REAL TALK: DJ MINDGAME

KALANI: HOW LONG WERE YOU IN VEGAS?
MINDGAME: I was in vegas only for a few months...went up beginning of this year...and came back couple months ago. I moved out there to Dj initially...but i wasnt prepared for it. It was a big culture shock for me as in, I didnt know anyone out there....no one knew who i was. So, I had to start all over again. Goodvybe helped me out a bit up there and I was making my connections and building myself up....but it wasnt enough. So I decided to come back...I believe Edit just moved back for the same reasons.

K: WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO LATELY?
MINDGAME: I just moved back from Las Vegas, so Ive been catching up with friends and family, while making new connections and friends.

K: HOW DID U GET TO BE KNOWN AS DJ MINDGAME?
MINDGAME: When I first started djing, I used to always wear a skate brand called "Mindgame" People started calling me that and it stuck. Everyone thinks it means something weird or negative, but to me Mindgame means the quote "If you put your mind to it, you can accompish anything."

K: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE GENRE TO SPIN?
MINDGAME: I have such a broad spectrum of musical tastes, that it would be very hard for me to pinpoint which is my "favorite" But, at this moment, I enjoy playing Top 40and Electro...and of course Drum and Bass.

K: IS PLAYING MAINSTREAM SOMETHING YOU LIKE TO DO? WHY OR WHY NOT?
MINDGAME: I was always very mixed about mainstream until recently. Some of it is actually good; Some of it ends up growing on me one way or another. I always end up having fun djing, whatever genre it is I am playing. But in the end, its about the crowd, and you having the most fun you can with them.

K:IT SEEMS LIKE YOU HAVE PICKED UP MORE AND MORE GIGS? HOW DID THESE OPPORTUNITIES COME ABOUT?
MINDGAME: Well, in Vegas, opportunities for me to play were very scarce and seemed to be reserved to a select few. It was a very hard time for me, and apparently for the economy as well. Soon as I got back to the islands, things really feel together for me. As if Hawaii were telling me that this paradise is my home.


K: WHAT'S YOUR APPROACH TO DJing AND THE CROWDS YOU PLAY FOR?
MINDGAME: My approach would be head-on. I always try to recreate a vibe where I had fun enjoying a Dj and sustaining it throughout the night.

K:WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO BRING TO HAWAII'S DJ SCENE?
MINDGAME: I'm trying to bring the same amount of energy that everyone else has. There are alot of really good djs out here that really motivate me. If I do bring anything to the scene, I'd have to say it would be diversity. I tend t mix is up.

K: CAN DJing EVER BECOME BORING?
MINDGAME: Djing can never become boring, its the Dj that gets bored. I tend to have fun with whatever it is I do. I was always very creative and with Serato for Djs, the creative possibilities are endless.

K: WHAT'S YOUR TAKE ON THE ELECTRONIC MUSIC SCENE? DNB SCENE?
MINDGAME: The electronic music scene always comes in waves. There have been small cycles since the surge in 2000, but, there seems to be another surge that has already started thanks to the perseverance of the Livewire crew and 00-spot. And with that, the Drum and Bass scene has also seen a resurgence.

K: CURRENT RESIDENCIES?
MINDGAME: Monday-Livewire/Shock@Xyloh, Tuesday and Wednesday are open(promoters holler djmndgm@gmail.com) Thursday-Non-stop@Cirque, Friday-Audiolab@Lotus(2nd Fridays) Saturday-My Evolution Saturdays@Fashion 45, Also, random events at The Shop.

K: AS FAR AS MUSIC AND DJing IS CONCERNED DO YOU HAVE A NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION?
MINDGAME: I plan on getting back into production. My musical output has been very slow the past couple of years.

K: ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO PLUG, SHOUT OUT OR JUST GENERALLY WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
MINDGAME: I would like to give a shout out DJ 720 for getting me started when i got back. Also, shouts to Trypticon, Hoshi, Audissey, Hard-E Boyz, Nishi, and BOAY crew. My Evolution Saturdays at Fashion 45!

Spinzone: DJ Mindgame

Mind Field
by Kalani Wilhelm

Vegas isn’t for everyone.

The realization that he was merely a tiny DJ fish in a huge nightlife pond brought DJ Mindgame, an integral member of Hawai’i’s drum ‘n’ bass scene, home. Sure, his ego took a hit, but the disappointment has turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

“I moved out there to DJ initially, but it was a big culture shock for me,” he said. “I didn’t know anyone out there. No one knew who I was.”

