerse yourself in for-eign cultures and open your eyes to the world.Svetlanas favourite vacation spot is Paris; itsthe place that sparks her creativity and whereshe recharges her batteries.Paris is the city of endless inspiration to me.A city that breathes fashion, a city that is made

from beauty... I travel there a lot because of mywork, but I sometimes like to go just for theweekend.

For Fall/Winter 2013 collection Svetlana pre-sented a line of masterfully crafted tailoreditems with a wink. The collection is quiteedgy and inspired by the idea of a marionette

a puppet that can easily be controlled byher master. I was really excited to work witha contrasting palette while also developingsome digital prints of doll heads, which in myopinion look a little bit frightening, but nobodycan stay indifferent to it and Im happy with theresult. With the next collection scheduled to

be viewed next month, Svetlana is prepared to

give us a few hints, but prefers to leave the restto our imagination. We will actually be show-ing our Spring/Summer 2014 collection duringUkraine Fashion Week at the beginning of Oc-tober. I dont want to give too much away, butthis time the main point is elegance. Its some-thing timeless something I think should be

present even in edgy clothes.

Svetlanas work for Bevza is already impres-sive and she also gained a bit of momentum inthe past season. We dressed emerging British

singer Laura Mvula for her performance at therst ever BBC Urban Proms this year, and shelooked beautiful! With her dreams of dressingCate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton, Svetlana isfull of anticipation and excitement for her labelin the next years to come. Now that we havean established foundation in Ukraine, I amstarting to work on expanding outside of Kievand obtaining stockists in the UK and furthera eld. Its going to be an exciting time!


D E S I G N

BEVZA IS SIMPLE, SOPHISTICATED AND CLEAN. MY DESIGNCOMFORTABLE AND VERSATILE.

SVETLANA BEVZA INTERVIEW


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PORTASUZANNE RA


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Suzanne Rae Peleaz presented her eponymous line for Spring/

Summer 2014 on an interactive web platform that allowedvisitors not only to see the clothes, but also learn about de-signers inspiration and explore the tiniest details of eachclothing piece through photos, videos and mood boards. Aim-ing to empower the modern-day woman, Suzannes debutcollection was inspired by futurism and enlightenment andlargely in uenced by Thea Alexanders 70s cult classic 2150A.D. With a mixture of performance fabrics and natural bers,this Brooklyn-based designer created a line of cleverly craftedmust-haves. From neoprene coats and crinkled organza tops,to oversized crepe de chine shirt dresses and printed cotton

pant ensembles there isnt an item in the collection thats notwearable or effortlessly chic. Furthermore, utilitarian detailsof the neutral colored silhouettes combined with a few scenic

prints make entire collection incredibly easy for mixing and

matching, letting feminine individuality shine through.NU-MODE THE AWAKENING A/W 20

D E S I G N

COLLECTION SUZANNE RAE SS 14

WORDS IRINA ROMASHEVSKAYA PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTOPHER GABELLO


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DONG LI-BLACKWW A T E R C O L O

L A N G U A G

Dong Li-Blackwell is a curator, artist, designer, and talent to watch.After graduating in 2007 with a BFA in painting from Northeast NormalUniversity in China, Blackwell left her homeland for the UK to furtherher studies. She completed her MFA in Fine Arts at Brighton University,and continues to create in Great Britain. The emerging artist composesdelicate paintings that depict the femininity of the female form throughwatercolor. The beauty behind Blackwells paintings transcends intoa meaningful substance of symbolism, which goes beyond just beauti-ful painting. The artist told Saatchi Online that watercolor is my lan-guage, and its how she expresses the emotions of her life. Collectively,Blackwell continues to strike the art community with her immaculate

paintings, winning several prestigious awards internationally and ex-hibiting with acclaimed artists. So what is next for Dong Li-Blackwell?Were not sure, but we are looking forward to an immense future thatlies ahead for this aspiring artist.

DONG LI BLACKWELL ONE TO WATCH

WORDS LATOYA P. HENRY

GREEN ORGASM 2010 WATERCOLOUR ON PAPER, 74CM X 105CM


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LADY X NO.9

WATERCOLOR, 17.7 X 12.6 X 0 IN


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THE MASK NU-MODE THE AWAKENING A/W 2013 .24

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China MM A K I N G T H E

Mike Carr, aka China Mike, is known for his illustrative, vivid brushwork that brings pure emotion to the surface of his paintings. Afterworking as a commercial illustrator for global brands and record la-

bels, Mike has switched to painting. Quietly working out of his studioin Bishopston, Bristol, Mike keeps occupied with a variety of different

projects and exhibitions. Taking a minute out of his busy schedule, Mikeshared his thoughts on nding inspiration, working with Will Barras andDuncan Jago and the dif culty of being an artist.

Remembering his early childhood, Mike confesses, I think Ive always been an artist, some kids want to be astronauts, some want to be police-men and I wanted to be an artist. I wasnt academically gifted at school,wasnt interested in science, literature or anything like that, so I playedto my strengths I just built stuff and painted a lot. I didnt always knowwhat kind of artist I wanted to be. I had a natural ability as a draughts-man which led me into illustration and from there into painting. Itstaken a very long time to get to where I am now with my work.

Having a mentor early on in the artistic career might be an absolute ne-cessity and Mike got really lucky with that. I studied Graphic design atthe University of the West of England in Bristol. I didnt really gel withUniversity so I quit in my second year and pursued my growing interestin illustration. I got some work with magazines and thats when I metWill Barras and Duncan Jago. They had both graduated from UWE afew years before my departure. I got to know Will and he then intro-duced me to Duncan (Mr. Jago). They were already doing some reallyamazing work for brands like Sony and Nike as part of the scrawl col-lective, so they became almost like mentors to me; they gave me a littleinsight into the commercial side of art.

Speaking of his painting style and technique, Mike explains, I think ofmy technique as like a series of forced accidents, I try to create situa-tions in my process where accidents can happen. A lot of what you seein my work is made up of layers; theyre layers of mistakes or mishaps.I take the best bits and make an image, which is hopefully coherent

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and complete. Its all about mark making. Itrust my impulses and I make a series of marksand smudges, then I might paint over most of it;

but I always leave the bits I like intact. Whenstepping into unknown, a major part of the pro-cess belongs to experimentation. My work isall about experimentation, each piece is one bigexperiment that then informs the next. With a

big accent on color, Mike uses the juxtapositionof soft colors against the vivid hues, achievinga highly expressive visual outcome. [When

painting] I tend to use Blues a lot; I use a lotof cool colors and soft pastel tones it helps tomake the more vibrant colors pop out.

Speaking about his collaborations with otherartists in the past, he continues, I have done afew collaborations over the years and I wouldde nitely like to again, but at the moment Im

pretty snowed under with my own projects, andmost other artists I know are also really busy soits a case of getting the right people together atthe right time. It is natural for an artist to have

a healthy dose of curiosity to explore other art

forms, and for Mike its no different. At themoment Im solely focused on painting, I feellike Im just discovering it. I was ok at sculp-ture when I was younger, so who knows, Imight pick it up again at some point.

