The only appointment I had to keep on Saturday was a birthday dinner with Pete Spinning and Oh That Girl. Pete and Oh That Girl throw parties in LA and the surrounding desert under the moniker of Monkey-Do. I met them through Adlib, who booked Pete and Derek Andrew (a Monkey-Duo!) to play for us at our residency at Trinity Nightclub in Seattle. Since then the four of us have shared quite a few more events, including the uber successful (and coming again soon on June 20th - get your tickets, folks) outdoor camping, regional burn event and all-out extravagant Esthetic Evolution in Boise, Idaho. The quaint birthday dinner was timely to have landed on the week that I was in LA, both because it was a great space to become more acquainted with Pete and Oh That Girl as well as the fact that 1) Pete and Vivek's birthday are a day apart and 2) It was at an Indian Restaurant (Vivek's home country cookin) in Orange County. I take such coincidences as evidences that I am indeed in the right space and time. I find that when these such coincidences abound, things seem to slide into place like budda.
After chatty conversation and delicious Indian deserts, we decided to accompany Pete and Oh That Girl to an underground party in LA. Less like a rave and more like an underground House party, this was Doc Martin's renegade gala through his Label/Entertainment Crew Sublevel. The venue was at a surprising location -- a dance hall out in the Valley. The locale looked like an old event center that I would imagine my grandparents getting married in, very fifties-esque with all-white walls. We parked in a spot on the street and could hear the light thump thump thump of the music. We walked around front to a sign that said 'enter through back'. Of course! Renegade parties must maintain anonymity by diverting foot traffic and noise from the streets. We walked around back to a small courtyard with a lit image reflecting over the door. We were frisked at the entrance, our bags checked, licenses scrutinized and then were directed to the cashier with smiles. There we payed the $20 entrance fee and the nice woman asked if I would like to choose a trinket from the table. There were fun necklaces and rings. I decided on a yellow hard plastic ring with a tree painted on the inside, later recognizing the significance of the tree symbol for grounding during my travels (I've worn it most nights ever since).
The inside space was none-too-exciting, but what the party promoters did with the lights gave it quite the ring. It was almost completely dark and the light on the disco ball splashed halos around the room and ceiling in waves of white and colored lights. The dance floor was contained intimately around the DJ booth by keeping the Mackie speakers close to the front and back so it did not fill the room with music, but kept the best sound within 50 feet of the DJ. There were some lame chairs propped against the wall, so one could sit down if they needed to, but to be honest, the dance floor was a far more pleasing place to spend time.
I've always enjoyed watching Doc Martin throw down on his 4 turntables, and this night was no exception, especially since it was his own hometown at his own party. Something about his funk-ed up records really gets your tail moving, even after a previous all-night party. I started the night out sleepy and listless, thinking I would spend most of my time on the sidelines. But by 5am I was groovin' on the dance floor with everyone else. Doc is just that good.
By 5:30 we were wiped, so we gave our hugs to Pete and Oh That Girl, snapped a pic and headed home.
The next day we made sure to get up and moving to enjoy the best day of the week in Venice Beach. On Sundays the boardwalk is packed with tourists watching the local performance art or shopping at the flea market-like stands filled with everything from necklaces to cigarette holders, watches and music. Type 'Venice Beach performers' in google images and you will see photos of many of the artists that set up their stations on the walkway weekly. Each week a drum circle starts on the beach and grows until you can hear it up and down the seafront. We spotted a green tree fairy on stilts in the midst of other less decorated but still prominent freedom dancers.
We walked for a bit, enjoying the sun and cool breeze. Soon after, though, we headed back to Vivek's house to make some tacos and enjoy the home taste of Red Hook that he had installed in his self-made kegerator. I had invited many of the new friends that I was in contact with to dinner to share stories and get to know each other. There was Kristahn, a PR extraordinaire who had recently moved to LA from New York and her friend Earl Dax who was in town to produce performances of his piece 'Weimar New York' (featuring the urban-icon Penny Arcade and Justin Bond of Shortbus fame) at the Green Door in Hollywood. We also hosted Jeremiah, a writer/director from Seattle that is soon leaving for Thailand to shoot his film. We were all strangers, but also artists and professionals and the conversation surrounding us reflected as such, creating a comfortable harmony between us all.
Feeling full after my artesian dinner party, I was looking forward to a few languid days in Venice before heading off to an almost certain incontinence in Palm Springs. Monday and Tuesday consisted of laundry and lazy mornings. On Tuesday I also took the time to visit Gold's Gym which was walking distance from Vivek's bachelor pad. Not only was Golds great because it is also my gym and I could enjoy a workout for free, but because this is the very famous Golds Gym that the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger (the actor, not the governor) was a member of during his days of bumming by the beach. While his original Golds is now closed, (the building still exists) the current gym is huge! It contained three rooms and an outdoor area set to Pump (clap!, point) you up. Most of its members were very very buff, especially the women. I was easily one of the thinnest ladies there which didn't really bother me for obvious reasons! I can see why so many great body builders frequented that gym. I thought the energy itself gave me more motivation to run and lift and pull and stretch. I felt great after my 2 hour workout, and when I looked in the mirror of the ladies locker room with my biceps held high, my muscles were indeed bulkier than 2 hours before. Magic!
I ended my Venice trip at Vivek's favorite burger joint down the street. After a full week of beach bummin', I was ready to head to the biggest female party in the U.S., set to start Wednesday night in Palm Springs.
More photos from Venice Beach and the LA Underground.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Venice Beach and the LA Underground - Part I
What is it about traveling that makes one stay up all hours of the night before they have to get up at the butt crack of dawn to catch a plane somewhere? For some unknown reason, Robb Green and I jetted all around San Francisco until 3 am on a Wednesday night -- along with many other people it seemed, because the bars were hoppin', despite the Wednesday factor. I was finally in bed at 3:30 and had to wake up at 6:30 to catch a plane to LA. Needless to say, I was pretty tired when I boarded the short flight. Having decided to leave on Thursday just two days before, I was lucky enough to snag the last seat on this flight and still use my Alaska Air miles. Yay for air miles!
I arrived at LAX at 9:30 am and caught a cab to Venice Beach where I was set to stay with Vivek, a friend I had met at the Seattle September Oktoberfest in Fremont (Washington). The cab driver was a little lost finding the spot. Once we eventually did, though, I realized that I should have given him these directions: Drive to the center of the Venice Beach boardwalk and go east one street. Because that is where Vivek lives -- virtually right on the beach!!
My timing was just right for Venice (also known as Muscle Beach), as his roommate Leanne was out of town until Monday morning. Thus, I was able to enjoy a room to myself for much of my time there. Alone time is quintessential for traveling, especially if one is an introvert like myself. I wheeled all my bags inside and crashed out in the luxurious all-white bed.
I napped most of the day until Vivek came home from work at 6pm. In fact, my entire time there consisted of so much sleeping that Vivek took to calling me 'Baby Jen'. I took it in stride, though, because sleeping is a healthy psychedelic experience.
One of my biggest lessons during my time as a traveler is to learn to ground, or find my center, regardless of where I am. I moved out of my apartment in North Seattle in March. Instead of finding a new home, I decided to store my possessions with various friends and carry my home in my heart. I'm literally homeless, but virtually rooted. I travel with a few items to lay out when I reach a new destination in order to help make every resting stop a cozy nest. One such item is a small portable altar with various trinkets to remind me of my intentions: A buddha (for wisdom), a rock from Masil's rock garden (for support), a Native American tile from Mel Sky (for vision), a blade shaped from glass (for security) and a teddy bear pin from my childhood (for playfulness). I also have two new ornaments that I have acquired from this trip: a bass guitar pik from the floor of Annie's Social Club and another rock from Venice Beach, reminders of all I've picked up along my way.
When Vivek arrived home from work we took a short walk to a restaurant down Pacific street to meet up with some of his other friends from Seattle that were in town. We played it pretty mellow that night, though, as I knew we would be going out plenty over the weekend. We watched Anchorman on his huge flat-screen TV and retired early.
Vivek and Leanne's shower is the best shower on the West Coast. It has two nozzles and hot water for well over 45 minutes. I know this because I stayed in there Friday morning with the rain-like water falling over me for almost 40 minutes. It was heavenly! After my shower, I enjoyed a leisurely morning of Pilates, breakfast and some light reading (I love the perks of the artists' lifestyle!). By afternoon I decided to hit the beach. I packed a bag and headed out to walk along the water and stare at the ocean. I hiked from the Northern most side of Venice along the water to both over and under the Santa Monica Pier. There were many couples, families and singles out enjoying the warm weather and bright sunshine. I wondered if every boardwalk in California hosted a roller coaster and I giggled when I saw a restaurant called 'Bubba Shrimp Co'.
I decided to return to Venice from Santa Monica on Pacific street instead of the Boardwalk. I passed shops and natural food markets. I stopped into The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf whose ambiance was much better than their bean. I sat outside next to two gentlemen playing speed chess, read the LA Weekly and watched passer-bys, gaining a feel for the city, its people and its issues.
One noticeable thing about Venice Beach is the high population of Homeless people. They are generally peaceful hippie types that will do such things as help direct you out of your parking spot during times of high car and foot traffic. Once in a while they do get in fights and can be a bit loud at times, but after a while you become accustomed to their sleeping bags littering the streets with human lumps each night. When Vivek and I arrived home one night, two lumps were sleeping in the space between the car next to Vivek's parking spot. One sleepily moved his grocery bag out of the way as we parked and I hopped out the driver's side.
--
I was happy to have taken enough time to sleep and ground when I arrived, because the next three days would be action packed. I'm connected to a DJ that lives in Venice Beach named Dave Sweeten through a mutual affiliation called Dreemworld. He was holding an event that night called 'Demon Cleaner' at a secret spot somewhere in the city. There was no address posted. You had to call a phone number to receive the location of a downtown parking lot and wait for a shuttle that would take you to the destination. Wait a minute, you are saying, that sounds like a -- yes, a Rave! And old-fashioned secret-spot-abandoned-warehouse-renegade-rave, bespattered with Burning Man. I've always been more of a club kid than a Raver, but still, how fun! We reached the secret parking lot spot and climbed into the unmarked shuttle behind two burners dressed in goth-esque garments and white face paint. 'Wow', said Vivek, 'I didn't know it was a costume party!' At a burner-esque event, my virgin friend, anything goes.
The space was huge and decorated with couches and red lighting. There was a bar on one side of a wall and a DJ booth on the other. We headed over to grab a drink and say hello to the lovely and talented ladies dancing with hula hoops . Vivek jumped in showed us his hip shaker. He also found a scary mask to sport! But decided on a look that was far more fitting and fun. I said hello to Dave Sweeten and thanked him for the invitation. I was happy to see that another Seattle resident was at the party. Novatron was booked to play his 'serious sonic wizardry'. I spent some time chatting with him and getting to know him a little better, something that can be tricky to do when hosting parties in our shared city.
The party ended around 6 am and we piled into the shuttle to head home. After much hoola hooping, dancing and conversations with locals, Vivek's first Rave was a smashing success. So enjoyable, in fact, that he was ready to do it again the next night. Rockstar! I made sure to sleep most of the day to prepare myself for another all-nighter.
More pics from Venice Beach and the LA Underground.
Stay Tuned for 'Venice Beach and the LA Underground - Part II' !
I arrived at LAX at 9:30 am and caught a cab to Venice Beach where I was set to stay with Vivek, a friend I had met at the Seattle September Oktoberfest in Fremont (Washington). The cab driver was a little lost finding the spot. Once we eventually did, though, I realized that I should have given him these directions: Drive to the center of the Venice Beach boardwalk and go east one street. Because that is where Vivek lives -- virtually right on the beach!!
My timing was just right for Venice (also known as Muscle Beach), as his roommate Leanne was out of town until Monday morning. Thus, I was able to enjoy a room to myself for much of my time there. Alone time is quintessential for traveling, especially if one is an introvert like myself. I wheeled all my bags inside and crashed out in the luxurious all-white bed.
I napped most of the day until Vivek came home from work at 6pm. In fact, my entire time there consisted of so much sleeping that Vivek took to calling me 'Baby Jen'. I took it in stride, though, because sleeping is a healthy psychedelic experience.
One of my biggest lessons during my time as a traveler is to learn to ground, or find my center, regardless of where I am. I moved out of my apartment in North Seattle in March. Instead of finding a new home, I decided to store my possessions with various friends and carry my home in my heart. I'm literally homeless, but virtually rooted. I travel with a few items to lay out when I reach a new destination in order to help make every resting stop a cozy nest. One such item is a small portable altar with various trinkets to remind me of my intentions: A buddha (for wisdom), a rock from Masil's rock garden (for support), a Native American tile from Mel Sky (for vision), a blade shaped from glass (for security) and a teddy bear pin from my childhood (for playfulness). I also have two new ornaments that I have acquired from this trip: a bass guitar pik from the floor of Annie's Social Club and another rock from Venice Beach, reminders of all I've picked up along my way.
When Vivek arrived home from work we took a short walk to a restaurant down Pacific street to meet up with some of his other friends from Seattle that were in town. We played it pretty mellow that night, though, as I knew we would be going out plenty over the weekend. We watched Anchorman on his huge flat-screen TV and retired early.
Vivek and Leanne's shower is the best shower on the West Coast. It has two nozzles and hot water for well over 45 minutes. I know this because I stayed in there Friday morning with the rain-like water falling over me for almost 40 minutes. It was heavenly! After my shower, I enjoyed a leisurely morning of Pilates, breakfast and some light reading (I love the perks of the artists' lifestyle!). By afternoon I decided to hit the beach. I packed a bag and headed out to walk along the water and stare at the ocean. I hiked from the Northern most side of Venice along the water to both over and under the Santa Monica Pier. There were many couples, families and singles out enjoying the warm weather and bright sunshine. I wondered if every boardwalk in California hosted a roller coaster and I giggled when I saw a restaurant called 'Bubba Shrimp Co'.
I decided to return to Venice from Santa Monica on Pacific street instead of the Boardwalk. I passed shops and natural food markets. I stopped into The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf whose ambiance was much better than their bean. I sat outside next to two gentlemen playing speed chess, read the LA Weekly and watched passer-bys, gaining a feel for the city, its people and its issues.
One noticeable thing about Venice Beach is the high population of Homeless people. They are generally peaceful hippie types that will do such things as help direct you out of your parking spot during times of high car and foot traffic. Once in a while they do get in fights and can be a bit loud at times, but after a while you become accustomed to their sleeping bags littering the streets with human lumps each night. When Vivek and I arrived home one night, two lumps were sleeping in the space between the car next to Vivek's parking spot. One sleepily moved his grocery bag out of the way as we parked and I hopped out the driver's side.
--
I was happy to have taken enough time to sleep and ground when I arrived, because the next three days would be action packed. I'm connected to a DJ that lives in Venice Beach named Dave Sweeten through a mutual affiliation called Dreemworld. He was holding an event that night called 'Demon Cleaner' at a secret spot somewhere in the city. There was no address posted. You had to call a phone number to receive the location of a downtown parking lot and wait for a shuttle that would take you to the destination. Wait a minute, you are saying, that sounds like a -- yes, a Rave! And old-fashioned secret-spot-abandoned-warehouse-renegade-rave, bespattered with Burning Man. I've always been more of a club kid than a Raver, but still, how fun! We reached the secret parking lot spot and climbed into the unmarked shuttle behind two burners dressed in goth-esque garments and white face paint. 'Wow', said Vivek, 'I didn't know it was a costume party!' At a burner-esque event, my virgin friend, anything goes.
The space was huge and decorated with couches and red lighting. There was a bar on one side of a wall and a DJ booth on the other. We headed over to grab a drink and say hello to the lovely and talented ladies dancing with hula hoops . Vivek jumped in showed us his hip shaker. He also found a scary mask to sport! But decided on a look that was far more fitting and fun. I said hello to Dave Sweeten and thanked him for the invitation. I was happy to see that another Seattle resident was at the party. Novatron was booked to play his 'serious sonic wizardry'. I spent some time chatting with him and getting to know him a little better, something that can be tricky to do when hosting parties in our shared city.
The party ended around 6 am and we piled into the shuttle to head home. After much hoola hooping, dancing and conversations with locals, Vivek's first Rave was a smashing success. So enjoyable, in fact, that he was ready to do it again the next night. Rockstar! I made sure to sleep most of the day to prepare myself for another all-nighter.
More pics from Venice Beach and the LA Underground.
Stay Tuned for 'Venice Beach and the LA Underground - Part II' !
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Cruz 'n Qool
Not so early Wednesday, Robb Green, Mosaic and I headed for a day trip to Santa Cruz. This peace loving town is a mere 1 hour from San Francisco (1 1/2 along the coast). I couldn't have picked a better week to be in the bay area. The sun's reflection on the ocean burned its border with the sky a brilliant blue.
