Congratulations to BRUIN for being Commune’s Featured Local of the month. I emailed the guys to congratulate them and to see what they  had going on. Check out what our favorite party babe, Dom Fawcett had to say.

1.    How long have you guys been playing together and how did you come up with the name BRUIN?
The two of us have been making music together since early 2011. At the time Nick lived in Northern California and I (Dom) lived in San Diego so everything was made through Gmail. He would make a beat and I would play some guitar/keyboard and sing. It wasn’t until 2012 that Nick moved to So-Cal that we were actually able to play shows together. Originally I wanted to call the band DEWDS, but just before we released our first EP some kid from SD named his band Dudes. So, we couldn’t do that anymore. After a very short brainstorming session, Nick and I settled on the name BRUIN (all caps) because we went to the same high school together and that was our mascot. P.S. all we did in high school was sk8board and steal beer from Round Table Pizza, my second job, no big deal.

2.    How would you describe your music?
I’m pretty obsessed with Toro y Moi, Brothertiger and Neon Indian. I kind of feel like that’s the type of music that I’ve been waiting to hear since I was a child. Nick has been pretty hip-hop influenced since the day I met him, so it’s somewhere in between that. Nick never ceases to amaze me with his ability to turn some 1800′s Slovenian Polka song into the most murderous beat of all time.

3.   What’s one interesting fact about each person in the band?
Well, Nick used to be in the top graffiti artists in Sacramento under the name Adept and I can fart the alphabet.

4.   Do you guys have anything exciting coming up that people should keep their eye out for?
We are currently recording an album with Keith Sweaty that we plan to release in March. Also, we are supposed to play a show for the grand opening of this rad clothing shop BUJWAH. It’s going be a block party at 1011 23rd St on March 24th.

5.     What is your favorite thing about Commune?
I personally was a smoker since I was 16 years old until I turned 25. We’re talking over a pack a day that entire time (I just hit my four year mark without having a single grit). Cigarettes start out as a social icebreaker and something that can calm your nerves. Very rapidly it becomes a crutch that envelopes through all of your daily activities and soon enough it becomes a part of who you are. At some point, it seems impossible to do the simplest tasks without a smoke. I feel that Commune goes about the quitting process in a helpful way. Instead of being judgmental to people who are already well aware of how harmful cigarettes are, Commune assists people who have already made the conscious decision to quit on their own. Also, I think it’s pretty dope that you guys help fuel the music scene, considering music is the only thing that I care about.

6.  Why Do you take a stand against Big Tobacco?
Big tobacco is probably about as evil and money hungry as it gets. To make a product whose only  outcome for its consumers is inevitably cancer, is the most horseshit fucked up way to go about running a business. Big tobacco isn’t a person, Joe camel isn’t a guy that you’re gonna meet in a bar, Big Tobacco is a machine that was built on the sole purpose of making cash. Fuck big tobacco in its stupid fucking ass.

7.  Anything else you want people to know about BRUIN?
We are two dudes that are trying to make music the best we know how. If you want to hear it or download it for free go to bruin.bandcamp.com. Also, we usually play our sets pants-less, but in long t-shirts, so that’s pretty cool.

Congrats again to BRUIN!

Don’t forget to “like” BRUIN on Facebook and/or listen to them on Bandcamp.

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com.

Congratulations to New Mexico for being Commune’s Featured Local of the month. I emailed the guys to congratulate them and to see what they  had going on. Check out what the oh so amazing, Robert Kent had to say.

1.     How long have you guys been playing together and how did you come up with the name New Mexico?

New Mexico has been a band for almost 3 years. A drunken late night moment in Austin for SXSW, one of Jake’s buddies, Johnny Merrick, was commenting on Jake’s New Mexico shirt.  We all thought it was funny, we all checked off on it, boom, that’s our name we’re sticking to it. So, it was more of a sudden thing that was put into existence out of randomness and it became something each of us could all look at in our own ways and discover different meanings from. It wasn’t derived from any one point other than Jake’s buddy, Johnny Merrick. We’re also immediately a part of a certain fraternity of bands with geographic names like America, Kansas, Beirut, New Mexico you know ‘em, they’ll come to you.

2.     How would you describe your music?

We’re still trying to figure it out ourselves. What do you think we sound like, Jenny? (The answer is rad, duh) We sound like if John Carpenter (the director) was making a soundtrack using a band with members of Tubeway Army, the Cure, Crazy Horse and Nirvana.

