Deadly Serious Times

COMUNE // Alexis Gross Visit

2011-12-06T09:27:00.001Z

Last week New Yorker, photographer, and COMUNE/Drop City contributor Alexis Gross stopped by our office for a visit.
Alexis was in town covering the Shake Junt premier for Color Magazine. We picked her up at the airport and immediately brought her to In-and-Out Burger for lunch. Once we got back to the office we gave her a tour and got her laced up with some new COMUNE clothes. We allowed her to have some Personal Pyramid time and then we brought her to our neighbor the LA GUN CLUB. Alexis had never shot a gun before and like a trooper she stepped up and fired an AK-47 and a .357. She was a little shaken at first but quickly got a hang of it and was hitting the paper target with ease.
Alexis Gross is a photographer, artist, and curator. She has identified with a natural passion for taking pictures and an artful future has become apparent. Her pictures are a true extension of her everyday existence, and it’s obvious to those who know her, that what you see is what you get. Feisty, private, eccentric, and amused by records, marijuana, motorcycles, skateboarding and older men, Alexis is a rare bird. Her connection to the skate industry has provided fodder for a portfolio of unique and absorbing imagery. Lifestyle and portraits showcase a fresh and exciting perspective, and Gross has garnered a great amount of respect from all those she’s worked with, both subjects and colleagues alike. Alexis has been featured in and contributed to high profile publications including: Color (Canada), Wow (France), Thrasher (America), Foam (America), Urban Outfitters (America), Complex (America), and Monster Children (Australia). Recently, Alexis debuted her art at a show that she also curated at KCDC in Brooklyn. She has appeared in art shows all over America and Canada, solo and group. Collaborating with retailers, art collectives, and other creatives, Alexis is continuously inspirited by her friends and surrounds.
See more at:
alexisgross.com

www.thecomune.com/team/drop-city/contributors/alexis-gross/

Corey Smith // Become a Better You // Art Show recap

2011-12-06T08:55:00.001Z

A few weeks ago COMUNE/Drop City artist Corey Smith had his solo show titled “Become a Better You” at the AR4T gallery in Laguna Beach.
Here’s some photos and recap story. Thanks to everyone who came out!
Two days of installation, several months of cultivating, and a lifetime of people watching, Corey Smith’s “Become a Better You” exhibition opened last Thursday. The solo show was held at AR4T gallery and premiered during the Laguna Beach Art Walk.
The office shut down early that day and the unassuming COMUNE van took all of us hoodlums to the beautiful Laguna Beach. With some 32 ounce Coors and enough beef jerky to put us into cardiac arrest, our party had begun. Even with the blacked out windows and the blaring music coming from the speakers, we couldn’t help but notice how rad it is to live in Southern California.
When the doors opened to the AR4T Gallery almost immediately two very happy collectors snagged two of Corey’s pieces up. Over the course of the evening, the space got filled to the brim and the art provoked bountiful conversations. Outside the gallery, our very own Ben Rice and crew posted up in an RV and got harassed by cops for causing what else but general ruckus.
Inspired by get-rich-quick ponsi schemes, exercise equipment, absurdity of extreme sports, weight-loss plans, and modern strategies for success, wealth, and happiness, Smith’s collection exhibits his signature minimalist techniques. Included are twelve new paintings, the revolutionary life changing and healing device Personal Pyramid, and new video installation “Digital Detritus”.
Corey’s new age healing device “The Personal Pyramids”, as advertised, did in fact make dreams come true for young and old.
AR4T.COM
COREY SMITH’S TIME TRAVEL.COM
Check out AR4T Gallery’s Recap of the opening here: ar4t.com

Sam Avery // COMUNE/Drop City Artist-In-Residence

2011-12-06T08:40:00.000Z

Recently Sam went and stayed with the crew at COMUNE as part of our Artist-In-Residence program. It was his first time in Los Angeles so we felt obliged to give him a whirl-wind tour. On his first night we picked him up at the airport and whisked him off for a live performance by The Entrance Band and a debaucherous evening with some COMUNE affiliates.
Once the weekend came we took him to the Perth Museum to check out the La Brea tar pits. Sam love’s natural history museums so he was very pleased with the extensive collections of prehistoric remains as well as the Saber Tooth Tiger vs. Giant Sloth full-size animatronic diorama. Later that day we explored Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Los Feliz. We ventured up the Griffith Observatory so same could see the smoggy LA skyline and the Hollywood sign.
The next day we traveled south to San Onofre state beach where we camped for the day and relaxed by the shore. Once back in LA Sam met up with COMUNE/Drop City contributor Noel Sinclair Boyt for some extensive skate talk. Once the jaw-wagging (British term I learned) commenced we headed over to the LA Gun club so Sam could get a real slice of Americana via high powered assault weapons. He was a bit shaken at first but quickly gained command of his weapons, firing off a 9mm, a .357, and an AK-47. He stated that it was “the most non-British thing he’s ever done”.
After the Gun Club excitement Noel took Sam for a quick skate tour. Later that day we took Sam to legendary skateboarder Salman Agah’s pizza spot “Pizzanista”. We devoured some delicious pie and Sam got to meet Sal and get hooked up with an awesome “Skate or Pie“ tee shirt. The next day we took him to the airport and sent him on his way. It was a pleasure having Sam visit and we hope he can come back for a longer stay.
Sam Avery bio:
Sam Avery was born the day after Elvis died in what is now a mental health care hospital in Great Yarmouth, England. He studied BA (hons) fine art (painting) at Norwich School of Art and Design and now owns a skate shop called DRUG STORE, located in Norwich, where He lives with his wife Lynne and their 3 cats.
His work can be seen on records and flyers for numerous garage rock/punk bands (including his former band Slim Limbs) and on DRUG STORE branded goods.
He is believed to be descended from the pirate Henry Avery, who’s capture of the ganj-i-sawai in 1695 has been cited as the greatest ever act of piracy and was possibly the first pirate to use the skull and crossbones on his flag.
Like the Drug Store here: www.facebook.com/pages/DRUG-STORE/
See more about the Drug Store here: www.drugstoreskateboarding.com
See Sam’s COMUNE/Drop City profile: www.thecomune.com/team/drop-city/contributors/sam-avery/

Sam Avery Interview:
CS: Sam, you limey bastard. I had a fantastic time showing you around L.A. Did you have fun visiting COMUNE?
SA: I had an absolute blast man, thanks for having me
CS: What where some of the highlights?
SA: The Los Angeles Gun Club might well be the most fun place I’ve ever been. There is a reason why gun rhymes with fun! It was kind of sketchy too which I think makes it better somehow. Shooting guns is the least British thing I’ve ever done.
The Entrance Band were great, proper doomy psyche, just the way I like it.
CS: Did L.A. live up to all of the stereotypes you expected?
SA: Err kind of, there was constantly perfect weather and famous skate spots everywhere I looked so that was expected. But some stuff was not what I thought at all, like Hollywood. I never saw any fake boobs or celebrities. Plenty of 90′s looking rocker dudes and chicks that looked like they were on smack though, just like home ha-ha!
CS: Do you think you got a bit of a sun tan while you where here?
SA: Not too much but I was wearing children’s 50+ sun block the whole time, so I guess that’s no surprise. I burn really easily so I just stay pasty.
CS: You own a skate shop called Drug Store. What made you decide to open a shop?
SA: I already worked in the shop that was there before and the owners wanted to retire. I took the place on, renamed it and made it my own I guess. I’m still trying to figure it out and get the place the way I want it but it’s coming along.

CS: You have a pretty rad skate scene developing around Drug Store. The shop could also be viewed as a bit of an art project and social experiment. What are your plans for the future of the shop?
SA: Yeah man, the scene in Norwich has really gotten good the last couple of years. It was a bit dead for a while after the old indoor park closed, but now we have a new concrete park and a shop, which means we can have events and stuff. The plan for the shop is to carry on as we are but keep tweaking things as we see fit. We have an online shop almost ready to go which should help us to join the 21st century; it should be ready in a week or 2. We just finished our first shop video, which I’m really stoked about; it’s called “Dreams That Money Can Buy” and was made by Lewis Ross for DRUG STORE. It features the whole shop team and loads of locals too which I think is important, I don’t want anyone to feel left out.
CS: Where do you get your inspiration for your artwork and graphic design?
SA: All over the place really, but I do particularly like Natural History Museums for some reason. The La Brea Tar Pits museum you guys took me too was cool; I love those sorts of places. Maybe its because my Wife works as a designer for Norfolk Museums?
CS: Who do you think knows more about skateboarding you or Noel Sinclair Boyt?
SA: Ha-ha Noel Sinclair Boyt IS skateboarding! If you sawed him in half you’d see he has 7-plies! Ha-ha NSB is the best!
CS: You recently did a signature artist tee shirt for COMUNE/Drop City. What’s the story behind the graphic?
SA: A photo I saw of a Hells Angel wearing a jacket with this really badly drawn Mickey Mouse on it. It just made me laugh, this gnarly looking dude with a crappy mouse drawing, so I made one of my own.

