#Paco Estrada

[angelbroad]

Palmera City Crew

Anthony couldn't really sleep that night. He kept tossing and turning, Pearl having banged on the wall for him to shut up way too many times. By the time morning came, Anthony had barely slept a wink and it showed in his eyes.

"Sheesh, you look like shit.", Pearl commented as he entered the kitchen.

"Pearl, language.", their mother said, which made Pearl roll her eyes.

"Ma, we're adults. You can't exactly order us not to swear."

The older woman groaned as Anthony slumped on the chair of the kitchen table. Pearl slid him his phone from across the table.

"Finished charging.", she said.

Anthony's room didn't have a power outlet, so he'd have to trust Pearl with his phone by leaving it to charge in her room instead. Lazily taking it in his hand, and already planning to take a nap at noon, his eyes opened slightly more as he noticed he had texts from Nadine. The group had this habit of texting each other after a performance or just hanging out late at night that they had made it home safe, so that was probably it. But opening the message showed something else.

Nadine 🥁 : Hey Anth, texting you from the intergrated phone Loxz-Ha managed to make into the armor somehow. Just to let you know, I met the Blue Beetle last night!

"What's she saying?", Pearl asked, Anthony raising an eyebrow at her.

"Didn't she text you?"

"Nad? Nah dude, got me kinda worried. Did she text you?"

Anthony nodded, "Yeah...hang on, let me finish this message."

The more Anthony read, the weirder his expressions became, until he shot up from the chair and his knees hit the side of the table from the speed.

"She is where??"

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

It took the two beetles the entire night and early morning to get to Palmera City, conversation sparking up on the way. They shared how long they had had their scarabs, Jaime obviously holding the longest record of eight months while Nadine had only had Loxz-Ha for less than a week.

"Does your scarab have a name too?"

"Yeah,", Jaime said, "Their name is Khaji-Da."

"Khaji-Da...rolls off the tongue nice."

Khaji-Da...

"You know them?", Nadine asked her scarab.

"They do?", Jaime asked as he flew above her.

Nadine flipped herself to mirror the Blue Beetle as she responded after a while, "They say they do. Does yours know Loxz-Ha?"

After Jaime confirmed Khaji-Da did indeed know Loxz-Ha, the two continued.

"You live real far.", Nadine commented, "N-Not to be rude or anything."

Jaime shrugged, "No te preocupes por eso. It was kind of a chore to get all the way to Gotham, but here we are."

Nadine chuckled, rubbing the back of her head. "I s'pose I owe you a long trip for all the trouble."

When the two were close to El Paso, they landed behind a building and allowed their armors to retreat. Nadine was still in her concert clothes, but the leather jacket in Palmera's weather was not really ideal. She settled for tying it around her waist as the two left the alleyway and walked down the street.

"So...does anyone else know about yours?", Nadine asked, still a little awkward.

"A couple of friends...and my family.", Jaime admitted, "We're starting to get our stuff together though, so we might be able to help you."

"Great!", Nadine said, lifting her hands slightly.

Brenda and Paco were early to get to the Reyes household. Jaime had left yesterday in a hurry, and the two could only assume it was Blue Beetle business. They had turned the garage into a hero cave, of sorts. It was really just a place to communicate with the right people and talk about the superhero stuff. Lately they have been catching the attention of more than just crooks, with Jaime being more involved with other heroes. He had somehow managed to catch the attention of Kord Industries and La Dama.

The two were in the middle of a conversation before the door inside the garage opened.

"Jaime, you're back!", Brenda exhaled.

"Dude, you've been gone for like para siempre. ¿Dónde estabas?", Paco asked from the chair.

"Well...", Jaime said, walking further inside and allowing Nadine to pop in the room with a shy wave.

His two friends blinked, Paco being the one to speak first.

"You got a girlfriend?"

"No!", somehow Brenda, Jaime, and Nadine said that wpord at the same time.

Nadine closed the door as Paco continued.

"Look man, great to meet you and all, but this place is kinda secret."

"Why?", Nadine asked.

"It's cool.", Jaime said as he gestured at her, "She has a pass."

"Well, now it's my turn to ask why."

Before Nadine or Jaime could properly respond, the scarab legs expanded from her back to untie the jacket from around Nadine's waist and set it on the chair Paco had been sitting on, which he left as soon as the legs moved his way. As soon as the leather jacket was on the chair, the legs retreated back inside Nadine. The group stood in silence for a moment before Nadine waved a hand and looked away.

"S-Sorry about that we're...still working on that."

"Okay...so there's more space bugs.", Paco said as he moved to look for something on the computer.

Brenda shook her head and fully took in Nadine's appearance, and quickly noticed how out of place she was.

"You're not from here, are you?", she said.

Nadine shook her head, "N-No. I'm from Gotham."

"Gotham?? Jesucristo-you traveled that far?"

Jaime waved his hands in front of himself, "I-I just saw her on the news last last night and-"

"I was on the news?", Nadine asked.

"You...didn't notice any cameras around?"

"Um...no, not really? I guess I was too caught up in the fight."

"Damn straight.", Paco said, "Judging by all the videos surfacing."

The other three occupants turned their attention to the screen, seeing a few tabs open with different angles of her limited amount of fights around Gotham.

"Is that Nightwing?", Jaime asked.

"Yeah, I ran into him one time."

"Okay okay, so.", Paco said, turning the chair so he could face the other three. He placed his hands together and looked at Nadine, who was between Jaime and Brenda, "Did it tell you anything? Cause amigo's over here has been radio silent about every serious question."

Nadine was a little confused. Why would Khaji-Da not talk to Jaime about the stuff Loxz-Ha would tell her?

Khaji-Da is an Infiltrator., Loxz-Ha responded as if reading her thoughts, It is admirable they managed to keep the secrets they were meant to

'Can you read my mind?', Nadine thought.

Affirmative

"Uh...dude?", Brenda asked.

"S-Sorry. I just found out I can talk to the scarab telepathically."

Jaime looked away, mumbling something Nadine could not make out.

"Loxz-Ha said Khaji is an Infiltrator.", Nadine said.

Paco raised his eyebrows and turned away and to the screen, Brenda continuing the interrogation.

"And what is an Infiltrator?"

Nadine listened for a moment before saying it.

"Loxz-Ha says they are sent out to get information on worlds so the Reach can know they exist."

"The Reach?", Jaime asked. That name sounded familiar.

"The aliens that made the scarabs.", Nadine answered in a manner that assumed Jaime would already know what she was talking about.

"Okay.", Jaime said, "We already knew this was alien-made, but Khaji-Da never mentioned the Reach."

"Huh...weird."

"Did it...say why the aliens need to know about us?", Paco asked.

"Well, trading and stuff.", Nadine said, "But the reason Loxz landed here was to find Khaji, cause they got knocked off-course."

"Great. Another alien invasion.", Brenda groaned.

Jaime and Nadine exchanged looks, clearly in doubt themselves. Sure, their scarabs said everything would be fine, but could they be truly sure?

"Why didn't you tell me any of this?", Jaime eventually said to Khaji-Da once they got time alone.

...

He sighed, "Khaji."

You would surely seek ways to remove me. I do not wish that to happen., Khaji-Da finally responded.

Jaime reached behind him to rub the scarab as best he could.

"I would not.", he confirmed, "I just thought we were behind keeping secrets. Besides, no harm is done, why would I want to get rid of you when I would find out where you're from?"

...You are right. Perhaps that was a mistake in my calculations

Jaime smiled as he looked behind him, "Todo está bien, hermano."

Gracias, hermano

If Loxz-Ha was here, it was not a good sign. The Reach must have this planet on their radar by now, which was rarely a good thing. Khaji-Da only hoped their masters would not see it necessary to remove Khaji-Da from Jaime Reyes. The boy would come around, the scarab was sure of it. But much like Loxz-Ha's host, it would be best to keep him in the dark...for now.

