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Rocking with the Stars - Kings of Chaos

Posted by Unknown Wednesday, June 12, 2013 0 comments

It was Friday morning early and I was
on the N2 freeway heading towards Cape Town. Now this is nothing out
of the ordinary, except that the soul reason for my visit to the
City, despite very dire weather conditions, was to attend the Kings
of Chaos Rock concert at the Grand West Casino.

After picking up our golden circle
tickets, my fellow sister in rock mentioned that this event was a
dream come true. We remembered discussing about a year ago how
unbelievable it would be if we could see Slash and Myles
Kennedy performing live while religiously listening to their
Apocalyptic Love album. When a friend told us a couple of
months later that the Kings of Chaos tour was destined for the Mother
City we were in heaven! The delightful news that Myles Kennedy
was joining the party at the last minute was a added wonder because
we are also great Alter Bridge fans. But we were also in for
a musical experience of a lifetime with 9 of the world's most
talented and experienced Rock and Roll stars in the lineup. Joe
Elliot from Def Leppard, Duff McKagan (G&R) Gilby
Clark(G&R), Matt Sorum(G&R), Dave Kushner(Velvet Revolver), Ed
Roland (Collective Soul) and Mr Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple). What a
lineup!

We were heading to the concert in a
couple of hours. I couldn't help but to sit with a smile plastered
on my face which lasted way into the weekend because of sheer rock 'n
roll inspired bliss. When we arrived at the Casino we were
dismayed by the ques but we were soon inside the arena eagerly
awaiting the legends to appear on stage. The crowd was a collective
soul of rock 'n roll fans from the early days of Guns 'n Roses
and Deep Purple and fresh young faces who clearly understood
what real music was about.

What we were about to witness will
perhaps cause many a future gig to look pale in comparison. Its not
everyday that one gets to experience musical royalty in action –
and that but a few meters from the stage. The opening announcement was backed by
royal orchestral music as each artist was introduced onto the stage
and the anticipation in the crowd was electric.

After a couple of Deep Purple
classics and an introductory performance by each artist followed an
apparently impromptu acoustic set that beautifully left me with tears
in my eyes and a big smile on my face. Knocking on heavens door had the whole
crowd joining in song. But I must single out Mr Glenn Huges'
solo performance of Mistreated – astoundingly powerful vocal
ability exhibited by the Deep Purple star. This performance
had the crowd gasping and Mr Hughes' voice is probably still
resonating within the walls of the arena. In fact I find it hard to
describe the essence of that 7 minutes and the ambiance in the arena
as 7000 people were swept of their feet. The other artists watched
with mutual respect and admiration as Hughes sang and gave him a
standing ovation. As Joe Elliot noted afterward “How does
one follow that?” But it was followed by performances no
less spectacular...

Photo by Warren Talmarkes, Channel 24

The crowd sang along like angels to Two Steps
Behind by Def Leppard. Ed Roland gave a
delightful performance and I was impressed at how humble all the
artists appeared to be considering their collective talent and
success (together they sold more than 300 millions albums
worldwide!!) In fact they all have a contagious and addictive energy
that is understandable considering they get to make excellent music
almost everyday of their lives.

Photo by Mark Rojas

The acoustic part of the show already
left me awestruck but as promised they still followed with some hard
rock 'n roll. Myles Kennedy delivered the Guns and Roses
classic Sweet Child of Mine
brilliantly and I was sublimely thrilled when I recognized the
unmistakable opening of the Led Zeppelin Classic Immigrant
Song performed by Myles Kennedy – a sweet and unforgettable
surprise that still leaves me with goosebumps at the thought of it.
Pour Some Sugar was a distinct crowd favourite.

Photo by Warren Talmarkes, Channel 24

Slash without question was
stunning and flawless, voicing a simple greeting to the crowd but an
appreciated gesture. Ex front man Axl Rose's boots are big
and Myles Kennedy manages to fill them with grace and an air
of humility that is worthy only to such a crown prince of Rock.
Their artistic abilities was a blessing to witness and apart from
being on stage myself I doubt I could have been radiating more
happiness when leaving the arena. Their last but memorable
performance was Guns & Roses' Paradise City leaving
the crowd not wanting to go home … but finally reluctantly leaving
the arena with satisfied stars in their eyes...

I was still awake at 4 o clock on
Saturday morning, long after the concert ended. The music was still
pulsing in my veins, the smile still firmly on my lips, the stage
setting replaying in my mind. I was psyched and starstruck and
inspired for having seen these true diamonds within the crown of rock
'n roll.

Words by Adel La Kok.

Photos by Warren Talmarkes (Channel 24) and Mark Rojas.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

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GIVEAWAY SPERRY TOP-SIDER WATCH

Posted by Unknown Tuesday, June 11, 2013 0 comments

CONGRATS TO SASHI RAJ

As promised, here is your chance to win this amazing Sperry Top-Sider watch.

"Sperry Top-Sider is a true American Original since 1935. From the world's first boat shoe to today's contemporary style that remain true to our heritage, Sperry exist for those drawn to the sun, surf and soul of the ocean."