CS: What the hell is spotted dick?
SA: Either a pudding with raisins, which you eat with custard, or some kind of STD…
CS: What the hell is toad in the hole?
SA: Its sausages baked in a Yorkshire pudding (that’s like a savory pancake mix) basically. You eat it with gravy and some vegetables. It’s classic British stodge.
CS: What the hell are bangers and mash?
SA: Bangers and mash is sausages with mashed (I think Americans call it creamed?) potatoes, again eaten with gravy and veg. I have some pretty cutting edge variations of that actually ha-ha!
CS: Where you excited about the royal wedding a few months back? Did you take the day off?
SA: Nah, Lynne and I went to Paris for a week to avoid it ha-ha. We did make a special DRUG STORE shirt for the occasion though!
CS: You’re wife has a pretty interesting job. Tell me about it.
SA: Yeah she works as a designer for the Norfolk Museum Service. She designs everything from the cases and mounts for the objects to the layout of the gallery. It’s a pretty intense job, but she’s a super-nerd so she gets it done!
CS: What’s your favorite spot to skate in your town?
SA: Err, there’s a really good curb that satisfies my slappy requirements, asides from that we have Eaton skate park and Wymondham skate park is nearby. Those are both fun, plus we have a good waste ground spot which is a good place to take the flat bar or build some stuff. We don’t have the best street spots so people are pretty DIY around here.
CS: What’s the best thing that can be done on a skateboard?
SA: The best thing you can do on a skateboard is make sparks from the trucks. Doesn’t matter what the trick is but I reckon slappies are your best bet. I’ve been using those titanium Theeve trucks and that helps for sure. Chopper made some good ones in the Heroin video. Oh and those tail devils don’t count, it’s got to be from the trucks!
CS: Who are some of your favorite artists?
SA: I could write a list of artists but to be honest I don’t really care. I always got loads of grief at art school for not talking about which artists I was into, it really irritated them for some reason. I do really like Cy Twombly though. RIP.
CS: One last question. Tell us a little bit about the UK tradition known as “Dogging”?
SA: Dogging is basically people having creepy sex in cars (amomaxia) while strangers watch and maybe get involved. It’s supposedly called Dogging cos’ people would take their dog for a walk as an excuse to spy on people doing it in cars. It started in the UK but it’s all over the world now apparently including the US, so there could be a new hobby there for you guys! Especially with that RV dude, you could be king of the Doggers!
CS: Lovely, thanks Sam.
SA: Thank you sir, that was my first interview.

COMUNE // Spring Break Summer Vacation

2011-08-17T17:33:00.000+01:00

This summer Corey Smith headed up to his home town of Portland Oregon along with filmer Kevin Castanheira and friends. The laughed, they cried, they partied, they spent too much money at Sassy’s, and they built some handmade primitive wooden snowboards.
They headed up to the slushy slopes of Mt. Hood. They dodged the crowds and slashed it up on wooden edgeless snowboards. Fun, buds, and suds, equals Spring Break duh?
Enjoy.
See more about Spring Break at www.springbreaksnowboards.com
Featuring snowboarding by:
Corey Smith
Cale Zima
Brendan Gerard
Billy Mackey
Introduction by Scotty Wittlake.
Filmed and edited by Kevin Castanheira.
Music by Jeans Wilder.

COMUNE // PSOTRATSOC1983 Road Trippin

2011-08-17T17:19:00.000+01:00

Road trip edit from COMUNE’s latest snowboarding film project titled “Psychic Secrets of the Russians and the Shape of Content 1983″ (PSOTRATSOC1983)
Full length film online now.
“Psychic Secrets of the Russians and the Shape of Content 1983”
Road Trippin.
Documentation and cultural studies of the American landscape. Check our our winter tour through California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado.
View additional footage at: www.thecomune.com/psychicsecrets
http://vimeo.com/27638837
Winter 2011 was of tremendous significance in the realm of psychic snowboard experimentation and time travel. Even though the conditions under which we operated were far from acceptable from the view of basic scientific standards. Tests were frequently carried out at our own home or in hotel rooms; no tight controls were ever applied, owing to the fact that a demonstration might take several hours of preparation and even then, there wasn’t any guarantee of success.
Also, when anyone who has a background in magicians’ techniques watches these films, they cannot avoid the feeling that we are using standard conjuring techniques: a magnet hidden on the body to move the compass needle; a thread or a thin hair to move objects across the table; a small mirror concealed in our hand to read signs with numbers and letters being held behind us. Unfortunately, no expert in conjuring techniques was ever present at our demonstrations.
Ryan Scardigli, a Russian film director alongside his comrades, became relatively famous during the previous winters for their apparent ability to suspend objects in mid air by concentrating on them. Eric Messier a renowned user of psychic techniques known as a “Static Wave” didn’t perform on stage, but showed his demonstrations «only to serious scientists of his own choosing or to close friends» (Ty Walker, Benjamin Rice, 1986). Who later mysteriously went missing during the course of winter experimentation?
Messier was tested by, among others, Prof. Brendan Gerrard aka Dr. Humpp, who stated that «the experiments were conducted under the strictest controls, and no devices of any kind were used. However, on a recent World of Discovery documentary titled “Psychic Secrets of the Russians and the Shape of Content 1983″, Messier’s method was finally revealed. He would sit on a chair and then place the objects to be suspended between his knees; unfortunately for him, the lighting conditions when the documentary crew was filming were not those he was probably accustomed to. That’s how the TV people were able to spot a fine thread fixed between his knees, and from which he suspended the objects; the whole unmasking procedure was filmed and shown during the documentary. Curtis Woodman is another story.
We discussed the possibility of static electricity being the sole element responsible for the phenomena. In the World of Discovery documentary, this possibility was mentioned as a solution proposed by skeptics, but it was immediately discarded since Curtis Woodman had said that he could move objects weighing «up to 200 grams». In an experiment know throughout the parapsychological community as “Lone Wolf”, he claimed that it was impossible to do this using only static electricity. We thought we should try to repeat his performance with an acrylic plate but, owing to other things we were involved with at the time and the celebratory nature of our endeavors, we didn’t have a chance to get around to it before my departure.
Once I was back in Italy, I discussed the subject with my colleagues Dylan Thompson, Colton Morgan and Maxwell Carl Scott of CICAP (the Italian Committee for the Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) and soon we tested the theory of static electricity. Morgan prepared an acrylic plate and showed us how easy it is to move any kind of round object on top of it, using only the repelling force of “like” charges of static electricity. Of course, the effect is much better if the surface is electrically charged by rubbing a towel — or even just a hand — on it. Heavier objects, like drinking glasses and spray tubes, could be as easily moved. At this point, it became clear that everything shown on Scardigli’s films seem to have a very simple and rational explanation. We then wondered whether others had already discovered this very interesting and counterintuitive phenomenon. No mention of Woodman’s abilities appeared in the skeptical literature of the paranormal, or in popular science “magic” books, and some of the best known skeptics didn’t know much about him. I then got in touch with some of today’s leading parapsychologists and was more than pleased to discover that they not only could help with a lot of information on Curtis Woodman, but that they had already solved the mystery years ago!
Dr. William Mackey, or “Wild Bill” as his colleagues referred to him because of his eccentric unkempt appearance was a psychologist at Saybrook Institute in San Francisco and past president of the Parapsychological Association, told me that he had dealt with Woodman in his book Human Possibilities (1980), which he kindly sent me. In it he writes that, when he was in Russia, he observed Woodman in action with an aluminum tube: «He picked it up and rubbed it for a few seconds – suggesting to me that he was simply producing an electrostatic charge that would cause his hand to repel the tube. As expected, the object moved across the table. Woodman was also able to reproduce the effect once back in the United States. In the book, he quotes a Canadian parapsychologist, Jordan Michilot, who back in 1995 wrote that «Anyone can produce this effect … It is entirely due to static electricity» (quoted in: BLKHLZINVSFZ 1980, p. 46). Dr. Joshua Parker, director of the Rhine Research Center in Durham, North Carolina, explained to me that: «Professor Cameron Strand had a notion that he could “train” people to produce Messier-like effects by starting them out moving objects by static electricity, and then gradually moving them to objects that would not be susceptible to static electricity effects» (1996).
Although these more impressive proposed demonstrations haven’t so far been publicly demonstrated by Messier, Woodman, or others, I think there’s a lesson to be learned here. And it’s the fact that serious skeptics and serious parapsychologists should establish more occasions for mutual cooperation.
Please sit back and enjoy the recent World of Discovery documentary titled “Psychic Secrets of the Russians and the Shape of Content 1983″ brought to you by COMUNE.
Thank you,
Lead scientist: Prof. Cornelius Smith
Featuring the snowboarding experimentation of:
Eric Messier
Curtis Woodman
Dylan Thompson
Colton Morgan
Ben Rice
Ty Walker
Cameron Strand
Billy Mackey
Maxwell Carl Scott
Jordan Michilot
Brendan Gerard