---------

Loxz-Ha was more quiet than Khaji-Da, the group soon realised. Or at least, from what Nadine would tell them. Jaime had offered Nadine a place to rest, finding the thought of leaving her to fly all the way back to Gotham on her own kind of cruel. Bianca had agreed, and Nadine was more than okay to take the couch, even if she ended up sleeping on the garage chair. When Paco had went inside the next day to find her like this, he had also noticed her hands were armored, the fingers elongiated and somehow plugged into the computer.

Going over the device, nothing seemed out of place. Still, it felt rather weird. It wasn't Nadine, she confirmed it, and that resulted in her facing the corner as she had a hushed conversation with Loxz-Ha. Something about boundaries.

Jaime had gone for an early patrol, so he got to find out what happened about an hour after the fact.

"Loxz-Ha said they were doing some research.", Nadine said, "I guess they didn't want me to explain everything to them?"

Nadine knew she was making excuses, but it wasn't like Loxz-Ha had done anything drastic. Of course an alien would be curious about the new planet they landed on. Besides, Nadine figured she had been too preoccupied to tend to her partner's needs, which Loxz-Ha themselves had pointed out.

You have been far too distracted., Loxz-Ha had said, Do forgive me for manifesting wihout your permission, but you must understand I meant no harm

So, Nadine forgave them, but made them swear not to do so again. Brenda had been a more no-nonsense voice in the group. She was like Steph, but with more patience. Speaking of, she had to call the band back home in the early hours of the morning to let them know she was okay. Strangely, her parents never crossed her mind.

"You okay?", Brenda had asked, bringing Nadine back to reality.

She realised she was sitting on the kitchen table. She turned to Brenda.

"Was I...out for long?", she asked.

Brenda responded by pulling out the chair next to Nadine and sitting down, "You've been staring at the wall for at least ten minutes now."

"O-Oh...I'm sorry."

"Hey dude, you got an alien on your back. You staring at the wall is the least weird thing you got going on."

Nadine chuckled nervously. She couldn't tell if that was sarcasm or not. Brenda must have noticed, because she slapped the girl's shoulder.

"I'm kidding, dudar!"

Nadine quickly nodded, "I-I know, I know!"

"Sheesh. What did Gotham do to ya?"

"W-What do you mean?"

"I dunno...you seem a bit-how do I put this-pushovery? Does that make sense?"

Nadine looked away, ruffling a hand through her hair, "I'm not a pushover..."

"Just sayin', if it was me, I wouldn't take the word of an alien that can turn me into a superweapon at face value."

Nadine squinted at her, "...Are you saying Loxz-Ha is lying to me-"

The girl is pressing you for a desired response. We must-

"I ain't saying that.", Brenda said before turning to look at the table as she fiddled with a pendant in her hands, "Mostly."

Nadine could speak, there was a pause in their conversation. But she chose not to, she wanted to let Brenda finish.

"I'm just telling you, don't just forgive if they keep pressing you like that."

"How would you know?", Nadine asked, immediately trying to take it back due to thinking it had come out as condescending.

She was so apologetic, Brenda thought she'd gag. Brenda held a hand up in front of the purple haired girl to finally make her stop apologizing.

"Look, I've lived a...rough life. I'm not saying you didn't too, but you gotta learn to hold some people at fault eventually. You gotta grow a spine and give it to 'em, you know?"

Nadine looked away, nodding after a minute.

"I...think I understand."

Brenda smiled and turned on her chair, leaning back on the table as she looked at Nadine.

"Hey, you need someone to talk to, you know where to find me."

Nadine smiled at her, "Thanks, Brenda."

--------

Jaime and Nadine had the opportunity to work together for the first time when La Dama's goons had spread around the city, Paco having received a few tips from the other two people Nadine could see in the computer. Jaime took one half of the city and Nadine the other, as they did not pinpoint their exact location. Jaime quickly found one of the groups, helping the police detain them without much issue. But he was also on the other side of Palmera, so he couldn't tell how well Nadine was doing.

Nadine didn't have much issue with locating the perpetrators either, mostly thanks to Loxz-Ha's tracking software. The group was in the process of loading something Nadine could not make out in an inconspicuous company van.

"Can you scan what's inside?", Nadine asked Loxz-Ha.

Incompatible

"Huh? What do you mean-?"

Nadine. They will get away if we continue to converse

"R-Right."

Nadine flew down on the roof of the alley they were doing business in, making a few heads turn. It was dark, so only Nadine's silhouette was visible. They probably thought she was Blue Beetle.

Analysing: Threat level

Nadine subtly nodded.

Arsenal: Prepared

She then dropped down, one of her hands transforming into a sonic blast to disperse the men and then transforming into blunt weapons to fight them in close combat. It took a lot of self control to not say sorry every time she hit someone over the head, or when she almost broke legs and arms. Nadine was hit over the head with a rifle, and as a response the beetle mandibles on her back moved on their own to grab the attacker by the armpits and slam him forward so hard he bounced off concrete.

"Oh my god!", Nadine exclaimed, backing up. "I-Is he dead??"

No

Nadine sighed in relief.

But the blunt force trauma to the head will most likely lead to long-term consequences

That sigh of relief was cut off fast.

"Oh god-"

A blast from another weapon knocked her back, making her body skitter on the ground as the mandibles buried themselves on the concrete to prevent them from sliding down further.

Four more

Nadine swallowed and braced herself, "...Right."

She then lept towards the guy that attacked her, spearing him into the ground as she disarmed him and tried to knock him out with her fists. Two others tried to attack her from behind, but the mandibles grabbed onto them and slammed them repeatedly on the walls. All three were finally down as Nadine got up.

There is one more., Loxz-Ha said, making Nadine turn her head to look at the last man. He was shaking, looking around unsure before turning around and sprinting to the opposite direction. Loxz-Ha was ready to extend the mandibles to catch him, but Nadine stopped it.

"W-Wait, let him go.", Nadine said, "I...don't think he's a threat now."

Loxz-Ha let out the robotic equivalent of a sigh before turning Nadine's attention to the van and its insides. Nadine climbed into the van's storage and pried open one of the boxes, noticing odd, glowing engravings on the inside.

"Was this why you couldn't scan the inside?"

Most likely. Investigate further

Nadine put the cover down and examined the insides of the box. It was a bunch of folders and papers, and picking them up one by one with each hand out of the box allowed Loxz-Ha to scan them properly. Nadine also opened some folders up.

These appear to be Infanstructure documents

"Of Palmera?"

Affirmative

Nadine squinted her eyes as she looked more into the specifics herself. Traffic control devices, storm drains, sanitary sewers, water lines, hydrants, electroliers, landscaping, irrigation systems.

Nadine

"Yeah?"

Go back, if you please

"...Why?"

Do you trust me?

Did she? Nadine had to think a little on this. Loxz-Ha had broken a few boundaries at first, that was true, but it also tried its best to help Nadine in every way it could. It would always make sure she was hydrated, well-fed, had a safe place to sleep, and even made her a better hero.

"...Which part do you want me to go back to?"

Water lines

"Odd...but...sure."

After Loxz-Ha had finished scanning the file, it declared they should leave.

Oh, and Nadine

"Yeah?"

Do not mention this to anyone

"The scanning? Why?", she asked, squinting her eyes at her back.

These are private documents. Others might think I have ill intentions

"Then why did you even ask me to find it so you can scan it?"

Purely for research purposes., Loxz-Ha responded as they flew up, I am still new to your planet, and I wish to learn as much as possible

"I...guess I understand.", Nadine said, "But surely you can just explain that to the others, right?"

