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June 30, 2005

Dork Issue #3, the Daily Soundtrack & Links

Cold Rockin' on July 5 : I know Live 8 is this weekend. Barbecues are jumping off left and right. Light-Show Workers are getting ready to completely blast off. And, families are convening to talk trash, gossip and give those good hugs we all need right about now. You should definitely be excited about this weekend. But, as if you needed one more thing to be hyped about - we've decided to lay it on anyway...

Issue #3 of Dork will be on cyber-newstands July 5. Get ready. It's going to be one HELLo of an issue. Here's the run down of participants - 88 Keys, Rhymefest, Leela James, LadyBug Mecca, Asheru, Kris Chau, Luke & Liz, Ramsey, Dj Junior's Worth Diggin', A retrospect of Williamsburg, BK, movie reviews from Philadelphia writer Jamie Bowers and much much more!

Today's Soundtrack: Since today started like a blast from a race pistol - I needed something to take me back to the essence. You know, something filtered and mellow. These cats were and will always be my favorite. Their filtered funk mixed with thoughtful lyrics had me entranced during my youth. I'll never forget the first time I heard them perform together - INI & Pete Rock! Perhaps the most slept on group of all time. This morning, during the Get-up-get-out-and-do-something routine, I revisited them. Man, the world wasn't ready. Their work is timeless.

[Download | Grown Man Sport & To Each his Own]

All right, it's been one crazy day. Look forward to July 5 for our issue 3 release. Also, stay tuned for some other daily goodness. (did you see those pics. yikes!)

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 10:42 AM | Comments (20)

June 29, 2005

Random Wednesday & Pics Updates

War of the Worlds: Okay Tom Cruise is insane. Who isn't? That shouldn't stop you from seeing the movie today. I mean the movie has an interesting history. On Halloween Night, 1938, 12 million Americans sitting around the radio froze. The regular Sunday night music programming had been interrupted by a news bulletin: "Strange alien spacecrafts had landed in Grover's Mill, New Jersey." The Mercury Theatre's airing of the War of the Worlds caused listeners to run out into the streets, half-dressed, and women to miscarry. It exposed the danger of mass media and its power to get people to mobilize. Airing of the War of the Worlds caused panics in Chile (1944), Ecuador (1949), and northern New York (1968). Plus: War of the Worlds was set to disco in the 70's - it worked! The broadcasts are evidence that there is nothing more powerful than a strong narrative. On a deeper level it is a subversive critique of colonialism. This makes the movie extremely relevant considering the neverending war in Iraq. My favorite radio show Radiolab discusses all these issues. [Listen]

War on Bullying: Next year the Department of Education will introduce into all elementary and middle schools "Operation Respect: Don't Laugh at Me." The character development program is the brainchild of Peter Yarrow, of Peter, Paul, & Mary. It aims to fight bullying by emphasizing the lessons of folk music. This will not go over well in Canarsie - trust me. But as someone who was punked plenty of times in elementary school, I can appreciate the effort. I wonder if folk music with lyrics like - "I'm a little boy with glasses, the one they call geek/ A little girl who never smiles cause I've got braces on my teeth" - will seem relevant to kids whose favorite musician is Cam'ron? Hey it is a step in the right direction. But maybe they should've gotten Mos Def and Kanye to write songs for the program.

Pic Update: Check out the updated pics here or below. Weekend Jams are always dope.

OWW! James

Posted by james at 01:00 PM | Comments (22)

June 28, 2005

Wknd Raps: Houseparties, ?uesto & Linkage

House Parties: Fam-a-lam! We took a day off yesterday because we were... tired. ha! But we're back. Last weekend was hot, fun and everything else summer should be. As we look back on the weekend, the folks here at Dork have the good fortune of being friends with both Ryan and Jamie, a brother sister duo that make Philadelphia way cooler. These two cats are just fun to be around. They threw a little houseparty in North Philly last Friday and were kind enough to invite us in on the fun. James and I threw on the cuts from 8:30 to 2am and good times were had by all. (Quote of the night: "Yo! people dance, but that young cat, Ryan - now HE can DANCE!") Pictures will be posted in a few. The Dork interns and I are still cutting and pasting as this makes the press.