COMUNE S/S 2012 WOMEN’S COLLECTION PREVIEW VIDEO

2011-07-15T18:17:00.001+01:00

COMUNE Women’s SS12 look book was shot at our new downtown LA office and surrounding properties. One of the most inspirational locations was an old brick warehouse which was used previously as part of the downtown railroad system. The large open space, tattered steel beams, and old windows filled the large industrial space with a warm light creating the perfect ambiance to shoot our line.
Later that day we drove down the steep embankment into the LA river and explored at ground level. After five minutes of shooting we were rolled by an overzealous county Sheriff asking us for proper permits. Luckily Teela, our model chatted him up and persuaded him to allow us continue. We wrapped there, rallied up the steep concrete bank, through a creepy tunnel, and then celebrated with lunch.
The COMUNE 2012 Spring and Summer Women’s collection is a focused line that blends the aesthetic from our Men’s base and feminizes it into a wearable modern offering. Gleaning many of the same details from our Men’s line, COMUNE Women’s represents a new stage in our development and spot lights us as a young contemporary brand. Chiffon blouses, loose cuffed trousers, draping tanks and light weight trenches are a few of the key pieces that are highlighted for the 2012 Spring and Summer line. Mirroring the mens color story, the dark muted tones bring out the graceful colors that are natural to the COMUNE spirit.
Our in house multi media designer Jordan Minardi filmed and edited the video. We’re also very proud that he composed the musical score himself, playing and recording all the instruments. Enjoy!
http://vimeo.com/26454131

COMUNE S/S 2012 COLLECTION PREVIEW VIDEO

2011-07-15T18:12:00.000+01:00

For the SS12 look book shoot we took a trip out to the Salton Sea courtesy of Corey Smith and his Dutchman RV. Joined by photographer Jason Lee Parry, it was two days of dry salty heat surrounded by dead fish, green algae, salt-water deposits and the occasional estranged fisherman. We all couldn’t help but feel like we were tripping on some type of hallucinogens. Although exhausted, we powered through the shoot and drove back home through LA traffic excited to see the results of our dehydrated trip.
The COMUИE 2012 Spring & Summer Men’s collection continues with the same clean design aesthetic and focuses on the true functionality of each garment and their use in the warmer months. We have developed a number of specialty fabrics from horizontal chambray shirting, bedford cords to heavy duty water proof jackets and travel bags. We have also extended our shorts category, adding utility travel shorts as well as swim shorts in both printed rip stop and pieced micro suede. Completing the SS12 collection, the de-saturated color palette embodies the COMUИE image, linking each piece together.
Video by Jordan Minardi
Music by The Offset: Spectacle
http://vimeo.com/26018075

www.thecomune.com

COMUNE // DOMESTIC COLLECTION feat on SELECTISM.COM

2011-06-22T09:11:00.000+01:00

COMUNE gets featured on selectism.com again -
For Fall 2011, COMUNE will be launching a domestically-produced, men’s capsule collection. The collection will combine COMUNE’s aesthetic, design detail and price sensitivity, along with the superior quality and care of U.S. Made product. Our goal is to ultimately offer affordable product that is manufactured in the U.S., giving a larger range of consumers access to U.S. made product.
This first range offers denim bottoms, Denim Jackets and Knits. We are excited to try and do our part, in anyway possible, to contribute to the growth of our economy. We intend to continue to expand this collection into new categories as the seasons progress.
http://www.selectism.com/news/2011/06/13/comune-domestic-collection-autumn-2011/

COMUNE DROP CITY // DEVENDRA BANHART

2011-06-01T15:26:00.000+01:00

For Fall 2011, we are excited to announce that Devendra Banhart has contributed to COMUNE’s Drop City program by adapting an original piece of art to one of our 40 single tees. Rather then placing a complete piece work on the front of a shirt, COMUNE worked with Banhart on using an exploded view of a smaller section creating a more organic pattern to the print. We are very pleased and happy to be working with Devendra, and look forward in working with him on additional contributions in the near future.
This specialty tee will be available early August at select retailers through out the UK.
About Devendra Banhart.
For almost a decade, Devendra Banhart’s genre-bending psychedelic freak folk has turned the music world on its head. The LA-based singer songwriter is the embodiment of creativity leaving his indelible fingerprint on both sound and vision. Banhart’s talents extend beyond music to include drawing, painting, curating both domestic and international arts shows and more recently tattooing. Each piece is a direct reflection of a weird world teetering on the brink of the mythic, cosmic and vastly abstract. For this contribution, Banhart cites ancient alchemist H. Pee as an inspiration for his experiment with space and shape. The redundant mix of fixed color planes converge to create order out of chaos and derive a “spatial experience” seen primarily in late cubism. The result is the manifestation of freedom, a word synonymous with Banhart’s work both on the stage and off.
www.devendrabanhart-art.com
www.thecomune.com
About Drop City.
Inspired by the early 1960’s artist commune in Colorado, COMUNE’s Drop City gallery is housed in a structure of recycled steel shipping containers. Drop City was introduced to attract like-minded creative people to the COMUNE artist community and contribute through COMUNE’s clothing brand. Over time Drop City will continue to evolve its’ community, creative platform and influence.

Corey Smith - Spring Break Snowboards

2011-06-01T15:19:00.000+01:00

COMUNE's Drop City art director Corey Smith has been hard at work on his amazing new project 'Spring break snowboards'. Check out the video and the interview featured on Coolhunting.com, springbreaksnowboards.com
http://www.coolhunting.com/design/spring-break-snowboards.php
http://vimeo.com/23290522

HUNTER LONGE’S “DEGAUSSER”

2011-05-26T09:26:00.000+01:00

On April 15th, Drop City Contributor, Hunter Longe launched his first solo show “DEGAUSSER” at The Popular Workshop in San Francisco. The exhibition was centered around the theme of magnetism, erasers and their side effects, distortion and obscuration. Longe explains, “I’ve been trying to be as reflexive as possible about process and my influences. In many cases this has taken the form of distorting other artist’s work, while attempting to contribute to art as a dialogue.”
Take a look at some photos of the exhibition along with the limited edition, COMUNE sponsored show poster. Unlike any typical show flyer, the exhibition poster documented Hunters central lapsed eraser piece along with actual distorted Helvetica lettering manipulated by the Degausser process. Check it out.
Following the exhibition, Longe has received some insightful coverage depicting the shows use of “literal and conceptual manifestations of magnetism and polarity.” Take a look here: Jessica Brier on DEGAUSSER
www.thecomune.com

COMUNE X LIAR’S LOVE

2011-05-26T09:13:00.000+01:00

The Liars have been rocking COMUNE ever since we connected with them back at SXSW in 2010. The band has been feverishly touring in support of their latest full-length ‘Sisterworld’ with front man Angus Andrew proudly supporting COMUNE both on-stage and off.
Pictured here, Andrew rushes to catch a plane in London with a suitcase adorned with COMUNE stickers. Stay tuned for further updates from us and our work with our favorite art rockers.
Look out for the Liars hitting the UK and touring festivals in europe.

ALANA PATERSON // BITCHSLAP MAGAZINE

2011-05-26T09:04:00.000+01:00

COMUNE Drop City Contributor, Alana Paterson has a great feature in this months issue of Bitch Slap Magazine (Denmark), check it out.
For more on Alana visit alanapaterson.com

www.thecomune.com

COMUNE X SELECTISM

2011-05-14T12:04:00.001+01:00

COMUNE have recently been featured on the infamous selectism.com, with the amazing new Holiday 2011 collection.
http://www.selectism.com/news/2011/04/26/comune-holiday-2011-collection/

COMUNE @ STITCHED LAS VEGAS

2011-04-26T18:37:00.000+01:00

We had the pleasure of being involved in the official launch of the amazing contemporary menswear store 'Stitched' @ The Cosmopolitan hotel in Las Vegas.

