malucamala.

This winter, snow has caused quite a few cancellations of good concerts at Rock & Roll Hotel, but the show must go on. The absence of Amanda Blank on Saturday was definitely a bummer, but Maluca, Nadastrom, and DJ Jackie O held it down.
I ran across Maluca at the Mad Decent Block Party, and was curious to know more about her. After seeing her perform, I will summarize with the word "fierce". The New Yorker, via Dominican parents definitely has a talent and a look. Her red lipstick, long braid, and all-black attire were complimented by energetic vocals and dance moves. She was even performing on her birthday!

Check out the addictive single. "El Tigeraso":

rose for amber.

"There's no telling what can happen when you put a woman and a beat together." So says the lead-in line announcing Judah's Amber Rose-inspired mixtape release. Monday's launch marks a muse/producer relationship of sensual proportions.

In "The Amber Rose Instrumentals," Judah links up with Dub MD (UK) to yield thirteen short tracks. It is quite different from what I previously heard from him on Durkl's "Survivor Series" mix. The songs range from whimsical to torrid and highlight a variety of samples including Rose's voice. Pairing music and model, Judah tells a full story through this mix. His range makes it clear why he is a highly regarded producer, who has worked with those from Wale to Tabi Bonney. The only question is what does Kanye have to say about all this?

Download

fashion takes flight.

Tomorrow I will be walking in a fashion show fundraiser for the organization Luke's Wings. Luke's Wings is a great cause dedicated to the support of service members who have been wounded in battle. "Recognizing the immediate need for families to be with their loved ones during such a difficult time, Luke’s Wings provides families with the means to visit during the service member’s hospitalization and rehabilitation."

Hosted by WUSA 9's Angie Goff, the event will feature cocktails, hors d'eourves, and a silent auction. Models and military service men and women ‘take flight’ in a swank, high energy runway exhibition highlighting cutting edge fashion from Washington’s best boutiques and collections by the District's premier designers. Make it out if you can, it should be a fun event!

stewart lupton: a retrospective.

I didn't quite know what to expect from a Saturday night celebrating Stewart Lupton's rich musical and poetic history. I'd been meaning to make it to a Child Ballads show for some time, but there were always schedule conflicts. With a full entourage expected to perform, I was anticipating fireworks, and I got them.

Everyone came on stage dressed to the nines. The show was driven by Lupton's emotion, coupled with Wurlitzer player Lex Paulson's energy. Lupton's voice is unsettlingly calming, and his harmonica adds dimension. I don't mind the rambling poetry and interjections, as I think it adds to the character of the performance. His lyrics are the highlight, and where his true gift shines through. They even played my favorite Jonathan Fire*Eater song, "The Search for Cherry Red," which has been covered by The Kills. As friends joined the stage, it became apparent that Stewart is much more than the drama he is often associated with. He is capable of putting on a great show with interesting music and nuances.

At the end of the night, I picked up the Cheekbone Hollows EP along with a package of other goods. I'm excited to further explore Lupton's work and possibly work with him in the future.

music resolutions.

1. get some stuff recorded/play shows
2. go to and write about as many shows as possible
[pavement is going to be epic!]
3. learn to dj properly
4. revisit old forgotten favorites
5. keep up with new releases
6. analyze the intellect behind songs, lyrics, and sounds

see you all this 2010!