3.     What’s one interesting fact about each person in the band?

Dustin: Rides his bike through Florida Canyon at 4am to talk to the Owls.
Jake: Studies how to turn himself into a computer.
Rob: Meditates with binaural beats and drones over tea and afternoon sunlight.
Peter: Works on a plan to create a TV empire just to sell his homemade guitar pedals.

4. Do you guys have anything exciting coming up that people should keep their eye out for?

We’re putting out a full-length vinyl LP called, Malpaís, in the Spring.

5. What’s your favorite thing about Commune?

You, Jenny. What you’ve been able to do with this event, putting on quality entertainment, giving local artisans a place to showcase their products, featuring local art, and getting all these people together for the cause of our collective health?  Can there be anything better? (Aww shucks guys, you’re going to make me blush. Commune is only successful though because of the amazing people who continue to agree to be a part of it. Thanks for making Commune awesome. You guys are the best!)

6. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco?

Its important to take whatever stand you can against ANY big industry. Lobbying power in DC is completely lopsided. It’s the consumer’s responsibility to decide where he spends his dime. Tobacco, oh, tobacco, how it helped in the early days of America, and now look at it, its a disgrace!

Down with big business. Support Local. Contribute and be part of a community. You guys are role models, keep up the great work!

Congrats again to New Mexico!

Don’t forget to “like” New Mexico on Facebook and/or listen to them on Bandcamp.

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com.

Congratulations to Brandon Kinkel for being Commune’s Featured Local of the month. I emailed Brandon to congratulate him and to see what he had going on.

1. When did you discover your love for photography and what are your favorite things to shoot?
I would say I married photography about 6 months ago. I’ve always shot  photos off & on growing up, but now it’s all I do. I look around all the time & see stuff I want to take pictures of. I enjoy shooting people who are passionate about anything; music, art, partying, the outdoors, road trips, whatever comes my way that my eyes are into!

2. Where can people find your stuff? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on? 
You can view all my photos at throwluck.com I’m currently in the process of making a professional website/portfolio that will be focused on weddings, portraits, the outdoors, fashion, and music. Right now I’m touring with Jeans Wilder and I consistently shoot photos of Wild Wild Wets in San Diego as well as outta town. Capturing memories of tour life as well as the venues and the shows. I also have an apprenticeship with a wedding photographer & have been really enjoying that side of shooting as well.

3. Favorite kind of camera to shoot with?
Canon Mark ii right now.

4. Do you prefer film or digital?
I prefer digital right now but I could see that changing.  Right now I’m concentrating on digital photography, but am definetly interested & looking forward to shooting film & discovering/collecting all kinds of cameras.

5. Favorite instagram filter?
I probably use x-pro the most. #instagramforlife

6. What is your favorite part of Commune?
I like Commune because it brings creative people together and has a positive goal.

7. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco?
Big Tobacco just wants your cash. Everyone knows smoking is bad for you. Everyone knows smoking sucks when you first start. Next thing you know your addicted, you smell, you got black lungs, and your girlfriend left you because big tobacco killed your boner. Guarantee that’s a true story for someone out there.

Photo from Brandon’s “FEAR THE REAPER” photo series. Check out more photos from the serious below.

FEAR THE REAPER #1 (All Our Times Have Come)

FEAR THE REAPER #2 (Baby Take My Hand)

FEAR THE REAPER #3 (Last Night Of Sadness)

FEAR THE REAPER #4 (Love of Two is One)

8. Anything else you want people to know?
If it wasn’t for all the rad, creative, fun friends I have I wouldn’t be a photographer. I’d have nothing to shoot. The world’s a beautiful place. Get out there & enjoy it! Do what you love! Make some memories. Aaaaaand Contact me if you’re interested in modeling or working with me in some way. I love taking photos. Aaand people should know that they should buy and support local & touring musicians. Finally if your picture is on my website THANK YOU!

Congrats again to Brandon Kinkel!

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com.

Congratulations to Nicole Espina for being Commune’s Featured Local of the month. I emailed my fav babe to congratulate her and to see what she had going on.

1. When did you discover your love for photography and what are your favorite things to shoot?
I discovered my love for photography in high school shooting for yearbook (film, in those days) and expanded to digital while globetrotting in college. I love to shoot everythinggggg – light, people, patterns, lines, mundane details. Nan Goldin said it best: “If it were possible, I’d want no mechanism between me and the moment of photographing. The camera is as much a part of my everyday life as talking or eating or sex.”

2. Where can people find your stuff? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on? 
My website nicoleespinaphotography.com is woefully unupdated, but people are more than welcome to check it out. No shows currently as freelancing and school take up most of my time (( plug for the City College Photo department! )). I am currently researching different framing methods to try in the darkroom and am always looking to set up shoots with other imaginative people.

