SPRING 2013 The Birds &the Bees EDM on Campus Scene That’s All the Rave sEx p. 9 p. 25

p. 22 BenOne Holcomb pushesTough the limits Mudderof human survivalism

SPRING 2013

TABLE OF TABLE Contents

FEATURE FEATURE FEATURE

Let’s Talk About Sex 9 The History of EDM 25 The Breakfast Club 28

Comm students stimulate Formerly underground music Looks can deceive. Five Pep discourse on campus. genre goes mainstream. students defy stereotypes.

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CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 5 FEATURE

Southern and City 44 Uncover a new wardrobe where romantic southern belle meets urban chic. EDITORS

“Truth, having nothing to fear from investigation, should be pursued relentlessly in every discipline.” These words, excerpted from Pepperdine’s mission statement, have been the driving force of my journalism education since I landed in Malibu in 2009. As I reflect on my final weeks as a student here, I realize that we all hold our own reality in the palms of our hands. After all, reality is constructed in the definitions we accept. In my pursuit of truth, I met a beauty queen who serves God over the material world, an artist who zips himself in a body bag to experience rebirth and an agnostic who finds comfort in chatting with the local homeless. Pepperdine, it has been an honor to tell your stories for the past four years. I hope this magazine mirrors the community it serves, a community that consistently challenges me to expect the unexpected. EDITOR Special thanks to: my parents for unconditionally supporting my creative pursuits. Courtenay Stallings, for believing in me since I first stumbled upon the newsroom as a freshman. Elizabeth Smith, for your mentorship, advising, FEATURE friendship and fashion advice. Danielle, Ashley, Becca, Lauren and everyone who gave Currents their magical touch. Tying the Knot 12 American Psycho 22 ‘Blue-collared Grit’ 37 J Students who got engaged Ben Holcomb pushes the Artist Chuck Arnoldi’s jour- during college years weigh in limits of human endurance. ney from Ohio burbs to So- on married life. There will be blood. Cal avant-garde.

The story goes like this: Orpheus and Eurydice were young and in love, but only a few days after their marriage Eurydice was bitten by a serpent and died. In an act of grief, Orpheus journeyed to the underworld to beg Hades Enlightened Art 16 Restaurant Reviews 40 to return Eurydice to the world of the living. So Hades offered Orpheus a deal. If he could walk all the way back Theatre prof moonlights as Serving up locally grown to the surface of the earth with Eurydice behind him and the LA ballet’s lighting food in an urban jungle. never look back, she could leave the underworld and designer. be with him once more. On his way up Orpheus was overcome with anxiety and could not stop himself from looking back; at the very moment he laid eyes on her, Eurydice was lost forever. As you flip through the pages of this magazine, I hope CO-EDITOR Vintage Venues 20 Debt Before Designer 48 you are pleasantly surprised by something. I hope you have your expectations shattered. I hope you find yourself A guide to the best live Recessionistas turn to frugal Editorial raising your eyebrows in disbelief, and I hope you learn music in LA’s historic hubs. Assistants Danielle fashion finds. something new. Mostly I hope that unlike Orpheus, you will DiMeglio (left) look to the future and to the unexpected, instead of what hasR passed. and Ashley Rhame This year I had the incredible opportunity to work with a myriad of talented (right) play dress up on the set of individuals through Pepperdine Graphic Media. At the beginning of the semester, Southern and City. Jessica and I had many conversations about what this magazine would encompass and how it would come together. As the publication progressed, I realized our goal was to embody our experiences, learning to expect the JOIN PGM ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, PINTEREST, & INSTAGRAM FOR THE LATEST unexpected. I’ve learned from everyone at PGM, and I know it is because of F NEWS|PICTURES|VIDEOS OR VISIT US @ CURRENTS.PEPPERDINE-GRAPHIC.COM. them that Currents has gone from being a few loose ideas to a reality far greater than I could have hoped. Page 6 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 Currents

Jessica Abu-Ghattas

Rebecca Herron

Lauren Herr

Chelsea Gest

Alex Rangel

Danielle DiMeglio Ashley Rhame

Ruth Book

Elizabeth Smith Courtenay Stallings

JESSICA ABU-GHATTAS DANIELLE ACCOVELLI LAUREN BALDWIN DANIELLE DIMEGLIO ALLEGRA HOBBS BEN HOLCOMB BRITT KIDD RACHEL MILLER GRACE STEARNS CHELSEA GEST REBECCA HERRON JEN KIM MEAGAN MCCARTY KELLY O’CONNOR BRANDON SCHEIRMAN SELIN UZAL LAUREN HERR REBECCA HERRON COURTNEY NGUYEN SYDNEY PAPENHAUSEN SELIN UZAL ALEX RANGEL The Talk

