Active Ride Shop Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection

A sign of the times. Here is an excerpt from Active Ride Shop's press release issued last Monday regarding their Chapter 11 Bankruptcy filing:

"Active Ride Shop today announced that it has filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court in Riverside. The company is focusing on executing a comprehensive corporate restructuring plan without interruption to business operations.

As previously announced, the company has closed 8 under-performing retail locations. This week, the company took action to realign its corporate support structure alongside the smaller store base, which will include 21 retail stores as well its e-commerce storefront. Further, as part of its restructuring efforts, the company will continue to evaluate the productivity of all assets, analyze additional cost-cutting initiatives and research strategic alternatives to maximize the value of the business.

John Wallace, chief executive officer and founder of Active Ride Shop, said “The swift and dramatic downturn in the local economy had a major impact on our business in the 3rd and 4th quarters of 2008. In combination with the robust growth and expansion we experienced during the previous 24 months, this perfect storm of economic retraction left us with no other option.” He continued, “The preemptive cost cutting initiatives that we took throughout 2008 were not enough to protect our investments without filing for Chapter 11 reorganization protection.”

The company projects a $7.7 million loss for the fiscal year ending today. 

(via. OCRegister)

Diamond Supply Summer 2009

Say hello to the Summer 2009 Diamond Supply Co. offering...

Nick has really grabbed the bull by the horns this season as we witness the brand really expanding. The primarily t-shirt based company has expanded to include several denim pieces, shorts, a wide array of accessories and self branded headwear that includes snapbacks, fitteds and 5 panel.

The tee shirt graphics, as we have come to expect, are some of the best in the industry and no there is no shortage of accessories to pair up with this bold graphic tees.

As in the past, there will a couple collabs we can expect including a BlackScale and Alchemist tee.

Ya but do you have socks....nevermind.

(via. Highsnobiety)

Maestro Knows Episode 2

The second installment of Maestro knows features 2009 Grammy Award winner Anthony Hamilton (Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance on "You've Got the Love I Need" by Al Green).  The charismatic trio stop by Alife LA, In n' Out Burger and karaoke their way through the day.

(via MaestroKnows)

Tuesday's Chill Track: "Hard Sun" Eddie Vedder

My guess is there was no official video for this track so you'll have to chew on this...and yes I am aware this is a cover.

The Future of Electric: Tesla Model S

When I think of the electric car I picture those pocket sized smart cars. The ones that seemed to elude that the carnie's forgot to pack up one of the bumper cars. Thus refreshing to see electric car company, Tesla Motors, bring this joint to the market. The model S will be coming to the market in 2011.


I guess what's more refreshing is the way in which Franz von Holzhausen overlooked nothing in the design. Not only does it resemble "the six-figure Maserati’s Quattroporte sedan and resemble the Jaguar’s XF sedan" it has an intriguing sweeping roofline, tail lights and the chrome trunk garnish all while rolling on 21-inch alloy wheels.


The car has a 300 mile range on one charge, takes 45 minute to quick charge, 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, features a 17" infotainment touchscreen and seats seven. Base price $49,900.


(via Tesla)

10.Deep Scott Sasso Interview

One of my entrepreneurial and design icons is 10.Deep founder Scott Sasso (middle/fur cap). I was super stoked today when I saw streetlevel.com did an interview with the mastermind. Scott touches on the brand formation and walks right through to his maturing audience and the aspect of cult following.  Peep the interview here. 

(via. StreetLevel)

Damien Hirst for Supreme...Just Ride

Here's the little promo/artists talk featuring Damien Hirst for his new Supreme deck series that will be released this week on Thursday in store and online (Thursday April 2nd). The decks will be available in Japan on Saturday.

For those not familiar with Hirst's work he is best known for his Spin paintings created by centrifugal force.  Essentially Hirst places his canvas on a spinner and pours paint on the piece and let's the forces of nature act upon the piece.  It is this style that was utilized to create this three piece series.

