Tag: Life Beyond The Music

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Music Reviews

Electronic Musician, Healing Spells, Releases First Full-Length Album: ‘Vestiges’

Tokyo Electronic Musician, Healing Spells, is in the midst of an exciting time as his first full-length release, ‘Vestiges’, is officially out for the world to dive into. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Altitude”, Healing Spells begins with an array of instrumentals that create a peaceful feeling within listeners as light drums add a touch of sensory that is just the right amount. The second track, “Through The City”, emits the perfect amount of oriental culture that speaks of the influence that Healing Spells has derived from living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world; Tokyo. “Diver’s Ascent” is the third track that picks up the pace to mimic the likes of Electronic music today from musicians such as Gramatik as Healing Spells experiments with an array of sounds that mesh together fluidly. The fourth track, “Vestiges”, incorporates the sound of water which subliminally speaks of Healing Spells being in tune with his spiritual nature. “Les Cimes” is the fifth track that ties in a mightier beat while incorporating sounds of nature which mimics the likes of Bjork.

The sixth track, “Early Morning Rituals”, subliminally reminds listeners of the importance of being quiet and still in the morning to clear space within as the frequencies of the track provide moments of peace. “Voices From The Ocean” is the seventh track that is the album highlight which is produced and mastered to perfection as Healing Spells works in spiritual chantings that naturally inflict a touch of clarity within listeners. The eighth track, “Shivani’s Song”, is an ode to a spiritual practice that has created a sense of community and unity within Healing Spells that spills throughout his music. “Red Island” is the ninth track that feels akin to an ode to travel and how important it is to experience alternative cultures and energies to create a more well-rounded human being out of yourself. Closing out with “Sentinel”, Healing Spells closes his mission with the perfect amount of HZ to provide healing.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Bonobo, Gramatik and Thievery Corporation, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Healing Spells on SoundCloud.

Healing Spells Social Links:

Facebook • YouTube Channel

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Interviews

Interview: Bent Knee

Boston Band, Bent Knee, are stepping into a new realm of musical creativity that pours forward an atmospheric touch that leaves listeners swooning in an electric rush. On the verge of the release of their new album, ‘You Know What They Mean’, I caught up with Courtney to discuss growing into a better team player, the dream of taking a yoga training course in the future, the importance of cultivating your sense of self and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your new album, ‘You Know What They Mean’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new release.

Like most of our albums, I don’t think there’s a definitive message behind YKWTM as much as the hope that folks enjoy listening to it. When we were writing the songs we were focused on finding infectious grooves that make you want to move. In the studio we worked on capturing sounds and performances with a lot of attitude. It’s simultaneously our most accessible and more experimental album to date, and we’re all enthralled with how it turned out. 

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

It’s important to cultivate your sense of self. I think it’s easy to get thrown around if you’re trying to read other people’s expressions or parse through different pieces of advice. It’s a volatile industry where just because something worked once for somebody is no assurance that it will be a good thing for you. It helps to be at peace with yourself and the decisions you make, rather than feeling pushed around. At a micro level, being on the road or at shows can be challenging or fun, depending on how much you can meet your own needs in a graceful way. I was always somebody who tried to take the temp of the situation before deciding on what I want. Over the years I think I’ve become better about understanding and articulating what I need, which has counterintuitively made me a better team player.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

For a long time I felt like I was a bad person, and I had a wicked confirmation bias that ensnared me in some sad basement corner of my life. Some of my bandmates and friends started seeing therapists for various different reasons, and I decided to start working with one myself. With their help, personal work, and time, I’ve dug myself out of that sad pit. I feel good about myself, and I feel more vividly alive than ever have. On sunny days I find myself looking at the sky and getting emotional about the bright blue and the energy radiating in the atmosphere. 

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

It’s a lot to take in! I love Instagram and I get a lot of inspiration and encouragement from it. Still, I don’t like how much of my time it tends to eat, and how quickly my phone becomes a Instagram machine rather than a telephone. When I come off tour, I often try to delete social media off my phone to get back into a rhythm of life. If I’m in line for something I actively try to stare at the wall or look around, and avoid tuning into social media.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

Lately I’ve been really focused on yoga. One of my life goals is to take a teacher training course by the time I’m 35, but for now I’ve been trying to practice every day. I’m proud that I vary between hot sweaty yoga and restorative yoga, so I’m not just going to sweat or exercise so much as for my mind. In the last year I ran a half marathon and a 10k, which made me feel really great. I was never super athletic growing up, so I felt really empowered knowing I could run long distances like that. Cooking and baking are also big passions for me, and I’ve been really interested in photography, drawing, and watercolors, too. 

