Sunday, December 30, 2012

December 30, 2012 ~ Updates on Karlos Paez and Steve Harris ... Live at Casbah!

I have had the pleasure of working with so many great bands in San Diego and I am so excited about many of them performing within the same setting tonight at The Casbah.


I interviewed B*Side Players' frontman Karlos Paez for Reggae Nucleus Magazine in the late 1990's and wanted to catch up with him on his thoughts on his performance this evening.

I have been a fan of B*Side Players for many years and I am sure that quite a few San Diegans have seen them perform; however, I rarely (if ever) see them on the same bill with The Styletones (of which singer Steve Harris, who is also performing tonight) is a part. I sense a similarity in conviction and personal mission with regard to music and promoting soul music from various regions.

Karlos will be performing with special guests and creating a more latin/dance/party set with Cumbias, Reggae and Rancheritas. He "has been representing the South Bay for twenty years and continues to live within and inspire his community through conscious music and lyrics." His goal is to "continue to tour the U.S. and Mexico 6 months a year and have toured with The Wailers, Toots and the Maytals, Ben Harper, The Headhunters & Arrested Development." He is also excited about finishing a new record "with Mexico's best Banda musicians from Sinaloa" and intends to "travel the world and unite different cultures through Music!"


During my conversation with Steve Harris he commented on several bands that are performing tonight. He has played several times with The Amalgamated and attended high school with the frontman, Raphael "RIP" Pena.

Harris says he respects the way The Amalgamated honor Caribbean rude boy culture and their role in rebuilding the scene locally -- which he believes has infused it " ... with fresh musicians and faces."

Harris says that he has known Karlos Paez since the 1990's, performed with him recently during a Gregory Isaacs tribute and considers him "a star" and that his style "is impeccable as is the way he represents his people."

The mutual respect I sense among these performers is exciting in itself; it definitely brings an energy and enthusiasm that will positively impact this evening's show.

The Amalgamated, Karlos Paez, Steve Harris, and The Soulfires all perform Sunday, December 30, 2012 at The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. and tickets are available online at www.casbahmusic.com as well as at the door.

Sunday, December 16, 2012

12/30/12: Local Painters featured with Bands at The Casbah

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2012 at The Casbah:

Local artists Martin Nasim, True Delorenzo and Nick Bahula will be displaying art and painting live as part of the December 30, 2012 Casbah show with the following bands: The Amalgamated, Karlos Paez of B*Side Players, The Soulfires and Steve Harris of The Styletones. Tickets are on sale at www.casbahmusic.com.

MARTIN NASIM

"I was born during the summer of 1977 in the capital of my country Bulgaria, Sofia. My name is Martin Nasim, I am a son of two cultures. My father is from Afghanistan and my mother is from Bulgaria. Now we all live in sunny San Diego, California. I’ve loved drawing from as far back as I can remember. As a teenager, I fell in love with black and white photography and went on to study it for 5 years in school. I won an award in International Assembly of Photography 1996 organized by The Red Cross.

After serving in the military for 1 year, my life went in different directions as I was searching for my way. During those years, I designed primarily with pencils and black markers. I started tattooing professionally in 2004. I am a self-taught painter inspired by objects in nature that I observe and rearrange through my own thought interpretation. I love to find solutions with the help of my imagination. I work two with very different medias.


I use paint markers and Plexiglas for canvas or needles and skin, but each piece gives me the energy of new love that I am creating. Sometimes when I paint I just see the image. Other times, I have no idea what is coming next and what will happen. Sometimes it’s just relaxing, like a meditation. My canvas, no matter skin, Plexiglas or paper, is like my personal diary. I want to share my art journey through life with whoever finds it interesting, inspiring, and touching."

TRUE DELORENZO


"When I was in Milan, Italy, I saw the New York Museum Travelling Exhibit of Modern Art Collection. I was so impressed by the American artists that I came back to California to become a full-time artist. My style is called post 9/11 abstract expressionism. Before 9/11, I was a graphic designer and after 9/11, I recognized how life can be cut short and it’s important to do what makes you the happiest. So I became serious about expressing myself with paint rather than digitally.

The artists that have inspired my work would start with Van Gogh, Gauguin, the impressionists, Pablo Picasso, Matisse, Modigliani, and the New York School, especially Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Phillip Guston, and pop artists Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Basquiat. Each inspires me in a different way, but I am especially inspired by color and emotional brushwork and accidental drips that have an organic feeling.


Each work of art that I do is always unique and original in itself unless I paint a bunch of canvasses at the same time. Those are generally in the same theme, style and color pallets. But the most unique paintings that I do are my self-portraits because each one shows my emotions as an artist at the time I’m painting it."


NICK BAHULA


"Nick Bahula has emerged over the past 12 years, making a name for himself throughout Southern California. He mixes Jackson Pollck-style drips with environmental themes, using watercolor, powdered paint and, if the weather permits, a little rain. His performance painting skills have been seen as part of the Summer Rooftop Series at the Riverside Art Museum.

Nick has been a donating artist for Sea No Evil show and the Mayor's Ball for the Arts."


Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Thursday, December 13th: Sweet Indulgence (South Bay Holiday Edition)


TONIGHT! Thursday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m., we are at Ono's Cafe in Bonita (4154 Bonita Road) for delicious Asian-fusion cuisine, accompanied by the music of Justin Werner, art by Holly B Designs, Quentin Anderson 2 and Magno Designs. Holiday gift ideas galore, beautiful community setting, and specials on fabulous rolls until 10 p.m. Looking forward to seeing you there.

If you have any questions on this or any other events, please email suitebrigitte@gmail.com. See you soon!

Friday, December 7, 2012

Artist Quentin Anderson 2 Appearing at Ono's on December 13th!

Sweet Indulgence on December 13, 2012 features Artist QUENTIN ANDERSON 2, who will be painting and selling art for the holidays this month at Ono's Cafe in Bonita!


About Quentin:

"I feel like I have always had a beautiful perspective on life growing up in San Diego, California. I have always had a running imagination and there has been much inspiration around me to fuel my creativity. My family and friends did and still continue to cheer and support every artistic effort I embark on, which is a continuous learning experience in every way.

Through the years I have found many different ways to create and show my artistic expression, and it is always a blessing to see the beautiful inspiring work others have done. I believe there is art in everything around us, it just takes an open mind to see it."

You will love the energy and beautiful creations that Quentin offers. The special holiday party at Ono's starts at 7:00 p.m, 4154 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

12/30: The Amalgamated, Karlos Paez of B*Side Players, Steve Harris of The Styletones and The Soulfires at The Casbah!

Sunday, December 30, 2012: An Evening of Eclectic Live Music + Art

The Amalgamated, Karlos Paez of B*Side Players, Steve Harris and The Soulfires perform at The Casbah in San Diego. Also included in the evening -- live art and displays by True Delorenzo, Martin Nasim and Nick Bahula. Tickets available now via the Casbah website. Doors open at 8:30 p.m.


KARLOS PAEZ of B*SIDE PLAYERS

"Karlos Paez born July 22, 1972 and raised in Tijuana, Mexico by his mother Refugio Mujica from Tecate, MX and Father Ezequiel Paez from El Recodo, Sinaloa. His father Ezequiel Paez is a world-renowned trombone player and musical arranger who spent 17 years in Los Moonlights from Tijuana and 10 years in La Banda El Recodo. Paez, Sr. still composes and arranges music for Banda El Recodo, Los Recoditos, La Arrolladora Banda Limon de Rene Camacho, Diana Reyes, Rey Sanchez, Nico Flores, Ezequiel Peña, Banda Astilleros, Banda el Recreo, Banda Carnaval, Pedro Infante, El Coyote, Patricia Navidad, Banda La Costeña, & Marisela.

While he was still in grammar school, Karlos heard the music of Bob Marley & Carlos Santana; he started playing guitar, trombone, trumpet, and began to write songs. He met the musicians that would become the first incarnation of The B*Side Players in an African Drumming class at Southwestern Community College in San Diego in 1994. “We were all playing with bands in the local funk, punk rock, and acid jazz scene in the early 90s,” Paez recalls. “When we started playing together, our sound was different because we brought an Afro-Latin edge to the music.”

Karlos Paez has recorded and collaborated with Akwid, Poncho Sanchez, DJ Dus, Fred Wesley, Big B, War, Asdru & Raul Pacheco of Ozomatli, Quetzal, Brian Jordan, Harold Todd, Mike Clark & The Headhunters, RYMO of Slightly Stoopid, P.O.D., DJ Unite, Elijah Emmanuel & The Revelations, Hyena & Gilbert Castellanos.

After 18 years, Karlos Paez is still touring and recording with the B*Side Players but has made time to produce and create many other musical projects. As the creator, lead singer and songwriter of Maiz, Chula Vista Soldier Club, Black Market Discipes, Sonido De La Frontera and Solrak and the New Aztec Empire, Karlos Paez celebrates his first solo record Music, Culture, Love. With the help of San Diego’s most talented musicians and producer/musician Bryan Stratman, the record delivers organic, soulful, cosmic grooves with conscious lyrics inspired by the MUSIC, CULTURE, and LOVE of Karlos Paez." www.karlospaez.com

THE AMALGAMATED


"Based in San Diego, the Amalgamated spun off from the Hi-Lites in early 2007. Five members of the Hi-Lites -- an eight-piece ska band -- left the group due to a falling out with bassist James Trent, who also writes the band's original tunes.

The five members who bolted and two other former Hi-Lites formed the Amalgamated, a ska-jazz band with early-1960s rock-steady and reggae influences.

“We are an incredible live band that makes everyone dance to up-tempo beats and can also get you into a groove with light reggae textures. We open each song up for solos, allowing all members the opportunity to show off their improvisation talents. The creativity flowing may remind the audience of great jazz standards being performed.”

The band has appeared at the Belly Up Tavern, Casbah, Soma, Queen Bee’s Cultural Center, Winston’s, O’Connell’s, Royal Dive, Hensley’s Flying Elephant, Kensington Club, Radio Room, and the Ramona Mainstage.

Founding Amalgamated trombone player Keith Duncan left the group in 2009, followed by founding percussionist Chris Wise, who also co-founded the Hi-Lites. The band also lost August Christman (bass), Dave Polnik (sax), Sean Conway (trumpet), Mark McLemore (drums), and Charles Roy (guitar).

