Chapter - A/W 2014

It’s still August and it’s still 90 degrees, but the time has come to prepare for Fall fashions. “Pre-Fall” collections have arrived and sun-drenched, poolside imagery has given way to bleak, overcast skies and midnight moods. One label that has captured the transition quite well is Los Angeles based Chapter. Their A/W 2014 collection features clean monochromatic draping with luxurious finishes, evident in the outerwear and accessories. Chapter’s campaigns always focus on visceral responses and evocative settings. I particularly like this collection as it channels the brand’s ethos while staying on the pulse by implementing current trends (see 90’s). It also just feels good to see some multi-layering and decaying structures, which seems to be a theme for me this week.

For more information on Chapter and to view the entire look book click here.

-JRS

Soviet Ghosts by Rebecca Bathory

This week’s reading selection comes in the photographic medium. While artful photographs of decaying architecture is certainly nothing new (see all things Detroit), no one does it quite like the Soviets. Fine art photographer Rebecca Bathory was struck by the now decaying Brutalist structures of the Soviet Union and its satellite states in the former the Eastern Bloc. Everything from schools, housing, hospitals to death camps are represented in Litchfield’s stunning images. Not only do the photos represent an in depth view of the people and society the structures once supported, but it’s a chilling reminder of the Cold War era and its byproducts that still linger to this day.

For more information please visit here.

-JRS

LuxFit Shoes For Fall

Going into Fall (or any season really), quality sneakers are essential. LuxFit, as I like to call it, is a seamless mix between luxury and functionality (my favorite combination). Something that’s just as home on the street as in the fitness studio. These are some of the best options out right now.

From Top:

Y-3 Qasa Racer Trainer (At LN-CC)

Rick Owens x Adidas Tech Runner (At LN-CC)

Adidas ZX Flux (At Solestruck)

Givenchy x Nike Air Force 1 (At Mr. Porter)

Volta STRD Pista Black (At Volta Footwear)

-JRS

Samuel Kerridge - Deficit of Wonder EP

Since his debut on Downwards in 2012, Samuel Kerridge has established himself as an expert in dark, dystopian techno and athmospherics all within the post-punk and industrial paradigm. His latest EP, out on Blueprint, further expounds on his strengths and this release is some of his best work yet. I love the opening track, “Operation Neptune”, with its pitched down air raid sirens and haunting mood. It sets the tone perfectly for other standouts such as “Paint it Black”. This is definitely for fans of Downwards material and dark, industrial techno and noise. Really looking forward to more material from Kerridge.

For more info and pre-order check out Boomkat.

-JRS

Source: http://soundcloud.com/samuelkerridge/sets/...

Damnation by Janice Lee
Our Brvtal Summer Reading series continues with perhaps the darkest entry on our list this season. Brought to you by the innovative Penny-Ante Editions, Damnation is not for the light reader. Inspired by Hungarian auteur Bel… — **Damnation by Janice Lee**

Our Brvtal Summer Reading series continues with perhaps the darkest entry on our list this season. Brought to you by the innovative Penny-Ante Editions, *Damnation* is not for the light reader. Inspired by Hungarian auteur Bella Tarr’s film of the same name, Ms. Lee has crafted an almost otherworldly novel of human pain, suffering an endurance - much like the “long takes” in Tarr’s films. While almost veiled as a study on film or critical theory, this is a novel which explores the psyche and will no doubt connect with those familiar with tragedy, decay and dysfunction, or to those who just really love those themes. Highly recommended.

For more information on the book and other great Penny-Ante titles click here.

SURFACE TO AIR - FALL 2014/2015

Out now in stores and online, French favorite Surface to Air releases an excellent collection for the upcoming fall season. Keeping with a nice, dark color palate, S2A unveils some great new leather jackets (love the gold zippers) and a bomber with real down inside to keep you warm without the bulk. As always, the accessories are also looking good with hats and bags adorned with the brand’s trademark sigil. I know it’s still hot outside, but thrilled to see the fall collections starting to roll in.

