There's a new feature up in the Propaganda section about the book, LISTEN, WHITEY! THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF BLACK POWER 1965-1975. Chris Ziegler speaks to the author and record producer Pat Thomas. The book, named after the Folkways album of Black Panther Party co-founder Huey Newton speeches—uses hundreds of records and related artifacts to outline a movement that roared to life when then-Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee chair Stokeley Carmichael went direct from a Mississippi jail to a Mississippi stage to a deliver the 1966 speech that would make him famous: "We been saying freedom for six years and we ain't got nothin'. What we gonna start saying now is Black Power!"

Check it out HERE

Meet Sara. She's an artist originally from Paris, but is currently based out of a lil' city called Berrrlin. She's also one of the best broads I know. Sara's photography, drawings, and paintings have been shown all around Europe and in the States, and she's collaborated with everyone from high fashion labels to itty gritty skate companies (the best kind). Here's a smorgasbord of some of my favorites from her. To see full photo series, more paintings, and all the other goods, check out her website saraparisonterras.com and blog afterthefact.tumblr. Voilà!

A short video of an installation she worked on earlier this year for the Bright Tradeshow.

Come chill in Cali, SARA!

On May 25th, Low End Theory hits Japan once again. The itinerary: A big show on Saturday in Tokyo with DJ Krush + Residents, and on Sunday, Osaka. If you're far out East, we suggest you head to a smart shop, buy a few viles, ingest, then mozey on over to the party. To celebrate the festivities, we've released another official Low End Theory Logo tee in three new color ways. Most of the inventory was boxed and shipped to Japan, but we were able to hold back a few units for our US friends. Available now in our shop while supplies last. (click here)

Nobu, our OBEY Japan Head Hunk, has helped coordinate these parties for 5 years now and has grown close to the Low End Theory Japan crew. The leader of the LET Japan team is journalist, label owner, event/party organizer, and DJ/Artist, Masaaki Hara, who holds many titles and has long been a fixture in Japan's music scene. He and his close comrades are considered to be the leading force responsible for introducing the sounds of the underground to an "almost-established" scene and his contributions are frequently demanded by Japan's most reputable music-related publications. His company, "Disques Corde" (formerly "Soup-Disk"), has been running for over a decade. They not only act as a record label to put out music, but also as a hub to invite international artists to Japan and coordinate events. Recently, his focus is introducing the "Los Angeles beat scene" and it's artists to Japan, but is also involved in various endeavors as the founder of the Japanese broadcast chapter of the internet radio station "Dublab," producer of Creative Commons hosted art project "Into Infinity," and Red Bull Music Academy's "Play, Japan!" programs.

While he and his team are prepping for the upcoming Low End Theory parties with his recent return from attending the Red Bull Music Academy in NYC, Masa was gracious enough to sit down with Nobu and give some insight for our blog. Thank you Masa !! (あなたにマサに感謝)

Nobu: It's been 5 years since you've brought Low End Theory to Japan, and the reception has been great. Can you tell us how it all started, how people feel about the party, and where the electronic music scene in Japan is heading?

Masa: I first heard about Low End Theory from Hashim Bharoocha who moved to LA. Afterwards in 2007, I was out in LA for a meeting, had a chance to actually go to Low End, and was very fascinated by their fresh approach. I think the party was still somewhat under-the-radar back then but I was very impressed by the ways the party put focus on performances of beat-makers and producers.

I've always felt like beat-makers were kind of like stagehands, and even though many made great beats, there were hardly any venues or parties where those beats could be heard on a grand scale. The big parties almost always played fast 4/4 beats instead of slow and heavy. That is why I was intrigued by Low End Theory and wanted to have it in Japan, in hopes of revitalizing the scene here.

Although we postponed the party in 2011 because of the disaster and it's effects, the reason why the party has been received so well since 2009 is primarily due to the fact that the state of LA's music scene was very stimulating to Japanese ears. Although there is no doubt that the popularity of the LA sound has been overwhelmingly growing, I think it has more to do with the ethics of LA's music community and artists.

The music scene in Japan is very diverse and there wouldn't be a way to forecast where the electronic and beat music scene will be going but the crowd at Low End Theory Japan has been constantly growing. I hope Low End Theory Japan is, or becomes, an open platform for the people that come to the party.

N: You're in charge of booking the Japanese artists for the party. Is there a criteria in order for you to choose the local talent to participate in LETJ and Beat Invitational?

