The first film based on the life of famed music artist David Bowie. Stardust tells the story of the 24 year old musician before his debut in the United States. Directed by Gabriel Range starring Johnny Flynn.
Tag: Music
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Tech Review
What did Steve think of the affordable Monolith Headphones?
First, the Monolith M300 Planar Headphone set is sumptuously packaged in a deluxe black box that slides out to reveal a leather case with Velcro closure containing a heavy duty plastic headphone with long nylon cable, and metal adaptor. There are also different size plastic ear hooks included which offer adaptability to the user. However, they’re not so flexible. The pieces have a sense of breaking easily which could lead to the trouble of finding more durable replacements. Also included are no less than four sets of ear plugs for added comfort. Overall, the aesthetic is not exactly state of the art. Instead going more for endurance against wear and tear (despite the ear hooks) as opposed to a trend-setting look. The latter could have been easily achieved, perhaps Monolith is looking for an alternative appeal in the market.
The sound performance, ultimately the most important aspect, is where the M300 Planar is at its most competitive. Whether it is on the Laptop, Smart Phone or Amplifier. There is a definitively balanced, detailed and spacious stereo soundscape clarity which elevates it to the level of a practical choice at mid-price level and should ensure customer satisfaction. Compared to other headphones in its price range there is a conspicuously louder and more balanced sound, layered in its frequency while very harmonious on the ear. Overall, if its sound first and foremost the user is looking for, then the M300 Planar does well against its competitors.
Where the headsets falter is the heavy black nylon cable with bolt-like adaptor. This is reminiscent of an old electric guitar lead. It might not be everyone’s choice, particularly to youth buyers.
By Steven Yates is a Black and Paper contributor.
A Black and Paper interview with Singer Musican Ricky Rebel.
I like Ricky’s in your face spirit. He is not afraid to express or show how he feels while doing it with a smile and a show off my body attitude. After the attention his Red Carpet look got at the Grammys, we had to learn more. After a quick What’s App conversation, he enthusiastically agreed to answer a few questions.
Q&A
How did you and your stylist Elena Nazaroff come up with the concept?
I told Elena that I wanted something sexy and provocative like the glam era of David Bowie and Prince but that I wanted it to have a message. Andre Soriano, the designer and Elena Nazaroff ,my art director both sketched out their ideas for me. The look wasn’t finalized until I got into the room with Andre and actually started creating it. Andre wanted to capture the spirit of my music so we played my albums on full rotation as we made it. I think that’s why it came out so bold and rebellious. It was a beautiful, collaborative effort incorporating all of our innovative ideas into one.
Get NOTICED!
The Grammys Red Carpet is go big or go home, did you have this in mind?
Absolutely! I am a go big or go home performer. When I get on stage I give 100%. I view the GRAMMYs like a performance. The show started the second I stepped out on the carpet.
Was there an inspiration?
I was inspired by Prince’s performance at the MTV Awards. Back in the 80’s it was ok for men to show off, peacock, and be sexual. Right now, I feel like mainstream artists in the male category are not expressing themselves sexually enough because they’re afraid of being perceived as gay or losing their Christian/religious fan base. I am not afraid of losing fans because all of my fans know that I cannot be controlled. They love me for it. Rebel is going to do what’s best for Rebel. I am not owned by the radical left or the radical right. I dictate: how I dress, what I say, and how I think. Like my new song says, “I’m Not Your Preacher.”
Have you been surprised by the success of your look? The level of coverage?
Yes! Very Surprised! Last year, I wore the Trump suit to the GRAMMYs. That looks got a lot of press. It was 50/50 negative and positive coverage. People either loved it or hated it. This time around I felt like people were talking about the fashion aspect of my look and less about the politics which is exactly what I wanted. I am getting very bored with politics lately. This year the coverage of my look was local and internationally appealing. Intelligent people can see the humor in my look. I wanted to poke fun at the impeachment hearing which I felt had further divided this country.
Kiss and Make Up
Ultimately, I want the left and the right to kiss and make up and work together to get stuff done. I also wanted people to “impeach” my booty. “Impeach” means to call into question the integrity or validity of (a practice). I consider my body a work of art and my ass is 100% organic.
