A r c h B l o g

Viral video: Extreme tubing

2012-03-09T15:07:00.002Z

While I'm not sure if this is fake (or a guerrilla ad for Snickers) it's still a pretty exhilarating watch ...

Via Jez-Muffin

Fresh Guacamole - PES

2012-03-08T17:29:00.001Z

I dunno what's more impressive here - the sheer imagination or the sharp-as-a-tack execution?

Lazy journalism: Fox TV reporter caught snoozing on the job

2012-03-08T10:43:00.005Z

Sure, Super Tuesday can be kind of dull but still you'd expect Fox's Washington-based reporter to at least pretend to be awake while covering the developing story ...

Via Andrew Sullivan's Daily Dish (see blog-roll)

Engineered Garments Randsdown seersucker jacket

2012-03-08T09:51:00.003Z

Spring is in the air. That means it's time to ditch the Shetland wool jumpers and goose down jacket and start thinking about some less sweaty clothing options. This seersucker jacket from Engineered Garments is a real beaut. Besides corduroy and the brushed cotton my Bonsoir pyjamas are made of, seersucker has to be my favourite fabric.

Tristo: Bad trip

2012-03-07T16:44:00.004Z

Tristo is a new drug which is all the rage in Peru. It's a mix of seaweed (yes, seaweed), cocaine paste, nicotine and cannabis. Hardened drug users - like the slightly grumpy chap in this teaser trailer - insist it's the best thing since sliced bread. I'm not entirely convinced. After all, it does seem to cause its fans to kill their dogs and sit in rubbish holes on the beach.

Tristo Teaser from lalicienfuegos on Vimeo.

Via Prog Porn

Reverse Seam Inside Pocket Shirt by Steven Alan

2012-03-07T16:14:00.003Z

I'm a big fan of the quirky detail on this Steven Alan shirt. It's available at W11's The Garbstore.

Shiavi says ... Cut out the sweetness

2012-03-07T15:31:00.002Z

Anyone who has ever played football with or against me will appreciate why I appreciate this ad. What one does not necessarily possess in skill one can make up for with grit, determination and commitment.

Afghan beatbox champion

2012-03-04T09:51:00.004Z

Beatboxing, as demonstrated by spotty teens in hoodies outside Westfield, is hugely repetitive and largely unimpressive. But not all beatboxing is bland. Check out this Afghan beatboxer accurately replicate a NATO versus Taliban gun battle. Fyah!

Daily Mail letter: Sick of it all

2012-03-02T10:39:00.000Z

Just so sick:

ArchBlog approves: Bunny Wailer's Blackheart Man

2012-03-02T09:24:00.006Z

David Rodigan MBE has said Bunny Wailer's Blackheart Man is the greatest reggae album of all-time. As ever, he's 100 percent right. Rue Beaux got it for me for Chrimbo and I've barely taken it out of the CD player since. It's all gold but here are my three favourite tracks. ps Only a real blackheart man would deny that 'Bunny' is the best name for a male human being EVER.

Armagideon:

Bide Up:

This Train:

Penrith railway station

2012-03-01T17:39:00.000Z

Loose women on the line

Razzie for Hammersmith & Fulham Council

2012-03-01T11:42:00.005Z

It's always nice to be thanked by one's council for one's diligence in sacking up one's trash but ... whoever dreamt up this impossibly lame effort at a viral needs binning quicksmart imho

The New York Times explains Londoners

2012-03-01T11:32:00.003Z

The New York Times has published an article "Explaining Londoners." Some of it's pretty good. The NYT advises that it's possible to make a snap judgement about a Londoner from what newspaper he of she reads. I especially like the description of Express readers.

The Daily Telegraph
Older conservatives who mourn the loss of the empire by placing cricket before family. Last truly happy on D-Day.

The Guardian (or The Observer on Sundays)
Bikram-practicing middle-class liberals preoccupied with ending all wars and rolling their own cigarettes.

The Times of London
Definitely a member of the political and corporate elite; fancies him-or herself as tolerant; has zero middle-class friends.

The Independent
Slightly depressed and overeducated underachievers who are really worried about the environment.

The Daily Mail
Middle-class housewives who live in fear of rising house prices, Elton John and Gypsies. Loves: Lady Thatcher, talented-pet stories and George Clooney.

The Daily Express
Intolerant, easily outraged and yet to recover from Lady Diana’s death. Constant fear of terrorist attack is blunted by gin and reality TV.

The Daily Mirror
A really great night out starts with binge drinking at the greyhound track.

The Sun
Beloved by working-class conservatives eager to read a tabloid that goes for the jugular whether the topic is politics, soccer or topless women.

Nigel Cabourn pays homage to Captain Robert Falcon Scott

2012-03-01T09:27:00.002Z

Nigel Cabourn's forthcoming Autumn/Winter 2012 collection is based on the final expedition on Captain Robert Falcon Scott. On January 18th 1912 Captain Scott, along with four fellow explorers became the first British explorers to reach the South Pole. Along the way they endured -40°c temperatures and chilling winds.

The limited edition Scott collection consists of 13 pieces, with each individual style named after an explorer involved in Scott’s expedition. The Cabourn team worked closely with the actual garments thanks to the help of the Scott Polar Research Institute in Cambridge. Here are a few of the choice items via the Lineage of Influence blog.