M: When we first planned to hold the Beat Invitational in Japan, I wanted not only the fresh up-and-coming beat-makers and performers to participate but the veterans as well. As the name states, it's an "Beat" Invitational, so there are certain guidelines to follow in regards to playing "Beats",  but I think of it as more of a platform for free expression and try to book artists extensively.

N: The special guest of this year's party is DJ Krush whom we all know is a legendary artist. How did this come about?

M: Kev and the residents have been booking artist they respect to play at Low End Theory in LA and SF. DJ Shadow being one of them. I was also informed that DJ Krush was on the top of their list.  I interviewed Gaslamp Killer for a publication while he was in Japan last year and remember him speaking very highly of DJ Krush. That's how influential DJ Krush was to them. The time is ripe, the stars have aligned, and it's finally about to happen. Back in the 90's, I put together a event with DJ Krush, DJ Cam, and DJ Vadim and hadn't been reunited with DJ Krush since. I feel like he's come full circle and to see that his existence has had such a deep influence on Low End Theory is very emotive for me as well.

N: How does OBEY fit into all of this?

M: First of all, I'd like to thank you and OBEY for believing in Low End Theory Japan and supporting the party since it's initial stages when we were still groping our ways through the unpredictable . It's great that the connection OBEY has with the artists in LA has transcended over to Japan and our parties so organically. To me, OBEY is not just a fashion brand, and I feel that you guys are vital members of the International music community. What you guys put out musically and the OBEY RADIO parties are of great interest. Whatever you guys put out is steps ahead of the game and we're very proud to have you guys involved.

N: Any future projects we should know about? Closing comments?

M: My friends and I have started dublab.jp this year and although it is still only an once-a-week two-hour-show, we hope to expand our broadcast to a more expansive and public radio station in the near future.  Music radio has been relatively conservative in Japan, as compared to the U.S., but I feel it's starting to show signs of change. I look forward to dublab.jp and Low End Theory Japan to play an attractive role in the developmental stages of the musical community here. I'm also excited about the release of a series of music from Japanese artists under my label, disques corde. The project will commence with Coffee&Cigarettes Band (DJ Kensei & Sagaraxx). As a writer, I'm getting ready to publish my second book.

LOW END THEORY JAPAN [Summer 2013 Edition]

May 25, 2013 (Sat)

at UNIT(03-5459-8630) www.unit-tokyo.com

OPEN / START : 23:00

TICKETS: ADV.3,500yen / DOOR 4,000yen

*20+ w/ID

special guest

DJ KRUSH

+

DADDY KEV

NOBODY

D-STYLES

NOCANDO

TAURUS SCOTT

+

DJ KENSEI

Beat Invitational: TBA

##

For more info, please visit these related links:

http://lowendtheory.jp

http://dublab.jp

https://soundcloud.com/disquescorde

Low End Theory USA Podcasts:

http://www.lowendtheoryclub.com/podcast/

- NOBU via ROAM

Went by my favorite vintage store in Long Beach, InRetrospect, to drool over everything and chat with the amazing (and adorable) David Weidman. He's been creating his distinctive art since the 1950's; pretty definitive of an era. It was cool to see so much of it in person too, those colors! The store always feels like a set from Mad Men, especially with Weidman's work feature like in the show... just waiting to spot Don Draper in there one of these days. Schwing!

Quick pic with the Man of the Hour, still kickin at 92.

One of David's prints (can I call you David?) as seen in Peggy's Olson's office. Apparently the set designers do a lot of their shopping at the store too. I reeeally like Mad Men...

This place is overflowing with rad furniture, clothing, art, nostalgic shit, RECORDS, trinkets.. yadda yadda I could go on forever, baby.  Also, my fabulous roommate camouflaged somewhere below.

SCORE:

Look at how happy my friends are, might be all that free wine?

Cheers to your fine work and wise words, Mr. Weidman.

Take it easy, everybody!

I was first made aware of the West Memphis Three murder case through Henry Rollins’ Rise Above fundraiser CD. I knew wrongful conviction of three teenage boys who wore black was a cause worth learning more about because Rollins is always on the side of due diligence and justice. When I watched the Paradise Lost documentary I was convinced that Damien Echols and his co-defendants were innocent. I donated art to a fundraiser designed to fund DNA tests that could prove their innocence (or confirm their guilt). The evidence in the case had been mishandled and the West Memphis police were reluctant to cooperate and denied the case had been mishandled. DNA evidence finally exonerated the West Memphis Three after 18 years in prison. I can’t imagine losing 18 years in jail for a false conviction, but the West Memphis Three might still be in prison if it were not for the consistent pressure by diligent truth seekers like Henry Rollins and many others. I was incredibly honored to be able to help design the cover for Damien Echols’ book “Life After Death” along with my co-worker Casey Ryder.  Check out the book to hear the compelling story from Damien Echols’ perspective.