Fashion Loves Music
Why are so many musicians embracing fashion?
I think fashion is the best way to express how you feel without speaking. Believe it or not, there is a shy side to my personality. I use fashion to attract people to me. My boots, for instance, are a great way to start a conversation with a complete stranger. I use fashion to connect with people. I believe that’s the goal of every artist.
What are your music plans?
We are developing a Ricky Rebel Vegas Show! It’s going to incorporate my music and I am going to tell the story of an “American Rebel.” That will be the name of my next album. I will more than likely be releasing it this summer. The record is being mixed and mastered and co-produced as we speak by Gary Miller, who has worked with David Bowie, Cher, and Kylie Minogue. Gary is determined to get me on the GRAMMYs stage one day performing and/or winning a GRAMMY. It’s amazing what you can do when people believe in you 100%. In the meantime, I am loving my journey and enjoying every second. My life is an adventure.
Certainly, his adventure will continue. We thank Ricky for the interview.
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Affordable Listening
Skullcandy Ink’d Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The first thing you notice about these Skullcandy Ink’d wireless Bluetooth headphones is how light they are. Initially this can give the impression of them being cheap and disposable. But you will soon find that the opposite is true and the design grows on you. They are a flexible collar-style fit and extremely comfortable. What’s more, after a short while you barely feel that you are wearing them. This makes it easy to go about your daily duties, at work or jogging in the park, with ease. The slim low-profile design means not attracting attention. They easily blend in to whatever you are wearing.
As for the quality, Skullcandy’s Ink’d is a consistently decent sound quality that compliments its already comfortable design fit. For one, it avoids the treble and bass push you get from many contemporary headphones so has a balanced decent clarity sound in the midrange. The drawback on reduction in bass means these aren’t going to be the greatest headphones for every type of music. However, it still competes well against other neckband-style Bluetooth headphones on offer.
It also functions as a headset for making and receiving cellphone calls with an instant pause on the music as notification. The integrated remote is on the left side of the neckband and the controls are large and easy to operate by touch. When fully charged, the battery life is somewhere around seven hours which is pretty good. Perhaps the only drawback is that it’s missing extra features like magnetized buds and there’s also no way to adjust the cord lengths. Overall though, better than it looks and definitely competitive in its price range.
By Steven Yates
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Being HERSELF!
Jaki Nelson is an ordinary, relaxed Angeleno. Even if considering her school mates were Kendall and Kylie Jenner. With dreams and talent, she set herself on a musical course. The Billboard charting artist is currently preparing to tour to promote her new works.
Read the exclusive Black and Paper interview.
Who was your musical inspiration growing up?
I was obsessed with music from a very young age. There are so many musical inspirations, I couldn’t possibly pick just one. So here are the big three. In second grade, I used to steal the Britney Spears “In The Zone” album from my sister’s room and share my headphones with friends at school during recess. Later, I got assigned to sing a Josh Groban song for 5th grade graduation, but I learned it about four months early, so I checked out another song on the album. I promptly memorized every single song, especially the Italian parts, with a veracity that I still yearn for every time I listen to a new song.
Then there was Lady Gaga. It blew my mind that anyone could make pop that perfect. She also hit mainstream right about the time I was starting to grapple with my sexual orientation. It was so reassuring to see an openly queer artist taking off in the public.B
Being raised around fame and music, did this encourage to become a singer?
There’s something about watching the people you know live their dreams. That helps you to intrinsically understand not only you can follow your dreams, but that you must. I see these people. I feel their energy of fulfillment. It’s infectious! You need it. I do, anyway.I
Is there one song you play over and over again?
There’s a Bea Miller song she wrote with Justin Tranter. It is unbelievable. The title is “It’s not u it’s me”. Pop perfection becuause it is surprising, confident, sexy and fun. Every songwriter I show it to loses their mind immediately. It needs radio play ASAP.
Why did you choose such a public place to come out the closet?
