Thursday, December 31, 2009

Feature Band: Wait for Green




Formed in Tallahassee, Florida Wait for Green is an emerging alternative band skyrocketing to success. We sit down with lead guitarist & FSU grad Rafael Britto to discuss life on the road and rise to rockstardom.

Tallatainment:How did the band form? Did you always grow up dreaming about being a rockstar?

Rafael:The band formed in college by fate. Two of us were from the same hometown and we all met in the dorms our first years of college and realized that we had the same musical taste. I never really dreamt of being a rock star until my parents took me to an Elton John show in sixth grade. It was that crocodile rock.

Tallatainment:How would you describe Wait for Green's sound and why do you think people are so receptive to it as well as the band as a whole?

Rafael:Basically, we play the music we enjoy listening to. Each member is influenced by different styles and I think that is what makes the music original. Reggae, hip-hop, and funk are what most characterize our sound but don’t be surprised if you hear some heavy rock, punk, jazz, or psychedelic sounds thrown in there. People are receptive for different reasons. Some may be like because of the intricateness of various songs and others are drawn in by the simple and catchy vocal melodies. Overall, I think people are attracted to it because it is positive music and it is entertaining to watch live. Who doesn’t dig something you can bounce to?

Tallatainment:How does the transition from full time FSU Student to being on tour feel? Are you ever humbled or taken back by your recent spike in success?

Rafael:FSU and Tallahassee gave us more than we could ask for during our time there and we can never be thankful enough because if it wasn’t for our local fans giving us attention, we wouldn’t be where we are now. What we want more than anything is to spread our music to as many people as possible so playing in different states and even different countries only gives us more incentive to keep going. Things happened in steps for us. Success, when we first started, was seeing our name on the Floyd’s marquee and being able to play Floyd’s in the first place. Then, we opened for popular national acts such as Reel Big Fish, Blues Traveler, and Slightly Stoopid. Every step was considered success and once we got accustomed to a certain level, we would set higher goals. We had no idea how far that would take us and we still don’t but performing at Sunfest and at the 2009 Billabong World Surfing Games in Costa Rica was never in my dreams.

Tallatainment: What was your experience at MEISA's Battle of the Band's like? What was the first thing you did after winning?

Rafael:That was the first battle of the bands that we ever played and we were very fortunate to win it. All of the bands were incredible but I think we won because I did 20 squats before we went on stage that night. My legs were looking way too good for the judges to even think about picking another band to win it. The first thing we did after winning was take a victory lap around the venue with our lead singer, Drew, on our shoulders.

Tallatainment:What is the craziest or most interesting thing that has happened to you on stage?

Rafael:I ate a live human on stage…at a reggae show… Is cannibalism crazy enough?

Tallatainment: What's up next for the band? What should we be looking out for in the next few months?

Rafael:We are playing our first show in California at the Whisky a Go Go which is a world renowned venue on the Sunset Strip. As far as the music goes, we are always creating new stuff and plan on releasing brand new songs in a couple of months. We are experimenting with different instruments like beat machines and keyboards so be expecting something new and fresh.

Tallatainment: Where do you see the band in 10 years?

Rafael:Happy.

DJ Acrojam & The Underground Railroad




Tallatainment: Could you give us a little on the history of 89.7 and
the Underground Railroad?

Acrojam:Of course! WVFS is an Affiliated Project of the Florida State
University Student Government Association and the College of
Communication which started in 1987. It is also a non-commercial,
educational, public radio station that airs 24/7, 365 days a year.
Luckily for us, we have multi-faceted staff members consisting of
students and community volunteers that operate the station live. WVFS
is last of it's kind and we're proud of going against the grain of
conforming to more commercial realms of media. The Underground
Railroad is just that. An avenue to free people of mundane ideas of
what most precieve hip-hop to be since 1989. We play and interview a
lot of underground and or up and coming artists and community leaders
in the cipher of true school hip-hop. UGR (underground railroad) has a
rich history in regards to who has hosted the show. Likes of DJ Demp,
Supastar J Kwik, Dirty Digits, Matthew David, Amond Jackson, who were
all heading the show and creating a trend of playing hip-hop artists
that eventually became what the masses gravitated towards when they
wanted genuine music to listen to. There were a good selection of
folks who hosted but way too many to list but those are few that
either took the show to the community or used what they learned to
better themselves as producers,djs, and or community leaders.

