The Kendall Jenner x Pepsi Ad Made Me Want To Vomit
Before you do anything else watch this if you haven’t seen it already:
OK. Made it through? I had a hard time getting through it myself. Let’s take a quick look at a few scenes that encapsulate why this ad is a piece of shit.
1.) Co-opting a movement
Love
Join the conversation
Peace
These are all very nice sentiments and shit we should strive for every single day but they aren’t the typical signs you see at real protests. The protests where people are putting their safety in danger because they’re afraid they might walk outside with a hoody on and get shot, or that their family won’t be able to return to America if they board a plane to see their family in their native country. And they’re certainly not as happy as the perfectly casted multi-racial group of actors walking down this very well lit street with no menacing or threatening police officers present any step of the way. Hell, they even pretty people to eat next to the protests while it was happening. The police aren’t in riot gear, apparently seeing no threat from this massive group of protesters.
Now look, I work in advertising for big brands™. I know major corporations are risk averse and don’t want to alienate potential consumers who don’t share in what should be non-controversial views like equality and freedom of expression. But they are. But that’s why no one has ever asked a corporation to make a fucking resistance commercial. If you aren’t going to be on the ground with organizers and protesters, or helping to pay legal funds for those wrongly incarcerated or even at the very fucking least, providing food and beverages to people who are taking hours at a time out to speak out on something they believe in, then don’t use a movement for your own commercial gain.
2- Tropes, (Un)intentional Racism, More Tropes
All black people are good for in commercials are for hip hoppity dancing, tattoos, giving dap and staring lustfully at white women.
All the people of color in this ad are mostly used to check boxes and unintentionally accent how what could have been a profound message/scene that has been entirely whitewashed and commercialized.
3- Our White Savior
Ohhhh boy what in the actual fuck?!!?!
Another white woman swoops in to save the day. I wish Pepsi had Melania Trump’s number so that I can get past a few of the issues currently concerning me.
I would’ve had a problem with this closing scene if it was from just about anyone but we’ll get to the actual ending in a bit. The fact that it’s a fucking Kardashian Jenner – the physical embodiment of wealth, entitlement and privilege in America – shifts this ad from just terrible advertising toward the realm of parody, absurdity and offensiveness.
Do you remember the protests in Baton Rouge after Alton Brown was gunned down by police officers?
This is the lasting image of those protests. A young, black woman walking up to a group of white police officers dressed like they’re ready to confront ground troops in Northern Iraq, and able at a moment’s notice to gun her down.
The ending of this thing is even more absurd. Once Jenner hands the very peaceful policeman the can of Pepsi, the crowd goes crazy, like they were all Tyrone Biggums and it was time for the free crack giveaway.
If I knew all I had to do to avoid being shot by the police while black was carry a Pepsi around with me, I would’ve been doing it this entire time.
It’s almost time for the 3rd edition of Kaleidoscopic Label’s bi-weekly playlist. Need more music in your collection? Check out the current edition. All original, high quality, forward-thinking songs free to stream and download. Check it out here.
You can also submit your own music to be featured!
The devil comes in many forms.
My demons have to many horns.
In heaven not to manys born.
Singing till our cities warm.
All Gates are Gold when Gates are Barred.
In Saints I behold most Vain are Starred.
And yet in soul those graves are charred.
So, Sing until our cities free.
Sing until our waters clean.
Sing cause our people die.
Soul make our people cry.
Steal em, make em sterilized.
Pharoah's pained and paralyzed.
Man, They need to learn to recognize.
In Africa, Adam's left; Her marrow lies.
Tempted by the apple. In her Temples lies an answer.
Hinted by no trample. In his sizzles hides a dancer.
On truth he stamps, in rhythm of a Phoenix beak.
For glories honor, he who lead the schism seek.
A third they speak along, singing songs of whence we'd follow.
Adam's apple stuck inside his throat, God's love now known as hollow.
Wonder if he's sleepy, Morpheus piled upon his eyes.
