#who is their creative merchandising manager i wanna talk

[angelbambisworld]

You mean to tell me that KISS has gone on this long and not once have they made a single KISS-themed sex toy?!

Not even one based on Gene's tongue?! Not even one based on Paul's Love Gun?!

[mistydeyes]

Hey, I love your writing! Would it be possible to get a MWII pair up? :)

I’m 5‘2, fairly skinny and with blond hair at chin length and brown eyes. I may be short but my personality is definitely not, I’m pretty outgoing and a people person but also need time to recharge alone. I love reading and journaling and right now my hyperfixation is everything occult like Tarot or astrology. I’m a Pisces who loves to cook and be creative and I renovate my place all the time with little DIY projects. People tell me I’m pretty funny with my rather dry humour but I’m also a good listener. Not really interested in small talk I wanna know what makes people tick.

Really curious what you’re thoughts are gonna be! Keep up the great writing ❤️

Johnny "Soap" Mactavish

a/n ahh thank you so much for requesting and your sweet comments! hope you enjoy :)

How you met: Civilian An objective from Laswell had led Soap and Ghost into the busy Saturday morning streets. What initially started as a simple "snatch and grab mission" had gone completely south. Now, both men were hurriedly navigating through an art and flea market to capture their target. "You got eyes on them, Lt?" Soap spoke through hurried breaths as he pushed civilians out of the way and tried to keep up. "He's going South," Ghost responded and Soap changed his trajectory. Unfortunately, the new change of direction led them to a denser area filled with small booth and artisans selling their craft items. Soap eventually caught up to the man and dived into him, crashing them both into a table. You put your hand to your mouth in shock as you. saw your merchandise spew across the floor. What made it worse was that this was your first time ever running a booth like this and months of work were gone. "Oh my god," is all you managed to say as the two men got up. Soap handcuffed the swearing assailant as Ghost finally caught up. "Sorry," the Scotsman whispered as he picked up a few items. You were still in shock and could feel a few tears begin to prick as you looked around at the destroyed area. Before Soap could apologize again, Ghost decided to put him to work. "I'll get him to Laswell, you help them clean and pay whatever we broke."

A peek into your relationship: "What are you doin?" your boyfriend, Johnny, asked as you leaned over your living room table and a stack of new tarot cards. This was your latest fixation and it hadn't taken you long to get a hang of it. "Just reading my future," you said as you examined the way the cards were facing and their meaning. He immediately sat down across from you with an excited smile on his face. "Read mine!" he exclaimed and you lightly laughed before shuffling the deck for him. "Alright so this is a 4 card spread for love and relationships," you said, watching him take a card and place them down. You started with the first card and noticed it was the hermit. "What does that mean?" he questioned and you flipped through the book before reading. "Your person is one who resembles 'The Hermit'' you began and he intently listened, "they are uniquely in touch with creative outlets and expression. They are gifted with such clarity as to not depend on others to achieve their vision and are able to express themselves in various ways." As you finished, you could hear him burst out in laughter. You joined in with the contagious chuckles until you asked what was going on. "I think these cards are just you trying to say you're the one for me," he flirted and you couldn't help but laugh harder in response. "Yeah try again, Mactavish, I'm pretty sure I hated you for a long time after we met."

[ilooklikeaburntchickenugget]

Truths Pt. 2

A/N: So I made a part two! I hope this is better, maybe some improvement has shown. I’m getting a little more comfortable with the character(s) so hopefully this goes okay. Also, I don’t have a large fan base on Tumblr (I have a larger one on Wattpad where I write Marvel and Marvel actor fics), so if you have any requests don’t hesitate to ask me. I really only do Gerard fics, I might do Mikey.

Pairing: Gerard Way x F!Reader Summary: Approximately two years into Gerard’s and Y/N’s relationship, and they go to a red carpet event together. Things get creative and then sweet. Word count: 2309

“You don’t even need makeup.” Gerard complained from the couch at the back of the room you two were in. Mac and Jessica, your two makeup artists, were on either side of you, dolling you up.

“Oh please,” You lightly laughed, “I need a lot of it.”

“I just can’t wait until all of this is over.” He sighed.

“I know Gee.” You looked back for a brief moment at him in the mirror, “But you only go to one red carpet event a year.” “And it happens to be the day before your birthday.” He looked back at you. “I would much rather be preparing for that.” You rolled your eyes.

“Don’t be so dramatic.” You said, “It’s not like we do much for my birthday anyways.”

“Yeah but we could be at home,” He sighed, “Eating pizza or tacos, and I don’t know. Watching some good shit like Star Wars.” “Tomorrow, love.” He lightly smiled.

“Fucking love it when you call me that.” “I know, love.”

“Gee?” His manager walked in. He looked up. “They’re ready to get you dressed.” He let out a huff, getting up and giving you a quick smile.

“See you later.” “Bye, Gee.” You smiled back. It took an additional 45 minutes to get you into your dress and your hair done. You had chosen a long red, velvet dress with just straight hair to keep it simple. Not much of a 2000s look, but timeless nonetheless.

“Ready, Y/N?” Your manager walked in. You nodded, giving one last look in the mirror before walking out and down the hall to Gee’s room. He was already outside talking to a few people when he looked over and saw you. He smiled, looking you up and down before licking his lips.

“Hey, Gee.” You smiled, giving him a quick kiss.

“Hi honey.” He put his hand on the small of your back, pulling you closer to him. He was quite a bit taller than you, even in heels. “You look beautiful.” He told you.

“Thanks,” You smiled, “So do you.”

You and Gee walked out, hands together, as you waited for you turn for photos. He continued to steal glances at you, lightly smiling whenever you caught him. “We just have to do this, for 15 minutes, then we eat okay?” You asked and he nodded. You knew he got anxious before events like this.

When the two of you were finally called out, Gee put his hand on your back, leading you two out. Everyone began shouting your names, the two sounds muffling with one another. Both of you tuned them out, looking in various cameras and giving light smiles.

Moving on to the interview area, one by one you went down the line of journalist prepared with mics and questions. Most of them were going great, a lot of the questions regarding how your band was at a huge level now. Not as big as My Chem, but getting there.

There was one interviewer in specific that seemed to piss off you and Gee though. Both internally, of course. “So, what’re your favorite brands?” The older man asked you, Gerard right next to you.

“Anything at Goodwill.” You answered and the three of you lightly chuckled.

“Can I ask you a question?” Gerard asked the interviewer.

“Sure.” He lightly smiled.

“Would you ask me that?” He questioned,

“Um, no.” He admitted.

“Alright, so then why did you ask her that?” He fired, standing there. You stood there a little awkwardly.

“Well, I um, I just-” “You did because she’s a woman?” He asked.

“Gee, stop.” You mumbled, giving him a look to stop. He sighed, grabbing your hand.

“I think we’re done here. Thank you.” He grabbed your hand, leading you to the next interviewer.

That one went much better. You each got to answer questions regarding your own success, and where MCR was going to go further. You and your group were planning on going on tour in the next few weeks, a lot of the shows sold out as shocking as it was, so you had a full agenda. “So Y/N,” The interviewer turned to you, “It’s your birthday tomorrow isn’t it?”

“Yes, it is.” You smiled.

“Happy birthday!” She said.

“Thank you so much, that’s really kind.” “So, do you two have any plans.” You sighed and looked at Gerard, who was looking at you.

“Flying home at 5 am tomorrow.” He huffed, “And then napping.” “That’s about it.” You admitted.

“Gerard, do you have any plans for her?” “Well, I have a few tricks up my sleeves.” He smiled, “But I can’t tell you. She would know then.”

There was one more interviewer you had to stop by, a young guy who had some fan questions to ask. “Hannah asks: If you two could control the other’s hairstyle, what would you choose and why?” “Good question.” You pondered as Gerard did.

“I would choose natural, like it is now, for her.” He said, “Her hair is really beautiful. I mean, it always is, but it looks really good natural.” “I would probably choose the look from The Ghost of You. It was very handsome on him.” You both lightly smiled.

“The last one is from Michael: Do you two wear each other’s merch?”

“Yes.” You spoke rather fast, “I think I have two or three My Chem hoodies, they’re the comfiest things ever.” “Yes for me too,” Gee said, “I think I have one or two of their shirts, I wear them to bed though.” You nodded.

“I think I may even have one from when I first met you guys.” You said, looking at Gee.

“That’s 2004 right? Then Three Cheers?” “The best hoodie I own.” You smiled. Then the two of you were escorted into the hall, to await dinner. You were sat with Frank and Mikey who showed, as long as Henry from your band and Joe. The few of you began talking with some laughter blending itself into the conversation. Gee leaned in to whisper to you.

“Was that the hoodie you stole from our merch pile on tour?” You lightly laughed under your breath, nodding your head. “You never paid for that, ya know?” “Really, Gee?” You asked, “You’re my boyfriend.” “At the time, I wasn’t.” He smirked.

“What’re you two talking about?” Frank spoke up.

“The time Y/N stole some of our merchandise.” You rolled your eyes, sitting back in defeat.

“That was you?” Mikey asked, as if surprised.

“It was one hoodie.” You fought.

“That’s not that bad.” Frank defended you.

“She still stole it.” Gee fired back, smirking.

“Hey, Y/N, did we ever tell you the time we walked in on Gerard moaning your name while masturbating?” “Frank!” He was on the verge of laughing through clenched teeth.

“There were multiple times actually.” Mikey spoke up.

“When was this?” You lightly smiled and asked.

“2005, Warped Tour.” Your eyes went wide as you looked at Gerard.

“That was before we were-” “Yeah I know, I know.” He sighed, “Can we please move onto something else?”

“So, Gerard, do you have any plans for birthday sex with-” “No.” He stopped Frank, “We’re not going there.” “But do you?” You asked, turning to face him. He rolled his eyes.

“Oh yeah it is Y/N’s birthday tomorrow.” Henry said.

“You forgot about my birthday?” You asked him.

“Yeah, yeah I did.” He admitted.

“I didn’t,” Mikey smiled, “Your cards already been shipped.” “Aw, thank’s Mikey.” You smiled, “You’re my favorite Way brother.” “Hey!” Gerard snapped, “I’m the one sleeping with you.” “But there are other credentials.” You leaned your chin onto his shoulder, looking up at him. “I still love you the most, though.”

It was a long three hours. The only enjoyable part was the free steak, but other than that it was just bland and boring. Like any other award event ever. Just some stupid speakers, stupid winners, and even more stupid speeches.

“I wanna bail so bad.” Gerard sighed, whispering to you. Frank heard it too though, and looked over nodding.

“I know.” You yawned, “Another hour of this shit.”

“We can make up an excuse.” Frank chimed in, keeping his voice low, this time Mikey, Henry, and Joe all looked at you three, extremely attentive and ready to get out.

“How?” You asked, looking at him.

“Pretend your water broke.” “What the fuck?” You turned to Henry who had the terrible idea, “I’m not pregnant. Nor do I look like I’m nine months pregnant.”

“I could pretend to have a seizure.” Frank said.

“No one would believe that,” Gerard chimed in, “And they would call an ambulance and they would probably only allow, like, two of us to go with you.” “Wait,” You said, your mind finally shaping a decent idea. “I got it.”

Next thing you knew, Henry was in the bathroom on his phone, messaging Gerard, to give him some devastating (not true) news. You could hear his phone lightly vibrate in his pocket, him pulling it out to read a text from his “cousin”.

“We should go now.” He looked at the four of you, all of you getting up and moving towards the back doors, some people seeing you. One of the managers of the show stopped you guys. “Mikey and I, our mother’s in the hospital.” Gee began, his voice laced with the essence of distress, “We need to go.” He showed the text. He nodded, letting you all out.

You made your way looking partially in panic (it may have been from the acting or the anxiety of getting caught, none of you were sure) and back to the dressing rooms. Once there, you all got in and let out a sigh of relief. “I think it worked.” Frank said, all of you smiling and nodding.

“I do too.” You spoke up.

“What the hell are you guys doing?” Gee’s manager walked in. “You guys are supposed to be out, watching the show.” “About that.” Gerard spoke up, “We got bored and left.” “You got bored?” He sassed, “You got bored?” “Yeah we made up the excuse that my mom was in the hospital.” He sighed.

“Guys, did it work?” Henry walked in, his face dropping when he saw Gee’s manager, who rolled his eyes and sighed in response.

“Well it’s not like you guys can go back.” He said, “But the press is gonna be up all your asses for the next few days.” You all nodded. He walked out, leaving the six of you in partial shame, but overall relief.

You all resorted back to your dressing areas, changing from the too expensive articles you had on back to jeans, sweatpants, t-shirts and hoodies. The six of you then snuck back out, and into the van that had brought you there from the hotel. “Hey what’s this?” You asked, a grocery bag taking you seat.

“I’ll take that.” Gerard reached over and took it from the area it sat, putting it under his feet. You gave him a confused look, “I’ll explain later.”

The drive back wasn’t bad. You were all pretty tired, so you took a small nap, laying your head comfortably on Gee’s shoulder, which he seemed to not mind. “Babe,” You heard him lightly nudge you awake.

“Mhm?” You asked, getting up and yawning.

“We’re here.” He smiled and chuckled. You all got out, saying bye to one another before heading to your rooms.

“What time is it?” You slipped off your shoes, crashing on the bed immediately after.

“12:15.” He said, smiling. “You know what that means.” “It’s time to go to bed?” “No.” He sighed, “It’s your birthday.” He took the bag and pulled something out of it.

“What is that?” You asked, sinking into the mattress.

“Give me a sec.” He said, doing something with various objects. After a minute or two, he turned around, a cupcake in hand with a candle on it.

“Oh, Gee.” You cooed and smiled, “That’s so sweet.” He sat down next to you, lighting the candle and holding it for you as he began singing happy birthday. You couldn’t help but laugh at it, blushing at how adorable it all was. He finished up the song, letting you blow out the candle, and split the cupcake so you could each have some.

“What did you wish for?” He asked, once the two of you finished. You were laying on the white hotel bed, next to each other and just looking at the ceiling.

“You know I can’t tell you, Gee.” You smiled, “It would ruin the wish.”

“Can I ask you something?” He turned to you.

“Sure.” You turned to him.

“Will you marry me?” He asked and you smiled.

“For real?” You asked and he nodded, “Yeah, of course Gee.”

“Alright, good.” He pulled a little box out his pocket, opening it for a small diamond ring to appear. “Because then I would’ve bought this for nothing.” You lightly laughed giving him your left hand to slide it on. “I love you.” He smiled, once he had put it on.

“I love you too.” The two of you leaned in, kissing one another. “What if we get married? Today?” You asked. He gave you a confused look. “When we get back to New York, head to the courthouse and just sign for marriage.”

“We could.” He said, “I mean, your birthday and our anniversary would be on the same date. Double the sex.” “Gerard!” You laughed.

“What?” He asked, as if offended, “Do I not do a good job.” “No, you do a great job.” You smiled, “But that’s not a great reason to get married.” He nodded.

“We’ll just do it when we want to, when the time’s right.”

“When the time’s right.” You agreed and nodded.

[composereggwrites]

Imprint Zine: New Creators’ Spotlight

This is my full article for the twewy @imprintzine!!! There’s still digital copies available of the full zine, and some merch left too!!! It was a blast to write and work with the other participants!

If you like this and wanna chat with me about it hit me up here or in my twewy discord!!!

Ao3

NEW CREATORS SPOTLIGHT

Hello again readers, and welcome to this month’s New Creator Spotlight! We find up-and-coming artists of all types to highlight! From fashion, music, and art, we know how to find the hidden talent in Shibuya and illuminate them all for you to see!

Mr. Mew Creations

First up is Mr. Mew Creations, a new fashion brand led by the fabulous Eri and Shiki Misaki. This duo has taken the fashion scene by storm with their innovative ideas and inspiring designs. From dresses to bright three-piece suits, these two push the boundaries of how we define outfits.

The star of their debut collection is a marvelous dress suit! It’s a dress, and a suit, combined into one! The top half is styled as a silken tuxedo jacket in bold fuchsia, with a pale lavender undershirt and iridescent pearl buttons. The bottom half, however, is a skirt designed to evoke the image of an elegant ball gown. The slip is comfortable enough to wear all day, while providing a backing to the outermost layer, which is a cascade of feathers dyed a stunning cobalt blue.

They have a myriad of other pieces in this lineup, going beyond the binary while staying fashionable and comfortable. From a simple purple shirt with embroidered orange foxes along the hem, to a yellow sweater with a detailed pink squirrel on the front, there’s a wide variety to choose from!

We sat down with the girls for an interview in their studio to talk about their threads, and they had a lot to say!

Thank you for interviewing with us. Could you both introduce yourselves for our readers?

Eri: Yeah sure! Thank you for interviewing us! I’m Eri, the lead designer of our two-person team, Mr. Mew Creations! I do most of the conceptual work, putting ideas down on paper and seeing where that gets us. Shiki definitely helps with that, but her talent shines in, well-- She can tell you!