Stopped by the Dublab studio last week for a 2 hour (Roam & Urth) OBEY Radio session. If you missed it, it's now downloadable HERE... Listen and support LA's finest radio show at dublab.com/donate/

Pushed my way thru the masses last Friday at THIS Gallery to check out the These Friends 4 exhibition. There was an amazing turnout, and art to match. I'm no Jon Furlong, but here's a few photos I managed to snap of some really rad work, do take a gander...

My buddy Vince visiting from Berlin for a few months, road tripping with Kadavar and skating LA repping Radio Skateboards. Brought him along for the ride and some Berlin vibes.

Really diggin Lucien Shapiro, stoked to see him in this show.

Success indeed. 'Til next time..

The girls here at OBEY are super stoked on our new summer artist series collection with NYC based artist Jason Woodside.  He incorporates bright, colorful, geometric patterns over black and white photos of Shepard Fairey's street art to create a fun, inventive and modern juxtaposition. Right in time for bright and sunny days ahead, these tees are great to mix in with your favorite summer styles.

The Pittsburgh 02 Crop Tee is a summer staple with a pair of cut off shorts. Pair with our desert boots, bangles, and the Kurtz Jacket for a wasteland feel.

Kurtz Jacket

Desert Boot

Woodside / Pittsburgh 02 Crop Tee

Low Down Bracelet Set

We're getting weird this summer with bright floral bike shorts which perfectly contrasts Woodside's Boston graphic on our cut-off tank. Throw on some combat boots and a cross body bag, and you're good for day of trekking around the city.

Kozmic Fleur Biker Short (coming soon)

Woodside / Boston Mock Twist Crew Tee

Dahlia Messenger Bag

Heading to your local dive bar? Mix a Woodside tee with a little leather and tiger camo and you've got an outfit made to last the whole night.

Desert Boot

Woodside / Pittsburgh 01 Mock Twist Tee

Blacktop Short

Lerner Vest (coming soon)

Eagle Claw Bracelet

To learn more about Jason Woodside visit his site HERE.

Have you subscribed to your women's emails?  Sign up HERE to be the first to know about sales, new arrivals, lookbooks and more. You'll also receive 10% off your first order for signing up!

It's time to introduce our Summer Artist Series with New York based artist Jason Woodside. We catch up with Jason to discuss his collaboration with OBEY. Jason uses a lot of color and color blocking to transfer street shots of Shepard's art into works of their own. Lots of puuuurty colors for the summer time. Check the video out below about the project.

Jason Woodside Artist Series from OBEY CLOTHING on Vimeo.

Amy here. It's been a minute, or about 4 years, since I've blabbed on this blog, so hello again old friends, it's good to be back on this continent with the posse.

I made almost the same trek as a lot of you Coachellaians out to the desert last weekend, but stopped in Mecca for a bit of a smaller, yet probably just as hot and sandy festival; Desert Daze. The things music fans will do for some good tunes/vibes.

An amazing festival if I do say so myself. Pretty intimate setting at the Sunset Ranch Oasis, constantly surrounded by happy people fully enjoying their 20th of April. Set times made it possible to hear almost everyone too.. not too shabby.

But let's talk about the music, man. So many killer bands and none to disappoint. Didn't get pictures of them all, but a few noteables:

The Entrance Band (Paz Lenchantin is so badass!)

Straight outta my hometown, Fullerton's own Dahga Bloom. Love them

Groovy little dance party wtih Night Beats.

Took this of Death Hymn Number 9 in the middle of a mosh pit sand storm but I think it's a decent visual for the experience.

The total highlight for me was Tinariwen. Have mercy. 1AM in the middle of the desert surrounded by purple haze and Malian musicians, felt like some spiritual level shit.. I'll take it!

Just a peek from the day, but full line up below. Moon Block Party has a good thing goin', thanks for the good times!

-amy

THIS LosAngeles Gallery in Highland Park was founded in 2010 by 4 artists, Aaron Farley, Claire and Jeremy Weiss and Justin Van Hoy. Over the past few years they have hosted a slew of shows by everyone from Travis Millard, Thom Lesner, Bill McRight, Sage Vaughn, Michael Hsiung, and a grip of others. Every year they have hosted a group show called These Friends, possibly the highlight of the year, as you would run into so many old friends and deviants. Tomorrow night marks the end of the gallery with These Friends 4.