All-seeing, never dreaming. Why in us, night has wrung disguise?
For ambitious be the wicked, yet meekly power seeks.
If I had a Golden ticket, why seek me then, these glower wings?
Cowards crawl in wait, anticipate a Revelation.
Respected thus, rebels bronzed in reverberation.
Revel dawn, excited by Bellona's famed anticipation.
Sit in patience. Djinn is waiting. Wishing ends to each Elitist Situation.
Crazed brigades crave fame Eternal.
Though became the blazed Diurnal.
Yet why not make haste, escape Infernal?
Singing till our cities warm.
In heaven not to manys born.
My demons have to many horns.
The Devil comes in many forms.
Follow Kevin Midas
RATING: 7/10
BEST SONGS: Limbo Intro, Letters to the Cul-De-Sac, Lost Inside, Reality, Daffy Daffy Frozen Eggs, Strawberry Papers, Broadway.
WORST SONGS: I'll do me, Cockpit Freestyle
Dissecting the inner thoughts of a Saturanian from Aspergia... Are you ready?
Every artist has a start, a trial and error period, of developing their own sound. This is no different for Kevin Midas. While listening to the 58 minute debut mixtape, I understood he's searching for his place. And he's giving any opportunity of diversity a chance. While 'Drafted In Limbo' shares characteristics and themes to Kid Cudi, Lupe Fiasco and Andre 3000, Kevin showcases his own originality as well.
The album has a definitive them to it. It begins with an upbeat misanthropic vibe from the opener, 'Limbo Intro' featuring a brilliant excerpt from the late George Carlin. Then it reaches midway with the silly, yet impressive wordplay of 'Fox Kids WB'; a song which display retro nerdy love as Kevin references over 30 cartoons from the 90s. Finally, the project culminates in a chilling, borderline thanato-centric closer, 'Lost Inside (The Death of Keo L. Major)'. The album starts high and ends very low; highlighting one's own mortality and existence.
The beats for the most part compliment his flow. The mid beat transition in 'Strawberry Papers in Summertime' and the ambient freedom of 'Daffy, Daffy Frozen Eggs' are the perfect examples of Kevin accentuating his voice. While other songs are stripped down, such as 'Reality' which only pertains a singular guitar chord with high gain and reverb, the Lupe inspired lyrical assault that accompanies definitely makes it a standout track. 'Lost Inside' carries a similar situation, except this time it's an acoustic guitar, laying a haunting soundtrack to a spoken word outro. Though not every song hits the mark. 'Little Bit Quicker' just can't find that middle ground, with it's odd techno leaning beat serving to be a distraction if anything.
One major flaw this mixtape has is its features. 'I'll Do Me' is the worst song on the album, and the features can bare the weight of why that is. While Young ILL, J. Will and Twon are capable much better on their solo work, they didn't bring their A-game here. The beat is underwhelming, lyrics take the generic route and the chorus is cringe inducing. Even Kevin can't save this track. The following track, 'Cockpit Freestyle' with Grim Cheifer and Thirteen, suffers from the same, but in the sense of Kevin's verse being the only one worth listening to. It's more than obvious he could've tackled the entire song himself; with bars to spare. Most of his features miss their mark and just become pointless filler. On 'Cold Turkeys', Sky High is the only feature on the track who is remotely interesting even with two more features following him. 'Deli Spot' featuring Tre Black is the only feature that fits the song exceptionally well.
Another problem is solely on Kevin though... His ad-libs. Though they are very scarce on the album some are borderline uncomfortable. 'Don't Understand' is a prime example where he pulls a Wayne, Future, Young Thug type of crooning with a drawn out 'ahhhhhh'. It easily throws you off and you find yourself hoping he doesn't do it again. But, that's a minor flaws compared to the issue with features.
Honestly, Kevin is talented enough to have rode the whole album himself. It definitely would've helped weed out the unessential. While that problem remains critical, he soars on making up the difference. 'Letters to the Cul-De-Sac' is another personal favorite. He carefully plays out his youth in novella fashion, resembling the Outkast track 'A Life in the day of Benjamin Andre'. Truly, he could make a entire concept album off of this track alone. His skill of storytelling is compelling and captivating, no matter the context.
