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isthespiceoflife · 6 years ago

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Summer - rain or shine!

This year’s 5th annual 51st State Festival boasts a line-up only a true music head could’ve curated. Not surprised this takes place in London (@Trent Park). Join the fun, Aug. 3!

Mark (Ronson) x Q-Tip (The Abstract)? You’ve got to RSVP n’ not miss this one baby! Guaranteed. good. music.

OK, sure I didn’t go YET, but I’m def going before summer’s over. Don’t let me have to tell how it WAS. Plus, for FREE “First Saturday’s”, you’ve got no excuse.

Hey, here’s a proven combo in Freddie Gibbs x Madlb for their latest, Bandana LP. Peep their “Crime Pays” video here.

Upcoming Tour Dates: 6/25 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy

6/27 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy

7/6 - New York, NY @ MoMA PS1 Warm Up

7/20 - Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Music Festival^

8/16 - Orpund, Switzerland @ Royal Arena Festival

8/17 - Portugal @ Paredes De Coura Festival

8/31-91 - Philadelphia, PA @ Made in America Festival

8/25 - London, UK @ Maiden Voyage Festival (DJ Set)* *= Madlib performance || ^= Freddie Gibbs performance

Half the battle’s done by this show just being @Hollywood Bowl! Plus, Leon’s the truth across the room world, n’ if you’ve never heard of Rhye, bring a date (pun intended) on July 5, they’ll get OPEN.

Reggae on the Boardwalk at Coney Island launched on Sunday, June 9. Peep their page to get more info, but there’s only a few selective dates to blaze up di fya near the ocean. It’s a roots ‘ting, ya nah go get it! And don’t forget: Wu 6/16!

June 22-23, join SHAPE in Los Angeles, to hear n’ be a part of discussions on the future of entertainment n’ filmmaking, w/5G being the focus. Here are your speakers.

Don’t forget, the “Women’s World Cup 2019″ is on, n’ some of these gals are kicking ass more than a ball! Full schedule here.

RSVP to be a part of this “Colors of Progress” evening (food, cocktails, etc), where on June 27 @Alley in NYC from 6:30-9p, a panel discussion will outline the future of LGBT issues, worldwide.

Every Friday @The Met, in NYC of course -- explore the rooftop, the exhibits, music, art n’... if you’re into vogueing -- yes vogueing, June 11 (Tuesday), there’s that too!

La Luna 2019 baby! This Sat, border of Queens/Brooklyn @Knockdown Center, from 4p-4a. It’s going to be an experience for your eyes, of course our ears n’ best believe, some noses - hint . sniff . hint LOL!

When the workload’s just getting to ya...ditch it! Just don’t get caught, on ya...uh..ummm.. “lunch-break” for this Ditch Day Party - RSVP for secret location, June 28.

The exhibit “Brave New Views” is the tasteful clash of art and music, so join the opening party (in LA on Fri, July 19 @HVW8 Gallery) by clicking to RSVP!

Well, for this year’s “Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival” you might be overwhelmed by the number of jerk chefs/outlets on this Sunday, July 21st (heatwave postponed!) in NYC. Keep an eye out for “Kingston Grill” (+ of course, “Peppa’s”), but that’s for jerk chicken only! When it comes to ‘festival’ -- “Yogi’s Restaurant” n’ don’t pass up the mac n’ cheese from, “Chef Elvis”! Music for this year’s line-up includes Bunji Garlin, Capelton, Christopher Martin, Fay-Ann Lyons, n’ Sheensea!

SummerStage took flight last week, but don’t worry -- you’ve got ‘til October to catch one of their FREE concerts/shows, like this family-friendly, “Youth Matinee” one above: FELA! The Concert @Rumsey Playfield, Central Park (July 31) from 11a ‘til 12noon. June 11 (see below) is Kes The Band n’ others, which will be as lit on a Tuesday (bring ya cooler!) you’ll ever remember being!

As well as on Sun, July 28 (@Playstation Theater) they’re back! in NYC, this time NOT free boi!

Can’t believe you’ve never heard of Omar Apollo? He’s “So Good” best believe! Traveling anytime soon? Catch him outside the States, to see him LIVE (tour dates below).

6/12 - Oslo, Norway @ BIA

6/13 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Huset-KBH

6/14 - Berlin, Germany @ Badehaus

6/16 - Cologne, Germany @ Yuca

6/18 - London, UK @ Village Underground

6/20 - Barcelona, Spain @ Sidecar

6/21 - Madrid, Spain @ Sala El Sol

6/22 - Ourense, Spain @ Cafe & Pop Torgal

6/24 - Paris, France @ Le Pop-Up du Label

6/25 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Cinetol

6/26 - Brussels, Belgium @ La Machine

8/1 - Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza

BRIC presents: Protoje, Jah9 + MORE on Thurs, June 27 @Prospect Park Bandshell. Showtime is 7:30p, but if U know anything about these FREE NYC shows in the park during summer -- esp. for reggae’s feature night, the lines get loooooong! So keep in mind, gates open @6:30p. Plus, there’s ‘yoga on dub’ so bring those yoga mats! On Weds, as a warm-up to this big headliner show on Thurs, Protege’s teaming-up with NYC collective, Everyday People n’ giving a sneak (private) preview of his In.Digg.Nation Collective camp of artists -- Sevana + Lila Iké, including himself. Intimately. Somewhere in NYC, shhhh...

