1.  Target’s Merona Kensington Blazer in New Colors – $40 – $45

A spring workhorse, and... Capone?

Credit to Amogh for the style tip on how these are now available in grey or a navy pinstripe.  The pinstripe might be a little tough to pull off, since there’s zero structure to the thing.  Still, might be worth a shot.  The light grey is a hugely welcome addition.  More on the blazer over here.  Some guys didn’t like the fit and some guys did.  Off the rack fit seemed much, much better than average to me.

 

2.  Field Notes National Crop Edition Box Set – $24.00

"The grocery list? Check sorghum..."

Field Notes notebooks are certainly in the upscale-rugged wheelhouse.  These made in the USA notebooks take after the ones that used to go out with seed/agricultural equipment/etc. to American farmers.  Each crop themed notebook has just 48 light tan graph-paper pages, but that’s perfect for those of us who write small and don’t like lugging around one of those bulky, spiral bound “lil’ fat” books.  That, and at 3.5″x5.5″, they slide neatly into a sportcoat’s inside pocket without weighing it down.  And that’s perfect for having something to put ideas in when out and on the run, or out and sitting still.  Averages out to $4 per notebook, and you get the map and triangular patch as a bonus.  Ships free through Maxtonmen.com

 

3.  Aston Grey Textured “Ashland” Lace up – $69.94

The inexpensive odd duck.

The “compare at” $160 is eye-roll-worthy, but a lace up with texture like this is a good alternative to suede bucks.  More dressed up than boat shoes or drivers, and not as stuffy as your office shoes.  Suede bucks?  Sure, that’s the safer play.  More on how to wear a similar shoe, in black, over here.

 

4.  Seiko 5 Roman Numeral Automatic – $54.12

Et tu Seiko.

Credit to LG for the tip on this one.  Under seventy bucks, has a much loved Seiko 5 automatic movement, and has the much dressed up Roman Numerals.  Switching out for a leather strap shouldn’t be too difficult.  For the guys with smaller wrists, since it’s a small 38mm in diameter.  UPDATE:  Going for cheaper through Amazon.  Hat tip to Steve in the comments.

 

5.  Mint for Chewing (not chewing mint gum) – $2.00 – $4.00

Oribt and Trident can take a back seat.

So the Derby Party was a success, but you vastly overestimated how much mint you were going to need for the drinks.  Now what?  Simple answer:  Peel the leaves off the stems, tuck 4-6 of them in your cheek or between your teeth and lower lip, and let em’ sit.  Lots of us like chewing gum, but it can leave you bloated.  Sometimes the artificial flavors can leave an odd funk in your mouth (even the mint flavors).  Real, honest-to-goodness mint leaves don’t do that.  Don’t chomp away on them, just let em’ sit.  Re position from time to time.  It’ll leave you with a light, fresh, minty feel.  Probably has something to do with the fact that it’s actual, fresh mint.  When the flavor runs out, which takes a surprisingly long time, you won’t need to find a garbage can to spit em’ out.  Just chew em’ up.

 

6.  Lorenzo Uomo Gingham Neck & Sleeve Shirt – $28.79* ($39)

Son, lemme tell you about Wurkin Stiffs.

*You’ll need the 20% off code SAVE20MAY9 to get this price.  UPDATE:  Code expired yesterday.  Apologies for that fellas.  Spend another $10 somewhere and you can get $15 off your $50+ purchase with the code 15OFFMAY512.  That one expires 5/31.  Finding a bold gingham dress shirt that’s actually crisp instead of washed ain’t the easiest thing in the world.  This one is even a neck and sleeve measurement.  Substantial looking collar too.  Fit?  Not sure.  But for under $30, tailoring isn’t out of the question.

 

7.  Van Halen Stay Frosty – $0.99

Ice Cream Man Part II.  And friggin’ awesome.  Might even get the cold toes of a music snob tapping.  Eddie doesn’t look dead anymore, Diamond Dave still has the attitude (even if he does have a little less of the vocal chord range) Alex still thumps, and somehow Wolfgang does just fine with the bass and backup vocals.  The new album is much, much better than you’d expect.  “Tattoo” pulls this record with the locomotive on the front out of the station, and even though Dave starts to sound a little like a blue-haired caricature of his own self-made caricature on “She’s the Woman”, it’s forgivable.  The song is that good as a whole.  Rolling Stone gave the CD 3.5/5 stars.  Preview the Album on SoundCloud here.

