E2-E4 by Manuel Göttsching

"E2-E4" by Manuel Göttsching
Song Duration 58:39, yes the song is almost one hour in length. Originally Manuel composed this song so that he would have something to listen to while on long airplane flights. The song was first released on CD at the full 58:39, it was then released on vinyl divided into two parts.

I first heard to song many years ago, while at a party. Hypnotic, haunting, melodic, deep. The did just what a song is suppose to do, take you on a journey beyond time and space. While being taken on this journey, the song slowly builds to an orgasmic, climatic crescendo before returning you back home to earth.

These are a few of the exercises that I love to perform, as this song plays...

1. Meditation
2. Tarot Card Divination
3. Rhythmic Movements

The link below is side 1 from the vinyl released version.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSULPrWIkZA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Enjoy :)

The Orisha, Who Do You Most Identify With?

In the Yoruba based religions, the Orisha are angelic emanations of The Creator (God Almighty) manifesting through nature. To put it simply, God created the universe and everything in it. God then manifested bits of himself creating lesser gods or guardian angels, governing over the various forces of nature. So yes, for every force of nature, there is a spiritual being governing it.

In "The Religion," first come the Egun (Ancestors). Those who came before us who are related to us by blood. Along with our Egun are our Spirit Guides. Next come Elegba (Eleggua) who opens the path, and The Warriors (Ogun, Oshosi, and Osun). Following are the Orisha (Your Guardian Orisha). Then comes God Almighty. "The Religion" like all spiritual paths is about elevation. The Ancestors, The Orisha, The Creator. Getting back in tune with nature.

These are the seven most worshiped Orishas of the Yoruba, the Ifa branch as well as the Afro Cuban branch of Lukumi (Santeria), and even the Brazilian branch of Candomble. Some of their characteristics, though slightly different in each branch, all evolved from the source, the Yoruba people of West Nigeria.

We all carry characteristics of two (a spiritual father and mother). But one of the two claim a more dominant role (claims our head/ crown). When comes the time for initiation, we are crowned priest or priestess of the dominant of the two.

Who do you most identify with?

The following is taken from a book I once had titled "Way of The Orisa."

Children Of Esu/ Elegba (Eleggua) Will Enjoy:

• sex
• having fun
• large groups of people & parties
• travel
• good food
• wine or liquor
• cigarettes or cigars
• dancing
• brightly colored clothes
• costumes
• many friendships within their own gender
• communications
• movies & theater

You Will Have Trouble With:

• functioning within confined environments
• being monogamous
• taking orders
• working within a large corporate atmosphere
• being on time
• being structured
• dieting
• quitting smoking & drinking
• sticking to a formal exercise program
• being bored

You Will Have A Highly Developed Sense Of:

• right & wrong
• humor
• practical jokes
• getting even
• sensuality

EBOS (Offerings) FOR ESU

As one of the pantheon of Ifa warrior orisa (orisha), Esu enjoys highly spiced foods. Chili peppers, peppercorns, and jalapeños are all suitable offerings to Esu. A strong cigar, rum, gin, or beer are highly favored by him a well. Red palm oil- a staple of all orisa with the exception of Obatala- is often poured on Esu or in front of his image. Pigeon, rooster, and male goat, are all offered to Esu. Many devotees begin each day by sprinkling cool water on or in front of Esu as a way of "cooling" his temper and asking for pleasantness in their own day.

Esu's day is Saturday.
Like Wednesday, a bad day to undertake major projects and for the use of most charms. Favorable on this day is preparation, as opposed to use, of amulets and protective charms. The second of the "witches days."

In the Afro Cuban branch (My branch) Eleggua (Esu/ Elegba) day is Monday.

Esu/ Elegba (Eleggua) is Guardian of The Crossroads, and the messenger of God Almighty. He opens and closes all The Paths, The Doors, The Roads. He is fate, destiny, choice. He sees all, and he knows all, past, present, and future. Nothing happens without him. He is the eternal child, old as time itself.

Ogun could be your guardian Orisha if you:

• have a profound sense of right and wrong
• are quick to take offense
• enjoy physical things
• prefer small groups to large crowds
• prefer to "do" rather than talk about doing
• tend toward a strong physique
• are attracted to metals
• prefer the woods or the mountains to the sea or the countryside
• find that others expect you to do things for them
• have trouble sharing your personal feelings
• get fuzzy headed o er the opposite sex

EBOS (Offerings) FOR OGUN

Ogun, a warrior Orisha, like all things hot and spicy. Peppers in any form, highly spiced foods, 151-proof rum, gin or vodka, black or dark cigars, red palm oil, and once in a while, honey are all suitable offerings. Rooster and male goat are also offered. Because he is the Orisha of metal, there are two particular ebos that refer to his domain. In the event of surgery, buy six different kinds of beans. Soak them overnight, and the next day fry them palm oil with plenty of pepper, cayenne, and Tabasco sauce. You may in luxe onions and garlic as well. Place this on a plate and offer it to Ogun for a successful outcome to the surgical procedure. If you are buying new car, or attempting to sell one, purchase an inexpensive cut of meat at the supermarket. Take the raw meat and rub it on all four tires of the automobile while asking Ogun for his protection and blessings. Leave the meat by the railroad track.