Three Little Pigs ad: Wake up and smell the bacon

2012-03-01T09:00:00.005Z

Here's the Three Little Pigs ad for The Guardian's open journalism. It gives a pretty good representation of how the modern nooze cycle works and displays the increasing relevance of social meedjah in the coverage of a story. But I'm mostly posting it because I love how cute the pigs look in the dock.

ArchBlog plug: Ill Manors

2012-02-29T17:06:00.007Z

Here's the hawt new joint from Plan B with production by my bruvva-in-law Alexander "Shux" Shuckburgh. It debuted on Zane Lowe's radio show on Monday eve. It's only (!) got a paltry 89k YouTube views since Monday so I figured it's time it got an ickle ArchBlog boost!

Follow Shux on Twitter 'ere

Can't effing wait for the Marley doc to drop

2012-02-29T16:47:00.005Z

I'm hearing very many good things about Kevin Macdonald's documentary Marley, which recently world premiered at the Berlin Film Festival. As a huge Marley fan (I actually think he might have been a God) I canna wait to peep it.

On this rare occasion, I wholeheartedly agree with the promotional blurb about His Bobness: "Bob Marley's universal appeal, impact on music history and role as a social and political prophet is both unique and unparalleled ... From Academy Award-winning director Kevin Macdonald (One Day In September, The Last King of Scotland) comes the story of a towering figure of musical history, whose music and message has transcended different cultures, languages and creeds to resonate around the world today as powerfully as when he was alive."

Magnolia Pictures will release theatrically and on VOD on Friday, April 20th.

South 2 West 8 Deer Camo Jacket

2012-02-29T16:10:00.003Z

I'm not usually a fan of camo prints but this deer camo is different class. I'm not sure this South 2 West 8 Deer Camo Jacket would be ideal for stalking stags (bit loud) but that shouldn't do put off the deep-pocketed fashionista pack. I hope they do a seal camo print next. That would be my fave. Available from Nepenthes in New York.

Real UK hip-hop: "GYM" by Dave Neurotic, Young Zeus an The Duffinator

2012-02-29T16:02:00.003Z

I've got a lot of time for this braindead, deadpan brand of rap music. Lyrics don't come much better than "my muscles are big, tough and toned, my biceps are large and kinda coned"

Via Prog Porn (see blog-roll)

ArchBlog Holidays: Villa Angela, Istria, Croatia

2012-02-24T15:53:00.011Z

One of my favourite ever holidays was to Croatia with wifey HanPicked. The highlight of the trip was a wonderful week on the remote and unspoilt island of Vis. It was a while ago (Theo Walcott scored a hat-trick for En-Ger-Land v Croatia when I was there) but we often long to go back.

Given my general hard-on for Croatia, it's no surprise that I was immediately captivated by Bry OB Ben Wilson's piccies of his family's drop-dead gorgeous 18th century stone house in the northern region of Istria, Croatia's northern-most peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. As you can see from the (reasonably) exclusive piccies I'm posting right here, the villa really is top, top banana.

While regular readers will be aware that ArchBlog isn't exactly an interiors blog (!), it is impossible to plug Villa Angelo without raving about the tasteful botanic prints, delightful eiderdown and satisfyingly 'beat-up' armchairs. I'm also a whopping fan of those 'trapped' lights in the bathroom. They remind me of the Prisoner of Conscience stained-glass window in Salisbury Cathedral (in a good way). And a special ArchBlog gold * goes to the artful way in which the hat is perched on that chair by the SMEG. Elegant.

Below the piccies, I've posted some Wilsonian blurb about the villa, the local town and what to do in the area.

*** VILLA ANGELA BOOKERS WHO QUOTE 'ARCHBLOG' MAY EVEN GET A SMALL % REDUCTION (LEAVE A COMMENT BEN!) ON THE PRICE (& I GET A PAT ON THE BACK) SO, DEAR READRS, IT'S TIME TO GET BOOKING ***

About the villa:

Villa Angelo is an early 18th Century stone house perched on a hillside in the scenic medieval village of Motovun, Croatia. South-facing and with a large terrace and loggia, the house has uninterrupted views across the valley below and offers guests spacious luxury with a personal touch.
The property has been lovingly restored using the best of local and modern materials. Attention to detail is apparent in every room. Whether in the Istrian limestone floors equipped with under floor heating, the custom-designed beds and cupboards built with reclaimed timber, or the handmade, tin-lined copper bath, each space has been carefully considered and artfully realised. Arranged over 3 floors across 250 square metres, the house accommodates 6 adults comfortably with 3 generous bedrooms (2 double beds, 2 single beds), a master bathroom, bathroom with shower, large living room, eat-in kitchen, terrace and loggia.
Decorated with a playful balance of modern and antique furnishings, the house is finished with the very best appliances for added comfort and convenience. The kitchen has a top-end Italian range cooker, stylish Smeg fridge/freezer, Miele washer/dryer and dishwasher. Wireless Internet is also available throughout the property.
Running the length of the house, the terrace is perfect for entertaining with an el fresco dining table, barbecue and outdoor shower for those hot summer months. Three sets of French doors open into the living room where guests can enjoy the tranquility of the panoramic views while making the most of the large open fire and comfortable sofas. There is also a flat screen television and sound system provided for further entertainment.
Children are welcome and pets may be accommodated with approval from the owners. Parking is free and the town square is a five-minute walk from the house.