A few months removed from the experience, Mindgame is as busy as ever with a renewed focus and expanded music repertoire. Vegas’ loss is Hawai’i’s gain for sure.

Livewire/Shock Mondays at Xyloh, 1220 Kona St., 18+; Non-Stop Thursdays at Cirque Hawai’i, 325 Seaside Ave., 18+; My Evolution Saturdays at Fashion 45, 2255 Khi Ave, 18+.

12/31 writeups in the Honolulu Weekly

Nobody puts hip-hop in the corner
by Kalani Wilhelm

Is Shwayze the name of the duo, the duo and the DJ or the laid-back rapper guy? Representing West Coast stoner chill pop music, Malibu rapper Shwayze has a lot he can brag about.

While 2008 marked the release of his self-titled debut album that spawned the summertime smash “Buzzin,’” Shwayze also had a popular MTV reality show documenting his summer rise to stardom, which further helped thrust the 22-year-old and his producer-sidekick Cisco Adler into the mainstream membranes of the pop music world.

On a night when you should be buzzing, Shwayze, Adler and DJ Skeet Skeet close out their remarkable year New Year’s Eve at Pipeline Cafe with Seattle-based hip-hop tandem Blue Scholars as special guests.

The up-and-coming artist is just getting started. Shwayze and his brand of hip-hop folk pop should continue to keep the buzz going well into 2009 and beyond.

Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina St., Wed 12/31, 9pm, presale $45, 18+, ticketmaster outlets, Times Supermarkets, Blaisdell box office, [bampprojects.com].


Yo yo yo
by Kalani Wilhelm

As far as the combination of singer and songwriter credits in the pop music world are concerned, it would be tough to match the early achievements of R&B crooner Ne-Yo.

Credited for bringing the smoother, softer side of R&B back to mainstream pop music, the 29-year old pop sensation first burst onto the scene first for his songwriter skills with 2004 smash hit “Let Me Love You” by Mario.

His career continued to escalate. It wasn’t until the release of debut album In My Own Words in 2006 that spurned number one hit “So Sick” that people began to take note of the singer’s pop potential. His second album Because Of You continued to solidify himself as a force to be reckoned with.

While his voice and dance moves often draw comparisons to pop king Michael Jackson, Jacko’s got nothing on this songwriting hitman who has penned number one hits like Beyonce’s “Irreplaceable,” and Rihanna’s “Unfaithful,” among a lengthy list of artists that includes Chris Brown, Celine Dion and Jennifer Hudson. OK, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration.

If things couldn’t get any better, his current album, Year of the Gentleman, produced one of the biggest hits of the year, “Closer,” and earned him six Grammy nominations including the coveted category of Album of the Year. Although Year of the Gentleman failed to hit number one like his previous two efforts, it may prove to be his best album to date, especially if it wins a Grammy.

Any way you slice it, that’s seven top-10 songs and two chart-topping albums and counting for this certified superstar.

Blaisdell Arena, 777 Ward Ave., Mon 1/5, 7:30pm, $35–55, [ticketmaster.com], 591-2211

REAL TALK: DJ PACKO

KALANI: What about music in general excites you?
PACKO: I'm continuously excited about the places that all music takes me. Each piece is a different journey with multiple pathways. After all is said and done, I never feel complete. I think it's because I'm always wanting more. Not that it leaves me hanging high and dry, but the fact that it's my musical note-worthy nicotine, my melodious medical marijuana, say, my anti-drug in the absence of love. Music's a drug that I can never get sick of.

KALANI: What about deejaying excites you?
PACKO: Deejaying typically brings out the inner child of me. I'm infatuated with the invention of the turntable itself, but to use it as my paintbrush, it's a great experience. It's like audible finger painting. Controlling the sound, is like a scientist with a time machine; being lucid in a dream; a quarterback on a football team; or a kid with unlimited jellybeans. Deejaying is as a drug addiction is to crack fiends. It gives me the opportunity to set my own rules of my game and have fun with it. Being meticulous on the type of music that I would play, I often try to find a way to make the music my friend. Stubborn, in a sense. It's probably my good ol' Taurean attitude in defense. But, listen to what I listen to, and hopefully you can understand what I meant.