 

8.  Club Monaco Cotton Naval Sweater – $49.00 ($98.50)

You're on your own for the bandana cowboy.

Thicker cotton sweaters can be anchor heavy and battleship wide.  This one has a chance to provide a little extra beef, without getting too bulky.  Cut in a slimmer fit, with some extras at the cuffs and hem.  $5 flat rate shipping under $175, and you’ll get dinged $5 for return shipping.  Returns free in store.

 

9.  Black Magic Tire Wet – $5.99

Shoe polish for your Goodyears

There’s a few of us who haven’t had our cars washed since, umm… October.  Well the sun is out now.  And if you’re lucky enough to have a car you like to drive, it’s time to get it clean.  Tire shine doesn’t make as big of a difference as a well shined pair of shoes does, but… it still makes a pretty big difference.  (Note:  Follow the instructions on this stuff.  Do NOT spray it on anything other than the sidewalls of your tires.  It’s slippery stuff.  And you don’t want slippery stuff on your tire tread.)

 

10.  Factory Long Sleeve Striped T-shirt – $29.50

Tony Marceau, at your service.

Lots of color.  Lots of stripes.  Throw it on one weekend and you just might feel grrrrrrrrrrrreat.

For other best bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

The Sunglasses:  American Optics Original Pilot – $42 – $64.99*

The Farmer's Market is not time to get all hollywood.

Optics Planet has them for dirt cheap.  Never ordered through there, but I know some of you have… leave that feedback in the comments.  Made in the USA, shine free, classic, and the bayonet style temples are awesome.  AO sells them direct for $74.00.  The $64.99 price is through JackThreads, and they seem to be sold out for now.  Also worth a look, Gilt is running a sale on a bunch of Randolph Engineering styles.  Their squared off aviator, the intruder, is down to $80 in some styles.  Made in the USA as well.

The Sweater:  L.E.C. Supima Pencil-Striped V-Neck – $27.99* ($60)

Not quite white.

Now on sale and has been dipping even lower with those every once in awhile extra 20% off sales LEC seems to like to run.  Lighter weight pima cotton in a warm weather ready pattern.  A huge upgrade from a hoodie.  *Use the 30% off code PICK30 and pin 3022 to get this price & free shipping.  Code expires today.

The Shirt:  Mossimo Athletic T – $7.99 or Merona Light Blue Button Up – $22.99

Basics. Let the stripes do the talking.

It’s a farmer’s market, so feel free to wear the sweater over a t-shirt.  If you’re not down with the t-shirt under a v-neck look, and you need a collar, just stick with a plain light blue like the model is wearing in the LEC pic.  The Target shirt is cheaper, and skip ironing it for something like this.  It’ll be too long to leave untucked though.

The Pants:  A pair of well worn & washed jeans

Leave the rookie, wear the veteran.

Y’know when you first get a pair of really dark denim, and you’re not meticulous about how you care for them, and after a year or two they’re a couple of shades lighter than when you first got them?  Right.  Those are the jeans to wear.

The Belt: Wood and Faulk The Standard Belt – $85.00

When she asks: "What do you want for your birthday?"

A complete splurge.  Any ol’ leather belt will do, and know that wearing one of the real popular striped or brightly colored canvas/cotton/woven belts might be a little much with the cream striped sweater.  All those stripes and you’ll start looking like a television test pattern.  From a small goods maker in Portland who gets mentioned a lot on this website.  Don’t know em’, but man do they ever make some amazing looking stuff.  English bridle leather, solid brass buckle, beeswax finished edges, and made here in the USA.

The Shoes: Sebago Kerry Tassel – $63.96 w/ ALBRIGHT2 ($145)

A load of quality for $64.

The leather quality and construction on these is superb.  Thick, but still plenty soft and pliable leather, hand stitching, and a leather sole stitched to the upper.  Really relaxed and not everyone’s favorite as far as looks.  A bit of an ugly duckling that’ll still serve you well.  These only come in an E width, so be prepared to size down so you’re not flopping all over the place in them.  Some laced alternatives include Sebago’s Brattle for $136, Florsheim’s Kearny in Dirty Buck for $65, or the just in to DSW Cole Haan Buck II for $110.