I wouldn’t say that I chose it. One day, I heard “Boys” by Charli XCX and I instantly felt compelled. As if by the Gods to make a bisexual remix version. It was more about the fact I wanted it to exist than about wanting even to make it. From the moment we finished, my whole life changed. I started getting asked to play it live at gay clubs. I was just immediately welcomed into the community. It was amazing! Then all of a sudden, my mom came into town and wanted to see my first big live show. I had to introduce the song, so I didn’t really have a choice. I freaked out. But I’m really glad I did it.
What is your definition of “Fluid Sexuality?”
Fluid sexuality is the same concept as saying you are not the same person every day. I mean technically, yes, of course. We are all the same person every day, but some days we are more or less feminine or masculine. Some days we are more bright and happy and some days we are more prone toward darkness. Neither femininity nor masculinity are inherently bad, nor is the light or the darkness. It is all part of the human experience, and it can all be perceived as beautiful. Some days I am more enticed by male energy in my life. Other days I am more attracted to female energy. My heart doesn’t discriminate.
See the Video Below
What are your tour plans?
Well, I’m headlining The Viper Room in West Hollywood. I’ll be performing two just released singles. A few songs most people don’t know I’m featured on as lead vocal. Some newly unheard material. These sets are an intimate preview of a tour that’s currently in the works.
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ANC Skullcandy
My initial impression of the new Skullcandy Venue Noise Canceling Wireless is favorable. I have not given the headphones the full test yet, this is a first impression. The finish feels premium, snug fit, a bit weighty but not uncomfortable. On the design side, no logo overbranding on the side of the ear pads.
Snug Fit 
White Model 
Black Model 
Active Noise Cancellation Control
The over ear headphones are simple to use. The headphone controls are located on side of the ear cups, the right side for volume control, the left side on/off control for the active noise button.
The specs are 24 hour battery time with rapid charging technology, five minute charge enables 5 hour battery life.
I tried the ANC features in the sound booth, a complete blackout of all outside noises with good sound quality.
Skullcandy has a reputation of being affordable, streetwise brand moving into the higher end headphone market occupied by many competitiors.
I am looking forward to trying out the new Skullcandy Headphones.
Retail price is 179.00 euros.
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An IFA 2018 Highlight
A Headset Conversation
Sponsored by Canon Camera/Werbung
I had an interesting conversation at IFA 2018 with a audiophile. This journalist writes about audio products, in particular headphones. German audio group Beyerdynamic just introduced a new entry level in ear set for 25 euros. It is a curious move for the high-end label which retails headsets at 1200 euros. The bottom to middle range market is competitive. This move was about introducing the brand to a younger crowd in the hopes of attracting long term loyalty. Saying they are aimed at a young group with their bright orange color as well the sound range is meant for pop music.
At the top end clients tend to be loyal to one brand, expecting a very specific sound quality.
I have not used the new in ear set yet. The audio writer gave the Beyerdynamic pair a good review, “well designed” and “comfortable”. .
We started talking about the ear buds. Many brands have new models. Our discussion turned to Apple AirPods. His review was than stellar, saying they lacked real sound quality. This is coming form a guy working on a MacBook attached to iPhone with an iPad in the bag. CALL THE STEVE JOBS POLICE! A fan is going ROGUE on an Apple product. I proceeded with caution in my questioning, trying to hide my shock. The story I was told at the press table, “people are buying into the concept”, not the quality of the product or the sound. Walking down the street with white plastic dripping from the ears looking “ultra in” at 180 euros a pop, the price you pay for being a part of tech first adapter. A pair of 20 euros headphones with cord will do a better job or even a lower price cordless set. You learn something new everyday, especially at IFA.
I will let you know what I think of my new in ear Byerdynamic headsets shortly.
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Marshall Major III: A Tech Review
Headphones are objects of tech popularity. Black is the new Black with centered white letters is the latest style trend in my fitness circle. While at the gym I noticed a number of members using Marshall’s. The connected fit sect has moved on to a new brand. Bold colored head devices with a stylized “b” are not longer favored judging by my daily observations on the treadmill.
The Marshall Major III Bluetooth over ear headphones look good. On the box it says “30+ hours of wireless playtime.” Does it live to the hype? It was hard for me to disprove. I used the headphones without charging for 24 hours. When the device is low on power, there is an audio tone. The recharging time was fast. A red light on the right ear pad indicates charging. A white light means full.
