Rawk and Roll & The Depths of House

Fallin' In Love All Over Again
I love Oakland and The East Bay because we embody "openness" and "inclusion" on every level. The perfect laboratory for all that is possible. No pigeon-holes allowed! Some home girls and a house head transplant from the East Coast are making THIS Friday night mighty musically tasty. Read on!

Why She Gotta Rawk Like That?
Last May, DJ Oliver invited a few friends over to celebrate his new digs-some 20+ musicians, vocalists, performers, DJs. You know? Just a little party. One of the performers was a local rapper/vocalist named Holly Saucy. I remember Holly because she was focused. So focused that she killed it in spite of a technical problem. Professional and polished. All I could think was, "Finally!" and I looked forward to an opportunity to see her do her thing again. So I was excited to hear about her new show Damn She Rawks premiering this Friday at the Shattuck Down Low.

What excited me was a featured artists list that included Saucy, Punk Funk Mob, and legendary Bay Area DJ queen Pam The Funkstress. Ok. Saw PFM last year for the first time as well (BTW they ripped it as well) and I have always wanted to hear Pam spin, but on the same bill? Did I mention that Jessica Holter (Punanny Poets) will MC? Now thats something. I had to call Olaywa Austin, founder of Town Logic Media Group and the shows promoter for the real.

A "No Poser" Show
Damn She Rawks came from a concept that Saucy and Austin devised as a way to shed light on hometown rock sheroes. "DSR is a collective of very talented ethnic women rockers", Olaywa continues, "the artists most often left out of rock music discussions." A seasoned MC, Holly is a seasoned stage vet. "Holly has performed around the world", Austin warns. "She has built strong relationships with other brown lady performers." The plan? Pick up local stars from around the globe as headliners and have the ladies of DSR serve as the "opening acts" for the best local lady rockers you've never heard of. A traveling "under card" of sorts. A September Prague show is in the works as well as shows featuring Latoya London's band Urban Punk and Stax Records artist N’dambi.

Is this truly unique (Oakland) approach the beginnings of a new standard? I'll be watching!

Shattuck Down Low
2284 Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley
http://www.shattuckdownlow.com/events/damn-she-rawks-feat-holly

EVOLVE: Soulful Dance Music
House DJ Soul Luciani is on a mission and he is evangelizing for Oakland's house music scene! You know the genre: Soulful dance music marked by repetitive undertones and percussive overlay. Made legendary by DJs/Producers like Louie Vega, Joe Claussel, and Timmy Regisford. Soul believes Oakland is ready for choices and he's ready to lend a hand.

Under a canopy of Old Oakland trees and over tea, he recently explained his belief in Oakland's future as a House Music Mecca. "Oakland is the center of The Bay and therefore, closer to culture and more firmly rooted." "Like Oakland, house is down to earth and open."

The Temple Effect
Luciani talks about the music as a platform for change; for healing. "Like drumming, house music opens the mind and the body. When you leave you feel rejuvenated." "I am creating ambassadors for Oakland", he continues. "This music is inclusive...it is spiritual."

His passion is compelling. It comes from witnessing the healing effects of the music. It all depends on what you want to attract. "Music is a subconscious magnet...you can talk about negativity or you can talk about love and caring." House makes you high because house music is about changing...about spirituality." That's the temple effect. Partying with HIGHER purpose.

Keep an eye out for parties that bump until sunset. Until then, DJs Soul, David Harness, and Rahiem Jihad set the tone at from 9-2 @ Evolve. It goes down every second Friday at Era Art Bar.http://www.oaklandera.com/

Oakland Stand Up!

Mr. Oakland

The World Is Calling

I told ya'll!
Last year Mr. Oakland introduced you to Oakland-based paintbrush slinger Carly Ivan Garcia. Film, international exhibitions (Miami Basel '09 and '10), and now a NYC show at Fountain NY presented by TINCA.Inc NY. Know it or not, Oakland artists are making moves. The international stage is the goal. Keep doing it Carly! BTW thats me with my first CIG joint.

