Crockstar Limited

Thank You All!

2009-12-28T21:38:00.000Z

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for reading the blog over the past few weeks, months, etc. The blog will definitely continue to run on in the new year but I am moving it over to my own domain.

The address for the Crockstar Blog will now be: http://crockstarlimited.com/blog/

Thanks a lot!

Crockstar

The Rebirth of the Brand? What "Personalized Search" Means for You

2009-12-27T18:51:00.003Z

Intrduction:
After a lull in the hay day of the brand and the world in which "brand was king" (see a nice post on this) it is worth considering the new (and increased importance of brand) as a result of changes to Google-- most specifically the implementation of personalized search on Google. While some along the way were writing the obituary for "the brand" had sort of gone out the window and the whole idea was that brand loyalty would grow increasingly dependent on social media and "web 2.0", this new development by Google has some pretty serious implications.

Image Via: Google (Shocker...)

1. Implications for SEO
The exact metrics Google uses to rank pages has always been a bit of a mystery. Though personalized search will add to this mystery a bit, it is unlikely to change things a great deal. At the end of the day, this may create a larger drive for raw traffic and return visitors and decrease some of the emphasis google places on linkbuilding, but at present the magnitude of these effects remains largely unknown and are but toolks in the larger SEO toolkit.

2. Implications for Linkbuilding
While the need for a "huge number" of links has been debated as to its value in SEO returns, the argument has always stood and has been fairly well supported (LINKS) that there is a great deal of value in having some good quality pages that link to your site-- the whole concept being (at least in SEOmoz speak) that power or "link juice" can be passed from one well respected site to another site.
Example: A link from the BBC to your website would be more valuable than a link from Bill's Local Plumbing (assuming, for the sake of the example that your site is a fashion blog).

While the birth of personalized search may in fact impact the way in which this "link juice" is passed along, it seems unlikely that it will impact the value of having links from a good site. This would seem self explanatory from the standpoint of: more relevant traffic (in greater volumes) is likely to be driven to my website from a BBC fashion website than from the page of Bill's Local Plumbing.

3. Implications for Search Results:
This will change things from a certain degree both for the way in which we talk about search results, but also for SEOs and Google users alike. The first change will be an increased inability to describe yourself as "the third search result for fashion blogging". This may seem a drastic change, but this would never really be a reliable way to describe yourself as location, whether one considers AdWords results and a number of other factors will have already impacted this.

The second change, will be the increased desire to generate click through from organic search results to improve rank and to improve the likelihood that an individual (and folks with similar search behavior and interests) will return your site more regularly when searching for relevant terms. This will be an impact for the user (insofar as they are likely to receive results that are impacted by previous behavior-- DUH!).

There will also be impacts for SEOs and other internet marketing folks: there may well be an increased push for Google AdWords campaigns. Though the exact way in which click through on Adwords results will impact Page Rank and likelihood that your site will rank for a certain term it certainly won't hurt!

4. Impact for Developers and Designers
Despite some calling personalized search "the death of SEO" this does not seem to be the case. More than likely it may require more joined-up efforts between SEOs and Dev teams, but this certainly does not spell the end for SEO.

Why? Because, if anything, sites will need to perform better and be enjoyable (i.e. generate return visitors) to continue to rank well. While this may see the rich get richer (please see a great post on this by Randfish) it will also hopefully force dev teams and clients wishing to build new websites to incorporate some of the best practices for which SEOs have been calling for years:
a. Make sure your site is crawler/robot/spider friendly.
b. Make sure your content is worth reading and relevant!
c. Encourage interaction with visitors and a coherent and strategic cross-media approach.
d. Try to earn links from the most appropriate and relevant sources.

Conculsion:
Though "Personalized Search" may have altered the face of SEO a bit, it seems to have done nothing but reaffirm the need for SEO and to continue with many of the best practices from days past. The ever-evolving beast that is Google may not allow SEO to continue "business as usual" (in as much as it ever has been), but this will not be a knockout blow to SEO.

While "brand" may not have ever died, these changes will almost certainly magnify the effects of brand loyalty on the web and the need to have a user (and search) friendly site to which people feel a strong desire to return. The only "new" prescription I've really seen come out of any of the SEO communities is the call for an increase in the tightness [of integration] in metrics with page rank tracking (to paraphrase Randfish).

Image by Me (though I obviously don't own the rights to Coca-Cola nor its trademark and did not create this portion of the image)

As always, please feel free to hit me up with any comments you might have!

Keep 'Em Coming!

2009-12-25T11:33:00.001Z

While I had initially requested that your pictures show you doing your favorite thing or in one of your favorite places I realized that Jeff is a Med student and rocking out on the computer with a Guitar at arms length is probably a nice break for him these days.

Keep sending your pictures for your few minutes of fame!

(a couple large tees left, get 'em while they're hot)

2009 Best Runway: Jeremy Scott (Flinstones - London Fashion Week S/S 2010)

2009-12-16T16:04:00.002Z

This blog has moved.

The following post is now available at: Jeremy Scott Flinstones - Crockstar Blog

Thank you.

We Interrupt this Program... Google Nexus One

2009-12-14T13:05:00.001Z

I hate to interrupt the countdown of 2009's best but it must be done for this announcement (that Apple can be thankful won't impact their win from 2009): the Google phone is both very real and very live. Being called a "beautiful, sexy mess" and an "iphone on beautifying steroids" by some twitter users it is a foregone conclusion of who the game changing winner of 2010 will be for best mobile release... and it's not even out yet.

The google phone (which has been rumored for at least two years now) is finally real and beat the apple tablet out of the gate. It is rumored to be carried by google directly as well as potentially through some other mobile characters.

Image via: Gizmodo

This IS going to be a game changer, on that I am willing to bet. Am all of a sudden very thankful that I resisted the peer pressure to buy an iphone (a genuinely great product) but am pretty amped that I will be without any contract tie-downs when Google releases this beast unlocked in January 2010. Oh yeah, it is said to be running Android 2.1 (an as of yet unreleased version), will be able to download at over 7mb per second (!!!) and was co-created with HTC so that all of the Google software and Android 2.1 platform run smooth as ice.

Look for your Google x HTC "nexus one" early January 2010 and plan on popularity that will make queues for the iphone look like a joke. Keep your eyes peeled on Gizmodo for more info and future updates!

Story confirmed this morning by google: ending speculation that the phone was little more than Twitter gossip.

Best Menswear Collection (Released in 2009) - Junya Watanabe MAN

2009-12-09T13:37:00.001Z

Now, a lot of arguments can be made here about the choice of a collection RELEASED in 2009 as opposed to showed in 2009 and some might argue that MAN for Comme des Garcons should only count as a capsule collection, but, to do so is to discredit from what in my opinion was far and away the best collection of the year, if not of the decade.

Junya broke every last rule in the book with his current season collection (A/W 2009). While Crockstar Limited originally covered Watanabe's rulebreaking collection in August I have had the opportunity to think back on the collection with a bit of hindsight and with the benefit of comparison to other collections. In addition to combining blue, black and brown/natural leather (ill advised really) as well as fire orange and red (unheard of). Junya took outdoor chic and made it trendy for city and streetwear. Watanabe's collection basically takes some classic hints from the likes of L.L. Bean and mashes them up with the typical "cut and paste" flair preferred by Comme des Garcons making good use of a bit of streetwear edge.