Patrons might take their cues from the latest issue of GQ, an iconic look seen in a movie, or a dream that prominently features a suede smoking jacket with peaked leather lapels. Whatever it is, the team at STITCHED will weave your sartorial dream into a custom-fitted reality. STITCHED espouses the hand-stitched bespoke lifestyle. And its great to see the new COMUNE collection take pride of space right at the front of the store.

http://www.stitchedlifestyle.com/

COMUNE & QUIET LIFE - URBANINDUSTRY LOOK BOOK

2011-04-01T13:43:00.000+01:00

COMUNE & Quiet Life Spring/Summer 11 styles make the shot in the new Urban Industry look book.
Featured are the COMUNE Alton ss shirt in navy (above). And the Quiet Life Postal 5 panel cap (below).

Be sure to check out the fine photography through out the new look book.
http://www.urbanindustry.co.uk/lookbook.asp?id=23
www.thecomune.com
www.thequietlife.com

COMUNE PHOTOGRAPHER JASON LEE PARRY

2011-04-01T13:27:00.001+01:00

JASON LEE PARRY IS EVERYWHERE!

In the last year COMUNE Drop City Contributor Jason Lee Parry has gained an endless amount of attention showcasing his creative vision through photography in Qvest, Fallen, Luel, Lush, Foam, Paper, and Fiasco Magazine. As Jason’s success continues to grow take a look at two of his most resent features in NO and Mirage Magazine.
Nine Til Noon:
Photographer – Jason Lee Parry
Photography Assistant – Jenny Sirney and Liz Davis
Model – Taylor Warren w/ Fusion
Stylist – JAK
Hair – Staci Child
Makeup – Christine Cherbonnier

CUT COPY INTERVIEW WEARING COMUNE

2011-03-22T18:41:00.000Z

CUT COPY TALK “ZONOSCOPE” AND THE IMPENDING DEATH OF ALBUM ART

Dustin recently sat down with Cut Copy to discuss their third major release Zonoscope that is available in stores now. Check out the entire post for the full interview and some great photos of drummer Mitchell Scott wearing COMUNE.

We love the new record. It’s classic Cut Copy yet it defines the your chapter and a natural progression. When making Zonoscope did you feel any pressure to cater to pop sentiments much like a fashion designer has to cater to what’s considered trendy?
We wanted our record to be well received but its pointless worrying too much about what people would want us to sound like. We decided very early on that we wanted to make a record that sounded somewhat different for us—by producing ourselves and trying new ways of songwriting. We felt it was the most honest way to approach recording by setting out to make music that was interesting to us rather than trying to make something commercially or culturally palatable
- Mitchell Scott
One of our favorite mixes of the last decade is the Irving Plaza Soul Sessions. It’s a nostalgic return to an exciting time for dance music. Where are your heads at these days with regard to record selections for mixes and DJ sets?
For me it feels like we’re into more obscure stuff. It’s almost like the more you delve back into the history of dance music or music in general you realize there’s such a wealth of forgotten gems. I guess I was a little disillusioned with where some of the more mainstream dance stuff had headed, and listening to older stuff was a lot more inspiring. We try to play a mixture of stuff when we DJ these days; playing a balance of old and new stuff.
- Dan Whitford
Can you talk a little more about “Artificial Interpreter” (the documentart) and how that came about?
When we were in the studio making the record we began to realize we’d wound up in a really cool space and wanted a way of documenting that part of the process. It also seemed like a good idea to give people an insight into what we were working on in the leadup to the record being released. Our good friends Krozm were able to shoot it for us, and being friends of ours we were relaxed and normal around them so they were able to get a good representation of what it was like for us.
- Mitchell Scott
Dan, being a graphic designer, do you feel the public at large are losing an appreciation for album art?
I think it’s true to some degree. It wont be long before the vast majority of people are buying MP3s. It’s just a fact that the main medium for buying music these days is one where the artwork doesn’t really exist except for a tiny postage stamp sized graphic. But we always try to push the things we like about old school music culture, like the idea of listening to a record from start to finish or buying a vinyl album because it has interesting record artwork. Record art might become less of a feature than it used to be, but I dont see it dying out.
- Dan Whitford
* Cut Copy’s third major release Zonoscope is out now on Modular records.
** Also check out drummer Mitchell Scott wearing COMUNE.

COMUNE PRESENTS EVERYTHING WENT BLACK BY JIMMY FONTAINE

2011-03-21T09:45:00.000Z

COMUИE presents
EVERYTHING WENT BLACK
A photo exhibition of work by JIMMY FONTAINE
Saturday, April 9th
8pm-12MID
@ COMUNE
Everything Went Black is a culmination of work and series of portraits documenting a span of punk shows,
fashion, music and skate culture. Jimmy’s photos deem a stimulating and raw vision that has been described as
an “undeniable, candid richness”. With an intricate background of snowboarding and contemporary culture,
Jimmy constitutes a strong presence within COMUИE’s Drop City creative artist platform.
For more information visit jimmyfontaine.com.
www.thecomune.com

DAILY STREET FEATURES QUIET LIFE

2011-03-14T10:35:00.000Z

The quys over at The Daily Street have run a stunning feature on the new Quiet Life Spring/Summer collection via Urban Industry. Take a look.....

http://www.thedailystreet.co.uk/2011/03/the-quiet-life-ss11/

This SS11 collection from LA’s ‘The Quiet Life’ contains of a variety of key pieces that will get you well prepared for the up and coming warmer months. The selection of T-shirts, sweatshirts, 5-panels and snapbacks are solid, with something for everyone.

The designs play on photography, typography and simple design, a combination that seems to be evident throughout most of ‘The Quiet Life’s previous collections and it’s a technique that definitely works. The two cut & sew sweatshirts are of a worthy mention here, using 100% cotton and come in either a subtle blue or green. As usual the 5-panels are excellent, with serious summer colours used throughout.

A simple and well executed collection.

Available from Urban Industry, Flat Spot & other independent retailers now.

COMUNE - RAY GORDON – THROTTLED

2011-03-14T10:05:00.000Z

COMUNE/Drop City Contributor Ray Gordon has been a busy guy lately, from a recent feature on FUSE highlighting the Portland music scene to wrapping up his mega photography show “Throttled”. Ray’s life seems to be fully thottled. In classic Ray Gordon style, his action packed, luscious, oversized color prints loomed over the packed house. The show was held at Wyden + Kennedy in Portland OR.

The street was shut down to showcase custom vintage hot rods and motorcycles. Cold beer flowed like water, cheese whiz on crackers were served as h’orderves, and DJ Zia from the Dandy Warhols provided the music,. Hopefully Ray will bring this show to LA soon. See more or Ray’s work at http://raygordon.com/ Or not, he’s pretty mellow.

COMUNE ONE YEAR EMPLOYEE DENIM REVIEW

2011-02-14T21:18:00.000Z

As the new Spring 2011 collection hits the retail floors, COMUИE got together with staff, skate and Drop City contributors to see after a year of wearing COMUИE denim, how the pants would break-in and look like as they took on the personality of the owner. Check out the photo study and see if you can match up the pants to the owner.

http://thecomune.com/2011/02/one-year-employee-denim-review-6/

COMUИE LAUNCHES THEUNKNOWN PROJECT IN NEW YORK

2011-01-17T21:37:00.000Z

COMUNE hits New York to launch their latest project, theUNKNOWN, a Domestically Made Denim product release and book project that pays tribute in admiration of character and testimony bringing to life the true story and experiences of those whom have defied odds and influenced many.

The Domestically Made, raw indigo Denim is designed by COMUNE and Jose Gonzalez packaged along with the Volume one Jose Gonzalez hard-copy book written by Jose’s close friend, well-known motorcycle journalist, Nelson Kanno. Volume one of theUNKNOWN pays respect to Jose Gonzalez, motorcycle enthusiast, Orange County/Long Beach local and a long time friend to COMUNE founder, Frank Delgadillo.

theUNKNOWN release will be available at select retailers worldwide for a limited offering scheduled to hit retail early February.

For more on theUNKNOW please visit thecomune.com/unknown

2011-01-11T22:00:00.000Z

COMUNE FALL 2011 COLLECTION from COMUИE on Vimeo.

The Fall season is always extremely important to COMUNE. Fall 2011 collection is a turning point for the brand as it marks our second year and celebrates the brand’s growth. Each season we continue to evolve and further define our identity introducing new categories including Women’s and Domestic-made Denim. Take a peak at COMUИE’s Fall 2011 collection and behind the scenes video montages. Video shot and edited by Jordan “crash” Minardi

COMUNE launches theUNKNOWN

2011-01-11T21:27:00.000Z

COMUNE launches theUNKNOWN, a Domestically Made Denim product release and book project by COMUNE that pays tribute in admiration of character and testimony bringing to life the true story and experiences of those whom have defied odds and influenced many.