It is...complicated

Nadine sighed, "Right...of course just...whatever you feel comfortable with. Mkay?"

Thank you, Nadine

"Don't mention it."

Meanwhile, Amparo Cardenas was sitting in her office, impatiently waiting for any news about the Blue Beetle. After discovering where her scarab had went, she has been hellbent on getting it back, but to no avail. She hadn't even discovered the Beetle's identity yet, a mockery of her endless contacts. No crimes around Palmera City were ever large enough to catch him.

She sighed as she pinched the bridge of her nose. She had been on the phone organising her scrambled men for some time.

"The files were not that important.", she reasoned, "And if Blue Beetle was on the other side of the city, what even attacked you?"

"I-It was nother one, La Dama!", the man on the other side of the phone said, "It was basically the same! Just...green and sloppier!"

Amparo furrowed her eyebrows, "...Are you certain?"

"Yes! It smacked Rudy on the ground so hard he bounced off concrete! Even it was shocked!"

Another one? That couldn't be possible, Amparo thought. All her sources have told her the blue scarab was one of a kind, possibly one of the rarest items in the world, and now she was being told there were more of it? And if one Beetle had been causing her opperations to falter to such degree...then two was an outright career ender.

"I will take care of this myself.", she announced before hanging up. A knock on her door made Amparo turn her head to face it. It opened to reveal a well dressed man, with a very known love for claw jewellery.

"La Dama.", he addressed with a bow.

"Diviner."

[tina-aumont]

Las Gatas Tienen Frío (1970) screencaps

Las Gatas Tienen Frío is a Spanish film directed by Carlos Serrano.

Plot (it may contain spoilers)

Three girls of different ages are forced to share a flat. One of them is a nurse trying to overcome the sudden death of her boyfriend. Her niece is a young woman who has just arrived from a small town, and the third one is considering getting married.

Cast

María Aserquino - Menchu

Teresa Rabal - Elena Méndez

María Luísa Soldevila - Luisa

María Montez II - Cristina aka Lulú

Laly Soldevila - Isabel

Manuel Galiana - fontanero

Paco Valladares - Enrique Ruiz

Carlos Estrada - Alberto Durán

Marcelo Peña - arquitecto

Carmen Maura - girl in the party (uncredited)

Ramón Corroto - Gustavo

Carlos Garrido - Withmore

The film was released the 29th March 1970.

Very special thanks to @74paris for sharing this lobbycard that comes from todocoleccion.

[strawmariee]

One Kiss

Jodio Joestar x Leitora

Olá meu queridos leitores, boa noite! Bom, isso daqui a minha mente inventou quando eu literalmente estava quase para dormir! Foi tão rápido que eu tive que anotar no meu celular para não esquecer. OBS: Para o personagem Dragona, eu fiquei meio em dúvida mas eu utilizei o pronome masculino já que pelo site que eu li o Jodio se refere a ele como "irmão". E como aquele personagem que entrou no trio não tem nome (Se tem eu não vi) eu o batizei de Robinson até que ele seja nomeado no mangá. É isso, e tenham uma boa leitura!❤

Meryl Mei Q, a dona da boutique na qual eu trabalhava estava dando as instruções de uma missão para meus amigos. Pelo pouco que ouvi, essa missão envolvia um diamante, e isso explicaria o brilho e a animação nos olhos de Dragona. - Bom, acho melhor irmos logo! Dragona afirmou de forma animada enquanto Jodio acenava com a cabeça e Paco analisava o novo integrante do grupo. Dragona abraçou o meu braço e saiu me arrastando junto. - S/n, você não gostaria de vir conosco? - Não sei não, quanto menos gente for melhor! - Bobagem, eu insisto! Além disso, eu quero te ajudar com aquela paradinha. A "paradinha" na qual ele se referia era o meu pequeno crush em seu irmão Jodio. Como isso havia acontecido eu não sabia, só sei que de uma hora pra outra eu comecei a achar ele mais bonito... Aqueles olhos, o cabelo, a voz... Meu Deus, eu parecia uma idiota! Bufei e fiz um biquinho quando vi o sorriso malicioso dele. - Eu estou vermelha de novo, não estou? - Como uma pimentinha! Ele apertou as minhas bochechas e continuou me arrastando enquanto os outros nos seguiam atrás. - Jodio, oque pensa que está fazendo?- Dragona perguntou ao seu irmão quando ele estava abrindo a porta do passageiro. - Ué, oque mais? Eu vou entrar no carro. - Sente atrás junto com a S/n e o novato. - Por que? - Apenas faça isso! Deixe que o Paco sente do meu lado.- Ele arqueou uma das sobrancelhas e desistiu de discutir, entrando na parte de trás do carro.- E você? Onde estão os seus modos?- Dragona segurou o novato pelos ombros. - Que? - Primeiro as damas, ora. Aff, realmente o cavalheirismo morreu hoje em dia! - Foi mal aí!- Ele olhou para mim meio desesperado e com um sorriso amarelo.- Pode entrar primeiro. Olhei de lado para Dragona que tinha um sorriso malicioso nos lábios. Então esse era o seu plano? Me deixar ao lado de Jodio? Balancei minha cabeça e entrei no carro, sentindo minhas bochechas corarem quando a atenção dele foi para mim. - O-Oi! - Oi. Ele virou seu rosto para a janela e eu senti um pouco decepcionada com nossa curta e grossa interação. Logo todos entraram no carro e Dragona deu partida, iniciando o caminho até o bendito diamante.

⸺☆⸺

- Que tal ouvirmos alguma música?- Dragona sugeriu com sua atenção na estrada. - Oque você quer ouvir?- Jodio perguntou já tirando o celular do bolso. - Ora, Dua Lipa claro. - Certo. Com o celular já conectado no carro, a música New Rules começou a tremer no carro. Dragona deu um grito animado e começou a balançar seu corpo enquanto cantava junto com a música. Eu sorri e comecei a cantar junto com ele, e logo o novato se juntou com a gente. - Não sabia que também gostava de Dua Lipa. Gritei internamente quando vi que Jodio estava puxando assunto comigo. - Eu adoro, ela é uma das cantoras que não pode faltar em minha playlist! - Entendo. Então continuamos a conversar, descobrindo pontos em comum entre nós enquanto comentávamos nossas opiniões sobre cada música que tocava no carro. Olhei rapidamente para o retrovisor e vi Dragona com uma cara orgulhosa pra mim e vi a mesma mexer as sobrancelhas pra cima e pra baixo. - "One kiss is all it takes, fallin' in love with me". Assim que ele cantou o refrão da música One Kiss, ele virou o volante com tudo e fez com que o carro fizesse um drift. - QUE CARALHOS DRAGONA?! Ouvi a voz do Paco antes de notar que eu estava literalmente colada no Jodio que parecia surpreso com nossa proximidade. É impressão minha ou as bochechas dele estão um pouco vermelhas? - Desculpe!- Me separei rapidamente e voltei para o meu assento fuzilando Dragona pelo retrovisor que já ajeitava o veículo. - Jesus, preciso de ar.- Vi que o Usagi se soltou do cinto e começou a controlar a respiração. Senti um arrepio quando vi o sorriso largo de Dragona. - DE NOVO!! Então o carro foi jogado mais uma vez e de novo eu fui para cima de Jodio, mas dessa vez estava mais preparada e apoiei minhas mãos nos bancos, me fazendo sorrir aliviada. - CUIDADO AÍ!! Senti um peso em minhas costas e fui empurrada para frente. Senti a mão de Jodio na minha cintura para tentar me segurar, mas em vão já que Usagi era pesado e inevitavelmente nós dois acabamos colados de novo, mas dessa vez não só nossos corpos como também nossos lábios! Tentei bater nele para que ele saísse mas enquanto Dragona não desfizesse o drift ele não poderia fazer nada. Senti um arrepio em minha coluna quando senti o aperto de Jodio em minha cintura ficar mais forte e eu fiquei bastante atentada em aprofundar o beijo, mas me toquei de que ele não poderia gostar, e isso me impulsionou para levantar a minha cabeça o suficiente para quebrar o nosso beijo. - Desculpe Jodio, eu... Me calei quando vi um pequeno sorriso nos seus lábios e senti ele acariciar minha cintura. - Não foi culpa sua, S/n. Ouvi um gritinho de Dragona e finalmente o carro já estava voltando ao normal. Me separei rapidamente dele e acabei me colidindo com o Usagi, fazendo ele bater a testa na janela do carro. - Eita, desculpa! Você vai ficar bem? - Eu espero que sim... Fuzilei Dragona novamente, que estava nos olhando com uma cara falsa de preocupação. - Está tudo bem aí? Me desculpem, vocês sabem como eu fico animado com Dua Lipa né? - Percebi...- Eu resmunguei. - Nem parece que você foi parado por policiais por esse motivo.- Jodio alfinetou enquanto se ajeitava no assento. - Ei maninho, tá tudo bem? Por que você está ficando vermelho? Ele resmungou algo e virou o rosto para a janela, arrancando uma risada de seu irmão. - De nada~. Ele resmungou pra mim e me deu uma piscadinha antes de voltar a dirigir, desta vez normalmente. Toquei meus lábios com a ponta dos dedos e corei quando me toquei que eu havia beijado Jodio. Claro, não foi como eu imaginava mas mesmo assim! Senti alguém me observando e quando olhei para o meu lado vi que o próprio estava praticamente me comendo com os olhos! Ele deu um sorrisinho pra mim e eu me endireitei, será que faltava muito para chegarmos ao diamante?