About the town:

Motovun is located in the heart of Istria, Croatia’s northern-most peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. The town grew from the site of an ancient Roman city called Kastelijer and was ruled by the Bishop of Poreč in the 10th and 11th centuries. It was overtaken by the Venetians in 1278 and fortified with a perimeter wall which is still intact today and used as a footpath with singular views across the four corners of Istria. In addition to its ancient fortifications the town is linked with a network of towers, churches and city gates containing aspects of Roman, Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Today the town is home to nearly five hundred permanent residents and has everything visitors could need including several excellent restaurants, cafes and bars and a local hotel with a spa and swimming pool that can be used by guests of Villa Angelo. There are shops that offer the best of local truffles, olive oil, cheeses and other delicacies and stalls where residents sell their fruit, vegetables and homemade wines & liquors. There is even a daily fishmonger who delivers a variety of freshly caught seafood from the back of his van.
The annual Motovun Film Festival is a renowned independent film festival screening a wide variety of European and international films and attracting an audience of thousands. Described by The Guardian in 2007 as “a cross between Glastonbury and Sundance” the week of the festival is by far the busiest time of the year in Motovun. The outdoor screenings and accompanying celebrations make the festival the most popular event of the year so book early to avoid disappointment.

Engineered Garments video lookbook

2012-02-24T09:34:00.008Z

Check out this wonderfully psychedelic vid lookbook made by HARRYS to beat the drum for Engineered Garments' Spring/Summer 2012 collection of clobber. Achingly cool New York shop Nepenthes tweeted: "Enjoy (BEST VIEWED FULLSCREEN... and maybe on acid?)"

Engineered Garments // SS 2012 from Harrys on Vimeo.

Via Nepenthes Twitter

Horror in Homs: 'Bashar, You Are An Oppressor!'

2012-02-23T16:36:00.004Z

'Mani' is a (ridiculously brave) French photojournalist who has spent the last month in Homs, the epicentre of the bloody Syrian uprising. He has risked his life to capture on film the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the city where President Bashar al-Assad's security forces are killing men, women and children. Channel 4 Nooze got hold of Mani's quite remarkable footage of urban guerrilla warfare at its most terrifying. Here it is:

ArchBlog approves: Bonsai treehouses

2012-02-23T11:19:00.003Z

These Bonsai treehouses from Takanori Aiba are quite possibly the best thing I've peeped in 2012.

See more of Aiba's tree houses here.

Via I like it, what is it? blog

Only in America ... Pizza & Cookies

2012-02-23T10:16:00.001Z

Would you?

Via ProgPorn (see blog-roll)

ArchBlog plug: Rock's Lane

2012-02-23T09:49:00.004Z

Here's a sweet ickle vid from Mr Jeremy Riggall showcasing the ace Rock's Lane, Chiswick, 5-a-side footy league. Rock's Lane, which is run by Liz Bolton, has 3rd gen astro and is right next to Turnham Green tube. Judging by this vid, it's footballers are a friendly bunch who take playing fairly but not too seriously.

If you do pay a visit to the pitches do be sure to schedule in a pit-stop at the outrageously pricey yet worth it Theobroma Cacao chocolate shop. The service is a little shirty but they do the best hot chocolate in west London.

Rocks Lane Chiswick Football from Jeremy Riggall on Vimeo.

Spring watch: Albam wool overshirt reduced (a bit)

2012-02-23T09:36:00.003Z

Albam is doing a temporary sale on its lovely wool overshirt. It comes in three shades - rust, grey and moss. I recks the grey is the pick of then bunch.

Here's some deets on the overshirt:

Constructed from English Jacquard wool and available in three muted natural shades, it’s been crafted near our Nottingham studio. We’ve used a soft bengal stripe quilted Italian cotton fabric for the lining for a bit of extra warmth and comfort, and added patch and hand pockets for…well y’know, keeping your stuff in. It really is a great outerwear piece: can be just as easily layered under a heavier jacket as over a favourite shirt or knit.

Here's the code:

To pick up an Overshirt for the reduced price of £180, either pop into one of our shops or enter the code ‘overshirt_promo‘ at the checkout, where the lower price will be applied!

Man caught weeping while watching Whitney Houston sing in The Bodyguard

2012-02-23T09:28:00.002Z

Warning: This video contains images of a man (yes, male human) crying while watching The Bodyguard. Call me half-Australian but this is entirely unacceptable behaviour.

England 2012 football kit (first images)

2012-02-23T09:20:00.004Z

Images of the new En-Ger-Land footy kit have been released on the Umbro blog and I reckon it's pretty nice as far as footy kits go.

In a move which will no doubt delight the EDL, it's based almost entirely on the St. George's flag.

The collar is fairly unusual. Umbro explains:

"Probably the most eye-catching part of the new England home shirt is the collar. Featuring a smart, one button fastener, the collar is inspired by the look of a traditional shirt. With the collar down, players and fans will have a subtle dash of red along the top, recalling the flag of England’s patron saint. Under the collar, a more detailed stripe is revealed, which has been inspired by Sir Alf Ramsey’s iconic 1966 jacket and the St George’s flag, developed by Umbro into this tonal red design."

Cassetteboy vs The News

2012-02-23T08:57:00.002Z

I'm a massive fan of mash-up king Cassetteboy. In his latest effort, a take on the news, there are some great lines.