Who's got next? Bryon Malik.
I met Malik almost 3 years ago @ Tyranny Allen's sneaker box, Verse. (Man I miss that spot!) He instantly let me know what was up, "I'm a professional photographer." Respect. His priorities seemed clear and he believed in his abilities. I thought it might be good to work together in the future.
Since then, I have had the opportunity to work with him on a few successful projects. He has proven to driven and persistent.
He is always pushin' to improve. His momentum and work ethic seems to propel him through space. Think rocket! In homage to the work he loves, Malik shoots his subjects with a high level of respect. "I have put everything that I am into my craft." Because of this deep personal involvement (spiritual even) he becomes one with his subjects. Whether its The People party, a high fashion shoot, or the cataloguing of a private collection of ancient African masks, he exhibits the rare affinity to interact within the moment without becoming the moment.

See and Be @ Remedy Tonight
Capturing life's moments is a priority for Malik. "I create photographic documentaries." His new solo show, "Seeing and Being", is the result of 13 years of honing and fine tuning of his craft. The show will be an excellent opportunity to experience the broad spectrum within B. Malik shoots under. Live performance, still life, outdoor, fashion, and just plain-old random shit.

Opening tonight @ Remedy Cafe 4316 Telegraph Ave. I have fallen in love with this coffee shop! Since Awaken Cafe closed (soon to re-open) I have completely lost myself in this warm, urban cabin on Telegraph. The mix of retro, modern, reused stylings of the cafe should balance well with the angular beauty of the images. I haven't seen the show, but it will be a stop on my magical Murmur tour tonight. It will be my first time seeing it and I know there will be something that speaks to me. When the work speaks, I gotta move on it! You know what I always say? "Love an artist? Feed an artist."

Seeing and Being by Bryon Malik www.bmalikphotography.com
Remedy Coffee Shop-4316 Telegraph Ave. www.remedyoakland.com
Opening Reception: TODAY Friday March 4th 6-9
Show runs through March

After The Show: Head over to Mua's for Midnight Marauders

Ahn and Ahn Ahn and Ah, Ah, and Ahn's Was hanging out with my favorite pregnant person this week. I like pregnant folk: They never slip on a food run. You are guaranteed to get your eat on when a expectant mother's food drive kicks in because she has been planning and plotting the next food move for hours. Shame on me for admitting this, but I had my first Ahn's Quarter pound Burger during that run...OMG!!!! Pastrami Cheesburger w/grilled onions...Phewwwwwwwwwwwww oui!!!! I have no idea why I never stopped @ that little brick hut in the past. I do know I will spend the rest of my life making up for it. Don't be like me, be better than me. Can't wait for my next one. Thank you pregnant lady. Thank you.
Ahn's is located @ 439 Grand Avenue (510) 763-4328

Oakland Stand Up!

Mr. Oakland

Next Time: Hooked On Derby!

In Need Of...

"Creativity is Spirit"
I have been feeling pretty stale after all the cold, wet, windy weather we've been having. Just kinda "blah" and neutral. As a result, I haven't felt much like writing. Not due to lack of subject matter, I just didn't want to.

Yeah, I said it. "I didn't feel like it!"

I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel pressed in by the city-especially when its cold and rainy. Did I mention windy? "This is The Bay Area. You can drive two hours in any direction and..." Yeah, yeah I know. Not practical. Trust me, this is one of those times when I was just gonna have to stay put!

I needed a healing. I needed to be baptized in the arts. I needed creative inspiration. I had to get out! As a result, I got a chance to mix it up with some of Oakland's brightest. Here's a taste:

Murmurs of Black History Month
I attended the openings of two powerful group shows: Aerosoul 2: Urban Hieroglyphics @ Joyce Gordon Gallery and Black Local: A Collection of Artists Currently Residing in the Bay Area @ Warehouse 416. Two very different approaches for exposing local Black artists. Many many approaches is best. Ya think?

God's on the boulevard building on life
Seeing Black people as celestial beings.
KRS One

Curator and participating artist, REFA 1, Aerosoul 2 asks, "How do we use our cultural disciplines to heal our neighborhoods and communities?" "writing" is not graffiti. "The lettering is reflective of Black culture." It supports its own "sensibilities and disciplines". This is what attracts the youth of the neighborhood when the artists congregate to complete a project. This is why they want to participate.

He then shares with me how a mural located @ the intersection of 14th & Campbell was so powerful that it caused all negative activities to cease for 2 years. "Creativity is spirit", he continues, "There is serious depression in our communities. The arts is significant in how we go through the process of healing our spirits and souls." These murals create a SAFE ZONE: They represent hope.

