SK808: Griptape and Record Crates

News You May Already Now: King of the GroAMs, Mythical PR and More

2012-01-15T23:00:00.001-06:00

Oh yes, the Vulcan Nerve Pinch struck us this week when we saw none other than the homie Harper McDaniel spalshed up on the Houston Chronicle's business page. The write-up is down below, but needless to say things are popping for the Big Myth crew. We wish his crew continued success, and maybe even some wins on the DH circuit.

Big Myth Write-Up from the Houston Chronicle

What else? King of the GroAMS. I missed it, on account of my birthday, but the showing looked great, with tremedous sponsor support. Check out the site for the winners, footage and general lurkness. Congrats to Southside for having enough space so that all the kiddos could either be put in time out, take a nap or laugh maniacally off an ICEE binge.

King of the GroAMS Official Site

I had a birthday. It was awesome. Thank you. Have ya'll seen the cone chains lining the pro bowl at Jamail? Besides making a nice bracelet for a dinosaur, this barricade comes with a big sigh of relief. I think Barry did a good thing getting those put in, and maybe it is something replicable that other parks can use. Thanks to the City of Houston for making it official.

On another skatepark front, it looks like a new concrete park is going up in Sealy, which is not Katy and does not share a border with Giddings. Same crew is working on it that droppped that gem in Conroe. So, it looks very promising. In that same vein, Kevin tipped us off via plastering it on Facebook, so his record of skatepark construction news gathering remains reliable and untarnished.

Well, weather has been good so, see out there on the streets!

Upcoming Contest: King of the Groms @ Southside - Nine Days Away

2012-01-05T21:46:00.002-06:00

It is almost too much fun to watch the little pee-wees compete. Mayne, hold up, with ICEE as a sponsor, this thing is stone cold ice pickin' good. Remember its 12 and under, not shave and suck helium before your heat. Anyways..

Hit up that Southside Facebook page to RSVP, like and post your deep desire to wear the grom crown.

Southside Skatepark
Day One is January 13th 2012
510 Iowa
South Houston, TX 77587
713 946 0414

More information at www.kingofthegroms.net and heres a broad schedule...park open for normal business as well

This gathering will eat up the whole weekend, peep the schedule at a glance.

FRIDAY: Jan 13 - DOORS OPEN AT 3:00PM, REGISTRATION / CHECK-IN / PRACTICE

SATURDAY: Jan, 14 - DOORS OPEN AT 9:00AM, CONTEST STARTS AT 10 (QUALIFIERS)
SUNDAY: Jan. 15 - DOORS OPEN AT 9:00AM, CONTEST STARTS AT 10 (FINALS)

Tonight @ Southside: Hip Hop Friday! DJ Cipher on the Wheels of Steel

2011-12-23T15:07:00.001-06:00

Shake off the Holiday haze, with sonic egg nog out at Southside!
Also, you bums, buy your homies something. Bearings, socks or Diamond X Bayer Collabo Tums and Pepto Bismol. Regardless, congregate, and skate.
7-10PM

510 Iowa St.
Houston, Texas
77587

Directions

713.946.0414

Skatepark Grand Opening! Kamiersky Park, in Conroe, this Saturday @ 11AM

2011-12-14T15:11:00.000-06:00

Some time ago, our friend Kevin sent in this photo of Kamierksy Park's poured-in renovation and the City of Conroe is now set to have the Grand Opening this Saturday at 11AM. Come on out and celebrate this new addition to our scene. My curiosity is always what kind of food can be found by a skatepark.Any locals have taco/burger know-how to share for those dropping by the area? Holler at the comments.

Tipster John Hocutt hipped us to the opening and sent the cellphone-surveillance shot of the spot. Thanks man! I very much like the modified plaza approach, with crescent capsules and flat-to-tranny pockets. This kind of terrain makes skating more open to creative lines and equally manages traffic. It will be well enjoyed. Great job.

Let the City of Conroe know how you feel. Here's there Facebook Page.

Also, their parks website (currently illing out).

Park info, Map & Directions too...
Kamiersky Park
889 Old Magnolia Rd. 77304

I will be downtown for the helmet giveaway, so have fun out there and I'll see ya soon!

HOLIDAY HELMET GIVEWAY: THIS SATURDAY - DEC. 17 NOON - SKATE SAFE!

2011-12-12T21:43:00.002-06:00

See you at Noon!
Jamail Skatepark
103 Sabine Houston, TX

(713) 222 5500 - Call for directions and other skatepark info!
More about this great event, from Caleb!

S-One Helmet Giveaway hosted @ the Jamail Skatepark by The Houston Parks Board and PUSH Houston from Aaron Estrada on Vimeo.

In The Trunk: Part II - Kingpinz X SK808 Lowrider Podcast SIDE II!!

2011-12-05T08:08:00.007-06:00

Welcome back homies. This new Impala deck is hitting so hard it's scraping off sparks and making dogs bark! Yup, just like the hydraulic hammers Roo is chucking through the 1200's. So let's get right into episode II.

Your boy, editor-at-large, rides the 8.6 Shovel Nose, with the MX Missle taper, 53mm Street Philosophers and Raw Indy 149s. It'll bury you fast. So when you call that up, you get this list of ways to knock your head off neck, courtesy of your friends at Kingpinz & SK808. Let the Good Times Roll!

1. Come Here My Dear Remix (instr) - Dudley Perkins

2. Where My Homiez? - Ill & Al Skratch

3. You're Only A Customer - Jay-Z

4. Itz Ya Dog - Six Shot

5. Ride Around Shining - Clipse

6. Smoke - Frost

7. Back Seat - LL Cool J

8. Let Me Ride - Dr. Dre

9. You Know How We Do It - Ice Cube

10. Champion Sound - Jaylib

11. *Bonus Track* WatchaKast - Da Kingpin

Listen Now

You Know Where to Go

Kingpinz

8584 Westheimer

Houston, TX 77063

713-783-5506

www.kingpinz.com

In The Trunk: Kingpinz X SK808 Lowrider Podcast for the New Impala Deck

2011-12-04T08:08:00.008-06:00

We had to do it. The new art from Kingpinz is riding on an ocean of funk. The new coping killer shapes are sick, and the combo is a ride fit for whipping around the boulevard. Roo's mix sets it off to rattle the bolts off, so bang the beats, and cruise on over to the shop for the plank to match.

We had so much funk, it had to be split into two episodes, so we'll go by the Impala deck shapes Roo and I ride.

Side A: Roo rides the 8.5 Bomb Popsicle, Red 58 Phiosophers and black gunmetal Indies. POW!

That kind of rig wins you this Tracklist:

1. Six Tray - Freestyle Fellowship

2. Ghetto Fuh Life - Society of Soul

3. Front, Back & Side To Sode - UGK

4. Swangin' & Bangin' (Original Version) - E.S.G.

5. Money On My Mind - Lil Wayne

6. Break Em Off feat. Lil Keke - Paul Wall

7. Just Riden' - Saafir

8. Elevators - Outkast

9. Money & The Power - Game

10. Gone Ride With Me - Juvenile

11. Ratchet feat. Mandigo - Lil Boosie

12. Slow and Low - Beastie Boys

13. Posse On Broadway - Sir Mix A Lot

14. Come Here My Dear Remix (instr) - Dudley Perkins

Listen Now

Let the Good Times Roll!

Congratulations to Wiley Roberston! - Third Place in the 002 Magazine Cover Contest

2011-12-03T10:07:00.007-06:00

Fellow skater, artist and friend, Wiley Robertson, was announced as the third place winner in 002 Magazine's recent cover contest. It is well deserved, as his blending of graf art and painting create lively canvas moods that capture the vibrant, casual and butter-knifed edge of our town. His design ideas frequently frame our skate event flyers, and his twists on tagging and sign painting add a humor and hospitality to the underbellies of our streets, bridges and sometimes tress; kind of like finding a Super Mario mushroom in your front yard. We wish him more success recognition and continued freaking of the creative funk!

Check it out here!

Wiley's blog

PS: It may very well be that Wiley was working on that cover, and his art show, and thus abdicated his throne at Turkey Jam 2011. The crown weighs heavy...

Annual Holiday Helmet Giveaway is coming up December 17th @ Jamail Skatepark!

2011-11-28T22:18:00.007-06:00

See you at Noon!

(713) 222 5500 - Call for directions and other skatepark info!

TURKEY JAM UPDATE: EVENT DATE MOVED TO SUNDAY, CRAPPY WEATHER ON DECK FOR SATURDAY

2011-11-24T21:46:00.003-06:00

See you on Sunday!

Follow all updates on the FB Page!

Wiley Robertson Art Show: next Friday! 6-9PM

2011-11-23T09:44:00.007-06:00

Once you're on that leftover pumpkin pie and turkey trip, enhance the experience with Wiley's art next Friday.

From the Horse's Mouth: Robertson’s studio work is a vibrant collision of imagery from his various street interventions and will be on display Friday, December 2nd, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the East End Studio Gallery.

Enjoy Yerself!

Event info

Contact:

eestudiogallery@gmail.com

Gallery Location:

Houston Institute for Culture

East End Studio Gallery

708 C Telephone Road

Houston, Texas 77023

SK808 Proudly Presents: The EZ-7 Turkey Jam Podcast

2011-11-23T08:08:00.012-06:00

Hi Everybody,
I think you will be very happy with the results of our food themed podcast, made especially for Turkey Jam this year. It started in good fun, but we hammered out a pretty comprehensive list of appetizers, entrees & desserts to feed the gut and the brain proper. Multi-decade in span, and national in scope, our great big hip hop fam is included in the reunion here.

Enjoy, and Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at SK808!

Listen Now

Track List:

1	Hot Potato	Freestyle Fellowship
2	The Food	Common & Kanye West
3	Ice Cream	Wu-Tang
4	Smoke Interlude (Hawaiian Punch)
5	Cappuccino	MC Lyte
6	Anotha BBQ	PUTS
7	Cornbread	Freestyle Fellowship
8	Gravy	UGK
9	Butta	Cool Breeze
10	Soul Food (Crazy C RMX)	Goodie Mob
11	Live at the BBQ	Large Professor
12	Spaghetti Junction	Outkast
13	Apple Juice Break
14	Microwave Mayo	DOOM
15	Sandwiches	Beatnuts
16	Fish	Ghostface Killah
17	Chicken Kebob
18	Raise It Up	Ultramagnetic MCs

Shut Up & Kegstand: Coverage of Shut up & Rumble in Dallas by Unassisted Kegstand

2011-11-17T10:13:00.003-06:00

Fresh from the CCD, your SU&R recap, from Unassisted Kegstand. If you bust a Madonna, and get the Halo Glow, then either Chris Gilmour got the shot, or Adam Wiggins is ascending to sainthood. Regardless, cla-clack your way over to The Stand, and peep the pixels. Want more, hit up the Kegstand Facebook page. See ya!