Shiki: Hah, yeah! I’m Shiki Misaki! I’m the seamstress, so I made all the outfits you can see here in our workspace! Taking what Eri gives me, I bring our ideas to life! We’re both good in each other’s field, but together it feels like we’re unstoppable. She’s handed me some amazing designs to work with, and some I never thought I’d be able to turn into reality. The star of our show, the dress, was one of those. It almost ended up in the trash on more than one occasion, actually. We had to completely redesign it multiple times because we’re both perfectionists, and because someone sees the laws of physics as a challenge to beat. Eri likes to see how far we can push things past their limits, but we work best together because I can reel her back in if it goes too far.

We’re glad you two make such a good team! What led you to make the half-dress, half-suit outfit?

Eri: We wanted to design something that ignored gender norms. Something that defied them, without defaulting to a vaguely-masculine, androgynous look. The fact that clothing is gendered is ridiculous, and there’s this idea that men’s clothing is the default when you want a “gender neutral” item. We decided to go in the opposite direction, and add as much gender as we could, without being limited to one gender.

Shiki: It, like most of our line, is inspired by one of our friends. This dress was originally designed for him, before we decided to use it as part of our lineup. Gender is weird, and the society we live in makes navigating it more confusing than it needs to be. To be able to wear what you want, without worrying about the perception others have of you, without worrying about the way you’ll be labeled? That’s the ideal we strive for, and we hope our work can make a difference.

You said your friends inspired your line. What can you tell us about your creative choices?

Eri: Our friends are unique individuals, and we are too, so we know how to take a look at what people want, and what they need. Not everyone has the perfect model body. Not everyone wants to wear the high-fashion bling, or keep up with all the latest trends. The trick is to find what people want to wear, and design that, instead of chasing what’s trendy. If it’s stylish, people will want it, but it has to look nice and fit right.

Shiki: Just because something is comfortable, doesn’t mean it can’t have style. People are going to notice if you’re not at ease in the clothes you wear, and that unease ruins otherwise perfect appearances. We custom make everything here, and as the seamstress it’s my job to take what Eri gives me for the design and bring it to life. Doing that, while taking sensory issues into account, and ensuring nothing irritates the person who will be wearing it, is of the utmost importance.

Can you tell us a bit about  yourselves and your brand? How you got started, or where your mascot came from?

Shiki: Oh! Our mascot, Mr. Mew, was the first thing I ever made. I still have the original, and I carry him around with me. My quality of work has improved a lot, but he’s a big comfort item. He helps me face all the big scary monsters of the world, and I want him to be there to help others too.

Eri: We met when we were younger, back in middle school. I’ve always been good at making friends, but Shiki was a lot more shy then. Actually, we got in an argument, once when we were 15. I was so worried, I thought I was going to lose my best friend forever over a misunderstanding. Thankfully, we worked it all out, and here we are now! She’s a wonderful seamstress, and all of our friends are so supportive, so it’s nice. I don’t think we’d be where we are today without each other, and the help of everyone in our lives.

 It’s clear that these girls put lots of effort and dedication into what they do!

These girls offer more than some great threads! The namesake of their brand, Mr. Mew, is an adorable cat, and you can get merchandise of him too! Show off your love by picking up one of their plushies, cat ear headbands, and more!

Check out their full line at https://MrMewCreations.Com

 Neku Sakuraba

The artist of the month is none other than Neku Sakuraba! If you’ve taken a walk around Shibuya, you’ve already seen his stuff! This graffiti expert has been gaining a name for himself with stunning displays of color and intricate designs. If you frequent 104 or Molco, you’ll have seen his stylish bold lines on ads for some of the stores!

He first started making waves in the art world last December, when he put up a mural in the Miyashita Park Underpass. Dubbed Hachiko’s Guardian Angel by the public, it features a glowing figure standing over Hachiko, with white feathery wings stretched out over Shibuya’s night-time skyline. There are people at the base of the statue, and musical notes fill the outer space. We reached out to Sakuraba himself for commentary, and managed to secure an interview in his studio!

The space was big, half-finished paintings and sketches scattered across the room. Cans of spray-paint, colored pencils, and charcoal were everywhere. Interestingly, we also spotted a couple Mr. Mew plushies laying around. A second guest, a friend of Sakuraba’s who insisted on being called Joshua, was also in the studio.

But without further ado, the interview:

Thanks for welcoming us to your studio! Can you give us an introduction?

Neku: Right, hi, thanks for interviewing me. I’m Neku Sakuraba. Music geek, CAT fanboy, unwilling follower of fashion trends. That one over there [he gestures toward his friend] is Joshua. Please ignore everything he says. He decided to be here for “moral support,” but I think he just wants to tease me.

[Joshua, at this, gasped, and said, “I would never!” but as requested, his further commentary has been cut from the interview.]

Got it! What inspired you to start making art?

Neku: I’ve always been a doodler. My mom has artwork from back when I was six. The big moment of inspiration for me, when I went, I want to do this, was when I saw CATs art. Looking up at the mural in Udagawa for the first time, back when I was ten, I felt a spark, and I haven’t let go of that feeling since. It’s been rough, I’ve struggled with mental health issues, but art has always been a solace in the dark. I never thought I’d make it this far, or get as much recognition as I have. It’s amazing, and wonderful, and terrifying all at once.

You first got popular because of the mural you put up last December, in the Miyashita Park Underpass. Can you tell us anything about it?

Neku: Oh, yeah! It was the first mural I’d ever done, and I drew a lot of inspiration from Shibuya. In my head, I’ve nicknamed it Shibuya’s Composition. The piece is loosely based off a dream, if I’m being honest. The glowing white figure in the center, with the wings, is meant to be a guardian of Shibuya. Someone who helps the city grow. Meanwhile, the people at Hachiko are waiting for their friend to show, but he can’t, because he’s watching from above, protecting them from afar.

Fascinating! Do you feel like there’s a story you can make from that, one you might tell in the future?

Neku: I don’t think this is ever going to be a story or comic, unfortunately. It’s more of a personal piece. A few years ago, I only had one friend, my first friend, but I lost him. When he died, I isolated myself, and it took a lot from some special people to draw me out of that shell. Even now, I wish I could see him again, and the idea of him still being out there, watching over me and my new friends, comforts me when I miss him the most. I guess I’m like Hachiko, waiting for a dead person to come home.

I’m sorry for your loss. Can you tell us anything about your other artwork?

Neku: I do a lot of graffiti-style works. There’s no other big murals out there by me yet, but I’m working on a few designs right now. People have commissioned me to do stuff ranging from tattoo designs to album covers and store promotions. One of my favorite things to do when I make art, though, is to take the mundane and re-imagine it as something mystical. Why can’t you make foxes purple? Who says there isn’t danger lurking in the shadows? What’s stopping me from adding fire and lightning as weapons, from creating fantastical fights?

Another big source of inspiration is Shibuya. I’ve grown up in this city, it’s my home. If I can look around and see things others don’t? Then I can put that down on paper. Whether it’s as simple as catching the neon lights illuminating the Scramble, or the leaves falling around Hachiko, I can see that, pull it apart, and let my imagination run wild.

That’s pretty cool. You mentioned doing album artwork earlier, so can you tell us what it was like to design the cover for the latest album by The Albatross?

Neku: It was fun! I can’t tell you anything about them, obviously, but it came as a shock when they asked me if I could take on this project. In hindsight, it makes perfect sense. But what I can say, without getting myself vaporized on the spot, is that it was enjoyable, and they’re fun to work with. Even if they’re kinda a priss. The amount of artistic freedom I had was nice, and I think we collaborate well together. So there might be more partnership between us in the future, but nothing’s certain yet.

Wonderful! With that, one last question: what motivates you to create?

Neku: Art has always been an escape for me. It can be pretty, or loud. It can shout your thoughts from the rooftops or disguise them under the rustling of leaves in the wind. You can influence others with it, if you’re lucky. I create art for myself, first and foremost. But if I can provide a glimpse into my own secret garden, and let others see pieces of who I am in my work? Then I’m glad. I want to share it. I want to make my mark on the world, and provide others with the escape I once sought.

 This up-and-coming young artist is going to be a big name someday! With his talent, dedication, and heart, Neku Sakuraba might just be the next CAT!

If you want to support him, you can find information about him, his store, and his commission prices at https://nekusakuraba.com

 The Albatross

Our final creator of the month, someone a bit less new, but never interviewed, is The Albatross! Their first album, Noise, featured CAT artwork on the cover: an albatross in flight, with TV static cutting through the image. These two are a mysterious duo, but The Albatross takes the title of most elusive. Despite gaining fame from fans latching onto CAT art, The Albatross has never given the public a single word.

Until now, that is! With their second album, Pulse, set to release in a couple of weeks, they have consented to an interview for the first time!

The album artwork was done by Neku Sakuraba, and it features a feathered white wing, sprouting from the right-hand side of the image. Some of the lower feathers have been replaced with graffiti-like designs.

As for the music itself, their first album featured orchestral tracks, heavy on the violin, alongside electro-punk tunes! Some were instrumental, while others had lyrics. Pulse is looking to be the same style, but rather than the dark themes of Noise, it contains brighter, more hopeful songs.

We went through a lot of paperwork, involving multiple non-disclosure agreements, and the interview took place over a call while they utilized a voice changer, but it was worth it! And we’re happy to share what we’ve learned with you!

Thank you for choosing to have your first interview ever be with us! Can you give us an introduction? Nothing too personal is required!

Albatross: You were the only ones I felt were trustworthy, and the only ones completely willing to honor my anonymity. Also, a friend may have bribed me into it with promises of ramen. As for introductions… I am The Albatross, composer of music, avid Tin Pin fan, and a nerd when it comes to all things Shibuyan. History, culture, the trends. I thrive off her, it’s like the city’s got a pulse that matches my heartbeat.

Shibuya is amazing, we agree. Can you tell us why you chose your alias?

Albatross: There’s a lot of symbolism in the albatross. The bird can be a sign of good luck for sailors, historically. In the poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, though, one of the sailors kills an albatross, and thus it becomes a curse. He bears the burden as the other sailors hang the bird around his neck, reminding him of how he’s doomed them all. I’ll let fans keep speculating on why I picked it, though. I can’t give away all my secrets here.

Of course. We wouldn’t want you to spoil all the fun! How do you make your music?

Albatross: It’s amazing what you can do with technology! I know how to play the violin and piano, so any parts in my songs with those are actually me playing, but for the rest I use a few different music programs! For vocals, I outsource it to Shibuyan singers, but all lyrics are still written by me. In the end, I weave everything together, and finagle it so it fits.

Sounds like a lot of work. Where do you get your inspiration for it all?

Albatross: From Shibuya! This city has a life of her own. Feet tapping against pavement, voices reaching through the air, all the beeps and honks and the myriad of noises that resound in every corner; it all creates a rhythm, it creates music. Sometimes I’ll sit and let it all wash over me. The city holds so much, a million stories fighting for attention. They echo in my head, begging to be told, so I write them. I turn them into music in the hopes of expressing their messages for everyone to hear.

The tone between your first and second album has changed a lot, from what the previews are showing. Is there a reason for this?

Albatross: Yeah. I’m going to be blunt. When I wrote and released my first album, I was suicidal. Completely isolated from the rest of humanity, with no friends or good experiences to fall back on for comfort. My only outlet was music, and because I was so depressed and misanthropic, my work reflected this. I saw the world as poisoned, felt like people would never change, and thought my existence contributed to the negativity.

But now? I have friends. Someone entered my life, not quite of their own free will, but they stuck around. They dragged me into the sun, undoing all my self-sabotaging attempts, and they helped me grow. Helped me learn to see the good in humanity again. Shibuya is full of life, full of creativity, of people trying to do their best and help others. I wasn’t able to see it before, vision clouded with my own preconceived notions, but they… Removed the tinted glasses from my face, so to speak. And this is why my new album is more hopeful and lighthearted.

You mentioned mental health, just now. Are you able to elaborate on any of that?

Albatross: Mhm, I can. It’s not pleasant, but… Mental health isn’t talked about enough, even though it impacts so many people. I’ve had depression for years now. I still do. Some friends and a few bonding experiences doesn’t magically cure everything. There is no magic cure. What helps is finding people you can rely on when things get tough. If I lock myself in my apartment, I used to hide away for weeks. Now, though? One of them comes knocking after a few days, with ramen and orders to shower. Sometimes it can feel like you’re going to shatter into a million pieces. But instead of falling apart in secret and cutting myself on the shards of glass, I have people who hold me as I break, minimize the damage, and help me piece myself back together.

Recovery is not a straight line, and there’s no end to the winding trail you take. What’s important is having friends there with you. People who help you stand up when you stumble, who help you make camp when you need to rest. Find someone who makes you feel safe enough to fall apart. Someone who can be there to pick up the broken shards, and help you create something new and beautiful with the pieces.

 The Albatross is still a mystery to us all, but hopefully their words and music have reached those of you who need to hear them!

They don’t have an official website, but you can find The Albatross on your preferred music streaming service, or head to a local music shop to pick up their stuff! Don’t forget to pre-order their newest album, Pulse, and if you haven’t grabbed Noise yet, be sure to snag that too!

And that’s all for our New Creators Spotlight this month! Be sure to get next month’s issue for all our latest stories, and to discover the up-and-coming talents of Shibuya!

[sol1056]

git along little nonnies

Got a whole bunch of you on related themes, so I’m just gonna do this all at once: a bunch of questions about DW, spinoffs, merchandise, business, management, support (and protest) and whatnot. In no particular order.

Ok there are petitions and peaceful boycotts directed at DW but problem is they aren’t addressing the EPs and things they, not DW, did so how are we to sign them, how to handle this when this could at best confuse the situation and not give any results and at worst, make matters even worse about what we want regarding DW addressing things? 

Here’s what companies care about: money. Everything else is gravy.

If you want a corporation to pay attention to your complaints, then you need to figure out their sources of income, and find a way to threaten that. If the social reprobation is high enough, damage to the brand can translate into lost sales, but the tempest required to make that happen must be much, much larger than anything I’ve seen the fandom manage. 

I’ve been saying this all along: voices are far more powerful than signatures. If twenty thousand people wrote or called in, and said what they liked vs what upset them, that would have a far greater impact. Certainly a lot more than a list of names with no emotion beyond a request that may not even be something DW can, or would, fulfill.  

And don’t even get me started on mailing stuff in. Cute, but hardly actionable.  

Do you know what kind of contracts DW sign, as in, are they obligated to air all seasons, can they choose not to air them, do the companies they work with (netflix, wep) have a say or more say than them? Who gets the last word? Is airing all seasons squarely on DW or more? 

As I’m not a corporate lawyer employed by any of the signatories, I can’t tell you what the contract stipulated. What I can tell you is that a contract of the magnitude of the DW-WEP-Netflix agreement probably had a dissertation worth of riders covering the different types of possible defaults or breaches, and the penalties for each. Additionally, the contract also likely covered what constituted ‘satisfactory delivery’ of the product. 

To take it down to a really simple level: you place an order at a restaurant. You expect to get it, eat it, and pay for it. You don’t expect to be told, “hey, we burnt your steak and we’re out of butter for your sweet potatoes, so have some green beans instead,” and then be told you still owe the full amount, anyway. 

Netflix wouldn’t settle for ordering (and paying for) something never delivered, anymore than you would. Sure, any corporation worth their over-inflated stock options would try --- but that’s the point of contracts, to make sure they can’t. 

Netflix paid, DW delivers, end of story.  

 ...do you think ppl in charge didn't think EPs would tell they made changes and also thought they'd manage to bury it? And then they got in trouble and DW is going thru changes for that reason? -waves at DW goings on and silence.

I got lost in all the pronouns, there. Who’s the first ‘they,’ the EPs or DW execs? Is the second ‘they’ referring to the same as the first? So... I’m not really sure what you’re positing, but if the ‘DW is going through changes’ is implying DW’s got a shakeup and/or is promoting its head-of-TV to president and that’s somehow connected to two newbie EPs screwing up?

I’d say the chances are so infinitesimal as to be nearly in the negative. (I should also note, the press release listed successful shows Cohn oversaw, yet oddly did not include VLD.) DW is not a three-person start up; it has stakeholders and a board and a C-suite to satisfy. Cohn got that promotion ‘cause she’s got a track record going back thirty years, most recently growing DW’s TV division from 8 to 800 in five years. 

Most corporations tend to announce their new CEO or President like someone woke up that morning and went, hey, I’ve got a great idea. Truth is, it’s usually in the works for at least a year, sometimes several years, or more. The only thing that has me side-eyeing the announcement is the silence around who’ll fill Cohn’s previous position. 

But that’s again less to do with a single series, and more to do with what it says about DW as a whole, business-wise. 

What meaningful changes could the new president Margie Cohn make that would be different than the last one? Also I'm sorry if your getting a bunch of Voltron/DW questions lately, you just seem to be the most knowledgeable person on this platform.

I’d be willing to bet I’m far from the most knowledgeable person; I’m just someone not bound by an NDA, and curious enough to do a bit of digging and jaded enough to talk about (most) of what I find. 