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

Being on the road is not a big chore for me (I’m lucky). Usually if I’m feeling rough, I just need to listen to myself and do whatever I’m aching to do. It’s always refreshing to walk somewhere alone, or even hop in a ride share to go do something I really want to. Sometimes taking a nap, reading a book with my nice headphones on, or drawing can really make me feel better. On most days I do yoga while we’re waiting for soundcheck, and that helps ground me a lot. I think the toughest aspect of tour is the waiting. Waiting for people to go eat, waiting for lines to be run, waiting for loadout, etc. etc. It’s good to find ways to make that time active and engaging, and avoid being  bummed out staring at my phone. 

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

I can’t think of anything anyone specifically said to me, but we’ve certainly toured with a lot of kind and thoughtful people. For some reason I thought that people got meaner or more entitled towards the top of the food chain, fighting for the limited space available of being a “big band”. What I’ve learned is that it seems there’s plenty of room for kind and hardworking people, and most folks try to help each other out whenever they can. 

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?

So grateful that there are folks out there listening and enjoying our music. We hear you and we see you, and we’re very grateful for your support and your positivity! 

Bent Knee Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Concert Reviews

Soulful Artist, Common, Shines in Detroit

Soulful Musician, Actor and Philanthropist, Common, let his light free in Detroit for a night to remember in celebration of the release of his latest album, ‘Let Love’. Taking long-time lovers of his music back to the days of “The Light” while introducing new tracks such as “Hercules”, “Memories of Home” and “Forever Your Love”, Common continues to embody the aura of a seasoned artist that carries out wisdom, class and honor through his every move and lyric.

Naturally treating the stage as though it were a movie set, Common not only puts on a concert, he brings forth a soulful experience that leads concertgoers in a state of awe. Catch Common on the remainder of his ‘Let Love’ tour dates and don’t forget to pick up a copy of his new book, ‘Let Love Have The Last Word’.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

Common Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: American Grim

New Jersey Rockers, American Grim, are steadily making their way into the hearts of Rock lovers around the globe with their infectious riffs and stage presence. On the brink of the upcoming release of ‘Ultra Black’, I caught up with the guys to discuss the discomfort of losing a loved one, learning the value of defeat through martial arts, learning through observing fellow touring bands and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of ‘Ultra Black’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new album.

In a world where nothing is given and your trying to find your purpose, “Ultra Black” did just that for us. We wrote Ultra Black in a very dark time in our life as a band. This is an album about overcoming your weaknesses and gaining control of your demons.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

Patience is the key, stay humble, and your nothing without a vision. 

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

Losing a loved one. Seeing first–hand how life can end so quickly. The discomfort may never end, but through that hardship it is made clearer that life is an incredible give and needs to be lived to its full potential. When you realize how fast it can all end, the little problems in life can fade away and allow you see things clearer. 

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I think as much as it gives a chance to create, it gives a chance for everything to be less genuine. We will continue to embrace whatever form a media we can to tell our message, but nothing will ever compare to seeing us perform in a live environment. 

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

Being primarily a musician and martial artist. I have learned the values of defeat. Over and over again. You must live balanced. I constantly put myself in bad positions while fighting, just to work–out of them. When training is over, it’s like I’m recharged to take on life and all the crazy things it throws at me. This translates to staying composed in high pressure situations with the band, on stage or just in life in general. 

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I try to eat the same way I would eat at home, focused around a high protein diet. I work–out when I can, and just tell myself ” You are doing what you always wanted to do, play music”. 

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way. 

I think being around bigger and more established bands makes you level up. It’s not easy to tour, especially for a long time. So you pay attention to what these older bands are doing, watch how there production and crew operate and how they work as a team. 

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Our Latest single “Nightmare” has reached just under 1 million views on Youtube. We just want to thank everyone for the support of our new album ‘Ultra Black’. We are truly looking forward to getting a chance to meet you all on the road! 

American Grim Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Axel Thesleff

Helsinki Electronic Musician, Axel Thesleff, has found pieces of himself through his uncanny creations of music that leave listeners feeling more in tune with themselves after every listen. In celebration of the new release of “Unity”, I caught up with Axel to discuss operating in the music business, remaining present while on the road, overstimulation, music being a communion rather than a competition and more.