Ecko in Central Park: Tonight the Roots, MF Doom, De La Soul & DJ Premier will be rockin' in Central Park (NY). This is going to be an amazing show. If you didn't get tickets, I'd start thinking about ways you could watch from really tall trees, surrounding buildings or make up some stuff so you can get in (i.e., "I'm ?uesto's road manager and he needs his custom drum sticks. The show won't be able to go on without them!"). Anyway, as a tribute to the Roots' dopeness, we'd like to take you all back a few years when Phrenology was about to drop. Check out this NPR interview with cool ?uest.

[Download | Part 1 | Part 2]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:55 AM | Comments (79)

June 24, 2005

Review: Ge-ology plays Ge-ology

Geo the Quiet Power!: I get fairly excited whenever new music from classic producers comes out. Last Tuesday, Ge-ology's first full-length release hit shelves. Although I had an inkling it'd be an amazing work of sound - I didn't realize it'd be this great. So what if "great" is an ambiguous term for describing music. This album is great. It's great in stature, bravery and consistency. Great! I said it. In the dawn of folks getting excited about their favorite artists maturing out of akwardness and returning with that good ole boom-bap, Geo stands tall with his quiet power.

It's hard to cut through the din of mainstream hip-hop these days. Some music is good. Some is not so good. 300 bars of battling, diamonds, phone numbers & other ridiculous indulgences can squeeze out artists with smaller promotional budgets. Regardless, Geo stays relevant. His innovative contributions to hip-hop provide the foundation for many of the trends we see trickling into mainstream waters.

For instance, Geo's quiet power resonates from his various art forms. Whether as a deejay, producer, or visual artist, all of these mediums speak for themselves. Unfortunately, his humble tactics don't allow folks to realize his accomplishments. Geo has provided beats for the likes of Pac, Mos, Kweli, Jilly from Philly, De La, Bahamadia, Mystic, Jem and others. He's traveled the world with the art collective "The Barnstormers." And, homeboy designed many of the classic Rawkus 12"s. There's no doubt that G-Young is contributing.

Overall, G plays G is a sonic tour of expression that is unapologetic, secure in its nature and full of low end. My theory is, "if you love boom-bap, you love boom-bap." No need for electric guitars, pink floyd influences or any other psuedo cutting-edge rhetoric. Geo hits you with that boom-bap. But, when he does decide to take an occasional departure, you trust him, because it's clear that it's still in the name of a krisp snare, heavy kick and a steady 4 count. You gotta love that. Pick up Geo's album from any of the following spots [Turnt(L)able | StudioDistro]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 12:53 AM | Comments (25)

June 23, 2005

Inspiration, Madlib & Melvin, Triple C & Ali

When I ride the train to work in the morning I see the same people doing the same things. Either they're reading The New Yorker, Us Weekly, or they're listening to their Ipods. Generally, they're on their way to a job they don't like and are probably thinking about what bill they have to pay. Everyone seems so bored and uninspired. I felt like that today - well I at least did until I checked my email. I realized something I already knew - inspiration is everywhere!

Madlib & Melvin: Last night I was IMing with Taj and he sent me this link. When I checked it out I thought, "why didn't Melvin button his shirt - is homey that faded?" I told Taj, "Melvin is crazy". I am always searching for the funny in whatever I come across, but Taj quickly enlightened me and said, "When I look at that picture I see two men that decided to live life on their own terms and enjoy the moments". I was paraphrasing a tad but that was the sentiment.

Anyway, the two are collaborating on an album together. I can't wait to hear it. I think Earth, Wind, & Fire collaborated with Melvin on the soundtrack for Sweet Sweetback's Badass Song. This is sure to be a classic.