Go There Now

News You May Know: Shut Up and Post, Bones Nowhere and More

2011-11-16T10:30:00.000-06:00

While we wait for some pics and text detailing the skate affair at Shut Up and Rumble, here's a clips of Bones Mo' Mondays, with the team in El Paso. At first, I thought - Cool, hometown needs more press. Then, I watched an realized it was rail porn, with absolutely no local context. I guess it is better than the usual wild eyed boardtown hoe-down streotypics. Nice gap hopping and a 360 no-comply for the homies. I hope they had some Chicos, and got to meet a lot of locals. Here it is. Live from Anywhere skate plaza TX.

MO' MONDAYS - EL PASO from BONES WHEELS on Vimeo.

Ooh, but check out what Krooked's latest drop has: Anaconda CRUISER! Who says skateboarding isn't fun anymore.
Krooked Katalog

Southside Miniramp Sesh Brewing for the Katz Coffee Porter Party x Continental Club

2011-11-12T21:56:00.001-06:00

Straight up and down, your SK808 editor here loves a porter. Real Ale x Katz Coffee Porter? My only question is, where's the cake, and where can I crash out. Yes, I drink beer and eat cake.

You don't like how I'm livin, we'll...
try too.

Music, plus them Southside boys grinding beans on the coping, you have yourself what I call a Texas Handshake. Impress your cutie and make a drunky date. Grown folks only please. The rest of you go skate, and eat Chee-tos.

Sunday November 20th, 2011
Continental Club
900 Winbern Houston, TX 77002
About the Beer

Raybourn Again! Ben Raybourn Now Pro for $lave

2011-11-04T09:42:00.000-05:00

Ben Raybourn Pro for Slave:

This is a great launch. The board is just the kind that comes from a company being in tune with the rider. This kid is a true natural and a great pride to our skate tradition. Carry On!

Many Texans tipped us off on FB, but we bounced it from Skatedaily.

Come, Sail Away at Southside: Skate Film Premiere Nov. 5th 2011 @ 8PM

2011-11-03T23:01:00.001-05:00

John Danielson communicates a rider's personality and character in ways that confound most skate videographers. He clearly picks which riders he will shoot, and chooses to show what skateboarding is, rather than just play back what skaters did on any given shoot. He captures an unashamed enthusiasm and excitement about skateboarding that is set out like a big middle finger to the uptight regimented world of hardcore or extreme sporting. I will forever be a fan of his, for letting the fun shine through.

See for yourself on Saturday, or be a good economic stimulator and cop the DVD, or two.

Full Disclosure: Brown Clown rides for SK808 (We love that guy!)

Save the Date: EZ-7 Turkey Jam 2011!

2011-11-03T22:59:00.003-05:00

This local event celebrates our skate scene from the hallowed concrete alter of EZ-7. Historically a Surfhouse event, This gathering is truly our big family get together. Crazy uncles and gossipy aunts included. It is also a great time for giving and supporting Houston skateboarding. Contact any of our sponsors to contribute your time, goods and elbow grease to ensure everyone has an awesome time. Stay tuned!

Make A Difference with Make-A-Wish This Weekend at Southside

2011-11-03T22:06:00.000-05:00

This Saturday is the 15 Annual Johnny Romano Skate Jam for Make-A-Wish. The proceeds go to the Gulf Coast and Louisiana Chapter of the charity. The great support and outpouring of goodwill from our skate community are sure to pack the house and bring in funding. If you cannot make it to the event, or if the donation is too steep, contribute what you can directly to Johnny Kicks Cancer, Make-A-Wish.

Moreover, seek opportunities to help and care for others.
Johnny Kick Cancer
Make-A-Wish

Event Details

We are proud to have our DJ Brother Roo lending his services this year's event, alongside DJ Cipher. It will be a great time for all! See you there.

News You May Know: New Concrete & The Lantern Cusp

2011-10-20T23:26:00.000-05:00

New Concrete!

Tipster Kevin Lane has been providing updates for Pour-in-Place project out in the Woodlands. Forest Gate Park used to have a prefab skate area, and has given into supreme wisdom, letting the concrete flow into a far more suitable and long lasting skate estate. The good folks at Misiano are put in the work, with help from Drew Karkos, Adam Calderwood, Matt Jordan, Chris Rogers, Matt Call, and Kevin.

At the time of this writing, the final work should be done and locals can proceed to hit it on these cooler days as we await an official grand re-opening. These projects represent significant effort by the municipality, the local scene and active advocates for skateboarding. Thank you all for your efforts. The results will resonate in many more dedicated generations of skaters and stronger bonds with elected officials hearing the people.

The Lantern Cusp

This one is pure shout out and congrats. Our close friend, and proper ripper, Aaron Cormier, has new album with his bandmates in Enloom. The album is great work in experimental, organic harmonic jams. As a whole work, everything from the album art, to the sound texture, conveys an aesthetic with depth and cohesion.

Truth is, I stay hunting alternate dimensions while stumbling around office and home, so this is easily an entry in my life soundtrack rotation. Come along, listen and remember what it is like when songs don't fade out at 4 minutes, and the band is taking you somewhere unexpected and lush. Skateboarding lures creative people. Cite this as a prime example. It is available from Aaron's trunk, and every music service under the Sun. Don't even try to disrespect the homie with some Torrent, bootleg crap. Pay homage. Support the art we all wish we made ourselves.

We have bias toward Emusic:
In the Lantern Cusp

Record Crates: Nasty Nas Returns

2011-10-15T06:49:00.003-05:00

Years ago, in the days of tube T.V.s, Walkman cassette players (with Cat 9 batteries fresh out the freezer), and when Skateboarding was in what some consider it's Golden Age there was a video show called Rap City. Every Friday night it showcased all the latest videos not aired during the week in a countdown, I still don't know how the countdown was tallied and no curiosity was ever voiced so we (the viewers) just understood it to be so. The ritual was to watch Rap City all week to catch the coldest jams and memorize them so as to not be left out of the discussion of "ohhh, did you see rapper X in video Y for song Z? I didn't even know that was gonna be a single!?"

One artist inparticular that sparked allot of interest was Nas with is his debut single and video "It Ain't Hard to Tell" It set off a flurry of discussions from "Is he the second coming of Rakim?" (due to his similar rhyme cadence and wordplay) to "How did they get the Human Nature sample cleared? and "If this is the single what is the album going to sound like?"

Flash forward seventeen years, Hip-Hop's sound, visuals and artists have gone through so many changes and established innumerable short lived trends and dances to the pleasure and chagrin of its global fanbase. Nas has managed to maintain a level of exellence within that fray, Nasty is no exception. The precarious balance of keeping true to the tradition of lyricisim while keeping it fresh for a new audiance is executed effortlessly in this track and video. Simply put, it's a banger and it has me excited.

If this is the single, what is the album going to sound like?

See you at SkateStock: Oct 22, 2011 @ Jamail Skatepark

2011-10-12T23:20:00.002-05:00

Skateboarding is art and science - and the organizers of Skatestock are set to explode your thought jelly, with live music, art, physics and hopefully a lot of kooks in costumes milking the Halloween month dry. Set at the Jamail Skatepark, already an incubator for creativity and youth culture, the place will be primed for eyeballs & ears of every attention span, and is the culmination of many successful grass roots music events. See you there!

SKATESTOCK- Peace Love and Skateboarding
October 22, 2011
Noon - 9PM

Jamail Skatepark
103 Sabine
Houston, TX 77002
More info - 713 222 5500

Winter Vacation Preparedness: Kingpinz Premiers Standing Sideways

2011-10-11T18:25:00.004-05:00

Will it snow this year in Texas? I know how I am placing my bets in that wager. Kingpinz on the other hand brings the powder to your face months in advance by premiering Burton's Standing Sideways this Thursday and given the summer we've had I'd say not a moment too soon. All ages welcome.

Sidenote: If you find yourself in the shop, ask ye olde proprietor about how to get a SK808 Halloween grab bag, please note quantities are limited.

Details:
All Ages
Thursday October 13th, @ St Danes Bar and Grille, 7pm
502 Elgin Street
Houston, TX 77006

Pause for the Cause: 15th Annual Johnny Romano Jam @ Southside

2011-10-11T17:04:00.004-05:00

Skaters having been coming together for fifteen years to support the Johnny Romano Skate Jam. It is events and causes such as this one that really bring out a sense of kinship amongst all involved, pros and fans alike. Head on over to skateboarder.com for a list of who is scheduled to be in attendance and to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at both Southside locations.

Lastly, rumor has it that granite is being introduced to the street course in some form or fashion to make things a lil' more interesting for the pros this year, can't wait to see what it is.

Hope to see you there.

Details:

Southside 510 Iowa st.
Saturday 11-05-11
Time: 12pm-6pm

Tis The Season: Monster Mash Bowl Bash @ Southside

2011-10-11T16:32:00.006-05:00

Monster Mash Bowl Bash 2011 looks to be more that just a night to hit the Federal Bowl in full Halloween garb but a chance to really let loose and have a good time as told by these pics from last years event. Here's a thought; Can you dress like Santa for Halloween? Maybe someone can dare to be the answer to that question this year.

Feel free to ask the shop keep about how to get a SK808 goodie grab bag, please note quantities are very limited.

Have fun & be safe!

Details:

Southside 510 Iowa st.
Thursday 10-27-11
Registration/Warm up: 3pm - 7pm
Contest: 7pm
Afterparty: Open to those 21 & up

Keeping It Right: TRAE THA TRUTH (@TraeABN) TO OPEN EMERGENCY CHILDREN’S SHELTER

2011-10-04T18:16:00.007-05:00

Ok, you've heard every rapper throughout antiquity talking about keeping it real and that they are for the streets. Trae whom already has his own day (The first rap artist to have this honor bestowed in Hustletown), hosts an annual charity event on the same day providing the children of Houston and surrounding areas with free food, backpacks, school uniforms, supplies, immunizations and a celebrity packed show has surpassed the high bar of Rap Artist Humanitarian (a standard established by Mr. Tha Truth himself none the less) by continuing to consider those most vulnerable in our community, the childern.