To win this fabulous watch, just complete the following:

1. Click "Contact Me" on my blogger website and shoot me an email with your Facebook and Instagram name. This is so I can email the winner and verify you did #2 and #3.

2. "Like" my Facebook page.

3. Follow me on Instagram.

Contest ends June 30th. Good luck everyone

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DPC Traffic shoot: Winter in the City

Posted by Unknown 0 comments

We recently had the privilege of doing a shoot for the trendy, streetwear brand Traffic Clothing. Since the start of 2012, I fell in love with the brand - Their clothes fit perfectly with life in the city: smart, comfortable and ever so trendy. They recently launched their Winter 2013 range at the gorgeous Shimmy Beach and it was everything I had hoped for - beautiful darker shades, layers and different textures paired with daring studs, prints and sequins.

Traffic's 2013 Winter range is definitely one of my favourites this year. They have quite a few really bold pieces which is perfect for cold night's out in the Mother City (look out for the studded, leather jacket!). There is also beautiful black and gold (also the semi-theme of our shoot) pieces that can be worn with basically anything and you can be sure you will make a statement! Think chunky knits and shorts and dresses with bold sequins.

So last weekend, we gathered our hot water bottles, scarfs and beanies, and went out in the cold Cape Town weather to shoot for Traffic Clothing. It was possibly the coldest weekend of 2013 yet, but we pushed through and got some amazing shots - even a few in the icy hail!

These gorgeous dresses are perfect for winter nights out. Wear them with stockings and pair it with a beautiful coat and you're good to go.

The above black and gold skull-printed top was one of our favourite pieces. Pair it over a black or gold top and add some skinnies - perfect city outfit!

The above black and gold striped jersey goes with nearly anything! Pair it with skinnies or a
skirt and heels, and you are ready for the Mother City's icy weather.

Above. This camo top can be worn on its own or over a black or gold top. We love the gold stud touch!

Above. Possibly the two most trendiest, streetwear outfits. Gold, chunky knits paired with black skinnies and gold, shorts over stockings.

Above. The black peplum dress, paired with a beautiful black and gold printed jacket.

Above. The black, leather jacket with gold studs worn with the skull top and maroon skinnies.

Visit Traffic's Facebook page for more updates and info on their Winter range: Here

All prices available in store - Long Street and Canal Walk.

Also look out for their website coming soon!

Photographer: Adel La Kok

Shoes and beanies models own.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

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DPC Interview Series:

Posted by Unknown Monday, June 10, 2013 0 comments

The Black Market Riots was born in 2008 and through the years had built quite a following in the local music scene. The journey has not been without obstacles like changing the line up a few times, but they had always managed to work through it.

In 2008 they won the Mystic Boer Battle of the Bands, which landed them a recording slot with Franschhoek studios where they recorded their 8 track EP titled, “Box of Dreams”. Their EP together with their debut music video “Machine” was released in 2009 at Aandklas, Stellenbosch. Possibly the biggest tipping point for the band was the writing and
recording of their single 'When we Collide' in late 2010. Which could be seen as their own musical revolution, where they tried new material, different to their previous work.

Most recently they released their singles 'Minority' and 'Handcuffs' in 2012. Both takes you on a different kind of journey and you get a taste of the growth the band had up until then. These guys have a passion for making music and it is evident in the 'sound revolution' they had through the years. Since they have managed to create a very unique and real kind of sound.

I recently saw them live for the
first time at Utopia Festival and I was quite impressed with their
performance, especially with the amount of energy they performed with - not necessarily carried over through their bodies, but also in Danie's strong vocals, the way the guitarist held their instruments and generally in the atmosphere they created. I remember thinking, 'If they can do this in front of a small crowd, imagine what they can do on a main stage in front of thousands...' The guys definitely have a stage presence very few other bands can pull off on the last day of a festival (possibly tired, weak, cold and hungry).

So,
you guys have been together for 5 years, is it? Give us a little
history about the journey of Black Market Riots?

Yup,
just turned 5. It’s been an incredible journey with many twists and
turns in the road but luckily we stuck to our path. Started back in
2008 with our first show and since then we have played some awesome
venues/fests etc. Unfortunately we have had to sit through some
growing pains with band members leaving the band, but this has never
stopped us from doing what we love!

For
someone who’s never heard your music, how will you guys describe
it?

Explosive
energetic alternative rock & roll. But well like when people make
up their own minds about us, good or bad…. we like the feedback.

Why
‘Black Market Riots’? What’s behind that name?

At
first the name really fit our first round of music writing. Crazy,
loud and just about anything we like. But as time rolled on the name
actually made much more sense to us than we thought it would. It
boils down to individualism, being who you want to be but always
consider your neighbour, because every action has a reaction.

"We
had the most fun at Oppikoppi 2008 by far. Guess it’s because we
were fresh out the starting blocks and it’s Oppikoppi obviously..."

We
loved your set at Utopia and we know you’ve played quite a couple
of festivals and events? Any favourites?