A president can have immense impact on a company’s direction; that’s kinda why they exist, to set that high-level strategy. That said, Cohn will be bound by all contracts signed by her predecessor. The TV side (barring someone filling the shoes she left) will probably continue as it was. The theatrical side (which she’s taking over) will be where we’ll probably see any major changes. 

And even those aren’t likely to be on films currently in production. Hell, given theatrical animation can take up to five years, I’m not sure that’d show much change, either. Look instead to changes in investors, new deals, and new properties. 

What do you think DW will do about a sequel if there’s really no bible? Theres tons of plot holes & abandoned storylines. VLD will never feel satisfying, and fans already argued with different interpretations based on conflicting content, without a nice satisfying explanation...

I know this is the first of a three-part ask, but I’m skipping the rest because the only answer possible is to your very first question: the bible doesn’t matter. 

Any new series --- even a continuation --- will construct its own bible. Same as we’d do in fandom: they’ll patch together what they can, fill in blanks as they need, and gloss the rest, or retcon it outright. Even if there were a bible, diligently followed, that doesn’t mean the next series is automatically beholden to it. Some franchises would care (ie Star Wars) while others might let a reboot mess with the details (ie Star Trek). 

For every continuation, there’s gradations in between, since otherwise what’s the interest for creative minds, if you’re obligated to follow someone else’s script exactly? So, no. The absence of a story bible doesn’t preclude the next iteration making its own, as it needs, to whatever extent it requires. 

I was wandering around the hot topic online store, and i noticed a shirt that raised a few flags and questions. it's the 'Voltron Location' shirt. it has all the paladins in different places in a star globe chart thing? with what might possibly be planet designations. plus Lance is the only one not inside his blue colored bubble. Keith is in Red and Shiro in Black again. it's interesting at least.

Nearly all the shirts use the same base images, just changed up. It feels a little like someone handed a designer a half-dozen images with a request for forty-something designs --- and now HT is just throwing them all at the wall to see what sticks (or sells). 

HT’s stuff has been pretty consistent, from what I’ve heard: Shiro is Black, Keith is Red, etc. Considering the t-shirts seem to be selling out regularly (along with various other sidelines), I’d say someone is savvy as to the fact that the segment of fandom spending the most money is also the segment that prefers the S1/S2 lineup. 

If that’s what customers want, it’s smart business for DW to provide.

(Yes, that applies on more than one level.)

There are VLD comic books being released by LionForge Comics, are those considered canon? Do LM and JDS have any involvement? They take place before Season 7and8 but I don't wanna support the original EPs.

Every fandom has its own stand on what counts as canon. Sometimes (especially with adaptations) you’ll find fandoms being explicit as to whether they’re book or movie (ie HP and LotR). I expect the same will eventually shake out in VLD’s fandom, too. 

From everything I’ve heard, Hedrick and Iverson were handed the comics and ran with it. I suppose that would argue for seeing the comics as canon, being they were written by people also writing the main series... but from what I can tell, it’s one-way. The show affected the comics, but nothing in the comics ever affected the series.

That said, your purchases have nothing to do with the original EPs. All you’re doing is telling DW you like the VLD-iteration of Voltron.

What are your thoughts on the final vld poster? I feel like it’s missing the end. Allura is randomly staring back into nothing.

It’s a clever idea to do a poster for each season, but it’s not something I’ve ever paid any attention to, really. If it were drawn by the head writer? That might mean the artist had more insight than, say, a storyboarder or animator. But even then... cool picture, still not-canon. I’m only interested in canon.

Do you think that Voltron was rushed purposely by the EP's. [...] Wouldn't this effect the quality of, well, everything? I feel as if they got frustrated with the show at that point and just wanted out.

Dude. There are times I sit here and just stare into space, bewildered yet again not just at the thought of 39 episodes released in one year --- but doing that with 26 as a last-minute cut-and-paste rearrangement. All I can tell you is that what I’ve seen from animation people and aficionados (and friends) is that three full seasons in one calendar year is just bonkers. 

If DW hadn’t wanted the schedule that packed, the EPs aren’t the ones getting the say. That’s a DW-Netflix thing. I really wonder whether DW used VLD as a guinea pig. TH went a year between S1 and S2, and the numbers slumped badly. Perhaps DW wanted to know if more episodes, more often, would keep fan interest high? DW has experienced execs, but they’re all from broadcast; how you arrange and time things in the brave new world of binge-watching is a completely different beast. 

So, it’s possible it was less of a rush job to get the show out, and more from a desire to see what'd happen to release so much, so close together. 

I still think it’s a bonkers schedule, though.

"Relaunch the whole property" sounds like they won't continue expanding the whole vld universe and they'll make a new itineration. Though if they do a spin-off it'd likely be on the vld universe surrounding the new "Legendary Defenders" from the epilogue. And "especially given the response" do you think after the negative response from s8, wouldn't be better for WEP to not keep working with Dreamworks? Or maybe they need to clean their brand from vld fiasco? What can you say about all of this?

I can say you might try re-reading, because boy is that a radical interpretation of the text. Remember, Jeremy was speaking before S8, and all indication is that he was caught off-guard as much as the fans. Re-read in light of Jeremy (at the time) appearing to expect S8 to be a crowd-pleaser.   

...I'm becoming more confident in my belief that DW has something planned for Voltron. I mean they are still heavily promoting the show, LionForge is still publishing Voltron comics, and merchandise is still being made. These don't seem like the actions of a company trying to get people to forget a show. 

You’re not wrong. Up to the last few days of 2018, DW gave every indication they wanted S8 quietly buried. Nothing they’ve done since has fit that pattern --- including the anomaly of failing to announce their 2019 series. Something is going on, that’s for certain. 

Did DW really just throw the VAs to the wolves [for] three days? and there's still no official stance? One panel was enough. They had [the VAs] take the heat for them? But thankfully fans felt sorry for them? Which could also have been the goal, shut the fans up [with] the VAs of the characters who got the worst treatment and who love their characters ... Yes DW this really makes me trust you /sarcasm/

I don’t think that was the original plan. Let’s pretend DW released its 2019 schedule via press release in the first few days of January, and among those was an announcement of a VLD sequel or spinoff, coming late 2019. 

People wouldn’t be fussing over putting the VAs through three panels. They’d be complaining we didn’t get the biggest room for every panel. The majority of the fandom doesn’t trust the EPs, and is wary of DW --- really, the only ones who retain any goodwill, at this point, are the VAs. So who better than to assure a nervous fandom about the goodness of the second iteration than the VAs whose characters were most shafted by the first iteration?

What breaks this is that immediately after S8 dropped, Josh and Kimberly went silent on twitter. AJ slipped into passive-aggressive snarking; Jeremy fell off the radar and usually he’s pretty interactive with his fans. Bex pretty much wiped  VLD from her stream, possibly including deleting older tweets. Neil tried to engage and made a hash of it, bless his heart. 

Josh and Kimberly are consummate professionals who reliably promote the series after every season drop, but their radio silence continued for almost two weeks. This wasn’t the first season that came saddled with controversy; if there was a time to go quiet, it was after S7. Something else was going on. 

I have strong suspicions backed by research, but if I’m right, I’d be stepping on a major legal landmine. In the interest of not getting blown up, I’ll only say that the VAs appearing for those three panels (and their low-key and mostly diplomatic hedging around VLD’s conclusion) was a good sign that all parties involved are willing to work things out.   

[DW was] quick to handle the Season 7 backlash and have stayed mum on what is arguably a much worse reaction to the 8th and final season.

and

I believe the S8 of voltron we got was not the original ending we were supposed to get and highly edited. My question is why? What was the point of changing the original ending? [The] radio silence from DW and the cast is driving me nuts. I wish DW would make a statement.

DW is in an interesting place. Its TV side is barely five years old, but dominated by execs with long-time broadcast experience, predating vibrant interactivity afforded by platforms like twitter, tumblr, or instagram. DW’s background as a theatrical company also seems to incline it away from any ongoing engagement with the audience. It releases a movie and by the time that hits theaters, DW is onto the next thing. 

It’s a strong contrast with production studios like Zagtoon (Miraculous), who penned an open letter to their fandom about production delays. Or little studios like Wonderstorm (The Dragon Prince) whose deft use of twitter and tumblr sets their brand apart. Or Federator (Castlevania), with their witty marketing campaigns and willingness to engage with fans. Even Disney was willing to be open about its errors with Tiana, and to make clear how it was striving to do better --- so there’s no excuse that only small studios do such outreach.

My guess is that DW's core leadership is from the school of business in which admitting a mistake is tantamount to ritual suicide. Don’t blink first, or maybe the rule is never let them see you sweat, but whatever it is, DW is turning into a textbook case of how silence can damage a brand. 

Companies have multiple avenues to reach customers directly, now. Our modern technologies are a two-way street, and good companies leverage that to create not passive fandoms but active communities. It takes work, careful planning, and some level of transparency --- something old-school execs find highly uncomfortable, to be honest --- but in this day and age, those are crucial building-blocks to achieving any kind of audience loyalty.

DW isn’t going to render itself obsolete (at least not overnight), but it's on a track to end up as the studio whose work audiences only watch when there’s nothing better being offered. Unfortunately for DW, there’s a hell of a lot of other studios out there, and they're all offering something better. 

[062467]

Rammstein Tag Game!

Rules: - Tag the person who tagged you, so they know. - Put your answers under the questions. - Tag as many awesome people as you want. - Feel free to do it if you weren’t tagged! Here we go!

I don’t remember who I was tagged by, this draft post is like 3 years old i’m sorry haha

1. If you get a chance to take a photo with your favorite member, would you like them to smile, make an interesting pose, be serious or something else?

I would honestly love them to smile, there’s nothing more precious than them, six men who do pyro, sing about eating humans and generally seem badass and scary, smiling.

2. If you could choose only one of the previous live performances to go to, which one would you choose?

opening of the Mutter tour, or the one when they played Lied von der unruhevollen Jugend or Pet Sematary. honestly, i’d just blind pick one of these.

3. How old were you when Sehnsucht came out? (1997)

-3:) kill me now

4. Which era (their appearance/look) do you think was the best?

MUTTER, THE RED FLÄMIN HOT CHEETO TIPS. or just the general full-on fed hair thing. but Reise, Reise was also flaming hot.

5. What’s your desired relationship with Frau Schneider? (wife, mother, etc.)

I feel like she’d be this one annoying aunt, who you love despite them being irritating as shit. love me some Frau.

6. Which hairstyle suits each member the best in your opinion?

Paul: the long hair, doesn’t matter if blonde or brown Till: his Herzeleid hair or the silver-ish Sehnsucht Richard: spiky black, like Ich-Will-video level spiky black. but I live for richard in long-ish hair... Flake: blonde Oliver: hehe. no but seriously a full beard suits him. Schneider: I feel like now is my favorite Schneider era. that or either the Sehnsucht one.

7. Which of the members do you think you’d get along with the best and why?

either Paul, because I’m a goofy mess, but can pose as intimidating, or Richard, because I’d constantly express my admiration for him. and he’d love that. on a serious note tho, I feel like we have some problems in common, as well as the supernatural thingy would be an interesting topic to tackle. idk, I’d do my best to get along with all of them.

8. Which of the members do you think you’d get along with the least and why?

probably Flake, Oliver or Till. I heard that Flake is cranky and seems shy, same with Oli, I’m shy too, so idk if any conversation would ever take place haha. and with Till I’d simply be too damn scared to say a thing. so there’s that. basically we wouldn’t *dislike* each other, there would be barely any contact lol

9. Who of the members would you like to see singing with Till?

hell, maybe Ollie or Doom, just because I never heard them sing with him, I think.

10. Which band’s song would you wish to see as a cover by Rammstein?

idk, they always kinda surprised me with their cover choices and execution, so I wouldn’t like to change that, they’re doing a good job.

11. Who of the members would make the best dad?

something tells me that Schneider is a really caring dad.

12. If you got the chance to interview Rammstein, what would you ask them?

how do you pick you setlist? what qualifies a track to be an opener?

do you come up with stage and outfits concept yourself, or is it suggested by someone else?

what flavor of ice cream would you be?

what is your most vivid memory from your childhood?

which era is your favorite?

do you have a vision of a music video for a song that never got one? or a different vision than the music video it got?

I’d rather not write all of it here. not because they’re inappropriate or something, it’s just, I don’t even wanna start writing some of them, because I’m gonna cry lmao.

13. Would you consider of doing a nude scene in Rammstein’s music video? (just you appearing nude, nothing too nsfw)

I mean, if course I’d consider it. it would depend on my shape at the time and just on that probably. doing acts and nude scenes is, supposedly, very liberating and makes you more comfortable with yourself, so why not. and hey - I’d be in a Rammstein video haha. (I’d probably not like the way I look and hate myself a bit for doing the scene)

14. If you could remake a movie(s) so that the main role is played by one of the members, which movie(s) would you like to remake?

my favorite movies are always pretty tragic or scary as fuck for the main character, so idk if I’d like to see any of the members in such state.

15. Who of the members would make the best husband?

I will go with Flake or Ollie

16. You can put eyeliner on one of the members, who do you pick?

well, Richard, obviously, since he doesn’t seem to do it anymore (which should be considered a crime, he looks so good in eyeliner jeez).

17. Who of the members would make the creepiest uncle?

Till. all the way lmao. like, imagine him on family gatherings doing all the hips and tongue movements aaaa.

18. What do you think about the “Pussy” music video?

I love it, it’s so funny to me. when I watch it, it’s always a mixture of being a tad uncomfortable, turned on and giggly.

19. If you could travel somewhere with Rammstein and pick a destination, where would you go?

I’d go to the place where they had the whole creative process (and recording, I believe) of LIFAD or Mutter. I’d just like to kinda re-live it with them.

20. Who of the members would be the best to get drunk with?

I’d love to get hammered with Paulchen.

21. Could you sing Engel with Till in front of thousands?

hell yeah, this is one of the few songs I feel comfortable singing. I’d love to do that even more if it was done like on 2019 stadium tour, on the b-stage, only with piano and rest of the group humming. ahh.

22. With which member would you agree to swap clothes with and with which one would you definitely not?

if we’re talking personal style, Paul has some poppin outfits, from what I’ve seen, Richard and his shirts, however... I would just let him rock them:)

now if we’re talking stage outfits, I’d LOVE to switch with Richard (especially the fluffy coat), there’s not really a person I wouldn’t switch with, as long as they’re not topless haha.

23. Which of the members do you think would win in a stripping competition?

Richard.

24. Which of the following would you rather be?

- Rammstein’s manager - Rammstein’s make up artist 🙋🏻‍♀️ - Rammstein’s bodyguard

25. Which of the members would make the best best friend?

Paul.

26. Which Rammstein song do you skip on your shuffle? (There must be that one song you just don’t need at the moment)

Stirb nicht vor mir. I’m sorry but I rarely can stomach it. it’s a nice song in theory, but there’s just something about it that I can’t stand, maybe it’s the other artist’s voice, I don’t know.

27. What would you do if Paul made a bad joke about you? (With good intentions but slightly rude)

I’d laugh and pretend to be offended for a quick second haha

28. Who would you give a stuffed animal and who a leather thong for their birthday? XD

I’d give the animal to Flake and the thong to Till.

29. Are you concerned about anything that has to do with Rammstein?

I’m always scared for them tbh. oftentimes I’m just petrified at the thought of stage/pyro malfunction, I mean what they’re doing is some really dangerous stuff.

besides, I’m scared when I think that they won’t be here forever, sometimes I’m scared that they won’t be there when I’ll be in my 30s, so I’m grateful for every moment I can cherish them and their craft, for every minute at the shows.

30. Would you like to get a tattoo that refers to Rammstein?

yeah, I’d like a couple.

31. Would you pet Oliver’s head?

who tf wouldn’t like to?

32. Which position in Rammstein do you find the hardest to be? (for example: the frontman, drummer, bassist etc.)

probably frontman, lots and lots of pressure, most eyes are probably on them, they have to use most dangerous props and move a lot, so it takes a physical toll as well.

33. If you could have one of the members with you in school/work to protect you from evil, who would you take?

oh damn, that’s an interesting one. Richard, Is love to have him around.

34. If you were in one of the boys position, would you feel awkward or strange when you see your face on a giant poster?

of course, I’d hate it, probably. after sometime tho, I’d get used to it.

35. Would you Flake dance with Flake on stage?

if only I could dance like him haha, but I’d love to try!

36. Do you think any of the songs are underrated or overrated and why?

obviously I think Du hast is a tad overrated, as for underrated - Nebel, Adios, Hilf mir, Dalai Lama, just off the top of my head.

37. Who of the members would make the best breakfast?

I’m gonna go with Ollie, he’s so stoic and always in great shape.

38. Would you like them to make a song in your native language? (If they haven’t already)

hm, Till made an intro to polish edition of Sehnsucht and it was very sweet to hear it, but I don’t think so, no. if it was like in Ausländer, one or two words, sure, but I never want to get over the excitement of Till speaking Polish haha.

39. Which Rammstein couple combinations do you ship?

I don’t I mean I love all the sweet moments they share, but I get a bit uncomfortable when people make it out to be a bigger thing than it is. of course I love to joke around about their bromances, but it’s as far as it gets tbh.