As some of you might know, our good friend and one of the gallery founders, Justin Van Hoy passed away earlier this year. He was such an integral part to the gallery and keeping everything going. For Justin's service Shepard created an illustration of the man himself to remember him by. After discussion amongst the crew here and with Justin's widow we decided to run some shirts to have at the show tomorrow night. If you live in the area definitely come by. The offices behind the gallery have been removed, allowing about 3 times more gallery hang space. This should turn out to be a pretty epic send off.

During my European tour last month, I spent some time in Copenhagen and linked up with, Den Sorte Skole, for the final sessions of Lection III. The record just came out, and quickly became my main, space-out soundtrack... a highly recommended listen.  400+ layers of un-used samples, edits, and original compositions, perfectly executed to tell their story.

Available on limited edition Vinyl or as FREE DOWNLOAD (via densorteskole.net)

Enjoy!

-Free the Robots

From the rainbow-colored lights on the palm trees to the delicious Korean bbq served at the Kogi truck, this was an amazing festival experience! A place where guys in penguin suits dance with ladies with flowers in their hair and neon paint on their skin.

Here is what I learned this past weekend. Some suggestions of how to properly coachella, if you will:

1. Don't go in too soon! Hang out during the day and relax. The bands you really want to see won't be on until the late afternoon anyway. You will be worn out by the time the headliners go on if you spend all day stomping around the festival area in the burning heat!

2. Bring suntan lotion and a blanket! You are in the desert, after all! It's pretty effing hot during the day and really cold once the sun sets. And while you are at it, pack a bandana too. While I was still laughing at all the bandana-faced festival goers at first I really wished I had brought something to cover my face with when that sand storm hit on day three.

3. Find a meeting point. There is no way your group of 10 friends won't split up at some point and it is like back in 1999 out here, when nobody had a cell phone because service sucks.

Highlights? Well, R.kelly performing with phoenix, obviously! Band of horses, major lazer and a pair of heart shaped glasses that I was gifted at the Guess party on day two.

One of my favorite performers of the weekend was Alllen Stone! Check out  "Unaware" from his self-titled debut album.

Allen Stone, Live From His Mother\'s Living Room

See ya next year, Coachella… we will be back!

PARIS, FR - Last year, I had the opportunity to throw our first OBEY Radio in Paris along side our French Connection, OBEY FR a.k.a. The Greendog Hoodlums. Thanks to the new friends of Coteaux Suisse, I met a young whipper-snapper named Dream Koala (DK) who controlled the crowd during his live set. Since then, he's been doing shit, grinding and what-have-you. Next week in Paris, he throws his #5 installment of ZuluZulu (brought to you by OBEY FR) at The Social Club in Paris. Through FB, I asked him to get me info on the event, so I'll cut and paste what he wrote me, just so it's coming straight from the Koala's mouth...

DK: "If you could just write something to explain that ZuluZulu is Dream Koala's residency at The Social Club in Paris and it is to promote the beat scene in France."

R: "Sure Bud. Who's playing?"

DK: "Torus - With his "Torus EP" released last year on Sonic Router, the young dutch Joeri Woudstra comes back with the "Yard Sale EP". He is the kind of guy who takes his sampler and record noises in the nature. His music can start with field recordings and ambiances, then transform into some incredibly heavy beat music full of bass! This is the beatmusic of the future, for sure.

TORUS SOUNDCLOUD

"Ssaliva - François Boulanger (aka Ssaliva/Cupp Cave/Kingfisherg) is that kind of artists, the kind we do love at ZuluZulu, who release audio cassettes. His music is like a time travel, we found ourselves in an retro-futuristic universe, somewhere between Board Of Canada, Flying Lotus and some 80's tv-show opening music. He already released a cassette on the L.A label "Leaving Records" through Alpha Pup."

SSALIVA SOUNDCLOUD

"Dream Koala & Andrea - They (We.. kinda weird talking about myself) are the two rising parisian beat producers at the moment. Usually only doing live-set, they will join to do a Dj Set and make The Social Club shake their booty."

DREAM KOALA SOUNDCLOUD

Hus - He is the dude behind the french best new blog, Utopie Tangible. Officially member of the ZuluZulu Team, he's going to share his musical culture in actual electronic music and make discover unknown talents."

HUS SOUNDCLOUD

R: "thanks... I'll post soon."

DK: " :))) . oh yeah... click here for the event page on FB. "

(Qui? or Weee? I pick "Weee.")

- ROAM