Tallatainment:What drew you to working with the station?

Acrojam:I actually used to listen to the show from time to time when
Tasha was hosting. I enjoyed the selection and access it gave me to
lesser known artists. I had complaints about how stagnant radio at
large has gotten and wanted to do something about it but, didn't
really know exactly how. However, Law of Attraction came into play,
and a friend of mine knew that I was involved in music through the
years and thought that I should meet up with this guy that had a
vision for the Tallahassee music scene. This is when I met Amond
Jackson. We shared ideas and concepts about what we wanted to see in
the area and at that time there wasn't much going on for hip-hop heads
other than the thurs night ciphers I had at my house lol. He wanted to
see mc battles and I wanted to see break dancing. He had been in T
town for some odd years and saw crests and troughs in what we thought
was a potential music scene. The height was when Dirty Digits was
hosting the show. He did a good job incorporating the community with
UGR and vice versa. We wanted to bring that aspect back. Community
involvement was key. He told me that he was about to get the show
passed down to him and was going to need some help down the line. So,
a few months later he taught me how to edit songs and the rest was
history. Editing hip-hop songs is a excruciating process by the way.
Later down the line I joined V89's team officially and started out on
the production team then moved on to do my required announcing shifts.
One of the toughest. The dreaded Monday night 2am-6am. YIKES! I think
I only missed one or two shifts due to a couple Physics II exam crams.
He moved on to do bigger and better things and he choose me to carry
the torch. Many doubted my ability to sustain the show. That was tough
knowing that people didn't think that I could do it but, little did
they know that's what spreads the fire.

Tallatainment:What do you think distinguishes V89/The Underground
Railroad from any of the other stations in Tallahassee?

Acrojam:Our pedigree and passion for what we do. Most of us are
producers, dj's, musicians, mc's, music aficionados, developing labels
owners, directors etc. Like I mentioned UGR has a looong history and
the people that ran it knew it wasn't about them. Their reward comes
much later. It was about the music, the community, the culture of
hip-hop. It takes a lot of sacrifice to run UGR and it only airs once
a week (Sat 5pm-8pm). We dig for unheard music to fill the larger part
of the playlist. Majority of the selection has to be prepared by us to
be FCC clean. For some of us, our career dreams are on the line and
we'll be stupid to put the show and or station in any danger. It's
draining when you do it right. However, it is all worth the sweat,
tears, and sometimes blood. Just kidding.

Tallatainment:What would be your dream project or guest?

Acrojam:Hmm...You know, I think working with UGR has already opened up
manifestation of our dream projects. It was a thought, then action,
then an experience. I think what we're already heading towards is
creating a whole state movement of true school hip-hop in Florida. My
dream is already starting to become reality. During Amond and my's
time at UGR we connected with a lot of community heads here,
Jacksonville, Pensacola, Orlando, and Miami. However, me not being an
native Floridian a direct answer would be... you know I'm from
Augusta, Georgia right? Goodie Mob is getting back together to do a
few shows, Outkast is putting together a new project soon, Organize
Noise is one of my favorite production crews. So I would say having
the whole Dungeon Family at V89 for a live session would be dope! And
what's even more significant is without likes of UGK, 8 Ball & MJG,
Ghetto Boys, and the Dungeon Family we probably wouldn't even be
having this conversation right now as far as the south being a major
player in lyrical hip-hop. People used to laugh at the south. Now,
they bend to the south. I would be elated to have DF :)

Tallatainment:Any current projects or events that we should be on the
look out for?
Acrojam:Keep your eyes agile... not gonna let the cat out of the bag
just yet. Just know the ninja is working.

