Lisboa 2012 Week 1

Posted on January 21, 2012 by diamondancer

It feels good to be back here.  Lisbon is as beautiful as I remember! (and as hilly too, but I remembered my sneakers this time!) I am so grateful for the outpouring of love I have received.  I’m looking forward to a busy couple of months here.  I’m hoping to avoid gaining  a hundred pounds from all of the good food here, but I think our friend Vahagn might have something to say about that, ha ha!  My second night here and he prepares the most splendid meal featuring ‘osso buco’ (which literally translates: bone with a hole in it) .  It was my first time having it, but it surely won’t be my last. Here are a few pics.  The osso buco as well as the view from the apartment where I’m spending my first few days.

Cheers!

-diamond…

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DIAMONDANCER (poetry) for CHRISTMAS?

Posted on December 4, 2011 by diamondancer
Apologies web copy

This gallery contains 15 photos.

DIAMONDANCER (POETRY) FOR CHRISTMAS? Why not? It’s thoughtful, portable and makes great stocking stuffers!  Books are timeless gifts, broadsides make great conversation starters – and they look fantastic framed! Diamondancer’s latest book “The Feminine Profane” and broadsides (14 to choose … Continue reading →

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THE FEMININE PROFANE * UPDATE*

Posted on November 6, 2011 by diamondancer
Baptism3 blog

This gallery contains 15 photos.

*****THANK YOU DETROIT***** The first of ‘The Discussion Series’ sessions was absolutely incredible. The honest dialogue about the images and writings was humbling. The sharing was touching and intense.  I’m looking forward to the next one at home!  Mad love! … Continue reading →

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Brief Lisbon Highlights

Posted on September 19, 2011 by diamondancer

Well, what can I say?  Things have been non-stop since I arrived in Lisbon Thursday morning!  Everything is so lovely here, and, everything is so hilly here too!  Only city I know where everything seems uphill – no matter what direction you’re going!  I wish I had time for more than just a brief overview, but alas…

Thursday morning I met my friends and we proceeded to the flat where we would be staying. Then after a brief bit of water and introductions to flat mates it was off to a recording session for my friend Jerry.  The studio was impressive and I hope to record my next album there upon my return.  Special thanks to everyone for their generosity and quite possibly the best chicken I’ve eaten!  After the session back to the flat for a quick change of clothes and then off to club Lounge!  Very warm intimate spot with red walls and a nice staff.  The night was capped off with impromptu special request performances by myself and Jerry the Cat. For those who recognize the significance of this – Jerry actually sang and did poetry!  Here’s to new directions!  Mad love to Vaughn and the Thursday Lounge Crowd for incredible energy!

Friday was our first opportunity to see a little of the city, so we wandered a bit, took some pictures and had a nice dinner.  Our waiter was great and the spinach soup was a highlight.  Will add the name of the café when I post pics – can’t find the card and having a memory failure at the moment.  We finished off the night by heading to a club owned by a friend of Jerry’s and enjoyed a nice vibe and good wine.

Saturday’s highlights were “the best chocolate cake in the world” at Food and Flowers – a little restaurant near our flat, and a surprise performance at a Portuguese wedding! Congratulations to the bride and groom (Sara and Joao)! Thank you to the staff at Maria BA and to all the wonderful new friends who welcomed us with open arms!

Sunday (today) was awesome because I actually got to the recording studio with Jerry and his friend Arttu!  We had a lovely time and got a lot of work done!  Looking forward to hearing the release!  Great dinner in (thanks to Jerry cooking) and now catching up on all things ‘social media’!

Monday will have us rehearsing for Tuesday’s show and then a dinner hosted for us, and Tuesday we will be meeting friends during the day and later rocking it out at MUV!

More to come.

-diamond…..

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8 DAYS with 1 CARRY-ON AND 1 LAPTOP BAG

Posted on September 14, 2011 by diamondancer

It’s true.  I packed for an 8 day international trip in one carry-on suitcase and one laptop bag – including sound equip and cameras.  This was not my first choice for the trip, but my schedule left me with no time to check luggage between connecting flights (at two different airports, in NY/NJ with only three hours from touch-down to take- off).  So the options were ship extra stuff ahead of time, or make it work with what could be carried on.

The trip was to Lisbon, Portugal for performances, recording and video/photo shoots, so I had to choose items that could work for different settings as needed.

I was a little intimidated at first and then I got to thinking “This could be interesting, if I can actually do it”.  I know there are a lot of people out there (guys in particular) saying to themselves “Yeah, right.  A woman packing for 8 days anywhere with just one carry-on?  I’ll believe it when I see it!”