It is no surprise then when REFA 1 says, "This (writing)is the fastest growing visual art movement in the world."The Bay Area Aerosol Heritage Society is on a mission to show what this artform means to the African American community. After seeing a truly multicultural crowd in attendance during the opening, I am certain the message is being heard. Aerosoul 2 shows through 2/27.

Joyce Gordon, what moved you about this show? "The art is powerful. Besides I grew up with 7 brothers and I love Black men. Anytime I can help them do something positive, I will."

Donate at http://www.aerosoul.com/ to assist the Bay Area Aerol Heritage Society in bringing murals to struggling black communities and to raise cultural awareness, and to curb youth violence. Our new mayor should go see Joyce, give her a hug, and thank her for this show. You should too! http://www.joycegordongallery.com/

"I've Wondered About That Myself"
The show Black Local is the brain trust of Angela Scirvani, owner and curator of Warehouse 416. "My inspiration?", asks Scirvani. "I saw a lack of African American artists showing in Oakland." The Oakland native continues, "My intention was to bring out the Black community to The Murmur...to meet the artists and to build a multicultural (arts community) reflective of the city." So she put out a call to local artists via Craigslist. She also called upon longtime Oakland art activist Randolph Belle founder of www.SupportOakland Arts.org and organizer of the Art Census for further assistance.

She admits that doing this show is like walking on eggshells..."Black Local is bold." She is aware that she is in an awkward position and she makes no excuses or apologies for doing this show. "I grew up in Oakland and I like people who are real and willing to tell it like it is. When you need that fix, get around some Black folks!" "As a business owner, it also Besides, reaching out makes good business sense since it allows me to expand my client list." You are so right Angela!

Closing reception is today from 5-9pm. Visit the gallery's website for future show info @ http://www.warehouse416.com/

The Purpose of MixersWent to the last InOak mixer @ Disco Volante on 14th and Webster. Remember Cafe Katrina? Anyway...this monthly tech-influenced get together has grown into a crowded loud cocktail party. I love it!!! Meeting and connecting with people is the whole point of mixers, right. Just noticed a lot of confused people. Also overheard, "I don't know what this group is, but I heard about it on Facebook and had to come. Sigh...

Speaking of technology...did you see that Oakland-based Pandora is going public the middle of 2011. Oakland ain't high tech enough? Really? Get ready! http://techcrunch.com/2011/02/11/pandora-files-to-go-public/

Ran into local businessman Michael Bardales, who introduced me to Dr. Mariza Snyder. She and her business partner, Dr. Lauren Chin, have just completed a book entitled "The Antioxidant Counter". I was immediately intrigued. I told you I needed some healing so I'm down to listen to any REASONABLE ideas on improving the effectiveness of my diet. Besides there had to be other foods high in antioxidants that wasn't green tea, pomegranite, or acai berry. The challenge for me was finding a easy way to identify these foods. The healthy food game ain't easy to understand. I found the authors' simple explanation of complex chemical interactions helpful to understanding how my body absorbs nutrients and deals with toxins. I felt armed!

As a Mills gradute in biology and psychology, her goal was to become a medical doctor. "I had my acceptance to medical school and was ready to go." A "casual" referral brought her to a chiropractor to address migraine headaches. "I had had them since I was a child and nothing ever helped." So she had nothing to lose. Almost miraculously, the headaches were gone. "Haven't had one since," she says happily. Talk about life changing experiences. Laughing, she says,"I withdrew my admission to med school and entered chiropractic school instead". She is on a mission to heal. "Our goal at The Specific Chiropractic Center is to help as many people as we can."

Dr.s Snyder and Chin will be launching their new book, "The Antioxidant Counter" this Friday @ 4179 Piedmont Avenue, Suite 210 in Oakland. For more details visit http://www.thespecific.com/ or Dr. Snyder's blog http://www.thebreakupwithsugar.com/

Got my healing. Just needed some help from my city! Go get yours too!

Oakland Stand Up

Mr. Oakland

Next Up: Bryon Malik's New Show @ Remedy http://www.bmalikphotography.com/

Optimistic Pessimism aka Holding Out For The Good

I've been waiting for the new year to roll out before I start being optimistic about the new year. Last year was challenging for everyone: Even Mr. Oakland had to tighten that belt up to make it through. With that in mind, I have been slow to jumpin' on that band wagon of new year positivity.

Here we go!

