Marcus Bandy
The Andrew Mercado Interview: A Builder Of Bridges
Gargoyle Grinder. Photo: Barney Newbson.
There are a lot of things you could say about Andrew Mercado. You could call him opinionated, antagonistic; and, depending on where you’re standing, you might even mark him for a straight-up rebel rouser. But it’s important to understand that much of what’s said about a person by others ain’t the entire truth. You really have to get to know someone for yourself in order to make a real and truthful assessment. I did just that a few years back and have been skating and traveling around with Andrew for a while now, and can honestly say for a certainty that his love for skateboarding burns brighter and with more heat than 99% of the motherfuckers out there. Andrew’s passion for shredding has, and continues, to bridge gaps in the skateboarding community. Dude’s a rad dude. He’s inspired a whole hell of a lot of skaters. Please enjoy the Andrew Mercado Wheelbase Interview.
What’s Next? 9.er
Midnight garage bombin' on my custom LBL Penguin (click on image above to view larger). Photo: David Marano.
One of the raddest and most distinct features of this growing section of longboard skateboarding is that of the custom skateboard builder. I’m talking about builders such as Larry Peterson of Longboard Larry and Scott Moore of Subsonic Skateboards, and that’s just naming two of the many. Custom builders, like these, bring us back to the roots and essence of what it’s all about: skateboards for skateboarders, by skateboarders. Through creating each skateboard one at a time, and allowing the individual rider to have input into the building process, they provide every board with the attention it deserves and thus allowing the process to remain focused where it should be: on quality, detail, refinement, performance, and distinction. I’m not sayin’ that the large brands don’t make great skateboards—they definitely do—but if you’ve ever had a board shaped specifically for you and your style, then you know there is a certain pride and confidence built into that unique skateboard which is somewhat inexplicable, yet wholly undeniable. Read More
The Dillon Stephens Interview: Skate & Masticate
Dillon doing it right: Fast and Full Mast!. Photo: Marcus Bandy.
“When Dillon Stephens isn’t mowing down on questionable roach-coach street-meat or punishing his digestive system with homemade, deep-fried concoctions; he’s out there on the hills leaving his mark—grinding a set of wheels to dust on the most high-speed, technical roads that he can get his feet on.
Dillon can be low-key most times and you won’t see him (soberly) calling attention to himself in a crowd. His presence on a skateboard is similar. Dillon doesn’t flail wildly or blow turns; he’s in control and skates with a fluid and precise style. That being said, Dillon’s hunger for speed is equal to his passion for food, and when the time comes for either he will definitely be in front of you.” (Kyle Martin) Read More
What’s Next 8.Go
Byron Esser has style. Cloak & Dagger Rd. Photo: Zadie Sexus.
Style is critical! And I’m not talking about some fashionista bullshit, nor am I speaking of any other showy display of Vanity. What I’m interested in is the particular way an individual does a thing that reflects Flow, Finesse, and Liquidity—and more specifically, how that fits into the act of skateboarding. Let’s just say that I believe style and skateboarding are best in bed, with each other. Read More
The 2012 Golden Gate Park Race & All-Day Shredfest.
The day of the 2012 Golden Gate Part Race began and ran its course much like any other Saturday spent in San Francisco with the Sunset Sliders; we woke up late, had some laughs over breakfast, and proceeded to shred until darkness ensued.
That’s just how we roll.
The following is a photographic and videographic refection of an epic day spent with friends and filled to the brim with some serious downhill Gnarlitude.
Some of you may notice a lack of text in this article—If that bums you out, I do apologize.
As an experiment, I carried with me not only my skateboard, but also two DSLRs and my iPhone. I ended up capturing what I believe to be some truly inspirational shots, and ultimately, I just feel this story is best told visually—I hope you agree. Please enjoy. Read More