Being an artist is perhaps one of the most chal-lenging occupations. [Sometimes] Im sur-

prised Im still here painting away in my studio.There have been plenty of times when I thoughtabout giving up and doing something else.Thats where I get to the trickier side of beingan artist. There is a romantic notion that be-ing an artist is really chilled out, all you do issit around, drink tea, paint a bit and clock offwhenever you want. People maybe dont real-ize that to build a career as an artist takes a longtime and its a long time with no money. Youdoubt yourself constantly, it can be downrightdepressing at times, and so its really only your

passion that keeps you going at that point. [Soif you had to ask whether] being an artist is a

dif cult occupation, Id say, hell yeah!

Being an artist involves a multitude of ele-ments. Its both inspiration, passion, and a truetalent that goes into it, but the process is alsoan essential part. Its the process, I love get-ting paint on my hands and smearing it on thecanvas or striking it with a brush, its de nitelytherapeutic. Having said that I would also say

that painting can be one of the most frustrat-ing things ever; things dont always work outthe way you would like. When looking for aninspiration, most artists seek an ultimate con-cept, a clear idea, but for Mike its more than

just inspiration. My inspiration comes fromthe most mundane things; to me its not whatyou paint but how you paint. Every painting isa new journey, a new experiment and its thatnew experience each time that keeps me inter-ested and excited.

EVERY PAINTING IS A NEW JOURNEY, A NEW EXNEW EXPERIENCE EACH TIME THAT KEEPS ME IN

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TWO SIDES O F THE SAME C OIN


CHINA MIKE INTERVIEW


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THE GUARDIA N

BETWEEN RAIN AND SUNSHINE

WALKING THE STREET


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PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY KEITH


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PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY KEITHSTYLING | PROPS GREGORY KEITH

MAKE UP ARTIST AZRA REDHAIRSTYLIST RYUTA TANAKA

MODEL RACHELE SCHANK AT WOMEN DIRECTMAKE UP STILA COSMETICS


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M E

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INTERVIEW ALEXANDRA STEVENSPHOTOGRAPHY MARIA MOULUD& MARIA KULINA


M U S I C


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M U S I C

very latest LP, 36-26-36. Their latest release from Convex Industries isa culmination of both musical and visual concepts, proving the group to

be both progressive and accessible.

Femme En Fourrure is the work of Juuso Malin, more recently joined bySandra Tervonen, and their clean, edgy, sounds have paved the way forlive performances at European music festivals and a set with Londonsfamous Boiler Room. Their dark, bass-heavy sound is starting to garnerattention from France to New York, charted through video views and

podcast downloads. And when youre showing your friends the satisfy-ingly bizarre videos by this group from Helsinki, dont feel bad if youcant pronounce the name right - neither can they.

Theres very little information available about the people behindFemme En Fourrure, whats your artist dynamic?

JUUSO: Thanks for asking, there hasnt been much opportunity to actu-ally break down that were about. So about a year after I started the pro-

ject, I asked my long time friend Bianca to do her spoken word thing for

a track or two. We had collaborated before a few years ago, so I wanted

to try it again now that we were more mature. The rst few dodgy trackswere uploaded to MySpace just for fun, and the ball started rolling sortof instantly, a lot of people wanted to work with us. Suddenly we were aduo - [Bianca and I] didnt really talk about it or think too much, it justhappened without any push. We didnt feel any pressure, we just mademusic for fun and when we felt like it.

As soon as things started to be more of cial, it became clear that wecouldnt continue like that, and I nished the album alone. I started to

get requests for live shows and my friend Pekka (guitarist for the bandBendagram, who helped produce and write 36-26-36) joined the livegroup, as well as playing guitar here and there on the album. Then byaccident I met Sandra, who became the vocalist and keyboardist for thelive group. That led to her becoming the of cial second member of FEF,and its more 50/50 now when we make music.

SANDRA: I guess I came along because the timing was right for both ofus. I had been making music on my own for about a year and a half, act-ing really introvert at the time - I was making music for my own needsand mostly for my own ears, not really taking myself seriously as an art-ist. Its a strange coincidence that I actually left my hide-out and endedup working with Juuso. At rst it was putting in my time and effort to

prepare live shows, and then at some point I found myself working onnew material for FEF.

S exually-charged vocals over smooth, minimalist electronicsounds are paired with dynamic videos, creating a graphicand memorable style all their own. A number of transitionsand transformations have occurred since their rst self-re -leased EP in 2009, Pull Out, leading up to and beyond their

Femme En Fourrure is, inFrench, a woman in fur. Bmusic, they are the Finnish

that brings us haunting dancbeats, twerk piles, andB I G, T H I C K, H O R S


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What does Femme En Fourrure mean?Not the literal meaning (thank you GoogleTranslate), but symbolically?

JUUSO: At the time I was inspired by Russianaesthetics; its sort of a caricature of an elegant,

profound, serious Russian woman. Wearing afur coat, of course. And a bit of love for France,too. The name was supposed to be a mild state-ment against the ridiculous world of fashion,

but I guess a lot of people dont get it and thinkwe support fur farming, or that we think kill-ing animals is cool. Its a pretty dif cult name.I actually cant pronounce it, and whenever

someone is like whats the name of your bandagain? I have to write it down. But at least its personal and different.

Describe your sound in a sentence. Or two,or ten, whatever.

JUUSO: I guess the new and upcoming mate-rial is somewhere between super melodic popmusic and techno. A bit like a mix of MedievalTechno, The Eurovision Song Contest, Kare-lian oral folklore and mythology, and the BalticSea birches.

SANDRA: Me being on board certainly adds

the pop factor to the basis of all the upcoming

material. Not that pop music is the only kind ofmusic close to my heart, but music just seemsto come out of me in pop structure, thus melo-dies obviously playing a major role.

JUUSO: Its actually funny, considering that just a couple years ago FEFs output was ba-sically just minimalist percussion with kickdrums and monotonic, mantra-like vocals.There were no melodies, really, with overlysexual lyrical content and sexual issues as themain theme - but thats probably obvious.

Your site describes FEF as music made for

DJs and catwalks; also for nightly prom -enades and oceanside sexin. Who do youlike to imagine listening to your music?

JUUSO: I have no idea, actually. In the earlydays it probably used to be for the Tumblr-fash-ionistas, but I think they turned their backs onus once they realized were not airheaded, skel-eton-skinny models and that our whole thing isa bit deeper than Plump Bisquit.

SANDRA: In the end Im still making musicfor myself, and music that we, as a duo, feelneeds to exist. Juuso and I share many musicalgods and goddesses that we grew up listening

to, and we try and capture ideas we are both

passionate about. It sometimes seems as if weare, to the best of our ability, continuing thework of our idols. Which is insane. But I thinkthats what we do.

Tell us about your new LP, 36-26-36. Whatwere you trying to create, and how do youthink your music is evolving?

JUUSO: 36-26-36 is a gure measurement, thehourglass gure. Its a shape that a lot of peo -

ple nd aesthetically pleasing. You could saythat the album is about trying to achieve that

gure, amongst other frustrations with your -

self. The album has a really disturbing feel toit, and I love that we managed to capture it thatwell, but I dont want to make a sequel to it.The album is almost an end to the current FEFsound, in a way. We want to push the dance-

oor-ish elements a bit further away the nexttime - were working on a more melodic ap-

proach, actual singing instead of spoken word.

Where do you draw inspiration?