The cuts were almost a full season ahead of what might have been expected and Watanabe's foresight is what gives him the credibility to be sold both in the basement at Dover Street Market and a prominent feature in GQ magazine, a spot on the coveted menswear racks of Liberty of London and a number of features in Highsnobiety. Watanabe toes the line between art and functionality and between edgy streetwear and classic menswear.

The colorways were quite obviously inspired by traditional autumn and winter colors as were the materials, his use and combination of these "traditional" motifs however are what separates this collection from others like it and what separate Watanabe from the rest. A collection that truly must be seen and -perhaps more importantly- felt, the combination of fabrics warrants every painstaking pound that a piece of this collection will set you back (close to a grand for many fo the jackets). Clasically trained by the same teachers as Yohji Yamamoto and heavily influenced by CdG creator founder Rei Kawakubo it is no wonder that Watanabe combined classic with experimental, past with future and threw down the best collection this year.

A great way to end a decade which saw a number of trends and a general lack of a full on style that embodied the era... I would not be shocked if this collection defines what is meant by fashion design in the "noughties".

Watanabe's attention to detail is unmatched. 10 out of 10.

All Images: GQ Magazine from Paris A/W 2009

The Year's Best Sneaker Releases

2009-12-08T13:49:00.002Z

This was an extremely tough call for me to make, especially being a bit of a sneakerhead myself. Yes I queued up the day before to try to get a pair of Air Yeezy's (the black and pink ones), and no I still didn't get a pair. And though I like the feel and will hands down give the Yeezy's the nod for BIGGEST release of the year (more on that later) I cannot in good conscience give them the nod for best release of the year. This may be partially influenced by Kanye's stage-stealing, partially by a bit of bitterness at not having a pair myself and partially by my reluctance to admit that Kanye has serious style (I'm sorry people... despite some of the terrible trends he has started... he does). HOWEVER, despite the success of all of the Yeezy releases, the freshest, best looking pair of kicks from this year were both inspired by films and both released by Nike (I will freely admit my bias).

(Titanimg and Collider)

First up: the White Men Can't Jump inspired Nike Air Flight Lite High. These caught their fair share of both ups and disses, and the comment made by Nice Kicks contributor Matt Halfhill about the fact that he cannot remember Billy Hoyle wearing these bad boys at any point in the film is a valid point. However, the key here is the inspiration rather than the historical validity, and the inspiration created by Billy Hoyle's "chump" style is well worth exploring. While this is arguably one of the greatest films of the early 90s (if not the entire decade) it should be notice that these are about as true to Hoyle's persona and style as might be expected or wished for.

Fresh'uns From Billy's Closet (Nice Kicks)

This is not an argument to say that a shoe based upon Sidney Deane's sense of style would not have been even hotter, HOWEVER, that said... this sneaker inspired by Billy boy is true to form and well executed. The selection of the Air Flight high's and their colorway is perfect for the mishmash style (tie-dye hat, work shorts, tube socks... come on) of Billy.

Billy Hoyle Driving on Sidney Deane (Uncoached)

Obviously, I would have been equally excited to see them bring back the Air Command's initially worn by Billy, but for a new and fresh film-inspired kick I couldn't possibly ask for more.

The next choice are the Nike Hypermax McFly (NFW)... another movie inspired sneaker and about as filthy a colorway as you will ever see (gray, white, pink, blue). This particular release is one of my favorites as well because it does more than simply make use of a nice colorway and the name of a film. Drawing inspiration from the ill shoes sported by Marty McFly in Back to the Future II (with a self-locking system and some serious light-ups) Nike took their hypermax and stripped the flywire out of them

McFly on His Hoverboard (Sneaker Hunt)

This is a cool decision to have made for two reasons: one flywire is a bit notorious for ripping despite it's lightweight and implied strength, TWO (and perhaps more importantly) it is a cool and literal approach to taking "back to the future" and bringing it to life a la Nike. Nike took one of their most technologically advanced sneakers (well known for its use of flywire technology) and flipped it old school by giving it a plain gray flat nylon/satin upper. The combination of the past and the future comes together nicely and a nice hit of glow-in-the-dark on the soles does nothing but make the drop even fresher. Argue if you like about the Hypermax NFW and the Hyperdunk McFly (from 2008), but they are both fresh as any sneaker I saw this past year.

Nike McFly Hypermax NFW 2009 (Highsnobiety)

End of an Era (The Year's Best)

2009-12-03T11:02:00.004Z

As we are getting towards the end of an entire decade I thought I would announce a schedule for a recap/highlights of 2009. These will be looked at individually and in depth over the next few weeks but the winners are...

Best Sneaker Release: This one is a draw... both movie inspired, both redic releases. Nike McFly Hypermax NFW, Nike Air Flight Light

Biggest Sneaker Release: Nike Air Yeezy's

Best Menswear Collection: Junya Watanabe MAN for Comme des Garcon

Best Runway: Jeremy Scott Flinstones (S/S 2010, LFW)

Best Designer (Streetwear): Carri Munden, Cassette Playa

Best Accessory/Line (Men): Dita 2009

Best Gadget: iPhone (I hate to do it, and I know it's not new... but it's true)

Best Mixtape: 10Deep Presents: Donnis - Diary of an ATL Brave

Best Update: Windows 7

Best Album: Draw... Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More & Jay-Z - The Blueprint 3...
Honorable Mention: The Temper Trap - Conditions.

Image Credits (in order): Highsnobiety, Hypebeast, Nike, Hypebeast, London

Fashion Week, Cassette Playa, Gear Culture, Apple, 10Deep, Complex Magazine, 7Digital

Sick of Being Outdone by the Griswold's?

2009-12-02T13:36:00.001Z

Probably my favorite picture of the year.

From: Unplggd

Drogba Does Something Cool

2009-12-01T12:29:00.001Z

I was trying to figure out why on earth Didier Drogba was wearing red laces in his boots at the Emirates this weekend as Chelsea demolished Arsenal (3-0). I saw him pointing to the boots after the match and couldn't for the life of me figure out why... well now we know.

Nike and project (Red) have launched the laces as a fundraiser/awareness campaign and Drogba as the (Nike)RED global ambassador was just doing his part. The launch took place at the Nike store last night and featured many famous footballers (Arshavin, Dempsey, Joe Cole, etc.) and everyone's least favorite do-gooder (Bono).

The laces are available at the Nike Store as well as at NikeTown, London (presumably they will be available at other major sports outlets as well). For the full article hop over to Nike Football.

Artist of the Day: Pete Harrison

2009-11-30T14:57:00.001Z

As we haven't really been giving much credit to the digital designers here I thought it was worth choosing a strictly digital Artist of the Day today. Pete Harrison, UK based artist, knew he wanted to be a graphic designer since the age of 10. His work is quite indicative of the larger "mash-up culture" at hand and he describes his work in this most recent collection "Aeiko" is a crash between artists and designers and computer programmers. The outcome: well, judge for yourself. To me it seems sort of more like a collision between centerfolds and Tron-fans... but hey, I like the look.

Check out Pete's portfolio.

Mood Chair - Aether and Hemera

2009-11-27T15:26:00.002Z

As we get closer to the holidays, I must admit that I have been feeling a bit guilty about my excessive consumerism over the past few years... I suppose working on a "low carbon" project/product development for three months will do that to you.

However, that said... I thought it was worth starting an unrealistic holiday wish list by way of the interweb.

