Ghana, Revisited
In the midst of a rebirth of this nation’s love affair with the noose, this is perhaps no better a time to be reeducated and reacquainted with the beauty of Africans and their descendants. In 1963, photographer Paul Strand traveled to the West African country of Ghana during the height of racial and civil turmoil to document an original people and culture on film. More than 40 years later, six photographers traveled back to get a revitalized look at the first sub-Saharan colony to gain independence. Ghana: An African Portrait Revisited, sustains Strand’s initial visionary concept through an updated variety of styles and viewpoints of Ghana at the brink of the country’s 50th anniversary. Printed completely in vibrant full color, the collection was edited and shot in 2006 by Peter E. Randall and five photojournalist: Barbara Bickford, Tim Gaudreau, Nancy Grace Horton, Gary Samson, and Charter Weeks. The 168 page photo essay was recently presented during New York City’s inaugural celebration of “Africa Week” (October 14 – October 21), co-sponsored by the African Studies Association, also celebrating its 50th anniversary. Represent!
The Great Heist
The first time I saw Isis from Thunderheist on stage I just about fell over. She had the stage presence every woman wishes she had, and more energy than a pit bull in rage. Dreads flying, pelvis thrusting, body rockin’ music that gives you no choice but to get down and grind. The floors are wet with sweat (and who knows what else) when you leave a dance party led by the mighty Thunderheist. Representing Canada, I was stunned when it was brought to my attention that the success of their band was the Net. Getting tons of play from DJ’s around the world, songs like “Bubblegum” and “Suenos Dulces” embraced what they call “Ribcage rattling breaks laced with clever rhyming flip…80’s classics to digital booty bass and slowed down Southern bounce”. With Grahmzilla lacing the tracks and Isis’ tight rhythmic flo’s, excitement comes to a head with the announcement of the 12” Bubblegum EP. Featuring remixes by Ghislain Poirier, Wax Romeo and Wicked Lester, get ready to bounce-bounce-bounce.