40. Would you join Richard in his spray tanning hour?

I mean, damn, I love being pale-ish, but we’d have to be barely clothed while in there, right...?

RIGHT...?

41. What Rammstein possession are you most fond of? (merchandise, album or other)

probably the Völkerball photo album, I love it. I particularly like to go to the index and search for pictures from Poland, it makes me very emotional.

42. Favorite song performed live?

Heirate mich or Was ich liebe.

43. Would you dare to touch Frau Schneider’s hair?

I’d beg her to allow me to.

44. Rammstein with beard? Yes/No

yes, except from Richard and Flake.

45. Which of the members would be the best for playing video games with?

Paulie or Ollie.

46. Red haired Rammstein or blonde Rammstein?

oh shit oh fuck, I’m gonna go with blonde just because red tips Rammstein>redhead Rammstein.

47. Favorite interview with one or all Rammstein members?

Viva Jam 1998, still have a copy on my computer, it’s my first and favorite interview.

48. Would you Till hammer with Till on stage?

what are these questions, of course I would.

49. Your favorite feature in each member?

Paul: smile creases Schneider: smile! Flake: I love his whole face, it’s so calming Till: eyes and lips, can’t choose Oliver: his chest and him being a friggin giant Richard: tummy and lisp (I hope it can be considered a feature)

50. If you could write a letter to Rammstein what would you write?

some cheesy shit I will not share here.

I tag @amura @gay-pengy @beauty-at-matrix @naraism @followthecreeper

[levyfiles]

People be saying “Yay! Finally the boys have their own channel! They are rescued from the evil buzzfeed corporation UwU!” as if (1) “”corporations”” aren’t like, a totally normal and common thing in society, (2) this “evil corporation” didn’t provide them with the platform, audience and funding the boys needed in the first place, and (3) Ryan and Shane didn’t voluntarily put in job applications to work at buzzfeed, and instead were kidnapped by masked assassins............

Ahh, nonnybabe, you raise some really great points here about the near malicious vibe that intermingles with the celebration of the success of fellas like the Try Guys and our favourite Ghoul Boys aimed at this faceless company called Buzzfeed. 

Now, while I do understand the masses’ innate distrust for corporations in general, especially when they’re run by people who are reprehensible, outrageously wealthy and uncaring about social inequality, I think it’s time for me to address something about this particular perspective because Buzzfeed  If we can just solve this issue together by allowing me to lay down some facts I know about Buzzfeed so we can all stop playing like we don’t have to do our own research.

Brace yourselves, this is gonna get long.

The very founder of Buzzfeed Jonah Peretti (brother of our beloved Chelsea Peretti from B99) is an ICON. Jewish and raised by a black woman, he grew up to work to establish the famous Huffington Post and at the same damn time sought to make a website that would track viral content. What made Buzzfeed actually blow up was the start of the website covering news that no other news source wanted to gather or cover because it was entirely too politically left.

Putting that aside for now (brace yourself because i’m coming back to that especially), what put Jonah on the map as a guy not to mess with was the very controversial and Brilliant move on his part to throw shade at Nike. All the way back in 2001, Nike held this campaign amid their open storm of using young children in impoverished countries to build their shoes for people to be able to order shoes with their own custom insignia stitched into the shoe. Jonah ordered a pair and asked that his say “SWEATSHOP’ on the side. Here’s the full easy to read story. Please read it and that’ll give an idea of where the founder of Buzzfeed was coming from when he began to craft the face and image of Buzzfeed as it was growing.

So already Jonah Peretti is known worldwide as that one leftist, socialist guy stirring up trouble. The number of times, websites like 4chan and disgusting subreddits have been after his ass to assassinate his character which, I’ll be honest, is really easy to do when you start telling angry straight cis white boys on the internet that some dude running a viral news website wants to support socialism, charities, and worse still, non white creators.

Here is a full memo that Jonah sent across the company back in 2015.

Here is an update he sent in 2017 about their mission statement to support and help a diverse crowd of young creators start and grow.

Here is an editorial published about Jonah’s frustration with the state of media last year (Note: He aims an attack at actual corporations like Google and Facebook)

Now here’s the deal that bothers me most about the trend of hating Buzzfeed, the sentiment comes from two different sources. The first source is Buzzfeed’s videos about LGBT perspectives, feminist perspectives and surprise!surprise non-white perspectives in general. The result can be seen in many of the youtube comments of these videos. Anti-sjws, alt-right, neutral white boys all have their two cents to put in as to why hearing about anything rather than the white North american perspective hurts their feelings.

I remember once seeing a video of Pewdiepie where he happened to glance, just glance at a cast shot of an As/Is video in one of his meme reviews. He took one look at Real Actual Living Human Beings in this video and he said the words, and I quote “I get diversity, but Buzzfeed is taking it too far.” This was a group of women and a trans man standing together just laughing and posing, all of different nationalities and sexualities and the first thought out of that guy’s mouth was how what he was looking at was ‘too diverse’. If that doesn’t send a message about the way a lot of the straight white male population of the internet looks at Buzzfeed and talks about it, I don’t know how best to explain this otherwise.

The Second source of ire from anti-buzzfeed posts comes from the long list of Why I Left Buzzfeed videos. This one is really complicated because it requires a person to understand how media companies work, external ad revenue, and creative copyright. As someone who has followed many media agencies due to enjoying talents, variety shows, international pop/music, and internet creators, I know that it’s absurd that Buzzfeed’s main detractor has been individuals who are extremely creative making the mistake of signing on with a massive media agency to get a jumpstart expecting to own all of their content they come up with and post under Buzzfeed’s name. Note that I use the word jumpstart. If people go in to Buzzfeed as a job looking to live the life of a youtuber, they’re in for a nasty surprise. The amount of content you’re expected to generate is on par with working at any production company especially one whose M.O. is current viral content and it is entirely anyone’s perogative to leave the company they work for and much like nonny said in their missive, Buzzfeed’s money goes toward funding, providing a platform, advertising, and merchandising all of which any creative on the street needs to work years and years to get. Buzzfeed as a company encourages their employees to work hard and consistently create and if their ideas hit the big time, they blow up. In order to preserve their branding and avoid incidents with fans, the employees are kept at a distance from their fans. This is the same sort of policy that goes with nearly any other agency out there (in fact most agencies are even stricter). Having such a huge company churning out viral video after viral video enough that they attract the minds of people like Ryan Bergara or Shane Madej (or name your favourite buzzfeeder) who manage to make the one thing that puts them in the position they’re in now, is immensely beautiful.

Basically, I feel you, nonnyb. While I don’t think there’s anything wrong with people unsubscribing to Buzzfeed Blue after the BFU Network went live, I feel really icky about the weird unfounded hatred people have for the company where these guys as adults looking to make stuff they care about, chose to work and still work with. They’ve got a platform and it’s still with Buzzfeed, they have a lot of fun making the stuff they do and they’re given free reign to go all out.

So maybe next time you wanna go out for blood because you wanna stick it to the man, stick it to when Buzzfeed leaves Youtube lol

[at-divinebeing]

Life update:

So ready for tour. It’s not a long stretch of shows but I’ve got my hopes to sell out of our merchandise. We’ve got new shirt designs in the world and I’m gonna have my car 😤 I’m having to wire my mind to do some kinda mental organization so I can manage all of the shit I have to do in the day, no one talks about how hard it is to ask for help sometimes

———————

Crazy to think how much of a transition I’m in right now, there’s so much growth happening to me all at once and I’m trying to make all of the best decisions.

Walking away from BS situations in my life are becoming way more satisfying and easier to do. I’ve been so accustomed to tolerating stuff and trying to make things work with people that by the time I’m done with situations I’ve treated people bad.

———————

still fucking with the single life but now it’s a bit of a chore.

I cut off this chick who was an acquaintance of mine. we tried to see where things would go romantically (since I’m leaving and all) and it kinda dwindled (that happens)

Things dwindling turned into her subtweeting me about it saying that I stopped texting her because she didn’t want to have sex with me. I asked her about the tweet and if it was about me (it was) and it turned into an argument.

She was confused why I was even asking her about the tweet. I was just a little upset that it wasn’t something we had a convo about. Things escalated.

I am glad that in the whole process of this I’m allowing myself the grace to leave people tf alone and not try to correct their image of me. Not like I’m perfect or nothing but I think you can tell when people are drawing conclusions in their lives about you and if it’s worth it to correct them or no.

In my past I’ve had a ton of issues with the balance in that, I can’t treat everyone like that. But that chick? peace.

——————

I’m still moving. I’m excited about it. That’s all.

——————

I’ve been fighting with the idea of NEVER being married and having kids of my own. It doesn’t sound all that bad to me, the more I date the more I realize that it’s so many things out here that just aren’t for me. I always get close to what I want out of a person and thennnnnnn… some other stuff

(Again) I’m not perfect but I DO NOT want to bring any child into this world prematurely. If I’m the problem then GOOD, I’ll keep my problematic ass without kids but if I’m not then I’m gonna stay to myself and be a coach or guidance counselor or a teacher or something.

I do like working with kids and being a mentor but also I gotta have shit to show for it!

I’ve been working with these kids who are like 10-11 years younger than me (I’m surprised they’re even fans of mine!) and they are SUPREMELY talented. It kinda blows me away that they actually fw me and want my perspective and advice, these kids are gonna do GREAT things in their lane. It’s humbling as an experience but also it motivates me to do a lot better.

If I’m gonna be an influence I wanna look like someone you want to be influenced by. It is a little embarrassing that I got these kids coming to my house (that I am paying for all things considered) and I don’t even have a whip or anything. I want them to see that they can do what they want creatively and also live good af.

[lackwhen]

In Conversation: Sabrina Cates on Thrifting, Social Media, and Freedom

Sabrina Cates,

born and raised in New Orleans, is fly as hell and giving me a read on purpose and freedom. We heard of one another through word of mouth and met via Instagram. What started as polite exchange of compliments turned into a discussion about leaving corporate America to build on our dreams, brands and our own businesses. That, is why I chose to sit down with this wonderful woman. Sabrina is a gorgeous, compassionate, light of a human being who finds value in doing what she wants to do, be that blowing bubbles, case managing or channeling her mother at the thrift store. 

My conversation with Sabrina will be the first in a series of conversations and interviews with creative, inspiring folks around New York and beyond. In wanting to learn more about relationships, imagination and the world, I also want to give these people a chance to tell their stories in hopes that they’ll reach and touch some of you. I want to expose us all to the way some of us are living out their imaginations and the ways they are trying to love, move, work and what they really think about the world.

Sabrina Cates: I have this thing, I know what my purpose is. I’ve known what my purpose was since about college.

What’s your purpose honey? 

My purpose is service. I’m here to serve people who have less than me. To help them, to build them, to work in communities and to grow them. 

I went to college originally for sport journalism. I loved sports, I played sports in high school, I had all brothers and I wrote. It made sense. My sophomore year, I started going to counseling for some things I’d gone through in the past and it just hit me. So I was like, I want to do this. I want to help people. Kids who'd gone through what I went through. So I switched my focus to social work. 

Right out of college I worked a few corporate jobs. First, with Verizon then as a flight attendant. At a point I felt like I was just living my life for fun. I was flying, I had money, I was never home, but what was I really doing? Who was I really helping? I had to find something more meaningful.

How long did it take you to come to the conclusion that what you were doing didn’t align with your life’s purpose? 

Maybe three months before I quit flight attending I realized like wow, I am not doing anything, I’m helping people, but not really. So I went to the internet looking for jobs that would let me use my degree. I hadn’t really gotten into case management since college. I figured, I got this degree and spent four years doing case management work, so why not try to use it. 

Eventually, I found a case manager position at AmeriCorps. I applied, interviewed, and they gave me 2 weeks to move to Paterson, New Jersey. They gave me a housing stipend but that was really it. It was more of a volunteer project than a job.

Earlier, we talked about shying away from corporate America. When you are building your own business and stepping away from corporate America, what does that actually look like? 

I wouldn’t do case management anymore. I’ve done social work for so long, and I loved it. I do love it. What I would do now is be in the community, volunteer and tutor after school programs. Things like that. I want to step away from case management a bit because coming here, I’ve realized I am more in-tune with myself in tapping into my creative side and that’s like the thrifting brand that I own.

"“When you no longer are moving in a way of worrying about what other people think and feel, especially in regards to you, that’s when you’ll truly know freedom.""

Lets talk about that, because we just shot and you are stylish as fuck, I’m like, who could give a look like this? 

So, I didn’t like thrifting growing up with my mom, we were very poor. I used to have to go to thrift stores with my mom and brothers. She’d pick out all our shit under a certain amount. I would complain the whole time worried about getting teased at school. And we did. We got teased a lot. I hated it, but when I got to college, everybody looked the same. Everybody shopped at Forever21. I remember going to the club one day and this girl and I had on the same exact outfit, from the skirt to the top. Ever since that day I decided to shop at the thrift store. And so when I went, it was like everything my mom taught me just kind of came back. All of her lessons.

Was mom fly?

Yes, she was fly! Apparently, to my family, I’m an exact mold of her when she was my age. I can go into a thrift store and can find anything. I can create these ideas and outfits in my mind and I can go and find everything I want. Everything. My mom taught me that.

It is a skill. A lot of people just cannot thrift. Did mom even teach you the styling part? 

She didn’t teach me the styling part. She just taught me what to look for. She dressed us pretty fly as kids, for what she could afford. But when it comes to styling, I guess it’s naturally in me. I can’t even explain it. 

That just comes from being a creative. 

It comes with freedom and really being able to find out who you are. I feel like once I found out who I was and became in-tune with that, my creativity just amped; it’s not complicated. After a while friends would start asking me if I could style them and I’m like “nope! I just know how to dress me.”

So do you ever style now? 

Yes, I have my own Vintage Brand called Vintage Austerity. I launched it April of this year. I started the brand because my friends, line-sister, and my favorite cousin Roni started asking me to style for them. Once I started, it showed me that I truly have talent. Now, all I have to do is work on making it a skill. I started selling my thrift items on my Instagram, soon I’ll be selling it on my website. My partner gave me the idea to start these wardrobe parties, to sell my things and so when I chose to do them, I decide to have people really dress up. At the last party I had about 20 vintage items up for sale on this name-your-price basis, and I did not have to negotiate at all. They are quality things that I thrift so people were really into it. 

You’re like the middle man, it’s like personal shopping. 

Yeah! I am going to start selling other items too. Vintage furniture, antiques, and things.  My whole home is thrifted. I love vintage things, from items to clothes.

I want to be full out with my thrift line. I’ve always had this vision of taking a school bus and flipping it into this travel store and taking it to festivals. So that’s my project in a couple years.  

It sounds like you’re taking all of the steps to getting there. With your management experience, your thrift parties and such. You’re even working for a start up and not some huge corporation so I imagine there is more room to grow, learn, and practice even more skills, right?

Yeah, definitely. I am currently building their customer service presence on social media. 

""Social media, to me, is creating this microwaveable-instant-popcorn-ready-society.""

What do you think about social media? 

Social media to me is creating this microwaveable-instant-popcorn-ready-society. It is building up this generation of people who think that their dreams and everything should be ready in 3 minutes, like popcorn. 

I do see the positives, though. I've seen people with brands grow and make money. Even looking at my partner, building her brand on social media, selling merchandise. It’s great for marketing and business, if you really put in the work and don’t expect it to happen over night.

What ways do you use social media?

I use it for business and for fun. Keeping up with relationships, but also researching other businesses and things creatives are doing. That's really all I use it for, I try not to take it too seriously. 

I went to Chris Rock’s show yesterday and they collected all of our phones, said we’d get them back at the end of the show. I talked with my friends until the show started. Out of the hundreds of people at the show, not one person had their phone out.

I cannot even imagine that.

I hadn't seen that in a long time. Chris Rock even made a point. He said, “I was with my wife for 16 years and my parents were together for 40. I talked to my wife more in that 16 years than my parents did in their 40.” And that's because there were no phones to call and text. When his dad would go to work at 6:45 in the morning, he wouldn’t get back until 8 at night. There was no communication during that time. When he would get home, they’d sit and talk. There was actual conversation. Now, with texting, Instagram and Snapchat, by the time you get home, there is nothing left to talk about. 

In that sense, his marriage kind of couldn’t have lasted 40 years. We get so burnt out, in many ways being in our phones.

Yep, and everyone thinks they can have Cardi B’s outcome, coming out of social media. But we don’t get to see the work she put in and so people don’t think they have to work hard to get success. People can't even imagine a life without Instagram.

Being a photographer, especially, I can’t imagine deleting it. I actually get sick being on it so much, but because of my line of work, I can’t be without it. I get lost on there, spending hours doing non-work related shit. Killing my self-esteem and wasting my time. 

Exactly, that’s why I try to stay back as far as I can. I still write letters, I journal by hand. I like to read and sit in the park for 5 hours blowing bubbles. I am about not being limited to one thing. If you’re a photographer, take your pictures. If you’re a poet, write your poems. If you wanna flip around and hula hoop, do it. When you no longer are moving in a way of worrying about what other people think and feel, especially in regards to you, that’s when you’ll truly know freedom. For me, I don’t care what people think. At my age, I do what ever I want. 

