PHILTER

I wonder.

2010-11-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

I guess a lot of you may be asking where I've been or what happened to the music events that I was so proud to be organizing or even apart of... or where did that girl go that was so full of energy...

well the answer is a lot has happened.

And I guess it took something pretty big in my life to make me take a step back and realize that maybe I was going too fast... or even being too selfish... or simply just missing what was really important in life...

"Don't get lost out there!" or "Remember where you came from!"... I never really got that...

until this day.

cuz now nights all blur together. And I wonder sometimes what was so special all of those times when I just had to be there... and I wonder if all those times when I had to meet Michael or Sophia or Ellie were really as important as it seemed...

And I wonder how the ones who aren't here now seemed far more important

than the ones that truly cared... about my well-being... or my inner-most thoughts... or who even took the time to have a coffee... or listen when I was down... or laugh when I was having a good time. or just plain be there for me.

I wonder if those moments that I can't really even remember were greater than the one who naturally filled me with positivity... or the one who gave me strength to do things that I never envisioned I could do... like run marathons even...or ride 40 or 50 miles without even thinking about it.

Wow. I look back on those words my loved ones used to say.

I did get lost. And I did forget.

Here are some photos taken during the last couple of weeks with my family and best friend in MI and OH.

Happiness.

The Sequoias - Trees and colorful moments... :)

2010-10-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how wonderful the place you live can be once you take the time to explore :-) I'm so used to leaving the country anytime I have a chance to get away. Well since I haven't quite had the chance (or the money! ha!) to fly fly so far away, I've been enjoying the beautiful land of California that I've never really gotten to know even though it's been my permanent residence for nearly ten years. LOL.

Ginormous mountains, well deep canyons, caves with tons of bats flying around!... and trees... some amazing trees I tell you... trees nearly 300 feet high!... and you + ten of your friends holding hands with your arms stretched out cannot even fit around most of them...

Love, love, love 'the nature.'

I got to experience the Sequoia national park & 3 Rivers for about a full 24 hours... a short but AWESOME trip for sure. Man did I enjoy the fresh air, the calm energy, and simplicity of nature. I always enjoy getting away from LA far too much. Hmmmm...

Fairytales and Caterpillars

2010-10-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

Something you can only believe possible if you experience it yourself. A vast stretch of desert full of fairytales and caterpillars. hearts and bicycles. art-cars and magicians. musical sounds and soothing vibrations. After years of planning, anticipation, and wondering, my presence was made.

Burning Man.

A self sustaining community where the bizarre and obscure meet for a magical seven days. A land where anything and everything is possible.

one week full of absolute amazement.

6/18 PHILTER memories.

2010-06-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

we live. we love. we dance. we laugh. we grow. PHILTER.

We thought we'd try something a little different for Friday June 18th. The Vanguard Lounge is a pretty cool spot. The lounge... sexy. The sound... tight. The spot... well known. Seven57 and Deejay Mza started the night off with enormous amounts of jazzy, soulful house... awesome! Raffaele Cannizarro joined them on the flute... extraordinary. And the familiar faces that we love to dance with all supported! Derek Dunbar (Black Cherry Records/ Dufflebag) jumped on the decks next. He killed it! The vibe grew and we couldn't get enough. Easily Influenced (HAWT) closed the night out...of course they totally rocked it! We literally have immense respect for their skills both production wise and on the decks...

Hmmmmm do it again at the Vanguard lounge? Not completely sure. We were asked to come back once a month, but we may hold out for a place that is completely ours. But we also haven't said an absolute no. We want to grow so of course it's in our best interest to find a spot that will allow us to do so. Let's see what the summer holds.

:-)...

A tremendous thank you to all of those who contribute to PHILTER's huge success this past Friday night and always! :-) We did have such an amazing turnout that it was difficult to fit everyone in the lounge! (Whoooa!- sorry friends!) We definitely exceeded our expectations of an intimate soirée!

It must be said again...Derek Dunbar, Easily Influenced, Deejay Mza, and Seven57 absolutely rocked the partay! And we are so thankful to have been able to work with each one of them.

Just as expected, the vibe was off the chain!... HAWT, Junction, and the Jazzercise crew were ultimate forces in making this happen and we are ever so grateful for them to be apart of our festivities! :-)

Let's do this again friends. Stay tuned. We will keep you updated on what the summer holds for PHILTER.

Live life. Love life.

5/12 | FIVE...our favorite WED of the month!

2010-05-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

The 2nd WED of the month takes place tomorrow night! And we would be absolutely stoked if you were to join us at FIVE! Last's months FIVE edition was nuts! All laughs and craziness fooorrrr sure!