"The government has said it has no plans to get the economy moving again"

"The British Prime Minister is a posh English Queen, he has his own dick up his arse"

Interview with Nigel Cabourn, the master

2012-02-21T16:59:00.006Z

Nigel Cabourn is Britain's finest designer of men's clothing. He's great 'cos he takes influence from pretty much everything other than fashion. I want to be buried in my duvet-like Cabourn down parka. Here's an okayish interview with him that all the blogs (Hypebeast, SlamXHype etc) have already flagged up.

Interview with Nigel Cabourn by Helmstyle from Helmstyle on Vimeo.

Check Cabourn's Army Gym blog here.

Fathering, North Carolinian-style

2012-02-20T18:53:00.004Z

So, you're a dad from Albermarle, North Carolina, USA, who has discovered your daughter has posted a rude letter about her grandparents on her Facebook profile. You're mighty pissed. What do you do? Isn't it obvious? You go out into the yard, light a fag, record a you're-totes-busted video message and then shoot her laptop eight (8) times with a .45 pistol. To demonstrate you really are cross, you even charge her for the bullets. "These are about a dollar a piece."

Via The Periscope Post

Stay classy, Nando's

2012-02-17T15:22:00.006Z

Here's Nando's EXTRA HOT new ad!!!

UPDATE: You thought the Nando's ad was crass? Well, it's not as tasteless as this Wodka ad currently enraging New York's Twitterati.

Gimme a signal! Ram Jam Rodi wins an MBE

2012-02-16T08:47:00.002Z

3.40 onwards ...

"Carrot juice for Sizzla"

More deets over at Billboard.

"Any guy besides someone like Newt"

2012-02-15T17:14:00.004Z

This spoof vid is the best thing I've seen in ages. It deserves to go dangerously viral and is surely the final nail in the coffin of Newt "not an ethical shred in his oversized head" Gingrich's bid for the Republican 2012 presidential candidate nomination.

Via DC Hines

Werner Herzog on chickens

2012-02-15T16:46:00.001Z

"The enormity of their stupidity is just overwhelming"

Werner Herzog on Chickens from Tom Streithorst on Vimeo.

Dubai remembers Whitney Houston

2012-02-15T16:24:00.002Z

Pretty much everything about Dubai is deeply naff. Think that's a bit unfair? Well take a look at the way in which the city remembered Whitney Houston ...

Frank Leder

2012-02-15T15:56:00.002Z

ArchBlog is a big fan of German designer Frank Leder's 1920's-inspired spring-summer 2012 line. Leder's the one for you if you want to look like you've just emigrated to New York in the twenties.

Via Hypebeast

Diemme x Slam Jam Movida Basket boot

2012-02-15T15:48:00.004Z

Just peeped these crazy Diemme boots over at SlamXHype. They're what a poisonous toad would wear to go hiking. The boot features a hydro-repellent suede upper, gum toe, Vibram sole and white leather lining. Available with a double set of laces, you can grab these outdoor shoes only at Slam Jam for 200 Euros.

Chillaxing

2012-02-15T15:42:00.002Z

Via Prog Porn (see blogroll)

1950's dog man

2012-02-10T14:53:00.003Z

Everything was better in the 1950s. Everyone drunk Old Fashioneds in elegant bars, wore beautiful watches and drove sweet cars*. And it was even considered socially acceptable to dress up a dog as a man and put a cat on his lap.

*Yes, I base my view of the 1950s almost entirely on Mad Men

Via the Black and WTF blog

A West Virginian weekend

2012-02-10T14:42:00.005Z

I like American football but I don't support a college football team. However, I do know who I want to lose every game for ever after having just watched this "I'm Schmacked" vid of West Virginia Mountaineer fans letting off a little steam.

Warning: This clip really does include images of a) people in t-shirts emblazoned with messages like "I love fat blunts" and "Jockfest" and b) jocks gunning cans of beer through their tiny insertions.

Freedom and Jesus

2012-02-09T15:25:00.002Z

American geography lesson:

Gone rogue

2012-02-09T12:04:00.006Z

What's worse than a t-shirt that makes it look like you are covered in disgusting tats? "Nothing!" I hear you scream at the top of your voice. Well, you are wrong ... Howsabout an entire website almost entirely dedicated to, shudder, "tattoo apparel?"

Yup, I bring you Rogue Shirts, which was "born" in 2005. Over at Rogue, the brainchild of "Lead Designer Kevian," you can cop "the latest trendsetting designer T-shirts, designer hoodies, full cover printed tees, and the latest fashion apparel for men, women and kids."

So you don't have to, I have sifted through all the proddie on the site and come up with an ArchBlog top 9 Rogue items.

The Savile Row fold

2012-02-09T08:45:00.004Z

This advice might not deliver lasting peace to Homs, Syria, but that doesn't mean it's not worth paying attention to. I'm off to re-hang my suits.

Via Seedy Moorby

Chuck out your cats and dogs

2012-02-09T08:36:00.003Z

It's my birthday in a few days. This is top of my birthday list. In fact, it's the only thing I ever want.

Superdenim has Nigel Cabourn goodies

2012-02-08T17:28:00.004Z

Truly awesome British label Nigel Cabourn have recently launched a mighty fine samples and deadstock sale at York-based online outlet Superdenim. Here are the choice items (most of which are, sadly, no longer available). You can check all the garms at Superdenim's Perfect Aperture proddie blog.

Pure Brasseye: Sussex copper chases himself for 20 (t w e n t y) minutes

2012-02-08T17:24:00.002Z

This just in from Yahoo News ....