I hope that's enough inspiration for you because that's the longest effing post I've ever wrote.

one. Jahmez Escobano

Posted by james at 03:20 PM | Comments (10)

June 22, 2005

Chappelle Contest Winner, The Bizness & Beck

Chappelle's Show Winner: Thanks to all who participated in our Chappelle's Show competition. During an early morning ceremony of fire, gongs sounded, falcons were released and a winner was drawn. We'd like to congratulate SCOTT SASSO for his correct answer and unbelievable luck! Darkness my friends. Darkness!

The Bizness: Every day needs a theme song. Today, after our ceremony of lights, the Dork staff bumped a live version of the Bizness by Common & De La (with an occasional hype man performance by Mos). We love this song so much that we had to share it with our readers. Download it and play it as loud as possible whenever and where ever you can. It's that feel good music. [Download | Buy]

peace. taj


Posted by taj at 08:35 AM | Comments (31)

June 21, 2005

Chappelle, Madlib & We're changing the world!

We're changing the world!: I didn't say it. Hugh Hewitt did on the Leonard Lopate show today. By the way Toure is filling in for young Leonard. I guess Lopate had a blind date or something. Anyway Hugh Hewitt is a blogger and he has a new book, Blog: Understanding the Information Reformation That's Changing Your World. The interview was pretty cool, but talk like that scares me. It reminds me of the late 90's when Pets.com and Kozmo.com were valued at 20 billion dollars. Blogs are this year's trucker hat I guess. Luckily we at Dork have a vision that is way bigger than blogging.

Now Toure is talking to Living Color. These dudes are dropping knowledege. Before sampling got big, they were playing on a lot of early hip hip records (i.e. the bassline on White Lines). When I hear interviews like this I realize I know nothing about music. Those dudes are touring with The Roots currently. See them play with The Roots @ Summerstage Tuesday June 28 - why not? The audio will be availiable later this afternoon, but check this link for now [Listen | Leo L.]

Real Music For Real People: Hey DJ Language's compilation Real Music for Real People is out today. If you have any sense you'll buy a copy or two - definitely two. It makes a nice surprise gift for that special person in your life. [Check it | RMRP]

The Affair: The Affair is the coolest band ever! If you haven't heard about them, check their site. They have some mp3's for you to sample, and they did a single for Vice called Honey. They're playing at Rothko tonight at 10pm [116 Suffolk b/w Rivington and Delancey] - check for em'.

NYC Invasion: Madlib is going to be @ Irving Plaza on June 27...The summer is looking up!

Chappelle's Show: Today's the last day of the contest. Don't be a punk! Win Seasons 1 & 2 of the Chappelle's Show from Dork Mag! To enter, email us with the correct answer to the following question - What was the name Rick James gave to Charlie Murphy in True Hollywood Stories? Please submit your answers here. The contest will last until tomorrow upon which time the winner will be named. The winner will be drawn randomly. In addition, please note that you can only enter this contest once. Good luck on behalf of the Dork mag staff.

hollerate. james

Posted by james at 01:20 PM | Comments (18)

June 20, 2005

Wknd Recap: Brooklyn Hip Hop Fest & Triple Crown

BKHHF: Last weekend's Brooklyn Hip Hop Fest was a huge success. Rhymefest energized the crowd with his impeccable stage presence. Dude has a refreshing spirit and passion to share his art. Leela James really represented on the funk side of things. Her band and back up singers were on point. Little Brother came out and completely blew up the place with their varied musical interpolations, unabashed excitement and an overall mastery of the live performance. Then, just when you thought 94 was behind us, Brand Nubian jumped onstage and showed they hadn't lost a step. It was good seeing them rock again, especially Sadat X.

The DJ line-up was massive. Who could go wrong with the likes of Geology, Amir and Language? Their performances between sets warmed up the crowd and prepared them for all the visual and audible goodness they were about to enjoy. Geo's performance was bananas - he dropped one of my favorite songs - his new joint "Supa Starr!!" which features the mighty mos. Much respect to the Room Service Crew for having the vision and ability to pull off an event like this. The day was a refreshing reminder that Hip Hop acts are still creating, innovating and having fun.

