Hi! Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for HAZZE MEDIA! Jesse, how did you approach preparing for your role as Kip in "The Holiday Proposal Plan"? Were there any specific aspects of the character that you found particularly interesting or challenging? Kip’s character had a little bit of an edge to him and a little more sarcasm than you would see in a typical holiday movie. That was really fun to play with and it also helped in the arch of his character. How would you describe the on-screen chemistry between Sonny and Kip in "The Holiday Proposal Plan," and what was your collaborative process like in bringing authenticity and depth to their dynamic on screen with Tatyana Ali? The on-screen chemistry was always there. Tatyana was so fun to work with. We both did a lot of rehearsal on our one time and found a lot of comedy between the two characters. And I think we both enjoyed that very much. It wasn’t what we had anticipated when we first got the parts. Can you tell us anything about the movie and the development that your character undergoes through the film? I like that Kip’s character had to do a lot of self-reflection and move past his own ideals for the greater good of his own selflessness and for love. Did any of your personal holiday film favorites influence your approach to "The Holiday Proposal Plan"? I always love holiday movies. I particularly love the movie “The Holiday.” I guess I kind of modeled my character after Jude Law in that movie. What drew you to "The Holiday Proposal Plan,” and how was the experience of filming a Christmas movie, especially one set in a snowy chalet? Were there any memorable moments behind the scenes? I love working with Jake Helgren. This is my third film with him. Anytime he calls, I’m there. This movie was great because we actually filmed it in the snow in Big Bear. And I think that’s so. It’s much more fun than having to create fake snow or a fake environment versus actually living in it. We had a lot of fun memories in dealing with the challenges of making a movie with real snow and cold temperatures. It was a blast. Let’s touch on “Cobra Kai” for a little bit. Joining the Karate Kid universe must have been exciting, especially given the show's popularity and legacy. Can you share your initial reactions and feelings when you found out you'd be a part of the series? I was so honored and excited. I felt like I had joined the Marvel cinematic universe. And to be part of that legacy is truly a wonderful thing. Given that your character bullied a young version of your father's iconic character, how was it working with the legacy characters of “The Karate Kid”? Were there any challenges or unique moments you'd like to highlight? The entire experience was very special. Having known the legacy characters in real life made it nothing short of magical to jump into that cinematic universe with them. And having the support of those characters in real life meant a lot to me, both on and off the set. You also have two pilots in the works as well. Could you give us a glimpse into these projects? What themes or genres are they involved in if you’re able to talk about it? One of them is called “Forsaken Mercenary, “which is based off the hit book series. That’s a futuristic science fiction action series. And the other is called “Call Sign Z,” which is a post-apocalyptic, supernatural action drama created by Ken Barefield, who is the stunt coordinator and second unit director of “Cobra Kai.” Speaking of new projects, you’re also currently working on a comic book series correct? Can you share some details about the concept, characters, or themes of the series, and what inspired you to venture into the world of comic books? My father and I co-created the comic book “Prodigal Son” with Thunder Comics and we are currently turning it into a series. It’s a Western drama. Lastly, what do you hope audiences take away from "The Holiday Proposal Plan?" Is there anything else you'd like to add about your upcoming projects? I’d love to have audiences be left with the feeling of joy and that love conquers all. In terms of additional project, I just finished a western called “A Gunfighter’s Deal” and I’m very excited for people to see it.

Mark, your acting career spans both live-action and animated projects, from "Web of Lies" to voicing Norman Price in "Fireman Sam: Set for Action!" How do you approach the different challenges presented by these roles, and is there a particular type of character you enjoy portraying the most? The great part is I have equally as much fun doing both animated and live action! Storytelling through performance is my passion through and through, so getting the chance to do it in different ways is what I hope to continue to keep doing for a long time. I never took a voice over class in my life. But I sure did practice character impressions at random times throughout my days. Norman Price was one of my favorite characters to play because he’s always finding himself in trouble and is just such a little brat. With appearances in documentaries, animated movies, and television shows like "The Boys," you've made a pretty successful transition from YouTube to mainstream media. How can one effectively maneuver through the dynamic terrain of digital content creation and its convergence with traditional media? I’m very lucky that I was born in the generation I was in because I have a passion for content creation, which really is what my day to day looks like. Who knows how I’d be spending most of my time if not for that. Traditional media provides opportunities in spurts so you really need something else to be your main focus, and YouTube has been that for me. I just treat everything I do with the same amount of high effort, otherwise it’s not fun for me! How did you start making content, and what motivated you to run not only Six Side Studios but your own Youtube channel, Movie Man Mark? With my own channel, I needed a creative outlet and so I started making videos with friends at age 13, and just never stopped. I enjoyed it so much. I would be in English class writing scripts for my