Attention Deficit

Check out D.C. native Wale's debut album Attention Deficit. (Available nation wide today)It's one of the rare recent hip-hop albums that can be listened to from front to back without skipping any tracks. He offers a refreshing combination of lyricism and flow on tracks like Triumph and Mirrors as well as radio friendly jams like Chillin and Pretty Girls.

Yanks Win Again

Congrats on your 27th world series championship Yanks. Good luck next year Cubies, Tribe, & Giants its been over half a century (full century for the Cubies) since you've hoisted a championship trophy.

Crush It!

Check out this awesomely quick read by business mogul in the making Gary Vaynerchuk. (He developed his parents liquor store in New Jersey into a multi million dollar online business, and is gaining credibility and recognition in the business development world.) It explains how using the Internet and its numerous different social media sites can help you to follow your dreams and "Cash in on your passion." Coming in at under 200 pages and costing only $19.99, you should be able to knock it out in a weekend while saving enough money to go out for drinks.

Fall Back on Tortoise Shell

With October coming to an end and fall gaining its stride it's time put away those summer aviators and bright colored wafarers. Instead you'll want to reach for a more subdued pair of sunglasses like these tortoise shell Ray-bans. Their more neutral color palate will go better with all the plaids, greys, and tweeds that are pulled out of the closet during the pre-winter months. Plus you can forgo the sunglasses and just wear them as regular frames like Rob Lowe in the Ricky Gervais comedy, The Invention of Lying. Ray-Ban Original Wafarer ($139) The Invention of Lying now playing in theaters.

And If you don't feel like spending the 139 bucks there are plenty of less expensive versions like these found at Fred Flare for considerablly less. fredflare.com ($11)

Watch Your Wallet's Weight

For those of you still carrying around a George Costanza sized wallet, it's time to give your right ass cheek a break, and slim down your currency carrier. I know you have important receipts in there jammed next to that condom with the iffy expiration date. Plus you only need one more punch in your frequent buyer card to receive your free hot dog from the mini-mart. But trust me. Once you make the switch to a slim card carrier or sleek money clip, you'll forget all about that delicious four day old frankfurter, and you might even get the chance to use that condom. You'll look better in jeans as well as suits, plus you'll be more comfortable when sitting.

I've been carrying a Coach card case in my front pocket, with my cash folded neatly next to it, for about two years now, and will never switch back. With every one from Prada and D&G to Fossil making card cases they should be fairly easy to find in an array of different price ranges and styles.

Coach ($88), Prada ($155), D&G ($155), Fossil ($25) The card carrier is the little removable tab.

My New Favorite Talk Show

While reading a Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover, Out Cold) interview in the most current issue of GQ I stumbled upon a mention of an internet talk show he hosts called Between Two Ferns. As a huge fan of Zach's stand up comedy, movies, and dry, sometimes vulgar, sense of humor, I had to check it out. I spent the next 45 minutes laughing hysterically while sitting alone in front of my computer. Some of his antics include getting into a full on slap fight with his Hangover co-star Bradly Cooper and asking Natalie Portman if she shaved her V for Vagina. So if you have a few extra minutes check out at least one of the episodes.

The Grown Up PB&J

There are very few things in life I enjoy more than a good glass of red wine and a nice cigar. Most people will tell you that a cigar goes best with a nice scotch or an aged rum. And I don't disagree. Those are both lovely pairings. However, a nice full bodied red wine with a lighter bodied cigar is like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for grown ups. The taste combinations are sweet, rich, smooth, and creamy all at the same time. Plus when you combine the two with a great group of friends it might just take you back to a time where everything just made sense. Like the school lunch room. Hanging out with friends, talking about what ever comes to mind, all while enjoying mom's home made PB&J. So the next time you are in the company of great friends, pull out that wine key, spark up your lighter, and see where the moment takes you.