Triple Crown: After the BKHHF, we made our way over to Triple Crown for their Look Both Ways event hosted by Lindsey & DJ Cute. First of all, if you've never been to Triple Crown you're missing out. The atmosphere is super comfortable, the service is great and the crowd is extremely nice. There is none of that cooler than cool vibe. I had a great time and was inspired by the owners' special interest in art and expression. This just isn't a bar, it's a gallery in every sense of the word. The musical line-ups include the likes of Rich Medina, Large Professor, Lindsey, Language, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and many others; While their displayed works consist of the illest art minds. Currently, they have Matzu MTP working on an exhibit that will turn the entire bar into one complete expression. I highly recommend that you visit. [108 Bedford Ave. @ N.11th, BK.NYC | Website]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:01 AM | Comments (93)

June 17, 2005

Andy Jenkins, Scratch Mag & Friday Linkage

Andy Jenkins: As many of you already know, I'm a big fan of graphic art - especially as it's applied to skateboard decks. What a dope medium for expressive work!? Art Prostitute's fourth issue has an interview with one of my favorite artists, Andy Jenkins. His work has unusual range and maintains a certain familiarity similiar to Saturday morning cartoons and Adult Swim. I know that's a strange description, but it's what came to mind. To put it simply, homeboy is dope. The pic above is from one of his featured works in Art Prostitute. I hope more folks catch on to this publication. [Check out Andy & A.Prost.]

Eating Right!: A few month's back the folks here at the Dork office were mesmerized by a scene in Fade to Black. Timbo the King was behind the Korg dropping beat after beat for Jay and then suddenly that moment happened - Dust Your Shoulders Off came bouncing out of the speakers and everyone let out an OHHHH!!!!! That was a cool moment. But, the footnote to the Timbo scene was, homey gained some weight. Well, he's on the cover of this month's Scratch Magazine looking seriously healthly. They mentioned he lost 100+ pounds. Between him and Missy, they are proof positive that it's never too late to get on the health tip. This month's Scratch Mag is really well done. Pick it up if you get a chance. [Scratch Magazine]

Tonight is Vanglorious: Be sure to stop by and see James spin at the Leopard Lounge with the Drawl Squad crew. [248 E. 5th Street, East Village, NYC]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:02 AM | Comments (48)

June 16, 2005

Writing is Fundamental...



English as a Second Launguage: If you know me or if you read my daily musings (admit it, you've seen the typos) on Dork, then you know that I don't speak English. My language is a mixture of slang I've picked up from the streets, Yoruba, and pretentious legalese. I'm trying to learn the language. Patricia T. O’Conner, author of You Send Me, Woe Is I, and When Words Fail Me, is an expert on some of the more confusing aspects of the English language. Listen to this interview she did on the Leonard Lopate show yesterday:[O'Conner Interview]

In other words: Interviewing someone is the weirdest thing in world. If you don't believe me, walk up to a complete stranger and say "Hi! you seem interesting, would you like to talk to me for an hour while I run my tape recorder?" - not easy at all. Rolling Stone's contributing editor has talked to everyone from Woody Allen to Eminem. His new book, In Other Words: Artists Talk about Life and Work is out in bookstores later this month, and contains in-depth conversations with everyone that has been relevant in music, art, and culture over the last 40 years. This will make great summer reading. Check out this interview he did for Soundcheck: [Interview]

Gossip Kills: I came across this yesterday. When I read it I thought... "okay I guess Lauryn Hill is nuts". Later that night I watched Def Poetry Jam and I realized that people just don't get her. Do people expect her to not speak her mind and just smile? I like her - she's mad cool. Also Dave Chappelle's (another supposed crazy person) poem was quite astute in pointing out that Ashton Kutcher is a racist bum. Everytime he punks a black person - the cops have to be involved. What's the deal with that Ashton?