Since Mosaic spent a few years as a resident in the town, his return was like a reunion around every corner. We met up with an old friend of his for some lunch at Charlie Hong Kong, an Asian outdoor diner with organic food so fresh I looked around to the back expecting to find its own sustainable garden. Yum! This was my first taste of this tender town, a hippie paradise tainted with tourists. After lunch we cruised the shops, passing by all of them except the town's three record stores. I purchased Hot Chip's new album 'Made in the Dark' in preparation for their performance at Coachella at the end of April. (The name, I found out through Remix Magazine is a tribute to the fact that many of the songs were made from their respective bedrooms). After a quick tour through the bustling outdoor market and snagging some taste tests, we rested at a one of the countless coffee shops carved from a huge victorian home complete with a gorgeous outdoor seating section. I love how so many restaurants, bars and coffee shops (and even fast food joints!) in California grant the luxury of lounging outdoors!
Once we were juiced up on caffeine, we headed to the boardwalk which was opportunely open for all the families enjoying a summery Spring Break. We passed through rides, arcades and greasy spoons to the lovely light sandy beach where said families were scattered in an array of idle. There we met up with more friends of Mosaic's who were chillin' with warm beers and a football that was one size smaller than the usual -- perfect for fitting my dainty hands. I tossed it around with the boys, wowing them with my spiral so unusually found from girls. (Until the Powder Puff revolution, of course -- or are we still waiting for that? Bring it on!)
As the sun started into the West-most part of the sky, we realized we should start the drive back to the city so I would be on time to show my not-so-hidden talent. I was set to play at 9pm at Qoöl, "an original clubbing happy hour in SF, if not the world. Every Wednesday evening, starting at 5pm, Jondi & Spesh host a five hour club night at 111 Minna in San Francisco. The music has a progressive theme, from prog house to breaks to techno and even drum 'n bass. Each dj plays a short 45 minute set, and the talent ranges from bedroom DJs to international supastars. Partygoers range from electronic music loving phreeks to unemployed dot-commers (not mutually exclusive), and the enthusiasm and dedication of Qoölios is world famous. In fact Qoöl is often pegged for its personal vibe and all out 'Saturday at 3AM' feeling. The door is only $5 and a good chunk of the proceeds go to non-profit organizations, including The SETI Institute and the San Francisco Homeless Coalition." Stoked to be part of Qoöl (via Qoöl Seattle), we followed the ocean back to the bay, grabbed my CD's back at the Casa and entered the Art Gallery at 7:41.
Despite the nearly 500 people that were crowding the bars and dance area, I was not very nervous for this gig. Since I had visited the venue back in December and already had a feel for the crowd, I had confidence that my new sound -- high-energy electro house blended with San Francisco's fascination for funky nu skool breaks -- was enough to keep the crowd at Qoöl from turning cold. The only cold I felt was the sweat on my back after my set was finished as I set out in the evening, my ears ringing from the booth monitors and my San Francisco support group -- Robb, Mugs, Chloe and Mosaic, by my side.
More pics from Santa Cruz and Qoöl.
Since Mosaic spent a few years as a resident in the town, his return was like a reunion around every corner. We met up with an old friend of his for some lunch at Charlie Hong Kong, an Asian outdoor diner with organic food so fresh I looked around to the back expecting to find its own sustainable garden. Yum! This was my first taste of this tender town, a hippie paradise tainted with tourists. After lunch we cruised the shops, passing by all of them except the town's three record stores. I purchased Hot Chip's new album 'Made in the Dark' in preparation for their performance at Coachella at the end of April. (The name, I found out through Remix Magazine is a tribute to the fact that many of the songs were made from their respective bedrooms). After a quick tour through the bustling outdoor market and snagging some taste tests, we rested at a one of the countless coffee shops carved from a huge victorian home complete with a gorgeous outdoor seating section. I love how so many restaurants, bars and coffee shops (and even fast food joints!) in California grant the luxury of lounging outdoors!
Once we were juiced up on caffeine, we headed to the boardwalk which was opportunely open for all the families enjoying a summery Spring Break. We passed through rides, arcades and greasy spoons to the lovely light sandy beach where said families were scattered in an array of idle. There we met up with more friends of Mosaic's who were chillin' with warm beers and a football that was one size smaller than the usual -- perfect for fitting my dainty hands. I tossed it around with the boys, wowing them with my spiral so unusually found from girls. (Until the Powder Puff revolution, of course -- or are we still waiting for that? Bring it on!)
As the sun started into the West-most part of the sky, we realized we should start the drive back to the city so I would be on time to show my not-so-hidden talent. I was set to play at 9pm at Qoöl, "an original clubbing happy hour in SF, if not the world. Every Wednesday evening, starting at 5pm, Jondi & Spesh host a five hour club night at 111 Minna in San Francisco. The music has a progressive theme, from prog house to breaks to techno and even drum 'n bass. Each dj plays a short 45 minute set, and the talent ranges from bedroom DJs to international supastars. Partygoers range from electronic music loving phreeks to unemployed dot-commers (not mutually exclusive), and the enthusiasm and dedication of Qoölios is world famous. In fact Qoöl is often pegged for its personal vibe and all out 'Saturday at 3AM' feeling. The door is only $5 and a good chunk of the proceeds go to non-profit organizations, including The SETI Institute and the San Francisco Homeless Coalition." Stoked to be part of Qoöl (via Qoöl Seattle), we followed the ocean back to the bay, grabbed my CD's back at the Casa and entered the Art Gallery at 7:41.
Despite the nearly 500 people that were crowding the bars and dance area, I was not very nervous for this gig. Since I had visited the venue back in December and already had a feel for the crowd, I had confidence that my new sound -- high-energy electro house blended with San Francisco's fascination for funky nu skool breaks -- was enough to keep the crowd at Qoöl from turning cold. The only cold I felt was the sweat on my back after my set was finished as I set out in the evening, my ears ringing from the booth monitors and my San Francisco support group -- Robb, Mugs, Chloe and Mosaic, by my side.
More pics from Santa Cruz and Qoöl.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
My West Coast Adventure Begins
My West Coast Adventure began last Thursday in my sister city, San Francisco. Robb Green picked me up at 6-ish at the Alaska gate and we headed back to the Casa in the Mission where Mugs was preparing some snacks for the party they were throwing that night. The party was the 3rd installment of Shameless' Adaptor, a filthy electro, techno, breaks and Drum 'n Bass night at Annie's Social Club. The best thing about Annie's is not it's co-owner/manager/bartender/poker dude Sean or its grimy punk rock attitude. Its the back VIP room, a perfect palace for an exclusive burlesque party... my favorite!
Adaptor was great fun to DJ. Robb and I tagged back and forth, setting the stage for Ding Dong, of Brass Tax and TANG! fame. Its was also a great meet up spot for all that were headed the next day on a short road trip for the weekend. We tooled around for a bit in the city on Friday before grabbing our gear and heading to Yosemite National Park for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Up in the mountains, Robb, Megan, Chloe and I stayed at the Redwoods in Yosemite. There we accompanied 12 other adult-kids, 5 actual-kids (all under the age of 10) and 4 dogs (the most mellow ones in the bunch) in two huge cabins with big kitchens and great stone fireplaces. Each night the moon was full enough to keep us captive and each morning there was a batch of bacon to bounce us out of bed. On Saturday many of us adult-kids headed up to hike to the top of Chilnuala Falls. This 9 mile round-trip hike was beautiful each step of the way. We took most of the afternoon to journey to the top, slowed only slightly by our oldest hiker, Sampson -- who is 98 years old!! In dog years, that is. Still, a 14-year old dog hitting a 9-mile hike is no small feet. Sampson receives the Rockstar Award! His legs were almost as sore as mine the next day, but the view at the top was well worth it. We dipped our cups into the crystal clear water, just run off from the last winter's snow. The journey down was far simpler, and back at the cabin we prepared a yummy steak dinner with salad and wine.
Easter Sunday we arrived back in the city early enough to enjoy the end of a day party in Golden Gate Park. The speakers had begun booming at 7am and DJ's spun tunes till sundown. We said hello to a few friends there and made our way down to Ocean Beach to catch the sunset. The sun was shining in the Sunset district, a sight none too common. After finding ourselves in awe of a new extreme sport called Kiteskating, we admired the rest of the sunset and headed to Haight to find some amazing Thai food.
The next few days Robb and I chilled and indulged in the entire first season of Dexter. We set off on Wednesday with Mosaic Santa Cruz to grab some rays before my gig at Qool. Then on Thursday, I'm off to Venice Beach, CA for the second leg of my West Coast Adventure.
View all my photos of San Francisco and Yosemite.
Adaptor was great fun to DJ. Robb and I tagged back and forth, setting the stage for Ding Dong, of Brass Tax and TANG! fame. Its was also a great meet up spot for all that were headed the next day on a short road trip for the weekend. We tooled around for a bit in the city on Friday before grabbing our gear and heading to Yosemite National Park for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Up in the mountains, Robb, Megan, Chloe and I stayed at the Redwoods in Yosemite. There we accompanied 12 other adult-kids, 5 actual-kids (all under the age of 10) and 4 dogs (the most mellow ones in the bunch) in two huge cabins with big kitchens and great stone fireplaces. Each night the moon was full enough to keep us captive and each morning there was a batch of bacon to bounce us out of bed. On Saturday many of us adult-kids headed up to hike to the top of Chilnuala Falls. This 9 mile round-trip hike was beautiful each step of the way. We took most of the afternoon to journey to the top, slowed only slightly by our oldest hiker, Sampson -- who is 98 years old!! In dog years, that is. Still, a 14-year old dog hitting a 9-mile hike is no small feet. Sampson receives the Rockstar Award! His legs were almost as sore as mine the next day, but the view at the top was well worth it. We dipped our cups into the crystal clear water, just run off from the last winter's snow. The journey down was far simpler, and back at the cabin we prepared a yummy steak dinner with salad and wine.
Easter Sunday we arrived back in the city early enough to enjoy the end of a day party in Golden Gate Park. The speakers had begun booming at 7am and DJ's spun tunes till sundown. We said hello to a few friends there and made our way down to Ocean Beach to catch the sunset. The sun was shining in the Sunset district, a sight none too common. After finding ourselves in awe of a new extreme sport called Kiteskating, we admired the rest of the sunset and headed to Haight to find some amazing Thai food.
The next few days Robb and I chilled and indulged in the entire first season of Dexter. We set off on Wednesday with Mosaic Santa Cruz to grab some rays before my gig at Qool. Then on Thursday, I'm off to Venice Beach, CA for the second leg of my West Coast Adventure.
View all my photos of San Francisco and Yosemite.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
NEXT GIGs: Adapter & Qool ~ both in SF!
Wed March 26 @ Qool Sf
Qoöl
Rock. Solid. Qoöl. Guests Marc Fong, Will Spencer, Hoj, Jen Woolfe (from Qoöl Seattle), with Spesh & Gil.
Every Wednesday from 5pm to 10pm
Minna Gallery, 111 Minna Street,
San Francisco, CA.
Reply to this Bulletin for Guest List!!
Thur March 20 @ Annie's Social Club
~AdApToR~Thurs. 3.20.08~Ding Dong, Robb Green, Jen Woolfe, DJJD
Hey there kats and dawgs, its another installment of the new *shameless* monthly AdApToR!!
This month we tune our dials in for some seriously funky house with a dash of other tasty musical morsels. Also this month we'll be drawing from both the long-distance as well as the local talent for your listening pleasure.
ChEcK iT oUt . .
3.20.08
shameless presents : AdApToR
Featuring:
Ding Dong (BtX, TANG!)
Jen Woolfe (Qool Seattle)
Robb Green (shameless)
DJJD (False Profit)
shameless . . .
Originally a crew from Seattle, shameless
is known and named for the party atmosphere they
create. Bringing a packed line up of floor shakers
into a new location for parties, this should
definitely not be missed. The shameless ethos of
‘leave your shame at the door and come to party” will
certainly be in effect.
SHAME OFF GAME ON
Happy Birthday Eunice!
10pm -2am ~ $5 @ the door
21 yrs. + only
Annie's Social Club (formerly Cherry Bar)
917 Folsom St (@ 5th St.) in San Francisco
mailing list: simply.shameless.sf@gmail.com
Qoöl
Rock. Solid. Qoöl. Guests Marc Fong, Will Spencer, Hoj, Jen Woolfe (from Qoöl Seattle), with Spesh & Gil.
Every Wednesday from 5pm to 10pm
Minna Gallery, 111 Minna Street,
San Francisco, CA.
Reply to this Bulletin for Guest List!!
Thur March 20 @ Annie's Social Club
~AdApToR~Thurs. 3.20.08~Ding Dong, Robb Green, Jen Woolfe, DJJD
Hey there kats and dawgs, its another installment of the new *shameless* monthly AdApToR!!
This month we tune our dials in for some seriously funky house with a dash of other tasty musical morsels. Also this month we'll be drawing from both the long-distance as well as the local talent for your listening pleasure.
ChEcK iT oUt . .
3.20.08
shameless presents : AdApToR
Featuring:
Ding Dong (BtX, TANG!)
Jen Woolfe (Qool Seattle)
Robb Green (shameless)
DJJD (False Profit)
shameless . . .
Originally a crew from Seattle, shameless
is known and named for the party atmosphere they
create. Bringing a packed line up of floor shakers
into a new location for parties, this should
definitely not be missed. The shameless ethos of
‘leave your shame at the door and come to party” will
certainly be in effect.
SHAME OFF GAME ON
Happy Birthday Eunice!
10pm -2am ~ $5 @ the door
21 yrs. + only
Annie's Social Club (formerly Cherry Bar)
917 Folsom St (@ 5th St.) in San Francisco
mailing list: simply.shameless.sf@gmail.com
A Previous Paradigm
I would like to share with you some writings from my past. I've been reading my journals from the time I left college until now. Following my path of growth is fascinating! The entries I am going to share with you are from summer of 2000. These are blogs before blogging was born. The Internet was but a baby. Its a time in my life where I realized I was embarking on a new paradigm. Not the one I just finished, but the one before that. Its just after I started partying and just before I started to become a DJ. Far before Burning Man or the Leschi Lounge, or even Jen Woolfe. I was 25. I had a degree, a career, a sex life, great friends, a cat, my own place. I was forming my first true identity.
Early June, 2000
------------------------------
'Isn't it crazy how some things never change?
Here I am, two weeks shy of 25 years old, and I'm still drawing the same doodle-boy that I drew when I was 16. Sure, he looks a little different: different hair, different grin, different style of clothes. But still the same doodle.
Has my doodle gotten an wiser over 10 years? I know now from my 10 years of doodle experience where to start the line for the neck, the tuft for the hair, the lift of the ears. I know how to cover up my doodle mistakes. I still make them, of course. But are they less noticeable? Less careless? Less important?
My doodle is still a simple idea. It sill follows the same simple goals. Two googly eyes, a button nose, a long face.
No smile today.
Simple clothes and simple jeans.
No shoes today. To show off his cutsie toes.
Is my doodle me? Have I changed? Or am I the same? Following the same scratchy lines, matching the same ideals, wearing the same simple look on my face?
Each day a little different. A little less. A little more... doodley.'
------------------------------
This next "blog" references many of the girls and boys that I been in varying degrees of relationships with and how much I learned from them. I was completely unattached, as I am now. I was what Iyanla Vanzant would refer to as 'In the Meantime'. I was comfortable with that, but curious. I was reflective but diffident. I was about to embark on a cozy relationship with the Soccer Star, but I didn't know it. I was also about to find my passion in music, my Destiny, something I had longed for, also unknowingly. Maybe something I had longed for even more than love. For I always knew that somehow I would find love, perhaps even over and over. But Destiny? I doubted, at the time, that I could be so blessed. [I've added some notes and aliases to protect those who have not opted into a cyber presence].
July 3, 2000
------------------------------
'So I guess I have a lot to talk about -- more than I thought I did. A lot of huge things are happening - a paradigm - and I almost didn't notice. Its so funny how some things don't change. I still go into a super-hip coffee shop and feel like a dork. I'll probably never get it right.
Today's the kind of day where I need a haircut. Its a gorgeous day in Seattle. The air is moderately warm, the sky is gray. I left the house wearing a sweater, no hat, and sandles, braving the idea that there's a 50/50 chance of rain. The day is good: somber, mellow, the fresh scent of weed tickling my nostrils (along with my cat). Next door to the Still Life [an old cafe that is now closed] (where I exuded idiocy in front of a gorgeous girl with spiky-purple hair) they are building a condominium. Fremont is pissing patchouli. This hippie town was happier hiding in the hairy armpits of downtown, unnoticed. Things were good until they made the mistake of building the best parade in the city [the annual Solstice Parade]. Big business noticed this treasure and built a software shop across from the Natural Market -- then Seattle in the 21st Century was born. My favorite billboard, "You don't have to be a 23 year-old C.E.O. of a software company to buy a home". Yeah, right.
So I guess I have a lot to talk about (but I'm not saying any of it). I wonder if I could be the writer I always dreamed I could be. So many story's main characters are writers. That bores me.
So I'm thinking of dating a guy. There's some hotties here, pseudo-naturale-hiker-skater types. H-O-T. Too bad when I kiss them it feels numb.
