Rad + Raw Magazine

BEHIND BIG SMOKE BRASS: TORONTO’S JAZZ BAND

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 18:20:49 +0000

You might recognize the name while you were on your way to work one day – stopping to listen or through others posting videos of their unique sound. I happened to be both and became even more curious each time I heard the jazz undertones from a far distance. I got in contact with Alec, one of the bands’ members to put this curiosity at ease.

Big Smoke Brass formed through the Jazz Program at UofT. Part of the formation was inspired by other bands that have a similar skip in notes predominantly coming out of New York City. Knowing that busking could bring in good revenue and a chance to often pull out a pen and few tunes, they were on their way to success. The band just finished their “No Breaks Tour” traveling to Montreal, Ottawa, and New Brunswick, they are looking into furthering their viewership by producing video footage and more to put extra smoke to the brass. Alec did mention the east coast seems to give a lot of love to the band.

Though there isn’t anything particular Alec had to say about the positives and negatives of busking but he had a pretty great generalization day to day of how this could be both sunny and stormy. Music is known as a universal language and Alec said the best part about performing at street level is when a fellow human stop them after a gig to speak about how unfortunate their week was going and how Big Smoke Brass really brightened up their day. When it does become hectic and headache prone temperatures like most humans you don’t always feel like following through. But just like Alec mentioned “ You keep doing it because you love it” On another had picking certain spots is like renting certain territory which may have no vacancy in some eyes. Musicians seem to have an understanding bond when it comes to why you are there and fair exposure but since Toronto does host a variety of individuals that use the streets for many different ways. Some are not as easy to work with as others.

When it comes to picking tunes to play Alec spoke on how they like to keep their authenticity through thick in thin while still producing music that might stop listeners of other genres. Big Smoke Brass won’t always play your favorite Bruno Mars but their eye and ear for Jazz flavor will always skid into the playlist giving you an understanding you may not have been aware of for their study.

Unfortunately, you may not see Big Smoke Brass out and play as often as they used to but they are looking to expand. At this moment Alec did say they are not too sure where they will tour next but the USA, Europe and finishing the rest of Canada might just be a new stamp and plane ticket away in their books.

Keep up with the band HERE and follow their social media for all new visuals HERE

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A LIFE CHANGING INTERVIEW WITH TORONTO’S MONET VANGOGH (tissue boxes are recommended for the tears)

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 18:00:19 +0000

*Humor Warning Advised: If you are sensitive to such acts please either use the gentle X button at the top of your search server or take the massive leap of bravery and continue this article – we thank you for this not so inconvenience*

Yes, you may be shocked to find out that we were able to interview such a being. With the hourless motivation to produce this article – It finally happened. You may know this Mr. from his pieces at Mallo Coffee Shop. Don’t be confused with Claude Monet or Vincent VanGogh – because Toronto’s Very Own Monet is quite the competition. Besides this unreal character, we spoke to the man behind the incredibly talented and to be honest, moving pieces that would rebaptize you for the better. If you are feeling any sense of intense emotion please contact your physician or your mother.

In a hashtag #Realism world – It all started by the idea of being a fourth-grade art enthusiastic and acting as if it was better than what it was. He or ( hey as described) wanted to come up with a name that would not only sound impressive but as well snobby. The conception was a quick one from an off the top of your head memory of late and credible artists. Though this ‘joke’ has gone further and further than what he could have ever imagined – it will be a futuristic surprise to whatever may come out of this. The persona also touches on a few friends and a particular institution that inspired the whole comedic side of it, I unlike many possible writers would outcast Monet but I wish to not be blackmailed by his artistry.

The first event that really took this idea offline was a black-tie event that Monet hosted and of course, showcased his work. They had a loft that pretentiously was on King and Bathurst and had those attended drinking wine and shot glass treats. Even those that are not familiar with the character of Monet, found it quite fascinating and a little “what the fuck” especially on TTC when he was dressed in his Parisian painters attire.

At this prime time creation of work, you obviously would understand that it takes a very long time to visual and put to paper what will now be labeled as legendary – a solid half an hour to 40 minutes of pure, pure talent. If anything, the true blue epitome is the person he has shadowed in his life which really now is the star of this article. He told us that his mother finds it incredibly funny and knows his juvenile level of artistry at best and she can’t get enough of it. Go, Mom!

