SONY PLAYSTATION 5

SONY PLAYSTATION 5

The PlayStation has always offered more to the AV world than just games. It has scored well with DVD playback, Blu-rays and 4K streaming over the years. So what will the PlayStation 5 have to offer at launch? Will it be an 8K machine? Will it still support optical media? When is the PS5 release date? How much will the PS5 cost?While we can’t quite answer all of this just yet, there's a strong suspicion that Sony will be dropping the full details of the PS5 some time in June, the month that E3 2020 was supposed to take place and a natural time to launch a next-gen console head of a winter 2020 release.One piece of concrete news from Sony is that it's finally let us in on one of its secrets and that's the PS5 controller, called the 'DualSense' controller, and thing of beauty it is. It's also expect that we'll have a whole lot more information on PS5 launch titles within a matter of weeks.PlayStation’s lead architect and console producer, Mark Cerny, started the ball rolling  back in an April 2019 interview and has since, alongside Sony CEO Jim Ryan, expanded on what we can expect from the games console in October.

In the past we have reported on some wildly different retailer placeholder prices and preorder amounts for the PlayStation 5 console. Depending on the exchange rate, figures have ranged from a mouth-watering equivalent of US$397 to an eye-watering level of over US$1,000. Italian retailer GameLife has plumped for a price tag of €450 (US$488), which seems like a reasonable suggestion for the PS5’s price. Many fans are expecting a price of around US$500 for the next-gen console.

The same source has also provided a potential launch date. The page states Friday November 20 for the PS5 release date, although of course the company has carefully added that this information (including the price) is temporary and may change and that the date is not confirmed. An availability date is also mentioned, which is set at December 31. As for the PS5 reveal date, a reporter for GamesBeat.com has posted on ResetEra that this will now take place on June 4, which lands on a Thursday.

However, there are still some holding onto May 5 as the best chance for a PS5 reveal event, which includes Twitter user DoWhatYouDo. The spurious source claims the reveal will take place on that day, swiftly followed by a “PS5 complete teardown stream on May 6th”. If that hasn’t raised enough eyebrows, there’s also the revelation that five exclusive games will be shown off at the reveal event, new PS5 features will be unveiled, and a PS5 “boost mode” will be exhibited. This may or may not be related to the boost mode technology that has already been revealed. Unsurprisingly, gamers have been busy pinching at salt in regard to the details of these rumors, which can be seen in the 

HAILEY AND JADEN FOR LEVI’S®

Spring is springing, which means you can finally start dressing the way you want to, instead of the way you have to (i.e: with mittens). Jaden Smith and Hailey Bieber have the right idea. Here, the rapper/actor (him) and model/TV host (her) walk you through our top looks for those first warm days.

THE CUBANO SHIRT: A VACATION YOU CAN WEAR
Sunshine means Cubano time. This throwback statement piece works equally well on men and women. Style it however: you can button it to the top, leave a few open, throw it over a graphic tee, or grab it to use as a shacket on your way out the door. Our Cubanos, decorated with, say, paisley or flowering birds of paradise, are exactly as loud as you need them to be. Should you wear them with jeans, chinos, shorts, or swim trunks? Yes.

HAVE IT BOTH WAYS
Our favorite thing to do right now is to go high/low — mix casual clothes with something a little more formal. Our Straight Chino Short II is perfect for this, because all you have to do is throw on a graphic tee, and you’re done.

STAND OUT (BUT NOT TOO FAR OUT)
Yes, you can pull this off. The key to wearing a single pattern from head to toe is to choose pieces in softer color schemes. You’ll still get plenty of attention, but you won’t seem to be begging for it.

LACE UP
These sleeveless Charlie tops are super feminine, and their adaptability gives you all kinds of options. You can lean into their femininity, or go the tomboy route with boyfriend jeans or a Trucker Jacket.

EMBRACE THE BIG SLEEVES
Puff sleeves are back, and we’re here for it. Take, for instance, our Hannah top: its flowy sleeves make for a fun, flattering silhouette, and its eyelet details (those little holes) complete the beachy look. It’s versatile, too — tuck it in, or don’t, or tie it into a crop top like Hailey.

GO BIG IN LEVI’S® 501® MID THIGH SHORTS
Mid-length shorts are in style for women, and our advice is to buy yours a size or two bigger than usual. The extra room gives them a slouchy streetwear fit and plenty of versatility. Wear them with a tighter top or that new Cubano shirt you’ve been meaning to try.

BODEGA x SAUCONY GRID AZURA 2000

BODEGA - Founded in 2006, Bodega has been a refuge and tool for a clandestine group of artists through the ideation and execution of creative endeavors examining the intersection of fashion, counterculture, community, and the arts.

At Saucony, we exist for runners. Runners inspire us, bring us new ideas, force us to be better. They drive our design and engineering. They keep us competitive. They keep us hungry. They keep us honest.