Drummer Jason Yandall left the band in June 2011, to concentrate on his new band Ottly Mercer. Amalgamated guitarist Reggie Costa is mixing and co-producing OM’s upcoming debut album, while Amalgamated singer Raphael “Rip” Peña has helped them book shows as their promoter."

STEVE HARRIS

"Stevie Harris is an American musician from Cleveland, Ohio, whose music blends elements of rock, funk, soul, hip hop, and blues. After relocating to San Diego, CA, he started recording for Cargo Records, writing and co-producing the eclectic acoustic album Pebble, and the record Armeghetto for his post punk funk outfit, Conglomerate. Released from the label, Harris moved to Oakland, CA, where he released several independent albums in various styles while performing around the world as a member of the Remarkable Current, most notably recording songs with Talib Qweli and Mos Def.

Upon his return to San Diego, Harris transformed himself into the James Brown-esque frontman for the Styletones and the post apocalyptic funk bluesman of Stevie & the Hi-Staxx receiving best new artist nominations at the San Diego Music Awards, two years in a row for two different bands."

THE SOULFIRES


"The Fire Eaters began as an instrumental soul jazz and funk band that includes members of The Styletones and Pocket. Drummer Jake Najor also plays with Connie Price and The Keystones. In 2012, the band changed its name to The Soulfires.

In a way, the band is the next generation in a rich local history of soul and acid jazz. According to keyboardist Tim Felten, “As far as how we fit into this, Jake has played with both Robert Walter and Karl Denson, and Jake’s brother Zak was an original founding member of the Greyboy Allstars. So, there’s some lineage here with Jake.”

The band started in 2009, when they backed Ikah Love during his El Dorado residency. “That was the catalyst that got this band going. We moved on to El Camino and ended up parting ways with Ikah and doing our own stuff,” says Najor.

They cut their teeth playing standards in the genre and got tight through constant gigging, armed with vintage equipment, warm tones, soulful arrangements, and chops. “The goal is to write more originals. Opening it up to different influences. That soul-jazz music is very prevalent in what we do, but we do want to move it forward,” says Najor."



December 21, 2012: Eklektic Soul + Foreign Film at Go Lounge


Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Sweet! SWEET INDULGENCE for December 20, 2012!


SWEET INDULGENCE at Voyou Wine Bar on Thursday, December 20, 2012, 6:00 p.m.

The holiday season is upon us and, I must admit, I am excited about it! I am drawn to the creations of the local artisans and this month presents several opportunities for you to support them at various shows. I will be updating pretty regularly in the weeks to come. I know you will find the work of these artists and business owners to be of exceptional quality and value.

Holly B Designs is a La Mesa-based jewelry company run by Holly Beck. We have worked together on numerous occasions and she will be a featured designer at the holiday edition of SWEET INDULGENCE at the French-themed wine bar, Voyou, on December 20th.

Holly B Designs are classy, very feminine and often created with healing stones. I have worn the necklaces and earrings since 2011 and I am always pleased with the way I feel while wearing this jewelry as well as how the designs easily compliment various clothing styles.

In addition Seasons Botanicals will offer beautifully scented hand-made soap and healing essential oil blends. These combinations make superior and unique gifts for all occasions. You will definitely want to catch the talk we will have on the use of these oils and their amazing healing qualities.


Sweet Indulgence kicks off at Voyou at 6:00 p.m. for mingling, checking out the wonderful happy hour specials and offers all sorts of handcrafted delights for your shopping pleasure.

Questions? Please feel free to email suitebrigitte@gmail.com

Voyou Wine Bar
3696 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92103



Wednesday, November 21, 2012

New! Design It Yourself iPhone Skin Just Released by Magno Designs!

San Diego entrepreneur, Robert Magno, just released his third Kickstarter project this week: the Design It Yourself iPhone skin. This recycled product is available for your support -- just in time for the holidays!

It is always amazing to me to see what people can do with their creative vision, drive and energy. I met Robert through the festival production work that we have done together since 2004. Since that time, we have collaborated on various festivals and I had no idea that he had an interest in designing.

Click here to check out his project: MAGNO DESIGNS.


Magno says he intends to make The Design-It-Yourself iPhone Skin "for everyone looking for an affordable way to customize their iPhones. They will be available in black, white, or natural, and ready for your artwork." In addition, he says the other iPhone skins are generally made out of plastic and so he wants to recreate something ecologically friendly and sustainable. The new iPhone Skin is constructed of cardboard materials and is 100 percent recyclable (although they may contain post consumer content or have recycled materials). From the iPhone skins themselves, to the packaging, and shipping envelopes -- even the adhesives are recycled.

I am wishing the best for the DIY iPhone Skin and hoping that you will take a look at this project and support these designs and entrepreneurship in general. Robert has always been very supportive of other entrepreneurs, nonprofits and community efforts and it is great to see all of that positive energy radiating back to him by way of acknowledgment and kudos for his fine efforts.



Monday, November 19, 2012

San Diego’s Hunger Coalition Works to End Hunger through Education and Advocacy


The San Diego Hunger Coalition (“SDHC”) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to and participation in federal food programs. They educate and advocate on the local, state and national levels with a vision of extinguishing hunger and malnutrition within the County.