Tallatainment:What aspirations do you have for the station? Where
would like to see it in a year? in 5 years?
Acrojam:I would like the station to have more recognition. Being that
our wattage only reaches a 20 mile radius that leaves a lot of room
for growth and expansion. However, the money that we get does not come
from the state or the school. We raise the money in house through the
support of the community but, we have a long way to go. We don't ask
for much here at V89. Just coffee, pizza and ice cream parties from
time to time. In a years time I would like V89 to have a state of the
art recording studio and production room WITH MACS, I can go hide in.
Easy functioning and playing cd players. In 5 years MORE WATTAGE!!!
MORE VISIBILITY!!! MORE BUMPER STICKERS!!! UGR CAN BE HEARD IN
EVERYONES SMART CAR, HOUSE, IPOD NATIONALLY!!!
Tallatainment: If people would like to get involved with the station
what should they do? Who should they contact?

Acrojam:Listen to WVFS 89.7FM around the beginning of each semester.
The cattle call meeting is what you should listen for. It is the open
meeting to all to find out more information about the station and the
people that run it. Or you can contact the program director with
inquires at www.wvfs.fsu.edu. They will direct you with more info
about the cattle call unless you’re going to give us donations lol.
You can listen online worldwide at www.wvfs.fsu.edu every Sat 5pm-8pm est
Please link my blogspot and twitter sites below
www.agileeyes.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/djacrojam
myspace.com/mcubedproductions

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Life Kit: An Intrapersonal Image of Individuality

Love.Energy.Knowledge.Time.
This is Life Kit.



The fashion brand is dedicated to building a foundation that prompts a lifestyle of self-actualization and collective individuality through innovative apparel and accessories.
Founded on the campus of North Carolina Central University in the spring of 2009, a group of gentlemen with big dreams, wished to create a type of jewelry that was made for the sole purpose of expressing themselves. They sought to create a line that exuded creative freedom and uniqueness like none other. In doing so, they consequently generated a local buzz and began to receive an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from students on the NCCU campus. All things considered, it wasn't a hard decision to expand the vision and ultimately make the line public.
"Amongst confusion you will find us", co-founder Austin Henley stated. “Life Kit is more than a brand it is a way of life, the sleek wooden designs have more meaning than what they appear to be.”
Aesthetically powerful and with a distinctive facade, Life Kit raises awareness and endorses peace within the brand. Each piece is handcrafted & affordable, with prices ranging from $20-$25. The designers frequently release new designs and are gradually gaining notoriety as well as expanding their operations-most recently making their way onto college campuses in Tallahassee, FL.
Henley states that they are currently focusing on neckwear only, however the next step is clothing and apparel.
“I'm done with being gassed…” Says Henley, “… I'm ready to drive…."
Life Kit has been long awaited and…needed…
Considering their necklaces already turn heads, this transition shouldn’t be hard. We at Tallatainment are personally looking forward to the progression of the brand and wish them the best in their expansion.







http://www.lkallday.blogspot.com/

College Hill: The Realities of Reality TV



If viewers were to describe BET’s College Hill in one word, there’s no doubt it would be DRAMA. The fist fighting, binge drinking, college coed’s consistently keep fans captivated year after year with their crazy antics and clashes in personalities.
And College Hill: South Beach was no exception.
However, in the midst of all the chaos one cast mate seemingly kept his calm. Paul Georgiadis, the laid back 20 year old Miami, FL native, approached the show as if he was there on vacation.
"A reality show is easy to get on, it's probably the easiest to get on", explains Georgiadis.
The silent, but sound Paul knew why he was on the show and took full advantage of this opportunity. Rewind to pre-College Hill, and Paul will be the first to tell you he's had his fair share of run-ins with the law.
"I was young and dumb. Back then I thought I was in Belly", referring to the classic Hype Williams flick.
The suave Paul kept his cool on the show, rarely being the center of attention unlike his fellow housemates. Paul expressed that there were microphones on every single cast member at all times, and they were to go nowhere by themselves. Additionally, Paul noted the extensive amount of idle time they were given-a big reason for the amount of tension created on the show.
"Everything in the house was real…", Paul emphasizes, "…All the fights, all the arguments, everything you saw on the night vision...Was real!"
Taping lasted for two months, after the show Paul found himself at a life crossroad, wondering what his next move would be. Being accepted to Florida A&M University three years prior to filming, he decided that this is where the next chapter of his life was going to begin. The Broadcast Journalism major made clear that he was interested in film school. Having various conversations with some of College Hill producers and directors, Paul noticed that, that may be the way to go.
"Filming and directing is stress-free money, but becoming a producer takes a bit more work to get up there."
The young guy says he's motivated by money and that his drive and ambition should determine his character, not his stint on reality TV.