We
had the most fun at Oppikoppi 2008 by far. Guess it’s because we
were fresh out the starting blocks and it’s Oppikoppi obviously. As
far as gigs go, it would have to be opening for Springbok Nude Girls.
No words…

Tell
us how you guys experience a festival: What do you pack, where do you
sleep etc.

Mostly
we just pack what we really need, black label, a pillow, buns and
chips, the rest normally comes as it goes. Rough is tough and that’s
what we like.

How
about venues and crowds in Cape Town? We’ve heard that they are
pretty mild compared to crowds in J’burg and overseas. How do you
guys experience it?

This
is a tough one. We can talk about this for days. In general it isn’t
easy to pull off the best gigs. Especially now in winter, it is even
harder, but it all boils down to marketing, getting the media in
there, hooking up with the right bands for the right show. But you
ask how we experience it? FRUSTRATING with a tad of ENJOYMENT.

So,
about the local SA music scene. Do you guys think there’s enough
opportunities for bands wanting to make it big?

There
are yes. But it all depends on the hard work and effort the band puts
in to it. That is the only way to reach goals and grab opportunities.
We have some really great SA bands, just feel that some of them have
reach the ceiling and should shoot for greater heights outside SA,
but again, super hard work.

Is
there enough support from the public?

Not
long ago we had this discussion on radio and I think this goes to any
band out there wanting to make it somehow. We have noticed at some
gigs that people would come to gigs, pay the cover charge and then
only watch the band their “buddies” play in and then leave. To us
this is strange, is this not why you go out to discover and support
the local scene? So we would say it’s 50/50. Ofcourse the more
established bands do get all the support, but with the up and coming
acts it’s a different story. Bands need support and that’s that!

And
about your fans - describe a BMR fan?

We
have no idea how to answer this question. Maybe ask the fans…

Any
funny groupie stories?

Well
Pierre had a creepy man following him around at some of our gigs.
This was sooooo weird. Not even funny, just super creepy.

"I guess being in a band is one massive great moment..."

Tell
us about that single greatest moment since forming the band?

We
have had so many great moments. This goes from band practise to
shows. I guess being in a band is one massive great moment.

You
had to say goodbye to Tim, your drummer, recently. Tell us about that
and the process of choosing a new drummer?

This
was very hard on us. We became such great friends and it’s always
difficult to say goodbye to someone who had so much influence in the
band, but we had to move on and luckily the process wasn’t that bad
this time around. So we recently got Fano to join the band and we are
super excited for the new roads to follow, with every new member
joining, our sound evolves…very exciting times!

Please
share something about Black Market Riots that no one knows?

Danie
– Band dad
Rudolph – The young one
Pierre – Extreme math
nerd
Fano – Fanew guy

Do
you guys carry lucky charms or have any tradition/rituals before a
show?

Naaaaa,
a lucky charm comes in a bottle, namely Jaggermeister. Our normal
ritual goes something like this: We suck, try to play well and let’s
see how it goes! Self confidence = TICK

"We
are working on new material and hoping to release our very first full
album. Some secret plans, but you will have to wait and see!"

What
are you guys planning for the rest of 2013? Can we expect a tour
soon?

We
are working on new material and hoping to release our very first full
album. Some secret plans, but you will have to wait and see!

Where’s
your next gig?

Currently
we are only putting time in to our practise and getting Fano up to
speed with our songs. We are planning a couple of dates in July, but
we will be having our 5 year birthday gig in August, expect a biggy!

Finally,
where can we find you on the interwebs?

You
can see EVERYTHING at www.blackmarketriots.com
- all our songs are free for download, all the various links to our
facebook, twitter, soundcloud and youtube plus you can download our
press kit for even more info!

Thanks
boys!

Last year Black Market Riots went to studio for the first time since recording their demo 'When We Collide' back in 2010. With new band members and a new sound they are determined to make their mark on the local alternative scene!

This video showcases the recording process and introduces each band member as they recorded 'Minority' and 'Handcuffs' at Digital Forest Studio. As a bonus, they self-produced and recorded 'The Sounds We Feel' especially for the video, which is available for download, as is all their material, at www.blackmarketriots.com

Two bottom photos by Lupa Photography: Facebook Page

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

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Whole Day, One Watch with Sperry Top-Sider

Posted by Unknown Sunday, June 9, 2013 0 comments

The wristwatch is the one item I never leave the house without. It's not just an accessory, but a functional item as well. When the new Sperry Top-Sider watch hit my door, I was amazed by the versatility and quality of the watch. The classic dial along with the brown nato-strap made it the perfect watch for a day on the town, but could easily be dressed up for an evening out.

To change up the single outfit shoot, I made the #timeforsperry watch the focal point around an entire's day trip. The difficult thing about a one day trip is that most people wear one outfit throughout the whole day to avoid having to pack additional clothes and having to change. But this causes you to either be uncomfortable and overdressed during the day or under-dressed for the night depending on the outfit you choose for the day. To remedy this, the following shoot will show how to transform a day outfit easily into a night outfit.

The day started out with bold summer shorts

and a comfortable top.