I remember having a conversation with this girl and she goes, “You’re 30, and blowing bubbles and dancing in the street? What about a career and work? What about family? You don’t want to be serious about that?” Why do people think life is so serious? I work, I have a full time job, I have a savings, I am learning about investing. The adult part is figured out. But that’s not all life is about. I want to be free. 

I learned that people define you by what you do. 

They really do. After I left corporate life I stopped getting pats on the back. People aren’t as impressed that I am trying to build my own thing. People seem so concerned about finishing school and getting a salary with health care and it's exhausting trying to convince people that this is valid way of living.

It’s not your job to convince people that what you’re doing is important and has value. It stems from how they were raised. Older black people were taught that you work hard in school to get a degree to get a good job, to buy a house and car, to have a family, to retire. That’s life for them. That’s what they were taught, that’s what they teach you. I can’t fault them completely. It’s a generational thing. They won’t be as open minded to see it differently. You have to accept those people for who they are and trust that eventually they’ll see your light.

I'm probably the weirdest person in my family and they are still super supportive. Coming out to my brother, who is my best friend but who I also look at as a father figure, I was super nervous. When I told him he responded with "oh, so you like the same thing I like!" My brother has a favorite line: "if people don't like you, fuck them." "if they have a problem with who you are, what you do, who you're fuckin', fuck them." It's not their job to like you, it's not your job to make them. My family accepts me for exactly who I am. They don't understand me all of the time, but they still love the shit out of me.  

That's how I support my friends, that's how I support my partner, that's how I support anyone. Do what you want to do. It won’t always be easy, but stay true to your self, and find out who you are. Spend your time discovering and creating you, stay true to that, love yourself first, and fuck other people’s opinions. To thine own self be true.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

[tumblunni]

its weird how like my fave genre of games could be vaguely categorized as ‘nurturing things’ yet i fuckin hated every single thing of that kind that was pushed on me as a child

like hell yes i love pet games and games where you get customization and a sense of progress on building your character, and like even i like ‘parent games’ when they’re that sort of thing instead of just weird shoddy gross baby diaper changing bullshit. Like wtf who on earth even wants a game about raising a kid where you don’t get to see them grow up and graduate high school and make you proud in one of 63 careers?? seriously i am still so salty that this is such an underutilzed genre and i still have to play creepy anime fanservice dos games from the 90s cos thats ALL I HAVE. Why u showing my perfect sweet videogame child in creepy fanservice costumes I JUST WANT TO SUPPORT HER ACADEMIC LIFE

but anyway lol WHAT I MEAN IS

even though i LOVE that stuff i fuckin hate all that cliche ‘girl toy’ bullshit I love character customization but I hate it when its framed as ~lol girls just inherantly love fashion oo catty girl time~ and you only have this one stupid sexist creepy giant boobs doll and no customization except costumes and the only costume options are either sexualized or really stereotypically ‘girly’ and also you have to be rich as fuck to buy all these stupidly overpriced individual outfit packs and then you cant even DO anything with your barbie! at least in a videogame you can have the novelty of replaying the same cool fantasy adventure with your different characters, and like.. it has actual substance BEYOND just the customization! And I mean you can see your customization in action in a 3D environment and having a Story and Cool Powers and a voice and animations and all that jazz! And interacting with canon characters without having to buy all those separately too, and then do terrible impressions of the voiceacting from the show on your own... cos man that’s what i used to actually do with any ‘girl toys’ i was given, i saw absolutely ZERO appeal in having fifty ordinary houses where you can do nothing but sit barbie on a damn chair and gossip about husbands or whatever. Like fuck that’s already lazy and awful cos you’re telling the kid to make up their own reasons to find any enjoyment from the damn toy, but at least cliche ‘boy toys’ got like... a story template. And one that;s actually interesting and involves fighting n shit, and their accessories actually GIVE THE TOY NEW FEATURES but yeah like even making up a whole new story about barbie being a superhero got boring quick, cos she wasn’t remotely relateable or interesting. Like I’m glad that nowadays they do more with the character but even if they’ve fixed some of the predjudiced shit she’;s still.. not interesting?? just gone from cliche fashion boring to absolutely personalityless ‘good role model’ with no defining traits whatsoever. So I used to just destroy barbies or make her the villain in everything, and had a big box of naked barbies with missing legs and stuff while i gave all their accessories to all the pokemon and digimon. Still really pissed at how few of the outfits would fit on Impmon! Seriously it sucks that also all the good ‘boy toys’ were really stereotypically macho in one way or another so i was barely ever allowed to have them and i felt like they hated me even when i did get to play with them. And the only tv shows at the time that I liked that weren’t ‘for girls’ or ‘for boys’ were pokemon and digimon, which were still kinda treated as ‘for boys’ but didn’t even get the ‘boys style’ of merchandise. like barely ever poseable dolls that i could use in more creative play, they were just like collectables you put on the mantlepiece. I WOULD HAVE KILLED FOR CYNTHIA NENDOROID BACK THEN!!! i used to break all my damn digimon trying to fit them into lil outfits or throw them around doing battles, and then i made myself hella sad. I’m sad I don’t still have that super broken but extremely loved patamon transformer doll, that thing was THE BEST! like man why did they stop doing those after the first season?? actually digivolving your digimon was the best damn idea! did they get sued by transformers or something...??? and I mean GEEZ its not like I didn’t like cute stuff or hugging stuff or being nurturing or friendly or whatever people claim is the ‘wholesome value’ that female stereotypes teach kids. but man all that shit just ruined the stuff i loved! its so alienating! and why is it always super low quality and limited?? fuckin Baby Alive Really Pees And Poops,And Does Nothing Else Ever And Has No Personality. yeah girls you sure wanna see only the bad sides of nurturing and be told over and over that your life is gonna be nothing but this as soon as you inevitably start wanting to marry boys, which is totally gonna happen according to every damn adult, and will feel like a death sentence to any kid with any other sexuality. like I fuckin got my Official Digimon Tamagotchi and it was like the whole world opened up to me, like wow Pets Can Actually Do Things Other Than Shit. And i mean at least in an lcd game thing the pet shitting actually serves some damn purpose and provides resource management gameplay to decide what evolutions you get, instead of just Somehow You Should Enjoy Changing Diapers, You Little Fuck. I loved that tamagotchi so much i fuckin broke it too, like WHY WAS KID BUNNI KRYPTONITE TO TOYS?? the battery crapped out cos like i held it too tightly and the case on the back got loose?? so it’d short circuit whenever it went into sleep mode and wipe all my save data. and i still kept playing even though i could never digivolve anyone beyond their first stage before it glitched out. And then I got THE PLAYSTATION VERSION WITH ALL THE GRAPHICS and just AAAAAA it was like the best fuckin thing ever. and Monster Rancher!! and Princess Maker!! kid me could spend 60 straight hours looking after nonexistant babies and talking dinosaurs and cry like a damn bitch when they died so DONT TELL ME I’m lacking in healthy nurturing skills just because i don’t wanna be mr marketing guy’s fucked up idea of a straight woman...

...man sorry this post turned into a really weird rant why did i think about this at 1am

also like even flash game internet dollmakers are better than the cliche stereotype dolls they were based on god I’m perfectly fine with collecting a bunch of things if they’re not forcing some offensive message down my throat! i still remember how confused and pissed off i was when i figured out that my little pony was supposed to be A Gender Thing too, like geez they’re fuckin horses. and the show was actually like THE ONLY THING i was allowed to watch that had actual adventures and fighting monsters and stuff! its so bad and minimal now that i look back on it, but like man it was all I had. No wonder i got so into pokemon when it came out, look here’s a thing to collect that’s all ABOUT fighting monsters! i always wanted figurines of the monsters from those dumb girly shows, it was so annoying that MLP g1 had that episode about ‘oh the Crabnasties are people too, they’re not evil just because they look gross’ and then WHERE IS MY COLLECTABLE CRABNASTIES THEN?? WHY CANT I PUT CUTE ACCESSORIES ON THEM?? fuck u that was the most memorable episode also actually why did i have to wait so many pokemonn generations for a crab that appealed to me? krabby is so boring, its just a crab with weird human eyes. and i’m inexplicably creeped out by that one from gen 3 cos its like an optical illusion, i thought the markings were its face! thank the gods for crabominable and also damn the gods for it being hated by 90% of the fandom for reasons I will never understand :( ...BUT STILL WHERE IS MY CRABOMINABLE BEAUTY PARLOR PLAYSET YO

fuck its 1am why am i still awake why can’t i stop thinking about dragon quest 9 but you play as crabs THAT WAS THE BEST FASHION SIMULATOR EVER, DAMMIT

[viewfromthedrumstool]

View From The Drum Stool #47

Originally posted on MikeDolbear.com, 15/09/17

Howdy folks!

Thanks for checking back in. I’m glad to report it’s been another busy month of gigs and recording with a final few festivals, the odd radio session and plenty to keep me busy in the home studio.

↑ Reading Festival

One thing I’ll say for a life in music is that there’s always a story to be had. Life on the road in particular is a weird and wonderful thing and in the years of temp jobs and office jobs I rarely met the kinds of memorable characters and situations that seem to occur daily on tour.

Take an innocent trio of gigs this month with Willie J Healey and band. It all started out so innocently, just another sunny Friday and a pleasant jaunt north in our new van - her maiden voyage. Previously the cherished ride of the boys at Network Rail, Willie recently wrestled it off ‘em at a bargain price and now we ride in style with a cruising speed of 65mph, six seats and one microwave.

The gig was at Zebedee’s Yard in glorious Hull - city of culture for 2017! In an intriguing lineup we would be the openers, followed by The Fratellis (na, na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na-na-na-na-na-na) and then main headliner Ocean Colour Scene.

↑ In situ, in Hull

The gig went smoothly despite a minor mixup meaning we only had sweets (lots and LOTS of sweets) on the rider. Willie had a couple too many Percie Pigs resulting in a stratospheric sugar high right before we went on, and then the subsequent plummeting come-down 20 minutes later. I think we were half way through Subterraneans at the time. Nevertheless we battled through and made a swift get-out after the show for the long ride south and, despite a sticky clutch, indulged a short detour at my own request to ride the glorious Humber Bridge.

(Some trivia for the pub quiz fanatics among the readership: the Humber Bridge, once the longest single span suspension bridge in the world, is so long that its two towers, despite both being perfectly vertical, are 1.4 inches further apart at the top than the bottom due to the curvature of the earth!)

Saturday now, and it's a headline slot for Will and band in beautiful Bristol. The ‘SWX2’ venue looks suspiciously like the alien nightclubs that I thought I'd left behind when I graduated University and offers a load-in via 15 flights of stairs or a grisly heroin-sodden service lift. With a drum kit, keyboards, merchandise, 15 guitars and enough amplifiers to open a shop we opt for the latter and it’s a good job tour manager Jake insists we get everywhere so dang early.

We nip out before the gig for a pre-show game of bowling and when we arrive back at the venue there’s an interesting addition to our dressing room. Hung on the back of the door is a suit carrier and it soon becomes clear that we aren’t the main attraction at SWX tonight.

Jason the stripper is.

↑ Jason mid flow

Part of the 'Dreamboyz' troupe, he would be performing for a hen party in the larger room downstairs. And I’ll apologise once more to the people of Bristol that we were late to the stage, but we simply couldn’t tear ourselves away from his astonishing performance.

Needless to say our gig was inspired - and now that Wills album is out it’s great to see people singing along.

But we’re swiftly turfed out after the gig for the club night to begin - they need the room for more hen parties and private booths and bottles of cheap champagne with sparklers in the top. Alas.

The following morning and we arise early to head down to Boardmasters Festival in Newquay. But the nagging niggling clutch on our new ride is starting to become an issue - the gears are tricky to locate and we’ll be lucky if we make it there, let alone back.

After a near-fatality (ours) on a roundabout near Bodmin we stumble onto the festival site and porno-park right behind the stage. Perhaps it was the uncertainty about our fate that afternoon but we played another blinder to an appreciative crowd.

And after some pleasant catering we’re keen to hit the road again and we cautiously fire up our precious jalopy which rumbles ominously towards the motorway. We make the A30 but the end feels nigh and a meeting of the COBRA committee concludes it’s an AA job.

I’m not sure what it is about the AA’s recruitment process but I’ve yet to meet a pleasant AA man. And as we roll into the Exeter M5 Services the technician who awaits us is no different.

And though never clearly nor empathetically nor vaguely politely he does inform us that we’ll be travelling home tonight in colleague Pete’s truck, with our van on the back.

↑ It started so well

It’s several more hours wait for Pete to arrive and I wander into the services. My eye was caught by a disheveled man with long untamed hair and longer untamed fingernails sat out the front. Upright on a table in front of him were three empty shotgun cartridges.

In short he was just the kind of wild-eyed mentalist I knew would like the look of a guy like me and sure enough he promptly struck up conversation.

"Fancy a go on me gun?" he asks in a strong west-country accent.

"What a kind offer" I replied hoping he would spare me. "Much worth shooting this time of night on the M5...?"

"Rabbits."

Relief. “Do you eat them?" I ask.

"I blow them to f*****g smithereens mate".

"I see."

"Wanna know what's fun?”

“…”

“Tie a firework to a roller skate and send it down a rabbit hole."

I asked him what that would do.

"It blows them to f*****g smithereens mate."

I could see what got this guy off.

"Wanna know what's even more fun...?"

I had a feeling I knew so thanked him for the offer of his gun and made my excuses.

Meanwhile bassist Garo had discovered that on the side of the Travelodge was a small sports bar. After the ill-luck that had befallen us what more pleasant way to see out the wait than over a quiet pint in a peaceful pub.

Predictably a quiet pint was not what awaited us. Instead a team of Scottish electricians prepping for a long weeks hard work with a pint or ten were after either a party or a fight. “Yous are in a band?! GIVE US A SONG!” shouts the alpha male from across the bar while singing loudly to Dean Martin. “You look like f*****g MEATLOAF!!”

With much relief the phone finally rings to inform us that Pete is here.

He loaded the van onto the trailer at a speed that befits his 74 years and eventually ushered the six of us into the large cab. Sure enough I drew the short straw and was sat next to the big guy at the front to keep him company.

And boy did he like company. Though he wasn’t much of a listener: you see Pete lived to talk. The man was born to chat, to speak, to yarn, to natter.

We covered most of his life story, he talked about his wives, he walked me through his entire employment history and told me about his brother who went to prison. He talked about music and guitars and trucks and Spain and bankruptcy and caravans and Roy Chubby Brown. At one point we started singing together - it was the only way I could get him to stop talking.

↑ M5 Services, Exeter

It’s no short journey from Exeter to Oxford but when we arrived home at 3:30am he was still going strong.

Albeit a tale of some woe, most importantly the weekend was also a fun and thrilling time - cherished memories of exciting encounters shared with friends and bandmates alike.

I’m glad to report that the clutch was a fixer and that there are plans for many a Ginsters still to be warmed in her microwave.

Perhaps this will enlighten, inspire or maybe simply explain something. Music offers potential for experiences, travel and creative reward not found in any other line of work and I’m sure many other musicians will attest to the adventure that inevitably befalls (and that it’s never what you expect!).

But for now I’m off Stateside for a few weeks with Saint Etienne - hopefully for some more adventures. For anyone who may be interested in following my adventures in the coming weeks more closely, check in to my regular writings over at http://viewfromthedrumstool.tumblr.com where I’ll be posting regular updates.

Until then may your gigs be plentiful and your gear changes smooth.

Mike

↑ At Wogan House for Lauren Laverne this month

[speedknight]

STGCC over the years (File Photos: Speedknight.com )

STGCC is marking its 10th Anniversary milestone this year! Here is what to expect for the event that is happening this weekend at the Sands Expo & Convention Center! More zones, More fun!

Good Game Experience (GGXP)

Mountain Dew Cup, STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com ) 

Win or lose, let’s all say “GG!” and keep on striving to improve our game (and of course, crush our opponents in the next clash). The Good Game Experience (GGXP) is the “G” of STGCC – serving as home base to our gaming fans. This year, we’re dedicating an entire hall for the gaming scene at STGCC and things are just about to get savage! There’ll be tears, sweat, roars of “Nice lah!” and of course, plenty of salt and kappa. Expect some high octane tournaments with awesome prizes coming your way soon! It’s not all about electronics though as our friends from Coliseum will also be present with exciting tabletop games such as Pokemon Trading Card Game, Yu- Gi-Oh! and Final Fantasy Trading Card Game. Not so much into hardcore gaming? Why don’t you relax a bit at our Chillax Zone, where beanbags and consoles will be set out for you and your buddies to knock out a grudge match or two. What’s more, support our indie developers in Singapore and around the region. They can be found at GGXP showcasing their work so do drop by and give their offerings a spin. All indie studios participating in GGXP will also be eligible for our Good Game Awards (GGA). Determined by a panel of judges, consisting of veterans and important figures in the gaming scene, we’ll be giving out Best in Show and Best Runner Up award in appreciation for their hard work.