Join us at the Little Temple in Silver Lake for some more shenanigans tomorrow night!

Scott K * Wiseacre * Eduardo Castillo * DJ Kerry * produced by PHILTER

4 extraordinary artists... 1 fine event producer... 5 amazing friends.

FIVE

The festivities take place at:

The Little Temple

4519 Santa Monica Blvd.

Silverlake, CA

PHILTER will change locations... but we are still here!

2010-05-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

Philter has definitely had an awesome time at Medusa Lounge but the venue has closed due to abused fire regulations. Soooooo with that said, we are moving to a newer, brighter location with higher sound quality and more chances to have an awesome time... Stay tuned for details on that!

FRI APRIL 23 | PHILTER with DJ MES

2010-04-19T23:21:00.000-07:00

“The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars..."

FRIDAY APRIL 23

PHILTER presents DJ Mes (Guesthouse Music)

$5 PRESALES AT http://djmes.eventbrite.com/

Along with a tag-team set by Eddie B (PHILTER/ HAWT)

& Mike Magana (HAWT)

& Franco Benito (INCOGNITO)

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DJ Mes

In an era where digital labels increasingly dominate underground house, DJ Mes and his San Francisco-based Guesthouse Music imprint has defied the trend, producing a big brand of vinyl and digital beats that range from quirky and jackin’ to deep and dirty. Since its May 2005 inception, Guesthouse has guided the vibe of the underground sound, introducing artists such as Cosy Creatures, The Sound Republic and Gramophonedzie to global house audiences and staking claim as one of the industry’s premiere, international labels.

Mes’ music career dates back to the mid-1990s, when the Bay Area-born producer took early influence from the likes DJ Dan (Funky Techno Tribe) and Tony Hewitt (Tango Recordings). As an avid fan of ’70s and ’80s funk, disco, electro and hip-hop, Mes quickly learned to meld his early musical influences into a deep, driving sound that would go on to define him as a DJ. Mes’ attack of bass line-heavy tracks separated his performances from other West Coast DJs of the day, and quickly earned him performance opportunities at the legendary San Francisco’s Area 51 parties, The Gathering, Freedom and The Burning Man Festival.

His performance success led to his co-founding of Daddy’s Records in 1996 with partners Rob Doten (Wicked, Greyhound Records) and Buna (Wicked. E.T.I., Oboro). Shortly after, he began producing regularly and landed his first residency at Reno, Nevada’s Spin Cycle. The gig would kick start what has become an international touring lifestyle for Mes, who—more than 12 years later—continues touring regularly and showcases his blend of West Coast beats and Chi-town boompty house. Some of his signature stops have included Chicago’s esteemed Slicks Lounge, Scotland’s Isle of Skye festival and the Deliro Party on the Sugar Loaf in Rio Brazil.

After years of releasing tracks on acclaimed labels such as Black Cherry, Magnetic and Safe In Sound, Mes was ready to release music on his own terms. In 2005, he set out to launch a vinyl imprint that embodied the same genre-crossing sound he played and produced both on the decks and in the studio. Inspired by the close-knit vibe of the underground house community in the U.S. and beyond, the name Guesthouse was born. Since its inception, Guesthouse has released more than 60 EP’s, including 33 vinyl releases and slew of other choice cuts on the its sub label, Guess Who.

“With Guesthouse, I’ve always tried to focus on consistency, quality and music aimed directly at the dance floor,” Mes says. “It’s important for me to support and showcase mainstay artists as well as the freshest up-and-coming talent, and I think that’s one thing that sets us apart from other labels.”

Some of that breakthrough talent includes boundary-bending artists such as Gramophonedzie, Australian producer Ricardo Rae, and The Sound Republic, whose first two full EP’s on Guesthouse helped usher in the new school sound that defines underground house today. Classic cuts such as Cosy Creature “Show You the Way” continue to pulse as the defining beat to a genre that continually evolves in subtle ways

Today, Mes continues bringing his big bass-lined tracks to global audiences through both his label releases and performances. He continues to play as a resident for Los Angeles’ HAWT Music Collective as well maintaining prolific production schedule for both of his labels.

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$5 PRESALES (http://www.djmes.eventbrite.com)

$10 AT THE DOOR

$5 Parking

The festivities take place at:

The MEDUSA LOUNGE
3211 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90057

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http://philter-la.blogspot.com

Join the PHILTER facebook group:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=21169558431&ref=ts

WED 4/14 | FIVE returns to the Little Temple

2010-04-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

This is a magical night...

We have a Wednesday night happening every 2nd Wed of the month that pretty much speaks for itself...

4 artists... 1 event producer... 5 friends...

Very simple. All fun.

