There are few bands with the same level of high-functioning absurdity, creativity, and audacity as Die Antwoord. Though being described as “campy” and cartoonish in Pitchfork’s review of their latest album, to “racist” and “problematic” by the Guardian, they are still consistently well-received by audiences around the world. Their anarchical, crude, and hypocritically childlike image is so fun it simply can’t be ignored, and their fast techno beats are just too hard to hate. Thus, however politically-correct I may proclaim myself to be, I bought tickets for their tour in support of “Mount Ninji and the Nice Time Kid” the moment they went on sale. The excitement had been building ever sense.
I wasn’t alone in feeling this way. As I wandered San Francisco trying to find Bill Graham Auditorium, I was able to guide myself by following a group of what one might call ‘Zef’ girls: a group of young women dressed in outfits either literally copying or drawing inspiration from Die Antwoord’s lead female rapper Yolandi and the rap-rave group’s manufactured ‘Zef’ image. The closer I got to the venue, the more similarly dressed people I found—the general admission floor was filled with fans in elaborate outfits, face paint, and neon or bleached wigs. Energy was high.
The opener, who I admittedly only caught half of, was Crystal Castles—another highly-anticipated group on the-night’s lineup. Although I was not particularly familiar with them (I only recognized a few songs, but I don’t listen to a lot of electronic music), their performance was weird, unnerving, and totally awesome. The band’s new lead singer Edith Frances was entirely mesmorizing, convulsing and swaying to the beat in such a way that when backed by almost-excessive strobe lights and earth-shaking bass seemed all at once ethereal and ghoulish. At various points she would dump water on herself, and I saw multiple audience members do the same. Needless to say, the entering crowd could not help to dance along.
However, energies doubled almost immediately when the lights began flashing and the intense orchestral music played that signaled Die Antwoord’s entrance. Throughout the crowd people began chanting the members names, and I began to jump around with anticipation. It was a moment of energy the group couldn’t quite live up to—but oh, man, the show that ensued was still incredible.
The three members, God, Ninja, and Yolandi started the show in bright orange oversized sweat suits a la Yolandi’s boy toy in the “Baby’s On Fire” music video. This would be the first of possibly ten music video-inspired costume changes. In fact, the members (Yolandi most of all) changed every song into outfits ranging from Ugly Boy’s red metallic shorts-and-t-shirt combo to bloodied, pink, bear onesies. The two backup dancers never showed their faces, and were rather clothed in coordinating full body pajamas or at the very least, skin-tight face-covering bodysuits. The visuals mostly consisted of spliced together clips of the groups internet-famous music videos, and the crowd never got tired of it. Every time a video would start the audience would scream the title of the song, and get excited like it was the beginning of the concert all over again. Spliced between video clips were child-like images, like brightly colored moving print of bananas for “Banana Brain.” A somewhat friendlier-than-expected Ninja toyed with the audience the whole show, with theatrical facial expressions and occasional crowd surfing. Smiles and shrieks abounded.
Overall, the crude dance party simply never stopped. The crowd’s excitement was something I rarely see matched, and really speaks to the groups cult-like appeal. The hour-long set (Spoiler Alert!) culminated in their most famous song, “Enter the Ninja,” to which I myself even shed a tear. I left feeling like I had just ran a marathon, but also like my own bad-ass-ery had multiplied tenfold. If anyone reading this ever gets a chance to see them, it’s definitely worth your while.
-Veronica Irwin (Hunnypot Editor at Large)
@vronirwin
Capyac is a self-proclaimed “dance music act with style” and “surreal dance band.” These descriptions prove to be apt in their succinct way. There’s no better summation for them than that, and their video for “Speedracer.” With an aesthetic that looks like a high-fashion editorial had a lovechild with Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” music video, “Speedracer” ranks high on the list of videos that will stick in the front of your mind for days to come.
Directed by HELMUT studio and assistant director Jinni J, the video’s shiny black morphsuit-clad dancers (choreographed by Billie Secular) are fun to watch interact with Capyac and frame the video’s lyrics and instrumentals, which combine to form a gentle song of desire. Watch the video above and let Capyac take you to the motorway!