In light of the flurry of charitable acts that traditionally emphasize holiday giving, I wanted to explore what we can do on an ongoing basis to assist local food and nourishment-related programs any time of the year.

I spoke with Jennifer Tracy, the Executive Director of San Diego Hunger Coalition (SDHC) an agency that has been in existence for thirty-five years and operates with a total seven staff members.

SDHC has numerous community partnerships which include about sixty organizations (such as Food Bank, Feeding America, Catholic Charities, Jewish Family Services, Chula Vista Collaborative) and they provide training and support to these groups, as well as serve as part of the task force for the CalFresh program (formerly known as Food Stamps). Part of SDHC's role is to conduct research on policy issues and gather feedback from partners and take it to the executive level, working to make the CalFresh process more efficient and effective across the county.

As with many nonprofit programs, one of the main challenges for SDHC is a lack of funding. Volunteers are needed to help raise funds and raise awareness about the organization.

Another area in which help is needed (and that any of us can do at any time) is to work to change the misconceptions and stigmas that are associated with anti-hunger programs. Tracy says, “People think it's waste, it's fraud and abuse. Less than 2 percent of the cases are fraudulent; overall, the programs are really effective....”
Based on this misconception, more awareness is needed to educate people about the overall needs of our community. The more we learn about what the issues are the less likelihood for miseducation and stereotyping around the hunger issue. Independent research, blogging and sharing via Facebook and Twitter are good ways to help promote a better understanding of the hunger issues in San Diego and this also helps the numerous organizations involved in anti-hunger campaigns.


SDHC can also use volunteers who would like to serve on the board of directors as well as volunteers who would like to contribute their advocacy skills by working to make sure that people have access to Cal Fresh program. Additionally, communications support such as web development and content writing are also needed.

Volunteers who want to encourage a dialogue which will inform the public and reduce the misconceptions that many have about hunger issues are in demand. These are simple and effective ways to get involved that can make a big difference in other people's lives.


We have so many key resources to address these local issues. It is good to know about these collaborations that include neighborhood gardens, local farms, health educators, nutrition experts and for-profit entities that are in place to assist us be of greater service to one another.

You can learn more about SDHC's efforts by visiting their site: www.sandiegohungercoalition.org.

Friday, November 16, 2012

Interview with Michael Lombardi (Of The Earth and Sun)

We have a show at The Go Lounge tonight and I'm looking forward to hearing Michael Lombardi's new solo project "Michael Lombardi Of the Earth and Sun."


About Michael:

"I've been writing songs for over 15 years, playing in a few bands, but more often recording on my own, writing and playing all the parts myself. I released my first album "The June Bug" under the name Starshine in 2008. The following year I began my AEONs project which has been my primary musical outlet for the past few years, releasing several EP's as Aeon Solaris & Aeon Vespertine, the former more acoustic based songs, and the latter more electronic rock songs. This past summer I collaborated with my soul sister, Corinne Felicity, a fellow songwriter who I met back in high school, and we released the Aeon Solaris album "Brother Sun, Sister Moon." I have more AEONs material in the works, and many of the songs I play as Michael of the Earth & Sun, come from the AEONs catalog."

Tell us more about your new project, "Michael Lombardi and Of the Earth and Sun."

"Saying I am Michael Lombardi to me, is like saying I'm from Boston. Where as Michael of the Earth & Sun, is saying, I am from Earth. One is the child of a very specific family, a limb on a certain family tree. The other is saying, I am a child of all humankind, all the wisdom and experience from everyone who has ever lived, and beyond that a child of the galactic family of the Earth and the Sun, and of the universe. Many of us, fail to take into perspective, the relationship we have with our home planet, with the Sun that nurtures us, and the universe that houses us. I will always be that little boy who grew up in the suburbs of Boston, but the more I learn, the more the understand about the bigger picture of existence, and humankind's place within it, the more I become in sync with my roots in the universe. I don't anymore feel like I've been alive for just a few decades, I feel I've been alive for 14 billion or so years, that the elements I am, that we all are, can be traced back, at least as far as the big bang. I relate to the static on the TV, just as much as the heartbeat of my mother."


How long have you been performing with the new project?

"I've done many solo shows over the years, but I've only recently adopted this name, so this is the first show under this new monicker. Changing names, came from an escalating feeling that I've had in the past year, that I've been building myself up, training myself to be this person, that I feel I'm finally becoming. It is like the third phase of my life's progression. First the childhood years of being a Caterpillar, then the teenage to young adult years of hiding in a cocoon, I feel like everything I've done and been, has led to this rebirth, like I am a butterfly ready to break free and fly."

When I met you earlier this year, you were performing with the Los Angeles-based rock band, Lakookala. Are you still performing with that band?

"Lakookala has been on a bit of a hiatus, while she recorded some new songs for a 7" vinyl due out in a few months, and shot an amazing video for the song "Motherbiiiirds" from her debut EP "Songs for Zemean" which we be released next week (11/19)."

How does your new project differ from the music you performed with Lakookala?