In addition to a solution to global warming, world peace, universal healthcare for the states and a winning lottery ticket... I will start with my first item on the list.

Behold:

Introducing the mood chair by Aether and Hemera of Newcastle upon Tyne. So far there is no indication of cost or availability (probably a good sign that it will either not be made for production, or follow the age old rule: "if you have to ask you can't afford it").

However, the LED powered chair is designed to help you relax after a long day at the office by setting the mood. It seems a bit like a mood ring made for geeks, but that said... I can't help but think that this would put me in a better mood if it greeted me on my way into the house every evening.

I suppose a child, dog, cat, or even goldfish would probably have the same effect... but we all know that I'm not ready to take care of any of those things. Come to think of it-- I'm just not sure I have enough time to take care of a chair right now anyways.

Via: Unplggd

Reasons why I love working for a design agency...

2009-11-27T14:29:00.001Z

#1 - Because I get emails including the following link: Designer vs. Businessman
#2 - Because I am certain that everyone in my office has thought about sending out a similarly snarky email at least once.
#3- Because I am confident that at least one of them has sent or will send out such an email at some point.

The above picture is from the linked site and the link absolutely warrants a full read to appreciate the humor of said pie-chart.

New Lupe Mixtape...

2009-11-26T09:48:00.000Z

is absolutely fire. 22mins of pure pleasure, this Thanksgiving he truly gives us something to be thankful for. Cannot wait for the new album to drop in the new year. He is rumored to be dropping another mixtape on Christmas day called "Friend of the People".

This tape utilizes beats from Timbaland, Radiohead, Weezy and some others... really pretty incredible. Read more about it and find the link to download at: LUPEND Blog

Forget a Lock, Get a Clock!

2009-11-25T15:13:00.000Z

Bike-chain clock. A cool $2,000+ but pretty rad nonetheless.

via: Weekly Drop

Green Tech of the Day: BenQ V2400

2009-11-25T15:10:00.000Z

This bad boy comes with a 1920 x 1080 LED backlit screen, slim design (with 28% recycled plastic), and is energy efficient. What's not to like?

Via: Re-Nest

Mac Mailbox

2009-11-25T15:06:00.000Z

You've got mail! Gotta love the reuse here of an old Mac tower. Seriously cool.

Via: Unplggd

Artist of the Day: Charlotte Gainsbourg

2009-11-25T15:03:00.002Z

Charlotte Gainsbourg - Heaven Can Wait from Charlotte Gainsbourg on Vimeo.

Ok, I like the music... but this video is bananas.

NASA

2009-11-25T14:58:00.001Z

Could NASA make cooler videos? Answer: Unlikely.

Via: Kanye

Low Carbon Artist of the Day

2009-11-20T10:19:00.001Z

Now that is a nice way to recycle... cardboard sculpture by Chris Gilmour.

Hop over to his website (linked above) for more details.

Via: Kanye

BAPE x The Beatles

2009-11-17T10:13:00.002Z

Fresh to death.

Via: Kanye

2009-11-13T18:00:00.000Z

First street legal e-motorbike... can go over 45 KMH for over 40 k on a single charge... ill.

via: Highsnobiety

DIY Bar

2009-11-11T09:38:00.001Z

As we furnish our new Camden abode I have been actively checking out some "green" options for furnishing the crib. I thought I'd share one of my favorite finds from this search for a do-it-yourself bar from a vintage trunk. It looks nice and the steps are quite easy.

Pop over to "Ready Made" for the 11-step instructions... if you've got an old trunk, great! If not... use your brain and see what else you've got lying around that you can turn into a stash point for your adult beverages.

My New Favorite Website...

2009-11-10T11:57:00.002Z

As a result of spending far too much time looking over the shoulders of my coworkers at the studio I have been finding websites that I like left, right and center. My new favorite for now -- and it's a darn good thing I don't have the money to be investing in fonts right now -- is Hype for Type.

My favorite scripts on there at the moment (look out Crockstar makeover) come from "FOUNDRY" (ironically, a great bar in Shoreditch) with the prize in a tight race going to Celebrity (pictured above). Pop over to Hype for Type for some mouth-watering fonts.

The Hood Internet Vol. 4

2009-11-09T12:09:00.001Z

As promised... the Hood launched their fourth installment of the mixtape as a self-proclaimed "soundtrack to your next house-party" and I think it very much qualifies as such.

Definitely a fine piece of work so far-- most of the tracks have already been released previously as free downloads on The Hood Internet but the beauty of what they do on these mixtapes is take their best tracks of the past year or so and put them together seamlessly. The way they manage to connect tracks that seemingly have no business next to one another is baffling and for those who have heard these tracks as singles over the year it definitely helps you to appreciate how these guys are best appreciated live or in full flow... as the mixtapes take their already prolific productions to a whole new level.

Pop over to their website (link above) and get started. If you don't already have the previous versions make sure you get volumes 1-4 for free... should keep you busy at work or studying or working-out or whatever else you've got to do today (only about three tracks in so far, but definitely feelin' it).

Thank you Hood.

*Note-- I recommend the continuous track version (for obvious reasons).

Today's the Day... Music Monday

2009-11-09T10:57:00.001Z

Anxiously awaiting the release of The Hood Internet Mixtape Vol. 4 will be sure to throw up a link to the free download as soon as it is available.

In the meantime I'm rocking out to U2 x Justice remix of Get Your Boots On and Pance Party's Shakira remix both streaming from the provided links.

Enjoy!

Artist of the Day: Stephen Wiltshire

2009-11-06T17:20:00.000Z

Stephen Wiltshire, an artist with autism born in London drew this picture of the New York skyline (18 ft) entirely from memory from a 20 MINUTE helicopter ride. Absolutely unbelievable.

For full story on Stephen and this incredible drawing check out the Daily Mail

Jay-Z x U2 live in Berlin... AMAZING.

2009-11-06T16:27:00.001Z

Via: Kanye

Sneaker/Trainer Tourism

2009-11-04T18:54:00.000Z

I'm not sure whether to be excited or disappointed by the news I've just read: SoleSearch (a sneaker search directory) has just made available for the Iphone. Designed to be used all over the globe, this handy little tool can help you find boutiques all over the globe.

Pros: quite helpful on trips to other cities and far off lands for must-have kicks.

Cons: takes away a lot of the need for research and being "in the know" to find the latest Nike release. Surely anyone in L.A. who catches wind of the fact that you only have to camp out for 24 hours for a pair of Yeezy's will book a flight and save the headache/luda asking price on ebay.
Also, not all of us have iphones... wahh wahhhh.

Via: Weekly Drop

Wally World

2009-11-04T18:41:00.001Z

If you can deal with a whole lot of these people:

You can get an xbox360 effectively for $100 ($200 plus $100 gift card), this Saturday (November 7th) only.

Absolutely redurka. For more details pop over to Gizmodo.

Boo Maine... you fail.

2009-11-04T10:22:00.000Z

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Caligrafitti

2009-11-02T17:42:00.001Z

Pretty cool vid from FatCap. Niels Shoe Meulman busts out some "caligrafitti".

Thanks Pops!

Music to my... neck?

2009-11-02T17:30:00.000Z

New neckties made out of old cassette tapes. And if you have more time on your hands than is reasonable (or socially accessible) you can actually play the music contained within these ties. WICKED. Available now from Supermarket for $90. Forget the piano key necktie... this thing is way more BA.

