Band of the Hour: Addax

By Rayme Samuels

Named after a type of rare desert antelope found in the Sahara Desert with a notoriously strong female population, the members of Addax can’t be prouder of their equally fierce front woman. With a positive outlook and great determination this band hopes to incite one of two reactions from their listeners: a frenzied mosh pit for their heavy alternative jams, or watery eyes from an Addax ballad, also known as a “ballax.”

Started by Laura Barry (vocals) and Omar Williams (guitar) after their first band disbanded, they added bassist Eddy Davis, guitarist Josh Rohe and drummer Carlos Paguaga shortly thereafter. Their simple mission to destroy musical stereotypes, create “radio ready rock,” and write songs that people can’t help but play repeatedly on their iPods is shared by every member.

They look up to any artist trying to expand the alternative genre creatively, including Mute Math along with soulful pop acts like Kenna, and local pop innovator Jesp. Their extremely fruitful creative process flows from sessions locked in a room with wine and instruments. The lyrics and beats flow naturally from this talented group that respects and honors their individual influences. A five track EP set to be released in the next few month’s promises to be “their strongest material written so far,” said Davis.

Fully aware of the fact that Miami audiences aren’t the easiest to win over, this group can’t be more up for the challenge of making a connection. “We purposely haven’t packed up and moved to Brooklyn like a lot of bands do because we feel proud to represent Miami and Florida as a whole.  Miami has helped us maintain an experimental spirit… so we figure we’ll keep people on their toes,” explained Barry.

Addax will perform at 7 p.m. on Friday, January 29 at The Talent Farm, 20911 Johnson Street, Pembroke Pines; 954-438-3488. Visit their MySpace page at www.myspace.com/addax.

http://www.miami.com/addax-article

Francois Ladrezo Featured in the New York Times and Washington Post!

Working with Anyway Organisation the past year has been an amazing and musical adventure. Francois Ladrezo, subject of a short documentary that we are producing together has just been featured in the New York Times for his riveting performance at globalFest 2010 in New York City. He has also been featured by the Washington Post for his performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC!

New York Times: “A World of Fusions: Hot, Cool and Otherwise” by Jon Pareles

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/12/arts/music/12globalfest.html

Washington Post Blog: “In concert: Francois Ladrezo” by Mark Jenkins

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/clicktrack/2010/01/in_concert_francois_ladrezo.html
What an amazing accomplishment for this humble, powerful and kind performer. Stay tuned for more regarding the documentary!

Read more about him here:

http://www.flyglobalmusic.com/fly/archives/caribbean_features/francois_ladrezo_the_voice_of.html

A World of Fusions: Hot, Cool and Otherwise

DJ Chronicles: DJ Ross One

By Rayme Samuels

We recently caught up with Cincinnati native DJ Ross One, famed spin master of the old Favela Chic parties at Mokai and now consummate hit maker at LIV, to talk about teaming up with Hennessy Black, Brazilian beats and more.

How would you define your role in the DJ culture of Miami?
Because I work in more commercial venues I’ve really tried to bring my own edge to the typical bottle service playlist.  With Favela Chic and Dirty Hairy Wednesdays at LIV, we’ve really opened new doors to what music you can expect to hear in these types of clubs.  People come to Miami expecting to party, they expect a great DJ in an amazing club, and when it all comes together they respond like nowhere else.  I think that creates a consistent energy you just don’t get in other cities.

How did you end up getting involved with Dirty Hairy Wednesdays at LIV?
Dirty Hairy is a unique party because they are pushing an indie vibe in a huge commercial club. It’s a delicate balance holding the attention of both the hipper downtown kids and the bottle spenders who are used to more mainstream music.  I think they approached me because I have experience in both of these worlds and can appeal to the cool kids while keeping the night in business.