SANDRA: Nostalgia for the near past, exag-geratedly upbeat dreams for the near future.Theres strong identi cation with the playingof differ ent roles: characters from lm and

books, the stage personas of certain

M U S I C

In the end Im still making music

myself, and music that we, as a duofeel needs to exist. Juuso and I share many musical god

goddesses that we grew uplistening to, and we try and capture id

we are both passionate about.-Sandra




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JUUSO: Me too. Its such a cliche thing to say, but hes responsible forTwin Peaks and that to me is the most beautiful thing ever. The wholeTwin Peaks world and the Badalamenti soundtrack. Id also love to dosomething with Dario Argento, Phenomena has inspired us a lot.

Whats happening right now in the electronic music industry thatyoure most excited about?

JUUSO: This year has been pretty great, actually, as more left eld-ish

sound has gotten a lot of exposure. Artists like Vatican Shadow, Pruri-ent, and Cut Hands, for example. At the moment Im really bored withsongs that are generated for DJs only, and all those artists have a lot ofcontent and meaning behind their music.

SANDRA: Femme En Fourrure.

Youve got an email address listed on your website (femmeen -fourrure.com) for fan mail, rants, nudes, etc. How many people ac -tually send nudes?

JUUSO: There could be more.

performing artists. The slight destruction of oneself due to putting yourtrue self out there. Voices in our heads. Nature, art, love.

Clearly theres a profound artistic link between the visual and audioaspects of FEF. Give me a little insight on the video creation process.How has it all come together?

SANDRA: So far Ive only been involved in the creation of one video,Bronco. We had the opportunity to discuss with Ezra Gould, the di-

rector, about how we felt the song should be represented in the visualform. The song had rst come into being out of a vision by one of us,and [Juuso and I] talked about it a lot in visual terms while we workedon it. When we got to the point of planning the video, it was pretty clearto us what sort of feeling and look the song was about.

JUUSO: Weve just been really lucky to get to work with these people.Miikka Lommi, who directed Pretty Boy and Plump Bisquit, con-tacted us instead of the other way around. Our music just clicked withthe ideas that he wanted to portray. Of course theres a little planning,

but we give a lot of freedom to the people we work with, who we adoreand trust.

Any artists or directors youre planning or hoping on working with?

SANDRA: David Lynch.

M U S I C


Artists like Vatican Shadow, Prurient, and Cut Hands, for example. Atmoment Im really bored with songs that are generated for DJs only, and those artists have a lot of content and meaning behind their music. -Juuso



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Known for her sleek hand crafted leather accessories, posh silhouettes,with re ned bondage features; designer Zana Bayne designs pieces that

are sculpted to highlight the wearer. Collaborating with fashion powerhouses such as Prabal Gurung and Sally LaPointe on their spring/sum-mer 2014 collections, also teaming up with Pendv for Opening Ceremo-ny on a capsule collection during New York Fashion Week, it is evidentthat Bayne has made her mark in this industry and shes here to stay. Re-cently unveiling a stunning spring/summer collection at the LArrosoir

oral shop in Paris, during Paris fashion week, it was the designersintensions to focus on a broader approach towards the severe look of her infamous leather harnesses. Finding inspiration from the delicate ow -ers and vines of Wisteria, Bayne created organic shapes that contourthe body resembling how vines wrap around structures. The collectionwas hinted with elements of oral detailing and fan-lacing, uniting thesoft to hard appeal of the collection; overall its interesting how Banyemanaged to fuse two extreme opposites without losing her personal sig-nature, to develop a cohesive collection that is wearable for every form.

COLLECTION ZANA BAYNE SS14

D E S I G N


WORDS LATOYA P HENRY

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF AGENCY V


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He describes Disparia as a truly introspective project, a musical self-analysis.

We wanted it to sound as if you were journeying to the bot-tom of your consciousness, then looking up and seeing everything fromthere, Paul explained.

The unique name for the EP plays further off of that senseof inner chaos, a home-made moniker to describe the young vocalistsintention.When I was writing the material for it, I came up with the idea that itwas similar to the subconscious, something going on in the mind, Paulsaid of the thought process behind the name. I wanted to give it a namethat implied disorder and enlightenment. Dis is the Latin root word forseparation, and disparia is like a separation from normal. A mentaldisorder, an elevation from normal reality. The rst single from the EP, Believer, brought about an ac -companying video that came out this summer.

I wanted to release something visual to help people under-stand the sound. I felt like bringing in a visual aesthetic would bringlight to the meaning of the music. Paul describes Believer as uneasy and eerie, insisting he wanted to make something that makes peo-

ple feel uncomfortable.The black-and-white video was lmed and created by his brother, AndyRyan Flores, while Austin directed and starred alongside his girlfriendand a friend from high school.

I knew exactly, shot by shot, what I wanted, Paul said. Hewent into the video with a balance of spontaneity and intent - a mix oflast minute decisions and deliberately thought-out imagery. I had it all

planned out in my head, he said. I was like, just trust me - we onlyneed this amount of footage, this number of shots, put it together likethis. Paul decided he wanted one of the three locations they usedfor the video to be in his friends house, and maybe even in his friendsdads car. The day before lming I was just kind of like Hey, can weuse your dads car? And lm in your house? Paul said with a laugh.

Luckily he said yes, then he asked his dad about the car, and he said yestoo. We lmed it all in four hours. Several shots feature the cast on the living room couch,framed by oversized pillows and art. Paul sits, one leg across the other,

blinking slowly and crooning into the camera. A little white dog appearsnestled behind his shoulder, so still it hardly looks real.

He kinda jumped behind my back during the second take,Paul said, his friends terrier apparently eager to take part in the action.They kept rolling with the dog in the shot, and the results look inten-tional. We just kept it. With Velvet, Disparia, and a handful of videos and collabo-rations, Paul is still a a newcomer on the scene - despite this, he hasmanaged to establish a pretty impressive cast of supporters. Successfulartists have backed up Pauls talent and potential, working with him tofurther his vision. Paul created Without You from Velvet with Kastle,

producer and creator of record label Symbols.

F or Miamis Austin Paul, this is only the beginning. The20-year-old singer recently released his latest EP Disparia,following Velvet as the second in an esoteric musical trilogy.Each chapter reveals more about Paul both as an artist andcharacter, rife with haunting passion and heavy with mood.

WORDS ALEXANDRA STEVENS


M U S I C

AUSTIN PAUL INTERVIEW

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We approached each other online,Paul said of his work with the L.A-based mu-sician. We started doing music together; wemade like ve songs together before Velveteven became a concept. Kastle facilitated the release of Vel-vet, performing a set in Miami to introducetheir single. Paul shared the stage, singingWithout You live. It was awesome because hes very

caring of the sound, he said on working withKastle. He doesnt just throw anything togeth-er - he really cares for what its all about, thedirection. Paul has also ourished under thewing of musician Shae Haley, best known asone-third of the band N*E*R*D. Shae is re-ally supportive, Paul said, explaining Haleystotal involvement in Pauls body of work.Hes there for everything musically, hes atall the shows. Haley then linked up Paul withPharrell Williams, bringing serious star powerto Pauls lineup of helping hands. The rapper/singer/designer/producer has been involved in

both Pauls music and tactical decisions.