FIVE

at the Little Temple in Silver Lake

4519 Santa Monica Blvd.

3/ 12 | PHILTER with JT DONALDSON...Thank you!

2010-03-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

Very simple. We couldn't have asked for a better night!

Thank you friends...

mad to live... mad to dance... mad to love... mad to experience something more.

always.

we are Philter.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=21169558431&ref=ts

http://www.philterla.com

3/ 10 | FIVE... Thank you for the memorable night!

2010-03-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

What happens when 4 of LA's finest DJ's and one fine event producer come together?

FIVE.

5 friends. 4 extraordinary artists. 1 event producer.

2nd Wednesdays at the Little Temple in Silver Lake.

Little Temple

4519 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles 90029

$5 all night long.

9pm - 2am

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A very special thanks!...

Wow! We cannot thank each and every one of you enough for the magical experience we shared together at the opening night of FIVE!

The music, energy, and crowd was absolutely amazing, and we are stoked that you were apart of such a special night!

Copious amounts of THANKs to everyone for believing in the FIVE crew... wonderful music... and loving life!

Love, music, and positivity.

FRIDAY 3/12 | PHILTER presents JT DONALDSON

2010-02-23T19:01:00.000-08:00

FRIDAY MARCH 12TH

JT DONALDSON (OM RECORDS/ GALLERY)

+ EDDIE B ( PHILTER | HAWT )

& Special Guest

Let us take you to another world!

Are you ready for this?!

LIMITED $5 PRESALES: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/581665778

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On Friday March 12th, PHILTER is honored to bring you JT DONALDSON. It must be said that he is one fine producer : - )

JT Donaldson has found success with releases on Om Records, Utensil, Lazy Days, Freerange, Nightshift, Dufflebag, Deepfunk and Seasons (not to mention his own imprints, Fairpark and Gallery). He has released numerous mix CDs including: "San Francisco Sessions" on Om Records & "Franchise Player 01." JT Donaldson's Original productions have appeared on countless compilations and other artists mix CDs.

Don't sleep friends!

We have a true house veteran with us on this very fine occasion!

$5 (LIMITED PRESALES)
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/581665778

$10 (AT THE DOOR)

21 and over

$5 Parking

Medusa Lounge
3211 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90057

WED 3/ 10 | FIVE at the Little Temple Bar

2010-02-19T08:41:00.000-08:00

Four of LA's finest DJ's (+ one fine event producer : - ) = FIVE

A musical exploration taking place at the Little Temple 2nd Wednesdays of every month.

DJ Kerry ~ Wiseacre ~ Scott K ~ Eduardo Castillo ~ PHILTER

Little Temple

4519 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90029

$5 all night long.

21 and over.

9pm - 2am

Love and music!

1/28/10 | Thank YOU | PHILTER with Andy Compton

2010-02-11T12:31:00.000-08:00

A warm thank you to those who came out on this very fine night! The music was truly inspirational, the crowd was jumpin', and there could not have been a better vibe throughout the entire night! We are stoked to have shared this very special occasion with you and we truly feel honored that so many of you came out to support us with open hearts.

A very special thank you to Eddie B, Lillyanne, and Leonard for helping to produce such an amazing event. Also thank you to those who photographed throughout the evening and contributed to this wonderful album, especially Nicol Cruz, Niko Posey, Richard Lopez, Rick Thompson, and Mo. We are truly grateful for their excellent support.

Much more Philter to come this March! We look well forward to seeing you at the next one!

Love and music ALWAYS!

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Join the Philter group page*
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Check out our site: http://www.philterla.com

Thursday 1-28 | PHILTER with ANDY COMPTON at Medusa Lounge

2010-01-26T15:24:00.000-08:00

Thursday January 28th

PHILTER will be having a soft re-opening at the Medusa Lounge in Silver Lake.

We are stoked to have ANDY COMPTON (The Rurals/ Peng - UK) with us for the ride! Please don't miss this extraordinary artist who makes only rare appearances in Los Angeles. We are more than lucky to have him!

Also PHILTER resident DJ Eddie B

+ Lillyanne and Hawkeye (Headinghome)

will join us for the re-opening celebration we have been waiting for.

For those of you who have not witnessed the Medusa Lounge let me just say this: intimate. unique. quality sound. cheap drinks ($4 wells) $5 secured parking (or FREE ample street parking).

Prepare to be transported to another world.

All things HOUSE. All things positive.

Come dance, laugh, and fill your heart with pure happiness...

for at least one night!

Oh and did I mention... it's FREE : )

love and music!

