The guys over at BlackGrapes Clothing has just finished up on a photoshoot for their new release slated to drop soon. Heres some behind the scene cuts from the shoot in the Bay Area featuring family and  local artist The first piece from the new collection is the “Trust Is A Luxury” tee which is white with a few trim colors for the typo.  I was told this is just a small taste of things to come by my peoples over there. BlackGrapes is making a push to put street back into StreetWear with skaters, bikers, and a deep community of inspiration.

We recently did an interview with Brooklyn Bandit, a well establish demin company from New York. Brooklyn Bandit is more than a sophisticated streetwear label but at close examination you can find artistry. Most of the included pics are from their 2009 Fall/Winter collection, already available at select retailers. But you bet there will be more to come in 2010 from the Brooklyn Bandit.

MSW> Who are the creative minds behind Brooklyn Bandit

BKB> The main creative genius behind BKB comes from Niket (Nik), the creative director for the company. Anmol (A) is the marketing director, but also has input in the design process.

MSW> I really like the look of your denim and the shirts included . Why do you consider Brooklyn Bandit Jeans more art to you?

BKB> Brooklyn Bandit is art because it is unique. Every aspect of it has and will continue to break the mold that has kept the street-wear industry at a standstill for the past few years.

MSW> What sets your brand apart from the other guys out in the industry today?

BKB> BKB is different from the other guys because we don’t imitate or replicate what the bigger brands such as Diesel, Rocawear, Evisu, etc. are doing. We look at their lines and see whats missing, fill in the gaps, add our own flavor to it, and let the people love it.

MSW> What influenced you to go into denim and not the t-shirt thing like most guys are doing?

BKB> Denim is such a versatile part of the street-wear industry. There are so many different fabrics, washes, styles, and fits, that there was no limitation to the creativity and uniqueness that we could bring to the game, so it was only right that we focused on denim. We’re definitely going to do the t-shirt thing also, but we see that as the easy part.

MSW> What styles do Brooklyn Bandits Jeans cover for customers?

BKB> Brooklyn Bandit aims to cater to people from all walks of life. Theres no particular stereotype or demographic we are catering to. We’ve got slim fiting jeans, loose fitting jeans, and a blend of both. Our denims can appeal to anybody regardless of the style they are accustomed to.

MSW> Are there any plans to expand the Brooklyn Bandit Jeans in the future?

BKB> Brooklyn Bandit will definitely expand. It will expand and get bigger and better as time moves forward. This is just the beginning.

MSW> What major location(s) can the people see Brooklyn Brandit’s “The Riyadh”s because those would kill the game with fresh white kicks?

BKB> We couldn’t agree with you more about the fresh white kicks. The Riyadh is one of our best creations, and right now people can get em from the Kazbah store on Karmaloop at http://www.karmaloop.com/kazbah-vendor.asp?VendorCode=BKBKB

UNDRCRWN is doing their part in the relief effort by releasing the Assist Haiti t-shirt. All proceeds from the sells will go towards Wyclef Jean’s Yele Haiti organization to help the people of Haiti in their time of need. UNDRCRWN is also donating 5% of their total web sale to Yele Haiti from now to January 27th. I’m a Haitian myself and would like to take this time to thank everyone who has made a donation, of any kind, in the efforts to help my fellow countrymen deal with the devastation that they are now facing.

Married to the Mob has just realease their new “Dazed and Confused” Lookbook for the Spring. Lots of new looks but that same old attitude that MTTB is well known for. All are available now at the MOBSHOP.

Bird Club is making a name for themselves and has released a exclusive Marz tee for the fans of the Air Joradn Spiz’ike. There are three colorways available each featuring Spike himself and “Its Gotta Be the Shoes” inscribed on the front, real fresh and clean. You can cop your own tee at the Bird Club webstore.

Dope Couture is a brand that never fails in the fresh department. The new 2009 Holiday Lookbook features more wishlist items just in time for the Christmas season. Personally, I’m not feeling dudes rocking three ring neon jewelry. But the entire collection is available now at Dope Couture’s website.

MSW> What’s the history behind your brand/label?

Will> The history actually stems back to when I was in 6^th grade. I’m now 25. I was one of the so-called “OG’s” of the sneaker scene. I had one of the first websites dedicated to sneakers back in the days of NikePark, 23 Jumpman St, Kingsons Nike News Wrap Up, Phil’s Nike Page, etc. I collected and sold rare sneakers over the internet, which not only solidified my love for sneakers/fashion but also proved I was born to be an entrepreneur.

MSW> Who is behind the creation and uniqueness of the brand/label?