AKIBA ZONE

Hisui & MoMo Guest Cosplayers as Hanamaru & Ruby from Aqours(Love Live! Sunshine!!) ,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com )  

D.Watt(IOSYS) feat. TAM(TAMusic), both if you are unfamiliar ,are household names in the touhou music circle,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight com) 

GuildStars one of the visiting idol group from japan,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com) 

Erika at winner of STGCC CoC,STGCC 2016 (File photo:Speedknight.com) 

Inspired by the sleepless high energy electric town in Japan, Akiba Zone strives to provide an area of cosplay, music and idols to cater to our fans. The area will be hyped up and transformed into a high energetic zone, featuring some of the most popular DJs from Japan, upcoming idols and beauty brands for cosplay makeup junkies! Visit our cosplay guests - Leon Chiro, Shimo, Siutao and Iori Moe- at their booths to get up close and personal with some of the most sought-after cosplayers in the global scene. Hang out, party and have fun as we serve up bite-sized live entertainment segments on our mini stage. Got a costume boo boo? Swing by the Costume Repair Station, managed by our STGCC Championship of Cosplay (CoC) 2016 winner, Erika Jean Garbin. Erika and her partner will be providing quick fix-up services to attendees. What’s more, she will also be hosting a talk on costume maintenance and enhancing a costume’s durability.

Artist Galore!

Rachta Lin,STGCC 2016 (File Photo: Speedknight.com)  

Discover an amazing showcase of homegrown and regional artists and new talents celebrating all things pop culture! These artists and talents create original and fan art such as comic books, art prints, toys, jewellery, clothing and more. Get your hands on a master piece done by your favorite creator!

Exclusively Yours!

The Commemorative SJ 50 Bearbricks were one of the Exclusives at STGCC 2016  (File photo: Speedknight.com)  

Don’t miss out on the collection of exclusive merchandise on showcase. From comics to games, toys and collectables and loads of fun stuff to see and do. Expect limited edition toys and figures, life-sized installations, plushies and many more. Add them to your treasure trove!

Fam-fun!

Young Padawans honing their light sabre skills,STGCC 2015 (File photo: Speedknight.com)

This impressively transforms, I kid you not. STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com) See? I told ya! STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com)

The Geek Life chose us. Start your Padawans young with a plethora of fun kid-friendly activities, attractive giveaways and family-bonding! Guest! Guest! Guest! I Wanna meet all the Guest...

Yasu

                         Yasu is prolific Japanese artist, illustrator, character and product designer from Nagoya Japan. Yasu is a veteran of the Tokyo Design Festa show having exhibited there many times under her brand name "Yorozu zakka Ebineko-ya" Ebineko Character Goods Company. Yasu’s original character designs come alive in a wide variety of media including plush, resin, soft vinyl, drawings, paintings, messaging stickers, and more! Her trademark character is “Ebineko” - a half cat and half shrimp character that seems to have gotten himself into some tempura batter. “Ebineko” was released as a soft vinyl toy earlier this year - Yasu sculpted the figure herself and painstakingly hand-paints every release. Her figure line-up has recently expanded featuring several new soft vinyl figures; “Same” - the three eyed shark, “Yamorin” - the Gekko Dragon plus a cute mini version of “Ebineko “are all on the way. She exhibited at the Taipei Toy Festival last year and did a live painting performance. She will be having a show in Shanghai in October with fellow artists Teresa Chiba, Hikari Bambi and Hinatique. This will be Yasu’s first visit to Singapore. Website : http://ift.tt/1KhczfL Facebook: http://ift.tt/2waoXgt Instagram : http://ift.tt/2wIBBqb

Teresa Chiba

Teresa Chiba is a Japanese Graphic Designer and Illustrator. Through her own art production label - Production_Genmu - she releases creative works in a wide variety of disciplines including Yukata (summer kimono), daily items and live performances in addition to her illustrations and designs. Many of Teresa’s works are based on traditional Japanese motifs including Kabuki and Folk Art. Her illustration work celebrates the ‘Kabuki Otome” - the teenage girls of Kabuki who are passionate, brave, yet sensitive. She combines the pieces of their rock spirit with girly characteristics and encourages the girls of today to find themselves in Kabuki too. Her designer toys are inspired by Japanese folk art. “KIBUNADON” was her first design toy - fish Kaiju toy - which was released from Maxtoy company (USA) in 2014. Her newest toy design - INU-HARIGON - was self-produced and has already seen releases in a variety of colorways. The character is very popular and has recently been picked up by MEDICOM Toy (Japan), as both a Gacha toy in Vinyl Artist Gacha series 11, and as a Bearbrick in series 34. Teresa is also an educator, teaching digital illustration skills at the Tokyo Design Academy in Harajuku, Tokyo. Website : http://p-genmu.com/ Instagram: http://ift.tt/2wJcQua Twitter: https://twitter.com/p_genmu Facebook: http://ift.tt/2walApy

SIMONE LEGNO

             Simone Legno is the Co-founder and Creative Director of tokidoki. Born in Rome, Italy, Legno, drew incessantly as a child. The boxes of chewed, broken and unsharpened pencils he adored as a kid were the beginnings of a passion for art that led to the eventual creation of tokidoki. tokidoki started as Legno’s professional online portfolio and artistic diary while living in Italy, where he showcased his illustrations, advertising and new media designs for various clients. A partial list of these clients includes Volkswagen, MTV, John Galliano, Champion, Toyota, Renault, Daihatsu, BenQ, Microsoft, Narcotic Bureau of Singapore, Telecom Italia, and TIM. tokidoki means “sometimes” in Japanese. Legno, who has always had a deep love of Japan and fascination with world cultures, chose the word because he feels “everyone waits for moments that change one’s destiny, by chance or by meeting a new person”. Simone's special moment arrived when his designs drew the attention of entrepreneurs Pooneh Mohajer and Ivan Arnold, who spied the art on his personal website and convinced him to move to L.A. to build a brand. Since officially launching in 2005, tokidoki has grown into an internationally recognized pop- culture lifestyle brand and has amassed a cult-like following for its larger-than-life characters, megawatt partnerships and extensive range of products from apparel and handbags to home décor and even slot machines. tokidoki has collaborated with many brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Guggenheim Museum, Sephora, LeSportsac, Onitsuka Tiger, Marvel, New Era, Hello Kitty, Fujitsu, Levi's, Smashbox cosmetics, Xbox, T-mobile, Medicom Toy, Major League Baseball, Skullcandy, Barbie, Canon, Black Eyed Peas, and more. As the creator of tokidoki, Simone has become a sought-after speaker around the world at museums, universities and conferences, from MOCA (the Geffen Museum-Los Angeles) to the Adobe MAX conference, UCLA, USC, the Flash Film Festival in San Francisco, Art Center College of Design, Apple store in Osaka, Istituto Europeo di Design in Rome, Singapore Toy and Comic Convention, Grafika Manila and many others.

Mark Nagata

Mark Nagata, founder of San Francisco-based Max Toy company, introduced Singapore to the likes of Eyezon, Dualos, Argus and the perenial favourite, Negora in 2012. These kaiju (怪獣 which means strange beasts in Japanese) did not last a day at STGCC. Mark Nagata will be back for another round of kaiju invasion this year and he has an spectacular lineup, including a very special STGCC 10th anniversary exclusive, that will satisfy your vinyl cravings. What exactly will he be unleashing from his ever-expanding monster family? Let's just say only the cat is out of the bag. If your only experience with Kaiju is a selfie with Godzilla in Shinjuku, drop by the booth and have a chat with the unofficial Kaiju Ambassador!

Hisacy(HYPER CORE)

HYPER COREモデルのありす @ariusa_chan_ がSGSさんのサイトに"バンダナ堕惡再度"コーデで掲載されております🍓😈🍓 https://t.co/fyC6w09ZrP

— HYPER CORE原宿店オフィシャル (@hypercore_hrjk) September 3, 2017

FCKです😀HYPER CORE7周年おめでとうございます❤️ちょっとフライングですがお店に遊びに行ってきました✨ Hisacyさんもﾊｲﾊﾟｺも大好き😆これからもよろしくお願いします‼️お店には可愛いかっこいい商品がたくさん🎵来週は、渋谷タワレコの前にﾊｲﾊﾟｺだね✨ http://pic.twitter.com/42wovUN6Iz

— GacharicSpin ガチャリック (@Gachapin_info) September 3, 2017

The mastermind behind the popular rocker’s favourite Harajuku fashion brand “HYPER CORE” Hisacy started on the street in Harajuku back in 2000 as an illustrator. With the experience that he have gathered through designing for many rock icons such as YOSHIKI (X JAPAN) and hide, he founded the brand HYPER CORE and opened their first shop in Harajuku in 2010. With their motto “HYPER CORE IS HERE FOR YOU!”, HYPER CORE is looking forward to bring their brand overseas. Find their shop at 3-23-2 JINGU-MAE, SHIBUYA-KU, TOKYO, JAPAN

Kaori Hinata(Hinatique)

Kaori Hinata is a Japanese artist, illustrator and character designer. The overarching theme of her creative works is "The Cuteness of antiques and Nostalgia”. She loves drawing pictures, live painting and making Knick Knacks in felt, ceramics and other materials. Kaori’s first toy release was Kaiju Kinora - a cute little mushroom monster produced by Max Toy in 2015. Kaori continues to produce resin figures which she sculpts and paints herself. Her newest original character is called "Morris - The Cat with Antlers". Morris is a cat boy - but different from the average cat because he has big antlers on his head. “Morris” has proved to be a very popular character and will be released as a sofubi figure this fall. Additionally the character will be featured in the Medicom’s VAG (Vinyl Artist Gatcha) Series 12 and has been featured in mini picture book also released by Medicom. Her works has been featured in many exhibitions in Japan, and recently had a show in Taiwan at the Wrong Gallery with Teresa Chiba and Hikari Bambi. In addition to her own original characters, Kaori has produced collaborations with many popular properties including STAR WARS, ULTRAMAN, MAZINGER-Z, GACHAPIN & MUKKU and THE POWERPUFF GIRLS. This will be her first time to Singapore - make sure to check out her custom WeGo in the Custom Show. Stay tuned to Hinatique’s Social Media channels for news and updates of future projects and events. Website : http://ift.tt/2sNq0Wy Facebook : http://ift.tt/2wJcSlM Twitter : https://twitter.com/hinatique Instagram : http://ift.tt/2wb1kEo

Deanne George (Sorbet Jungle)

Deanne George is the founder and lead designer behind the wildly popular U.S. based brand, Sorbet Jungle. Having been introduced to art and animation as a young child, Deanne found herself drawing incessantly throughout her entire life. Never missing a chance to grow and experiment with new media and tools, she eventually found her passion in character and toy design. In late 2010 her love for animals and desire to pursue illustration and product design as a career led her to create the first characters inside the Sorbet Jungle universe. Best known for their instant hit character, Croconana, Sorbet Jungle combines cute animal characters and creative word play into a smile invoking brand that has not only grown into one of the most popular, but also one of the most established companies of its kind around the world. Facebook: http://ift.tt/2wapGOz Instagram: http://ift.tt/2wJOKzv Twitter: https://twitter.com/sorbetjungle Website: http://ift.tt/2wb1mMw

Carlos East(The Beast Brothers)

one of a kind piece in collaboration with @1000toys ! @singaporetgcc see you there come and say hi and check this cyber luchador 🤼‍♂️ 🤖@datadub thanks amigo! #thebeastbrothers #losbeastbrothers #1000toys #stgcc2017 #LA #Mexico #California #Singapore #art #design #retro #VHS #glitch #glitchy

A post shared by Carlos & Ernesto East (@thebeastbrothers) on Sep 6, 2017 at 6:02pm PDT

Born in an Aztec temple deep inside the jungle of Mexico, The Beast Brothers spent most of their childhood developing their unique and distinct style of art. Through the years, this royal pair have used their mighty twin powers to create memorable works for Nike, Kidrobot, Reebok, Coachella, Bacardi, VANS, among others. They have also travelled the world teaching and customizing techniques to fans and aspiring toy designers. Carlos and Ernesto East continue to make paintings, illustrations and sculptures in their secret jungle laboratories, located in Mexico City and Long Beach, CA. This will be Carlos second time visiting STGCC since his appearance in 2013. Website : http://ift.tt/1sxu9Hw Instagram : http://ift.tt/2wJiv3z

Sae Tsukiyama

ではではシンガポってくるよ！！🇸🇬✨(ふたりしてすっぴんで失礼)

行ってきまーーーすっ💓💓 http://pic.twitter.com/8MtSdPCNiY

— 築山さえ@9.9-10シンガポール (@tsukiyamasae) September 6, 2017

倉庫から5枚だけ出てきたーーッ！！本当に本当にラストトラックです、これシンガポール持って行きます…！！！青春メランコリーとか入ってるやつ！いや本当貴重よこれ…！ http://pic.twitter.com/ML2ZB02F0C

— 築山さえ@9.9-10シンガポール (@tsukiyamasae) September 5, 2017

A well-known performer in the game music industry, Sae mainly performs songs for video games. She is also the main vocalist for the doujin circle “Amateras Records”. She has participated in many songs as singer and lyricist for KONAMI’s BEMANI series music game, namely SOUND VOLTEX, MUSECA etc. A familiar face in Akihabara, she is also active as a MC in various events in Japan. An artist with many talents, she also participates in local radio programs and models as a free paper model. Sae will be MC-ing for STGCC 2017 Akiba mini Stage. Website: http://ift.tt/2wamqCY Twitter: https://twitter.com/tsukiyamasae

Tokyo CLEAR’S

@rin_asahina7 @ure_sheena @karuberuka @RionSawabe_ @TOKYO_CLEARS

良い曲でした❗ http://pic.twitter.com/heHqPyGPcB

— Quattro (@sugiura_nau) September 3, 2017

Probably the world-first idol group to combine idol activities with cleaning activities, Tokyo CLEAR’S is an idol group with active sister groups in 9 different areas around Japan. With the catchphrase “Keeping our streets clean!!”, the groups actively takes part in monthly cleaning activities with members being certified with cleaning licenses. Tokyo CLEAR’S is active in Tokyo and frequently makes appearance in media and lives. CLEAR’S had their major debut back in 2014 and ranked in on the Oricon Chart for 1st , 2nd and 3rd spots consecutively. In 2016, the group released their single 「キラリ☆NIPPON (KIRARI☆ NIPPON) which was an instant hit selling over 40000 copies. Their latest single「HEART WASH」is the ending theme song for TBS TV program 「アッコにおまかせ 」(Akko ni Omakase).

TAM (TAMUSIC)

シンガポールのファンから応援コメントが既に沢山届いてます(^^)

arigato! https://t.co/Q5rU9SSEOc

— TAMUSIC 同人音楽 (@TAMUSIC_STAFF) September 6, 2017

TAM,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com)

Perhaps the most active otaku violinist on planet earth, TAM started to upload videos of himself playing violin online in 2003, as of now he have uploaded over 1000 videos and garnered more than 50000000 views online in total. TAM founded a doujin music circle TAMUSIC at 2005, and since then they have expanded to 500 members and produced over 160 CDs to date. TAM starts his first step in the anime industry in 2015, when he started to be involved musically in anime, game products and singers in Japan. Till date, he has contributed to more than 10 anime titles, spanning over more than 100 songs in total. Currently TAM is busy touring as a musician, where he performs around 30 concerts in Japan and 10 concerts internationally every year. Twitter:http://twitter.com/TAMUSIC/ Website:http://tamusic.jp/ YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/violinpiano2/

Rie Yunohara

シンガポール到着！！

毎年お出迎えに朝早くに空港でファンのみんなが待ってていてくれて本当にうれしいですん😭💕

シンガポールめっちゃ満喫するぞ！#りえちょ遠征#肉アイドル#リエチョブ#teamRiecho#シンガポール#STGCC#STGCC2017 http://pic.twitter.com/RyX8LJIPms

— 柚之原りえ▶︎9/9〜10シンガポール (@rie_yunohara) September 6, 2017

Rie Yunohara,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com ) 

Known for her love unending love for Singapore, Rie Yunohara or Riecho have been performing in STGCC every year since 2014. Graduated from MKM-ZERO and PhantomVoice, currently as a solo artiste, Riecho have been crowned as the official idol of the Japan’s biggest food entertainment festival “Niku-Fes”. Other than being active in her own solo activity, she is also busy in providing choreography for artistes and in her very own food blog. Don’t miss out her adventures by following her weekly stream in DeNA Showroom! twitter : https://twitter.com/rie_yunohara instagram : yunoxrie Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/yunoxrie

Hiigari Rio

凸待ち配信見てくれてありがとう🌝💓みんな何かに向かって頑張ってる！自分ももっと進んでいきたい。行く(｀・ω・´)！！いろんなことがあるけど、全部全部意味がある。今日という日もいい日でした！また明日！

(全国ワンマンツアー中！詳細はhttps://t.co/dKPimPn33M ) http://pic.twitter.com/yAtAYFRGBr

— 柊木りお10/8札幌ワンマン (@HiiragiRio) September 6, 2017

RioRio started her idol activities since 2011, where she gained public attention as participating and winning various competitions. From TwitCasting, SHOWROOM, NicoNico Nama Housou, she streams actively DAILY to interact with all her fans from France, UK, USA, Taiwan and all over Japan. Her continued streaming since 3 years ago have not stopped for a single day, and has hit the 1000 th day by October 20 th 2015! She major debuted on 1 st April 2015 and held her first solo concert on 21 st June that year at Osaka, since then she have been set to tour 12 cities around the world. On July 2015, she performed at JAPAN EXPO 2015, HYPER JAPAN Festival at UK, Macao’s International Board Game Doujin & Anime Convention and then Solo Live at Hongkong. She have performed in the world’s largest Idol related festival such as TOKYO IDOL FESTIVAL 2015 and also participated in mega event like a-nation. She is currently one of the most awaited solo artists in the country. Please give your best cheer to RioRio too!