Jamo Launch: I'm spinning at The Leopard Lounge ( 248 E. 5th St) this Friday. Young Jamo is launching a new website - I'm looking forward to it. Good luck homebrew!

One love. james

Posted by james at 12:21 PM | Comments (7)

June 15, 2005

Review: Some channels make strong comebacks...

During the early to mid nineties, VH1 was a graveyard for adult-contemporary music. No Rap. No Generation Y. No pop culture. Just Michael Bolton and Kenny G all day. What happened? I guess Viacom came through and snapped them into shape. Now we can watch the Fabulous Life of Whoever for hours on end. I'm not bigging up the fabo show, but they've definitely seen a ratings climb due to their radical changes. Besides, fabo is far from my favorite show on that channel (although it is a guilty pleasure) - The Best Week Ever claims that prize hands down.

Anyway, I'm hoping that more channels make some changes and find the cable success that VH1 has been able to cultivate. One channel in particular is G4TV. They used to be techTv and have since changed over. With the change, some folks feel they threw the baby out with the bath water, but recently I've noticed an improvement in their programming. Two shows come to mind...

Attack of The Show: A great informational show that enlists the help of some supa-cool guests. This week's guest is Peter Rojas - the editor-in-chief at Engadget. G4TV describes the program as, "Attack of the Show gets you inside, underneath, around, and behind the newest tech, the hottest games, the fastest-breaking news, and the oddest oddities from the fringe." [Check it out]

X-Play: If you're a gamer and need all the cool reviews - cold check it. X-Play gives gamers tips, tricks, and previews for the latest games in its own exceptional way. The show also offers comprehensive reviews of the hottest new videogames on the market - and the not-so-hot. [Check it out]

peace. taj

Post.script: One visit to KidRobot and I was hooked. This is your falt Renzo. ha!

Posted by taj at 07:14 AM | Comments (12)

June 14, 2005

Gordon Gartrelle, Drty Gnius & Bk Hip Hop Fest!

Gartrelle = MIA: When I'm bored I like to read Dork's archives. After reading some of my favorite posts. I stumbled on the Billy Wimsatt article. It has to be one the best articles we have on the site. It was right after the election and it captured what people were thinking and feeling at the time.

With the summer edition nearly complete, I'm making a plea to the young Gartrelle - write some more stuff for us - please! Gordon if you're reading this, you know how to get in contact with me. I'm sure you can write an insightful essay in between going to sample sales, sleeping, designing silk button-ups, sipping presecco and living a decadent lifestyle.

Drty Gnius?!?:  I don't know what Drty Gnius is... I think they're a clothing company of some sort. If I didn't have that party with the homey NickGeez on Friday, I'd check their party out. If you go out Friday, hit up our function, then head over to M-Bar (349 Broome, NYC) and let me know if the party is popping. Also you can check a quick video for the  Black Angels vs. Drty Gnius Promise tee here. [Details for this Friday | DG Details]

Dork @ BK Hip Hop Fest: If you haven't gotten tickets to the Festivus, you're super late and you probably won't be able to go. Hey try anyway - you never know. Just in case, Dork has you covered. We'll be documenting the jawn from behind the scenes - if MTV sees my camera filming any actual footage of the show, they'll get Quddus and Sway to beat me up. Expect some cool stuff from the Festivus next week. Thanks Kim! I can't wait to talk to that dude Rhymefest - he owes me 40 bucks! No seriously the homey can rap and he isn't stupid. That's pretty hard to find in today's pop (don't call it hip hop anymore) music. [Details for the BK Fest]

Chappy Contest: The Dave C. contest continues... Thanks to all those who have entered so far. For those who haven't, you still have a chance to win seasons 1 & 2. Answer the following question to enter - What was the name Rick James gave to Charlie Murphy in True Hollywood Stories? Please submit your answers here.

