I don't know how I didn't meet Ryan and Kristi before 2010. We have many of the same friends, run in the same communal circles, play the same venues, and carry much of the same ethics and ideals for music and our creative community at large. My dear friend Brent talked about them fondly and often, but before this year's Titwrench Fest began coming together early in the year I didn't even know what they looked like. Now, I can't imagine a day going by when I don't think about them.
As Hideous Men, Kristi and Ryan create riotous chopped and screwed dance music with the intent of including all and inciting all around them to get excited about life, music, and their community. Their shows carry a genuine vibe of strictly positive intent, fully authentic and never corny. They give a shit and want everyone around them to give a shit too, without judgement or fear of backlash against their art. Through their label Laser Palace, Kristi and Ryan release hand-made, limited edition tapes by the artists like our friend VIA among many others. They take anyone under their wing who needs support, friendship, or even a floor to sleep on.
My band, Night of Joy was lucky enough to tour the East Coast this past spring with Hideous Men, an experience that changed our lives. From Ryan and Kristi, I not only learned how to best book shows and deal with promotors/strangers/etc., but I also learned a lot about marriage/partnership. Whether they are performing as Hideous Men or sharing a breakfast plate, their love is unconditional. They are constantly communicating, checking in, and connecting with each other. They are no bullshit. They are real people who love and live to serve others through their creative endeavors and basic human connections. After this tour, I found myself reevaluating interactions; I realized that communication and support are truly all we need.
Which brings me to the point of this post: Ryan and Kristi need our help. This past weekend we celebrated our community through the three-day gloriousness of Titwrench, a festival that embraces performers and creatives from all walks of life. Sadly, just hours before their performance on day two of the fest, Hideous Men's van was broken into and their laptop and some other valuable pieces of equipment were stolen. All of their songs—including a brand new song they had spent days perfecting—were gone. Here is a link to more information on what was lost, along with a link to Hideous Men's website, where you can donate and help replace the tangible things that have been so ungracefully snatched from my dear friends. Spread the word, spread the link, and help Denver's awesome DIY community out.
ALSO::: There is a benefit show happening at our great friend Sara Century's house on July 31st, to help recoup some of Hideous Men's losses too. So come enjoy music and real human connection while we help our friends make music again!!
***Flier by Valerie aka Vee aka Last Eyes
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