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THE ISSUES
NO.4 theVINYL NO3.theDIMENSION NO2.theCONGLOMERATE
NO1.theELEMENT



















VOLUME 1 ISSUE 2: theCONGLOMERATE





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Diary of a Mad MUSIC Woman
TEXT:MONROE LONDON



UNWILLINGLY, I ADMIT THAT THUS FAR OUR READERS HAVE GIVEN US AN earful of feedback: good, bad, and indifferent. We have really been working to work all the kinks out and really focus on making each issue better than the last, while making sure each reader achieves the ultimate satisfaction with each article. [Now was not that a Fortune 500 mission statement?!] We received an email, of course--anonymous, from a reader. For recognition purposes, we named this mystery writer Mrs. Sutphin. She left quite a treat for the staff. The following is an excerpt from Mrs. Sutphin's message:

"Dear Phresh Mentality Blogazine,

First and foremost I would like to commend you for your efforts to raise awareness about music. Often times people feel that they are reinventing the wheel or being "creative" just because of a catchy gimmick, logo, or emblem that they can brainwash into people's minds. I feel sometimes that teams, not saying that you all are one of them, but teams are not really out to promote what they say they are promoting. Their main purpose being self-recognition and popularity. Like a battle between Coco-Cola and Pepsi, its an endless competition for the limelight. Who cares what your name brand is, its not about that, its about the music! It iss about giving people a taste of variety, whether it be hip hop, electronica, experimental, etc. Let the music be heard, not the overbearing flashy icons directing me back to your homepage. ITS SIMPLY RIDICULOUS! And another thing, you should put an article up about how indie music is slowly going to become the new mainstream music. In other words, the idea of underground coming above ground is becoming more of a reality. People love to hear what they do not normally hear.Music that is derived from concoctions of everything, and not sounds pressed and smashed through synthesizers all these voice changing devices. If you a singer...sing. LOOORDD! All this to say, stay true what seems to be your purpose. Your blogazine is different and I am really looking forward to what you have planned next.

God Bless"



I read through the email, and could only applaud her, even though it appeared in the blogazine account like one of those honesty box comments on facebook. No Name. No Subject. Continue to send your feedback.



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As the saying goes, there's a first time for everything.
Without further ado, PHRESHMentality presents to you the first mixtape: SKYHIGH by BOOGIE
This summer has been about finding some good music to get you through the day.
Just a few tracks to tease you a bit.


DOWNLOAD IT HERE

PM Skyhigh Mixtape Playlist
1.Masterpiece (Say You Will)
2.So Much Money ft.Kanye
3.Uptown (unofficial remix)
4.Guns Up ft. Rhylo, Rockcity
5.Heartbreak Hotel ft. Rhylo
6.Be By Myself

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For music by Kase click HERE.


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I put the trash in the basket, I did every task that they askin
I got my check and I cashed it, I payed a bill and it vanished...



Reminiscent of the 90's when rappers talked on situations that were true to life. On matters that affected them and the communities around them. Preaching on being jobless, wondering how ends were going to meet, and ways to handle the never ending feelings of uncertainty. Darren Anthony raps on these realities, in which many can relate to. Going through those periods of time where it seemed as though you had a "DONT HIRE ME" sign tattooed on your forehead. Refreshingly, his mixtape is not drowned with club beats (the kind that make you forget about what the artist saying), but ones that make you want to bust out a freestyle on the corner of 30th and Washington Ave. Darren Anthony's mixtape,'The Restaurant.' offers an easy listening vibe. Experimenting with his vocals by singing on tracks like 'The Restaurant' and 'Too Long' adds another bullet on his resume as an artist. Three words to describe the mixtape: motivational, honest, and thorough. Just when we thought Bow Wow had disgraced Ohio, Cleveland native, Darren Anthony, is making a buzz across the indie scene. He just recently signed a deal with Midwest indie label, Mathaus Entertainment. A man who does not let his management do all the work, "DA" is grinding it out to promote his career and get his mixtape in more people's hands. A mixtape, thankfully, that is not focused on a fantasy world of making that "DOLLA DOLLA BILL YALL," but tracks about the realities of life. We are looking forward to Darren Anthony's career to continue to take off; sending all of our support. Go to myspace.com/dsoulbro for more music.