KALANI: What about scratching excites you?
PACKO: What's so appealing to me about scratching is the ability to take something totally unorthodox, like the sound of a drill, clanging pipes, a car crash, a laser, or any word or syllable, and make music out it. Either as an accompaniment, hook, or verse, scratching can be an integral part of music. It can be treated like any other sound that a typical instrument can make. It is unique in its own behavior. Plus, it's fun to tweek out on the turntable during the wee morning hours, for hours.

KALANI: What about hip hop culture excites you?
PACKO: As the old adage goes, Hip Hop is a way of life. It's not just about the music, but the people you surround yourself with, the way you dress, the style you choose to equip yourself with. I can't exactly say that I live "Hip Hop," I just listen to a lot of it. To every individual, their concept and grasp of the word in itself has its own meaning. I choose to have it as a part of my way of life. I'm sure that over the years of its existence, it got over-saturated with new styles, different methods, contrary characteristics, and offbeat approaches that altered the traditional appearance of "Hip Hop" as a culture. Hip Hop has come a long way, and it's scary, yet exciting to see what's next. In order to know where it's going, you must know where it came from. Hence, myself often digging deeper and reaching farther and farther back to understand the movement, and why it even began the way it did, back in the beginning. Hip Hop is eternally moving forward, and backwards, at once. Either move out the way, or stay in the groove. Needless to say, there's always room to improve. Which is another reason why Hip Hop appeals to me: The artists are constantly trying to outdo each other to be the best. Which is dope, because we all rise together, especially in Hawaii.

KALANI: Tying all those aforementioned concepts together, how does it all excite you?
PACKO: Like a bumper sticker once told me, 'Do what you love, and love what you do.' That just about sums it all up for me. I love music, and I want people to hear my take on it. Whether through words or records. I guess traffic isn't always so bad, so, big ups to driving in traffic.

KALANI: How did you connect with SIQ Records and the Spacifics?
PACKO: Both parties actually had separate occasions of connection. The team at SIQ Records came up together. We all knew somebody who knew somebody. The reason that I linked with SIQ Records, is because of what they are doing. I wouldn't get down with something I was a hypocrite to. I know they all got good heads and they have great intentions. It takes a great amount of time and patience to even start a record label to begin with. So, with Hip Hop, Hawaii, and a legitimate record label, all under one roof, that's a pretty big task, if you ask me. I'm glad that I knew some good folks who finally up and did it, which gives me the privilege to be a part of that movement.

As far as linking with the Spacifics, they had everything and all elements in place, although what was missing was a key sound to any Hip Hop act: scratching. It's a simple equation: Live Hip Hop + MCs + DJ = the Spacifics As they searched for someone who could cater with the cuts, I just so happened to be available at that moment. And, that moment was our biggest show, Rock The Bells at the Blaisdell Arena in September of 2007. That's when I came aboard. We still do shows until this day. Putting in work every week at every practice session possible.

KALANI: What's your take on the current crop of turntablists and true hip hop deejays in Hawaii?
PACKO: I believe everyone is out on their own grind. In my view, I don't see as much of a hype as there once was. There's no real DJ battles any more such as the DMC and ITF stopovers. Nowadays, it's up to us as the "turntablists" to keep our head high, and continue doing what we're doing to keep the art alive. It's truly survival of the fittest. Shapeshifting through existence, it's time to sift through the trends, sort out the split ends, quit pretending, and ascend through the barriers of this Turntablistic Deejay funny business. In actuality, most DJs are just that, a DJ. I hate to hate, but "DJ" is such a loosely used term. Sure, self-hatred is a bad thing. I'm a DJ myself, but truthfully, I just enjoy scratching. I got into the mixing aspect just to experiment with the incorporation of scratching into a more pleasurable and alluring audio/visual experience. So far it's worked out to my liking. I would just like to see more scratch sessions/BBQs/get-togethers/etc., just to shoot the shit and catch up on the 'tablist times. Hawaii's got the talent, but the motivation is not 100%, just yet.