Well…. here’s how it went down.

Keys to the luggage:

  • knits – they travel well and tend to wrinkle less
  • minimal color palate – fewer pieces are needed to mix/match for different looks – introduce color with smaller items like scarves and jewelry
  • shoes – one pair dressy heels, one kitten heel, a flip flop and a flat
  • remember you are wearing a whole outfit on the plane so choose those pieces to coordinate with what you’re packing
  • take pieces that have more than one function if possible – for example I chose was a long maxi skirt that doubles as a strapless dress on a different day

I also had equipment to consider so here are a few ‘not rocket science’ tips to packing tech stuff:

  • equipment cases take up more room.  you’re carrying on so the suitcase is not going to be tossed like a football under the plane – so you could travel with cameras, microphone out of cases.  Clothes, and in my case, a lot of cords can provide extra cushion/buffer
  • think ‘Tetris’ or jigsaw puzzle – sometimes items can be shifted to fit ‘inside’ or within other pieces i.e. my computer mouse was able to sit under my mic cradle, and my microphone was secured by the ‘channel’ that was created by the handle tracks
  • un-package new items like tapes for videos, cd’s etc and discard the extra bulky packaging

What I actually packed in the carry-on:

  • 2 scarves (one print, one solid –wrap size) to serve as warmth or color
  • 1 pr flip flops
  • 1 pr kitten heel thong shoes
  • undies
  • robe
  • 1 choc brown long sleeved dress lightweight knit
  • 1 black sleeveless evening dress knit
  • 1 black maxi skirt/dress lightweight knit
  • 1 black asymmetric hemline skirt medium weight knit
  • 1 long sleeved neutral knit top
  • 1 short sleeved neutral knit top
  • jewelry
  • makeup (basics – moisturizer, 1 multi-purpose compact, mascara minimal eyes and color, lipstick, lip gloss)
  • video camera
  • still camera
  • 2 external hard drives
  • microphone
  • audio interface
  • mouse and pad for laptop
  • cords

What I actually packed in the laptop bag:

  • ballerina flats (prepared for the OJ Simpson sprint just in case)
  • 1 washcloth and empty Ziploc (for after you use the towel)
  • FAA Ziploc with approved personal items (so you don’t have to go in the overhead bins if you decide you want to freshen up during long flights)
  • pens
  • business cards
  • notebook/binder
  • 10 copies of my book
  • laptop and cord
  • wallet/change purse
  • mini recorder
  • glasses and contact lens case
  • cell phone
  • headphones

What I actually wore on the plane:

  • long sleeved black knit top (goes with either skirt)
  • blue palazzo pants knit (and go with the two neutral tops)
  • large blue knit wrap for warmth
  • stilettos (remember flats are in the laptop bag should I need to change quickly) *wearing the ‘largest/tallest’ pair of shoes made more room in the luggage

These suggestions may not work for everyone, but they may give you some ideas of how to travel with less on your next trip (should the need arise).  Pics of the luggage and how I wore the outfits will be posted later! Stay tuned…

-diamondancer

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LATE NIGHT CHRONICLES incl Peppermint Kisses feat. Diamondancer

Posted on September 6, 2011 by diamondancer

LATE NIGHT CHRONICLES

A soundtrack for the time of day when nothing really matters but the music you love.  An after-hours musical narrative, crafted in unadulterated authenticity.

Drivetrain brings on acclaimed writer/vocalist Diamondancer, dropping seductive expressions of passion and desire on Peppermint Kisses, Pads and strings provide the enchantment as the sub-bass quakes your body.  Nate Mattimore makes his Soiree debut with veteran, Todd Perrine (the P of the now defunct PH Concept) remixing CloudMasterWeed’s, Sunny.

After Years of individual involvement in the scene, the 2 joined musical forces in 2007 forming a strong production and performing partnership.  the Mattimoe-Perrine remix defines pure, sterilized deepness.  BlackJack’s ever-expanding repertoire of preeminent productions reaches a new level.  Triaxial’s impeccable orchestration and grooving bass line effortlessly fuse this late night odyssey.

Quindrant Dub is Professor Inc’s dark and techy nocturnal poison.  Pounding rhythm under mind-bending effects generate proper dance floor dope at the time when you need it most.  LATE NIGHT CHRONICLES – music for the bewitching hour.

Drivetrain feat. Diamondancer – Peppermint Kisses

CloudMasterWeed – Sunny (Mattimoe-Perrine Remix)

BlackJack – Triaxial

Professor Inc – Quindrant Dub

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Who Is Diamondancer?