The Watch:  Bulova 96A102 Canvas Strap – $76.37

Tough not to like this one.

Sure, Seiko might have the automatic movement, but plenty prefer the looks of Bulova’s take on the canvas strap.  Not a NATO or slip thru style strap either.  Acrylic crystal, but a scratch or two will only add character.  40mm in diameter and really well reviewed on Amazon.

The Money Clip:  Coach – $28.00 ($40) | Allen Edmonds – $12.00 ($15)

Both ship free.

You want cash for a Farmer’s Market.  And you want to be able to get to it quickly.  So front pocket, not back pocket tucked in a wallet.  Leave the silver shined up clip for formal events.  You don’t want to blind anyone, so stick with a leather or a fabric money clip.

The Bag:  Linus Bike The Sac – $65.00

Waxed with a coated base... for your protection.

Gah.  The tote conundrum.  Some guys view carrying a tote bag as equally awkward as holding on to your girlfriend’s/wife’s purse.  But they get the job done, and if you’re grocery shopping at a farmer’s market, you’re gonna have to put your purchases in something.  These options from Linus almost look like dry bags you’d use on the water.  Waxed canvas with a coated base.  Hooks on to your bike rack, and comes with a shoulder strap.

The Back at Home Beer:  Deschutes Chainbreaker White IPA

White IPAs: Warm weather appropriate, but still sharp.

White IPAs aren’t quite wits and they’re not as forward as standard IPAs.  Chainbreaker is as refreshing as beer gets for guys who like a lot of flavor.  Not over the top in flavor by any stretch, and it tastes like a toned down version of their Conflux No. 2 beer that produced a… you guessed it, white IPA.

The later that night CD:  Raising Sand – Robert Plant | Alison Krauss – $10.53

Won 5 grammys. And for good reason.

In case you and your significant other decide to spend a quiet night in to make dinner out of whatever it was you picked up at the farmer’s market.

Top Photo Credit:  Dane Brian

You’ve got a date coming up.  Terrific.  You’ve got a good prep routine down so you won’t be rushed.  Maybe you’re heading out to dinner.  Or perhaps you’re doing something out of the ordinary that’s cheap but still fun.  You’ve got an idea as to what you’ll be wearing and it’s sure to leave her impressed and you’re feeling pretty good too.

But you won’t be getting ready in total silence.   You’ll need some music.  And not the kind of music that’ll put you to sleep, or alternatively, make you want to run through a brick wall.  You want a playlist that’ll get you ready for your date, as well as be plenty fine for when your date gets in the car.  Maybe something like this:
.

………………………………….

Your turn guys.  Song suggestions for a pre-date playlist are certainly welcome down in the comments section below.

1. Allen Edmonds Mini Shoe Care kit – $7.65 w/ NEWAPRIL ($9.00)

Eat it Kiwi.

Murdered out shoe care!  All black setup to go with you on the road.  Applicator cloths too.  Black and neutral carnauba wax.  Wondering what the hell the difference is between shoe creme and this carnauba wax stuff?  Grab a drink and enjoy the swingin’ music while you get the answer here.  (Basically:  Creme is better for moisturizing and coloring.  Wax adds some color but it’s better for high shine.)  Ships free.  Available through Maxton men and 15% off with the code NEWAPRIL.  That code takes 15% off all their just in goods.  Code expires 4/10.

2. The Cincinnati Kid Starring Steve McQueen – Free w/ Amazon Prime Membership ($2.99)

Rounders before there was Rounders with one of the all time style greats.  McQueen looks like a kid in this thing, which is appropriate, since his character is known as the “Cincinnati kid.”  Co-stars Edward G. Robinson, Karl Malden, a wildly young Rip Torn as “Slade” and Ann-Margret… who’s just a pile of sex in this thing.  Free to stream through Amazon instant video if you’ve got an Amazon Prime Membership.  More on Amazon Prime from Primer here.

3. Bicycle Black Tiger Playing Cards w/ red pips – $10.74

It's like a negative. With color.

Speaking of poker… Just make sure you get the deck with the red “pips.”  Those would be the symbols for the suits.  It’s pretty tough to tell if you’ve got a flush draw going when both the spades and hearts are white, so get the red pips and your diamonds and hearts will be in red as shown in the pic above.  Deck photo credit

4.  Anthony Logstics Glycerin Bar Soap – $10.50

Passing on the loofah.

