THE WONDER CHRONICLES

niceguyslook

2009-08-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time coming but its finally here. The NICEGUYSLOOK shirts are back, but this time things are different.See for yourself. Last time shirts sold out instantly. Pre orders were already sold out last week.

Check out the niceguys official blog to view the lookbook for the niceguys look shirts. Trust me you are in for a treat. Above is one of 13 images of the look book. Check them out at

http://nicelook.wordpress.com/

go on ahead copy and paste it. what you waitin for

Niceguys TV Vol. Nicel ook Panties from The Niceguys on Vimeo.

This is the video for the photoshoot done at J Vince's studio. A classic in the making.

Shirts will be out next week, Panties are not for sale ( sorry ladies) only Small and mediums and 26 shirts left. Yes they are moving that fast. Send size inquires to

dobale27@hotmail.com

or

eys265@gmail.com

The niceguys have been gettin alot of blog love and exposure. Check out their recent interview with fatlace magazine

http://fatlace.com/interviews/niceguys

And make sure you download the pre show album. It's coming out this fall. This is a snippet of what you should be hearing.

http://sharebee.com/ce046657

click to download

MUST BE NIIIIICE

2009-07-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

for those that missed out on the NICEGUYS x TIPPINGPOINTSTORE x GATORADE event, check out the video

I know u probably regret missing out huh, but wait, you have a chance to redeem yourself, A BIGGER and BETTER one will be at the tipping point store this Friday. Because the event came out better than expected, NIKE and GATORADE teamed up with TIPPING POINT STORE to bring you another classic called the FREESTYLE EXPERIENCE. It will be hosted by BMX rider NIGEL SYLVESTER and of course a LIVE PERFORMANCE by the NICEGUYS. Music will be provided by H-TOWNS own DJ MR ROGERS. Free drinks and free entry this FRIDAY JULY 17th at the tipping point store. Peep the flyer below for better details

U know the NICEGUYS are coming out with their album this fall called the show. I have heard some of the tracks and believe me when i say you are really in for a show. Check out their video trailer

Niceguys Promo Commercial from Evesborough Films on Vimeo.

see yall this friday. Its gonna be NIIIICE

updates and updates

2009-05-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

couple of random pics and videos i took in NY with my new phone. It was my first time using it so the videos will appear shaky, but it's all good enjoy

pac man arcade at the uniqlo store

common projects madness at odin. ( dedication to osa lol)

yao ming. His wife is a giant. We had the same flight, He literally had to stoop low to move around the plane. I cant believe he is 300 pounds

Vids

My brother's graduation @ parsons

Graduation was long, but this part was well worth it

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt2I9qWYYz0

nom de guerre
one of the illest stores in ny. This vid does no justice at all. The footage is shaky, it was my first time using the camera on the phone, oh well

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Foe8VHPv8T8

NY Randomness

underground, anything goes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMvyW-GLp5A

This is official, the niceguys will be at tipping point store on june 19th. Its not a performance, it's just a mixer event. Check em out, and meet em. Free food and free beer.

I know u've been seeing some of us rocking sneak peek of what should be coming out

10 plagues or makot mitzrayim as the hebrews call it shows how God used one man to destroy an empire

Blackberry storm. This is prob. one of the best shirts i have ever designed. Most shirts i design have an inside meaning, but the simplicity of it really makes it appealing. This shirt is dedicated to Yves Saint of the niceguys. I call it the blackberry storm because Yves writes his rhymes on a blackberry. The storm signifys his lyrics, because he spits that thunder. But the main reason why i like this shirt alot is because of the color choice. It is in black and that symbolizes how nobody knows yves saint like his mixtape name. Yves has been working hard to get his music out for so long. He has been doing his thing for a while now and nobody knows him. This shirt represents his life in music. Simple but has alot of history in it

whether he smoked weed or not, phelps is still a champion for real.

another special easy yves saint collabo shirt. EYS not YSL. Get familiar, Queens is the new rive guache

For the past couple of weeks, school has been a pain. This semester has proven to me why graphic design isn't something to joke with. I am working on a project where i have to redesign letterheads, business cards, envelopes, billboards and a shit load of stationery for the musuem of funeral history in houston. ( i never knew anything like that existed, i know its a crazy project). The reason why this assignment is very hard is because we aren't allowed to add any cliches in the campaign like coffins, crows etc. We really had to think outside the box and come up with different ideas. For the past 9 weeks to be exact, i have been drawing and laying out ideas for my final. Shit is hard. For my project, i used an owl to represent the company. Crows are the easy way out, but an owl def. brought something different and interesting. Since the company is about the history of funerals, i wanted to make sure i use something that related to it in a non- cliche manner. Below are a fraction of work i did for the project

membership card ideas

letterhead ideas

business cards

I got a shit load of stuff i came up with. I will post the final stuff as soon as its done

Like i said earlier, Graphic design ain't a joke. Not too long ago, i posted a project i was working on which was a photography book on the Nigerian culture in houston called: NIGERIA IN HOUSTON- PEOPLE AND CULTURE. Well here are some pics my cousin ( preciate the look out fam) and I took for the book . Above is the book cover. It should be done in less than a month

The one and only moms.

Still working on it as we speak. Shout out to Osa in New York, get at me when u head back. Shout out to my parents, nothing like them. Thanks for the talk we had. Shout out to S dot in india. I heard u'r comin back next week. Big shout outs to Matt & Robin, who just came back from nigeria. Real shit right there fam. Shirts are not on sale, i will keep you posted on when though. Lastly i just found out vibe or xxl posted one of my shirts last year lol. If anyone can send me that issue, i will give out 2 shirts. It was around APR- SEPT 2008 in the fashion section. Shout out to melo for the tip. I also found out about this last week. Check it out

http://www.nigerianreunion.com/index.php?option=com_joomgallery&func=viewcategory&catid=24&Itemid=45

I was notified that i am nominated for t-shirt designer of the year for the nigerian reunion event coming up next month. Honestly its not even about winning or losing, I'm just honored to even be recognized in the first place. Check out the link and make sure you support the event.

Lastly, i gotta leave yall with a laugh, i dedicated this to Christians lol

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwRDfO2yYMU

NY state of mind

2009-05-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

Ok i was around alot of spots but got lazy to get pics of all of them, but below are just pics of the timesquare. I was just testing out the camera. And yes they are boring as hell. Photography isn't my strongest tool but eh. i ain't perfect.

Free what do u think of this shot? lol

This is where the blog get cool. Remember in my last post, i was going to show you a perfect example of non-cliche branding. Well people this right here is it. Ladies and gents, this is brooklyn circus. I have been keeping up with them recently and the crew are doing an amazing job in reaching outside of their culture

* - means the pic was taken from their blog
Dj Kohey ( pictured above). Thank you for allowing me to take pics of the store and givin me the opportunity to broadcast the amazing work the crew is doing. I will let you know if i end up using this as the book project, i am working on

*
like i said, this is a classic example of thinking outside of the skin color. Brooklyn circus started at 2006 as a streetwear boutique, but has really grown over the past years into something more dynamic. Shit is on point. This is what i call classic, not " urban" or " black" or whatever.

*
Super cool intern alex from france.

Brooklyn circus does not only sell top notch brands like nudie, sebago ( they had tons of colors, shit was sick) but they have their own inhouse label which is consists of military inspired jackets, peacoats, chambray button ups etc. Brooklyn circus also has a reputation for making one of the best varsity jackets and wrist accessories at the moment. I was mad to find out they were all sold out when i got to the store

some brooklyn circus goodness

kohey

make sure u check out their blog for more updates. They had an event this weekend which i missed because of my brother's graduation. Check em out, this is something you don't want to miss
http://www.thebkcircus.com/blog/

This store is really on a kind. Unfortunately sunday will be the last day of business. Yes i heart is closing down. Fortunatley i strolled around to pick up on some stuff before they shut down

i heart

i heart stocked some of my fav. european streetwear brands like tonite, perks and mini, surrender, ctrl. Even though new york really lacks in streetwear, this store really had its own lane. Truly the last of a dying breed. I really don't know why it will be closing down but the recession is really getting some of my brands like obedient sons, number nine, tonite etc. Well hopefully this isn't the end of everything they i heart crew has worked very hard on

some i heart goodness.
shout out to the bro graduation
i leave tommorow, and can't wait. NY is too active, i need to relax, but its still goodtimes. There were many other spots i checked out but like i said i was camera lazy, but the i recorded so many random events in ny on my phone. I will try and upload them on youtube. I got some cool shit on the way. Easy and CCCHHHHUUUUCCHHH.. wait hold on, eversince i left the niceguys have been getting some blog love. good shit on work, they got their sneaker pimps video out now.

http://vimeo.com/4779552

Houston Sneakerpimps Pt.1 from Evesborough Films on Vimeo.

check out the blog roll the niceguys have been getting

http://the4thquarter.net/2009/05/23/u-n-i-x-sneaker-pimps-houston-video/

http://the189.com/music/u-n-i-x-the-niceguys-x-sneaker-pimps-houston

http://imflashy.com/?p=11307

http://soulassassins.com/?p=9924

http://2dopeboyz.okayplayer.com/2009/05/22/u-n-i-x-the-niceguys-x-sneaker-pimps-houston-video/

http://www.eazeest.com/2009/05/sneakerpimps-houston-w-uni-nice-guys.html

http://a1hh.com/wordpress/?p=3389

http://www.xclusiveszone.net/2009/05/vid-houston-sneakerpimps-part-1.html

http://bananaclipse.com/2009/05/22/houston-sneakerpimps-part-one-uni-the-niceguys/

http://onenecktwochains.blogspot.com/2009/05/u-n-i-nice-guys-sneaker-pimps-in.html

http://conceptcitymusicblog.com/2009/05/22/video-houston-sneakerpimps-part-1/

http://whateyethought.com/2009/05/22/vimeo-houston-sneakerpimps-part-one-u-n-i-the-niceguys/

http://hiphopblips.dailyradar.com/video/vimeo_houston_sneakerpimps_pt_1_video/

http://www.blnk.com/music/blogs/view/244189

Pretty major. They have an event at the tipping point store next month. Stay tuned on that. We got more coming. Out and one

NEW YORK i'm back at it

2009-05-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

Just landed not too long ago with the fam, right now i am stayin in my brother's apt in lower manhattan. I actually came to NY mainly for 2 reasons.

1. My brother's graduation from parsons
2. There is school project that i am working on that requires me to take lots of pictures. I felt NY would be the perfect spot to carry out the assignment. So u will be seeing alot of pics this week. This project is kinda tough and i haven't decided what my subject is about. So far its between THE NIGERIAN CULTURE IN HOUSTON or STREETWEAR. I took alot of pics around houston last week, but this trip will determine where i will go with this project. So i will be hitting up some official spots in brooklyn to capture the culture. I have to make a coffe book table in 4 weeks, so its def. grind time tomorow. But first things first my..
..OFFICIAL DISCLAIMER - I am not tryin to be a photographer, i know its the in-thing to do these days, if i had it my way, i would illustrate this project from start to finish, but i gotta make an A lol, and secondly i suck at taking pics badly. Above is a perfect example. This picture i took with a $700 camera of my new common projects sneakers looks like an i pone flick. And the shoes look mad beat up too. Collins Metu, i need to holla at u. Free where the fuck u at, i need help in adjusting my ISO and shutter speed.

check the future helmut lang himself

http://www.wmagazine.com/w/blogs/editorsblog/2009/05/19/parsons.htm

this is only the beginning

my brother has come a long way, and so far, its lookin really good. He graduates this friday and he is already in the process of starting his own label. I have seen some of his concepts and so far so good. The above pic is one of many dresses he designed and constructed from scratch in school

another set of garments he constructed

precise tailoring and detail. Like i said, only the beginning, you should be watching out for him pretty soon. I will keep yall posted on whatever he's up to

one of his other creations being modeled

His amazing portfolio and sketchbook

great postures and ideas. He really has worked hard on getting to where he is and believe me it's working out nicely. The reason why this is really exciting is because i like seeing shit like this. When black people do things properly and it is compared to the greats and not falling under cliches. For years people have always come up to me and asked me for advice on how to be better artists, designers and how to set themselves apart. The best answer i can give to anyone is this
" If u ever do anything, broaden it to a wider audience."
For example u never hear " white" movies, but u hear " black" movies. If u are watching a tyler perry movie, u are watching a " black" movie. The problem with that is that he is limiting himself to a specific audience, and that to me will never get to u be the greatest. If i am watching a spike lee movie, i am watching a movie, not a " black" movie. Alot of these movies u watch that are considered classics that are done by white people, u never hear people say " that's a great white movie." but they say it's a great movie. There isn't anything really wrong with just sticking with your culture, but i think to achieve greatness you have to go beyond. Ok let's talk about fashion for example, and i will keep this 100. Now look at the greats in the fashion industry like helmut lang, tom ford, yves saint laurent, co co chanel. People never label them as " white" designers. People see them as legends, pace setters, fashion designers and tastemakers that changed the game. Now if u look at the African community in fashion, there really hasn't been on that level because black people tend to stick to what relates to their culture only. For example fubu, phat farm, diddy. We don't call this fashion, but we coin it as urban. Everything black people do, whether its in movies or in any creative media, we call it urban, afrocentric etc. but we never put it on a wider scale. ozwald boateng is a perfect example of someone who went outside of that box. My brother is also a future example, he is not a walking cliche, and i believe when people see his work it will be labeled as a masterpiece not " black" art. I too am a perfect example, i took a yoruba term " dobale" and named it my t-shirt line. Surely you would expect me to talk about nigeria all day with my line, but it is the opposite, and so far the feedback has been positive. I don't usually give myself credit but i call it genius if i took a yoruba term and made everyone relate to it, understand its meaning and expanded my audience. I want people to see my work and not think of my skin color, but my mind. We may not be the same skin color but we all have one mind, and with that we have the potential to be great. I know its cliche to say this but people we should not only think outside the box, but outside the skin color. That my friend will set you apart from the rest. Stay tuned for more updates. I have a perfect example i will show to you tomorrow. Brooklyn it is. Peace

Close to home

2009-05-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

Not too long ago i wrote a post about nigeria's booming economy in every industry. But this here really sold it for me. check it out

this is Adenike Ogunlesi. A true definition of a success story. Most of you know her as the founder of a made in nigeria children's clothing line called RUFF N' TUMBLE. She is also my aunt ( dad's sister). I haven't seen her in a long time but i ran into a video of her by accident talking about her story. It really is a good watch. The video brings back memories, i remember swinging at her early workshop when she started her line. It is such a good feeling to see that she is making a mark in Africa. So good that she doesn't need to expand to foreign markets. check it out yourself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLtaW7-mcak

Also these 2 gentlemen above are childhood friends of mine. Taiwo and Kehinde Okunoren . They too started their own label called Okunoren twins which specialize in savile row suits. They are also making their mark in Nigeria in the fashion industry. They have styled local celebrities and have gotten a reputation for their craftsmanship. google them.

