WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO
An evolution of our Up & Comers platform, the Y-Series is a limited-release collaboration that spotlights the WHY behind what we do. We view our beer and our spaces as platforms for showcasing the incredible creative energy of the Bronx and NYC and doing good within our community. Through collaborations with a broad range of artists and community organizations, the Y-Series represents our core mission to use beer to bring people together. Our work doesn't end with beer but rather begins with it.
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Bad Business: Honey Blonde Ale
"Where Comedy Meets Craft!"
Y-Series Collab with Bad Business Podcast (@badbusinesspod)
Introducing Bad Business, a dynamic Honey Blonde Ale with an enticing aroma of floral honey notes. This brew offers a smooth, sessionable body carrying the essence of biscuits and graham crackers. Crafted with Crystal and Hersbrucker hops, it boasts a subtle bitterness that perfectly complements its malty backbone. Enhanced with orange blossom honey, each sip delivers a zesty burst of citrus, embodying the vibrant spirit of this brew!
The Bad Business Podcast is a dynamic and hilarious exploration of the intersection between entertainment, comedy, and culture! Hosted by the Bronx-born trio of Beraq Rasheed, Daniel Marrero, and Jason Peters, this NYC-based podcast has quickly garnered a dedicated following with its witty banter and insightful conversations. Beraq brings his expertise as an Iraqi American producer, currently working on the Hot 97 show Tap in With TT, while also fronting the band Cry the Band. Daniel, his childhood friend, boasts extensive experience in the music and media industry, having worked with labels like UMG and Sony Music. Currently studying improv and practicing comedy, Daniel adds his unique flair to the podcast. Completing the trio is Jason Peters, whose vibrant personality and comedic chops infuse every episode with laughter. Together, they share a passion for spotlighting emerging artists, entertainers, and cultural influencers, while also providing listeners with a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. Through their platform, they aim to entertain, inspire, and foster connections within their community and beyond.
“We drink beers and sit in front of microphones and make audio magic that drizzles like honey into your earlobes, that’s why the beer is honey-flavored."
When asked about "Design Process/Inspiration for the Can" Jason says:
The design process was Disney lost the rights to Steamboat Willie and he became public domain so we can do whatever we want with Steamboat Willie and Disney can’t do anything about it. We aren’t scared of you Bob Iger! Our good friend Eli designed the can for us, he is a big Disney fan so this was a layup for him.
When asked "What do I hope to achieve with my art/platform?" Jason says:
We want to spotlight up coming artists, rappers, DJ’s and whoever else we think is cool! We bring them on the show for interviews and talk about who they are. We want to entertain our listeners and become a successful comedy podcast.
When asked "If there's anything else you'd like to let people know?" Jason says:
Growing up in The Bronx, we love the iconic Bronx Brewery, so to have this delicious honey flavored vessel of fun created in collaboration with the Brewery was like a dream come true!
Tell us about your community collaborator:
Big shoutout to Rucker Park, we are the only podcast allowed to record at Rucker Park during the basketball games. We went there to cover the games and the team at Rucker Park loved us and we loved them and we have since formed a relationship which will include us working together in the Summer of 2024, we will even have our own basketball team compete in the games this summer! We chose Rucker Park for our community collaboration because we want to give back to a place which has given us so much, and Rucker Park Youth was the obvious choice for us. This program plays a vital role in nurturing the potential of children in the historic Rucker Park area, aligning perfectly with Bad Business's commitment to community engagement and empowerment.
This collaboration is not just about beer; it's a celebration of comedy, culture, and community. Bad Business invites you to enjoy the flavors of laughter, relaxation, and the sweet taste of success with every sip!
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Concrete Jungle: Chicha-Style Beer
"Where Urban Metropolis Meets Lush Heritage!"
Y-Series Collab with Fanesha Fabre (@artbyfaneshafabre)
Experience Concrete Jungle, our Chicha-Style Beer with a vibrant 4.5% ABV and a balanced 14 IBU. Crafted from Cumberland Pilsner Malt, Cumberland Malted Corn, and Briess Flaked Maize, subtly hopped with Sterling. This limited edition brew takes you on a unique flavor journey. Indulge in the distinctive allure of this dry brew with a delightful corn essence, complemented by intriguing notes of spice and a subtle tartness. It's a fusion of the bold spirit of Brooklyn and the ancestral roots of the Dominican Republic in every sip.
Fanesha Fabre, the visionary behind "Concrete Jungle," infuses her Dominican heritage into the digital canvas, creating an artistic narrative that harmonizes the urban and the natural. As a digital illustrator based in Brooklyn, Fanesha's work is a celebration of her cultural background, depicted through bold colors and intricate details. The can design, titled "Concrete Jungle," showcases iconic city landmarks entwined with vibrant jungle foliage, capturing the essence of her creative vision.
