Japanther and Ninjasonik
Jul 14, 2009

This Saturday the Whitney rocked and rolled with Japanther and Ninjasonik. It was very exhilarating, fun, energetic, and the vibe was great.

A very important part of the day was the children’s event. Many children along with their families came out to the Whitney. Kids participated in many activities such as creating their own comic books, making music, and even exploring the galleries. The kids also got to watch animated shorts that inspired artist Dan Graham. One of the animated shorts was the anime classic “Spirited Away” directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This motivated YI to be greater role models and supporters—giving the kids an enjoyable event throughout the day.
 
I sat with one of the band members from Japanther, Ian Vanek. He attended Pratt Institute. That is where he met his band-mate Matt Reilly. Ian remarks “There was always music in the family.”  Ian’s family played music, his father was a drummer, and brothers played the bass. That sort of encouragement can be big impact in someone’s life. Matt, also talked about his influences such as the Wu-Tang and Big L. He mentions that one of the driving forces behind his music is sheer expression and the opportunity to create. That’s not the only thing which inspired the band—they were also inspired by a schematic artist named Dan Graham with his fascinating sculptural installations and love for rock. This gave them a focus on youth and community development and opened their eyes to the world, doing concerts around the US, Canada, Australia, and Mexico. Not only are they musically gifted, but their talents extend to the arts. The band hand-made silkscreen shirts with the Japanther logo for the Whitney Museum staff. Judging from prior knowledge in silk screening, I assure you that this is no easy feat.

The band also had an amazing BMX bike rider who did tricks and twists, the dare devil’s name was Darryl Nau / BLACKEN. Darryl also believes in the same lifestyle as Ian and Matt: “Not trying to reach for fame and money but to just have fun and enjoy life.” Darryl performed on Dan Graham-inspired skateboard installations during the Japanther performances.

Ninjasonik also performed at the museum and did their part in entertaining and interacting with the crowd. Both bands complimented each other in terms of performing alongside each other effortlessly and providing a memorable performance, also celebrating “Reverend Mc Fly’s” birthday. The band is also from Brooklyn NY, with its punk rap groove.

What other words could you use to describe this day apart from entertaining, amusing, exciting, and awesome? Kids played and teens rocked with the bands. It was a day to remember, full of many memories.

--By Amadu