Rosario Dawson & Abrima Erwiah invite you to celebrate the launch of “Style Kingdom” -- a new collaboration with Bloomingdale's. Friday July 19, cocktails 6-8p w/music by DJ Uproot Andy + light bites by African Chop House (exclusive live performance). Where? The Carousel on 1 @Bloomingdale's 59th St, NY.

This is gonna be HUGE, even if you don’t like working-out! It’s a Fitness Festival, by Properl Co:Labs. Try it!

Or, not LOL! Working out that is, to some stellar performers such as Ciara, Charli XCX, Lucy Hale, Chromeo (live DJ set) and more! Santa Monica “Barker Hanger”, July 20-21. No, it’s not FREE. But wait, there’s more LOL! Go to WWW.PROPELCOLABS.COM chose the day you want to come then type in TBCLG100 under the GA tickets at checkout - VIP Passes!

After one listen to “Angel” you might wanna catch this cat, FINNEAS even if it’s just to witness him singing it LIVE (see dates below):

NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES: 07/06 – Summerfest – Milwaukee, WI 07/21 – Diplo’s Mad Decent Block Party Festival – Foxborough, MA 10/04 – 10/06 – Austin City Limits Music Festival – Austin, TX

What a perfect excuse to leave NYC n’ head out to the Hampton’s for 4th of July weekend -- by visiting a HUGE 50K sq. ft pavilion for the “Market Art + Design” opening @Bridgehampton Museum, Friday July 5-7 (open to the public on Saturday)! Here’s a preview...

Smino drops his sophomore LP, NOIR. There’s some fire in there, for sure. But you can always catch him LIVE too, see below.

7/20 - New York, NY @MoMA PS1 + 8/3 - Chicago, IL @Lollapalooza

Quantic’s (DJ) dates below w/Bonobo, as he drops his single n’ same titled LP, Atlantic Oscillations.

07/06 – Chicago, IL @ Lakefront Green ^ 08/02 – Denver, CO @ Air & Space Museum ^ 08/03 – San Francisco, CA @ The Midway ^ 08/17 – Brooklyn, NY @ Avant Gardner ^

If U think Calypso Rose was trouble on the stage @coachella this year past in April, don’t miss the living legend, Mighty Sparrow, Friday (July 5) from 7-9p in Queens, NY @Springfield Park.

Say no more right? In the L.E.S., as part of the “Essex Market” takeover of lower Manhattan! RSVP to indulge if U will...and did U know this month (June) was designated “NYC Music Month”? Everything’s FREE, except for the MTA’s fare that’s probably raising!

Don’t miss these legends -- yes, without these cats, a lot of megastars out of Cali would’ve never been inspired. Long Beach Dub Allstars hit Brooklyn Bowl in BK, on Sat, July 27 w/The Aggrolites + Mike Pinto. Ska in ya...

With the 30th anniversary of Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing” showing @BAM from June 28-July 4, your fav Spike movie deserves a celebration.

In BK, on July 28 there’s a man who knows how to rock the mic -- intelligently at that, swooping down @99 Scott Ave. There’s even more BBQ-type outdoor vibes before (June 16, Father’s Day!) in the same space, w/Biz Markie, Danny Krivit n’ more...but bro, Jay Electronica has the gift of gab!

“Step Up” - an ICI Benefit event (July 13 in LA @Clarence Studio), so yo -- no freebee here, but for a great cause, spend $ to eat some delish yardie food from 6-8p, then tunes from FOUR selectors/musical entities (8p-12a)!

Homegirl KOFFEE’s blowing TF up! Peep her Upcoming Tour Dates below! 6/26 - Antwerp, Belgium @ Olt Rivierenhof

6/28 - Dortmund, Germany @ Junkyard

6/29 - Paris, France @ La Maroquinerie

7/2 - Geneve, Switzerland @ L'Usine

7/3 - Padova, Italy @ Sherwood Festival

7/5 - Koln, Germany @ Summerjam Festival

7/6 - Roskilde, Denmark @ Roskilde Festival

7/7 - Berlin, Germany @ Yaam

7/10 - Karmar, Sweden @ Öland Roots

7/12 - Dour, Belgium @ Dour Festival

7/13 - Zurich, Switzerland @ Rote Fabrik

7/14 - Burtenbach, Germany @ Sunrise Regge & Ska Festival

8/4 - Montreal, QC @ Osheaga Festival

9/12 - New York, NY @ The Gramercy

9/13 - Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel

Key Upcoming GoldLink Tour Dates: 8/24 - Brooklyn, NY @AFROPUNK

9/12 - New York, NY @Madison Square Garden*^

9/29 - Miami, FL @AmericanAirlines Arena*^

10/7 - Morrison, CO @Red Rocks Amphitheatre*+

*w/ Tyler, The Creator || ^w/ Jaden Smith || +w/ Blood Orange

Peep the dates above, watch the video below -- a British lad’s coming to your city n’ you’ve gots to go! UK’s AJ Tracey isn’t trying to win U over, in Europe he’s already won, so it’s just a matter of time...