Unlike Brangelina Hunnypot Live! would never break up with you in the tabloids. Monday night we filed for separation from a droll life and brought entertainment to the masses
Camryn took custody of our ears and hearts (she also wore a cool Queen shirt), Ediblehead fed our faces with a mediation of disco punk, Pega5u5 took flight and took alimony from listeners, Jackel and guests were reconcilable to the audience and Hot Tub Johnnie presided over the whole night with sick beats. 9-19-16
Fueled by the rush of adrenaline that comes from performing live, 17-year-old singer/songwriter Camryn showcases her siren-like voice and straight-talking lyrics with a spunky blend of guitar-driven rock and pop. She began putting her songs on YouTube in 2010 and released a series of independent singles, including 2013's "Lovesick," which earned Camryn the distinction of becoming the youngest indie act to chart a song in the Billboard Top 40 since LeAnn Rimes in 1997. She developed a loyal fan base while performing in front of hundreds of thousands of people during her extensive worldwide touring, including solo shows and opening European and U.S. tours for the likes of One Direction and Cody Simpson.
Now, Camryn returns with a new 5-song EP entitled, New Dynasty. Full of in-your-face vocals, crunchy guitars and epic choruses, the EP co-written by Camryn showcases her evolution into an artist that has not only found her voice, but her power. As the title suggests, there is a new generation poised to break out into the world and Camryn's ready to make her own bold statement.
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The mind-bending, soulfully electro, punk-house-pop of Ediblehead is the culmination of a transformative journey for two musicians: the critically acclaimed Los Angeleno artist Robby Rockit, and the prodigiously multi-talented chanteuse Eva Zeva. The winding path to forming Ediblehead helped both musicians connect to the wellspring of their creativity. The result is infectiously catchy debut album, Animal Lick Stick.
Robby Rockit was the founding member of the lauded space rock band West Indian Girl, which was signed to tastemaking electronic and dance label Astralwerks (Primal Scream, Chemical Brothers, Hot Chip). Eva Zeva was a lifelong singer who kept her vocal talents tucked behind a veil of shyness while she explored fashion and the fine arts. They met at a private party gig West Indian Girl was playing in L.A., and Rockit felt an immediate karmic connection with Eva. The two found themselves reinventing West Indian Girl for that group's third and final album Shangri-La.
Ediblehead was formed to bring music that is bright, vivacious, and playfully dynamic. "There is a childlike energy that informs what we do, it's about letting go and having fun, "describes Eva Zeva. She and Rockit lead us through the twelve tracks on Animal Lick Stick as zany toastmasters with a multitude of techno genres, crazy pop hooks, and guitars meshed with electronica. The album was engineered, produced, and mixed by mastermind Robby at his home studio in Los Angeles, with additional work done at the West Hollywood studio of esteemed producer Matt Sorum (Guns and Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult), assisted by producer/engineer Francis O' Reilly.
Ediblehead performs as a five-piece band with full visual effects and original, out-or-this world costuming to mesmerize fans. "Ediblehead is like a beat-infused candy-colored rainbow with a message of self-belief," says Robby Rockit. "If you let go of fear and doubt, all doors will open up."
With their respective careers, the two brothers, Mr. Rogers and Pharroh had already established a dedicated fanbase. Mr. Rogers over the past few years became a staple in California's electronic music scene, playing festivals (such as headlining slots at Lucidity, Stilldream, and Raindance) all around the area. On the other side of the spectrum is Pharroh, who has made his roundabouts in the underground hip-hop circuit. He's shared the stage with GZA and has gone on to score the soundtrack for the Afro Samurai video game and collaborate with TalibKweli. Eager to connect with a larger audience, they came together and fused their fanbases to deliver PEGA5U5. Their freshman LP The Flock, which featured collaborations with The Fungineers, Joanna, Cellojoe, and more, established a unique sound that left listeners craving new releases. With their hiatus coming to an end, make sure to follow them on their social media links below to keep up with the duo.
“JackEL”, has been turning heads with his music since the very young of age of 14. JackEL began his DJ career early, spinning in his home town of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. He soon began performing in different cities internationally to build his brand, including “The March Madness Festival” in Atlanta GA; “The Knitting Factory” in Boise, ID; “Tao Beach Club” in Busan, South Korea; “The Revolution Lounge”, “Dirty Blondes”, “Club 21”, “Three Kings Hookah Lounge”, “Tao Beach” and “Ultra Violet” in Las Vegas, NV; “Eccles Conference Center” in Ogden, UT; “The Epicenter” in San Diego, CA; “Club Red” in Tempe, AZ and “Club Congress” in Tuscon, AZ.