Via: Unplugged

Quoddy New Mocs

2009-11-02T17:20:00.000Z

Who'da thunk that a brand of Mocs from MAINE would be blowing up on: Highsnobiety?

N64 Kid

2009-10-30T16:35:00.000Z

Not even kidding... is this our family Xmas '97?

Artist of the Day: Kina Grannis

2009-10-30T15:41:00.000Z

More youtube fame... just couldn't help blowin' up her spot because I've been rocking out to her covers all week.

Famous Spotting of the Day...

2009-10-29T14:49:00.000Z

Image via: Babble

So, I finally figured out why I have seen so many famous people lately: apparently the BBC radio studio is LITERALLY around the corner from me and I am just incredibly unobservant. Today's moderately famous celebrity: British TV presenter Fearne Cotton.

Real name? Unlikely.

Real attractive? Check.

Ruined or Radder?

2009-10-29T10:33:00.001Z

Have your vote... New York street artist Craig "KR" Costello pimped/destroyed (depending on your view on street art) this Mini Cooper S with KRINK and his trademark "KRINK drip" design. Check it out if you are near Berlin any time in the next few weeks!

Vicious Gallery
Kleine Freiheit 46
22767 Hamburg

Will be at Vicious from Saturday.

Via: Highsnobiety

Lion Face - Lemon Face

2009-10-28T15:19:00.002Z

No words of my own...

Info on the project's creator Steve from LION FACE LEMON FACE:
"My chief aim with LION FACE LEMON FACE was to experiment with the traditional role of story telling as entertainment or exchange of modern folklore in an unusual contemporary environment. A simple, provocative and highly subjective personal qualifier (’The Best/Worst...’) opens up a wide range of human responses. This in turn encourages engaging and dramatic narrative, and highlights memorable moments in the participant’s lives.

Everybody has stories: LION FACE LEMON FACE allows people a platform to share them as a performer, an event created entirely by the experiences of the people in attendance.
The photographic aspect is Ashlie's visual input to the idea, and a really strong aesthetic - the event would be totally different without it. We wanted to appeal to people on a social level, but with something different. With the success of such ventures as Don't Stay In, why not try something more formal, but just as fun? A contemporary photographic portrait series in a social, entertainment setting - with the same advantage of being able to exhibit online after, via this very site you are viewing."

Bunny and the Bull - London Film Festival

2009-10-28T09:56:00.002Z

The much anticipated release from the guys behind the Mighty Boosh: "Bunny and the Bull" featuring our favorite Simon Farnaby (from the post on the Merah opening), had its final showing of the BFI London Film Festival last night at the Genesis Cinema in East London. While it was surprisingly less glamorous than some of the Leicester Square showings it was still a cool vibe and felt much more appropriate for a film made in the grim style of the Boosh crew's more recent work.

While Farnaby and Edward Hogg were the main characters of the film I am afraid to say that the Spanish (and faux-Spanish) actors really stole the show. Veronica Echegui (of "Yo Soy la Juani" fame) was absolutely adorable in her role as a potty-mouthed waitress working in a dodgy seafood restaurant in Poland before taking off with the boys on their adventure to "the fiesta" in her town in Spain where people were said to laugh, drink wine in the street and make love in the street.

While the story was not your normal "road-trip" story it did provide an accurate and only-funny-because-it-wasn't-happening-to-you portrayal of what happens when two guys go after the same girl and only one actually cares about the girl.

The film left me a bit down and while I cannot agree with The Times who gave the film 5-stars I'm perfectly comfortable giving it 3.5-4 stars. There were some moments of comic genius - most notably Noel Fielding and Richard Ayoade's roles -- and some moments of genuine sadness interspersed with some pretty incredible visual effects and cinematography. Additionally, the opening credits were incredibly clever and there were a lot of references to prior Boosh storylines and characters that made the film even more enjoyable for any fan of the gang's work.

At the end of the day you really wanted the film to end like "Wristcutters" (a film of which it was very remniscent)... whether or not it did, well you'll have to see for yourself.

Is it as hilarious as you might have hoped for from such a talented cast? Probably not. Should you see it anyways? Yeah, most definitely.

Just Down The Street From My Office...

2009-10-27T16:16:00.002Z

Image NSFW (if you are a gearhead)

And not a moment too soon. Getting my bike finally next week and will definitely be spending abhorrent amounts of money in this place.

Tokyo Fixed Gear-- of much web fame-- will be opening their doors in Soho, London (on Berwick St.) late November if the Gearheads on the message boards are to be trusted!

In celebration of the opening, Tokyo Fixed Gear have teamed up with ilovedust design boutique (who judging from their website have got way more skillzzz in digital than on bike detail) for the opening. The frame/shape is absolutely gorgeous and though I have no leg to stand on in this regard: I've gotta say the paint job seems a bit "busy" for me. Colorway is hot and I dig the idea, but just a little too much of a seizure waiting to happen... that and it is not likely to be safe on the London streets for more than 5 minutes without one of these AND one of these.

Hood Internet Mixtape Volume Four (!!!)

2009-10-27T09:04:00.001Z

The wait is finally over... almost. After announcing the release of their fourth mixtape a few weeks back on Pitchfork, we finally have a date for the much anticipated drop from Chicago's finest mash-up duo. November 9th the Hood will be dropping the album via their website... always a free download so be sure to get yours on/around the 9th.

Artist of the Day: Tika Viker-Bloss (aka AKIT)

2009-10-26T18:01:00.001Z

Though she's gone "clean" today we celebrate the work of street artist: AKIT. After realizing that despite her best efforts she was not going to be arrested, she has started doing illustration, printing and live graff exhibitions.

Check out her website for more details on her work.

Last Chance on the Tees

2009-10-26T11:36:00.000Z

I literally have 3 left (all Large). This colorway and design combo will NEVER be printed again. First-run preview collection. Get some Crockstar in your life while you can still afford it. Email me if you want one: Crockstar.

The Lost Generation? I think not...

2009-10-26T11:11:00.000Z

I'm sure most of you who are active on the blogosphere have already seen this posted through various different channels but if not: check it out... and believe it.

Thanks Mom!

Featured Artist of the Day: Todd Kuffner

2009-10-22T11:02:00.004+01:00

A friend of mine told me about this guy the other day-- he's got some pretty serious skills and writes his music (quite prolifically)... tons more videos on Youtube if you like it (132 of his own originals plus a few covers), pretty darn impressive considering he's a PhD at UCL in Econ.

Merah London Club Opening

2009-10-22T10:17:00.003+01:00

This blog has moved.

The below post is available here:

Merah London Club Opening - Crockstar Limited
Thank you!

Well, the opening of yet another "super exclusive" club seemed to go off without a hitch last night. Merah -- a new club over by Oxford St. (on Wells St. to be exact) -- opened its doors to the public for the first time last night. In addition to the typical cast of d-listers (former X Factor stars, comedians, boy band members, etc), a full paparazzi, and free booze galore the club boasted a couple of solid DJ sets (atop an absolutely stunning deck), a nice design, friendly staff (particularly for this type of place) and the type of predominantly young/beautiful you might expect at this sort of thing.

Of course these are all the steps one would take for an opening, but it did seem a little bit "off" as their real target clientele seems to be less the youngsters spending Daddy's oil money and more Daddy spending his own hard-earned scrilla while on an international business trip. Going forward Merah will have a tough decision to make as to whether they would rather aim for the d-lister/football crowd (and all the groupies) that frequent a place like Boujis and spend money like it ain't no thing, or whether they pursue their proclaimed niche of SUPER exclusive gentleman's club (and no I do not mean 'the rippers' here).