Not m/any other African artists outshine or build anticipation more than Burna Boy, n’ w/his “African Giant Tour” ongoing, in support of his upcoming new LP, same title.

So you’ll def wanna see why (two dates in Brooklyn - 7/19 @Prospect Park Bandshell for “BRIC’s Bud Light Music Series” + 8/10 @Coney Island Amphitheater for “Interswitch One Africa Music Fest”)! Check out his latest “Anybody” video further below.

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raeannvarona · 6 years ago

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An ocean-centered day trip to Catalina Island’s Avalon

Spending time below and above water where California meets the Mediterranean Coast.

Catalina Island’s small town of Avalon is often described as California’s answer to a Mediterranean Coast port with its charming port views and elevated homes, but there are many things that make it distinctly Californian.

Our day started off with a chilly hour long boat ride from San Pedro and an 8:00 am arrival to Avalon from San Pedro. Coming in, the morning marine layer made it hard to get a clear view of the town, but the haze did make for some pretty shots.

With the sun not yet completely out, we headed into town and eventually upward to get some views from some recommended vantage points. The views were great, but I decided to get up higher to get the ultimate view of the whole port with the marine layer still on its way out.

Finding a better view meant an uphill walk through tight winding roads that presented bonus views through local homes that could’ve easily been missed if I had driven a golf cart. Plus, the still cool early morning weather made the hike tolerable.

As the sun started to come out, I headed down to the water to meet up with the rest of my cousins and to swim with some fishes. The first of two diving spots was by the Via Casino at a spot appropriately called Casino Point Dive Park.

Compared to Lover’s Cove — the second spot we dove — Casino Point had a bigger concentration of fish and kelp, but not as clear waters. Both were great spots and I recommend going to both.

After a few hours of living la vida mermaid, we decided to fuel up while drying ourselves under the sun. The choice meal after swimming with beautiful fishes? Some fresh fish and chips from this little shack called Coney Island West.

We had an hour or two to kill before our next Catalina adventure, so we headed back into the neighborhoods where Catalina’s true California colors started to show.

You don’t have to walk long to come across cute and colorful homes with unique fronts. Golf carts of course were everywhere due to the roughly 20 year waitlist to bring vehicles on the island, but I was also surprised to see a good number of small electric vehicles like Smart cars and Scion iQs (which didn’t do to well in the U.S. market, but they are pretty good for Catalina).

Leisurely walking around Avalon was a precursor to a favorite Catalina activity — parasailing.

The company we signed up with was Parasail Catalina, and the ride was a pretty much a party with some reggae and ska punk blasting in the background. We chose the 600 ft rope, which meant a height of about 450 ft. Thrilling? Of course. But there was something so calming about being up above everything and seeing your feet just hanging hundreds of feet above the water.

After parasailing, we again headed to the second dive spot before again fueling ourselves with some food. This time, Nutella and Chocolate Pretzel gelato from an Avalon favorite — Scoops. (Tip: Cone looks good for the gram, but taste wise? Could be better)

Some 10 hours into our day on the island, it was time to head back. We headed back to the dock at around 6:30 p.m. to get ready for our 7:00 p.m. ride back to San Pedro. The view back was beautiful with pink sunset hues and some dolphins swimming in the distance.

A day for Catalina was definitely enough for what we wanted to do that day which was get good view shots, swim with the fishes, and get high on the parasail. But there’s so much more to do in Catalina like visiting its botanical garden, or driving along the island’s bison population, which in true Los Angeles fashion, came from a movie shoot.

Catalina Island is so accessible from Los Angeles and I’m surprised more people haven’t made it a regular weekend trip. I’m ready to go back.

Until then, stay charming Catalina.

#catalina #catalina island #avalon #vsco girls #travel

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myrecordcollections · 6 years ago

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Imagination

Shake It

@ 1980 Germany Pressing

*****

From Germany, via the intriguing mind of Swiss multi-instrumentalist Uwe Ziß, comes this unlikely marriage of AOR, balearic, post-disco, funk, R&B, Krautrock, southern boogie, and soft rock. Perfect for days, much like this one, when your loyal blogger has very little time to actually write/keep up with my own set, writing deadlines. Nothing gets closer to encapsulating the simply bananas, yet amazingly memorable music in Imagination’s Shake It than its satirical album cover. If you were a fan of its close cousin, the other, largely, German-made Walking The Voodoo Nights by Santiago, you’ll really appreciate the thematically similar mind of this one.