Speaking of Missed Opportunities...
Don't know why you missed The Kenny Hawkins Groovin' Deep Music Project hosted by Charles Blades Barber Spa on December 30th. (See my last dispatch cause I told ya 'bout it!) What was there not to love about this set? Great food, slammin' jazz, special guest violinist and Oakland Public Conservatory faculty member Sandra Poindexter, and a beautiful slice of Oakland Goodness (Oakland folk) ready to soak up the holidays. Oh, did I mention that it was only $10? Standing Room Only! Oakland's jazz traditions are based in the jazz clubs (not ONE club). Look out for intimate venues and rich performances springing up all over The Town. Big Ups and many thank yous to Charles Blades for knowing what's up! www.charlesbladesbarberspa.com


Tuff(y) and Kuhl!
After reflecting on 2010, I realized that I missed some great positive jump off. One missed opportunity was Lil Tuffy's 2nd Annual "Showprints and Art" @ Kuhl Frames + Art. There was no way I was gonna miss the 3rd annual show!

Lil Tuffy is best known for his gig posters. Artists from MC Chris, Maus Haus, Thomas Dolby, Oakland's own Digital Underground, WuTang Clan, and Pavement. His aggressive use of color and space make for some thought provoking and humorous imagery. And because he is a self described member of the "attention deficit disorder generation" (Why is it so easy for me to relate to that?), he has created a prolific body of work influenced by, "1960's Russian matchbooks, Old West WANTED posters, National Park postcards, cocktail napkins, '70s strip club newspaper ads, the history of steel in Pittsburgh, and the atom bomb". The show has over 200 posters.

This KRS One joint was a dream acquisition. Been coveting that one for over 5 years. Big Man Lil Tuffy pointed me in the right direction and I was able to swoop this one up for myself. I know where the last available one resides. If you want it, I can hook that up for you. If you're astonished, don't be. I'm Mr. Oakland!

Since I Love Value
Most posters are in the $40 range. Consult with Travis about custom framing. Archival quality work is the rule. The highest quality and craftsmanship is how Travis does it. There are ready-fit frames to precisely fit the majority of Tuffy's formats as well. Or you can keep running to Ikea and Z Gallery for that mass-produced garbage all your friends keep copping. If more value is required, Tuffy and Travis will be hosting a closing reception January 29th from 5-9 PM. Does free PBR mean anything to ya? Limited edition poster, custom framing, and a free beer? Hmm...just go!

Located right @ the top of Franklin. You know that s-curve that ends @ Broadway?
Travis Kuhl's shop is open and bright; tucked between steel & glass modernity and brick & mortar classic Oakland architecture. Very unexpectedly cool. BTW that's how you pronounce Kuhl. Tell Travis and Tuffy who sent ya!

www.kuhlframes.com
412 22nd Street

Mon-Fri : 10:30 - 6:00

Sat : 11:00 - 4:00

Sun : Closed

House of Paradiso: Just RELEASE
The Oakland house music scene just received another shot in the arm this past Thursday. Legendary local spinnas DJ fflood and DJ Cecil are at it again with a new weekly lovefest @ Paradiso (2272 Telegraph Avenue). RELEASE promises to satisfy in the tradition of The People, Soulful Sundays, Magic Milkcrates, and New Life. A two-level party with soulful house upstairs and dance hall downstairs. These DJs are skilled, diverse, and eclectic. Look for the dynamic duo to tag team on the sets throughout the evening. Every Thursday from 9PM-2AM RELEASE should satisfy your midweek dance jones. www.disolounge.com

Don't forget to tell the DJs and Mesfin Mr. Oakland sent you!

Until next time,

Oakland Stand Up!

Mr. Oakland

Contribute to Oakland Public Conservatory http://opcyouth.chipin.com/music-scholarships-for-youth

Parking Ticket Trip

Hey Oakland,
Recently I had to deal with a parking ticket. No big deal except that I just couldn't bear the thought of paying to park so I could address a parking ticket. That just seems so wrong. So in classic Oakland fashion, I revolted!

I parked near Jack London Square within the warehouse district (4 hour limit) and decided to take The Free B up Broadway. I have to say that I truly love the "f" word. There's just something about the way the word just rolls off the tongue and makes me feel so good. Go ahead. Say it with me: Free. Electric!

My first stop was Charles Blades Barber Spa http://www.charlesbladesbarberspa.com/ @ 180 2nd St for positive conversation about jazz, Oakland politics and the Arts. While there he turned me on to this holiday jazz event taking place on December 30th. http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=136746066378978&index=1

I missed the last show. Not this time.