movie reviews on my blackberry instead of paying attention. With Six Side, it was a very gradual switch from acting for hire to producing. I was cast off of a casting call Cameron Dodd put out and once we got to movie number three, I started co-writing, and then helping with every department. It came to me naturally and I just loved it to the point where I plan to continue producing and co-writing some of the original projects I act in from now on. In 2020, you became the first teenager to have a stand-up comedy special with "The Teenage Special" on Amazon Prime. What motivated you to venture into stand-up comedy, and how does this form of expression complement your work in acting and content creation? I was definitely always a little entertainer at family events. If you were visiting my family’s house, I would dress up in the costumes I owned and re-enact my favorite movie scenes. If I was visiting your house, I would use anything I could find lying around and make up my own character (blankets became capes, shoehorns became walking sticks). All you had to do was sit back and witness the mayhem. So I guess stand up comedy was bound to fall into my lap at some point. It’s a canvas for me, the same way acting and content creation is. I get to play and express myself. Could you give us some details about how Rich's character was developed for "Gen V"? How did you go about giving this role depth, and which aspects of the character spoke to you personally? They told me what his powers were meant to be before his additional scene was cut pre-filming and it made me giddy to imagine but kinda bummed! But in terms of personality, I didn’t know much about him, so I sort of had to make up my own backstory for him. He’s very much a hothead with a heart of gold. He’s got a soft spot for his peers. Even with a short appearance, I got to play some layers and hopefully that comes across to the audience of the show. It takes teamwork to work on a show like "Gen V" with a diverse cast and crew. What standout moments or takeaways did you gain from collaborating with the other actors and the production crew? Well on my first take on what was supposed to be a very upsetting scene for my character, the director told me I looked far too happy for the circumstances of the scene. I apologized and told her I guess I was just so happy to be there. I learned that when acting on a superhero show that is set in a universe you were dying to be a part of, you might not have such good control of hiding your extreme joy on take one! In “Gen V,” Did you ever find anything difficult about playing Rich, and what aspects of the role did you enjoy playing as an actor? What was difficult was not getting to dive into him much! So I hope that door is still open for the future because I want to find out what happened to Rich after SPOILERS escaping The Woods. I mean technically we left it ambiguous on that group of Supes, but we know The Woods was let out. As long as Rich didn’t get any of Andy’s viral load, he’s okay. And from what I put into Rich as a character, I know he has the tenacity to survive and escape. "The Boys" has a devoted and enthusiastic fan following. Does the series' current fan base affect how you play your part in "Gen V," and what do you think fans will like best about this latest installment? It really does have every aspect that fans have come to expect from “The Boys.” The same great storytelling that hooks you, the humor, the gross shock value. And you need to watch it to fully understand “The Boys” season 4, so it’s essential viewing! I think they’ll appreciate this on its own, but also as something to hold them over until season 4 of “The Boys.” On a more recent note, "Spiderman: Final Swing" released on Six Side Studios' YouTube channel on Dec. 22. What can viewers take away from this project and what was the process like for you being involved in it? This series of movies became such a passion project for me creatively over the years. It will be bittersweet for us to release the final and fifth one. Lastly, what would you consider to be the most significant milestone or moment that has shaped your trajectory as an actor and content creator? Without a doubt, it’s “Gen V.” What makes it extra special is that I went so long playing a superhero on the series of fan films for Six Side. We built a strong fanbase there that grew up watching those and now they get to see me make the jump to “The Boys” universe. It’s been very “pinch me” and I do not take it for granted. It feels as though it was meant to happen this way and I’m very grateful.

How would you describe your path from starting Masterpiece Publishing in 1997 to starting the Winn Slavin Fine Art Gallery on Rodeo Drive? What impact did your first attempt to link galleries with fine art have on your understanding of the art world? It’s been an interesting ride! It was primarily about reinventing the business in response to a changing market and increasingly dynamic economy. From 1997 to 2016, Masterpiece Publishing functioned strictly as an artist agency and fine art wholesaler – a middleman between artists and retail galleries. That exposed me to many galleries and allowed me to understand their business models, their priorities, and what they were doing well and not so well. I had no intention of opening retail galleries myself. But, as happens when you’re in a particular industry for decades, the market changed. A combination of inexpensive reproduction techniques, the rise of social media, and the Great Recession bifurcated the art market into fine art and decorative art, almost eliminating the middle market. Instead of selling to the top 5% of income earners, galleries were now selling to the top 1%. I went upmarket while my competitors went downmarket. It was a counter-intuitive move, but Masterpiece survived while most other agencies and wholesalers went out of business or left the market to pursue other opportunities. What motivated you to transition from wholesale to retail sales about 20 years later and did this shift impact your approach to art curation and the relationships you