Whether it's in a conference room or out on a lunchtime run, we're constantly talking about and arguing about our sport, runners and the products that fuel them. We love our products and we run in everything we make.

This focus and passion fuels us as we strive to create the best running shoes and apparel on the planet. We leave work each day knowing we've done everything to make runners' lives just a little bit better.

At Saucony, a good day is when we get to run. A great day is when we inspire someone else to run.
(from the company website)

BODEGA x SAUCONY GRID AZURA 2000

The transformation of the GRID Azura 2000 under the aegis of Ever Ready is marked. A design meant to excel in the comparatively controlled conditions of athletic training has been altered for the sake of true, all-purpose versatility of occasion and environment. Where a streamlined shape with an extreme lightweight design characterized the original prototype, an approach reflected in the mesh dominant material choices, the retooling leaves only the transparent mesh windows intact, replacing the rest of the original’s mesh with suede and leather. This change carries over to the distinctive, aggressive overlay, which swaps nylon for pebbled leather. The more substantial physical construction simultaneously reins in the potential for catastrophic system overload resulting from heavy use demands placed on the lightweight frame inherent in the original prototype, while harnessing the true potential of the design, by providing more solid grounding for the energy generated by the streamlined silhouette. This change in perspective is also seen in the new colorway, which dispenses with the turn of the millennium, athletic futurism, for earth tones, greys and black, with the occasional vibrant accent. Instead of seeking to impose itself on its surroundings, this adapted form of the GRID Azura 2000 absorbs and responds to them. This new sense of self-assured adaptability goes down to the last detail, with custom packaging and multiple lace options.

Of course, it might be presumptuous to claim a state of ever readiness, when relying upon only one component. Accompanying apparel, a pullover hoodie with nylon zip pocket and classic nylon construction track bottoms stabilize the GRID Azura 2000 within a cohesive system.

With twenty years of hindsight in the rear view mirror, we know that the future invariably comes with its own set of problems. Even the gadgets that we all know, love and use every day are not without the occasional bugs and glitches. Just like the benefits of previously unimagined technological advances, these problems are often unforeseen, until they actually happen. It takes a special kind of mentality to face down scenarios that only exist on a theoretical level. That's why the all-new, Bodega GRID Azura 2000 has taken on the name "Ever Ready". The Ever Ready concept reconstructs the sunny outlook of the original. The problems of the new millennium that have already happened and the uncharted territory of a new decade are taken into account. It's not about being paranoid, and it's not about being fearful. It's about being prepared, even when you don't know ahead of time what you are prepared for. The future isn't always as user-friendly as advertised, but you'll be ready. 

Of course, it might be presumptuous to claim a state of ever readiness, when relying upon only one component. Accompanying apparel, a pullover hoodie with nylon zip pocket and classic nylon construction track bottoms stabilize the GRID Azura 2000 within a cohesive system.

the launch

On April 4, 2019, Beyoncé announced a collaboration between that Ivy Park and Adidas. The collaboration marks the relaunch of the Ivy Park brand after severing ties with former retailer Topshop. In a statement released by Beyoncé on the official Ivy Park website, she states, "This is the partnership of a lifetime for me... Adidas has had tremendous success in pushing creative boundaries. We share a philosophy that puts creativity, growth and social responsibility at the forefront of business. I look forward to re-launching and expanding Ivy Park on a truly global scale with a proven, dynamic leader." The new relaunch also aims to put out shoes, performance gear, and lifestyle apparel.

A week before the official launch of the collaboration, Beyoncé sent various orange boxes to celebrities and fans promoting the launch. The boxes ranged in size from full scale clothing racks with the most notable pieces to smaller boxes that included shoes. Celebrities who received the box include Ellen DeGeneres, Cardi B, Kendall Jenner, Ciara, Missy Elliott, Reese Witherspoon, and Hailey Bieber.

Hours after the pre-sale launch on January 17, 2020, the collaboration was officially sold out on Adidas' website. The line was available in select Adidas stores worldwide, as well as Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Foot Locker, and Finish Line locations in the United States, on January 18, but also quickly sold out. Many fans expressed their frustration and blamed Adidas' virtual "waiting room" for with not being able to purchase any items because of the short time it took to sell out. Matt Powell, a senior footwear analyst at NPD Group, says Ivy Park x Adidas could eventually surpass sales of other Adidas collaborations, including Yeezy by Kanye West.