I spent all weekend with the Soccer Star and I really liked it. We are reaching the "I really like to hang out with you so I must be attracted to you" stage. She's cute as shit. But I feel like dating her would be pushing me into a 'Type B' relationship. I've had them before: My Harmless High School boyfriend, the Adorable Irish Boy, the Bionic Chic. Secure. Charming. Passionless. This is the type of relationship I imagine having if you out-live the love of your life. Many people get into relationships like these, marry, and are moderately happy. But they don't grow.
The fear is that people [i.e. me!] are afraid that there won't be more. Like that relationship is the last chance. If I give up this Type B relationship, will I ever get the chance for a Type A relationship again? And, if I take the Type B relationship, will I be giving up the Type A relationship forever? I guess the real question (or the real challenge) is, Will there always be an inevitable Type A? Or is there only one Type A ever? I've already proven that wrong, as my First Love was a definite Type A [meaning I'd already had one Type A relationship and knew there would be more to follow especially since my First Love was not a woman].
Type A relationship -- True Love. You know, one of those people floating around the world whose soul's are connected, in love, with yours. Before you ever meet (if you ever meet), you are automatically connected, soul to soul, in life (and possibly death) and even more possibly, life again.
Bionic Chic said something interesting about our connection. She said she felt we were old soul mates, like we were together in the past and no longer need each other, at least in this life. Its funny to think that I was dreaming of my first sex [with a woman] on the bus going to softball games (and tennis matches) and she was right there, sitting less than 10 feet away from me [it didn't happen until 6 years later]. How amazing that our souls follow each other so closely.
I run into The Climber frequently [a short-lived but passionate fling]. I always look for her, though I know I shouldn't. Last Tuesday I got off the bus one stop early, honestly to save time waiting for an eternal red light. There she was, boyish and beautiful, smiling at me with crystal green eyes. I haven't seen her since. We had shared a few short moments of romantic bliss. I hold tightly to the sensation of her frail body leaning against mine, listening to Natalie Merchant, feeling the loud beating of my heart, fully-fullfilled. I had given The Teacher [a romantic but toilsome relationship] Natalie Merchant, to help her live life. I gave her 'Live is Sweet'. I wanted her to know this feeling [my bad habit of projecting, as I'm completely ignoring the fact that I learned it, too]. She does. She did. She learned. She found beauty. And now she no longer needs me. So I left.
I told The Climber that I was tired of always being the one to teach people shit. I told her this as I handed her "The Celestine Prophesy" and gave her positive words to help her find her path. I did so selfishly, secretly wanting her path to lead to me. That wasn't true for everyone. I knew most of their paths were not towards me. I hoped as much. Maybe I manipulated them in an opposite direction. Maybe I led the the wrong way. But I don't think so.
I handed The Climber that book, knowing it may be the last thing she needs from me before moving on. I may never run into her on the street again. I may never see her smiling secretly at me again. I need to let go so it doesn't hurt anymore. If I let go, I can continue to the next phase - mine. Building me. Learning about me. Living with me. When people ask me about how I like living by myself, I tell them that its lonely. But is it really lonely? Or am I lonely? And how can I teach myself to enjoy that feeling of being only with me? Of being alone? Am I really alone if I am here?
I suppose I'm never alone, as long as I'm always with me. And I never seem to leave, as much as I want to. Probably because I don't really want to. I like it here. With me.'
------------------------------
I realized that all my life I had always looked forward to the time I would be 25. In high school, even college, I always wanted to be 25. And I was there. I had made it. I also realized that I needed to sit back and enjoy the me I had created. So maybe that's where I also am now: two paradigms, two long-term and many short but sensational relationships later, about to embark on a new re-design of me. Sitting atop a tree of experience, of artistic and emotional work, of a new and brilliant sense of self. No attachments (except to my tree).
July 12, 2000
------------------------------
The sky is soaring,
High above the clouds.
My heart rests
Beside a pale moon.
I Stop,
Take a deep Breath
Of the Ocean,
Refill my lungs with Life,
Vibrant, fresh.
I look upon Myself
From the Treetops,
Wink and tip my Hat.
My crystal eyes Sparkle
From below.
My Soul is Smiling.
Early June, 2000
------------------------------
'Isn't it crazy how some things never change?
Here I am, two weeks shy of 25 years old, and I'm still drawing the same doodle-boy that I drew when I was 16. Sure, he looks a little different: different hair, different grin, different style of clothes. But still the same doodle.
Has my doodle gotten an wiser over 10 years? I know now from my 10 years of doodle experience where to start the line for the neck, the tuft for the hair, the lift of the ears. I know how to cover up my doodle mistakes. I still make them, of course. But are they less noticeable? Less careless? Less important?
My doodle is still a simple idea. It sill follows the same simple goals. Two googly eyes, a button nose, a long face.
No smile today.
Simple clothes and simple jeans.
No shoes today. To show off his cutsie toes.
Is my doodle me? Have I changed? Or am I the same? Following the same scratchy lines, matching the same ideals, wearing the same simple look on my face?
Each day a little different. A little less. A little more... doodley.'
------------------------------
This next "blog" references many of the girls and boys that I been in varying degrees of relationships with and how much I learned from them. I was completely unattached, as I am now. I was what Iyanla Vanzant would refer to as 'In the Meantime'. I was comfortable with that, but curious. I was reflective but diffident. I was about to embark on a cozy relationship with the Soccer Star, but I didn't know it. I was also about to find my passion in music, my Destiny, something I had longed for, also unknowingly. Maybe something I had longed for even more than love. For I always knew that somehow I would find love, perhaps even over and over. But Destiny? I doubted, at the time, that I could be so blessed. [I've added some notes and aliases to protect those who have not opted into a cyber presence].
July 3, 2000
------------------------------
'So I guess I have a lot to talk about -- more than I thought I did. A lot of huge things are happening - a paradigm - and I almost didn't notice. Its so funny how some things don't change. I still go into a super-hip coffee shop and feel like a dork. I'll probably never get it right.
Today's the kind of day where I need a haircut. Its a gorgeous day in Seattle. The air is moderately warm, the sky is gray. I left the house wearing a sweater, no hat, and sandles, braving the idea that there's a 50/50 chance of rain. The day is good: somber, mellow, the fresh scent of weed tickling my nostrils (along with my cat). Next door to the Still Life [an old cafe that is now closed] (where I exuded idiocy in front of a gorgeous girl with spiky-purple hair) they are building a condominium. Fremont is pissing patchouli. This hippie town was happier hiding in the hairy armpits of downtown, unnoticed. Things were good until they made the mistake of building the best parade in the city [the annual Solstice Parade]. Big business noticed this treasure and built a software shop across from the Natural Market -- then Seattle in the 21st Century was born. My favorite billboard, "You don't have to be a 23 year-old C.E.O. of a software company to buy a home". Yeah, right.
So I guess I have a lot to talk about (but I'm not saying any of it). I wonder if I could be the writer I always dreamed I could be. So many story's main characters are writers. That bores me.
So I'm thinking of dating a guy. There's some hotties here, pseudo-naturale-hiker-skater types. H-O-T. Too bad when I kiss them it feels numb.
I spent all weekend with the Soccer Star and I really liked it. We are reaching the "I really like to hang out with you so I must be attracted to you" stage. She's cute as shit. But I feel like dating her would be pushing me into a 'Type B' relationship. I've had them before: My Harmless High School boyfriend, the Adorable Irish Boy, the Bionic Chic. Secure. Charming. Passionless. This is the type of relationship I imagine having if you out-live the love of your life. Many people get into relationships like these, marry, and are moderately happy. But they don't grow.
The fear is that people [i.e. me!] are afraid that there won't be more. Like that relationship is the last chance. If I give up this Type B relationship, will I ever get the chance for a Type A relationship again? And, if I take the Type B relationship, will I be giving up the Type A relationship forever? I guess the real question (or the real challenge) is, Will there always be an inevitable Type A? Or is there only one Type A ever? I've already proven that wrong, as my First Love was a definite Type A [meaning I'd already had one Type A relationship and knew there would be more to follow especially since my First Love was not a woman].
Type A relationship -- True Love. You know, one of those people floating around the world whose soul's are connected, in love, with yours. Before you ever meet (if you ever meet), you are automatically connected, soul to soul, in life (and possibly death) and even more possibly, life again.
Bionic Chic said something interesting about our connection. She said she felt we were old soul mates, like we were together in the past and no longer need each other, at least in this life. Its funny to think that I was dreaming of my first sex [with a woman] on the bus going to softball games (and tennis matches) and she was right there, sitting less than 10 feet away from me [it didn't happen until 6 years later]. How amazing that our souls follow each other so closely.
I run into The Climber frequently [a short-lived but passionate fling]. I always look for her, though I know I shouldn't. Last Tuesday I got off the bus one stop early, honestly to save time waiting for an eternal red light. There she was, boyish and beautiful, smiling at me with crystal green eyes. I haven't seen her since. We had shared a few short moments of romantic bliss. I hold tightly to the sensation of her frail body leaning against mine, listening to Natalie Merchant, feeling the loud beating of my heart, fully-fullfilled. I had given The Teacher [a romantic but toilsome relationship] Natalie Merchant, to help her live life. I gave her 'Live is Sweet'. I wanted her to know this feeling [my bad habit of projecting, as I'm completely ignoring the fact that I learned it, too]. She does. She did. She learned. She found beauty. And now she no longer needs me. So I left.
I told The Climber that I was tired of always being the one to teach people shit. I told her this as I handed her "The Celestine Prophesy" and gave her positive words to help her find her path. I did so selfishly, secretly wanting her path to lead to me. That wasn't true for everyone. I knew most of their paths were not towards me. I hoped as much. Maybe I manipulated them in an opposite direction. Maybe I led the the wrong way. But I don't think so.
I handed The Climber that book, knowing it may be the last thing she needs from me before moving on. I may never run into her on the street again. I may never see her smiling secretly at me again. I need to let go so it doesn't hurt anymore. If I let go, I can continue to the next phase - mine. Building me. Learning about me. Living with me. When people ask me about how I like living by myself, I tell them that its lonely. But is it really lonely? Or am I lonely? And how can I teach myself to enjoy that feeling of being only with me? Of being alone? Am I really alone if I am here?
I suppose I'm never alone, as long as I'm always with me. And I never seem to leave, as much as I want to. Probably because I don't really want to. I like it here. With me.'
------------------------------
I realized that all my life I had always looked forward to the time I would be 25. In high school, even college, I always wanted to be 25. And I was there. I had made it. I also realized that I needed to sit back and enjoy the me I had created. So maybe that's where I also am now: two paradigms, two long-term and many short but sensational relationships later, about to embark on a new re-design of me. Sitting atop a tree of experience, of artistic and emotional work, of a new and brilliant sense of self. No attachments (except to my tree).
July 12, 2000
------------------------------
The sky is soaring,
High above the clouds.
My heart rests
Beside a pale moon.
I Stop,
Take a deep Breath
Of the Ocean,
Refill my lungs with Life,
Vibrant, fresh.
I look upon Myself
From the Treetops,
Wink and tip my Hat.
My crystal eyes Sparkle
From below.
My Soul is Smiling.
Friday, March 14, 2008
10 Things I Hate About Me
Expectational
Manipulative
Self-Sacrificing
Projectory
Make Assumptions
Judgmental
Passive Aggressive (Indirect)
Controlling
Dishonest (especially with myself)
Bad Breath Between my Teeth
Don't worry, I'm not hating myself. I'm loving myself, all parts of me. Even the ones that I don't want. That's why I'm writing this, because in order to get rid of these traits, I must first know about them. Willingness to reach inside of yourself and pull up the garbage takes incredible strength and character and I know that. But man, its tough, TOUGH to see the dark parts of yourself. A friend - and healer - gave me a book to read that has been monumental in finding traits that I want to distinguish and cycles that I indulge in that cause them to surface. Its called In the Meantime by Iyanla Vanzant and I recommend it like I recommend The Four Agreements.
Cycles. They're like riding a bike. After nearly four years of being in a relationship, the minute I become single again, I fall back into the cycles I had back when I was 28. But I'm very different than I was back then, and those behaviors no longer represent who I am today. They don't fit. Wait, don't get me wrong, the 10 Things I Hate About Me do fit. Its the behaviors that revolve around them that are unbecoming. As I watch myself perform them, I feel appalled, embarrassed, ashamed.
But I can't take all the credit for the 10 Things. Its learned. Not entirely from my parents, but much.
You spend your 20's undoing all the things your parents did to you.
You spend your 30's undoing all the things their parents did to them.
My childhood was amazing and I'm blessed with three parents who love and support me no matter what. And they broke cycles, many cycles, just like I'm breaking the cycles that they didn't know about and that I picked up from others along the way. And despite standing just above a water of depression and indulging in an increased desire to drink, I realize that the time that comes just after ending a long-term relationship is a blessing. And being single is a blessing, just like being in a relationship is a blessing. Because its the best time to open the blinds to your own self and start the process of throwing away those things that you no longer need.
Some things are easy to get rid of (flossing more would greatly benefit my morning breath). Some things, like being dishonest with myself, are harder to see. I think of two more things The Healer told me.
One is that there are 4 levels of change.
Level 1: You don't know that you have something you want to change.
Level 2: You know you have something you want to change, but can't see when you are doing it. Level 3: You know you have something you want to change, can see when you are doing it, but you can't stop yourself from doing it.
Level 4: You know you have something you want to change, you see yourself doing it and you make the CHOICE not to do it. So much about cycles is understanding when you have the choice and then exercising it.
The second thing The Healer said that I hear in my mind almost weekly is 'Show compassion for yourself'. I am learning, growing, feeling. I'm am human, flawed, but I'm open and willing and I must give myself room to grow and the support I need to work through it. And so, its not 10 Things I Hate About Me, its 10 Things I Have About Me that I no longer have the desire to keep.
Manipulative
Self-Sacrificing
Projectory
Make Assumptions
Judgmental
Passive Aggressive (Indirect)
Controlling
Dishonest (especially with myself)
Bad Breath Between my Teeth
Don't worry, I'm not hating myself. I'm loving myself, all parts of me. Even the ones that I don't want. That's why I'm writing this, because in order to get rid of these traits, I must first know about them. Willingness to reach inside of yourself and pull up the garbage takes incredible strength and character and I know that. But man, its tough, TOUGH to see the dark parts of yourself. A friend - and healer - gave me a book to read that has been monumental in finding traits that I want to distinguish and cycles that I indulge in that cause them to surface. Its called In the Meantime by Iyanla Vanzant and I recommend it like I recommend The Four Agreements.
Cycles. They're like riding a bike. After nearly four years of being in a relationship, the minute I become single again, I fall back into the cycles I had back when I was 28. But I'm very different than I was back then, and those behaviors no longer represent who I am today. They don't fit. Wait, don't get me wrong, the 10 Things I Hate About Me do fit. Its the behaviors that revolve around them that are unbecoming. As I watch myself perform them, I feel appalled, embarrassed, ashamed.
But I can't take all the credit for the 10 Things. Its learned. Not entirely from my parents, but much.
You spend your 20's undoing all the things your parents did to you.
You spend your 30's undoing all the things their parents did to them.
My childhood was amazing and I'm blessed with three parents who love and support me no matter what. And they broke cycles, many cycles, just like I'm breaking the cycles that they didn't know about and that I picked up from others along the way. And despite standing just above a water of depression and indulging in an increased desire to drink, I realize that the time that comes just after ending a long-term relationship is a blessing. And being single is a blessing, just like being in a relationship is a blessing. Because its the best time to open the blinds to your own self and start the process of throwing away those things that you no longer need.
Some things are easy to get rid of (flossing more would greatly benefit my morning breath). Some things, like being dishonest with myself, are harder to see. I think of two more things The Healer told me.
One is that there are 4 levels of change.
Level 1: You don't know that you have something you want to change.
Level 2: You know you have something you want to change, but can't see when you are doing it. Level 3: You know you have something you want to change, can see when you are doing it, but you can't stop yourself from doing it.
Level 4: You know you have something you want to change, you see yourself doing it and you make the CHOICE not to do it. So much about cycles is understanding when you have the choice and then exercising it.
The second thing The Healer said that I hear in my mind almost weekly is 'Show compassion for yourself'. I am learning, growing, feeling. I'm am human, flawed, but I'm open and willing and I must give myself room to grow and the support I need to work through it. And so, its not 10 Things I Hate About Me, its 10 Things I Have About Me that I no longer have the desire to keep.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
MeTube
There was a camera crew at SeeSound Lounge last Friday when I opened for DJ Colette. Check out some footage on YouTube posted by undrgrdwmn!
Part I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtGloo5OHko
Part II
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDcUKY9djyw
And, on Saturday, March 15th, come down to the ReGroove.A.Nation afterparty @ Year of the Monkey where I'll be serving up yummy drinks at the Elixir bar with the famous flight attendants.
ReGroove.A.Nation afterhours @ Year of the Monkey
This year Innerflight is going down to Burningman with a mission! This
will be the first of several fundraiser events for camp ReGroove.A.Nation!!
Special musical guest...
PHILLIP WESTERN [live] The Record Company/philwestern.net
Local heroes...
MICHAEL MANAHAN
NORDIC SOUL
KRISTINA CHILDS
KADEEJAH STREETS
J-SUN
MANOS
&
NIGHT TRAIN
Hosted by...