Tough call but will be interesting to see whether they "stay the course" of caviar and £120,000 bottles (not exagerating) or opt for trendy cocktails for £15-20 for the young and beautiful.

All in all, a great night out and a strong opening. The bionic finger-printing system used for the coat check was nothing short of class (and made for a much smoother/quicker process as well).

Pictures will follow once the Paps unleash them on the wonderweb... in the meantime please enjoy the above video of my favorite celeb spotting last night (no he was not at the club, but rather stopped by the pub we were at prior to the opening... obviously more my scene): the wonderful Harold Boom (aka Simon Farnaby).

Official Obituary of the Personal Computer

2009-10-21T14:27:00.001+01:00

The new iMac and "magic mouse" are absolutely incredible. After the patent applications were leaked a few weeks back on Gizmodo everyone assumed the "multi-touch technology" for which Apple were applying was for the new tablet. While it appears we'll have to wait EVEN longer on the tablet, there is no doubt that the new iMac and "Magic Mouse" will likely add to the distance Apple is rapidly putting between themselves and their competitors.

Did I mention that in addition to the multi-touch mouse (Check out a video of the Magic Mouse in action over at Apple's website) you can get the new iMac with a 27" display has "beyond-HD" resolution (2560x1440) and that the monitor is completely seamless (as is everything else on the screen)?

Unreal.

As suggested in the title, Mac grew its share so much more rapidly than its "competitors" (17% growth versus 2% growth) in the last quarter (with half of all Macs sold in the apple store to FIRST TIME APPLE BUYERS) I hearby pronounce the PC, Windows, Dell, Acer, and all the rest: defunct. While they will continue battling for the lightweight $300 laptop/word processing machines they are too far behind to realistically hope to catch up with Apple on any front really.

While these machines were loved by many and provided a great deal of pleasure during their glory years, they have outlived their usefulness.

May the personal computer rest in peace: "goodnight sweet prince".

Info and Image via: Gizmodo

Love Him or Hate Him Kanye Has Had Some Serious Highs Amongst the Lows this Year

2009-10-20T09:44:00.007+01:00

Another high... Spike Jonze Short. The embed code from Creativity doesn't seem to be working right so check it out direct here.

Via: Creativity Online

Crockstar T-shirts

2009-10-19T17:44:00.002+01:00

The first batch of Crockstar tees went out this morning! I apologize for the delay and really appreciate everyone's patience in getting those out! Between some hold ups at the printer, a mail strike and a move things have been a bit more complicated than I would have liked.

Please (if you get a chance) take a picture of yourself doing something you love or in a place you love and send it to me-- and I'll post your pic on the blog!

Thanks :)

For those who would still like one/haven't paid me yet-- holler! I've got a couple left so don't sleep!

Nike Foamposite Blazers

2009-10-18T15:51:00.000+01:00

These things are unreal... and apparently limited to 72 pairs worldwide. Available at Osneaker obviously given the ULTRA low-numbers... don't sleep!

Via: Highsnobiety

Walt Disney X Salvador Dali - Destino

2009-10-18T15:31:00.000+01:00

Absolutely beautiful. As usual-- Legal Disclaimer applies.

Via: Kanye

Nintendo Guitar

2009-10-14T16:29:00.000+01:00

Skip to 2:20 for the demo... SICK.

Via: Cool Hunting

Honda EV-N

2009-10-14T15:34:00.001+01:00

Image Via: earth2tech

Me Likey. New concept from Honda (obviously environmentally friendly) to be shown in "near-finished form" at the Tokyo Motor Show. Perhaps the raddest part? Or most ridiculous part? I haven't yet decided... but see the video below. Yeah-- that comes as a removable unit from the door in the present model. AWESOME--functionality of a segway... and somehow makes you look even more like a clown.

Doesn't matter, I'll take one.

Watch Darius Goes West for Free - AND SPREAD THE WORD!

2009-10-14T09:53:00.001+01:00

Watch the most decorated film of 2007 for free online here. This film is available for FREE and this is perfectly legal-- encouraged in fact!

This film was called "a classic" by the LA Times and is truly the most inspirational film I have seen in my life. Do yourself a favor this weekend and watch it online for free, then spread the word to everyone you care about!

KNOW ABOUT IT.

Excellent Flash Mob by UK Youth Climate Coalition

2009-10-13T16:09:00.000+01:00

Great flash mob dance that brought a close to a retreat of the UK Youth Climate Coalition in which they received advice from Marshall Ganz (of Barack Obama campaign fame) on how to get the word out. A pretty darn good way to go about it-- a pretty darn good story can be found here.

2009-10-13T09:42:00.004+01:00

Thanks Tom!

So THAT Explains it...

2009-10-12T13:52:00.000+01:00

Thanks learnsomethingeveryday

Jones is Epic

2009-10-09T10:01:00.000+01:00

Here is one of many most excellent Jones' videos. Enjoy!

I could really use this guy for my upcoming move.

In Other Paris News...

2009-10-08T10:25:00.001+01:00

Marc Jacobs also drew a lot of attention in his capsule collection for Louis Vuitton last night. In a theme that can perhaps best be described as ethno-futuristic, all models took to the runway with afros and small --but not overly revealing--skirts, tops and everything else you might like. You can watch the first bit in HQ above and link-thru to find the rest on YouTube.

Alexander McQueen Kills Paris

2009-10-08T09:54:00.001+01:00

I can't say that I am surprised in the slightest... but Alexander McQueen absolutely destroyed it at Paris Fashion Week (what I would have given to be there). Reviews have been unanimously positive and the shoes (close-up around 28 seconds in) are unbelievable.

Legal Disclaimer In Greater Detail

2009-10-07T16:27:00.003+01:00

First, thank you to Herche’s Blog Disclaimer.

Please find below the reprint of one of the most entertaining legal disclaimers I have ever seen (adjusted ever-so-slightly to refer explicitly to this blog ). Consequently the following (from Herche’s Blog Disclaimer) also serves to provide greater detail to my own stance on this blog as a "legal entity" and shall, for all purposes serve as the Legal Disclaimer for this blog:

Heretofore and unto now, this blogger hosted weblog has had to rely exclusively on the blanket disclaimer provided for the corporate body of blog*spot addresses. While this kind of disclaimer is usually sufficient to protect a blogger from liability, it falls short when dealing with inherently offensive content, websites with a mind of their own and authors who are excessively paranoid about being dragged into court. With the above firmly borne in mind, we propose the following weblog disclaimer:

http://crockstarlimited.blogspot.com (hereafter “this website”) AND www.crockstarlimited.com will abide by, adhere to, accept responsibility for, endure under and act with respect toward the following weblog disclaimer:

By accessing this website, a web browser (hereafter user) is consents that s/he is familiar with, understands and absolutely accepts the following weblog disclaimer:

The views expressed by the authors on this website do not necessarily reflect the views of this website, those who link to this website, the author's mother, father, sister, brother, uncle, aunt, grandparents, cousins, step relations, any other blood relative and the author himself, this website’s web host, template designer, or any other organization, service, motto, logo, insignia or avatar in any way connected with this website.