A police officer chased himself for more than 20 minutes whilst on the look out for someone “acting suspiciously”, it has been revealed.

The probationary officer, from Sussex Police, was undercover checking out an area that had been hit by a spate of burglaries when he was alerted by CCTV operators to a nearby suspect. Unaware that the suspect was himself, the officer set off to track them down – chasing his own tail for more than 20 minutes.

The mistake was only realised after a sergeant inside the CCTV control room recognised the young officer, prompting mass hilarity. The pursuit came to light after a senior officer spoke of the incident to a magazine published by the Police Federation.

“Every time the man darted in to another side alleyway, the PC was turning immediately into the same alleyway, but every time the CCTV operator asked what he could see there was no trace,” the senior officer revealed.

“It was at this point that the sergeant entered the control room where he recognised the junior officer.

“With the sergeant's sides aching from laughter he pointed out to the PC that the operator had been watching him unaware that he was a plain-clothes officer – thus the PC had been chasing himself round the streets,” he added.

Sussex Police also managed to see the funny side of the incident. “Policing is often a serious business, so we all enjoy moments of light relief,” a spokesperson said.

“This story was shared anonymously with the Police Federation magazine, so unfortunately without the date or location, confirming the details and locating the officer is harder for us than it was for the CCTV operator.”

You can get pretty much anything you want in the supermarkets these days

2012-02-08T17:13:00.001Z

Via Prog Porn (see blogroll)

Orwellian society

2012-02-08T17:11:00.001Z

I dread to think what Twitter captain @joey7barton would have to say about this ...

Santa Domingo Woven Summer Dress shoe

2012-02-08T16:43:00.002Z

I'm a big fan of these woven dress shoes from Santa Domingo. Even if they do make the wearer look a touch like a Miami Cuban pimp, I recks they are totes the look for summer '12 (dahlin'). Inexplicably (or praps because they are near-impossible to wear with anything) they've been knocking around in the Garbstore sale section for donkeys. They are down from £415 to £207.

Taarabt is totes back!

2012-02-08T16:31:00.004Z

Watch this video for further proof that Adel is the most technically gifted player in the Barclays Premier League. His perf versus Wolves was the single best showing by a player in the hoops on the losing side I have ever witnessed at Loftus Road.
Pay special attn. to:
The outside-of-the-boot pass on 1.33, the back heel lay-off on 1.51, the stopover and drive on 4.09, the delicate chip on 4.58m the killer megs on 5.35. Shit, I'm even boring myself.

Gotye - Somebody that I used to know

2012-02-04T10:32:00.003Z

I'm sure self-respecting musos have known all about Gotye for donkeys. Wotevs. ArchBlog has only just come across him (thanks to Shux) and recommends him to those who don't already own all his recordings and consider him already passé.

"I was literally wearing a lash-mina"

2012-02-04T09:23:00.002Z

As a companion piece to this I suggest you check out the banter-tastic Look at my Fucking red trousers blog!

Vid via J.R. Fezbuk

Blog via Big Willy B

If you could do this, why would you ever walk?

2012-02-04T09:17:00.003Z

Granted this dude is a massive show-off but he does have some killer moves. Pay particular attention to the 1.50 mark - the shot dog look is strong

L.L. Bean Bootmobile

2012-01-27T16:49:00.003Z

I couldn't be less into cars if I tried but I do have to say I really wouldn't mind owning this ridic motor. Wouldn't it be great if shoe cars really caught on? I'd most like to see a 18-hole Doc Martins bootmobile race an Uggs sportscar.

Ball boy's safe hands

2012-01-27T15:54:00.000Z

Dr. Dre as an infant

2012-01-27T15:42:00.003Z

Here's a killer vid of Dr Dre as a nipper. Try and ignore the distinct possibility that the host is a mahoosive paedo ("do you think I'm good looking?") and just soak up young Dre's wisdom.

Will Big Willie Styles

Full In-ger-lish, Great Yarmouth caff-style

2012-01-27T15:37:00.002Z

And there was me thinking the aces full English at Chiswick's High Road House was filling

Via Hugo Santos

Nike Spizike 'Bordeaux'

2012-01-27T12:10:00.002Z

As a rule I've gone right off trainers but once in a while I stumble across an ill pair I still wanna cop. These Jordan Brand Spizikes are pretty fly. They are generating tonnes of heat on the sneakerboards ever since Spike Lee gifted a pair to Barack Obama. They are not yet in shops but I'm sure they'll fly off the shelves (and cause a few sneaker riots) when the drop on Feb. 4 stateside.

Young Nigerian boy raps Biggie

2012-01-27T12:04:00.004Z

Anyone who doesn't find this simply awesome vid of a rotund young Nigerian boy rapping Biggie completely winning is no longer welcome to read this blog. Period.

Via Smalls 74

Taarabt in international action

2012-01-27T11:56:00.003Z

The pea brained manager of Morocco isn't starting Adel Taarabt at the CAF tourney. All the better for the Rs. The lyrics to the 'music' track on this YouTube vid pretty much express exactly how I feel about Taarbs. Can't wait to see him back in action at Loftus Road (and Ewood Park). He's just the spark Sparky needs to get QPR racing up the Prem table

State of the Union: Obama still got it

2012-01-25T18:17:00.005Z

If America votes out Barack Obama in favo(u)r of hedge fund multi-millionaire Mitt Romney it will be a real tragedy. In his first term, Obama was dealt a rough hand (world economy in meltdown etc etc) but he remains the sharpest, slickest politician of his generation. Here's some choice quotes from his State of the Union address to Congress.