By opening an Emergency Children's shelter Trae is in a different relm, he's in a different stature of person that displays more than just concern for immediate problems, more than just throwing a fund raiser, this act of stewardship for his community and fellow man simply put is amazing. I am inspired by the humanity displayed for those who cannont control thier immediate fate to provide them with a safe haven however temporary.

Well done Trae, well done.

The press release is as follows:

HOUSTON RAP ARTIST TRAE THA TRUTH (@TraeABN) TO OPEN EMERGENCY CHILDREN’S SHELTER THROUGH HIS ANGEL BY NATURE CHARITY

Official Opening To Be Celebrated November 1st

Houston, TX ~ Rap artist Trae Tha Truth has long been known for giving back to the community. Back in 2008 he was honored with his own day, ‘Trae Day’, by then Mayor, Bill White, for his many acts of community service to those less fortunate in his city. Each year that day has seen Trae hosting a free block party featuring donated school supplies, school immunizations, children’s game and rides and a free concert by an impressive roster of local and nationally known artists. Taking that commitment a step further, Trae, along with his charitable organization, Angel By Nature (ABN), is to open an emergency children’s shelter to temporarily house children who have ended up in the system while more permanent placements can be found. The official opening of the 3,000 square foot facility, built out to house 20-30 transitional children, ranging in age from newborn to 17 years, will take place on November 1st.

Trae was inspired to take on this lofty venture after becoming acquainted with Marilyn Gambrel; a former parole office turned non-profit founder who advocates for children of incarcerated parents through her No More Victims organization. After adopting the charity and being sworn in as an honorary member, Trae became intimately aware of the problems facing kids who through no fault of their own, ended up in a swamped system. He felt compelled to do something to help and the ABN facility was born. After discussing his feelings with Angel By Nature Supervisor, Roderick Batson, the idea was born and things were set in motion.

Although Trae recently dropped what is arguably his most important album to date, “Street King”; a project that features an A-list roster of cameos like Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Lupe Fiasco and Wiz Khalifa, he says this shelter is closer to his heart than all the fame money can buy.

“I’m more happy for this than anything I’ve done.” Trae shares in a rare moment of excitement. “These kids are the world. It’s bigger than me and it’s bigger than the city.”

Trae is adamant that his facility will be set up in order that the children who pass through it will find both physical comfort and emotional support upon arrival. The facility will be fully furnished, including computers, television, books and games. Support for the shelter has come from unlikely sources such as Texas Wire Wheels, who donated money to complete the facility’s showers and Austin promoter Layne Schmerin, who is planning a concert in his city in late October with 35 percent of the proceeds going to Trae’s shelter. Day-to-day operations of the shelter will be handled by Roderick Batson.

"The only bad thing is that it's an emergency shelter.” Says Trae. “The kids will only be there a few days. Realistically, I can't adopt every kid. But this is a start. This is how we can help. I want them to feel comfortable when they're there. Sometimes they'll be placed with good families or new families that they don't know, but when they're there, I want them to know they are cared about."

For further information and media opportunities, kindly contact Nancy Byron, OGPR Marketing & Public Relations, Inc. (832) 220-6071 or nancyb@ogpr.net

News from the Fight: Spycam, the site and Riders!

2011-09-25T22:11:00.000-05:00

Jet on over to the renovated Cockfight site, and check out the latest offerings and blog posts. The have a new ATV rider, Christain Albright and they continue to support the family and legacy of departed friend Scott B Greene. On the lurkfront, they have been snapping shots of a new spot in Conroe, and have a new Brett Roper deck on in the oven. Go Git! Take a cool drink with you.

Cockfight Skateboards

Save the Date! Skatestock 2011 @ Jamail Skatepark

2011-09-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

Great weather, great bands, awesome DJs and much more!
October 22, 2011
Noon - 9PM
Jamail Skatepark
103 Sabine
Houston, TX

In 17 Days! - Skate it Up: Sending Winners to Woodward since 2005

2011-09-13T22:47:00.002-05:00

We at SK808 are proud to renew our Skate it Up sponsorship in 2011. This year, Truthriders will send another crop of winners to Woodard, and is adding a video contest to encourage more kids to participate in skating, showcasing their talents. The event is free to enter, and being held at Southside on October 1st, 2011 (at Noon). John Hocutt, and Truthriders, work yearlong.holding outreach events and working to bridge the gap between pure fun and a forum for exploring faith as a Christian group. Save the date, get your skills right. See you there!

More Info

College Station Skatepark Opening: Good Times & a Great Scene!

2011-09-06T10:23:00.000-05:00

The photorippersim crew at Embassy sent his dispatch to highlight all the action around College Station this weekend. Angry Andy get the pic here, choking the coping right before rolling onto it's carcass. Nice.

I showed up early, and was welcomed by a lively, friendly and skilled batch of locals. The park was a total blast to skate, with the transpotainment model in place - there was variety: always a place to go and a spot to focus on. The covered area was genius, and a blessing, even though the weather was perfect. Another thing, the kids love C-Ment Skateshop. I am sure they have a hand in molding the scene and it was quite a welcome wagon. Cockfight, Embassy, Quinn Longobards and our own SK808 posse made ourselves at home and all the riders went after it much to the delight of the locals. I can't wait to go back! Here's more coverage!

The Embassy Report
Great Opening Slideshow

7 Years and Gunnin': Kingpinz Anniversary Weekend

2011-09-01T21:13:00.009-05:00

This weekend will mark the 7th anniversary of Kingpinz arrival on the scene and what a ride it has been thus far. There has been plenty of reminiscing happening on facebook complete with photos of Kinpinz deck graphics I had not seen before. I am putting in a request to the Kang to bring back the wood grain logo deck, so fresh, so clean.

Brother Roo reppin' the SK808 Soundsystem will be on site and in the mix Saturday from 2pm to 5pm. After that the crew migrates the party to Sherlock's Baker Street around 8pm.

Come out to give daps to Jason & Brad, share some memories and maybe even catch a glimpse of what the future holds down at 8584 Westheimer Rd, we'll see you there.

Join the Skatepark Opening in College Station this Weekend!

2011-08-31T22:56:00.002-05:00

Be there!

More info (from City of College Station)

College Station’s skate park is only a few weeks old, but it’s already earned a reputation across the state as a premier skateboard destination.

That seems like something worth celebrating.

The official grand-opening of the skate park will take place Saturday, Sept. 3, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. and will feature professional skateboard teams, music, giveaways, vendors, refreshments and much more.

Revealing the nameSince July, the city has received many suggestions via Facebook and Twitter as to what the skate park should be named. During the Sept. 3 grand-opening event, the new name will be revealed.

About the skate parkPhotos, video, 3-D modeling and event posters can be viewed at cstx.gov/skatepark.

Designed for all skill levels, this competition-quality skate park at 1520 Rock Prairie Road is the newest feature of the Southwood Community Complex. Key features are a large pro-style flow bowl, a pool-type bowl and a long, linear street course that includes hundreds of feet of varying terrain and scalable elements. The lighted facility is mostly made of concrete, which is permanent and virtually maintenance-free. A shaded patio area is nearby for spectators.

Early ideas for the park sparked a grassroots effort by local enthusiasts in 2007, and city voters approved the $920,000 facility in a 2008 bond election. With extensive input from the public and local skateboarders, planning began in 2009 and construction started in April 2011.

The skate park was designed by Bleyl & Associates of Bryan in conjunction with Grindline, Inc., a specialty design firm based in Seattle, Wash. Construction was performed by JaCody, Inc. of College Station in association with SPA Skateparks of Austin.

Direct links:Skate park photos
Grand opening: Promo video
Grand opening: Boarding Skool poster
Grand opening: Rover Board poster
Grand opening: Board Meeting poster

On Another Pyramid: New Wheels from Conspiracy!

2011-08-31T22:43:00.001-05:00

Since I was complaining the other day, here's some good ol' fashioned solid output from the folks at Conspiracy. New colors, new size (58!) and the return of some favorites. Jump on through and peep game! Thanks to Art for the tip!

Conspiracy Skateboards & WHEELS!

Shut Up & Game o' Skate, plus BBQ Bowl Jam: This Sunday Sept. 4th @ Southside

2011-08-31T22:37:00.001-05:00

Get your Labor Day agenda straight and set aside Sunday for The Shut up and GOS plus BBQ Bowl Jam under the helicopter fan.
‎
$15 to enter Game of Skate $10 to enter Bowl Jam. FREE for Spectators. FREE Food and Free Vitaminwater for everyone! If Dave is grilling, then you will shed tears of culinary joy. Let 'em know you're coming, either by spreading rumors at the mall, or better yet, by RSVPing in the Facebook.

Noon - 8PM
Southside Skatepark
510 Iowa Street,
South Houston,Texas 77587
Phone: 713-946-0414

Go Git!!!

Rejoice: Tomorrow Aug. 30, 2011 - City of Houston Declares "Bun B Day"

2011-08-29T15:17:00.003-05:00

Too Trill!

Plan B: Use Golf Marketing?

2011-08-29T13:21:00.005-05:00

Skateboarding needs innovation, and I am sure a lot of skaters like golf (not me), but this marraige of the two just doesn't jive for me. To me, it just extends the negative stereotype of skateboarding as competitive sport. I'll go further. Golf marketing is good for selling overblown tech to people of marginal talent. Is that the plan? Save it for somebody else.

Bowl Contest @ Bear Branch This Friday: Aug. 27 2011

2011-08-22T21:47:00.007-05:00

Probably the first flyer to properly depict what summer has done to us all. In my opinion, the gnarlier the art, the more coping meeting the butcher block. Ten bucks though, kinda steep; but yunno, it makes you serious. Maybe winner takes all?

Directions:
5200 Research Forest Drive
The Woodlands Texas 77380

Ed. Note: The Woodlands Website has a sketchy, even vague, possibly secretive listing for this park. Feel free to comment on why, as this spot is pretty well trafficked.

Kingpinz & SK808 Present - Summer Madness Podcast 2011

2011-08-19T23:07:00.012-05:00

In the midst of a record breaking heatwave, your friends at Kingpinz and SK808 Wheels bring the Summer Madness Podcast. Whether you're wallriding inside the walk-in freezer at Sam's Club after-hours, or slow poaching your brains in death seshes across town, DJ Brother Roo has a bangin blend rie and ready for when your earbuds fuse to your ear canals.