Audi 5000! james

Posted by james at 12:01 AM | Comments (24)

June 13, 2005

Weekend Raps & Ye of Epic Proportions

Weekend Raps: Last weekend was supa-cool. Thanks to all those that came out to Low Bar for some food, fun and ill convo. Although the rain hit Philly, we got lucky and enjoyed some beautiful weather in Dumbo, BK. Photos of the madness are on their way. (Note: Neka the Champ, you didn't have to take everyone's money! ha!)

Kanye Pre-Pre-Pre Buzz: As many of you have heard, Kanye is coming out with a new album called Late Registration. As an early release, he dropped Diamonds from Sierra Leone. The name bares its drama. It's a powerful tribute to his return.

A few weeks ago, many sites discussed and posted the jam. There was so much anticipation for a new Kanye single that one NY radio station had it on repeat for at least 20 minutes. You couldn't go anywhere with out hearing someone talking about it.

When I heard it, I couldn't have figured a better expression for Kanye's epic proportions - the strings, harps, Bond-esque crooning in the background. The tracks were so dynamic. Not to mention, his lyrics were inspiring. But, as time went on, I was wondering how he could maintain the drama, buzz and suspense. Diamonds are forever, but music careers sure ain't. That rule doesn't apply here though. Everyday relevance and dramatics are Kanye's two strongest abilities.

Kanye has an awe apparent ability to focus on artistic integrity while appealing to the masses. There's something about his underdog/common-man tone that keeps him close to the listener while he enjoys the lavish and outright ridiculous indulgences of a caught up hip-hop community. I guess we can all relate.

Anyway, I revisited the Diamonds track and it reminded me of the first time I got hooked to his lyricism. Below, listen as he and Common trade verses over the Milkshake track. Then listen to his latest remix with the jigga man. Who could front on cats who have fun, wield hyperboles like light sabers and deliver some good ole fashioned rhyming? I can't, and I'm looking forward to Late Registration.

[Download | Kanye & Common - Better than yours... | Diamonds Remix]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:36 AM | Comments (15)

June 10, 2005

The Dork Party: A history

Steady Reppin': A long time ago (fall 1999) a 21 year-old sociopath started law school. Disillusioned and bored he went to class and tried to study but mostly watched The Simpsons. One day he stopped by the apartment of a new acquaintance and his life changed forever. This acquaintance had the sickest set of Technics 1210's (the 1210's are black)! He had always wanted to deejay but the time was never right and he thought people would think he was trying to be Funkmaster Flex or something. After drinking about four White Russians and listening to his new best buds mix he new he had to get a set of turntables.

Two years later he finally got those turntables and even though it ruined his credit, it was worth every penny. He started making these weird mixtapes mixing old Moms Mabley records with ODB, N.O.R.E, and Red Foxx and for some reason people liked it. Years passed law school ended and welcome to the real world. Like most people he realized quite fast that the real world kicks rocks. Anyway I'd tell you the rest of the story but obviously I'm the guy that wanted turntables and Taj is the cool dude with Technics 1210's. You see when you come to a Dork party you aren't coming out to be around two social climbing deejays who dream about hitting it big and dating Nicole Ritchie (our women look way better anyway). We really enjoy doing this and we will always enjoy doing it. So come out to the Dork party have a drink, eat some food and have a great time. [See you there!]

paaaaz. james

Posted by james at 11:22 AM | Comments (15)

June 09, 2005

Dork Party, Creative Inspirations & Supa Labs

Rockin' Dumbo: Tomorrow night James and I will be throwing on the audible delights for our friends and fam in Dumbo at Low Bar. Come out for some good music, food, drinks and a little convo. Proud posers unite! [Details]

Dork's inspiration: Today, we thought we'd share with you a few sites, folks and photos that help us keep going. Although everyone said there would be some serious sweat equity invested in starting a magazine, we at least thought we'd be able to get 2-4 hours of sleep a night. ha! A little coffee and the following cats keep us inspired:

{Sneaker Freaker} These cats are dropping a new issue of their world famous sneaker journal. If you're not hip to them, click the link and discover a new world. [link]