We asked a few readers to take a listen to the mixtape and asked for their honest opinions on what they heard. Here's some of the feedback:

"Hey London, I'm allowed to burn this right? This sh*t is pretty dope. It's going on the zune right now. "
-George, 17, VA

"I can relate."
-Martin, 21, GA

"Honestly I'm not one for mixtapes. I love my radio music, but this bruh did his thang on this one, so big ups to him."
-Deron, 24, NJ

"My favorite track was the one with Nikki Nikita singing with him. That was a nice collabo. "
-Josh D., 24, GA

"WOW! I love it. Lord knows I need a job and can't seem find one. I might have to start stripping or something, hehe,j/k. But the mixtape was a good reflection of what many people go through from day to day. The hustle through the depression, which I know all to well about."
-Danielle, 20, CA

"He's from my hometown?! CLEVELAND!! Well, then there you go, I already know its going to be hot. I just went to his myspace right now and peeped his cover of Jay-Z's DOA. Take a Bow. He's got some serious stuff going on in his mind. Brilliant. "
-Shawn, 22, OH

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD 'THE RESTAURANT'
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So the hunt continues, the search for the blog that turns head, and presents information, pictures, scandal, or even useless information for your everyday life. Last issue we featured two blogging "labels" that have stepped above and kept a current account on popular culture and fashion. As we have said before, presentation is everything. I never have been a dedicated blogger. Quite frankly, it is a job in itself, especially for those that update everyday and sometimes even more than once a day. Let's just say I couldn't drink enough Red Bull to do so. BUT THANKFULLY there are people who can and gladly do.

Phresh Mentality's very own, Mario Monroe, Fashion Editor, hosts a blogsite entitled, Leopard Milkshake, in which he showcases the many facets of the fashion world. From capturing a quick fashion-do on the street with his blackberry to posting the newest update to John Galliano's collection. You can find Mario Monroe's blog at leopardmilkshake.blogspot.com. Recieving an A+ for presentation, Leopard Milkshake provides something abstract and futuristic for the eye. Just the setup alone makes you want to keep clicking. Each excerpt is short and sweet, so you do not have to worry about reading a page of information: a picture, clever title and an occasional smarmy remark to follow. Kudos to LMS!

If you are in search for more blogs to look into this summer check out Moose-Hunters at moose-hunters.com/. Born and raised in the Bronx,Curtis Bryant, Moose Hunters blogger-in-chief, recognizes the importance of inspiration. I can admit when i first went to his blog I thought, "What the heck does a moose hunt have to do anything?!" I just assumed it was a random title, like most blogs today, BUT I was mistaken. "Moose: is a play on the word Muse meaning inspiration. We as people are always on a constant search for things to inspire us." Simply genius. Who doesn't love a good pun every now and then. Although it doesn't overpower you with graphics galore and banners draped across every pixel of the page, the information provided keeps you scrolling. With interviews from the creative youth of our time, PM recommends Moose-Hunters.


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City Of Ink: 40 Miles Ahead
...we meant forty dollars a head.
TEXT:MONROE LONDON


"TAT-TAT-TATTED UP!" Everytime that song came on in the club, there we all were, pulling up our shirts, rolling up those sleeves, and point to the designs that adorned out flesh. Dropping cash left and right just to have a unique tattoo that embodies your personality and who you are. From tattoos in places that can be viewed by the world like an art exhibit covering 80% of your body to the simplest music no bigger than a penny, people get tattoos for so many reasons.


PICTURED ABOVE: A piece of work from the City of Ink's Art Gallery


Many can remember in the early late 90's into the millenium, you were cool simply for getting a tattoo, no matter what it was. The females getting those fresh butterflies, stars, hawaiin flowers, or chinese characters in preparation for the summer. At the pools and beaches showing off the newest addition to the body art collection. People have grown tired of the ordinary, the generic ideas predesigned for tattoos. In 2009, the top five tattoos were as follows: 1.Stars 2.Tribal 3.Strength 4.Crosses 5.Wings 6.Butterflies 7.Love 8.Crowns 9.Dragon 10.Phoenix.

Fortunately, the world is in luck. 323 Walker St.,Atlanta, GA is the home to one of the nation's finest tattoo shops, City of Ink. With a shop oozing this never ending passion to create new and phresh art. What sets City of Ink apart you ask? Not only do they specialize in tattoos but they house their very own art exhibit portraying some of the abstract madness that goes on between their ears. Drawing on skin, walls, canvas, paper, brick, you name it they prove effortlessly that it is not about the surface but the ability to open the mind and create. Since opening they have hosted three art shows hosted three art shows: "24 Reasons to Live (tattoo edition)" (June, 2007); City of Ink’s One-Year Anniversary Show, "Schizophrenia" (February, 2008); Miya Bailey's solo show, "Miya's Dreamland” (May, 2008). These events are open to the public and are avenues to enjoy the different works by the shop artist. With a breath-taking gallery, the urbanesque are has has comical, portraits, and abstract designs. "Rather than bridging the gap between fine art and tattooing, we’re confirming that the gap doesn’t exist," say COI.