Posted on September 4, 2011 by diamondancer

Carolyn Ferrari, a.k.a. Diamondancer, was born and raised in Flint, Michigan. She moved to the Detroit area in
the summer of 1997, which is where the love affair with House Music began. She started writing poetry in 2001, has been published in two anthologies and belongs to three poetry groups both in and outside of Detroit. The Diner, Excuse Me, Did you say something? and Love Potion #33 are three books of her poetry, self-published through Leadfoot Press. Diamondancer is also a photographer and jewelry designer and she currently resides in Miami, FL.

Diamondancer has been performing for 10 years at poetry readings, open mic sessions and clubs. Notable appearances have included: Absolute Thursdays weekly (Detroit, 2007), Women on Wax Electronic Music Festival (Detroit, 2007) and SWEAT party (Atlanta, 2007). She held her “Farewell Detroit” ‘unplugged’ performances in February 2010 and went on to present a visual arts show in San Angelo, TX. March 2010 featured a series of performances and appearances at the Winter Music Conference in Miami.  Diamondancer rounded out the year with “The Return Series with E-man” and an appearance on the internet radio series “House 2 House with DJ Menny.”  This trend continues in 2011, with Diamondancer having been invited to perform at several high-profile events; highlights include:

  • The 2nd Annual Old School House Music Cruise (Carnival Destiny) and Soul Elevation Music Bon Voyage

  • pre-cruise reception (Maxine’s Bistro, South Beach Miami) (May 2011)
  • The Souled Out Project Presents: “In Connection” (Detroit, May 2011)
  • Soul Elevation Music Sessions Live (Winter Music Conference, Miami, March 2011)
  • Get Open Sessions Presents Heal & Release (Coney Island, NY, August 2011)

Diamondancer keeps the momentum rolling with several music projects released and more on the way. Her releases are critically acclaimed by influential members of the house music community such as Michael Fossati
(spiritofhouse.com) and Sammy Rock (cyberjamz.com) and are included in regular rotation on cyberjamz.com, housefreaks.co.uk, pressureradio.com and housemasons.com. Diamondancer continues to be sought after for recording projects, having collaborated with such musicians as Dirty Turk, Ralf Gum, Jimpster, Isoul8, Delano Smith, Ezel and Jamie Lewis.

Always seeking to take her craft to new heights, you can expect fresh collaborations as the summer heat takes hold – and coming soon – visual art and music presentations that are designed to engage all the senses.

“This year is really about faceting. The early years were about cutting and taking the diamond out of the rough. Now it is about facets, and polish; reflecting light.”

Diamondancer Discography
2002 “Got House?” DJ Minx f/Diamondancer Women on Wax (Detroit)
2004 “Message for the DJ ” Delano Smith f/Diamondancer Stillmusic (Chicago), Harley & Muscle (Italy)
2004 “Gratuitous Sex Piece” DJ Disciple f/Diamondancer Molacacho Records (Barcelona)
2006 “Just the Way I Like It” Isoul8 f/Diamondancer (from the album Balance)Neroli (Italy), Sonarkollektiv (Germany)
2006 “A Love Like This” Jimpster f/Diamondancer (from the album Amour)Freerange (London)
2007 “R.E.M.” Luna City Express f/Diamondancer Justified Cause Recorthings (Spain)
2007 “Shall We Begin?” The Craftsmen f/Diamondancer Yakuza Records (Ireland)
2007 “Somewhere Else” Inohs Sivad f/Diamondancer Third Ear Recordings (Japan, UK)
2007 “All This Love for You” Ralf Gum f/Diamondancer (from the album Uniting Music)GO-GO Music (Germany)
2008 “Connect” Diamondancer spoken word album Dark River Recordings (Detroit)
2008 “Rooftops in Senegal” Jerry the Cat f/Diamondancer Dark River Recordings (Detroit)
2008 “Shades of Rain” Jerry the Cat f/Diamondancer Dark River Recordings (Detroit)
2008 “Jesus Invented Rhythm” Ibex f/Diamondancer Soundmen on Wax (Japan)
2008 “Earth Sounds” Paul Henry f/Diamondancer unreleased
2009 “Ice Jungle” Izmo f/Diamondancer (from the album Early Night)Harley & Muscle, Little Angel (Italy)
2009 “Take Me Higher ” TNT f/Diamondancer Purple Music (Switzerland)
2010 “Mother Wind ” Ezel f/Diamondancer (from the album Secreto)Ocha (California)
2010 “In a Better Way (Change)” Malik Alston f/Diamondancer Truth Manifest Records (Detroit)
2010 “Let’s Begin” The Craftsmen f/Diamondancer (from the EP Flow)Candy Music (Argentina)
2011 “JESUS MAN” Doc Link & Diamondancer Liberated (NYC/Chicago)
2011 “Come Back To Me” audioJazz f/Yvonne Gage & Diamondancer (from the EP Summer City Nights)audioJazz music (NYC)
2011 “Welcome Home (Africa) ” audioJazz & Diamondancer audioJazz music (NYC)
2011 “Essence of You” Leslie Carter & Diamondancer present Goddess NRG dagoSTaR (NYC)
2011 “Tap The Core” Tomson f/Diamondancer Development Music (UK)
2011 “What’s In A Kiss” audioJazz & Diamondancer dagoSTaR (NYC)
2011 “Lullaby” audioJazz & Diamondancer dagoSTaR (NYC)
2011 “No Kicks ” Benjamin Brunn f/Diamondancer Third Ear Recordings (UK, Japan)