"It is vastly different from Lakookala which is really the solo project of my friend Nico. She writes everything and plays most everything in the studio, I'm simply a member of the live band, playing keys/synth. Which I really enjoy, because I can just show up and play these songs that I love alongside some wonderful friends. It's so much more simple in that sense. This project of mine, like my AEONs project, is a lot more personal, it has a tremendous investment of my soul in it. At the end of the day, I consider myself a songwriter much more than a musician. That is why I switch around instruments so much. A guitar or a synthesizer or whatever, to me, is just a tool. Like a paint brush is a tool for a painter, the brush does not create the art, but merely helps translate it from an internal ambiguous emotion, to a form that others can then receive and hopefully relate to. This project is me, taking my inner most being and turning myself inside out, so what is usually deep inside me, and often hidden to the eye, becomes starkly visible."

Based on your online posts and the pictures that I have seen over several months, I have noticed your hunger for knowledge, expression as well as your receptivity to your own evolution as a person as well as an artist. What personal, world and/or local conditions have been inspiring you?

"I've always had a hunger for knowledge. I've never been one to be blindly satisfied with what I was told, or taught, whether it be from my family, from religion, school teachers, where ever.

I've always been one who needs to seek out his own answers and learn from his own experiences, and draw my own conclusions.

I recently began taking solo excursions out into the California desert, and have found it to be inspiring to me in an almost a religious way. There is something magical I feel, about the isolation, and the way the stars blanket the night sky, the way the Milky Way wraps across the horizon. It is a tremendous environment for escape and reflection. Out there, I can tune into a stronger connection with the universe around and inside us. Something bigger than out foolish human tendencies towards things like fear and greed. These things don't exist there, aside from what I bring with me, that which we all hold inside of us. I can lay out my entire being, my fragile flaws, and beautiful hope and sort through it. Slowly rebuilding myself, and little by little, piece by piece, into a stronger and more pure rendition of myself.

I believe I am, we all are, are own greatest works of art. We are what we create. I can go there and destroy, and recreate myself as a stronger and better me. In all my disassembling, I came to an understanding about what my role, as a human, and artist is. To use my accumulating knowledge and experience, and through art awaken people to their own ambition. To inspire and help people, especially those lost in darkness, a place I know all to well, to find their way back to their light, to that thing which makes them happy and complete. This is what inspires me and drives me as an artist. And what attracts me to the art of others. The way art can portray the most ugly things as beautiful, and give hope.

My mission in life and art, has become to be an agent of love, and as love, to instigate a revolution of the mind. To shift the paradigm of existence away from fear and greed, and towards love. I'm not naive enough to truly believe I can change the world in an magnificently monumental way, but I do believe I can have an impact of the people around me, and maybe they can impact the people around them. With this idea, I've found new courage as an artist, and new inspiration to keep creating, and to be supportive of others creativity."

You performed with Lakookala at the events that I produced to raise awareness about "Everybody Deserves Music's" youth music programs in Los Angeles. Have you been involved in any other youth-oriented projects in your community -- or do you have any vision of being more involved in such activities?


"I live in what is often referred to as an artist commune in Northridge, called Das Bauhaus. We, as a community try to work with our neighbors and the community, in encouraging the arts. We also occasionally organize street cleaning events, teaming up with local residents and CSUN students. Recently we organized with the San Fernando Rescue Mission, a homeless shelter, being built just around the corner from Das Bauhaus. I had an opportunity to talk with the man building/organizing it, about the possibility of creating some music and art programs that the Bauhaus can be a part of, once the facility is up and running.

I don't have specific plans as of yet, but it is something that really means a lot to me, and will jump at an opportunity to work for such a cause. I think that the financial cuts being dealt to education are heartbreaking, and it seems music and art are often the first things to go.

I didn't go to a school with great music or art programs, but they at least had some music or art classes, and they were crucial to people like me and many of my friends, in discovering who we were and shaping our ambitions and values. I can't imagine the impact it would have on future generations to not have, even that basic opportunity for experiencing and understanding the arts. Creating opportunities to help get, not only children, but also adults more involved and invested in the arts is something that I'd very much like to be a part of."

What can people expect in terms of style, sound and influences from your performance tonight?

"I've always been an artist who enjoys a very layered sound in music, but recently I've been eager to strip things down, to their most simple, raw, and honest form.

These songs I will be playing, are nude emotion. My sound is very tough for me to nail down, because my range of influences spans decades and genres, but I've been comparing it to some of the bluesy country-esque stuff by The Brian Jonestown Massacre, with the deep and dark emotion of Mark Lanegan, and the raw sentiment of Neutral Milk Hotel."

More information on Michael Lombardi is found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/OfTheEarthAndSun


Michael of the Earth and Sun performs Friday, November 16, 2012 with Steve Harris and The China Clippers at The Go Lounge, 7123 El Cajon Bouevard, San Diego, Ca., 9 p.m.


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Interview with Local Artist Steve Harris of The Styletones


Most San Diego locals are familiar with the soulful funk group, The Styletones, and the lead singer and co-writer Stevie Harris. Harris is also the lead singer guitarist and songwriter of Stevie and the Hi-Staxx and was previously signed by Cargo Records as solo artist, touring with the group Conglomerate throughout the United States and Morocco.


In 2010 and 2011, I collaborated with Steve Harris on a few San Diego shows geared toward highlighting his acoustic work as well as his side project Stevie and the Hi-Staxx. We recently spoke about the future of his music and, since I learned recently that he also paints, I had questions about his art. With that in mind, I asked Steve to show some of his paintings at an upcoming event at The Go Lounge. What follows are insights about his music-related projects as well as his artwork.