MC ANTON BOMB
Live painting by...
MICHAEL BRINKER
Photography by...
THERESA COLLINS
Nourishing liquid refreshment provided by...
The REGROOVE.A.NATION elixir bar!
A non-alcoholic elixir bar providing nourishing, delicious beverages
to regroovenate the body. Served to you by our fabulous Flight
Attendants!
Mackie sound by...
Innerflight & Luvshack
Coordinates: Year of the Monkey - 2917 1st Ave S
1am - Sometime Sunday morning
21+ $10
More info: http://www.nwtekno.org/vb/showthread.php?threadid=123615
Part I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtGloo5OHko
Part II
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDcUKY9djyw
And, on Saturday, March 15th, come down to the ReGroove.A.Nation afterparty @ Year of the Monkey where I'll be serving up yummy drinks at the Elixir bar with the famous flight attendants.
ReGroove.A.Nation afterhours @ Year of the Monkey
This year Innerflight is going down to Burningman with a mission! This
will be the first of several fundraiser events for camp ReGroove.A.Nation!!
Special musical guest...
PHILLIP WESTERN [live] The Record Company/philwestern.net
Local heroes...
MICHAEL MANAHAN
NORDIC SOUL
KRISTINA CHILDS
KADEEJAH STREETS
J-SUN
MANOS
&
NIGHT TRAIN
Hosted by...
MC ANTON BOMB
Live painting by...
MICHAEL BRINKER
Photography by...
THERESA COLLINS
Nourishing liquid refreshment provided by...
The REGROOVE.A.NATION elixir bar!
A non-alcoholic elixir bar providing nourishing, delicious beverages
to regroovenate the body. Served to you by our fabulous Flight
Attendants!
Mackie sound by...
Innerflight & Luvshack
Coordinates: Year of the Monkey - 2917 1st Ave S
1am - Sometime Sunday morning
21+ $10
More info: http://www.nwtekno.org/vb/showthread.php?threadid=123615
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
NEXT GIGs: Who's up for a threesome?
Wed March 5 @ Qool Seattle
5pm-2am this is a Happy Hour Night
Ramiro - Uniting Souls - Seattle
Esnce - Rockstar Orphans, Qöol - Portland
Marble - Marble Productions - Seattle/Spokane
Jeremy J - EZ Crew Prod. - Portland
PLUS QOOL RESIDENTS
NYX - Breakbeat Ninjaz, Qöol
Jen Woolfe - Leschi Lounge, Dreemworld, Qöol
Adlib - P.O.E., Monkey Do!, Qöol
21+ / No cover!!!
$3 microbrews / $4 stolli drinks / $5 food menu
115 Blanchard St. in Belltown!
Thur March 6 @ LSC
This is a Breakbeats night!
Vize
OK Dave!
OK Party!
Nyx
Breakbeat Ninjas
Adlib
B2B
Jen Woolfe
FREE!!!
Last Supper Club is located at
124 S Washington St.
Seattle WA
Fri March 7 @ SeeSound Lounge
This is a House Night!
See Sound Lounge and uniting Souls Presents
DJ COLETTE
Jen Woolfe
Purchase your tickets at clubzone.com to get in at the VIP price
SeeSound Lounge
115 Blanchard
Seattle, WA
Colette with be my LAST gig before I head out of town for a month!!
5pm-2am this is a Happy Hour Night
Ramiro - Uniting Souls - Seattle
Esnce - Rockstar Orphans, Qöol - Portland
Marble - Marble Productions - Seattle/Spokane
Jeremy J - EZ Crew Prod. - Portland
PLUS QOOL RESIDENTS
NYX - Breakbeat Ninjaz, Qöol
Jen Woolfe - Leschi Lounge, Dreemworld, Qöol
Adlib - P.O.E., Monkey Do!, Qöol
21+ / No cover!!!
$3 microbrews / $4 stolli drinks / $5 food menu
115 Blanchard St. in Belltown!
Thur March 6 @ LSC
This is a Breakbeats night!
Vize
OK Dave!
OK Party!
Nyx
Breakbeat Ninjas
Adlib
B2B
Jen Woolfe
FREE!!!
Last Supper Club is located at
124 S Washington St.
Seattle WA
Fri March 7 @ SeeSound Lounge
This is a House Night!
See Sound Lounge and uniting Souls Presents
DJ COLETTE
Jen Woolfe
Purchase your tickets at clubzone.com to get in at the VIP price
SeeSound Lounge
115 Blanchard
Seattle, WA
Colette with be my LAST gig before I head out of town for a month!!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
The Hippie-Yuppie Showdown
My hippie and my yuppie sides are at war. Its a gift to be able to see all possibilities and yet a struggle to decide which I most desire. I see for me two interesting alternate realities for my next year.
One, continue with contract work and find a place to live with friends to keep my monthly bills low. The advantage of this is that I get to be a yuppie for 1-3 months and work the full time lifestyle, with money and no time, then I get to be a hippie/artist for 1-3 months where I have time and no money. In that time, I can write, make music, travel, sit at coffee shops, sleep in. This is the pattern I've practiced for the last 3 years.
Two, take a full time job and live in a kick ass-pad at a higher cost per month. Buy what I want when I want and travel only in the designated time period. This option is really pulling me today. The problem is, once I start a full-time job, learning to produce music is nearly impossible. But what I've come to recently is that this fact may not be because I'm working a full time job. It may actually be due to my incredibly full social schedule, which I maintain because I most enjoy the company of others 1-on-1. So if I were to release that social schedule (aka ground myself from my friends), would I be more inspired to hunker down and learn the skills that I most need in order to propel myself forward as a DJ? Of course I need to let myself out every once in a while. So the analyst's brain is configuring this reality: (Here's where the kick-ass pad comes in) if I'm gonna ground myself, I need to want to be there more than anywhere else. And if I have a kick-ass pad, then I might as well have some people over on the 1 night a week I'm not grounded. See where I'm going with this? The thought came to me and I haven't been able to shake it. Of course, the Global Underground mix blasting in my ear is only making me more anxious.
Lets face it, this city is changing. And you know, I kinda like it. Today I saw a couple walking their months-old baby in a stroller down Broadway, coffee cups in hand. Seattle is becoming a more urban city. People are moving here, into the city. I've met 8 people who have moved here from New York in the past 2 years. There is a reason for that -- Seattle rocks. I used to think one couldn't make it as a DJ here because people didn't go out and thus did not support the clubs. But that changes each time another condo building is constructed from an alleyway or another fancy bar takes over a tavern. The yuppie in me is stoked. That's the part that wants to chill from moving forward for a while -- always reaching to the next goal, never sitting still -- and hang out, watch the city grow. I have great local gigs, amazing local friends and an opportunity to live an urban chic lifestyle for as much or as little time as I want. I worked hard to get where I'm at, as a Linux chic and as a DJ. Why not sit back and enjoy?
Of course its possible that my desire to sit still is overwhelming me because in 1 month I will begin the 3-month journey to which I am referring as my 'West Coast Tour'. I started manifesting this over a year ago when I told my employers that I would be quitting in June to travel up and down the coast of CA making contacts and playing gigs. My plans changed a bit when I was laid off in January, realized the opportunity to begin learning production and discovered contracting. But after my recent release from girlfriend duties and some old travel plans coming together, I'm now about to embark on said tour. I'm still working out gigs, but the dates are getting pretty rock solid. Here's the itinerary:
March 15 (Homeless)
March 20 SF (DJ @ Annie's Social Club March 20)
March 20-23 Tahoe
March 23-28 SF
March 28-Apr 2 LA
April 2-7 Palm Springs for Dinah Shore
April 7-24 Vegas
April 24-27 Palm Springs for Coachella
Apr 27 - May 1 Seattle
May 2 Seattle (DJ @ Noc Noc)
May 3-4 Idaho Falls (DJ @ TBD)
May 8 Seattle (DJ @ Qool Seattle)
May 14-June4 Hawaii Big Island (Regional Burn)
June 4-7 Maui (Nick and Melissa's Wedding)
June 7 Seattle (DJ @ Qool Seattle)
June 15 My Birthday
June 20th-22 Boise (DJ @ Esthetic Evolution)
July 1 Move into sexy new space in Seattle
Can it get better then that?!? Yes, it can, but the question is -- am I ready? Or do I want to apply the breaks and check out the local scenery for a while?
As I near the end of my current I.T. contract, I'm homeless and have money in the bank. I'm at ground zero, ready to start anew. This is a dangerous situation, as it makes me think anything is possible. And the reality is, of course, anything IS possible. All I have to do is choose.
One, continue with contract work and find a place to live with friends to keep my monthly bills low. The advantage of this is that I get to be a yuppie for 1-3 months and work the full time lifestyle, with money and no time, then I get to be a hippie/artist for 1-3 months where I have time and no money. In that time, I can write, make music, travel, sit at coffee shops, sleep in. This is the pattern I've practiced for the last 3 years.
Two, take a full time job and live in a kick ass-pad at a higher cost per month. Buy what I want when I want and travel only in the designated time period. This option is really pulling me today. The problem is, once I start a full-time job, learning to produce music is nearly impossible. But what I've come to recently is that this fact may not be because I'm working a full time job. It may actually be due to my incredibly full social schedule, which I maintain because I most enjoy the company of others 1-on-1. So if I were to release that social schedule (aka ground myself from my friends), would I be more inspired to hunker down and learn the skills that I most need in order to propel myself forward as a DJ? Of course I need to let myself out every once in a while. So the analyst's brain is configuring this reality: (Here's where the kick-ass pad comes in) if I'm gonna ground myself, I need to want to be there more than anywhere else. And if I have a kick-ass pad, then I might as well have some people over on the 1 night a week I'm not grounded. See where I'm going with this? The thought came to me and I haven't been able to shake it. Of course, the Global Underground mix blasting in my ear is only making me more anxious.
Lets face it, this city is changing. And you know, I kinda like it. Today I saw a couple walking their months-old baby in a stroller down Broadway, coffee cups in hand. Seattle is becoming a more urban city. People are moving here, into the city. I've met 8 people who have moved here from New York in the past 2 years. There is a reason for that -- Seattle rocks. I used to think one couldn't make it as a DJ here because people didn't go out and thus did not support the clubs. But that changes each time another condo building is constructed from an alleyway or another fancy bar takes over a tavern. The yuppie in me is stoked. That's the part that wants to chill from moving forward for a while -- always reaching to the next goal, never sitting still -- and hang out, watch the city grow. I have great local gigs, amazing local friends and an opportunity to live an urban chic lifestyle for as much or as little time as I want. I worked hard to get where I'm at, as a Linux chic and as a DJ. Why not sit back and enjoy?
Of course its possible that my desire to sit still is overwhelming me because in 1 month I will begin the 3-month journey to which I am referring as my 'West Coast Tour'. I started manifesting this over a year ago when I told my employers that I would be quitting in June to travel up and down the coast of CA making contacts and playing gigs. My plans changed a bit when I was laid off in January, realized the opportunity to begin learning production and discovered contracting. But after my recent release from girlfriend duties and some old travel plans coming together, I'm now about to embark on said tour. I'm still working out gigs, but the dates are getting pretty rock solid. Here's the itinerary:
March 15 (Homeless)
March 20 SF (DJ @ Annie's Social Club March 20)
March 20-23 Tahoe
March 23-28 SF
March 28-Apr 2 LA
April 2-7 Palm Springs for Dinah Shore
April 7-24 Vegas
April 24-27 Palm Springs for Coachella
Apr 27 - May 1 Seattle
May 2 Seattle (DJ @ Noc Noc)
May 3-4 Idaho Falls (DJ @ TBD)
May 8 Seattle (DJ @ Qool Seattle)
May 14-June4 Hawaii Big Island (Regional Burn)
June 4-7 Maui (Nick and Melissa's Wedding)
June 7 Seattle (DJ @ Qool Seattle)
June 15 My Birthday
June 20th-22 Boise (DJ @ Esthetic Evolution)
July 1 Move into sexy new space in Seattle
Can it get better then that?!? Yes, it can, but the question is -- am I ready? Or do I want to apply the breaks and check out the local scenery for a while?
As I near the end of my current I.T. contract, I'm homeless and have money in the bank. I'm at ground zero, ready to start anew. This is a dangerous situation, as it makes me think anything is possible. And the reality is, of course, anything IS possible. All I have to do is choose.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
NEXT GIG: Thur @ Buddha Belltown
"STAY TUNED THURSDAYS"
JEN WOOLFE, JULES V & DJ SKIDDLE
Thursday February 21, 2008
10:00pm - 2:00am
Location: Buddha Belltown
2222. 2nd Ave. between Bell and Blanchard
No Cover!
JEN WOOLFE, JULES V & DJ SKIDDLE
Thursday February 21, 2008
10:00pm - 2:00am
Location: Buddha Belltown
2222. 2nd Ave. between Bell and Blanchard
No Cover!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
NEXT GIG: Allure ~ Sat Feb 16
I'm happy have a chance to introduce you all to the Diva behind my Doo, Miss Michelle Norman, long-time friend and Hair Stylist extraodinaire. Last year her and her biz partner Theresa opened their own salon on 1st and Broad in Belltown. This Saturday, stop by to say hello at their anniversary party while I put down some eclectic beats.
February 16th 7pm
Allure Salon 1 year anniversary party
7pm-11pm
2915 1st Avenue
On the corner of First and Broad
Phone: (206) 441- 4500
Email: Salon@AllureSeattle.com
February 16th 7pm
Allure Salon 1 year anniversary party
7pm-11pm
2915 1st Avenue
On the corner of First and Broad
Phone: (206) 441- 4500
Email: Salon@AllureSeattle.com
Monday, February 11, 2008
Gettin' Lovin' at the Leschi
I'm up way past my bedtime, but I finally feel like writing. At the last blog I left you with some good and bad news. Well, Be and I are both doing well. We both know that we are in the right place and we must be free of our relationship so we can continue on our own paths. I've moved out of our 'studio' and back into the Leschi Lounge. In fact, I was living in the glow room until yesterday when Mel headed off to Hawaii for 4 weeks. So now Willow and I are on plant patrol, as I accidentally inherited her theatre room and view of Mount Raineer.
It feels good to be back. After my last long-term relationship breakup, I thought I had to do everything myself -- move into a place where I didn't know anyone, be strong, that sort of thing. This time I was like 'screw that! I'm moving in with my friends'. And they've been nurturing me and keeping me busy. In fact, I've been hanging out with friends that I haven't seen in years -- not in a one-on-one sitch anyway. Mathew pointed out during our dinner at Galeria's that we hadn't spent time alone together since we were at Burning Man -- that was in 2002! I guess when you get into relationships, you get into the habit of leaning on your partner for everything and forget that your friends' shoulders and sturdy, soft and warm. I've met so many amazing people in the last 4 years, its too hard to spend the time with everyone that I want to. I'm much better in one-on-one situations or in dinner groups of less than 5. But I tend to see people in a blur at a gig or a party. I get a few sentences with them and then woosh, off to someone else. There's just so many artisians in Seattle and I find them all so brilliant. We are blessed.
I was at Trader Joe's the other day and I ran into Jessica Star. Which isn't a common occurance because she lives in Vancouver. But fate has it that her and Jenna were grabbing some groceries at the same time I was in the same place. I was such in a zone that I only said hi for a minute and then spent the next 20 minutes feeling sad that I didn't get to connect with Jessica because I always promise to go to Vancouver and never do. And I've missed the last 3 (or 4?) events that Jenna has so graciously invited me to. But after a while I realized that if that moment happens again in time, I'll give each of them an extra long hug that says everything that I feel about what they mean to me.
So this last weekend I was hit with that nasty head cold. I woke up at 9am Sat morning, ate breakfast and headed right back to bed until 4pm. Then I slept 12 hours Sat and Sunday nights (which is why I should be in bed right now). The cold was actually a good thing because it really helped me ground over the weekend and I didn't miss any work. Last weekend was pretty busy with the start of Qool Seattle on Wednesday and Broken Disco on Friday night. I have another one next Saturday at Allure Salon , which is where I get my hair all pretty-fied. I know you've been wondering. Michelle is a friend of mine from college is an amazing stylist. Sat is a celebration of the 1 year anniversary of her Salon. I'll be dj'ing some way eclectic stuff, so come by and meet the diva behind the doo.
Oh, and an update on Evolve. The Sole Repair Shop (aka that gorgeous Loft space) is a great spot, but DJ Joy and I felt our energies would be more productive if we concentrated them on our other respective monthlies. So Joy is rolling the concept of Evolve into her night at Dollhouse and I will concentrate on helping make Qool Seattle a smashing happy hour success. So starting this Saturday at Lo-Fi (Feb 16th) there's house and electro with all the great lady DJs that you would see at Evolve in the front and hip hop with other great lady dj's, like Rickie Leigh, in the rear . Come visit me at Allure to get some drink on and then head over to Lo-Fi to see the newest lady dj sensation, Res, a Florida transplant. You can check out her newest mix on her blog .
Off to bed, finally, so I can kick this cold and start the fun again.