I hung out with [Pharrell], he lis-tened to my stuff and happened to like it a lot,Paul said of when the two rst met. He wroteme a song, there were several exchanges, thenwe met up every few months so he could giveme the low down on what I should be doing,he explained. From the beginning we decidedI shouldnt sign to a label, to just feel it out andexecute the music independently and see howfar I could get. So far the industry superstarsadvice has been well-heeded, and Paul showsnothing but gratitude for his network of sup-

porters. Pharrell is so inspirational, its re-ally great that he helps out. Hes truly a genius

- he knows how to do it, and Im really thankfulIm lucky enough to be able to work with him.

Paul hinted at upcoming work incollaboration with DJ duo Christian Rich,composed of twins Taiwo and Kehinde Hassa(nicknamed Christian and Rich, respectively). I recently hung out with them inL.A. at Red Bull Studios, that was really fun,he said. Looks like were gonna be workingwith them, just writing right now. The produc-ers have laid beats all across the rap and hip-hop industry, credited on songs by artists likeChris Brown, J. Cole, and Earl Sweatshirt.

Ive been wanting to work with [Earl Sweat-

shirt] for a while, said Paul. Hes one of myfavorite artists right now. He adds KendrickLamar and Cashmere Cat to the list. And Kas-tle, of course. He only hesitates a momentwhen I ask about his current favorite belt-in-the-shower tune. Forbidden Fruit by J. Cole, its gotKendrick [Lamar] in it too. Thats a great song.Have you heard it? You should listen to it. He delves a little into what he appre-

ciates most about the music he listens to. Partof being an artist is taking care of your craft.You have to take the time to execute it all withcare, pick the right people to work with. I thinkartists like [Kendrick Lamar] are changing theway people perceive artists, the way they con-nect with them.

With the complete overhaul of musicfrom physical to digital, young artists like Paulseem to have the upper-hand on deftly navigat-ing their music through the web. Its de nitelychanging the way music is made - its faster,he said. You have so many different minds,

people from different places. [Kastle] and Ilive across the country, so when we made stuff

together you get in uences from both in oursound. Theres his chillstep vibe from Califor-nia, and on my side theres something similar

but a little more grungy.People can de nitely use all this

to their advantage, he said about music con-vergence online. The availability of it is soimportant - if youre portraying yourself well,the right people will understand you, and yourlisteners can grow with you. You pick up thiscore group of followers, and it grows organi-cally online. The new word-of-mouth is theinternet. As long as you care, and you executeit properly, the possibilities are endless. As a little kid, I was always into

music. A lot of kids are born with that desireto create, or at least try to, and the more peoplethat try to express themselves artistically, themore people that are gonna start showing up onthe scene. My generation grew up on the cuspof technology changing our society. Now any-one can [make music] if they have the passion,and thats really cool.

Much of that music comes from hishome base of Miami, a thriving music sceneknown more for thumping house music thanPauls new-wave R&B.

What I think is going on [in Miami]is that everyone gets stuck in their own little

musical bubble, in their own districts, he said

of the scene at home. Nobody expands - itsthe same shows at the same venues. Its a lotabout the people who book the facilitate theseevents, he clari ed, pointing out what he seesas a lack of care and intention. I make musicto try and affect the world in a positive way,where I feel like a lot of people are doing itcarelessly, not taking it seriously. Theres a lotof clutter. The notion seems a little stiff, butPauls seriousness has long been apparent in his

music. The music is great, but people needto start helping each other out as opposed to justcompeting. Competition is obviously good, butsome people take it too far and too personally.Paul himself is an example of using the help ofother artists to build a career, crediting his vari-ous collaborators and mentors as key factors ingetting him where he is now. He insisted, how-ever, that despite its struggles, Miamis scene ismostly compromised of real talent.

Beneath all that, theres a lot of real-ly great music, he said. Theres a really goodDJ scene, a really good folk scene, surpris-

ingly, some really good deep house stuff, goodhip hop. Every day Im turned onto somebodynew, a local artist Ive never heard of, and thatsgreat. Paul, purposeful as ever, immediate-ly continued on to new projects in the wake ofDisparia. I want to be more external with themusic, so people can understand it, he said ofthe new material hes been working on. I justwant to make people feel good, to be honest, ina groovy way. He sweetly adds that his girl-friend had largely inspired the positivity in hisnew music. I was in a dark place, he admit-ted. I needed a way to come out of that and seethings for the positive aspects in them.

No matter how meaningful or maturemusic may sound, people always seem eagerto bring up just how young a young artist is.20-year-old Paul shrugs off the age factor, say-ing he doesnt really feel young. He looks moreto the time instead of his age, saying hes doingas much as he can with the resources availableright now.

Im just thinking to myself that Ineed to do something now, before I get old and

boring.

M U S I C

AUSTIN PAUL INTERVIEW

As a little kid, I was always into music. A lot of kids are born witcreate, or at least try to, and the more people that try to express thartistically, the more people that are gonna start showing up on thgeneration grew up on the cusp of technology changing our sociecan [make music] if they have the passion, and thats really cool.


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U N F I N I S H E D CONVERSATION.

ings something simple under a different light and opens an alternateworld of expression.

I guess the rst time I ever picked up a camera I was 15 and in my nalyear of school. At the time I had a really strong passion for painting andmy art teacher told me to photograph my paintings for my sketchbook.He lent me his 35mm lm camera and sent me home to photographall of my work. But back then I had no idea how to use a camera. Andwhen I got the photos back, pretty much everything was underexposed.Strangely enough, I remember thinking that these photos Id taken hada really nice feel to them. After I left school I started a graphic designcourse but I knew it wasnt for me, so I quit and eventually, after anotherthree years of doing nothing, I decided to join a photography course. Idont really remember thinking that I wanted to become a photographer,

but I was doing it because it was quite enjoyable and I didnt feel completely useless at the subject. It all changed for me when I got to the nalyear of my degree: I build up this huge passion for photography andknew I didnt want to do anything else.

Paul PhT he mysterious world of Paul Phungs photography capturesa memory, a moment in the life of a stranger, thats both in-triguing and mundane. There is always a story, hidden emo-tion or an unspoken truth in Pauls black and white imagery.

Its technology combined with unique artistic vision that br-



P H O T O G R A P H Y


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It is sometimes dif cult to nd the right words describing this intangiblecraft: all the importance lies in the tiniest of details. Ive always foundit quite dif cult to explain my work, a lot of people have mentioned it

being really dark, but Im not sure if I see it that way. I concentrate a loton creating strong moods and atmospheres within my photos. Inspira-tion comes in a variety of ways; it is always a process, a movement, anun nished conversation with the viewer. For Paul its cinematography.Im greatly inspired by cinema, from directors such as Andrei Tarko-vsky all the way to Wong Kar-wai. Im still constantly learning fromevery shoot I do and know Ive got a long way to go until I can be fullysatis ed with my work. I also love the photographic series Homes at

Night by Todd Hido and I think that really inspired me when I wasstudying photography.

Every photographer has a preferred way of work, sometimes its the lo-

cation that produces a great shot, and sometimes its the overall feelingthat makes an emotional connection. Currently I love shooting againststrong and bold architecture, Im always on the lookout for locations,

but I think my favorite time to shoot is at night. I wish I could alwaysshoot in the night time. I just really love how peaceful it is at night andhow mysterious looking the photographs come out as.