His lyricism is in the realm of Lupe Fiasco to Kid Cudi, perhaps even Eminem. This is based on both subject matter and the actual words and rhyme schemes used. Some may say the many large words, double entendres, references, and depth of wordplay will definitely go over some people's head. Especially those not versed in nerd realm culture. That's a good thing. Let's just hope Kevin isn't forced or compelled to "dumb it down" at all in his future releases.
One lyrical theme that stands out is being who you truly are, even if you haven't the slightest clue as to who that is. Embrace your mind, your reality and the thoughts that you hide away. You're the singular purpose you should worry about. No matter how strange, weird, different, out of the norm, socially unacceptable you are... you matter in the universe. This world will know how to break you down way before it's goal to build you up even surfaces. But don't worry, "Because one day you'll be invincible”
All in all, this album is a pretty fun and unique ride. You'll definitely uncover new things after each listen, and you'll definitely appreciate the obvious talent Kevin possesses. Here's hoping he continues to dissect and improve on his sound. I'll definitely look forward to "The Saturanian bringing madness to the masses."
Now the wait for Th▲ V☼id R∞m begins.
WRITTEN BY: Shawn Mitchell
Local Detroit band BROKE just released a new music video for their song “On and On”. The song is an inspirational jam about never giving up and making sure you just keep going. The video carries this message not only through it’s continuous hype party energy, but also in its behind the scenes making-of.
Broke shot this video themselves, with just a few cameras, some go-pros and a gathering of their fans, friends, and family. I was lucky enough to be apart of the whole experience, and I have to say, there’s no band who gets it on like Broke. Check out the video, like and share, and look out for much more from them in the future! Stay Golden.
Well it's official. The Aliens are here and they aren't planning on leaving anytime soon. Join us as we congregate within the walls of Jam Handy, located in Detroit's New Center area, to show you just what these celestial beings are about. This psychedelic event will feature some of the universe's illest musicians, visual artists, DJ's, and thinkers. Start 2016 off right by surrounding yourself with dope vibes, vibrant colors, and chill people.
Come as you wish you were, meaning come as you want. Don't feel limited to standard attire. Feel free to come in costume, in character, or naked. BYOB plus Cosmic Juice, water, and other "refreshments" will be on sale.
-If you are a visual artist and wish to do live creating, display and/or sell your work contact us and we can make that happen for you. -
-There may also be 5 minute slots for open mic opportunities, so if you are a poet, folk artist, or rapper come prepared to bless the mic!-
-If you are a merchant and wish to have vendor space, let us know!-
18+. Weird attire encouraged. Astronauts welcome, Aliens preferred.
Visual Art by:
Blackmoore
Visual Art by Quinn Buckley
Daniel Cicchelli- Artwork
AM SCOUT
Justin Newman
and more
Projections by:
ESP
Rope Suspention by:
Rigger Xeno
---- LINE UP COMING SOON ----
The homie Tony Millions dropped a new video, and it’s a banger. Shot by CTfilms, “Mary Wanna” is definitely the song of the season as we head into the new year. Tony told me he’s aiming for this one to go viral, so let’s help out the local talent and share, share, share. #GoingViral #TonyMillions #LoudPackMafia
After checking out the video, be sure to head over and cop that single. It’s only a dollar, so skip that faygo for today: http://tonymillions.com/2015/12/22/mary-wanna-tony-millions-itunes-single/
It calls to me. Those cyan songs of perfect aesthetics; inciting curiosity in all minds that lay eyes upon it.
But, like they say, beauty is only skin deep. If you skim just the outer layer, the epidermis, the bare skin... you miss something really vital and vehemently important. You're blinded from the bleak truths bobbing along below the surface.