built within the art community? I realized that successfully marketing fine artists is much like marketing couture fashion. Brands like Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana succeed at selling products at very high price points because of exclusivity and tight inventory control. Unless you’re buying aftermarket, when you buy their products, you’re buying directly from the company. That gives them complete control over pricing and branding. A similar strategy is necessary for proper marketing of a fine artist if they are to have a successful life-long career. Art collectors want to know that an artist’s brand will be protected so that their artwork retains or increases value. Entering the retail gallery market as Winn Slavin Fine Art was primarily about protecting the artists we represent and the collectors who invest in their work. How do you navigate the distinct art markets abroad, like in Shanghai and Vietnam, especially considering the differences in economic structures and cultural perspectives towards art? Each country I do business in has a distinctive character and unique challenges. The U.S. accounts for 45% of the global art market and is the most competitive, but it’s also the easiest to do business as it’s a predominately free-market economy. China represents 17% of the global market, but strict controls regarding content and financial matters make it very challenging. Vietnam is a tiny, but rapidly growing, market that sits somewhere in between the other two in terms of ease of doing business. It’s still a tightly controlled economy, but it’s more lassez-faire than China and without overt censorship. Could you explain the factors that go into pricing a piece of art and how the fine art industry determines the value of art? The business side of fine art isn’t that different from other industries. It’s about supply and demand, margins and mark-ups. On the supply side, it’s important to recognize that because it’s a creative and handmade product requiring significant skill by a specific person, the supply is inherently limited. Gucci can make as many of a particular handbag as they wish as they can significantly scale production. A painter, however, can only produce a specific number of paintings during his lifetime, and it isn’t possible to scale up production without sacrificing quality and the artist’s reputation. The secondary market, particularly at auction, can get extreme. An example is “Salvator Mundi,” the painting accredited to Leonard DaVinci that sold in 2017 for $450 million. Note that the price is 2.5 times as much as any other painting at auction, either before or since. It’s an extreme example of demand outstripping supply. There are roughly 20 paintings by DaVinci that are still in existence. “Salvator Mundi” is the only DaVinci painting a museum or similar institution doesn’t own. So, the bidders who brought the price up knew it would be their only chance to own a DaVinci. With galleries in various markets, how does Winn Slavin Fine Art Gallery approach the selection of art for each location? What considerations are taken into account when curating a collection that resonates with the local audience and the topic of exclusivity? Not every artist works in every market. Artistic taste in the U.S. is quite broad, and quality work of virtually any style or media can succeed. In China, there is appreciation for realism, significant resistance to abstract art, and zero tolerance for politically-sensitive subjects. Vietnam, because it was a French colony until 1945, has a taste for artistic styles reminiscent of European Modern Masters, including Impressionism, Surrealism, and Art Nouveau. As WS Productions’ CEO, you executive produced the motion picture short “Creation.” What stories or messages do you want to tell through cinematic artistic expressions, and how does your work in film production relate to your work in the art world? In essence, “Creation” is an artwork by Sir Daniel Winn in an alternate medium. It’s an arthouse film that is beautiful, transformative, and communicative of Winn’s “Existential Surrealism” artistic philosophy. As such, it informs and is informed by all the paintings and sculptures he has created. It’s entirely related to the artist and his oeuvre, which Masterpiece Publishing and Winn Slavin Fine Art exclusively represent. Could you tell us a personal story about a time you had a particularly memorable experience with an artwork that stayed with you? What was it about that particular piece that struck such a deep chord? The first time I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, I discovered a monumental marble sculpture by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux titled “Ugolino and His Sons.” The sculpture is a sublimely beautiful rendering of a horrific subject – the politically motivated imprisonment and starvation of an aristocrat along with his male heirs. Recounted in Dante Alighieri’s “Inferno,” the story speaks to persecution, sacrifice, and the love an innocent child has for their parents. Carpeaux’s execution of the sculpture, particularly Ugolino’s tortured countenance, brought the story to life for me. It gave me new insight into my own childhood experience of poverty. It can be difficult to juggle the demands of being a philanthropist, fine art dealer, and business owner. How do you find a balance between your professional and personal life? Like many entrepreneurs, I don’t look at what I do as work. Everything I do is interrelated, so it isn’t necessary to distinguish between the various roles or between my personal and professional life. Lastly, looking back at your journey in the art world, are there any achievements that are you most proud of, professionally or personally and how did it shape your approach to future endeavors? There have been many individual moments where I have been proud of something that went particularly well or worked out the way I intended. But I’m most proud that I’ve conducted my business with innovation and integrity for nearly 30 years. If I’m fortunate, I’ll get to do it for another 30 years!