Sharing his future plans and dreams, Paul adds, I would love to visitYosemite National Park one day to explore and shoot. I think that would

be a dream place to visit, but Im traveling to China soon, so Im re-ally excited for that and will hopefully start some new personal projectswhilst Im out there. I am also in the process of bringing out either a

book or a magazine soon. But at the moment Im just really enjoyingmy time as a photographer and I dont really think too much about thefuture. I just try to make sure that every shoot I do is better than the last,

and thats all I can hope for at this time.

Ive always found it quitedifficult to explain my work, alot of people have mentioned itbeing really dark, but Im not

sure if I see it that way.I concentrate a lot on creatingstrong moods and atmospheres

within my photos.




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TOGETHER

NOW PHOTOGRAPHY AMIE MILNESTYLING RICKY JAMES FLYNN


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Caroline MeaSHIRT MAISON SCOTCH

T SHIRT BASSI KEPANTS ALEXANDER WANG FROM FRED SHAHEDEAR CUFF SARINA SURIANO X THE DARK HORSE


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DRESS MLMCARDIGAN ELLERY

RING ESTELLE DEVE


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SHIRT CELINEBRA JAMIE ASHKAR

JEANS NOBO DY DENIM

Liah Cecchellero


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TOP LATOPICPANTS A.D BY HARYONO SETAIDI

SCARF ALL SAINTSSHOES SOL SANA

Sharnee Gates


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TOP THREE OVER ONEPANTS SERPENT AND THE SWAN

SHORT NECKLACE ESTELLE DEVELONG NECKLACE CELINE AT FRED SHAHED

SHOES CONVERSE

Tilda Dahlgren


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JUMPER ACNELEATHER TRENCH AELKEMI


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COAT NEIL BARRETSINGLET LATOPIC

SHIRT & PANTS REBBECCA VALLANCESHOES NIKE

GLASSES DITA

Kia Low


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DRESS 3.1 PHILLIP LIM


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Tatyana Gillam


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COAT NEIL BARRETRING ESTELLE DEVE

PHOTOGRAPHY AMIE MILNE AT UNSIGNED MANAGEMENTSTYLING RICKY JAMES FLYNN

MAKE UP ARTIST KATE BLAINEY AT UNSIGNED MANAGEMENTMODELS

CAROLINE MEAD AT IMG MODELSLIAH CECCHELLERO AT LONDON MGT GROUP

SHARNEE GATES AT IMG MODELS TILDA DAHLGREN AT IMG M ODELS

KIA LOW AT CHADWICK MODELS TATYANA GILLAM AT IMG MODELS


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PHOTOGRAPHY KARLA MAJNARICSTYLING KATE GASKIN

MILENAS

R V E R I E


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TOP MATICEVSKIPANTS ALPHA 60

BROGUES CLERGERIE FROM CHRISTINE


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HEADPIECE MAISON MICHELLE FROM CHRISTINESILK TOP LIVIA ARENALONG SLEEVE TEE HOUSE OF HOLLAND FROM GREEN WITH ENVY SKIRT MATICEVSKI


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HAT LUI HONSUNGLASSES ALPHA 60

KNIT TRENERYDRESS SIMONE ROCHA FROM GREEN WITH ENVY

BROGUES CLERGERIE FROM CHRISTINE


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FEDORA MAISON MICHELLE FROM CHRISTINE WAISTCOAT WILLOWKNIT GORMANSKIRT LIVIA ARENA


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HAT SWASH FROM CHRISTINEDRESS ELLERY MINIPANTS LIVIA ARENA

HIGH TOPS JIMMY CHOO


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FEDORA MAISON MICHELLE FROM CHRISTINEKNIT, COAT AND SKIRT ALPHA 60BROGUES CLERGERIE FROM CHRISTINE


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F E A T U R E

SHAWN PYFROM INTERVIEW EXCLUSIVE

COAT BLAKE HYLANDSUNGLASSES COCO & BREEZY


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Shawn Py WORDS JOHN-MARK

PHOTOGRAPHY ALLEN HENSON

Acting aside, music and art started as a very personal thing. If Imwriting something, music or painting, its because I want to. Its some-thing for me. Only after the fact do I think that it may be something thatothers are interested in. Pyfroms acting aside refers to his very busycareer as a child actor. Learning to talk and learning to act were practi-cally synonymous for Pyfrom. By eighteen years old, he had alreadyworked on over fty lm and television shows including 7th Heaven,Reba, Family Guy, Pay it Forward, Malcolm in the Middle, ChicagoHope, Nip/Tuck, 8 Simple Rules, and countless more. Then in 2004,Pyfrom was offered the role of Andrew Van De Kamp on DesperateHousewives. After star-ring in 112 episodes as the cunning and devi-ous son of Marcia Cross, Pyfrom and the rest of the cast bid adieu tothe critically acclaimed show with the series nale in 2012. Since then,

Pyfrom has been passionately pursuing visual art.

A typical day at Pyfroms West Hollywood home often begins with a paintbrush. As he shared, Sometimes if Ive started a painting the night before, Ill wake up and get right to it before breakfast. Hours will go by, and Ill realize I havent eaten anything all day [laughs]. Pyfroms paintings are categorically dark and minimalist, and for Pyfrom, theyreentirely personal. Any type of art that I choose to explore is a cathartic

process Im working through something thats troubling me. All mydarkness goes into my work. Ive thought a lot about why I go dark withmy paintings. Even with my acting in some ways, I try to nd the dark -est part of that character and explore it... but on the whole I feel like Ima pretty positive person. Its true. From his shoots hair and makeupteam, to our restaurants waitress, Pyfroms positivity was infectious.When were happy, were living out a moment and we want to continue

living out that moment. Youre not like, Oh fuck, I want to sit down

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Honestly, any way that I can be iin the art community, I want tovolved. Its now become a larger my life and I want that to continentering a whole new world and lot to learn thats the stage Im


SHIRT SIR NY COAT RAMON LAWRENCE

CHAIN RENA REBORN


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F E A T U R E


ON TOP SHIRT . PANTS .VEST SIR NY RINGS RENA REBORN

ON LEFT SHIRT SIR NY COAT BLAKE HYLANDSHORTS SIR NY NECKLACE RENA REBORNSHOES ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

SUNGLASSES COCO & BREEZY


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F E A T U R E


PANTS ASHER LEVINESWEATER RELIGION

NECKLACE RENA REBORN . WATCH HUBLOTHAT BRXTN

PHOTOGRAPHY ALLEN HENSON ART DIRECT ION JOHN MARK

STYLING JOHN MARK HAIR ADAM MACLAY

MAKEUP AMANDA MARKOYA STYLE ASSIST MELODY BURDETTE

PHOTO ASSIST LUCAS HAZLETTPHOTOGRAPHED AT MAC PRO SHOWROOM & STUDIO


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There are many great things in the works for Shawn Pyfrom. Betweenhis upcoming art exhibition in Beijing, his music blog, Sonic Pleas-ures, his newfound interest in live theater, and learning to play an in-strument, the 27-year-old actor, artist, and all around renaissance manis keeping busy. However, there is a fresh excitement in his voice whentalking about his art work. Honestly, any way that I can be involved inthe art community, I want to be involved. Its now become a larger partof my life, and I want that to continue. Im entering a whole new worldand have a lot to learn thats the stage Im in. Im focusing on betteringmy skills, and just learning about this world that Im entering.