 Will> I’m pretty much the one who calls the creative shots for the brand. I research, collect, and put together my thoughts based on other brands, my interests, and hobbies. Once I narrow down exactly what I’m looking for, I pass the idea off to several friends with the necessary skills to take what’s in my head and translate it into a design.

 MSW>  What’s the meaning behind Fourcast Clothing line?

 Will> Coming up with a unique name was the hardest part of creating the brand. If we found a good name, chances are the dot com wasn’t available. Fourcast is a combination of the “four” seasons in a year with the act of predicting weather. Our logo is an umbrella, which represents protection and royalty. Pretty simple actually, but it gives us a lot of play with the elements of nature.

MSW> What are some of the inspirations that influenced Fourcast, if any?

 Will> Honestly, brands like Stussy, Hurley, Billabong, Habitat, Planet Earth, and Element really influence my brand. I love how you don’t necessarily have to surf to wear a Hurley or Billabong shirt. They stayed true to their core group, but they also appeal to the masses. Fourcast really doesn’t have one solid influence like “80’s California surf and street culture”. We will always evolve and move forward with designs. I design what I like and hope others dig it as well.

  MSW> I like your brand but not real big into BMX. Who are you targeting Fourcast to? 

 Will> There’s a misconception with our brand already, but it’s my fault. We’re not a BMX company, we do sponsor two BMX riders, but we’re not trying to be a 100% core BMX line. I’m already in the process of toning down the use of the word “BMX” within our wording and marketing. We’re a lifestyle brand. We’re into skate, bmx, music, art, sneakers, and fashion. Like I said before, I like how you don’t have to surf to wear a Hurley shirt. I want that to be true with Fourcast. You don’t have to skate, collect sneakers, or ride BMX to wear Fourcast. We’re an independent brand that channels our line through several outlets.

MSW> Your blog is unique showing the timeline of your brand with Daily Habit. What is some advice you would give to anyone jumping into the clothing business?

 Will> Take it slow, and grow at your own pace. You can easily blow through your life savings by rushing decisions, not paying attention to the details, and thinking your brand is larger than it really is. Stay grounded, stick with it, don’t listen to the people who say, “it can’t be done”, and keep it simple.

MSW>  What are some plans you have for Fourcast in the future?

 Will> We’re working on a street team, planning a few BMX and skate competitions, expanding the line to offer more than just t-shirts and hats (jeans and more custom tops), and looking into strategic marketing efforts.

Website: www.thefourcastbrand.com

Blog: www.willhardison.com

Twitter: @fourcast, @willhardison

The Redland(LtR) Earv and Kose

M SW> Please introduce yourself to the World?

Earv> I’m Earv Legend, one member of the super talented up and coming duo by the name of The Redland.
MSW> How would you guys describe the music thats TheRedland is pumping out?

Earv> I would describe as a thoughtful blend of hip-hop, rock, and soul. But I’m biased. All I know is that we’re true artist who strive to bring truth to our fans in every song.
MSW> What are some of the inspiration behind TheRedland’s music if any?

Earv>We’re inspired by anybody who made great music that inspired people and affected the culture around. Too many names to mention, but John Lennon, Outkast and tupac probably have the most songs on the old Ipod.
MSW> Whats your view on the music thats out right now?

Earv>I think far too many artist are concerned with trends and finances which is why there has been a drop off in timeless music. But there are some glimmers of hope out there, and hopefully people will support great music so that the music business can start encouraging creativity and diversity.
MSW> Who are you targetting your music to towards?

Earv>We try to make music to bring people together, so its hard to say. but I guess smart, compassionate, good looking people would be our target demographic.
MSW> What are some of the brands you guys rock(Fashion & Kicks)?

Earv>Honestly I try not to be too brand conscious, and just wear whatever catches my eye. But I enjoy a classic look, Timerlands and sean jean jeans. Jamie Marx Co is an up and coming line I also like.
MSW> How would you describe your taste in fashion?

Earv> I try not to do too much, keep it simple and classic like James Dean or the Fonz.
MSW> What do you have planned in the future for your listeners?

Five friends tired Of all the bullshit and the lack Of creativity Other labels, are Offering to bring something new and different to the fashion world. The Jetson Aztronauts are fresh out of Chicago and have a major mission at hand to deliver to the people.

“It’s two different brands With different personalities but based on one guy. Jetson Is A Mordern Day Hippie, but not just in the sense Of smoking marijuana but more Of what they represented. Viewed as outcast in a society that Wouldn’t Accept their views & Opinions they took matters into their own hands and forced the entire world to listen. So, we’ve applied that same attitude to our line.”

The potential for this line is a great thing being this going to be year one.  Make sure you keep an eye out for this line. Their line t-shirts, caps and hoodies with plans to make a lady’s line of the same brand.