As a Producer, he collaborated with well-known Rapper MIMS at the age of 15 on the track “Too Young To Die”, and continues to collaborate with MIMS, who is known for the hit singles “This Is Why I’m Hot” and “Move If You Wanna”. As a DJ he performed in Las Vegas at “Dirty Blondes” in Planet Hollywood. At 16 JackEL moved to Vegas to pursue his musical career. He soon met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and because of his Producer and DJ skills, was invited to be the opening act for them at the “March Madness Festival” in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after, JackEL began an another high profile collaboration with Three Six Mafia member DJ Paul and the two artists have been working on the completion of DJ Paul’s upcoming EDM album.
JackEL has also performed international gigs, playing for two standing room only crowds at “Tao Beach Club” & “Club Kudeta” in Busan, South Korea. After finishing his Canadian Tour of Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC, JackEL began working with DJ Fame, voted ‘The Best Nightclub DJ of Las Vegas 2014’ by the Las Vegas Review Journal and the resident DJ for Hip Hop artist Dizzy Wright, who JackEL also produces original music for. 2015 JackEL Headlined at Las Vegas Hemp Festival along side “Chanel West Coast, Tommy Chong, Afroman & also Dizzy Wright”. Meanwhile traveling back and forth to Jamaica to finish his Smooth Jazz EP titled “Breathe Easy”, featuring Grammy Award Recipient Skip Martin. In 2016 JackEL headlined at “The Joint” inside the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. Also established his Record Label/Artist Collective “FVYDID” who’s members continuously tour internationally.
With so much already accomplished at such a young age, JackELs future is very bright, and contains much more anticipated high quality art.
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ZaZa has been active in the music industry since the age of 14 and has headlined and hosted numerous shows around the U.S., including her own west coast House of Blues tour. She has written and released many songs both as a solo artist and as half of the former rap/pop duo Cash and ZaZa. Her passion for songwriting and music doesn’t stop at her own performing. In addition to writing for herself, ZaZa has written successful songs for many reality tv personalities including Asia Monet Ray from Lifetime’s Raising Asia and Toddlers and Tiaras star Eden Wood.
She has also made her way into the commercial modeling world, having been a spokesmodel for Epilator Central, Trailer Girlz TV, and more. Recently, she started hosting her own entertainment and music talk show on WCOBM network Las Vegas.
JackEL and ZaZa will perform the new single "Just Fine".
Our latest video pick is “Trouble” by Moonshine Man. This new video with Robbins Entertainment appeals not just to the Southerner, but the “Country Boy/Girl” in all of us, from anywhere. It’s a lighthearted, fun three minutes full of horses, campfire hangouts, a good old acoustic guitar, and plenty of shenanigans. Even for the self-professed country music haters, Moonshine Man’s jaunty “Trouble” can get the leg bouncing and head bobbing along to the catchy beat and relatable lyrics. Watch and see if Moonshine Man can get out of trouble!
If you dig this track, let us know, we can help license it.
Our next video pick is “Big Dick” by Russian rave band Little Big. Off their second full-length release since their 2013 inception, Funeral Rave, “Big Dick” is chock full of bright, 80s-inspired clothes coupled with both tongue-in-cheek erotic innuendos and blurred out insinuations of, well, big dicks. The bright colors and humorous imagery create an overall unforgettable video that pairs well with the song’s lyrics and catchy rave accompaniment. Regardless of whether or not you have a dick, you’ll be singing or humming this song all day.
Directed by Alina Pasok and Ilya Prusikin and produced by Alina Pasok and Denis Glazin, the video from earlier this year joins Little Big’s already-full catalog of videos (as well as their most recent, “Hateful Love”). After only three years, Little Big is already making international headway. Currently, the band is on tour in Eastern Europe and Russia.
Today’s video pick is D’Aftaparti’s “Rip It.” This new group is out of Cleveland, Ohio. Though they’re fresh on the scene, their music hits the ground running. “Rip It” is the first single off their upcoming freshman album release in early 2017. In collaboration with Visible Art, a Cleveland video production company, D’aftaparti’s latest video effort follows their first video, “Work Hustle Grind” which was released two months ago.
Where “Work Hustle Grind” was full of tight rap verses and guitar licks by Billy Morris, “Rip It” is its natural follow-up, with catchy lyrics and an easygoing vibe. The video itself encourages a good time, predominantly in a party setting. The familiar scenes to any partygoer are entertaining and encourage at the very least, some head bobbing and foot-tapping along to the catchy beat.