Lastly check out this video of Ngozi Okonjo- first female Finance Minister in Nigeria talking about the recent economic uprise in Nigeria. It is a very very very good watch especially if anyone is thinking of investing in the current market in Nigeria. Trust me u will learn something

http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/127

Nigeria is really a country we need to keep an eye on. I'm really proud of what my family has done to make a difference. Kehinde if you are reading this, i am a size 40R. i would like a 3 button pinstripe navy blue suit with a vest or a 2 button, double vents with a fat lapel. I'm really proud of you guys. Aunty nike keep doing your thing too, and keep shining, dad told me about everything but seeing was believing and i am now a believer. Lastly birthday shout outs to moms, JR and toi ( seen the hawai pics, let me know if you talking about south america ) keep doing your thing ppl. Did i also say my mom owned her own fashion label decades ago. My family is cooler than yours. My brother is graduating from parsons on the May 22nd. Congrats to him for the internship at Oscar De la renta. Bigger and better things to come. My other brother is graduating from Rice this week. Congrats to him too. Niceguys tour kicks off this thursday. Congrats to them too. Peep the flyer below. I just came back from the printer's office, we printing up some shirts, i am sleep deprived. See u this week. God bless and Viva la Africa

LIVE

2009-05-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

Yep, next week the niceguys will kick off their offical tour in houston. Just incase the u can't see the details on the flyer, here is where they will be performing

tour dates

Speakerboxx @ The Backroom - May 7th, 10pm

Sneaker Pimps @ Warehouse Live - May 9th, 8pm

The snoop dogg after party concert has been cancelled but the good news is that they will actually have their own house of blues concert sometime this month, stay tuned on the updates and keep checking their youtube channel for more
www.youtube.com/niceguystv

also i have my own LIVE channel on ustream, i am currently designing for my porfolio, working on dj mr roger's logos, t-shirt designs etc. check it out. Well if it's not live u can still view the video blog. enjoy

http://www.ustream.tv/afreekan

i am live, holla, leave a comment if u got any questions.

MOVE A MOUNTAIN TRAILER

2009-04-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

Nice Guys "Move a Mountain" trailer from Evesborough Films on Vimeo.

a lil preview from the crew. Stay tuned for the music video also. Lastly New york next month. Its been 6 months since i got my brooklyn fix, but the blog should get interesting around next month. out and one

WHERE TO FIND COOL

2009-04-03T01:59:00.000-07:00

Honestly, bloggin is becoming boring, especially my blog. I apologize for some of my recent boring posts and never updating this shit. But honestly, my blog is the last place you should think of if you are lookin for cool shit. Thanks to Kanye's blog, everyone is posting abstract artists, latest japanese patent leather sneakers, swedish designers, concept cars and cribs... ok well enough about that. But i thought i'd post something interesting. Well here goes, this one is called WHERE TO FIND COOL for recession friendly sale prices. Sorta like GQ recommends or something much cooler, but fuck it i'll play the cool role today

SNEAKERS

my sneaker taste is random, one day it is helmut lang ( regret selling those), another day it's women's jordans 5 and common projects but check this cool out These are umbro by Kim jones sneakers. I recently copped these for a very good price at yoox. I was about to cop some more but yoox has cleared out their sale stuff from their site, don't worry i got u. Yoox is a funny site so just because something isn't on the front page doesn't mean its gone from the site. So instead of looking for the shoes on yoox, i googled them and different sale links came up from yoox. So check it out, U can get some kim jones goodness for recession friendly prices and lie to your buddies u spent a grip on them. All for less than a 100 bucks.

http://search.pricewatch.com/mens_shoes/brand/Umbro_by_Kim_Jones/0.htm

WATCH
I am not a watch connoisseur but i've had/seen some cool watches before, I still want the dior black time though. And u already know i ain't shellin out a grand plus on a watch. So..

I recommend the reveal watch if you are into minimalism. The watch has a very slick design to it and of course it's black. And it's only $75. You can purchase at

http://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/ProductDisplay_Reveal%20Watch_10451_10001_53194_-1_11471_11474_null__

Moma also has a list of cool watches, check them out

http://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/CategoryDisplay_10451_10001_11471_11474_-1___1_all

But if u are not into minimalism and are looking for something equivalent to a breitling but cheaper and still maintains quality, then look no further than

D&G rhythm watch. Yes D&G may not be a watch company, but they make ill watches for good prices. Their watches retail for less than $300 but you can find cool ones on ebay for way less, U just have to look. Check it out.

http://shop.ebay.com/d%26g%20watch?_from=R40&_trksid=m38&_nkw=d%26g+watch&_naf=1

T-SHIRT
Now this is a cool find

Boundlessny aka The illest streetwear boutique in new york is hosting a mad sale on their perks and mini stock. Perks And Mini or P.A.M make one of the coolest shirts period, the fit, the graphics and best of all it's organic cotton. Shirts usually retail for $80 but now you can cop them for less than $30. U can also stash up on their bags, sweaters and so on. I guarantee you will stand out with a perks and mini garment on. Check it out

http://www.boundlessny.com/clothing/93/perks-and-mini

DENIM

This is cool

EDWIN japanese selvage jeans for less than a $100. Now do not be fooled by other brands that patch the term " selvage" and think that you are buying quality. Trust me when i say this brand is the truth. Retails for $300 but it's all yours your cheap. Ebay got the goods and most of them are authentic just don't buy from hong kong, china and austrailia. I know

http://shop.ebay.com/EDWIN%20JEANS?_from=R40&_trksid=m38&_nkw=EDWIN+JEANS&_naf=1

SUITS

Anything yoox sells is not only for a good price, but quality and fit.

Like this tonello suit for $500, check out the suits yoox has to offer

http://www1.yoox.com/YOOX/SUITS/men/spring-summer/searchResult/c/art_73/ipp/10/gender/U/toll/P/tskay/3FD17CD7/dept/men#pg=1&sort=3&ipp=30

COLOGNE

I usually use YSL M7 and terre de hermes but i now have a new favorite, thanks to my brother
Costume National Intense Scent. U earn mad cool points if u have this. Got it for cheap like the clipse. Uggggh

http://shop.ebay.com/items/?_nkw=Costume+National+intense+scent&_sacat=0&_trksid=m270&_odkw=Costume+National+scent&_osacat=0

SHIRT

.... To be continued. Hope i posted something interesting. If not oh well, i tried making my blog cool. Signin off now go find something cool

but before i leave make sure you still check out the niceguys channel for videos
www.youtube.com/niceguystv

MINOR CHANGES

2009-04-03T01:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry the blog has really been acting up on me recently especially on certain browsers so i had to delete some posts. Chck back again for more updates. Be easy.Oh by the way, i was not really moving to new york. A minor April's fool joke, I can't believe some of you fell for it. Haha, it's all good, heading over to NY next month for my brother's graduation. Anyone that will be in town, hit me up. Out and one. Also this sucks ass. I haven't been in houston on a holiday for a minute, my spring break is officially lame.

JUNGLE JUSTICE

2009-01-24T07:20:00.000-08:00

click on the link and watch the video then read my entry to get a better understanding

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5xVrxef6BY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dSu1izWj-I&feature=related

Did you watch it, what was your reaction ? you felt sorry for those people being burned. I don't blame you, it's human nature for us to feel for those that suffer. This video really does remind me of home. For those that don't know i'm nigerian, Born and raised for 27 yrs.. Well kinda, i moved out in 1997 and haven't been home since. But this video made me realize how much of a jungle my hometown was. Sure Nigeria has its fair share of good things. The food, the people, the churches, the market and whole vibe but this country is a jungle for real.

Now back to the video, The people that were burned were armed robbers. Now i don't condone violence, but take it from me because i speak from experience ( i was robbed and almost killed at gun point with my family years ago), these people had it coming. Nigeria has alot of corruption going on, ( corruption is everywhere though)I sometimes ask myself, how did i make it. I mean i'm really used to living conditions here. Armed robbers are ruthless in nigeria, so ruthless, i have heard so many stories of some of their terror. From their killings, kidnapping, rape, rituals where they cut off body parts as part of a sacrifice. so much more, they go the extra mile. If you go to any Nigerian Church, i can almost guarantee that you will hear a testimony of how someone escaped death, its that bad. Even the police are corrupt too, some of them are armed robbers too. That video showed people standing up to killers. Its wrong to kill but how do u teach evil people a lesson? If the police ain't doing shit to keep people safe you have to instill fear into these killers. This video does bring memories because it was such a norm in Nigeria for this to happen. Everytime i went to school, i would see a dead man tied up in barb wires like it was nothing, or anytime i saw tires and fire coming out from it, i already knew what was going on. There were so many times my driver would pick me up from school because of political riots , we would have to put a small tree branch on our car to signify that we were not corrupt, because if we didn't we would be attacked. I remember in elementary school where armed robbers invaded and luckly the police came in time. All these things are really just hitting me now, that is why it's important to thank God for every situation you are in, big or small. That's why you see alot of thankful nigerians because surviving an armed robber attack is like hitting a lottery ticket, You never make it. They kill everything in sight. This video was a reminder

Pictured above are members of a vigilante group called Bakassi boys. Let wikipedia do a better introduction for you

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakassi_Boys

They go around from different cities in Nigeria doing what the police never do. Teaching evil doers a lesson. I have heard some horrific stories of what they have done to them ( i'd rather not share). Even though people praise the bakassi boys for their efforts in cleaning the streets, they are those that criticize them, and some of them end up getting killed too. And that's the problem i have with that video because some of the people that were killing those robbers are evil too. I watched a sermon on Minister Farrakhan ( not a fan of him) but he said something very powerful, He said if anyone is a threat to the things we love like family, we automatically turn to killers; Now that's real. My uncle accidentaly hit a bystander with his car, he immediately took off because if he stuck around, he would have been killed by vigilantes, because they would think he meant to hit that person. Bakassi boys are not only a terror to the robbers but people to a certain degree. Nigeria is known for prosecuting robbers from the petty ones to killers, why do you think alot of people with missing limbs beg around the streets in lagos. It's because they were thieves, and usually by law in the northen states they cut off your hands so you wouldn't steal again. Fucking crazy

Armed robbers were ( i don't know if it still is) a big problem in Nigeria. Let me share one of my personal experiences.Back in 96 i think, me, my brothers and my mom went to a market to buy food, as we were in a car we were ambused by people with guns. I mean we were surrounded, They took all of us down and almost kidnapped my little brother. My mom was lucky enough to grab him. They left with our car but we didn't trip because we had our lives which rarely happens when robbers attack. But the interesting part is that the armed robbers were hired by one of my mom's friends. Armed robbers are not only a problem here too, alot of people even the ones you consider as family usually want you dead, They would go to witch doctors and go the extra mile in seeing that you don't succeed. I know some of yall have seen local nigerian movies. ( By the way i don't watch em, the same shit everytime). Alot of the themes that deal with jealousy, witchcraft and pure evil is true. That shit does exist, in other word do not trust anyone. There are alot of jealous folks out there and i have heard so many things. Another incident even happened but this time with my mom, i was in houston that time. Armed robbers dressed as business men invaded our house. My dad was hiding in the restroom with no penny to him. I know it sounds like i'm exaggerating but listen, they searched the whole house for him because they wanted money. They held my brothers, my mom and my sister captive. My mom was slapped and questioned on the whereabouts of my dad, even shot the wall where she was at. ( a warning shot or a kill shot, i dont' know but they fired). All this happened while my dad was in the restroom praying. They ended up leaving stealing all our jewelry and stuff, but in the end they made it alive. My brother said that was the longest 10 minutes of his life. Ask him and he will tell you. Armed robbers are that ruthless. Like i said survivng an armed robber attack is rare, i know some of my moms friends that haven't been so lucky as we are. It's really sad

The whole point of this post is to explain the video. Why those people tortured those guys who looked innocent. Nigeria is beautiful place despite all this, I know it need prayer but it's so much to do there. I haven't been home since 97, I would love to check it out some day but i promise you it's a cool place to visit, you just have to be careful around there. The system there is so different from here, where America depends on credit, Nigeria is built on cash and carry. My fam prefers it over there. It really comes down to preference, Violence is everywhere but i really posted this to share why what happened in that video happened. Its been real yall. Good day and God bless.

UNDERSTANDING DENIM

2009-01-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

Denim is really something that a select few really really really understand. Honestly i don't consider myself a denim head, but i can say i have seen some of the best hand made jeans and been to some of the best denim shops in the world. But before i speak about whatever, let me say to those that if you are into the tru religions, studded bullshits, and brand names and all other bullshits that make you spend $800 because your favorite rapper has them, then this is really for you. Have a seat and take note. There are things you must understand before buying the perfect... wait there isnt really anything perfect so let me start over. Before buying great denim, There are 4 things you must know.
Quality
Fit
Cut
Wash

Now i don't claim to be a denim guru, but i always find myself looking for a great pair. Prob. own 30 but who cares, numbers don't matter. U can never own enough denim. I know i need more. The reason why i bring this up is because it feels like the origin of denim has been forgotten. The full purpose and quality i feel, everyone should know.