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*To RSVP to this special PHILTER event:

Click attend at facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=274685284112&ref=ts

Join the Philter mailing list:

philter.la@gmail.com

Join the PHILTER facebook group page:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=21169558431&ref=ts

Watch ANDY COMPTON & The Rurals on YOU TUBE

All the excitement takes place at:

The Medusa Lounge

3211 Beverly Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90057

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Andy Compton:

Andy Compton is one of the most respected and prolific House producers to come out of the UK. He became a full time musician at the age of 16, playing the guitar in several bands.

In the early 90’s he discovered and fell in love with the kind of music he wanted to make - not just straight up house music, but DEEP house, a sound which infuses jazz /soul and house elements to create a deeper feeling.

In 1993 he started to do underground countryside barn raves under the name Rural Promotions, which then became the name of his first record label. Andy created the group “The Rurals” in 1994, and soon was introduced to vocalist Marie Tweek, which was the icing on the cake for The Rurals soulful sound. For the following fifteen years The Rurals had perfected a unique style of live elements melted with thumping electronic music and became known worldwide as one of the very best Deep House acts.

With over 70 singles, 12 LPs and songs on over 200 compilations, Andy Compton has been nothing short of prolific. A milestone in House-history was the release of their LP 'Sweeter Sounds' in 2001, with the single 'Lush' which busted big in the New York scene and was regularly played at Shelter in New York.

Another highlight in Andy's career was the 10th Rurals LP called 'The 10th Chapter' which was featured on the cover of DJ Magazine in January 2008. Working with everyone from Motown, to the TV show Six Feet Under, and performing and DJ-ing around the world, Andy and The Rurals are the stuff of legend in the House music world.

Andy Compton has emerged as a solo artist, and is collaborating with various vocalists and musicians on his new projects. One of the first of these was GOGO Music's 'Above The Sky' (feat:Kafele) which has received rave reviews! Next came Andy’s soulful collaboration with the singer Divini called ‘In Love Again’ which has been equally praised. Then Andy released his deep and inspirational ‘Save The Children’ which blew people away when Andy played it out on his recent successful U.S tour. Most recently She Recordings from Australia have released Andy Compton (feat Diviniti)-In Time (Incl. Richard Earnshaw & The Rurals Mixes), Peng will soon release Andy Compton (feat:Kafele and Sophia Loren Coffee)-‘I Don’t Want To See The Sun.

The last day & Casas Patronales!

2010-01-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

My flight back to Los Angeles was out of Santiago. I had to fly back to Santiago and experience one more night. The last night was awesome. I had the opportunity to meet with Wolf (the PR director of club la Feria) one last time. We went over bookings and made arrangements to produce a PHILTER event at Club la Feria. We also drank a rather nice bottle of wine afterwards. Honestly the best bottle of wine I have ever tasted. It sounds dramatic, but so true.

Meeting Wolf on both a personal level and business level was beneficial, positive, and an experience I will never forget. Like-minded individuals usually find each other. Live life. Love life.

Club Bahrein - Marcelo Vasami - Tato Piatti

2010-01-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

Club Bahrein.

A night in Montevideo

2010-01-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sometimes only one night in another country, in a city you've heard about few times in your life, is all you need to grow.

45 minutes to Colognia, Uruguay

2010-01-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

I never expected to visit Uruguay on this trip. It actually did not cross my mind. However I learned I could hop on a ferry and literally be in another country in more or less 45 minutes... it happened to be the most beautiful, tranquil town I have ever experienced in my life. I went for only one night. And to be honest I wasn't sure why I was going or where I was going to stay... or even what to expect. I simply wanted to travel to an entire new existence by ferry.

Beautiful... the experience, the ease it took to get there, and most important the people of Uruguay.

I stepped off the Ferry in Colongnia Uruguay... the most gentle, amicable, and comforting town that has ever come into my life. wow. For a half of a day, i experienced pure and utter peace. No rush. No stress. No judges. Life and humanity. wow... I later took the bus to the capital, Montevideo, where I stayed for the night and met with a friend I met at the hotel in Buenos Aires. I was there such a short time, but it was lovely and fun and ultimately exciting. The wonders of traveling never disappear. Life is too grand.

Capture.

2010-01-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

I can't quite recapture everything but there are so many experiences that must be blogged...

The trip to Buenos Aires was mind blowing. The energy that fills the air in such a huge, but quaint city is indescribable... literally. Music, drums, markets, tango dancing, and love fills the streets... and some of the best shopping I have ever encountered.

The faces that don´t leave you.

2010-01-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

I met these guys at Ostinetto hotel in the bar the night before I got sick. Max and Sandro. Both full of magic. Both full of love. I think I truly had forgotten the magic that happens when your traveling. Spirits and energies connect in ways that you would never imagine. Hearts open. Judges disappear. Vodka tonics and laughs. The tango and dinner. Two faces that I cannot forget.