So without further delay: Enjoy!

Listen Now

Tracklist:

The Paper (I Get It) - 50 Cent

The Price To Be Illa - Illa Ghee

Bark Like A Dog - Strong Arm Steady

I'm On Everything feat. Mike Epps - Bad Meets Evil (Royce Da 5' 9 & Eminem)

Random Call - Random Axe (Guilty Simpson, Sean Price & Black Milk)

Stageridin' - Frank Nitty

Proper Dosage - F.A.B.I.D.

A One Two - Joell Ortiz

Infared - Game

Ghetto feat. Raekwon & U-God - Ghostface Killah

Nasty - Nas

My homie kills it. Big up to Kingpinz Houston, forever sponsoring the butter blends!

100 Helmet Giveaway Next Saturday Aug. 20, 2011 at 6PM

2011-08-14T21:27:00.005-05:00

What a great way to get the school year started. Next Saturday evening, let's put this priceless safety component on some deserving melons and bring new faces into Jamail, and other skateparks. I actually skullplanted recently myself, and promise you that helmets matter. See you there! Spread the word. Many thanks to the sponsors and to the volunteers.

Helmet Giveaway

Lee and Joe Jamail Skate Park

6pm

103 Sabine

Houston, TX 77002

713 222 5500

It Ain't All Good: Hip Hop Dystopia 101

2011-08-08T08:55:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I laugh when hip hop is characterized with generalizations, because there are some songs that will absolutely burn a hole in your preconceptions, and probably make it hard to remember what you thought about this music genre previously.

One great dramatic grizzly and dizzying work, of this caliber, is Mayor by Pharoahe Monch. I won't spoil it for newcomers, so listen up, and prepare for impact. Strangely enough, this is only an album cut, on a record label mixtape. Proof positive that one must seek to find the gems.

Tribe Week: Documetary MicroReview plus Tribe Called Quest Podcast Vol. 2

2011-07-30T15:58:00.014-05:00

As we close out Tribe Week, here at SK808, I can say that we and our people rolled out the love for this film effort. We podcasted, posted some opinions & reflections, and are about to deliver a live mix set during the breaks at Skate & Rock. Our friends at Southside/Greater Than laid down their own set at Hip hop Friday, and it was a funky good time at the premiere last night with the Kingpinz posse.

As a microreview, no one movie can ever capture the potent density, and texture of hip hop's key artists, but I feel that there was plenty for discussion, and it felt to watch some hip hop history on the big screen. To me, this movie was about friendship and personal sacrifce for creative pursuit. In any life, this is complex and only time can prove if the results were worth any personal fallout or compromised health. I can say that without this film, my own simple fun in listening to this group might have been rekindled much later, and I would have missed this collective experience.

So to wrap things up, Roo has cooked up a sunset mix of post-ATCQ, and solo, tracks. Between the two mixes you can let the music speak for itself and decide whether this house was better for dividing. My answer is no. Maybe with marginal success, closure and simpler adult lives, these close friends would have mobbed up with fam to go see Cowboys vs. Aliens this weekend.

Listen
Track Name Album Artist

01. Let's Ride (Instrumental) - Amplified (Instrumentals) Q-tip prod. by J-Dilla
02. Sh.Fe.Mc's - Clear Lake Audiotorium De La Soul feat. A Tribe Called Quest
03. Jam - Beats, Rhymes & Life A Tribe Called Quest
04. Find A Way - The Love Movement A Tribe Called Quest
05. Phoney Rappers - Beats, Rhymes & Life A Tribe Called Quest
06. Melody Adonis Ventilation: Da LP Phife Dawg
07. Wait Up Amplified Q-Tip
08. Flawless - Ventilation: Da LP Phife Dawg
09. Won't Trade - The Renaissance Q-Tip
10. Beats, Rhymes & Phife - Ventilation: Da LP Phife Dawg
11. Mr. Incognito - Hits, Rarities, & Remixes

Skate and Rock IV: This Saturday, July 30th, 2011: Jamail Skatepark - 7-9PM

2011-07-28T10:39:00.002-05:00

The final installment of the season, featuring Something Fierce, Anarchitex & Darwin's Finches. Ya'll know the drill, DJ Borther Roo on the breaks. See you there!

News You May Already Know: College Station, European Skate & More

2011-07-28T08:03:00.008-05:00

Let's start at the beginning. There's a new skate park in College Station! The grand opening is September 3rd, but hasn't kept anybody from goodtimin' there in the interim. That track around the perimeter looks like like hours entertainment. I am glad that while some projects don't get to being built, others sprout and make everyone so happy to hit the road and catch the new excitement.

Go check it it, and post some pics!
http://cstx.gov/index.aspx?page=3171
Thanks to Cockfight, and Truthriders, for the news tip.

Next up, Jason Espeseth is headed to Sweden to compete, and we wish him great success. I only know Jason because he consistently volunteers for skate-related community projects, so I know that karma is on his side. Plus, he's a great skater. Personally, I think he's going to Sweden to avoid some of this heat, and maybe dodge a hurricane. Regardless, God Speed ripper! See you soon.

See the whole haps here.
Aug. 19-21, 2011
Stapelbäddsparken in Malmö
(Who Knows? You might be in Town)

Here's some file footage of Jason getting buck to EPMD, on VHS.

The Dirt Tape Segment 1 - Featuring Jason Espeseth from Aaron Estrada on Vimeo.

Yup, and still killin it. EPMD, not so much.

Tribe Vibes: Instinctive Paths of Album Cut Remixes

2011-07-27T22:38:00.007-05:00

Okay, time for some real talk. I waxed poetic about El Segundo, but a lot of that is hindsight. See, there was something fundamentally missing in that track that I absolutely needed to vibe right, Bass. The bohemian looping guitar plucking wore on me easily. So, I shrugged it off and moved on.

A close friend of mine took the liberty of slapping Too $hort into the CD player, and that was that. Life is... was so profoundly powerful, simple and slammin' that Tribe kinda looked like a grown ass man lookin for a date with a paper Valentine. I still remember the first hi-hats ticking and being knocked stupid for about 4 minutes. Cool C, Ice T, NWA, DJ Magic Mike, 2 Live Crew, man I could go on for days. Native Tongue, whatever.

But, then something happened; actually two. I had in my brief life begun to love hip hop, and so I wanted to make beats and rhyme, all that stuff. I knew that much of the great jams were old records, so I set out to find some and make it happen. There was a record store in Northeast El Paso that sold old stuff, and pretty much shunned hip hop, so I figured it would be a good place to lurk, free from other beat poaching teens. The owner knew I was an oddball, he followed me around, and I knew this was gonna be a problem. So I just decided to thumb through the tapes and beat it.

In the heap, with Linda Ronstadt, and Boston, was the Cassingle of El Segundo. It was a promo, already looked old and as I said, I was passed bumping it, but picked up since it was so out of place. On the back was a track called Pubic Enemy, then (Saturday Night Virus Disco Mix). This series of words shot electron crystals through my brain. First off, the title was absurd. Second, it punned PE. Also, I grew up loving disco, shamelessly, and thought "Maybe these guys like bugging out (more on that later, obviously) and having fun with records playing." You know BBQ shit.

I paid that jerk a quarter and bounced. I distinctly remember putting the tape in, fast-forwarding, until the tape stopped and flipping the tape. I seriously thought about this being a wasted quarter. What happened, instead,was that I was completely hypnotized by the track. For all purposes, it is a live routine, with some bells/whistles, and it summarized the very core of how I stumbled into hip-hopdom. The groove, the cuts, the casual rhyming about VD, worse AIDS, was just magic. It would have been beautifully distant magic, if not for the near end beat drop, where Q-Tip gets vexed about a break cue. Right there, in that snip & silence, a dearly telling nugget of wisdom lives.

In the midst of that fun and goof of bouncing a disco break, someone was taking this seriously. This Q-Tip guy was not some joker, or picking things out of a hat. That struck a chord with me. I would listen to this song over and over, reminding myself that these songs are orchestrated, even concocted; especially the best of them. Without that work, the image and the stories are shallow. However, that effort is much, and it can spoil the fun. The pursuit and execution of greatness in hip hop is often the means for its own demise.

So here I was, with boxes of albums, some CDs, and this tape I could stop rewinding. Time passed (not much time, but teenage time nah-meen), and I found myself at my friend's place again. He eagerly prefaced the mystery album cut with all types of mind blowing excited adjectives, and wild eyes that meant one thing: BASS. Ever trusting of the sage, I waited for the track to play:

TRACK ONE:
Hmm. I don't know.
TRACK TWO:
I get it. I think.

My buddy got mad, like he made the damn record. Okay, he said: This:
Check the Rhyme >> WOMP WOMP WOMP
Half Smile, Half intestinal cramp.

He gave me the CD case, kinda incredulous. TRIBE CALLED QUEST!!
My first thought was, "Oh Snap! They fell into the hole in the pause of Pubic Enemy!" Somebody got too serious. This ain't fun anymore.

To save face, my pal changed subjects. "Ever heard of Gang Starr?"

I left, kind of in shock. I walked home trying to make sense of it in strange ways. The jazzy sound, and the acoustic bass, and the engineering was awesome. But, something wasn't right. Obviously, I got over it, and quickly. I bought the CD, just to analyze it. And, I did just that. Like most people, I decided it was one of the most beautifully crafted albums released in my lifetime. On the other hand, I saw it as a caution. To me, Low End Theory was a triumph, and a sacrifice for hip hop. After that album, I always had ATCQ around me shaping memories and influencing me, but from an emotional distance. Tribe was not Buggin out. They were now architecting something that looked fun and young, but underneath that, that seriousness was starting to drive the ship. So, for the rest of my life, I would be intrigued by the group, but always questioning and concering.

I hope to get some answers on Friday.

Tribe Week: Digging in the Crates with Michael Rapaport & Peanut Butter Wolf

2011-07-27T15:55:00.016-05:00

Here is an interesting clip that finds both the Director & Music Supervisor of Beats, Rhymes & Life digging through the wonderment that is Amoeba Music out in Los Angeles. Peep the topics of discussion that range from the influence that Tribe had on both Gentlemen to how the group's music drew thier musical tastes to branch off and discover artists and genre's outside of Hip-Hop.

And yes, The Low End Theory will be twenty in September and Midnight Marauders will be eighteen years old come this November, classic material indeed.