This is Levi Strauss. The originator of what we know as denim. During the 19th century miners had complained about their trousers tearing up during work, so levis came up with a tougher material that had tougher pockets that could withstand harsh conditions. Denim back then was American workwear before anything else

The 501 jeans by levis were a staple in american workwear. Levis used old shuttle looms to stitch their jeans to give them a tough rigid feel for their workers. That's were the term selvage comes from
selvage or selfedge as defined in wikipedia is a type of denim which forms a clean natural edge that does not unravel. It is commonly presented in the unwashed or raw state. Typically, the selvage edges will be located along the out-seam of the pants, making it visible when cuffs are worn. Although selvage denim is not completely synonymous with unwashed denim, the presence of selvage typically implies that the denim used is a higher quality. Levis had stop using their shuttle looms to produce their denim decades ago due to a higher demand for jeans. So factory mills used newer looms to replace old ones to mass produce them which sacrificed quality of denim.
Fast foward many years later after quality was irrelevant in today's market, many " designer brand names" poped up which was a competition for levis because name was more important than quality. Bullshit brands like 7, true religion etc became the forefront of what denim is supposed to be to the masses. Levis was in serious jeopardy because it wasn't seen as fashionable like the other brands. After the millenium passed sales began to decline for levis and have not seen profit since. The only thing still keeping levis in the limelight is their hard to find vintage collections and collaborations, but still I am still suprised they are still in business during the recession.
Real denim stores are really hard to come by. As a matter of fact there are only 2 stores in America that specialize in good denim. Selfedge and blue in green. Alot of japanese were obssessed with American pop culture and 50s lifestyle so they mimiced alot of what we had back then including selvage denim. The old shuttle looms that levis had used to produce workwear for their miners, were used by the Japanese to revive the original selvage denim. Brands like Evisu, studio d'artisan, somet, pure blue japan, Sugar Cane and so much more continued the legacy that Americans forgot. That is why alot of collectors travel to Japan to purchase good quality denim.
Another thing i stated about denim is quality. Do you know good denim is supposed to last for 30 years. Denim is meant to be worn everyday, they become better in time and honey combs develop natural. I see it as something personal. Pictured above is a pair of apc jeans that were worn for 1 year everyday. Serious if you ask me
Fit and understanding what you are paying for should really be a factor when you are buying a pair. Do not let these " coporate vultures" tell you what is good. If you feel like this too confusing, or i made grammer errors ( which i always do - speake spanish, i'm sorry) then you need to watch this video, this is from selfdege- A one of a kind denim lifestyle store in san fransico. I guarantee that this video will make you think before you spend $300 on another pair of jeans, you must understand

quality

fit

cut

wash

check it out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMKv3VfDCP8

mlk super sale

2009-01-15T22:21:00.001-08:00

to celebrate mlk day and the inaguration, we decided to pull a sale off. But u know what else is cool. The eta mu alphas of u of h are having a bbq that day too at the quads at university of houston.

University of Houston
4800 Calhoun Rd.
Houston, TX 77004

BBQ starts at 12 so come around
FREE FOOD
FREE DRINKS
ALL SHIRTS FOR $20
* LADIES EAT FIRST* - SAYS THE ALPHAS

For more info call
281 226 0488

see you around

What to look out for in 09

2009-01-07T20:13:00.000-08:00

09 is def. going to be a good look, and i say this because i am blessed to know people who will def. be icons of this generation. So let it begin

my brother easy yves recently moved to LA to focus on his music career. As of now i can't spill much on what he is up to but believe me it is big and huge.Just you wait and see. Here are some of the pics he posted on what he's been up to. Oh yeah thats a bentley coupe he is rolling in by the way

yves' transportation ?

Stay tuned the good shepherd is coming. Good luck to you Yves

def. look out for yves in 09. He got alot coming out his sleeves. Check out his myspace
http://www.myspace.com/somars

My boy sean is def. someone who you should be looking out for in 09. He recently just moved back from LA and has been making alot of moves in Houston. He is an aspiring actor, model and a writer. Check out his blog
http://seanwillindmix.blogspot.com/

These are pics of some of what Sean has been working on. This is an independent film he recently shot in houston

sean with his film crew.

Go Dj candlestick has been dropping alot of heat lately like birth control 6. He def. has more in the works, check out some of his mixtapes

http://www.mediafire.com/265pro

My other brother Niyi will be graduating from parsons this year in New York so you should be expecting something major from him. He has already interned for some of Well known designers from New York. Check out his blog, trust me you will feel smarter

http://afreekan.blogspot.com/

Dj Mr Rogers aka Slim Thug's Dj is making mad noise in Houston with his SH!T FACTORY. Check out his blog for more updates

http://www.djmrrogers.blogspot.com/

He also collaborated with the niceguys for a podcast ( i think i posted this a while ago) but anyhow check it out

http://www.niceshtradio.blogspot.com/

Willie Dean is a stylist, designer and a socialite. His crew are the most ambitious people i have seen in a while. It's better to view his website to see what i am talking about. It's gonna be huge. And watch that trailer too

http://styleno5.com/Style_No.5_-_WE_LIVE_FOR_THIS.html

A real definition of a hustler. I have known Kofi for several years to be up to something. He is an actor, a writer, a producer, a model and a singer. Kofi has been moving around new york and miami to focus on his career and believe you me, his work is def. going to pay off. He is a true def. of a go getter. I have been blessed to not only know this brother but to be posted on what he has been up to. Check out the pics below

Some of the films kofi has been shooting

Check out Kofi's myspace

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=390187575

and did i say kofi is a producer, he has a live channel where he makes beats. Check it out

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/LEONdemusic

and lastly

Jovan from new york. A consultant that has been on the move and making it. I've been blessed to know this brother, even though i don't know fam too well. But honestly The bro is a real inspiration. What he does is something i would like to end up doing sometime this year. I can say he is def. up to something. Check out his blog too. And read and i mean R-E-A-D everything. Trust me it's mad ill

http://thejohndoesociety.blogspot.com/

and as for me. look out for more drawings. I haven't done that in a minute. More ventures and so on, and yes graduation. 09 bout to be official. You heard it here first. Also the rockets whooped that ass lol. The Celtics need to play the lakers again. This ain't looking good for them. Anyhow Who cares Rockets all day. Oh yeah 0-team shirts are $30 come get some goodness ( yeah i'm spammin dammit)

2008

2009-01-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

I know its cliche to write about the past as a whole but honestly, the year was neither good or bad, but was a reality hitter for me. Although meeting my nephew and nieces for the 1st time this year was all that mattered to me. Obviously everyone knows that the recession was really the main issue of 2008. I can honestly say maintaining a small t-shirt line has kinda been a pain especially this year. Every time i traveled to new york, the same people that were originally looking for something new and original are now looking for something that will sell. In other words "fuck art, fuck your message, we want to sell what's trendy so we can pay our bills." Can i blame them. No, that's life, i blame myself for spending thousands of dollars to add substance and originality to t-shirts. Why not add the " naked girls holding a gun" or something obvious, maybe my numbers would do better. The recession not only made alot of these boutiques settle down for mediocrity just to pay the bills, but competition between these stores and brands were tough. And this doesn't just apply to "streetwear" alone. Did you notice alot of sales going on this year. SUVs going for mad cheap at the dealership, your favorite "exclusive" brands becoming more accessible and cheaper just to make ends meet, Saks having a 70% markdown on products to make up for the millions of dollars they kept losing every week. Everything this year i thought had value lost it. I know some of you saw my last trip to new york, the topic was obviously the r-word. Everyone is not eating. Nothing is guaranteed. Sometimes its not all about that college degree that got you that 1 job. That's why i thank God i do more than t-shirts to secure my future. But honestly with the way this keeps up i don't know how long substance will be around. Since i'm graduating this year, i know dobale won't be my main priority. The funny thing is that most of the artists like Nigo and futura and brands like king stampede i look up to faced tough times when they started. I was watching TBN the other day ( hate that channel) and Creflo Dollar said what i believe is a solution to the issues we all face today. He said " Never let your outside influence your steps" In other words never let your situation determine your destination. That's easier said than done, but i can honestly relate to what he spoke about. The bottom line is whatever you love to do. Do it to the fullest because your craft will get the respect first, then the money afterwards. That's usually the case in the world of " streetwear". With all this said i will post what i think was the best of 2008 just to remember the good times like the O-TEAM

SNEAKER OF THE YEAR-COMMON PROJECTS

The true def. of minimalism. If you are looking for something that has quality, neutral colors and comfort, then this is the shoe.

Runners up - LANVIN, YSL, RAF BY RAF SIMONS

STREETWEAR BRAND OF THE YEAR-KING STAMPEDE
the most underated brand in America. I respect this brand for their consistency in adding substance to their shirts. Very artist driven and worth the money. I'm really jealous of them. They are inspired by 70s music, cults, religion, philosophy, sombero galaxies etc. The brand is indeed a thinkers brand

RUNNERS UP
perks and mini, original fake, maharishi, comme des garcons

ALBUM OF THE YEAR-TRONIC byBLACK MILK
honestly i really don't listen to much, i'm too lazy to know what's out there. My brother usually recommends stuff for me, but this album really did it for me. For 1 the production was sick and he is a producer that knows how to roc the mic

SHIRT OF THE YEAR-CHARVET
The french label is known for making the perfect shirt. They take up to 20 measurments on your body before they make the perfect shirt for you. Think i'm bullshittin, watch this
http://video.men.style.com/?&fr_story=d0a3a6c1ff423cdfa2b13c94824183e8bfd58899

HIGH FASH. BRAND OF THE YEAR-APC
U can't deny their top quality wool coats and their japanese selvage denim cuts. This french label was too official

runners up
NOM DE GUERRE, TOM FORD

JAM OF THE YEAR

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yHLXeikXeI

THAT'S SHAWTY LO by SHAWTY LO

I can't deny this, i heard this at the boundlessny store in brooklyn. I realized this had to be on the list when i got my car from the dealership yesterday. I just got some new speakers, and the bass was undeniable. Forget what yall gotta tell me. This shit go fed

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

INDMIX DOS AND DONTS BY FREE AND FBA

http://www.vimeo.com/2547184

Can't deny it, it's true

Ok i'm tired of posting pics

REST OF THE BEST OFS

GADGET - I PHONE

See 08 wasn't as bad as we all thought, but 09 is here and change is nice. We bringing back the good times. O-TEAM shirts are available for $30. Ask about them

Damn weather

2008-12-28T02:31:00.000-08:00

I was on a full time hustle today trying to get this done. Shout out to orange and free for helping out as always. i originally wanted to do the photoshoot inside the baseball park, but so many factors prevented it like the damn weather, but so far the results came out cool

all colors available in boys and girls except the blue which is for boys and the green which is girls only. All 78 shirts will be at the sneaker summit tomorrow at club meridian

1503 Chartres St

Houston, TX 77003

(713) 225-1717

See you there

video goodness

2008-12-27T12:31:00.000-08:00

owl sketch in a field from afreekan on Vimeo

quick owl skech i did with cheap markers and colors. My brother screaming in the background. Weak. I haven't colored with these in 5 yrs. I decided to see where my skills are at. This is all in 1 take. Obviously if i took my time i wouldn't do it this fast and correct my error. I got work to do. The point of these videos is to show how fastness not skills. I will try and post some more that show that but that will take mad time. Well i'm off to a photoshoot. Stay tuned for more updates later this evening

O TEAM - BRINGIN BACK GOOD TIMES, NO BULL, CHANGE IS NICE

2008-12-23T19:26:00.000-08:00

Did alot of running around today, but i thought i would give yall a sneak peek and design inspiration of the new shirt we have coming out

This is 1 of 6 colors we have coming out in the dobale/niceguys obama " o-team" shirt. Now before some of you start acting critical because it's an obama shirt, let me explain why. First during the elections everyone was cashing in the obama hype, i stayed out of it even though i knew it was easy money, but after the elections i came up with a crazy idea to come up with mine

The 'o-team' shirt is a special shirt we decided to come out with. We dedicate this to his inauguration next month.

We wanted this shirt to have a "championship" jersey feel to it. I had so many inspirations in making this shirts. For 1 the colors we used which are not random colors but colors that have meaning. They will be coming out in green, red, blue, white, black and grey.

red, white and blue - representing the american flag

green- representing the land, the people of america

black- representing his skin color

grey- my favorite color

I decided that if i am going to come out with an obama shirt, i will have to invest time in making the process have meaning to it rather than easily slapping an obama face to like everyone else.As you can see in the front, it has 43 white stars representing all the other presidents and 1 black star representing him. I left his face in a shield signifying royalty. I left his signature pink to give it a funky feel. The whole look of the front was really inspired by vintage black and white baseball cards that was signed. ( having fun yet- this is just the beginning...bear with me, i'm almost done)

vintage signed baseball cards. I gave obama a grainy look to make it look like an old vintage card.

Now the back of the shirt. It was inspired by championship football and baseball jerseys. 44 representing his title.

This is my favorite part of the shirt. The clean linework and the inspiration behind it. If you look at superbowl jerseys like the pic below. They always add something extra to it. I also added the "niceguyslook" authentic tag to it. That was inspired by alot of authentic tags jerseys had like cooperstown. I wanted to make sure that this looked like a championship jersey because of his victory. So this shirt is not only good for his inauguration, It can be worn all through his term and even for a lifetime to remember his historic victory against all odds.

superbowl football jersey. You can see some of the similarities. I hope you are as excited as i am for the release of these shirts. I wish i could post more pics of the other colors but i will on saturday.