December 14th, 2023 | Review by: Zoe Scourtes Earth and gallery often fails to merge, but some artists find a way to blend the two. Colombian artist Delcy Morelos (b. 1967) has been working with practices encompassing painting, installation, and sculpture throughout her career. Through her practice, Morelos has found ways to transport organic materials into exhibitions, emerging as a land artist as she works directly with the landscape. Over the past three decades, she has cultivated work that blends natural and unnatural, often speaking to a paradoxical site-specificity of her Colombian roots and the physical gallery space. The process continues in tandem with her newest installation Delcy Morelos: El abrazo, currently at the Dia Chelsea art gallery in New York City. The two rooms of Morelos’ exhibit — named Cielo terrenal or earthly heaven and El abrazo or the embrace — offer two multi-sensory installations that aim to reinvent the viewer’s experience within the traditional gallery space. Traditional art galleries often fail to bring the outside environment in. Beyond the conventional form of materials that have been sourced from the natural environment, like the faint smell of a wooden frame or the aroma of physical materials like metal or steel, the sensations of the natural world fail to blend with the structures created to house art: the gallery. The gallery acts as a structure of value and influence, one representative of an “art” that claims to have some prominence because of its location, housed away from the natural world, and deemed an attraction. Thus, the gallery creates a barrier from the natural environment, assigning value to the man-made structures and creations that exist within. Yet, sometimes, the relationship between the gallery and the natural environment emerges not as a barrier, but as a blend — a generous hybridity capable of blending the natural and unnatural. Delcy Morelos nurtures this blend. She balances the cold ambiance of the New York City gallery space with her warm and nurturing Colombian culture, placing the naturalness of her ancestral environment into the space. Entering the first room of her exhibition, Cielo Terrenal, a gentle savor of cinnamon emits from the installation made from soil, cinnamon, clove, binder, water and wood. Lines of soil create paths within the room as mounds form structures that look like outlines of ancient ruins, ones that touch on the Andean and Amazonian cultures Morelos’ work explores. The dimly-lit, subterrestrial feeling of the room lowers the energy of the exhibit as voices linger. The viewer emerges as an absorbent, tracing oneself in the patterns of soil, and reconnecting with the Earth. There is no question of sales or commodity — the only proximity relevant is that to the Earth. El abrazo, the second room, features a colossal figure, one formed from garden soil, clay, coir, and hay. The structure stands intimately within the room, leaving little space along the walls and almost hugging the ceiling, suggesting a relationship between space and structure that asserts site-specificity. The structure reignites the gentle energy put to rest in the first room, supporting voices and conversation as hands stroke the hay structure and light pours into the room. Windows welcome the lights of the sky and the noise of the city, caressing the natural world within the gallery as it stands unprotected. The figure rests innately in the gallery space, as if the condition of the street enhances the experience within, juxtaposing natural and unnatural so directly. Morelos’ exhibit transcends the limitations of the gallery, bridging the natural environment and gallery space rather than establishing a barrier. The materials she uses maintain their raw essence, not formed and manipulated into the unnatural. The naturalness of her material remains, reworked into the context of the Dia Chelsea gallery. She does not cultivate a new essence but rather, she speaks to an ancestral one. Unlike the neighboring galleries, Morelos’ work cannot be sold or replicated, only experienced in-person — a piece of land art paradoxically site-specific to the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Morelos’ work was not created for sale, but for experience. With the proximity of the exhibition to other traditional art galleries, Morelos challenges the system of value and influence imprinted in the art world. The hybridity of unnatural and natural in Morelos’ exhibit speaks to a new form of gallery; one that doesn’t cultivate the unreal, but rather speaks to the essence of our relationship with the Earth. She absorbs the viewer in her cultural history, of a history that relates to the Earth but also to an intimacy for the viewer with their own relationship to the natural environment. The Earth lives in the interior of the gallery just as it exists outside, allowing Morelos to create a space not of the unreal but overwhelmingly beautiful natural world. Delcy Morelos: El abrazo is on view at the Dia Chelsea from October 5, 2023 to July 2024. To learn more about the exhibition, visit the gallery website here.

