Some more Alden favorites from our staff. “An American classic, from an American icon. Alden makes longwings better than anyone. This shoe is no exception. Crafted from Horween Natural Chromexcel, this shoe is made Portland friendly through the use of Alden’s double leather and commando sole. The commando sole is waterproof and nonslip, making it ideal in the Pacific NW. Made on the Barrie last, these shoes also feature a decorative 360 degree reverse welt, painted brown brass eyelets, full leather linings, natural cork insole, full heel counters and steel shank through the arch for long lasting comfort and support.” Winn Perry has them.

More looks after the click.

On view through January 16, 2011 at the National Theater in London, the “Landscape Photographer of the Year 2010″ exhibition highlights photographers capturing subjects as diverse as Oxford Circus and the Scottish Highlands. The diversity of image is most impressive, reminding not just of Britain’s agricultural tradition, but of its legacy in urban architecture as well. The prize is sponsored by both Network Rail and Natural England.

A selection of works from the exhibition follow.

Jam Home Made collaborates with a variety of design leaders to offer distinctive and inventive product. From January 2, 2011 their “Signature Collection” will include this wallet from masters of the shop interiors, Wonderwall. The firm says of the item, “minimal in size for easy carrying, simple and functional, the type of wallet one would think could be easily found but cannot be found anywhere-, that was KATAYAMA’s request. It’s the best wallet. You don’t need anything else other than this. It has a pocket for a smartphone in the centre, a couple of zip fastening pockets for banknotes and coins. It is also equipped with a chain to hold your keys. The hook for the belt loop is shaped and angled in such a way to prevent the wallet from rotating and gives easy access for the smartphone.”

01. Inspiration: Photographs by Ditte Isager

“I stumbled across Danish photographer Ditte Isager’s work last week. She is based in New York now and her work has a quiet beauty to it that resonates particularly well at this hectic time of the year! Enjoy.” (lifeworks)

02. Matryoshka House (above)

“Located in Bethesda, MD, and designed by David Jameson Architect, is a small home based on intersecting volumes. At center is a suspended meditation chamber, from which the home evolves with increasing large spaces. The walls function as “cradles” and much emphasis is placed on light. A truly intriguing home.” (curatedmag)

03. Body Browser

“For the aspiring medical student or simply any curious mind, Google Lab’s new Body Browser offers an amazingly in-depth look at the different layers of the human body. The 3D model, currently only viewable as a female, lets the user interact with six different biological systems in multiple planes.” (coolhunting)

04. Do not hand over any tapes to Paul McCartney

“Below we have two letters that perfectly illustrate the rift that ultimately tore The Beatles apart following the death of manager Brian Epstein and Apple Corps’ subsequent failings. First, the draft of an undated letter in Lennon’s hand that essentially bars Paul McCartney and his new manager, Lee Eastman, from accessing The Beatles’ recordings without authorisation; followed by a 1969 letter to Eastman specifically, signed by Lennon, Harrison and Starr, in which he is reminded in no uncertain terms that, despite his managing of McCartney, he has no control over the affairs of the band.” (lettersofnote)

Some new headphones from EOpstech.

In a recent article in GQ Magazine, the duo behind Penny Stock Trademark tell us their thoughts and concepts behind the brand. The company offers “Relaxed refined and classic American men’s clothing.” The “Penny Oxford” shirt is their take on the basic oxford. It’s made of 100% cotton and offers a “front pocket with a specialized ‘penny pocket.’ Who would have thought that in these pressured economic times that these guys could make a shirt that would help us save money! The shirt is available at 80sPurple.

More looks after the click.

Known for their US made rugged outdoor utilitarian clothing, Filson releases their flannel-lined pant for the holidays. “Made from 11-oz. 100% dry finish Tin Cloth and fully lined with 7-oz. 100% cotton brushed Twill.” The pant offers: “two front slash pockets, two back pockets with flaps, watch pocket, suspender buttons, brass zipper fly, and seven inch belt loops.” The pant is tapered and the company offers custom lengths upon purchase. If you’re looking for a pant where you won’t have to wear long johns underneath them, than these are it. A rain Jacket with some duck boots on and you’re set. Available at Filson.

This collection is way too good to not be mentioned here. “A collaboration between  LAMFF x SSDD a “Love Awareness Program” venture  present – The “Golden Tiger” capsule collection consisting of authentic golden tiger stripe camouflage pant, hat and jacket. The clothing has been carefully reproduced and based on an original suit worn by a US SOG advisor during covert operations in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam in the early 1970’s .” UNION has more pieces.

More looks after the click.

As gluttons for light reading, this provocative title from Yale University Press hasn’t failed to hit our strings.

Author Erik Levi is reader in music, Royal Holloway University of London. His description is as follows -

Despite the apparent incompatibility between Mozart’s humanitarian and cosmopolitan outlook and Nazi ideology, the Third Reich tenaciously promoted the great composer’s music to further the goals of the fascist regime. In this revelatory book, Erik Levi draws on period articles, diaries, speeches, and other archival materials to provide a new understanding of how the Nazis shamelessly manipulated Mozart for their own political advantage. The book also explores the continued Jewish veneration of the composer  during this period while also highlighting some of the disturbing legacies of Mozart reception that resulted from Nazi appropriation of his work. Augmented by rare contemporary illustrations, Mozart and the Nazis will be widely welcomed by readers with interests in music, German history, Holocaust studies, propaganda, and politics in the twentieth century.

Available from Amazon.

Using a 1940’s military last, Alden works over a great pair of boots from Japan’s BEAMS+ line. The upper’s leather features a “bison like” finish on top of a Vibram sole. A solid pair of boots handcrafted in New England for the Japan market. Available at BEAMS+.

More looks after the click.