The shirts will be coming out this weekend and will be sold at the sneaker summit this sunday at club meridian with all other dobale shirts. Stay tuned for more updates. I will post some more this weekend

countdown to o-team

2008-12-18T23:16:00.001-08:00

11 in the morning, made a stop to the printer's office
ezra lending a helping hand on the project

the o-team is coming with a bang. Stay tuned, i should be posting updates next week

as promised i was going to post pics on the tom ford book i have. It's huge as hell and kinda impossible to scan so i snaped pics of them. This is the cover

Inside contains A long interview tom ford did with the author. The book contains everything he did as the creative director for gucci and ysl. How he changed the world in menswear and how gucci became what it is today.

Showing all his ad campaigns, runway pics and celebrity pictures. The book is mad cool. Tom ford makes the illest ad campaigns

Back cover of the book. Alot of people say tom ford didn't do a good job as the director of ysl, but i differ. But what do i know, its my opinion

This is another book my brother has. This was on giorgio armani

It shows how armani became what it is today. Shows how he took out shoulder pads from blazers, How the brand became popular because of richard gere's movie american gigolo.
Now this is kinda random i just finished my semester so i decided to practice on some drawings today, which didnt take long at all. I know i am lazy but check out this video i posted on youtube. Its a 7 minute sketch i did in 1 take of a frog on a rock with a marker. Check it out and don't laugh, i see all the errors, I got work to do. I got more updates on the shirts coming out, stay tuned for next week.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_HCY9GJJb0

Boy i was mad uncomfortable in that video.

NY SUMMARY REMIX

2008-11-17T22:06:00.000-08:00

Cold and raining. Was around brooklyn, harlem and lower east side last week, i really didn't take any pics but here's a couple of spots i checked and didn't check ( disclaimer- pics below aren't mine)

TOM FORD store in madison aka my house. This store is exactly how i want my crib to look like. As soon as i stepped inside of it, i knew i was in for show.

For those that know me, they know my favorite brand is TOM FORD. TOM FORD offers the best italian tailoring. From his fat lapeled 3 piece suits, his shoes, etc, owning anything TOM FORD is quality at its finest. I cannot stress that enough

His store is decked out in shades of grey, brown and purple. He uses neutral colors but his brand has a strong statement. As soon as you enter the store, you are always greeted by an attractive lady who shows you around the store. The store def. feels like a bachelor pad.

TOM FORD is known for his graphic ad campaigns. Yes He uses sex themes to sell his products, but in a tasteful manner. Everything about TOM FORD has to do with the 70s. Aviators, porn, suits, drugs etc from that era is what the brand is about.

For those of you who do not know tom ford, he is the reason why alot of men today ( especially this generation) wear suits and blazers. He is the reason why you wear gucci. He was the former head designer for gucci and ysl a couple of years ago. He turned Gucci from and old man's brand to the cool gucci we all know today. In my opinion Tom ford is the best dressed person ever ( no homo for the slow minded). You may not know him, but i guarantee he is the reason why you want to look bold. Did you ever wonder why you threw away your jersey because you wanted to wear loafers. Well Tom ford is your answer

This was a cologne room. I had a chance to test out his private blend sample cologne which are only available at his flagship store. I recommend the bois rouge cologne. A very strong scent

check out this video on tom ford

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssB_hCs-dy0

I had a chance to check out the aloha rag in new york. Their first store in hawai was making a killing in stocking alot of high end brands from overseas like comme des garcons, balenciaga etc.

aloha rag

I had a chance to drop by the rime store, which i always do whenever i'm in new york. The store keeps getting bigger and better. You do know now they stock dobale. Make sure you give them a call, if you need a shirt. Rime is def. going a different route from other streetwear boutiques. They know stock futura, fred perry, phcy industries etc. Check out the blog for updates and call them to make your orders, their online store should be coming shortly. Ask for susan, she will def. look out for you.

http://www.rimenyc.com/

I made a stop at boundlessny at brooklyn. In my opinion they are the best streetwear boutique in new york. You can quote me on that. If you are looking for anything aside from the crooks, the hundreds, boundless is def. the spot. They spot some of my best streetwear brands like surrender, perks and mini, tyo empire and king stampede. I guarantee you will spend money at the store. The workers there are prob. some of the most intelligent people i have met in new york. They always have something up their sleeves

I always miss out on the japanese label number (n)ine. Better luck next time

A store i didn't check but i've heard so much about this store. SIEZE SUR VINGT. Which means 16/20 in french. The idea of the store is genius. Let this video do a better explanation for you. The pic below the store pic is nas rocking sieze sur vingt

http://www.youtube.com/wach?v=cKeuQ188Ct0

Something i don't do at all, but i will put this in a g.o.a.t section. Everyone i know has been changing their cars recently but a car that i recommend for those who are looking for luxury on a budget is def. is All new passat cc. Yes i am biased to anything european but this car is a smart coupe for real

I had a chance to check it out at the dealership, It is def. worth the money. Going for less than 30k, it has alot of technological features and the interior feels like space. They are alot fo luxury cars out there that may look good on the outside, but have a crappy interior but this car is right on the money

As far as detailed specs, i am no expert, but i will let car and driver explain why this car is a good buy

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/vw_audi_central/2009_volkswagen_passat_cc_first_drive_review

My brother has a book on tom ford, This book has almost all the ad campaigns he did for gucci and ysl. It shows how he transformed the labels and how he re invented menswear today. I will try and show pictures of the book later. I also read the new esquire in dallas recently, you need to read the new article they did on italy. How tailoring is their life. It was def. a good read and an inspiration. Moving around is really making me see life differently, I know i go to new york everytime but it's always something i learn about the city that makes me come back everytime. I plan on movin around more, stay tuned on whats up. Duece

new day

2008-11-05T22:19:00.001-08:00

August 27 2008 and november 4 2008. Days that changed everything. My president is black, my passat is green.

minor

2008-11-02T20:31:00.001-08:00

I spent the time today on retouching. Whenever i am trying to practice a new style. I tend to draw alot then i stop for a year. But something i really tend to do since i procastinate everytime is i revive old shit i did to see whether i am

Remember this sketch i did. Well i retouched it to give it a more real feel. If you notice the human skin or anything has no black lines at all, the only thing black is withing our pupils and hair. So the new version i toned down on the black lines, added more jewelry and focused on making not a sketch but something more real. I also made sure i added some depth and value to the cheek area so she wouldn't seem flat.

This was more aggressive because of the black lines allover

wolves are prob. the easiest and quick to draw. Whenever i practice i tend to sketch out easy subjects to see where i am headin

I have also been blessed to work with one of my retailers on a shirt they have coming out next month. Stay tuned on what it is. This is not the final design. We should have more coming out.

A preview of whats coming out soon. Check out the new website. It's temporary for now. Stay tuned for what i got going for the next couple of days.

www.dobaleonline.com

WORK AND PRACTICE

2008-10-17T22:57:00.000-07:00

I was at the other side of town directing a photoshoot, I was satisfied with the results. Shout out to free, brooklyn and the fam that came through. Anyhow stay tuned for the results.

I am really buggin on these political sketches, but i am using it to practice on realism. I'm leaning towards on making that style my priority. This obama sketch is still in progress, stay tuned for results

stay tuned for more. Also afront got some stuff on sale and new sbs in stock. Make sure you swing by if you are around. Shout out to the afront fam.

AFRONT

2205 Washington Ave,
Houston, TX -
(832) 673-0200

As a matter of fact, check out their blog

http://afronttx.wordpress.com/

RETAILER UPDATE.

2008-10-14T15:48:00.000-07:00

These are our official retailers of today. They should be getting shirts by next week. Make sure you swing by if you are around the area.

i know this is cliche, But its a duty. Make a difference. Stay tuned on whats next

M.E.T

2008-10-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

I spent my last day in new york going to the metropolitan museum of art to look for inspirations for next releases. This museum was prob. one of the best things that has happened in my life. It was impossible to explore it in one day but i saw so many periods of art from Renaissance art, minimalism, surrealism etc. These are some of the pics i took

metropolitan museum

Egyptian section. Filled with sarcophagus ( egyptian tombs) and sculptures of kings and gods. Most of their works were dedicated to gods. I was impressed by the details they used with limited resources

greek and roman

faces of greek gods

zeus

head statue of constantine. The first christian roman emperor that turned Christianity into a religion when it was still a cult

greek and roman

sarcophagus

I saw so many of these. The pictures do no justice on how much detail these tombs have. Alot of royal families were mummified in these to have safe spiritual journeys. The more i research on religion the more fascinating i find it. Over generations religion has shifted the world, many cultures dedicate their lifestyle to please higher beings through their art.

I think this was a hidden tomb or something. Much better in person

this was massive. I read the notes that were attached to most of these. From what i understand this was considered weak and most likely belonged to a middle class person because it didn't have any gold finishing on it and the details were not as refined but i was still impressed

John the Baptist

the best part of the show. European and renaissance paintings from france and italy

I may not know much about art history but i am really biased towards european paintings and sculptures because they evoke so much emotion. Every detail is realistic but exaggerated at the same time. It may be still but there is so much action going on. Every time i see old paintings especially religious ones where i see Angels, crucifixion of Christ, the last supper etc. I feel so much alive, like i am getting a glimpse of what really happened, what Christ went through and what He was thinking. Even an atheist friend of mine is always fascinated with Religion, he always reads the bible and studies it as an art even though he doesn't believe in God. One thing i do agree with him with that Religion is art

Hercules

Even with the angels. I always feel like i am witnessing a catastrophic event, like it's the beginning or an end of an era. As much as i am fascinated with this, i wonder, is this how God really works. Am i witnessing a fraction of what the Almighty is capable of. Unreal if you ask me

Benjis. The money we spend

photography section

The most gangsta, illest pic of Fidel Castro

the amazing minimalist works of ellsworth kelly

this was the negro art section. I never thought i would see one of kara walker's works in person. She is def. an icon of today. Google her

Andy Warhol's mao

Chuck Close. The best photorealist artist ever.

Chuck Close

southeast asia art

one of many buddha statues i saw.

Like i said religion is the best art. This is their interpretation of what god is, heaven and after life

greek. This was def. an eye catcher but people were not looking at it

They were looking at this artist trying to capture it live. I was too impressed

Salavdor Dali's crucifixion. The illest surrealist artist ever.

Speaking of art. Michelangelo is my fav. artist ever. He is def. someone i look up to as far as style. He was perfect in anatomy and proportions even though the details can be exaggerated

Leonardo da vinci on the other hand was more of an inventor and scientist. He only has no more than 30 paintings ever ( shocking huh), he was a chronic procastinator ( just like me) but i feel like he didn't reach his full potential in drawing

Damien Hirst. A british artist i don't support because of the fact that he stuffs dead animals and sells them for $100 million. Bullshit on the highest level. Alot of these artist think they can get away with this by just making anything and calling it 'art'. Trust me he isn't the only one making a joke of out this. Right now Hirst is the talk of the town. Supposedly he is the richest artist and his shit is prob. the most expensive ever. Google the poser. This is just a real dead shark in box. And it is worth millions? Anyhow this experience was def. a good one for me. Shout out to lauren, jovan, atmos and all my ny fam chasin their dreams. What up easy. But really this trip was def. productive. Stay tuned for whats coming next. It's huge.

2 -8 pm ( a productive day

2008-10-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today was mad tiring as i went allover brooklyn and harlem to check on fam ive known for a while

Cough up a lung, where I'm from, Marcy son, ain't nothing nice

At the heart of brooklyn, our first new york retailer rime. A new store that has focuses on not just being a one stop street wear boutique, but a haven for functional quality garments. We are proud to be a part of the best. A store that carries quality brands like pienfield, recon, undftd, fred perry, fiberops and newly added dobale. Susan ( owner of Rime) def. has an eye for standing out from the rest at a market that is being killed by not just saturation but the economy. Susan has been in the industry and has used her knowledge to bring something new and fresh to brooklyn. I have known her for a couple of months and i can def. say she knows what she is doing

Like i said good quality garments. They stock Moncler which is known in europe for providing luxury and function in their outerwear

OG Mark. I know times is hard and business is slow but hopefully a change will come. Speaking of the economy, i haven't seen middle class talking about economy like crazy until today. Everywhere i went, economy was the topic. Susan didn't want a pic but its all good. (I will def. get at you on everything we spoke about, you are heading at the right direction)

Check em out

RIME
157 smith st
Brooklyn NY 11201
info@rimenyc.com
718.797.0675

WWW.RIMENYC.COM

make sure you sigin up for their newsletter to get updates on the latest

Like i said. train to train, moving around to the other side of brooklyn

wealthy hostage at the other side of brooklyn. This store is the definition of fresh

like i said fresh, if you are looking for something that looks visually appealing and flashy, this is your spot. With a wide range of brands from crooks, 10 deep, mhi, swagger and different fitted caps. I can guarantee you will find something clean and quick

Wealthy hostage also have custom nhl new eras. This was one of the best i saw... but really i need to stay away from fitteds, i'm getting too old but this is FRESH

Come around yourself and check it out.

harlem here i come

harlem

puerto rico stand up

goliath up in harlem. Shout out rosemary, mark and my nigga dee. They stock everything from crooks, penfield,

Dee is that nigga. We was talking about ..yes you guessed it the economy. My nigga broke it down on how shit is so hard that drug dealers in brooklyn aint seeing money. LOL not to sound ignorant but man this wall street shit is really hitting the streets and the hood like no other. Drug dealers and pimps are def. getting political. Dee i'ma be around again to check on the fam. Tell rosemary i said what up from texas

Best dee quotes

" I sold weed to buy iceberg back in the days

'' there aint no more street money, the dealers, the fiends, business is slow''

''who the fuck wears rocawear''

thats fam right there, he got you on some laughs when u come around

times is hard, goliath def. have alot of stock on sale. They can def. relate to us middle class. Check em out in harlem.

http://www.goliathny.com/wordpress/

you should know by now my pics are terrible. ( free u coming with me to new york next time). Anyhow took the 6 train to atmos in harlem

atmos is def. an og store that mixes loud japanese streetwear with american. They are also known for their collaborations with nike, g shock, head porter and i must confess they make one of the best collabo pieces

atmos

This is their collabo backpacks they did with head porter. Like i said, one of the best. I really need one of these

ralph, me and yos holdin down the spot. Again the economy was the talk. Niggas is hungry man. Stay tuned for more updates, i can assure you that there is more. Shout out the street hustlers i be running up on everyday, get that money, money, money. Live, grimy and unshaven from the lower east manhattan, signin off on a mad productive day.