Photography & Coverage By: Jewel Fiorillo | Downtown Las Vegas, Nevada RAYE CANNONS Blue Man Group Beach Weather Jock Strap JAWNY HONEYLOVE PRENTISS Rockie Brown Wilderado Pure Sport Portraits DJ Dimitri - QUEEN (Las Vegas)

by Zoe Scourtes In our current society, there exists an inherent endangerment in the performance of femininity. As I sit with art curator Cortney Connolly to discuss LUmkA gallery’s most recent exhibition, we discuss this endangerment as Connolly questions “how to express female sexuality outside the ranges of specialized media.” LUmkA opened their first exhibition entitled SKIN/IN SITU this past December 2023 at an intimately sized space in the East Village of New York City. With works such as paintings, sculpture, and experiential film by upcoming artists Ruby Chen, CC and Nina Gonzalez, alongside an environmental performance, ENVIRONMENT 001 for the opening night, the gallery found itself farther from intimacy and closer to a space of abstraction. As I talk with Cortney Connolly in our interview, she claims that “abstraction is the most truthful explanation of reality.” SKIN/IN SITU attempts to explore sexuality, not through means of objectification, but in a way that allows sexuality to be expressed by the means of abstraction. The exhibition “dances in the gray area between active and passive sexual expression” Connolly stated in a press release at the exhibition, while “examining the cycle of endangerment applied to the performance of female sexuality.” The exhibit’s live performance, ENVIRONMENT 001, creates an environmental happening that visually allows the audience to view this dance between active and passive sexual expression, one that relies on what Connolly calls an audience activation. The active and passive sexual expression result from the two performers — one as dancer and the other as caretaker — which creates a juxtaposition that poses the two against each other yet into each other, serving as an attempt at finding equilibrium of sexual expression. As the performance begins, the lights dim, and four walls of clear vinyl enclose the two performers. A pole stands in the center of the enclosure, with one performer dancing on it as the other, the caretaker, moves around the space, with motion that attempts to protect. A mix of clay, water and red pigments are spread across the scene as a blood, one that changes the visual experience alongside an ever changing sensory experience as smoke and experimental ambient music continues. Red light illuminates the room and despite the intimate space for the viewer, the actual performance feels far away, witnessing a scene that is so everchanging that the only thing to do is watch. The caretaker creates holes in the vinyl enclosure and sews them up, momentarily granting visual access to the audience then immediately taking it away. No narrative of the performance can be contrived, as the audience seemingly loses control of the ever changing environment. Yet, losing control may be what protects the feminine sexuality of the performance. When exploring the concept of ENVIRONMENT 001 in our interview, Connolly describes this scene as what she calls an “embryonic chamber,” one with a caretaker and dancer, both working together to protect, yet express sexuality. The whole performance works against each other, but also into each other, simultaneously attempting connection and detachment at the same time. The caretaker exists to protect the dancer, walking around innately, but focus is still drawn to the dancer. The two performers are seen, but also protected, as the vinyl that encloses them is opened and closed. The performance is actively sexual, but also passively, as the focus alternates between the dancer and caretaker. Connolly explains that “through all of history, sexuality expressed in a feminine sense is always endangered,” and the balancing act acquired by the performance disables endangerment as no narrative can be formed. The feminine sexuality is now protected. The paradoxical expression of femininity that the LUmkA gallery produces dances between the lines of active and sexual expression in order to protect. But what does it mean to protect femininity? In ENVIRONMENT 001, the caretaker must exist in the performance for the dancer to continue, for the scene to not be objectified. Abstraction thus forms to protect, rather than explain reality as Connolly mentions. The paradoxes must continue to avoid audience narration and instead produce audience activation. SKIN/IN SITU successfully attempts to find an equilibrium amongst its many paradoxes, expressing female sexuality through abstract means. SKIN/IN SITU was on view December 2-4, 2023 at 616 E 9th St, New York, NY. The next LUmkA exhibition will be held in Spring 2024. For more information, visit lumka.com.

Interview by: Jewel Fiorillo Pure Sport, a vibrant punk band hailing from Las Vegas, triumphed in the Rising Stars competition and took the stage by storm at Life is Beautiful on Friday, September 22nd. Comprising the dynamic trio of Jared, Gage, and Justin, this talented group is a testament to pure fun and humor. Remarkably, they started their musical journey just a year ago, yet their rapid ascent is a testament to their innate capability and undeniable talent. With an unmatched ability to electrify any audience, whether it's your first encounter with their music or not, Pure Sport effortlessly gets the crowd moving and grooving. Undoubtedly, they are an act you'll want to keep a close watch on in the days to come. Their infectious energy and musical prowess make them an exciting addition to the Las Vegas music scene, promising even greater things on the horizon. Below, an interview done with the trio by Jewel Fiorillo. Can you describe the moment you found out you were going to perform at Life is Beautiful? What was your initial reaction? To win was mostly shocking. It didn’t even feel real at first. We didn’t expect to win, especially being up against so much talent, so when they called our name it was surprising and exciting. It was also a really emotional experience, like a big release from the hard work we’ve put in since we were kids up until now. Really overwhelming in the best way possible. How did you prepare for your first music festival performance? Were there any unique challenges you faced in getting ready for such a big event? We did our best to act like it was like any other show, but in reality I think it was a lot of coming to terms with the fact that we had to be better than ever. There was a lot of practicing, fine tuning, behind the scenes logistics, mostly just doing our best to make sure it ran smoothly not just for us but the festival team as well. We’re also not used to playing such a large stage, so much longer cables were a necessity. Life is Beautiful is known for its diverse lineup. How did you feel about sharing the stage with