DAMIEN HIRST

Beautiful Bleeding Wound Over the Materialism of Money Painting, 2005

Household gloss paint and credit card on canvas

60 x 84 inches (152.4 x 213.4 cm)

(via Supreme x Gagosian Gallery)

Today's Useless But Impressive Lesson: idaft

For this to make any sense check out the link.

(via. Kanye)

5 Minute History of Krink

(via. Juxtapoz)

A Closer Look at the Supreme SB Bruin

(via. Complex)

Ransom Online Store Launch

Ransom launched their online store over the weekend. The Canadian online store, aside from featuring the Ransom collection, will stock Goodfoot, Converse, Visvim, Common Projects, Adidas and New Era.  Get your shop on.  Congrats Matt.

(via. Goodfoot)

Monday Morning Playlist: Sam Flores

I have always been fascinated with the connection between the visual arts and music and vise versa. Especially how the two co-exist in a way that they feed off of each other, inspiring and influencing the end result of either craft.

As you will notice Life After Midnight continues to grow based on this connection between the visual arts and music. It seems fitting that I begin what I hope will become a regular Monday feature. The Monday Morning Playlist will feature a designer, musician or member of the streetwear community and a playlist of 10 to 15 songs or musicians that funnel their creative expression.

I am pleased to bring the first installment courtesy of one of the most talent artists of our generation: Sam Flores. It seems fitting as Sam is currently working on some pieces for his up coming show "Ego, Addiction and other Bedtime Stories", which will run from May 2nd to 30th at Shepard Fairey's gallery space: Subliminal Gallery. He was kind enough to reflect on the music that has helped to form this new work. Enjoy the first chapter of the Monday Morning Playlist.

"Here's what I've been listening to the last week while working on this new show. I start the morning off with Motown and Soul , Sirius Satellite Radio, Soultown. Then to some Eric B and Rakim, Slick Rick, Dead Prez. I slow it down with some Tom Waits - Blue Valentine. I've been listening to the mellow songs on the Monsoon Wedding soundtrack a lot, Ray Charles and Sam Cook. I like a little Yo Yo Ma also. There ya go that's what gets me through the day".

I encourage you to check out Sam's blog and peep some of his works that will be on display shortly.

Franco Shade FRSH Jameson Flannels Available

The Franco Shade (FRSH) Jameson button up Flannel is in.  By far some of the freshest flannel we have seen in a while.  Each of the three colorways: burgundy/black/white, blue/black/white and red/black/white are limited to 55 pieces and available only through the Franco Shade online store.  They retail for a very reasonable $66 USD.

(via FRSH)

Nike SB April 2009 Collection

Eight pairs of shoes make up this months Nike SB release (April 2009). Of the eight, two releases are part of the Nike SB Custom Series 3. These include Grant Taylor's SB Blazer Elite in Army/Khaki and Justin Brock's SB Dunk Mid Premium in Khaki/Medium Denim. The remaining include 'Un Heavens Gate' Dunk High, a white and teal Classic, a Tre A.D. in grey and red, a SB Blaxer Low in white and red as well as two more undisclosed SB Blazers.

(via. SneakerObsession)

Air Zoom Oncore High

Say hello to the first ever Nike 6.0 high: the Air Zoom Oncore. The shoe features a flexible upper with the ankle support and cushioning you have come to expect from the classic 6.0. The shoe is being offered up in a single Grey/Blue colorway and is available exclusively through CCS. Pre-order is currently underway and will retail for $89.99.

(via. CtotheJL)

The Blue Box

Goodbye gold hello blue.

(via UNIV)

Supreme x Nike Bruin SB Preview

A little Supreme x Nike preview of the soon to be released Bruin SB via Japanese sneaker magazine Shoes Master.  The shoe will come in four colourways - red, black, white and green. Each colourway will also feature a metallic swoosh and the phrase "World Famous" ("World" on the left rear of the shoe and "Famous" on the back right).  I personally think the insoles are hype, basic, but super appealing.