Comments on this website are the sole responsibility of their writers and the writer will take full responsibility, liability, and blame for any libel or litigation that results from something written in or as a direct result of something written in a comment. The accuracy, completeness, veracity, honesty, exactitude, factuality and politeness of comments are not guaranteed.

All trademarks, service marks, collective marks, design rights, personality rights, copyrights, registered names, mottos, logos, avatars, insignias and marks used or cited by this website are the property of their respective owners and this website in no way accepts any responsibility for an infringement on one of the above.

Although it may claim otherwise, this website does not offer legal, medical, psychiatric, veterinary, gynecological, archaeological, astronomical, astrological, ontological, paleontological, philosophical, axiological, audiological, bacteriological, mineralogical, criminological, terminological, dermatological, ecclesiastical, campanological, phrenological, phonological, technological, hematological, campanological, neurological, psychobiological, urological, ufological, typological,, mythological, hydrological, xylological, zoological, logical or any other kind of professional advice. Nothing on this website should be construed as professional advice including, but not limited to, the above list.

The information provided on this website is of a general, broad, sweeping, large, wide-ranging, wide-reaching and wide-spread nature and cannot substitute for the advice of a licensed professional or chiropractor. A competent authority with specialized knowledge is the only one who can address the specific circumstances of your predicament. We can try, but this disclaimer frees us of any liability if negative consequences result from our efforts.

Please contact your local bar association, law society, neighborhood association of jurists, medical board, county hospital, phone book, online directory, local emergency number in your jurisdiction, mother or Google to find a or obtain a referral to a competent professional. If you do not have reasonable means of contacting an attorney-at-law, lawyer, civil law notary, barrister, solicitor, medical professional, coroner or any other professional in the area of your inquiry, meaning you are an orphaned, computer-illiterate social hazard, please exit this window and get your life in order.

This website has no control over the information you access via outbound link(s) in the post text, sidebar, header, footer or comment sections. This website does not endorse linked website(s), cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information found by following said links or the correctness of any analysis found therein and should not be held responsible for it or the consequences of a user’s use of that information. If you are curious about the veracity of something you find, please follow the directions in the above paragraph and consult the appropriate experts.

This website may inadvertently link to content that is obscene, prurient, useless, hate-filled, poisonous, pornographic, frivolous, empty, rotten, bad, disgusting, hostile, repulsive, virulent, infectious, malignant, antagonistic, irritating, obnoxious, harsh, embittered, rancorous, resentful, acrimonious, pestilential, baneful, noxious, toxic, venomous, pernicious or repetitive. This website in no way condones, endorses or takes responsibility for such content.

This website publishes content regularly and said content is maintained in reference to the protections afforded it under local, provincial, state, martial, federal, international and mafia law. Publication of information found on this website may be in violation of the laws of the city, county, state, country or other jurisdiction from where you are viewing this website’s content and laws in your jurisdiction may not protect or allow the same kinds of speech or distribution. In the case that the laws of the jurisdiction where this website's content is maintained and those of yours conflict, this website does not encourage, condone, facilitate, recommend or protect the violation of any laws and cannot be responsible for any violations of such laws.

Because the World Wide Web is an integrated net of communication, discussion and litigation, this website encourages the distribution of its content. Cross, reciprocal or just plain friendly hyperlinking is consistent with this information sharing and this disclaimer should not be construed as a condemnation of any linking practices. That said, any reproduction of this website’s content must credit the website by name and Uniform Resource Locator (URL). Should you link to this domain or use, reproduce, republish, regurgitate, repeat, reiterate, rebound, reecho, reverberate, mimic, imitate, parrot or duplicate the information contained on this website, you alone are responsible for that action and should, under threat of litigation, credit this website by name and URL.

This website is not recommended for inmates, ingrates or anyone professing an irrational fear of cats or any other mammal, those who have a penchant for time wasting, illiterates and lawyers. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant or are nursing are advised to consult their husband and physician before reading this website. Eating before reading may result in unhealthy indigestion. Not recommended for people over the age of 120.

If you agree with this, and want to protect yourself and your blog, as well as draw attention to America’s culture of litigation, feel free to post this disclaimer and rid yourself of pesky liability issues. Just be sure to credit Herche’s Blog Disclaimer.

Lenny Kravitz x Justice - Let Love Rule

2009-10-07T10:04:00.002+01:00

I am not usually a fan of Lenny but when this popped up on my Google Reader I had to take a look. Pretty dope video as well.

Via: Kanye

Come on CP!

2009-10-06T10:24:00.003+01:00

One of my all time favorite designer's (London's own Carri Munden of CASSETTE PLAYA) has been commissioned by Nike Sportswear along with Amsterdam's Parra in order to "create a sports team" and do battle in the 2009 RIVALRY collection (to be released this holiday season).

While I've always respected Parra's work, I've gotta say that--my East London bias aside-- Carri has absolutely killed it again. Staying true to her more street-inspired collections of a couple of seasons ago this latest capsule collection for NSW is unreal.

For more details about the rivalry and the individual pieces from the collection hop over to Hypebeast and in order to help the superior team (CP's "The Chimeras") win... buy some of Carri's collection as it becomes available at finer Nike retailers.

SUPER "W" Frames

2009-10-06T09:33:00.003+01:00

The newest release (available early Spring 2010 so hold your horses) from SUPER are absolutely filthy. Making their way through the celebrity ranks now they will be available to all (for under $150) come spring time. Keep your eyes peeled!

Who Drops a G on an Empty Extinguisher?

2009-10-06T09:27:00.001+01:00

The latest release from graffiti wunderkind "Krink" is in the form of an "extinguisher applicator"... presumably this could be used for all of your street art needs (or filled with foam to save lives) but I've got to wonder who would drop a grand for one of these limited edition bad boys?

Via: Highsnobiety

Another Successful Streetfest

2009-10-05T15:04:00.002+01:00

Stu Smith and the folks over at Lovenskate teamed up with local artists and some killer sponsors to bring another successful evening over at Streetfest in a converted car park in Shoreditch.

With skate competitions and exhibitions, streetwear and street art galore, free tea (as always) and great musical performances another excellent evening of entertainment has come and gone.

Enjoy the few photos I've got from the event and keep your eyes on www.streetfest.net for updates and news about the next go around!

Jeremy Scott has had a HUGE 2009

2009-10-05T14:53:00.004+01:00

For our designer of today we take a look into some of Jeremy Scott's work from this year. Between his work earlier this year with Linda Farrow eyewear (my favorite being the flinstones inspired television collaboration). Now some of the latest Originals by Originals collaboration with Adidas can be peeped below (full coverage at High Snobiety). The kicks were a big hit as part of the Jeremy Scott Flinstones themed runway show. Please excuse the poor image quality above-- taken on my phone at LFW Exhibition. Enjoy!

Still not buyin it...

2009-10-02T16:46:00.000+01:00

Hop over to Gizmodo for an explanation as to why some headphones cost $500 and "why it's not worth buying a pair for under $100"... I'm having a tough time swallowing this one.

I wish my High School Was This Rad...

2009-10-02T16:43:00.000+01:00

This "Batman" entrance switch hidden in a statue was used to gain entry to a high school dance at Wanye Manor High School. Click here for the full story.

Image via: Unplggd

Jordan Holiday Collection

2009-10-02T16:34:00.001+01:00

While all of the collection is available to view over at Highsnobiety, these Campus Chukkas absolutely have to be the freshest/least Jordan looking Jordans I've ever seen. Count it.