{SemiPermanent} Our homeboys at Res and Design is Kinky are putting together one of the illest design conferences on the face of the planet. If you live in London - you're lucky. [link]

{Lounge 72} Who could front on this... LOUNGE72™ was founded in early 2002 by Kai Heuser and Antonio Vasile in Stuttgart, in the south of Germany as a non-profit online design portal, community and ezine.The aim was to get more involved in the global online design scene and give something back to the community. [link]

{Supa Lab} James and I thought we had a lab - but this is on another level. The illvibe crew grinds. (I think that's lil dave on the left - check out Junior and Dave's event tonight in Philly). [link]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 01:03 AM | Comments (21)

June 08, 2005

Chappelle, I Heart Radiolab & Excursions

Chappelle's Show Contest: Fam-a-lam! Here's your chance to win Seasons 1 & 2 of the Chappelle's Show from Diizoork! To enter, email us with the correct answer to the following question - What was the name Rick James gave to Charlie Murphy in True Hollywood Stories? Please submit your answers here. The contest will last until June 22nd, upon which time the winner will be named. The winner will be drawn randomly. In addition, please note that you can only enter this contest once. Good luck on behalf of the Dork mag staff.

Dope Radio Shows: Remember that late 80s TV show Quantum Leap, where each week Dr. Sam Beckett found himself in a new world and his job was to figure out the rules of that world? Radiolab is a little bit like that. Except without the time travel. And, it's a radio show.

Each episode, Radio Lab host Jad Abumrad takes you on a sonic joy ride through the landscape of an idea. We meet the people who live there, listen to their stories, sometimes to find out how it all works, other times just to appreciate the mystery of it all. Robert Krulwich, veteran ABC news reporter and NOVA-Science-NOW host, rides shotgun on this expedition.

Radio Lab’s aesthetic, a sort of "magical realism" for the radio, blends reporting, storytelling, and conversation, all illustrated by lush and surreal sound design. Perfect listening for that weekend afternoon when you want to sit back and alter your mental state and drink Kool-Aid.

These are my favorites from last season:

Excursions: On Thursday, June 9th, Junior and Lil' Dave will be taking over The Latest Dish for their new monthly lounge party EXCURSIONS. They will be playing all of that great future soul, nu- jazz, type stuff you hear on their show each week.

This month, the will give you a chance to hear two new albums from BBE Records. First producers Illmind and S1 have joined forces to create The Art of Onemind, a hiphop album featuring Ghostface, Little Brother, Phife, Strange Fruit, and more rocking over their beats. Also, we have the Galactic Soul compelation, which features some spacey hiphop and soul joints from DJ Spinna, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Roy Ayers, Jaydee and more. [The Latest Dish | 613 South 4th Street, Philly PA | Details]

peace. james

Posted by james at 09:44 AM | Comments (22)

June 06, 2005

Pittsburgh, Summer Zaps, & Vicki K

Wknd Recap: Last weekend hit us with a serious sun splash. With the exception of Friday's weather, everything was in the spirit of summer fun and good feelings. The art installations were bananas (peep the last update). The Free Library is an exhibit you don't want to miss. [TFL]

Pittsburgh: This week, half of dorkmag will be broadcasting live and direct from the Pitt. Last night, I got word from my homeboy about a nice record spot out there. Hopefully I'll get a chance to check it out tonight or tomorrow evening (Great lookin' out Junior!). [Jerry's Records]

Quick Shout: A few weekends ago James and I caught up with Victoria Keen at her NYC storefront. Her art transcends fashion, furniture and other lifestyle objects. If you get a chance, check out her store located at 357 Lafayette Street or [visit her website].