TOM & JERRY x REEBOK

If two of your favorite pastimes as a kid were watching Saturday morning cartoons and collecting sneakers, today’s Reebok announcement regarding an upcoming collection with Tom & Jerry must take you back to a much simpler time. Featuring unisex apparel, the collaboration’s main attraction is undeniably the footwear given that the cat-and-mouse duo will grace three iconic silhouettes: CLUB C, Club C Revenge, and INSTAPUMP DURY.Sharing the spotlight on two stylings of the Club C, Tom & Jerry’s rivalry is depicted perfectly on the low-top silhouette. On one pair, graphics of these rivals going at it are littered across the entire paper-white upper. Though equally showcasing these two’s animosity towards each other, the second shared court shoe opts for a much quieter design, using a chalk and pink palette to dress the midsole, upper, and collar. Ironically, sound FX graphics appear in red on the heel. On the tongue, each has claimed his own side on this pair, as Tom is seen snarling at Jerry – who’s sticking his tongue out – from right to left shoe.Loyal fans of the witty mouse may perhaps best enjoy Jerry’s standalone Club C Revenge option given that it faithfully replicates his brown and pink makeup. The former color takes over the entire suede upper, while the latter appears around the collar, in the midsole stitching, and underneath Reebok’s vector logo. A similar rose hue appears on Tom’s independent sneaker – the Instapump Fury – although the shoe’s most notable detail is undoubtedly the grey fleece material used around the toe, side panels, and heel to resemble the conniving feline’s fur.The entire Reebok x Tom & Jerry collection will be available in full family sizes with an official release on February 15th, 2020 at Reebok.com and in-store at select retailers worldwide. Until then, enjoy official images of the collection here below. - by Jovani Hernandez

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***Announced last December, Reebok and Warner Brothers will be dropping an extensive footwear and apparel collection commemorating Tom & Jerry. But ahead of next week’s drop, BAIT has revealed that it’s joining the duo via an exclusive, collectible two-pack. Dubbed “The Tom & Jerry Sneaker Kit,” the special package features the faux-furred Instapump Fury honoring the conniving feline and Jerry’s tan/pink Club C Revenge. Additionally, the kit includes a white t-shirt (size XL) with BAIT, Reebok, and Tom & Jerry branding throughout, while also displaying the two frenemies eager to go at it; Jerry is shown rolling up his “sleeves” at the chest as he walks towards the back where coincidentally Tom is waiting for him (bandaged-up) dead in the center with a wooden bat. Near the left hip, the beloved Saturday-cartoon characters partake in a literal cat-and-mouse chase. The BAIT-exclusive box itself also serves as a tribute to the trouble-making tag team with its cheese-graphic under the lid and shoe cover depicting the duo crammed in a storage unit next to pencils, chewing gum, and OG versions of the Instapump Fury and Club C.BAIT’s exclusive pack is priced at $300 USD and available for purchase now at BAITme.com. 

THE PYER MOSS x REEBOK EXPERIMENT 4 TRAIL FURY “GLORY"

The Pyer Moss x Reebok Experiment 4 Trail Fury “Glory”

Burgeoning label Pyer Moss — helmed by the New York Born Kerby Jean-Raymond — continues to approach a narrative constantly evolving into something brand new. While first poised to speak on the designer’s childhood and the silhouettes nostalgic of the era, the newer seasons have gone after a motif difficult to explain in so few words. His Reebok collaborations have mostly followed in tandem, touting themselves as numbered experiments with the fourth arguably being the best yet. Dubbed the Trail Fury, the silhouette quickly flew off shelves with its inaugural colorway and it may do the same with its newer “Glory” scheme, a loud palette swap with red and blue tones at the charge. Aggressively saturated mesh bases sit behind an assortment of black-dyed molds and clean smooth leathers in a vibrant sky tone; sole units then balance by way of neutral walls while lace shields and heel pulls brandish with both partner’s namesakes. Among these, a hidden set of text lies at the lateral side’s elastic along the tongue unit, certainly adding in the rising creative’s penchant for activism. Grab a detailed look at the pair right here and be sure to keep an eye out on Reebok.com and select retailers for its release tomorrow, 12/7. via sneaker news by michael le

Pyer Moss x Reebok Experiment 4 Trail Fury “Glory”
Release Date: December 7th, 2019
$250
Style Code: EH1233

NIKE DUNK LOW “VIOTECH"

NIKE DUNK LOW “VIOTECH"

If it weren’t for the sudden spike in interest for the silhouette, it’d be difficult to imagine any of the most revered Nike Dunks coming back for a second time. And while there are still many more eagerly awaited, the “Viotech” Dunk will surely tide over many fans both new and old alike. First inciting hunts after they first dropped years ago and spawning newcomers by way of Virgil Abloh’s droves of followers, it’s no question that the release will be one to look out for. Boasting the same accents as the original in a shape that seems almost too good to be true, the pair is a near perfect translation made modern with hues from deep red, burnt orange, sultry purple, and more seeing to an eventful close to the decade. Grab a good look at these right here, and if you’re looking to grab a piece of history recreated, then keep it locked on our store list come the December 10th release date.