ANOTHER DAY

2008-10-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Checked out the bbc/icecream store at soho

I'm not going to lie. I am not really too big on bbc but their store really made me respect the brand more. The store is prob. the best designed store i have ever been to. It def. feels like another world and the ambience has a way of making their products more attractive. I was impressed. Who wouldn't be, everything wonderwall touches is gold. By the way wonderwall is a japanese design firm by Masamichi Katayama. His firm is known for breaking boundaries when it comes to architecture. Ever since they started in 2000, They have made a name for themselves not only in japan but worldwide. They are responsible for designing the stores of Original fake, bathing ape, bbc, uniqlo, the new colette, dean & deluca, apc japan. I may not know alot about architecture but i can say wonderwall def. have an eye for not only fusing art with their projects, but function. I was really inspired after visiting the bbc store, it gave me a new look about the brand

one of the many a bathing ape stores wonderwall has designed

the uniqlo store in new york. They are def. ahead of the game

I also had a chance to check ground zero. This isn't my pic but that area is really bigger than it seems. What a tradegy, anyhow

Street artist Banksy has been making alot of headlines in the community with his political work. Most recently his work in new orleans, and now his 3 story piece which i saw in soho. Magnificent. Banksy is a genius

Speaking of politics, it is really important that we make a difference and vote. It's time for a change. I was mad bored this weekend and did some random sketches of our future

Of course i didn't take these seriously at all. I did these in one take....anyhow who cares. Biden is the man

I know i watch too many cartoons, but palin looks too much like a bugs bunny roger rabbit loony toon Betty boop chick. I can't lie she aged well though.... But back to what i was saying. Register to vote and make a difference. Cough * obama* .. and also you cannot and I REPEAT YOU CANNOT WEAR ANY TYPE OF CAMPAIGNING GEAR TO VOTE, THEY WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO COME THROUGH if you do, so please look normal, it is important

streetwear?

2008-10-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

I made a stop at union in soho today and spoke to the crew about the market. First of all shout out to the union crew holding down the spot. I really appreciate the feedback ( prob the best.) i got as far as the direction and designs of dobale. The fact that they compared my brand to perks and mini really says alot about it. But we spoke about how dum down the market is now. I know you hear about this type of talk everytime but let me break it down in my perspective. First of all dobale is def. not my source of income and is not my main thing. I just have a new found passion to make a name in this media. There really isn't money in this streetwear market and honestly its alot of work. I keep saying it to folks everytime that this shit here isn't what it seems. For example there is brand i follow from LA ( which i won't name). This brand has been around for 5 yrs. They have 2 boutiques in cali and an online store etc. They only made $2 million last year in revenue. Now don't get me wrong $2 mill. is alot of money, but think about the expenses that have to be paid to maintain the brand. Warehouse costs, employee costs, travel fees, showrooms like magic(which can cost up to $15,000), production cost, property and all the bills concerning the 2 stores alone, the money you would have to re-invest into the brand etc. You will see that it isn't alot of money. When i hear that i know it isn't worth the stress at all. Now getting back to what i was saying about the conversation we held at union. I have been getting alot of feedback about how overqualified my brand is and how it isn't dummed down at all which is a good thing because i don't plan on doing that. But it bothers me when I hear these pioneers that started streetwear telling me that they now have to cater to 'cool' guys that want no substance but the most colorful dum down products. Can i blame them? no not at all. They have a business to run, paying the bills in new york is not a joke, so i don't blame them at all. But its crazy now i tend to ask, who is my customer, what is streetwear? or is this streetwear? Since when did quality and substance die.

When i first started dobale. I always wanted to go to magic trade shows in vegas, but seeing how saturated the market is. I realized to stay out of it. Not because the brands i look up to don't go there, but i realized the once artist driven culture no longer exists. Shout out to leo ( manager) at union. He told me today's customers are not about education or substance, but about what 'lil wayne has on.' or what 'kanye calls cool.' He also told me that my brand should've existed 8 yrs ago when quality was the key. Trust me this isn't the 1st type of feedback i have heard. I have heard stuff like ' too religious' or too ' deep' or ' offensive.' One of my retailers didn't buy my 'pig chasers' shirt because of the message behind it. But the bottom line is, this is what it is today like the picture above. It's all about the most colorful cool stuff and obvious 'rockstar' image. Is that what streetwear is about? I really don't speak much on it but i had to after talking to the leading pioneer of the market. How they had to dum it down to pay the bills. Sad but true, but what can i say, it's a business at the end of the day. This also brings me back to houston. Honestly the city is the 4th largest in the country and i believe it can get there, but i really don't see it. How many people do you see with painted 'dunks' and true religion jeans with a mo-hawk and kanye shades. Ok what about ed hardy. I will not say my opinions on ed hardy but what if i tell you my printer can get that same burn effect that he does for his shirts or what if i tell you i have heard of a printer in la that prints for the brand and other brands in america that charge way less, would that change your view on why you buy the brand. Obviously quality is not involved with why ed hardy is expensive. I know some friends that want to start stores and brands. These people i know have told me i've inspired them which is a good thing. The way they want to market their idea from what i understand is genius... but i ask them ' is it worth bringing that creativity to a market that is all about logo and following celebrities ?' I'm glad i may be a part of their dream and i hope the current state of the market will change but in the meantime, while i'm in school. I will make whatever the hell i feel like, make my 2 cents and go back to the lab. Thank God i already have enough to support it. I have already gotten a suggestion to start consulting for people who want to open up boutiques but honestly.. i already got enough shit on my hands. Signing of

A DESIGN PROCESS

2008-10-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

This is the garment district of new york. This is where alot of brands go for their sourcing like garments and materials needed to put collectons together etc. This is where everything gets done. I would say today was def. a learning experience for me

Like i said today was a big learning experience for me. I got to find out first hand the design process of constructing garments. For starters there are 4 stages in this process

showrooms

The 1st stage you have to look for your materials like cotton, wool etc. They had alot of warehouses that had these, but to my knowledge this one was top-notch.

This store had 3 floors worth of materials, textures, patterns etc. To pick out one was def. not an easy job. You have to know the feel, how many yards you will be using for production etc. I realized i had alot of work to do

There is also a section for designer materials. Famous designers like armani etc. would get rid of materials they don't need anymore after their collection is done and give them to stores like these. This is actually a real fendi one laying around

2nd stage. Which we didn't go to, but you have to take it to a pattern maker. The pattern maker helps you with the sizing and draw out the design of whatever you are creating, the exact measurments and so on. Its sort of a blueprint guide to the tailors.

This is actually the 3rd step. We rolled around the cutting room.

This is where they would look at the blueprint and cut out everything from the material you hand to them. The sleeves, the chest and so on.

The 4th stage is where everything is pieced together. The final stage of constructing everyting

This particular cutting room offer services to some of new york's best designers like rag and bone and patrick ervell

That was def. a learning experience but shout out to go go curry for their top notch local japanese food. New york got alot of these spots around

FIT Institute. One of the top fashion and art schools in america

the bullshit continues

this is the gallery district. They were alot of galleries around here

This is the comme des garcons new york store. The most respected brand in japan by the richest japanese designer Rei Kawakubo. She is known for deconstructing and going left field when it comes to branding. Let wiki. help you with more info

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rei_Kawakubo

comme des garcons

interior is a maze filled with every brand rei has ever done. She is def. one of a kind. Signin off, deuce

ORCHARD MORNING, RIVINGTON AFTERNOON

2008-09-30T05:51:00.000-07:00

Checked out this cool spot at orchard street called BBlessing.

http://www.bblessing.com/

BBlessing is decked out in a red interior full of nicely built custom furniture. The store has a mix of middle class new york and euro brands like surface to air, rag and bone, opening ceremony, raf simons etc.

bblessing also stock their in house label

Not too far from bblessing was reed space. One of the best streetwear boutiques in new york that is def. ahead of the game. Ran by street wears leading pioneer, jeff staple. Jeff staple really finds a way to stand out from the saturated market. Jeff is known for so many collabos like the pigeon dunks which caused a riot in new york, timberlands and more recently idiom and starter. Jeff also runs a graphic design firm. A taste maker that def. pushes the envelope in the market. His staple line recently started to focus more on their cut and sew line instead of their graphic tees. Youtube Jeff to check out his interviews; He will def. inspire you just like he inspired me

Reed space along side their annex store which is running a sale. I recommend you swing by if you are around.

reedspace stock many streetwear fav. like crooks, in4mation, the hundreds, stussy etc.

Reedspace is also a lifestyle store. They have books, bags, music for those who are looking for something fresh. Their interior is also genius

REED SPACE

On the walls of reedspace has information of all the brands they stock. Information like their origins, inspirations etc

Shout out to tim and oni for the hospitality. They gave me the latest issue of LTD magazine. LTD magazine is a streetwear bible. More like a guide to every boutique across the world

insdie LTD magazine. They feature pictures and information of boutiques all over

And interviews of tastemakers all over

LTD

I also stopped by the alife rivington store. Shout out to the alife crew for their service

I made a promise not buy any graphic tees anymore but i couldn't resist their recent collabo they did with bun-b for their alife sessions.

Next stop sugarheadquaters. Good folks, shout out to them, we were talking about the greatness of king stampede and how much ahead they are of the game

King stampede is easily becoming one of the best american streetwear brands. They are def. on their own lane unlike many brands. They used to be a vinyl shop years ago but after sales declined in their store, they transformed it to a lifestyle line. King stampede is inspired by music of the 70s, cults, sombrero galaxies and religion. Their brand is def. artist driven and is a big inspiration to my own brand. Their word play really and use of negative space really does it for me.

and that brings me to the next season of dobale. Recently i have been studying early christianity which was a cult back then. I have also been working on my own quotes and playing with different words and negative space. Alot of people that have seen the current season of the wonder chronicles like it but it scares some people away because of the religious influences

These are some ideas i have been developing for the shirts which will be out next year. I used the same method for this season which was a success.

I will be at some factories tomorrow, but i gotta go. Q-TIP has a listening party tonight. Check out his new single

http://www.youtube.com/wat

ch?v=KcL3_GKS0wg

it feels good

soho saturday

2008-09-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

At canal street aka bootleg central. The knock off kings were making a killing in the hustle

My mans got u here. Whatever u need. U want prada, louis, hermes, coach, burberry. he got u. He tried to hustle some white lady for a bag for $40, but ended up selling it for $30. If u got the cash, canal street got u on whats really good. Oh trust he wasn't the only one selling goodies. They were everywhere. They got u on ice, dvds, jordans etc. So my best advice is if u wanna fake it till u make it. THIS IS THE SPOT. IT GO DAANNN

These africans tripped me out. As soon as they saw me touring around with my camera. They packed all their shit up like i was 5 0 or something or sometype of investigator. I aint hating on u playa. Make your money

What u need baybay. ROLEX, BRIETLING, TISSOT. Canal is the spot

DISCLAIMER : the next set of pics below are not mine - i had to take these pics because i wasn't allowed to take pics of the stores). With that being said, i swang through laffayette to check out ODIN. ODIN is a really small space that carries alot of the finest menswear brandsthat appeals to middleclass new york . Alot of independent brands like trovata, shipley & holmes, ymc, rogues gallery, KMW and sneakers like common projects.

ODIN is also known for mixing up coming brands and well known brands together. This is def. a one stop shop for hipsters and everyday middle class people who are looking for something new, exclusive and good quality garments
o

Found this nike ID store by accident. I was at their other location a couple of months ago to customize some air maxes. The big difference between both locations is that this was more of a boutique instead of a regular retail space and of course had a better selection of colors and materials. I went to their VIP booth ( i wasn't allowed to take pics obviously) and i was amazed at the selection they had. For their air force 1s ( which was what i wanted) they had full grain leahter, patent leather etc. But what struck me was their other material selection which was for their INVITE ONLY customers. I was pissed i couldn't use materials like snake skin, croc skin, safari print and elephant prints etc which has just laying around waiting to be abused. Eventually i declined to even go on with the process, but this experience makes me think of the future. What if i actually do a real life collabo with....nah nevermind, moving on. The store was mad nice. Decked out with wood with ancient roman-like columns around the space, it was a good look.

I heard about this store today and i was suprised that i never knew about it. I have been looking for a spot like this for a while. This is blueingreen. A men's lifestyle store that specializes in denim. This is def. a haven for denim heads world wide, and i will explain why;
One thing i know even though i don't consider myself a denim head or expert, i still find myself looking for the best of the best. Blue in green is def. one of the best denim shops in the world. I met the owner who showed me some of his personal collections. I was amazed by the selection of real vintage JAPANESE selvage denim, not some crummy piece of shit. They have a great selection of the world's most sought after denim like samurais, evisu, skull, oni, pure blue japan etc. The finest in english and japanese tailoring this store has to offer. I was suprised i hadn't heard of the store before. I was only familiar with a smiliar store n san fransico called SELFEDGE. This store is far from mainstream soho where most people go for their shopping experience, it was somewhere where you wouldn't expect to find it

D' ARTISAN- One of my now favorite denim brands that were avaialbe in the store is so hard to find, this is prob. the only store in america that has them. They were one of the first denim brands to bring back selvage denim way before mainstream caught on with it. D' ARTISAN has been around since the late 70s before evisu. A well respected brand in japan and extremely detailed in fit and quality. And believe me in due time the fading on these will show you why this denim brand is making a killing

Check out blueingreen's website

http://blueingreensoho.com/

check out D'ARTISAN's website

http://www.dartisan.co.jp

I saw all types of selvage, fit and cuts from different brands. Whatever you need from 140z selvage to 20 oz selvage. This store will def. meet your standard. They also offer instore alterations. They also carry original evisu. Not the 'm' bullshit everyone wants. The real original evisu with no type of logo branding. Only 4 stores in the world carry those. 3 in japan and 1 is soho.. blueingreen. They have done in good job in catering to denim heads around the world.