How do you view yourself as an artist?

“My vision is cloudy -- but it is to continue going forward for beauty and some truth I can relate to in my music. I want to stay honest. Right now I’m comfortable letting all directions develop; I want to stay out of the way.

The Styletones continue to be a surprising little dessert for me … I don’t have administrative responsibility so I’m down to step out the way of it rolling.

I will always play acoustic, however. I think best, regardless of whether I have an audience for it, it is my truest art form; my first art form --
‘singersongwritery.’

The Hi-Staxx is my opportunity to play electric guitar in the tradition of my alternative black forebearers such as Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, D’Angelo and several others.”


When did you start painting?

“I did my first few paintings seven years ago in Florida but the main thrust has been since late April 2012. I've drawn all my life but the color is new.”

What do you consider to be your main motivation for painting?

“My motivators – honestly, I think I seek father figures -- mostly soul singers such as Al Green and Marvin Gaye. I have always been into Diego Rivera, Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin and Salvador Dali – more their lives than their art, maybe. Painting strengthens my connection to them and it's not music and so it offers a nice break.

Art is so new to me; I don’t feel any pressure to do anything but enjoy it. I am not pressured to make a living with it because I’m not that good. Strange motivator. I also just like beautiful things so it’s cool to be part of it. It is also very relaxing for me. I have a few watercolors and a few ink drawings -- mainly acrylics on canvas or fancy cardboard.”


What have you gained through painting that may have been a surprise or that is different from creating music?

“As an artist -- in a broader sense -- I see myself as a child. I'm just now gaining real understanding of how little I know and, more importantly, I don’t live like I know the little I do. But I've never stopped creating so there must be a reason for it and that has nothing to do with self gratification or paying bills. Maybe if I get clear enough and sensitive enough, answers will come. I have no history with painting; it’s like a new girlfriend -- no baggage, no expectations. It has helped me realize that your art is not the tools or medium you use to express it. Whatever your frequency is it shows itself. I think the roughness of my sound is translated into the roughness of my brush stroke. I don’t know why I paint flowers.”

How do you feel about the first public showing of your paintings in a club setting, along with your music?

“I've spent a lot my life in bars, playing music. I was also a doorman for three years at El Rio on Mission at Cesar Chavez (San Francisco). It is a culture. I don’t drink either never have -- but I’m a night person, a blues person -- according to Amiri Baraka. I have spent way less time in galleries.”

Steve Harris performs this Friday, November 16, 2012 along with Michael of the Earth and Sun and The China Clippers at The Go Lounge in the College Area, 7123 El Cajon Boulevard in San Diego, Ca. Show starts at 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Friday, November 16: Live Music + Art!


This month at The Go Lounge in San Diego, we present an eclectic evening of live music and art.

Musical performances by Los Angeles-based Michael of the Earth and Sun (www.facebook.com/oftheearthandsun)

Steve Harris (of The Styletones) performing and showing his paintings publicly for the first time; and,

San Diego rockers the China Clippers.
www.sandiegoreader.com/bands/china-clippers

The show starts at 9:00 p.m.

The Go Lounge
7123 El Cajon Boulevard
San Diego, CA

Monday, October 29, 2012

A Talk with Creative Warrior: Amy Baca Lopez


I learned of local artist Amy Baca Lopez' work while having coffee at Lestat's on Park Boulevard in San Diego. I remember falling in love with the colors, the energy and the spirit of the many paintings that were all around the room.

Amy and I met today to discuss what I feel is a very exciting and liberating life of her design. I felt grateful to meet her and learn about her inspiration, motivation for painting and her commitment to authentic self-expression.

Amy appears to be inspired by many facets of life -- from the work of Spanish masters such as Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, Antoni Gaudi and Salvator Dali, as well as children's art, music and graffiti.


I was surprised to hear that Amy had only been painting since 2009. She ran a successful graphic design business for over ten years and started painting only after a trip to Spain. During her trip she trekked over 300 miles along the beautiful Camino De Santiago.

~ Appreciating Life's Rhythms.

As Amy took her time, exploring and appreciating the gifts of the journey, she found something magical in walking and the balancing that occurs when we walk. She described it as a balancing of the system. She covered 20 miles daily -- walking approximately 8 hours.

At times, she says she wanted to give up and take a bus because walking is so slow. However, she began to think about and appreciate the slowness of walking as opposed to the quickness of a bus ride. She compared this experience to her desire to paint versus time spent on the computer creating graphic designs.

Prior to the trip to Spain, Amy suffered from carpel tunnel syndrome in both arms. She credits her trip and the walking experience to her healing.


When Amy returned to her home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she was motivated to paint and found that she had the courage to show her work to others. She "just went for it," creating art and submitting pictures of her work to cafes and galleries for consideration. Her work was quickly accepted for a show in a cafe where twelve of her pieces were displayed.

Amy eventually moved to San Diego where she has been a featured artist in numerous shows. She credits her transition from her graphic design career to a full-time painter to the book *The Artist's Way, by Julia Cameron, which encourages creative expression through writing and various exercises toward a focused outcome. (*Interestingly, I've been working with this book for the past seven weeks and would agree that it definitely supports the process.)