“My approach is characterized by bold, vivid colors and a keen attention to detail. I strive to capture the essence of my subjects while infusing them with my unique perspective, whether it's the bustling streets of Brooklyn or the lush foliage of the jungle."
When asked about "Design Process/Inspiration for the Can" Fanesha says:
I drew inspiration from the juxtaposition of New York City's urban landscape and the lush greenery of the jungle, as well as the rich cultural history of Chicha." The artwork is a visual feast, merging these elements seamlessly, creating a striking visual metaphor for the beer within. The name pays homage to both the bustling metropolis she calls home and the ancient roots of the traditional drink.
When asked "What do I hope to achieve with my art/platform?" Fanesha says:
Through my art and platform, I aim to celebrate diversity, promote cultural understanding, and inspire others to embrace their unique identities. I strive to create artwork that resonates with people from all walks of life, sparking conversations and fostering connections across different communities.
When asked "If there's anything else you'd like to let people know?" Fanesha says:
Collaborating with the Bronx Brewery has been an incredible opportunity to bring my artistic vision to a new medium and audience. Working with a company that shares my passion for creativity and community engagement has been truly rewarding, and I'm excited to see how our collaboration will resonate with beer enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Tell us about your community collaborator:
"In light of my strong affinity for animals and dedication to community service, I sought to contribute to a feline rescue initiative in the Bronx “Bronx Tails Cat Rescue”. After closely observing their commendable efforts, I aspired to make a meaningful impact within the Bronx community through this endeavor."In the spirit of community collaboration, "Concrete Jungle" partners with Bronx Tails Cat Rescue, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Bronx Tails Cat Rescue is dedicated to improving the lives of stray and feral cats in the Bronx and Harlem. They perform Trap-Neuter-Return of stray and feral cats living in managed colonies in the community, provide medical care for sick and injured feral cats, and rescue friendly strays for adoption to forever homes. By fostering compassion and care for our feline friends, Bronx Tails Cat Rescue embodies the essence of community welfare and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of animals.
This collaboration is not just about beer; it's a celebration of cultural fusion, artistic expression, and a commitment to community welfare. "Concrete Jungle" invites you to savor the flavors of diversity, unity, and the vibrant spirit of collaboration.
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The Bronx Breeds Greatness: Belgian Quadruple Ale
"The Bronx Indeed, Breeds Greatness!"
Y-Series collab with Walter Cruz (@2oceans)
Introducing "Bronx Breeds Greatness," a Belgian-Style Quadruple Ale that boasts a bold 8.3% ABV and a perfectly balanced 31 IBU. Crafted with a foundation of Pilsen Malt and a harmonious blend of Aromatic Munich, Special B, Crystal 60, and authentic Belgian Candi Sugar, this limited edition brew takes you on a journey through exquisite flavors. Immerse yourself in the rich, complex tapestry of tastes that unfold with each sip. Picture indulgent notes of prune, intertwined with a velvety, dark caramel essence that caresses the palate. The subtle dance of banana undertones adds a delightful twist, elevating the drinking experience to new heights.
Walter Cruz, the visionary behind "The Bronx Breeds Greatness," embodies the spirit of cultural resilience and creative activism. Currently serving as the visual designer for the Black Alliance of Just Immigration, Walter brings a rich background in political design, contributing to causes that advocate for Black migrants globally. His artistic journey is a decade-long commitment to mentorship and community-building. Co-founding ZEAL, a Black artist-owned cooperative, Walter has created a space for multidisciplinary artists to flourish. His approach is rooted in research, aiming to communicate complex narratives through various mediums such as video, still images, garments, paintings, and sculpture.
“May it be, video, still images, garments, paintings, sculpture or beyond. The idea is to use things the "everyday" person can identify with in my work as a hook to pull people in and get them looking and thinking more closely at my work. I'm more interested in engaging people who don't always have time for art"
When asked about "Design Process / Inspiration for the Can" Walter says:
The name for the can comes from a phrase I put together a few years back as I was thinking about how to add to the sense of pride Bronxite have to help balance out the stigmas the borough carries or the cheap shots people take at the Bronx haha. It's stuck ever since. The can design is a snapshot from a painting I made that was inspired by single parents in tough situations. Oftentimes they get so worried about protecting their children from the harms of the world that they forget to create space for them to be free. It's a tricky balance. I thank my mom finding that balance along the way as she raised my twin sibling and I. It's another reason why I know The Bronx breeds greatness. Shout out to all the adults that help raise the children around them. I snuck in a few easter eggs in the design as well. I'll leave those up for guessing when folks grab a can.