Why do you think the Favela Chic party at Mokai garnered such a diehard following?
Because it’s always been a fresh party and the energy in that room can be like no other.  The core of Favela Chic is a group of friends who really wanted to create something different from the normal South Beach club experience.  We really work hard to keep the party unique and something that is “ours”.  That isn’t something you can buy by hiring promoters or just naming a night. I think that the people who come to the Favela Chic party feed off of that energy and it keeps them coming back.

For those who are not into Brazilian beats, why do you love to spin them in places like Miami and regularly in Brazil?
It was a bit of a battle when we started Favela Chic because people just didn’t know the music and they couldn’t understand the lyrics.  It took a bit of tweaking and figuring out how to work the baile funk songs into the mix, but that genre of music stems directly from Miami Bass and 80’s electro so it’s a great fit.  These days I hear a short Brazilian baile funk set at every nightclub in South Beach… That wasn’t the case before Favela Chic.  When I play in Brazil, I actually play more hip-hop and American dance music.  I leave the baile funk to the experts in that country… I’ll throw in a little bit, but that’s their turf.

How do your other regular Miami nights compare to what Favela Chic once was?
Well, I have great nights in Miami right now.  Fridays at Wall and Wednesdays at LIV are without question two of the best nights on the Beach.  Favela Chic has always had a unique feeling that people responded to.  It’s an important night for me personally as a DJ, in that it was really a party that I could put my name on.  The music is an integral part of Favela Chic and we worked very hard to create an identity for the party that distinguishes it from anything else. I think it was the last true industry night on the beach, and I get asked daily when it’s going to return.  All I can say is “SOON!”  Plan on changing your existing Tuesday plans in the upcoming weeks!

Where are people most likely to see you around town when you’re not spinning?
People are usually surprised to see me out on nights off.  If I go out, it’s usually just to meet with friends or maybe hear a DJ that I wanna check.

Who are your DJ inspirations?
Red Alert, DJ Spinna, DJ Riz, Stretch Armstrong. All the guys who were killing it in the NYC clubs when I was learning how to work in this business.  Also my homies always inspire me: Roctakon, Graham Funke, Stonerokk, Crooked, Five – the list goes on.

Tell us more about your role in the Hennessy Black Mix Master program. What does it mean to you to be a part of things there?
I’m excited to team up with Hennessy Black in 2010.  They are a company that is really interested in opening doors and finding unique ways to introduce themselves to a new audience.  I think this is a great match with the parties and events that I DJ here in Miami and elsewhere.

What else will we see in the future from you and S.K.A.M.?
I’m spending a lot of time on airplanes… really trying to get out there and DJ as many places as I can.  Keep an eye out for new mixes and original production in 2010.

Catch DJ Ross One on Wednesday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 16 at LIV, 4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach; 305-674-4680. Visit his websites at www.skamartist.com/djrossone or www.myspace.com/djrossone.

http://www.miami.com/dj-ross-one-article

Band of the Hour: The Meat Cutters

By Rayme Samuels

No, their name does not have anything to do with their personal culinary leanings. During their very first gig at Johnson & Wales University, The Meat-Cutters were asked to set up outside of the kitchen. The jazz aficionados hadn’t yet decided on a moniker and when asked on the spot they quickly scanned their surroundings and came up with one of the catchiest band names around.

The trio, made up of Antonio Dell’Aglio (bass), Shawn Sutta (keyboards/piano) and Seth Woods (drums), has a focused goal of eliciting a New York jazz vibe amidst the sweltering heat and palm trees of South Florida. Not ignoring the nuances of the local scene, they hope to strengthen Miami’s visibility with regard to their favored genre.  Combining post-bop, blues, funk, samba, bossa, and about a dozen other influences, The Meat-Cutters fuse together all the right sounds. Collectively they are influenced by jazz greats by the likes of Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, Medeski, and Joshua Redman.

“Well, it’s rare to find live jazz music in Miami, so that automatically sets us apart from most other Miami bands,” said Dell’Aglio. Constantly trying out new sounds, he also admits, “it’s great making improvisational music because it’s different every time, so we’re always having fun with it.”

