GEAR GRID

Allah-Las: Allah-Las

If you’ve been through LA, you undoubtedly have driven by the iconic Amoeba Music. A true landmark for the lovers of sound in the city of Angels. It was while working there that school friends Matt Correia and Spencer Dunham met Pedrum Siadatian, and the surf rock band, the Allah-Las was molded. Their self-titled debut album dropped in 2012 and re-introduced a sound that rock and roll lovers had all but forgot about. If summer days is a feeling, they captured it. If you could hear sea salt circulating in the air, this was it. It’s a sense of west coast classic rock, coupled with the vibrations of London’s late 60’s psychedelic. This album is what a vibration in your eardrum looks like and effortlessly carries the listener down a magic carpet ride of surf rock bliss.

Pocket Ref

Pocket Ref is now on its 4th edition, here to save the world if you need to the know-how or answer for, well, really anything. It’s stacked with 850 pages of abundant information featuring maps, formulas, graphics, diagrams, covering topics like advanced first aid, airplane signals, knot tying, automotive repair, carpentry, and construction—the list keeps going. It’s like having Einstein and Bear Grylls in your pocket. Although, those guys are really sharp and would probably figure out a way to get out of your pocket pretty quick—this is better.

Nixon Corporal Stainless Steel Watch

Inspired by troop transports, bank vaults, and racing tachometers, the Nixon Corporal Stainless Steel Watch has the tick for your tock. With a recessed crystal acts as a protective shield for the watch face while an oversized bezel defines its durability. This is a watch to wear in the boardroom with your sleeves rolled up so onlookers know you mean business, and out hitting the streets, the world is on your time. The Nixon Corporal Stainless Steel Watch is for those who like to look the look and keep things analog.

Mami Wata Accra Surf Trunk

If you didn’t consider Africa one of the choice spots on the globe to catch barrels you’ve been sleeping under an ocean rock. Mami Wata is a brand that is designed and manufactured in Africa — creating jobs, building skills, and luring people to its great country. On 1900 miles of bold adventures coastline, these will serve as your go-to trunks from catching waves to kickin’ it on the white sand. And remember, It’s always midnight somewhere.

Le Specs Fire Starter

The Le Specs Fire Starter are the sunnies to keep at the front door to ward of the shining sun and/or to hide the bloodshot remnants from too much fun the night before. The round lenses, a keyhole nose bridge, and the Le Specs flag stripe metal hardware define this mid-sized fit, that will suit all face shapes. With the Le Specs Fire Starter, you’ll be the cool kid on the block with no kindling needed.

Nomad Goods Rugged Folio

Protecting your EDC is as essential as continuing to upgrade your EDC and when you’re on the move, small is better and the Nomad Goods Rugged Folio is best. A sleek, yet incredibly durable design set this iPad case apart from the rest with additional hidden magnets, smart sleep and wake functionality, and supple Horween leather that will patina over time. Set this Nomad Rugged Folio to kickstand mode, then Netflix and chill.

Away Carry-On w/ Pocket

Travel may be limited at the moment, but you have to be ready to get Away with this Carry-On. This carry-on comes with an external and expandable pocket with laptop sleeve, hard shell casing, and with 360° spinner wheels to ensure you make it through security, to the bar, and onto your flight. And best of yet, there is a removable TSA approved battery stowed away to charge your EDC before takeoff. Up, Up, and Away with the Carry-On w/ Pocket.

Townes Van Zandt: Townes Van Zandt

The late 60’s were widely ruled by the Beatles and Bob Dylan. If you look at Rolling Stone’s 500 greatest albums, you’ll see familiar names throughout the top 20. What you won’t see is Townes Van Zant’s self titled album. One of just many iconic records that have gained notoriety over the years, and influenced country and folk music for years to come, but at the time, was widely overlooked, for no fault of his own, but being released in the golden age of Rock and Roll. With ten original songs and four previously released tracks from his 1st album, the record features “Waitin’ around to Die” which was Townes’s first serious song ever written, and one that makes a frequent rotation in the CYTIES office. This is perfect vinyl for the collection.

Rock Covers

Here’s a wild thought; every single album you’ve ever listened to, as legendary and iconic as it was or has now become, started with a visual introduction from the album cover. Rock Covers brings you over 750 album covers to celebrate this art form, ranging from releases from Elvis Presley to Iron Maiden to Nirvana to Queen, just to name a few legends. Inside the book is fact sheets, featured interviews, and top-10 record lists from leading rock album collectors. We’re always showcasing must-have books on the Gear Grid, Rock Covers is without a doubt a necessity to any music aficionado who owns a coffee table or shelf. Rock on.