Yes you could buy a pack of safeguard bars for less, but this stuff won’t strip your skin down as much.  It’s touted as a pre-shave cleansing bar, but if you’re the bar soap type, maybe worth investigating as your daily.  Fifty cents over the ten dollar limit, but it ships free from Nordstrom.

5.  Old Navy 60/40 Pocket Tee – $9.94

More colors in store?

Online color selection is a little on the limited & awfully bright side, but some brick & mortars have black, grey, etc…  These fit surprisingly pretty true and trim.  60% cotton, 40% poly, which is AWESOME to some of us.  Blend shirts are durable, soft, and have a bit of stretch to them.  And the pocket makes them a perfect short sleeve option between basic underwear looking t-shirts and a polo.

6. One of these sneakers: GNRC for AE Court Sneaks – $19.99 ($39.50)

Holy cheap.

Looks like they’re mainly canvas with some sueded leather at the heel and up along side the eyelets?  Twenty bucks is pretty cheap for summer ready sneakers.  And it appears the only mention of American Eagle is on the tongue tag, which will be easily hidden by the laces.  Available in navy and white as well.

7. Brooks Brothers Socks – $14.50 | BOSS Orange – $9.75

Who raided Don Cherry's sock drawer?

Obligatory loud sock picks.  The Brooks Brothers socks drop a bit in price if you get three pairs for $35.  convienent that they come in three different colors.  Made in Italy too.  The Boss Orange socks are, well… they’re more of a risk.  A red/black checkerboard pattern will do that.  Both ship free through Nordstrom.

8. Left Lane Cruiser “Big Momma” – $0.99 on iTunes

Two guys who sound like the devil spawned a hybrid of John Lee Hooker & Gwar.  “Big Momma” is actually one of their softer tunes.  A ballad almost.  Black Lung will blow the doors off.  Out of Fort Wayne.  Interviewed for a job once in Fort Wayne.  The potential boss was an ass, and one of the first things he said about the city was that it was “known for bad drivers and fat women.”  Seemed like an okay place to me.  Didn’t end up there.  Might have if I would have stumbled across these guys playing live.

9.  Woodlore Cedar Belt Spinner – $7.00

Holds eight belts. And that's plenty.

Keep your belts in line, freshen up the funk in your closet, and maybe fight off a few clothes eating bugs at the same time.  Everybody wins for seven dollars shipped.  Except the bugs.

10. Rotating a couple of your watch bands – Free – $5.00?

Small switch, big difference on the wrist.

Many big-box branded jewelery stores or jewelery counters will be glad to do this for you for free.  Take a look at your watch collection.  Maybe there’s a watch you love that could use a different band.  Instead of buying a new one, just swap it out with a band you have on another watch.  It can change the entire look for free.  The above example is a long since discontinued Citizen Eco-Drive grey-face chronograph.  The original band is the tapered croc embossed semi-gloss in the back.  That’s been temporarily switched out with a more rough looking black/leaning charcoal matte band that’s noticeably thicker.  Makes it much easier to wear casually during the warmer months.

Your turn.  What’s your favorite recent ultra cheap purchase?  Keep it around $10, and leave them all below…

It is impossible to not pay attention to a Florence and the Machine album.  Easy-going Lillith Fair music this is not.  This is unreservedly rock and roll.  And on their latest album Ceremonials, they shake the walls and beat drums with wild abandon.  And Florence?  She roars.

Most Americans’ introduction to Florence Welch came at last February’s Grammy Awards ceremony.  Opening the show as part of a tribute to Aretha Franklin alongside Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, gospel singer Yolanda Adams and country superstar Martina McBride, Welch not only held her own amongst those established singers, her performance left people hungry for more.  She was impossible to miss, with her flaming red hair and cream chiffon dress, an entirely different presence amidst what one critic called a Diva jamboree.

I’ve got my theories why Florence has been embraced by American fans (both her debut release Lungs and Ceremonials have been big sellers here in the states).  Florence and the Machine make big music.  Florence is no shrinking violet.  She’s mysterious.  She’s exotic.  She’s demanding.  She’s absolutely beautiful.  She is, in a word, a siren.  That’s a pretty irresistible recipe for guys.  The thing is, the ladies love Florence for the same reasons.  In this regard, she is not without precedent: Stevie Nicks and Pat Benetar also stood apart from their peers and made rock and roll acceptable for strong women performers and the guys that love them.  I would also be called on the carpet for not acknowledging the influence of Kate Bush and Siouxie Sioux on Florence’s musical path.

