Cupcake! A Fetish Themed Dance Party

This past Friday 12 North Photography was at the Rogue in Scottsdalefor Cupcake! Which is a monthly fetish themed party hosted by fashion designer Suzy Homewrecker. There was a live performance from Miss Krystle and Bent Self followed by some epic beats courtesy of DJs Dark Mark, Self Destrukt, Blonde Noize and Defense Mekanizm as well as Troop 666 Go-Go’s  decked out in Hell on Heels Couture.

Who ever said the Devil wears Prada has obviously never been to this party. Here anything goes for clothes including but not limited to fishnets, pasties, leather, chains, wigs, you name it! Suzy Homewrecker’s ”Hell on Heels Couture” as seen in the photo above is a wild mix of Glam and Fetish giving us a much-needed break from the typical and cheesy Go-Go dancer outfits we have come to expect over the years. More than anything her clothing is both unique and stylish, so if your into alternative style I strongly suggest you check out her website!

It wasn’t just the fashion that made this an amazing party. Musically it was a powerhouse starting with an amazing performance from Miss Krystle and Bent self; who performed songs off of their latest albums.  Miss Krystle’s beautiful singing voice and magnificent stage presence mixed with the vocally hard-hitting Bent Self made for an amazing show. DJs Dark Mark, DJ Self Destrukt, Blonde Noize and Defense Mekanizm closed the night with a truly brilliant assortment of music that kept the party hopping the whole night. Now when you match two amazingly talented DJ’s with beautiful Go-Go’s and an awesome unique crowd, then you’ve really got yourself a party to remember.

If you missed the Cupcake Fetish Party don’t kick yourself yet. It is a monthly event so you still have a chance to throw on your favorite fishnets and get out there. For more information about dates be sure to join Cupcake on facebook by following the link at the end of the post.

LINKS:

To learn more about Hell on Heels Couture – CLICK HERE

To learn more about Cupcake – CLICK HERE

To learn more about Miss Krystle – CLICK HERE

To learn more about Bent Self – CLICK HERE

To follow 12 North Photography on Facebook – CLICK HERE

To see 12 North Photography’s video of the Event – CLICK HERE

Miss Krystle on 12 North Photography TV

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a safe and fun end to 2011.

As some of you may already know 12 North Photography has launched it’s new YouTube channel and to start it off we sat down with the very talented singer/songwriter Miss Krystle. Subjects include her latest music video Want a Star, her new album Run and much more! Don’t miss the first episode of 12 North Photography TV only on the official YouTube channel of 12 North Photography!

Of course no interview is complete without a photo shoot! The photos were taken at the amazing “Raw Hair Salon” in Phoenix and the hair and makeup was done by the very talented Terre Steed. On the next episode of 12 North Photography TV we will sit down with Terre and he will give us a little insight on the look used in this photo shoot. You wont want to miss it!

To view my channel and the Miss Krystle Interview: click here

To learn more about Miss Krystle: click here

For more information about The Raw Hair Salon: click here

Miss Krystle – Want a Star

Phoenix based singer/songwriter Miss Krystle brings to life her newest single, “Want a Star”  in a cutting edge music video featuring members of the Scorpius Dance Theatre as well as beautifully designed gowns by Phoenix based fashion designer Natalia Acosta and choreographed dances by the very talented Lisa Starry. This is the follow up to her last single/ music video, “Run” (Which you can see by following the link below!)

To celebrate the videos release Miss Krystle teamed up with 12 North Photography to shoot an awesome set of portraits! It is always a blast working with Miss Krystle and I hope you all enjoy them!

Miss Krystle recently said in an interview that the inspiration for the music video came from the dichotomy of her experience as a musician and law student. “Want a Star” is Miss Krystle’s bold statement that she refuses to be labeled, and sets the standard for herself of who she ought to be.

Get the new “Run” album on iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/run/id456111669

Official “Run” music video on Youtube:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iM9Wzo21Ye8

Miss Krystle in The Last Song

Miss Krystle is an alternative electronic artist, feeding on a love of music, fashion and artistic installation. A classically trained musician since the age of 4, Krystle started her solo career as a self-managed artist. She released her first album “Identity” in 2009 with 100% of the proceeds going to charity. Simultaneously, she pursued her bachelor’s degree where “Identity” served as her honors thesis at Arizona State University. Miss Krystle is currently pursuing a law degree from the Phoenix School of Law while performing and supporting the release of her second album, “Run”.