Pyfrom is sensitive in the best of ways. From our preliminary phoneconversations to our days together in New York, Pyfrom was surprising-ly sweet and sensitive, not just in his own emotions, but to his surround-ings as well. Our interview sessions felt appropriately informal, and Py-from was just as much a great listener as he was an articulate speaker. Itwas also inspiring to sense that Pyfrom has now truly grabbed his career

by the horns. He has reached a well-deserved plateau where he can callthe shots. This was apparent in his genuine excitement about his currentlifestyle and endeavors. As a new chapter begins, regardless of whatwe see from Pyfrom in the next few years, we can rest assured hell beleading with his heart.

and paint for an hour. When Im going through something dark or troubling, its easier to understand it if I can see it or hear it, you know? Iguess thats why a lot of my paintings are dark. Its therapy.

Though he had always been the type of child to go for the tracing paperand colored pencils, Pyfroms rst real immersion into visual art was a

bit of happenstance. I started painting when I was eighteen. I had justmoved out of my moms place and I wanted art for my walls but thoughtthat if a painting wasnt worth $20k, it wasnt worth jack shit, but youknow - what did I know I was an 18-year old kid [laughs]. Obviously,thats not the case. But I couldnt pay the money for really expensiveart, so I just started painting. I did my rst painting, liked it, and it wasalways just a hobby until about two or three years ago.

For his Escape Series, Pyfrom painted very recognizable artifacts onsmall canvases. A cigarette. A pill. An iPhone. A line of cocaine. A glassof alcohol. Some people might call them vices, but Pyfrom sees themfor their function. I wanted to paint subjects that people use to escapereality. All these subjects are things people feel black or white about.Theyre either for or against it. In the way that you look at a pill for ex-ample, it elicits a certain feeling; you either really want it or are repulsed

by it. Thats kind of what I was going for with all of those subjects.

I wanted to paint subjects that people use to escape reality. All thesesubjects are things people feel black or white about.

Theyre either for or against it.



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G E N R E -B E N D I N G

25-year-old London native Stuart Howard speaks with a sort of disarm-

ing casualness, responding more often than not with a thickly accentedI dunno, actually. Producing under the monicker Lapalux, Howardsmellow nonchalance seems all too appropriate when you liken it to hismusic. Even before signing to Flying Lotus indie label Brainfeeder in2012, Howard has been releasing a constant stream of predictably un-

predictable sound. Lapalux nds itself in the newfound chasm of trulygenre-less music, a steadily growing group of artists who create soundsthat are almost impossible to categorize. Atmospheric, ambient, hip-hop, soul, and dance are all keywords that seem to pop up in descrip-tions and comments on his work, but no grouping of adjectives can pin-

point his sound as a whole.

A lot of it is emotion-based music, Howard said. Its basedon whats going on in my life and whatnot. Sort of like potential, mo-tive-driven music. Its a forward response, and yet still cryptic - the ex-

act same kind of duality that seems to appear in his production. Im justtrying to go into the world and create. Howard released his debut LP Nostalchic earlier this year, a 12-track album of mesmerizing, spaceysound. I dont really stick to a genre, so it allows so many possibili-ties, he explained. The new stuff Ive been working on is merging alot of genres. Its a fresh kind of sound.

Despite resistance from artists like Howard, music-sharingwebsites still structure music categorized by genre - even if you cant.I really wouldnt, Howard insists, when asked what genre he wouldchoose to describe his sound if he had to. I never really stick to one.At the moment Im doing this sort of club-y, almost techno sound. Thenext album is kind of hip-hop beats, a funky kind of thing. I wouldntwant to put myself in any box. Thats why its nice not having to stick toone genre - I play around with different ideas and end up with all these

different sounds.

WORDS ALEXANDRA STEVENSPHOTOGRAPHY MEGHAN SHARP


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LAPALUX INTERVIEW EXCLUSIVE


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LAPALUX INTERVIEW EXCLUSIVE


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The disparity in in uence creates a broad scope,spreading out his fans track by track. Eachsong could have a different listening base. Likemaybe young people listening to somethinglike Guuurl, he said, for example. Olderguys listening to other tracks. Theres a lot ofcrossover, versatility. I like to make things thatare open to anyone interpreting what they wantfrom it. With all the globalization of music onthe internet, its hard to pinpoint who exactly

is listening, and from where. It might actually be America, he muses when asked where hethinks his central fan base might be. It varies,I couldnt even really tell you. Howard is currently touring NorthAmerica to promote Nostalchic, his music hav-ing taken him worldwide within the past fewyears. I like being out of my comfort zone,he stated. I like moving around. And mov-ing around he certainly has - Lapalux has per-formed everywhere from Japan to Pitch Festi-val in Amsterdam, and even had a gig at theiconic Sydney Opera House. I like to sit downin the studio in my own home, it is nice to havea place I can always go back to, Howard said

of the on-the-road life of todays music makers.

But in the end I like experimenting, going outand making shit. Cinematographer/director Nick Rut-ter has now teamed up with Howard for twoartistic ventures, creating haunting short lmsusing Lapaluxs music. The rst video was re -leased in March of this year, set to the stripped-down sound of Without You, a track from

Nostalchic. Natalia Tena of Game of Thronesand Harry Potter fame stars alongside an un-

named actor in an always-unsettling gimp suit.Kerry Leathams vocals are overlapped on aminimalist beat, providing a contrastingly mel-low sound for the bizarre video. Early Septem-

ber marked Rutter and Howards second col-laboration, the short lm Chrysalis, set to anoriginal Lapalux track entitled Gold featuringJassy Grez. Clocking in at just under ve min -utes, the lm details the story of a love-strickenteenage boy who physically rots as he aches fora girl whos with another boy. Rutters creepy,romantic aesthetic is perfectly complemented

by Howards atmospheric sound; the duo hascombined forces for captivating results. Idlike to think I could get more into scoring, or

lms, he said, his recent projects with Rut -

ter having shown off his keen eye for pairingmusic with lm. Its all about the crossover

between visual art and the visual representationof my music. I think of it as a sort of sound col-lage.

Howard himself rarely listens to mu-sic aside from his own, a surprising notion for a

producer. Im really focusing on my own mu-sic, he explained. I feel like Ive been stuck

in a way, from listening to new music. Muchof that focus has gone into his next album,which fans can expect... I dunno yet, he an-swered. I could practically hear him shruggingover the phone. Probably early-ish next year. Howards take on creation is re-freshingly in-the-moment - he simply lets his

process evolve naturally instead of forcing itwithin constraints of time. I dont really dwellon where Im going to go with it, Howard saidof future plans. Its just a uid sort of process.Its not really about where Im going to be in

ve years, Im just working on stuff constantlyand seeing where it ts in. I dont really thinktoo far ahead. And for him, it seems like right

now is exactly where he needs to be.

Theres a lot of crossover,versatility. I like to makethings that are open to any-

one interpreting what theywant from it.


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I AM (ISIS) Throw away your preconceived notions of rock and soul music, becauseI AM (ISIS) and her band lay down a sound unlike anything youveheard. Her cadence-tight, spoken word poetry lyrics and sultry-smoothhooks are backed by sexy guitar riffs to make melodies that - in herwords - make you want to get free.

When you see, hear, experience us - you experience everything thatis you that you didnt even know you had, says ISIS. We just wantto make good music that moves people. The bands eclectic vesomehave been bringing energy and technical prowess to the stage for overtwo years, and have opened across the country for the likes of India.arie and Wyclef Jean. Their shows have been described as a series of

juxtaposes explosive but graceful, rock- lled but bluesy, sonorous butwith the amps at 11.