Imagination’s Shake It features a cover quite literally lampooning The Velvet Underground’s debut. This time around they reimagine the stark, white design in the manner of Warhol’s Pop Art shadow, Roy Lichtenstein. “Thick outlines, bold colors and Ben-Day dots” much like the music inside, Shake It has so much surface action going on that one might really fail to see the finer detail.

“Strawberry Wine” appears to kick off the album with a Faust-like bit of industrial ambient music only to launch into a tasty slice of long form AOR disco where we get to hear the mighty fine Mick Jagger-like, circa Emotional Rescue, vocals of Uwe that will carry each song forward. Credit due to Imagination for finding a very Zappa-esque way of keeping each seemingly “normal” cut quite untethered to its initial roots. Whenever it gets funky, Imagination never quite cease to twist the varied music they try to tackle.

Melodies that recall American Power Pop, ala Big Star or REO Speedwagon, or early Dire Straits on “Good Advice” transform into quite devilish, Krautrock-inspired talkbox epics like “Can’t Stand Without You” that turn out far more wiggy and psychedelic than they hint at, at first shake. Then there are others, like the hip-shaking, dance floor burner “California” features all sorts of little production tricks that remind me of the moodier, Marina Pop of Ned Doheny which can vacillate from blue-eyed soul to decadent disco in one outing.

Other highlights include the very Lou Reed-like “On the Way Out”, a gorgeous track which starts out as a Coney Island Baby only to sweep in reggae stylistics quite nicely, out of nowhere. My favorite cut goes to “Mornin’ Lights” a spirited five minutes of peak Balearic sunshine funk that once again makes me think of Lou Reed’s Coney Island Baby (a personal fave). This time though, reimagine that nostalgic emotion and take it even further out by the beach, laced with all sorts of beautiful soul rhythms — and that’s “Mornin’ Lights” for ya. Jim Croce fans would probably dig “Waitin’ For Your Call”. Y’all still listening by then should forgive it’s simpleness and prepare to take in its pretty country-lilting bits since they do in fact prep you for a dime-peace of a beaut: “Clouds Flee Before The Wind”. Sounding like an outtake to the Stones equally misunderstood Tattoo You, it’s the closest Imagination get to matching the power of those forgotten Rolling Stones ballads, from that album. No faint praise comparing such a track with one from one of the best bands to ever grace our earth (if I do say so myself).

Stones, Big Star, Lou Reed, Zappa, Faust, and Jim Croce. Was there anything else I missed? It’s like all that but also laced with all sorts of funk, heady, good time music, and genuine “Kraut” emotion/experimentalism (especially on that final cut). With that I’ll leave you your imagination to fill out the rest. Just don’t confuse them with the other, great Imagination.

#Imagination #Shake It #VU #Velvet Underground #1980 #AOR #Funk #singer-songwriter #germany

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dj-sickulous · 2 years ago

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Birthday weekend loading Hot 97 On the Reggae Tip (at Coney Island Amphitheater) https://www.instagram.com/p/CiBVqCiuTou3nhp3h6olJEisUqLqEcImM8XSCo0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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prismmarketingco · 2 years ago

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Over the weekend, reggae singer Bugle delivered a pair of commendable performances at the Angela Yee Day festivities at the Barclay Center and GT Celebrations at the Coney Island Amphitheater. The highly publicised events were held in Brooklyn, New York, on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. ▪ Read full story | LINK IN BIO (at Kingston, Jamaica) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch27uoXPEHY/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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djtrase · 3 years ago

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🔥 TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🔥 @hot97 On Da Reggae & Soca Tip Goes Down Friday, September 2 at the Coney Island Amphitheater! @kesthebandofficial, @tarrusrileyja, @patriceroberts1, @dingdongravers & MORE 🎟️ : LINK https://concerts.livenation.com/hot-97-on-da-reggae-and-brooklyn-new-york-09-02-2022/event/1D005CDD0F0B5B80 #reggae #soca #caribbeanmusic #hot97 #djtrase (at Coney Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgFRubkgtmc/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#reggae #soca #caribbeanmusic #hot97 #djtrase

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izatrini · 3 years ago

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Mr. Killa, Spice, Shaggy & More bring Vibez to Coney Island for On Da Reggae & Soca Tip 2021 - HOT 97 http://dlvr.it/SBY3s9

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hot97 · 6 years ago

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Anyone can enjoy On Da Reggae & Soca Tip 2018! Today is your last chance to get reduced price tix before they go up $10 at 5pm! It’s going down August 31st at the Ford Ampitheater in Coney Island! End your summer off with us! Tix link in our bio ⚠️ #ODRST (at Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk)