Her latest album “Run” which released August 16, 2011was co-produced with the amazing film composer Jason Camiolo. Her first single from the album also titled “Run” was released with a beautifully done music video, which has already passed 16,000 views on the net and was placed at #4 on Jango’s top 10 airplay list (Jango is one of the most popular internet radio stations). 12 North Photography recently had the great opportunity to photograph and interview Miss Krystle for the first installment of my “Grindhouse” series and this is what she had to say.

Q: Tell me a little about yourself…

A: I am a self-managed performance artist, and I live for my art and beautiful fans. My fans mean the world to me, and I do everything with them in mind. I have never waited for success. I feel successful now because I am living my dream, and enjoying every minute of it! I feel amazed, inspired, and humbled by those who support me, and refuse to ever let them down.

Q: What inspires you as an artist?

A: I recycle everything I hear and see, from a perspective somewhere between reality and fantasy. Moments of inspiration feel like religious experiences, and inspiration always comes to me as long as I respect the process. The moment I reject the inspiration, it rejects me.

Q: In the spirit of Halloween, what are you most afraid of?

A: My only fear is that I would ever disappoint my fans.

Q: If you could describe your music in one sentence what would it be?

A: My style of music is electronic indie-pop, with a deliciously dark rock edge.

Q: Where can one listen to and purchase your music?

A: http://www.misskrystle.com

Q: When and where is your next show?

A: Visit www.MissKrystle.com for pending show dates.

Q: If you could sing a duet with one artist who would it be and why?

A: I am on a five-year “Disturbed” high, I think it is time for us to collaborate.

Q: What are you working on now?

A: Want a Star music video is set to be release by the end of the year!

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: I hope I am doing the same thing I am now.

To learn more about Miss Krystle and her music visit her online by clicking HERE!

Lee Green

Lee Green is a rapper out of Phoenix, but unlike most rap music today his message isn’t about bling, making money, or any other stereotype that we have come to expect from the modern commercialized rap industry. Instead Lee Green’s message is one of love, hope and praise. His hard hitting lyrics are delivered straight from his heart and they all derive from his faith and love for Christ. Recently I was fortunate enough to work with Lee Green and he agreed to answer a few questions for the blog!

Q: Tell me about yourself…

A: My birth name is Leacroft Green. Im a Lyricist out of Phoenix Az. I was born in Queenz New York, and raised in Virginia (Newport News,Hampton,Virginia Beach). Right now I work full time at Amazon.com. I recently just came out in the New York times in a photo shoot they did for Amazon (google: Leacroft Green). I am married to Perla Green for one and a half years. I met her and her 7 year old son two years ago and now we are a God loving family.

Q: When did you first start rapping?

A: I first started rappin’ when I was 15. I used to do battle competitions for my old crew Deep Sunz. I heard about the Gospel of Jesus in power and I stopped for a lil then started again at 24

Q: What inspires you?

A: I love music. It is so natural for me that I have no choice but to believe that I was created this way. Music is how I communicate my most deep, heart-felt perspectives that Mostly come from the Inspiration of the HOLY SPIRIT.

Q: Who are your favorite recording artists?

A: My favorite recording artists are The REP, Mali Music. I grew up listening mostly to Nas, Planet Asia, Mos Def, GangStarr, Buckshot, Heltah Skeltah, Lauren hill, Pete Rock, De La Soul, Kool G Rap, Bob Marley, Sizzla, Luciano, Barington Levy, Mob Deep, M.O.P. and many underground artists I don’t remember the names of.

Q: When does your next album release?

A: My next album release is sometime in October or September

Q: Where can one listen to and buy your music?

A: If you go to facebook and look up LeeGreen (no space) there is a band profile there. There is no music for download as of yet.

Q: Do you have any upcoming shows? If so when and where?

A: Yes there is a show in Oct. 2nd @ Lifeconnection 2909 W. Indian School rd. Phoenix Az, 85017 there are more but that is the one you wont want to miss. BE THERE!!!

Q: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

A: Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ’s powerful love in the streets, on tour, and in the church. Walking in the power of the Holy Spirit for all grace and righteousness In HIM.

Jenni Alpert Live at Bergies Coffee Roast House

Tuesday July 5th Jenni Alpert is coming to the East Valley to play a free concert at the award-winning Bergies Coffee Roast House in Gilbert Arizona! This is one of the many stops in The Blood Driven Tour presented by Music Saves Lives.

The Blood Driven Tour is meant to raise awareness about the benefits of donating blood and the impact it could have on people who need it. I had the great opportunity to tag along with Jenni to a few of her local shows this past week and was truly blown away not only by her absolute passion for this cause but by the people attending the blood drives.  This compelled me to look a little deeper into donating blood and it’s benefits in everyday society, which shamefully I admit I have never really done.