Ceremonials is a more expansive album than Lungs.  It is stylistically diverse.  “Shake It Out” is a sonic exorcism, a call-to-action to move forward.  “No Light No Light” is carried along a cacophony of drums and percussion providing space for Florence’s other-worldy vocals.  There are moments where Florence’s vocals, and those of her backing choir are abashedly gospel oriented, providing a surreal sensual tension to the songs.  As a buddy admitted to me, were he in the business of seduction these days, “’Only If For A Night‘ would be the closer.  That’s a song you make big mistakes to.”  I can’t think of a bigger compliment for the allure of Ceremonials.  It’s also a perfect reminder why you should have this album on hand when in the company of the fairer sex.  You’ll get points for digging an enigmatic, empowered woman.  And for getting it, you might just, well…you know.  You win all around.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  He also writes a blog that’s a collection of the absolute best the internet has to offer.  It’s a must read.  And you can check it out here.

Top Photo: Danny Cinch via The Black Keys Facebook Page

The death of rock and roll has been a topic of discussion in music magazines and online sites for several years now.  Apparently there are a whole lot of people who demand something other than Nickelback when it comes to their rock music.  But with El Camino, the Black Keys, a guitar and drums duo from Akron, Ohio have made one of the best rock records in a very long time.

At it’s heart, this is a celebration of rock and roll through the ages.  El Camino offers up garage rock, blues, boogie, Motown, glam and even a bit of grunge into a fresh and seamless blast of music to get you from the gym to poker night and beyond.  Have you heard most of these elements before?  Absolutely.  But here’s the thing – you haven’t heard them assimilated into such a cohesive and singular sound.  Not even close.  This is an album bursting with swagger.

“Lonely Boy” is a declaration of intent that opens the album and serves as hint of things to come.  It’s an elemental blast of visceral music.  “Gold On The Ceiling” reverberates with 60’s fuzz organ and Auerbach’s guitar and bass work along with a vocal mix suitable to the ocean-sized hook.  “Little Black Submarines” manages to start off with the specter of misty mountain Zeppelin before breaking into a second half stuffed with flannel friendly guitar licks.  There is no filler on this album.

.
Patrick Carney is quick to poke fun at his drumming skills, but the truth is, his work here anchors this album and provides the foundation for Auerbach’s guitar work and melodies.  Danger Mouse (of Gnarls Barkley and Broken Bells, among other projects and one of the best producers working today), who has worked with the Black Keys in the past, this time pulls from the guys performances beyond anything they’ve done to date.  Dan Auerbach, in an interview in the current edition of Rolling Stone, admits that he’s only recently focused on his songwriting.  If this is the sound of a band sharpening their skills, I can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  He also writes a blog that’s a collection of the absolute best the internet has to offer.  It’s a must read.  And you can check it out here.

1. GAP: Italian Moleskin Blazer – $55.99 w/ GAPCHEER ($118)

Sizes are selling quick...

Best blazer deal of the season.  If you’re still looking for a winter/holiday party ready sportcoat for cheap, this is it.  The fit is an honest trim, the Italian sourced fabric is something else, and it comes in chest specific sizes.  Size shown there is a 40R and usually I’m a 38 or 39.  Moleskin is a little like velvet, but with much shorter fibers and no sheen.  Cotton but still warm. Already on sale and with the extra 30% off code GAPCHEER it’s a complete steal.  Ships free.  Code expires today (12/20/11) and sizes are going fast.  Might be on sale in store if you can fight the crowds.

2. Neiman Marcus Dress Shirts: White – $38.50 ($88) | Pink Windowpane – $34.30 ($90)

The extra 30% off comes at checkout.

Everything on Lastcall.com is an extra 30% off through December 23rd.  The White is a full spread collar so that’s unique.  French cuffs too.  Might not be trim fit though, so tailoring might be necessary.  No iron finish on that one.  The Pink Windowpane isn’t a no-iron (which plenty prefer) but it is a trim fit with a perfect pattern.  Just enough pink without going overboard.