#odrst

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tnmediagrp · 4 years ago

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2020 Soca Monarch Groovy Champion “COLLEGE BOY JESSIE” Will Be Live This Saturday!!! @collegeboyjesse @fatherphilis 💣Soca Explosion💣 🗓June 19th 2021 🗓 Live Performance By: The Viking BUNJI GARLIN Location: 🎢Coney Island Art Walls 🎢 $60 Tix On Sale Now!!! Tickets On Sale At: www.SocaExplosion21.eventbrite.com #NewYork #Brooklyn #ConeyIsland #Soca #Reggae #Dancehall #Caribbean #Fete https://www.instagram.com/p/CQTX61qAmcf/?utm_medium=tumblr

#newyork #brooklyn #coneyisland #soca #reggae #dancehall #caribbean #fete

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pilfers · 5 years ago

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Coney Island High 1998 #Elevation #flashback #pilferscrew #touringlife #music #raggacore #Dancehall #reggae #opc #showtime #blackhippie #dreads #livemusic #londonboy #nyc #NY #ska #blonde #blonehair #coneyislandhigh (at Manhattan, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/CAu1DqHDz7e/?igshid=1dixnadqs1nih

#elevation #flashback #pilferscrew #touringlife #music #raggacore #dancehall #reggae #opc #showtime #blackhippie #dreads #livemusic #londonboy #nyc #ny #ska #blonde #blonehair #coneyislandhigh

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themarrero · 5 years ago

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More the 2020 Coney Island Polar Bear Plunge. The brave souls were coaxed by the Fogo Azul NYC Bateria, an all-women Brazilian Samba Reggae drumline who bombastic beat ushered in the eager and not so eager participants. Some photographers went all out to capture images patiently waiting in their hip-waiters in the frigid water. And lastly one more colorful participant on the Rigelmann Boardwalk prior to the plunge on her mobile phone. #bhportdev @bheventspace @bhphoto @nycurbanism @nybucketlist @coneyislandfun @coneyislandpolarbear @coney_island_polarbear_club #colorsofnyc (at Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/B7E98EtJWbg/?igshid=ptgnkit6qvs4

#bhportdev #colorsofnyc

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marckitphotography-blog · 5 years ago

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Designer @cooyahclothing with @get_repost ・・・ There’s no place I would rather be then where the sand meets the sea. 💗 •Magazine: @beyond.your.frame •Model: @shantelthomas_themodel •Photography: Hank Pegeron @hpegeron Reggae swimwear available worldwide at Cooyah.com #Cooyah #ReggaeVibes #IrieVibes #hankpegeron #marckitimagery #divaagroup #beach | D.I.V.A.A. Production Team: @rhodesia60 @hpegeron @m.adonislayne www.marckitimagery.com (at Coney Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2o49E8FmeT/?igshid=1szwsbzofl05l

#cooyah #reggaevibes #irievibes #hankpegeron #marckitimagery #divaagroup #beach

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letterniece8-blog · 5 years ago

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Black Films and Artists Thrive at 2019 Tribeca Film Festival

By NNPA News Wire Film Critic Dwight Brown

The 18th annual Tribeca Film Festival featured films, docs, shorts, TV, tech seminars and immersive experiences. It was a 21st century gathering place for filmmakers, artists and fans.

Black films, directors, actors and artists shared the glory and attention with other contemporaries who were proud to have TFF as an international venue. As the festival inches towards the two-decade mark, it’s only getting better and maturing like a fine wine.

Black Films, Filmmakers, Actors and Artists

17 Blocks (****) Life expectancy in the U.S. averages out to around 79 years of age. That statistic skews much lower in this poignant and profound documentary about a Washington, D.C. family that’s on a different path. In 1999, nine-year old Emmanuel is given a movie camera. He uses it to chronicle the exploits of his mom, older brother, older sister and extended family. His lens captures the love in the air, the danger outside and the hope he brings to his family for a son who could be the first in their brood to go to college. Drugs, gangs and violence lurk. Emmanuel’s destiny takes a turn that will leave viewers spellbound. Over a 20-year period, this family’s dynamics, conflicts, breath throughs and tribulations are recorded like an urban allegory. The span of time is reminiscent of the Oscar-nominated drama Boyhood. The soul of a young man gets an enduring legacy thanks to the power of film.

The Apollo (***1/2) The Apollo Theater was always so much more than a performing arts venue. Since 1934, it’s been a community center, talent scout hub, training ground for countless artists and a mecca that is destined to be both a shrine and a progressive cultural home—for years to come. Director Roger Ross Williams helms this ambitious project, Lisa Cortes is a producer and the perceptive writing by Cassidy Hartmann and Roger Ross Williams pays respect to the hall’s past and its extended family. The footage is most exciting when it depicts performances by legendary artists (Ella, Duke, Dinah, Billie), Motown (Smokey, Supremes, Temptations) and comedians (Moms Mabley, Richard Pryor). Veterans (e.g. Patti Labelle) share their anecdotes. The late Ralph Cooper recollects starting Amateur Night. Rarely has a history lesson been so damn entertaining.