Suspirei mais uma vez enquanto coçava o espaço entre meus olhos. Como diabos eu fui me apaixonar por um zé droguinha? Espero que se um dia nós ficarmos juntos ele não raspe a minha cabeça...

THE END.

[fabiangiles]

11 de marzo de 2023

Inicié el día con la clase de 8 AM a 3 PM sobre Carteles y Tipografía a los alumnos de Diseño de la Universidad ICEL de los Campus Cuautitlan, Ecatepec y Cuernavaca, en línea (tampoco es que sea uno ser omnipresente), donde estuvimos revisando la historia del cartel y el trabajo de diseñador@s en México como el de Alejandro Magallanes y el colectivo Gran OM.

Después de comer unos tacos de costilla con mi hermano Paco que mi hermano Roberto nos trajo y una siesta por la desmañanada fui a la apertura de la exposición $olo efectivo del artista urbano Vlocke Negro en La Buena Estrella en Manuel María Contreras 71, San Rafael que estará hasta el 23 de abril en un horario de 4 a 7:30 PM de martes a sábado. Las obras muestran una crítica muy creativa al consumo y abuso de recursos y la desigualdad social provocada por el capitalismo rapaz y la acumulación de billetes, mismos que son intervenidos por el artista en técnicas de collage digital y manual.

Tras saludar al artista y al director de la galería y quedar de acuerdo para un próximo evento, seguido recorriendo la zona para constatar la reciente apertura de bares, cafeterías y bazares en locales que antes estaban vacíos. Al parecer lo popular no es negocio pero si la gentrificación para la mentada alcaldesa de la demarcación.

Como lo hago en mis habituales recorridos por la calle pude tomar fotografías de arte urbano, números y carteles, recordémoslas que fueron lugares de mi post adolescencia cuando cursaba la Voca 11 y acudía a un lugar de cursos de regularización, enfrente está el local de La Habana, un antigua chocolatería inaugurada en 1872 y que ahora permanece cerrada por las consecuencias de la pandemia y la modernidad.

Lugares que fueron parte de un proceso que inició hace 22 años y que tuvo un final hace 6 años, donde la acumulación de objetos ha sido cada vez mayor, por lo que ya es tiempo de tomarse en serio el proyecto de Museo de Museos. Aquí la gentrificación en su apogeo construye edificios de departamentos donde antes había una embotelladora de las famosas "aguas negras del imperio yanqui".

Tomé un taxi (cada vez están mas caros, por cierto...) que me llevara a la conocida Plaza de las Tres Culturas donde se llevaron a cabo las jornadas de Amor y Libertad, al llegar me encontré al querido colega Andrés Ramirez y quedamos de hacer algo para el siguiente evento de collage. En el el escenario sonaban las notas musicales y la voz dulce de Silvana Estrada, cuya música y letras recomiendo escuchar con mucho detenimiento.

Fue un día de contrastes, de muchos momentos de cambios y recuerdos pero sobretodo de resilencia, después de que amenazaba con caer un fuerte aguacero solo fueron unas gotas con aires de amor y libertad. Aunque al final todo está se opacó con la muerte del primer actor y gran institución de la actuación de nuestro país, Don Ignacio López Tarso. Un fuerte aplauso de pie y muchas gracias por todo su legado.

La vida es efímera y solo nuestras acciones en menor o mayor medidas se quedarán aquí.

[micromanfever]

LATIN LOVER | LUCHANDO POR TUS SUEÑOS PODCAST W/ LA Park pt 1 notes

LA Park who comes from a city 40 miles north of Monterrey Mx. with a population of 200k. There are other interviews that detail his origins than this one. So I will only highlight things not brought up before.

PODCAST LINK: https://youtu.be/LIcetBzv80c

LA Park - Mil Mascaras

Mil Mascaras would never think I'm more than an idiot. (Imitates Mil Mascaras) "Get over here motherfucker. Sit down right here."

He would always tease LA Park at every show they were working on.

One time Nicho (Psicosis) would ask LA Park if he thought that professional sports were really rigged?

Park: Of course they are. Anything that has money flowing around it has to be influenced by some sort of manipulating power.

Nicho: I don't believe it. After spotting Mil Mascaras in the locker room he blurted that Adolfo (Park) doesn't believe that sports are rigged.

Mil Mascaras: What the fuck! Don't be an idiot! How can there not be! In football, boxing, everything!"

Park: Fucking Nicho! Your the one that believes it's all real. You asked me!

Mil: Get the fuck over here and take a seat stupid boy. I'm going to teach you one more time. Are you really that stupid or what?

Park pleaded with Mil Mascaras while Nicho ran away.

Park bumped into Nicho later on in the show and asked him why he did that. Nicho said he did it because he knows Mil always schools him when he sees him and think's he is really that dumb.

LA Park started out very young. Training in his hometown gym under local wrestlers. He finally wanted to take his wrestling to the next level. After being exposed to stars from the Mexico City coming into his town to perform.

LA Park worked under another name and lost the mask to Hijo del Santo in 1987

He latched on to Herodes, who would go the bar for drinks with other wrestlers. Park would keep his distance but, also spy on him as a fan and hang around to see what he could learn. Herodes would boast about his successes internationally that really caught Park's attention.

Hearing about Herodes being on a boat and wrestling in Africa is what opened Park's eyes to what was possible in wrestling. So he wanted to accomplish the same things.

One day he convinced Herodes that he could become someone important in wrestling and ask if he would take him under his wing. (not cited in this interview the exact retelling but found in others) Herodes would take Adolfo on and be a mentor to him while allowing him to stay at his Mexico City home.

Park would train but not have success when he first was living in Mexico city. It was a struggle just to get by as a young man all alone in the city.He would not make any notable impression for a while and this would be one of the motives why Herodes would have to kick him out of his appartment.

Lucky for LA Park, Jerry Estrada and La Fiera (legendary workers) would become his new mentors and trainers. Which he noted that Jerry and La Fiera were opposite personalities. Jerry would like to drink and party. La Fiera would be strict and straight laced.