Cockney Cash Machine

2009-10-01T09:26:00.000+01:00

Absolutely brilliant. Pop over to Design Boom for all the details, story and more images!

Via: Vasuda

Update from KTZ London Fashion Week Show -- VIDEO

2009-10-01T09:14:00.001+01:00

Via: On/Off TV

Sneaker Fiend Releases

2009-10-01T08:59:00.002+01:00

After being featured on 106 & Park on BET Sneaker Fiend Tees is taking off-- and given some of their designs, as well they should be! Above we've got images of the now famous "10 pair of kicks don't make you a collector" as well as the "world famous sneaker fiends" tee featuring all your favorites (Aggassi, Jordan, etc.). Get yours at: Sneaker Fiend

Via: Weekly Drop

Designer of the Day -- Benjamin Hubert: Undo! Undo!

2009-10-01T08:47:00.003+01:00

New "edit undo" eraser from Benjamin Hubert studio. And "yumbrella" fruit bowls... Seriously rad.

Via: Unplggd

Ill Mugs

2009-09-30T14:08:00.000+01:00

These things are hilarious. Cop one from Peter Ibruegger

Via: Cornology

Heady Stuff

2009-09-29T09:14:00.002+01:00

Blu x David Ellis

Via: Cool Hunting (Twitter)

MTV To Air "Darius Goes West" (!!!)

2009-09-25T09:36:00.001+01:00

In celebration of Darius Weem’s 20th birthday MTV has finally agreed to air Darius Goes West! If you have the opportunity to tune into this film (airing on MTV2 and MTVU at 12pm EST on September 27th) please, by all means do so! If you cannot, the film is available to watch for free in its entirety here.

The film is an uplifting and simultaneously heart wrenching story about a young group of friends and their incredible journey across the United States in an effort to raise awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (the number one genetic killer of children) and in an effort to get Darius’ wheelchair pimped on MTV’s “Pimp My Ride”.

If you can’t tune in on MTV definitely watch the film online, and buy a copy of the DVD to share the message.

Spread the word. KNOW ABOUT IT!

KTZ Catwalk

2009-09-23T12:23:00.006+01:00

The show was absolutely breathtaking from start to finish.

While I might have done without some of the members of the audience (particularly the women whom I was crammed next to while waiting to get into the catwalk) the show itself was wonderful and the staff pulled everything together without a hiccup. The audience was definitely full of young independent designers, Hackney socialites, Hoxton-square-hipsters and beautiful models alike.

My View of it All

The music selection was excellent, real deep cuts and hard-hitting bass. The build up to the first model was huge: a bit of a super-hero meets motorcycle gang build up leading towards a big bass line. Admittedly, the first piece could have hit a little harder, but everything was looking up from there. Combining intricate details and incredible tailoring KTZ hit the nail on the head. With some pieces delicately crocheted with lace, others held together with massive stitching and corset-style lacing the range was certainly eclectic and covered most interests. KTZ did very well with their choice of shapes and managed to create pieces using polygons that still seemed to flow (an achievement that I have never seen before). The contrast between rigidity and fluidity was incredible throughout.

The menswear was well done, some great patterns/palettes were used and the show was well varied. Many of the pieces looked somewhat like the bastard love-child of street-fighter (the Sega Genesis version obviously) and the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air while other pieces looked a bit more like an Oakland Raiders trip to Miami Beach during pride week. The menswear was largely a great accomplishment. I cannot say that I am excited for the return of mesh tops for men (I thought these died after the filming of The Birdcage) but the Skeletor tops were absolutely filthy—I would probably travel all the way to Castle Gray Skull just to have one. The only real failing in terms of menswear was the attempt to take a feminine shoe and make it masculine. While the idea seemed to work quite well on the women’s shoes, the attempt at foot-bondage was a large shortcoming in my book. Thankfully, there were some more traditional and colorful vans-style slip-ons with some great colorways and the aerosol skull tee and the accompanying trousers were the new hotness.

The womenswear was almost perfectly flawless. Varying between colorful rigid shapes, and tastefully scandalous usage of lace, accented by futuristic eyewear and the single freshest looking (though likely unpractical) handbags I have ever seen KTZ really cleaned up on the womenswear and even managed to upstage the gorgeous woman in the front row wearing the white j-lo style dress with biker gloves. With pieces ranging from “Fantasy” t-shirts reminiscent of a Lupe Fiasco album cover, big ol’ pointy shoulder pads on tops and the finest tailoring I have ever seen on my life on the last pair of trousers KTZ absolutely killed it on the womens collection.

The close of the show left me hungry for more and truly pumped up. All in all, the show was a great success and KTZ’s forthcoming line is a force to be reckoned with.

Full pictorial available now via http://www.onoff.tv/ with video to follow (will embed once it is available).

Images Via: On/Off

Digital Wallpaper

2009-09-22T09:16:00.000+01:00

Hirzberger Events - Digital Wallpaper from Gregor Hofbauer on Vimeo.

While this is probably not the best thing for the environment and carbon reductions... it is pretty darn cool.

Via: Kanye

Crockstar Preview of the Preview

2009-09-21T07:44:00.002+01:00

The super limited one-piece "preview of the preview" is officially printed and ready to go. I will be picking them up from Stu today, doing some invoicing and shipping them out mid-week! Pictures will obviously be available on the blog once I've got product in hand.

There are a couple left for anyone who is interested!

London Fashion Week Recap

2009-09-21T07:32:00.003+01:00

I will be rolling out a number of featurettes this week on some of my favorite brands from fashion week. There will be at least one catwalk recap and a number of features on some of the brands who were on display in the exhibition. These will be rolled out over the course of the week as I get my hands on more of the press materials (photos, etc)... though in the meantime I am happy to share what I have.

First of all, it is worth noting that the British Fashion Council has done a wonderful job with fashion week this year with their move to Somerset House and 180 Strand. Somerset house is a wonderful place for the main catwalk area and provides some nice historical tones to a trendy to-do full of hipsters and artist types. Meanwhile, 180 Strand has been made into a venue perhaps more fitted for a warehouse-style rave (complete with a number of djs and on-site breakfast!) than for an industry event, yet the BFC have done great things with the space and it definitely has a younger, trendier feel. Different strokes for different folks I suppose.

Keep your eyes fixed on the blog as features over the course of the week will include: Puma X Mihara 10th anniversary set, SUPER forthcoming S/S collection, Madras, House of Holland, Linda Farrow (and her work with Matthew Williamson, Jeremy Scott, HOH and others), live coverage from the KOKON TO ZAI catwalk show, and much more!

Image: Matthew Williamson Show LFW Coverage

I'm sorry

2009-09-18T09:06:00.001+01:00

Dearest blog... I'm sorry for neglecting you. I promise to work on you this weekend.
-Crock*

New Cudi Dropped Yesterday

2009-09-16T07:39:00.002+01:00

The new Kid Cudi album dropped yesterday and it does not disappoint. I'm not convinced how much more I like this new album than some of the mixtapes (particularly "A Kid Named Cudi"), but it is definitely a solid release. I have only had the chance to listen through it once thus far but am definitely big on the colabo with Ratatat called "Alive (Nightmare)". The beat is vintage Ratatat and the tune/lyrics are both catchy and good.

"Pursuit of Happiness" featuring Ratatat and MGMT is also another of my favorites.

Available now on Itunes, enjoy!