Buy the vinyl, drop the needle, stare at the album art and enjoy.

A Tribe Called Cholos: Q-tip is Talking to Me

2011-07-25T22:39:00.007-05:00

Unlike many heads, one of my first encounters with A Tribe Called Quest was actually eye-opening, in that I felt instantly connected to a group - because they were talking to ME, specifically. You see, I spent my early childhood in Segundo Barrio, a storied Chicano neighborhood in El Paso, home of the Bowie Bears. So, my jaw dropped when I saw the track "I Left my Wallet in El Segundo."

I was amazed that this group from New York had heard of my barrio and all the history it had. My Dad played basketball there, and the houses were ancient, and then there was the Bowie bakery. Of course, this was not what Tribe intended, but the power of the shout out, and general shockwave force of boombox communication, left an impression that I still treasure today. We are bound , sometimes accidentally, by vocalizing our common interests and sharing those interests. Whether it is taking road trips, or seeing value of cultural musical connections, hip hop succeeds in celebrating the varied things that flower in the concrete jungle.

El Segundo also bring to light a travesty of minority survivalism. In my world, brotherhood emerged through music, but Segundo was still a wreck from Black and Chicano kids fighting for a painfully unsatisfying slice of pie. Segregation, assimilation and the snaking border itself created a shared hardship where beautiful people of color turned bitter and hateful, content only to see each others blood. When you hate yourself, you hate your nearest neighbor more. I often wondered if El Segundo was actually a Utopian song. It would be a blessed day to have our African brothers spend time and money in the barrio, and then return just as casually to pick up something left behind. That something, naturally, we kept safe and awaited our friends' return.

To me this was the promise of hip hop. No more wars. No more hate.
YO Tip, you got what we need!

Stay tuned, as Tribe week continues at SK808.

Tribe Vibes: A Week of Tribe Called Quest at SK808 - Day One Podacst!

2011-07-25T22:36:00.004-05:00

As we prepare for opening night of the Tribe Called Quest documentary, we'll be spending the week posting about this iconic hip hop group. So, what better way to begin than with a two episode podcast, selected by our presiding DJ, your bro Roo & mind projected by Jason at Kingpinz. I got involved later, as I openly regard Tribe as important in my life, but not totally bran altering.

Good thing for us, the homies put things together and we have an excellent dish for your ear drums. Enjoy Episode One!

Listen Now

Track List

01. Spirits (Instrumental) Can I Kick It? 12"
02. Buggin' Out - The Low End Theory
03. Push It Along - People's Instinctive Travels And The Paths Of Rhythm
04. Ham n' Eggs - People's Instinctive Travels And The Paths Of Rhythm
05. Steve Biko (Stir It up) - Midnight Marauders
06. Rap Promoter - The Low End Theory
07. Everything Is Fair - People's Instinctive Travels And The Paths Of Rhythm
08. Check The Rime - The Low End Theory
09. Award Tour - Midnight Marauders
10. Scenario (Remix) - The Low End Theory

Three from the Fight: Ben Schroeder, Jesse Davis & Richard Kirby Decks

2011-07-21T23:39:00.010-05:00

Did I ever mention that sometimes I just talk (write too), not worrying about anything except that I am really locked into an idea? Well, I am always writing about Cockfight, and yes, they are friends, and yes, It will be a cold day in hell when I decline beer and pizza, and yes, this all sounds very nepotisitic.

But see here:

In the past few months, this local skate company has chosen to break ranks, and stereotypes, by not forcing another locomotive Schroeder graphic into the earth, and by choosing to deconstruct what many have come to recognize as their signature art mode. It is brave, who knows if intentional, but in my opinion, it is a big middle finger to people assuming they know what's rattling in the helmets of these guys. And you know what, I'm glad. I kinda get sick of the idea that Texas skating is somehow an extension of cattle wrangling and chewing tobacco. It can be that too, though.

But, when you see the output of this small outfit that continues to add narrative to a seemingly lifeless stack of wood, time will show that many a figure of skate lore had their portrait better framed when painted by peers that shared their trade and their living history on concrete. It is the best lesson ever learned in the business of skateboarding. One worth revisiting time, and time again.

Consider the Fight.

Super Stoker: Ray Barbee, John Cardiel Coming to Texas for Vans Music Tour

2011-07-21T23:12:00.014-05:00

I make know bones about it, Ray Barbee is a lasting, indelible influence on the basic way I skate. That he is also a musician, is only further testimony to the capacity of this creative person. So, I am really excited to see this event coming to town. What a great match for John Cardiel to be on the bill, sharing his music ways with a DJ set. Giveaways, good times and me geeking for an autograph and a minute to express my gratitude. Hop to see y'all there!

Houston/Humble Date: Aug 2, 2011
4PM
Deerbrook Mall
More Info

PS: Let's not get too giddy here - I do question the name of this tour.
Get Out and Do Something?
With all due respect, you should be going out to shows or skating, not waiting to lurk at the mall to oogle at pros, my own bias being called out as well. Keep skateboarding active.

Ping Pong Tournament at Reserve Supply Company This Friday: 8PM

2011-07-19T21:51:00.008-05:00

In what I consider a grand effort at leveling the competitive field in the Houston skate scene, heads can throw down against bikers and shop regulars, for the glory of conquering the table tennis trenches. 5 bucks gets you in. Winner take all. We at SK808 are taking it all too seriously, having recruited a ping pong mercenary and all.

While our paddle ninja unleashes blood spray on the shop walls, I'll likely either be lurking for a minute or on a date with my lovely wife; sort of like a boss scene during a hit in a yakuza movie. I digress. Regardless, it is going to be a good time. Thanks to Jason, at Reserve, for injecting this fun into the oven roasted turkey that summer can be.

Event starts @ 8PM.

Thanks to Brown Clown for being a sport and slammin' for us! He has a knack on the plank too.

See Flyer for details

All Killer and No Filler: Unassisted Kegstand

2011-07-15T19:40:00.005-05:00

Lurk Forth. Great stuff on this blog, including event coverage. Slappy Back 180? My kinda butcher shop!

Hip Hop Friday, Tonight @ Southside (7PM) / Skate & Rock IV in two Weeks! (July 30th)

2011-07-15T06:45:00.007-05:00

You may want to hop on a plane to Cali, eat Ramen and live as a skate hobo in a Redwood treehouse made of trash bags, but here in Hustletown, Tejas, your friends would be bangin' out at one of these standing skatepark jams. C'mon son, we've got Whataburger and G-Town. Chill. See you at both of these!

Skateboarding is a Beautifully Blunt Instrument

2011-07-14T22:04:00.006-05:00

The other day, while on the potty, I was reading about Dan Gesmer, the founder of Seismic and all the years of work he's put in. It was so impressive and humbling to imagine all that dedication and effort to further the technology of our ride.

Then, on a visit to the old longboard cave (Carve), I saw the most gigantic hot pink wheels (107mm) that I have ever witnessed on any setup. From the mouth's of the shop crew, "Yeah, you can like bump up curbs with 'em." After ridiculous excited laughter, while spinning the massive donuts, I realized: We need technology, but I'll be damned if the fun doesn't wash it way, with a flashy entrance to a sesh on a bizarre beast, ready to goon out with a smile. That is the magic of our skateboards, and the Electric Flywheel versus super science!
Let's face it, huge and badass go a very long way.

While You Were Out: Two Unexpected Houston Skate Video Clips

2011-07-13T20:18:00.004-05:00

What was that I said about public identity and influence in skateboarding? Well let's test the theory with these two interstate bangers:

The first comes from Jeremy Smith, who found himself in Cali, with the guys from Creature and assorted pool cleaning kit.

Al Partanen How To's Day: Pool Clean Up from NetworkSkate on Vimeo.

This one, well; it kind of speaks for itself.

Embassy Dispatches: International Envoy Hits France & A New Site Goes Live

2011-07-13T19:32:00.010-05:00

The folks over at Embassy have a new website, and Twitter/Youtube Channel to boot. Through these interweb vehicles, you can merch up and follow the team's trek across the World Cup Skateboarding's calendar.

For the first time, I realized that Embassy Skateboards is out for blood on this competition stuff. They ride hard and want to win. It caught me off guard, because, honestly, I've never seen it that way, being that I've always been on the expression, skate nerd, grom-mentoring side of the deck. It made me wonder if kids could ever get a chance to admire and experience the personalities of known skaters, if those skaters never went out to the public forum of competition.

For me, that's Gonz, Tommy Guerrero, Ray Barbee, Jeff Grosso & Lance Mountain, to name a few. Their identities, to me, are shaped by ads and footage driven by their professional aspirations. Without that, I would have been forever ignorant to their iconic inspiring styles and the art/expression that came from. Those impressions, correct or otherwise, had direct dramatic effects on the way I skate to this day.

So Ben, Gary, Edward, Steven & company hit the road. Put their names on the line, and spread their identities under the Embassy banner. Chain smoking honeys and cheap champagne cannot keep them from planting the Lone Star deep into the French concrete, into memories; and influencing. I have to wonder how many other great, yet unsung, personalities miss the chance to shape skateboarding simply for writing off competition and sponsorship as superfluous.

Watch this footy and consider:

Summer So Far: July 2011

2011-07-10T22:38:00.005-05:00

Droughts, and recessions, hold special places in historic skateboarding. The former, seemingly a death sentence, really is open season to empty pools, ditches and spots now vacant for pedestrians/security hiding indoors. Bushings and wheels warm up like marshmallows for looser more forgiving feel, dawn and dusk become your new church hours.

And a bad economy? Well, homeowners let go of the property and the pool goes empty. Empty wallets send groms to the asphalt in search of the concrete babysitter, and tight bonds form with fellow disciples of poverty and pure stubborn pushing.

We stand on the collective misfortune and keep finding fun with the strike of metal to the city's rocks and streaming past the towering irons we get a draft of of breeze from hell freezing over, again and again under our feet. Because, not men, but boys and girls walk on walls, and they won't die dropping in from the sky. The old men heal under the grind and breakneck speed. School still out, every pebble of gravel studied. The coast is clear: Five stairs, a waterfall, an avalanche of helmets on a mountainside .

That's our summer so far.

Just Plain Cool: Natas Skateboard Projection Paris Animation

2011-07-08T11:14:00.011-05:00

I am not sure why this is, but at times one shouldn't ask "why" about things that qualify as being this cold.