Park brings up a side story about Antonio Pena creating his fame and opening doors for him into the entertainment industry. Being able to network with Televisa (biggest TV network in Mexico) celebrities.

Antonio scolded Park for getting too into that life and that if he didn't stop he would unmask him.

Jerry Estrada got Park into EMLL/CMLL

One meeting he had with CMLL promoter Paco Alonso.

Paco: I want you to start training for your match with El Modolo. It will be for the light heavyweight championship.

Park: I was fucked. I could not even make that weight. I was so poor. So Jerry would tell me to put coins in my boots. To gain enough weight. That's how I did it.

One day in preparing for the match vs El Modolo. Tapia was in the ring practicing dives from the top rope. Moonsaults and other things. An old man standing ringside called him over.

Old man: Come over here young man. (Park comes over) What the fuck is that shit that your doing?

Park: I'm just training.

Old man: You don't do those things. Wrestle on the mat. Stop jumping around like a grasshopper.

Park: Ok sir. As you say.

Old man: That better be the last time I see you do that in the ring. Because the next time I do, I will get i in there myself and kick your ass.

Park: Why hit me? I'm just training because they sent me to.

Old man: Who sent you? Paco?.. go get dressed and get out of here!

Park: But the boss ordered me to…

Old man: So if the boss orders you to shit your pants in the ring, you will do it?

Park: If I get a reaction, and the people like it, I will shit myself.

Old man: WHAT DID YOU SAY?!!(starts climbing into the ring)

Other wrestlers around the ring were egging on the old man.

La Park quickly got out and went to Paco's office.

Paco: Didn't I send you to go train?

Park: Yes but, there's an old man out there who told me to leave.

Paco: Alright. Let's go.

Park and Paco Alonso arrive to the training ring and Park points out the old man to Paco.

Paco: So, why did you tell my wrestler to get out and stop training? What is this about shitting their pants for the fans I heard about too? You have no authority here. I am giving you the chance to train here. This kid has to train to work on Sunday. If you don't like it. Leave.

Paco leaves after telling off the old man.

Old Man: Listen here boy. There is only one door to get out of here. I will be waiting for you when you get out.

Gran Cochisse was there and asked if Park knew who the old man was. Park did not have a clue at the time. He told him the old man was Blue Demon.

Park: Holy shit! The guy that fucked up those mummies. He's going to kill me.

Park was freaking out. He was still new and very young.

The other wrestlers training were telling Park that it was bad news. How Blue Demon was going to hold this grudge against him.

Park had arrived at 11AM but stayed until 7PM because he was so afraid of the confrontation. The cleaner had kicked out LA Park who had not eaten all day to avoid leaving the building.

When he finally stepped out through the exit he was looking around and scouting the parking lot. Park would get on his stomach to see if he could see Blue Demon's feet behind a car.

Park: I know I'm such a pussy. But we all are. We just don't show it.

Park did not have a confrontation that day.

3 months later a promoter booked Park as a sub for a wrestler that could not make it. Blue Demon was on this show. The promoter wanted to introduce him to Park, but he was still afraid. Park said it was fine if they did not meet beforehand.

Blue Demon came around and introduced himself to everyone. When it came to meeting Park, he said he remembers seeing him somewhere. Park was praying that he didn't remember.

Blue Demon asked where he was from. Park replied. He remembered that a young wrestler he knew from before was from there. While trying to remember, Park insisted that he meant Jerry. Demon agreed it must have been Jerry.

LA Park noted that wrestlers were very jealous of Latin Lover's instant success.

It took Latin Lover to finally fight back to gain the respect of some wrestlers

LA Park had to work for 6 years to finall get his wrestler liscense in Mexico City. He brings up a Mexican influencer who was being promoted in Monterrey and AAA for a program with Chessman. The influencer was being told by the promoters that it was easy to get it and they had work lined up for him.

Park had met with him before his testing and smartened him up a little. Which scared him off from wrestling.

Part 2 notes of same interview coming soon

[jordanbufordphotography]

Paco Estrada at The Curtain Club in Dallas, Texas. (January 19th, 2018)

[badmovieihave]

Bad movie I have Here Comes The Devil 2012

[themusicenthusiast]

The Hardest Part of Letting Go is Knowing When to Walk Away: A Farewell

"... The hardest part of letting go is knowing when to walk away..." That's one of my favorite lines from one of the many amazing songs that Paco Estrada has written, and in this circumstance, taking it out of context, I feel it sums things up quite well for me. It's been a year and nine months since I posted anything of substance (original) on here. Free time is sparse these days, and has been for some time. Hell, I wanted and intended to do reviews of what wound up being the final concerts I went to in the summer of 2019, yet that never even happened. So now comes the difficult part of fully admitting to myself that The Music Enthusiast is done. It has been for a while now, and I hate that, because I dislike it when bands just fizzle out. No proper farewell, nor even a mention of goodbye, they just vanish. It makes me wish I had ended this a few years ago when the blog was in its prime, but alas.

I remember well that seventeen year old kid who had no formal concept of writing and began doing this simply because he wanted to blog, the local concerts he started periodically going to seeming like as good a topic as any. That was on MySpace, and while the core idea of what I wanted to do was there, it took a lot of refinement on my part to get this where it could be considered legitimate. A whole lot. And then a lot more. I shudder at how awful my earliest blog posts were. This was always all about the local music scene in Dallas/Fort Worth, how enamored I was with it, and wanting to share that. My mission then was to try to get people turned on to some great music they may not have known about, and while my goals with TME may have grown loftier over time, that mission was a constant.  Hopefully I succeed at that. Even if it was only once with a single individual than it was all worth it. I also recall seventeen year old me pouring over the liner notes of albums, going over the lyrics and reading the sections where bands thanked whoever and thinking, "I want to see my name in that section one day." I've been humbled a few times in that regard by some awesome local acts. I'm immensely grateful to those who felt compelled to even mention me like that, and thanks, you literally made a dream come true. However, more than anything, this was something I loved with a burning passion. To me, writing a review was every bit as exhilarating as attending the concert, which was certainly a euphoric rush in itself. With this thing having lasted thirteen years there are way too many people who helped me along the way to thank by name. But to those who helped expand my horizons from just the local D/FW scene and motivated me to start covering larger events, thank you. To all the bands and musicians who helped foster this little blog and shared my reviews, thank you. To anyone who ever read anything I posted on here, thank you. You all have my eternal and heartfelt gratitude. The Music Enthusiast was never a buzzed about blog, nor even one widely recognized, though I feel that was appropriate, because it's in line with who I am. I do believe, however, that every single thing I wrote on here felt like it came from the heart. That a piece of me was represented in these words, rather than just being some generic comments. Maybe one day I'll resume this. If that's even a possibility it's at least several years away. Or maybe the end slipped by some time ago without even knowing. I don't know... Thanks again to anyone and everyone who ever gave this site a moment of their time. Take care.