When asked "What do I hope to achieve with my art/platform?" Walter says:
What I hope to achieve is to create possibilities for the people around me that I know and don't know. Even if it's just one person that comes into contact with something I created and says "I didn't know I could do that, I want to give it a try." That to me, means I've fulfilled my purpose. I'd like to continue sharing my platform with as many people as I can. Success is a team sport, it means nothing to me if we don't succeed collectively.
When asked "If there's anything else you'd like to let people know?" Walter says:
I appreciate the chance to work on this brew together. I approached it as collectible art and I'm glad the BXB team has embraced it in the same way.
Tell us about your community collaborator:
Rather than hosting a function for the release, I thought it would be more interesting to think of something that would be longer lasting at the brewery. The Bronx Narratives came to mind immediately, they do great work in the borough and have been doing so for the last ten years. So shout out to them! Deondre Green, one of the co-founders of The Bronx Narratives brought Kevin Vargas into the loop. Kev is doing great work around making meditation and relaxation more accessible and normal for Black and Brown folks in and outside The Bronx. We all agreed it would be awesome to provide folks that come by the brewery on Saturday with meditation skills they can take back home with them afterwards. For the interactive part of the launch, the concept was created to record voicemails of visitors to leave on a modified city payphone. This way when folks stop by then can leave a positive message for the next person and listen to the previous ones left before them. In a way, created a loop of positivity that revolves around The Bronx, its residents, guests and supporters.
This collaboration is not just about beer; it's about creating a lasting impact and celebrating the greatness that The Bronx breeds.
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Around The Way: American India Pale Ale
"No Resolve, No Problem; Drink Up!"
Y-Series collab with Johnsville (@johnsville.studio)
"Around The Way" the 5% ABV, 27 IBU; American India Pale Ale that encapsulates the spirit of a bustling city night. With a design embracing a nighttime palette, this alcoholic brew pays homage to the energy of the city after dusk. It's an ode to those who relish an IPA with a lighter touch yet embody the urban hustle and bustle. The can art showcases various city infrastructures, offering a glimpse into the nocturnal charm of New York. Around The Way, woven with Weyermann Pilsen, 2 Row, Carafoam, Sauermalz, and a symphony of hops including Magnum, Mittlefrueh, Hersbrucker, Motueka, Wai-itit, Centennial, and Amarillo, delivers a symphony of flavors that reflect the city's vibrant spirit. Its balanced bitterness and captivating aroma bring forth the essence of the bustling Bronx and NYC streets, echoing the vibrant tapestry of flavors found within the city's diverse cultures and creative vibes.
Johnsville, a prolific visual artist and musician, is a born-and-bred New Yorker known for his vibrant cityscape artistry. With a BFA and an MFA in illustration, his work graces prominent publications like The New York Times, Vanity Fair, and The New Yorker. His artistic vision combines a fusion of mediums—acrylics, watercolors, and digital art—to craft compelling urban landscapes that pulsate with the essence of New York City. Beyond his artistic prowess, Johnsville's passion extends to music, channeling the city's energy into creating tunes that inspire and encapsulate the essence of NYC. Born and raised in The Bronx, he proudly echoes the vibrant spirit of the borough while transcending its geographical boundaries through his artistic expressions. His collaboration with Bronx Brewery resonates deeply, capturing the grit and vibrancy of the Bronx while reflecting a broader narrative of New York's cultural richness.
“As a native New Yorker I grew up with cityscapes as my backdrop and I like to use bright colors to create character and energy via the New York City landscape. We created a daytime and nighttime palette for the cans and the artwork show various style city infrastructure."
When asked "What do you hope to achieve with your art/platform?" Johnsville says:
When asked "If there's anything else you'd like to let people know?" Johnsville says:
Collaborating with a thriving local brand like BXB is an incredible experience. In the past, The Bronx might have been seen as an underappreciated hub for beverages. I admire how BXB is expanding across the city and beyond, embodying the true essence and tenacious spirit of The Bronx and NYC. Much like my roots in The Bronx, my work resonates with a broader spectrum than just uptown vibes.
Tell us about your community collaborator:
The Student Sponsorship Program is an incredible resource for NYC youth. They match deserving high school seniors with sponsors who walk alongside students through their educational journey, offering the gift of top-notch education to families unable to afford private schools. Thanks to my sponsor, I attended an exceptional high school where I honed my skills, grew, and expanded my creative horizons.
Experience Around The Way where every sip embodies art, inspiration, and community.