The New Face of Slip N Slide



You know them by name, but their face has certainly changed. Slip-N-Slide Records was propelled to global recognition with the success of such artists as Trina, Plies and previously Trick Daddy. Now in its 16th year, the label is undergoing a musical facelift, diversifying its line up with the signing of its first pop artist and a host of international superstars.

Former Disney star, Drew Sidora has the distinction of being able to call herself the first pop artist under Slip-N-Slide. Sidora expressed her excitement for new beginnings describing the experience as “groundbreaking” and “humbling”.

“Slip N Slide shared the same vision as I do. We’re truly like family and they allow me to have creative control, which is important to me as an artist.” Says Sidora,” They’ve had 15 years of excellence in the music business and broken platinum plus artist such as Rick Ross, Plies and Trina. R&B and pop music is new for the label, so I’m looking forward to making history with Slip N Slide”

Noted for being the leading independent record label responsible for creating the legendary hip-hop sounds of South Florida and the Southern Hip-Hop movement, Slip N Slide now seeks to go “Deeper than Rap” by expanding their reach not only across genres but cultures. Recent international signees Atiba and Camar bring alternative flavors to the label reflecting the diverse and dynamic cultures within the city of Miami and the Caribbean.

“I definitely feel that I bring a new sound and energy to Slip-N-Slide. My music is a blend of a myriad of sounds and cultures. My sound is so different that people find it hard to label it.” Says Jamaican native Atiba, “I have songs that are politically and socially conscious, love songs with substance that you wouldn't regularly hear on the radio, and songs that you would hear on the radio. Some of the songs have a strong rock, R & B and reggae influence…”


When questioned about whether they felt pressure to transition or alter their music to appeal to a more American crowd Camar replied, “No! Not at all... that's why I'm an international artist. I really don't feel any pressure in making the transition nor do I feel any pressure in altering my music because I feel I have a very good understanding of the cultures, the slangs, the vibe which helped me to created the unique way I merge the sounds to gain the acceptance of the American crowd, but I stay true to myself by staying grounded, not forgetting my roots and where I come from (Jamaica) which is the heart beat to my style of music.”

He adds, “My strengths and my appeal would definitely be my style and the sound of my music which has a much more international appeal! Not the typical Rap Acts that the label is known for. I bring the excitement of the Caribbean sound mixed with the Hip-Hop and R&B to help connect a different fan base to the label which is the Caribbean community that covers a vast amount of South Florida…”

Additional Slip-N-Slide signees include industry veterans’ Jagged Edge, R&B songstress Shonie, producer/artist Duece Poppi, GA native Swazy Baby and 2009 Next Big Superstar winner, Mike Bless.

With over 16 million albums sold since their inception and a number of upcoming releases on the way, Slip- N-Slide Records has secured its place in Hip Hop history and will be around for years to come

LittleLimeDress.com-A Personalized Twist of Style




Born a star but without the budget? No need to fret-Little Lime Dress has got you covered.
Little Lime Dress, a personalized twist of style, is an online personal styling and shopping service. Understanding that all women are unique both inside and out, Little Lime Dress finds items that flatter your figure, fit your personality and, of course, complement your budget.
Founded by a group of fashion industry professionals, LittleLimeDress.com was developed in part to address the lack of consideration in the fashion industry for cost, body types and taste preferences.
“At LittleLimeDress.com, a client (or, as we like to call them, Limettes) can work one-on-one with one of our Little Lime Stylists.” Says Co-Founder & Stylist Stefani Gartenberg, “They come from all around the United States to bring our clients the best personalized styling tips and outfit suggestions based on their individual needs including their body type, personal taste and budget. Unlike other sites, our suggestions are 100% catered to our client. It’s like working with a real stylist minus the high costs.”
Personalized to meet your price point, LLD grants its clients the ability to buy and create looks from over 100 online retailers such as Shopbop, Piperlime, Macy’s, Dillard’s and Lane Bryant. A one stop glamour shop, LLD also provides users with trend reports and styling advice; making finding the perfect look as easy as the click of a mouse.
This savvy time saver is particularly perfect for college students. Between classes and commitments, LLD understands that the life of a co-ed can be chaotic. Yet their bi-coastal team of stylists strives to offer a unique yet thorough balance in the information and styling advice they provide so that you can compliment your co-ed experience with a chic closet to match.
“What makes our personal shopping service unique and specifically great for college students is that it is extremely affordable, ranging from $35 - $55 for services and it is all done on-line so you can be anywhere and get the same advice and items.” adds Gartenberg , “It’s never been so easy to afford style!”
Whether you’re transitioning from college to corporate America or just casually coordinating, Little Lime Dress is there to meet all your fashion needs. You’re a starlet of style, so why not live in the limelight!
To see Little Lime Dress.com in action, click the link below to check out their style suggestions for Tallatainment owner Amanda.

