"If you had to describe this collection in one word, what would it be? 'EXISTENCE'," says Alex James as he explains the concept behind this exclusive PLEASURES collection. Creative Director for Publish Brand and co-founder and creative head of PLEASURES, James channels an unapologetically evocative space for hardcore youths. The Los Angeles label, with its raw and visceral aesthetics, harkens to the days of hardcore punk which was largely prominent in the '80s and '90s.
Interestingly, contrary to where James grew up where he spent his deep-dyed punk days, New Jersey, the sun-bathed west coast has become a potent breeding ground for ideas that reintroduce the straightedge milieu — the right amount of openness and Californian "chill" makes the place a sun-washed frontier for creative imagination. This time around, PLEASURES' 2017 Fall/Winter "From the Cradle to the Grave" collection sees a concise range of printed garments encompassing tees and hoodies exclusive to HBX. This collection's narrative focuses on the concept of the circle of life, how one shapes his/her own life and how we're remembered.
We chatted with Alex James in a short Q&A that discuss the statement motifs referencing teenage angst, James' musical inspirations and his enigmatic perspective on life. Scroll through below to read more.
This collection is more about the circle of life. The progression from birth to after death and everything in-between.
What do you think of the hardcore punk and straightedge scene today compared to how you remember it as a kid?
The scene is still very much alive on a global scale. With classic bands like The Misfits and Jawbreaker newly reuniting, kids are getting to experience what we saw back in the day.
The sunflower seems to be a recurring graphic throughout the collections. Is there a backstory that you could shed some light on for this?
Sunflowers symbolize joy and happiness. The world is in peril right now; we are trying to create graphics with some positivity.
There's a tee in this collection that reads "BOYS DON'T CRY", was The Cure an inspiration?
This concept is for a 12” maxi single that never existed. Partly inspired by The Cure but also by The Pet Shop Boys and maybe a little Frank Ocean in there too.
If you had to describe this collection in one word, what would it be?
EXISTENCE.
What's your favorite record right now?
Corbin - Mourn. The album is so raw and unapologetic.
We're going to ask you about some music, specifically some records. Can you tell us about some that you've always identified with:
A record you need to bump in the car?
LCD Soundsystem / American Dream
A record that you'd play at your funeral?
The Smiths / The Queen is Dead
A record that reminds you of home?
Saves the Day / Through Being Cool
A record that's made you the person you are today?
Radiohead / Ok Computer
What's the first word that comes to mind with the following:
Love.
Something I’m in.
Death.
Something that is certain in life.
Red wine.
Something I enjoy.
In life, what are the things that you hold most important to you?
My family, my friends and my sanity.
Did you ever hang out at places like CBGB and ABC No Rio? If so, any memories or stories that has always stuck with you?
I used to frequent both a lot growing up. Countless shows from American Nightmare and Bane to Bad Brains /Soul Brains to H20. One fond memory was pissing at the bar at CB’s. The bathroom was all the way in the front by the stage so it was impossible to get to. So literally the wooden bar would act as a urinal. No wonder that place smelled so bad.
Through past collections, you've referenced Sonic Youth, Bjork, Nirvana, My Bloody Valentine, possibly some inspirations from Gorilla Biscuits, Strife and so on. How has the music made you think about life and spirituality?
Music sets my soul at peace. It helps my creative process and feeds off my mood.
What does the future hold for PLEASURES?
We are presenting a special collection along with a visual presentation at Innersect show in Shanghai. Shouts to Edison Chen for the support!! We are also launching “ PLEASURES Audio”, a new platform where we work with artists to present their passion music projects. There’s a ton of other things as well but I can’t really discuss. Stay tuned.
Click here to shop the PLEASURES 2017 Fall/Winter "From the Cradle to the Grave" collection.