Rock history will attest that music creation in a band with ve mem - bers, a powerhouse lyricist, and a constantly traveling schedule provesto be anything but ordinary. With their new album amazingly randomdue in Fall 2013, ISIS and her band have had to focus their tangibleenergy.The best part of creating is when everybody takes charge, andall of our sounds and technical abilities marry into this sonic stew, says

ISIS. Its in those differences that we discover how alike we are.

WORDS MELODY BURDETTEPHOTOGRAPHY SPENCER KOHN


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A MOMENT WITH I AM ISIS


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M U S I C

ALBUMS WE LOVE

T H E T O P 5 A L B U M S W E L O V E

5. John Mayer - Paradise Valley

The days of John Mayer being relegated to pop radio channels and PageSix tabloids are long gone. Over the past ten years Mayer has solidi ed his

place among the ranks of historys greatest guitar players, and performers,showing us that while we can all get down to Your Body Is a Wonderland- hes got more tricks up his sleeve. Mayers latest album Paradise Valleyfollows a three-year hiatus from the public eye and two throat surgeries -and were happy to report that #mayerisback.

Paradise Valley is ripe with American folk music in uences,and homage to the time Mayer just spent in Montana. His lyrics have adistinctly more re ective feel, as well as his hooks being more closely tied

to blues tones than the standard hooks of Room for Squares. From the airysummer opening track Wild re to the ode to women who chameleonthemselves to t social surroundings Paper Doll - the entire album is anauditory slam-dunk. Pour yourself some bourbon on a back porch and doyourself a favor, this album does not disappoint. - Melody Burdette

Best Tracks: Paper Doll, I Will Be Found (Lost At Sea)Rating: 5/5

3. Washed Out - Paracosm

On Washed Outs sophomore LP Paracosm, singer Ernest Greene exem- pli es the album title with his sonic representation of a euphoric world un -touched by human hands. With muf ed, lo- beats, textural sounds layeredover lulling melodies and Greenes smooth, echoic voice, the collectionis an experience that sounds like a summer romance too impeccable to berecalled through only words.

Greene invites us into his personal paracosm with the tting opening songEntrance, when youre transported into a foreign world of uncanny op-timism. This track pulls you into a faded visionas if transitioning fromdream to dream in your sleepwhere the clear skies are a saturated hue of

blue unlike anything that could exist in the earths atmosphere. Were relax-ing on an endless bed of soft, green grass and our vision is slightly blurredlike viewing the world through a sheye lens. As the body tracks ebb and

ow between the warm winds of Greenes paradise, we nd ourselves run -ning endlessly without breaking a sweat amidst the albums web of sooth-ing guitars and grainy drums. The sounds create a sentiment of endlessfreedom that can only exist in this distant domain.

Paracosm plays with the youthful nostalgia of a childs lim-itless fantasies, but exhibits Greenes ne-tuned craftsmanship as a musi -cian and artist. Its playful, cohesive and an inimitable showcase of a worldwe can experience for an hour, but never fully understand. Although itsarguably dif cult to create work both mysterious and devoid of pretention,Greene has permanently opened the door into his personal fantasy.- Justin Moran

Best Tracks: All I Know, WeightlessRating: 5/5

1. Disclosure - Settle

Theres probably a bunch of you looking at this and scof ng like duh. Atthis point, Settle might have gotten more love than Cara Ds eyebrows. Thisalbum has been hyped hard since its June 3rd release, heard throughout thesummer from rooftops and car stereos. Then fall began, and the weatherconfused everyone, and Settle was playing at runways and parties all over

New York Fashion Week. And yet, three months later, I still feel the need to join in on the Disclosure ass-kissing because Settle is just that good.

Brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence of Disclosure are only 22 and 19,respectively, and their debut album is nothing short of impressive. The Sur-rey natives have referenced musical styles beyond their years to turn outtheir own seamless blend of soulful, funky, deep house-pop. Disclosureintroduced the album before its release with songs like White Noise withAlunaGeorge and You & Me featuring Eliza Doolittle, both showcasingthe duos ability to masterfully combine their sound with powerful vocals.

The album features the voices of fellow Brits like Jessie Ware, LondonGrammar, and Ed Macfarlane. Their collaborations are skillfully executed -vocal melodies compliment the music without overwhelming it.Settle occasionally nds itself sounding slightly repetitive; the looped sam -

ples and slow progression miss the mark on a couple tracks like Grab

Her! and Stimulation. When A Fire Starts to Burn samples an interest-ing bit from self-proclaimed hip-hop preacher Eric Thomas that I foundreally trying at rst, but eventually grew to like. Settles explosive leadsingle Latch with Sam Smith is more pop-oriented, and has received criti-cism for it, but is probably my favorite track on the album. Settle is infec-tiously happy without losing any complexity, an exceedingly mature debutfrom the British duo. - Alexandra Stevens

Best Tracks: Latch, Defeated No More, White NoiseRating: 5/5

2. Danny Brown - Old

Danny Brown isnt even old. The 32-year-old Detroit rapper admitted sohimself, but said his album Old is more about the idea of being old thanthe actual concept of age. Two years in the making, the much-anticipatedalbum was nally released in late September on A-Traks label Fools Gold.Old starts with a surprisingly contemplative A Side in which Brown exeshis prowess of rhythm and rhyme. The B Side brings the the trippy, gap-

toothed Danny Brown we all came to love in XXX. Radio-friendly party jams about twerking and rolling on Molly still manage to be clever andexcellently produced, as seen on Darq E Freakers Handstand or withA-traks Smokin & Drinkin.

Browns collaboration with Canadian duo Purity Ring and hisclosing track with goth-pop princess Charli XCX show off his versatilityand range. He deftly transitions between and within songs with his usualarray of vocal styles - sometimes he sounds like a completely different per

son from track to track, but it never comes off gimmicky. Freddie Gibbs,ScHoolBoy Q, Ab-Soul and A$AP Rocky make appearances throughout thealbum, a solid lineup that complements Browns sound. If youre actually old, you probably wont like Old. If youdont like Danny Brown, you de nitely wont like Old. While its certainlyan evolution of his sound, Old is still chock full of the usual drugs, sex,

and high-pitched cackles (which, lets be honest, wed all be disappointedwithout). The A Side is decidedly more thoughtful and creative, but the BSide brings catchy hooks and bouncy bass lines that make for guaranteed

party-starters. Charisma, playability, and a satisfying feeling balance: Oldis doin it. -Alexandra Stevens

Best Tracks: The Return, Torture, DipRating: 4/5

4. Julianna Barwick - Nepenthe

Haunting and atmospheric, Julianna Barwicks third album Nepenthe is astunningly layered collection of songs that evoke both vivid scenery andemotion. Nepenthe, a reference to an ancient Egyptian medicine for sad-ness, perfectly suits the tragic undertones of Barwicks compositions. TheBrooklyn-based musician uses her own Grimes-esque vocals, breathy andoften wordless, looped over chilling strings and gentle piano lullabies toform complex melodies. One Half is one of the only tracks that featuresclear lyrics, Barwicks voice ringing out clear and strong. Echoes and

hymn-like progressions evoke the rural midwestern churches of her child-hood; simple and humble at parts, then swelling to cathedral-like propor-tions. The 10-track album plays like a haze of forgotten memories, told in

sweet, unintelligible whispers. Barwicks musical evolution has led up thisrelease, which stands as an example of ambient music done right - free, ach-ingly emotional, and strangely nostalgic in an unplaceable way.- Alexandra Stevens

Best Tracks: Pyrrhic, Look Into Your Own Mind, The HarbingerRating: 4/5


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WORDS ALEXANDRA STEVENSIMAGES COURTESY OF BANG BANG NYC

B A N GB A N G.


