A well-known EDM DJ Steve Aoki decided to change up his sound adding hip hop and rap elements to his latest album going to be released soon, but previewed to public in Greenwich Village Tuesday night.
BUILD series hosted the preview of Dim Mak, Aoki’s clothing brand, sixth collection entitled “Paradise Found.” The urban designs hold political messages due to the socio-political climate here in America. The line is fashionable while also making a statement, to address the issues that we all see and face in the modern-day America. A plight that others in his occupation would find too risky for their image and career, but Aoki wants to make a stance.
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 18: A view of the models during the presentation at the Steve Aoki and BUILD Series DIM MAK Collection SS18 ‘PARADISE FOUND’ runway show and ‘KOLONY’ album release event at the BUILD Studio on July 18, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images for BUILD Series)
The event was a sight for sore eyes entering the building inside a showroom that hosted the models sporting their frocks. All consistent upon a color scheme of neutrals and denims with some pieces honing the phrase “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave,” on their backs. The models all fresh faced and rocking the brands from inside the showroom to the outdoor runway during the concert. Each one wearing a unique piece in the collection sitting on a stage looking into the crowd, Aoki explained the influence of the collection and its importance. The activism intertwined fashion, trend has been seen more and more in the industry with the rise of education in causes.
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 18: Steve Aoki (C) performs onstage during the Steve Aoki and BUILD Series DIM MAK Collection SS18 ‘PARADISE FOUND’ runway show and ‘KOLONY’ album release event at the BUILD Studio on July 18, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images for BUILD Series)
The outdoor concert was open to a select few of the public who showed up and line up for the chance to see Aoki preform with various special guests. Performing a remix to Rolex with Ayo and Teo on stage, which hyped up the crowd. Spectators from nearby businesses stopped to view the madness that was this show. From cake being thrown in the face of fans to a band preforming with drums and trumpets on the runway. KOLONY, is an album that is dedicated to the mixing EDS sounds with Rap over the tracks. To make that happen Aoki teamed up with various others rap artists such as 2 Chainz, Aye & Teo, Gucci Mane, Migos and more.
The night was one full of wonderment, political talk, music and the joyous summer night that ended with cocktails. Aoki’s models as well as the rest of the VIP patrons spoke amongst themselves as the night started to die down. This album and clothing line is a new chapter for Aoki.