KALANI: What are some of your most memorable deejay moments?
PACKO: There's a few. My biggest moment was the chance to finally Q&A with DJ Qbert. In my own home, to say the least. The whole reason I got into Deejaying, is because of the Invisibl Skratch Piklz, which Qbert was a member of back in the 90's. My main, numero uno goal was to have a question and answer scratch session with him, or even all of the 'Piklz. To the uneducated, Question and Answering is like it says, DJs cut in turns over a beat for 8 bars, 16 bars, 32 bars, what have you. On a separate occasion, I had the privilege to cut alongside DJ D-Styles. I've met Yogafrog, Mixmaster Mike, and Shortkut. All of that had a big effect on me. Knowing that I've once connected with them gives me unfathomed confidence. Having that under my belt, I felt like all I ever wanted as a DJ has been accomplished. That made me have to set even higher goals. That is my next challenge, to find out what's next for me.
Another big moment, was playing at the Blaisdell for the Rock The Bells show back in 2007 with the Spacifics. It was a blessing to just be on the same bill as Wu-Tang Clan, and Bone Thugs.
Any chance I get to create a memorable experience in the DJ community, I proceed. Ain't no half-steppin goin' on here.
And, finally, to have met everyone I did through the deejaying world, is such a wonderful thing. As I surround myself with what I enjoy most, the attraction gets stronger and more faithful, and unbelievably believable. Every moment, good and bad, is remembered.

KALANI: How do you "live" hip hop?
PACKO: By living out my passion for life: Being a DJ. Spreading the idea of selfishly good music to good people. I say selfish, because it's what I think is good.

KALANI: How have you grown as a dj from say a year ago?
PACKO: My main improvement stems from working with the Spacifics on a consistent basis. I've learned new techniques on incorporating a sharper sound of the scratch into a live Hip Hop set. As usual, there's always ways to improve with the mixing, scratching, and production capabilities. I'm getting my feet wet on the production side of things, trying to work with different people on a regular basis. I've also got heavier into the mixtape game, which was intentionally a bigger project than it turned out to be. I overworked and underpaid myself with this one, sleepless nights and days, thinking, criticizing, unsatisfying myself with every click. But as any artist in general, the greatest skill they possess, is when to say "Stop." I could go on and on, and never have something to show for it, but that's absurdity without hope. I say cease one degree, and continue on a different slope.

KALANI: Deejays don't put mixtapes just to put them out, what were your goals and intentions with "Mosquito Diesel"?
PACKO: Mosquitoes are insects that are universally known to transmit diseases and sip on some good blood. I'm just a human who enjoys good music. I sip on the music, and transmit bass kicks and dope bits. I feel the need to infect through positivity, with high hopefuls of creating an epidemic unheard of before. I want my phonographic craft to plague the people, with a contagious chorus of sorts. I want to cause an uproar in this downpour of soggy symmetry in music. The metaphors and analogies are endless, really. The main intention here is to spread good music and inflame heads with a vinyl virus. I feel the need to infect people with what pacifies me from time to time. Through the sodden society of today's main stream of music, it's becoming harder to find a true classic, a gem, a diamond with perfect reflectivity. I'm trusting that my display of affection with a well thought out compilation will create some sort of a 'time-honored, vintage piece' for each selection on this collective.
Furthermore, there's a handful of DJs that have been dropping product. I expect it's my turn to show what I got boiling under ground, this time 'round. I've been releasing mixtapes every now and then, but I decided to lay low for a bit, and drop fire on the public when the rain poured its hardest. Heartless as it may seem, it's the complete opposite. Nothing but heart in this one.
I'm proud to say the least, but always peaking behind the next door that opens.


KALANI: Is there a difference between a mixtape and a glitchtape?
PACKO: No difference at all. The hackneyed thought of labeling it as a mixtape just bored me to death. It's a glitch-inspired mix, with heavy scratching and blending. It could have been called 'the skratchtape', 'the blendtape', 'the gimmicktape,' it wouldn't matter, it is what it is. Glitch (IDM ) music had a big influence on me in recent accounts so I thought that it was only appropriate. Plus it's the closest relative that rhymes with "mix".

KALANI: Where can people purchase the cd?
PACKO: -Prototype (Pearl City)
-Exclusive Hawaii (Kapiolani Ave.)
-Stylus (University Ave.)
-Kicks/HI (Ward/Makaloa St.)
-Higher Ground Coffee & Music Café (Wahiawa)
-Or shoot me an eMail, and I would be glad to mail a copy - djpacko@gmail.com
-Also at any events that I'm at, I will have copies. For wholesale price, that is. With a signature if needed.

KALANI: Where can people hear you the next few weeks?
PACKO: Every Friday @ Metro Park Ala Moana. Spinning live from 4-8pm.
-The GroundUp Art & Fashion Show @ The Loft on Friday December 26th, 2008
-DJ Swamp Show @ The Loft on Friday January 9th, 2009

Hip Hop at the Trops 2009 edition

I got that feelin'

Spinzone: DJ Packo

Running with the Packo
by Kalani Wilhelm / 12-24-2008
If hip-hop heads think the scratch DJ scene is dead, vinyl visionary DJ Packo believes a resurgence is in order. One of the illest cutmasters in the 808, Packo has cut with scratch world elite such as Qbert, Shortkut, Mix Master Mike and D-Styles.