SexWORDS BY JESSICA ABU-GHATTAS PHOTOS BY CHELSEA GEST ity is higher than many would predict ter, reads, “One of [Pepperdine’s] values is quired to decide whether to consent.” but not as high as national averages.” the recognition that every person is created Further, confusion about what con- Approximately 48 percent of Pepper- in the image of God, is of infinite value, and stitutes sexual assault may contribute OF PEPPERDINE dine students identify at least one sexual therefore, should be treated with dignity and to fewer reports. “Remember that be- partner in the previous year (including respect. Sexual assault, in all forms, violates ing ‘under the influence’ is no excuse STUDENTS REPORT oral, vaginal and anal intercourse), ac- the sanctity of the human body and spirit and for sexual assault. Legally, you are still cording to the 2011 data, compared to will not be tolerated within our community.” responsible for your actions. A partner 71 percent of college students nationally. However, the Counseling Center rec- is unable to consent to your sexual ad- AT LEAST ONE “I think that does say we can- ognizes that students may be discouraged vances if she is intoxicated,” accord- not have our ‘heads in the sand,’ think- from reporting a friend’s, or their own, sex- ing to the Counseling Center’s website. SEXUAL PARTNER IN ing no one is sexually active,” Horton ual assault for fear of facing consequences said. “On the other hand, it would be a for an alcohol violation. To encourage vic- Resources myth to think, ‘everybody is doing it.’” tims to report their assaults, Pepperdine The Student Health Center promotes THE PREVIOUS YEAR The difference between Pepperdine offers immunity for both victims and Good the sexual health services offered on 48% and the national average points to reli- Samaritans who report sexual assault. campus by having an annual STI test- (ORAL, VAGINAL AND ANAL) COMPARED TO 71% OF gious affiliation, but Horton notes that de- “Under California law, sex is considered ing day for the first 50 students as well gree of religiosity only nominally influences nonconsensual, and therefore rape ... if a as convocations. Senior Michael Are- decision-making when it comes to sex. person is incapable of giving consent be- valo serves on the Student Health Advi- COLLEGE STUDENTS NATIONALLY “Most every- sory Board, which body says they helps advocate are Christian, but for students by that doesn’t seem raising awareness to really change of the Student their sexual activ- Health Center ity,” Horton said. and its capabili- “As I mentioned, ties and lobbying OF STUDENTS WHO FEEL people vary for health poli- in what they cies on campus. JUDGED IF THEY TALK mean by identify- “Our outreach ing as Christian, consists of tabling from mostly a in the Caf, digital ABOUT SEX OPENLY ON demographic signage and con- variable to a very vocation slides PEPPERDINE’S CAMPUS personal, ‘this to promote STI is the worldview awareness,” Are- through which I valo said. “The try to live my life.’” one thing we can- 51% For those who not promote is say their Chris- condoms. A cou- Let’s Talk About Sex munication & Conflict class. After a class uality, 59 percent claim to abide by it. tian faith is not ple of years back “And don’t have sex, because you will discussion in which sex was voted the “Many students that we spoke with, important or only the administra- get chlamydia. And die.” These words from most difficult subject to discuss openly on publicly and privately, expressed that somewhat tion got upset iconic high school film, “Mean Girls,” ironi- campus, graduate students Lauren Ander- sexuality at Pepperdine was not talked important, 70 with the Health cally seem to summarize the sexual climate son, Matthew Drummond and Liz Stewart about enough in open forums,” Drummond percent had at Center for pro- at Pepperdine. Unlike most universities, and undergraduates Kelly O’Connor and said. “Everybody has strong opinions on least one sexual viding condoms where for many students sex and alcohol Craig Taylor decided to conduct surveys the issue of Christianity and sexuality. partner in the and since then are a part of daily routine, students who gauging the opinions of the student body. We respect all views and want to make last year, accord- they had to stop.” attend Pepperdine elect — as adults — to “Our group decided to pursue this sure that all perspectives are heard, es- ing to the 2011 Birth control and adhere to Pepperdine’s sometimes unclear topic to continue the discussion and help pecially those that might be typically un- NCHA. For those sexually trans- policies. Pepperdine’s Community Policy on bridge the gap between spirituality and derrepresented on a Christian campus.” who say their mitted infection sexuality dictates that as a student, sexual sexual health,” Drummond said. “We hope Christian faith is (STI) testing are activity outside of marriage is considered to encourage both students and faculty to How We Measure Up very important to available at the misconduct and is subject to disciplinary feel as if they have their own platform and Director of the Student Counseling them, the num- Student Health action. Yet, While Pepperdine does not per- can contribute to the continuous dialogue Center Connie Horton oversees Pepper- ber is 35 percent. Center. Counsel- mit sex outside of marriage, no one’s hav- on Pepperdine’s campus in the future.” dine’s National College Health Assess- cause she or he is incapacitated from alco- ing and consultation services are free ing a judicial hearing for hooking up either. Of the group’s responses, 90 percent ment data, which surveys students ev- Good Samaritan Policy hol or other drugs, and this condition was for all students at the Counseling Center. Which is exactly why five interper- identified as Christian or Catholic. 56 per- ery two years concerning sexual health. One of the concerns surrounding the known, or reasonably should have been If you or someone you know has sonal communication students have de- cent said they were not aware that STI The last survey was conducted in 2011. difficulty talking about sex on campus is that known by the accused,” and, according been sexually assaulted, visit the Santa cided to make sex communication the testing is available in the Student Health “As I predicted, the stats of sexual it might make it more challenging to have to the Counseling Center’s resources on Monica Treatment Center for medical ser- topic of their semester-long research proj- Center. While 83 percent are aware of activity are much like those of alcohol,” honest conversations about sexual assault. sexual assault, “‘Incapacitated’ means vices and forensics to counseling and psy- ect for Professor Sarah Ballard’s Com- Pepperdine’s Community Policy on sex- Horton said. “Pepperdine sexual activ- Pepperdine’s policy on sexual assault, intoxicated to the point that the person is chotherapy. Call them at (310) 319-4000 according to the Student Counseling Cen- incapable for exercising the judgment re- or visit their website at www.911rape.org. DOWNLOAD THE INTERACTIVE, TABLET|MOBILE VERSION OF THIS ISSUE FOR EXCLUSIVE BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS & VIDEOS @ CURRENTS.PEPPERDINE-GRAPHIC.COM. Page 10 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 11 ing UNCOVERING THE TRUTH BEHIND THE PEPPERDINE MYTH

Most Pepperdine freshmen hear than some other smaller liberal arts many private schools [with a] degree the phrase “ring by spring” casually Christian schools. It is also a lot less of religiosity and earlier age of getting mentioned in passing during their common today than it previously was married.” first few weeks on campus among in Pepperdine’s history.” The Pepperdine community a host of other uniquely Pepperdine The rate of early engagement or include “values, education level, terminology, such as “DTR-ing” and marriage at Pepperdine does seem family background, ambitions in life “so blessed.” As students approach to be higher than at secular or state [and] intelligence level, which make their junior and senior years, universities, according to Parmelee. up a lot of compatibility factors that however, it seems that more and “I think compared to state schools, match up well with fellow students at more of their peers are seriously there is a higher rate of students who Pepperdine,” Parmelee said. dating or engaged — and ring by meet, date and marry their spouse Whether or not the ring by spring spring starts to become a reality. while at Pepperdine, or meet and myth has validity at Pepperdine, few This phenomenon of ring by get married while at Pepperdine,” contest that it raises a degree of spring is not mutually exclusive Parmelee said. Pepperdine’s controversy among undergraduates R to Pepperdine. Many other small, religious affiliation is seen as a factor and sheds lights on the spectrum of Christian colleges experience the in the ring by spring trend. According views on marriage in the community. same spike in seriously dating and to experts such as Parmalee, the The ring-by-spring phenomenon is engaged couples during students’ strong Christian community and not explicitly encouraged throughout last two years of attendance. With the values associated with it, to an the Pepperdine community as a this very real phenomenon occurring extent, influence the students who whole, but rather among individuals by on campus, Relationship IQ is a tend to get engaged or married and small groups. program at Pepperdine’s Boone while at Pepperdine or right after “I think that there are the students Center for the Family that aims to graduation. who are very relationship-focused provide students with the skills, David Christy (MMFT), a licensed and feel that that is kind of a natural attitudes and character to foster marriage and family therapist at the course of events to date exclusively healthy and successful relationships, Pepperdine Student Counseling and get engaged and get married,” as stated on their website. Center, expressed that the correlation Christy said. “And then, on the Hannah Parmelee, Relationship might not be direct, but that religion other hand, there are students IQ’s program director, remarks on is definitely a factor. “Of course not who are more open-ended in their the rate of Pepperdine students all students here are religiously relationships who may date for a getting married before or right affiliated, and not all the religiously long time or may live together with after graduation. “I actually think affiliated students need to get no intention of getting married or it is less common than at some married before they graduate,” may just kind of put that off for a lot other places,” Parmelee said. “It’s Christy said. “But I do notice that longer.” pring a lot less common at Pepperdine there is a pretty strong correlation in Click to view more “Ring by Spring” Pictures

WORDS BY DANIELLE ACCOVELLI PHOTOS BY CHELSEA GEST CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 13 Why do you think so many ing. Sometimes it was difficult for my EMILY SCHAD couples get engaged during friends to understand why I would JUNIOR | ENGAGED their time at want to get married so young, and it Pepperdine? was often hard for them to relate to JASON HONG me, especially if they were single and JUNIOR | ENGAGED E: I think that Pepperdine students far from where I was at in my life. get engaged because they love each What has been challenging MAHLA HOFFBECK other and want to begin their lives SENIOR | MARRIED about being an engaged/mar- together. ried student? How did your faith play a role in Why did you decide to get your decision to get engaged? E: Trying to plan a wedding amidst married/engaged during col- school and work. lege? M: One of the most difficult things for E: We prayed about getting married me is and has been finding balance and when to get married A LOT. We between school, work and home. It’s E: Reuben and I wanted to start a new felt that we were ready for this next the daily wear and tear of busyness chapter of our lives as a unified team. step and are excited to see what God and working to find balance between We are looking forward to seeing how has in store for us. Emily Schad everything that I have found most dif- God wants to use us in this unique J: My faith did not really play a role ficult. position in this community. Q in my decision because my choice J: I met someone who I really loved & was based on my wanting to be with Is there anything you wish you and didn’t want to wait to get married. I my fiance forever and not really on had done differently? also felt like I was mature enough and religious pressure. financially stable enough to get mar- M: We knew we were going to marry ried even though I was in college. each other, but we also wanted to E: No. M: We just knew we were right for honor God by entering into a marriage M: In regards to getting engaged and each other. As cliche as that may covenant together. married in college, not at all. Does sound, we “just knew.” We had no that mean it’s been easy? Not at all. reason to wait, so for us we decided PHOTOS BY BRANDON SCHEIRMAN How did your family react to It’s actually been very hard at times, we would rather get started with life as A your engagement/marriage? but I know I am stronger and have husband and wife and begin doing life. grown tremendously.