It feels good to be back. After my last long-term relationship breakup, I thought I had to do everything myself -- move into a place where I didn't know anyone, be strong, that sort of thing. This time I was like 'screw that! I'm moving in with my friends'. And they've been nurturing me and keeping me busy. In fact, I've been hanging out with friends that I haven't seen in years -- not in a one-on-one sitch anyway. Mathew pointed out during our dinner at Galeria's that we hadn't spent time alone together since we were at Burning Man -- that was in 2002! I guess when you get into relationships, you get into the habit of leaning on your partner for everything and forget that your friends' shoulders and sturdy, soft and warm. I've met so many amazing people in the last 4 years, its too hard to spend the time with everyone that I want to. I'm much better in one-on-one situations or in dinner groups of less than 5. But I tend to see people in a blur at a gig or a party. I get a few sentences with them and then woosh, off to someone else. There's just so many artisians in Seattle and I find them all so brilliant. We are blessed.
I was at Trader Joe's the other day and I ran into Jessica Star. Which isn't a common occurance because she lives in Vancouver. But fate has it that her and Jenna were grabbing some groceries at the same time I was in the same place. I was such in a zone that I only said hi for a minute and then spent the next 20 minutes feeling sad that I didn't get to connect with Jessica because I always promise to go to Vancouver and never do. And I've missed the last 3 (or 4?) events that Jenna has so graciously invited me to. But after a while I realized that if that moment happens again in time, I'll give each of them an extra long hug that says everything that I feel about what they mean to me.
So this last weekend I was hit with that nasty head cold. I woke up at 9am Sat morning, ate breakfast and headed right back to bed until 4pm. Then I slept 12 hours Sat and Sunday nights (which is why I should be in bed right now). The cold was actually a good thing because it really helped me ground over the weekend and I didn't miss any work. Last weekend was pretty busy with the start of Qool Seattle on Wednesday and Broken Disco on Friday night. I have another one next Saturday at Allure Salon , which is where I get my hair all pretty-fied. I know you've been wondering. Michelle is a friend of mine from college is an amazing stylist. Sat is a celebration of the 1 year anniversary of her Salon. I'll be dj'ing some way eclectic stuff, so come by and meet the diva behind the doo.
Oh, and an update on Evolve. The Sole Repair Shop (aka that gorgeous Loft space) is a great spot, but DJ Joy and I felt our energies would be more productive if we concentrated them on our other respective monthlies. So Joy is rolling the concept of Evolve into her night at Dollhouse and I will concentrate on helping make Qool Seattle a smashing happy hour success. So starting this Saturday at Lo-Fi (Feb 16th) there's house and electro with all the great lady DJs that you would see at Evolve in the front and hip hop with other great lady dj's, like Rickie Leigh, in the rear . Come visit me at Allure to get some drink on and then head over to Lo-Fi to see the newest lady dj sensation, Res, a Florida transplant. You can check out her newest mix on her blog .
Off to bed, finally, so I can kick this cold and start the fun again.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
NEXT GIGs: Evolve into Qool Broken Disco!!
wow. The first week of Feb is INCREDIBLE!!
Wed Feb 7 @ SeeSound
Qoöl Seattle Launch Party @ SeeSound
Come check out the 9 resident Qool DJs:
DJ MESSIAH
ADLIB
JEN WOOLFE
3MOTIONZ
KREEPER
NYX
HYPH-EN
TUZAAR
B.FLY
and special guest Danger!
SeeSound Lounge
5pm-2am
No Cover
Fri Feb 8 Broken Disco @ Chop Suey
ABE DUQUE + BRIAN ZENTZ and more!!
IDOL STAGE:
ABE DUQUE--live (Gigolo, Novamute, Abe Duque records-NYC))
BRIAN ZENTZ--dj set (CMYK music, Audio Circle-PDX)
KRIS MOON--live! (Laptop battle/Decibel-SEA)
DJ EDDIE--dj set (Evironmental Structures-SEA)
sound in main room by FUNKTION ONE
visuals by KILLING FRENZY
MAKEOUT LOUNGE--21+
SEAN MAJORS--dj set (Lost Boys-SEA)
JEN WOOLFE--dj set (Lecshi Lounge-SEA)
BROKEN DISCONAUTS--dj set (Broken Disco-=SEA)
Chop Suey
9p doors
18+ (bar w/ id 21+ in lounge)
$12adv
Wed Feb 7 @ SeeSound
Qoöl Seattle Launch Party @ SeeSound
Come check out the 9 resident Qool DJs:
DJ MESSIAH
ADLIB
JEN WOOLFE
3MOTIONZ
KREEPER
NYX
HYPH-EN
TUZAAR
B.FLY
and special guest Danger!
SeeSound Lounge
5pm-2am
No Cover
Fri Feb 8 Broken Disco @ Chop Suey
ABE DUQUE + BRIAN ZENTZ and more!!
IDOL STAGE:
ABE DUQUE--live (Gigolo, Novamute, Abe Duque records-NYC))
BRIAN ZENTZ--dj set (CMYK music, Audio Circle-PDX)
KRIS MOON--live! (Laptop battle/Decibel-SEA)
DJ EDDIE--dj set (Evironmental Structures-SEA)
sound in main room by FUNKTION ONE
visuals by KILLING FRENZY
MAKEOUT LOUNGE--21+
SEAN MAJORS--dj set (Lost Boys-SEA)
JEN WOOLFE--dj set (Lecshi Lounge-SEA)
BROKEN DISCONAUTS--dj set (Broken Disco-=SEA)
Chop Suey
9p doors
18+ (bar w/ id 21+ in lounge)
$12adv
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
NEXT GIG: Sat Jan 26 @ Dollhouse
Dollhouse @ Lo-Fi
Jen Woolfe (Qool Seattle)
Rickie Leigh (myspace/rickieleigh)
DJ JOY (Dollhouse)
2 Rooms of music with 2 Full Bars
$5
Lo-Fi
9pm 21+
429B Eastlake ave e.
Next to the lobo saloon crossing republican two blocks north of REI
Jen Woolfe (Qool Seattle)
Rickie Leigh (myspace/rickieleigh)
DJ JOY (Dollhouse)
2 Rooms of music with 2 Full Bars
$5
Lo-Fi
9pm 21+
429B Eastlake ave e.
Next to the lobo saloon crossing republican two blocks north of REI
Friday, January 18, 2008
Now Open
It feels like I start a new life over every few months. I can only assume that I am charging ever faster forward in my evolution because I have places to go, people to see, music to make and loving to lavish.
In September I finally found my path to producing music. I thought I was going into a music program, but realized that the Shoreline program was too outside the scope of what I want to learn. I decided to teach myself through my own curriculum. All I needed to do was find myself some time. So I dove back into working in I.T., but this time I figured out I can do contract work. A few months on, a few months off. Time to travel, to write, to sculpt music. I'm on my second contract. Funny thing, I'm currently contracting at the same company that Dave Pezzner of Jacob London just 'retired' from. He left to do music full time. Coincidence? Never.
I also started two monthlies. One is at SeeSound Lounge the first Wednesday of every month. Through the hard work and persistence of DJ Messiah, our weekly happy hour has officially been picked up as Qoöl Seattle. 'Qoöl is the original clubbing happy hour in SF, if not the world. Every Wednesday evening, starting at 5pm, Jondi & Spesh host a five hour club night at 111 Minna in San Francisco.' Qoöl has now been expanded to a special happy hour Wednesday in LA, Portland and, now, Seattle. Adlib and I are the official residents of the first Wednesdays of every month. I feel very honored to be part of this amazing West-coast team. The second monthly is at another space with new beginnings called the Sole Repair Shop. Its a beautiful loft in the heart of Capital Hill. This night, on the second Saturday of every month, hosts a power team of DJs including JOY, Venus and Amateur Youth plus many special guests. And I'm hard at work at getting live performances into the mix, as you know I love to do! We call it Evolve. Fitting.
But the third new beginning is not so pleasant. After nearly 4 years, Be and I have decided to part romantic ways. I'm heartbroken, devastated, angry, serene, relieved, hopeful, freed, forgiving, forgotten, complete. I am truth. I'm seeing past mistakes and stopping them at the gate. I'm loving, learning, listening, closed, shut down, selective. I'm searching for myself inside a vest of littered leaves. I'm alone, empty, abrupt, enraged, relinquished. I am all those things in any given moment. And I have only just begun my revolution in Self. Release.
I saw a sign in a window today, neon red. Its a message for me, a way to be. I took a photo and placed it on the wallpaper of my phone, so I will remember during these times of tribulation.
Now Open.
In September I finally found my path to producing music. I thought I was going into a music program, but realized that the Shoreline program was too outside the scope of what I want to learn. I decided to teach myself through my own curriculum. All I needed to do was find myself some time. So I dove back into working in I.T., but this time I figured out I can do contract work. A few months on, a few months off. Time to travel, to write, to sculpt music. I'm on my second contract. Funny thing, I'm currently contracting at the same company that Dave Pezzner of Jacob London just 'retired' from. He left to do music full time. Coincidence? Never.
I also started two monthlies. One is at SeeSound Lounge the first Wednesday of every month. Through the hard work and persistence of DJ Messiah, our weekly happy hour has officially been picked up as Qoöl Seattle. 'Qoöl is the original clubbing happy hour in SF, if not the world. Every Wednesday evening, starting at 5pm, Jondi & Spesh host a five hour club night at 111 Minna in San Francisco.' Qoöl has now been expanded to a special happy hour Wednesday in LA, Portland and, now, Seattle. Adlib and I are the official residents of the first Wednesdays of every month. I feel very honored to be part of this amazing West-coast team. The second monthly is at another space with new beginnings called the Sole Repair Shop. Its a beautiful loft in the heart of Capital Hill. This night, on the second Saturday of every month, hosts a power team of DJs including JOY, Venus and Amateur Youth plus many special guests. And I'm hard at work at getting live performances into the mix, as you know I love to do! We call it Evolve. Fitting.
But the third new beginning is not so pleasant. After nearly 4 years, Be and I have decided to part romantic ways. I'm heartbroken, devastated, angry, serene, relieved, hopeful, freed, forgiving, forgotten, complete. I am truth. I'm seeing past mistakes and stopping them at the gate. I'm loving, learning, listening, closed, shut down, selective. I'm searching for myself inside a vest of littered leaves. I'm alone, empty, abrupt, enraged, relinquished. I am all those things in any given moment. And I have only just begun my revolution in Self. Release.
I saw a sign in a window today, neon red. Its a message for me, a way to be. I took a photo and placed it on the wallpaper of my phone, so I will remember during these times of tribulation.
Now Open.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
NEXT GIG: Re:Orient @ Hengst
Sat January 19th @ Hengst Studios
P.O.E.'s first major Seattle event will be a two room, community-based dance music experience, re-orienting the Northwest back where it belongs... underground.
Re:Orient will bring together some of the brightest and most dedicated performers from the PDX and SEA music scenes. It will provide a fully immersive themed environment, designed to take attendees on a journey into sound.
That journey, much like the ground itself, will be deep, dark and dirty.
IN THE 4 ON THE FLOOR ROOM
9:00-10:30 = Manos
10:30-12:00 = Jen Woolfe
12:00-1:30 = Michael Manahan
1:30-3:00 = Deafchild
3:00-4:30 = Recess and Kadeejah Streets
4:30-6:00 = Adlib (that's me) and Cory Ley
IN THE BREAKS AND BEATS ROOM
9:00-10:30 = Esnce
10:30-12:00 = Kreeper
12:00-1:30 = Electrokid
1:30-3:00 = Suff-X - LIVE
AT 3:00, THE ROOM SWITCHES TO AMBIENT/DOWNTEMPO AND IDM/BEATS
3:00-4:30 = Gel-Sol - LIVE
4:30-6:00 = Menami
VISUALS BY:
Pixelflip - LAX
SOUND BY:
Gravity - PDX
Luv Shack - SEA
FULL BAR UNTIL 2:00 am:
(sorry kiddies, this is 21+)
COST = $10
CHEAP!
P.O.E.'s first major Seattle event will be a two room, community-based dance music experience, re-orienting the Northwest back where it belongs... underground.
Re:Orient will bring together some of the brightest and most dedicated performers from the PDX and SEA music scenes. It will provide a fully immersive themed environment, designed to take attendees on a journey into sound.
That journey, much like the ground itself, will be deep, dark and dirty.
IN THE 4 ON THE FLOOR ROOM
9:00-10:30 = Manos
10:30-12:00 = Jen Woolfe
12:00-1:30 = Michael Manahan
1:30-3:00 = Deafchild
3:00-4:30 = Recess and Kadeejah Streets
4:30-6:00 = Adlib (that's me) and Cory Ley
IN THE BREAKS AND BEATS ROOM
9:00-10:30 = Esnce
10:30-12:00 = Kreeper
12:00-1:30 = Electrokid
1:30-3:00 = Suff-X - LIVE
AT 3:00, THE ROOM SWITCHES TO AMBIENT/DOWNTEMPO AND IDM/BEATS
3:00-4:30 = Gel-Sol - LIVE
4:30-6:00 = Menami
VISUALS BY:
Pixelflip - LAX
SOUND BY:
Gravity - PDX
Luv Shack - SEA
FULL BAR UNTIL 2:00 am:
(sorry kiddies, this is 21+)
COST = $10
CHEAP!
Monday, January 07, 2008
NEXT GIG: Evolve on Sat Jan 12
Introducing a NEW MONTHLY at a NEW VENUE
in the HEART of CAPITAL HILL.
Its a LESCHI LOFT PARTY !!!
featuring DJ's
Venus (At Large DJ Agent)
Amateur Youth (Cherry)
Joy (Dollhouse)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge/Qool Seattle)
9pm Doors 21+
SOLE REPAIR SHOP ~ NEW VENUE!
1001 East Pike Seattle, WA
www.solerepairshop.com
$5
in the HEART of CAPITAL HILL.
Its a LESCHI LOFT PARTY !!!
featuring DJ's
Venus (At Large DJ Agent)
Amateur Youth (Cherry)
Joy (Dollhouse)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge/Qool Seattle)
9pm Doors 21+
SOLE REPAIR SHOP ~ NEW VENUE!
1001 East Pike Seattle, WA
www.solerepairshop.com
$5
Thursday, December 27, 2007
NEXT GIG: New Years EVE @ CHAC
On New Year's Eve, surround yourself with art as you allow your senses
to carry you through three rooms of music... Explore what lies behind
the costumes and let Infinite Connections show you the contrast
between light and dark at:
AION Costume Ball
December 31, 2007
An IOSIS Art Party and Body Systems Dark Art Party
@ Capitol Hill Arts Center
1621 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
http://www.capitolhillarts.com
Tickets are $75 VIP and $25 1st tier (limited time offer)
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/18919
For an even better view, $75 VIP will get you access to private
lounges with an aerial view, free champagne, complimentary coat check,
and a gift bag full of surprises including CDs. Limited tickets so
purchase soon!
Tickets also available via:
http://www.clubzone.com/events/event54783.html
9pm to 3am - Special midnight performances!
21+ welcome
RESIST THE URGE TO STAY HOME!
In the IOSIS Art Party Showroom:
Jay Selway (JOOF Recordings, Iboga Records, Soular Records - Baltimore)
http://myspace.com/jayselwaymusic
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge, Dreemworld - SEA)
Live Vocals by Audel Snow
http://www.jenwoolfe.com and http://www.myspace.com/jenwoolfe
Osiris Indriya(Iboga Records, Oracle Gatherings, IOSIS Art Party - SEA)
http://www.osirisindriya.com
Amanita (IOSIS Art Party - SEA)
http://iosis.tribe.net/;
http://www.myspace.com/iosisartparty
With Special Performances by the lovely ladies of WOMANIPURA!
http://www.myspace.com/womanipura
Body System Dark Art Party Lower Level:
Endif (CrunchPod - NV) http://www.myspace.com/endif
C/A/T (CrunchPod - CA) http://www.crunchpod.com
DJ Coldheart (Isolation - SEA) http://www.myspace.com/djcoldheart
Midnight performance suspension by:
PURE Cirkus http://www.purecirkus.com
Stellner Chill Room:
Byron Dreamweaver (Deliria - BC) http://www.byrondreamweaver.com
Mythril (Deliria - BC) http://www.mythril.ca/
Mentats (Seattle) http://www.myspace.com/thementats
Light and Dark Found and Fashion Art Exhibit curated by: Teresa Payne
- Intese Payne
With works by:
John Karl Goehring
Shannon Leah Danks www.myspace.com/shanstuff
and more
--Art Available for purchase--
Sound by: LUCID Audio http://www.infiniteconnections.org/lucid_audio
Graphic design by: Osiris Indriya – http://www.osirisindriya.com/design
Vendor and Sponsorship Coordination by: Spitfire Productions
Decorartions by: Kristina Kokonis
If you would like to be a part of AION Costume Ball, here's how:
To join the promotional team, e-mail promo [at] infiniteconnections.org
To submit your art for IOSIS Art Party Insect Trance Room, e-mail art
[at] infiniteconnections.org
To vend your wares, e-mail vendors [at] infiniteconnections.org
To become a sponsor, e-mail sponsorship [at] infiniteconnections.org
Rooms brought to you by:
Like the final stage in Alchemy, IOSIS Art Parties blend together the
power of different worlds and transforms them into something new.