3. Favorite kind of camera to shoot with?
Nikon FE for film and Canon 50D for digital. Holgas are fun too and, like a lot of people, the iPhone has become my everyday point and shoot.

4. Do you prefer film or digital?
Digital is cheaper, faster, and more eco-friendly. But film has the warmth and, for me, the patience involved in shooting, processing, and printing your own film makes for better photos.

5. Favorite instagram filter?
Depending on the photo I like Amaro, Earlybird, and Toaster although Statigram says X-pro II is my most used filter.

6. What is your favorite part of Commune?
Working with Jenny! (aw shucks) Besides that, the community of dynamic, creative people and the message behind the madness.

7. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco?
Big industries (big tobacco, big oil, big pharma, big banks, big corporations) are bloated, soulless, life-destroying, planet-trashing machines that don’t give a shit about you, me, anyone or anything but their own swollen wallets. They must be destroyed.

8. Anything else you want people to know?
Vote YES on Props 30 and 37 and NO on 32 and 38. But don’t take my word for it. The info is out there.

Congrats again to one of our favorite Commune photographers, Nicole Espina.

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com.

Congratulations to Jess Lambard, creator of FOUND pieces for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in August. I messaged Jess to congratulate her on winning and to see what she had going on.

1. When did you start FOUND and where do you draw inspiration?
Found Pieces officially started as a Jewelry line in the Summer of 2009.  For me, inspiration is everywhere.  When I first began making jewelry, Inspiration was found throughout my travels.  While traveling in Central America I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by an undeniably beautiful landscape, materials, and a haven of creativity.

2. How did you come up with the name?
No pun intended, but the name really did find me, or I was “found” by it. Growing up in the Phoenix area was amazing, but definitely lacked a certain sense of individuality or  the kind of culture that I had come to find so inspiring and necessary for me to create throughout my travels. My style and creations are eclectic yes, but that is a reflection of me, my roots, and my history. I absolutely have the southwest Native AMERICAN influence, but Arizona’s proximity to both California and Mexico is evident as well. Through out the evolution of FOUND, one thing has been consistent which is me finding things, DISCOVERING things; actual materials to incorporate into my pieces, friends or family giving me old materials to reinvent, and from the amazing community that is San Diego around me. This wild adventure found me!

3. Where can people find your stuff? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?
As of right now my stuff is available online, in select stores, and at local farmer’s markets. Because inspiration and creativity is such an organic process for me, what is available for purchase is limited at any given moment and depends on where you’re looking. I sell my pieces at different farmer’s markets around San Diego- the Hillcrest  Farmers Market on Sundays and the Ocean Beach Farmers Market on Wednesdays. Also,  Hunt & Gather in North Park consistently has my pieces. You can also go to foundpieces.com, or etsy.com/foundpieces to shop online for my staple designs. But currently I am putting the finishing touches on my winter 2012 line, (last minute of course) which will be all new designs. Honestly though, you just have to find me if you want the rad stuff. Your persistence and loyalty will pay off. I am not an eletist by any means, but there is definitely something to be said about exclusivity. I don’t make a dozen of one thing. When  get Inspired, I make an original piece.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?
Well I moved to San Diego for a reason, which is because I love it! I love the culture, the history, and inspiration I draw from living here. So anything that supports local business and artists, I support completely. I love any establishment or idea that sticks it to the man, which is what exactly what Big Tabacco is. Commune not only supports local culture, but wants to stick it to the man as well! What’s not to like?

5. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco? (more…)

Congratulations to Industry Bastards for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in June. I messaged the handsome duo (Javi and Jason) to congratulate them on winning and to see what they had going on.

1. When did you start Industry Bastards and where do you draw inspiration?

Industry Bastards spawned from a previous clothing line that started in 2008, and became its own entity with new partners in 2012. Inspiration and overall creative direction is pulled from our passions, and whatever may be prevalent and/or important to us. Javi pulls a lot of influence from music, most notably, Black metal and Punk Rock, as well as from his cats, Rocket and Dennis. They are good cats. JFeather pulls influence from his art background, and Bobby pulls influence from his overall life experiences, or whatever happens to pop in his head at any given moment. Although we are different stylistically, we are bonded together by the one common denominator that is a big factor in all our lives, which is our love for alcohol and all the elements which help create the nightlife industry.

2. How did you come up with the name?

Two of our partners, David and Bobby are both bartenders, and although they exist within the nightlife industry, they are not all about glitz and glam, look at me aspect of it. They are the bastards of the industry. That is why we place a strong emphasis on tipping your bartenders, since they are the foundation, and are often overlooked.