artists from various genres, and how did you tailor your set for such a diverse audience? It was honestly comforting. Knowing that there were so many different genres and types of artists we didn’t feel like the odd man out by any means. It felt like the crowd was really just down for any music that might peak their interest. For our set we really just tried to do what we do best and stay true to ourselves! Can you walk us through the experience of arriving at the festival grounds on the day of your performance? Were there any surprises or memorable moments? Actually arriving at the festival grounds was incredible, really an experience we weren’t expecting. We had amenities, a great stage crew helping us, just tons of stuff we’ve never experienced. There were a couple memorable moments; walking on the stage for the first time and checking out our trailer. The stage was larger than anything we’ve been on, and having an artist trailer was like being a kid in a candy shop. Such a special experience for us. What was the atmosphere like backstage before your set? Did you interact with other artists or have any pre-show rituals? There was a lot of excitement, but to be quite frank a lot of nerves. We had each other to lean on and that helped calm all of us. It was really exciting speaking with all the other acts sharing that stage and hearing their experiences, either on tour or playing sold out shows etc. As far as rituals beforehand, we just hugged, made each other laugh and reassured each other it was going to be a blast. How did the crowd react to your performance? Were there any standout moments during your set that you'd like to share? The crowd reacted way better than we could’ve ever hoped! Being the “unknown” or “new kids on the block” didn’t mean a thing to folks arriving to the festival. We were met with a warm welcome from people who had never seen us before. That was really heartwarming. Seeing new people walk up and start to headbang and smile with us was the absolute highlight. Life is Beautiful is not only about music but also art and culture. Did you have a chance to explore any of the festival's non-musical attractions, and if so, what stood out to you? It’s hard to nail one down in particular, there were so many great pieces of art to check out. We were just so blown away by all the details of art throughout the festival, whether it be the affirmations plastered on walls, the artists in the “market in the alley” or the large meow wolf exhibit, we loved them all. Did you have any encounters with fans or festival-goers that left a lasting impression on you? It was fantastic to see our usual fans (employees) who got out there and supported us, as well as bumping into a lot of new fans who had just heard us for the first time. I (Jared) think walking around all day after playing and being stopped by friends, family, new fans and more was unbelievably exciting. Many artists have described their first festival performance as a pivotal moment in their career. How do you think performing at Life is Beautiful has influenced your band's journey and future goals? Playing Life is Beautiful has opened our eyes to a whole new world we’ve just never experienced. We all walked away saying, “lets do it again!”. Definitely broadened the horizons of where we thought we could take our music and gave us tons of ideas on how to continue to make what we do even better. What advice would you give to other emerging artists who aspire to perform at major music festivals like Life is Beautiful? Keep putting in the hours, play shows, practice, don’t give up and most importantly find a way to have fun doing it. It’s not going to happen overnight, it’s not going to always be easy, but finding a way to walk away every single day fulfilled, laughing with your bandmates, having the time of your life; that's the way to keep going. Can you share any upcoming projects or plans for Pure Sport, considering your experience at the festival? Absolutely. Right now the plan is to release a full album we have in the works. Not entirely sure when it will be done just yet, but we’re hard at work writing behind the scenes. In the meantime we’ll keep playing, practicing, writing and hitting the road. Life is Beautiful is also known for its positive and inclusive message. How did that vibe resonate with your band and your music? That resonated with us heavily. We’ve always worked hard to create an inclusive and safe space for our fans. One without fear or judgment, just one of pure fun. Whether through our music or our stage presence, we welcome all kind, inclusive and accepting folks. So playing at such a large festival that promotes a similar message made us feel right at home. Were there any specific artists or performances at Life is Beautiful that inspired or impressed you during the festival? For me personally, I was most excited to see Jawny and he did not disappoint in the slightest. I already considered myself a fan but walked away an even bigger fan that night. - Jared What were the logistical and technical aspects of performing at a festival of this scale that you had to adapt to or learn from? One thing we haven’t really come across before was having to bring backups of our gear. There’s always a risk of something going wrong, whether it’s a string breaking, cable ripping etc, but at this one we realized how badly we needed backups in case something truly catastrophic happened outside of our control. Looking back, is there anything you wish you had known or done differently before or during your performance at Life is Beautiful? Wouldn’t change a thing. We got up there, did our thing, and experienced it exactly how I think we needed to. The stress, the excitement and the inevitable joy were all a part of it, and I don’t think anything changed would’ve made that better. Can you describe the feeling of stepping off the stage after your set at Life is Beautiful? What emotions were running through your mind? It felt like a weight off my shoulders. All the worries I had leading up just all washed away once we stepped off. We just got up there, did it, gave it our all, and had fun while doing it. Jared: Nothing but happiness and gratitude that we got to do it. Do you have any plans to return to Life is Beautiful or perform at other festivals in the future? What's next for Pure Sport? We’d love to be welcomed back in the future, or any festival for that matter. It was such an amazing weekend, we could do that for the rest of our lives if we were lucky enough, and all we hope is that we are. Only time will tell, but nothing stops this train. We’ll keep going until the sun burns out. Lastly, how would you sum up your Life is Beautiful experience in a few words or a memorable anecdote? Jared: For me it was fantastic, moving, awe inspiring, cathartic. I could go on and on about how I feel, but the bottom line is; I’m incredibly happy.