Image and Mixed Review Available Via: LA Times

Great Minds Think Alike

2009-09-16T07:23:00.001+01:00

Bahhhh! Unfortunately it looks like Levi's 505 and Japanese brand Atmos have beat me to the punch. I have been playing a lot lately with paisleys, bandannas and denim and have got to say that these jeans are quite similar to a few of the designs I had knocked out.

However, as I obviously have not released any of this information I have got to say... congratulations! I give my unequivocal stamp of approval and am digging them.

Thoughts?

Via: High Snobiety

BBC/Ice Cream New Era

2009-09-14T07:28:00.002+01:00

Billionaire Boy's Club released this new piece of headwear at their recent "Fashion Night Out" event (which apparently turned to mayhem and was shut down by police). The "heart and mind" piece may pop up soon on the BBC store so keep your eyes peeled!

New "Trousers" From Huf

2009-09-14T07:21:00.001+01:00

Huf has released their bottoms for the year and feature primarily denim and canvas. The pants are available in all Huf locations and despite the irony in the above photo I am assured that these items are all handcrafted in the US and A and thus there was hopefully little blood shed in their construction.

The canvas trousers are available in: black, brown and khaki. While the denim is available in: raw indigo, rinsed indigo, raw black and rigid gray colorways.

For more images of the trousers, pop over to HUF's blog

Bape Vinyl Figure and Jacket

2009-09-14T07:14:00.001+01:00

Bape have finally released a vinyl toy to go with one of their pieces (a much anticipated event). Thus far, the toy has only dropped in Japan and comes with the Shark jacket. In a bit of a flashback to "my buddy" (a catchy commercial from back when) you can now have your very own vinyl toy (right in above photo) that has the SAME outfit as you!

Though I make fun, it's a pretty cool idea and the Jacket is aces.

Via: High Snobiety

PHLI Fresh 5-Panel

2009-09-14T07:07:00.003+01:00

This excellent piece from forthcoming "PHLI worldwide" will undoubtedly catch the eye of every sneakerhead and streetwear fiend. Utilizing images of a number of different "must-have" sneaker boxes PHLI has gotten off to a very strong start. Available at PHLI for $35 (US) and comes with free shipping.

Via: Weekly Drop

New Jay Album...

2009-09-11T13:15:00.000+01:00

is absolutely disgusting. I know critics have been quite mixed on their assessment but it is one of the most complete albums he has put out in quite some time. Jay somehow manages to stay true to himself, incorporate some new up and comers (Drake, Cudi, Mr. Hudson) praise some of the game's finest in "A Star is Born" (Dre, Em, Mase, Puff, Biggie, etc.) rip on some of the recent trends in rap (the most memorable lyric probably being: "get back to rap you T-Pain'in too much" in Death of Auto-Tune), take on the Reublican party: "This ain't black vs white my... we off that, please tell Bill O'Reilly to fall back, tell Rush Limbaugh to get off my balls, it's 2010 not 1864" in "We Off That" and produce a few chart bangers as well.

Image Via: Sohh

In my opinion (humble as it may be) this is easily Jay's best album since The Black Album and nothing short of a masterpiece given the sort of stuff that's been coming out lately.

Apple Keynote Round-up

2009-09-11T12:21:00.002+01:00

The outcome of the big Apple Keynote titled "It's just Rock 'n Roll..." was a bit of a dissappointment for those looking for a new tablet or a completely new ipod, but that said, Itunes 9 is considerably better than older versions of the program... and the things they have accomplished with the new Nano are pretty incredible: video camera (without a still camera-- interesting), recording abilities, FM radio, built in pedometer, and a speaker. When you consider that the thing measures

8GB will retail for $150 while 16GB will retail for $180 stateside. There will also be a 4GB version without nearly as many rad features but at $79 you cannot complain too much!

Via: Gizmodo

Apple Keynote

2009-09-09T18:36:00.000+01:00

So far, the releases have been limited to an update of Itunes (9) with some new features. A few digs at their competitors annnnnd... ?

Filarious.

2009-09-09T16:14:00.003+01:00

Originally From College Humor, Via: Today's Big Thing

God bless the internet for providing a forum for ignorant and anonymous hatred. At least every now and again it is willing to make light of itself.

Jay-Z Drops BP3 Early (but not on Itunes)

2009-09-09T09:30:00.002+01:00

Image Via: Rolling Stone/Mazur/Wireimage

After the album leaked last week Jay-Z decided to release the much anticipated The Blueprint 3 early (on a Tuesday as one normally does) rather than on September 11, eight years after he released the Blueprint. Available at most major record stores now, but Itunes seems to be hanging on dearly to the originally announced date (Friday) for the release.

For more on Jay-Z and his upcoming fall tour hop over to Rolling Stone.

Play Cloths x Wish x New Era

2009-09-09T09:14:00.004+01:00

So, this may well be one of the freshest New Eras to drop in quite some time. Clipse's brand Play Cloths has teamed up with Atlanta based Wish for their very first New Era. The cap will come in Black and in Blue and will be available from September 25th only at Wish's shop in ATL.

Clipse will be on hand for the release. For more details check out the Wish blog.

Via: High Snobiety

adidas x CLOT

2009-09-08T07:48:00.002+01:00

An absolutely huge collaboration. CLOT has been one of the biggest names in custom footwear (Collaborations with both Nike and adidas among others) and his most recent work with adidas is bound to be huge. Pay close attention to the laser-etched details, the snake-skin inspired upper and the highlighting/new take on the adidas logo. Absolute class.

There are no details (yet) on a release but I will definitely try to keep you posted. To have a look at more of the collection pop over to High Snobiety

Fresh Grizzly Bear Fan Video

2009-09-08T07:41:00.002+01:00

Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear from Gabe Askew on Vimeo.
"Two Weeks" has definitely been my favorite track off the latest Grizzly Bear album Veckatimest released back in May. This video is incredible though. Made almost entirely with cardboard cut-outs by artist Gabe Askew as a "fan video" it is garnering a good deal of buzz around the wonderweb (especially for a fan video).

Check out an interview with Gabe here.

Via: Kanye

Comme des Garcons

2009-09-08T07:12:00.004+01:00

I'm definitely feeling these new shirts from CdG. In general I have been a big fan of the trend (a trend on which Comme des Garcons have really led the way) towards flannels and combination prints, especially on the dress shirt front, but this is by far one of the nicest pieces I have seen so far.

The argyle-style pattern on the mash-up-cum-dress shirt is fantastic. Ever attentive to the smaller details, CdG has hit it out of the park with this one.

Available online at Ark and fine retailers already carrying the Comme des Garcons line (Dover Street Market for those of you in London).

Via: High Snobiety

Charlie Murphy as Leroy Smith

2009-09-07T20:08:00.002+01:00

So, apparently, Nike is a little too good for the likes of NBA.com (or they wrote this piece as a joke but I'm inclined to think otherwise as nowhere in the "interview" does it acknowledge this as a joke).

Charlie Murphy has taken on the role of "Leroy Smith", or the man who motivated Michael Jordan by taking his spot on the varsity basketball team the year Michael got cut. EITHER NBA.COM needs to hire some new interviewers or they are playing along. Either way it's good to see charlie is back to work!

How anyone who had ever watched Chapelle's Show wouldn't recognize Charlie Murphy right away is beyond me, but great stuff anyways!

Classic.

2009-09-04T18:55:00.001+01:00