Nike Dunk Low “Viotech”
Release Date: December 10th, 2019
$120
Style Code: CT5050-500

via sneaker news by Michael Le

THE POWER OF PYER MOSS

THE POWER OF PYER MOSS

Designer Kerby Jean-Raymond launches his latest collection with Reebok 

A fashion show is never just about the clothes, and few shows this season have been quite as thoughtful and impactful as the Pyer Moss show which took place in the historic Kings Theater in Brooklyn, New York on September 8th. The show included the debut of Reebok by Pyer Moss Collection 3, the next chapter from Pyer Moss designer Kerby Jean-Raymond’s series “American, Also” which continues to explore the human condition while bringing a voice and light to untold stories.  

Even before getting to the clothes, Jean-Raymond designed the location of the show to be a statement in and of itself, steeped in history and culture. Jean-Raymond told Nylon Magazine, “I grew up here. This is my zone school area. I worked across the street for three years at a sneaker store. I think the success [of the concept] is bringing people closer to me rather than trying to assimilate into whatever else people are doing."

While most fashion shows have a musical soundtrack, Jean-Raymond also took this one step further. The show opened with a monologue that took the audience from plantation fields of North Carolina to the Carnegie Hall concert stage, where Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock and Roll music,  rose to fame.  The message that came across was clear: the oppression and mistreatment that black people have endured for centuries will never be forgotten, and that in the face of the history and the present, people have “…a freedom on the inside that the world didn’t give them and the world could not take away.”

The concept of Sankofa is integral to Reebok by Pyer Moss Collections 3. Sankofa is a Twi word from the Akan tribe in Ghana that translates to "Go back and get it" and is represented by a bird fetching an egg from its back. This idea is artfully integrated into several key pieces in the collections. Sankofa symbolizes going back to the history of your past to take what is rightfully yours and reclaiming your narrative. 

As the opening monologue ended, the curtain went up on the choir, named “The Tabernacle Drip Choir Drenched in the Blood.”  The choir served as the inspirational music accompaniment for the entire show as the models walked the runway. It was an evocative choice that transported the audience and, in the end, brought the crowd to their feet during their final song of the night.

By the next day the reviews were in, and the response was overwhelming. As with his previous shows, Jean-Raymond gave people a new perspective on art and fashion and what it can all mean, wrapped up in a story they’ll never forget. It’s about being conscious about culture and designing with a purpose. 

Reebok Global Design Manager, Priscilla Shum, who has been working with Jean-Raymond on the Reebok side of the collection since its foundation, says the collaboration has been very meaningful to her.

“Working with Kerby and the Pyer Moss team has been incredibly rewarding,” says Shum. “With Kerby I get to witness a creative genius in his element. Being able to extract that vision and put that expression into something he sees in his head is something I can’t really put into words. It’s such a fulfilling, motivating feeling.”

Reeboks relationship and design process with Jean-Raymond and Pyer Moss has evolved and grown quickly.

“This collection differed in the sense that both his mainline, Pyer Moss and the Reebok by Pyer Moss collection fluidly told a story and fed off each other,” says Shum. “In previous seasons, we were establishing a relationship, understanding each of our needs. In this collection that relationship harmony really came through.”

The Sept 8th fashion show also debuted the new Reebok by Pyer Moss Experiment 4 “ Fury Trail” sneaker, the latest style to join the Reebok by Pyer Moss footwear collection. The shoe was designed as a sacred object split into three layers, each one representing all those who climb to success through the creation of something sacred in the face of adversity. The first offering of the Reebok by Pyer Moss Collection 3 is available now, with the second offering becoming available in December.

In a recent interview with Footwear News, Jean-Raymond said it was a dangerous move for Reebok to start working with him.

“Reebok did a dangerous thing by signing me. I was not an ideal candidate. I wasn’t doing wild sales numbers, I wasn’t trending, I didn’t have any celebrity backing, I was speaking politics in my art and somebody there saw the potential in that and how I can [mobilize] a community, and they took a chance. All you companies that have profitability with no souls can reach back down and reinvest that money into communities, and you’d be shocked with how fast your growth would accelerate. Reebok did it and you should do it.”

Jean-Raymond was recently named Artistic Creative Director for Reebok Studies_, a new division that will focus on exploring human nature and show the importance of people’s lives and stories. As he explained to Footwear News, his vision for this new branch with the brand is to expand talent and build a pathway for other artists.

“My vision is to not only work with existing Reebok talent and partners; it’s also to champion new ones,” Jean-Raymond said. “Having my own division at Reebok allows me a way to provide a pathway for bringing in designers, artists and personalities that we feel can marry well with the Reebok brand. As the first designer to ever work with Reebok in this capacity, I feel honored to be a part of such an important moment in the brand’s history.”

