I want to bring to you something about you. It is a quote. I quote “Our worst fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves who am I to be brilliant or just talented – fabulous. Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some of us, it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated by our own fear o ur presence automatically liberates others”. – Marianne Williamson from the lips of Odetta

Written By: Jordannah Elizabeth

Its been a few years since we’ve heard Anton Newcombe really sing. The iconic underground musician’s new The Brian Jonestown Massacre EP entitled, + – has incorporated elements of soul and R&B instrumental and vocal styles that have rarely been so confidently executed in BJM‘s earlier work.

Much like the last full length album Revelation, + – is self reflective and transparent without giving off a sense that he’s brooding or longing in a manner that is unhealthy or emotionally unproductive. The truth seems to be leaking out with lyrical explorations of what Newcombe expected of himself early in his life, what he achieved and the acceptance of the reality that he is in the middle of his life. Continue reading →

Written By: Lee Davis Lee Davis is known for his work on Spike Lee‘s earlier films including Malcolm X, Jungle Fever and Mo’ Better Blues. Davis has launched himself from protégé status of Lee’s work and wrote and directed his own films, 3AM, Romance is Served and Hoop Reality. He also directed music videos for Bilal, Freemoor and Sunny Dilinger. Look out for his soon to be released collection of original short stories Bespoke.  Lee has contributed a film review of Hiro Murai’s short film / music video for Flying Lotus. Check out what he has to say:

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Written By: Jordannah Elizabeth

This Halloween I thought I’d share a sensuously ghostly music video that sparks the dark portals of the imagination (at least it sparks my stark and dark sensibilities.)

There is always a method to my madness and I must be honest and admit that I promised to share this video a week or two ago. But on this rainy Halloween day in San Francisco, I found myself with some time and the inkling to share this eerily poignant music video with you.

SHE OWL‘s self titled music video is perfect for the mood and tone of All Hollows Eve. This is our gift and celebration to you on this festive day. Without further ado – SHE OWL’S SHE OWL.

Noah Berlatsky is a jounalist who has written for Slate, The Atlantic, Wired, Splice Today, the Chicago Reader, Comics Journal and other publications. He is also the editor of the renegade arts and culture website, Hooded Utilitarian.

We asked Noah to share some of his favorite music with us and he did just that. Check out his favorite tracks from strong women who have made an impact in the music world from the past to the present.

Written by: Jordannah Elizabeth

The esoterically potent neo psychedelic band, The Asteroid No. 4 has returned with new album entitled, The Asteroid No.4. I can only guess why they waited this long to put out a self titled record, but I have an inkling that this album is the most personal collection of songs this band has released. Principal singer, Scott Vitt delivers every recorded vocal performance emotively and with sincerity. It is almost as if he is talking to someone, trying to explain something that he can’t quite put into words, but the combination of the music – the instrumental mood that all the members contribute along with the lyrics create Continue reading →

We’re so very honored to have been invited to curate and host a month long residency at Amnesia Music Hall in San Francisco, CA! Every Tuesday in September, we will have a different curator (all of which are promoters, community leaders, performers and artists) host and organize a night of music, art, poetry and fashion to benefit the growth of Publik / Private and its presence in the local and international music and arts community. Event details are below:

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