2. U.O. Hawkings McGill Suede Wingtip Boot – $54.99 ($78.00)

Ships and returns free too.

It appears the boots that get shipped by Urban Outfitters resemble these more than the rich chocolate suede version seen on their website.  There’s burnishing that when seen up close is a little too much, but once you put em’ on and stand up it’s just fine.  Full review here.  Part of the U.O. boot sale.  Ships and returns free since they’re over $50.

3. Buffalo Check Lambswool Scarf – $44.99 ($59.50)

Affordable luxury

Part of the ongoing Ralph Lauren Holiday sale.  A bold pattern, three color options, and an 80% wool 20% nylon blend.  Stack that on top of the made in Italy status and you’ve got a nice gift for you or someone else.  72″ long, and if ordered by 11:59pm ET today (Tuesday 12/20) standard ground shipping should get it to you in time for Christmas.

4. American Eagle Wool Blend Peacoat – $60.00 w/ code 39427841 ($129.50)

Size shown here is a large. I could use a medium.

With that 40% off code (which could expire any time now) this drops to a stupid $60.  It’s not hefty by any means, but not flimsy either.  The best coat you’ll find for $60, but when compared to the J. Crew Bayswater, the J. Crew wins and wins easily.  54% recycled wool.  Credit to Matt for sending in the style tip, and credit to Jessey D. who posted some pics of his coat in the comments over here.  One drawback:  The collar might be a little too big for some.

5. The Black Keys “El Camino” – $11.99

This would be a follow up from last month’s Most Wanted.  It’s out.  And these two dudes from Akron continue to carry the flag for most of the Rock genre.  When you’re good, everyone knows it.  When you’re great, even a guy like David Letterman can’t help but crack a sh*t eating grin at the end of your song.

6. 1901 Dot Pattern Wool Silk 3″ Tie – $24.90 ($39.50)

Available in black or navy.

Dots just don’t get enough love in the tie world.  They’re easily one of the best patterns out there as long as they don’t get too huge.  This one has well proportioned dots on a wool/silk tie that’s 3″ at it’s widest point.  That’s awfully close to neckwear perfection.  $25 and ships free.  Find the navy here (even though the pic is still the black one)

8. “Karma” necklace by Dogeared – $62.00

Pretty, affordable, and made in the USA.

Don’t forget about her.  At this point, you might be scrambling for ideas that’ll make her smile on Sunday morning.  Jewelery is a tough call, but this is about as safe and as good of a play as it gets.  Subtle, small, and something she can wear whenever.  Three rings are dipped in either 14k gold, rose gold, or silver, and represent the circular nature of karma.  Made in the USA too.

9. Zippo Antique Brass Lighter – $16.80 | Zippo Brushed Metal Money clip – $14.50

Only you can prevent empty money clips.

Kids, don’t smoke.  But sometimes you need to make fire.  Whether it’s for the BBQ, or your pal is showing you how to drink Sambuca (have that fire extinguisher ready) it’s nice to have a flame at the ready.  Zippo’s finished brass lighter looks a heck of a lot better than a book of matches from whatever dive bar you frequent.  And the money clip?  A lot of class for barely any cost.  Both ship free from Maxton Men.

10. Eggnog Ice Cream with a sidecar of Goslings Black Seal Rum

Could be the best thing in the history of things.

For other best bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals – “Naughty Naughty”

Vermont’s ascendant Queen of Rock and Roll delivers this gritty blues influenced barn-burner in a manner that suggests she knows a little something about being naughty.  Capable of thawing any brittle winter chill.  (From Christmas with Grace Potter and the Nocturnals)

Scott Weiland – The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

An irony-free squirm-inducing croontastic disaster.  Occasionally hilarious, always ridiculous, this instantly qualifies as one of the worst ideas ever.  The must give White Elephant gift of the holiday party season.

Michael Buble – Christmas

Because if there’s one time of the year when an old fashion crooner with a sense of humor and the levity needed to pull this sort of thing off is called for, it’s the holidays.  And Buble is the best at the moment.  This is the go-to holiday collection of the year, capable of winning over Grandmas and Grinches alike.