Shum says Jean-Raymond’s storytelling through his designs is unparalleled and that partnering with someone with such vision is a game changer.

“Working with Kerby is unique in the sense that no one can tell a story like he does,” she says. “His ultimate vision far surpasses what any of us would think of. The partnership puts Reebok in a whole different light and spectrum. So many different eyes and voices that wouldn’t normally be exposed to what we do now have eyes on us. It’s pretty incredible.”

As for what’s next for Jean-Raymond’s future collections, he told Footwear News he is already working on the next one—and it’s sure to shift the fashion community yet again.

“The next one is not going to be a trilogy; it’s going to be a one-and-done. I am halfway through with it, I did the Reebok portion of it already,” Jean-Raymond said. “I have the concept, I think it’s really fire. All I can say is it’s not about race because that’s not my thing, that’s not my schtick. I’m not the race guy. I’m the social [guy]; I care about people.”

The first offering of the Reebok by Pyer Moss Collection is available now. The second offering will be available December 14th.

KINIS's ART

Born in Boston Massachusetts, Paul is the son of two Haitian parents. He currently resides in Florida, where he was raised, and continues to make efforts towards his artistic endeavors. Aside from being inspired by the events in his life and nature, Paul's first source of inspiration came from his mother, Paulette. He would transition from drawing his favorite cartoons to drawing more prominent figures in his life like his friends, family, and respected celebrities. After his high-school graduation in 2013 from Cypress Bay he felt the calling to take his art more sensitively and decided not only exist as an artist but to thrive as one. He began creating art under the moniker “P.Firmy (would later change to KINI). Paul attended Florida Gulf Coast University where he participated in their recent student juried art exhibitions. He received the Robert Rauschenberg Residency Private Studio Tour Award (2018) and the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club Award of Excellence (2018). Within his time at FGCU Paul also participated in art shows close to home in Miami. Aside from hosting his own collaborative showcase HIGHATUS in 2016, Paul was a part of both of Perspectiv Miami's art exhibitions at Museo & Macaya Gallery in Wynwood Miami. He was also a part of TheVoid Miami showcase, and in 2017 he exhibited his art at CDV in Mana Wynwood. He was just recently Part of the “GROWTH” group exhibition in 2019 at HGAB studios in Wynwood Miami. He hopes to inspire people to explore themselves after viewing his work and hopes to invoke a thought, better yet a feeling. Paul continues to create in South Florida with goals of one day owning his own gallery and further expanding the reach of his art internationally.

TO PURCHASE ARTWORK CLICK HERE @—> KINI

FAR AWAY PLACES

I GREW UP IN AN URBAN AREA BUT ALWAYS ENJOYED THE WOODS, THE MOUNTAINS AND NATURE IN GENERAL. DURING MY STUDIES I SPENT MOST OF MY TIME AND MONEY FOR TRAVELING AND EVENTUALLY THIS BROUGHT ME TO A SIX MONTHS TRIP TO SOUTHERN AFRICA. BETWEEN THE FIRST AND THE SECOND TRIP WERE ONLY FIVE MONTHS SINCE THAT I AM VISITING THE AFRICAN CONTINENT AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR.

BEING EYE TO EYE WITH THESE WILD ANIMALS GIVES ME AN INDESCRIBABLE FEELING. WITH MY PICTURES I AM TRYING TO CAPTURE THESE MOMENTS THAT I EXPERIENCE DURING MY TRAVELS AND BRING THEM BACK HOME. EVERY PICTURE I TAKE IS LINKED TO A STRONG MEMORY AND I ALWAYS REMEMBER THE PLACE, THE SITUATION, THE PEOPLE THAT WERE WITH ME AND I CAN RELIVE THE MOMENT.

MY PASSION FOR AFRICA AND ITS WILDLIFE HAS ALSO LED TO AN INTEREST IN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND I HAVE PARTNERED WITH TWO CONSERVATION ORGANIZATIONS. - BY MICHAEL KRAUS

NEW BALANCE 997

Just like many of you, wasn’t able to get my hands on the Bodega x New Balance “NO DAYS OFF” collaboration. Don’t ask because you I looked on StockX and they are going for $330.00USD from suggested retail price $119.99USD. As the days went by and realize there was absolutely no plug for me, started to give up on my dreams of ever having these sought after shoes. Until today!

Today is my day off, normally spent with family and just at home relaxing. After hosting a really great event for Sebastian Mikael, can honestly say this day off is very much needed. While enjoying this day off, decided to check my emails not exactly what one should be doin on a day off, right? Took a quick glance at the emails and specifically the subject lines and boom there was an email from New Balance announcing the release of the MS997 silhouette the same one used by BODEGA on the “NO DAYS OFF” collaboration. Here’s your chance to get the close second or third with the MS997

This trail-inspired take on the 997 Sport is a contemporary update to our iconic 997 with Cordura material and rugged design details. Made with equal emphasis on tech and style, the upper borrows the DNA from the 997 heritage model and updates it with a more modern, sporty aesthetic. Encapsulating style reminiscent of the '09s, the chunky sole uses ENCAP Reveal technology for excellent underfoot comfort.