Ogun's day is Tuesday.
Rituals for overcoming enemies or conflicts are best performed on this day. Also beneficial for business and financial events.

Ogun is the Orisha of Iron and Labor. Also Ogun is the Orisha of civilization, technology, and transportation.

Obatala may well be your guardian Orisha if:

• you are more cerebral than physical
• you love ideas
• you have a strong sense of justice and honor
• your nerves are easily frayed
• you prefer small groups to large parties
• people seek out your opinions
• you prefer to be monogamous
• you prefer classical or "quiet" music to rock or rap
• you enjoy watching the news
• you are always analyzing other people's behavior and motives
• you need periods of being alone
• you prefer to stay home rather than travel
• you have difficulty with highly spiced foods
• you have more than your share of headaches and colds

EBOS (Offerings) FOR OBATALA

Cool water, coconuts, milk, honey, shea, butter, rice, mild cigars, bread, and cookies are all acceptable fare to this somewhat physically delicate Orisha. Snails, particularly large African land snails, or igbin, are a delicacy of Obatala. Kula nuts are also acceptable. Liquor is never offered and is a strict taboo for Obatala. White doves are offered, but the blood is never placed on the stones of Obatala. Unlike every other Orisha, Obatala is not offered palm oil.

SPECIAL EBOS (Offerings) FOR OBATALA'S CHILDREN

Because the children of Obatala must take care of their heads, and because they are often prone to feeling the excesses of stress and deadlines, they tend to run "hot." What this means, in simple terms, is that they get overburdened or overloaded with work or responsibilities and begin to react badly to the mental pressure. A simple way of relieving this pressure is to purchases two coconuts. Offer one to Obatala. Punch two holes through the "eyes," allowing the liquid inside to drain into a glass or a cup. Rub this liquid firmly into your scalp, with particular emphasis on the crown of your head. Ask Obatala to bring you peace and tranquillity while you are doing this. Leave the liquid on your hair for several hours overnight. The calming affects are profound.

Obatala's day is Sunday.
The day for settling differences. Useful for long-range planning and the perfect day for the preparation of amulets and charms for longevity and good health.

Obatala is the Father of the White Cloth, Peace, Calm. His domain is the Sky, Clouds, Mountaintop.


Shango may well be your guardian Orisha if:

• you are extremely articulate
• you can talk people into whatever you want
• you are always looking ahead at the probability of people's actions
• you have had experiences with the dead
• you often have premonitions that come true
• you have strong reactions to thunderstorms
• you love dance and music
• people either love or dislike you
• you often set the tread for your friends or family
• you are highly sexual
• you love the color red
• you have a quick temper
• you are physically attractive
• you "cut corners"

EBOS (Offerings) TO SHANGO

Six red apples, placed on a dish and set upon a shelf in your home, are a standard offering. Red palm oil, available at African food stores, is a staple that can be offered as well. Shango also enjoys spicy foods, so a plate of peppers or a portion of highly seasoned chili would make an excellent offering. Shango is the only Orisha that does not take kola nuts, except for the bitter kola nut. If you are able to obtain kola nuts at a local specialty store, be certain that you specify "bitter" kola for your Shango sacrifice. Rooster and ram are blood offerings to Shango. It is often pleasant to light a candle at the same time you make your offering. This candle can be any color (other than black), but a white candle is most commonly used. Some traditions recommend a red candle for Shango, but it is not necessary. When you make your offering ask Shango for the specific help you need. If it is possible, make your offering during a thunderstorm.

Shango's day is Thursday.
A perfect day for marriage. For the beginning of any long-term project. For digging the foundation for your home. For any long-term goals one needs fulfilled.

Shango is the God of Thunder, War, Virility, The Master Drummer, the Master Dancer


You may well be a child of Yemonja/Olukun (Yemaya) if:

• you love children
• you have a genuine caring feeling for other people
• you are slow to anger
• you prefer to stay home with your family rather than go out and party
• you are attracted to lakes, streams, or the ocean
• you are basically calm
• you have an exceptional, but seldom expressed, temper
• you tend to be slightly heavy
• you easily see another person's point of view
• you forgive easily and often
• you are exceptionally protective about your children
• money is easy for you to make but not your foremost consideration
• emotional sustenance is more important than material objects
• people are oftern drawn to you for comfort and understanding
• you are sensual in a quiet rather than overt fashion

EBOS (Offerings) FOR YEMONJA/OLUKUN

Fruits, particularly red or purple grapes, melons, squash, beer, gin, rum, candy, and cakes are all staple offerings. Watermelon is a favorite of this deep-water Orisha. Palm oil, kola nuts, coral, and flowers can all be used as offerings. Sheep, guinea fowl, hens, pigeons, raw or cooked fish, and palm wine are also acceptable.

Yemonja/Olukun's day is Monday.
A good day to initiate new business ventures. The best day to perform rituals for prosperity or financial success.