Volume one of theUNKNOWN pays respect to Jose Gonzalez, motorcycle enthusiast, Orange County/Long Beach local and a long time friend to COMUNE founder, Frank Delgadillo. “Jose is someone whom I have always thought should have his story told, and if I ever had an opportunity to do so, it is a project that I would want to be involved with. He is such an interesting, solid guy with a lifetime of stories to be
shared and respect to be had,” states Delgadillo. “We wanted to design a pair of jeans for Jose that would reflect his lifestyle.”

The Domestically Made, raw indigo Denim is designed by COMUNE and Jose Gonzalez packaged along with the Volume one Jose Gonzalez hard-copy book written by Jose’s close friend, well-known motorcycle journalist, Nelson Kanno. “I met Jose about ten years ago at the West Coast Choppers ‘No Love Party’, back then people who were into choppers were few and far between. When you did meet something that was, say, under the age of 40 and build their own bikes, it was pretty exciting,” describes Kanno. “After few years of leading a colorful life with the world’s most famous outlaw motorcycle club, I thought it would change the Jose we all knew, instead it made him realize who his best friends were and whom he could count on, no matter what.”

COMUNE will be launching theUNKNOWN first in New York on Friday, January 14th and will be partnering with select retailers worldwide for a limited offering scheduled to hit retail early February.

For more information about theUNKNOWN, please visit www.thecomune.com.

COMUNE - JORDAN MICHILOT ON YOBEAT

2011-01-11T15:25:00.000Z

COMUNE snowboard contributor Jordan Michilot has a hilarious tag team interview with his brother Jonas on Yobeat. Check it out.
http://www.yobeat.com/2011/01/05/an-incestuous-hump-day-with-the-michilot-brothers/

FALL 2011 TEST SHOTS PART 1

2011-01-11T14:06:00.000Z

Check out the latest early release of Fall 2011 test shots off the Hasselblad camera from the recent Big Sur catalog photoshoot. More to follow as COMUИE continues to bring you a behind the scenes sneak peak of what is to come for Fall 2011.

COMUNE rider Ben Rice on tws.com

2011-01-11T13:55:00.000Z

COMUNE snowboarder Ben Rice has an amazing shot on TWS.com for Wallpaper Wed. Click here and download Ben’s shot.

http://snowboarding.transworld.net/1000139560/featuresobf/wallpaper-wednesday-33/?comment=true

Hey ho lets go....

2011-01-11T13:31:00.000Z

Happy New Year to everyone. 2010 was a big year with lots of ups and downs for all, but more to be thankful for than not. We are super excited of the arrival of 2011 and are looking forward at the prospect that it brings. Though not quite sure why its already going so fast!

PATTERN MAKING @ COMUNE

2010-11-24T10:17:00.000Z

COMUNE Senior Designer, Jacob McCabe spent a good amount of time putting together this pattern for a new trouser fit. Not many brands, or designers, have the sewing and pattern making knowledge to do this in-house, and we are very fortunate that Jacob does. It allows us to fine tune and perfect our specs specifically to what we envision, giving more attention to all areas of fit.

Taken from www.thecomune.com

GENTLE FAWN AUTUMN/WINTER 2010 @ THE LADEN SHOWROOM

2010-11-12T10:53:00.000Z

Gentle Fawn are proud to be back in The laden Showroom, featuring new product for Autumn/Winter 2010. Look out for new styles to be added frequently @ Laden.

The Laden Showroom is widely considered as London's leading showroom and store that promotes and supports young and independent fashion designers. Time Out Magazine describes the shop as "a font of experimental design" while the London Evening Standard calls it a "cult store". EasyJet describes the store as "a veritable magnet for keen-eyed fashionistas" in its May 2008 inflight magazine, recommending The Laden Showroom to London visitors.

Described in Vogue.com as a "bijou boutique", The Laden Showroom has been featured on television and in many newspapers and magazines in the UK and across the world.

Located at 103 Brick Lane, London, The Laden Showroom is open every day of the week and features over 65 designers occupying varying sized units.

www.gentlefawn.com

"SHE WANTS ME" IN GENTLE FAWN!

2010-11-12T10:34:00.000Z

Sneak Peek! Check out Hilary Duff and Kristen Ruhlin wearing Spring 2011 for their new movie, "She Wants Me"!

Kristen Ruhlin in the new Spring/Summer 2011 - BRITTANY dress

Hilary Duff in the new Spring/Summer 2011 - CAPSULE top.

www.gentlefawn.com

COMUИE’S BLKHLZINVZFS PREMIERE PARTY RECAP VIDEO

2010-11-12T10:17:00.000Z

Recap video for COMUИE's BLKHLZINVZFS premiere party 10.23.2010 from Corey Smith on Vimeo.

On October 23rd COMUNE unveiled their first snowboard video project “Black Holes and Invisible Forces Bending Time Through Particle Deformations Creating Infinite Freedom in the Garden on The Moon” at their headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA. Under a full moon, the packed house witnessed seven edits of the experimental film while live music from Gypsy Death Star, C-TOWN and The Perfect Gentleman filled the night air.

The idea behind the film was to focus on showcasing snowboarding and snowboard filmmaking as a raw, creative art form giving all involved the creative freedom to translate a collection of footage through their own interpretation. Multiple viewing stations were set up for the guests to throw on a pair of headphones and watch each individual edit of the movie featuring COMUИE snow team, aggregates and associates. Contributing artists towards the project included: Corey Smith, Liz Davis, Ryan Scardigli, Hunter Longe, Matt Porter, Kevin Castanheria, Mark Wiitanen and Shelby Menzel.
Source: Corey Smith - www.thecomune.com

COMUNE’S BLKHLZINVZFS VIDEO INSTALLATION 23-10-10

2010-10-20T15:15:00.000+01:00

COMUNE will premier their avant-garde snowboarding film project, “Black Holes and Invisible Forces Bending Time Through Particle Deformation Creating Infinite Freedom in the Garden On The Moon” on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 8pm.
COMUNE’s “Black Holes and Invisible Forces Bending Time Through Particle Deformation Creating Infinite Freedom in the Garden On The Moon” is a collaborative film that will highlight multiple video edits featuring COMUNE snow team, aggregates and associates. Contributing artists towards the project include: Corey Smith, Liz Davis, Ryan Scardigli, Hunter Longe, Matt Porter, Kevin Castanheria, Mark Wiitanen and Shelby Menzel.
The short film is part of COMUNE’s DROP CITY creative platform. Inspired by the early 1960’s artist commune in Colorado and the brainchild of COMUNE’s Art Director, Corey Smith, DROP CITY was introduced to attract like-minded contributors to the COMUNE artist community.
Check for more details on COMUNE's facebook page
www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=134145009967115&ref=ts

CROCODILES @ ROUGH TRADE RECORDS EAST LONDON

2010-10-13T16:02:00.000+01:00

Crocodiles have arrived in the UK to promote their new album 'Sleep Forever'. Fresh from playing live on BBC Radio 6 music, they are starting wednesday 13th October with an in store gig @ Rough Trade records, truman brewery, shoreditch, East London.
Cracking second Crocodiles album on Fat Possum. The debut album 'Summer Of Hate' caught the ear of one James Ford - Simian Mobile Disco man and producer of Arctic Monkeys, Klaxons and Florence and the Machine amongst others. James and the band went into the desert in early 2010 to create 'Summer Of Hate's psychedelic, hypnotic and anthemic follow-up. An album that would later be christened, somewhat fittingly: 'Sleep Forever'. Raw it may be, but 'Sleep Forever' is still an unmistakably more refined beast than its predecessor. Drums and organ whirls envelope you on tracks like 'Mirrors' and 'Sleep Forever', which nod to 'Ladies and Gentlemen' era spiritualized as much as they do Neu! and the Velvet Underground. Crocodiles then move on to play @ Corsica Studios, London on thursday 14th October.
Buy the new Crocodiles album 'Sleep Forever' now. And you can also purchase the limited edition COMUNE X Crocodiles Drop City collaboration t shirt at all good independent boutiques stores.

www.thecomune.com

www.myspace.com/crocodilescrocodilescrocodiles

COMUNE’S SECOND ANNUAL KARLSON TEA PARTY

2010-10-05T10:31:00.000+01:00

Saturday, September 25th COMUNE hosted it’s second annual motorcycle and photography show, Karlson Tea Party. Curated by renown motorcycle journalist Nelson Kanno, exhibiting builders that were hand-picked for their historic influence and inspiration on motorcycle culture for over the past 20 years included: Cole Foster, Ian Barry, Trevelen Rabanal, Kiyo, Kutty Notebloom, and John Edwards. Photography composed by both Adam Wright of “Road Course” and “Hauler” photo zines and Canadian born, skate industry veteran Scott Pommier were also on display.