Lyle Lovett – “The Girl With The Holiday Smile”

Whereupon the former Mister Julia Roberts channels Randy Newman with this West Texas flavored ditty about a Christmas prostitute.  If you’re a Lyle Lovett fan, you know exactly what to expect and you’ll wonder why we haven’t heard this before now.

She & Him – A Very She & Him Christmas

The current It (New) Girl Zooey Deschanel elevates the profile of her indie rock retro-pop outfit (alongside M. Ward) with a holiday collection that is nothing if not brazenly cheerful.

Fitz & The Tantrums – Santa Stole My Old Lady

L.A.’s current ambassadors of flashback grooves and party vibes serve up a yuletide warning about the fat man in the red suit.  Yes, there are horns.

Various Artists – Noel! Noel!! Noel!!!

For the Francophile on your holiday list, this new collection from legendary pianist and arranger Michel Legrand features appropriately grandiose big band and swing versions of classic holiday songs with the help of Jamie Cullum, Madeleine Peyroux, Rufus Wainwright, Teddy Thompson, France’s first lady Carla Bruni, and Mika.  Oui!  Oh, and Iggy Pop on “Little Drummer Boy.”  You read that right.

The Killers – (RED) Christmas ep

The annual holiday singles from the band that seems to be ready made for stadiums have been gathered in this digital ep.  While this year’s “The Cowboy’s Christmas Ball” is uncomfortably hokey, “A Great Big Sled” remains one of those rare contemporary Christmas songs that is much bigger and better than the season that defines it.

Matisyahu – Miracle (ep)

NYC’s Hasidic Jewish reggae/hip hop/alternative rock star delivers a joyful and uplifiting celebration for Chanukah, six times over.

Annie Lennox – A Christmas Cornucopia

The former Eurythmic lead singer has one of the most radiant voices in music and this holiday collection lets that voice drape itself over often surprising arrangements.  A nice mix of traditional Noel selections and classic favorites.

Tim Johnstone is a former Virgin Records Label Rep and current award winning Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and on-air host at FMQB’s AAA station of the year markets 50+.  Additions you’d like to see added to this list should go in the comments section below.  Top Photo Credit:  Luca Sartoni

1. Timex Weekender Nubuck Strap – $33.05

Maybe the best weekender so far.

The latest edition to the wildly successful Timex weekender series, only this one does away with the slip-thru NATO style strap and tones down the case with a close to matte brushed stainless steel.  The tan nubuck leather strap looks and feels terrific.  Smallish at 39mm and obscenely good looking for the price.  The inner military time ring and outer tach ring keep it just busy enough.  Like a filled in version of the Easy Reader from last month’s Best Bets, only half the price.  Seems to be available at many Targets.  Comes with free super saver shipping through Amazon.

2. American Eagle Fisherman’s Sweater – $59.50

Yellow Rain Slicker + this = Gordon's?

Once upon a time, tough guys used to not be afraid of texture or collars that weren’t a standard crew.  Has an honest look to it.  Almost like you stumbled across it at a flea market.  Doesn’t appear to have a logo either.  Not something you’d expect from the awfully young and overly branded American Eagle.

3. Hugo Boss Hentor Lambskin nappa leather Gloves – $65.00

Standing out real quietly.

Right in the wheelhouse for small splurge price, and it’s hard not to love the small sliver of plaid at the cuff.  Wool on the interior with a tonal BOSS logo at the wrist.  Ships and returns free.

4. Made in Italy Fine Knit Wool Stripe Tie – $59.50

Bravo Italia

A bit of an investment, but made from Italian wool in the country where the wool was produced.  And c’mon, they could use a little cash right now.

5. 21st Amendment Fireside Chat winter spiced ale – $9.00 – $14.00 per 6 pack

FDR & 7.9 ABV

Maybe a little too dependent on the spices and cocoa nibs for beer snobs, but there’s a lot of friggin’ flavor in one of these 12 oz cans.  If you like your cold weather beers leaning more towards port than pinot, then this one will get you there.  Not delicate and too rich for some.  Much respect to 21st Amendment Brewery for putting their beer in cans.

6. iPhone Horn Amplifier – $12.00

iPhonograph

I don’t have an iPhone.  Might have to get one just to get this slick little piece of plastic.  Gives you 13 more decibels with no battery drain.  Works on the science of sound.  Ships free through Maxton Men.

7. Aston Grey Concord Suede Wingtip – $69.94 ($89.95)

Lots of looks for seventy bucks.