In the months ahead look out for their first album and a featured regular Sunday Jazz brunch gig at Tre Bistro in downtown Miami as these dedicated musicians make their mark and build the following they desire.

http://www.miami.com/the-meatcutters-article

Miami.com: DJ Vice

By Rayme Samuels

Globetrotting DJ Vice’s exciting career with the S.K.A.M. crew has flourished with high profile sets, a sneaker brand and an upcoming album. We recently caught up with Vice to learn more about his end of the year gig at LIV, who his favorite DJ’s to check out in Miami are, and more.

What do you like about spinning in Miami?
I love to dee-jay in one of the sexiest cities in the U.S. I really like the international influence that Miami gets and it’s seen not only in the people, architecture and food but in what’s played in the club. From sexy house, dancehall, hip hop and then of course the hits…. I like that I can change my set in so many genres of music and still keep the crowd rockin’. It’s also one of my favorite cities to catch a house DJ’s set like [Erik]Morillo or Roger Sanchez.

What do you look forward to most about playing New Year’s Eve here?
I love playing at LIV in Fontainebleau – the venue is amazing and I love the domed lighted ceiling.  I’m already craving late night food at David’s Cafe!

What does it mean for you to be part of notable artist management company S.K.A.M.?
I am represented by a brand and an agency that is run with its DJ’s in mind. Being a part of something since the beginning means a lot to me, so being a part of S.K.A.M. since it’s conception makes me smile and wonder where the hell the time goes. I’ve been managed by Sujit Kudu for 9 years now and S.K.A.M. is his baby.

What made you get into the DJ game? What advice do you have for young DJ’s out there?
I got into the DJ game because of my love for music – I haven’t worked a day in my life…that’s because it’s not WORK to me! My advice for “young” DJ’s is to grow up- grow up in experience, grow up in music knowledge, and to understand that this is a culture not a fad.

You’ve been quoted as saying “I’m picky so I haven’t put anything out yet”. What will your album sound like?
I’ve been working on crafting my sound using influences from various cities and countries that I get to play in. I’m really feeling more of the sounds coming from the U.K and Amsterdam. I’m an eclectic DJ and an even more eclectic producer.

How do you see your sneaker store CRSVR as an extension of your brand?
I’ve always been an avid collector of sneakers and traveling has always given me the opportunity to keep my Nike collection growing. It was the next step to open up shop and this dream became an almost effortless reality with the relationships formed with my partners. CRSVR.com is my next focus in branding the store and sharing my love of the sneaker game

Where do you see the future of Miami DJ culture going?
Miami has one of the hottest scenes for both hip hop and house music. I’ve gone to many cities where I drop a bangin’ house track that I’m really feelin’ right now and I get no reaction. Miami is very open to all formats of house music and I love that! WMC keeps the DJ culture alive and growing every year….it’s one of my favorite trips of the year.

Dj Vice will perform on Wednesday, December 30th at LIV, 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; (305) 674-4680.

Check out his website at www.djvice.com.

http://www.miami.com/dj-vice-article

New Brief: Culture boom in London Despite Economic Set Backs

Living in London for three years was without a doubt the best decision I could have ever made in pursuing an honors degree in Journalism from the University of Westminster. The access to international media, arts and culture goes unparalleled in this big city on a small isle.

A recent Bloomberg.com article written by Svenja O’Donnell and Brett Foley entitled “London Allure for Hollywood Stars, Foodies Undimmed by Tax Grab” highlights how the culture of the city has thrived while the city faces cumbersome economic woes. Visits to the theatre and opera have increased, more and more restaurants are earning global acclaim and Hollywood hipsters are flocking there every chance they get.