[gravedadcerofilmsmx]

GANAMOS-GANAMOS-GANAMOS

EL ETERNO FESTN, 

mejor serie documental Latinoamericana en los Premios TAL de la Red de Televisoras Publicas Latinoamericanas

FELICIDADES A TODO EL CREW DE GRAVEDAD CERO FILMS

GANAMOS EL PREMIO A MEJOR SERIE DOCUMENTAL LATINOAMERICANA

CON “EL ETERNO FESTIN”

Felicidades a todo el crew de Gravedad Cero Films

Series creator

Sergio Muñoz

Produtores ejecutivos

Armando Casas Tv UNAM

Armando Carrillo SPR

Sergio Muñoz Gravedad Cero Films

Desarrollo y produccion

Gravedad Cero Films

Realizadoras

Paulina del Paso

Alejandra Islas

Luciana Kaplan

Tufic Makhlouf

Inti Cordera

Emilio Canton

Sergio Muñoz

Producción

Marusia Estrada

Fotografía

Carlos Correa

Fotografía 2a Unidad

Natali Montell

Pixilaciones fotográficas

Ana Lorena Ochoa Schondube

Post producción

Perla María Gutiérrez

Sonido directo

Aldo Navarro

Investigación iconográfica

Jorge Paredes

Editores

Perla María Gutiérrez

Paulina del Paso

Luciana Jauffred

Ana Castro

Paco Guerrero

Emilio Canton

Israel Santamaría

Koldo Idigoras

Diseño sonoro y Mix

Fernando Cabrera, Alex Vergara, Jorge Tena, E-Sound

[djlook]

Off the Air 5/12/20 Playlist

Ernest Ranglin - Everybody’s Talkin’

Mandrill - Morrocan Nights

Milton Nascimento - Tudo o Que Você Podia Ser

Ketama - Jarabi

Breno Mello, Marpessa Dawn - Samba de Orfeu

Gerald Wilson Orchestra - Paco

Ennio Morricone - Intermezzino pop

Greg Foat - Nikinakinu

Terrace Martin - Valdez Off Crenshaw

Amir Bresler - Fish

Susana Estrada - Gozame Ya!

Khruangbin - People Everywhere (Still Alive)

Nadia Cattouse - Long Time Boy

Kim Jung Mi

Pierre Akendengue - Afrika obota

Francis Bebey - Esok Am (Live)

Christina Galisatus - Root

Nino Rota - Le notti di Cabiria: Titoli di testa

Colleen - Soul Alphabet

Kamasi Washington - Truth

David Axelrod - The Shadow Knows

The Heliocentrics - Light in the Dark

Morcheeba - Let Me See

Kassav’ - Kalkilé

Tune-Yards - Look at Your Hands

Boy Azooga - Breakfast Epiphany

Tom Misch & Yussef Dayes - Last 100

Shafiq Husayn - Cycles (feat. Hiatus Kaiyote)

Wagon Christ - Saddic Gladdic

Dirty Art Club - American Death Express

Stephen Malkmus - Shadowbanned

Kurt Vile - Pretty Pimpin

Courtney Barnett - Help Your Self

Loose Tooth - Lonely

Drug Cabin - Steely Dad

Salami Rose Joe Louis -  I Miss You So

Y La Bamba - La Última Vez

Adrianne Lenker - symbol

Radiohead - Daydreaming

[saturdaynightmatinee]

CALIFICACIÓN PERSONAL: 7 / 10

Título Original: Averno

Año:  2018

Duración: 87 min

País:   Bolivia  

Director:   Marcos Loayza

Guion: Marcos Loayza

Música: Federico Moreira, Gabriel Estrada

Fotografía: Nelson Wainstein

Reparto: Paolo Vargas, Leonel Fransezze, Fred Nuñez, Patricia García, Adolfo Paco, Sidney Sanchez, Franco Miranda, Raúl Beltrán, Rosa Ríos, Miguel Estellano, Álvaro Gonzáles, Percy Jimenez, Luigi Antezana, Freddy Chipana, Alejandro Marañon, Marcelo Bazan

Productora: Alma Films. Productor: Santiago Loayza

Género: Adventure

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7851964/

TRAILER:

[jordanbufordphotography]

Paco Estrada at The Curtain Club in Dallas, Texas. (June 29th, 2019)

[thannxx]

On Give Up Tomorrow [Paco Larranaga’s Case]

It’s already three in the morning and I just finished watching the now viral documentary of Paco Larranaga, one of the alleged suspects in the Chiong sisters’ rape slay case. The case of the Chiong sisters recently became a speculation on social media after the release of the trailer of its movie adaption entitled “Jacqueline Comes Home” and along with it was the unearthing of the documentary covering the alleged injustice experienced by one of the main suspects, Paco Larranaga. 

I watched the documentary with a skeptic mind. Everyone in the comment section of the film’s trailer kept talking about the corruption of the justice system in the Philippines. It was one of the rare times I witnessed people actually “going against” a rape victim’s family. It intrigued me to the bone. Usually people would sympathize with the family. Who wouldn’t? But this was a case of two sisters who were abducted and gang-raped, one thrown into a ravine and the other gone missing. Yet people were actively criticizing and actually condemning the victims’ family, insisting that said case is the epitome of how corrupt our justice system actually is. 

I researched on the case of the Chiong sisters first. There were a couple of articles on the internet, all narrating the rape-slay story of said sisters. The crime was actually described to be the worst case in Cebu hence the huge attention not only by the public, but by the former President Estrada as well. It was an interesting case, indeed. I found out Paco Larranaga was exiled to Spain where he is now serving the remainder of his life sentence. 

So what was this documentary?

The documentary has been all over my news feed on Facebook. I tried to watch it a couple of times but only got to do so today. I watched it with a skeptic mind. I can’t afford to let the majority’s opinion taint my insight on the case. I was neither for the prosecution nor the defense. I was a mere curious speculator.

I initially thought the documentary alone was actually one-sided and I can’t help but regard it as biased at some point. They did interview the Chiong spouses and even the investigator who claimed Paco was one of the perpetrators. However, I can’t help but note that the documentary focused on Paco’s family so it’s but natural that they include [even intentionally curb] statements that would further the family’s cause. Although admittedly, there was that constant lingering thought of what if’s. What if? What if Paco was indeed framed? 

The fact that the case was sensationalized nationwide made me think that it was indeed susceptible to frame ups although this is a mere speculation. It was repeatedly emphasized that the police were rather apprehensive to catch the perpetrators; strengthened further by the fact that even the president himself wanted in on it. I suddenly recalled the cases we discussed in my Constitutional Law II where we focused on the Bill of Rights. One striking case was Nida Blanca’s murder. There was an alleged ultimatum to the police. Thus the thought of the police going out of its way to find a suspect, regardless of who they are as long as there was someone, was not far-fetched. I had a similar feeling in Paco’s case--again, another speculation. 

My scale of skepticism gradually tilted in favor of Paco as the documentary went on. Although I still find some parts of it rather problematic, because let’s face it, the media is capable of manipulating facts, that is a given. Remember framing? Anyway, the greatest plot twist was Thelma Chiong, the victims’ mother, herself. I found the documentary quite problematic in some aspects but I found Thelma Chiong even more problematic. I know I’m not in the place to conclude based on a short statement and airtime of Thelma but I seriously can’t help but think there was something up with her. This was further reinforced when I heard about the trial judge’s explanation of his verdict. I’m actually thankful I got to see the documentary after taking up Consti Law II because it exposed me to cases of partial and dismissive judges.

My thoughts are all based on the documentary so it’s apparently susceptible to mistakes but based on the judge’s explanation itself, it is quite apparent he didn’t really look into the case. There was kidnapping but no evidence of the rape so he didn’t give the Chiong 7 a death sentence? In my opinion it was a postscript excuse, the judge’s sentencing the suspects to double life sentence instead of a death penalty. He knew there would be something wrong about him giving a guilty verdict and so to "console” his self, he tried to give a “more subtle” punishment. Plus the fact that he dismissed a lot of procedural issues from the prosecution was really questionable. And the prosecutor’s theory that the photo of Paco with his friends thereby proving his alibi was merely photoshopped on the basis that Paco’s chair was black and the others’ were white and that he was the only one not looking at the camera? My goodness what a lame theory for a prosecutor! 