Made in China for the DSW house brand but feels better built than its $70 price tag.  Shape is nice and slim through the sides and the toe rounds off nicely.  Closed lacing and while there’s a little burnishing at the toe, it’s not as obvious in person/in-store as it is on DSW.com.  Feels like they might run a quarter to a half size big.  Decently comfortable too.  Ships free if you sign up for their email list (DSW rewards program) and use the code SHIPR.

8. Chester Mox Tan Brogue Wallet – $45.00

Made in the USA

Good heavens look at that thing.  Simple, just one pocket, and a hand punched brogue design on the exterior.  Personalization is available as well for an extra $10.  Santa’s gonna need to get his hands on a few of these this year.

9. Pardon the Interruption Podcast – Free

Does not stink. At all.

If you’re living in a world with no cable or satellite TV, and you like sports, download this.  Every day that it’s available.  I never understood Ralphie hauling it home to catch Little Orphan Annie.  Not only would I get a Mike Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser decoder ring, I’d drink the damn Ovaltine if they told me to.  These two have been on the air for a decade, and while at first you’ll miss the visuals if you watched them on TV at some point, the podcast really does hold up excellently on its own.  This, a dark beer, and a leather chair are a great way to spend 22 minutes.  On itunes too.

10. GAP Herringbone Wool Mix Blazer – $68.60 – $98.00

Size shown: 40R

During a 30% off sale it drops to under $70.  Ships free since it’s over $50.  Perfect for those that want a subtle herringbone blazer but don’t have a ton of money to shell out.  Good, not great construction, but for that price?  Tough to beat.  Fabric makeup is one hell of a casserole, but feels good enough.  Side vents, the drop isn’t too short like some other GAP blazers, and it’s a slim fit with some contouring at the sides.

For other best bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

Consider these to be power rankings.  Whether you’re looking for gift ideas or a quick upgrade for yourself, expect these to come around about once a month.  The best of the best, which you may or may not have seen already.  Agreements, disagreements, and additions are more than welcome in the comments section below.

Click here for the top 5 most wanted lists from previous months. Top Photo Credit
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5. L.L. Bean Signature Flannel Suit – $320.00

No singing occured in the rain.

There’s not a lot of  fall/winter suiting options that lean casual, but this one from L.L. Bean is like a cold weather version of their new traditional twill summer suit.  It’s dressed up but can also dressed down with a patterned shirt, sweater, and no tie.  This seems to have a better fit in the pants compared to the new traditional twill, and they replaced patch pockets for standard flaps on the jacket.  A little pricey, but the jacket can be worn with jeans and the pants will be perfect on their own.

 

4. Florsheim Gaffney – $96.00 w/ code link20 + Custom Soles – $45

Pic via Aaron L.

Credit to Aaron L. for coming up with the idea to change the sole.  These are his boots.  He wasn’t sure if he’d like the lug sole on the Gaffneys, and when they showed up he wasn’t thrilled.  The rest of the boot was more than fine.  So much so that he took them to his local cobbler, and they took the lug sole off and replaced it with a more traditional rubber sole.  As he mentioned in the comments over here, it “completely changed the look of the boot.“  Nice work.

 

3. Synovia Cedar Shoe Valet – $59.95

Not bad for an all in one package.

Shining shoes can be an odd balancing act without the help of a shoe valet and its support stand.  For sixty shipped you get a cedar shoe valet with a sliding top so you can store your shoe care gear inside, and they throw in plenty of essentials to get you started if you don’t have any.  Made in the USA too.

 

2. The Black Keys – El Camino (available December 6th)

The Black Keys have a new album coming out in early December.  Our music correspondent Tim Johnstone sent along the new single via email, in which the subject was only “this is all kinds of awesome, this is.”  8 seconds in and you know Tim’s dead on.  Head this way for more on the star of the video for their first single “Lonely Boy.”

 

1. Timex Blue Q-Dial - $76.00* ($95) | Timex Intelligent Chrono – $165

Timex continues to roll.

Hot damn the blue Q-Dial is back.  The code FALL2011 will get you 20% off through Timex.com too.  Ships free as well.  The chronograph doesn’t seem to be on Timex.com but does ship (and return) free through Amazon or Nordstrom.  No word on when the Timex.com code expires.