I was around some other spots, but too lazy to take pics, but i will leave yall with another purpculture interview with another tastemaker in houston. Meet christolph. Check it out

D: So you are the other half of the niceguys, can you pls introduce yourself

Christolph:well whats good people im Todd also known as Christolph...uhh i make the beats,half the production team

D: ok cool u know i did an interview on free and obviously i kinda gave him a hard time and he did pretty well in the answers so u do know i got some tough ones for u. Are u ready son

Christolph: bring it on biiiottch

D: alright what is the difference between u and free as far as process and style in production. Tell me your inspiration too

Christolph: i draw alot of my inspiration from producers like madlib and 9th wonder and nicolay..and so forth, but i would have to say whats sets me apart from free production wise would probably be drums..frees alot more "drummy" than i am..im more subtle when it comes to the kick and the snare not to say that i never venture outside of my comfort zone

D: would u consider yourself better?

Christolph: wow lol captian controversy, nah at this point its not a competetion i think the playing feild is level and we jus have different styles,but yeah thats up to the listeners to decide...and to be honest the avg listener cant even distinguish between me and frees beats..sometimes not even you...similar but different

D: what amazes me is that u guys have limited resources. I remember when i first heard the music, and found out that u guys recorded in a dorm room with a microphone and fruity loops. Do you plan on expanding on your resources? Also talk to me about any future projects u got in the works, you know i'm always down to do the artwork for free. You bastards can't afford me

Christolph: lol believe me i know, but yeah we do plan to expand our recources to the, its funny that u say that bc me and yves were having a conversation the other day about this and in his opinion we have pretty much milked FL studio for all its worth and i agreed, but the creativity is endless..if its not broke no need to fix it, thats what i say, but yeah i am looking to expand my knowledge...im jus not looking foward to those novice begining stages on other programs but in the end it will be for the better of things

D: but as far as our up and coming projects..

Christolph:we are all currently workng on a 14 track EP titled "The Good Shepards"...brand new songs, brand new feel and everything in between...and me and free are also working on the "Produce Section"..a instrumental cd so all u so called rapers might wanna check it out...free beats and expanding on that earlier questions if it wasnt for free i wouldnt even be making beats, guy definetly mentored me

D: Wow that newsflash and u do know free will be reading this ok let's switch up a little. Todd all bs aside you are a 'middle class sneaker head' and i say that because the real ones are those you see around with the $500 - $7000 + joints. You know what i mean. The ones that carry their sb boxes to every event and blog on sole collector to trade every time. Obviously you are not on that level, but i've always been fascinated about it. What is it about the kicks? talk to me about your tastes in sneakers, you favorite kicks and why it's important to have a fresh pair. Do you also plan on getting on that OG level with 3000+ kicks

Christolph: yeah , but to be honestly i havnt bought a pair of kicks in a while...i enjoy being at this level...i think once u become an "upper level...3000+ sneaker head you loose track of life and become consumed w sneakers...majority of the super sneaker heads know go home prolly masturbate, and then count how many shoes they own..over and over..not for me..(but it would be cool to own 3000 pair of shoes)...but yeah when it comes to taste in sneakers..lets jus say im a NIKE man to the fullest

D: U a fool son, What about the future. Is production going to be your life or you got other plans

Christolph: will always be in my future but i dont see it being at the forefront, my main goal is to finish school and take it from there..but shit i would love nothing more than to see a Niceguys album in stores

D: snack wraps or Gratinéed onion soup ? nike or multi colored vans. You know vans are what's in. choose wisely

Christolph: definetly gonna have to go with Gratineed onion soup and multi colored vans.............if today was oppisite day, but seriously im more of a snackwrap and nike guy

D: student or rockstar

Christolph: definetly student....out of us 4 i have to be the least on the scene person, not a big fan of clubs and jus the night life in general

D: true story. U still didn't answer my other question. Whats your number 1 sneaker of all time

Christolph: definetly gonna be a pair i dont own ..umm...lemme think...........supreme nike dunk lows (black and elephant print)...they are definetly hitting or about 4 or 5 months rent

ok i think that's, any last comments

Christolph: uh not really...jus keep ur ear to the streets alot of big things in the making....by the way wasnt at all impressed w the other brands from the expo on sat...i think dobale has everythng in a headlock right now, but yeah shout outs to the niceguys, D the eldest, Melanie, and the rest of you know who u are...oh and early happy b day to my boy John Jackie. Good Music..Good Clothes...Niceguys

D: todd keepin it thorough as always. Give em the website son

Christolph:

www.myspace.com/somars

www.myspace.com/niiceguys

www.Dobaleonline.blogspot.com my up and coming wbst www.Todd.net ??? ( horrible joke).....sigining out

renewed mind is the key

2008-09-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

live from new york, I will be around for a minute. But check this out. Man this is the video of the year, the new meaning of rewind

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/931033/

the video has been taken down youtube and their website
also get out and vote.

The weather is great, but everytime i come around this city, these songs always play in my head

CLASSIC, i'm back on it. Peace

PURPCULTURE

2008-09-08T22:22:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago i wanted to start an online magazine called purpculture ( pronounced 'pop culture' ). The purp represents the houston factor and gives it a fun twist. With that project i wanted to interview tastemakers and talents of houston that are doing alot to improve the scene in everyway. Unfortunately i had other things to do, but i decided to just go ahead and start on it and see where this goes. My first interview is with Winfrey aka Free. A Dallas native just 20 yrs young and has a lot going. He is a photographer, a producer and a connoisseur of the finest things in life. He is also a member of the dobale crew and has been a great addition to the team. I had a chance to sit him down to talk about his cool factor

D:so introduce yourself

FREE: 1/4th of the Niceguys, member of the Indmix camp, head of Free Images Photography and Soul To The Future Productions but ya know....just a nobody pretty much

D: oh really u being modest here, u aint even 21 yet and u have a lot going on. You starting out early though. Where do u see yourself in the future?

FREE: Umm....I really see myself doing exactly what im doing now....just on a larger scale(forgot to mention im a member of the Dobale camp as well! lol) But umm, Im really pushing the music the clothing and the photography...those are the things im really most passionate about. I can see myself established somewhat at least by the age of 24....Godwilling of course

D: Lucky bastard. I sure wish i could trade places, I'm old and still struggling. But in all seriousness i believe with the way you are going right now, you're def. going to reach your destiny. I really suck at interviewing but this has got to be done. I feel like people need to know the future of the scene whether locally or nationwide and i am doing this to introduce not just hardworkers but tastemakers. As far as inspiration in music, can u give me a list of how u work as a producer, who inspires u and your process musically

FREE: Well im definitely inspired number one just by soul music as a whole.....its the foundation of all great music in my opinion....from hip hop to r&b to jazz to blues...even pop...all children of the soul music genre. Anywho im gonna keep my list short....as far producers go im inspired by Kanye West, Jay Dilla, Just BLaze, The Neptunes Illmind, Symbolyc One, Nicolay, THE ARE, Mark Ronson, RZA, DJ PREMIER!! Jake One, Battlecat, Dj Quik, Dr.Dre...the list goes on....some i forgot to name lol. As far my production process its not very complicated....I usually hear something that inspires me....so then I get on FL Studio....put my drums together....and depending on how im feeling i may chop a drum loop or just put my own drum pattern together, then I go for either a sample that I feel matches my drums….or I go for a nice sound to complement the drums…but no matter what I always start with the drums…thats the foundation of my beats.

D: Premo is a GOD son nobody.. you know what i really don't wanna go off track here but honestly free the first time i met u and u told me that u were a producer and u were working on the niceguys mixtape, i really didn't take your words seriously. But after i heard "only fools resist." I ate my words quick. Between you and Todd ( another member of the niceguys his interview will be up soon) who do you think is better?

FREE: HAHA! you messy bastard! lolol but umm....of course im going to give you the politically correct answer...we are both good in our own ways. I feel like as far as sampling, Todd is a monster....I feel like sampling takes talent....people cant say what they want about samplers...but it takes talent to piece records together and make your own music out of it. I feel like as far as drums...and adding all the extra things that complete a beat...I feel like im better in that area. We definitely complement eachother well....we make a kick ass team ill tell you that much....and this project we got coming up...the beats are AWESOME! yall just gotta wait...but trust me when you hear it....lol....its definitely gonna shock some people....a good shock that is...lol

D: ok enough with the shit talk, lets talk about style for a little bit. Your motto is good clothes, good music, niceguys. Talk to me about your favorite brands, and describe your style. I really do need better interview questions lol. But in all seriousness break it down

FREE: Ok...favorite brands, of course we gotta start off with good ol' Ralph Lauren.....ive been a polo head( not on the level of D or Yves Saint) but ive been big on polo since middle school. I also love Levi's, Guess, Fossil Maharishi, NIKE SB!, Stussy, mishka....i love king stampede, Supreme, adidas....a lil bit of everything....I cant speak on the higer end of the fashion spectrum even though im a big fan of it....but once I get there we can discuss the Louis, the Guccis, Comme Des Garcons and the Saint Laurents and whatnot. As far as style.....Im really into whats comfortable, I like looking good and being comfortable at the same time....im not big on matching...i try to but sometimes i like to contrast....it adds to the look sometimes....I try to not overdo it though....so yeah....thats it in a nutshell

D: You seem to be well grounded as far as music, style and everything you do as a profession. Can we talk about your photography? I honestly believe you get better everytime i work with you, what is it that you see through those lenses. I once took photography class in school and i barely passed. Getting your focus, lighting, exposure and angle is not some overnight thing. You def. need to have vision to master the arts. Can you shed some light on what it takes to get on your level. Don't play modest with me son

FREE: HAHA...My Level? lol my pics suck! haha...ok jk...on a serious note. Practice makes perfect, especially with photography...its all about going for what catches your eye....always having a certain image in mind before you hit the shutter...and knowing your camera well enough to get that exact image that youre looking for....granted it doesnt always come out exactly how you want it....but thats what all photographers shoot for(pun intended..lol). Also just knowledge....reading up, getting knowledge from other photographers, and just learning your equipment....after about 2 years of doing this....I feel like im where I should be. Now im trying to get to where I WANT to be....and that may take some time.....but once I get there....well....things will get very interesting

D: U also work for indmix.com? How's that working out. Tell me everything...including the groupie love.. we all know you getting mad play son

FREE: Yeah man, Indmix camp, been with them for about a year and a half...shoutouts to Ikem and Jamaal for puttin me on...its a great look. Im the youngest in the camp and it feels awesome to be 20 workin for indmix....where everyone is like 24 and up lol. Anywho, the indmix life is pretty much everything you think it would be....different club every night, everyone knows your name, goupies(yes, there are groupies) and ya know....having fun doing something i truly enjoy...and getting to meet new people and network and what not...its truly a beautiful thing....granted it has its ups and downs....but for a 20 year old in college.....this is pretty damn cool....im not gonna lie to you....i love what i do. its definitely made my life more interesting, its great.
D: At least you honest, i always see you on that crackberry all day lol.As far as the houston as a whole, i feel like its the 4th largest city in the US but yet there is alot missing. What is your take on that and what can you do to fix it? Is there anyone doing a good job so far in your opinion?

FREE:I love Houston, coming from Grand Prairie, TX......Houston is awesome...I never lived in the city so this is definitely new for me....but I love it. Houston has alot of opportunity...and its growing which is great. I feel like this city has potential to be an LA or a New York or a Philadelphia or whatever. I just feel like we need to just support Houston more....whether its a concert, an art event, fashion event, skate park opening, store opening, whatever....people need to start supporting whats going on...because in order for the city to grow...the people have to grow as well....or were going to be just a big city that aint about shit...lol

D: last question son
well some little little more
So who u voting for Obama or obama?

FREE: hahaha..YES WE CAN...thats all i have to say

D: ok i got one chicken and waffle fries ( unforgivable) or chinese fried rice and lastly Coogi or dobale. Choose wisely one will get u in vip and get u laid son

FREE: DOBALE DOBALE DOBALE!!! im glad to be apart of such an awesome movement.....D is one of the most talented artists ive seen....we are definitely going places....trust me people

D: Man big ups. I need more of that free music. I'm tired of hearing life in style. Go back to the lab.

FREE: hahaha...i got u, anywho i dont even know my myspace link anymore...i never use the shit..haha....but check out my blog theycallmefree.blogspot.co

m

For more info visit

www.myspace.com/niiceguys

Free's myspace link

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=14529485&MyToken=ef2860cc-71f4-4ade-ba56-054323d089b4

lazy bastard, thanks for nothing

Also i woke up this morning to find my brother on the front page of gq's website which is kind of a big deal especially if Scott Schuman is the photographer. In all seriousness fam, your grind is def. going to pay off. We all know everyone is doing their thing but i really had to acknowledge his hardwork. Check it out

http://men.style.com/

Check out Scott Schuman's website

http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

His blog is quite interesting. He is a famous fashion photographer that travels around the world shooting. He sometimes shoots for gq magazine. Check it out, it's a good read

EXPO RECAP

2008-09-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

A good look, could have taken more pics but i got lazy

this italian talent needs no introduction. If you know this track

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwuZ_q0wPYY

then you know why antoinette's voice reps screwston to the fullest. She is really on the come up and has alot to bring to the table. I always remembered listening to HSE, Yungstar, and the original S.U.C in highschool, i wondered who those singers were. The singers that would make tho'ed ass choruses like top drops. Well she is one of those people. Check out her myspace

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=270439317

Man his booth was a trip. He is a rep for "DRANK". An anti-energy drink which is sorta a legal version of " lean" I thought he was bullshitting when he told me 2 full cans will put me to sleep, but man, 2 cups of it had me leaning. I swear to you i slept for an hr

If you ever see " DRANK" in any grocery or pharmacy. He is the man yall should thank

NICENESS

SUCKER PUNCH BOOTH

Tippin point booth

David, i need that shirt badly fam, My boy david is coming out with his own line pretty soon called TMP. This is a shirt sample he wore to the event. A tribute to late graffiti legend Kieth Haring. I'm jealous i didn't come up with that concept. Dave make it happen, I am a size LARGE

Tippin point fam.