On Fairness: “We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by”, said Obama, “or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules.”

On inequality: “Millions of Americans who work hard and play by the rules every day deserve a government and a financial system that do the same. It’s time to apply the same rules from top to bottom: no bailouts, no handouts, and no cop-outs. An America built to last insists on responsibility from everybody.”

On common sense. “Now, you can call this class warfare all you want”, said Obama in reference to his proposals that anyone earning $1 million or more a year should pay at least 30 percent of their income in taxes. “But asking a billionaire to pay at least as much as his secretary in taxes? Most Americans would call that common sense.”

On partisan politics: “The greatest blow to confidence in our economy last year didn’t come from events beyond our control“, he said. “It came from a debate in Washington over whether the United States would pay its bills or not. Who benefited from that fiasco?”

Via someone named 'Periscope Writer' at some site called The Periscope Post

Team America: World Police

2012-01-25T18:16:00.000Z

Mt. Rainier Design Hunting Parka

2012-01-18T15:57:00.004Z

This hunting parka from ArchBlog fave Mt. Rainier Design is dead unusual and available in the Unionmade sale. Don't sleep - it's not everyday you see a charcoal wool parka with a snazzy game pocket.

Red Wing Heritage x Nigel Cabourn 'The Munson Boot'

2012-01-18T15:26:00.002Z

Boots don't come much better than these beauts. They're just the sort wild west oilmen, as depicted in There Will Be Blood, might have worn. The green Harris tweed lining is a particularly classy touch.

Here's some blurb from Hypebeast:

With the concept of collaborative ventures in mind, industry renowned outdoor specialist Nigel Cabourn has partnered up with Red Wing Heritage to create The Munson Boot. Although both brands have a differing heritage based on their respective fields over the years, this partnership allows them to explore each others’ territory and combine them into a single unprecedented piece of work. Made out of Munson lasts, The Munson Boot was inspired by the true ruggedness of infantry boots and how they’ve been able to withstand constant wear and tear for decades. The use of Munson lasts have not been readily used in the fashion industry for many years, but this pair of boots was created to last for perhaps a lifetime worth of outdoor adventures. Featured with army green Harris Tweed lining and deep green leather shoelaces and eyelets, The Munson Boot is available in two colors: Light Brown Hawthorne Muleskinner and Dark Chocolate Muleskinner.

Raging Fyah - Judgement Day

2012-01-13T10:56:00.004Z

A little slice of wonderful roots rock reggae from Raging Fyah. The one and only David Rodigan is a fan so it must rule

Big wave hunters find Holy Grail

2012-01-13T10:35:00.003Z

August 27 2011 is a day that will go down in the history of big wave surfing. It saw what is widely regarded as "the biggest and gnarliest Teahupoo ever ridden." Kelly Slater described the day by saying "witnessing this was a draining feeling being terrified for other people's lives all day long, it's life or death. Letting go of that rope one time can change your life and not many people will ever experience that in their life." The French Navy labeled this day a double code red prohibiting and threatening to arrest anyone that entered the water. Photographer Chris Bryan (WWW.CHRISBRYANFILMS.COM) shot this unreal footage. It's truly awe-inspiring.

More Surfing Videos

LSD Moneyball: Dock Ellis and the legendary LSD no-hitter

2012-01-13T09:53:00.004Z

In the run-up to Seb Coe's London Olympics, there's much talk of the role performance enhancing drugs play in modern-day sport. But howsabout a little more attn to the role performance inhibiting (recreational) drugs have played in sport? Check out the late Dock Ellis recount how he threw a no-hitter in 1970 while high as a Georgie pine on LSD and a cocktail of amphetamines.
"It was easier to pitch with the LSD 'cos I was so used to medicating myself"

Via Dom Prosser's Fezbuk

The Doldrums

2012-01-11T22:18:00.004Z

Check out this deeply trippy animated visuals video by Paul White. It' called "The Doldrums" and is and off last years "Rapping With Paul White." The always ace Prog Porn blog (where I spotted it) said it "is like a party in my bonce Timothy Leary would be proud of." I tend to agree.

WARNING: please do not watch this if
a) you did not get at least 8 hours or more shuteye last night
b) you have a vivid imagination
c) you have recently been concussed
d) you have ever experimented with any type of hallucinogen

The ultimate 12th man

2012-01-09T18:36:00.002Z

This is the most incredible piece of fielding I've ever seen. Unbelievably, the boundary leaper is the 12th man.

Must have item: Shake weight

2012-01-07T18:31:00.005Z

My Ukrainian pen pal (hi Oleg!) got me this for Christmas and let me tell you it's the bomb. Never has a tagline been truer than "this is not a workout, this is a revolution." I've been on it for just six minutes a day for just six days and already my 'ceps are bulging out like possum's eyes. Gimme a shout if you wanna meet in the gym or, better still, the public park and have a massive (100% hetero) shake off.

ArchBlog approves: Wormwood Scrubs

2012-01-06T15:06:00.007Z

This t-shirt from hip (and sarcastic) brand British Remains sold out some time ago. I wish I'd snapped it up at Hideout many moons ago as Wormwood Scrubs (the common ground not the clink) is one of my fave spots in London. It's almost always deserted and a smashing spot for a winter jog. Scrubs draws few visitors besides a small band of somewhat creepy model airplane enthusiasts. If you're lucky you'll be there when the old gypsy fellow rides his horse 'round the Scrubs. It's straight out of the last, last century and really quite a sight. The other key attractions are the prison and the hospital which sit cheek-by-jowl. I bet you there are some inmates in there now staring out their cell window at the hospital they were born in. The cycle of life and all that.