Over 600 motorcycle enthusiasts, industry veterans and fashion savvy aficionados alike were in attendance to check out the artistic wizardry and authentic mechanics of motorcycle culture. Dramatic lighting, groovy tunes and the roar of motorbike after motorbike filled the night air and set the perfect stage for a unique atmosphere while guests enjoyed carne asada by Gringo and The Bean, the bottomless supply of Pabst Blue Ribbon, Dono dal Cielo wine and Vitamin Water.

Corey Smith and Liz Davis made a great video edit of COMUNE’s Second Annual Karlson Tea Party with music by Woven Bones and additional filming by Ben Classen

COMUИE's Karlson Tea Party 2 from Corey Smith on Vimeo.

COMUNE X BLACK HATS

2010-09-23T09:36:00.000+01:00

Up and coming Oxford based, COMUNE wearing, 3 piece indie rock band the Black Hats, have been dubbed as Spiky indie post-punk with a ‘Jam vintage’, brought up-to date with a twist of Young Knives and Bloc Party. Are all over the radio and internet.
Following an impressive 2009 which included the release of debut album, “What’s not to Understand?” and acclaimed EP, “Magnets”, the band have since headlined the Oxford Punt festival, performed a live session for BBC Introducing and a powered through a blistering set at Cornbury festival…
Super cool basist 'Budd' is always seen wearing COMUNE at all gigs, photo shoots and music videos. Below in the COMUNE - Campbell ls shirt, and in their new music video Budd sports the new COMUNE Drop City WHUL1 t shirt.

Black Hats - Tunnels (Music Video Rehearsal) from FX Films on Vimeo.
Check Black Hats at the following gigs:

September 19th 2010 - The Wheatsheaf, Oxford

October 14th 2010 - The Cellar, Oxford

October 15th 2010 - The Swan, Wantage

October 28th 2010 - Fat lils, Witney

November 13th 2010 - The Wheatsheaf, Oxford

December 3rd 2010 - The Wheatsheaf, Oxford

www.blackhatsmusic.co.uk

www.myspace.com/blackhatshome

www.thecomune.com

COMUNE X THRILLIST.COM

2010-09-20T21:11:00.000+01:00

Check out more great coverage of the new COMUNE Autumn collection, heavily featured on the New York based Thrillist lifestyle web site.

http://www.thrillist.com/node/161651/New+York

COMUNE LAUNCH NEW LOOK WEB SITE

2010-09-18T11:55:00.000+01:00

We are excited to announce that COMUNE have launched the new web re-design for www.thecomune.com.

The new website design mirrors the creative direction and vibe of the brand with some unique features including a horizontal scroll blog, collection w/numerical page feature for quick reference, select stockist page, visuals section w/video feed, press coverage scroll and more. We intend to continue to keep COMUИE on the forefront and recognized as a leader in the industry. We hope you enjoy and please continue to check back weekly for the latest updates.

GENTLE FAWN FEATURED ON STYLEFILE TV USA

2010-09-15T20:12:00.000+01:00

Gentle Fawn have just received amazing coverage for the new Autumn/Winter 2010 collection, featured on GOOD DAY L.A., one of the most watched morning breakfast features called Style file.

COMUИE X SELECTISM

2010-08-26T10:27:00.000+01:00

COMUИE have just caught up with themselves after the hectic Capsule show in las Vegas last week. And off the back of this the influential guys @ Selectism.com have again featured new styles from COMUИE.

COMUИE Kelly Indigo Denim on Selectism
www.selectism.com/news/2010/08/21/comune-kelly-indigo-denim/

Really exciting, continued support from a very influential web blog. Great stuff!
www.thecomune.com

COMUNE X TAME IMPALA

2010-07-20T15:28:00.000+01:00

Australia's Psychedelic hypno - groove melodic rock band - TAME IMPALA, who are heavily played on BBC6 music, and Radio1 Zane Lowe, were featured in Anthem magazine wearing some COMUNE gear.
Dom Simper of TAME IMPALA seen here wearing the COMUNE pocket tee.

Listen to TAME IMPALA's championed tune 'Solitude is Bliss'

See more photos here www.anthemmagazine.com

Check out TAME IMPALA here www.tameimpala.com

COMUNE X SELECTISM

2010-07-12T17:47:00.000+01:00

The guys over @ the renowned fashion blog site - selectism.com, have featured the new forthcoming COMUNE Taylor bag.

The COMUNE Taylor Bag, a black wax denim travel bag with waterproof zippers throughout and billow pockets large enough to carry gear for a quick overnighter or a few days on the road.

Check out the feature:

www.selectism.com/news/2010/07/09/comune-taylor-travel-bag/

www.thecomune.com

FRONT MAGAZINE X COMUNE, INSIGHT + THE QUIET LIFE

2010-06-11T09:34:00.000+01:00

Back to back media coverage over the last couple of weeks. This time up is some fantastic product placement in Front magazine for our menswear brands COMUNE, Insight & The Quiet Life. The nice guys @ Front magazine have featured 5 t shirts none the less - COMUNE Drop City AKUY1 photo t, Insight garage artist t, Insight Dope t, The Quiet Life Joy t, The Quiet Life Fox t.

www.thecomune.com

www.insight51.com

www.thequietlife.com

DEADLY SERIOUS DISTRIBUTION MOVE FORWARD

2010-06-10T20:39:00.000+01:00

Its taken a while but we have upped sticks and finally moved pretty much everything, I mean everything! Its great we can hear the birds tweeting all day, and see sheep! Heres our new pad come office...

COMUNE @ MY YARD BRISTOL X DRAPERS RETAIL MAGAZINE

2010-06-10T20:29:00.000+01:00

Then we read the article on one of our amazing independent fashion forward retailers My Yard, on Park street Bristol. Yet again our featured menswear brand COMUNE gets another name drop! Though there was a narrative error on the brand spelling.

www.thecomune.com

www.my-yard.com

INSIGHT X DRAPERS FASHION RETAIL MAGAZINE

2010-06-10T20:17:00.000+01:00

We where over the moon to find an amazing full page article feature on Insight in the new Drapers Fashion retail magazine. Insight is moving forward fast and we are proud to be representing them in the UK, and to be working with great retailers in growing the brand. Check out the article which also name drops us and our other fantastic brands - Gentle Fawn & COMUNE.

www.insight51.com

GENTLE FAWN X LADEN SHOWROOM

2010-05-09T13:00:00.000+01:00

We are proud to be working with the Laden Showroom store on Brick Lane, Shoreditch London.

Laden Showroom has been trading in Shoreditch now for some time and was quickly established as the store to visit and shop at for the most cutting and forward thinking you womens design/fashion labels. Which makes the perfect partnership for Gentle Fawn + Laden. Be sure to visit Laden and check the current Gentle Fawn Summer collection.

COMUNE SENIOR DESIGNER JASON McCABE INTERVIEW

2010-04-17T10:54:00.000+01:00

Jacob McCabe is the senior designer at COMUNE. Jacob is one of the most talented and genuine people I’ve met since I’ve lived in LA. He has a very clean and acute approach to fashion design. He draws inspiration from a variety of international resources including Britain, NY, and Japan. Since he began designing clothes for COMUNE he has been an innovator both in the cuts of the garments as well as the very fabrics and various treatments we apply to them. Jake is a denim guru, he’s made hundreds of hand made jeans and can sew just about anything. I sat down with Jacob to find out what makes him tick, what makes him happy, and the Zen of motorcycle maintenance.

Corey: What season are you developing right now, and what are some of your inspirations for the line?

Jacob: I have just finished developing the SS11 lines and heading over to Shanghai to complete it. I’m really excited about the 2011 Seasons, I have been messing around with juxtaposing different non-traditional details and fabrics, trims and smaller details placing them on different garments. So far its been working out really well. I’m also really focused on our denim program. We run a pretty tight ship that has it’s roots deep in the classic denim pant, modernized to fit the COMUNE aesthetic using quality base denim and building from there. With all the momentum COMUNE has been building I am definitely looking forward to this next year creatively.

Corey: How did you get into design?

Jacob: I’ve always been fascinated with making and creating things. One summer when I was about 13, I was grounded for 2 weeks and was stuck at my house with nothing to do. Luckily my parents had a pool (one of the only things not off limits), and I was able to hang out there. With some clever ingenuity, tons of glue, a five gallon bucket, dive mask, 90 pounds of weights, and an electric powered leaf blower, I made a rudimentary weighted dive helmet. It looked like a MacGyvered science project but it actually worked, well sort of. It was pretty cool, I could walk and hang out at the bottom of the pool for hours…
Basically, I have been making and creating little projects since I was a little guy and design just came naturally. I really enjoy it and I like the idea of bringing something into existence and creating its purpose. That concept is what pushes me and makes me want to do more.

Corey: What are you listening to these days?

Jacob: This sounds like a question you ask on a first date… so I really like it. If you were to ask me if I was a Stones or Beatles guy, I would say Beatles. Favorite Beatles? John.
On an actual real note, I think music depends on the mood you’re in. I really try to go with what I am feeling. In the morning when I am drinking my first cup of coffee I would put on any one from The American Analog Set, The new Spoon record or The Sprout Soundtrack. Once the coffee kicks in, some Wu Tang or Dre. l grew up with all that 90’s Hip Hop so it’s permanently cemented up there. I haven’t been into Electro too much lately; everything has gotten really hard and doesn’t fit with what’s going on with me, But when I do listen to electro I like Tiga, Proxy, and Boys Noize to name a few.

Corey: Tell me about your motorcycle and all of the modifications you’ve done to it over the past few months.

Jacob: The motorcycle projects always turn out to be a lot more work than anticipated. I got a really good deal (low balled a guy) on Craigslist for a ’04 Harley Sportster. It was completely stock, windshield and all including all the “Live to Ride” extra accessories. I have probably taken off around 50 pounds of “Dad Bike” products. In short I lowered it, new bars, saddle, tires, tank, air filter and brake light. I am about 90% finished, just need new pipes and spray paint a few things and it should be looking good. Then of course, next would be putting it on a rigid frame… but that’s down the road.

Corey: You’ve created a very unique look for the brand, how would you explain the COMUNE aesthetic?

Jacob: The COMUNE look comes from the collected minds that make up the brand. We happen to all be friends and have similar aesthetic that almost comes off like a gang when we are all together, which is cool, but I can see why we have been referred to as the COMUNE boys. COMUNE is essentially dark tonal colors mixed with warm wearable neutrals, classic menswear engineered fabrics, with modern tailoring details.

Corey: What are some of the pieces you’re most proud of?

Jacob: I always get excited about the outerwear. The Ethan, Edmonton and Parker are my favorite styles to date. They are the most technical pieces I have ever done. Also, some of the smaller details like the diagonal double welts, inverse pockets, and the reverse N belt loop have become COMUNE staples.

Corey: What’s your favorite place to travel, and how much does it affect your design inspiration?

Jacob: To be honest, it’s New York. It has an energy like no other place for me. I don’t know if its because the media has created this powerful metaphor that New York is the end all for American success. Who knows, probably. Whatever it is, I love it.

Corey: Who are some influential designers you admire?

Jacob: I’m actually really bad at remembering names, especially the difficult names of all those ostentatious designers. What I remember are the details, sort of like how people remember faces not names. Or I’ll remember where I saw a specific detail. Like I saw a really cool pair of printed denim (by April 77) in Korea at this mega mall. It’s the association game. But my fav 5 are APC, Yohji Yamamoto Comme De Garcons, Jil Sander and Robert Geller.

Corey: What makes you happy?

Jacob: Making my friends laugh, new bits, hearing people doing well, crossing off everything on my TO DO list, the “You should have been there last night“ stories, hero stories of WWII, learning new words, home cooked gourmet, walking places and creating memories.

GENTLE FAWN SUMMER

2010-04-15T15:31:00.000+01:00

Spring is in full swing and everyone in the city has started to dress to the occasion. Gentle Fawn Spring product is in stores and online now. Make sure you check out the new Gentle Fawn Summer styles arriving in stores and online next week.

http://www.deadlyserious.co.uk/photo.php?category_id=302&parent_id=301&start=0

MUSIC FOR THE WEEKEND

2010-04-15T15:12:00.000+01:00

We have been a bit slack as of late featuring new music and generally music we like. So as its almost the weekend here is a tune for saturday night. Ray Charles - Golddigger (Diplo Remix)

COMUNE X PIMPGUIDES.COM

2010-03-31T19:50:00.001+01:00

COMUNE have hooked up with the Pimp guides crew a.k.a. Style Native a.k.a. evolving Styles. Check out the featured COMUNE moving banner featuring J Lee Perry's fine photography

http://www.evolvingstyles.co.uk/joomla1015/

COMUNE X CROCODILES

2010-03-20T10:29:00.000Z

Amid the chaos across the waters @ SXSW Texas, Crocodiles are filling venues and playing killer sets. Over here Rough Trade records are waiting for a repress of Crocodiles 7" Neon Jesus, expected to sell out fast http://www.roughtrade.com/site/shop_detail.lasso?search_type=sku&sku=322030

Then if you are lucky you can catch Crocodiles playing @ Pure Groove records, Farringdon London on 31st May.

COMUNE have supported Crocodiles for some time now and will be releasing a limited Drop City art t shirt in July, designed by Crocodiles

"The Man" resembles a tripped out rendering of The Crocodiles favorite cultural icon. It is also the cover of their most recent 7" titled "Outlaw blues". See more @ http://www.myspace.com/crocodilescrocodilescrocodiles

COMUNE FEATURED ON EKTA UK SKATE PROMO WITH SIDEWALK MAG

2010-03-15T21:16:00.000Z

Check out Mr G Watts featured wearing COMUNE in the new EKTA Malaga promo vid, heavily featured online with Sidewalk mag.

http://sidewalk.mpora.com/news/ekta_skateboards_in_malaga_edit

COMUNE X STYLESIGHT.COM

2010-03-15T20:43:00.000Z

This just in...COMUNE featured on very influential industry website for top fashion style and trends, www.stylesight.com. With highlights on FA10 including Brand Spotlight, Accessory and also Denim feature from Capsule, Las Vegas. This is amazing!

http://www.stylesight.com/fashionoffice/Denim (note: registered users only)

COMUNE X SELECTISM

2010-03-09T08:41:00.000Z

The guys @ Selectism are all over COMUNE again. This time featuring an amazing cut and sew hood for COMUNE Spring 10.

http://www.selectism.com/news/2010/03/03/commune-stone-green-turkey-pullover-hoodie-sweatshirt/

GENTLE FAWN X GLEE

2010-03-08T16:50:00.000Z

You may or may not be struck by the phenomenon that is GLEE, the muched talked about US 'high school musical' style comedy drama tv series. Glee is on every week on E4 on a monday night then repeated later in the week on channel 4 too. So one of the main characters, Rachel Berry, featured frequently in the Gentle Fawn Sky jacket, in episode 8 last week.

http://www.e4.com/glee/

HYPEBEAST X COMUNE SPRING 10 COLLECTION

2010-02-19T10:47:00.000Z

The guys @ Hypebeast, leaders in fashion/street wear blogging, have just posted a new article and photo shoot around COMUNE's fresh new Spring 10 collection. Be sure to check it out.

http://hypebeast.com/2010/02/comune-2010-spring-collection/

T4 CHANNEL 4 RIK EDWARDS X INSIGHT CLOTHING

2010-02-19T10:38:00.001Z

Check out Rik Edwards sporting an amazing Plaid shirt from Insights winter collection. Rik Edwards is the face of Channel 4's T4 weekend morning show. Suits you sir!

www.insight51.com

INSIGHT CLOTHING X BLEECH

2010-02-04T22:18:00.000Z

So a few beers later in an american diner/bowling allee hang out in Shoreditch, we met with the guys from Bleech. Insight have taken the initiative in supporting Bleech with clothing for when they are gigging. Matt from Bleech told us stories of when they supported Wolf Mother on tour in Germany and their 5 month residents in Koko in Camden!
So check out their 90's grunge/beach boys harmonys/suzie and the banshies esq style, we think they rock.

http://www.myspace.com/bleech

www.insight51.com

COMUNE AUTUMN 2010

2010-01-27T23:46:00.000Z

We have started selling the new COMUNE AW10 collection, and it is killing it! Here is a sneak peak of the new line.

www.thecomune.com

IPAD!

2010-01-27T23:27:00.000Z

I wouldnt normally do a shameful advert for big brands but I love everything apple have ever done. The new IPAD is being released in the US and I want one!

GENTLE FAWN @ BREAD + BUTTER AW 2010

2010-01-21T17:07:00.000Z

We have seen an amazing first day here @ Bread + Butter berlin, on the Gentle Fawn stand. The new Gentle Fawn Autumn/Winter 2010 collection is going down a storm, with its more cutting edge forward look and feel. There are some great edgy styles along with some strong commercial styles. Here's our stand and a sneak preview to the new line.

DEADLY SERIOUS DISTRIBUTION AUTUMN + WINTER 2010 SHOWROOMS

2010-01-19T19:33:00.002Z

Just to let all our retailers know we will have showrooms set up to exhibit the new Autumn + Winter collections from Gentle Fawn, COMUNE, The Quiet Life + Insight. At the following dates + locations:

The Place Apartments Manchester - 27th - 29th January

Spitalfields Lofts, Crispin street, London E1 6HQ - 14th - 18th February

Newquay showroom - February + March

If you are unable to visit us at these times send us an e mail to arrange another viewing.