In the Afro Cuban branch Yemaya (Yemonja) day is Saturday.

Yemaya is the Mother of the Ocean Waters, the Seven Seas. Her name means "Mother whose children are fish."


Oshun may be your guardian Orisha if:

• you can not stand to be bored
• you are acutely aware of how you look
• you spend more time than most people deciding what to wear
• clothes are very important to you
• you are highly sexual
• you are more comfortable being "in control" of relationships
• you are easily offended
• you love parties
• you love to flirt
• you enjoy good food and wine
• you are partial to bright colors
• you love music
• you enjoy dancing
• you hate confinement on any level
• you understand logic but make the majority of your decisions based on your gut feelings

EBOS (Offerings) FOR OSHUN

More than any other single offering, Oshun loves honey. She is also fond of light-colored fruits, wine, beer, rum, or gin. Hens, guinea hen, quail, and male and female goats are her blood offerings. Offerings of candies, cakes, flowers, mirrors, kola nuts, red palm oil, coconuts, and cowries shells are also acceptable.

Oshun's day is Friday.
A particular bad day for travel or moving from one home or business location to another. A good day chiefs by virtue of their intention to remain in one location for a length of time.

Oshun is the goddess of love, sensuality, sexuality, fertility, all that make life beautiful and worth living. She loves the arts, music , and dance. She loves the honey and all of it's sweetness. Her domain is the fresh river waters.


You may be a child of Oya if:

• you have sudden burst of anger
• you have been left by a member of the opposite sex
• you love (or fear) thunderstorms and lightning
• your life has been filled with sudden change
• you enjoy darker colors
• you have had some experience or sense of the dead
• you are not bothered by funerals or cemeteries
• you are a natural gardener
• you are not afraid of physical combat
• as a woman, you enjoy the company of strong males
• as a male, you enjoy the company of strong women
• you cannot tolerate deceit or lying
• you have a natural antipathy toward the "flirty" flashy members of the opposite sex
• you were a "difficult" child
• you resent discipline and confinement

EBOS (Offerings) for OYA

Eggplants are a favorite of Oya. The dark skin matches this purple Orisha. Depending upon the circumstances, as many as nine are offered at one time. Oya also loves rum, gin, beer, wine, and dark fruit such as plums and red or purple grapes. Palm oil, kola nuts, and coconuts are also suitable offerings. Hen and female goat may be offered depending upon which aspect of this female warrior Orisha you are calling upon. Nine colored ribbons or the old fashioned children's pinwheel toys, which harnest and react to the wind, are also excellent for Oya.

Oya's day is Wednesday.
A bad day for new undertakings or major projects of any kind. This day as well as Saturday, is inappropriate for most ritual sacrifice. The famous herbal black soap used to dispel evil is not used on these days out of respect for the aje (witches), who are said to hold meetings on Wednesday and Saturday. This is the proper day, however, for rituals to the witches.

Oya is the goddess of the winds, the storms (hurricanes), the lightning, the market, and guards the gates to the cemetery. She is a warrior and fights along side Shango.

These are just a few of the Orisha traits to maybe narrow down who you may be a child of. Only way to confirm is to have a reading done to determine your guardian Orisha. And remember that there are 401 Orisha (all are real) governing the various forces of nature of God Almighty.

What Do You See In The Sidewalk?

I had many things on my mind, and it was making me quite restless. I did what I normally do during those times, I went for a walk. Not wanting to venture too far from home, I went walking through Brooklyn. I walked from Bedford-Stuyvesant into the Clinton-Hills area. While walking with the night, as the moonlight lit my way, I discovered something very interesting on the sidewalk.


To most it looked like a spill, but there was something oddly interesting about the shape of it. I see a white bird, a white dove, wings spread, taking flight deep into the night. I stood there looking at it for a moment. The longer I look at it the more motion it appeared to take. I had to photographed it, appearing to be in flight, it was beautiful, peaceful.

I continued my walk with the night, my mind began to settle. I looked around for any other shapes that may appear along the sidewalk. As if seeking me out, with a message of love, peace, and blessings, the one I encountered was the only one.

What do you see in the sidewalk?

Walking Across The Williamsburg Bridge Into Brooklyn

It was a late night, I didn't have enough money on my MTA MetroCard to take the subway. Nor did I have enough money to put on the card, yeah, it was one of those nights (had quite a few of them as of late). So I did what most in my situation would do, I walked.

Yeah I know, walking alone, late at night, no bueno. There was no need to be concerned, nor to fear. I walk with the Ancestors, I walk with the Orisha (Angelic Spirits of Nature), and I walk with God almighty. They are all I have, and they are all I need with me.

As I was waking across the Williamsburg Bridge into Brooklyn, I notice many different tags of graffiti on the beams as well as on the bridge itself. There was one tag in particular that caught and held my attention. It was simply written, nothing extravagant. Just as if it were written on paper.


