Jenkem Mix Live is our newest feature, and we’re excited to share it with you.
After more than 100 mixes, we decided to shake things up a bit and start recording them in real life, adding a video component to the experience. First up, we have Kyota Umeki and The Star Team, bringing their unique energy to the series.
Kyota’s brand is gaining serious traction, and we’ve been seeing his name on flyers for a bunch of different events around the city, spanning both skate and non-skate scenes. When we approached him with the idea, he suggested doing the mix on his apartment balcony in the East Village, the neighborhood where he grew up and the headquarters for The Star Team.
We hauled our cameras, cables, mixer, and laptop to his place and hung out while he put together his set, all with a classic NYC skyline and sunset as the backdrop. The party was cut a little short due to a neighbor’s complaint, but we still managed to capture close to an hour of Kyota in action.
The Evolution of Jenkem Mixes
The Jenkem Mix series has always been about showcasing diverse sounds and talents within and around the skateboarding community. With “Jenkem Mix Live,” we’re taking it a step further by bringing the mix directly to you, complete with a visual experience that captures the energy and vibe of the artist. This new format allows viewers to connect with the DJ on a more personal level, witnessing their creative process in real-time and experiencing the music in a dynamic, engaging way. The goal is to provide not just an audio experience, but a cultural snapshot of the artist and their environment.
Kyota Umeki: More Than Just a Brand
Kyota Umeki’s rising profile isn’t just about his brand, The Star Team; it’s about his involvement in the broader creative landscape of New York City. His presence at various events highlights his versatility and connection to the city’s pulse. This mix offers a glimpse into the sounds that inspire and drive his work, reflecting his unique perspective and artistic vision.
The Star Team HQ: East Village Vibe
Choosing Kyota’s East Village apartment balcony as the location wasn’t just a matter of convenience; it was a deliberate decision to capture the essence of The Star Team’s identity. The East Village is a historic hub for artists, musicians, and counter-cultural movements, making it the perfect backdrop for a mix that embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation. The iconic NYC skyline and sunset add another layer of authenticity, grounding the mix in the city’s vibrant energy.
Kyota Umeki performing a live DJ set on his balcony, showcasing the NYC skyline in the background
Of course, not everyone who has done a mix with us has DJ experience, so we’ll be reserving these for your favorites who have been behind the decks at least a few times. If you’re feeling this new format, let us know who we should hit up for the next installment.
Jenkem Mix Live: The Future
This is just the beginning for Jenkem Mix Live. We’re excited to explore this format further, bringing you more live mixes from talented DJs in unique locations. The goal is to create a platform that celebrates music, skateboarding, and the creative spirit, all while providing a unique and engaging experience for our audience. Stay tuned for more installments, and let us know who you’d like to see featured next!
Mixed by: Kyota Umeki
Engineered by: Alexis Castro & Michna
Video by: Alexis Castro & Larry Lanza
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