Shop owners Miya Bailey and Tuki Carter have put together a team of artist that are a sample of the industry's finest. City of Ink opened shop in February of 2007 as has been a major part the art & music industry ever since. PM admires their dedication to the arts and the realization of how important it is to support other upcoming artist and the indie community. City of Ink has not been limited to the everyday person, having worked with quite a roster of celebrity clients. Eva Pigford from America's Next Top Model, Nivea, Young Joc, Latoya Luckett, Young Jeezy are just a few of the people that have come through for a tattoo.

Tattoos can be costly at times, even for the littlest of designs. Maybe your budget will not allow you to get a tattoo that you invisioned. STUCK, with you 50$ and no tattoo or you had to settle for the overly simplified, elementary version of what was intended. City of Ink is the home of the famous $40 Walk-In tattoo special. It takes only 45minutes and the artist will draw the tattoo up on the spot. All you have to do is come in. No appointment necessary for this special. Still not impressed?! check out some of their work at http://myspace.com/cityofink.




"The revolution will be visualized."

-CITY OF INK




Far from your traditional tattoo shop, PM introduces the City of Ink team: Demayne Ginyard (shop manager) Samba Silla and Chris Carter (floor managers), Sophie (artist/apprentice), Corey Davis (artist), Ant (artist), Chris McAdoo (artist/apprentice), Mel-Man (artist), Mr. Soul (creative director), and Joshua Williams and TT Coles (photographers).

"City of Ink customizes pieces for each client, be it a bold statement or a muted visual motif." I will be stopping this summer to get inked by City of Ink. So now you're quite interested in getting that next tattoo for the summer. Click here for the schedule of the artist at City of Ink. If you love tattoos or you want your first one to be special hurry and schedule an appointment with City of Ink. Atlanta's finest tattoo shop hands down!


PICTURED ABOVE: City of Ink artist, Corey Davis


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In Obama We Trust
A man with a mission to unite the States and the world.




At the start of President Barack Obama's term, citizens continued to focus on President Barack Obama's high levels of popularity paralleling with high levels of public confidence in the work of this administration. However, by the looks of recent polls regarding the Obama administration, the American people are beginning to express dramatically significant doubts about his initiatives. Many Americans are in support of a different agenda policies from those that the Obama administration have pushed forward.

According to The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll 53% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance so far. That’s his lowest level of overall approval to date. Forty-six percent (46%) now disapprove.

Oh ye little faith-- Have we forgotten the task that was given to our President? Have we failed ourselves as Americans in supporting our leader in his decisions? We are quick to cry for a new leader, but even quicker to crucify him. President Obama is handling the many matters appropriately for the best interest of our country and its people. Let us remind you of his words, that were so eloquently spoken on January 20, 2009.



"That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many -- and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable, but no less profound, is a sapping of confidence across our land; a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America: They will be met. "


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After making a bite to eat for dinner, London and Jazzy settled down to discuss her career and some of the issues surrounding it. Not only is she a beautiful young woman, her warming personality is quite contagious.



--------------------------------------- 8:28 pm ------------------------------------


PHRESHMentality: 2009 is halfway complete, can we expect a follow album or EP to come soon since your last release 'Oh Jazzy' in 2OO6?

Jazzy: There will most likely be no album..possibly a mixtape, within the next couple of months. But I'm working towards trying to get a major situation. I love what I've done independently, but I'm looking towards a label right now.

PM: After being an independent for some time, what have been some of the many lessons you've learned about the industry?

Jazzy: In all actuality I've had really good people in my corner, so I haven't had any bad experiences-- I'm thankful for that. I've learned the work it takes, because doing an album took alot, we ended up putting together a really good body of work, but I understand the work it takes to do something like that, all the press that I've gotten has been done by me and a few other people. I've been blessed to come across good people who are a fan of what I'm doing and willing to help.

PM: And good ppl are a vital part of the underground community. The different marketing style.

Jazzy: Yes very vital



PM: How would describe marketing yourself as an independent artist? I first heard about you in the latter part of 2OO7 from a friend, Deaan Pridgeon,who did a youtube cover on your song A.W.O.L.; instantly I was hooked.

Jazzy: Well since the internet is such a BIG part of everything these days, I utilized everything, myspace, facebook, twitter, youtube, all of that. Myspace was thee best outlet its actually what led me to my publishing situation all the people i know musically. Myspace is the best.

PM: Kudos to Tom. Still don't know why I didn't think of it.haha

Jazzy: Yes, now theres tons of outlets. Man how did he come up with that?!

PM: As a female artist in 2009, it honestly requires so much. What are some of the things you are trying to improve on as an artist and a performer?

Jazzy: Well as a female artist in 2009, it seems that singing doesn't have to be at the forefront, you can do everything but sing and make it. So Im trying to make sure that Im giving my audience a show, I love Beyonce, and I love how she brings it every single time you are never disappointed. I want to be just like that I want my fans to be equally impressed with my shows as they are with my music.