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:34 AM | Comments (16)

June 03, 2005

Philly First Fridays & Brooknam : the wknd happs

Art is on blast this weekend. Philadelphia has their monthly First Friday events going down, and Brooklyn is making moves with their Artwalk 2005. Check below for more details:

Free Library: Tonight my wife and I will be heading to the art gallery at Space 1026. They're having an opening for the Free Library cats. Their latest installation is a group show that'll bring together work by an international collection of graphic designers and artists whose expression engages the world of books, language, writing, bastard modernisms, utopian energies, film, science, nature, literary theory, and the realm of ideas. If you're in the illadelph be sure to [check it out]

Trunk Show: After we swing through Space, we'll be heading over to Petit 4 for the Trunk Show. Petit 4 is THE illest bakery in Philadelphia and has the coolest staff - hands down (What up Kris!). The show will feature designs by Adrienne Manno, A&L, Abbey Schmidt, Jesily Go, Octopelion, Kinked, Michelle Burton, NY, Kristen Roller & more... [7-9:30pm @ 160 N. 3rd Street - Petit 4]

Brooknam Arts: Brooklyn is on fire this weekend. Our homeboy, Extra P is spinning at Triple Crown tonight from 10pm until... Then, Saturday and Sunday lay claim to this year's Artwalk festival. The Atlantic Avenue Art Walk features a self-guided tour of open studios, public art exhibitions, gallery shows, and special retail and restaurant events. The event runs from 1pm-6pm on both days. All events are free and open to the public. Say Word. [Artwalk 2005 | Extra P @ 3Crown]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 11:23 AM | Comments (13)

June 02, 2005

Music Review: Via's True & Movie Preview: Monopoly

Via Tania’s True: Dork loves getting funky music in the mail. We recently received Via Tania’s latest ep, True. Although a few songs lost us with their bare bones down tempo, we couldn’t stop going back to the first cut – the re-recorded version of True from one of her previous albums. Down tempo music isn't always our flavor. But then again, as I type this, the down tempo track picks up and has a little quirky funk-couplet tossed into the mix that teases – "come on you know you like it." Ah - I can’t even front, this album is attractive. At first you might half-heartedly listen, but as time goes on it draws your subconscious in. All in all it’s a sophisticated expression with great replay value – think 2am Sunday morning tunes after a great Saturday night.

[Download a Snippet of True]

Movies on Smash: Summer blockbusters are gearing up to destroy the planet, make you cry, buy popcorn and spend 8 bones every Friday under the hot sun. Get ready! Thanks to the promo connects in Hollywood, we’ve managed to get an early trailer from one of Jerry Bruckheimer’s upcoming smashes, Monopoly. (Sorry we’ve only got quicktime files.) Check it out – you won’t be disappointed. Besides, one of Dork’s contributing writers has a part in the flick. How could you lose!

[View Monopoly]

peace. taj

Posted by taj at 07:41 AM | Comments (3)

June 01, 2005

People I'd like to stab...

*This is not a hit list. If you are offended, get a sense of humor. A couple of years ago I started this afforementioned list at a temp assignement. It was extremely popular with my fellow temps. I guess temping brings out the animal in a person. So, I decided to resurrect it. It would be interesting to know who would drive the average joe to homicide.

Here are the rules:
1) No real people please (except for random obscure celebrities).
2) It can be an institution, animal, TV show, or that imaginary person that haunts you.

This is my heavily amended list, check it:

1) People with Ipods
2) People that hear some stupid slang in a rap song and use it horribly.
3) The inventor of the big hat.
4) Max Weinberg (okay that's Nick Geez' pick).
5) People that feel the need to annouce ish (i.e. "Hey guys, I'm celibate" or "Dude I just saw Garden State and I decided to give up the chief").
6) The World Bank and the IMF
7) Women that describe themselves as being "a Carrie with a touch of Miranda"
8) Dorkmag.com (most definitely)
9) Anyone that is so fascinated by irony that everything they do is an extension of that. No one cares that you listen to Cam'ron while watching  Country Music Television and eating Fruity Pebbles in your Williamsburg apartment.
10) BET - The Ghetto Karma Sutra???

please feel free to add.........

paaaz. james

Posted by james at 02:11 PM | Comments (41)