The shoe will retail for $98.

(via HypeBeast)

T.I. Sentenced

Clifford Harris was sentenced today to one year and a day and fined $100,300 for his March 2007 weapons charge.  T.I. will have 30 to 60 days to report to prison to begin serving his sentence. 

(via BBCNews)  

iTunes Tier Pricing April 7

The Los Angeles Times is reporting that the variable song pricing on the iTunes Store will take effect April 7. The store will feature a three song pricing tier that will be determined on radio play and artists popularity beginning with $0.69 and working its way to $0.99 and $1.29. It is expected that a majority of the 10 million songs on iTunes will remain at the $0.99 mark.

(via LAT)

N.A.S.A. feat Kanye West, Santigold & Lykke Li - Gifted

N.A.S.A. Feat Kanye West Santogold & Lykke Li - Gifted / NEW

By no means a new song, but new official N.A.S.A. - Gifted video. The video was animated by Three Legged Legs a directorial studio in Santa Monica. Three Legged Legs is made up by designers Greg Gunn, Casey Hunt and Reza Rasoli.  The trio has done animation and video for clients that include Zune, Sprint, X-Games, Amp'd Mobile and Sony. 

The animation is cool but I don't think it is fitting for the video.  This song had a lot of potential for a video but this just doesn't do it for me. 

(via. Kanye)   

Alife Media Presents Rob Roy

Rob Roy "Fur In My Cap" Director: Ethan Lader from ethandirector on Vimeo.

Ali? Nope Rob Roy. Funny and catchy. I had this tune running through my head all day. Fur in my cap..fur-fur in my cap. You can download the track on Rob Roy's myspace.

(via Inqmnd)

Vice Fashion Issue 2009

This years Vice 'The Fashion Issue 2009' is upon us. This years issues features photographic works by Richard Kern and Ben Ritter, a couple intriguing interviews on the state and future of fashion and as per usual the Global Trend Reports.  This years issue takes a look at Los Angeles/New York, Montreal/Mexico City, London/Berlin, Melbourne/New Zealand, Milan/Barcelona, Paris/Amsterdam, Antwerp/Tokyo, Copenhagen/Helsinki, and Vienna/Stockholm.  I would imagine it is worth the read.

(via. Viceland)

Just Another Reason To Pump Benny Gold's Tires...

Here is just another reason why Benny Gold is one of the nicest and influential people in the industry.  Here is a guy who is not only an accomplished and sought after designer but also the owner of the very successful Benny Gold brand. And how does he spend his free time? Working with an after school skateboard program in SF. Sure he probably skates every afternoon anyway but the fact that he is willing to share his time, skate advice and give kids a legit role model when he could be doing his own thing or skating with pro skaters...c'mon now.  Could you imagine if The Hundreds, HUF, Supra or Supreme embarked on such a venture.  Sure these guys are busy but think of the positive impact they could have with a monthly skate session.  Or even sign up some gear and auction it off for charity.  I mean who wouldn't want to buy a graphic sketch done by the masterful fingers of Bobby Kim or a HUF sample signed by Keith.  If anyone in the industry stumbles across this, consider that an industry challenge.

(via. BennyGold)

Nike Air Yeezy Price

I couldn't seem to find a legit price check for the Yeezy's but thanks to the team at Goodfoot we have a price (peep the box).  It looks like the Nike Air Yeezy's are going to retail for $215. I am not sure if that is Canadian or US. Goodfoot is a Canadian retailer so...keep your fingers crossed.  At least they are about a thousand dollars cheaper then the LV Jasper's making them a little more tangible for people like me.

(via. Goodfoot)

I'll Be Singing This All Day

I am sure this is on just about every blog that knows who Pharrell is but it was too funny not to post.  I am sure once McD's executives saw this this morning they were trying to get a hold of Pharrell.  Give it a few weeks and this will be a prime time commercial for Ronnies featuring future Broadway sensation, Pharrell.