FLY GLOBAL MUSIC: François Ladrezo- The Voice of Contemporary Guadeloupe

By Rayme Samuels

François Ladrezo eats, breathes and sleeps traditional folk music called Gwoka from the small French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. The pristine island, paradise to millions of tourists each year has a complex and intriguing history that he hopes to document and promote through his craft. Approaching his art as his identity and a sort of spiritual therapy, Ladrezo lives his music intensely and intrinsically.

A foot soldier for tradition and also known by the Creole version of his name Fanswa Ladrezeau, Ladrezo studied the Guadeloupian drumming art of Kà. He considers it a tool to denounce society’s injustices. Considering himself as a deportee because of African forced exodus of the continent, he identifies himself as RasKa (Ka Soldier), and affirms his unconditional commitment to music and its cultural message every day.

Working within his local community he has founded Akiyo, a cultural organization for traditional carnival music along with a remarkable drumming troupe, Alka Oméka. Touring with Alka Oméka in the Caribbean, Europe, and United States to present his works during international festivals has allowed him to share his culture with the world.

Can you say a few words about the 44 days of strikes on the island earlier this year and the situation’s influence on your politics, music and lyrics?
There is a part of the Guadeloupian people who are suffering a lot. Even if you see big houses and big cars here, a lot of people are still suffering. What happened during the 2 month strike had to happen. This time, [the conflicts] exploded, but it was legitimate. Symbolically, we have won something. There is still a lot to do for salaries, agriculture… because Guadeloupe does not export. So we have to build our autonomy, starting by being able to feed ourselves and then export the rest. Because right now, we are not producing anything, so we are behind the rest of Caribbean countries.

It has been a long time since Gwoka singers used to sing about Guadeloupe’s issues. Language is not a barrier. Music is a universal language; it is about the emotion you give. I’ve performed abroad where people did not understand my lyrics, or even my mission; I’ve seen other artists I didn’t understand, but as listeners you feel something deep inside which gives you the strength to face the next day and even the next years.

Do you think that all of Guadeloupe’s sociopolitical issues are also present abroad? Are you like a French Bob Marley?
In each country you will find artists committed to fighting injustice. In Guadeloupe, you had Guy Conquet, Robert Loyson, and I consider myself in the next generation. So I try to do my work authentically so as not to not disappoint the people who have already fought. Gwoka music is an engaged music, a spiritual music, a therapy, a music coming from angels. So you have to play it authentically. I have a mission to accomplish, so I try to do it with all the strength I have.

Much respect for Marley, because he fought for black people and justice most of all. The fight is a fight for justice. When we put races aside our fight is just for justice. There are capitalists and they prey on the entire world.

What do you predict will be the future of Gwoka in Guadeloupe?
In Guadeloupe, I am a musician who plays in the streets. I think there are a lot of people who like what I do. I do it for the ancestors, the ones who fought. I perpetuate their fight. The new generations thirst for identity. Akiyo and Gwoka are a way to elevate your conscious. If I can be an instrument into this with humility, I’ll do it with all my faith, my energy, here, in the Caribbean and in other countries as well.

Is Gwoka is a philosophy or a lifestyle?
Gwoka is life. It is the soul of Guadeloupean people and life. It is also a lifestyle but you should not try to impose on it- just let everyone feel it in his own way.

Visit www.anywayorganisation.com/ or the MySpace page www.myspace.com/ladrezeau for more information.

http://www.flyglobalmusic.com/fly/archives/caribbean_features/francois_ladrezo_the_voice_of.html

Band of the Hour: Jesp

By Rayme Samuels

Miami native Jesp, born Joseph Espinoza, created his first self described “minimal dance track” on a keyboard in his bedroom at the age of 13. He and his mom thought it was pretty cool. Eventually he lost the tape and the keyboard but held on dearly to his love for making music. His moniker even comes from a default abbreviation of his name assigned to him while using music sequencing software. In effect, his persona quite literally reflects the music that he has been creating since his early teenage years.