Anchor Axe Co The Kisa

Made from Swedish steel and craftsmanship dating back to 1967, the Anchor Axe Co Kisa is a hand-forged battle axe. The curved hickory handle comes in at 26 inches and is treated with linseed oil to ensure a long-lasting life on the trail. And the head goes through a meticulous process of hand grinding to increase its density, resulting in a more durable blade. All said and done, take The Kisa to battle knowing its 2.85 pounds of hand-crafted fury will outlast the densest timber.

Taylor Stitch Short Sleeve Hawthorne

Stetson Open Road Royal Deluxe Hat

Even from a distance, onlookers will be tipping their hats to your Stetson Open Road Royal Deluxe Hat. A true legend, the ORR is a hybrid of Western bareback and concrete jungle, with a Stetson-branded hat pin for a subtle Shenanigans flair to seal the deal. Worn with the brim turned up or down, this is a hat for the true CYTIES slicker.

Boundary Supply HT Key Clip

Keys in the pocket are a practice of the past and with sus llaves dangling off the belt loop, your clip has to be on point. The Boundary Supply HT Clip is laser cut Hypalon wrapped around a lightweight G-Clip for added security. The magnetic aluminum apex snap integrates with many of the Boundary packs and hanging off the backside, the HT Clip is a true statement piece.

W&P Design Cocktail Shaker

We could say its 5 o’clock somewhere, but these days, who the H E double L cares. And when the spirits are flowing from the W&P Design Pineapple Cocktail Shaker, well, your drink is not going to be the only thing that’s spiked. The shaker is made from stainless steel, hides a 3 piece kit, and is 18 0unces of blacked-out glory. Grab your favorite spirit, ice, and start shaking with the Pineapple Cocktail Shaker.

The Drums: The Drums

The Drums burst on the Brooklyn scene with this debut album back in 2010, a record that can be on repeat and its musical antics still never get old. “Let’s Go Surfing!” and “Down By The Water” are just a few tracks that embody the electric and Morrisey-like allure of frontman Jonny Pierce, who has largely become a cult-followed legend for his velvety lyrics and ongoing fight for gay rights. Tracks like “Forever And Ever Amen”  and “Me And The Moon” hit the tune of pop royalty. It’s an album that you can’t believe is ten years old, and one that helps you understand just how precious The Drums were a decade ago, and with their trap-in-a-bottle ageless sound, how truly important they are today.

Chasing The Light: How I Fought My Way Into Hollywood

An intimate memoir by the Oscar-winning director and screenwriter Oliver Stone about his complex childhood growing up in New York, volunteering for combat, and his struggles and achievements making films such as Platoon, Midnight Express, and Scarface.

Boomer & Co. Double Edged Safety Razor

A razor that looks as good as it shaves is the way to go these days and the Boomer & Co. Double Edged Safety Razor is certainly on point. The stainless steel construction, textured handle, and black coating deems this a razor that must be out in the open for all to see. And when you’re lathered up, this murdered-out razor is primed for the ultimate babyface shave. Leave the tp on the roll because it’s sure to be a knick free shave with the Boomer & Co. Double Edged Safety Razor.

SONOS Move

If you haven’t heard of SONOS, this is where you turn the volume up. The portable Move speaker is engineered for high-quality sound and to instantly get the party started. It’s WIFI and Bluetooth compatible, pumps surprisingly rich bass, automatically tunes with SONOS’ Trueplay, and even wards off variable weather when the 2 step moves outside. If you’re looking for a significant upgrade to your home and portable audio, look no further than the Move.

Allbirds Tree Toppers

Let’s just lay it out on the line, these Allbirds Tree Toppers are made from renewable materials, machine washable, minimize odor, and the flexibility conforms to your movements. These hightops are in a league of their own as the silky-smooth eucalyptus tree fiber is like a pillow for your feet. When it comes time to #hittheconcrete, the Tree Toppers are fit to explore… laced up or down.

Taylor Stitch Après Pant

The TS Après Pant is stitched for the after activity of life and the reason why one can not lounge if one does not have the proper pant to maximize comfort. The double cloth fabric is washed lightly for unmatched comfort, two front and back pockets are big enough for the essentials, and the elastic waistband rivals a pair of Kirklands. Consider your favorite pair of Sunday sweats that you’ve been molding to perfection over the years, but with the style that can hit the streets, that is the Après Pant.

Peak Design Field Pouch

Even the best of bags need some assistance if the interior is going to stay organized and that’s where the Peak Design Feild Pouch comes into play. Built to house your pens and paper, auxiliary power, hard drives, and EDC, the Field Pouch can even be worn around the waist or as a sling. And the weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell is optimal for long days of travel and keeping your gear dry and safe. If clutter is not your thing, pack your gear tight in the Field Pouch.

