DMV so we used to the waitin.

Yesterday afternoon, a very interesting article from the Washington Post arrived in my inbox. "D.C. Hip-Hop: Can it Break the Hold of Go-Go?," by Chris Richards, will be featured in Sunday's paper. It features a look at local DMV hip-hop artists poised for national success. Check it out here!

2047.

The District of Columbia is not known for being a particularly stylish city. DURKL is a clothing company set out to expose that as a misconception. The brand was started by Will Sharp circa 5 years ago, and has since grown immensely around DC & in national and international markets. With the addition of brother Cole Sharp, and later Lucas Pierce, DURKL has become a staple amongst those who dare to be bold and "make fun" 24-7.

DURKL's unique take on streetwear has connected with musicians, emcees, DJs, producers, skateboarders, bikers, and partygoers. They have found a way to please these niche consumers by always providing something new and interesting. Never ones to shy away from color, each line includes something so out of left-field (in a good way) that I often wonder how they came up with the idea. My favorite example of this is last season's grey jeans with aqua back pockets. The Fall 2009 Collection plays on a bit of a mature edge by incorporating tailored flannels, button-downs, chinos, and snap-backs. With every line the brand grows, but still includes outrageous and funky garments. Rest assured there is always a sassy element to set these pieces apart from the competition.

The DURKL boys now have a studio and store space in the legendary Gold Leaf building. Be sure to stop in and check out the gear at 443 I St NW or peruse the online store. Prices reflect high quality, detail, and local design. It's definitely worth it.

DURKL on Twitter
DURKL on Vimby

ones and twos.

There is definitely an up-and-coming "H Street DJ culture." Venues such as Little Miss Whiskey's Golden Dollar, Rock & Roll Hotel (upstairs), Sticky Rice, and Jimmy Valentines cater to dance nights and DJ sets. This is a great way to supplement the nightlife culture in the city as the H Street Corridor continues to gain popularity. Check me out at Jimmy's NEXT SUNDAY October 18th for indie, post-punk, shoegaze, and everything rock!

well the stakes of the game seemed fine...

The new Built to Spill album is phenomenal. When my friend told me this, I went to stream the entirety of There Is No Enemy on their Myspace. I have always liked them, but this album has catapulted them into one of my favorite bands. The softer songs like "Hindsight,"Nowhere Lullaby," and "Life's a Dream"definitely stand out. Be sure to pick it up when it drops on October 6th.

i love the way she said LA.

My latest mix was made for my friend who is moving from DC to LA tomorrow. It is a grouping of feeling, well wishes, borrowed songs, tunes to drive to, and a bit of self promotion. Here's the tracklisting:


1. starrsha- ringo deathstarr
2. you're making this hard- sweet jane
3. a traitor in my mind- last tide
4. bled white- elliott smith
5. rip it up- orange juice
6. nantes- beirut
7. you're only king once- beulah
8. the d in detroit- the anniversary
9. coast to coast- the jesus & mary chain
10. sixteen- skywave
11. elevate me later- pavement
12. gentle tuesday- primal scream
13. the wait- the american analog set
14. poetaster- miracle fortress
15. blue jeans- blur
16. berlin, without return- voxtrot
17. fortress- the glands
18. just like honey (home demo)- laura reading
19. (david bowie i love you) since i was six- the brian jonestown massacre

you know that we already know you.

Last night I stumbled upon my latest musical obsession, Miike Snow. I went to their show at Rock & Roll Hotel without ever hearing any of their music. I was pleasantly surprised with the performance I was treated to. The Swedish-American electronic group has been described by The Guardian as "cooly emotional pop [that] suggests A-Ha meets Animal Collective." Here is my favorite track & a stellar music video:

PAVEMENT REUNION!!!

Yesterday, Brooklyn Vegan was abuzz with tales of a rumored Pavement reunion. Today it was confirmed, with Pitchfork stating that they "will perform a benefit show at Central Park SummerStage on September 21, 2010." After over 10 years apart, Malkmus & co will come together. This leaves the doors open for even more performances and the possibility of a tour. I will finally have the opportunity to see them live. I AM ECSTATIC! HOORAY! Only a year away...

EDIT 9/25/09: Got tickets to the 9/24/2010 show in Central Park. Whoo!