(via. BBC)

Inside the Hundreds SF

San Francisco is one of the most stunning cities in the US. Home to some of the most talented artists and musicians in the world from Benny Gold to Keith Hufnagel to Kirk Hammett. This is yet another one of the many reasons I am jealous of anyone living in San Francisco. For those of you who have been lucky enough to journey into THSF you'll know what I mean. THSF is one of the most impressive stores I have ever stepped foot into. It's actually like walking into a cave. I can't explain it but Bobby posted this video today which shows the store in all its glory.

(via. TheHundreds)

Wale ft. Lady Gaga - Chillin

It safe to say Wale has come a long way since 'Dig Dug (Shake It)'. The Washington D.C. native will release his album 'Attention: Deficit' in June. He also has set April 29th as the drop date for his 'Back to the Feature' mixtape which will feature collaborations with artists like Joe Budden, Drake, Bun B, Talib Kweli, Kenn Starr, Joell Ortiz, Currensy, J Cole, Royce the 5'9", and Tre from UCB. Until then enjoy the single off of 'Attention: Deficit' - Chillin featuring Lady Gaga.

You can download it here.

(via. WaleMusic)

DQM Spring 2009

Dave's Quality Meats has released spring 2009 which consists of a lot of slogan tees and obvious New York references.  This offering witnesses tons of colorways and a lot of wearable tees.  Personal favourite would be the Lies tee that would compliment the recently released DQM G-Shock nicely.

(via. HighSnobiety)

Maestro Knows Episode 1

Maestro Knows - Episode 1 (Nike Air Yeezy) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

(via. LeviMaestro)

Hypebeast: Tough Times: A Look Into the Current State of Streetwear

HypeBeast, one of the elite streetwear/fashion blogs on the web today, ran a feature article/interview called 'Tough Times: A Look Into the Current State of Streetwear' yesterday. The article features commentary from Chris Gibbs of Union, Hikmet Sugoer of Solebox, Arthur Chmielewski of HAVEN, Frank Liew of Quarters/Qubic, Erik Brunetti of FUCT and Alyasha Moore of Fiberops.  The articles discusses everything from the current business formula to stay a float during this economic downturn, the ability to risk take in the current economic environment and the positives that can come out of it.  The panel is very opinionated which makes for a very intriguing read.  Over the passed 6 months I have had the opportunity to discuss this issue with a few others including Bobby Kim and Ben Shenassafar (The Hundreds), Greg Rivera (Mishka NY) and Andrew Chen and Johan Lam (3Sixteen) and it is very interesting to see the correlation and at the same time contrasting approaches each companies has to survive the economic uncertainty.

The article is a great read.  Props to managing editor, Eugene Kan, and the rest of the HypeBeast team for doing this article, very insightful.

(via HypeBeast)

Tuesday's Chill Tracks: Attack in Black and Band of Horses

Welland, Ontario's finest.

Also check out The Weakerthans if you haven't already...

1) Aside (the song that played during the end credits of Wedding Crashers)

2) I Hate Winnipeg

3) Left and Leaving

March

22 Sun: Sackville, NB - Georges Fabulous Roadhouse 
23 Mon: Fredericton, NB - UNB Ballroom 
25 Wed: Quebec City, QC - Le Cercle 
26 Thu: Montreal, QC - Le National 
27 Fri: Peterborough, ON - The Montreal House 
28 Sat: Ottawa, ON - Bronson Centre 
29 Sun: Kingston, ON - The Alehouse 
31 Tue: Toronto, ON - Phoenix 