Nyon cat

2012-01-05T19:25:00.005Z

I've long feared that the internet is (not) slowly rotting our brains. Not sold? Well, let me alert you to the fact that this staggering work of artistic brilliance was the fourth most viewed YouTube vid in the UK last year. I have no idea why it's raced to +57 million hits and I really don't want to know.

Adel Taarabt still god

2012-01-05T11:53:00.009Z

This collection of ever-so slick vids should finally put to bed the (outrageous) claims from QPR's lunatic fringe of knuckle-dragging retards who believe that King Taarabt is either too fat, too selfish or (shudder) not good enough to play in the Barclays Premier League. Oh please.

Please pay special attention to the merking of carrot-muncher Zak Whitbread on 3.48 in the Narwich vid. Staight gangster.

Big props to the nerd* who put together these homages to the greatest footballer ever to don the hoops since I've been warming R, G, 20 in the Ellerslie. RTID!

*possibly his agent?!?

Brown-nosing pets

2012-01-04T15:16:00.006Z

It's gross when pet owners dress their pets up like humans. Rex does not look even slightly cute in a trucker hat.

It's also pretty gross when pets kiss up so hard to their owners that they almost become human. Take this smug twat with a perm. His shit-eating smile reminds of Gary Barlow's horrible X Factor smirk.

Werner Herzog on trees

2012-01-04T15:08:00.005Z

Here's the mighty Werner on trees' "prostitutional relationship with the breeze." As usual, everything he says is thought-provoking. Herzog is a firm ArchBlog fave and "Grizzly Man" has to be the best documentary of all time, right?

Herzog devotees can watch six of the Teutonic master's docs for free over at legendary film critic Roger Ebert's blog

Justin Bieber swag

2011-12-22T09:50:00.004Z

Since Biggie, Eazy-E, Big L and Pac passed I've constantly been on the look out for an emerging rapper to pick up the mantle, to own the game, to dominate the mic like a real G.
Well, it is with great pleasure that I can tell you that I'm pretty sure I've found the new kid on the block with the baddest skills. Let me introduce to you a young buck who goes by the name of Justin 'stray gunner' Bieber. I don't know where this badass dawg hails from but what I do know is that he can spit lyrics.

Via DJ Rue Beaux Rhubarb

How to score an own goal

2011-12-19T15:31:00.002Z

If you're gonna score an owner you might as well make it simply SPECTACULAR:

Ghanaian cinema: 2016

2011-12-16T18:37:00.002Z

Who needs awesome special effects when you can have jaw-droppingly shit special effects. Go Accrawood!

Double-dip recession, what double-dip recession?

2011-12-16T09:36:00.006Z

Here's one for all the coke-snorting, hooker-hooked Wall Streeters who read ArchBlog. Are you looking for a sweet pad in New York but only got $165 k a month to spend on rent? Well, look no further than the Astor Suite at midtown Manhattan's Plaza Hotel:

Reebok Pump Fury "London"

2011-12-15T15:04:00.004Z

I'm not purchased a pair of trainers in at least a year. I used to be totally bananas about trainers but when Nike started reissuing all my old faves like Nike Air Span, Stab and Pegasus it kind of ruined it all for me. Those faux vintage yellow soles really are the pits. That said, I do still get the occasional twinge in my sneaker love muscle. These Reebok Pump Fury "London" (2012) numbers I just peeped over at Hypebeast are pretty dope. I totes dig the Olympic themed colour way.

Here' she hype talk from HypeBeast:
The Reebok Pump Fury “London” infuses the five different colors utilized in the Olympic rings in anticipation for the London games in 2012. The illustrious event as well know is an all-encompassing event so it seems only aropos that a tribute shoe should go all the way in paying homage. Boasting a synthetic/leather upper, the bold red, blue, yellow, green and black seem to light up just like the Olympic torch.

North Korean children jamming

2011-12-10T09:15:00.002Z

Most in the West feel that there is little opportunity for individuality in North Korea AKA Hermit Kingdom. This video of small children playing large guitars whilst perma-smiling (as if they have a gun to their back and their life depended on it) is pretty unlikely to change perspectives that much.

Time to (seriously) consider decaf?

2011-12-10T09:08:00.000Z

When Greggs attacks

2011-12-10T08:59:00.001Z

Eat your heart out Same Mendes ...

Via D.C. Hines

Tokyo Bike

2011-12-10T08:51:00.002Z

There are few things I own which I adore more than my moss green Tokyo Bike. At risk of coming over all Grand Designs, I'd say it is the perfect cumming together of design and function. My only complaint is that the tyres are so thin I slightly shit myself riding over manholes in the rain.

Via Tokyo Bike blog
Photo credit: Matteo Sanguinetti Bird
www.matteosanguinettibird.co.uk
info@matteosanguinettibird.co.uk

The world inc. animals

2011-12-09T15:52:00.006Z

If only for the bodysurfing penguins:

Note: If this doesn't warm your heart I suggest you prick your finger to check you are not a robot.