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BANG BANG INTERVIEW EXCLUSIVE


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tattooing can be traced back thousands of years, and our fascination withtattoos is clearly here to stay. Now everyone seems to have one, withcelebrity tattoos in particular receiving lots of attention. The internetwas set abuzz when Rihanna got her enormous, Egyptian-inspired ribcage tattoo, and the baby-faced Justin Bieber shocked his tween fan base

by getting inked. Celebrity tattoos have proliferated pop culture likeany other fashion statement, being constantly photographed, blogged,and imitated. So whos skillful hand is behind so many of these now-recognizable tattoos? Meet tattoo artist Keith McCurdy, known as BangBang. The 27-year-old got his humble start with his own machine in hismoms kitchen, practicing on himself, then friends and family. Fast-for-ward not even ten years and Bang Bang can now take credit for tattooinga barrage of iconic actors, athletes, models, and musicians. McCurdyswork can be seen permanently etched into the skin of Rita Ora, AlanCumming, Alicia Keys, and Amare Stoudemire, to name to few. Afterstints in tattoo parlors throughout NYC, McCurdy has nally openedup his very own namesake studio - Bang Bang Tattoos is now open indowntown Manhattan, and Bang Bang is set to literally make his mark.

Were gonna try and change the tattoo industry into some-thing welcoming and fun, McCurdy says of his team, which currentlyincludes eight celebrated artists with mesmerizing portfolios. The stu-dios website describes the shop as a re-imagining of what it meansto be a tattoo parlor. (bangbangnyc.com) McCurdy hopes to use anupscale salon environment to clear the negative connotations behind tat-too art. Were gonna try to bring this brand towards welcoming people,especially women, and be supportive of the arts and supportive of the

people who want them. Bang Bang is de nitely on to something more

than just a eeting trend; polls within recent years have shown a markedincrease in female tattoos, many suggesting that tattooed women nowoutnumber tattooed men for possibly the rst time in history.

Bang Bangs new Clinton Street studio sits in a cool LowerEast Side neighborhood, just a short walk from the Williamsburg bridge.The sleek glass entrance is marked with Bang Bangs square logo, lead-ing into a brightly lit, white-walled room. The former gallery space con-tinues to display visual art with rotating installations curated by MaxTeicher and Allison Smith from New Yorks renown Gagosian Gallery.The outdoor patio hideout is laid with turf, and the basement level hous-es a secretive underground oasis for high-pro le clients. We caught upwith Bang Bang at his September grand opening party, where guests likethe New York Knicks J.R. Smith and Rihanna sipped Patron cocktailsto music by DJ Becka Diamond.

What do Lady Randolph Churchill, a Samoan high chief,Rihanna, and a 5,000 year old European mummy havein common? It sounds like the start to a bad joke. Theanswer, however, is an ancient art form practiced onthe most intimate canvas of all - tattooing. Evidence of


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Its really gonna be something unique - were trying to bridge the gap between fashion and tattooing, he says of his new space. Like a neck-lace or a pair of shoes, a tattoo is a conscious form of outward expres-sion. Tattooing is the ultimate fashion, people just havent realized ityet. Tattooing has become more common than ever in recent years,and lately they really seem to be just as common as jewelry. No longerexclusive to the skin of sailors and bikers, tattoos are now unsurprisingto nd on housewives, bankers, and sorority girls.

Information spreads, tattooing has never gone away, its only been growing and growing throughout our culture since the 1920s,said Bang Bang, weighing in on the growing number of people with ink.In ancient Egyptian days people were getting tattoos, really important

people. [Tattoos have] never not been here, and people are now reallystarting to accept that. Theyre like, Oh, its okay you have a tattoo.Youre not a bad person, you are you. Part of McCurdys objective isto promote that image, to further enforce the idea of a tattoo as a person-al declaration. Be you, support individuality. On a planet where theresnine billion humans, how do you be you? He asks. De ne yourself.Get a tattoo.

As with any medium, the art of tattooing offers up countless possibilities and variations from portraits to lettering to colorful charac-ters - and Bang Bang loves it all. Whatever Im doing at that moment, Ilove. I wont do something if I dont love it, or dont love the idea of it,or nd a way in my head to make it beautiful - If Im doing it, I love it.I really just love the application and the whole process. This is my job,he says with enthusiasm t for a professional candy taster. He looksaround his studio with an infectious grin. Im working right now. McCurdy seems to have boundless love not only for his craft,

but his clients as well. He lights up when hes asked about his dazzlingarray of famous canvases. I love them all, I really do, he says of hisstar-studded client list. Cara [Delevingne] is a party in a bottle. Justin[Bieber] is hilarious, you just want him to be your little brother - at leastI do. Lenny [Kravitz] is so talented, just being around him feels likeIm like, stealing power from him, he says with a laugh. Alicia Keys,Adele, I cant even speak on their talent level and the timeless musicthat they make. He lists off customers like one would talk about closefriends, insisting he could never play favorites. They all mean so muchto me, I cant single one out.

He likes them so much, in fact, that he often hands over hisgun and lets them turn the tables. One of McCurdys legs serves as awearable scrapbook, covered in scattered tattoos from a unique list ofcharacters. Celebrities, friends, and even the twelve-year-old son of his

rst tattoo teacher have left permanent autographs on Bang Bang. Asmiling peppermint candy by Katy Perry sits next Rihannas R-embla-zoned umbrella, while a Swaggy muscular cartoon mouse by JustinBieber reads a lot more like Swassy. With such an impressive and recognizable list of clients, whocould possibly be missing in the lineup? Ive been saying for a whileI wanna tattoo Obama, Bang Bang told me. I think an American agor a tattoo of his daughters would be appropriate. I expect the canvasto be somewhere subtle, easy to cover up behind the podium, but BangBangs fantasy is truly full- edged. Neck, for the ag, maybe, he saysearnestly. Portrait on the thigh. I look at the namesake revolvers onMcCurdys neck, among others, and try and picture the president with aneck tattoo. Maybe the placement seems a little laughable, but the ideain itself isnt so far-fetched - many former presidents were rumored tohave tattoos, and countless Congressional Representatives and cabinetmembers currently rock tattoos. President Teddy Roosevelt was con-

rmed to be proudly inked across the chest with a family crest.

So with a beautiful new parlor and big plans for the culture oftattooing, what should we expect next from the inked-up powerhouse?Were going to globally dominate, he deadpans. Though he laughs, Iget the feeling hes only half-joking. He proudly looks over the crowdcelebrating his latest venture. This is our new studio, this is our grandopening, and were ready to rock. Were full steam ahead.

Whatever Im ding at that moment, I love. I wodo something if

dont love it, odont love the ideof it, or find a wain my head to mait beautiful - If Idoing it, I love I really just love

the application anthe whole processThis is my job.


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