Do you believe you were en- E: They were really excited for us. Is there anything you wish you couraged to get engaged by They kind of knew it was coming, es- had done differently? pecially since Reuben called my dad Pepperdine’s faith community? “ LOVE BEING MARRIED, to ask permission before he proposed. J: My family was very supportive. E: We were ready to begin our lives together as a team that would be fulfill- E: There were several people in our They threw us a big engagement din- Jason Hong church family who were very encour- AND I AM SO GLAD WE ner with friends and family. They also ing for us while honoring God. aging of our relationship and hoped helped us with our wedding monetarily. J: Marriage was the right choice for we would get married, but they didn’t M: Both of our families were and me, because I feel like I found the right have a time frame in mind. MADE THE DECISION have been very supportive — in and person who I wanted to spend the rest J: It had nothing to do with my deci- through our engagement as well as of my life with and didn’t want to wait. sion because I live off campus and do our marriage. It also was a sign of commitment to not feel the pressure of Pepperdine’s TOGETHER TO JUST GO my fiance, and she knows that I will faith community. Also, I am a transfer How did your friends react? always be here for her. I also feel the student, so I never had the on-campus same way about her. presence. FOR IT.” M: I love being married, and I am so E: Our friends were also excited and glad we made the decision together happy for us. Half the people replied Do you believe Pepperdine has a to just go for it. I am confident that -MAHLA HOFFBECK to our good news with “you’re getting ring by spring presence, and what marriage was the right decision for married this summer, right?” and the does it mean to you? Lane and I because I’ve seen beautiful other half with “so you’re waiting to get and amazing parts of our lives bloom married until you graduate, right?” E: No, I don’t really think that Pep- that would have never blossomed for J: My friends were surprised. They perdine has a “ring by spring” culture. years, if ever, had we not gotten mar- thought I would never get married. Most of my friends are not in this stage ried. It was the right decision because They were also very supportive. of life right now. I felt it in my heart, a confidence that M: Mostly my friends were very sup- Mahla Hoffbeck can only come from God and the portive, excited for me and encourag- Page 14 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 direction of the Holy Spirit. “I CAN USE LIGHTING TO INDICATE THE PASSAGE OF SEASONS, CHANGING FROM NIGHT TO DAY.”

Upon entering the theater for your Pilat (pronounced like “pilot”), LA Bal- ideal audience member. I’m looking at first-ever live experience, you pull open let resident lighting designer and Pep- this through the eyes of the audience two heavy, double-wide wooden doors perdine assistant professor of theatre, and I’m crafting and adjusting what I before staring excitedly at your ticket — knows this process all too well. want them to experience.” hopefully obtained in the center theater “I can use lighting to make you As a former magician, Pilat admits section, but we’ll get back to that later. think that time is slowing down or the two professions of magic and light- After locating your destination, you plop speeding up — to indicate the pass- ing have many elements in common, down, flip through the program and sit, ing of seasons, changing from night to such as controlling and manipulating anticipating the wonders that lie ahead. day,” Pilat said. “All of those things that audience perception. In the same way You begin to look around, noticing the aren’t really happening, but we create a magician creates wonder and awe, colors of the stage, vibrancy of the peo- the illusion of them happening in the a lighting designer too utilizes the art ple, and, finally, turn your glance upward theatrical world.” of illusion — to make things appear, to the array of lights artfully crafted and What has become an ingrained disappear and even float. In the past, strategically placed above your head. process to Pilat began as a backstage his favorite magic tricks involved non- These lights are not, as one might job in high school. It wasn’t until his first gimmicky household items, where Pilat assume, left show after show and turned college lighting experience that he rec- could display surprising results out of on when their use becomes necessary. ognized the art behind lighting design common objects. Instead, they are creatively planned, and the power that light has to affect Before coming to Pepperdine in minutely placed and ready to carry your an audience. 2012, Pilat worked assisting on and off eyes through the production, manipulat- “My goal as the lighting designer Broadway for five years in New York be- ing the experience along the way. Ben is sitting in the audience and being the fore beginning his job with the LA Bal-

Words by Rachel Miller Light ShowPhotos by Jen Kim be very high contrast images: the darks room and sharing the same energy with are dark and the lights are light — night a group of other audience members and skies with the Santa Monica Ferris also the connection that you get — the Wheel silhouetted against that night sky, energy and the electricity you get by be- pools of street light on a snowy evening ing in the same room as performers,” — things that have contrast, texture, a said Pilat. “You are witnessing a live little grittiness.” event that will never happen this way Now back to the important discus- again. This is a unique, one-time event, sion about seating. Listen closely, for and I want people to appreciate that. I I’m about to reveal the best seat in the think it’s a very powerful thing that the- house according to a lighting designer. atre can do.” If you guessed the front row, I am sor- When all is said and done, the cur- ry to inform you, but you have chosen tains have closed and the hard work is incorrectly. According to Pilat, the best put to rest, Pilat hopes his audience will vantage point to experience the full ef- walk away with an impression. fect of a production is center, about 8 to “Typically, I want people to leave 15 rows back from the stage, as that is feeling energized and inspired and where one can see the entire composi- wanting to have a discussion of what tion. they saw. Regardless of what the play When configuring a light arrange- is, if a couple who sees a play spends ment, it’s crucial to keep in mind numer- part of their drive home talking about ous components such as the beginning, it, I’m happy. I want to inspire people to ending and transitions of the show, think about what they’ve seen.” genre and big picture flow. Coordinator of Pepperdine’s Theatre Program Brad- ley Griffin is amazed by Pilat’s precision in his designs. “The thing that most people in the audience can’t appreciate about Ben’s work as a lighting designer is his atten- tion to detail,” Griffin said. “If you could stand onstage and look up into the grid, you’d notice that every cable, every con- nection, has been tied off neatly. There’s an artistry not only to his lighting design, but also to the way he hangs the lights.” As he begins his time at Pepper- dine, Pilat seeks not only to train bright students, but to foster an appreciation for the realm of theater. “There is something very unique and special about being in the same

let in 2009. During his time as resident lighting designer, he has created ap- “IF A COUPLE WHO proximately a dozen lighting designs. Light Show He also won the United States Institute for Theatre Technology’s 2010 Ris- SEES A PLAY SPENDS ing Star Award for his excellence and PEPPERDINE PROFESSOR achievement in the field of lighting. PART OF THEIR DRIVE Part of Pilat’s charm is his fascina- CREATES A WORLD OF LIGHTS tion with the world. From restaurants to bars, theaters and natural sunlight, he HOME TALKING ABOUT AS THE RESIDENT LIGHTING is always aware of the lighting around him. “I can’t turn that off,” he said. DESIGNER AT THE LA BALLET “The images I’m drawn to tend to IT, I’M HAPPY.”

CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page19 1THEHOLLYWOODPALLADIUM 3THETROUBADOUR

Having opened in 1940 with a performance from a young up-and-comer named Frank Sinatra, the Pal- All too often, something that has taken on a legendary status falls short of its rumored awesomeness and is revealed ladium has an Old Hollywood past that makes it a rarity. Of course, it went on to become an infa- to be little more than an average thing irrevocably fixed with the label of “cool.” The Troubadour, however, is not one mous rock staple in the 70s and has since become firmly entrenched in the trendy hipsterdom of the of those things. It has acquired its reputation because it truly is that awesome. It is the most intimate venue I have present day, but the place still has its magic. The room is surprisingly large and roomy with plen- ever been to — beyond simply being small, its design makes it practically impossible to have a bad view of the stage. ty of standing room, so if you like small venues but don’t like the feeling of being crushed between the For hardcore music enthusiasts, the West Hollywood nightclub’s rich history of notable performers and attendants bodies of sweaty strangers, this is the place for you. See — that’s the magic I was talking about. will make it doubly attractive. You can even stand upon the pavement on which John Lennon and Harry Nilsson were unceremoniously tossed after a night of excess. If that’s not real rock ‘n’ roll history, I don’t know what is.

MUSICVENUES INLOSANGELES a guide to the city’s historic haunts

Words by Allegra Hobbs Photos by Kelly O’Connor

2THEGREEK 4THEECHO

How an amphitheater capable of seating 5,700 could ever be described as “intimate” was a mystery to me, The decaying interior design of this place says “90s grunge.” The disco balls say “70s dance party” — in Kurt Co- at least until I saw Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes at the Greek. The colosseum-style outdoor bain’s basement. The bands I saw there seemed to say, “I really, really want to be the Smiths.” Fortunately, if you structure is inexplicably free of that feeling of remoteness that prevents me from enjoying most concert ven- turn your undoubtedly confused expression to your fellow concert-goers, you’ll find no shortage of flannel-clad ues of this size. So don’t think of it as a stadium show — think of it as a small show that just happened kids jerking around arhythmically to the music — that’s right, you’re still in the here-and-now. An important thing to to draw a weirdly large crowd. Also, it is literally deposited in the midst of Griffith Park, so the live mu- remember when venturing to the Echo is that you’re not there for the venue — you’re there for the music. This place sic experience is framed by pine trees and fresh air, and the stars are so bright you’ll forget you’re in LA. has gained a word-of-mouth reputation among music fans for booking talent before they make it big. Beck has per- formed here, as have The Decemberists. So get into that densely packed room and take in what just might be unre- alized greatness — or, if all else fails, just step outside and listen to the homeless man who sings Paula Abdul tunes. Page 20 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 I was somewhere in the hills of One of the more treacherous a merciful end. A shorted electrical Words by Ben Holcomb Temecula when the lactic acid began moments in a long series of treacher- wire connected square with my neck Photo Illustrations by by Alex Rangel to take hold. The bones in my legs ous moments was an event named and, in an act of self-preservation, my smashed against each other like “Arctic Enema.” Participants jumped brain shut my body down. I blacked unhinged pistons inside of a fail- into a dumpster full of ice water, which out and woke up a few seconds later, ing Ford. The terrain was tough and was festering at a chilling 34 degrees. facedown in the mud, with electric the obstacles tougher. It wasn’t long They have to go under a wooden em- shocks popping off over my head like before I came to the realization that, bankment in the middle, just because, the world’s worst fireworks show. I in retrospect, I should have trained you know, it’s important your life be should’ve worded my prayer better. beforehand. as terrible as possible while you’re in Thoreau once said, “Most men A Tough Mudder event is a 12-mile their company. I left that obstacle with lead lives of quiet desperation.” The obstacle course designed to test the frostbitten digits and a passionate ha- desperation at a Tough Mudder event limits of the human condition. I saw tred for modern American distractions. is deafening. There is a certain ma- it, up close chest-deep in a soup of A coarse mud exoskeleton had chismo that hangs over the course like mud, as a capable litmus test for hu- coagulated over my previously in- a cloud of smog. A quick walk around man psychosis. As I crawled through ferior human skin by the race’s final beforehand illuminates the plethora of a field of mud, my hair grazing lines obstacle. All signs of my own skin Mohawks, neon hair and well-planned of low-lying barbed wire, I began to were gone, a skin that protected what shows of skin typical in any given par- wonder what was driving me forward; was, just three hours earlier, a weak- ticipant. Two collegiate pals head-butt- why in the hell were we volunteering to minded and pathetic wimp. The ulti- ed each other before the race began. cake ourselves in the filth of the earth? mate obstacle, and most existentially One had to be treated for a laceration The Tough Mudder staff has a corrupt, is “Electroshock Therapy,” a to the skull. tendency of operating in the theatrical. 30-yard patch of mud enveloped in What became increasingly obvious There were signs along the course hundreds of electrical wires pumping was the thin veil of courage cloaking with “words of encouragement” that out 10,000 volts of shock. I may have each participant like a cheap plastic read “Remember you signed a death urinated my shorts when my eyes trash bag. We were all terrified of the waiver” and “Don’t be a p----.” Pudgy came upon this demonic episode, I’m obstacles; that’s what they were de- men in jeans stood at the onset of not sure because every part of my signed to do. And yet each participant every impediment, shaming us onward soul was dirty and crusty and heavy ran through the course as if they were as if we were all back in high school by that point anyway. invincible and feared nothing. gym class. Here I was, pushing myself Before I could even fathom the I was horrified of the entire experi- to the limits, and, at every exhaustive stupidity of my life choices, I was ence, and actually and literally trau- moment, some overzealous intern with experiencing violent, painful pulsa- matized by the obstacles. First-time a megaphone was screaming in my tions in my shoulder, back, arms and runners have an invaluable amount of face legs. I pushed forward and prayed for naivete that propels them forward. Re- AMERICAN psycho CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 23 Photos courtesy of Toughmudder.com peat contestants should be institution- we were alive that we could feel and that “Is the idea of intimate alized. A thought popped into my head we mattered. relationships and the somewhere either before or after my Soon we will all go to work, inhabit search for meaning too right foot fractured on the unforgiving desks and conquer obstacles with hills: What about modern life makes a names like “small talk, support your much to handle? Or do Tough Mudder attractive? girlfriend, feign interest in a meeting or we just need to be re- The world in 2013 is a scary place, don’t let traffic bother you.” Many of us minded, every year or full of its own daily obstacles and chal- will fail at these obstacles. so, that fear is just an lenges. These are called purpose, What compels someone to run happiness, stress. They afflict us all, and through a field of electric wires? Is amalgamation of syn- our only control of this is how we choose normal life so boring that we must apses trying to protect to handle the notion, that we are human go to extremes to liven things up? Is its fellow organs?” beings, one of 7 billion. We will live, and the idea of intimate relationships and we will die. the search for meaning too much to for meaning and personal improve- Sometimes the burden can be too handle? Or do we just need to be ment and to work toward making great to bear. And so we numb our- reminded, every year or so, that fear your life worth something to someone selves to the idea. We live as if it weren’t is just an amalgamation of synapses that’s an act few can say they have true, among a million distractions, trying to protect its fellow organs? conquered. keeping us from stopping to look off into Sometimes it takes a vat of numb- Many of us completed the Tough the distance. The obstacles themselves ing water for you to come to the press- Mudder on date. It’s unknown how were distractions from our normal, bor- ing, submerged and panicked recogni- many of us will make the finish line ing lives. It took spurts of electricity, and tion that the act of living is the bravest tomorrow and beyond. freezing water, vats of mud and confined thing of all. To get up every morning spaces for us to prove to ourselves that and attempt to do your best, to search

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Page 24 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 THE HISTORY EDMof

