We’re going retro this week in every sense of the word. Per usual, we’re rifling through our treasure trove of interviews to fish out a vintage gem–the better to explore the strange vortex in which fashion and musicians meet. But today we’re entering a possibly vaguely ironic, definitely strange world in which Shootyz Groove is in charge. Hold me–I’m scared.
Shootyz Groove is one of the most interesting products of the hip-hop/hardcore/metal fusion movement. And for that, they will always receive considerable props. Their hilarious approach to “maleness” may not win them as many fans, however: Just so ya know, they’re so freakin’ tired of the pussification of the American male, ya know?
What with the whole indoor smoking ban thingamajig, widespread conspiracy to encourage people to eat their vegetables and not beat their children, the implementation of sexual harassment laws, etc. the good ol’ U.S. of A. just ain’t what it used to be.
Much like their so-retro-it-may-be-progressive vision of American Family Life (where women should be women and men should be men), their style embodies that oft imitated, but rarely duplicated Sopranos/Ice T-esque, hirsute, gold-chained, hurly-burly, bad boyz, gangster style that makes fathers lock up their daughters–if they weren’t already reaching for the deadbolt themselves. Stay classy, Shootyz Groove. Stay classy.
TOPICS: Flashion Backward, Kathleen Willcox