We figured, “f*ck it, we like to drink, so why not place focus on an industry we enjoy existing in.” That is how the name and barkey logo came to be.

3. Where can people find your stuff? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?

All our designs can be found through our retail website, www.galleryaka.com  and can be seen on www.industrybastards.com . The next show we are doing is with our good friend Mike Cooper on August 11th. It’s a pop up boutique called the Sugar Room, which involves local vendors and artists. It is always a blast, and should be filled with super fun times and awesomeness.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

Jenny Kondrasky’s smile.  sup.  *looks over at Jenny*
[Haha thanks ya babes. *blushes*]

5. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco?

We feel it is important to take a stand against anything you do not believe in, espcially a product that has had a negative affect on your life or loved ones. We take a firm stand against the films of Zac Efron, since they have a negative affect humanity.

6. Anything else you want people to know about Industry Bastards?

The entire script of Gummo is comprised of a series of non sequiturs. Nicholas Cage loses his sh*t in every movie. Red Vines + Dr. Pepper = crazy delicious. Ian Curtis, we hardly knew you. Chris Lucas may be the best dude we have ever met ever. Ace of Base: The Sign, deserved more recognition for its genius. Stop pretending you would do otherwise, because when zombies do eventually happen, you would probably run in circles with your pinkies in the air. You can learn everything you need to know about love by watching High Fidelity. Oh, and FREE Lil Boosie!

CONGRATS again to the mega babes behind Industry Bastards for winning Commune featured local!

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com

Congratulations to Luis The Beast (Luis Gomez) for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in May. I messaged Luis to congratulate him on winning and to see what he had going on.

1. How long have you been DJing and what motivated you to start?
I have always had an interest with anything involving music. Whether it be playing guitar, playing drums, or just plain listening to music. I recently just started DJing. This WEIRDO, MONK THE PUNK, introduced me to this whole new world. He had his whole set up, turntables, mixer and computer, and says, “GO FOR IT.” From there, I grew a strong passion for it. I have always had a Respect for DJing and DJs, and being able to join that crowd is pretty rad. Before I started DJing, it seemed as though something was missing in my life. I couldn’t really complain, I had your average 9-5, a beautiful wife, had great friends, but there was just something missing. Since being introduced, it seems like it’s all I think about, and all I want to do. Along with playing real instruments, DJing is a form of expression. I love being the reason to have a good time.

2. What music inspires you?
I’m sure everyone dreads this question. And I’m sure I’m not the only one who has answered “EVERYTHING!” Honestly, I love anything that can make your head bob, or get you moving. I like to pull from hip-hop, r&b, oldies, 80’s, 90’s and classic rock the most. Growing up my mom would try and push all her favorites from when she was growing up, mostly pulling from greats like Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, things of that sort. I guess I can thank my dad for introducing me to Rap/Hip-hop and R & B at young age. He actually bought me the “CHRONIC” album from Dr. Dre!

3. Where can people find you DJing?
Currently, I’ve been working private events, but I am eager to tap into the San Diego Industry. Any chance I get, I like to take. Bring the party and making people dance and forget about life and have a good time is what I’m all about. I also have some mixtapes in the works, and you can check them out on my soundcloud http://soundcloud.com/luis-the-beast.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?
It’s a great platform for individuals to meet and express their own passions, whether it be musically, through art, through fashion, or socially.

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?
I feel that most of this world is run by marketing. It’s important to stand up to tobacco corporations because they target our youth in their marketing campaigns. As a smoker myself, I started at a young age. If we can stop the influence in our younger generations, it would prolong their futures.

6. Is there anything else you want people to know about?
Feel free to reach me via email ltbgomez@yahoo.com with any type of feedback. I owe a lot of gratitude to my homeboy Mikey and The Dead View Project, my dude Monk the Punk, and of course, my loving wife Tawnee, without whom, I probably wouldn’t be where I am at today.

Also a HUGE Thank You to all of those who voted. I can’t wait to make people dance! Let’s Get Weird!

Congrats again to Luis for winning Commune featured local!

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com

Congratulations to Brendan B & The Breaks for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in April. I messaged Brendan to congratulate him on winning and to see what he had going on.

1. How long have you guys been playing together and how did you come up with the name Brendan B and The Breaks?
Back in ‘99 I moved from Chicago to my uncle’s house in Ventura. We turned my cousin’s music room into my bedroom. Every morning my cousins would wake me up by pounding on drums and thrashing the guitar. I’d instantly start freestyling. The name, BrendanB & the Breaks came from my name, which is Brendan Bohan and the band, which plays break beats.