It made me think of the deck of Tarot Cards I have and began reading with. I began using Tarot Cards (Thoth Tarot Deck) to tap deeper into the energy of my Ancestors, as well as the energy of my guardian Orisha, which is Eshu-Elegba, or Eleggua, as he is known in the Afro Cuban branch of "The Religion" in which I practice. He is the Guardian of The Crossroads, he opens and closes the paths. He is fate, he is destiny, he is choice, and he is my guardian Orisha. I had to stop and photograph it, feeling like it was speaking to me, and it spoke volumes. I came across a second as I continued walking, but the first one spoke the loudest.



I finally made it home over an hour later, what felt like forever. Staying on my feet long enough to shower, before collapsing into bed. I woke up the next day to look at the photos I took. Of course keeping the first one I took, as stated before. I never thought that something so simply written, can say so much.

A Nightly Walk Along Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

Wanting to get out for a moment, to catch some night air. I got dressed, stuck my earbuds into ears, began playing a DJ mix I recorded not too long ago, and headed for the subway station. I took the subway train from Brooklyn, into Manhattan. Came out in the 57th ST and Sixth Ave area, and took a walk.


Walking about taking in the night, as well as the scenery. Watching the people as they went about their business. Looking upward into the night sky, observing the moon in all of it's fullness.


Passing along all the stores, places that people with large amounts of money would go to shop. Thinking to myself, if only I had. I continue my walk, thinking, meditating, communing with the night.


After about an hour or so of walling about, I began making my way back toward the subway station. I pass a store with these interesting statues in the window, that caught my attention. There was something about these statues, I felt compelled to photograph them. I finally made my way back to the station, just in time to catch the train. Looking forward to making it back to "Planet Brooklyn."

Alafia (Peace)

MOJUGBA: The Monthly Homage to Dance, Music, Love, Nourishment, Libation, Life. Every 3rd Friday, BKNY.

Compiled & Mixed by Aphrosoul

http://soundcloud.com/lukumipeople/aphrosoul-presents-mojugba?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_campaign=mshare&utm_medium=email&utm_content=http://soundcloud.com/lukumipeople/aphrosoul-presents-mojugba

Standing At Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, Looking Towards Manhattan

Sabor and The Afro Latineers

I received an email from an old friend, Rich who was performing the upcoming Friday with a band that he is a member of. The name of the band was, "Sabor and The Afro Latineers". The place where the band was performing was Joloff, an African Senegal restaurant located on Bedford Ave and Madison. It was about a 7 to 10 minute walk around the corner from a spot where I DJ my monthly dance gathering called MOJUGBA (a Yoruba word meaning, To Give Homage). Friday came, I was at my usual spot the local cafe in the Clinton Hills area of Brooklyn. After finishing some last minute online promoting, I packed up my old, but still very reliable Apple PowerBook G4, and started my walk home to my Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood to get ready for the night. After gathering my music together, a quick shower, and a moment of quiet time, I made my walk to hear my friend and his band play. The walk was actually pretty quick, maybe ten minutes. As I approached the door, I could hear the music, beautiful, rhythmic, intoxicating.

I entered, walking down a short hallway into the main restaurant area. The room was somewhat small, very intimate, definitely the kind of place you would take your significant other on a date. There were about two and a half rows of tables with two chairs to each table. Each row of four to five tables and chairs lead toward a small stage where the band performed. I was greeted by the owner of the restaurant, a kind, soft spoken African gentleman slightly older or shall I say more experienced in age, gentle but strong. I asked if I could sit on the small couch against the wall, to listen to my friend and his band perform. He smiled and motioned me to have a seat, before bringing to me a tall clear glass of fresh cool water. The band consisted of a female pianist a male trumpeter, a woman playing the maracas and various other like instruments, the band leader himself Sabor on the percussions, and my friend Rich on the bass guitar. I brought my hands together in a prayer-like gesture bidding greetings to my friend Rich, which he made the same gesture in return. Sabor introduced the member of the band before announcing that they would perform one more song before taking a brief intermission. The band performed their last song, which was beautifully flavorful, then broke for intermission.

Rich was the first one the leave the stage, making his way toward the back area where I was seated. He greeted and thanked everyone at their tables as they enjoyed the very tasty food and drink. As Rich approached me he sounded off, "APHROSOOOOOOUL!" (a variation the introduction to the old SOUL TRAIN television dance show. The SOOOOOOOOL Train!) I laughed, thinking about when the crowd would sound off my name like that as I DJ'ed. After shaking hands and embracing, we did a little catching up on what we each have been up to. Rich told me that he and the band perform their at Joloff every 1st and 3rd Friday, 8pm to 10pm. I was like wow, telling him I have my dance gathering every 3rd Friday at another restaurant bar around the corner. Rich said he would introduce me to the owner of Joloff, which would be a good thing being that they have a DJ booth upstairs. "Really!" I said, with a growing smile on my face. I said to Rich, "Yes please do." The band leader Sabor himself approached us. In which Rich introduced him to me. We greeted one another and shook hands. Sabor told me he was a DJ as well, Salsa music is mostly what he spins. He just recently gotten into producing music. After getting to know one another for a brief moment, Sabor had go meet and greet the other guest before starting the next set. Rich then call the owner of the restaurant over, who just happen to be the kind soft spoken African gentleman, introducing him to me. Rich began telling the owner how good a person I am as well as being a phenomenal DJ. Rich also told the owner that I was DJ'ing a party Round the corner from Joloff. "Oh I know the place and the owner there " the gentleman said. "I will stop by when we close here," he told me. Rich had to go get ready for the band's second set, and the owner had to serve the other guests. I notice two young attractive women of African descent sitting at the table next to where I was sitting. I approached one of them telling about the dance gathering I was DJ'ing. When asked what kind of music, I ran off the list of what I will be spinning. When I mentioned house music, the eyes of one of the ladies lit up like the sun. She told me she knows of the place and ask will their be room to dance there. I told her yes their is an area where people can dance. The woman and her friend (which turned out to be her cousin visiting New York for the first time), were going to a show at The Blue Note and would be coming by my gathering afterward. I thanked them, allowing them to return to their meal.