Now on Thelma Chiong’s behavior during one particular interview. It was proven, even broadcasted by the media, that she went to visit the suspect-turned-state-witness Davidson Rusia and gave him cake, clothes, and even money. I wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt, I really did. Naturally, a rape victim’s mother would hold a perpetual grudge against the person who ruined her child’s life. It’s even worse here because that was two of her daughters, it was a gang rape, one of them was thrown into a ravine and the other went missing. But mothers are different. Some would hold a grudge, some would want to kill their child’s rapist, some would earnestly clamor for justice, and some would actually choose to forgive. I wanted to think Thelma was one who chose to forgive and was simply grateful to Rusia because his confession played a huge role [a turning point, in the words of the trial judge] in the conviction of the accused. It was only normal for her to feel such, there was nothing wrong with it. But what I did find rather problematic was how she sensationalized Rusia. She was actually proud that they chose to make Rusia a boy-next-door in his photo in their appeal brief! Again, what. the. actual. fudge. It’s one thing to forgive the person who ruined your child’s life, that is completely understandable, but to sensationalize him? That was just plain irrational. It actually seemed like they merely wanted publicity most especially for Rusia which still perplexes me. 

Although in the end, I think we still cannot base our sympathy for Paco Larranaga on the fact that even the Spanish government intervened for the alleged injustice he suffered. They may have found probable reason to conduct all means necessary for Paco’s clemency. But we also have to consider that it is only normal for them to do so because Paco is a Spanish citizen. Remember the Filipinos we fought for in Indonesia? We would really fight to the end for our fellowmen, find every reason to prove that they deserve otherwise. In my opinion it can be a similar case. Still, I can’t help but think about the what ifs. Although again, it’s just one documentary and let us not forget they did focus on Paco’s case so it is possible there was some “framing” done. 

All that’s left now are more speculations. The documentary did not clear things up for me, in fact it even raised more questions. I do sympathize for the Chiong family. Regardless of how problematic I found Thelma, it is a fact that their children were raped, the other one even killed. There are theories that the corpse found may not have been Marijoy and that Jacqueline may actually be alive. But they are mere theories. Regardless of, my heart goes out to both the Chiong and Larranaga family. 

All that we have are plain theories. There will always be that nagging thought of manipulation from both sides, that cannot be avoided since both would want to clear their names and obtain justice. Still, they are mere theories. I hope we don’t judge based on the documentary and film alone. Let us not choose sides. Let us not carelessly jump to conclusions. I’ve been seeing a lot of criticisms of the Chiong family, all on the basis of the Larranaga documentary alone. There might have been a rape victim, there might have been someone killed, there might have been injustice, there might have been corruption of the justice system. But all of these are just might have beens. I myself was shaken by the documentary, I admit that, still, in the end, I choose not to pick sides. 

I know a lot of people will not agree with me on this, they might even say I’m plain indifferent. Well, I am. Because I’m not choosing sides. Although my scale of skepticism did tilt towards the Larranaga’s, I still prefer to remain partial until further evidences surface. 

**Okay, this is a really long post. I know most of you will not even read this. I just had to share my thoughts. Maybe some of you can enlighten me if you have more information on the case, I would gladly welcome it. :) 

[themusicenthusiast]

Friday, August 24th, 2018 – Heart of the City’s First Album Release Show Sees Them Unleashing Their Supercharged Soul on a Packed Trees

A ton of work goes into making an album, from the initial writing process to recording those songs that arise from that and the subsequent post process that ensures everything is perfect. That the resulting creation is reflective of what the artists want the listener to get out of the experience of listening to it. Heart of the City had put all of that time in and then some, and on this Friday night they were getting back to the historic Deep Ellum area of Dallas for the first of three planned album release shows to celebrate the fruits of their intense labor. The iconic Trees was hosting the outfit. A band comprised of veteran musicians with a vast array of experience, they’ve managed to carve out a sound that simultaneously unique and familiar. And in celebration of this milestone moment they had assembled a bill that was every bit as eclectic as they are. The show had a little bit of everything (or at least most of it), beginning with Trees Marie and the Heavy Hearts. They were a last minute addition to the show, filling one of the support slots that had rotated between a few other acts, and luckily none of those other artists were able to make this date work. Marie and company were the perfect band to set this night in motion, coming out swinging, making it look as if their entire reputation hinged on this show and it not only going well but being stellar.