Photos by: Johnnie Lear / November 17, 2023 The City of Brotherly Love was set ablaze at The Fillmore as 6lack's "Since I Have A Lover Tour" rolled into town, delivering an electric night of soulful R&B and unforgettable performances. Opening Acts: QUIN and Jordan Ward The evening kicked off with an incredible atmosphere, thanks to the dynamic performances of opening acts QUIN and Jordan Ward. QUIN's sultry vocals and stage presence set the tone for the night, effortlessly captivating the audience. Jordan Ward followed suit, infusing the venue with his unique blend of energy and charisma. Their performances not only warmed up the crowd but left a lasting impression that perfectly complemented the headlining act. 6lack Takes the Stage As the anticipation reached its peak, 6lack emerged on stage to an eruption of cheers from the crowd. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as he seamlessly transitioned from one hit to another, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The setlist was a well-crafted journey through 6lack's discography, with a balanced selection of tracks that showcased the depth of his artistry. The soul-stirring "Pretty Little Fears" had the audience singing along, creating an intimate connection between artist and fans. The hauntingly beautiful "PRBLMS" resonated through the venue, echoing the raw emotions that 6lack is known for. The climax of the night came with the performance of the title track, "Since I Have A Lover." The atmosphere was charged with emotion as 6lack poured his heart into every lyric, creating a collective experience that transcended the ordinary concert setting. The stage design and lighting added another layer to the visual storytelling, enhancing the overall immersive experience. A Night to Remember As 6lack bid farewell to the Philadelphia crowd, the lingering energy of the night was palpable. The "Since I Have A Lover Tour" was more than just a concert; it was an emotional journey through love, loss, and self-discovery. The performances of QUIN, Jordan Ward, and 6lack left an indelible mark on The Fillmore, making it a night that Philadelphia won't soon forget. If the "Since I Have A Lover Tour" is coming to a city near you, do yourself a favor and secure your tickets for a night of soulful melodies and powerful performances that will leave you yearning for an encore. 6lack's ability to connect with his audience and deliver a show that transcends musical boundaries is a testament to his artistry and the impact he continues to make on the R&B scene.

Photos & Review by: Cole Plichta / November 16, 2023 / Nashville, TN The 26-year-old pop punk singer Knox left Nashville begging for more after opening for Nightly on their “Wear Your Heart Out” tour. Knox’s performance was above average as it pertains to opening acts. Surprising fans with special guest appearances and a very animated performance. Fans were delighted to see Knox perform with guest star, Charlotte Sands, on their song “We’re Not In Love Anymore” for the first time live as a special treat for his hometown fans. With a unique stage presence and undeniable energy it is no question that Knox left a good impression on all who came to enjoy the show, including more than a few music industry professionals. Knox later returned as a guest feature as a part of Nightly’s headlining set. Show Rating Based on Category: Rating Breakdown by Cole Plichta Opener Continuity/Relevance: 10/10 Sound: 8/10 Setlist: 9/10 Crowd Involvement: 7/10 Artist Performance: 9.5/10 Overall Score: 8.7/10

Photos by: Mudit Mahajan | November 8, 2023 | The Novo, Los Angeles, CA

Photos by: Cole Plichta | November 1, 2023 | Marathon Music Works in Nashville, TN

Review & Photos by: Hannah Vaccaro / November 01, 2023 / Ace of Spades in Sacramento, CA Stephen Sanchez, Sacramento, CA native, began his ”Live and in Person!” tour in October, and will be wrapping up the tour in Richmond, Virginia before heading off to Europe next year. Stephen brought on singer/songwriter Stephen Day to open for him on the tour, and the two produced the perfect atmosphere for a night of music. Stephen Day created a warm and energetic space for the audience as they anticipated Stephen Sanchez’s arrival on stage. With an acoustic retro style, Day swooned the audience with his interactive personality and killer guitar skills. He had the audience singing along to songs such as, “Hey Lady” and “4 3 2 1.” Given that this was Stephen Sanchez’s hometown show, the energy was positively different. As soon as Sanchez stepped on stage and began his first song, he became emotional and choked up. He even tells the audience how surreal this moment is to be standing on the stage he dreamed of performing on since high school. Sanchez told the story of the Troubadour, a fictional artist in the late 1950’s who fell in love with Evangeline after growing in his stardom. Sanchez poured his heart and soul into each song, providing melodic vocals and drawing the audience in with his charm. With each lighting cue and transition, Sanchez gave a brief synopsis before certain songs to guide the audience on the journey in a narrative fashion. This was not just a concert; it was entering the creative mind of Stephen Sanchez and his character of the Troubadour. His range of vocals and harmonies were seamless and engaging. What made the night special was Sanchez taking a moment to shout out his friends, his family, and even his high school teachers that were all there to support his dreams. Stephen mentioned how he felt vulnerable in a way as he recognized that these people knew him in a more personable sense rather than just an up and coming artist. Be sure to catch the rest of the tour before he sets out to Europe!