Not much info here except for the production credits belong to the Brand New School design studios and "Natas skateboard design animated for his 2011 Paris Exhibition."

I find myself clicking play over and over again to appreciate the detailed animation of each deck.

Too cool!

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCMENT: Jamail Skatepark closed week of June 27th, 2011

2011-06-26T20:34:00.007-05:00

As per City tradition, the Jam Park is closed so that the fireworks bunker can get prepped without igniting on our skate population. Run for cover, enjoy your local spots until we meet again. While your at it, enjoy this shot of Adam Wiggins, banging out at Skate & Rock 2011. (photo by groovehouse)

Holler at the park for more info on hours and upcoming thangs.
713 22 5500

Boom Bap! Hip Hop Friday: Tonight @ Southside!

2011-06-24T14:51:00.004-05:00

June 24th, 2011
7-10PM
No windmills on the pyramid, sorry.

Young Guns Throwdwon: Tomorrow - June 25, 2011: 11AM @ Southside

2011-06-24T14:32:00.007-05:00

I've seen ya'll, sitting in a circle, talking trash, bout how you the man. Superman cape, can't no one tell you jack. Well, time to show and prove tomorrow at Southside. You may end up at Woodward, you may sip from the cup of glory, you may get a ticket to the Lion's Den that is the TX AM Showdown; or at the very least your intestines will be encrusted with vitamins/minerals (Thanks to Vitamin Water). Whatever you do, don't sleep. If you're the competitive type, you owe it to yourself to sign on the dotted line and go for the gusto. Best of luck, eat a good breakfast!

11AM
Southside Skatepark
510 Iowa
South Houston, TX
713-946-0414
More Info

Cuts for the Community Benefit @ Reserve Supply June 18th, 2011

2011-06-16T08:07:00.006-05:00

Join us Saturday, June 18th from 7pm-9pm for an event benefiting Workshop Houston. Roots the Salon will be cutting hair for donations, Heights Cigar Lounge will have cigars, music by The Neptones and complimentary beverages provided by Lone Star Beer and Graham Barnes Distilling Company. All donations will go directly to Workshop Houston. It is sure to be another fun night at Reserve.

Reserve Supply Company
2205 Washington Avenue
Houston, TX  77007
(713) 750-9582
http://reservesupplycompany.com 

http://www.workshophouston.org/

Two for Friday: Hands and Feet all in @ Southside Skatepark 06-17-11

2011-06-15T07:49:00.017-05:00

This Friday inside Southside Skatepark, the Home Town Heros contest will be setting it off with a division free Jam session style competition. The winner qualifies for the 8th annual HH Finals at the X Games, yes that X Games. Southside et al, continues to feed the youths by way of free burritos care of Chipotle to boot.

At the exact same time in the parking lot, the U.S. Fingerboarding Championships Qualifier takes place. This should make out to be a sight to see as I have not witnessed a fingerboard contest ever, please consider my age with that statement. Peep the rules here.

Good luck and see you there!

Home Town Heros
June 17, 2011
Friday Night 4-6pm Open Class Registration/Warm Up
6pm Contest Starts-Jam Session
FREE CHIPOTLE
Winner Qualifies for 8th Annual HH Finals @ X Games!

Guru Khalsa In-store @ Southside Skateshop in Sugar Land 06-16-11!

2011-06-15T07:14:00.011-05:00

Meet Guru Khalsa of Habitat Footwear, enjoy some vegetarian food from Earl of Sandwhich and Raja's Sweets and scoop some FREE Habitat product Thursday (Today) 5:30-7:30pm at Southside Skateshop in Sugar Land.

Get there early cause there are a couple of vegitarians I know that have only so much couth around the Earl of Sandwich tray. Thanks O for throwing the Herbivores a bone.

Triple Crown Sound: Skate & Rock Part III - June 18, 2011 (7-9PM)

2011-06-10T09:48:00.007-05:00

Time to close up this season's soundstorm at the Jamail skatepark. The third and final Skate & Rock will feature the Dolly Rockers, A Thousand Cranes and Los Area 51. The event, sponsored by Scion, is open to the public and matches up the close knit crowds of music, skating and those that love being outside on a warm summer evening. Bring your crew, bring your snacks and maybe a few sets of ear plugs. Congrats to the organizers, volunteers and all involved in keeping Jamail lively. See you there!

103 Sabine
Houston, TX
Info: 713 222 5500

Ed. Note: A Thousand Cranes were unduly hit by a typo: We apologize, again. C'mon Mayor Black!
Here's more info on their proper way:

http://swampbats.wordpress.com/thousandcranes/

Remember the RAT: Highlights, push-ups and more

2011-06-06T21:48:00.005-05:00

Folks over at the RAT Tour crew have a montage up of the Jamail stop. Big up to Neff for footin' the entry fees and for looking out for ole' man Max Peterson. Lot's of bangers on the clip, and Taylor Jett remains shirtless - still ripping though. Lots of SK808 homies in the mix. Can someone please explain the dancing; um Macarena-type motion? Ya'll must've known I wasn't gonna be there and acted a fool on my behalf.

Looked to be quite success and I am happy to report the ladies repped as well. Good Job all. Now survive the summer, and it's all good.

Scion RAT Tour Stop #3 Houston, TX from Geiger Media on Vimeo.

Meals on Wheels: Grab an HISD Summer Meal before you hit the skatepark

2011-06-06T10:54:00.010-05:00

Hi All,
As much as I want to believe otherwise, I know a lot of our young disciples don't eat half what they need to hang all day skating, and even more probably spent all their money on a new deck. Without enough food, you can't focus and your mood will get even crappier, so do yourself a favor and chase down some grub at one of HISD's 200 locations. Both breakfast and lunch are served, no questions asked. Just show up at the scheduled times.

Don't be shy, people. Some of you would set your hair on fire for sponsorship, so get brave for some food too. When I was a street prowling nomad, free lunch was a great pit stop. Little did I know that it was helping keep me off the street and from starving. Peep the link below. Print out a map and get after it.

Politics aside, spread the word to the groms. Kids need nourishment more than the world needs gubment grumbling. Hope to see mad swollen bellies out their on banks, ramps and stairs.

Kirk OUT!

**angry sammich photo by Sakurako Kitsa

HISD Summer Meal Program

Houston Skates @ Freepress Summerfest: Pink's Pizza, Cockfight plus Select Skate

2011-06-04T15:17:00.006-05:00

The cats at Select quietly invaded the loop a few months back, and have continued their creep into the urban skatesphere, gaining strength, like an escaped farm hog. Their new shop board is a nice welcome note to the neighborhood. Bang bang suckers! Now, they are also part of an unassociated crowd bringing the boardlife to Freepress Summerfest's environs. Their pop-up skatepark will certainly keep the drunks/tweakers on stun and might nab some sweaty cuties for the evening. Nice work.

The same goes for the Pink's Pizza caravan, slangin' top choice pie and puttin' Dave Donalson's pearly Vega on display for all to see. Speaking of which, his board is back in stock, just in time to remind you to fire up the grill and hit the coping.

Heck, while we're at it, let me make an impassioned plea for the last of you cave peeps to get on Facebook, so you can see the new guest art coming to Cockfight soon. Friend 'em, like 'em let 'em know you ride big boy toys, sip suds and kill a brisket in the Smokie. That;s what it's all about Tejanos.

Griptape and Record Crates: School's Out Skate Jam @ Southside

2011-06-01T12:35:00.010-05:00

The above flyer details what I will summarize as an opportunity for a good time to be had by both patrons and staff alike. No contest, no homework, just a night full of bumpin'choice jams combined with the snaps and squeeks of some great skating down at 510 Iowa st.

This also marks the start of "Hip-Hop Fridays" which will take place Friday evenings at Southside hosted by Greater Than Skateboards COO, coach, joke dispenser, AirForce1 stunna, searingly meticulous music collector/sommelier and Kracker Nuttz affiliate DJ Cipher. Every week a guest DJ will assist in the audio curation of the evening, you just have to show up to find out who.

Where: Southside Skate Park @ 510 Iowa st.
When: Friday June 3, 2011 and hence forth till notified otherwise
Time: Normal Business Hours but the music starts at 7pm
Entry: Normal Entry Fees to Skate, Free to Spectate

June 1st 2011: Three Years of Jamail Skate Park!

2011-05-31T11:03:00.004-05:00

Who can resist a StuffedCake powersliding ninja to celebrate another fine year at the downtown park? Well, us, since we've been busy doing dem thangs. But have no fear, the SK808 Birthday Brigade will be popping up with sumpin sweet for the hardcore regulars, and staff, tomorrow. The time is subject to the element of surprise. Okay?!

I gotta say that the best thing about this year''s BDay at Jamail is seeing all the kids that have developed into rippers. I don't know if they all took their fist runs there, but I can tell you that I am often stunned when I see 'em zipping around banging out tricks and catching speed that they once would watch from the safe roll-in pocket.

Great job everyone! Hope to have another awesome 365 in the coming months.

Babes on Boards this Saturday June 4th 2011: Ladies Skate Clinic @ Jamail Skate Park 8-Noon

2011-05-30T10:30:00.005-05:00

Come on out and bring a friend, as the ladies have a day to spread the skate gospel and show off the craft of concrete crushing. Lori Peltier is at the helm, and Mimi Knoop will be in hand to get our sisters hyped!

Jamail Skate Park
8AM- Noon
103 Sabine
Houston, TX
Call for info
713 22 5500

All Hands On Deck: Capt. John Danielson Has Something Up His Sleeve

2011-05-25T17:13:00.012-05:00

Whilst browsing trolling the web I came across something on the Kingpinz blog that was most intriguing. John Danielson a.k.a. Mr. Corridor of Shame has posted a sneak peek vid of things to come. If you hadn't noticed, we have a penchant for local skateboarding and all things related thereto, plus this just looks outright sick. Salute the Captain when you see him.

Vans Warped Tour Mini Ramp Qualifier: @ Southside this Sunday

2011-05-25T16:27:00.014-05:00

In case you were wondering, Big O is the Skatepark host with the most...events. The summer is just getting started and there have been more than a handfull of events that have already made thier way through 510 Iowa st.

If you haven't gotten on a board and entered a contest this year over at Southside (or at least showed up to support a homeboy/girl who has) consider this your chance to.