Rich and the band began their second set which I had to be on my way to begin my set at my dance gathering. Before leaving I asked the owning in I may have a look at the DJ booth for future reference. He directed to where the booth was, in which there was a ladder to climb to get go the booth. I climbed the ladder to the DJ booth to have a quick look. There was a studio mixing board and space provided on a large platform for the DJ mixer and turntables. After looking around, I climbed down the ladder, left a monetary donation in a large sized jar the band had sitting at the front of the stage, gave my quick goodbyes and started my way towards the front. Rich gestured a quick goodbye in-between playing his bass guitar. Sabor gave a quick shout out to me which I thanked him for. I stopped to thank the owner and to get a business card from him. He thanked me in return and told me that he would stop by my gathering if he can afterward and we will talk about doing something maybe on a Saturday night.

I truly enjoyed listening to my friend Rich as well as the rest of Sabor and The Afro Latineers. The music was as beautiful as it was thought provoking, story telling, soothing, and entertaining. They definitely have made a fan in me...


Alafia (Peace)

Brooklyn Loses Yet Another Institution: Dope Jams Records

I miss the monthly in-store parties that went on in this place. Dope Jams, 580 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY had their last in-store party Saturday, January 26, 2013 after seven successful years of selling high quality house music and dress2sweat throw down in-store parties every month. I've had good times and not so good times in that place. Met a lot of good spirits, and a few not so good spirits. I pasted be a few days after their last party to find the sign taken down and a letter on the door...


Almost brought a tear to my eye. After talking to one of the guys from Dope Jams Brooklyn, come to find out the owner of the build had raised their rent three times what their were paying. Clearing the owner wanted them out of the building. All just so the owner can put up a stroller and pet clothing store, you're kidding me right?

I had already been working on a monthly dance gathering in the area for a while. The closing of Dope Jams seem the added fuel and inspired me more to get something going. I have found such a space, a small intimate restaurant/bar in Bedford-Stuyvesant, not far from where Dope Jams once stood. It's a warm and welcoming spot the serves everything from teas, to various types of alcoholic beverages, to various types of vegetarian and vegan food. AND THEY HAVE SPACE TO DANCE! The tables and chairs can easily be moved out of the way if more dance space is needed. The DJ that spins there every 3rd Friday is really good to. A peaceful, soft spoken free spirit named Aphrosoul. A bit of an Artistic Indigenous Gypsy of Eclectic Soul Music, a messenger he is. He spins a beautiful, sensual, blending mix of soul, jazz, funk, disco, deep house, and beyond. Telling a story through the music, taking you on a blissfully rhythmic journey. Combine this with good food, good drink, warm welcoming vibrations, and you have the makings of something wonderful that will grow and flourish into something truly magical.

I do hope that word travels that there is a place to go where you can release your mind, let your hair down and be yourself, without judgement. A place free from constraints, free from drama, free from ego, free from issues, free from constraint, free from any and all stress. A place free and unplugged from the matrix. A place where regardless of your background, all can come together in love, in peace. A place where not only your physical being will be fed, your spiritual being will be equally if not more so fed, through the music.

To tribes of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Clinton Hill, and neighboring tribes of Brooklyn, NY, spread the word, and come out. This gathering of artistic like minded free spirits happens every month on the 3rd Friday, on Fulton and Bedford in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn (BKNY).

See you then,
Peace

Brooklyn Photography

Somewhere on Washington Ave (between Gates Ave and Greene Ave), Clinton Hills, Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn Photography

Somewhere on Herkimer ST (Between Bedford Ave and Nostrand Ave), Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY

The ClubHead, The HouseHead, Which One Are You?

The follow is from a blog I had a few years back written and published on October 15, 2009. I just felt the need to post it again.

These are just some thoughts that come to me, as they usually do. This is by no means to speak badly about anyone, nor is it a ridicule, downplay, nor is it to put anyone on blast. Please take time to read, and I do hope you find it enjoyable as well as
entertaining. A few years ago I was conversing with an associate
about the party culture, sub culture, and so thereof. We came to the realization that there are two very distinct groups, no matter how deep within the culture or even sub culture you go. Although it never (at least to the best of my knowledge) used to be this way, but as with it is always with time there is change and evolution.