Burning Cane (***) And what were you doing at age 17? Phillip Youmans was writing his first script, which he turned into this Southern Louisiana melodrama about a mother (Karen Kaia Livers) who deals with an alcoholic adult son (Dominique McClellan), his boy (Braelyn Kelly) and a recently widowed and stressed-out preacher (Wendell Pierce). The sun beats down on this luckless family, who grinds itself into a deeper and deeper hole. Youmans’ premise and maturity go well beyond his years. He puts his characters in an angst that hovers over the entire production. For tone and drama, he gets an A+. For storytelling, a B-. For tech elements a C. The gritty feel is reminiscent of a John Cassavetes movie. Youmans’ cinematography needs developing; camera placement is questionable as is the lighting. If the footage has a Beast of the Southern Wild synergy, it’s because this movie’s executive producer, Ben Zeitlin, was that film’s director.

Devil’s Pie—D’Angelo (***1/2) Lots of musicians attract a following, but D’Angelo’s fans can be classified as an avid cult with extremely good taste in soul music. Part of the Grammy winner’s mystique centers around his 14-year-absence from recording (Voodoo in 2000; Black Messiah in 2014), which stunned his admirers. That mystery, his childhood, resurgence, live shows, recording sessions and musings are on view in this wonderfully crafted homage. Home movies and photos depict his upbringing, influential grandmother and days as his church’s organist. Personal anecdotes reveal his problems with alcohol and drugs. Attesting to his musical savvy and eccentricities are Questlove, Dave Chappelle and Erykah Badu. Though many put D’Angelo in his own niche (R&B, soul, funk, sexy songs with a hint of jazz), Prince’s influence is quite obvious when the singer wails. Thank documentarian Carina Bijlsma for the candid glimpse at a musical innovator who should be called a genius. Get ready to tap your toes and sing along to “Brown Sugar.”

Gully (*1/2) Music video director Nabil Elderkin steps into the deep end of feature filmmaking and flounders. His technique is solid, especially the ways he moves the camera (cinematographer Adriano Goldman) around on evocative shots of palm tree-lined streets in Los Angeles. However, he’s wasted his talent on a misguided script (Marcus Guillory) that focuses on three unlikable and aimless adolescents (Jacob Latimore, Charlie Plummer, Kelvin Harrison Jr.). The trio go from playing violent video games to assaulting people on the streets—without any obvious motivation. Yes, they each have troubled pasts, but nothing that warrants physical attacks. Never believable. Never compelling. Pointless. Kids have excuses for making bad decisions. Adults, like the ones who made this repulsive drivel, do not.

Inna De Yard: The Soul of Jamaica (***) Showing admiration for reggae musicians from the ‘70s and ‘80s is this very inspiring doc’s goal. Shot largely in the hills above Kingston, British director Peter Webber gives a comeback platform to senior reggae stars like Ken Boothe, Winston McAnuff, Kiddus I, and Cedric Myton. Long past their heyday but still able to sell a song. Their stories of past triumphs are riveting and it’s a joy to watch them record again. They’re backed up by young musicians eager to play with their heroes. Judy Mowatt, legendary former Bob Marley backup singer, is a revelation. Reggae music, like Jamaica, is all about peace and love. That’s the takeaway. That’s what the audience will remember about this rousing, heartfelt documentary.

A Kid from Coney Island (***) We’re well-acquainted with basketball’s most successful players who soared into fame and fortune (Kobe, Magic, Michael, Larry, LeBron). We’re less familiar with hoop dream athletes who struggled. Stephon Marbury grew up in the Coney Island projects, where the only choices for rising above the fray was becoming a rapper, drug dealer or basketball player. Obsessed with the sport from a young age, he was influenced by his dad and brothers and nurtured by his older sis and mom. Steph was destined for greatness. He became a city champion, college star, draft choice and NBA legend. Only fate tossed him curve balls. Under the prying eye of doc directors Coodie Simmons and Chike Ozah, viewers watch a very talented man withstand the death of a parent, depression, a career that stalls and a surprisingly spiritual path to redemption. In this eye-opening and sobering documentary, we see how an eight-pound orange ball can take an inner-city kid to the other side of the world. More ups and downs and as exciting as the Cyclone roller coaster ride on Coney Island.

Lil’ Buck: Real Swan (***) The kids in Charles “Lil’ Buck” Riley’s low-income outer Memphis neighborhood flocked to the local roller rink at night and waited for the skating to stop and the dancing to begin. Jookin’ is the local dance form, akin to Crunking, Gangsta Walking and Michael Jackson’s stop-start-twirls. Lil’ Buck won a scholarship to a Memphis dance school, and added ballet to his mix. His blend of urban dance and classic technique is amazing to watch. Equally entrancing is this beguiling look at a young kid who blossoms as a person and a dancer. A career in L.A., performances with Yo-Yo Ma and touring the world are like a dream come true. Director Louis Wallecan doesn’t miss one step. Interviews with family, friends and admirers highlight a hybrid street dance, an art form created by an innovator who transcends life and description.