The American Red Cross states on their website some pretty remarkable facts that I had to share with all of you.

5 Facts About Donating Blood  (From The American Red Cross)

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. Needs blood.

More than 38,000 blood donations are needed everyday.

The average person can only give up to a pint of blood.

A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood.

One donation can help save the lives of up to three people.

So if you’re into great music and great people I strongly suggest you don’t miss this show! If you’re not familiar with Jenni Alpert’s music I have attached a link for you my very awesome readers for a free download of one of her singles titled “Sweet Talk” which you can find on her latest album “Beneath The Surface”

CLICK HERE FOR THE FREE DOWNLOAD

Event Description

Music Saves Lives presents Jenni Alpert Live At Bergies Coffee Roast House

DATE/TIME: Tuesday July 5th from 5pm-7pm

WHERE:  Bergies Coffee Roast House located at: 309 North Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ 85234

Also I will be giving away a FREE photo session to the person who finds me at the show and gives me the funniest pose! Remember you must be a fan on facebook to participate in contests! I hope to see you there!

CLICK HERE TO JOIN ME ON FACEBOOK

Aaron Molina is the Hurricane

Aaron Molina aka “Hurricane” is a 19 year old up and coming music producer originally from Holyoke,MA. Along with producing amazing music for the pop, dance and hip hop genres, Hurricane is a very talented musician playing both the trumpet and piano. Recently I had a fantastic photo session with Hurricane and I got the chance to ask him a few questions.

Q. What made you decide to pursue a career in music?

A. I’ve always loved music, but it wasn’t until my senior year in high school when I finally looked into it as a career. Even then I wasn’t sure on specifically what I wanted to do within the field of music. Trumpet was my primary instrument, and I wasn’t sure if I wanted to teach, try to make it as a soloist, or even play in an orchestra. Don’t get me wrong I’ve always been making beats, but it wasn’t until recently when I decided that being a music producer is truly what I want to do! It’s not because I’m dreaming of being rich and famous or anything like that, I’ve been a hobbyist producer for so long and those were never my intentions. But it’s because I absolutely LOVE what I do, and I just so happened to be very good at it

Q. How long have you been making music?

A. Well I’ve been producing for about 4-5 years, non-continuous years.

Q. What inspires you?

A. Just GOOD music really, it can be anything from rappers like Lil Wayne, Drake, or pop artists such as Lady GaGa, Britney Spears. Why? Because it’s talented artists like that who I dream of working with someday. Then there’s great producers such as Timbaland, RedOne, Kanye West, Dr Dre and even newer producers like Lex Luger, or Billboard, the list goes on.

Q. What would you classify your music as?

A. There is no 1 specific genre I would classify my music in, but most of my music is within the pop, dance, and hip hop genres or sometimes it’s a combination of a few of them.

Q. What do you have in the works as of now?

A. I’m currently finishing up my submission for a remix competition by Image-Line, in association with Rode Microphones & Event Electronics. Normally I don’t enter stuff like that, but the first place prize is well worthwhile. So far everything is working out fantastic, I’m really confident and satisfied with my work and I’m not even fully finished yet. I’ve also recently made a pmp page (pmpworldwide.com), so I’m on there shopping my music around to various major artists or in most cases their management.

 Q. Where can one hear your music?

A. Either at www.reverbnation.com/hurricanetheproducer

www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-the-Producer/220196538006476

or www.pmpworldwide.com/hurricane (if you are a registered user)

Q. Can people purchase your music? If so where?

A. Directly from me, if your interested in purchasing an instrumental you can reach me at hcnmusic@gmail.com I also do custom work and remixes.

Q. Where do you want to be in 5 years?

A. I just want to be a successful and established music producer, and as if that’s not already far-fetched I’d hope to win or at least be nominated for a Grammy by then

Hard Rain

This is a piece I created that was inspired by the song “AEnema” by Tool.

In Focus with Jenni Alpert

 

Q: How are things going with Jenni Alpert?

A: Things are well thank you! It is a very creative time. Spring kind of does that. Warm weather, bright sunshiny days… Happy to be back in LA although performing out in New York and Bostonlast month was a blast. Looking forward participating in more shows with GreenRoots Productions (Blue Green showcases) and Koffeehouse Productions two production companies in Los Angeles paving ways and opportunities for emerging artists. Great people to work with always with exciting events to be a part of.  