A morning in Buenos Aires...

2010-01-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

I'm loving this city they call "the Paris of South America"

Joyful to experience such beauty.

Buenos Aires...first stop club la Pacha!

2010-01-03T14:19:00.000-08:00

Arrived at 7pm and fell in love with the people in seconds. Even the immigration officer was friendly!~ When does that happen? The bus driver to the city... awesome! The taxi driver... wicked! I ask again, when does that happen? lol

I went straight to a temporary hotel which is not the best I've seen (which I happen to still be at now!) put my stuff in the room and immediately met a super cool Brazilian girl studying Spanish here. We went out to a nice cafe right down the street and made plans to go to la Pacha! Oh la Pacha... now in Buenos Aires... originally founded in Ibiza... B-Side played a cool set but to be super honest i was a bit tired from NYE, airplanes, and such.

PHILTER will hit la Pacha too! Right now we are working on it. And yes it will happen.

Peter Pan Day... New Years Eve and tail of the monkey!

2010-01-03T14:04:00.000-08:00

There's too much of life to live to grow up. Hmmm chronological age...I'm not sure what it means. I'm only as old as my mind tells me. Not sure about you... ?

The day very interesting! ha! After the pre-pre NYE party, I was completely and utterly hung-over. As an event producer, I rarely drink when working... and I rarely drink when I'm at parties if I want to get the most out of the night. Sometimes it's not all fun and games in the club event business... trust that no matter how good the music or how good the party, the organizers and producers are diligently working all night.

I woke up laid by the pool and took some photos for a very quick minute, then I was off to the Tur bus station to head back to Valparaiso... boy did that take a long time! I waited and waited for ohhh let's just say awhile. Finally got on the bus and it broke down!... My friends in Valpo were having a bbq for my birthday and waiting for me to arrive... I finally did at about 10pm! It was awesome!!!! Awesome! I was so happy... sausages, cheese, wine... more wine!... CAKE! LOL... and tail of the monkey!!!! (an awesome coffee/ milk/ alcoholic drink that is simply amazing!... but not when you wake up the next day! ) ha!

NYE!!!!.... I spent it at Jeannette's condo overlooking the sea... on the rooftop watching fireworks... tons of food... the streets absolutely filled!!!! The beaches packed!...fun.fun. The party did not stop until 9pm the next night.

Pablo Neruda's casa Santiago.

2010-01-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

Pablo Neruda - political activist who was awarded the Noble prize for Literature in 1971.

I had the chance to visit his house in Santiago where he lived with his first wife Matilde Urrutia who he described as a woman of two faces.

Pablo was fond of wine and conversation with friends. Neruda served his friends in different colored glasses only, as he said that color improved the taste of the drink. If you were not a friend, he served your drink in a clear glass.

The ship-like construction of the various rooms added to the flavor of the "Captain's" story. Neruda had a fascination for the sea, yet he was unable to swim. During his life, a creek and waterfall ran alongside the house. The creek now runs through a buried culvert.

Love by Pablo Neruda:

Because of you, in gardens of blossoming flowers I ache from the
perfumes of spring. I have forgotten your face, I no longer remember your hands;

how did your lips feel on mine?

Because of you, I love the white statues drowsing in the parks,
the white statues that have neither voice nor sight.

I have forgotten your voice, your happy voice; I have forgotten
your eyes.

Like a flower to its perfume, I am bound to my vague memory of
you. I live with pain that is like a wound; if you touch me, you will

do me irreparable harm.

Your caresses enfold me, like climbing vines on melancholy walls.
I have forgotten your love, yet I seem to glimpse you in every
window.

Because of you, the heady perfumes of summer pain me;

Because of you, I again seek out the signs that precipitate desires: shooting
stars, falling objects.

PHILTER coming to Club La Feria in Santiago... and the Pre-pre NYE VIP party!

2010-01-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

I headed back to Santiago after Jeannette's wedding. I was invited to a VIP pre-pre NYE party (Dec 29th) at Club la Feria with DJ's Alejandro Vivanco and Jose Luis Ordenes aka UMHO. I met the club owners for the first time and chatted about bookings and about the possibility of doing PHILTER in Santiago. Why not friends. Why not?... The booking manager (owner) is well up for it, and is interested in a few PHILTER DJ's. I have learned time and time again that when you are fearless the sky truly has no limit.

La Feria is definitely the best club I have had the pleasure of going to in Santiago. I would guess capacity is at 300-400. The decor deep reds... a very warm feeling. There is an upstairs lounge where the music is low enough to chat... This is 'the' underground spot in Santiago. Primarily deep house, tech, minimal... PHILTER will be here very soon.