Sunday May 29th 2011
Registration 1-2pm
Entry Fee: $20
OPEN Class Contest at 2pm
Top 20 will WIN a SPOT to SKATE in the Vans Warp Tour Mini Ramp Contest which includes FREE ADMISSION to Warp Tour 2011 (How many hours of music can be squeezed into one day!?)
Additional Product will be awarded courtesy of VANS

As always, eat a good breakfast and best of luck to you.

No Pain, No Gain. So then after the BIG Gain, try yoga @ Carve Houston - 6PM on Tuesdays

2011-05-24T15:00:00.004-05:00

The media would have you think that skaters just talk about blood, guts and um..love. In reality, much discussion surrounds staying in one piece and coping with the scratches/dents of our trade. So much so, that in the inner circle, it is widely accepted that yoga is a great help, both as a therapy and as a strengthening tool. Our friends at Carve Houston have linked up with a yoga instructor to address skate-specific sessions and I think the seats will run out fast.

For five bucks, you let the backbone slip, hang out with the regulars and take a giant step toward improving your condition. Starts at 6PM.

1307 Yale
Houston, TX
713 868 0028

Volcom Wild In The Park Qualifer Contest: This Weekend @ Southside

2011-05-11T14:30:00.000-05:00

Sunday May 15th 2011
Registration at 11am SHARP, like cheddar. Punctuality in underrated.

Divisions: FREE ENTRY 14 & UNDER
15 & OVER OPEN ($500 CASH)
Sign Up Day-Of or ONLINE at www.volcom.com
FREE FOOD FOR AMS ONLY
(under 18? Bring a Parent to Sign You In)
Winners Qualify For The $25,000 WITP CHAMPIONSHIPS!

Southside Skatepark
510 IOWA
South Houston, Texas 77587
Phone : 713-946-0414

Ed. Note: Rumor has it that this very flyer is the reason Gucci bought out Volcom. Apparenetly the bold, seemlingly reckless art and flammable colorway indicated a fashion bravery that only buckets of bank could calm. Take the money and run. Best of luck; eat a good breakfast.

Hit the Road: Dallas May 28th, 2011 - Boneless One | A Tribute to Jeff Phillips

2011-05-10T23:36:00.006-05:00

Skate the Rat Then Skate & Rock!

2011-05-09T16:05:00.006-05:00

In my blog travels, over the years,nothing is more lively ( and scary) than wild eyed groms asking "When's the Next Contest?!" A cross between junke and overachiever, this desire is what makes excitement bubble in the scene.

So, young sharks, go git it at the RAT 2011!

http://skatetherat.com/rat/contest-registration/

Register online for both the street and bowl comp, equal chambers for combustion! Lurkers, their folks and skate-worshippers can take in the proceedings, naturally, with Monster Energy making it rain caffeine throughout the day.

As local facts have it, Taylor Jett is high up in the overall RAT standings. I think, and this is just opinion, that this is because living in Cali has converted him to a full-time shirt wearer, and this cooling technology has propelled his success. Simple really. (Whuppup Jett!)

Regardless your role, thangs go down at noon, at the beautiful Jamail Skatepark.

Boss DJ Brother Roo (SK808 Resident and Brother-From-Another-Mother) will be spinning the slammers all day (e'er day) and you can see the sponsors will be out in force. See you there!

AND Then...
SKATE AND ROCK II!!
More Music - Two Words: Satin Hooks
More DJ Brother Roo (spinning during the breaks)
More good times at the Jamail Skate Park - The concrete cradle of intown skate society.

Groove is in the Heart: Groovehouse's Photo Show Tonight @ Dionysus

2011-05-06T13:04:00.007-05:00

This guy Groovehouse. His photography and skill closely mirrors that path of the skateboarder. Self taught, with passion and desire to excel. Learned to adapt to razor thin time margins, and emerge with the evidence of success. Pony tail, facial hair, Vans and fist full of organic tobacco. Mirror reflections of each other!

Groovy has captured the best of our runs, and won't ever bother shooting if you can't meet the threshold of awesomeness. No apology is needed when you expect the best. His love of music, and possibly the plating of food, has brought him to new audiences with his techniques and approaches to freezing time without losing freshness. I hope many of you can make it out to his show tonight and see those images, as they are intended, in large well output formatting. I am most curious to see how many times he can say, "Art, yeah I guess. I shot it. They did it. The flash worked."

I'm sure he's got a photog bag full of war stories to share, and for many of us skaters, it will be chance to catch up with the Groovanaut, outside of his appointed rounds, in his own element, like the friends we are. To the crew at Dionysus - Are you also responsible for El Groovadero's silken cropped locks these days? Hmm? See you there.

PS: Young lady photogrom, Jade, actually made that homebrew lens in the pic. A testament to the inventive threads that weave when people choose to shoot skaters. I'm sure it makes Groovenhaus cringe. One day, she may have a show too!

The Other Skate & Rock!!
http://groovehouse.org/wordpress/?p=2860
Dionysus
Map
TONIGHT
Starts @ 7PM

Mother's Day Fun: Circa Demo at Southside

2011-05-03T21:44:00.021-05:00

After Mother's Day brunch treat your Mom to a demo from some of the finest skaters on Circa's roster down at Southside. If she gives you any guff you can tell her this is this the only Texas stop on the demo tour. If she's still resistant, tell Mom you will introduce her to Southside's proprietors, the Visentin's, who are not only expecting a new addition to their family (guaranteed to pull on any mother's heart strings) they are also expecting a new addition to their business (they'll make it seem like you keep better company than you truly do.)

Get her an autograph, a couple of pics with some pros, some C1rca kicks and you'll be treating her to a Mother's Day she won't soon forget.

Things kick off at 5pm @ Southside Skatepark, scheduled talent include Ryan Gallant, David Gravette, Emanuel Guzman, Windsor James, Robbie Brockell, Ben Hatchell, David Reyes, Walker Ryan and some special guests. Now be a good son or daughter and go call your mother!

Supra "Three Amigos" Texas Tour Video Recap

2011-05-03T20:49:00.008-05:00

In case you missed one of the five Texas tour stops, Supra provides footage to make sure everyone catches a glimpse of the good times and the great skating from the likes of Cody McEntire, Keelan Daad, Horsey, Boo Johnson, Furby and Spencer Hamilton.

Check the local skate spot love (including a nice segment at Southside) and bang out to the soundtrack courtesy of two respected Texas Rap pillars, Pimp C and Scarface, griptape and record crates indeed.

Jamail Landscaping Project 2011: -- DONE!

2011-04-28T22:22:00.003-05:00

Check out the great work our Jamail Skatepark volunteers did to increase the walkways, and add seating for our guests. The generous donation from the Parks Board brought the supplies, with the sweat equity, we all go it done. Great job everyone! I was very hearterned by the young groms that slung dirt and moved paving stones along with the big dogs. Be proud of your park. You make it better everyday.

Skateswords!!

2011-04-28T22:11:00.004-05:00

Oh behold the awesomeness. Better yet, buy and skate on some awesomeness.

That is just so dang cool.

The Swordshop

That is all.

News You May Know: Skate & Rock Props

2011-04-28T21:51:00.008-05:00

Our friends at TXPunk put up some words about the Skate & Rock Fun. Pics too.

http://www.txpunk.net/2/post/2011/04/skate-rock-series-at-lee-joe-jamail-skatepark-in-houston-april-16.html

So did the Houston Press!
http://blogs.houstonpress.com/rocks/2011/04/free_concerts_keep_skateboardi.php

It is a lot of fun, and the effort is well worth it. I thought Crimewave was slamming, in particular.

Next one is May 21st, courtesy of Scion. Your homie DJ Brother Roo will be diggin in the crates between bands, as always. See you there!

Magic Carpet Rides: Shop Decks Arrive @ Reserve

2011-04-28T20:45:00.006-05:00

We got jump on the delivery and got a good look at the new rides at Reserve Supply. Proudly made by South Central Skate of Alabama, the logo pops and the wood is good. From the quick stomp, there's generous nose/tail & all regular sizes apply, including the SK808 fave - 8.5. Call the shop for details; better yet stop by!

http://reservesupplycompany.com/

PS: These would look so sweet with some 58mm Philosophers, right? They got dem too!

LiveWell with Lori! Our First Lady of Houston Skateboarding on Live Well Network

2011-04-20T09:37:00.004-05:00

The Live Well Network recently did a piece on ladies skateboarding, featuring Lori Peltier. Lori remains a staunch advocate for her sisters, through Babes on Boards and her daily personal efforts. Her attitude and encouraging way helps bring new riders to our activity everyday. I was stoked to see our usual suspects pushing on the video. Perhaps Beyonce felt their vibe when composing her new single. Go GRITS! (Girls Raised in Texas Skateboarding)!

PS: We at SK808 love to make Lori laugh.

Check it out after the jump.

WHO RUN DIS!!!!!

April 23, 2011: Jamail Skate Park Landscaping Project - 8AM to 2PM

2011-04-20T09:31:00.006-05:00

Our Houston Parks Board has kindly funded this project, and we look forward to your help and to making Jamail better than ever. Bring your garden tools, and homies to help along. See you there!

Note: The park will be closed during this work. Be a helper and be in the park the second it re-opens!

Address: 103 Sabine Houston, TX

Two for Jamail: Skate & Rock Line-up plus Join Us for a Landscaping Project!

2011-04-13T16:27:00.006-05:00

Hey true believers. Peep the updated flyer for Reserve Supply's Skate & Rock this weekend! I look forward to see you there. You know the SK808 Sound Clash Set will be out there working the mic and blasting jams during the breaks. Crimewave, Talk Sick Brats, and Disfrutalo! will dish out the jams. If you came last year, you know it it's poppin like a basket of battered shrimp!

Bring snacks, or have pizza delivered to the park. You know who to call!

See you there.

Next up, heads up. PUSH is helping host a new landscaping project for this year. Join us on April 23rd to make it happen. It will be from 9am to 2pm, during which time the Jamail Skate park will be closed for skating. I encourage our regulars to participate and for many newcomers to take a larger stake in ensuring our park continues to be so well regarded by all visitors. These works make a bug difference when our guest come to watch us throw down and are looking to chill out on the lawn or under the shade of a tree, like the ones we planted last year. Green thumbs welcome!

Goodwill in HD: Since Day Premiere/Benefits in Houston this Week

2011-04-11T05:13:00.009-05:00

Donate to Johnny Kicks Cancer, get to see the new Real video & crank your jaws on popcorn. Southside kicks off biggest gathering this evening @ 8pm.