UK-US Special Relationship: Epaulet Daltrey Sportcoat Harris Tweed mash-up

2011-12-08T14:07:00.004Z

This mash-up tweed jacket from New York label Epaulet really fits the ArchBlog gimme dat bill in that it is a) virtually unwearable b) hideously pricey ($850) and c) effing cool.

Below, please find reams of blurb ...

We're thrilled to present the Daltrey, our premier half-canvassed sportcoat, in a spectacularly handsome combination of three Harris Tweeds. Together all three tweeds, the navy marl, oatmeal herringbone, and a gray-green basket-weave, form an amazing patchwork. It's a serious dose of trad edge.

Made for Michael Kuhle of Epaulet by Southwick in Massachusetts, the Daltrey imparts classic style, a handsome natural shoulder, quality workmanship, and understated elegance. This "Anglo-American" piece represents our favorite elements of both British and American tailoring.

The Daltrey's basic features include 3-roll-2 styling (where the top button sits as ornament and rolls away for the second button to be fastened), double rear vents, slim notch lapels, flap patch pockets, royal purple full lining, goat suede elbow patches and goat suede undercollar, and Southwick’s superb half-canvassed construction.

London 2012: Greco-roman wrestling countdown

2011-12-08T12:36:00.007Z

Every few days I get an email from the overstaffed offices of London 2012 reminding me how to use the London Underground (cheers) or pointing me in the direction of where I can buy some frightfully disgusting Olympics merchandise. Caps. Bum bags. Pencil cases. Teddies. It's doing my head in.

But however hard Seb Coe & co. try and ruin my excitement about the Olympic Games, there is nowt they can do to dampen down my surging enthusiasm for attending the Greco-Roman super heavyweight finals. Obvs I know nothing about Greco-Roman wrestling but five minutes* in the (YouTube) company of Cuba's reigning champ (and all-round beast of a man) Mijain Lopez tells me it's gonna be off the hook/heezy. Check the power in the slam-down on 2.25.

*I should level with youse that it did take me about a minute to stop thinking about how outrageously homoerotic it is (like most sports from ancient Greece) and begin to marvel at the brute strength and sheer athleticism on show.

Vid via fellow attendee Rue Beaux

Potholing

2011-12-05T21:43:00.001Z

Via Prog Porn

Young bucks

2011-12-05T21:41:00.001Z

Via Prog Porn

Making up

2011-12-05T21:39:00.000Z

Via Prog Porn (see blogroll)

Men & sex

2011-12-04T11:17:00.002Z

This is a family blog but, from time to time, it falls off the wagon and has adult moments. Apologies in advance to all my readers who are minors

Hunt in Pairs - Slow Dance

2011-12-04T11:00:00.004Z

It's high time you checked out Owen Gundry and Xan Blacker's music vid for debut duo Hunt in Pairs. The vid perfectly compliments the track. I'm no Quincy Jones but I'm pretty sure that's the whole point of a music video. It was shot on London's derelict Heygate Estate, which I'm told is not the sort of place you bowl around with expensive camera equipment after dark (unless you are Floyd Mayweather). Props fellas!

Hunt In Pairs - Slow Dance from Hunt in Pairs on Vimeo.

Prufrock: Coffee kings

2011-12-04T10:55:00.002Z

Anyone's who has had a cup of Joe at Shoreditch's Present London will already be aware that Prufrock make the best coffee in London.
Here's a Prufrock barista demonstrating the painfully complicated syphon method which the Japanese have pioneered. Although the process is more than a bit wanky, I sure bet the results taste better than Nescafe Gold Blend.

Syphon@Prufrock from ALI RAFI on Vimeo.

"The kid gloves are off"

2011-11-29T17:32:00.003Z

This has to be the most intense motivational speech I've ever seen. If QPR ever does away with Warnock, this cold-hearted maniac is who I want taking over as manager. I don't care if he knows nowt about football, the guy knows how to talk to pampered pros

Via TT

Indian talent show troupe go hard

2011-11-28T20:55:00.005Z

ArchBlog's Washington correspondent D.C. Hines spotted this gem on Kottke.org, a weblog about the liberal arts edited by Jason Kottke since March 1998. Self-professed "professional link finder" (sweet job if you can get it) Kottke says this Indian talent show contest is the "craziest thing you'll ever see on the web." They start off by biting fluorescent lights bulbs (as you do) and then step their game up. Massively. I'll not spoil it (!) for you by revealing any deets but what I will say is that it makes Abu Graab look like a play school where the emphasis is on free play.

Cech this out

2011-11-24T07:54:00.003Z

Swank

2011-11-24T07:54:00.001Z

H i g h l i n i n g

2011-11-22T17:53:00.003Z

Two French geezers have pioneered a new extreme sport called highlining. Once you've seen what it is (below) you'll never be able to think about anything else ever again. Seriously. Warning: Your 'life' will seem crushingly boring after viewing this (even if you work for Sapient Nitro)

I Believe I can Fly ( flight of the frenchies ). Free segment from sebastien montaz-rosset on Vimeo.

Via Agent Scully

"THIS IS THE PLACE YOU FEEL RIGHT, IT'S ALL ABOUT WHERE YOU WORK"

2011-11-22T17:23:00.007Z

Here's an amazing idea that (until now) no-one has managed to engineer ... a tinny, poppy rap-tinged music video homage to work. Upstep the impossibly happy, Macbook wielding bad boys from Sapient Nitro* ...

*Besides rock a mic, I have no idea what the SN posse 'do' at work