-diamondancer

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SHIMMY SHAKE!

Posted on August 31, 2011 by diamondancer

My NEW RELEASE!!!   Shimmy Shake – TNT feat. Diamondancer  is out now… thank you for your love and support! :) <3

find it here:  https://www.stompy.com/index.php?section=ep&parameter=281754

‘ladies come join our groove, dance circle of love and light. uplift each other celebrate! let’s shimmy shake tonight!’ 

-diamondancer

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The Feminine Profane

Posted on August 30, 2011 by diamondancer

book coverFROM THE AUTHOR

Female intellect and voice have historically been de-valued in our society.  The last 200 years has seen women subjected to extraordinary, often inhumane treatment in the name of curing “female mental illness”.  Some common practices were isolation, brutal force feedings, tooth removal, stomach surgeries and clitorectomies.

A woman could be declared insane for events beyond her control i.e. being raped (a symptom of nymphomania), and actions she could control i.e. laughing too loudly in public.  Often, men dissatisfied with their wives would cite such things as crying, refusing sex or changing a hair style as reasons to have them committed.  Thus, silence and conformity became….

This is my new book entitled The Feminine Profane (self published through Leadfoot Press).  This collection is special because it represents my voice now – and a new found freedom of self expression without fear.  I  want to thank you for your support of the book and hope you find something that touches, inspires or helps you as you walk your own paths.

-diamondancer

 This 66 page book of poetry, is perfect bound with full color cover.  You can order your copy here:

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Why?

Posted on August 17, 2011 by diamondancer

Why…

Today a very dear friend of mine posted a musical ‘gift’ for me on my facebook page (http://youtu.be/mAm-ciK9bNY ).  In addition to being a talented composer and film maker, he is an inspiration.  He has overcome some considerable obstacles during our friendship and seeing him persevere with such an open heart allows no room for excuses or pity parties.

Just before that, a friend I have yet to meet in person ‘tweeted’ me because I was a bit on the quiet side of things, more than usual.

Get to the point?  Ok…

Sometimes I get distracted or forget why this music – this path, and then friends like Nicolas pop up on my page with generous gifts of music, or new friends request me with my lyrics typed as part of their requests.  I remember others who have mentioned that my music has helped them get through very painful times, or inspired them to create or take a chance.  I remember the first time I heard the sounds of salvation in a little bar called “246” or the first time I wrote because there was no other choice.  It is memories and reflections like this that humble me and keep me grounded.  I am so very grateful to be able to do what I love.  I am more grateful that others are moved by my work.  I am always mindful to take care of their love and support.

What’s next?

I have many projects in the works, including another full album, collaborations, and outreach missions.  There are plans for some appearances overseas including Portugal and South Africa.  (I hear you SA!  I’m coming!)  I couldn’t entertain any of these notions without help and support, so let me take the time to thank everyone who has supported me in so many ways large and small – a phone call, a tweet, interviews, bookings,  hours online with me helping with ‘tech issues’, lengthy explanations of ‘legalese’ in contracts and other ‘stuffy stuff’, writing great music and entrusting me to dress it with words, buying and playing and charting my music, dancing and singing along at my performances,  and sending love and positive vibrations from all over the globe.  You give me strength, hope and inspiration.  You are why I keep going.

Wrap it…

This poetry/house connection started off being ‘all about me’ and has evolved into being about ‘all of you’ as well.  I love house music.  I LOVE house music.  I write to live, and I’m grateful for everyone along the path who feels, and decides to share with me.

-diamond

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