ELECTRONIC DANCE MUSIC HITS THE MAINSTREAM

Words by Britt Kidd Photos by Brandon Scheirman For most people, the word “rave” paints the 1990s in Germany and is distinguished to EDM, it is almost like a drug: People get a mental picture of bright neon lights, scant- by a variety of synthesized sounds, but it captivated by the sounds that are inter- ily clad girls wearing tutus with furry boots, is typically more melodic or progressive twined to make catchy and upending beats”. wrists full of plastic beads, people rolling in comparison to house. The beat also Today, raves are socially acceptable “... IT IS ALMOST LIKE on ecstasy and ear-piercing music. On the remains static the entire song. Accord- musical festivals commonly held in fields, other hand, people struggle to describe the ing to the DJ Magazine poll, the top-five warehouses, sports arenas and basically music genre behind it all. From its humble trance DJs in the world are: No. 1 Armin any place that can fit a monster sound sys- beginnings to its current club-culture reputa- Van Buuren, No. 2 Tiesto, No. 3 Paul Van tem and tons of people. They are publically tion, EDM (electronic dance music) has al- Dyk, No. 4 Above and Beyond No. 5 ATB. advertised on Facebook and other social A DRUG­ — PEOPLE GET ways led the way with its avant-garde style. Dubstep also emerged in the late media, capturing the interest of college stu- The genre encompasses house, 1990s in the United Kingdom. It is known dents and even underage kids to attend. trance, dubstep, electro and other club to have a darker vibe due to its typical “Sure drugs are taken at raves, but dance music. In the past decade, the minor key, overwhelming bass lines and drugs are taken at all types of concerts,” CAPTIVATED BY THE SOUNDS genre has evolved dramatically into an in- no vocals. According to Spin.com, it be- said Pepperdine senior and seven-year ternational movement that is paramount gan as an underground club movement EDM listener Zach Palsson. “You like coun- in the rave culture. With new advances in as a reaction to U.K. grunge music. Spin. try music? So you’re a Republican right? technology, EDM is easier and faster to com also claims that the genre didn’t start Reggae? How much weed did you smoke produce, as many DJs are able to make to emerge in the American market until today? It’s all about opinion.” THAT ARE INTERtwined.” music at home on their laptops. Some DJs around 2006 when artists such as Caspa have become overnight, global success- and Rusko captured the attention of Amer- MAINSTREAMING EDM es just by creating their music at home, ican teens. Since then, dubstep artists Pop artists such as Flo Rida, Britney putting it online and spinning at clubs. have partnered up with American pop art- Spears and even Ne-Yo have jumped on Although EDM is often mistaken as ists such as Britney Spears, and the genre the EDM bandwagon by infusing popular distasteful “druggy music,” it has morphed has blown up across the country. In a Sept. house or trance songs into their poppy radio into a mainstream international genre worth 12, 2011 interview with Spin.com, dubstep songs. The genre that was once considered ELECTRONIC an estimated $4 billion dollars a year, ac- artist Bassnectar claimed that the Ameri- “druggy music” or “raver music” today, sits cording to visual.ly.com. Its songs are can market is the place to be for the genre. competitively on Top 40 hit lists. Senior Jere- played on the radio and are even enjoyed “Right now, in America, the work my Hill sees the positives and the negatives by individuals who probably never have or has been done, the road is paved. If of EDM’s evolution over the past few years. never will go to a rave. In either case, the someone offered me Tokyo or Paris “I think that EDM has lost some of new wave of EDM popularity has made the on a Saturday or Kentucky or Missis- its novelty because of its popularity, but dance rave culture seem more socially acceptable sippi on a Tuesday, I’d take Kentucky”. at the same time if only offers the op- and less of an underground taboo scene. Dubstep artist Skrillex places EDM portunity for it to diversity and evolve,” The components that make up the on the map as he continues to top the Hill said. “In the past three to four years, genre have made their way into main- charts and garner international attention. more sub-genres of EDM have emerged stream music, with pop musicians from In 2012, his album “Scary Monsters and and also the merging of EDM and other music Taylor Swift to Will. I. Am incorporating Nice Sprites” won Best Dance/Electron- genres allows for more interesting songs.” EDM elements in their music. Meanwhile, ica Album at the Grammy Awards and he Many EDM artists have smaller con- EDM favorites the likes of Swedish House was nominated for Best New Artist. He certs and shows that are not raves. The high Mafia and Avicii have permeated the Top also earned the spot as No. 10 ranked energy, the fast beat and the avant-garde 1 ) Armin Van Buuren 2 ) Tiesto 3 ) Paul Van Dyk 4 ) Above and Beyond 5) ATB

40 and are played alongside Demi Lova- DJ in the world on the Dj Magazine poll. sounds create a dynamic and exciting en- to — a far cry from the EDM of the 1990s. “I personally feel the main reason why vironment. It isn’t necessarily for every- EDM is huge now is because of dubstep and one, but neither is country or heavy metal. HOUSE, TRANCE AND DUBSTEP: more specifically because of Skrillex,” Pep- “EDM has some of the sweetest beats THE BIG DIFFERENCE perdine senior and six-year EDM fan Jere- of any type of music and it is so exhilarat- Everyone knows the words “dubstep,” my Hill said. “Dubstep offers more variabili- ing,” said Siegman. “It does not require “trance” and “house,” which comprise the ty and shocking beat changes with the use technicality or choreography; you can just three most popular sub-genres of EDM. of dropbeats that attract a larger audience.” feel the beat and have an awesome time.” House music developed in the 1980s in “Pop songs get lost in the need Chicago and it morphed from disco. It is THE RAVE CULTURE to make a catchy chorus,” Hill said. characterized by repetitive 4/4 beats, syn- The word “rave” garnered its nega- “EDM offers so much more.… You can thesized baselines and a kick drum on ev- tive stereotype because of its bizarre cul- lose yourself in the pure musicality.” ery beat. House music is diverse and var- ture that often focused on drug abuse, ies in style and in influence. Popular house which lead to many deaths. But even for DJs and musicians include David Guetta, fans who defy the druggie stereotype, Swedish House Mafia, Deadmau5, Avicii the addictive music acts as a drug itself. and Kaskade. Popular house songs on “The rave culture has grown because the radio include “Don’t You Worry Child” of the atmosphere it creates,” said Pep- by Swedish House Mafia and “Fade Into perdine freshman and five-year EDM fan, EDMDarkness” by Avicii. Trance developed in Rachel Siegman. “Once a person listens Page 26 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013 CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 27 THE BREAK FAST

Photos by Meagan McCarty CLUBWords by Jessica Abu-Ghattas & Danielle DiMeglio

“You see us as you want to see us… In the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions...” THE RAIN THE THLETE “PEOPLE MAY THINK OF ME AS JUST ANOTHER ATHLETE, BUT THERE’S A LOT MORE THAN MEETS A B THE EYE.” maurice torres

Stepping into Firestone Fieldhouse on a Friday night, one might hear the announcer shouting, “Maurice Tor- res” as he gains another point for the Waves. But outside the volleyball court, his passions surpass his athleticism. Raised in a household with deaf par- ents, Maurice has developed a balance between the deaf and hearing worlds. “Learning ASL as my first language was a necessity to communicate and has shaped my whole life,” Torres said. Additionally, Maurice is fluent in Eng- lish, Spanish and is in the process of Amber scholl learning Italian. Since leaving home, Torres said he is proud to represent DON’T LET THE LIPSTICK AND THE POLISHED the deaf community. He volunteers as NAILS FOOL YOU. This former pageant girl may be a freelance interpreter and has served perceived as delicate and girly, but she is undoubtedly as the referee in a deaf volleyball tour- a fierce competitor on the ice. “People stereotype me as nament. He said his parents both com- the girly girl, but I know how to work hard, and it gives peted in the deaf Olympics and have me the upper hand in competition,” Scholl said. From always encouraged him to be the best the age of 6, she spent her mornings and evenings in his sport through faith and hard work. “PEOPLE OFTEN around school figure skating in the rink and training for “Even with the challenges of balancing competitions. Though the intense lifestyle caused Amber schoolwork with practice, my family has UNDERESTIMATE ME, to leave the sport after eight years, she said that it taught always given me the support and love BUT I PACK A LOT MORE her the value of hard work and discipline. “Being in the to accomplish anything.” While estab- PUNCH THAN YOU public eye and learning how to work hard influenced my lishing a successful volleyball career, love for performing on stage,” she said. With ambitions of Maurice also is able to balance school WOULD THINK FOR A becoming a future reporter, Amber said her experience and a job. He hopes to represent the SMALL GIRL.” in the public eye will work to her advantage on camera. national team and plans to play profes- sionally.

CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 31 THE ASKETCASE THE RINCESS

“IF GOD EXISTS, I THINK HE WOULD APPRECIATE THOSE WHO MADE “I THINK BEING MISTAKES, LEARNED P B A MODERN–DAY FROM THEM AND PRINCESS MEANS BECAME BETTER FOR IT.” KNOWING YOU ARE A DAUGHTER OF A KING.”

Jacey Sisneros

THE TERM ‘PRINCESS’ OFTEN ELICITS THOUGHTS OF A PER- FECTIONIST who gets whatever she wants. But for Jacey, the word is redefined to signify something more meaningful that would inspire many to reconsider the common stereo- type. She believes that a modern– day princess “doesn’t care about a crown. She cares about serving and loving God and people.” After expe- riencing the sudden loss of her fa- ther, her mother’s battle with cancer and watching over her developmen- tally disabled brother, Jacey has em- braced God’s love and found strength. “I could hop back into life, or I could sit and mope about how sad my life STEPHEN VIDOVICH was and how rough I had it. I chose the first one,” Jacey said. The compo- “RESILIENCE IS WHAT UNITES PEOPLE,” Vidorich said. “You can still decide to turn a new leaf,” Vidovich said. A sure, confidence, class and strength free spirit, Vidovich says he likes meeting and talking to all types of people. Yet, when he lost his sister in January, through trials, according to Jacey, Vidovich found consolation from people far more disadvantaged than he is. Vidovich volunteered with Standing are what make her a true princess. on Stone, a community outreach program aimed at serving the poor, needy and lonely in Malibu. “After it happened, I started going to SOS,” Vidovich said. “I felt most comfortable sharing what happened with the people there because they relate [to hardship].” A business administration major and Spanish minor, he hopes that succeeding in the business world will enable him to create jobs for people. After graduating, Vidovich plans to move to Madrid.

CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 33 THE RIMINAL ...but what we found out

“MY MOM IS A TV NEWS is that each one of us is REPORTER, AND MY DAD IS A NEWS ANCHOR. MY WORK HAS ALWAYS C CENTERED ON WHAT a brain,and an athlete, WOULD MAKE A GOOD STORY.” and a basketcase, a princess, and a criminal ... does that answer your question?

Mark Allen Alford

“I WAS AUSTIN FOR A FULL 24 HOURS,” Alford said. “But I looked so much like my father that my name was changed to Mark Allen: Mark Allen Alford Jr., but I’ve been called MA since I was a baby.” Thus, it follows that identity would be one of the major issues Alford confronts in his art. Alford gained notoriety for creating “designer” body bags, some of which bear the logos of haute couture labels like Chanel and Prada. More recent works are branded with the logo of Alford’s alter ego, Mark Allen. The artist describes his infamous body bags as “memento mori,” or art intended to incite contemplation about death. He remarks that the purpose of the work is performance and participation. Alford even encourages viewers to get inside a body bag, if they dare. A stunt in which Alford posed inside a body bag in an art gallery in Miami resulted in his detention by police. Sincerely Yours

DOWNLOAD THE INTERACTIVE, TABLET|MOBILE VERSION OF THIS ISSUE FOR EXCLUSIVE BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS & VIDEOS @ CURRENTS.PEPPERDINE-GRAPHIC.COM. The Breakfast Club Page 34 | CURRENTS SPRING 2013

Chuck Arnoldi An Extraordinary Artist in our own backyard Words by Lauren Baldwin Photos by Selin Uzal “The thing about inspiration is, in a funny way, you are trying to find something that makes you feel good about yourself.”

Chuck Arnoldi welcomed me to his professors taught that painting and sculp- anything that’s been done has been done Venice studio wearing paint-splattered ture were dead — their reign was over. by a person.… You have the same basic jeans and a white tee and drinking a cup All that remained were performance and information and facility that everyone else of coffee. He apologized for not having any conceptual art and mixed media pieces. does. The deal is, is that we all have a for me, and we joked about our mutual caf- “For me, I just really liked painting, so commonality — a very short life span. And feine addiction. We made our way through I tried to find an alternative way of going you can do whatever you want in that time. his space; there were multiple rooms with about making a painting that was valid,” Granted, it’s hard, it’s difficult… What you storage, hanging pieces from past series Arnoldi says. This idea led to the creation need to do is pick a goal and pursue it with he’d created and even a space he was of works such as his Chainsaw and Stick honesty and integrity and hard work.” lending to his son, founder of the wrapping painting series, which were an innovative I, of course, internalized his inspira- paper company Wrapped. After that he aesthetic reversal that rocked the Califor- tional advice and applied it to my life — but took me to his main studio space, which nia art scene. The Frederick R. Weisman also to my life experience at my age and housed his current projects, including a Museum of Art at Pepperdine featured an place and time. Being in your 20s is some- slew of surfboards to be donated to charity. exclusive exhibit of his wood paintings in times terrifying, but motivation and deter- Throughout the interview, he re- 2008. mination help to navigate through even the marked proudly on his family’s accom- Arnoldi told me of the moment he most confusing territory. I asked Arnoldi plishments, including a daughter studying realized he had succeeded in this fight for what advice he would give to young people marine biology in Stanford’s graduate validity. He remembered a conversation who aspire to be artists, but it really rings school and his son’s successful Kickstarter he had with a persistent guest while at the true for anyone. campaign. He even gave me a copy of his opening of the show at the Weisman. “I tell young people: ‘don’t do it.’ The wife Katie’s newest book, “Point Dume.” “She told me she wanted to ask me ones who get pissed off at you for saying As an art history major, I arrived a question about that piece I made 40 that are the ones who are gonna stick with equipped with the idea that most — fa- years ago,” Arnoldi says. “We went over, it and succeed. If you’re gonna do it, don’t mous or not — artists can be egocentric. and hanging on the wall was a piece with expect to be rich and famous; do it ’cause Arnoldi joked later that he was, but our a label, and it was the first time I really you have to do it,” Arnoldi said. time felt like a conversation between a realized I’d been working for over 40 years. The recipe for success seems pep- mentor and struck home for this soon-to- For me, it was successful or valid because, pered with blue-collared grit and hard- be graduate. His advice on the real world, if 40 years later, you can take an inani- work, with no regard for fame and fortune, hard work, inspiration and making it in the mate object that you’ve made and put it in according to Arnoldi. And that golden art world can apply to any person in any a space for people to look at, if that thing nugget of “vocation” that Pepperdine loves field. has a life of its own — enough energy for to hammer into our brains is the ever-elu- Arnoldi was born and raised in people to relate to it — then, in a sense, sive source of inspiration and motivation what he describes as a very blue-collar you’ve succeeded.” for artists — and any person, alike. background in Dayton, Ohio. He had no According to him, though, there is no aspirations of becoming an artist when he ironclad method for evaluating or produc- graduated from high school. As a result of ing “good art.” Part of this validity comes some “fluke” circumstances, he landed in from the work standing the test of time. Click to view our Photo Gallery Thousand Oaks for a bit. “Evaluating what separates art from “Once I saw California, I wanted to shit is impossible. The truth is no one can get the hell out of Ohio,” Arnoldi says. He really tell you what’s good and bad. Show- made some artist friends who encouraged manship and one-upsmanship is not art. him to take art courses at Ventura Coun- I don’t know what the hell art is, but when ty Junior College. He immediately felt a you see it, you can spot it,” Arnoldi says. sense of vocation and self-fulfillment. When he was a young, naive artist, “When I make art, I think I’m good at he had the chance to meet three giants of it and other people acknowledge it, and 20th century modern art: Jasper Johns, it makes me feel good. The thing about Andy Warhol and Robert Rauschenberg. inspiration is, in a funny way, you are trying Arnoldi recounted how open and welcom- to find something that makes you feel good ing they were, and rather than being intim- about yourself.” idated, he sought to learn as much as he However, he was arriving on the art could from them on that trip to New York. scene at the “end of art history,” when his “What it made me realize is that

CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 39 Eat Your Way BREAKFAST Across LA at TAKE YOUR PALATE ON A TOUR OF THE CITY’S FINEST Huckleberry

Nestled within Santa Monica’s up eggs. Or try the fried egg sandwich, sert, all for $30. Because this place is shops and eateries, Huckleberry filled with strips of bacon, sunny-side-up a local favorite, you must be prepared stands out among the rest with an eggs, Gruyere cheese, arugula and aioli for a large crowd on the weekends. array of sweet homemade pastries sauce. The organic ingredients and fla- My recommendation? Try going for and light savory dishes. Owned and vorful combinations will keep you ener- brunch Monday through Thursday, and run by a husband and wife, the bak- gized and satisfied throughout the day. you’ll be more likely to experience a ery and cafe is a small, cozy spot Huckleberry creates the ultimate calm, tantalizing meal with no wait that for the perfect breakfast that will brunch atmosphere with light wooden will keep you coming back for more. start your day off right. Dive into a tables, menu items written on large fresh batch of cinnamon rolls, salted chalkboards across the walls and a 1014 Wilshire Blvd. caramel treats, lemon bars or mini prominent, enticing deli case filled with Santa Monica, 90401 chocolate cupcakes. Pair that with a all of the delicious pastries. The owners www.huckleberrycafe.com cappuccino made from Verve coffee know just how to keep the vibe fresh roasters or hot tea made with loose and exciting by creating new brunch leaves from Art of Tea. If you’re in- specials each weekend. And if you’re Left Page: Huck Cappuccino; Right terested in a more substantial meal, looking for something different on a Page: Breakfast Sandwich (top), Huck order the iconic green eggs & ham. Thursday evening, stop by Huckleber- Pastry (bottom) House-made English muffins are ry for the famous Family Dinner Night W drizzled with pesto and topped with from 6 to 9 p.m. The chefs create a set or fresh arugula and two sunny-side- meal with an appetizer, entree and des- ds P by ho Dan to ielle s b Dimegli y M o oniqu e Batac

Imagine a place that uses only sual place that uses unique blends to city is an inherent need for a homey fresh fruits and vegetables from the produce the perfect cup of coffee. Ev- spot to keep the balance. Shockingly, local farmer’s market to create each eryone needs a break from the usual you don’t need to imagine such a place dish or a place that bakes warm bread glam and glitz that characterizes most any longer — the organic and quality in house each day with homemade brunch and dinner spots in LA. Amid ingredients of a rural town actually ex- flour. Envision a hole-in-the-wall, ca- the on-the-go atmosphere of a bustling ist in this trio of nearby LA restaurants. CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 41 DINNER at Taste Melding together an industrial Sycamore Kitchen transforms tra- that you must eventually try to gain the Just 15 minutes down the coast wait until you try these dishes yourself! anglaise and a scoop of vanilla gelato. atmosphere with natural house-made ditional sandwiches, toasts and salads full Sycamore experience. With roasted brings you to an elegant urban restau- The bold flavors are ampli- True to its name, this restau- ingredients, Sycamore Kitchen creates into something more creative and in- peppers and onions, russet potatoes, rant that utilizes farmer’s market ingre- fied by the fresh fruits and veg- rant will rejuvenate your taste the ideal spot for a mouthwatering meal triguing. The various toast options are spinach and two fried eggs, the hash dients and transforms them into rich etables used in each dish. Though buds and satiate your appetite. in a trendy, casual cafe. With Stumptown thin, crispy open-faced sandwiches is unlike anything you’ve tried before. gourmet flavors. The fireplace, wooden many presume that organic meals coffee drinks and freshly baked bread, that are accompanied with garden- The amiable staff, sweet aro- floors and cascading light fixtures es- are generally bland and unexciting, 538 Palisades Drive customers are drawn to the organic ap- fresh mixed greens. Try the chicken mas and cool ambiance create one tablish an intimate and relaxed atmo- Taste restaurant proves that healthy Pacific Palisades, 90272 peal of the menu amid an urban vibe. salad toast mixed with walnuts, grapes, of LA’s finest organic lunch spots. sphere for a casual night out. Known foods can be just as decadent as the www.ilovetaste.com As you approach the counter, you tarragon and Greek yogurt aioli. for their incredible happy hour menu, juicy burger from your favorite dive. are instantly drawn to the elaborate And if that doesn’t satisfy your crav- Taste offers sophisticated and flavor- For a satisfying and succulent en- display of pastries that will capture your ings, try the house-made ricotta toast 143 S La Brea Ave ful tastings at great college prices. tree, order the grilled salmon served darkest desires for something sweet topped with stewed citrus, fennel, mint Los Angeles, 90036 Start off your meal with the popu- in a roasted tomato sauce with sau- and comforting. Though it may not be a and hazelnut. But if you’re in the mood www.thesycamorekitchen.com lar white truffle mac & cheese or grilled teed spaghetti squash, pickled Per- pleasant experience for your wallet, your for something more light and refresh- artichoke with white truffle balsamic sian cucumbers, shaved red onions stomach, heart and soul will be singing ing, order the chinoix salad, which con- glaze. For a lighter appetizer, order the and drizzled with a balsamic reduction. in sweet harmony as you happily con- sists of shredded chicken, cabbage, ahi tuna tartare mixed with avocado, As if the savory dishes didn’t con- sume more sweets than you planned to apple, almond, puffed rice and drizzled mint, dill, jicama, sweet soy reduc- vince you enough, the desserts are just purchase — like the chocolate banana with a muddled ginger vinaigrette. Syc- tion, spicy aioli and served on a crispy as endearing. Gelatos and sorbets are strudel or the salted caramel pecan amore Kitchen also offers their more crostini. However, their most popular made from fresh fruit juice, creating a babka roll. Each menu item is made adventurous dish, pork belly hash. savory treat is the Kobe beef meat- refreshing end to a delightful meal. But with fresh produce to create unique, Though considered more of a break- balls, which is made with Wagyu beef, if you’re craving something more rich in savory dishes for customers to enjoy. fast option, the pork belly hash is a dish caramelized onions, pine nuts, golden flavor — and since you’ve been eating raisins, pomodoro sauce, parmigia- healthy all day — treat yourself to the no-reggianno and pecorino cheese. dangerously delicious chocolate bri- LUNCH at If you’re not salivating already, just oche bread pudding served with creme

Left Page: Chinois Salad (top), Market Salad (bottom); Right Page: Taste Table (top), Kobe Meatballs (bottom Sycamore Kitchen left), Ahi Tuna Tartare (bottom right)

CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 43 SOUTHERN CITY &

Story by Danielle Accovelli Photos by Rebecca Herron

Junior Jordynn Wynn wears Southern & City’s dove’s wing rockee jacket paired with the daisy back stage bandeau. All photos shot at Casa Oceana Malibu. The Odd Couple: City Chic Meets Southern Beauty

“I saw a vision of a brand that brought could dress up as well,” McAleney said. Pepperdine Class of 2012 alumnus and the edgy city fashion of Europe and used McAleney said the designing duo photographer for the brand’s upcoming it with a Southern laid-back manner,” stays on top of current fashion trends, spring line said. “I feel that in the summer 22 year-old fashion designer Saman- but gives their line a unique edge by and spring a lot of Pepperdine girls would tha Abrahart said. Abrahart said her de- fusing the radically different styles of wear Southern and City-type clothes.” sire to fuse those styles together was the the rural South and European city life. “[The brand] would be perfect for impetus of the fashion brand Southern “I’ve had the idea for a long time, Pepperdine girls, because we live by and City, which she co-founded along- since I grew up in London and moved to the beach, so its good for our weather,” side longtime friend Virginia Claussen. Atlanta, Georgia,” Abrahart said. “I wanted Southern and City model and current The fusion of two different identi- to create a brand that encompassed the Pepperdine junior Jordynn Wynn said. ties and lifestyles — Claussen’s life as two identities with the edgy style of Eu- This is especially true for Southern “I wanted to a Southern belle and Abrahart’s experi- rope and the laid–back romantic flare of and City’s Spring 2013 collection, “Con- ence living in London — is the heart of the South, so when I met Virginia we just cert in the Woods,” which Claussen de- the vision behind Southern and City. This really connected as far as our creativity.” scribes as the perfect Coachella wear create a concept resonates throughout the Spring “It’s all about incorporating two life- with a lot of bright colors and floral prints. 2013 line — from their sheer floral crop styles and expressing individuality,” Abra- It incorporates the edgy, rock concert as- tops to their electric blue “Ringo” pants. hart said, speaking of her inspiration for pect with the romantic Southern woods brand that Since Abrahart and Claussen found- the line as founder and creative director. aspect of the collection, said Claussen. ed the line in Georgia in 2010, it has Abrahart also emphasized that indi- Claussen shared that the fall blossomed into a truly unique clothing viduality and versatility are a major aspect 2013 line will show a return to the encompassed ... brand and expanded across the country. in the vision behind Southern and City. European influences of the label. Their biggest move is coming this May, “All of our pieces are extremely ver- “The theme of our fall collection is as the line goes into production in LA. satile,” Abrahart said. “We thrive off of ver- Gypsy Travels, which will have a large the edgy style of Southern and City is a chic, bohemi- satility, so we try to make styles that can Parisian influence,” Claussen said. “There an-meets-city inspired line that combines be worn in multiple and different ways so will be a lot of velvet and jewel tones.” the fun, flowy styles of the South with its all about taking a piece of our cloth- As for the future of the brand, Abra- the more edgy styles of European cit- ing and making it you, whatever that is.” hart and Claussen will continue to use Europe and the ies. Bright colored tops with elegant floral The vision resonates with McAle- their distinct style and unique vision for patterns provide the perfect contrast to ney, who agrees the line is meant to in- Southern and City to inspire girls around their more rock-inspired bell bottoms and spire all girls to find expression through the world to express their individual- laid–back ripped shorts, which emphasizes the de- clothing and create their own individual ity through clothing and individual style. signers’ goal to promote individual style. style from what they see around them. The line’s southern flair has reached “Essentially the idea of Southern and Click to view our “Southern and romantic flare of across the country to Pepperdine’s cam- City is meshing two worlds,” McAleney said. City” photo gallery pus, where several students have become “They know that girls aren’t just one thing, involved in marketing and modeling the there is a little bit of everything in each of the South.” brand. Pepperdine senior Jamie McAleney us so they’re trying to play up with that.” serves as Southern and City’s social media In short, it’s all about personal style coordinator for the spring 2013 semester. and any girl can be a Southern and “Southern and City as a brand is a City girl — especially a Pepperdine girl. very laid-back, bohemian sort of every- “Southern and City could cater very day feel, but with a bit of flare that you well to the Malibu market,” Houston Costa,

“It’s all about taking a piece of our clothing and making it you, whatever that is.” Senior Lindsey Jeu De Vine wears a lace crop top and floral headband, styled by Samantha Designers Virginia Claussen (left) and Samantha Abrahart (right) launch Junior Tamyshia Curry models cobalt strawberry field Abrahart and Virginia Claussen. theirtheir newnew lineline inin FallFall 20132013 shorts and a floral festival fringe jacket. CURRENTS SPRING 2013 |Page 47 POPPING TAGS LIKE A PRO ON THE WESTSIDE

WORDS BY GRACE STEARNS ThriftPHOTOS BY CHELSEA GEST Shop

While we can’t all roll out of bed and a 21st century statement craze. Put aside into breezy, styled perfection as put forth any aversion you may hold toward hipsters on the preceding pages, many (myself (only temporarily), and stop cringing at the included) try in vain to keep up with the thought of sifting through soiled garments trendy touchstone that characterizes from the late 90s at Goodwill Santa Monica. SoCal culture and permeates the Malibu These inaccurate preconceptions mindset. Try as we might, conjuring up of thrift shopping will only hinder you runway-ready ensembles in the blink of from achieving an envy-inducing, an eye is something that simply does not inimitable style aesthetic. Anyone can come naturally for everyone, especially walk into Free People and buy fierce. those of us with limited disposable income. It takes a keen eye, confidence and Thankfully, dominant trends of the determination to select one-of-a-kind, moment are typified by a tendency to secondhand statement pieces that will include and encompass varied imaginative render your look impossible to replicate. mediums and a vast array of historic Of course there’s room for error, inspiration. The result is a fashion pastiche but when approached with the proper of pieces that combine 80s glam rock, attitude, thrifting might potentially romantic, unstructured bohemian and transport any moderately on-trend quintessentially feminine pastel prep. individual to a total, bona fide style icon. When glancing over such adjectival Can’t handle wearing a sweater All pictures were taken at the Artifac Tree in Malibu, CA phrases as those just listed, window with unknown and potentially unhygienic displays at stores like Free People, origins? Focus on belts, skirts, Planet Blue, Top Shop, Madewell and sunglasses and costume jewelry. Brandy Melville might come to mind, The following stores are great starting “Despite my tendency to bringing with them stress inducing points for sanitary and current shopping: visions of flashing, bright red dollar signs. remain skeptical toward Take heart, for in actuality each one $ Wasteland on 4th $ of these styles lends itself to those rare any activity primarily Pepperdine budgets that may in fact not be $ The Closet linked to a primary cardholder of the parental on Main and Hill $ variety. That is, despite the abundant flow associated with hipsters of beautiful and easily accessed pieces $ Crossroads Exchange on 4th produced and promoted by pricey retailers and Broadway $ and Macklemore, thrifting on Third Street, authentic and unique fashion resources of the secondhand variety $ Give and Take Swap wait to be discovered just a few streets over. Boutique on Ocean Park Blvd. $ is an ancient cultural Despite my tendency to remain skeptical toward any activity primarily Grab your game face, swallow your phenomenon that must not be associated with hipsters and Macklemore, bourgeoisie inclinations and dive into thrifting is an ancient cultural phenomenon the limitless vogue bounty that West LA that must not be too easily disregarded as thrifting offers. too easily disregarded as a DOWNLOAD THE INTERACTIVE, TABLET|MOBILE VERSION OF THIS ISSUE FOR EXCLUSIVE 21st century statement craze.” BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS & VIDEOS @ CURRENTS.PEPPERDINE-GRAPHIC.COM.

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