Color Pointe

Color Pointe is an idol group with a refreshing visual concept and a theatrical vision for ballet dancing and vocals. The group leader, Hink heads the production in choreography and lives, writing lyrics for their songs as well. In a world whereby classical ballet is regarded with high standards, the group has successfully merged band music with electric sound, mesmerizing audience into their fantasy-like performance where” music comes alive”. In 2016, they finished their second live in Singapore and this year, they completed their second live in Thailand. With their expanding horizon in overseas activities, they are one of the upcoming girl artists to look out for in Japan.

ayame a.k.a apricot*(Alstroemeria Records)

Ayame,EOY 2015 (File photo: speedknight.com)

【お知らせ】

9/9・10『STGCC2017』https://t.co/bIja7ox6ap

今週末シンガポールで��催のイベント『STGCC2017』で、踊ってみたのあぷりこっと＊として＆Alstroemeria Recordsのayameとして出演します！２年ぶり！ http://pic.twitter.com/wuoJqJvE5Q

— あやめ@あぷりこっと＊今週末STGCC (@ayame_apricot) September 6, 2017

Popular odorite from NicoNico Douga, ayame is known for her fantastic choreography, costume design, and also her unique video recording style that is not found in other similar odorite. Having performed at the festive NicoNico Chou Kaigi’s Chou Party and many others NicoNico’s official event, she have recently evolved into a public figure by participating as MC and hosting several successfulevents by herself. When she is not busy fangirling at Aikatsu! Going under the name “ayame”, she sings for the famous Touhou Circle “Alstroemeria Records”, regular DJ at Anisong DJ event アニ LOVE っ!! And also forthose who frequent Akihabara, you will be able to find her at Maid Café Pinafore where she has served for the past 8 years.

AkaiRyusei(Tokyo Active NEET)

Akai Ryusei,STGCC 2016 (File photo: Speedknight.com)

         AkaiRyusei is the Arranger, Pianist, Mixer, Producer and also the Founder of the famous doujin circle “Tokyo Active NEET”. The circle started with uploading video clips of their performance medleys on NicoNico Douga back in 2008 and they have since been releasing video actively till today. Known for their high energy jazz arrangement of famous tunes from Touhou, Kancolle, Vocaloid and others. AkaiRyusei is actively performing in both Japan and international stage with other doujin artistes. Twitter: https://twitter.com/akairyusei Tokyo Active NEETs Website: http://neets.tokyo/ Tokyo Active NEETs Twitter: https://twitter.com/active_neet

Yunomi+nicamoq

Yunomi is a track maker, lyricist and composer from Tokyo. He started his musical adventures back in 2015. Yunomi composed “kawaii” themed songs to various contents and acts such as KONAMI’s “Hinabita♪”, idol groups. He also provided remixes for singers, namely Lovely Summer and the popular seiyuu Hana Kanazawa. Main works: Makuramoto ni Ghost (w/ Aiobahn)」(2015 Maltine Records) Yunomic ni Ocha Shite EP (feat. nicamoq) (2016 Village Vanguard Music) Oedo Controller EP (feat. TORIENA) (2017 Village Vanguard Music) Official Website: http://www.yunomi.tokyo nicamoq is a vocalist from CSI Promotion. Known for her collaboration with Yunomi, she has provided vocals for more than 20 songs, making appearance in Yunomic ni Ocha Shite’s music video. Recently she has been active as a seiyuu and an actress under the name Morisaki Futaba.

TAKU INOUE

A popular sound designer, composer and DJ, Taku Inoue is one of the rising stars in in the club scene in Japan. Known for his cult hit songs in both fighting and idol games, he also composes for singers and does official remixes. In 2017 he co-composed and arranged the ending theme song for the anime “Rage of Bahamut: Virgin Soul” titled ”拝啓グッバイさようなら”, which was performed by the singer & rapper DAOKO. While he is not busy composing or remixing new tracks, he can be spotted spinning the mashed up version of his songs in various club events across the country.

Shouya Namai

Shouya Namai started his DJ and composing activities back in 2006, with his music focus spanning across different genres from Trance dance music to pop music. Besides producing original works, the composer also produced songs for seiyuu, idols and KONAMI’s music games. He also does official remixes for animes and game songs. A composer with multi-talents, Shouya has recently produced 「追い風Running」(Oikaze Running) for the popular series「THE IDOLM@STER CINDERELLA GIRLS」.

REDSHiFT

REDSHiFT is one of the earliest VOCALOID producer units from Indonesia. The group consists of music producer, lyricist and illustrators. The group begun their journey back in 2010, since then REDSHiFT has produced and published their original works in various music compilation albums via their music circle & crafTUNER. Besides composing original tunes, REDSHiFT also creates remixes of various Indonesian Pop music and Anisongs. Their repertoire mostly comprised of electronic genre, such as electro house, future bass to drum and bass. Aside from music production, REDSHiFT often performs as a DJ-VJ duo in various expo and Japanese events all across Indonesia while spinning the hottest anisong mixes,VOCALOID and more.

Masayoshi Minoshima(Alstroemeria Records)

Masayoshi Minoshima is easily one of the best known producers in the Touhou Doujin music scene. His record label Alstroemeria Records, established in 2003, is rife with elements of House, Trance, UK Hardcore and Dancehall amongst a spectrum of genres, reflecting his musical versatility. Minoshima’s Touhou arrangements primarily showcase Techno and House music. In 2007, the genius producer was brought icon status by his arrangement and shadow-art video for “Bad Apple!!” – a staple with the Touhou fan base. Minoshima has since expanded his capabilities to producing and composing original tracks for major commercial projects and Japanese entertainment giants Konami and Taito.

Kitune(ANISON INDEX!!,Anilab)

Source: Profile page on anilab 

A regular VJ at Akihabara MOGRA, he’s at the helm for the visuals at every 3 rd Wednesday of the month in the event “ANISON INDEX”. He is also the organizer of the popular Anisong + Bowling + Cosplay event, “Cos☆Bowl”. As a member of the Anisong DJ group “Anilab” he actively collaborates with various events namely with the dance and vocal group Prizmmy☆,as well as the TV anime & Trinity Seven, LISANI! Night Vol.05 and others. Collaboration list: Noitamina 10 th anniversary event “Noitaminight” AnimeJapan 2015, “Noitaminight powered by AnimeStore” Visual Art’s 20 th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival’s Club Event “OTSU” Space Shower’s event “SPACE SHOWER SOCIOUS” “spirite LIVE 2015 –Beyond the sky-“ And other Anisong and non Anisong related events. Cosbowl’s website：http://www.cosbowl.com/ Anilab’s website：http://anilab.info/ Profile：http://ift.tt/2wagnOG

DJ MarGenal (ANISON INDEX!!,AniLab.)

Source: Profile page on anilab

DJ MarGenal started his DJ activities back in 2007 after coming in contact with club culture from hip hop music. Now, he plays at the heart of Anisong DJ boom “Anisong Index!!” event as one of the top artists. Skillful and experienced, he plays at regular events and other Anisong events all over Japan. In 2013 alone, he played in LISANI Night and Akinet Music Festival organized by the famous Akihabara Anisong club MOGRA. In 2014, he was invited to be the backup DJ for the Anisong singer ZAQ for notable events such as “AJ Night” and “Animesia”. In previous year, he was spinning as the backup DJ for the well-known idol group Prizmmy☆at 2016

D.watt (IOSYS)

D.watt is the multi-talented artist from the famous music production team "IOSYS" of Sapporo. A familiar name in Akihabara subculture scene like "Nico Nico Douga", anime, games scene. In the recent years D.watt has provided music and remixes to music game giants like SEGA, KONAMI, TAITO, NAMCO. Other than game he also composed anime theme song for famous titles like "SanshaSanyou", "YuruYuri", "Etotama". While he have collaborated as composer for Koishio Ringo(Band janaimon!), Nanahira and miko, he also pens the lyrics and scenario for the 2-dimensional girl band "Irodorimidori" of CHUNITHM(SEGA).

CleanTears(S.C.X)

CleanTears is a creator with a self-proclaimed liking for rabbits. He has provided corporate DJ works to notable labels such as DefSTAR Records, Jake Entertainment, SEGA, 5pb. Records, EXIT TUNES. Not to mention, he also composed works for idols, cosplayers, Tokyo Joypolis, online games and compilations. Releasing on the online music store, Beatport, his works have received credits in overseas as well. He is also active in Vocaloid×EDM scene, composing works under the alias S.C.X.

ARM(IOSYS) 

Hailing from Hokkaido, ARM is the composer and arranger from the popular mega circle IOSYS. Together with IOSYS, ARM have composed some of the most memorable and popular songs in the Touhou scene such as “Marisa Stole the Precious Thing”, “Overdrive”, “Cirno’s Perfect Math Class” and many others. Not to be limited to IOSYS’s activity, ARM is also actively involved in projects by KONAMI, Pony Canyon, KADOKAWA, avex, Lantis for their respective products. ARM channels his creative instinct through the influences like Pop, Jazz, Shibuya-kei, Rock, Metal, Orchestra, Hardcore, and EDM music into his works, where he brings us the hit songs with his distinctive Moe Denpa music style. Known works: 「THE IDOLM@STER CINDERELLA GIRLS」 ● Märchen Debut! ● LET’S GO HAPPY!! ● HANAKANZASHI ● Ao no Ichibanboshi ● Nyowa Nyoworld☆ KONAMI’s BEMANI series ● “Meumeupettantan!!” 芽兎めう ● “Chikuwa parfait da yo☆CKP” 山形まり花&芽兎めう ● Totsugeki! Glass no kneeso hime! ● Bakunana☆testroyer Anime and Character songs “D-Frag!” Opening Theme Song ● Stalemate! “Robot Girls Z” Opening Theme Song ● Robot Girls Z “Acchi Kocchi” Opening Theme Song ● Acchi de Kocchi de “Yuruyuri” Character Song ● Akaza Akari’s Watashi, Shuuyaku no Akaza Akari Desu Pachinko’s “Kaito Tenshi Twin Angel” Series ● Endless Heaven ● OTONA NI NARU NO DESU!

Aizawa(Hachimitsu-Lemon) 

Aizawa is a creator working in the music circle “Hachimitsu-Lemon” with his partner, CleanTears. Diverse in his works, Aizwa had produced songs of different genres from EDM, rock to orchestra. The circle had composed songs for idols, games and corporate attractions in Japan and overseas. In recent years, he has written numerous songs for the doujin game「東方紅輝心」 (Adventures of Scarlet Curiosity) on PlayStation®

Siu Tao

Siu Tao,AFA 2015 (Filephoto: Speedknight.com)

Cheerful and bubbly, Hong Kong based popular cosplayer Siutao always strive for her best in cosplay, regardless in prop-making or sewing (she is especially fond of doing props!). Travelling to different events in Asia connected her with many of her like- minded fans which she feels is the most joyous part of her travels. Her favorite characters are energetic characters such as Hoshizora Rin from Love Live! but she does takes a liking for quiet and intellectual characters as well. A first timer at STGCC, Siutao looks forward to meeting her fans at the event.

Shimo

Shimo,FAM 2015 (File photo: Speedknight.com)

Shimo, a widely- recognized Taiwanese cosplayer. A familiar face in conventions, she has graced as guest for events in China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam etc... and this year STGCC welcomes her back to the sunny island of Singapore. Her hobbies are traveling and listening to music. She likes to cosplay character from idol series or cool female characters.

Leon Chiro

Leon Chiro is a professional cosplayer from Italy, and the official cosplayer for large video game companies such as Ubisoft (Assassin’s Creed and Watch Dogs), Square Enix (Gladiolus - Final Fantasy XV), Capcom (Devil May Cry) and many more. He currently works for Riot Games as the official cos-model for the champion Rakan from League of Legends. Having worked for 20th Century Fox on the last Assassin’s Creed movie promotional campaign, stunting and official launch events in Europe, he’s also known as one of the most iconic figures in the Assassin’s Creed community. He has officially been recognised as the Italian face of Assassin’s Creed since 2016 as well. A winner of many cosplay competitions, he has been invited as a special guest in over 80 events in more than 30 different countries around the world. He has acted as both a judge of numerous cosplay competitions and a host of entertaining panels, Q&A sessions and conferences. With a medium of 4 events or conventions per month, Leon is one of the most successful cosplayers in the worldwide male cosplay community. Facebook: http://ift.tt/1jxthxw PATREON : http://ift.tt/2wb1n32 DeviantArt: http://ift.tt/1pcFtFm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LeonChiroCosplayArt Instagram: http://ift.tt/2wJfTT5 Twitter: https://twitter.com/Leon_Chiro CosPro: http://ift.tt/2wap4bx

Iori Moe

A popular Internet personality, Gamer, Model and Cosplayer from Japan, she took over the cosplay scene in Japan by storm when she appeared in cosplay and gaming events such as Comiket, TGS and others. Popular for cosplaying sexy anime characters, Iori is unique to the fans due to her innocent face but yet having a proportionate body that enables her to bring to life unrealistic 2D anime character into realistic real life cosplay. Addressed fondly by her fans as Iorin, when she is not busy modelling or appearing in various radio and tv show, she will spend her free time playing games on steam and stay active in her social media which boasts 650000 followers around the world.

Sonny Liew

Sonny Liew's The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye was a New York Times and Amazon bestseller, and the first graphic novel to win the Singapore Literature Prize. Other works include The Shadow Hero (with Gene Luen Yang), Doctor Fate (with Paul Levitz) and Malinky Robot, as well as titles for Marvel Comics, DC Comics, DC Vertigo, First Second Books, Boom Studios, Disney Press and Image Comics. He has been nominated for multiple Eisner Awards for his writing and art (including 6 for The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye) and for spearheading Liquid City, a multivolume comics anthology featuring creators from Southeast Asia.

Mirka Andolfo

Italian artist, Mirka is actually working at DC Comics on “Teen Titans” within the “Metal” event, “Wonder Woman” (with Greg Rucka and Shea Fontana) and “Bombshells” (with Marguerite Bennet). Recently, she illustrated a issue of “Rebirth JLA: Killer Frost” (DC Comics), two issues of “Ms. Marvel” (Marvel), and some pages on “Green Arrow” (DC Comics), after many pages drawn at Dynamite (“Vampirella”, “Chaos”, “Lady Demon”, “Swords of Sorrow: Chaos”) and Aspen (“Damsels in Excess”), Vertigo, Young Animals. In Europe, she’s also an acclaimed author, thanks to her best seller creator-owned series as “Sacred/Profane” and “Unnatural”, sold in many countries (Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Netherlands...). She started very young her career as colorist, working on important international properties like “Mickey Mouse”, “Geronimo Stilton”, “Ice Age” and “Adventure Time”.

Hiro Kanzaki

A multi talented individual, Hiroyuki ODA is widely known within the anime industry for his involvement with many hit titles in Japan’s anime scene. Going under the alias of Hiro Kanzaki, he have provided original character design to some of the most memorable anime in the recent times namely My Little Sister Can't Be This Cute, Eromanga Sensei and Go! Go! 575, where he also provides the art illustration for the original light novel. As an animator, Hiroyuki ODA have worked on many hit titles such as Eureka Seven: AO, Rozen Maiden, Ichigo Mashimaro and most notably HEROMAN. Breaking out of illustration and animation world, he is known to be rocking the dance floor as DJ HanasoumenP (HSP) in NicoNico Douga. In the midst of this busy schedule, he is also known to participate in Comiket as the circle “tabgraphics”.

Joyce Chin

Joyce Chin has been working in comics since 1995 when she pencilled for Guy Gardner: Warrior for DC. Since then, she has been working on many other titles, interiors and covers on stories for the Hulk, Spider-man, Green Lantern, Witchblade, Red Sonja, and many others through various publishers. Currently, other than pencilling and inking Marvel covers, she also works on book, game, magazine and toy packaging illustrations.