Kinetic. That would be an appropriate word to describe them, the quartet being on fire from the start and only raising the intensity with each song. Parts country and Americana, they also relied heavily on some rock ‘n’ roll elements, at least in regards to the primal power that fueled their high-energy performance and brought out the best of Marie’s powerhouse voice. They had some fans out but also caught the attention of quite a few new listeners as they performed some cuts off their first LP as well as the newly released Ramblin’ Queen, getting this extraordinary night off to an impressive start. The KuL brought the rock, splicing it with anything from funk to blues, all while including that brash demeanor that defines punk. Within a few songs they were firing on all cylinders, proving to be an indomitable force as they churned out one massive song after another. They weren’t all about pulse pounding action, though, reining it in for a time with one number as they offered a glimpse at their softer side, which was still every bit as thrilling as the blistering rock ‘n’ roll they excelled at. The KuL is one of those bands that amazes you every time you see them. Personally, I haven’t caught them often, though they make a lasting impression, and every time I wind up seeing them again they seem even better than before. They’re one band that thrives on a connection with an audience, and even though they didn’t have quite the crowd they deserved this night, their mission was still to make everyone feel something and they worked tirelessly to create that kind of bond with those who were glued to what was unfolding on the stage in front of them. While technically headlining the event, Heart of the City took the (highly coveted) next to last slot on the bill, meaning they hit the stage at the prime time of 10:58, ready for what was almost certain to be their best show to date. After all, it was representative of much blood, sweat and tears; the group looking ready and determined once the curtain opened on them. They certainly made a bold entrance, the lead single from Heart of the City and their standard opener, “The River”, sounding impeccable. There was so much power packed into not only the most striking moments of it but also all of the fine nuances that their music is teeming with. Marveling at them was the only option available and it was something the throng of supporters that had packed Trees by that time did; Paco Estrada motioning with a hand at one point, mimicking a winding river as he sang, while Joshua Wayne Billingsley downright killed it. The trumpet defines the soulful, funky blend of rock they’ve crafted, and right away he put all of the heart he could muster into it. It was clear they meant business and aimed to entertain more thoroughly than ever before. After a quick greeting, Richard Panter launched them into “Dancing With the Devil”, the steady, forceful beat of the kick drum resonating well within those hallowed walls, bolstering the hypnotic quality of the track. And already taking some liberties with it, allowing the live versions to stand apart from the recording, Estrada channeled some more soul as he delivered the second verse; bassist Brandon Callies and guitarist Zach Arrington finding their groove and owning it during that one. Those two really worked off one another’s energy, having fun while still balancing the professionalism that is required. A new addition who hasn’t logged much time on stage with these guys yet, Arrington already looked as if performing these songs was second nature to him. Thus, he was able to focus more on his performance and entertaining; the additional guitar doing a great deal to expand upon an enrich the bands’ sound. Considering this was their CD release show, it only seemed right that Heart of the City pull out all the stops, which in this case meant enlisting the help of a few guest vocalists. Namely the same ones who appear on the record, such as Stanley Francisko of Cure for Paranoia. The hip-hop vocalist/singer was welcomed to the stage for “Don’t Go”, adding a whole new dynamic to it. He and Estrada found an excellent rhythm as they swapped out parts, ultimately co-singing the piece, the former’s smooth, rapid-fire delivery and the rich, soulful voice Estrada wields yielding something intoxicating. They had more of that planned, though the next individual was preoccupied at that time, forcing them to carry on with their set, busting out what was likely to be their lone cover of the night, along with “End of Suffering”, with earned one of the strongest reactions yet from the onlookers. They were exceptionally cohesive as they knocked out that emotive song; the harmonies that Estrada and Callies struck up sounding amazing. By that time another member of Cure for Paranoia was on hand, Cameron McCloud ready to lend his talents to a personal tale he noted he had co-written with Estrada. “Depression” provided one of the most powerful moments of their 62-minute long set, the downtrodden mood it casts being mesmerizing, the honesty of the lyrics doing all it can to convey what it’s like to suffer from extended periods of depression and other mental disorders. McCloud only had a few parts where he got to really take control, though he was instrumental in the song achieving its full authenticity, and brought another dominate presence to the stage. “Thank you for being here, and your time and your patience,” Estrada said a couple tracks later. “Paco dressed up for you tonight!” Callies then quipped, speaking of the sharply dressed frontman and guitarist. “These are my church clothes,” he responded. That was about the longest conversation they had this night and it was nice because it did provide some subtle laughs, though it was the music that did most of the conversing for them. And it spoke to the soul. “Waiting” and “Cruel” were two shining examples of that, and quite possibly stood out as the strongest songs Heart of the City performed this night. The first of those brought Taylor Autry and his abilities on the keys into the spotlight as he guided the ethereal and optimistic piece along, while the latter served as a testament that perspective is key, and no matter how trying life may get, “…love can make it beautiful”. Each number struck more of a chord than the last and imparted some sort of knowledge on the spectators, right up through the spirited, Motown-esque “Stash” that lead to a massive finish. “You made our year!” That was the remark Callies had made in advance of that closer, and as they surveyed the enthusiastic fans the six of them appeared elated by what this night had brought. It was an outpouring of love for them and the record they had released into the world, and they were delighted by the fact that they had made it memorable for everyone, that much was evident as they took it all in. The audience wasn’t prepared for that to be it, though. Initially confined to just a few people, chants for an encore quickly spread and became near impossible to ignore. Estrada still tried to brush them off, though. “I think we have a schedule to keep,” he stated, soon checking with the sound guy who gave them the go ahead for one more. They had to dig into their collection of covers for it, pulling out Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”, a song they’ve made into their own. That was the perfect end to the set, not just the song but the act of being requested to do an encore. It thrilled them, Callies and Arrington seen beaming during their final moments on stage. Right out of the gate Heart of the City exuded a confidence that only grew as they settled more into a groove. They were a machine, precise and absolutely in tune with one another, making them a robust force, yet each of them operated well separately, too, bringing their own flares to the overall chemistry they demonstrated. This impressive collective of exceptionally talented musicians was in rare form this night. That can surely be attributed to the excitement of the occasion as well as the legendary stage they were gracing, both aspects helping to fuel their drive, allowing them to put on this astounding performance at Trees. This soulful, R&B blend they’ve devised and dubbed “supercharged soul” is so unique and stunning. It plays well to their abilities as musicians, showcasing something new in each of them that hasn’t been glimpsed at in their previous endeavors; and for Estrada, known for his impassioned nature as a singer, it allows him to somehow pour even more himself into the music. The celebration of the release of Heart of the City will continue on August 31st and September 1st, at Hole in the Wall in Austin, TX and Continental Club in Houston, TX, respectively. For those unable to make it to one of those, vinyl copies of the record can be purchased from Hand Drawn Records. And if you do a little searching, you might find it on digital retailers as well. Francisko and McCloud probably would have made appearances regardless, though they were on hand because Cure for Paranoia was set to close Trees down, the soulful hip-hop collective hitting the stage around 12:30 with plenty of eyes glued to them. McCloud and Francisko handled working over the crowd, while Jay Analog and Tomahawk Jonez provided the programming; the group covering a lot of territory during their first few songs alone, including getting political for a brief time, and they even touched on social elements in the country at the moment. Like any good hip-hop act, they’re using their station to call attention to some important issues, though they’re also armed with plenty of material that’s more about life in general and enjoying it; Cure for Paranoia providing an engaging and fun performance to cap off the show as they tackled plenty of cuts from their self-titled release and then some. From start to finish it had been quite a night. Personally, it was nice hearing several bands that were so drastically different from one another, each bringing something different to the table, though all were top tier acts when it came to delivering an engrossing performance. And on somewhat of a related noted, Estrada proved himself one of the few people in the D-FW music scene capable of packing out Trees two weeks in a row after appearing on stage there the Friday before with his rock band. Heart of the City Set List: 1) “The River” 2) “Dancing With the Devil” 3) “The Lover” 4) “Don’t Go” 5) “If I Ever Fall in Love” (Shai cover) 6) “End of Suffering” 7) “Depression” 8) “The Silver Line” 9) “Call Me” 10) “Waiting” 11) “When the Lights Go Down” 12) “Cruel” 13) “Stash” 14) “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” (Eurythmics cover)

[reeddeming]

Can’t describe in words how good it feels to drop a record that feels so right. This song was written in Round Rock, TX with my prodigious friend Paco Estrada, and produced/mixed/mastered with the invaluable help of @mattnoveskey, @joseph_m_milligan, and @regulusrecords. Hope you enjoy. Available everywhere, both for sale and for free, and thank you all for your support of this new sound. Ready for all the future holds. (at Orb Recording Studios)

[architectnews]

Concrete walls frame desert views in remote Chihuahua home by OAX Arquitectos

The earthen tone of this off-grid holiday home in Northern Mexico was selected to match the rock formations of the nearby Cumbres de Majalca National Park, which is known for its dramatic landscapes.

OAX Arquitectos completed this remote home as a vacation getaway for a large family. It is located within a national park in Mexico's Chihuahua State, just south of the American border.

Casa Majalca is covered in earthy-coloured concrete walls

"As part of the development of the park, a section was reserved to house cottages, but because of its remote location lacks services," said OAX Arquitectos, which is based in Monterey.

"The rest of the park is protected from construction, respecting the flora and fauna of the place and promoting outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking."

The facade was made by local artisans

The angular massing of the 300-square-metre home fills the narrow lot, orienting the resident's views towards the best perspectives of the rugged desert landscape and preserving existing trees found on site.

These variations within the facade create pockets of shaded exterior space that the studio filled with local trees and cacti.

OAX Arquitectos wanted the house to blend into its desert environment

"These volumes are integrated into the landscape, like the characteristic stone monoliths of the Majalca National Park," said OAX Arquitectos.

"The color blends in with the land, making reference to the cultural past of the archaeological sites of Paquimé and Casas Grandes."

Read:

DUST designs Marfa ADU for isolated desert living in Texas

The home has two bedrooms on its lower floor and two bedrooms upstairs. At the back of the lot, an open-plan kitchen, living and dining room overlooks the park itself, through a tall glass wall that opens onto a covered outdoor kitchen and patio.

The home is essentially off-grid, according to the architects. It generates all of its electricity needs from an array of nine solar panels on the roof, draws its water from a well and from rainwater collection, and is equipped with a septic system to process wastewater.

The house's interiors have a pared-back material finish

Its facade's unique concrete texture was created by local artisans using a variety of formwork board sizes that are meant to appear irregular and natural.

"We bet on a concept of imperfection, that gives it a rustic and brutalist character," said OAX Arquitectos.

This finish is also visible within the resident's living spaces, which the studio complemented with dark wooden furnishings, polished concrete, and black-painted walls.

Two bedrooms are located on the upper floor

The deserts of Chihuahua have inspired the material palette of several architectural projects in Mexico, including a restaurant in Guadalajara, where Monteon Arquitectos Associados designed a ceiling based on the archeological site of Casas Grandes, and a pink concrete skatepark in Ciudad Juárez that was built to revitalise the city's Oriente Park.

The photography is by Paco Álvarez.

Project credits:

Design team: José García Toledo, Fernanda Roiz Silva, Luis Carlos Rodríguez González Structural engineer: Manuel Jezzini Energy efficiency: Carlos Estrada Zubía Interiors: Aileen García

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