La Luz: Weirdo Shrine

Continuing the wave of our surf infused month, we drop the needle on Weirdo Shrine for this edition of Saturday Spin, the sophomore album from La Luz. The sound is hazy and hypnotic, and while it is notably surf rock-influenced, this record creates its own sonic current. Weirdo Shrine is emotional and melodic, operating at a higher level of what feels like haunting humid indie rock—otherwise known as Surf Noir. Produced by Ty Segal, it has members Shana Cleveland, Marian Li Pino, Alice Sandahl, and Lena Simon tapping into trippy western tinges, speedy to slow-motion drums, and fuzzy pedal guitar riffs that melt together like a malty milkshake in the scorching sun. Originally from Seattle, you can’t help but think that La Luz’s sound is a desirous call for the mirage of an endless summer.

Matador One Bag Travel Pack

The ultimate pack for travel and exploration, the Matador One Bag is an absolute spectacle of a bag. Combing the best of the backpack, duffle bag, and packing cubes into a go-bag designed for organization, the One Bag has a laptop sleeve, backpack straps that stow away for air travel, and the segmented zipper pockets help to separate Monday from Friday and work from play. Pack the Matador One Bag like there is no tomorrow, because who knows what tomorrow will bring.

King of Styling Beard Brush

The Kings of Styling Oval Beard Brush is what kings of the jungle use to tame their mane. Made with boar bristles to help distribute your own natural oils, this beard brush will assist in your beard’s health and overall appearance. And the oval shape is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hands. Keep the Kings of Styling Beard Brush handy because keeping your beard game tight is of the utmost importance.

Barebones Forest Lantern

Aside from a few, no one really likes the dark and when you’re at the campsite, the Barebones Forest Lantern will be shining bright. The Forest Lantern has USB charging, proven durability for the rugged outdoorsman, and when the mood is right, the light will shine for up to 80 hours. When you’re out in the woods and need a light to guide the way, the Forest Lantern has the lumens to get you to the latrine.

Hedley & Bennett Wake Up & Fight Mask (3pk)

If you have ever spent any real time in the kitchen, you should know Hedley & Bennett’s aprons, but as we all continue to adapt, so has H&B with the Wake Up & Fight Mask. The soft double-layered cotton is durable and comfortable, and each mask includes an inner filter pocket (filter not included) for an added layer of protection. This mask will take notice from the hospitality industry and hitting the streets, your getup will have to step up to Wake Up & Fight Mask.

Outerknown Surfing Hollow Days Crew

When the surf fades and you need a pullover to make your next moves on the day, the limited-edition Surf Hollow Days crew is transition ready. From a collab between Outerknown and Mr. Porter, this crew is stitched with the endless pursuit for the perfect wave in its threads. Paying homage to Bruce Brown and his art of storytelling, this 99% organic cotton crew is what you’ll throw on after the session to remissness about the freedom of riding. Cut it back, toes on the nose, and when all is said and done, #hittheconcrete in the Surf Hollow Days crew.

Marshall Monitor ll A.N.C

The way things are operating these days, a solid pair of headphones to block out the world are an absolute must. And when the Marshall Monitor IIs are constantly working to block out ambient noise, so you can focus on what’s important, the music… wait, your work. 30 hours of wireless playtime will drive these headphones with voice activation and operational control from the touch of a finger. Crank the jams, block the world out, and tune into what matters most with the Marshall Monitor IIs.

The Flaming Lips: The Soft Bulletin

The Flaming Lips have, in a sense, always been around. From 1986 to today, they have hypnotized listeners with their unworldly and psychedelic garage rock-infused anthems, seemingly feeling ageless and mystical. One album is noticeably responsible for the beginning of the modern-day creative and magical parallels they have ascended towards—before Yoshimi ever battled a Pink Robot—and that is The Soft Bulletin. The distorted wacky riffs were replaced with strings in this album, creating an orchestra of emotions and genius lineup of tracks. It was Lip’s phoenix rising release, putting them in another dimension of sound. It’s a jamming, late summer, windows down, never failing album.

“If someone was to ask me what instrument I play, I would say the recording studio.”
-Wayne Coyne

The New Traditional

The New Traditional showcases the lives of a new generation of hardworking men and women devoting their energy, talent, and creativity to crafts such as blacksmithing, distilling spirits, globe making, and other heritage traditions that have helped define our culture. The book showcases craftsmanship, lifestyle, and unique experiences of the people keeping these practices alive in a world that sometimes feels like it’s spinning way too fast.

Kyosho RC Surfer

We may not be talking about tacos, but “Utah, give me two!”.  The Kyosho RC Surfer is the ultimate big boy toy for the beach, river, and/or lakeshore. And while surfing is considered a laid back, totally chill sport, this RC is a collab with surf industry titan Lost with one of a kind graphics from Matt “Mayhem” Biolos. Make no mistake, this Kyosho RC Surfer rips and will certainly go totally richter.