Q: So you recently put out a new record ‘Underneath the Surface’ to add to the catalog of the many you have released thus far - How did the making of this record come about? 

A: Well, there was a period of time when songs were just pouring out of me writing wise and shortly thereafter I met an engineer fromJersey, Eric Boulanger, who suggested we go into Bill Schnee’s Studio to record. Jimmy Paxson (drummer, Stevie Nicks / producer) who I consider a major influence, inspiration, and contributor to the growth and development of my music brought in several musicians to play on different versions of songs before introducing Brad Smith (bassist, Blind Melon / producer) to the project. Brad’s pop sensibilities and fine tooth creative musical carving combined with Jimmy’s extensive musical background, focus, passion and dedication, and Eric’s extraordinary ability to capture the sensitivity in sound were the components that made the recording of Underneath the Surface come to life. The foundation of the record being Jimmy Paxson on drums, Chris Chaney on bass, Zac Rae on synths and organ, Kevin Haaland on guitars and the guest musicians that appear are: Lenny Castro on percussion, Emerson Swinford and Justin Andres on guitars, Ben Peeler on lap steel, Brad Smith on Uke, Eric Boulanger on violin, B Willing James on harmonies, and string arranger Andrew Kubiszewski. Brad Smith mixed the record and Eric Boulanger and Doug Sax mastered the record. I feel it is most important to mention all the people involved because without them the record would still be words of songs on napkins. The musicians’ contributions were awesome. It was an honor to work with legend percussionist Lenny Castro. Jimmy brought him in to play some final touches on a few songs which ultimately brought the tracks out of their shell and into a whole new realm of musicality.  For years I have hired Zac Rae on synths because he always offers innovative textures and sounds which I have felt always leave a defining mark. I had forever wanted to work with Chris Chaney from studying the records he had played on for his tone and musicianship on the bass and his contribution carved out a richness in each of the songs. I really feel though, that a huge part of what makes the record so special is due to how the drums define and drive each song home and I am where I am today because of Jimmy’s support and faith in me and my music and his constant reminder to have faith which I am forever grateful. Jimmy is among the most authentic drummers out there and what is most innovative about his drumming is his feel and ability to play just as gracefully in the silence between the notes as he does the rest of the song. Sometimes we need that extra faith around us to help us find our own. The strength of the creative team behind this record really made it grow and shine. This batch of songs is a gift and I am excited to get them out there.  

Q: So what cool stuff is happening with the new record?

A: Underneath the Surface was added to Pandora this year which was super exciting and the song Sweet Talk was selected to be a part of a compilation CD through Songs of Love for Japan Compilation CD drive which was a 3-day, 72 hour flash sale of 100 rare songs from 100 leading artists benefiting Japan relief efforts and ShelterBox. It included inspiring music benefiting survivors of the crisis in Japan with songs from: Tori Amos, Ani DiFranco, Sara Bareilles, The Submarines, Brandi Carlile, Charlotte Martin Josh Ritter, Lucy Schwarts, Keaton Simons, and more. I was pretty proud to be a part of such a strong campaign to support Japan and Shelterbox with music. And thanks to my publicist Bob Bradley, the record received a generous helping of reviews on sites such as aolmusic.com, Discover and Uncover, Music Connection, a review by Scott Wilson.

Q: Any new Music Videos? 

A: Well, the official music video for Heaven produced and edited by Matt Shapira was released on the net just a few months ago. I feel that he really did a great job capturing the meaning and feel of the song. It was really fun to work with both him and Hannah Cowley on that. It’s amazing what a few hours of shooting does as many people commented but what people often don’t get to see is the talented minds work behind the scenes in the editing process to tell the story. These two really were great to work with.    

Q: Any new songs?

A: As a mater of fact, I have been writing a bunch of new material in the last several months both in my solitude and with other fantastic writers. Listed below are some preview links of a few of them in their rawest form before the new record unfolds. 

In Time (Alpert / Perrin) 

Hold On (Alpert)

The One (Alpert / Andres)

When Something Changes (Alpert / Ks Simons) 

Sending You Love (Alpert / Mercedes)

 Beyond Our Best (Alpert)

Q: Some upcoming projects or tour plans?

A: In June at Zoey’s in Ventura I qith the help of some great friends am putting on a welcoming the summer Spin it Indie Fest which will feature a bunch of GREAT songwriters taking place at 185 East Santa Clara Street . Ventura, CA93001 from 6p-midnight. Thus far the confirmed line up is: Justine Bennett, B Willing James, Delaney Gibson, Chi Mcclean, Kelly Mcgrath, Shane Alexander, myself, Joel Eckels, Lee Koch, Wes Poland, and a more. Super excited. 