Photos & Review by: Orchee Sorker | October 16, 2023 | Nashville, TN Nessa Barrett's "Church Club For The Lonely Tour" with opener MAY-A was a night that transcended mere entertainment; it was an emotional journey through the depths of vulnerability and self-discovery. The atmosphere was electric. The audience waited with anticipation. MAY-A, the Australian singer-songwriter, took the stage with an aura of quiet confidence. Her acoustic set was a breath of fresh air, allowing the raw emotion in their lyrics to take center stage. MAY-A's exceptional storytelling ability was present. As the lights dimmed, signaling Nessa Barrett's appearance, the crowd erupted in cheers. Barrett emerged, a vision of both strength and vulnerability, and the connection between artist and audience was present. The live performance added a layer of depth to the songs allowed Barrett's powerful lyrics to truly shine. The production design was impeccable. The lighting and visual effects that enhanced the emotional impact of each song. The intimate venue provided an ideal setting for this type of performance, allowing fans to feel as if they were sharing a personal moment with the artist. One of the most remarkable aspects of the evening was the genuine connection between Nessa Barrett and her fans. It was evident that the music was not just a performance for Barrett, but a deeply personal expression of her own experiences.

Review and Photos by: Amanda Brush | October 16, 2023 | Nashville, TN Towa Bird brings the exact energy you want from an opening act. From the moment she stepped onto the stage, her stage pretense and chemist with the crowd set the whole night up for success. Swapping guitars between each song, she masterfully played through her singles, including a brand-new one, “Drain Me”, officially out this Friday. Alexander 23 is the full package—singer, songwriter, and producer. Tonight, all his talents shined bright as he serenaded the packed crowd. His crooning, melancholic vocals paired incredibly with his guitar skills to back them up. Fans were delighted by his cover of One Direction’s “Steal My Girl”, but they sang along louder to his closing song, “IDK You Yet.” When Reneé Rapp took the stage, the energy in the room kicked up a notch. Her infectious energy and out-of-this-world vocals are unlike anything else happening in pop right now. She powered through fan favorite after fan favorite, pausing to invite special guests The War and Treaty on stage to join her for a Nashville classic, Tennessee Whiskey. Rapp also shared the stage with both Towa Bird and Alexander 23 at separate points during her set, showcasing the full talent of each performer. Closing the night with one of the most vocally impressive songs of the evening, “Snow Angel”, Rapp sent fans on their way with a sweet goodbye that made each person in the room feel seen. With a potential Best New Artist nomination on its way this Grammys season, Rapp is certainly one to watch.

Photos & Review by: Orchee Sorker & Mahika Lunker | Saturday October 14, 2023 | Brooklyn Bowl Nashville, TN Paradise Festival, presented by the incomparable Briston Maroney, returned for its second year, transforming Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville into a musical utopia for three unforgettable days. Saturday's lineup boasted a diverse array of talents, featuring the likes of Hannah Cole, Arcy Drive, Charlie Burg, and of course, the man himself, Briston Maroney. From the moment doors opened, Paradise Festival radiated an atmosphere of pure jubilation. Attendees were immediately greeted by vibrant installations and immersive experiences, including a portrait station that captured the essence of the festival's spirit. The addition of a tattoo booth further cemented the event's dedication to self-expression and individuality. The night started with the mesmerizing sounds of Hannah Cole. Her ethereal voice resonated through the crowd, setting the stage for an evening of musical magic. The fusion of indie pop influences in her setlist created a captivating atmosphere, drawing listeners into her world of poetic storytelling. Following Cole's entrancing performance, Arcy Drive took the stage, delivering a sonic rollercoaster that left the audience breathless. Their electrifying energy and intricate instrumentals demonstrated a mastery of their craft, showcasing a band on the cusp of something extraordinary. As the night progressed, Charlie Burg brought a unique blend of introspection and danceable beats. His set was an effortlessly transitioning between introspective and infectious, danceable grooves. The crowd swayed and swirled, completely entranced by Burg's magnetic stage presence. It was Briston Maroney who stole the show, sending shockwaves through the crowd with an electrifying performance that defied all expectations. From the first note, Maroney's raw passion and undeniable talent were on full display, enveloping the audience in a whirlwind of sound and emotion. His connection with the crowd was palpable, each lyric delivered with an intensity that left no doubt. One of the festival's most memorable moments came when Briston and his father, to the crowd's wild delight, joined the mosh pit, bridging the gap between performer and audience in a way that felt authentic and unscripted. It was a testament to the genuine nature of Paradise Festival and its commitment to creating an inclusive, unforgettable experience for all. The overall ambiance of Paradise Festival was nothing short of exhilarating. The mosh pit was a testament to the infectious energy that pulsed through the crowd, uniting fans in a shared euphoria. From the carefully curated lineup to the immersive experiences scattered throughout the venue, every detail was meticulously planned to create an atmosphere of pure musical ecstasy. With its commitment to showcasing exceptional talent, providing a platform for self-expression, and fostering an environment of pure, unadulterated joy, Paradise Festival is a beacon of musical bliss that will continue to shine bright for years to come. Check out photos from all the sets below and words from a few of the festival attendees.