(L - R) thomas, derek and dave

The fam. Cervante, O dasha, Ariel and the crew. Preciate yall stoppin by

easy yves performing life in style during the fashion show

Pearson i need that myspace son. That band was a big joke. Anyhow check out his blog

http://www.peepod.blogspot

.com/

mr todd louis recording the rap star's performance

shoota mac and orange

MR GRIP N SIP. mr celebrant is not pictured.
I have been getting requests to display more of my artwork. The sketches below i did almost 8 yrs ago but i tried to digitally revive them this weekend but was too lazy to finish up

it's been a long time since i practiced 1 point perspective, i think its time i do so more

I had tried finishing this drawing for the longest time. This was a transco tower project i did in school and for some reason i had difficulty finishing it up due to perspective errors. I just colored everything though this weekend. All incomplete though

This was actually done today to kill time in class even though it took me 5 mins

Recently alot of people are needing my artistic services so i've been practicing and doing random little sketches and all. This was a character i made when i was like 17. Anyhow i sketched her 2 weeks ago and just did a quick coloring of her. ( i know she looks like a guy, her story is complicated) I'm just pumped up i'm getting back to illustration since i will be working on some projects that may require it

TODAY TODAY TODAY

2008-09-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

Private stock expo. The madness begins today at meridian, see you around

FOR THE SNEAKER HEADS ONLY

2008-09-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Vapors just released their sneaker issue, and i must say i was really impressed on what i read. The issue covered alot that's been going around the sneaker culture before hype existed. They interviewed real collectors and innovators like Bobbito, Greg Street, Paul Rodriguez, Wale, Dj greg street and benny gold etc. I really learned alot reading the issue. Ever wanted to find out about the legenday Orchard street dunks? What about the $4000 jordans ? Trust me you will learn alot about this issue. They also covered brands that are making a killing in the streetwear scene like supreme, Undftd and vans etc. Check it out, its available for reading online. I'ts worth it check it out

copy and paste below to read

http://www.vaporsmagazine.com/index.php/digital-magazine/#

click on the " CLICK TO READ" button

a page from vapors ( above)

I never consider myself a sneakerhead at all. Seriously i ain't even trying to be modest but this magazine did bring back some memories. I own no more than 50 sneakers. ( compared to real heads who own 500 plus..you will see some of those in the magazine.) But i have always been fascinated about the culture itself. I never had the time to wait for a week for special releases or that much money to begin with. The only 'limited' pair of sneakers i really own are the air max safaris ( pictured above) which i copped for around $200. To real heads that's nothing. I know people who buy used jordans for triple that price. Even if i wanted to be a sneaker head, i can't but it amazes me how people are really really into it. I always buy nikes and other brands for no more than $50. I would spend more sometimes but they are usually non-athletic. I really wanted to share the issue with you. It really brings me back, back when my cousins would email me everyday on kicks they were watching on ebay. Or back when i looked hard for sneakers for a good price like melvins * ( todd where my melvins at lol). The only thing i would say i kinda regret is passing up on jordans. Back in highschool every cool guy had js, but i stuck with polo boots, air forces and dada kicks ( yes dada.. gone are those days). My appreciation for jordans happened last year when i was in new york. I realized how foolish i was in missing out on them, and eversince my recent purchase of the fire 3s, i have been hooked. I can officially say jordans are prob. the best sneakers of all time. But i'll save that debate later. I just wanted to share this moment with you. Maaannn i need some new kicks. I'ma sign out with raekwon peace.

Back to the lab again

2008-08-31T13:28:00.000-07:00

I know it's going to be a while before i release new stuff, but trust me its worth the wait. That's why u prob. haven't heard me talk about the shirts in a while. It all starts on the pad. I'm back in the lab and best believe the results will speak for itself. I know the next couple of months is really going to be hectic but hey its nothing to a boss. Stay tuned for new stuff and to the people that keep asking where they can grab a shirt, they are all sold out at premium goods. Afront has a couple left, but we will be at the private stock expo selling everything from the first season. For those that can't wait, here is Afront's info

2205 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007

they also had a back to school sale. ( i think its still going on) I was fortunate to cop 2 dqm fitteds for cheap. Shout out to matt and the crew. Afront got it going on.

http://afronttx.wordpress.com/

Also keep an eye out for the houston scene in the next year. Everything will make sense soon.

diggin the crates

2008-08-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

For some of you on facebook that saw some of my ideas i did 10 yrs ago, i had promised to show some of the ideas i had done for the niceguys. Because i had so much junk in my room and too much going on i wasn't able to upload any of them. Every art work below is some stuff i did for the past 2 yrs. This is def. not close to everything I have done. Below is ideas, characters, album covers i did for them. My vision for the group was beyond the norm. I came up with ideas to direct music videos, every character had their role. The last time i had seen such branding of original worlds and characters into fashion and music was from nigo's own a bathing ape. He made characters for his brand and music group teriyaki boyz. These are some examples

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g212/LiLPunketExO/Myspace%20layouts/bape-1.jpg

and

http://atinycity.com/minipop/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/bapeheads01.png

CLICK ON EACH PIC FOR BETTER VIEWINGsome mixtape covers i did for them, i incorporated the characters i had made for them. If you have been following the blog for a while, i posted alot of the covers i did for them. Some of these characters should not be new to you. The next cover below was my personal favorite. I wished i completed it

the next set of sketches are characters i did for them. I have alot of them and do not have time to upload any. I was going to use them if they were going to make music videos but that would take forever and a day to do. I decided to just stick with illustration

KEENAN AKA SPECIAL K
below is CHRISTOLPH and CANDY PAINT

MR NO HOMO
I honestly wish people would see these characters come to life. Only time will tell

HATIN ASS BEAR
He's made many cameos in the album covers

EASY YVES SAINT and EASY YVES SINNER

you should obviously know which one is which

DOBALE

I also created personal logos for the group and the characters. I flipped famous designer brands and made them mine. Read and see

from queens to hell to rivegauche

self explanatory

An interesting project i am working on i would like to share with you. I am taking a book binding class in art school and for 1 its mad tough. My latest project has to do with binding a journal with our own theme. My theme of choice has to do with creation from adam and eve. This really has nothing to do with my christian faith but biblical themes are really interesting and i have been incorporating some of those themes in my shirts. For some of you that have kept up with the blog for a while i do talk about dreams i have. Anyhow enough of this mythical talk. These are just some of the ideas i should be using in the journal

Tree in eden

the apple that adam bit

An early rough of adam. I know i got work to do, so clown after its done

Its only fitting since i have offensive friends. Go the www.myspace.com/somars to get more of that RATED R goodness. He will be sure to entertain. No homo. God willing i will post more and something will come out of this, but in the mean time check em out. Click on the pics for better viewing and the message

Recently i have been trying to get better in still life art and portraits but for some reason my shit is too cartoonish. Even though realistic art is not my calling i refuse to accept failure. With that said Yves is hard to draw

Even though my portraits look nothing like the original pictures, i try and cheat my through to make it feel like its another style. I got work to do, My brother really thinks i've lost it

Also u do know he will be performing next week at club meridian. He is the reason why i got back on facebook, The world really needs to hear his voice. He has alot to offer. Pls come out and support. There will be a fashion show, other stores will be in the house, other brands will be around also. Frank 151 and so much more will be around too so make sure u come support the scene. Also all our shirts will go from $10 - $20. We will be giving out some free ones too, so make sure yall come around. This is your last chance

Again the myspace for the event

http://www.myspace.com/theprivatestockexpo

But before i go, shout out to Nas and Talib kweli for rocking the house at warehouse live. That concert was prob. the best thing that's happened in a while. Def. some ill shit.

Also i don't really speak on music often but John Legend has done it again. I will let the video speak for itself.

SPACESHIP SHIT. see yall around, and one more thing shout out to my supporters, some of what i hear recently really amazes me. God has really blessed me with people who appreciate the work. Big ups to them. Anyhow spoof, i'm gone

DEUCE

PRIVATE STOCK EXPO

2008-08-16T09:27:00.001-07:00

This event is one of a kind and is def. a good look for houston. The private stock expo will showcase talent that 's putting houston on the map. I was really honored to be apart of this event. Frank 151 , the tipping point store, grills etc will be in the house. From my understanding a fashion show will be taking place also and Christian rich will be performing also. Yves will also be performing ( yes the hype is real). Just come around and check us out, All shirts will go for $20. The old season shirts will go for $10. Check out their myspace for all the details

http://www.myspace.com/theprivatestockexpo

the hype is real, see you around

What to look out for

2008-07-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

Meet Patrick Ervell

I will let Kanye's blog do a better introduction for you

http://www.kanyeuniversecity.com/blog/?em3106=200183_-1__0_~0_-1_7_2008_0_0&em3281=&em3161=

The irony of this was that i was just about to post him on my blog and my brother interns for him in his manhattan office. My brother Niyi had called me to tell me how embarrassed ervell was gonna get. ( an inside joke ) but really i found out about ervell after checking out stores like nom de guerre and opening ceremony and believe me he makes great garments. From what i also understand ervell is really looked as one of new york's leading designers and someone we should all be paying attention to in the future

This is probably one of the most anticipated events to occur this year. Gap just commisioned parisian boutique colette to open up a 1 month concept store next month in new york. Now this is something you must not miss out if you live in new york. Everybody knows colette is the best boutique in the world, and i know this is a once in a lifetime event. They stock everything and i mean everything from high fashion, streetwear to everyday utilities. Colette even has a cafe inside their store. Their pop up shop will carry exclusive items that were available at their paris shop like comme des garcons and oakley etc. They even have a website for the special collaboration. This is great news and i def. will not be missing this special event

www.colettexgap.com

check it out

I'm never up to date on high fashion as far as collections and the brains behind the brands. To me its all about how the clothes fit, but recently i have been paying a little attention to LANVIN. Their sneakers are probably the best right now and what is bringing me closer to the brand as a whole. I recently watched an interview with the head designer of LANVIN Lucas Ossendrijver. Check it out yourself. It's a good watch. I know i'm probably late but LANVIN is what's really good in menswear.

check out the video interview with Lucas

http://openers.jp/fashion/flagship/lanvin/news005.html

the video is at the bottom

Also if you are going to be in houston this weekend, you know where to head to this sunday.

THE H-TOWN SNEAKER SUMMIT

it's gonna be live, so be there. Click on the flyer for better details.

Shout out to KADOMA for making it happen

LIFE IN STYLE

2008-07-24T21:51:00.001-07:00

My dude yves siant just recorded this yesterday. Pls listen carefully. Also since i have been talking about fashion recently, i would like to run some recent g.o.a.t.s ( well not really) this list is LIFE IN STYLE. What every man needs

( DISCLAIMER - ALL PICS BELOW ARE NOT MINE, ALL WERE TAKEN FROM DIFFERENT WEBSITES. )

OZWALD BOATENG SUIT

His Bespoke suits are m2m and really bring out the dandy in you

HATS
Even though i am turning 27, i still find myself craving a new era. Undftd, DQM, Supreme, Huf and mishka really do it for me

EASTPAK X RAF SIMONS BACKPACK
crack

TOM FORD DRESS SHOES

tom ford has really defined the new man. His shoes will run you $11 000 from what i understand

DIOR HOMME JAPANESE SELVAGE JEANS
every true denim expert knows that dior has the perfect fit when it comes to jeans. Their store in las vegas made me realize why everyone needs a pair of dior homme

Comme des garcons wallet and key holder
Rei never ceases to amaze me. Comme des garcons keep stepping it up one accessory at a time. Till this day i regret passing them up for the louis vuitton version

APPLE I PHONE
I am def. behind when it comes to technology. My cousins switch phones everytime and they put me to date when it comes to stuff like this but you know what; I wouldn't mind settling down for an i phone

GUCCI CHAIN
no bling can out do the simplicity of this gucci chain. They are many ways the chain can be worn and trust me, its bold

YSL M7 COLOGNE
This is the only cologne i keep getting everytime. Its something about its strong scent

UNIQLO SOCKS
durable, versatile, more variety and dirt cheap

NOM DE GUERRE WESTERN SAFARI SHIRT
New york has really stepped it up in button up shirts. Alot of brands tend to experiment with the fitting and stitching. Recently i have been into military button up shirts, and trust me brands like nom de guerre and apc have the midas touch

Jack spade tote
This is always handy for me whenever i'm in new york. They are very durable

dior homme black time
I may not be a watch connoisseur but the red button on the watch gives it a james bond look. Heidi slimane created a monster

Ralph lauren black label knit tie
I dont own many ties and i should own more, but this is really my best tie. The material is mad tough,

TOM FORD SUNGLASSES
I will admit, i am a connoisseur when it comes to sunglasses. If you want to go with classics, ray ban wayfarers are the way to go, but if boldness if what you aim for, Tom ford is the answer. Tom ford has really defined what men should look like. His theme is based on sex, but its done in a tasteful manner.

PRADA KEY CHAIN
prada makes ill toys, you can toss them around

KAWS STICKERS
the new crack

This has been an official life in style session,

G.O.A.T pt 1

2008-07-23T23:17:00.000-07:00

This is something i would like to start on my blog. From time to time i will be posting all my G.O.A.T- GREATEST OF ALL TIME ( meaning these are strictly my opinion, not facts.). From my favorite artists, sneakers, brands, food etc. This should be fun, my birthday is next month so maybe some of you can use this as a hint. So let the games begin

G.O.A.T PART 1a ( SNEAKERS)

ATHLETIC

UNDFTD X NIKE DUNKS.