Tons and tons of thanks to Wolf (PR manager at la Feria) for the hook-up. Positive energy. Full of life. And always ready to live. I have so much respect for the people like this in my life!

Sushi, champagne, and wine of all sorts followed! The club did not open until 11: 30pm... I was overly joyful by that point. Music. Dancing. Dancing. Love.

Jeannette's day!

2009-12-27T15:38:00.000-08:00

The wedding could not have been better... or Jeannette more beautiful... or Daniel more handsome! I'm not sure if it is the fact that I am in Chile or that the reception was in a beautiful vineyard filled with energetic and truly alive people, but this wedding was one that I feel lucky to have experienced! The ceremony took place in a beautiful church in a little town called Casablanca Chile. Short and sweet... but filled with love and laughter. I held back the tears as I stood to the left of Jeannette and Daniel with the rest of the bridesmaids. The priest spoke Latin hehe!... and a little spanish... Jeannette translated ~ lovely, lovely! Jeannette and Daniel filled the room with vibrations of love, life, and happiness.

Will something with the epitome of such goodness happen to me?

The reception. It was at a gorgeous vineyard in Casablanca with about 75 guests. Small, sweet, and simple!~ all friends and family... and no judges. Lovely. The guests arrived first where a courtyard was set up with a bar on one side and candy, masquerade masks and a dj booth on the other. We were offered wine, and pisco sours: ) We drank wine and cocktails until the bride and groom arrived followed by speeches by the guests. Although I'm a bit shy, I was cheered on to make one too! ha!

I sat down to dinner with Jeannette, Daniel, and the family. The food the most delicate... avocado salad, every kind of meat... wine, wine, and more wine. Wonderful. I've never seen Jeannette so happy and content. Daniel truly compliments her so well.

After dinner, we danced and danced until 4am. Chilean's definitely know how to party! For the first few hours the Dj played loads of Chilean songs.. fun fun! Masks, tails, and elements of costumes passed around to add to the party! Love this cultural identity.

I do not think Jeannette ever sat down!... well I guess I barely sat down either!

Every time I tried, I was pulled on to the dancefloor by one of Jeannett´s friends! LOL... quite honestly the best wedding I have ever, ever been apart of.

This is life.

This is love.

So so lucky to have experienced this.

Cerro Alegra... the hills of Valparaiso

2009-12-27T15:24:00.000-08:00

Valparaiso - Once you take a walk up to the hills...cafes, galleries, and cobble stone walks fill the space... amazing views, art, music, and super awesome eats! My photos do not represent... sorry! : - )

The bride... the meaning of the "business" trip!

2009-12-24T08:23:00.000-08:00

She's lovely and calm. Totally happy. And in complete love. Sweet. Kind. Giving. And enjoying life.

Jeannette. The lovely bride to be.

Preparations, beaches, wine, PHILTER... and Christmas eve!

2009-12-24T07:32:00.000-08:00

I arrived back in Valparaiso on Monday and I have been helping Jeannette and the family prepare for the wedding. (well as much as I can!) Jeannettes condo is awesome, but now it is filled to the brim with her family... so needless to say it is not as relaxing as it was once upon a time. hehe.

Jeannette and her family are from North Carolina... I must say it is awesome to get to know another culture apart from the LA norm. Sometimes I wonder if I really would rather have "the simple life." To be honest, I'm not sure.

I have, however, realized how lucky I am to be doing what I do for a career. "So how exactly do you organize and produce these events?" seems to be such a popular question. I guess it is different from the norm... This is all I have ever done since college so producing music events is just a normal day for me.

... Tuesday I went to Vina del mar to meet with Adrien and Janna once again. We laughed so hard about our AWESOME jewelry store adventure on Sunday... they both study Spanish in Vina... Vina is basically just a beach town with high-rise condos and castles... hehe yes castles. It's nice and relaxing, but there isn't too too much more that the town has to offer. Adrien, Janna, and friends sat on the beach Tuesday afternoon sipping on rose in plastic cups filled with ice. Sipping wine in the sun... seems to be pretty popular amongst us foreigners : - )

I made it back to Jeannette's condo, finally had my fitting for my dress... and ate with Jeannette, Daniel (her fiance) and Fanny (Daniels mom - oh what a sweetheart)...

Wednesday morning was spent at the Sheraton right on the water. Jeannette had her hair done while I relaxed in an oceanside cafe in the hotel. Beauty surrounding me.