The Sartorialist Book Signing

I just got back from Scott Schuman's (a.k.a. The Sartorialist)book signing and was pleasantly pleased with how the evening turned out. I had never been to a book signing before and thought the night might be filled with pretension and snobbery. However, I was delighted to meet some really nice and super stylish people. If you are not familiar with Scott's work he publishes a blog, thesartorialist.blogspot.com, sharing photos of stylish people he sees on the streets of NY, Paris, and other cities to bridge the disconnect between what is seen on fashion runways and in showrooms and what people are actually wearing. His new book, The Sartorialist, is a compilation of such photos, with interesting notes and facts about some of his subjects. If you are a fan of fashion, design, or photography you should check out his work.

Air Traffic Control

Recently I returned from a trip where I spent an obscene amount of time in various airports across the U.S. With plenty of time to people watch between flights I realized the sheer lack of airport acumen displayed by the majority of the traveling public. So here are a few tips to ensure that the next time you travel you won't be lumped in with these unfortunate individuals.

Dress like a grown up. Leave the sweat pants and hoodies in your luggage and reach for something that looks good while remaining comfortable and functional.

Throw on a sports coat or blazer. It won't get as wrinkled as it would of had you packed it, plus it will keep you warm on those long chilly flights. J. Crew Blazer ($265) Opt for a shoe that is easy to slip off like loafers or boat shoes. No one wants to spend any extra time in the security line bumbling with shoe laces. Kenneth Cole ($175) Sperry ($75)

Upgrade your carry on. You don't want to look like the 45 year old I.T. guy in A23 with his mini suitcase on wheels. Try a good duffel bag or weekend bag. Leather Banana Republic Bag ($278) Canvas Weekender by Target ($29)

Know the rules. A great deal has changed in the past few years regarding airport security. So please take the extra fifteen minutes and update yourself on any new rules or regulations.

Last but not least. . . If you own a fanny pack please take it to the nearest open flame and set that bitch ablaze. There is no socially appropriate forum for this unfortunate rear end satchel. (seriously, I saw at least ten on my trip)

Masters of Karate and Friendship for Everyone

The most dysfunctional, delusional and delightful, bunch of delinquents return to television tonight for the premiere of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I for one can't wait to delve further into the subtleties of Charlies retardation and the erotic life of Denise Reynolds. Check it out on FX at 10 pm et.

The Brash Gentleman's Guide to Glassware Pt. 1

If you can't tell by now I like to enjoy the occasional adult beverage from time to time. I mean what gentleman doesn't? But what separates a college drunk from a gentleman drinker? Two things come to mind. The first should go without saying, but just in case someone forgot to tell you, put down your PBR and step away from the McCormicks bottle. You are no longer trying black out after a school athletic victory or get drunk enough to do something that teeters in a moral grey area. So step up your hooch decisions and order something that isn't served from a plastic bottle or cost $15 for a 30 pack.

The second point of separation tends to be overlooked by most, but is equally as important. Invest in some proper glassware. I know it might sound strange and unnecessary, but if you were anything like I was in college, you would drink out of anything capable of holding a liquid. (i.e. funnels, fish bowls, plastic cups, even test tubes) This behavior is no longer acceptable. You are an adult now and should be enjoying your beverages in such a manor. Oh and keep it simple, you don't need etched crystal, or anything with a logo, it just needs to be sophisticated and understated.

Here are the essentials.

The Wine Glass
This is an absolute must have. There is nothing worse than inviting a young lady back to your place and having to server her wine in a juice glass. It's tacky and embarrassing. Red or white wine glass doesn't really matter at this point, (Yes there is a difference, but that's for the advanced guide) just stick with what you drink most often.



M by Mikasa Cabernet glass set of 4 ($29.99)


The Rocks Glass
Simple and versatile, the rocks glass is perfect for anything served on its own over ice, mixed drinks, or your morning orange juice. Keep it between 7 and 11 ounces though, you don't want your whiskey on the rocks to look like a short pour, but you want to leave enough room for mixers in case someone requests a less potent cocktail.

Stolzle New York 11 oz. rocks glass set of 6 ($18.99)

The Pint Glass

Keep a couple in the freezer for beer and leave the rest for those miscellaneous concoctions.

Libby 16 oz. pint glass set of 12 ($17.98)

The Coffee Mug

Please donate the ones your mom gave you when you moved out to goodwill and buy something suitable for an adult.