Hailing from Cleveland, OH, young rapper Ezzy got his start like many young artists, expressing himself, coping with his struggles, and telling stories through his craft. His hard work and relatable lyrics paid off, and now, at 19, Ezzy has already shared stages with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Future, and others. His success extends even further, with Ezzy’s role in 2016 film, The Land.
Off The Land’s soundtrack, Ezzy’s first video Goodbye emerges in the wake of the movie’s July 29th theater premiere. Executive produced by Nas and Directed by Steven Caple Jr, Goodbye is a nostalgic peek back at and farewell to the struggles of living a tough life on 87th and Detroit Ave. The video is both poignant and positive, stylistically throwing back to classic roots. Predominantly filmed in black and white, the video’s scenes are hopeful, featuring break dancers and children, giving a lively vibe, welcoming the future and everything it will bring. Ezzy’s success will only grow from here, and we can’t wait to see what he’ll do next.
We know nobody likes you when you’re 23, but we’re sure you’ll love Volume 23 of Hunnypot’s Artist Compilation series!
Featuring tracks by Th' Legendary Shack Shakers, J*LABS, Mark Mallman, Stein Sang, Orphic, and more, this 12 song playlist is the perfect set to tear into tonight, especially if you’re itching to move your feet and shake it!
Oh yes, we'd also love to help you to license these gems...
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Future Funk
Sounds Like: Young Kesha super-charged for the dance floor
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Dream Pop
Sounds Like: A lucidly-dreamy pseudo-love story
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Folk-Pop
Sounds like: Walking through the woods on a misty morning
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Electro Indie Pop
Sounds Like: Coachella 2016
Location: Cleveland, OH
Genre: Hip Hop
Sounds like: The best dance party you've ever been to
Location: Venice, CA
Genre: Dance
Sounds like: An EDM festival in the middle of a busy city
Location: Newcastle, UK
Genre: Experimental Rock
Sounds like: Everything but the kitchen sink
Location: Los Angeles
Genre: Indie Rock
Sounds like: A very nostalgic slow dance
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Rock 'n Roll
Sounds Like: Bon Scott partying with Guns and Roses
Location: Nashville, TN
Genre: Southern Gothic
Sounds like: Something you might hear on True Blood
Location: Las Vegas
Genre: Rockabilly
Sounds like: A trip to the state fair meets an old drive in movie
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Genre: Rock
Sounds like: Old school indie meets U2
Powerhouse music duo and offstage couple James and Shanna Stein, currently based in Los Angeles, California, comprise the sultry sounds of Stein Sang. Their song, House of Sticks-- written, produced, and performed by the pair-- is currently available on the House of Sticks EP.
Enchanting-- and almost ethereal-- Stein Sang’s music sounds like it belongs on the Teen Wolf soundtrack. Self-identified as “cloud music” on their Facebook and Twitter pages (links above), it’s easy to have a good time listening as you stare out a window and daydream. The House of Sticks video was written and directed by Phillip Gadrow, produced by Phillip Gadrow, Larkin Donley, Sophia Kiapos, Blanca Guzman and Chris Risdon. The video’s imagery harkens back to simple times, with breathtaking videography paired with the couple’s palpable love for each other. Check out the enthralling video now!
Natural, turbulent, resilient and beyond, PIEL is an exceptional band without limits. They have soundtracks to your Liberation that could comfort your survival from Spiritual Amnesia.
DIY to the max, PIEL collaborated with transmedia specialist Snakebite Cortez, Matt Elson's The Infinity Boxes and Digital Tinkerer Brain Blinks. Now the "Cinnamon" is no longer simply a music video. It is an Entermerce Transmedia production brilliantly done, and it sets their bar for their next performance to a whole new level. Their mere desire to experience brings the need to find their reflections so they can journey together and affirm each others design.
PIEL has had music on CSI and countless indie movies, and is also the band in FBI PSA on illegal downloading.
With the added touch of Cinnamon's warm sensation, PIEL has the catchiest tunes with great band chemistry to charm you. PIEL is a chaotic party of six: Tiki, the lead; Jawnee, bass/keys/vocal; Steve on guitar; Chris on keys; Donald, on guitar, beats and audio; and drummer Kenny. Their influence range from Massive Attack, The Police, Pink Floyd to Blondie.
PIEL is performing at Hunnypot Live on October 17 at the Mint. Their warm sensation of Cinnamon will melt at the Hunnypot, and it will taste much better with you!