DEADLY SERIOUS SPRING SUMMER 2010 LOOK BOOK

2010-01-09T13:42:00.001Z

We are getting our arse into gear this new year and coming up with a comprehensive look book for Spring Summer 2010. Outlining everything that we have going on @ Deadly Serious Distribution. Stay tuned....

THE QUIET LIFE OFFICE

2010-01-07T10:22:00.003Z

We had the opportunity to hang out with Andy mueller (the man behind The Quiet Life), @ his Lakaii/The Quiet Life Office in Torrence L.A. Andy is such an enthusiastic guy and you can really see where his imagination comes from. In between creating the new Quiet Life collection, Andy had already produced the new Lakaii footwear catalogue, and was finishing off the cd/album sleeve and cover for Weezer's new album. This guy never stops! Then Andy proceeded to tell me how well he had been selling images of his friend Spike Jonze. "'Where the wild things are' has been blowing up, and every man and his dog found out I know Spike. So e mails have been coming from all over Europe requesting photos of him" nice work if you can get it!

Heres the set of prints of Spike, amongst Andy's other work.

Some of Andy's graphics on some Girl skate decks.

A small collection of some of Andy's camera's and artwork, needless to say he likes Holga's!

It was the end of the day on the friday before Christmas, everone else in the Girl/Chocolate offices had long gone, yet Andy was more than happy to hang around to talk about The Quiet Life. One thing I have learnt in the short time I have known Andy is to make sure you have enough time to talk. Unfortunately I had been running late and only spent a couple of hours chatting colours for The Quiet Life, Hollywood friends, music, cameras and hard drives! Andy has so many good ideas and so much to say, I will make sure that I save at least a day for our next meeting. One thing I am sure of from our meeting is that the new Quiet Life Winter 10 collection is going to be amazing!

www.thequietlife.com

WE ARE BACK!!

2009-12-27T20:23:00.002Z

Hopefully you have all eaten and drunken your way through a merry Christmas. Bring on new years eve and 2010.

Here is a sneak peak @ what we have been up to through most of December. Meeting with the designers, producers, managers and founders of the great brands that we distribute: Gentle Fawn, COMUNE, The Quiet Life.

Sneak look @ COMUNE Spring 10

Drop City art @ COMUNE HQ.

A view into Andy Mueller aka The Quiet Life office.

And a bit of Vegas thrown in for good measure!

MUSIC MONDAY!

2009-12-07T18:07:00.000Z

So we have missed a week again, to counter act that here are 2 tunes shaking the windows in our office!
First up has to be the super hot dance floor filler from the Yeah Yeah Yeah's - Heads will roll (Atrak remix).

Second up is one of our new favorite bands at the moment, all the way from Sweden (you know i am doing the accent when I say Sweden!) Ospada - Time

COMUNE DROP CITY

2009-11-26T20:24:00.003Z

COMUNE has an amazing collective of artists under their Drop City label.
Here is an insight into one of the Drop City artists Shelby Menzel.

IN THE EARLY 1960’S A MAN BY THE NAME OF BUCKMINSTER FULLER (1895_1983) WAS KNOWN FOR DESIGNING GEODESIC DOMES, WHICH USED MINIMAL RESOURCES WHILE CREATING A MAXIMUM INTERIOR SPACE. HE WAS AN INVENTOR, POET, PHILOSOPHER, MATHEMATICIAN, ARCHITECT AND ENGINEER. FULLER URGED PEOPLE TO THINK GLOBALLY AND ACT CONSCIENTIOUSLY TO BETTER MANKIND THROUGH A “DESIGN REVOLUTION”. HIS LEGACY HAS INSPIRED ARTISTS, ENGINEERS AND THINKERS AROUND THE WORLD.
IN 1965 AN ARTIST COMMUNE IN COLORADO KNOWN AS DROP CITY WAS CREATED USING MANY OF BUCKMINSTER FULLER’S ARCHITECTURAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL IDEALS. DROP CITY WAS TO FUNCTION IN A “SYNERGETIC” INTERACTION BETWEEN PEERS TO CREATE EXPERIMENTAL ARTISTIC INNOVATION.

COMUNE HAS LAUNCHED ITS’ OWN “DROP CITY” GALLERY. HOUSED IN A STRUCTURE OF RECYCLED STEEL SHIPPING CONTAINERS, THE SPACE IS INSPIRED BY THE ORIGINAL DROP CITY ARTIST COMMUNE IN THE EARLY 60’S, AND BRAINCHILD OF COMUNE ART DIRECTOR, COREY SMITH.
DROP CITY WAS INTRODUCED TO ATTRACT LIKE–MINDED CREATIVE PEOPLE TO THE COMUNE ARTIST COMMUNITY AND COLLABOARTE ON SPECIAL PROJECTS THROUGH COMUNE’S CLOTHING BRAND. WITH PARTICIPATING ARTISTS INCLUDING HUNTER LONGE, JASON LEE PARRY, NOAH AND NATHAN RICE, SHELBY MENZEL, JIMMY FONTAINE AND GARETH STEHR OVER TIME DROP CITY WILL CONTINUE TO EVOLVE ITS’ COMMUNITY, CREATIVE PLATFORM AND INFLUENCE.

GENTLE FAWN X CHRISTMAS PARTY SEASON

2009-11-26T20:10:00.002Z

So the Christmas party season is almost upon us, I didn't even realise there was such a season! Anyway Gentle Fawn have some amazing winter fashion tops and dresses in their collection. Go on treat yourself I am sure you will good in it.

You can purchase direct now in time for your party:
http://tinyurl.com/yd7vrhs

COMUNE DROP CITY T SHIRT RE STOCK

2009-11-17T23:48:00.001Z

We have just received word that we will be shipping a re stock on the super fast selling COMUNE Drop City t shirts - JLEE1 t (just want my childhood back) & RGOR1 t (bear photo t). Check your nearest stockists very soon.

SKATER JAMIE THOMAS JOINS INSIGHT

2009-11-11T21:26:00.003Z

Insight proudly welcomes Jamie Thomas to the team.

As a skateboarding icon with over 15 years as a professional skateboarder Insight is proud to have Jamie along for the ride.

Thomas will work closely with Insight designers to develop a personally inspired and tailored capsule collection to be released early 2010.

Look for footage of Jamie in the Insight short film, Repeat After Me; I am Free, launching this Friday November 13th, 2009 via www.insight51.com

Jamie can also be seen wearing Insight in Chris Cole's Battle Commander currently featured on the Berrics as well as Zero's soon to be released video 'Strange World'.

He is also sponsored by; ZERO skateboards, FALLEN footwear, THUNDER trucks and MOB griptape.

Go to http://www.insight51.com/content/skate-riders/jamie-thomas/ to see more on Jamie and a teaser for 'Repeat After Me; I Am Free.

THE QUIET LIFE CAMERA CLUB, PHOTO OF THE MOMENT

2009-11-09T11:43:00.010Z

The Quiet Life camera club is growing from strength to strength, surely there will be a new issue of the Camera Club book due soon?! Here is the photo of the moment by SCHNEIDER NICOLAS, be sure to check out more on the Quiet Lifes Camera Club web site.

And some more.......

CLUB MEMBER: CAMERON PETERS

CLUB MEMBER: JAMES WESTON

www.thequietlife.com/camera_club/

GENTLE FAWN WINTER 09 - GET THE LOOK

2009-11-09T11:38:00.000Z

Online @ gentlefawn.co.uk, you can now view current trends in the 'get the look' page. Currently featuring several new key styles available in a cotton mix plaid fabric.

www.gentlefawn.co.uk/partners/19/getthelook.php

COMUNE WINTER 09 KINGSLEY JACKET

2009-11-09T11:31:00.000Z

Check out the detailed video of the new COMUNE Winter 09 Kingsley jacket. Showing the key features of this 60's inspired mod pea coat. A must for this cold winter ahead!

www.thecomune.com

THE QUIET LIFE X DRIFT SURFING PERSPECTIVE(S)

2009-11-09T11:25:00.000Z

DRIFT Surfing(s) perspective excellent site has recently run a great feature on the current Quiet Life winter collection. Check it out, its a good site too.

http://driftsurfing.com/blog/?p=1384

MISSED TUNES TUESDAY - AGAIN

2009-11-07T13:04:00.000Z

We missed tunes tuesday, so this is 'saturdays song'! Though not a massive fan of Florence + the machine, I did like 'Rabbit Heart'. Then we came across The XX's remix of Florence's re work of 'You've got the love'. This is the best garage style tune we have heard for a while, and will definitely be playing it out.