SEBASTIAN MIKAEL & FRIENDS

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FMI • TXT/CALL 617.651.0809

HIGHEST IN THE ROOM

Trailing the buzz of their recent collaborations, Travis Scott and Jordan Brand team up once again for the Jordan 6 Retro Travis Scott, now available on StockX. This is the fourth Air Jordan silhouette that Cactus Jack has touched. This sneaker made its mainstream debut when Travis rocked them on stage during his Super Bowl LIII performance and the rest is history.

This AJ 6 features an olive upper with black detailing and red contrasting accents on the tongue and lace locks. A side cargo pocket is displayed on the collar, giving this sneaker a design modification that makes it the first of its kind. A sail midsole, glow-in-the-dark translucent outsole, 3M detailing and both Nike Air and Cactus Jack branding on the heel completes the design. These sneakers released in October of 2019 for $250. - StockX

MAHALIA, LOVE & COMPROMISE TOUR

It’s hard to believe that an artist with an output and reputation as strong as Mahalia’s hasn’t released an album yet. But having signed to Asylum Records via Atlantic at the age of 13, before taking the time to finish school in her hometown of Leicester and find her sound, Mahalia’s entire career has been an exercise in intuition and patience.

A testament to the success of major label patience, even at a young age Mahalia, born Mahalia Burkmar, chose not to allow the pressure of signing to rush her process and growth as a young artist. She began releasing acoustic music in her late teens before moving down to London to pursue her career after high school. Appreciative of the relationships she’s been able to nurture with her record label, Mahalia once even joked that she’s a ‘label baby’ though she strives to maintain a level of creative independence at all times.

Raised in a musical family, her confidence and prowess at the tender age of 21 is impressive but expected. “I grew up in a house where my mum would tell me if a lyric was shit. And when she said that, she meant, you can do better and she was right.”  Her mother hails from a singing background and was in a band called Colourbox in the 80s, while her dad was also a session musician and songwriter. She also shares her passion for music with all three of her brothers who she reckons instilled in her a deep desire to just be heard: “when you’re a girl among boys you just don’t get listened to.” All these details contextualising her love for connecting with others through her music and live shows, as well as her openness in her music.

Despite her age, her journey to this record has definitely ebbed and flowed over the years. “When I got to 18 and I moved to London, I was confused because I thought that I was ready but I really wasn’t.” Mahalia bounced around the houses of friends and family for over a year, with very little money or motivation to create: “I was just finding life really difficult.” She details one particular low point when she called on her usual friends for a place to crash in London, but one by one the plans all fell through. She found herself at Paddington with her suitcase and nowhere to stay: “I remember jumping the barrier and getting a train back up to Leicester that night to stay at a friend’s house. It was just a mad time” she revels.

It wasn’t until she decided to move back to Leicester in 2017 that she wrote and released breakout single ‘Sober’. “All of that was just me losing confidence and feeling insecure, watching other artists surpass me and I hadn’t even worked out who I was yet.” Fast forward to present day, via a viral COLORS session that travelled globally and “changed everything”, international tours - both support and headline - a string of infectious singles and collaborations with the likes of Little Simz and Kojey Radical, Mahalia has been back in London for over a year now and writing her debut album for just as long.

Her jam-packed schedule of activity seems to go against the traditional album-mode exile that many artists practice these days - isolating themselves from their everyday lives and social media to focus solely on writing for prolonged periods of time. Instead Mahalia utilises the everyday to draw inspiration and energy from, explaining “I find that the busy periods away mean that when I’m back, I’m truly excited to return to the studio.”

Inspired by Eartha Kitt, Mahalia’s debut album is titled “Love and Compromise”. Named after the clip of Kitt that resurfaced and went viral a few years ago, where she unapologetically addresses her views on relationship and the idea of compromise. Mahalia explains, “I watched that clip religiously and it was such a huge part of my growth and understanding myself in relationships with men.” In the 3-minute snippet, the iconic triple threat star who was a singer, dancer, actor is posed the question of whether she’d be prepared to compromise if a man entered her life. In response, Kitt cackles dramatically and proceeds to return the question repeatedly, asking the interviewer to unpack everything from exactly what reasons she would have to compromise, all the way to the meaning of the word itself. Her own signature blend of fascinating and empowering - something that Mahalia channels effortlessly through her own candid lyrics and refreshing outlooks.