Also something truly awesome that I have been working on for a while is a project called the Blood Driven Tour presented by Music Saves Lives where I will be performing and speaking on a string of dates alongside the Warp tour this summer on the value of donating blood to save a life from early June through August alongside the Warp Tour. People will be able to follow my video account of the connections made at each of the drives and the friends that I will meet and be a part of this project in person at a blood drive nearest them and virally. 

Q: You’ve been doing this for years and you keep on blossoming into new forms. What keeps you inspired?

A: Growth and more growth ….. and people and experiences. life it’s what you do in it and with it ultimately, how you share it on the journey.

Q: Any upcoming gigs?

A: This Friday April 29th I will be performing inLos Angeles at the Hotel Cafe . 7pm . 1623 Cahuenga Blvd.Los Angeles,CA90028. First 20 guests will receive a $1 starbucks card to start off the spring just right! Other performances are posted on my website. Thanks so much Larry!!!!

 www.jennialpert.com

Follow the link below  to buy Jenni’s music on Itunes: 
(http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/underneath-the-surface/id389233039)

Photo Session and Interview with Jenni Alpert

Recently I was fortunate enough to have another photo session with the very talented singer/songwriter Jenni Alpert. You may remember our previous photo session here on the blog titled “shooting the cover” if you never got a chance to check those out please do! This time I was able to interview Jenni Alpert and below is that interview!

Q: How long have you been singing/songwriting?

A: I have been playing piano since I was 3. Guitar I picked up at age 14. Composing started as soon as I could hit the keys. Songwriting began seriously about ten years ago. 

Q: What style would you say your music is?

A: eclectic pop 

Q: Where was your favorite place to perform?

A: where people are engaged, listening, and connected. 

Q: How many albums have you released?

A: somewhere around 8 I think.

Q: Where can your albums be purchased?

A: I tunes, Amazon, CD baby, live at shows.

Q: Where can one listen to your music?

A: Samples are available all over online from my website, to Itunes, to Pandora, to Rhapsody, a few internet radio stations, some college radio stations, international radio, and i hear xm radio as well.

Q: When is your next tour?

A: I will be touring sporadically throughout all of next year performing at places like Sundance in Park City Utah and South By South West in Austin to name a few and the European Tour / release in the UK, Holland, and France will be in April which I am really excited about.  

Q Where can someone see you play?

A:I play locally in Los Angeles from time to time and travel quite a bit. My tour dates are always listed on my website. The first show of the New Year will be in Los Angeles at the Hotel Cafe on January 10th at 9pm.

Q: What are your influences?

A: I am influenced by a plethora of musicians. Everything from Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone in the jazz world, to Carol King and Joni Mitchell, to Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Buckley, Sting, to Donny Hathaway. 

Q: Who do people compare you to?

A: I get Aimee Mann, Edie Brickell, Karen Carpender, Sara Barielles and Norah Jones (hence acquired the nick name Menorah Jones the Jewish version) a lot. 

Q: Who are some of your favorite bands / artists?

A: Oh! The list is endless. Here are a few off of the top of my head. Led Zeppelin, U2, Sting, Peter Gabriel,  Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Buckley, Donny Hathaway, Ray Charles, Emmy Lou Harris. . . 

Q: What inspires your songwriting?

A: Feelings, emotions, experiences, and people. 

Q:What is the name of your new record and how was it for you in making it?

A: The new record is called Underneath the Surface. It was produced and mixed by Brad Smith, engineered by Eric Boulanger, mastered by Eric Boulanger and Doug Sax at the Mastering Lab and features an amazing group of musicians: Jimmy Paxson (drums), Chris Chaney (bass), Lenny Castro (percussion), Zac Rae (synths), and Kevin Haaland (guitars).  It was an amazing experience and I am really proud of it. It wouldn’t have happened though without the support and direction of Jimmy Paxson and Eric Boulanger. They were the wind that encouraged my wings spread and soar. I am grateful and excited for what is to come. 

Q: If you could use one word that represents your record what would it be?

A: Transformation

To see behind the scenes photos of this shoot follow the link below:

http://12northphotography.wordpress.com/2010/12/07/los-angeles-in-polaroids-photo-shoot-with-jenni-alpert/

For more information about Jenni Alpert Visit her online at: www.jennialpert.com

To Listen/Purchase her music follow this link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/underneath-the-surface/id389233039