“There are no real DJ battles any more such as the DMC and ITF,” said the Maui-born, Big Island-raised talent. “Nowadays, it’s up to us as the turntablists [to survive].”

His new mixtape Mosquito Diesel: The Glitchtape is an example of his mind at work. Whether he’s getting down with his SIQ Records mates or letting loose in hip-hop band The Spacifics, music is on his mind and his mind is on his music.

Metro Park, Ala Moana Shopping Center, Fridays, 4–8pm; Fri 12/26, GroundUP Art & Fashion Show, Loft, 115 N. Hotel St., 21+, 688-8813

Throwback Spinzone: DJ Edit

EDIT is back on the rock for the holidays but doin' big things in Vegas these days. Expect even bigger things in store for this guy in Oh Nine, son!


Pick, mix and edit
by Kalani Wilhelm / 10-18-2006
As the newly appointed resident deejay at the Ocean Club, there’s no question DJ Edit has the credentials to rock a party right.

But rather than tell you about it, he’d rather just let the diversity of his music and the packed dancefloor tell you.

The Mass Media Minds, Bum Squad and Crossfader Disciples member makes catering to a crowd as diverse as the OC is easy by blending back-in-the-day ’80s joints from Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam and Michael Jackson with slap happy choice cuts from Akon and Fergie. Throw in some top-flight techno for good measure and the masses are happy.

From his first regular weekly gig at the defunct World Cafe six years ago, to stops at Venus, Noblisse and more, Edit has already established himself as a fixture in the 808 club and DJ scene.

Scensters and deejays would all agree: Dude is just getting started.

Ocean Club, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Restaurant Row, every Tue, Thu. & Sat., 10pm-4am, 531-8444, [www.myspace.com/deejayedit]


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday @ the Low End Theory Bar

Ozomatli.............

Mike D. Honolulu Weekly Spinzone

Is his D also for Diamond?
by Kalani Wilhelm / 12-17-2008
Just ask the thousands who frequent Level 4 and Zanzabar. Your party is in good hands when DJ Mike D. is in control.

His eight years at Zanzabar makes his the longest tenure of any DJ at one nightclub in town. Add to that his professional resume, which includes remix work on tracks by Justin Timberlake, Ciara, Chris Brown and Mariah Carey.

While he’s accustomed to playing for some of the largest, most diverse crowds in Honolulu, the key to his success has been catering to the masses and an important thing called confidence.

“If I don’t believe in myself, why should anyone else? The first step to success is confidence. Just make sure it’s confidence, not arrogance,” said the 104.3 mix man. “Yes as a DJ, we want to hear what we want, hate the same songs over and over and all that, but it’s the dance floor that matters.”

Level 4, 2233 Kalakaua Ave., 4th floor Royal Hawaiian Center, Wed & Sat, 21+; Zanzabar Nightclub, 2254 Khi Ave., Waikiki Trade Center, Sun, 21+.

A-Rock!

Sunday night revival

Avant

She fire, son!

SWAMP set to invade the LOFT

BEAT ROOT

E-mail response from KAVET about his latest venture in support of the culture:

I've been noticing for a while now that on the mainland
that many brands from mainstream to underground have been
sprouting pop-up stores for various occasions. And since
i no longer sell Lightsleepers Cloth in any stores and the demand has been constant i decided that i wanted to open a pop-up store....

One, no one in Hawaii has done it before
Two, the demand is there
and Three, it is a tribute to all the people that has been patient and supported the lightsleepers: music, events, and clothing.

The Address is 1311 Kapiolani Blvd, we will be painting the whole store green and having PEEKABOO MONSTER from the POCKET FULL OF MONSTERS (same crew at ANGRYWOEBOTS) paint the entire store! We will be releasing 6 new colorways and prints of classic LS designs as well as limited ones by Peekaboo and Matt Tapia (designer for Fumanchu, Ecko, and ZooYork)

Open from Dec 4th to Dec 29th
M_Sat 11- 9pm and Sunday 11-5

For every shirt bought your name gets put into a raffle to win a LIGHTSLEEPERS X ANGRYWOEBOTS skateboard deck!

Mike D.