April

01 Wed: Toronto, ON - Phoenix 
02 Thu: Toronto, ON - Phoenix 
03 Fri: London, ON - Music Hall
04 Sat: Guelph, ON - River Run Centre 
17 Fri: Winnipeg, MB - Burton Cummings Theatre 
18 Sat: Winnipeg, MB - Burton Cummings Theatre 
21 Tue: Regina, SK - Ridell Centre 
22 Wed: Saskatoon, SK - Odeon Events Centre 
23 Thu: Edmonton, AB - Winspear Centre 
25 Sat: Calgary, AB - Macewan Hall 
26 Sun: Banff, AB - Wild Bill s 
27 Mon: Kelowna, BC - Kelowna Community Theatre 
28 Tue: Nanaimo, BC - Vancouver Island University Theatre 
30 Thu: Victoria, BC - Element 

Goodfoot Spring 09 New Eras

Everyone's favourite Canadian boutique, Goodfoot, has released their Spring 2009 line-up of New Era fitteds.  This season sees the the iconic "G" embroidered on the solid black canvas with "GDFT" stitched in the backside.  The hat is available at all Goodfoot locations (Toronto, Vancouver, St. Clair, Montreal and Calgary).

By far my favourite cap that ever came out of the Goodfoot camp was the Jaws release in Spring 07.  If only I could track one down for the old collection.

(via Goodfoot)

2010 Vans Half Cab Colorways

Thanks to Steve Caballero we get a sneak peek at 2010 colorways of one of my favourite silhouettes the Half Cab.  

For those of you in the know this video will be nothing more then a refresher.

(via StevieCaballero)

Diamond x DVS Jeron Wilson (The Berrics)

CtotheJL released a candid shot of the new Diamond x DVS Jeron Wilson sample.  In the spirt of DVS check out the finals of the Battle of the Berrics.  I had PJ Ladd in my bracket going to the finals but thanks to Benny Fairfax, PJ was eliminted in the semi-final.

And once again I wish I could skate.

(via TheBerrics)

Legit Asher Roth and Kid Cudi Interviews

Asher Roth at the Boulder Theater on Vimeo.

There are so many bush league interviews out there.  Finally someone pulls it together. Asher discusses the new album, blogging, the pressures of the industry, the XXL cover, and staying true to what he stands for.

And Karamloop gives us the Cudi update.  I cannot wait for this HBO series to pan out (if you want the background check out the prior blog about the show here).  If you like Entourage you are bound to like this.

(via SteeloHero)

10 Deep Spring Available

Spring 09 10 Deep gear dropped today...cope your Spring 10 Deep gear now. 

Alife Laser Engraved Decks

Timeless.  Limited to 50 pieces world wide.  Available at Alife Flagships for $800.

(via. CtotheJL)

IM KING Spring/Summer 2009

Imaginary Kingdom (IM KING) has, for a while now, flown under the radar in the streetwear world.  Well maybe it isn't that they have flown under the radar but maybe haven't been given enough credit as they are deserving.  The California brand was created in 2006 by childhood friends Andy Cool and Polo.  The brand was a direct reflection of their lifestyle and personal tastes all while speaking to everyday people encouraging them to reach and surpass their dreams.

This years Spring/Summer look book is a testament of how a company can still thrive and grow during economic downfall.  This years collection features a a wider variety of products then we have ever seen from the brand offering up more cut and sew that include knitted v-necks and cardigans as well as denim, shorts, jackets and fitteds.  Now if only I could get my hands on the Seven tee.

Spring/Summer 2009 will hit IM KING accounts in early April.

(via. IMKING)

Cudi Clears The Air At SXSW

(via SteeloHero)

Walls Notebook - For All You Graffiti Writers Out There

Two ways to look at the Walls Notebook.  The first maybe talented graffiti writers will take their talents to a 9 x 11 sketchbook and there will be a cut down in vandalism...probably not. The second, more planned tags on well known New York public spaces...Probably.  Go Make art.

Its probably best described by the creators of the 80 page sketchbook. "Not ready for jail, fines, or involuntary community service, but still want to vandalize someones wall?  With the Walls notebook you can exercise your creative mischief on 80 untouched New York City walls - without fear of repercussions or reprisal".  

Available at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and Borders for around $11.

(via HypeBeast)