Duos Coffee Mug set of 4 ($24.99)

Ray Phillips

I went down to the Dallas Design district on Dragon st. today to check out a few galleries, look at some cool furniture, and indulge my creative appetite. It was about half way through one of the last galleries I visited when I noticed my favorite piece of the afternoon. A painting by Ray Phillips. I stood in awe for a good ten minutes looking at every little detail and layer, and found myself completely mesmerized by his creativity. So, as a favor to yourself, take a couple of minutes and check out some of his work.

An Inglourious World

I saw Quinten Tarantino's new flick Inglourious Basterds today, and although it was an amazing movie (make sure you go see it) the thing that stood out to me most was an awesome Old World Globe Bar that appeared in one scene. I found a few online and think they would make for great additions to any single gentleman's household.
Petite Blue ($299), Verdigris Oceans Green ($599)

Tim Gunn Takes a Shot at Croc's

I'm not the biggest fan of Tim Gunn (of Project Runway fame), but his stock definitely rose when he called Croc's "the biggest crime ever committed against fashion," last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. I'm glad to hear someone shares my complete and utter disdain for these atrocious plastic shoes. Check out the entire interview on NBC.com.

Dark 'N' Stormy

My summer isn't complete until I have spent at least one night indulging in the awesomeness of a cocktail better known as the Dark 'N' Stormy. A friend introduced me to this wonderful Bermudian concoction one summer while living in Newport RI, and I have been addicted to it ever since. Pour 2 oz of Gosling's Bermuda Black Rum and 4 oz of ginger beer over ice with a bit of lime and enjoy. Oh and Goslings actually owns the trademark to the drink so its not a true Dark 'N' Stormy unless you use their rum (which makes finding it a little more difficult) but trust me you wont be disappointed when you do.

Not Your Girlfriend's Candle

The other day I was wondering around online and stumbled across these awesome candles made by New York born, Dutch designer Piet Houtenbos. His reinterpretation of the hand grenade offers an overtly masculine version of a traditionally feminine object. My favorite is the pineapple grenade in its original army issued color, but gold and silver versions are available.

($55.00)

Go Gingham

Recently I have been trying to expand my dress shirt collection to include more than white oxfords and light blue button ups. Although these two items should be staples in any wardrobe they shouldn't dominate your shirt rotation. One of my new favorite alternatives is the gingham dress shirt. I like a light blue paired with a khaki suit for a more professional look. Or a bold purple with some jeans for a more laid back look.

Blue by Brooks Brothers ($79.50) Purple by Gap ($44.50)

next:

Every so often I get together with a few friends for an evening devoted to the tasting of new wines. Recently, at such an occasion, I stumbled upon a next: 2006 pinot noir from Oregon (produced by the King Estate Winery in Eugine) that was quite refreshing. Medium in body, well balanced, with light cherry and plum flavors, next: is a wine perfect for someone tying to expand their palate or make the transition into the world of red wine. It has a nice smooth finish that won't scare away your typical white drinker, while offering enough complexity to entertain the more experienced red drinker. Plus its produced on an organic and sustainable vineyard and retails for about $19.00. So, not only is it a good value but it's also environmentally conscious.

Virgin Secrets

I just finished reading billionaire business mogul, Richard Branson's latest book Business Stripped Bare and thoroughly enjoyed myself. As a self proclaimed entrepreneur his detailed descriptions of actual business transactions were intuitive and inspiring. He also offers his thoughts on shifting trends and the future of the business world, as well as the social obligations of big business, which was refreshing. It's nice to hear that billionaires think about the future of society and not just their bottom lines. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or currently working in corporate America this is a must read.

Summer of Khaki

With summer in full stride I have recently found myself leaving the shorts in the dresser and reaching for a pair of broken in khakis and a plain t-shirt. It's perfect for relaxing on those lazy afternoons and cool summer evenings. Plus, if you have to run an errand or two you'll be the best dressed and most comfortable guy in the checkout line. My favorites are a pair of four year old Banana Republic khakis and a plain Zoo-York t-shirt (which, unfortunately, they no longer make), but here are a few more brands that should do the trick.Clockwise from top left: Banana Republic ($79.50), Save Khaki (prices vary), J. Crew ($9.99), Dockers ($32.99)