Harboring a strong desire to raise the bar for what is considered the standard in American danceable music, Jesp gels indie production with pop-loving mainstream audiences. Formerly a member of cult local band Outereach, his simple mission of making people like music more and challenging their senses in inconspicuous and unobtrusive ways is weaved delicately between the positive messages in his songs.

Stated simply he brings modern production and songwriting normally found in experimental/indie music and presents it in a pop format to a mainstream audiences. His most recent album, “Heart Rhythm” reflects his passion for the sounds of Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel and the explosion of grunge and alternative rock from the 90’s.

Momentum is building with a tour along the east coast (New York City, Atlanta and Orlando included), multiple remixes and just having wrapped a music video shoot for his single “Rising Sun.” Directed by Fro Rojas, the video showcases Jesp’s skills along with that of local artists, fashion designers, and other folks transforming the local scene. When thinking about the importance of being a creative type in this sultry city, Jesp matter of factly claims, “I love Miami. I am from Miami. I take from Miami. I represent Miami to the rest of the world as a performing artist.”

JESP will perform at 10 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 21, 2009 at White Room, 1306 N. Miami Ave., Miami; (305) 995-5050.Visit his MySpace at www.myspace.com/jespmusic.

http://www.miami.com/jesp-article

2010 Sounds Like Brooklyn Music Festival

From eclectic hip hoppers Anti-Pop Consortium, to indie rockers Les Savy Fav and soul quartet The Sweet Divines, there’s bound to be something for every taste from Jan.29-30 and Feb.4-6 at the “Sounds Like Brooklyn” music festival. Organized by the Brooklyn Academy of Music and sponsored  by Chase will feature hot sounds from the borough for two head bopping weekends in a row.

This event will only confirm that Brooklyn, more than any other part of New York City, has maintained its throne as the nexus of progressive music.

I’m looking forward to it!

Check out www.bam.org for the full schedule, tickets and more information.

ANTIPOP CONSORTIUM- GHOST LAWNS

Band of the Hour: Dreaming in Stereo

By Rayme Samuels

A former member of the Miami Beach Senior High School Rock Ensemble, Fernando Perdomo eats, sleeps and breathes melodies. A while back he recorded a full album solo and eventually combed Miami for a top-notch band to bring his music to life.  Slowly piecing together the outfit from an acquaintance at a guitar store, the house engineer at University of Miami, a fellow student of the rock ensemble, and finally the former drummer for Hall and Oates, Perdomo created a masterpiece of talent this past July and formed Dreaming in Stereo.

Ranging from ages 19 to 58 the group is made up of Perdomo (guitar/lead vocals), Marisol Garcia (keyboards/vocals), Dave Torre (viola/guitar/vocals), Giuseppe Rodriguez (bass), and the legendary Eddie Zyne (drums). “I love the diversity”, says Perdomo. “Music is a lifelong relationship – older and younger musicians can learn a lot from each other.” Stylistically they look up to The Beatles, Todd Rundgren, Gino Vannelli and Diane Birch.

Dreaming in Stereo has already garnered a national following, with their music playing on over 96 college radio stations (charting on 30 stations) and with write ups in Guitar Player Magazine and Keyboard Player Magazine. Ironically enough, they haven’t broken their hometown university’s ranks yet – the band has yet to hear back from WVUM. Their repertoire of songs like “I’m Not Going To Move To L.A.” and “Amicable” are evocative, funny, smooth and captivating.

They’ve been promoting their new album since the summer and have plenty of new material in the works for upcoming records. A van tour across the east coast and possibly cross country along with aspirations of making a splash in Sweden and England are without a doubt dreams soon to be fulfilled.

Dreaming in Stereo will perform at 10 p.m. on Thursday, November 12 at Tobacco Road, 626 South Miami Ave, Miami; (305) 374-1198. Visit their website at www.dreaminginstereo.net

PHOTO CREDIT: ZOHN YANCY

http://www.miami.com/dreaming-in-stereo-article