The best part about what has been created is that its light and something for everyone to experience. Social media has not only become an issue for just physical appearance issues and reality of what one should look like but even mental health wise. For someone that is a biomedical engineer by trade to unknowingly start something that is so unrelated is a positive step for the future of online content. Of course, I gravitated to the humor out of this due to our human interest stories being mostly relatively heavy and I don’t want to ever give the impression I am always an in the trenches storyteller. But, this truly is showcasing the raw idea of not take yourself so seriously and enjoying what is to come in your life, small or big.

Give this lad a follow on social media HERE and if you would like for us to attend one of his future galleries, feel free to leave a comment below – but don’t think your opinion will change my thoughts because we will be doing it anyway.

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THE CANADIAN TUXEDO – YOU’RE MISSING OUT EH?

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 04:43:47 +0000

It’s the era of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, who just took the red carpet in their rendition of the Canadian tuxedo….well not quite but can we rendezvous a little bit? The denim on denim partnership seems to get the negative side eye every once in a while, to which we think why not do a renovation? There are so many ways you can style the vintage material, not to mention there is a variety of color options to choose from. The first step is defiantly asking yourself what vibe are you wanting to take on. Are you feeling the director at his movie premiere? a designer off duty and out of the studio? or are you feeling a laid back ‘let’s catch a ball game look’? The 60s-90s french artist wardrobe has been in for quite some time and to be honest, it’s one of the very few trends where you can throw in your personal flair without following what everyone else is wearing and pairing it with. Add a bere or a paintbrush in your mane, it’s all how creative you can get. The big perk about wearing denim on denim is that you can really go far out with your shoe choice. Converse are always a go but if you are out shopping for some new kicks, test out something futuristic or extra pops of color you typically wouldn’t see on a regular trainer. Just don’t forget the nick-nacks to go with your example, we are clearly major fans of throwback games, and it isn’t an MSN ‘brb’ one either.

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STYLING FAUX FURS FOR MEN

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 04:31:45 +0000

Oh, the lux of coziness. Faux fur jackets have been around in my household as long as I can remember my mothers Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction hair and bohemian beads hanging from the kitchen. The god-awful part about faux fur jackets is that it has a reputation for classical looks, like silk dress shirts with the spritz of ta femme’s Chanel perfume. The brilliant side of it though, is that it can be completely unisex and may I say I haven’t seen one lad that doesn’t look Friday night arcade game ready. If 9 year old me was styling a faux fur cheetah jacket, it would be with red blazing converse, an oversized ‘ dad’ white t-shirt with a dress and a milk ( almond) container in hand. Which if you think about it, we all need a little ‘kid personality’ back into our lives. So how can you style this fancy material of a jacket? The answer is: Don’t be fancy.

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REALLY CREATIVE UFC 229 THEMED PARTY IDEAS FOR CONOR MCGREGOR VS KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 04:20:58 +0000

Chances are if you are an avid MMA viewer, you will be tuning into the U229 event. Now, as a McGregor fan, this long-awaited return to the octagon is quite an exciting time for friends and family to get together to watch the fight. Not everyone can drop airfare and ticket coin in the bucket so we decided to put together a quick and creative décor list that can be produced in a moments notice or under a week (this would be the case with fast shipping/internet). The best part about having a gathering is everyone can at least chip in a few bucks to cover the PPV cost if needed. Also if you are an incredible host, which we are setting you up to be, anyone can understand helping out in an under budget way. You might just have your neighbors living in jealousness saying “ Who the fook is this guy?”

Standard Decor – The best place to find your wall decorating pieces is Red Bubble and Etsy to give the arena like feel. We found these economical flags from Amazon and Banner Buzz, so when each guest arrives they can have a flag chosen by their favorite fighter.

Games/ Game Prizes – You defiantly want this under your ‘belt’ since it is a long road to the main card. The games list can include, picking up a few blank wraps that we found on sale for $4 at SportsChek. Each guest will be given wrap and of course markers or other essentials. Whoever comes up with the most creative looking wraps can win a gift basket or prize ( shown below) Another fighter themed game is by splitting guests into 2 groups with 1 blank blazer each. If you watched the McGregor vs Mayweather presser, Conor’s ‘fuck you’ suit went viral. Again, whatever team at judges decision wins the round, can either win a prize and of course, keep the jacket. By making it even more interesting, in a hat, place a few fighters names on a slip of paper, this can be from 229 or favorites in general. Whatever name the team picks out of the hat, they must create a jacket around the characteristics of that fighter.