“The album talks about me falling in love, and falling out of love, breaking hearts and having my heart broken and me compromising for things but also at the same time being really uncompromising.” And it’s that back and forth that inspired a lot of the writing on this record, before eventually coming to the resolution that while we can choose to compromise on the material, there’s power in choosing to remain strong in your character and spirit.

Musically, the record is surprising even to Mahalia, excitedly she admits “it’s not what I thought it was going to be!” Continuing on a distinct departure from her earlier stripped-back acoustic style for a more diverse and open sonic palette. “Every song is different, which to me is so much more exciting.” She cites Jill Scott’s Woman and Billie Eilish’s debut album as sharing a similar ethos: one where you’re able to feel something different in each moment. Mapping it out track by track, the record invites you on a journey through relationships of all kinds: exploring sentiments of confusion, addiction, rejection and infatuation before circling back to the search for love. 

And her influences are as broad as her emotional spectrum. “I’ve been playing with the idea of putting out a playlist of songs that inspired the album, but I don’t know if people are going to get it.”  When considering who would occupy the playlist, she simply says, “Everything. Everything I heard in a restaurant, or coming out of someone else’s phone on the street, or while I’m watching TV.” More practically, she lists everything from Bon Iver and Carole King to Summer Walker and H.E.R and of course Lauryn Hill as artists that would make the cut. Drawing on the vulnerability of the Summer Walker that she endeavours to capture in her own art, the raw sentiment of Bon Iver and the intricate musicality of H.E.R, as well as the all round strength of storytelling on The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Ultimately finding honesty and emotion at the heart of her music. And in this case, the openness Mahalia radiates in her art is nothing but a genuine reflection of her real life presence - effervescent and warmly familiar. A key factor that suggests this album will be the first in a long line of self portraits that she can paint authentically over her career. And though she cites her parents ability to follow their gut and talents through different career paths, when asked if she thinks she’ll make music forever she nods and smiles dreamily: “It just makes me really happy.”

PYER MOSS x REEBOK TRAIL FURY

PYER MOSS x REEBOK TRAIL FURY

The closest thing to a mad science experiment in footwear, Pyer Moss and their on-going Reebok collaborations have gone from crazy to crazier with each new iteration, though — with mountaineering trends reaching their peak — the duo have now somehow found a middle ground with what is to be the Trail Fury. Somewhat a spin-off of the Pump Fury despite the lack of the inflating tech, the pair features all sorts of crazy colors a la Raf Simons with the sole unit of its muse implanted right below. These, made aggressive as is the standard for the high-end label, are upgraded with performance treads and some hexagonal textures at its heel while the upper more so relies on grid patterns and jagged panelling as well as protective tongue shields. At the top these take shape in vibrant pinks next to linings of neon and black toggle fasteners while the same neutral colored base synthetic arrives underneath an arrangement of bright orange leathers as well as light grey heel support. Grab a detailed look at the latest entry from the collaborator right below and find them hitting retailers come November 2nd at €250 Euros. via sneaker news by michael le

Pyer Moss x Reebok Trail Fury
Release Date: November 2nd, 2019
€250
Style Code: EH1207

PYER MOSS x REEBOK COLLECTIONS 3 & 3.5 • NYFW

Earlier this Summer, Pyer Moss founder Kerby Jean-Raymond was appointed as the Artistic Director for Reebok Studies, an emerging new division within the sportswear brand that aims to “explore the human nature of things and show the importance of people’s live and stories.” Barely two months after the announcement of this larger partnership, Jean-Raymond debuted his Collections 3 and 3.5 at the historic Kings Theater in Brooklyn to a massive crowd that lined up around the block to witness his interpretation of the concept of “Sankofa”. The runway show, which was prefaced by an empowering speech and backdropped by live choir music that delivered a medley of classics of both hip-hop and gospel, saw the designers collaborative vision with Reebok materialize with a vibrant assortment of sportswear gear and the new Experiment 4 – Fury Trail sneaker. The was design in three parts to communication the story of the fight and rise of the marginalized, the glamour and expression of success, and emotion. All three parts of the silhouette come in contact with the wearer.

The Reebok by Pyer Moss Experiment 4 – Fury Trail is set to launch on Reebok.com and select retailers including SSENSE this October as part of the launch of Collection 3, with additional colorways being available alongside Collection 3.5 in Spring 2020. via sneaker news

JORDAN x MARS BLACKMON 270

Spike Lee’s Son Designed The Jordan Mars 270

Ever since the days of Mars Blackmon in the ’80s, Spike Lee and Jordan Brand have had a long and bountiful relationship, working together on everything from memorable ad campaigns to silhouettes like the Jordan Spiz’ike and Son Of Mars. Now, the iconic Brooklyn-born creative force is passing the torch, as he recently announced that it was in fact his son Jackson Lewis Lee who worked with the Jumpman on the Jordan Mars 270, a new Mars-series lifestyle sneaker. 