Amy is also heavily inspired by music and receives shapes, colors and visions through songs. She also receives fresh ideas through exercising, her gym workouts and by consistently breaking routines and visiting new places -- things that are also encouraged in The Artist Way .


Check out Amy's work at numerous upcoming shows in San Diego including the South Park Walkabout on December 1st; The Mission on University Avenue; Lestat's (Park Boulevard and Adams Avenue locations) as well as Tazzo D'Oro in Little Italy.

"Every artist needs an audience." - Amy Baca Lopez

Monday, October 22, 2012

Tuesday, October 23: Live Music + Art at The Federal Bar, North Hollywood

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 at 9:30 p.m. We are going to be at The Federal Bar in LOS ANGELES for Live Music by Randy Emata and his band and live art! Celebrate with Magno Designs' latest completely eco-friendly iPhone Skin; Susana Boney painting live and more! Federal Bar, 5303 Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

The Power of Art: Improving Emotional and Spiritual Health.

I am recalling the promises I made to remember the people who are living in hospitals and not able to go outside, be with their families and friends -- the people who may be alone. I remember how difficult it was for me being hospitalized as a child and how wonderful it was to have visitors, even if they could only stay for short periods of time. When I found out about Sharp Hospital's art program, it really spoke to me as it uses art in various forms to assist patients.
The Power of Art: Improving Emotional and Spiritual Health. Arts for Healing is a program in which patients are able to minimize stress, increase comfort and elevate their spirits through sharing activities that are developed to meet their needs and challenges. Sharp's HealthCare Spiritual Care team guides volunteers to support patients by creating together using a variety of art forms including music, drama and creative writing as part of the healing process.
You can support the program through making a gift to the Sharp HealthCare Foundation: www.sharp.com/foundation.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Local Nonprofits Use Food and Creativity while Addressing Sustainability

What a wonderful summer full of inspiration and positive changes we have had in San Diego. Here is an update on organizations that are doing amazing work with a health and sustainability-oriented focus.
I had the pleasure of attending the “A Taste of Summer,” the nonprofit Ecoffiency’s San Diego event and meeting with nonprofit co-founder Chrissy Gray to discuss the event, program mission and goals for the future. Ecofficiency, an Orange County-based organization runs a few projects and highlighted its program, “Positive Plate” which expanded to include Carlsbad at the beginning of the year. Its mission is “to inspire an ethic of responsible lifestyle choices and individual actions that result in positive impacts on society and the environment.” In preparation for its introduction to San Diego, Ecofficiency selected two San Diego-based nonprofits as benefactors for its collaboration: Olivewood Gardens and San Diego Hunger Coalition. Gray states that the goal was to continue to grow deeper relationships with both entities through involvement in this event.
The event was held at San Diego's Liberty Station on a Friday evening and was sustainability-themed including chefs from San Diego-based restaurants Alchemy, Café Chole, Carnitas, Casa de Luz, and Gabardine. Each restaurant created unique appetizers and small plates; all dishes were created using local and organic ingredients. Attendees enjoyed local wine and craft beers while enjoying local art and learning about other sustainability driven businesses and organizations. Ecofficiency focuses “on the demands and actions of individuals…yet only with the goal of contributing to a larger grassroots movement that demonstrates and demands change.” I felt that their San Diego event was a great way to introduce their concepts as well as encourage the local community’s support and participation.
Through the Positive Plate program, Ecofficiency works with restaurants in Orange County and San Diego to implement sustainability plans addressing areas such as product sourcing; energy and water efficiency; recycling and waste reduction; employee training and development as well as community engagement. The restaurants that are part of their programs are generally part of the community events that they create. I asked about the organizers’ observations, processes and challenges in the planning of an introductory event in a new community and new companies. Gray states she researched organizations to find out the best match for their mission and hopes to strengthen relationships with partnering organizations and businesses on the last event. Some of the challenges were a lack of volunteer assistance as well as funding and sponsorships. In their first San Diego event, Ecofficiency was able to generate $5,000 for their nonprofit, promote local businesses and donate ten percent of their proceeds to the participating nonprofits.
What’s Next for Ecofficiency: “Taste of Fall” is scheduled for Thursday, October 18, 2012 with more dynamic restaurants where attendees can experience unique small plates created by conscious Orange County chefs and using local and organic ingredients. Tickets are $65. For more information see www.ecofficiency.org. By Brigitte Taylor on Twitter @SuiteBrigitte

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Friday, October 19, 2012: Celebrate Funk + Soul at The Go Lounge

FRIDAY, October 19, 2012: Check out local musicians T Irie Dread and Steve Harris (of The Styletones), who will be performing in this local favorite venue the Go Lounge. If you love soulful and funky music, you will definitely want to check out this show. The Go Lounge is an intimate venue located in the College Area and is increasingly becoming a favorite spot for musicians and music lovers alike. It's certainly different than some of the stereotypes often associated with the typical college town. The vibe consists of cool folks of all ages who are supportive of community, culture and live music. Party starts at 9:00 p.m. Photo credit for Go Lounge: KT Gravatt Photography
Check out other Events at Facebook Page Twitter: @suitebrigitte

We'll be in the "FeeLit Art Section" at Night and Day Street Fest: October 13, 2012