2. How would you describe your music?
We are a live Hip Hop band. The Roots meets the Black Keys, meets ‘Ol Dirty Bastard. Keep it sick with it- watch ‘em flip the script- how many rappers you know rock with instruments?

3. What’s one interesting fact about each person in the band?
Ryan Bohan has not once told a lie in his life. Patrick Bohan has never stepped foot in Bluefoot Bar and Lounge. Brian Rath dabbles with bath salt and hasn’t slept in 82 days. My (Brendan’s) mom has a tattoo that simply says “son.”

4. Do you guys have anything exciting coming up that people should keep their eye out for?
We have four shows in the month of July, which are all in different towns in San Diego. We are also currently recording an EP with Keith sweaty of Jamuel Saxon.

5.What’s your favorite thing about Commune?
Commune is very informative in a non aggressive way. They always put on great shows that are fun and hip and their staff kicks ass.

6. Why do you think it’s important to take a stand against Big Tobacco?
I’ve never smoked myself, and am not here to tell you what to do, but take a stand against big tobacco- less people will smell like shit. Ha!

7. Anything else you want people to know about Brendan B and The Breaks?
Our next show is @ Calvin Harrison Fords and DJ Miike Snowmobile’s house July 4th.

For more on Brendan B & The Breaks check out http://www.myspace.com/brendanbreaks

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com

Congratulations to Lucy Duarte for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in March. I messaged Lucy to congratulate her on winning and to see what she had going on.

1 )  How would you describe your art?

Perhaps it’s a bit shocking at first. I enjoy creating the type of things you don’t necessarily see every day.I tend to have very vivid and intense dreams and I gather a lot of my inspiration from there. I heard some where, a long time ago that Dali had intense dreams and he could train himself  to wake up in the middle of the night and start painting what he saw, I don’t do that exactly, but I do have a sketch book I keep in my nightstand and as soon as I wake up I’ll take notes or sketch what I saw in my dreams, and I’ll use it for reference later.

2) What inspires you?

My dreams, my loved ones, local talented artist, great films, music, traumatic experiences, wonderful experiences. As well as artists like Egon Schiele, Edward Hopper and Shel Silverstein all play a role in inspiring me.

3) Where can people find your art? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?

People can find my art at lucyduarteart.com, or by adding me on facebook. As of right now people can see some of my work up at the Tin Can ale house, in Bankers Hill. I’m working on new pieces now, but at the moment I’m currently consumed with finishing up my portfolio and graduating with a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of San Diego California.

4) What is your favorite thing about Commune?

What I like about Commune is their plan of attack. They don’t come and lecture you as to why smoking is bad, Commune really makes an effort to make quitting fun and informative. They really do a great job getting involved with the community and integrating good health, good music and good art all in one event.

5) Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

Tobacco corporations aren’t legally allowed to market their products to children, so their next age group is young adults, ages 18-25. I guess it hits closer to home when I fall under that age group and I see people that I know and love already facing some of the consequences of smoking at such a young age. Tobacco corporations are not only taking money out of our pockets, but most importantly they are taking our lives, if that’s not reason enough to stand up against tobacco corporations, then I don’t know what is.

Congratulations to Josh Edgerton for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local in February. I messaged Josh to congratulate him on winning and to see what he had going on.

1. How would you describe your art?

I would describe my art as a collection of experiences and ideas that are communicated through non-verbal means. I like the deconstruction of elements, getting at the core of an object or idea and re-assembling into my own frame work. I also like to leave a large portion of the creative process and representation up to the viewer.

2. What inspires you?

I am inspired by new materials, limited resources, unexpected happenings and most of all music.

3. Where can people find your art? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?

People can find out about works of art that I am currently working on and past projects through be.net/mindmutant. Soon I will have pictures up of pieces that are available for purchase and current projects that I am working on. One cool thing that I am working on is for a friends guest registry at their wedding another is finishing up a mural at my house.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

I like commune because it allows a collection of individuals to focus on one idea and represent it in several different ways. And you get a free poster!

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

I think it is important to stand up against tobacco corporations because no one else will stand up for you. Most of the dangers and harmful effects of tobacco goes on behind the scenes and goes beyond just the obvious that tobacco causes cancer. Having an event like commune can educate people on why to not smoke cigarettes.

The change of anything in the world starts with you, if you want to change anything in the world all you have to do is change yourself and the world may follow. You are the light into your own life.

CONGRATS again to JOSH EDGERTON for winning Commune featured local. For more on Josh check out the link below:
be.net/mindmutant

If you would like to be part of Commune and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at info@jointhecommune.com