Smash through boredom with spoken word poetry, “Smash the Lense”

Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor 

Big waves have been made in the community with Ty Brack’s latest work, a spoken word album titled, “Smash the Lense.” Brack, a current poet, educator and youth organizer, is also a proud Western alum, gaining his bachelor’s degree in 2007 and his master’s degree in 2013. Brack is used to being immersed in the local creative scene, with experience as the former editor of The Northwest Passage and a former sports writer for The Western Howl. 

Using his artistic talents and experiences, “Smash the Lense” consists of 13 spoken word pieces that manage to artistically capture the current reality of our world. With relevant and expressive titles like, “Liesol Protest,” “Covid-19 Dream” and “Letter from Lockdown,” folks can dive into the smooth synths mixed with meaningful cultural messages. Absorb it any time with exclusive online access on Bandcamp under “Ty.Brack.”

Along with spreading art and the message of unity during tough times, all of the proceeds brought in from “Smash the Lense” will be donated to Talking Ownership PDX — a non-profit organization dedicated to renovating and reviving Black-owned homes in Portland and combating the continuous gentrification in the area. The overall goal is to raise awareness and funds for the community with the help of passionate volunteers and advocates. They aim to raise $500 for Taking Ownership PDX, which equates to 85 full album buys; with the albums priced at only $7 each, anyone can check out this exclusive online album and soak it in. To find updates on the fundraising efforts for Taking Ownership PDX, check out @ty.brack.poetry on Instagram.

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu