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There’s vulgarity for virality’s sake, and there’s virality for virtual sake. According to Ms. Arianna Huff, going viral has gone viral and we’re losing our minds because of it. But The Connects, an LA-based creative clan, lost their minds a long time ago, and the result is unadulterated, uncomplicated (yet completely complicated) cultural commentary through artful entertainment, which will take you all the way down to YouTube town.

Now I like to think of me-self as a lady, but even a lady can enjoy a filthy farce. When first confronted with this band of broheims, I completely ignored them. In fact, I Facebook message stiffed ‘em (sorry about that boys). But behind their shocking shenanigans, is serious talent, originality and drive (ok, and a lot of boobs) — a trifecta that’s hard to resist.

Dylan Trussell and David Dinetz hooked-up (er, uh) connected as Film Majors at University of Boulder Colorado (what idiot teacher gave them an A+ on this? Yeah, STOKED I busted my ass at Tisch) and formed a creative collective in 2 parts:

One Part: Production Company, Heart For An Eye (aw, see! They do have souls!); their work runs the gamut - a documentary for Universal Music here, a promotional video for Krug Champagne there. Their photographs have been featured in Town & Country and W Magazine, which is impressive… But they crashed Quentin Tarantino’s office to ask him his opinion of their Christmas Video, way more impressive. 

Two Part: Self proclaimed Siegfried & Roy of Hip Hop, The Connects made of Mr. Dan and D-Truss (aka Dyl.I.Am and PremaDana, I can’t believe I just wrote that), with Mr Dinetz leading the creative charge. Shooting, directing, producing, performing, rapping, dancing, editing, scripting, financing… who knows what else-ing. They do it all, like a Hip Hop’a Mockery, three-man pony show - with record wit and skill. 

But more than just their scrappy, Lost Boys work ethic, The Connects have a unique sound that blends 80’s pop, electro-funk, and hip-hop. Add hard drums, deep bass and social commentary that highlights the complexities of the post college dropout, the born-again young professional, or the stay-at-home “real estate” agent. The irony is, they never really tried to do what they’re doing. These masterminds have the Holy Grail (and I do not mean the string-bikini-clad strippers in their videos): heart, humor and honesty.

The Connects speak directly to and about a generation yearning for smart, savvy relief; their ability to pull productions out of thin air speaks directly to and about a generation of unconventional entrepreneurs. You won’t want to believe me (oh, believe me) but tune in to their channel and I dare you disagree. Finding substance in substance abuse —- take that back to the virality-uber-alles age. 

Round-up of my favorite things this week…. follow it, don’t judge it.

Photographer. Eleanor Hardwick.
At age twelve, this brilliant Brit photographed Japanese fashion dolls for fun. Now, she’s adding a sense of surrealism to the likes of British Vogue, Blackbook and ELLE Korea. Did I mention she’s only 16?

Hotel. The Mondrian, Los Angeles.
Modern Philippe Starck aesthetic. Check. Unrivaled views over Sunset Boulevard. Check. SkyBar scene. Check. The recently revamped Mondrian is perfect for a pre-or-post Coachella pit stop (and if you’re beat from the beats, opt for Asia de Cuba room service). Check it out on Jetsetter - Sunday April 11, 3 P.M.

Restaurant. Corsino, New York City
Three bottles of white wine, doors open to Hudson and delicious crostini and affettati proved to be the perfect combination for a Thursday night gathering. Thanks @JFSica @Jhsisk @RuthieFrieds @RamonaMark for the inspiration (and cheese plate).