Ray Harkins manages partnerships for peta2, helps run No Sleep Records, hosts 100 Words or Less the podcast, and is the vocalist of Taken.
What was the food highlight of your year?
Crossroads in Los Angeles, CA. A relatively new establishment that focuses on plant based (i.e. vegan) cuisine that was opened by renown chef Tal Ronnen (creator of Gardein) just over two years ago. My wife and I were able to have a date night up there and fell immediately in love with how each small plate was satisfying and tasty. It's a must for anyone visiting or living in LA. Some of the best food I've ever had in my life.
What was the music highlight of your year?
Selfishly, it was getting my old hardcore band Taken active again in releasing our discography on vinyl as well as playing a few shows to celebrate it. Fortunately it doesn't feel like a bunch of old guys rehashing the past, but friends doing what we've loved for years.
Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?
There is something about the ritual of eating a good vegan meal before a show and I think nothing reflects that more than a great thai place called Bulan up in Los Angeles, CA before I went to see Failure play a reunion show at The El Rey Theatre in February 2014. Anytime I am able to have great food before a great show is an incredible evening for me.