The first of these two groups is known in party culture as the
clubhead. The clubhead is a person whose life pretty much revolves around parties/ events/ nightclubs. One of their concerns, if not their main concern, is whether or not there are people there. It seems to be more important whether or not there are people, a lot of people, in attendance. This is because they thrive on the atmosphere of people as opposed to the music. Please do not get me wrong, the music has some importance to them, but again whether or
not the place is packed with people is more important. So that they can make their grand entrance letting all know that “The King” or “The Queen” of the night is in the building. Once they are in the building and let it be known that they are in the building, they position themselves as if stepping to the stage fully in character for their award winning performance. Most of the time the center of attention, they love being seen by the people as well as seeing the people, or those who are worthy of being seen. Remember, they are of royalty and we are just mere subjects. If there aren’t enough people there, then just as they make their grand entrance, they will exit all the same. Even if the music is on fire and the DJ is deep in the spirit of the music, the lack of a crowd to see and be seen in just does not make it worth the clubhead’s time. However if the music is just not quite there, maybe even horrific, if the place is packed especially with the pretentious beautiful people,
then the clubhead will be there in full effect feeling absolutely
fabulous. Now let us move on to the other end of the spectrum, the househead.

The househead is somewhat the opposite of the clubhead.
Whereas the clubhead is only somewhat concerned about the music but more so with the crowd of beautiful people, the househead cares more about the music. With the househead, house music is their life, their sanctuary, their refuge. There could be 2-3 people at the party; the DJ as well as the music had better be on point when the househead shows up to the party. The music doesn’t even have to be loud, just enough to hear the beat, and they are happy, maybe more happy because then they have room to move to the music freely
without constraint. A crowd is far from their minds as they move
rhythmically connecting with the DJ spiritually by way of the music. Telling a story through movement as the DJ tells their
story.

So there you have it, the clubhead and the househead, two polar opposites. As I would see it, they are two halves of the same coin, or the yin and the yang. I do believe that to a certain degree the two groups play a pivotal role in the club/party scene. The clubhead provide the overall atmosphere where the househead give the energy and the vibe. When the two are worked in the right
combination it can be truly magical.

The ClubHead, The HouseHead,
Which One Are You?

Thank You

I Aphrosoul, wish to give a warm, heart felt thank you for attending the second installment of MOJUBA, at Bushbaby Bar & Grill. It was magical night of inspired dance, moving music, good food, good libation, deeper love, and beautiful fellowship. I also wish to thank DJ Greg Cee of Brooklyn Suns for powering the sound, and I wish to thank Bushbaby Bar & Grill for their beautiful sexy space. With the weather slowly getting warmer, the layers of clothing begin to shed and the people begin to venture outdoors more. We are all luminous beings, the flesh of our bodies is just a containment of our illumination. With that said I invite all those likeminded, independent, eclectic, artistic free spirits to the next and future installments of MOJUGBA. Where can release, unplug, free yourself from the mundane. I wish you safe travels along your life path of self discovery and evolution.

Famous Life Quote, The Truth.

"Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way round or through it. If nothing within you stays rigid, outward things will disclose themselves. Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend".


Bruce Lee

Infinite Love, Peace, Blessings, and Light

Greetings to all creations of the living universe. I wish for all to take a moment in time to step outdoors, quiet your mind, close your physical eyes and open your spiritual or mind's eye (the one the sees all). Become one with the elements (earth, wind, fire, water), allow the elements of nature to surround you, penetrate you, bind you. Live in love, live in peace, live in blessings, live in the light... LIVE ON, WALK ON.

Incense and Their Many Uses

Many people burn incense for many different reasons. Some burn incense to improve the aroma of a particular area. Others burn incense to mask or cover other aromas. Some burn incense to add atmosphere to an area. Then you have those of us who are practitioners of more nature based religions and spiritual practices, who use incense for different reason all together.

Below are a list of some of the most commonly used incense as well as what they are used for. I found this list online, and felt the need to add to it and write about it. Enjoy... Alafia (Peace).

ACACIA:
Burned with sandalwood to stimulate the psychic powers.

AFRICAN VIOLET:
Burned for protection and to promote spirituality within the home.

ALLSPICE:
Burned to attract both good luck and money.

ALOES:
Burned to attract good fortune, love, spiritual vibrations, and strength.

ALTHEA:
Burned for protection and to stimulate the psychic powers.

AMBER:
Burned for love, comfort, happiness and healing.

AMBERGRIS:
Burn for dreams and as an aphrodisiac.

ANGELICA:
Burn for protection, harmony, integration, insight and understanding, stability and meditation.

ANISE SEEDS:
Burned as a meditation and emotional balance incense.

BASIL:
Burned to exorcise and protect against evil entities such as demons and unfriendly ghosts, and to attract fidelity, love, good luck, sympathy, and wealth. This is also an excellent incense to use when performing love divinations. Also burn for concentration, assertiveness, decisiveness, trust, integrity, enthusiasm, mental clarity, cheerfulness, confidence and courage.

BAY:
Burned to facilitate the psychic powers, and to induce prophectic dream-visions.