There was a moment when depression engulfed me like an ocean. A morose Monday every day. Bitter beginnings of the week, and doleful descents into the end. Arms growing tired, rapidly thrashing in exasperated gesticulations of a breath stroking escape. It was a never ending cycle of never feeling good about myself. I couldn’t imagine feeling worth it. Knowing I didn't belong, and I wouldn’t ever quite fit in. Then, without warning, I saw sunshine. Photonic brief glimpses of happiness. Yet the feelings never really go anywhere. I just learned to deal with them for an undefined duration. Anxious crawling on the glistening sands, always afraid of the potential tsunami left behind.
A fermenting fear. I could’ve drowned in that deep, dark ocean of despondency. Swam inside the swirling, somber sea of sadness, wading amongst the wistful waves of woebegone waters, left over products of weeping pessimism. Instead, I beached myself onto a sparkly, sunny shore. It makes me feel strong for a bit. Knowing I've escaped what is too often the end of most. Then, I think, is it ever really quite over?
Things aren't perfect now. On this beach there weren't ballistic quantities of blithe berries, or blissful breezes that uplift the spirit. I didn't run across ponderously playful pearls, or perky mermaids wading with nymphs in mirth. What I discovered was a chest. This chest wasn't full of captivating, cheerful contraband left over by a peppy pirate. Instead, the chest was full of temporary contentment. And really, is that too much to ask for?
Inside the waters I swam with sharks. Sharks who gobbled up self-esteem like fresh, bloody steaks served on a platter. Jaws clamped on my joy, jubilantly suctioning out every drop of juice. Crabs clawed at me constantly. I was conscious of their never dying efforts to make me concede. To coerce from me an utterance of defeat. Hopelessness heeded each hoarse heartbeat. I thought maybe I didn’t belong in this ocean, maybe I wasn’t made to be in this ocean. Although, I was thankful for it. I feel as if I needed to have dwelt in those deep blue depths, witnessing the atrocities. Appalled, hiding behind anemones. For, if I had never been there, would I ever appreciate the luscious laughter looming inside a young sun’s shine?
I wasn't trying to be strong. I didn't search around inside of me, constantly trying to confide in my inner strength to combat these conniving corals. Somewhere along the way, it just happened. I learned to smile. I learned to feel a bit of joy. And, like a bubble, that joy rose inside of me; leading to a frantic, ferociously fast feeling of jubilant fervor. Until... I floated. I floated up from the sea, and escaped the murky, melancholy muddy Mediterranean below me.
Was I strong? Maybe not. But I feel proud about whatever it was that drugged me from beneath. I may not be a superman, or even a Clark Kent. I may not ever be designated as a hero or savior, given salutation from citizens as I canvas from the skies to save lost souls from crimes. But, I am my own hero. I don't say it often enough, but I feel pride in myself. I feel pride for the push. Pride for the pulls. And I even feel pride for whatever stupid ship transported me so far away from the shore in the first place. Perhaps, something out there called to me. Perhaps, I went out to seek it.
I didn't find a message in a bottle. I didn't break through the secrets of the Bermuda triangle. I discovered no hidden city of Atlantis beneath the depths. I sunk. But, I believe as I fell balefully from the boat that beautiful morning, I knew I'd find something down below. And, I'm often sure I've found it. I'm never sure what it was, nor what it is. And, I'm often sure I'll never know. Yet, somehow, as I smile brightly, standing along the beach, I feel fine. Even when the storm clouds gather, and precipitation brings a powerful pain down from above me. I feel fine.
I can smile against the petty, quite miniscule disasters that the natural tides may toss my way. For, I've sailed below the surface. And, I know, no matter how bad things may look beyond the horizon of above, and no matter how sincere the singing sirens of the sea may seem... I've been there. I've sailed below the surface. I was strong enough to return. And, I found what I was looking for, so I have to perennially be prepared to dodge tsunamis and never go back again.
The skies are just as blue and beautiful.
But, damn, that ocean though. It seems so darkly lovely.
blakekathryn
vaporwave
discoholicmusic
stormborns
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