Octagon Style Food/Drinks section – I don’t know how in gods name I ever came up with this but if you are a dog owner or just interested in getting as whacky creative, this will be the main attraction. Instead of having a boring ol’ table as your chips/ drinks counter. Place a black matt or something stable underneath the steel cage pen or at least to give extra height for guests to reach. Feel free to decorate the pen…I mean the octagon.. such as adding UFC 229 sign, inspired by the fight or the bloody game ( ketchup goes a long way) and much more.

Though you will see Rad + Raw loud and clear at some bar bitting our nails anxiously awaiting Khabib and Conor’s arrival. At the end of the day, we know the fighters will put on a great show, outside of their bus.

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AFRICAN FASHION WEEK // 2018 // TORONTO

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 03:09:23 +0000

2 words to describe our appearance at African Fashion Week on Saturday night – “Blown Away” We as a publication always crave for threads that not only stand out but, make everyone sit at the edge of their seat. It all started with one model moving to the music that led the whole fashion influencer attendee’s anticipate what could possibly come out behind the runway. It was new and innovative, something Toronto hasn’t seen in a while or not used to – especially in menswear. It wasn’t the black and white predicted suit and tie or a leather jacket and a pair of boat loafers. You could telepathically see attendees look at each piece as if they were imagining how they could take those threads and style it into their own wardrobe, something a designer should take great pride in. Could we honestly say it was better than we ever expected? 100 times yes. In the beginning, they showcased mostly womenswear, which is great personally for myself to glance at. But for the sake of our readers, we were just a tad antsy. There couldn’t possibly be a better ending to the 1^st segment and with views like the venue host of “The Globe and Mail building”, you could say *in the Arnold Schwarzenegger tone* “I’ll be back”

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THE RAD APARTMENT SERIES W/ DES SOURCILS – QUÉBEC’S GYPSY JAZZ BAND

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 02:54:28 +0000

Des Sourcils journey all started in 2012, when they formed the band to participate in music contests and other competitions. As cool as these lads are, you wonder where do they pull inspiration from and do they have a home away from home where they can just dive into the world inside their mind. Fortunately, Antoine Angers parent’s (one of the band’s guitarist) has humble adobe on the islands of Île d’Orléans, where they “set up camp” in a shed/barn location. When they are back in the city, Des Sourcils members are approx. 5 minutes away from each other, which they see as a plus noting as it’s easy access to compose and jam when they need.

Though as most know rap and hip-hop have taken the top spot in charts so hearing gypsy jazz is thought as the trilingual language in music. With indie tunes on the scene, Des Sourcils believes there has been a comeback and more people want to hear this certain gypsy genre. Des Sourcils mentioned it’s not a rare occasion at Jazz festivals these days.

Since their first performance, the band agreed on a lot has changed since then. The way they produce statements, simply music wise by practicing and maintenance on their sound. With their own label Boite Beluga, the band has set their own sails on the water. For the band’s next journey, Europe is on their map as they feel they have left a good enough mark on Québec to expand on the market to make their place amongst the big players and of course….create new music.

Des Sourcils couldn’t put their full thumb on the band’s characteristics, as they try to be diverse by their influences, though deciding who was the funniest seemed to spark a great laugh but only….when they sizzle a cold one.

VisitBoite Beluga HERE and follow Des Sourcils Instagram HERE:

Click the photo to listen to their music

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THE RAD APARTMENT SERIES W/ THE TREWS John-Angus MacDonald

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 02:44:51 +0000

As one of Canada’s most successful rockers, The Trews made their appearance at the CNE’s Bandshell this past weekend. We wanted to provide coverage that lasted longer than the stage lights. We spoke to John-Angus MacDonald to touch on his musical beginnings, his not so ‘ Plan B’ and what has made The Trews so unique.

Being any sort of artist, the music playing in your childhood home can make a massive impact on the quality of writing and tunes you produce for the world. Thriller, by Michael Jackson, was just that for John-Angus. He remembers dancing and spinning around the room but that wasn’t his parents’ exact flavor or recipe to John’s futuristic success. John states the possibility of them purchasing the record was simply because he was MJ. John-Angus’s playlist list is a long script of legends including Jimmy Hendrix, the Beatles and Bob Dylan, which he states is what he really grew up on.