All showings are listed here, but best believe your local shops are supporting tonight.

http://realskateboards.com/dates/

Can't make it tonight? Kingpinz will be showing the video throughout Saturday, allowing ample time to spread the word, hustle up a pile of money, drop it in the basket and help save lives.

See ya'll out there, and thanks for continued support of Johnny Kicks Cancer.

http://www.johnnykickscancer.org/

Certainly (Flipped It): Mobb Deep's "Shook Ones Part II"

2011-04-08T10:51:00.017-05:00

When I began DJ-ing and meeting aspiring producers, rappers and dedicated Hip-Hop heads I found they all had varying degrees of the same listening habits, dissecting snares, kicks and which records were sampled in the body of song x.

This grew into an interest of digging in any and all stacks of vinyl one came across, it didn't matter the location or the genre of music. The oddest record was a prime candidate for sampling. Popular and familiar records weren't out of bounds but the more obscure the better, maybe. If it wasn't jammin' or if the record held no standout breaks or samples then it's on to the next one.

That wasn't the case for some very creative producers who weren't so fast to discard a record they felt had potential. Their craftiness birthed an art within the art of sampling. Back then we called it "flipping it" nowadays some call it "chopping." There is only one rule to serve as a guide to flipping or chopping a sample; make it funky.

Shook Ones Part II

Recently an article from the LA Times music blog caught my attention regarding sampling and the mystery behind what I always thought was a guitar loop in Mobb Deep's Shook Ones Part II. This is a prime specimen of some very creative work by Havoc who not only takes up half of the rhyming duties in the group, he's also their resident producer.

Sixteen years later, via a crate digger's happenstance discovery, Hav's sample source and technique on this particular record is revealed. Check the videos below and get stuck off the realness...

The Original Sample Including The Reworked Example:

The Finished Product:

He most certainly flipped it.

Classic Material: Bun B Shows Everyone How It's Done

2011-04-07T02:17:00.014-05:00

People of any and all vocations, please take note as Professor Five Mics a.k.a. Bernard Freeman delivers jewelz via Vice's web partnership with Dell and Intel, noisey.com

As much as I want to go into the history and depth of Southern Hip-Hop this man represents and the respect he has and brings to our art form on a whole. As much as I'd like to tell you how much we appreciate Bun B on and off stage, bumpin UGK in the ride or at a barbeque on a hot summer day. As much as I'd like to convey the importance of his lyrical prowess while at the same time not going over the heads of his core slab ridin' audience, I'll just let the video tell it, five parts in all.

Reppin' H-Town like Phi Slama Jama...

April Fool's Jam @ Southside Follow Up

2011-04-07T00:10:00.015-05:00

It definitely went down last Sunday at Southside Skatepark. Big O and the fam created an opportunity to share the Federal Bowl's christening with er'body via the April Fool's Jam. Now we'd like to take this opportunity to share with you the results of said event. Congrats to everyone who participated and we'll see you all this weekend at The Rattler Competition.

Reserve Supply Company Grand Opening: Sat. April 9th 2011

2011-04-06T07:46:00.004-05:00

Our new shop down on Washington is having it's grand opening this weekend, grown folks style, with suds and sounds from the Luxurious Panthers. Come on out and get acquainted!

Saturday, April 9th
6:00 p.m.
Live performance by The Luxurious Panthers
Free Lone Star
Contributor: Smile Booth www.smilebooth.com

2205 Washington Ave.
Houston, TX  77007
p. (713) 750-9582
www.reservesupplycompany.com
www.facebook.com/ReserveSupplyCompany
www.twitter.com/ReserveSupplyCo

Record Store Day 2011: April 16, 2011

2011-03-30T08:05:00.005-05:00

One of our favorite collectorfests is upon us; Record Store Day! You can check out the list of releases after the jump. We're looking out for the vinyl reissue of Shuggie Otis' Inspiration Information, but there's something for all lovers of sound, that wake up early and stand in line.

Specific to Houstontown, I'd say go to Cactus, as they do the local scene right, slang free beer and have been having firesales on hip hop wax. you could also win a goofy turntable like this...

This gathering coincides perfectly with the first installment of Skate & Rock 2011. Hope to see ya'll there (either or both), and we can chew the fat on our musical winnings and all things tune.

Take Care and have fun!

Record Store Day 2011
Cactus Music
2110 Portsmouth
Houston, TX 77098
(713)526-9272

No Question: Ladies Welcome @ April Fools Jam this Weekend

2011-03-29T21:01:00.007-05:00

As previously noted, this bowl comp is gonna be great. However, the ladies group lingers with a question mark. All of our gals need to put that Facebook on blast or call Southside and tell 'em you've got a pile of pals in the Hyundai and you wanna throw down! Someone get Lori out here to assemble a mob. Matter solved, Carry on.

By the way, my own SK808 posse (the ones I begat and the one I begat with) will be hugging up with me on Sunday, so I won't make it to the Jam, but if you get me footy and or photos (and they are usable), you will be the winner of a Griptape & Record Crates goody pack. You know the homie is generous, and I really want this event covered like a rice steamer. Holler via the Facebooker within 16 hours of the event end, show some evidence and let the best filmtog win.

So now that Ben Raybourn left 1031...

2011-03-23T21:29:00.003-05:00

do his old decks get more or less expensive?

Our Friends at Carve have a new website! Check it Out

2011-03-23T21:25:00.006-05:00

When the plys go over 7 and the diameter is ten times that, you really need to be consulting our garage bombing homies. Nuff said.

P.S. Nice work Sean, unless someone else did this.

News You May Already Know: April Fools Jam @ Southside April 3rd, 2011

2011-03-23T20:53:00.004-05:00

I'd like to think my spare posting has been because I have been dreaming up new ways to start up posts. It's tricky business and it turns out there's no better way than to say Hi, and get to spittin'. I am glad to have that settled.

Events:
April Fool's Jam
Background: This bowl contest is something special, since the forthcoming installation of the sacred Federal Stone (Praise be Upon It) is quite an attraction for coping fiends. Having recently donated blood and spinal pain in the name of fronside grinding on said slab type, I can say that it is indeed awesome shit. Yeah cussing. First time on the blog. Kind of a late anniversary gift to myself. Champagne pop. Back to writing.

So with the bowl redone, with extended tranny, the contest looks to be a great draw. I, like many, am looking forward to the old man jam portion of the programming. It is validating. Skate or Die means something different after 30. Hope to see many of you there. Call Big O and the Southside Boys for more info. Now it is an April Fool's event, so don't be surprised if the bottom of the bowl opens into an alligator pit or if the coping makes farting sounds, or if someone swapped your bushings with gummy bears or old wine corks.

Southside Skatepark
510 lowa
South Houston, Texas 77587
Phone: 713-946-0414

Downtown Swingin' - Two April Bangers @ Jamail: The Rattler/ Skate & Rock

2011-03-16T21:15:00.009-05:00

Question: What exactly is the right way to hit the snake run downtown? Is it the ski lift style, down the middle and back out? Is it dropping in on the sidewalls? Is it parking in the flat with your schoolmates talking up Bakugan and staring blankly at the screaming old timers? Those who know the answer likely clock double digits in the cradle, transfer out , snap up props killing the coping and will be contenders at The Downtown Rattler. The flyer is awesome and it looks to be a King of the Hill throwdown for domination of this section of the park.

No tranny or street head alone can win this one, so it will be some good skate spectating to watch the fray lead to the ultimate victory. Stay tuned for more info, and make sure to lock in the date. Thanks to Truthriders for inviting us to work the mic/sound. We are a sponsor as well, and glad to be a part of the event. See ya'll there.

Downtown Rattler
April 9th, 2011
Sign-In @ 10 AM
Comp starts @ 11 AM
103 Sabine
Houston, TX
More Information

Then, afterward, you can second guess the judges and bang out at Skate & Rock 2011. This year, our new Downtown shop Reserve Supply is putting on the April blast. If you haven't been by the shop, you should; and check out the well selected stack of boards.Their clothes are a Godsend - Hopefully they get can your greasemonkey carcasses ready for mating rituals. I digress.

Skate & Rock is free to the public, and always opening minds to the sonic palette of GNAR!!!! I gotta say this format is great. Live bands and skating are like nuts and bolts. Good times! See you there

Reserve Supply Skate & Rock
April 16th, 2011
7-9PM
103 Sabine
Houston, TX
More Info

Southside not taking it easy on you this Spring Break

2011-03-12T22:14:00.015-06:00

Our friends over at Southside Skatepark take everyone back to school during the break with a week full of events that promise to educate, inform and inspire. Yes, there will be a test at the end so come prepared and take plenty of notes.

MONDAY 03-14-11 from 3pm to 6pm: The Vans RV Tour Stop brings certified legends Tony Alva and Christian Hosoi back to Houston with Andrew Langi to set the week off accordingly. Food will be provided and prizes in the form of Vans product will be afoot. The History lesson is required learning while showing you how it's done is an added bonus.

TUESDAY 03-15-11 from 6pm to 9pm: The Supra Three Amigos Texas Tour rolls into Southside with Furby, Spencer Hamilton and Horsey supported by Keelan Dadd, Boo Johnson and Cody McEntire. Consider this a course in advanced technical skill, try to keep up.

THURSDAY 03-17-11 from 6pm to 9pm: Verizon pulls their RV up to the park providing a DJ as a backdrop for you to take what you've learned from Monday and Tuesday and apply it to the best trick competition.

If you happen upon The Dean of Instruction Big O around the campus during the week, be sure to give him a dap and some thanks for assembling the lesson plan, puttin some grub in your gut, promo schwag in your hand and some fat on your head. Word to Chad Butler.

Tales from the Fight: ECLPC - Pat Clark

2011-03-09T21:59:00.004-06:00

The single best thing about any Cockfight release is that every board sheds light on the rich history of skateboarding's lore. Each board is like a book, in a set of encyclopedias. Buy the board, read the interviews, and hear the tales first-hand. Those that came before us, rip among us, and bring the fire still.

Pat Clark Interview w/ video

Funky Delic: Skate Product on the Rise

2011-02-28T13:04:00.005-06:00

I'll get ya'll more info as time permits, but I have been watching this company quietly move decks through Surfhouse. Thematically airtight, well repped at the shop, and with a keen focus, there is something great going on here. I wish this crew much success. On deck right now, Momma's Gun, a Badu graphic for those in the know, if not; now you know.

Call the shop for details:
Surfhouse
Lurk @ Delic