PM: With your track 'Remote Control Me,' (which is hittin hard everywhere) how do you handle the talk of how your sound might resemble that of artist such as Rihanna or Keri Hilson?

Jazzy: I found it actually flattering that they would make the comparison, BUT loved the fact that some of my fans went and on some of the youtube pages made comments because they knew it was me before I even addressed it. I loved that, it made me think like wow they recognize my voice woooooow!



"Well since the internet is such a BIG part of everything these days, I utilized everything, myspace, facebook, twitter, youtube, all of that."

-Jazzy



------------------------------------- 8:51 pm -----------------------------

PM: Since you released 'Oh Jazzy,' how much have you changed/grown?

Jazzy: Ive changed sooooo much. I've learned what i like, I've established a voice as far as what i like and dislike, I've learned my voice, as far as vocally what I can do. I remember when I first came in I was stuck on doing rnb..because that was what I grew up on, i remember the Lauryn Hill, SWV, En Vogue, Anita Baker and so on and so forth and because of that I was like im not doing anything BUT rnb...now I love electronic music, techno, alternative is my favorite, and I want to mix some of that in with RnB. Im so proud of the growth though its good to see.

PM: You've got me really excited to hear what your going to drop on the market for us. Definitely can hear you over those techno beats.

PM: Even though this track is off your first EP, I must say the 'Body' was a great song.




Jazzy: (chuckles) 'Body' was my very first song...my veeery first song. Its my baby

PM: Nice.

Jazzy: Make up and Remote control Me are my favs though

PM: Yes. Those are on the favs list.

Jazzy: Yayyyy

PM: What artist would would want to collaborate with.on a mainstream or indie level?

------------------------------------- 9:05 pm -----------------------------

Jazzy: Oooooh I LOVE this question..I would love to work with Lil Wayne, Solange, The Roots, Kanye West, Busta Rhymes, now as far as indie artist there's a few: BJ The chicago Kid(www.listentobj.com) Jdoe(www.myspace.com/YeahJdoe) and Jaiden , I don't know his myspace or else I'd plug him too.

PM: Nice. These would be some interesting combos.

Jazzy: I would love to make music with them.

PM: Where did the idea for 'Remote Control Me' come from?

Jazzy: 'Control Me' was track inspired..its sounded like a conceptual song..the other writer Donnell Shawn actually came up with the concept..and then the words just flowed..Oooh I love that song!

PM: Where do you see your career in 5yrs.

Jazzy: In 5 yrs, I see myself working on a tour for my 3rd album in general, but the 2nd album with whatever label Im with. Married, no children BUT most definitely this husband Ok! lol, I see myself working with all plus more of those artists that I listed above, and all in all blessed, because I would be living my dream, and I would be forever thankful to God.

PM: Amen!

PM: So can you elaborate on 'The Write Chix'

Jazzy: The Write Chix are me and my writing partner Bobbie Cherie. We've been writing together since '05. She's an amazing talent, dope writer, and vocal producer. She is who gets me sounding the way I do.

PM: Your right hand woman, for lack of better words. Do you write for other artist?

Jazzy: Yes we are awesome for one another. I have written other songs geared for other artist havent placed anything yet.

PM: Are there any important events or projects you have coming up this year?

Jazzy: I have a shows coming up this summer that I will keep everyone posted with, as of now thats it at the moment.
myspace www.myspace.com/JazzJeff
youtube www.youtube.com/ThatrnbChick
www.Twitter.com/OhJazzy

Jazzy: I update those a lot.


PM: G r e a t. Without further ado, do you have any lasting words for your listeners new and old.

Jazzy: I just want to thank them, for being amazing supporters of OhJazzy I didnt even fathom anything like this, and because of them I keep on making more music, and thinking of ways to get more and more exposure make them happy. That's really all I do this for, them and the fact that MUSIC is my life.

PM: We definitely wish you all of that success and more. Definitely will be supporting you along the way.

Jazzy: Thank you so much, I will be supporting you guys as well, and keeping you updated on this journey.




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So we have been recieving tons of artwork, mixtapes, and photos, but one photo in particular caught us completely off guard. Now we have some pretty good photoshoppers and paintshoppers on staff, and we couldn't tell.All we can say is "WOW...and thanks. Keep creating art. !" This photo was sent to us from Justin R. from Pennsylvania. PM really appreciates it, and could you tag the url under it.haha But seriously, keep sending your artwork and photos, no matter how random. Maybe we need to use Coco & Breezy more often (models used for the cover of the first issue). Thanks again. Makes me want to go graffiti-ing somewhere.




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