Pulsating beats, inspirational sights, scrumptious treats, and visions
through light… put them all together and you get IOSIS Art Party the
finest international trance music and visual art.
http:// iosis.tribe.net/; http://www.myspace.com/iosisartparty
From Infinite Connections, creators of IOSIS Art Parties and Breaks &
Freaks, comes Body Systems Dark Art Party, an exploration into the
shadowy sides of art and music.
AION Costume Ball is a production of:
Infinite Connections is a multifaceted company specializing in Event
Production and Promotions, Artist Management and Booking with the goal
of connecting people to new experiences through art and music.
Infinite Connections brings you Breaks & Freaks, IOSIS Art Party, Zen
Circus, Shringara and Body Systems Dark Art Party.
http://www.infiniteconnections.org/
to carry you through three rooms of music... Explore what lies behind
the costumes and let Infinite Connections show you the contrast
between light and dark at:
AION Costume Ball
December 31, 2007
An IOSIS Art Party and Body Systems Dark Art Party
@ Capitol Hill Arts Center
1621 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
http://www.capitolhillarts.com
Tickets are $75 VIP and $25 1st tier (limited time offer)
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/18919
For an even better view, $75 VIP will get you access to private
lounges with an aerial view, free champagne, complimentary coat check,
and a gift bag full of surprises including CDs. Limited tickets so
purchase soon!
Tickets also available via:
http://www.clubzone.com/events/event54783.html
9pm to 3am - Special midnight performances!
21+ welcome
RESIST THE URGE TO STAY HOME!
In the IOSIS Art Party Showroom:
Jay Selway (JOOF Recordings, Iboga Records, Soular Records - Baltimore)
http://myspace.com/jayselwaymusic
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge, Dreemworld - SEA)
Live Vocals by Audel Snow
http://www.jenwoolfe.com and http://www.myspace.com/jenwoolfe
Osiris Indriya(Iboga Records, Oracle Gatherings, IOSIS Art Party - SEA)
http://www.osirisindriya.com
Amanita (IOSIS Art Party - SEA)
http://iosis.tribe.net/;
http://www.myspace.com/iosisartparty
With Special Performances by the lovely ladies of WOMANIPURA!
http://www.myspace.com/womanipura
Body System Dark Art Party Lower Level:
Endif (CrunchPod - NV) http://www.myspace.com/endif
C/A/T (CrunchPod - CA) http://www.crunchpod.com
DJ Coldheart (Isolation - SEA) http://www.myspace.com/djcoldheart
Midnight performance suspension by:
PURE Cirkus http://www.purecirkus.com
Stellner Chill Room:
Byron Dreamweaver (Deliria - BC) http://www.byrondreamweaver.com
Mythril (Deliria - BC) http://www.mythril.ca/
Mentats (Seattle) http://www.myspace.com/thementats
Light and Dark Found and Fashion Art Exhibit curated by: Teresa Payne
- Intese Payne
With works by:
John Karl Goehring
Shannon Leah Danks www.myspace.com/shanstuff
and more
--Art Available for purchase--
Sound by: LUCID Audio http://www.infiniteconnections.org/lucid_audio
Graphic design by: Osiris Indriya – http://www.osirisindriya.com/design
Vendor and Sponsorship Coordination by: Spitfire Productions
Decorartions by: Kristina Kokonis
If you would like to be a part of AION Costume Ball, here's how:
To join the promotional team, e-mail promo [at] infiniteconnections.org
To submit your art for IOSIS Art Party Insect Trance Room, e-mail art
[at] infiniteconnections.org
To vend your wares, e-mail vendors [at] infiniteconnections.org
To become a sponsor, e-mail sponsorship [at] infiniteconnections.org
Rooms brought to you by:
Like the final stage in Alchemy, IOSIS Art Parties blend together the
power of different worlds and transforms them into something new.
Pulsating beats, inspirational sights, scrumptious treats, and visions
through light… put them all together and you get IOSIS Art Party the
finest international trance music and visual art.
http:// iosis.tribe.net/; http://www.myspace.com/iosisartparty
From Infinite Connections, creators of IOSIS Art Parties and Breaks &
Freaks, comes Body Systems Dark Art Party, an exploration into the
shadowy sides of art and music.
AION Costume Ball is a production of:
Infinite Connections is a multifaceted company specializing in Event
Production and Promotions, Artist Management and Booking with the goal
of connecting people to new experiences through art and music.
Infinite Connections brings you Breaks & Freaks, IOSIS Art Party, Zen
Circus, Shringara and Body Systems Dark Art Party.
http://www.infiniteconnections.org/
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
NEXT GIGs: A New Union
Seattle and San Francisco will be united for me after these next two weeks. Due to a naturally occuring coincidence (if there is such a thing), both Robb Green (Shameless) and Scott Binder (Cybersutra/djscottbinder.com) will be blessing our city with their seatown/bay area blend of beats. The union on Friday Dec 14th (er, Sat morning to be exact) at 2am with Cybersutra, 'a live electronic music duo that Scott Binder created with his good friend and talented producer, Naite Heal. CyberSutra is designed to bring even more elements of live performance into dance music while reaching out around the globe to collaborate with top vocalist on sensational new tracks'. Myself and Robb will be following their performance with a tag team set.
This is only a warm-up for the following night, Saturday Dec 15th, when Robb and I light up Spy at Hengst Studios. This all-night party, Resident Evil, includes Ben Shelton, Love Virus, DJ Sloth, Danger, Dave Bloomfield, Michelle Burch, and many many more.
Then, on Tues Dec 18th, I'll be on a flight to SF to thank the fair city for lending me two of its best. After a stop by Qool, to check out the most infamous happy hour on the west coast on Wednesday, you can find me DJ'ing at Supper Club on Friday Dec 21st with Michael Anthony. Don't party too hard for the week, because the grand finale will be Robb's birthday, Sat Dec 22nd at Annie's Social Club. There we might share our final Tag Team set for 2007 or I may go the set solo. Only the Universe knows the outcome!
So to Summarize:
NEXT GIGs:
Friday Dec 14th @ Contour Afterhours w/ Cybersutra & Robb Green
Saturday Dec 15th @ Spy at Hengst Studios
Friday Dec 21st @ Supper Club (SF) with Michael Anthony
Saturday Dec 22nd @ Annie's Social Club (SF) for Robb Green's bday blowout
Also Catch Cybersutra @ the Vortex on C-89.5 at 8pm Fri Dec 14th!!
This is only a warm-up for the following night, Saturday Dec 15th, when Robb and I light up Spy at Hengst Studios. This all-night party, Resident Evil, includes Ben Shelton, Love Virus, DJ Sloth, Danger, Dave Bloomfield, Michelle Burch, and many many more.
Then, on Tues Dec 18th, I'll be on a flight to SF to thank the fair city for lending me two of its best. After a stop by Qool, to check out the most infamous happy hour on the west coast on Wednesday, you can find me DJ'ing at Supper Club on Friday Dec 21st with Michael Anthony. Don't party too hard for the week, because the grand finale will be Robb's birthday, Sat Dec 22nd at Annie's Social Club. There we might share our final Tag Team set for 2007 or I may go the set solo. Only the Universe knows the outcome!
So to Summarize:
NEXT GIGs:
Friday Dec 14th @ Contour Afterhours w/ Cybersutra & Robb Green
Saturday Dec 15th @ Spy at Hengst Studios
Friday Dec 21st @ Supper Club (SF) with Michael Anthony
Saturday Dec 22nd @ Annie's Social Club (SF) for Robb Green's bday blowout
Also Catch Cybersutra @ the Vortex on C-89.5 at 8pm Fri Dec 14th!!
Friday, November 30, 2007
NEXT GIGs: Wed & Thur both FREE
Wednesday, Dec 5th
People of Earth and Leschi Lounge proudly bring you this very special night of Firsts with First Club appearances by
DJ Jaisn (www.jaisn.com)
Sklobot & Jay Rae (Leschi Lounge)
with a Live Happy Hour Set! Their first club appearance!!
and featuring special guest DJ's
J-Sun (Innerflight)
Danger (Analog)
with First Wednesday Residents
Adlib (People of Earth)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge/Dreemworld)
Free as always!!!!!
$5 Food Specials
$3 Beer, Wine, Champagne
Full bar, 21+ w/ID
See Sound Lounge (115 Blanchard St)
www.seesoundlounge.com
Thur Dec 6th
Stay Tuned Thursdays @ Buddha Belltown
with Jacob London!
and Residents DJ Jules V and Brian Tully
Buddha Belltown
2222 2nd Street
10pm-2am
21+
No Cover
People of Earth and Leschi Lounge proudly bring you this very special night of Firsts with First Club appearances by
DJ Jaisn (www.jaisn.com)
Sklobot & Jay Rae (Leschi Lounge)
with a Live Happy Hour Set! Their first club appearance!!
and featuring special guest DJ's
J-Sun (Innerflight)
Danger (Analog)
with First Wednesday Residents
Adlib (People of Earth)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge/Dreemworld)
Free as always!!!!!
$5 Food Specials
$3 Beer, Wine, Champagne
Full bar, 21+ w/ID
See Sound Lounge (115 Blanchard St)
www.seesoundlounge.com
Thur Dec 6th
Stay Tuned Thursdays @ Buddha Belltown
with Jacob London!
and Residents DJ Jules V and Brian Tully
Buddha Belltown
2222 2nd Street
10pm-2am
21+
No Cover
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Underworld's Undies
When I subscribed to Remix magazine a year ago under the guise of my cover band, Jen Woolfe & the Happy Pervs, I had no idea what the tech any of the articles were talking about. Since then, I've been studying Ableton's Live and Propellerhead's Reason and finally the acronyms are starting to make sense. It's a Music Tech Geek Mag. Perfect.
I've been making great strides in learning production, far greater than I expected. I still feel like I'm in the first room of my mega-warehouse of audio art supplies, but I'm finally able to recognize tools and organize ideas. I recently realized that Reason is an instrument. Sure, I read the words VST a hundred times, but it didn't click until I started playing with Dr. Rex's Loop player. (I know Reason isn't actually a VST, as that is a standard, but that's what is so confusing!). Reason is a Virtual Studio. Literally! It consists of an imaginary rack with imaginary synthesizers, drum machines, players, mixers, samplers and signal processors that look like the real thing. You can even turn the rack around and see the cables jiggling, all plugged into each other. (Yay for virtual cable management!)
So my epiphany came when I 'discovered' Dr. Rex's Loop Player. I had been trying to find a way to create a rhythm section for Live Session (our live band project emerging in the heart of the Leschi Lounge), the way Jay Rae does with his drum machine (I think its a Roland MC-303). The biggest thing I learned was that all the loops that I'd been playing as Live clips were static. Read: boring. Jay could turn the kick drum and snare drums on and off at the touch of a button, creating breakdowns and transitions on the fly. This makes the drum section dynamic and interesting.
Ok, but before I go on about Dr. Rex, I should mention another thing that I was getting stuck on. Though Reason is my instrument, I wasn't 'playing it' in the sense that Jay plays his instruments, by clicking buttons and typing keys. I was using a mouse to move sliders and click play, stop, record. Definitely not the same feel. That was because I didn't understand how to get my MIDI controller to work with Reason. I'm using an M-Audio Axiom 61. This is a big mama, with 61 keys, sliders, banks, buttons, knobs. I'll be honest - it scares me. But alas I was saved. I stumbled upon (actually I think I RTFM) drivers that M-Audio wrote to work with Reason, making it pretty 'plug-in-play'. I don't have to program anything to get the knobs and sliders on my MIDI controller to move the knobs and sliders on Dr. Rex. And I can manually assign the pads to start and stop multiple Dr. Rex's, where I'm storing the loops. Yay!! Now I have more of an instrument that I can punch, twist, roll, click without the bore & bandwidth restraints of going through a mouse. And, I make the loops dynamic by cutting the bass drum with D and S sliders on the Amp Envelope or (my newest discovery) by routing Rex into a track on Live and using Live's many many many effects. Now we're having fun!!
So the next step, of course, is to move past relying on pre-made loops and build my own rhythms. But until then, I have quite a few different genre's to play with and Jay Rae, Mel Sky, Sklobot and Aaron can build the backgrounds, melodies and basslines on top of some pretty kick ass shit.
Back to Remix, the magazine that is helping me open my eyes to possibilities. It was there that I read an article that recommended opening multiple tracks on Live and inserting different effects to each track. What a great way to try out different sounds! I still don't understand everything that the rag talks about, but the hardware centerfolds, revealing all their RCA's, XLR, quarter inch and firewire jacks sure do make my mouth water. My favorite article is where the cover artist drops their drawers, sharing with us all the tools in their studio. Underworld, Bjork, Felix da Housecat. All the pieces they use to mark their own sound and experience is music tech geek heaven. I've seen it all. And I definitely want more.
I've been making great strides in learning production, far greater than I expected. I still feel like I'm in the first room of my mega-warehouse of audio art supplies, but I'm finally able to recognize tools and organize ideas. I recently realized that Reason is an instrument. Sure, I read the words VST a hundred times, but it didn't click until I started playing with Dr. Rex's Loop player. (I know Reason isn't actually a VST, as that is a standard, but that's what is so confusing!). Reason is a Virtual Studio. Literally! It consists of an imaginary rack with imaginary synthesizers, drum machines, players, mixers, samplers and signal processors that look like the real thing. You can even turn the rack around and see the cables jiggling, all plugged into each other. (Yay for virtual cable management!)
So my epiphany came when I 'discovered' Dr. Rex's Loop Player. I had been trying to find a way to create a rhythm section for Live Session (our live band project emerging in the heart of the Leschi Lounge), the way Jay Rae does with his drum machine (I think its a Roland MC-303). The biggest thing I learned was that all the loops that I'd been playing as Live clips were static. Read: boring. Jay could turn the kick drum and snare drums on and off at the touch of a button, creating breakdowns and transitions on the fly. This makes the drum section dynamic and interesting.
Ok, but before I go on about Dr. Rex, I should mention another thing that I was getting stuck on. Though Reason is my instrument, I wasn't 'playing it' in the sense that Jay plays his instruments, by clicking buttons and typing keys. I was using a mouse to move sliders and click play, stop, record. Definitely not the same feel. That was because I didn't understand how to get my MIDI controller to work with Reason. I'm using an M-Audio Axiom 61. This is a big mama, with 61 keys, sliders, banks, buttons, knobs. I'll be honest - it scares me. But alas I was saved. I stumbled upon (actually I think I RTFM) drivers that M-Audio wrote to work with Reason, making it pretty 'plug-in-play'. I don't have to program anything to get the knobs and sliders on my MIDI controller to move the knobs and sliders on Dr. Rex. And I can manually assign the pads to start and stop multiple Dr. Rex's, where I'm storing the loops. Yay!! Now I have more of an instrument that I can punch, twist, roll, click without the bore & bandwidth restraints of going through a mouse. And, I make the loops dynamic by cutting the bass drum with D and S sliders on the Amp Envelope or (my newest discovery) by routing Rex into a track on Live and using Live's many many many effects. Now we're having fun!!
So the next step, of course, is to move past relying on pre-made loops and build my own rhythms. But until then, I have quite a few different genre's to play with and Jay Rae, Mel Sky, Sklobot and Aaron can build the backgrounds, melodies and basslines on top of some pretty kick ass shit.
Back to Remix, the magazine that is helping me open my eyes to possibilities. It was there that I read an article that recommended opening multiple tracks on Live and inserting different effects to each track. What a great way to try out different sounds! I still don't understand everything that the rag talks about, but the hardware centerfolds, revealing all their RCA's, XLR, quarter inch and firewire jacks sure do make my mouth water. My favorite article is where the cover artist drops their drawers, sharing with us all the tools in their studio. Underworld, Bjork, Felix da Housecat. All the pieces they use to mark their own sound and experience is music tech geek heaven. I've seen it all. And I definitely want more.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
U Huh Her
Thur Nov 15
Live
U Huh Her (Murmur's/L Word's Leisha Hailey & Mellowdrone's Camila Grey) @ Nectar
DJ
Robb Green & Recess @ Nijo
L.I.C.K.'s Last Night @ Chop Suey
Fri Nov 16
Ol' Skinny, Jen Woolf e & Swank ~ Electric Ave @ C.H.A.C.
GrooveDrive ~ a Buddhaful House & Rocket Factory event dedicated to resurrecting the groove in Seattle.
Sat Nov 17
Head up to Bellingham for some fresh air.
Trevor & Peter Evans ~ House @ Da Dome
Live
U Huh Her (Murmur's/L Word's Leisha Hailey & Mellowdrone's Camila Grey) @ Nectar
DJ
Robb Green & Recess @ Nijo
L.I.C.K.'s Last Night @ Chop Suey
Fri Nov 16
Ol' Skinny, Jen Woolf e & Swank ~ Electric Ave @ C.H.A.C.
GrooveDrive ~ a Buddhaful House & Rocket Factory event dedicated to resurrecting the groove in Seattle.