Kalani: Name five Hawaii deejays you think could easily blow up in the mainland and why?

Mike D.: Easily? None. Nothing in life is easy… anyone trying to tell you otherwise is only trying to sell you something. People I think that could?

Betty, Anit, Technique, Elite, K-Smooth and myself.

The five previous each have their own styles and interesting things about them. They’re also good people. Myself: because I believe in myself. If I don’t believe in myself, why should anyone else? The first step to success is confidence. Just make sure it’s confidence, not arrogance.

Cop It!

The story of the Wu Tang Clan DVD out now! Peep the Maui footage

Q Tip meet and greet..

is a private affair for the 10 lucky winners of the special drawing and the guest of their choice. The first in line got there two hours before tickets (wristbands) were distributed at 7 pm. By that time the line was already about 75 heads deep and wrapped around the building..big up to the DL FAM and MYSPACE!

Spinzone: DJ Jim Browskee

See dork spin
12-10-2008
When you’re in the presence of club rocker DJ Jim Browskee, if you’re not bouncing, sweating and jiggling, you might be in desperate need for an ear check-up.

Although he’s only lived on the rock for only two years, the East Coast transplant has already made a name for himself for bringing the club vibe country side at North Shore spots like Breakers and Hale’iwa Joe’s.

Whether he’s tearing it up at the club on the weekends or pushing his B-WARE clothing and DORK glasses accessory lines to new heights, there’s only one way JB knows how to do things and that’s all out balls to the walls.

“I keep it straight dance floor all day, everyday,” said the surf addict. “When it comes to music, I try to see past the different genres and scenes and just rock the party by putting music in context for people.”

One might be quick to assume that he would find Hawai’i’s laid-back party style slow and boring. You’ll find no complaints or East Coast bias from this fly guy.

“People are friendlier and less pretentious for sure,” he said. “People in Hawai’i are hungry and open to new music and styles, which is refreshing from all the hating going on in New York.” –Kalani Wilhelm

The Get Go: Contrast Magazine Launch Party, thirtyninehotel, 39 N. Hotel St., Fri 12/12, 8pm–2am, $10, 21+, [email: rsvp].

Fanny Pack and So Real Cru

ABDC 3 audition vids

THE HEADHUNTERS


THE TRUTH


PERPLEX CRU

Musiq is life..! New album drops tomorrow!

Spinzone Throwback: DJ XL

CHECK OUT XL EVERY FRIDAY AT LEVEL 4..

Drop it when it’s right
by Kalani Wilhelm / 11-15-06
Excelling at the way he plays hip-hop, R&B and dancehall grooves isn’t the only reason DJ XL is among Honolulu DJ elite.

Knowing when to drop the right song at the right time to create the right mood on the dancefloor is the other.

Softspoken and raw, XL brings his supersized beats and grooves Friday nights on HOT 93.9 before closing things out at the Living Room. He continues to bring it hard Saturdays at the Monkey Bar

When it comes to the 16-year vet’s influences, the Architechs crew member name drops some of the most skilled pioneers to ever touch a record: Jazzy Jeff, Babu, Pete Rock and 9th Wonder…you dig? There’s no question when the 808 up-and-comers are taking notes from the best around XL’s style is scribbled all up in the memory banks.

Keep taking notes kids.

Catch DJ XL Fridays at the Living Room at Fisherman’s Wharf and Saturdays at the Monkey Bar, [www.myspace.com/djxl]

Tyga at Pipeline Cafe 1.10.09

Fanny Pack and So Real Cru

Fanny Pak and So Real Cru on January 3 the Neil Blaisdell Concert Hall. 7 pm.
Tickets go on sale December 10 at all Ticketmaster $35, $45, $65.

Propz&Praises

Charlie, Dan, Delve, Anit, Ryan C., Junior, Christine Mendoza, Mochi, Nelly, Kimo, Packo, Sean, Donovan, Mox, Lex, Mike, Ryan, Dave, Blaise, Alvin, Kimo, Ven, Kaba Modern (Cindi, Mike, Law, Tony, Yuri, Jia) Mike D., Jannie, Kallusive, Al, Aaron,Kamakoa, Keoni, XL, Technique, Kama, Nicki, Danika, Big Mike, Lenee, CJ Miles, PSI, Spif, Sean D., Ian, K-Smooth, Import Icons, Flip...

Out 12/9

They BACK!!!