Congrats on the release of “Unity”. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new track.

Thank you! The song has a hopeful and empowering melody to it, which I associate with overcoming fear and hate. The track also features a sample of Carnatic singing from South India which has a very peaceful vibe and adds to the theme that way. It’s all very abstract of course but for me the song is about peace, love and unity, and overcoming the obstacles that keep us from achieving them.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

The past few years have been a pretty crazy ride for me and my team and I’ve definitely learned a lot of things. Operating in the music business independently has had a big learning curve, and it has been a great joy to learn from every moment of the journey. The whole industry is in a big structural change due to disruptive technologies and countless start-ups offering services that enables small teams like mine to operate on a global scale, which is amazing. When it comes to the music itself, one big aspect especially of late has been developing and streamlining the live show. In electronic music there are no fixed methods on how to perform a live show and finding the solutions that best suit you is a long process. After touring extensively in the US earlier this year the live show is now more solid than ever. I’ve also come to love the stage and don’t find myself that nervous before the show anymore. One big reason for this is feeling very comfortable with the technology and the way in which I perform.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

I would say self doubt and second guessing myself. It’s important to be objective about yourself and your craft, but that also means not being too hard on yourself and fully standing behind what you do. Also, having too many thoughts and mind chatter in general has been something that I’ve been working with by meditating and it’s something that I’ve noticed an improvement in over time. Ultimately it’s about losing the illusion of the self.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

It’s a two sided issue. On one hand they have brought us closer together and democratized music production and music industry in a big way. I can create a track in my home studio by myself, and release it worldwide straight into people’s pockets, it’s really amazing when you think about it. So it’s been a game changer in many ways. At the same time it has created an explosion of information. Everyone is competing for people’s time and attention. Social media can also create negative effects, like making people feel isolated, left out and “less than” if they compare themselves too much with other people’s posts, which at the end of the day are often just a glorified version of what the reality actually is. But I think overall the digital world has had better consequences on people than negative, we just have to learn to navigate the landscape in a more conscious way. 

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

I try to be as present in the moment as I can in everything I do, weather enjoying nature, traveling, spending time with people or doing nothing in particular. I’m trying to appreciate everything that life throws my way and learn from everything as much as possible. I have the mentality of being a lifelong student so to speak and never stop learning about new things.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I’m someone who’s very prone to overstimulation and too much mind chatter. On the road you’re meeting new people everyday, going to places you’ve never been to before and exposing yourself to things you’ve never been exposed to before. Also the rough schedule and sometimes bad diet throws things off balance which exacerbates the imbalance even more. I tend to do a lot of mindfulness meditation when I’m transported to another place and it helps a lot. I try to observe everything that happens in my mind without being carried away by any thought. It grounds the mind and clears it from unnecessary clutter. 

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way. 

Just be your authentic self and present in the moment, don’t try to pretend to be something you’re not. Don’t look down on anyone and take other people seriously. Don’t obsess about the game, but instead try to be the embodiment of what got you here in the first place which is the shared love we feel towards music. Music is not a competition, it’s a communion.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Thank you so much for supporting me and for all the positivity I receive from you every day! It’s amazing to see that what I create matters to people and humbling to know that people can relate to it and find value in it. I will never stop doing what I’m doing and I’ll do my best to be the best version of myself for you.

Axel Thesleff Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Concert Reviews

Legendary Punk Rockers, Sum 41, Rock the House in Detroit

Legendary Punk Rockers, Sum 41, stopped by The Fillmore in Detroit as their ‘Order in Decline’ World Tour just kicked off in the United States. Playing all of their hits including “Fat Lip”, “The Hell Song”, “We’re All to Blame”, “The New Sensation” and “Welcome to Hell”, concertgoers are instantly jolted into a state of nostalgia of the prime days of their rebellious youth while Deryck, Frank Zummo and the gang keep their young spirits alive and well on stage. Packing a house of fans that were rocking merch dating back to the early Sum 41 days in 2002, the band is alive and well after a few years off to recalibrate and regroup which shows through their electric stage presence.

Do yourself a favor and grab tickets HERE to catch Sum 41 along the remainder of their ‘Order in Decline’ tour dates.

Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

Sum 41 Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Concert Reviews

California Rockers, Of Mice & Men, Keep it Heavy at Detroit Show

Southern California Rockers, Of Mice & Men, came through the Midwest for another round while joining Sum 41 on their ‘Order In Decline’ Tour. In celebration of ‘EARTHANDSKY’, the guys played a string of new jams including “Gravedancer” and “Taste of Regret” amongst some old classics such as “Defy”, “Mushroom Cloud” and “Would You Still Be there” which got the crowd riled up in several mosh pits that proved that Of Mice & Men are back and aren’t hanging up their hat anytime soon.

Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

Of Mice & Men Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Concert Reviews

Metalcore Rockers, The Plot In You, Leave Their Imprint on Stage in Detroit

Metalcore Rockers, The Plot In You, stopped in Detroit for another round of screaming fans and heavy guitar riffs as they joined Sum 41 at The Fillmore in Detroit. Playing tracks that got the crowd going such as “The One You Loved”, “One Last Time”, “My Old Ways” and “Not Just Breathing”, The Plot In You once again proved that they are in their groove while spilling a mixture of intricate lyricism and an electric stage presence into a memorable show.

Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

The Plot In You Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Laura Cox

Guitar Goddess, Laura Cox, has taken the world of the internet by storm through her idiosyncratic approach toward bringing her guitar and music dreams to life. I caught up with the lady who strums right into your heart for a chat about the upcoming release of ‘Burning Bright’, remaining grounded and kind with your fans no matter what you’re enduring, using YouTube to maximize her career, gaining confidence and more.

Header Photo Credit: Clement Coupin

Congrats on the upcoming release of ‘Burning Bright’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new album.

Thank you! Burning Bright isn’t the title of one of the songs on the album, but it’s a positive message. It’s about evolution, being yourself, growing up, personal battles, etc. I think it’s a perfect name for this second album. When you listen to the 10 tracks, you can relate to this “Burning Bright” theme every time, even if the songs and the lyrics are quite different and mean something else.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

I mostly gained confidence. I used to be a bit shy, afraid of upsetting people, and thinking about other people’s feelings and expectations before thinking about mine. Being an artist also means you have to stand by your convictions, and be able to say “no” when you don’t feel like doing something. You’ll never be able to please everyone and you have to accept that.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

I’ve always considered myself as a guitarist more than a singer. My challenge is to put both skills at the same level, because I realized singing was as important as playing guitar (if not more!). I’m working on that, and I have the feeling that my efforts are starting to pay off. We’ll see how it turns out. 

Photo Credit: Christopher Crenel

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

Although everything has become digital, I’m really glad to know that Rock n’ Roll fans still buy physical music. Our fans are “old school” music lovers, they keep on buying cds and vinyls, and I think that’s a very good thing. I have nothing against the digital side of music, it’s very practical, it’s easier and cheaper… But the packaging of an album (cover, booklet,etc.) is also part of the product, part of the art.

Social media is a big part of the game now! I originally come from Youtube, so I think a lot of people discovered me on the internet, I can’t deny that, although I like the “real” and “live” part better. I try to be active on these websites, it’s all about balance!

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

I’m a simple girl! I think I’m an easy-to-be-around person, and I can get along well with everyone. I also tend to not take anything too seriously, but I’m not sure that’s a good thing! Anyway, I know how to put things into perspective.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

It’s easy, living with the boys in my band, sharing the same passion, the same moments of happiness and disappointements, ups and downs moments… We know how to take care of each other. Having each other’s back makes us stronger. Being a team is really important, and that’s what keeps us “healthy”.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way. 

Even if you’re in a bad day, you have to be kind to everyone. The fans are the most important thing in your musician life, because you are able to make a living of what you love, thanks to them. That’s the best gift in the world! Don’t be too stressed out, or afraid to go on stage, to jam with other musicians. In the end, what matters the most is to be yourself and have fun. If you’re enjoying the moment enough to let go, people will feel that and enjoy it too, even if it’s not perfect. Everything you do can have an impact on someone, even the tiniest details, so you have to be sure to set the right example, especially when it comes to young fans that see a role model in you.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Keep on listening to good music! Keep Rock n’ Roll alive! It has a bright future, and it’s mostly thanks to you.

Laura Cox Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

Categories
Features

Interview: Herchell L. Carrasco

Representing his Mexican roots and putting his heart on your sleeve, Herchell L. Carrasco is the man to go to in California when it comes to eclectic tattoo pieces that stand the test of time. I caught up with Herchell to discuss recently tattooing Aaron Carter’s face, putting in the work toward building his vision, tattooing 6ix9ine and his thoughts on his current standing, his dreams of collaborating with Netflix and more.