Apart from the announcement, Lee also unveiled a new “Fire Red” colorway of the silhouette that clearly plays up its Air Jordan 5 inspiration. The upper is dressed in a white leather with crimson accents on the tongue/heel tab, while the midsole is split between black and red and the outsole offers an icy translucent blue. However, it’s not an exact homage, as the tongue unfortunately opts against the shimmering silver/stark black tongues that the “Fire Red” is known for. Design cues from the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 4, and Air Jordan 6 are also pulled in to add further to the Lee family’s signature hybrid look. An Air Max 270-style cushioning unit then finalizes Jackson’s first design. You can expect the Mars 270 to begin rolling out over the summer months, so enjoy an early look at this heritage-filled colorway above and check a store list below to see where you can get a pair. via sneaker news by ross dwyer

Jordan Mars 270

The Jordan Mars 270 “Top 3”

The Jordan Mars 270 “Top 3”

Much like the Legacy 312 sitting before it and the many Spiz’ike toolings that predated it all, fusion silhouettes are making startling return with the Spike Lee’s alter ego, Mars Blackmon, holding true into this generation. Though once again combining icons under their swoosh-adorned flags, Beaverton has taken things in a slightly different direction with its Jordan Mars 270 as they comb the strongest elements of the Air Jordan 1, 4, 5, and 6 then tops it onto the much more modern Air Max 270 sole. While leaked imagery and speculations were aplenty, we’re finally getting a detailed look at one of the model’s first colorways: a fitting “Top 3” mix that asymmetrically utilizes the toe boxes of the “Bred” and “Royal” though accented by a neutral white palette towards the heel. Grab a detailed look at the pair below and find it rolling out to select retailers as well as Nike.com very soon. via sneaker news by michael le

PYER MOSS x REEBOK

Pyer Moss and Reebok Continue Their Mobius Experiment 3 In A Summer-Ready Pink.

The eccentric Kerby Jean-Raymond helmed fashion line, Pyer Moss, has spent quite a bit of time with footwear brand Reebok, taking elements of their deeply rooted heritage and turning it on its head ten times over. Doing so yet again with the Mobius Experiment 3, the imprint is introducing a Summer-ready issue of a tonal pink, breathing bright accents atop a colorway that needs no extra help in exuberance. Neutral midsole hits by way of black with gum outsoles add a perfect contrast to the muted pastels of the upper, which finds itself in a hairy suede across its waved contortions as a much smoother hardshell mold creates armor-like appearances on the profile. Asymmetric zippers separate the entire construction with a colorful red, blue, and yellow strip resting at the end of the zipper. Grab a detailed at the newest pair below and expect them to release at the designer’s webstore come May 18th, 10am ET.

HAB HOUSE PEPPER SAUCE

AT HAB HOUSE, WE KNOW FLAVOR MAKES YOU REMEMBER SPECIAL MOMENTS. WARM AROMAS CONJURE MEMORIES OF HOME. EACH HANDMADE BOTTLE WE PREPARE CONNECTS US TO THE GENERATIONS OF OUR FAMILY IN TRINIDAD, WHO CRAFTED AND MASTERED THESE TRADITIONAL RECIPES THAT WE ARE PROUD TO SHARE WITH YOU. PLEASE SAVOR THESE AUTHENTIC FLAVORS AND MAKE SPECIAL MOMENTS EVEN BETTER WITH HAB HOUSE.

How it started...

 For as long as we can remember, family and friends have been coming over, eating our delicious Caribbean food, and asking for a bottle of our homemade pepper sauce to go. Naturally, after countless inquiries into when we were going to start selling our sauce we've decided to take on this wonderful endeavor. 

It all started in the kitchen with our parents, who started in the kitchen with their parents, and on and on. Thus, giving us the opportunity to share generations of our heritage and tradition in each drop with all of you. In addition to grandma and grandpa helping out, we've got myself, Krystle, and my husband, Alex, and our three lovely daughters, Khloe, Alley & Arya. 

We started this company not only for you but also for them, with their futures in our minds. 

Hab House is a family operated business focused on making a habanero based pepper sauce. We believe in providing the best combination of heat and flavor with a concentrated focus on flavor to provide our customers with a tasty experience using the habanero pepper. 

Our sauce is dairy-free and meat-free, so although we don't market ourselves that way, we are Vegan-friendly.  And for those that don't like frozen, we use fresh ingredients.

Our hope is that our customers enjoy the heat but also the flavor of our sauce.  We hope that these flavors will inspire new culinary dishes but also bring back the comfort of the islands in the Caribbean. 

Although we hail from Trinidad & Tobago (and my husband from Belize), we think everyone can and will enjoy our sauce. 

HAB HOUSE PEPPER SAUCE 10oz & 5oz BOTTLES #dabofhab