Spinzone: DJ Lex One

The Lex level
by Kalani Wilhelm / 12-3-2008
Playing good music is more than just a hobby for DJ Lex1. It’s a state of mind. He’s already a standout DJ with a signature style but the smooth groove master has his sights set on the next level.

In celebration of his new mix-tape Groove Lounge: Into Your Soul Volume 1, Lex One is doing it big with his Groove Lounge Tour, which kicks off Saturday night at the W Hotel.

The six-club tour features weekend stops at The Living Room, Brew Moon, O Lounge and Bonsai Restaurant & Lounge and marks the first time a Hawai’i DJ has toured local nightspots in support of a mix-tape release.

“The night scene has changed dramatically. Music wise, it’s starting to become monotonous,” he said. “Not too many DJs take it to another level. Stepping out of the usual brings something fresh to the floor every time.”

Lex One’s style, a one-of-a-kind blend of hip-hop, neo-soul and R&B throwbacks, proves he wants to set a brand new blueprint for his peers to follow.

“It’s music that comes from the soul,” he said. “The lyrics, guitar riffs, keyboards, horns, vocals; it’s just something about these songs that just gets to you and make you feel good.”

Dragonfly, W Hotel, 2885 Kalakaua Ave., Sat 12/6, 10pm–2am, $10, 21+.

Kanye freestyle..

Common interview

Q-Tip Interview

Lex One interview Part 1 of 2

Kalani: Where does your influence in music come from?

LexOne: Here in Hawaii, Top 40, Hip Hop & r n b mainstream is dominating the music scene. I like to see how it is in the mainland. From listening to other radio stations streaming world wide to You Tube, you can catch me on them all the time. I don't limit or label myself to certain types of music. From Hip Hop to rock to pop and so on, I look for what sounds good in each genre. Music is a very powerful thing and if you allow yourself to be more open to listen and feel the style of that artist, you might find yourself digging other things like Katie Perry besides the usual Lil' Wayne.

Kalani: Where does your influence in deejaying come from?

LexOne: Watching other DJs especially in the mainland. Seeing guys like DJ AM and DJ Vice play, it's amazing what they can do and the energy they bring. Just by playing a certain track at the right time, it gets the people crazy! They would play some tracks that I would have never thought would be rocking the club and make people actually dig it! That's what opened my eyes.

Kalani: "Groove music" seems to be a lost genre in the clubs and in the music scene in general nowadays would you agree or disagree?

LexOne: I agree with you on that. It's kind of sad honestly. It's music that comes from the soul. The lyrics, guitar riffs, keyboards, horns, vocals. It's just something about these songs that just gets to you and make you feel good. You know what I mean, when you hear that one track and you just wanna close your eyes and move your head. You make that sour face and your all like "Damn!" Good stuff. I know it's not a strong category in the club scene, but you can still make it work by playing a few here and there.

Kalani: What is your goal of the tour?

LexOne: Not only to promote my first tape out, but to give people an idea of what kind of a DJ I'm all about. I want people to have an understanding of how awesome music really is. And to show how handsome I really am! hehe...

Kalani: Describe the vibe you wanted to create with the mixtape?

LexOne: Basically I wanted the feel to be more of a lounge type. I was aiming for something that you can call "easy listening." Mixture of r&b, hip hop, jazz, soul...you know, feel good music.

Check back later for Part 2

Honolulu Weekly Spinzone Throwback: DJ Technique

Technique’s method
by Kalani Wilhelm / 06-27-2007
Quick, name a Hawai’i-bred DJ who’s got the mainstream club, underground hip-hop and electronic dance music scenes on lock. Time’s up.

Whatever music you dig, DJ Technique’s got the radio and dance club fire you desire.

Respected by his peers for his versatility and style, the Hot 93.9 mixer’s knack to adapt to any circumstance, crowd or venue puts him in his own category among the 808 elite. On the air almost everyday of the week while holding down residency or rotating DJ status at more than eight nightclubs only further proves this point.

Next on his agenda is the national mix tape scene. On deck is a soon to be released project featuring Phonte and Big Pooh of Little Brother, the world famous DJ Skee, the Bum Squad DJz Hawaii Chapter and the Wu-Tang Latino Needle Breakerz DJ Squad under RZA’s record label Wu Music Group.

File his music in the flava-in-ya-ear section of your membrane and remember this music lover as the prime example of the DJ principle: If you put in the work, pay your dues and love what you do, good things are bound to happen.