-JRS

Berlin Atonal
This August sees the return of the legendary Berlin Atonal festival. Originally founded in 1982, the focus of the festival is innovative sonic and visual arts. Revolutionary acts such as Psychic TV and Einstürzende Neubauten were some… — **Berlin Atonal**

This August sees the return of the legendary Berlin Atonal festival. Originally founded in 1982, the focus of the festival is innovative sonic and visual arts. Revolutionary acts such as Psychic TV and Einstürzende Neubauten were some of the early performers. 2013 saw a relaunch of the festival in a massive abandoned power plant in Berlin-Mitte. The 2014 edition looks to carry the flag quite well as organizers have booked Cabaret Voltaire, Ensemble Modern + Synergy Vocals, Donato Dozzy and several newer acts, such as my personal favorite, Headless Horseman. This is a can’t miss event for fans of cutting edge sound, art and design and my only wish is that this was being held during my trip to Berlin.

For more information please visit the official website.

-JRS

Odd Waves
Just released by Sydney-based graphic designer, Steele Bonus, Odd Waves chronicles the underground “sub-culture of pop art punks, disco weirdos and synthesists from 1979-1985.” Expect to see some amazing photographs, portraits … — **Odd Waves**

Just released by Sydney-based graphic designer, Steele Bonus, Odd Waves chronicles the underground “sub-culture of pop art punks, disco weirdos and synthesists from 1979-1985.” Expect to see some amazing photographs, portraits and other images depicting the incredible scene of the time. Also included is a 1-hour mix CD which features many of the artists contained in the book. This is limited to 300 and I already bought mine so I ‘m sure they will go fast.

Pick yours up at Noiseinmyhead.

-JRS

The Stanley Kubrick Archives
Taschen, whose library continues to amaze, has another incredible gem on perhaps my favorite filmmaker, Stanley Kubrick. Unlike other Kubrick books, this is the first to explore Kubrick’s personal archives. This i… — **The Stanley Kubrick Archives**

Taschen, whose library continues to amaze, has another incredible gem on perhaps my favorite filmmaker, Stanley Kubrick. Unlike other Kubrick books, this is the first to explore Kubrick’s personal archives. This is easily the most comprehensive study on the topic to date and the books is filled with tons of unreleased material.

There are two parts of the book and the first section explores Kubrick’s interest in non-verbal expression and presents his works in chronological order simply using frame enlargements. The second section focuses more on his creative process and highlights never before seen photos, props, posters, sketches, diaries, etc. Also included are essays by some of the leading Kubrick scholars as well as a collection of some of his best interviews.

Perhaps no other filmmaker in history has the breadth and complexity of Stanley Kubrick. Long after he shot his last frame, people continue to dissect his work and the interest is only getting stronger. I’ve seen many of his movies several times and I always find things I never knew were there. I am thrilled by this release and this is a must have book for any Kubrick or film fan.

More information at Taschen.com.

-JRS

*photo courtesy of Taschen Books.*

On July 17th, 2014, MOCA Grand Avenue, Muffwiggler and Private Island present an incredible live event featuring the one and only Genesis Breyer P-Orridge. The evening will feature a live talk and book signing of Genesis’ new book out on First… — On July 17th, 2014, MOCA Grand Avenue, Muffwiggler and Private Island present an incredible live event featuring the one and only Genesis Breyer P-Orridge. The evening will feature a live talk and book signing of Genesis’ new book out on First Third. Next, Hazel Hill McCarthy III will premier her latest film, Bight of the Twin, which documents Genesis’ pilgrimage to the origins of Voodoo in Ouidah, Benin and their serendipitous discovery of the practice of Twin Fetish. Finally, the crowd will be treated to an after-party by Private Island. This is a jam packed event and seats are limited so get there early. P-Orridge is quite simply one of my favorite all around human beings so I’m hoping I can get a seat.

-JRS

More information at Moca.org.