Friday 19 July 2013

Music Review: Frank Ocean at 02 Academy Brixton


This summer Frank Ocean returned to the UK for two sold out shows at the O2 Academy Brixton; his first headline appearances since the release of his debut studio album Channel Orange in 2012. Between the release of said album, a publicised confessional blog post confirming his love for another man and a car park scrap with the human scab that is Chris Brown, Ocean has more than built a name for himself outside of his previous affiliation with offensive outfit Odd Future. Following his success at ceremonies such as the Brits and Grammy’s, hype stood at its highest, leaving Frank with a lot to prove.

The first thing that instantly hits me about Frank Ocean performing live is the odd sense of calm and sensibility. He doesn’t appear with the swag that one might presume from the friend of the infamous Tyler the Creator, but almost seems to apologise for his presence as if it were an intrusion; his demeanour is oddly reminiscent of a boyfriend when you first introduce them to your parents. Frank’s performance begs for instant forgiveness.

Positioning himself directly between a stage-side spotlight and a passing cloud of dry ice, Ocean is obscured as his vocals emanate eerily unseen. Purposeful to never be pigeon-holed, his voice ranges with an ethereal ease – soul, hip hop and RnB roll together without so much as a pause for breath. Ocean flows seamlessly between tracks with a lack of audience interaction which admittedly is a little irritating, only briefly stopping to announce the performances of previously unheard tracks “Feel California” and “Anything for You”. Alongside singles from Channel Orange, Ocean digresses to his backlog of early mix-tapes throughout his set, featuring an acappella version of “Swim Good” from Nostalgia, Ultra where his lyrics are echoed by the audience, his own vocals almost drowned out.

Clearly not forgetting his past as Christopher “Lonny” Breaux (as he was known before changing his name), Ocean includes the little known track “Acura Integurl” from The Lonny Breaux Collection, that although lasts less than two minutes could possibly be one of the most beautiful songs I’ll experience this decade. “Pyramids” receives the biggest reaction of the evening, having become somewhat of a cult classic without ever selling well as a single (only reaching No.129 in the UK chart), and the audience sway in synchronicity, hypnotised by the hook of the synthesiser.

The show ends rather abruptly, the house lights return to full beam and the lack of encore is a little disappointing but perhaps not surprising, given Ocean’s reluctance to engage despite his obvious brilliance. Although his vocals never falter, I couldn’t help but feel the need to clamber onstage to offer a consoling cuddle and a promise that everything with be alright.

Despite this, it is Frank Ocean’s sheer gift as a rapper, poet, singer and songwriter that enables him to still stand tall as a truly unique and unparalleled talent. 

Tuesday 2 July 2013

ART: Nuart 2013 Preview

Can I just take a second to preview the amazing lineup at this year's Nuart festival in Norway!?

You might remember that I lost my Nuart virginity last September, and ever since I've been a complete fangirl. 2013 looks set to be brilliant - with more artists yet to be confirmed; here's a quick DSD round-up of our favourites.

DALeast

I'm familiar with DALeast after working with him earlier this year at his DALeast London Dare show. The Chinese artist's 3D images prove that urban artists are in no way lacking in technical skill. Seeing is believing:

DALeast - Art Basel


Aiko

Always good to see a female among the cockfest which can be Nuart (although the amazing ms. Swoon has been one of the favourite artists ever shown here). Aiko, or Lady Aiko to give her full title, has done some of the prettiest murals I've ever seen - which means it came as no surprise when Louis Vuitton asked her to collaborate on a silk scarf for their Spring/ Summer 2013 collection. The Japanese artist used to work for Haruki Murakami and appeared in Exit Through The Gift Shop. 'Nuff said.

Aiko for Louis Vuitton S/S 2013
Aiko Spray Cans


Ernest Zacharevic

The disappointment that he didn't chose a slightly more zany pseudonym over his (albeit also catchy) real name, soon fades when you're hit between the eyes by one Ernest's striking urban pieces. Combining the humour which distinguishes street art from much of its gallery-hung counterparts, with his enviably beautiful artistic skill, Ernest reminds us that graffiti is not just for those who 'can't paint good':

Ernest Zacharevic - Malaysia


Martha Cooper

Though not strictly a street artist,  Martha was integral to the spread of US graffiti culture during the 70s and 80s - and beyond. After a chance encounter with a young graff enthusiast, Martha decided to document the art she came upon during her day-to-day life in New York. 2013 saw a mural painted in Martha's honour by several street-artist (including my 2012 pick HowNosm), christening her the queen of Bleeker street - if only temporarily. We expect Nuart 2013 will be showcasing some of her most striking photographs whilst paying tribute to this fantastically talented photojournalist:

Martha Cooper


The above list is by no means exhaustive and we'll be keeping you informed of updates. Meanwhile, let us know who you're most looking forward to catching at Nuart OR Numusic festival below, and check out Nuart 2013 here.

GC