Artists like Johnny Cash have made a massive impression on my life for certain healing experiences. With, The Trews latest album coming out September 14^th John-Angus hopes that his listeners will feel the same moving forward. “I would love our music to do something for people. Just the stories I have heard over the years, and our songs have helped people in a particularly rough patch, is the most humbling thing you can hear as an artist.” From a personal standpoint, John said it would be tough to chalk up that one artist for him. His family moved to the Caribbean when he was just 13 years old, leaving the east coast of Canada. He remembers bringing a few cassette tapes with him that featured, John Lennon’s “Imagine” and The Beatles “ Sargent Pepper”. He states more than one of those songs off those cassettes has saved his life on more than one occasion.

Music being a massive inspiration lyrically, can also save inspire one to stay on the right track and continue what their heart leads. “I never had a personal Plan B” states John-Angus “ I had my eyes set on making music and touring. I didn’t know how I was going to make money doing it. You learn all of that stuff down the road if you are lucky to learn thing or two about the business.” John-Angus did think about branching out within the business such as writing for other people and producing which he successfully accomplished with 10 years under his belt. Of course, at this stage of the game and level of success, he could never see himself as an accountant. Which we couldn’t see him as that either.

With John-Angus’s longstanding career, we no doubt believed he had some solid advice for those that don’t have the support of family members. Just know John-Angus is cheering you on but make sure you want it badly enough. “ It’s a long road if your goal is to set yourself up for a career in music, there is a lot of disappointments along the way. As well, lucky breaks. We have had a bit of both. You have to ride it out and be in it for the right reasons. If you are not prepared for that journey, I would say don’t start. It’s only going to lead to heartache.”

Speaking of The Trews long road, it also comes with standing out and uniqueness. So from his standpoint, we wondered what characteristics that each member bring that propelled them to where they are now. “Colin is very driven, ambitious and sort of workmanlike in his approach. When we are in the song-writing mode he is writing a song or two every day. Regardless of the results, he always wants to be in that creative frame of mind. Jack is quite the opposite, he is more whimsical and classic artist type. He might not write for a month and not do too much but when he does he will strike out in a flash of brilliance. Chris, the new replacement member of the band is a lot of fun, keeps it light and feeling new, on the other hand, Jeff on the keyboard – is the reality crusher” He jokingly stated. John-Angus believes he is more of the moderator or level-headed of the band. He handles more of the business aspects and touring. He considers himself to be the guy to know what’s going on everywhere, which he states he is the shoulder the Trews sometimes need.

To those that may have not seen the Trews live, to give a teaser of their new music ( which I was fortunate to have heard before release..ps..your going to love it) since we were touching on the bands characteristics, what would their new album act like if it had a personality of its own. John-Angus says it’s like a fresh coat of paint, on a good ol’ house. He feels like it’s bells and whistles of youth that is harder to get back as you age in this business. Though the band defiantly should take major credit on our belief John did state they didn’t go it alone without the help of producer Derek Hoffman. “It’s like being optimistic without being nieve would be the personality trait”

Keep up to date with The Trews touring schedule HERE and as well pre-order their album, you won’t regret a thing!

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HUMAN INTEREST: MARCUS BERNARD ON SOCCER FOR CHANGE & HIS TRAVELS TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 22:02:14 +0000

For Marcus Bernard, the road to maintaining his soccer craft (later playing for Trinidad U20 in the World Cup) and attending Brock University were just a few things on his mind writing the preview section for his future chapters. But, his parents had another plan for Marcus that would lead him into assisting ‘goals’ in others live through leadership. The reluctant thought of leaving on a service trip to the Dominican Republic sounded a little far off from spring break vacation and seeing friends visit peers from high school. Looking back Marcus, stated as per usual, his parents set him off in the direction which he calls A newfound engagement a “grounding moment.”

The sport has always been a release for Marcus and now is a principal role in his personal wellness. At the time he knew there was more he could do coming out of his experiences. Not able to put his finger on it right away and combining two paths lead him to Soccer For Change.

As we know Soccer For Change, gives that push over-seas for those who are dealt with misfortune. But the non-profit seems to find a beautiful balance in their own backyard as well just fine. Through their leadership program, they provide GTA school boards certification. There are 5 things participants can expect:

To develop an understanding of the concept of self-awareness and its importance to personal development.
To understand the key attributes and competencies which future leaders need to develop.
Identify the unique strengths you can bring to leading a group of underprivileged youth.
To understand the “outer game” of leadership which are the skills required for effective leadership. (i.e. communication, self-awareness, authenticity, group/system awareness, and achieving)
To understand the “inner game” of leadership which is your unique internal operating system (i.e. drivers, what’s important, beliefs, how you define yourself)

They provide a modern approach, taking the discipline of classroom tactics and putting a social spin on mentoring as a development together. Creating more than just a ‘taking notes’ experience.