San Diegans and surrounding cities are invited to the inaugural ‘Night & Day Street Fest’ on Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 4:00pm – midnight on 14th Street between K Street & Imperial Avenue in the East Village, San Diego. Named after U-T San Diego’s premier entertainment platform, Night&Day, ‘Night & Day Street Fest’ is a full-service lifestyle event highlighting music, art, food, and craft beer. This is a 21+ event. Spanning several blocks, ‘Night & Day Street Fest’ will host G-Love, Donovan Frankenreiter, Pato Banton and Everest on the main stage at 14th + K st. and local artists The Nervous Wreckords, The Styletones, Low Volts and Mattson 2 on a second stage at 14th Street+ Imperial. With first-rate music and craft beer locked, the Night&Day Street Fest will also incorporate interactive art provided by FeeLit (www.feelitsandiego.com), local restaurants, and a pop-up surf museum — details at www.NDStreetFest.com Come and check us out the inventors of the iPhone skin made of apple wood and tshirt silkscreening genius, Magno Designs in the FeeLit art section featuring the limited edition and specially hand-crafted iPhone skin designs created in support of the South Bay Sports + Music Combine that is scheduled for December 15th.

Friday, October 5, 2012

Spotlight on San Diego's "Table for Two"

“San Diego’s Table for Two.” I had the honor of meeting Mayumi Uejima-Carr, the San Diego representative of the nonprofit Table for Two (TFT) at Ecoffiency’s “A Taste of Summer” event held in June 2012 at Liberty Station. She took the time to tell me a little about the organization and its local vision. TFT was founded in Japan in 2007 and currently has 400 participating organizations that include corporations, restaurants, and universities. The organization partners with restaurants, adding a 25 cent charge to the price of the meal which is used to provide school lunches in various countries such as Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia. By participating in this TFT program, “one does good for oneself and for another … when you dine at Table for Two, you never dine alone.” According to TFT, in a world of 7 billion, “1 billion suffer from hunger and malnutrition, while an equal number face obesity, diabetes, and other health issues related to ‘overnutrition.’” TFT is working to eliminate this huge imbalance by addressing these opposing problems in a simple and direct manner -- through a meal by transferring our nation's food excesses in a way that benefits children in need. The local chapter has already formed partnerships with Flavors of East Africa, Jamroc 101, Extreme Pizza La Jolla, California Kebab and Beer Garden, Tajima, Kidding Around. TFT has also worked with TEDx UC Irvine, TEDxSDSU, San Diego Foodies and A Taste of Summer. I am very happy to say that in addition to the international hunger-related issues, Mayumi told me that TFT has started to focus on domestic hunger issues. TFT will assist by providing donations to schools and assisting in the creation of healthy school lunch programs in San Diego and other parts of the United States.
The local TFT chapter is preparing for its 2012 World Food Day Celebration on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at California Kebab located at 4150 Mission Blvd #208 in Pacific Beach starting at 6:00 p.m. and will feature a Healthy Meal/Food Art Exhibit presented by local children; California Kebabs and healthy food samples, prizes and more. California Kebab will donate 10 percent of its proceeds generated during the event to TFT’s cause. Through this joint presentation, organizers will raise awareness about issues of obesity and hunger simultaneously. Admission is free. (www.tablefor2.org) Check out other happenings at Brigitte's Events at Facebook Page Twitter: @suitebrigitte

Thursday, October 4, 2012

South Bay Music and Sports Combine is Underway!

South Bay Music and Sports Combine

We are creating an ongoing community music and sports festival which celebrates the energy and resources of the neighborhood, encouraging support of the music and athletic culture. This event is scheduled to occur at the Robert Egger Sr. South Bay Recreation Center in San Diego.

The collective effort will involve all aspects of the community including families, individuals, businesses, local educational institutions, sports programs and environmentally conscious organizations in a way that will promote the offerings of each program while celebrating the broader community.


Through sports, music, artistic expression and education, we will create a space in which people will participate in the athletic activities of their choice; enjoy the programming with their friends and families and receive valuable information in a fun atmosphere. Our goal is to create a strong platform on which musicians can share their talents while people are experiencing new and familiar activities in a highly creative setting.

South Bay Music & Sports Combine will feature: Interactive Sports Activities - Mini basketball camp, obstacle courses, and activities designed to encourage and celebrate youth involvement. DJ sets accompanying demonstrations as well as in between band sets. Live Bands - Local bands highlighted Booths and exhibits - Information and interactive activities highlighting local nonprofit organizations involved with education, sports, health and the environment. Art and Painting: Highlighting local painters' work and encouraging on site creativity, inspiration -- particularly those efforts of students. Food (supporting local vendors)
YOUR SUPPORT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED. THIS EVENT IS SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2013 at ROBERT EGGER SR. SOUTH BAY RECREATION CENTER, 1885 Coronado Avenue, San Diego, CA 92154.

If you are interested in supporting this project as a resource provider or sponsor, please feel free to email us at suitebrigitte@gmail.com. In addition, there are a series of upcoming events in which you can participate and support our efforts. In addition, the Kickstarter campaign that we originally established for the previous site will be updated for the merchandise associated with this event. THANK YOU for your continued support of San Diego community-based efforts.