Sat Nov 17
Head up to Bellingham for some fresh air.
Trevor & Peter Evans ~ House @ Da Dome
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
NEXT GIG: Friday Nov 16 @ Electric Ave
UHF and the Capitol Hill Arts Center invite you to walk
on down to...
ELECTRIC AVENUE
EVERY Friday night at the CHAC Lower Level
Friday, November 16th, 2007
FEATURING:
Ol' Skinny
Jen Woolfe
Swank
Location:
CHAC Lower Level
1621 12th Ave - Capitol Hill
10p - 2a
21+
Price:
FREE FREE FREE!!!!!
on down to...
ELECTRIC AVENUE
EVERY Friday night at the CHAC Lower Level
Friday, November 16th, 2007
FEATURING:
Ol' Skinny
Jen Woolfe
Swank
Location:
CHAC Lower Level
1621 12th Ave - Capitol Hill
10p - 2a
21+
Price:
FREE FREE FREE!!!!!
Friday, November 09, 2007
Legendary Weekend
Fri Nov 09
PreFunk: Electric Avenue @ Lower Level
Place2Be: Broken Disco @ Chop Suey (18+)
AfterHours: Hengst Studio
Sat Nov 10
Two amazing parties!!
Magnetic III @ Pacific Science Center (18+)
SeaCompression @ Sandpoint Hanger
Sun Nov 11
Rest
Check nwtekno for details!
PreFunk: Electric Avenue @ Lower Level
Place2Be: Broken Disco @ Chop Suey (18+)
AfterHours: Hengst Studio
Sat Nov 10
Two amazing parties!!
Magnetic III @ Pacific Science Center (18+)
SeaCompression @ Sandpoint Hanger
Sun Nov 11
Rest
Check nwtekno for details!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
The Gift
Last night Lg* said, 'You are very lucky.'
I said, 'Yes, but you make your own luck is what I always say'.
Lg* said, 'How?'
I gave an answer, but it wasn't very well thought out. I've come to some better conclusions today. A better way to express why the Universe has been so lovely to me.
Through DJ'ing, I've discovered many of my Gifts. By Gifts, I mean things that the Universe has given to me that have helped me through life. For example, I can see people how they really are, not as they present themselves to be. This is a gift because DJ'ing publicly is very social. When I am interacting with people, I'm speaking directly to who they are on the inside. I think people need that, crave that, and it draws them to me.
A Universal Truth is 'That which you give comes back to you tenfold, but never in a way you expect'. My Gifts bring me luck, but not directly. I use my Gifts to give, expecting nothing. I do it because it makes me happy. I feel joy. I help people first find themselves, then find their Gifts and eventually find their Art so they can express and start giving. The more I give my Gift, the more gifts I find.
I'm always actively working on being the best person I can be. The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz is my current bible of sorts. I'm learning not to take things personally. My I.T. contract was terminated two months early. This was a shock to me, but I'm okay with it. I can pay my bills for a few, that's one important thing. I'm very confident with my performance. I worked very very hard. And because of that, I know the termination has nothing to do with me. The claim was that I made too many mistakes. And its true, I did. But I performed my best, and, in my opinion, the best that most people could, given the difficulty of the situation.
I'm learning to focus on the positive. Positive begets positive, just as negative begets negative. 'What you focus on with your thought and feeling is what you attract into your experience'1, another Universal Truth. Instead of thinking about how many awful things were related to my contract, I'm focusing on what I got out of it. Things that help me grow.
For example, I was forced to learn a very large, undocumented system in a very short amount of time. Because of that, I'm much more confident about my I.T. skills. Secondly, I was working 50-60 hour weeks including weekends and many times worked until 3,4 or 5 in the morning or was called to work at 4,5 and 6 in the morning. I was more productive in that job than I have ever been. I'm continuing on that productiveness by using the forward motion to motivated me to work harder on my own goals now that I'm at home again. Next, I was asked to keep very specific details on the tasks I did throughout the day. Doing that in the workplace has helped me to focus the hours of my day now to work more on music and less on promotions so I can use my time the way I want to - to produce music. Another thing was that working so much renewed my appreciation on the importance of going out dancing with friends to get the grime of work energy off your soul. I needed that. I needed to be reminded that DJ'ing is not a job by having an actual job. Lastly, having to move my passions to the side for two months has helped me remember how much I get out of music and how it fulfills me. I want it in my life and I'm going to work as hard as I can to keep it there.
And I work. I'm a work-a-holic. I'm actually addicted to work. Addiction is not a positive thing, but chipping away at things piece by piece over a number of years is bound to get you somewhere. I've been a DJ for almost 7 years, in I.T. for 10. I have a college degree and started working when I was 14. I've come very far in life by just working hard.
I'm a very open person, a writer at the core. I want to share everything good that happens to me. I want others to be able to enjoy what I enjoy. I also want to share the bad things that happen to me. The most painless way to grow is by learning from others. I make many mistakes, because I'm not afraid to. I take many risks, though intelligent ones. I'm a true strategist. I think out everything. I've never jumped without that second parachute. But I rarely need it. Because even if bad things happen, they are still good. You make them into positive experiences, just by how you think and what you take out of every situation.
The more I give, the more I work, especially on myself, the more I stay positive and the more open I am, the more my light shines. And the more my light shines, the more people are drawn to me. The more people are drawn to me, I'm more successful of a DJ (or writer, or friend). And the more successful of a DJ I am, the more I can share what I've learned through all my experiences and through all your experiences. And the more that I share, the more powerful the Gift of giving becomes and the more powerful I become, as a person, an artist, a soul.
1. http://www.universallawstoday.com/100%20Quotes.html
I said, 'Yes, but you make your own luck is what I always say'.
Lg* said, 'How?'
I gave an answer, but it wasn't very well thought out. I've come to some better conclusions today. A better way to express why the Universe has been so lovely to me.
Through DJ'ing, I've discovered many of my Gifts. By Gifts, I mean things that the Universe has given to me that have helped me through life. For example, I can see people how they really are, not as they present themselves to be. This is a gift because DJ'ing publicly is very social. When I am interacting with people, I'm speaking directly to who they are on the inside. I think people need that, crave that, and it draws them to me.
A Universal Truth is 'That which you give comes back to you tenfold, but never in a way you expect'. My Gifts bring me luck, but not directly. I use my Gifts to give, expecting nothing. I do it because it makes me happy. I feel joy. I help people first find themselves, then find their Gifts and eventually find their Art so they can express and start giving. The more I give my Gift, the more gifts I find.
I'm always actively working on being the best person I can be. The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz is my current bible of sorts. I'm learning not to take things personally. My I.T. contract was terminated two months early. This was a shock to me, but I'm okay with it. I can pay my bills for a few, that's one important thing. I'm very confident with my performance. I worked very very hard. And because of that, I know the termination has nothing to do with me. The claim was that I made too many mistakes. And its true, I did. But I performed my best, and, in my opinion, the best that most people could, given the difficulty of the situation.
I'm learning to focus on the positive. Positive begets positive, just as negative begets negative. 'What you focus on with your thought and feeling is what you attract into your experience'1, another Universal Truth. Instead of thinking about how many awful things were related to my contract, I'm focusing on what I got out of it. Things that help me grow.
For example, I was forced to learn a very large, undocumented system in a very short amount of time. Because of that, I'm much more confident about my I.T. skills. Secondly, I was working 50-60 hour weeks including weekends and many times worked until 3,4 or 5 in the morning or was called to work at 4,5 and 6 in the morning. I was more productive in that job than I have ever been. I'm continuing on that productiveness by using the forward motion to motivated me to work harder on my own goals now that I'm at home again. Next, I was asked to keep very specific details on the tasks I did throughout the day. Doing that in the workplace has helped me to focus the hours of my day now to work more on music and less on promotions so I can use my time the way I want to - to produce music. Another thing was that working so much renewed my appreciation on the importance of going out dancing with friends to get the grime of work energy off your soul. I needed that. I needed to be reminded that DJ'ing is not a job by having an actual job. Lastly, having to move my passions to the side for two months has helped me remember how much I get out of music and how it fulfills me. I want it in my life and I'm going to work as hard as I can to keep it there.
And I work. I'm a work-a-holic. I'm actually addicted to work. Addiction is not a positive thing, but chipping away at things piece by piece over a number of years is bound to get you somewhere. I've been a DJ for almost 7 years, in I.T. for 10. I have a college degree and started working when I was 14. I've come very far in life by just working hard.
I'm a very open person, a writer at the core. I want to share everything good that happens to me. I want others to be able to enjoy what I enjoy. I also want to share the bad things that happen to me. The most painless way to grow is by learning from others. I make many mistakes, because I'm not afraid to. I take many risks, though intelligent ones. I'm a true strategist. I think out everything. I've never jumped without that second parachute. But I rarely need it. Because even if bad things happen, they are still good. You make them into positive experiences, just by how you think and what you take out of every situation.
The more I give, the more I work, especially on myself, the more I stay positive and the more open I am, the more my light shines. And the more my light shines, the more people are drawn to me. The more people are drawn to me, I'm more successful of a DJ (or writer, or friend). And the more successful of a DJ I am, the more I can share what I've learned through all my experiences and through all your experiences. And the more that I share, the more powerful the Gift of giving becomes and the more powerful I become, as a person, an artist, a soul.
1. http://www.universallawstoday.com/100%20Quotes.html
Sunday, November 04, 2007
NEXT GIG: Wed Nov 7 @ SeeSound
BEATZ WORK 5pm-2am @ SEE SOUND LOUNGE
Wed Nov 7 is the kick-off event of your new 1st Wednesday Promoters for Beatz Work
Adlib & Jen Woolfe!
People of Earth and Leschi Lounge proudly bring you
this very special first of the first Wednesday celebrations
a special Birthday for Ms Dazzle herself, Masil!
and featuring Happy Hour DJ's
Adlib (POE)
Eclyptix
Cory Ley
Then 9:30-2am
DJ*Joy
DJ Jules V (Buddha Belltown)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge)
Manos (Innerflight/Uniting Souls)
Free as always!!!!!
$5 Food Specials
$3 Beer, Wine, Champagne
Full bar, 21+ w/ID
See Sound Lounge (115 Blanchard St) --- Between 1st and 2nd
www.seesoundlounge.com
THIS PARTY ROCKS EVERY Wednesday for 9 solid hours of all the HOUSE , BREAKZ, TECHNO, and ELECTRO you can handle mid-week.
Wed Nov 7 is the kick-off event of your new 1st Wednesday Promoters for Beatz Work
Adlib & Jen Woolfe!
People of Earth and Leschi Lounge proudly bring you
this very special first of the first Wednesday celebrations
a special Birthday for Ms Dazzle herself, Masil!
and featuring Happy Hour DJ's
Adlib (POE)
Eclyptix
Cory Ley
Then 9:30-2am
DJ*Joy
DJ Jules V (Buddha Belltown)
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge)
Manos (Innerflight/Uniting Souls)
Free as always!!!!!
$5 Food Specials
$3 Beer, Wine, Champagne
Full bar, 21+ w/ID
See Sound Lounge (115 Blanchard St) --- Between 1st and 2nd
www.seesoundlounge.com
THIS PARTY ROCKS EVERY Wednesday for 9 solid hours of all the HOUSE , BREAKZ, TECHNO, and ELECTRO you can handle mid-week.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
NEXT GIG: Thur Nov 1 @ Buddha
"Stay Tuned Thursdays" @ Buddha Belltown
with DJ Jules & Bryan Tully
Thursday November 1, 2007
Buddha Belltown
2222. Second Avenue ( betweeen Bell and Blanchard)
10pm-2am
No Cover!!
with DJ Jules & Bryan Tully
Thursday November 1, 2007
Buddha Belltown
2222. Second Avenue ( betweeen Bell and Blanchard)
10pm-2am
No Cover!!
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Tonight ~ Connect
Sorry I've been offline for a while, y'all. Gotta make the dough before you can make the beats -- at least if I wanna keep up with my own lifestyle.
Connect tonight ~~
Jeromy Nail, Scott Anthony @ Karma Lounge [Seattle]
Saturday October 20th
Please join us on Saturday October 20th for some deep house goodness at Karma Lounge.
With
Jeromy Nail (Uniting Souls - Seattle)
and special guest
Scott Anthony (http://www.myspace.com/headphonz - Seattle)
Connect @ Karma Lounge
10PM - 2AM
No cover / 21+
Full kitchen until close
In the heart of Belltown, Karma offers an intimate setting, friendly staff, and an amazing "modern wok inspired" menu served late (until close)!
for more info check out
www.unitingsouls.com
or e-mail us@unitingsouls.com
Karma Lounge
2318 2nd Ave (between Battery & Bell next door to the Rendezvous)
206.838.5590
Connect tonight ~~
Jeromy Nail, Scott Anthony @ Karma Lounge [Seattle]
Saturday October 20th
Please join us on Saturday October 20th for some deep house goodness at Karma Lounge.
With
Jeromy Nail (Uniting Souls - Seattle)
and special guest
Scott Anthony (http://www.myspace.com/headphonz - Seattle)
Connect @ Karma Lounge
10PM - 2AM
No cover / 21+
Full kitchen until close
In the heart of Belltown, Karma offers an intimate setting, friendly staff, and an amazing "modern wok inspired" menu served late (until close)!
for more info check out
www.unitingsouls.com
or e-mail us@unitingsouls.com
Karma Lounge
2318 2nd Ave (between Battery & Bell next door to the Rendezvous)
206.838.5590
Monday, October 15, 2007
NEXT GIG: Wed @ SeeSound ~ early show
Wed Oct 17th @ SeeSound Lounge
Its a special Beatz Work this Wednesday @ SeeSound Lounge
I kick it off with an 8-9:30 set!
but there's much more:
Jondi & Spesh (Looq Records, Spundae, SF)
DJ Shu (Chicago)
DJ Eva
Jen Woolfe
Messiah
3MotionZ
115 Blanchard
Seattle, WA
Its a special Beatz Work this Wednesday @ SeeSound Lounge
I kick it off with an 8-9:30 set!
but there's much more:
Jondi & Spesh (Looq Records, Spundae, SF)
DJ Shu (Chicago)
DJ Eva
Jen Woolfe
Messiah
3MotionZ
115 Blanchard
Seattle, WA
Friday, October 05, 2007
This Weekend is Looking Luscious
One man's cult is another man's Christianity. What do you find divine?
Friday Oct 5th
HumanKind @ Waids ~ Fundraiser featuring Seattle's finest DJ's
MICHAEL MANAHAN - The Oracle Gatherings
MANOS vs KADEEJAH Streets - Innerflight/Uniting Souls/sub-merge
novaTRON vs Shapeshifter [Live hardware vs. turntablism] - Space Island/S.B.A.
JEN WOOLFE - Leschi Lounge
NIGHT TRAIN [Harmonica FX] -Innerflight
KELLIAH RAE [Live vox]
LA FE WILL [Freestyle] - Beast Arteast
Saturday Oct 6th
Lush ~ email seattle lush at gmail for details.
Hyasynth (De La Creme Soundsystem - Seattle)
Chad Neiro (House Division / Soul Fuel Recordings - Seattle via Tampa)
Jon Lemmon (Viva Recordings - Seattle)
Gene Lee (Bumpshop Music / The Lost Boys - Seattle)
Jeromy Nail (Uniting Souls Music - Seattle)
Kadeejah Streets (Innerflight Music - Seattle)
Ramiro (Uniting Souls Music - Seattle)
Monday Oct 8th
Decibel & Neumos Presents
TRENTEMOLLER (debut Seattle performance with 4 piece band) @ NEUMOS
Friday Oct 5th
HumanKind @ Waids ~ Fundraiser featuring Seattle's finest DJ's
MICHAEL MANAHAN - The Oracle Gatherings
MANOS vs KADEEJAH Streets - Innerflight/Uniting Souls/sub-merge
novaTRON vs Shapeshifter [Live hardware vs. turntablism] - Space Island/S.B.A.
JEN WOOLFE - Leschi Lounge
NIGHT TRAIN [Harmonica FX] -Innerflight
KELLIAH RAE [Live vox]
LA FE WILL [Freestyle] - Beast Arteast
Saturday Oct 6th
Lush ~ email seattle lush at gmail for details.
Hyasynth (De La Creme Soundsystem - Seattle)
Chad Neiro (House Division / Soul Fuel Recordings - Seattle via Tampa)
Jon Lemmon (Viva Recordings - Seattle)
Gene Lee (Bumpshop Music / The Lost Boys - Seattle)
Jeromy Nail (Uniting Souls Music - Seattle)
Kadeejah Streets (Innerflight Music - Seattle)
Ramiro (Uniting Souls Music - Seattle)
Monday Oct 8th
Decibel & Neumos Presents
TRENTEMOLLER (debut Seattle performance with 4 piece band) @ NEUMOS
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
NEXT GIG: HumanKind ~ Friday Oct. 5th
Please join me on Friday at our favorite Haitian Hideaway, Waids Place!
I play 9:30-11, so come by early and stay late.
