To the loyal Versions readers who have noticed the large blocks of time in between posts these days (as well as many unfortunately  unanswered emails) I’ve been hard at work on a big side project the last 4 months. But the absentee landlord does have a, very long-winded, explanation.
Despite being immersed in west coast culture all my life, sadly I can’t skate, I can barely surf and I don’t cycle (motor, fixie or otherwise). This was thanks in no large part to an overprotective mother, who wouldn’t let me near a butter knife until I was 12 (no joke), let alone letting me enjoy any of the above ‘death traps’. So most of my youth was spent decked out in my JimmyZ shorts and Maui & Sons tees but with my wings pretty much clipped, all while having to endure watching my friends get to do ‘ollies’, ‘cutbacks’ or even taking their BMXs on any sweet jumps.
For better or for worse all my energy would get channeled into the art and music. I became an avid collector of west coast punk, surf, reggae and electro-funk. And whenever someone needed a Bones Brigade or Suicidal Tendencies skull on the back of their jacket, I was their guy.
So what’s changed? Nada far as I can tell. The day job is a pleasant mix of design, illustration,‘street art’ and the occasional streetwear graphic, all of which brings me full circle to my point. I’m proud to have launched a new magazine: WESTERN CIV, dedicated to the best in ‘ride culture’ AKA skate, surf, cars and cycling (motor, fixie or otherwise). Ironically enough wings are still clipped.
And of course there’s still music, bringing me to today’s post. UK techno classic Pacific 202 by 808 State gets a cheeky instrumental surf guitar retrofitting by Germany’s Dauerfisch. Also thrown in for brilliant measure is an orchestrated version by the genius that is Jeremy Deller and his Williams Fairey Brass Band project.

Dauerfisch – Pacific 202
The Williams Fairey Brass Band – Pacific 202

Enjoy!
LS

PS For those in Thee Versions Galore Facebook Fanclub who think ‘Balearic’ is a character from Lord of The Rings, got the original Pacific on the wall for you…

PPS And for those of you who skate, surf, cycle and drive better than me (AKA all of you), drop by at my new project at WESTERN CIV…