Only (**1/2) What if? What if after the apocalypse a virus became a plague that only killed women? That’s the premise of writer/director Takashi Doscher’s ultra-modern and very scary sci-fi nightmare. The focus is on a couple, Eva (Freida Pinto, Slumdog Millionaire) and Will (Leslie Odom Jr., Hamilton) who survive indoors using hazmat suits to stave off danger. Every scene is as creepy as the premise. Nice performances from the two leads. Ugly cinematography (Sean Stiegemeier) done in shades of gray, greens and browns make footage dreary. Can’t say Dosher is an accomplished filmmaker—yet, but this movie hits a nerve. Also, coming from a male director there is a misogynist undertone that just doesn’t feel right.

Recorder: The Marion Stokes Project (***) Saying she liked keepsakes is putting it mildly. Librarian, TV producer and political activist Marion Stokes had an obsession: capturing the news as it was depicted on TV. From 1979 (Iranian hostage crisis) to 2012 (Sandy Hook tragedy), she recorded newsfeeds from the networks on 70,000 VHS tapes. For an enlightening and somewhat somber history lesson, view this documentary to see how far society has evolved and what it has left in its wake. Documentarian Matt Wolf handpicks clips, adds in the essence of Stokes’ personality and interviews witnesses to her hobby. He creates a thought-provoking look at the upheavals, controversies and conflicts that have shaped this country. Racial and social issues come to the forefront.

Roads (**1/2) Actor turned director and writer Sebastian Schipper (Run Lola Runand Victoria) examines immigration with this vibrant road movie. British teen Gyllen (Fionn Whitehead, Dunkirk) steals his stepfather’s RV while in Morocco and heads towards France to visit his father. Along the way, he picks up a fellow traveler, William (Stéphane Bak), who is from the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s interesting to watch the way they are treated differently as they travel. Gyllen makes his anger known and is oblivious to danger. The more reserved William knows danger way too well and can smell it before it happens. Their divergent points of view and cultural differences speak more about race relations than a college course. A thoughtful script (Schipper and Oliver Ziegenbalg), nice performances from the teens. Final scenes that depict refugees’ confined lives in France are solemn.

Skin (***1/2) Tsotsi was the 2006 Oscar-Winner for Best Foreign Film and it chronicled the evolution of a hoodlum who seemed beyond redemption. This very daring and similar drama by writer/director Guy Nattiv is equally emancipating in its own way. Bryon Widner (Jamie Bell, Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool), a twentysomething skinhead is bullied by his adoptive parents (Vera Farmiga, Bill Camp) who are violent white supremacists. Life changes for him when he meets a single mom (Danielle Macdonald, Patti Cake$). It takes an even greater turn when he comes under the watchful eye of social activist Darlye Jenkins (Mike Colter, Luke Cage), whose foundation, One People’s Project, specializes in converting neo-Nazis. This is possibly the biggest character arc you will ever see in a film. Tense, suspenseful, dramatic, romantic and cathartic. Excellent performances from all in this stick-to-your-ribs true story. Watching human garbage turn into human beings can be extremely gratifying. Excellent.

What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali (***) Oscar-winner When We Were Kings focussed on Muhammad Ali’s “The Rumble in the Jungle” match. Does this doc have that much majesty? Almost. Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) takes a more all-encompassing approach. Using never-before-seen archival footage, and with a great sense of pacing (editor Jake Pushinsky), Fuqua highlights Ali’s pinnacles and low points. He explores the champion’s social activism and personal life. Details about his entry into boxing, teenage years, relationships with Malcolm X and Sam Cooke are on the screen. The most surprising revelation is that Ali’s decision to flaunt a larger-than-life egocentric persona was influenced by the flamboyant wrestler Gorgeous George. Most of the memorable quotes come from Ali’s lips. It’s like he’s reaching back from the grave to remind us how brash and brave he was. Illuminating.

Films of Note

After Parkland (****) Rarely if ever does a film put a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye for its entire length. Be prepared to be awed, humbled and inspired by the Parkland, Florida victims, survivors and activists. You’ve seen their faces on the news, now you get a close-up look at the people behind the headlines and the indomitable spirit they’ve collectively created that is bound to bring about change. The kids and adults are so bright and articulate that their words carry the film: “Someone was hunting my classmates.” “Bullets shred anything in sight. Tissue, walls, desks, backpacks.” “We’re going to change the world.” Expert technique and sensitive filming by directors Emily Taguchi and Jake Lefferman make this an Oscar-caliber documentary.