BAYBERRY:
Burned mainly to attract money and also burned for protection, happiness and control.

BENZOIN:
Burned for purification, astral projection, clearing negative energy, emotional balance, easing sadness, depression, weariness, grief, anger, anxiety and to attract prosperity.

BERGAMOT:
Burn for money, prosperity, uplifting of spirits, joy, protection, concentration, alertness, confidence, balance, strength, courage, motivation and assertiveness.

BISTORT:
Burned often with frankincense as a powerful incense to aid divination.

BRACKEN:
Burned in outdoor fires to magickally produce rain.

CARDAMOM:
Burn for mental clarity, concentration, confidence, courage, enthusiasm and motivation.

CARNATION:
Burn for protection, strength, healing, love and lust.

CEDAR:
Burned for purification, to stimulate or strengthen the psychic powers, attract love, prevent nightmares, and heal various ailments, including head colds.

CEDARWOOD:
Burn for healing, purification, protection, money, balance, grounding, clarity, insight and wisdom.

CHAMOMILE:
Burn for harmony, peace, calm, spiritual and inner peace.

CINNAMON:
Burned for protection and to attract money, wealth, prosperity, business success, stimulate or strengthen the psychic powers, and aid in healing. Also burned for stimulation, strength and lust.

CITRON:
Burned in rituals to aid healing and also to stregthen the psychic powers.

CITRONELLA:
Burn for cleansing, warding off, healing and exorcism.

CLOVE:
Burned to dispel negativity, purify sacred and magickal spaces, attract money, and stop or prevent the spread of gossip. Also burn for pain relief, intellectual stimulation, business success, wealth, prosperity, divination, exorcism, protection, easing fears, improving memory and focus.

COCONUT:
Burned for protection.

COPAL:
Burned for purification, uplifting spirits, protection, exorcism, spirituality and to attract love.

CYPRESS:
Burn for strength, comfort, healing, eases anxiety, stress, self-assurance, confidence, physical vitality, willpower and concentration.

DAMIANA:
Burned to facilitate psychic visions.

DITTANY OF CRETE:
Burned to conjure spirits and to aid in divination, astral projection, especially when mixed with equal parts of benzoin, sandalwood, and vanilla.

DRAGON’S BLOOD:
Burned to dispel negativity, exorcise evil supernatural entities, courage, purification, to attract love, and restore male potency. Many Witches also burn dragon’s blood for protection when spell casting and invoking. When added to other incenses, dragon’s blood makes their magickal powers all the stronger.

ELECAMPANE:
Burned to strengthen the clairvoyant powers and scrying abilities-divination by gazing.

EUCALYPTUS:
Burn for healing, purification and protection.

FERN:
Burned in outdoor fires to magickally produce rain. Also used to exorcise evil supernatural entities.

FRANKINCENSE:
Burned to dispel negativity, spirituality, purify magickal spaces, consecration, protect against evil, exorcism, aid meditation, astral strength, induce psychic visions, courage, protection, attract good luck, and honor Pagan deities.

FUMITORY:
Burned to exorcise demons, poltergeists, and evil supernatural entities.

GALANGAL:
Burned to break the curses cast by sorcerers.

GARDENIA:
Burn for peace, love and healing.

GINGER:
Burn for wealth, lust, love and magical power.

GINSENG ROOT:
Burned to keep wicked spirits at bay, and for protection against all forms of evil.

GOTU KOLA:
Burned to aid meditation.

HEATHER:
Burned to conjure beneficial spirits, and to magickally produce rain.

HIBISCUS FLOWERS:
Burned to attract love, lust and also for divination.

HONEYSUCKLE:
Burn to attract money, happiness, friendship and healing.

HOREHOUND:
Burned as an offertory incense to the ancient Egyptian god Horus.

HYACINTH:
Burn for happiness and protection.

JASMINE:
Burned to attract love and money, and also to induce dreams of a prophectic nature, purification, wisdom and astral projection.

JUNIPER:
Burned to stimulate or increase the psychic powers, and also to break curses, exorcism and hexes cast by evil sorcerers. It is also burned for calming, protection and healing.

LAVENDER:
Burned to induce rest and sleep, and to attract love-especially of a man. Also burned for cleansing, healing, happiness and relaxation.

LEMON:
Burn for healing, love and purification.

LEMONGRASS:
Burn for mental clarity.

LILAC:
Burned to stimulate or increase the psychic powers, and to attract harmony into one’s life.

LOTUS:
Burn to elevate mood, protection, spirituality, healing and meditation.

MACE:
Burned to stimulate or increase the psychic powers.

MASTIC:
Burned to conjure beneficial spirits, stimulate or increase the psychic powers, and intensify sexual desires. The magickal powers of other incenses are greatly increased when a bit of mastic is added.

MESQUITE:
The magickal powers of all healing incenses are greatly increased when mesquite is added.

MINT:
Burned to increase sexual desire, exorcise evil supernatural entities, conjure beneficial spirits, and attract money. Mint incense also possesses strong healing vibrations and protective powers.

MUSK:
Burn for an aphrodisiac, prosperity, courage.