Now I sit here on Christmas eve relaxing in a really sweet cafe in Valpo in the hills (Cerro Alegre)... I guess this is where the foreigners hang out, but I still haven't seen many at all. The hills are filled with art galleries, cafes, murals everywhere... I can't believe this is the first time I made it here. OMG my spanish is horrible though which is probably why everything is such a task. No problemo though... that's the beauty of it all.

So so much has happened... the main point - I love my life. I'm blessed.

Sunday in Bellavista, Santiago

2009-12-22T07:37:00.000-08:00

Sunday began as such an ordinary day. I woke up starving (after drinking copious amounts at LA Feria on saturday night!) Jonny and I decided to go eat at Bellavista where there are endless restaurants and high-end boutiques... We sat down and I ordered a tuna sandwich with a latte. I wasn't in the mood to talk and I was almost annoyed at the day (for some strange reason.) Jonny saw some friends who I paid no attention to who were sitting at the cafe next to us. After I finished my tuna sandwich (that had no mayo and only lemon - AWESOME!) they asked us to join them for some wine. we did. Two men, one French, one German... Tim and Earve (I think that's right)... Anyway they were absolutely hilarious. They began their day pondering over the market for the high-end boutique that Tim's girlfriend had just opened.

The question of the day was "how do we get the people in the shop." "Should we serve high-end yogurt outside to lure them in?" "Should we decorate the shop in delicate roses to give them "the experience" like no other?"... After my second glass of wine, Earve asked "would you like to join us for "a test" at the shop. I replied "of course!" I want to experience "The experience!"

So we moved to the shop for a "test" literally around the corner. The sun was shining, the air very clear, and I was feeling not the tiny bit of annoyance - back to myself once again. The end of such an ordinary Sunday began. Another bottle of wine followed us to the shop. The bottle resting on ice of course. The waiter from the cafe brought bottle after bottle after bottle to the shop.

The shop beautiful, the name Galleria # something.... I should remember but they didn't have a name for the shop anywhere hehe. I guess the shop isn't totally finished.

I tried on jewelry, sipped on wine, and lived the "experience." Earve!!!...a complete character and exactly like I like them. The question for him (stated by Jonny)... Is he gay or just French... or both!...haha

"Mary you must live the experience!"... I drank, laughed, sat in in the sun, tried on jewelry, and model... so many of the things I love to do. I lived the experience. I felt the honesty. I loved the jewelry.

I must have been in the shop a good two hours before Janna and Adrian arrived. Janna was a model in Seoul who I actually knew (kind of) from Dennis (his ex-girlfriend to be exact.)... She quickly caught on to our little act... a drama almost!

We tried on jewelry, modeled the jewelry... and drank wine of course... for at least 5 more hours! Yes I was literally in the shop for 8 hours! Big open windows, completely white decor, and passion. Passion for life, passion to live, passion to travel, passion to be open minded enough to be in a shop for 8 hours trying on jewelry. We must have had at the very least 10 bottles of wine... yes 10.

The photos do not do justice to this amazingly unique, but lovely day.

Tonight at la feria...!

2009-12-20T00:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight!... had a meeting with the club owner of la feria... good good things. fun fun... and more fun.

PHILTER is expanding... unimaginable things happening. postive energy. people who believe. music. travels.

life only gets better.

a simple day in Santiago...

2009-12-19T15:28:00.000-08:00

I'm honestly not sure exactly where I was, but oh my what a beautiful day... coffee shops, boutiques, fountains, art, art, art & music... i love this chilean way of life...

Last night at Etiko!

2009-12-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

Murals cover the walls in Santiago...

2009-12-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

Santiago!...

2009-12-17T21:53:00.000-08:00

Arriving in Santiago today, I had no idea what to expect. I had a few quiet ones ( and admittingly much needed!) in Valparaiso/ Vina del mar since Jeannette has not arrived yet... I decided to head down to Santiago to see a friend from Korea, Jonathon... I arrived at about 6:30 pm it has been wonderful ever since... took a taxi (well the hot taxi ride wasn't the absolute best, but still fun) to Bellavista and arrived at Jonathon's awesome loft... a bbq and pool on the rooftop... completely modern in every aspect and all sorts of cool....

We talked for awhile, reminisced about korea, and decided to go for some beers ( I don't usually drink beer, but on a trip I'm up for anything!)... walked to the main street Pio nono had some beers, laughed tons, debated a little... real thoughts, realness... love.

Went onto club Gal pan 9... fun fun~!!!

Day 3... I feel right at home.

2009-12-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

Unsurprisingly I have assimilated perfectly to the chilean way of life.... cafe's, wine, and a relaxed attitude toward life... this is what I feel thus far... lovely.