Crown Vic (***) The cop/crime/thriller genre gets a healthy dose of personal drama in this L.A.-based film noir that’s rough around the edges. First-time feature film director/writer Joel Souza pairs up two L.A.P.D. cops. The older crusty patrol officer Ray Mandel (Thomas Jane, Boogie Nights) shepherds the naive rookie Nick (Luke Kleintank, TV’s Bones) on an overnight shift. Meanwhile, two bank robbers/killers are on the loose. Mandel’s chilling words: “Take your badge off and put it in the glove box.” Their policing takes a turn towards the gutter. The beginning of the film is marred by too much dialogue in a claustrophobic patrol car, which kills momentum. Souza adds in a funny scene with a drunk lady, friction with undercover cops (Josh Hopkins, David Krumholtz) and a search for a missing kid to spice up the night. Jane is the glue and mortar. The dialogue is strong too. Mandel: ‘People Sleep peacefully in their beds at night because rough men do violence on their behalf.” Someone call 911!

The Kill Team (**1/2) Dan Krauss made a doc about a true-life incident involving an infantryman in Afghanistan in 2010 who dealt with a commanding officer who was violent to innocent locals and his platoon too. He’s turned that project into a feature film, with varied results. Actor Nat Wolff plays the soldier and Alexander Skarsgård stars as the disturbed leader who doles out harsh reality to his men: “We kill people. That’s what we do. Do you have a problem with that?” The enlistee is in a quandary that could take his own life. How would you react? That intriguing premise saves the film. Edited down to 87 minutes (editor Franklin Peterson), the footage is never attractive (Stéphane Fontaine), the performances are only decent and the emotion never runs deep. Still, this film tells a powerful story.

Linda Ronstandt: The Sound of My Voice (***1/2) Singing in Linda Ronstandt’s family was as common as Sunday dinner, and she had the best voice, too. As a teen in a sibling folk group she developed a sense of harmony and a performance presence that kick-started her career in L.A. In the music industry, she stood out as a woman in a man’s world. She led her own band, made her own career decisions and went through a world-famous metamorphosis: Folk, pop, rock, soul, light opera, big band and Mexican folk music—she did it all. Directors Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman bless the footage with childhood photos, concert video and insights by Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt. The very well-read Ronstandt herself pipes in with anecdotes and philosophies that underline her intelligence shed light on her battle with Parkinson’s disease. A trip down memory lane, done to the tune of Grammy-winning songs by rock n’ roll’s first female superstar. A visual and audio retrospective that sticks with you.

The Quiet One (***1/2) The meek shall inherit the earth—and other stuff. Bill Wyman, the quietest musician in the Rolling Stones, is a historian. Director Oliver Murray gives the group’s bass player all the room he needs to shed light on his role as the band’s sober member. Fortunately for Stones fans, he was an avid collector of footage, photos and other memorabilia. You could almost classify him as a hoarder, except his stunning collection is so damn neat and organized. He’s stockpiled his knick-knacks in the most orderly filing system with documentation so elaborate it would shame a librarian. Hearing him talk about his idols Ray Charles, Chuck Berry, Muddy Water and Howlin’ Wolf is heart-warming. Behind-the scenes details about the Rolling Stones’ tragedies, fiascos and creative process are equally fascinating. Oddly, the film does not cover Wyman’s controversial relationship with a teenager. Special shout out to Tim Sidell’s gorgeous cinematography and Anne Perri’s astute editing. Wyman is a quiet treasure and so is this doc.

Woodstock: Three Days That Defined a Generation (***) “Well I came upon a child of God, He was walking along the road, And I asked him, Tell me where are you going, And this he told me…” Director Barak Goodman and his co-writer Don Kleszy take audiences behind the scenes of Woodstock to the muddy fields, horrible weather and peace/love vibe that became the legend of the occasion. It’s an event that has never been repeated successfully. Still, from the viewpoint of the common people who went, we get a new perception that those “highly” spiritual and heady days were more than a one-time phenomenon, they spawned a vibe that far outlived the concerts. On the stages, in this temporary city of 400,000 hippies, musicians like Richie Havens, CSN, Jimi Hendrix and the bunch look like heroes, though not as quite as gusty or adaptable as the venue’s stunned promoters: John Roberts and Joel Rosenman. Refreshing and a complete joy to watch in this day and age of hate mongering.

Tribeca is building a solid reputation as a film festival that values diversity, inclusion and new voices. It’s a champ at spotlighting emerging talent from around the U.S. and the world.

It’s no wonder black films, artists, their fans and others are supporting the fest with their work, participation and attendance.

For more information about Tribeca Film Festival go to: https://www.tribecafilm.com

Visit NNPA News Wire Film Critic Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com and BlackPressUSA.com.

This article originally appeared in the Charleston Chronicle.

Source: https://www.blackpressusa.com/black-films-and-artists-thrive-at-2019-tribeca-film-festival/

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