MYRRH:
Burned (often with frankincense) for purification, consecration, healing, exorcism, and banishing evil. Myrrh also aids meditation rituals, and was commonly burned on altars in ancient Egypt as an offering to deities Isis and Ra.

NUTMEG:
Burned to aid meditation, stimulate or increase the psychic powers, and to attract prosperity.

OAKMOSS:
Burned for money and attraction.

ORANGE:
Burned for divination, love, luck and money.

PATCHOULI:
Burned to attract money, love, growth, mastery, sensuality and also to promote fertility.

PEPPERMINT:
Burned for energy, mental stimulant, exorcism and healing.

PINE:
Burned for purification, and to banish negative energies, exorcise evil supernatural entities, and attract money, as well as to break hexes and return them to their senders. Also burned for grounding, strength, cleansing and healing.

POPPY SEEDS:
Burned to promote female fertility, and to attract love, good luck, and money.

ROSE:
Burned to increase courage, induce prophetic dreams, house blessing, fertility, healing and to attract love. Rose incense is used in all forms of love enchantment and possesses the strongest love vibration of any magickal incense.

ROSE GERANIUM:
Burned for courage and protection.

ROSEMARY:
Burned to purify, aid in healing, prevent nightmares, preserve youthfulness, dispel depression, attract fairyfolk, and promote restful sleep and pleasant dreams.

RUE:
Burned to help restore health.

SAGE:
Burned for protection against all forms of evil. It is also burned to purify sacred spaces and ritual tools. Plus it is great for promoting wisdom, clarity, attracting money, and aiding in healing the body, mind, and soul.

SAGEBRUSH:
Burned to aid healing, and to banish negative energies and evil supernatural entities.

SANDALWOOD:
Burned to exorcise demons and evil ghosts, conjure beneficial spirits, and promote spiritual awareness. Sandalwood incense is also used by many Witches for protection, astral projection, healing rituals and in wish-magick.

SOLOMON’S SEAL:
Burned mainly as an offertory incense to ancient Pagan deities.

STAR ANISE SEEDS:
Burned to stimulate or increase the psychic powers.

STRAWBERRY:
Burned to attract love and for luck.

SWEETGRASS:
Burned to conjure beneficial spirits prior to spellcasting.

SWEET PEA:
Burned for friendship, love and courage.

THYME:
Burned for the purification of magickal spaces prior to rituals, to aid in healing, and to attract good health.

VANILLA:
Burned to attract love, increase sexual desire, and improve the powers of the mind.

VERVAIN:
Burned to exorcise evil supernatural entities.

VETIVERT:
Burned to break curses, exorcism, for protection against black magick and thieves, money, peace and love.

VIOLET:
Burn for wisdom, luck, love, protection and healing.

WILLOW:
Burned to avert evil, attract love, and promote healing. It is also used by many Witches as an offertory incense for Pagan lunar deities.

WISTERIA:
Burned for protection against all forms of evil.

WORMWOOD:
Burned to stimulate or increase the psychic powers. When mixed with sandalwood and burned at night in a cemetery, wormwood is said to be able to conjure spirits from their graves.

YARROW:
Burned to arrow courage, exorcism.

YLANG-YLANG:
Burned for love, harmony and euphoria.

Movie Shoot in BKNY

It was a cold Friday night, it had been snowing all day. I just left the neighborhood cafe, in the Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn, NY. I had been working on online promotion for my monthly dance gathering that I had just started. I figured I would just walk home to help come down from doing some much needed catching up on music work. As I walked through the night, looking at the beautiful Brooklyn Brownstone architecture, I notice the block was closed off and a crowd gathering about a half a block ahead.

I continued walking towards the crowd to discover a motion picture being filmed in front of one of the brownstones. I stopped to ask a member of the film crew the title of the film. "A Walk Among The Tombstones" he told me, staring Liam Neeson. The scene they were filming was a taxi cab with Liam and another actor inside, pulling up to a home. The two actors exit the cab, which then pulls off, in which two walk toward the front entrance of the home. The yet unknown actor stops at the foot of the steps leading to the door dialoging with Liam's character who is midway up the steps. The doors opens, in which another yet unknown actor greets Liam's character before entering the home leaving the yet unknown actor outside as if standing guard. The scene which may had taken not even five minutes to film, was shot numerous times over and over again. Filming usually takes multiple shots in order to get the best shot.

I found it most interesting how everything was planned out, laid out, and played out to the most minute detail. I also found it a bit humorous how the crowd, excited to not only be on a film shoot also see an actor filming a scene. All you saw were phone camera out and filming either still frame pictures or video, as if shooting their own mini motion picture. I laughed quietly to myself, as members of the film crew franticly told the crowd not to use flashes while taking pictures or shooting video.

I would stayed longer, bit due to the fact that I had been out all day, it was cold, and I started to lose feeling in my feet, it was time to get into the warmth of home. I said my goodbyes to those I had talked to, and made my way home. I found the experience learning, exciting, and enjoyable...


Alafia (Peace)

MOJUGBA, Compiled & Mixed by Aphrosoul

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