A high tech device but simple to use. The left side gold colored button the left side controls volume, bluetooth connection, change tracks, respond to calls. Connecting to Bluetooth was easy, the connection was constant, no problems or interruptions, whether wearing them while walking around my flat or roaming a large workspace.
On an aesthetic level the Major III is designed with comfort for long term use. The weight is 180 grams or 6.28 oz.The square shaped ear cups feel nice, each side is labeled “LEFT”, “RIGHT”.
The sound quality is good in wireless mode. A cord, with microphone, are included for connected activity. As well, there is a charging cable. 
If you have been following me, you know I am not a fan of overt branding on items I wear. I am not being paid to be a walking billboard. But with headphone gear, wearing branded devices over your ears represent you are a part of a club The cursive logo brand “Marshall” is on the ear cups.
Overall, I understand why the Marshall III is popular at my gym. The headset is a combination of dependability and style.
Price is $79 dollars online at www.marshall.com
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Aretha Franklin RIP
Aretha Franklin has passed. For African Americans it is like a Grand Aunt who will never come over for a visit again. She carried herself with confidence. Unlike other singers of time, Franklin’s voice had strength. A Pastor’s daughter brought up during the Civil Rights, the singer put her emotions in songs that would define the era.
Such was her gift, her influence in music, all singers are judged by her standards. None have made it to those heights. Who would dare try? There has always been an unwritten rule in music : There is Aretha Franklin and everyone else.
Rest in Peace Queen of Soul.
Black and Paper interview with filmmaker Philipp Jedicke, his first film, “Shut Up and Play the Piano” a mockumentary following the life of Musical Artist Chilly Gonzales premiered at the Berlinale.
Why did you choose to make a documentary as your first film project?
I interviewed Chilly Gonzales when I was a journalist. As I learned more about him the more I wanted to know. My curiosity was peaked. I saw his many facets, I asked if anyone has produced a portrait or film on him. He said, “no!” He told me to do it. I had a lot of ideas about making a film but none came to fruition until this project.
You were not worried about working with an artist who is talented but a bit egocentric?
Not at all! I met him person. I knew the whole Chilly Gonzales mode he goes into was really a stage persona. Behind all of that is gentle, emotional, and nice guy. As Chilly he is erratic and in rage but for him as artist it is a wall of protection. The two are linked, but totally different mind sets.
What type of humor is employed in the film?
We tried to mirror Gonzales’ humor. I hope we managed. There is a lot of irony, sarcasm, and the “HA HA Jokes”.
How much footage did you shoot, the film is 82 minutes.
We filmed a lot over the 30 shooting days, much is on the cutting room floor. This is my first film so I gave myself complete coverage. I interviewed a number of people for the film but I had to cut them which made me sad, but as a director but I wanted to stay focus on Chilly.
How long did it take you to make the film?
From the first shooting day until now, premiere at the 68thBerlinale February 2018, three and half years. We did not have the end credits finished when the film was chosen only a few weeks ago. The producers were very supportive of me, giving a lot of control.
The camera work is really good, there was a good relationship with the production team?
My team was familiar with Chilly Gonzales’ work. I was lucky because I worked with an experienced Director of Photography, Michael Winterbauer. My first DP, Marcel Kolenbach, had to leave because of a schedule conflict. The editor, Hank Drees has been in working on documentaries for 20 years and Carina Mergens. They all knew the character I was working with as well they had great enthusiasm.
What are your future plans?
I would like to make film about another musical artist. I am in talks. My site is on The Austrian Music Scene, fascinating, a lot is happening there; many artists producing techno and indie sounds.
Music influences your work?
Yes! I was a member of 2 bands, but now only one. Music has always been an important part of my life. I never tried to make a living as a musician, I wrote about music, but the saying is “Music Journalist are fustrated musicians”. I think this is true in many ways.
Shut Up and Play The Piano was screened at the 68thBerlinale.
Check local listing for release dates and screening times.
This interview is from our #thisberlinale18 coverage sponsored by Canon Camera and Pringle of Scotland.