For a crazy creamy killer cappuccino made from coffee roasted on premise, I made my way to Blue Bottle Coffee @ 3rd & Webster Speaking of BBC (sorry Pharrell), next time you stop in, have a latte made with Ethiopian Amaro Gayo. You can taste hints of blueberry muffins. For real? For real! Also hit them up for a (say it with me again) free cupping (think wine tasting, but with coffee) on Tuesdays and Sundays @ 2 PM-my biz partner LaShan and me are attending on 12/21...come with us.

I was ready to hit The Free B and head up Broadway, except that Roli Roti http://www.roliroti.com/ (divine) decided to set-up shop on the curb out front serving roasted meat creations. Could this be a divine sign? Fresh roasted coffee and fresh roasted meat? Given the flexibility offered me by my 4 hour parking window, I deduced the following: 1. Buy a sandwich 2. Walk it off by skipping the B & head up Broadway to Frank Ogawa by foot. "Hmmm", ...so I had the Roast Pork Loin w/Crispy Pork Belly Sandwich. Back Story: I grew up in a household that deemed pork as an abomination. You know, the usual. High blood pressure, cholesterol, and the "unclean" meat thing. That may all be true, but damn! Ok pork is bad except this sandwich and, of course, bacon. Put one of these sandwiches on your bucket list. It won't kill you. I'm just sayin'! Divine intervention indeed!

After making a quick stop @ RiteAid for some much needed H2O, I headed across Broadway to the parking office. I was greeted by the sweetest security attendant in THE WORLD City of Oakland Oak sticker. Branded swag? I thought we were in the midst of a recession? Do it Oakland! With my stickr proudly pasted on my jacket, I headed up to the parking office where I was promptly serviced. I was back @ the bus stop on 14th and Broadway within 10 minutes. It was a happy ride back to JLS on The Free B. Beautiful!

The best $10 I've spent on parking in many years. And no ticket!

Stuff like this happens to me cause I'm Mr. Oakland. It can happen for you too. Just keep reading my inconsistent dispatches and I'll keep you up on game...see you in the streets!

For Free B schedule and a route map visit Aunt Clara via the attached link.
http://www.actransit.org/maps/schedule_results.php?quick_line=B&Go=Go

Oakland Stand Up!

Mr. Oakland

Aima The Dreamer/Jazz Mafia Hookup for Tomorrow Friday 12/3

Alright now Oakland!!!

Mr. Oakland here to share what we love the most in life: A Damn Good Hookup!!

The Show:
Jazz Mafia featuring (Oakland's own) Aima The Dreamer
The Craneway Pavilion
1414 Harbour Way South
Richmond, CA 94804

Been noticing the buzz on Jazz Mafia for over a year and had a hard time believing what I was hearing: A 43 piece hip hop big band? That's right, a Hip Hop BIG Band performing an original hip hop symphony "Brass Bows and Beats".

Just downloaded some free music from their website: Yessir!! I have been dying for an epic hip hop production that involved live music for a long time. No offense to the Kev Choice Ensemble, but 43 pieces? Come on! You know Ellington, Basie, and Hampton wish they could come back for this!

So when my girl Aima The Dreamer informed me that she was on the bill I knew I was done.

About Aima:
I first saw her perform @ DJ Black's Halloween party. Is it possible to turn a party out with just two songs? Well she rocked it and I'm in love with her music! Her latest release "The Dreamer Mixtape" , produced by J Boogie, is NICE NICE NICE. J Boog put his foot in it.


Mr. Oakland has some Oakland love to share with YOU!

I have limited guest list privileges to share, courtesy of Aima. so hit me up by MIDNIGHT TONIGHT with names to add. Just send an email with "AIMA THE DREAMER/JAZZ MAFIA" in the subject to mrkevinskipper@gmail.com and you're in!

Get with it and get there. This will be a holiday show NOT TO BE MISSED!

For more on Aima The Dreamer visit http://www.aimathedreamer.com/

Check out Jazz Mafia at http://www.jazzmafia.com/

For info on The Craneway Pavilion visit http://www.craneway.com/

To prove that there is no such thing as an overnight sensation, here is a video featuring Aima, J Boogie, and Jazz Mafia from 2008. Ya mean?




Oakland Stand Up (& Sign Up)!