A message from our travellers:
We invite our community to share our vision and join us for a special fundraiser event. We are raising money to help a small group make a journey across the world to visit and learn from a truly amazing community of visionaries nestled in the hills of northern Italy. This community has lessons for all of us to learn on sustainability, artistic vision, communal survival, and among other great achievements, higher vibration living. This is The Federation of DAMANHUR.
We will be making this initial trip to bring back knowledge and inspiration for all. Returning later on with other groups to experience the magic for themsleves. Have a look at this unique and inspiring work of art at: www.damanhur.com
We invite you to join us for a special evening of music, dancing and learning. We've put together some remarkable talent from our community to entertain you, and we will have a raffle full of amazing art and other goodies.
Aural amazment provided by...
MICHAEL MANAHAN - The Oracle Gatherings
MANOS vs KADEEJAH Streets - Innerflight/Uniting Souls/sub-merge
novaTRON vs Shapeshifter [Live hardware vs. turntablism] - Space Island/S.B.A.
JEN WOOLFE - Leschi Lounge
NIGHT TRAIN [Harmonica FX] -Innerflight
KELLIAH RAE [Live vox]
LA FE WILL [Freestyle] - Beast Arteast
Artwork from...
MICHAEL BRINKER
Live Art by...
DreamingCoNexus
Fire Performance at 1:00am:
Mr. LUCKY
Location Coordinates: Waid's Place
1212 E. Jefferson, Seattle 98122
$10 Donations at door
This is a benefit party to raise funds, please come prepared. There will be a raffle for amazing art, professional body work, and lots of other stuff. Come help us, and have some fun!
www.Damanhur.com
I play 9:30-11, so come by early and stay late.
A message from our travellers:
We invite our community to share our vision and join us for a special fundraiser event. We are raising money to help a small group make a journey across the world to visit and learn from a truly amazing community of visionaries nestled in the hills of northern Italy. This community has lessons for all of us to learn on sustainability, artistic vision, communal survival, and among other great achievements, higher vibration living. This is The Federation of DAMANHUR.
We will be making this initial trip to bring back knowledge and inspiration for all. Returning later on with other groups to experience the magic for themsleves. Have a look at this unique and inspiring work of art at: www.damanhur.com
We invite you to join us for a special evening of music, dancing and learning. We've put together some remarkable talent from our community to entertain you, and we will have a raffle full of amazing art and other goodies.
Aural amazment provided by...
MICHAEL MANAHAN - The Oracle Gatherings
MANOS vs KADEEJAH Streets - Innerflight/Uniting Souls/sub-merge
novaTRON vs Shapeshifter [Live hardware vs. turntablism] - Space Island/S.B.A.
JEN WOOLFE - Leschi Lounge
NIGHT TRAIN [Harmonica FX] -Innerflight
KELLIAH RAE [Live vox]
LA FE WILL [Freestyle] - Beast Arteast
Artwork from...
MICHAEL BRINKER
Live Art by...
DreamingCoNexus
Fire Performance at 1:00am:
Mr. LUCKY
Location Coordinates: Waid's Place
1212 E. Jefferson, Seattle 98122
$10 Donations at door
This is a benefit party to raise funds, please come prepared. There will be a raffle for amazing art, professional body work, and lots of other stuff. Come help us, and have some fun!
www.Damanhur.com
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Back to the Grizzle!
I'm back to the werkforce tomorrow! I'm starting a contract linux admin position tomorrow morning at 8am. Back to having money and no time instead of time and no money and pulling the grind with the rest of the Western world. Back to standing in long lines on Sundays at Trader Joes and going to bed by 9pm. Back to drinking excessively to numb my brain of the day's headaches and having romantic dinners at the city's best vegan restaurants. Back to answering to a boss other than my own destiny and to the satisfaction of putting out tech fires and finishing long term projects. Back to uncoiling myself out from under the warm kitties sprawled casually on the bed and stopping into my favorite coffee shops for an americano with room and those malicious maple scones. Back to standing room-only on buses and catch-up lunches with all my buddies that work downtown. Back to never having enough home-time and being able to buy shoes that aren't used. Back to watching 4:20 click to 5:20 on the clock and seeing the sunrise color pink clouds over the cascades, slowing traffic on the Aurora bridge. Back to the worst and the best of the 9 to 5 (sing it, Dolly!). Selling my soul long enough to fund my way further towards my passion's progress.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Welcome Back Weekend
A Seattle Times Article talking about the benefits of longer club hours in Seattle. Will Sally stand behind this idea?
Wed Sep 12 - Nite Moves @ Havana's (New Grrl Night!)
Thu Sep 13 - Muse @ Mercury
All Weekend - Adlib, KJ Sawka, Theory in Motion, Michael Manahan, DeafChild, Manoj, Ravi, NovaTRON, Naha, and many more at Earthdance NW.
In Seattle
Fri Sep 14 - SPY Undercover @ Hengst Studio
Sat Sep 15 - On the Edge, a Celebration of Dance, Music & Martial Arts. This is a fundraising event for Seven Star Women's Kung Fu. Advance Tix only! Buy them here.
Wed Sep 12 - Nite Moves @ Havana's (New Grrl Night!)
Thu Sep 13 - Muse @ Mercury
All Weekend - Adlib, KJ Sawka, Theory in Motion, Michael Manahan, DeafChild, Manoj, Ravi, NovaTRON, Naha, and many more at Earthdance NW.
In Seattle
Fri Sep 14 - SPY Undercover @ Hengst Studio
Sat Sep 15 - On the Edge, a Celebration of Dance, Music & Martial Arts. This is a fundraising event for Seven Star Women's Kung Fu. Advance Tix only! Buy them here.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Back and Tan and Ready for Action
I'm back from burning man and ready to take on the default world again. There is a blog from my adventures this year stirring in my head but it will take a while while I reflect. Tura reminded me that I also haven't written the Vegas part II yet. It may take me forever to do things, but eventually they happen! Blog entries seem to have a life of their own. I just recite them to the computer, change a few boring words using the thesaurus, hit publish and there you go.
So what does the default world have in store for me this year? Well, I can tell you the next 6 months are pretty much werk, werk, werk. I finished my Music Theory class but I'm not sure if I passed. Regardless, I learned plenty and have much much more to learn. The biggest thing I've learned is that Bjork is the Beethoven of our time. The second thing I learned is that those who study many years of Music Theory and practice it are inherently sensational musicians. So there is much more Music Theory in my future. The next step before that, though, is piano lessons. That will help me be able to build melodies. I'm also practicing writing rhythms using various tools (Ableton & Reason) that simulate a drum machine. I'm learning from the Live Session and Jay Ray how to create interesting rhythms on the fly without the songs being static.
On the DJ front, I'm back to dj'ing shows, but I'm limiting it to once or twice a month (if possible) for my own sanity. I didn't manage to stop completely like I had wanted to, but I had a nice break off in July. I don't have any residencies at the moment, but there may be one in the werks.
I'm also about to dive back into the Tech world head first. Back to full time for this one!! Gotta do it, werk for the Man. Get 'er done.
So what does the default world have in store for me this year? Well, I can tell you the next 6 months are pretty much werk, werk, werk. I finished my Music Theory class but I'm not sure if I passed. Regardless, I learned plenty and have much much more to learn. The biggest thing I've learned is that Bjork is the Beethoven of our time. The second thing I learned is that those who study many years of Music Theory and practice it are inherently sensational musicians. So there is much more Music Theory in my future. The next step before that, though, is piano lessons. That will help me be able to build melodies. I'm also practicing writing rhythms using various tools (Ableton & Reason) that simulate a drum machine. I'm learning from the Live Session and Jay Ray how to create interesting rhythms on the fly without the songs being static.
On the DJ front, I'm back to dj'ing shows, but I'm limiting it to once or twice a month (if possible) for my own sanity. I didn't manage to stop completely like I had wanted to, but I had a nice break off in July. I don't have any residencies at the moment, but there may be one in the werks.
I'm also about to dive back into the Tech world head first. Back to full time for this one!! Gotta do it, werk for the Man. Get 'er done.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Just a little party in the desert
I'm off to Burning Man once again. 6 years in a row, can you believe it? If you are headed out there, join the Rockstar Orphans' DJ's at these locations:
Tuesday Mid @ Lemuria
Friday 11pm @ Playa-go-Round
Friday 4am @ Space Virgins
If you are in Seattle,
there's still plenty to go around:
Thu Aug 23 Jerry Abstract, Innerflight @ Nijo
Fri Aug 24 Kadeejah Streets, Swank, Jizosh @ Lower Level
Sat Aug 25 Chloe @ SeeSound Lounge
Then on Saturday Sep 1 in Seattle, PLAYA ENVY!!!!
Soundz by...
Michael Manahan - The Oracle Gatherings
Nordic Soul - Decibel/Dreaming in Stereo
Phidelity - www.phidelity.com
Osiris Indriya - The Oracle Gatherings
manos - sub-merge/Innerflight Music
Gel-Sol - Upstairs Recordings/www.gel-sol.com
Dr. Incredible - www.myspace.com/doctorincredible
Contents! - System/OFS
Artwork by...
Michael Brinker - Prolifik Ink
Eric Nez - www.nez-art.com
Zalman - www.zalmania.com
& others...
Midnight fire performance by...
Cam3ron
...as we burn the man!
Coordinates: Hengst Studios - 1506 Franklin Ave E
10pm-6am_ 21+_
$15 ($10 cover for the first 25 people to arrive looking "Playa Fabulous")
Tuesday Mid @ Lemuria
Friday 11pm @ Playa-go-Round
Friday 4am @ Space Virgins
If you are in Seattle,
there's still plenty to go around:
Thu Aug 23 Jerry Abstract, Innerflight @ Nijo
Fri Aug 24 Kadeejah Streets, Swank, Jizosh @ Lower Level
Sat Aug 25 Chloe @ SeeSound Lounge
Then on Saturday Sep 1 in Seattle, PLAYA ENVY!!!!
Soundz by...
Michael Manahan - The Oracle Gatherings
Nordic Soul - Decibel/Dreaming in Stereo
Phidelity - www.phidelity.com
Osiris Indriya - The Oracle Gatherings
manos - sub-merge/Innerflight Music
Gel-Sol - Upstairs Recordings/www.gel-sol.com
Dr. Incredible - www.myspace.com/doctorincredible
Contents! - System/OFS
Artwork by...
Michael Brinker - Prolifik Ink
Eric Nez - www.nez-art.com
Zalman - www.zalmania.com
& others...
Midnight fire performance by...
Cam3ron
...as we burn the man!
Coordinates: Hengst Studios - 1506 Franklin Ave E
10pm-6am_ 21+_
$15 ($10 cover for the first 25 people to arrive looking "Playa Fabulous")
Friday, August 17, 2007
A Playa Magic Part IV - The Journey Home
The journey home was the most challenging time of the week for me. On little sleep and even less comfort, I'd spent most of my days, after the playa, in the car with only an hour or two in between to rest and stretch my legs. I'd think that after 5 years of experiencing this event, I'd know the best formula for my decompression. But alas, as in all things, I am still learning. I have to admit that I was a bit of a poopy-pants, even though I had just come from the most positive place I've ever experienced. And isn't every experience positive if you make it so?
On our journey home, we swam in a private pool near Tahoe, saw the Redwoods in Northern California, camped near some bears on the border of Oregon. But the most vivid memory for me is that of the full moon, soaring over the city in Portland, the peak of Esnce's DJ mix climaxing from our CD player. How close it must feel to living on the moon when you are walking on the dried-up lake bed of the playa, the dark sky lit by neon outlines of human and alien-like Art.
How the moon draws us, every month, to our essence, just as the playa draws us, every year, to our source. By challenging us, pushing us to our outer edges, and allowing us to reflect on the ridiculousness of our modern society by building a new one in post-modern and prehistoric ways. To see our true beauty is to also see all that hinders us from it. It is our own Truth that leads us forward to find our power through Love.
And so in Truth, the emotional and physical difficulties that I worked through this year was my gift. And all that I have learned from them I carry with me from this day forward. Thank you, friends. Thank you, playa.
On our journey home, we swam in a private pool near Tahoe, saw the Redwoods in Northern California, camped near some bears on the border of Oregon. But the most vivid memory for me is that of the full moon, soaring over the city in Portland, the peak of Esnce's DJ mix climaxing from our CD player. How close it must feel to living on the moon when you are walking on the dried-up lake bed of the playa, the dark sky lit by neon outlines of human and alien-like Art.
How the moon draws us, every month, to our essence, just as the playa draws us, every year, to our source. By challenging us, pushing us to our outer edges, and allowing us to reflect on the ridiculousness of our modern society by building a new one in post-modern and prehistoric ways. To see our true beauty is to also see all that hinders us from it. It is our own Truth that leads us forward to find our power through Love.
And so in Truth, the emotional and physical difficulties that I worked through this year was my gift. And all that I have learned from them I carry with me from this day forward. Thank you, friends. Thank you, playa.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Sea-town and P-Town in the Hizouse
Whether you are in Portland or Seattle this weekend, Party it Up!
In P-Town...
Fri Aug 10
Place2Be: Jen Woolfe, Kay Lyn, Mena & Jay Ray on Keys! @ Pala
Afterhours: Follow Me!
Sat Aug 11
Place2Be: Spektrum @ Pi-Rem
Afterhours: Red Pony (SEA) @ After Dark w/Matt e Starr, Mr. Clean, G. Dellous (TEN)
In Sea-Town...
Fri Aug 10
PreFunk: Electric Avenue @ Lower Level (FREE!)
AllNightParty: King Britt, John Arnold & local heros @ Chop Suey (18+)
Sat Aug 11
PreFunk: Jon Lemmon, Chad Neiro @ Karma Lounge
Place2Be: Forward Saturdays @ SeeSound Lounge w/ Shameless
Sun Aug 12
Chillin: Sol Revival @ Tost
In P-Town...
Fri Aug 10
Place2Be: Jen Woolfe, Kay Lyn, Mena & Jay Ray on Keys! @ Pala
Afterhours: Follow Me!
Sat Aug 11
Place2Be: Spektrum @ Pi-Rem
Afterhours: Red Pony (SEA) @ After Dark w/Matt e Starr, Mr. Clean, G. Dellous (TEN)
In Sea-Town...
Fri Aug 10
PreFunk: Electric Avenue @ Lower Level (FREE!)
AllNightParty: King Britt, John Arnold & local heros @ Chop Suey (18+)
Sat Aug 11
PreFunk: Jon Lemmon, Chad Neiro @ Karma Lounge
Place2Be: Forward Saturdays @ SeeSound Lounge w/ Shameless
Sun Aug 12
Chillin: Sol Revival @ Tost
Thursday, August 09, 2007
NEXT GIG: Friday Aug 10 @ Pala
Hunniez @ PALA in Portland, OR
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge)
and presenting ... Jay Ray on Keys!
and your Portland ladies.....
Kay Lyn (Hunniez)
Mena (injoypresents)
Pala
NW 3rd and Couch St
$5 cover
21+ w/ id
10p-2
DRINK SPECIALS!!!!!!
Brought to you by anonymous-i
Jen Woolfe (Leschi Lounge)
and presenting ... Jay Ray on Keys!
and your Portland ladies.....
Kay Lyn (Hunniez)
Mena (injoypresents)
Pala
NW 3rd and Couch St
$5 cover
21+ w/ id
10p-2
DRINK SPECIALS!!!!!!
Brought to you by anonymous-i
Monday, August 06, 2007
NEW MIX: Goin' South
This is a practice set for playing Pala in Portland this Friday. Its not the most technically on, but its funky and fun, so who cares?
Goin South
Goin South
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Spy this Weekend
Thur Aug 2
Nordic Soul & Innerflight @ Nijo
Fri Aug 3
PreFunk: Mike Balance @ Contour ($5 before 11pm)
Place2Be: Olivier Desmet w/ Uniting Souls @ SeeSound
Sat Aug 4
PreFunk: Wesley Holmes, Erin O'Conner, Fortune Kiki & Johnny Fever @ Crimson
AllNightParty1: Spy w/ DJs Danger, Von Dewey, Mark F-R, Naha, Ramiro, Deep Vibes, LoveVirus, Sloth, Ben Shelton & Many more!
AllNightParty2: Mike Monday w/ Innerflight @ The Loft
Sun Aug 5
Chillin: Sol Revival @ Tost
Tue Aug 7
Chillin: Chad Neiro, LoveVirus & Trevor @ Baltic
Nordic Soul & Innerflight @ Nijo
Fri Aug 3
PreFunk: Mike Balance @ Contour ($5 before 11pm)
Place2Be: Olivier Desmet w/ Uniting Souls @ SeeSound
Sat Aug 4
PreFunk: Wesley Holmes, Erin O'Conner, Fortune Kiki & Johnny Fever @ Crimson
AllNightParty1: Spy w/ DJs Danger, Von Dewey, Mark F-R, Naha, Ramiro, Deep Vibes, LoveVirus, Sloth, Ben Shelton & Many more!
AllNightParty2: Mike Monday w/ Innerflight @ The Loft
Sun Aug 5
Chillin: Sol Revival @ Tost
Tue Aug 7
Chillin: Chad Neiro, LoveVirus & Trevor @ Baltic
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)