You have been creating pieces on a variety of clients including your most recent being Aaron Carter’s face. Tell us about Aaron’s initial approach with the idea and the process of tattooing this piece. 

Originally I was called to do work on Aaron’s torso and when I arrived I was told we’d be doing a face tattoo. I’ll be honest I thought we were only going to pull off a fake face tattoo video and after the stencil was applied Aaron told his followers on IG Live we’d be tattooing his face! 

I assessed the situation and I determined that the “I Want Candy” star was in the right state of mind to receive his tattoo. I responsibly talked him out of a more dramatic placement and convinced him to place it off to the side. The Medusa design was inspired by Versace & we meant to go for a high fashion look.

Tell us about when you first started tattooing and how your career has taken on to land you clients such as players on the Los Angeles Lakers, Lil Skies, Blueface, Tekashi 6ix9ine,Trippie Redd and many more. 

My vision has always been to tattoo celebrity clientele and to collaborate with the biggest brands in the world. I was inspired early on by Mister Cartoon who was tattooing the biggest names in HipHop over 10 years ago. I am here today by keeping a consistent work ethic, networking in the right environments & honestly just being true to myself building REAL relationships with people. I’ve worked long and hard, made sacrifices and working for free early on in my career for branding and exposure. Blood, Sweat & Tears. 

Let’s talk about your personal opinion behind what’s going on with 6ix9ine. Being that you tattooed his face and were able to spend some intimate time with him, tell us about your experience then and what you think about the legal troubles 6ix9ine is facing now. 

My personal experience with 6ix9ine was a memorable one. I’ll be honest, most of my friends and family do not like him and I receive negative backlash for working with him. Tekashi in person was not the troll you see in public, I met a real dude who was polite, easy going and likeable. He paid me well for the session, he let me get pictures with my crew and also sent me a Thank you text the following morning. My opinion is that he shouldn’t have gotten involved with gangs and the wrong people, I hope this a lesson to him and kids coming up in the music game; stay true to self.

Aside from his public court drama, I still believe he can be successful when he gets out, he may have to change his music style or transition into the spanish genre. We’ve never seen an Artist like 6ix9ine and I believe he has the ability to adapt and change his image and become a bigger star.

If you had any words of wisdom to share with fellow tattoo artists that are in the midst of trying to get a big break, what would you say? 

I firmly believe in the 10,000 hrs Theory. Whether you’re an Artist, Musician, Athlete, whichever; if you commit to 10K Hrs or 10 years of time into your work, that is when your hard work pays off and you reach a level of mastery. Don’t compare yourself to others, stay consistent, put your 10K hours in and just believe!

Tell us your top three favorite albums that have come out in 2019 so far and what you currently have in rotation at the shop. 

My Instagram handle, @RockRollG, comes from an oldie by Aalon “RocknRoll Gangster” so I grew up on oldies, doo wops & soul. My albums in rotation at the shop released in 2019 are….

 1. Durand Jones & The Indications – “ American Love Call”

 2. Dreamville – “Revenge of the Dreamers III”

 3. Young Thug – “So Much Fun”

Being that you live in California, what’s your current favorite strain that you’re smoking on? 

Quality Control Cannabis “ Wedding Cake Indica” is my favorite at the moment. I love anything from Westcoast Cure and I love the convenience of the Stiizy Pen. 

Tell us about your dream brand sponsorship that you would love to ink a deal and partner with to further your career as a tattoo artist and public figure.  

My dream is to collaborate with Netflix. I’d love to have a show that showcases the chicano tattoo approach with celebrity clientele, no show out there represents the mexican american art that influences tattoo culture. I’d love to do a collaboration with Disney or Vans as well!

Last but certainly not least, fill in any potential clients with tips on how to get tattooed by you and any last messages for your fans. 

My Books are OPEN! People think I only tattoo celebrities but the truth is you can still find me at the shop daily. My shop is Pachuco Tattoo in Orange County,CA. Feel free to stop by the shop if you’re local. I can also be reached by direct message on Instagram or email RockRollG@Yahoo.com.

Just want to thank everyone who recommends me, everyone who gets tattooed by me. Thank you to my Shop Crew, Family ,Friends and my management Ashton Kingg. I’m still that young mexican kid who would alienate himself and draw all day and day dream. To the kids, Anything is possible…..Si Se Puede

Photo Credit: Tre Bravo