James C. Mulligan

James C. Mulligan's fine artwork is recognized internationally and collected by famous personalities from Hugh Hefner, Dick Van Dyke, Oscar winning composer Richard M. Sherman, Brad Pitt to Holly Madison, Fred Durst, Roger Daltrey and many others. James also works with corporate clients including: Disney, Lucas Films, Warner Brothers, Hollywood, Magic Castle, Lexus and Playboy whereby he won an art direction award for Playmate of the Year. He is also the estate's official artist for Elvis Presley Enterprises and working with notable organizations and companies. James was recently named as one of Disney's top selling artists, and his solo shows at the Bellagio and Aria resorts in Las Vegas smashed all records, both domestically and internationally. He also performs on stages around the world, from Tokyo to the Hollywood Bowl. He is currently in development on a television show atDreamworks Studios, and is involved with development work on an unnamed Sony project with Rob Minkoff (director of Disney's “The Lion King”) and Mel Brooks. James is a large supporter of various charities including Shine Family Foundation, Boy's Town and Loma Linda Children's Hospital. His work can be seen at http://ift.tt/1V5DoJO or http://ift.tt/1gCpAHP.

Fujima Takuya

ビッグサイズの新作タペストリーが出ます！WEBで予約受付中なほか ９／１６−１８にサンシャインで開催の「神絵祭」でも販売されます☆  ”さくらんぼちゃん”B0タペストリー｜ https://t.co/ekJTGFFAsi http://pic.twitter.com/W9hvAdCDwz

— 藤真拓哉@Z/X 9/21連載開始！ (@fujimatakuya) September 6, 2017

  One of the most sought after illustrator in Japan, while he design character for anime and game characters he is also a popular mangaka in Japan. Known for his extensive involvement with the Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha series, his serialized manga “Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha ViVid” is made into anime by A-1PICTURES in 2015. He is also tasked with the original character design for the continuation “ViVid Strike!” anime in 2016 where he single handedly drew all the anime end cards. Works: Anime ・Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha ViVid (Character Design) ・ViVid Strike! (Character Design, All Anime End Cards) ・R-15(Character Design) ・Black Bullet (Character Design) Manga ・Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha ViVid ・DOG DAYS ・NEGIMA!?neo ・THE IDOLM@STER BREAK! Light Novels ・R-15 Series TCG ・Aquarian Age ・Battle Spirits ・Cardfight!! Vanguard ・WIXOSS ・Force of Will ・MONSTER COLLECTION ・LORD of VERMILION ・ChaosTCG ・Weiβ Schwarz ・Z/X -Zillions of enemy X-

Frank Cho

Frank Cho is an Emmy Award-winning and critically acclaimed writer and illustrator. He is known for his newspaper comic strip series, Liberty Meadows, as well as for books such as Mighty Avengers, Spider-Man, X-Men, Shanna the She- Devil, the Hulk and Savage Wolverine for Marvel Comics. As of this year, he is the cover artist for Wonder Woman and Harley Quinn at DC Comics.

Frank Cho is noted for classical and energetic figure art, beautiful women illustrations, humorous writings and adventure stories.

He is currently working on several creator-owned projects, Skybourne at Boom Studios, Guns & Dinos at Image Comics, and World of Payne with novelist Tom Sniegoski for Flesk Publications. When he’s not writing and drawing, Frank Cho is napping.

David mack

David mack is the Emmy nominated, New York Times Best Selling Author & Artist of KABUKI, writer of Marvel's Daredevil, cover artist of Neil Gaiman's American Gods, Jessica Jones, & Fight Club 2 by Chuck Palahniuk. Artist on Jessica Jones opening titles & Captain America The Winter Soldier film titles & US Comic Book Ambassador of Arts & Story for US State Dept. Mack created artwork for the the opening titles of the new Jessica Jones Netflix TV series (winner of the Peabody Award), based on the book he was co-collaborator on. The opening titles he worked on with Imaginary Forces garnered an Emmy Nomination in the category of Outstanding Main Titles. For the Academy Award nominated film Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Mack created the art & concept for the titles sequence with Sarofsky Designs, which received recognition for the Excellence in Titles Design Award. Mack contributed artwork for the opening titles of Robert Rodriguez's Matador TV series with Sarofsky designs, and contributed art (and a cameo role) for the Powers TV series at Sony. Mack's work has garnered nominations for ten Eisner Awards, four International Eagle Awards, and both the Harvey and Kirby Awards in the category of Best New Talent, as well as many other national and international awards and nominations. Mack has authored his children’s book THE SHY CREATURES from MacMillan, has illustrated and designed music albums for both American and Japanese Labels, including work for Paul McCartney, Amanda Palmer, Thomas Jane, Vincent D'Onofrio, painted Tori Amos for her RAINN benefit calendars, directed three music videos for Amanda Palmer, storyboard artist & asst director for Dead Can Dance music video, designs for toy companies in Hong Kong, animation art for MTV, ad campaign for SAKURA art materials, written and designed video game characters for film director John Woo and Electronic Arts, wrote the interactive animated viral promo for Mission Impossible four, and contributed the artwork for Dr. Arun Ghandi’s essay on the Culture of Non-Violence. Mack created the Marquee art and make up designs for the theatrical performance of Tenshu which received multiple Broadway World Awards. Mack’s KABUKI books have been the subject of under-graduate and graduate university courses in Art and Literature, and listed as required reading. His work is on exhibit in the Philadelphia Museum of art with Michelangelo, Titian, & Rubens. His work has been studied in graduate seminars at USC and hung in the Los Angeles Museum of Art. He’s lectured at universities and taught classes in writing, drawing, and painting all over the world, including a Masterclass at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia, for Japan’s School of Communication Arts of Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, and an invitation to speak at Harvard as the Guest of Honor at their annual Science Fiction Writing convention. Mack created the final two seasons of Dexter Early Cuts episodes for Showtime (the first, collaborating with legendary artist Bill Sienkiewicz). The latest season earned him nominations for both the Writers Guild of America and the Producers Guild of America. In 2013 Mack had exhibits in Los Angeles & Chicago of his work presented with originals of Gustav Klimt & Egon Schiele, and spoke in Barcelona at the OFFFest presentation of trailblazing artists and designers. Mack's paintings were exhibited in Paris and Brussels with successful gallery openings and book store signings. The documentary film on Mack's work, The Alchemy of Art, was awarded the top prize at the 40th annual Worldfest Film Festival among other film awards & in 2012 Mack delivered an inspiring TED Talk. In 2016 the US State Dept. honored Mack as a US Comic Book Ambassador of Arts & Story selected to travel abroad to teach storytelling in other countries, beginning in Tblisi, Georgia, joining efforts with the US embassy there. In the former Soviet country & borders, Mack taught at settlement camps for displaced persons, the Asylum Seekers Center, the Marneuli Youth Center, Tbilisi Arts Academy, Special Needs school, & the Tbilisi Palace of Fine Arts Museum featured a massive exhibit of Mack's work & books. In 2017 Mack traveled to Tunisia in North Africa to speak & teach there. In 2004 Mack, with Brian Michael Bendis & Mike Oeming (M.O.B.- Mack, Oeming, Bendis), formed a new imprint at Marvel Comics which they named ICON, to publish their creator-owned comics KABUKI and POWERS. ICON continues as an imprint of Marvel to this day publishing some of the most successful creator-owned comics. David Mack is one of the only creators to be listed in both the Top Ten Writers List, and the Top Ten Artists List in Wizard Magazine. Mack’s writing and art on KABUKI, have earned him international acclaim for his innovative storytelling, painting techniques, and page design. KABUKI has been translated in seven languages, in addition to nearly two million copies of KABUKI Comics, Paperbacks, and Hard cover graphic novels in print in the U.S. The series has launched successful lines of action figures, toys, and art objets (many of which were featured on Showtime’s TV show DEXTER). Mack has exhibited his work in Europe, Asia, and America with gallery shows, and book signing tours in over a dozen countries. He was the first American to be nominated for Germany's most prestigious Max-Und-Moritz award in the category of Best Imported Comic. Mack has illustrated poetry collaborations with Neil Gaiman and U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins, & wrote the adaptation of Science Fiction Master Philip K. Dick's Electric Ant as a graphic novel at Marvel Comics. Mack is currently working on a new creator owned project with Brian Michael Bendis and on bringing KABUKI to the screen.

C.B. Cebulski

Rumor has it McDonald's Singapore is bringing back the Nasi Lemak Burger?! Hope they last till @singaporetgcc!! https://t.co/Svl1KeVPsB

— C.B. Cebulski (@CBCebulski) August 24, 2017

Tired of "news" about the same chicken rice & chili crab places? Here's a great piece on young hawkers in Singapore: https://t.co/V1eNqLMIjK

— C.B. Cebulski (@CBCebulski) August 24, 2017

C.B. Cebulski is just a guy lucky enough to be working for Marvel, a company whose comics and characters he’s loved since he was a kid. He travels from country to country, month after month, hunting for opportunities for Marvel to expand their creative interests in new markets, while also searching for the best artists in the world. C.B. spends his free time blogging about his international eating adventures on Eataku, www.eataku.com.

Adi Granov

Adi works as an illustrator and designer primarily for Marvel. His most notable works include the Iron Man: Extremis series, written by Warren Ellis, and his role as a conceptual designer and illustrator on the Iron Man films and the Avengers. He worked on key character designs and created keyframe illustrations for the action sequences. He recently completed work on the upcoming Avengers: Infinity War and Black Panther movies. For comic work Adi is currently under an exclusive contract with Marvel and has produced covers for multiple series over the last few years, as well as a number of short interior stories. He has also designed statues for companies such as Kotobukiya and Sideshow, and has created album cover art and tour posters for multi-platinum selling rock band, Tool. Adi currently lives in England with his wife, Tamsin, and their two very weird cats. He likes aeroplanes, trains and cars, and working on his 1967 Lotus Elan.

Arthur Adams

Soruces: http://ift.tt/2wJiBrX

Arthur Adams, a self-taught artist, became a fan favorite when, at the age of 19, he left his job making pizzas for the masses to pencil the critically-acclaimed Longshot limited series, written by Ann Nocenti and published in 1985 by Marvel Comics. He has been in high demand as an artist since. Adams' highly distinctive and detailed artwork gained him considerable popularity amongst fans and editors, if not his inkers, and he's enjoyed being a cover artist, and the artist and sometime writer for miniseries, specials, and annuals. These days, in order to spare inkers the pain, his work is largely shot directly from pencils or inked by himself, with some exceptions. In his career, Arthur has worked on many titles, Batman, Superman, Spiderman, X men, Godzilla, Vampirella, Rocketeer, the Authority, Danger Girl, Excalibur, and the Hulk, to name a few. He also launched his creator owned, written, and drawn series Monkeyman and O'Brian in 1993 with Dark Horse Comics "Legend" imprint. He also had a ten-issue run on an anthology series featuring the character Jonnie Future. The eight page Jonnie Future stories appeared in Tom Strong's Terrific Tales (2002–2004). More recently, Arthur has been working on Ultimate X for Marvel Comics with writer Jeph Loeb, and issue one launched in 2010. Adams has provided cover images for issues of the Justice League of America, Appleseed, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Green Lantern, Hulk, Avengers, X Men, Red Sonja, Superman, Batman, and Vampirella, among other titles. In addition to his work in comic books, he has also produced popular commercial art, such as numerous illustrations for trading cards, posters, shirts, and various other comics-related merchandise. Outside the field of comics, he has also provided illustrations for various magazines, movies, video games, and worked in toy design, packaging art, and even a series of X-Men-themed Campbell Soup cans. Arthur lives in Northern California in the woods somewhere, like his hero, Bigfoot. When told he should have a "Web" site he went outside and tried to spin his own web. It was funny and sad all at once. We got him back inside and gave him his medicine.

Exhibitors

[To be updated......]

Where? When & how much?

09/09/2017 & 10/09/2017 

Sands Expo and Convention Centre

3 Tier of Tickets to suit your needs

Floor Plans and Schedules 

[sportscenesa]

#TheWeekendTurnUp x Capsule: PatrickXXLee

This week we’re not just listening to PatrickXXLee because he is a part of Capsule Fest - we’re listening to the charismatic Jo’burg kid because of his ability to drop bars on the spot when asked - not necessarily freestyle, but his own lyrics. We took 5 young minutes to chat to PatrickXXLee to find out about his unique abilities and his deep and very relatable music.  

sportscene: Patrick. Tell us what’s up with you. What are you doing in JHB and how and when did you start rapping?

PatrickXXLee: Basically, I have been doing music for 10 - 13 years if my memory serves me correct. I think what makes me unique and sets me apart from all these other cats is the fact that my music is more therapeutic than just hits or just like pop. It has a lot of meaning behind it and I say the things that most artist don’t wanna say. I’ll say how I feel, so if I feel like I am angry, or if I feel like I wanna disrespect someone or if I need to apologise to someone I’ll do it . If I talk about how hurt or how drunk or how hungover I am I’ll say it. Like real, real things. I’ll talk about ish like real issues with parents, disappointments, you know? A lot of people and artists don’t wanna talk about those things; they wanna make their lives seem like it’s 100% perfect when I’m like, my life isn’t perfect and no one’s life is perfect and now here’s music for the people who are tryin’ to get through these problems and these issues that they’re facing. That’s really what my music’s meant to be... That’s what I think is unique about it. Also the fact that I like to make sure the art is whole - if I make visuals for a song, I want it to represent that song. I don’t want to make meaningless art - I want all the dots to be connected. I kinda have my journey already set out in my head. I’ve thought about this all my life, know what I mean?

https://soundcloud.com/user-441696383/sets/the-weekend-turn-up-x

 Ever since I was a kid I’ve known I wanted to be a musician, like, my goal has never changed. I’ve never had a plan B. I always knew that this is what I want to do. How I am meant to do it. I like to approach music with the same attitude that I approach life, which is like I know, I am 100% aware of my purpose. I have no doubts at all in my choice and the path that I have chosen to take. I have no doubts at all and that’s what I do when I make a song, I don’t ever doubt it  - I don’t ever think “damn, I shouldn’t say this, this is to explicit”. Nah, I just say it and I back it 100%, because I am not afraid to show my imperfections. I’m not afraid to show my scars - I am open about everything. I’m like the type of person - I want people to think,  I want people to listen to my music and say “damn, I went through something similar”, or I wanna be more like the big brother or the saviour to anyone that’s hurt or anyone that’s been hurt. 

sportscene: Where do you see your music career heading like in the next 10 years?

PatrickXXLee: In terms of my musical career, I don’t just wanna just be based in Johannesburg, you know? I actually wanna take my music world-wide -- international. That’s the end goal, I wanna change people’s lives on a mass scale. I wanna make people approach art differently and I also wanna create more avenues for art to be put out there - for people to get their art out there. You asked me where I see myself heading in 10 years, so let’s say in 20 years, I’d really wanna start a proper art school - not one that’s similar to the way schools are done now. I think those systems used here are completely F... (using your imagination, insert the swear word PatrickXXLee used HERE). Yeah, I don’t know, I don’t know, I’m going off topic. But based on what I do in JHB, I just... like ever since I’ve dropped my album ‘Diary of an Arsonist’, I’ve been doing more gigs and branching further out and it feels dope now because I’m finally getting paid for my work. It’s not really about the money, it’s just that I am getting bigger and bigger platforms to show people that they can really be whoever they wanna be and if they just believe in themselves that they can achieve that - they can be as bad-ass as they wanna be. I guess the reason that I think this way is because I wasn’t like the bad-ass growing up or in high-school, and I was going through a lot. 

Image via PatrickXXLee’s Instagram 

Music was always my escape so I used to make music like every day. Literally every day. That’s how I got to this point that I am at now, in terms of making music, because I focused on making music every day. A single day didn't go by that I didn't make a beat or trying to write a song and ish like that. It was never about  making music to get good - I just making it because it was my therapy. It was helping me cope with all the ish that I was going through. It was a lot. I’m not gonna get into detail, because everything is in the music, like if you listen to the music you;ll figure out all the problems that I was going through. It was a bad time in high-school but music just helped me cope and deal with everything. It saved my life, basically and uhm, now I just hope my music can save other people’s lives.

I want to be one of the artists that can go from here - I wanna be like that ‘star player’ - you know that ‘star player’ from your country that like goes to the Olympics and then the whole country’s on their back  -  that’s what I wanna do for Johannesburg - like I wanna show the world that good music doesn’t only come from like America, you know - there’s amazing artists from all over the world. People all over the world can see that; but the platforms... when you don’t have a platform, you have to build your own. So that’s what I was also doing when I started throwing all these parties with my manager Jenny - we started throwing these artists’ parties - after forming our company called ‘Artists’, which is also my own record label - we’re using that as a creative house to host parties, put out merchandise and all that. Basically, if no one wanted to book me, then I’d book myself, you know what I mean? While I am in JHB I wanna just make more events and give people a platform - make the brand grow - so that the people will always have a platform to put their music out there because there’s really some amazing artists out there. It’s crazy.

You can listen to #TheWeekendTurnup x Capsule: PatrickXXLee on SoundCloud here: https://soundcloud.com/user-441696383/sets/the-weekend-turn-up-x. Catch him performing live at Capsule Fest going down at Mary Fitzgerald Square, Newtown on Saturday, 16 September.