Speaking of taking notes, we asked Marcus if there were a few points he wished that would change in regards to the game of soccer. Marcus stating there isn’t much he would directly remodel but he wished organizations like FIFA would step up a bit, in some areas. Since FIFA is the governing body for soccer internationally, we couldn’t agree more about being a continuous leader in all fascists.

Being a leader also places a massive image over philanthropy. So what comes to mind when Marcus creates his own moving picture? Like most would day-dream a rich businessman that donates to charity and puts “philanthropist” on his Linkedin Profile. The true meaning of the word is the love of humanity. “When they teach youth about leadership it’s the similar approach” states Marcus. “At the end of the day its one leader influencing another, when you think about philanthropy in the same way. It doesn’t matter how small your drop in the bucket is, it’s going to create a ripple and hopefully, start something to change someone else’s life”.

It may seem Marcus’s encounters have all been pleasant but visiting the Dominican Republic can be a hard pill to swallow. Soccer for Change travels to a place called Sosúa, a town in Puerto Plata. The area is known for prostitution. If you further research past Marcus’s knowledge, visitors on reviews say the same as well calling it a Red light district by night. Even going to the extent some have shot video exposing the truth of Sosúa. Marcus’s recall of 80 to 20 women to male ratio is backed up by unmistakable evidence. We are not also talking about ‘legal’ aged women either. The bendable age bracket coming to Marcus’s camp are 12-15-year-old girls. Which in the Dominican Republic prostitution is legal. Marcus stated most reasoning to exposure are such as, family not having enough money so they send their daughter out to work, education or some peoples husbands are slothful so they send their wives out to the streets to bring home coin. Everyone, of course, hears about prostitution and the consequences of it but in Marcus’s position to listen and view the town around him, we couldn’t imagine how he felt. “These people won’t have a chance to have their story told’ says Marcus. They will be the Dominican girls who on the arm of an American guy on vacation. They won’t really know what’s going on, they will just assume”

To undergo what Marcus takes on is and should be inspiring to all young humanitarians that want to make an impact. Soccer For Change is always open to help, but he did state come with how you want to make a change. “It takes that passion to a whole new level”

The beauty of life is that each individual has experienced or learned something that someone else hasn’t mastered or taken on as we all have different paved roads. If we join those roads to create a highway, can you imagine what the world would be like? It takes one construction worker to ‘employ’ another and another till we have a full team directing those that are lost.

“ I will heighten my life by helping others heighten theirs” – Les Brown

Thank you to Marcus for sitting down with us and sharing his venture with Soccer For Change. Keep up with their incredible non-profit by following them on social media HERE as well as check in with their website HERE

**Photo Courtesy of Soccer For Change***

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IS UV/BLACK LIGHT TATTOOS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Sat, 01 Sep 2018 18:50:35 +0000

There is no doubt that people are getting quite creative with their new ink. But, there is one trend that is slipping just a little bit too much under the radar. Well, I guess because you really wouldn’t know. No doubt, black light tattoos are quintessentially unique that have benefits. Of course, stating obvious where you wouldn’t have to worry about accommodating any kind of job if you’re not too fond of covering up your sleeve tattoo with a rad dress shirt. Hand tattoos? No problem. The downfall is that it can cause irritation to those with sensitive skin, past a little soreness after fresh ink.

Just like regular tattoos, it comes with everyone reacting differently to healing. Some cause itching ( which it’s normal on a steady base of course with healing) but according to Authority Tattoo, UV ink has a higher percentage of causing skin reactions, such as benign lumps ( ie: where ink is clumped together). Glow in the dark tats are commonly made with phosphorous, which is not safe for your skin, what so ever. This shouldn’t stress you out totally but this kind of ink you to have to be extremely, and I mean extremely honest and open, about questions and concerns with the shop of choice. There are options for phosphorus-free UV tattoo inks but this may take a little soul searching to find an artist who truly is educated in this section.

In the meantime, while your way out your pros and cons there is no harm in taking a peek at some of your fellow human’s incredible artwork. Maybe just use the lick and stick tats for the next rave party you attend.

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