JACK PURCELL X CONVERSE

ATMOS X NIKE AIR MAX 1

BAPES- YES BAPES, I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT THEM

UNION X NIKE 180

SUPREME X NIKE BLAZERS - BEST NIKES OF ALL TIME

W-TAPS X VANS

ADIDAS GAZELLES ARE A STAPLE AND A MUST HAVE.

ADIDAS X BAPE COLLABO. THESE ARE OLD SKOOL CLASSICS. ADIDAS MAKE ALOT OF ILL KICKS, I COULD POST MORE OF THEIR STUFF, BUT AGAIN THESE ARE JUST TOP 10- 11

SBTG X NIKE DUNKS. SBTG ARE THE ILLEST CUSTOMIZERS IN THE GAME PERIOD. SUE ME

THE OFFICIAL GOAT. JORDAN 1 OG MODEL AND COLORWAY

JORDAN 3 RETRO. I REGRET MISSING OUT ON JORDANS IN HIGH SCHOOL. MY APPRECIATION FOR THEM HAVE BEGUN TO GROW

runner ups
adidas consortium
nike air force 1
nike lazer vandals
jordan 4,5,6,7, 8, 11, 13 and spizike
dqm x nike blazers

nom de guerre x converse

G.O.A.T PART 1b ( SNEAKERS)

HIGH FASHION

ATO MATSUMOTO. AT FIRST I DIDN'T LIKE THESE AS MUCH UNTIL I SAW THEM IN PERSON.

COMMON PROJECTS

DIOR HOMME

Gucci boat shoes. Boat shoes are now a big trend in new york. I too had to jump on the trend lol, Sperry, Band of outsiders and ralph lauren got some killer versions too.

LANVIN

YOHJI YAMAMOTO. His kicks are spaceships

Raf by raf simons. He has been coming hard at the shoe game recently. He is really on the come up.

visvim. A staple in japan, these kicks are not only hard to find, but are mad expensive. I have been looking for a good pair for a minute too.

Maharishi double decker shoes. The camo version is actually better but no online pics were available

ysl rolling sneakers. Available in different colors too

These ain't even out yet but gucci really stepped it up with their native inspired sneakers

RUNNER UPS

PAUL SMITH RABBIT
UMBRO BY KIM JONES

MURAKAMI IS A GENIUS

2008-07-23T22:22:00.001-07:00

I really forgot to post this, but i actually went to the murakami exhibit in new york and boy his work really changed my life. Homie is genius. Murakami is one my biggest inspirations. He started the superflat movement in Japan. I was not allowed to take pics at the exhibit in new york, but i saw a whole lot. I watched some of his animated works, which are below. I saw most of his sculptured pieces, paintings, digital work and visited the louis vuitton booth they had. I'm still upset i passed on the phone clip he did for them. Anyhow since i couldn't take pics, below are some of his works that were displayed in the exhibit

good morning video he did for kanye west

louis vuitton ad

KaiKai & KiKi

KaiKai & KiKi was a materpiece. I watched 3 episodes in the museum

You can check out some of his work that was displayed here

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=Takashi%20Murakami&w=all&s=int

These are skate decks he did for supreme

He is also known in the fashion world to collaborate with louis vuitton. Obviously many fakes have spurred from his art. This is a recent camo he did for the brand. I am still mad i didn't get the phone cover they had at the exhibit.

This was one of many rooms i checked out at the brooklyn museum. Pics of his work do no justice at all

If you remember a while back ( well not quite), i had an online exhibit i displayed on facebook called DFUM. My reason for displaying alot of my ideas and work i did for the past 10 yrs is because of murakami. My work has never left my room and it felt only right that i showcased some of my work. I displayed tons of my work. For those of you that missed it, this is a fraction of what i displayed.

This is a sketch i did in 1998. I was working on a comic strip which i never finished

This was an old friend of mine i had drawn in 2003. The digital coloring was done this year though

This was done almost a year ago.

This was a book jacket project i did for school last year. Everyone used pictures, except me because drawing was easier and more original. My book of choice of bewulf

I drew these skulls in 2001 in my life drawing class. I recently colored this though

A project i was working on that i never finished. About 4 yrs ago i was hired to illustrate a children's book called ALBO: THE WHITE ALIGATOR. The message is about racism. In reality white aligators are killed by other aligators because of their skin difference. Unfortunately this project was cancelled by my client

DJ candlestick and Dj mr rogers have a mixtape coming out soon called check my sneakers. It was a pleasure to render their mixtape cover. Make sure you check out dj candlestick's myspace for more info
http://www.myspace.com/CANDLESTICKMUSIC

The first single of their mixtape is called MARRIED TO THE MOB by Easy yves saint. Check out this youtube he did to break down the song. Mad sick, and of course dj candlestick produced the track. You might find some of my artwork in the video. Oh yeah my bad, i was going a little off track, this is an yves sketch i did. He was tough to draw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlTfpWgO-0Y

Promo work i did for candlestick. Click on the picture for better details

niceguys album cover

I really had ambitions as a kid, but unfortunately alot of situations had forced me to compromise. I will try and show off the rest of my work for those that missed out. Murakami really changed my life.

braggin' rights

2008-07-17T18:09:00.000-07:00

get to know us, we really aint that professional, but really alot of shit coming out soon. This is a start, and yes yves was drunk by the way. Shout outs to yoddlepop. check out collins blog, this is for the ones that be bored at work and aint got shit else to do. think southside mediatakeout meets nah right lol. check it out

www.yoddlepop.blogspot.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAIWgUr8AVY

and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN5j6HgBgPU

DFUM

2008-07-02T23:34:00.001-07:00

It's been a minute yall, but i would like yall to check out my DFUM ( D's F*cked Up Mind) online art exhibit. It showcases work i have done for the past 10 yrs. Only exclusive for facebook users. Search for DOBALE CHAPTER on facebook to check out the available galleries. Right now the 1997-1999 showcase is up. Click on the pics for better details

It only feels right, been doing this since birth and a lot of my work hasn’t gone past my bedroom and mind. Alot of people don’t know me as an artist but i have been drawing all my life. I remember 20+ yrs ago i had so many ambitions as an artist, I remember wanting to make a video game with friends of mine. We would sketch out stages, characters etc. We were really trying to get in contact with nintendo to give them ideas. This is really out of my character to showcase my work from the past 10yrs but my recent trip to the murakami exhibit in new york really inspired me. DFUM is a concept i came up with 2 yrs ago after i started dobale. DFUM (D’S FUCKED UP MIND) pronounced as deform is a fitting name for this exhibit because these ideas were not normal. DFUM was originally going to be used as another clothing line but unfortunately the idea fell off just like many ideas that are showcased in this exhibit. My goal is to show people my ideas that never flourished, from my sketches, stories, art etc. dfum exhibits all that went through my mind from 1997 - 2008. I had so many dreams as an artist from wanting to own my comic company, working in the animation industry etc, but a lot of situations that happened in my life caused me to stop following these dreams. Even though i haven’t accomplished much as an artist, i would still like to share my ideas with you. This exhibit will run for a limited time only, and is only exclusive to facebook users. Each showcase will has no set date meaning it can be taken down anytime. I would like to thank all those who have been down since day 1, this is my ode to you all, welcome to DFUM.

Enjoy

day 3

2008-06-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

My feet hurt, that's new york for you. Good weather, gyro lamb, new places everyday makes a nigga feel like in an rpg game. Anyhow since alot of the spots i usually go around do not allow me to take pictures, i went ahead and jacked pictures from other websites, so this is a disclaimer. I do not own any of these pics.

Rolled thru Lafayette down to the recon store. Ran by og graffiti artist stash, who has done alot of collaborations with nike to produce the best airforces to date. Collecting any of his nike collabos is def. a collectors item. Stash also has his brand called recon and a collabo brand he does with futura called subware. Futura's graffiti art is allover the wall like the pic above. Make sure you swing by if you are around. Recon stock brands like j money, stash, futura, subware and limited edition nike quickstrikes.

Ran byk soho to check out the stussy store. Stussy has been making a killing in the collabo game recently. They just released their collabo collection with the living legend futura called destiny, and also a couple of items with original fake and head porter, But their most talked about collabo is with the japanese label neighborhood. Their collabo is called boneyards, they have alot coming out from this collabo including 3 nike blazers. You know what i will let the website do the talking

http://www.bnyds.com/L Train to brooklyn to swing by the punk rock inspired mishka brand. Mishka is probably the most "contraversal" brands out in america. The brand does not follow trends at all, they def. stick to their rock roots anytime they release their collections. Mishka has alot of occultism in their clothing, and i must say they make one of the best new eras in the game. Most of my fitteds are from mishka, and i must say they push the envelope in design everytime. There was a toy shop next to mishka called hi5 toy shop. That store is off the damn chain, i stumbled upon it by accident. The owner is good friends with nigo from a bathing ape. They stock alot of medicom toys and shit you have never seen before. As far as clothing, they stock alot of vintage bape i thought i would never find again. They also have some alife x futura collabo shirts from ages ago. Store is something serious. I made sure i copped the original fake sticker and pin they had sitting there. I call that best buy

The y-3 store, looking like you walked into a spaceship, They make one of the illest sneakers right now, just ask kanye.

Store of the day. The maisonmartinmargiela store. margiela is the essence of minimalism. Thier store looks like an incomplete studio, newspapers everywhere with broken white boxes all around. The store is indeed like an art gallery. Another interesting fact i learned about the store is that the store is so silent that the maximum amount of customers to date in the store in only 6 according to the salesman i spoke to. margiela himself is so unseen that nobody has ever seen the designer himself. Not his workers, not the press, no one. He wants his customers to focus on the clothes and not him. margiela is also a designer that really experiments on his pieces. I will let the pics at the bottom do the talking

Have you ever wondered why margiela model's faces are blocked out, it is because they are actually wearing sunglasses. These sunglasses make your eyes look blindfolded. I call it genius but not my steez personally. They are not avaialbe in america yet though

margiela also made this jacket out of gloves. He has done alot of experimenting and has really pushed it when it comes to fusing art with fashion. His website is so minimal that... you what check it out, but before you do, when you go on the site, just know your computer has not crashed, everything is ok, you will get it when you go there. Check it out

http://www.maisonmartinmargiela.com/

This is outside the marg. store. From what i found out alot of people mistake it for a bar or a deli. Martin is a genius.
New york is a jungle, but its about to get way more interesting tomorow and mad productive. Trust me it's that serious and i promise i will take pics next time. Peace

ny day 2

2008-06-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

For 1 i suck at taking pics but oh well. Shout out dj witness, last night was off the chain, dj evil dee was killing the turntables with that feel good music. From illmatic nas, black moon, camplo, daft punk etc. Man you had to be there. Also before i get to business, the Jamaican spot right by 14th got it on lock with them fresh plantains and rice and goat meat. Boy they killing em. What you see above is a small plate. Swing around if you around, it's on the 14th and 4th st.

I had an early appointement at the nike id studio at 5th avenue. I didn't know what to expect

5 story building almost as big as the galleria ( true story )

5th floor is the nike id studio

Nike knows how to attract customers, i was thinking i was going to come around and pick any color and material to customize my kicks, but i was wrong. The online customers have a different set of materials to pick from the customers that swing by the new york store. Everything is balanced out to the point where you would spend more money. They also switch shoes every 6 months for customization to keep everything exclusive. The only ones available for me tocustomize were dunks and air maxes and some others i don't remember

before they let you in the personal design studio to sit down with a consultant, they show you some avaialbe samples to get a feel and some inspiration. Boy i really thought i was ahead but my choices were so limited, i felt like customizing more shoes. For example the snake skin material was only available for air max 97s only, and the vintage leather was only for air max 90. Patent leather was only available for online customers. A way to keep the customer wanting more.

This was the celeberity custom editions they had. Athletes would customize their kicks and leave them on the table with a note card describing the inspiration

Before i went for my appointment, i saw these mowabb airmaxes that almost made me forget about customizing. Only 18 were available at the nike store and they just came out today. New kicks ain't doing it for me these days but trust me these were madd tuff

sketches of original nike shoes on the wall. Impressive

original 1996 sketches of the air max 97

Before you also go for the id lab ( which isn't pictured at all, its a vip private booth), they would let you go through an id book with samples to give you an idea

This was my color swatch and material picker, I ended sitting with my consultant for 1 hr. It was pretty cool, I ended up customizing air max 90s with a vintage leather ( leather not used on any shoes today). Pretty happy with my results

Made a stop to the rime store. Shout out to susan and frankie. The store has been around for 6 months and they are bringing new york back to its streetwear roots. Everybody knows LA is making a killing in the game right now, and new york is falling out from 'streetwear' very hard. Very good boutiques are hard to come by but this store is def. doing it big. I couldn't take pics inside but they stock the finest from mishka, crooks n castles etc

off to brooklyn

again at wealthy hostage holding it down at brooklyn

wealthy hostage had mad variety. Alot of street wear brands from the famous ones to the not so famous ones can be found here

fitteds from the hundreds, mishka, crooks and vintage team hats to keep your head game right. Make sure you check em out

Now the store of the hour. Boundless ny. Mr Jovan wilcox holding it down at the spot

Boundlessny has grown from not just a t-shirt and a vintage store but a lifestyle store. Stocking alot of the finest brands not only from america, but recently stocking australian brands like perks and mini (quality at its finest in streetwear and a favorite seller at boundlessny), japanese brands like mack daddy etc. Boundlessny is one of the only online stores i keep checking for updates, and trust me they keep getting better everyday. They also stock their inhouse brand King stampede, which i have been following for a while now. King stampede has a cult, cosmic feel to it. I had to ask Nick ( owner of king stampede, his inspiration) behind his brand. He told me he put two words together he had been playing with since 1994, and eversince then he's had a following. King stampede is on their game, check out their website.

www.boundlessny.com

boundlessny

the crew chilling outside. Out and one. Must respect to the boundless crew. Peace