CM interview Part 2 of 3

Kalani: You're regarded as one of the top import models in the game, was that always a goal of yours when you first started?
CM: I actually didn't really aspire to be the "top" but it's nice that some people see me in that way. =)

Kalani: How do you deal with the "shady people" in the industry?
CM: If they are malicious to others, then I don't work with them. It's better to surround yourself with people you trust. It avoids the drama later on.. I hate drama! I guess I'm more chill than most people.

Kalani: Would you say Christine and "CHRISTINE MENDOZA the model" are the same person?

CM: Christine Mendoza the model and Christine Mendoza the person are pretty much the same person. The only difference is the real me doesn’t wear as much makeup and hoochie clothes as Christine the MODEL does... hahaha!



Kalani: What are some of the biggest misconceptions people may have about you? craziest rumors?

CM: Craziest rumors? Hmmm...there's a lot of them! Some of the funny one are that I have a fake nose, fake lips...hahaha!

Kalani: What is the sweetest thing a fan has ever done for you? the creepiest?

CM: The sweetest, I love everything CM: that a fan does for me! I've had a few fans get tattoos of my picture before. The creepiest? One fan stalked me, and broke into my car to steal my model portfolio and jacket. Hahahaa! That was pretty creepy. He would also knock on my front door asking to borrow "sugar and creamer" for his coffee and other weird things...late at night. So I had to move from that spot...fast!

CATCH CHRISINE AT Z-BAR THURSDAY AND E AND O'S FRIDAY!

E-40 Snaps..

Shout outs.

Charlie, Angie, Delve, Anit, Sheleen, Alvin, Mochi, Technique, Ryan Chang, Junior, Ryan, Mike D., Blaise, Sick Boy, XL, Mochi, Al, Steph, Aaron, Jackie, Goldawn Child, Akela, K-Smooth, Angry Chris, Brittany, Jed, Jrama, Alysha, Mary, Lex, Danika Packo, Spif, Jeff...

Kaba Modern appearances

Clubworthy

Detox update

Posted November 24, 2008 - The myth known as Dr. Dre’s Detox album has been in the works for nearly a decade. Release dates have been tossed around, guests have been mentioned, but nothing has ever been set in stone. This has led many to believe that Detox would never, ever come out. Rumors of creative issues and such have hovered regarding the delay. But let Interscope-Geffen-A&M chairman Jimmy Iovine tell it, there’s only one person stopping Dr. Dre from completing his album: Eminem.

In a recent interview with Billboard, Iovine opened up about how Eminem has forced Dr. Dre to put his album on hold in favor of Em’s.

“I'll tell you about Eminem,” Iovine started when asked about Slim Shady’s album being pushed back yet again. “We only tried to put him out this year to replace Dr. Dre, but we got into a quagmire. Eminem was always coming next year. But what happened was, I lost Dr. Dre to Eminem. Dre had to stop making his album to finish Eminem's album. Eminem hit a streak, and when a guy like Eminem gets on fire, you stop everything. That's how we lost Dre.”

It is definitely good news to hear that Eminem has caught “fire” but there are those that are worried that Dr. Dre’s album may be shelved indefinitely because of the time spent working on Em’s comeback album.

Fortunately, Iovine debunks the notion.

“Dre's going back in (the studio) in January,” Iovine explained. “He'll be finished with Eminem by then, and he'll finish his album.”

Hopefully this will mean that Dre’s album will be released in 2009. But then again, you never know.
courtesy BET

Soulful

Creed Chameleon and Atmosphere freestyle

Kanye West "Heartless" performance at the AMAs

Spinzone Throwback: Lex One

Lex icon
by Kalani Wilhelm / 04-04-2007
Any DJ can get a party started.

From the decks to the dance floor, DJ Lex.one specializes in bringing that neo-soulful throw-back goodness from eras gone by from start to finish.

Although he claims he’s been spinning for only three years, he comes off as an honors student of hip hop grooves and a rare find in Hawai’i DJ circles. He’ll drop the Lucy Pearl, Musiq Soulchild, Erykah Badu joints not just because that’s what gets the crowd hype, it’s because he’s always been into the smoothed-out side of R and B spectrum.

Right before you think you pinpointed the extent of his music IQ, he’ll take it back even further by dropping some classic New Edition or a Soul For Real in your ear.

Let’s just say that this Kurious Productions sound selectah loves what he’s doing because he does it for the love.

If you want Top 40 club hits, you may find a few but you’ll be better off bringing your radio in the club with you because dude just plays the classics.