I have to have a fitting for the brides-maid dress today at 4pm... Jeannette's cousin is going to come and pick me up... later this afternoon I will head to Santiago to see Joel's friend Jonathon...

Did I say how much I'm loooooving traveling once again. Living and learning so freely. Having to listen and understand a language that is so foreign to my usual life...

loving, loving, loving this... life that is... the world is so beautiful.

I'm in Chile!

2009-12-16T15:19:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine is getting married on Dec 26 in a smalltown, Casablanca, about 45 minutes North of Santiago... I'm in the wedding so I decided to make a nice little vacay (and hopefully some club contacts for the agency) out of it.

At this moment I am sitting in a cafe in Valparaiso sipping on cafe amaretto... life is good and amazingly beautiful... I'm staying in my friends high-rise condo on the 16th floor - it's on the ocean and overlooks the entire city. No one has arrived yet so I have had a few days to myself. These days have been absolutely lovely... time alone, and time to find my true self once again is always needed.

I've literally been here two days... it has felt like a week... I don't know how I am ever going to leave.

Loving this. Loving life. Loving the peace I am finding on my own.

Life is beautiful.

MoHo & PHILTER's CONNECT

2009-12-16T14:28:00.000-08:00

Connect is the collaboration of like-minded Morehouse Records & PHILTER. Featuring some of the finest DJ's on the globe, Groove Junkies Evan Landes, LA's Wayne Lyon's, and Argyle from Beathackers.

It began as a bi-weekly on Nov 20th - 2009... the last event before the holidays took place on Dec 4th.

Have a look at the photos! Delicious music, good vibes, and positive energy... that's what it is all about!

The Craziness of it all!

2009-11-04T02:21:00.000-08:00

It is unfortunate, but Musicality must go on hold for now... the venue we have locked for our Tuesday nights isn't perfect... and we definitely go for perfect in this game.

I have yet to talk things through with the artists and venue owner.

For now the focus is on my other event... actually it is just around the corner!

This Friday actually. The event: CONNECT Where: Dragon Fly - 6510 Santa Monica Blvd. Hollywood. Featuring: Groove Junkies Evan Landes + Argyle... live percussion, live art, and visuals... yah it's definitely a big one for sure!

Finding the right venue...

2009-10-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

It's not as easy as one would think. Of course everyone has their own standards, but there are at least four fundamentals everyone must think about before even considering a spot to host a night. Sound, location, capacity, and VIBE are essential. Of course that is only the beginning. If you do find a spot that does have these essentials, the next step is to approach the bar or club owner. Somehow find a medium where both parties can make money and have a good time. For now let's not get into that side of it... for some reason the venue owner often thinks that the promoter or organizer shouldn't have to make money. I'm pretty sure they assume that we should just be lucky to have a spot. Weird. Let's just leave it at that.

I found a venue for Tuesday nights. Well let's see now. The sound is definitely there. The location is in downtown LA which means that people from Hollywood and the West side are both able to venture out. Capacity is perfect for a Tuesday - roughly 150 I would say. The owner claims 250, but for a Tuesday night a small, intimate spot is ideal. The VIBE: three quarters windows, flashing lights, and a bouncer who deters people from wearing shorts inside. Hmmm I'm not sure if that's the vibe I was anticipating. There lies the problem. I want this spot, and I want to begin this night. Honestly, I am afraid that I'm not being true to who I really am. Bright lights, dress codes, and judges. That's not me.

Philter is a love potion

2009-10-09T13:02:00.000-07:00

Philter began with Myke really.

Philter was actually Myke's favorite word. It literally is defined as a love potion. I bet you didn't know that...don't worry, not many people do.

Myke and I lived in Seoul, Korea and we're together for 2 years before he passed away from liver cancer. He taught me everything about music, love, having copious amounts of passion... and all the good things I know about life. He introduced me to Giles Peterson, Cinematic Orchestra, Jazzanova, Fela Kuti... and so many more of the goodies. He got me hooked... on music, life, traveling and having a good time all the time.

Mike was the love of my life.

It's simple, I want everyone to have as much fun as I do, and as much fun as Mike did then.

Philter is here to inspire you to do the things you really want to do in life.

We produce events.

Music, Art, Love, Life, Creativity, and Positive Energy.

phil·ter also phil·tre (fltr)

1. A love potion.

2. A magic potion or charm.

tr.v. phil·tered also phil·tred, phil·ter·ing also phil·tring, phil·ters also phil·tres

To enchant with or as if with a philter.

Philter and Me

2009-10-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

My name is Mary...
I love music, friends of all sorts, traveling, and living life to its absolute fullest. I started Philter to inspire people to do the same. We create events of all forms - mostly music and art.
That's all...that's the story.
Come dance with me!