Amanda is a 22 year old glamour girl on the go. Outside of
Tallatainment.com, She works as a Freelance Fashion & Entertainment
Publicist and values pieces that are ultra feminine, functional yet
professional. She is 5’5 with an hourglass shape and often has trouble
finding clothing that flatters her bust, minimized her hips and
lengthens her torso. What clothing suggestions or style tips do you
have to help her highlight her assets?

Amanda, you have it all going for you right now! You are young, beautiful and already successful. As far as I am concerned, it can only go up from here. And at LLD we believe the only way to rise to success is in style. At 22, you have the luxury of wearing certain silhouettes that women in other age brackets can't.

You can have fun with denim; making choices to wear anything from a skinny jean to a tailored trouser. As someone with an hourglass figure, skinny jeans are a great staple pant shape for you. Once you have your pant staple, you can subtly accentuate your bust with multiple necklines. A square neck shows a beautiful line from your neck to your shoulder. Want to be more daring? Go for an alluring V-neck which offers some edge, just be sure to layer underneath so as not to be too revealing during your workday. A scoopneck is always a great fall back; it is universally flattering and allows you to showcase your personality while using it as a backdrop for a myriad of accessories. (Think: a bold statement necklace or a collection of 3 or 4 delicately layered chains).

In your field, you have to look great all the time, so you need to focus on pieces that will take you from your noon meeting to your 6pm dinner with clients. My best recommendation for you would be dresses! Not only are they comfortable, stylish and completely versatile, but they will also keep you cool in that Tallahassee heat! You have a medium height range, not too short or tall, which only benefits you when shopping. You can be playful in your choice of heel height and enjoy a variety of silhouettes that wouldn't necessarily work for other frames. Choosing the right dress is essential but it will provide beautiful lines, show off your fabulous hourglass figure, accentuate the body parts you want and elongate your frame.

Here are a couple of examples of dresses I think would be perfect for you!



I chose this silk ruffle dress from Banana Republic ($152, found @ bananarepublic.com) for a number of reasons. The ruffled neckline brings attention to your chest in an elegant and classy way while maintaining a youthful vibe. The cascading waterfall ruffles accentuate your curves and plays up your hourglass figure. Silver is a great color for your skin tone and helps to jazz up the sleek silhouette making it more playful. Finally, the mini length shows off your legs and says you are ready to party! This dress is sophisticated and party-like; two things that when paired with your confidence will have you turning heads!




Need a more tailored look? A shirtdress is the obvious suggestion! Balancing both functional and fun, the shirtdress is feminine and playful, creating a long, slim look while also being professional. You can easily take the shirtdress from day to night by slipping on a pair of killer heels and unbuttoning that top button. With shirtdresses coming in such a variety of patterns, materials and colors it’s easy to find one that’s flirty yet professional. I chose this little black shirtdress by Velvet ($130, found @ shopbop.com) because it is simple yet chic. A wearable jersey fabric keeps you cool and comfortable all day long while the smocked elastic waist enhances your figure. The fold over collar adds an additional professionalism to the frock.
Best part? This double as the perfect LBD (little back dress) too!


Amanda, with your skin tone you can easily go with neutrals or bright, vibrant colors. You are lucky, so take advantage! Like I said earlier, you have it all going on for you now, so don't be afraid to push the style limits, just be sure to stick with some classic basics and build on that. Have fun when shopping!



Lots of Lime,
Stefani