A Lesson in Swedish History: Fjallraven Kanken

Via Blackbird: Introduced in August of 1978, Fjallraven's Kanken backpack was marketed as an alternative book bag for Sweden's school children because it centered its weight evenly along the spine and allowed both hands to be free. The new backpack was initially marked as a symbol of liberal political views and sometimes called "the Communist Hunchback" by stubborn detractors stuck on the old messenger style bags of their childhood, but Fjallraven's founder, Ake Nordin, hoped to sell 200 Kanken bags in their first year. He sold 400. The next year sales reached 30,000. Thirty years have now passed since the first Kanken was sold, and its popularity has grown far beyond the halls of Sweden's educational system.

I just ordered the Kanken from the friendly folks at Ooga Booga in a beautiful burnt red--I can't wait for it arrive :}

An Impulse: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles I & II

I was out and about for a bit after classes today, mostly unsure of what exactly I was looking for. What I found were two of the best films ever made.

Best ten dollars I've spent in a long while.

Auditory Coffee: Teen Daze - Shine On, You Crazy White Cap

This little gem comes to you courtesy of zeeeeej.

Auditory Coffee: No Age - Here Should Be My Home (Live at Fuck Yeah Fest 2009)

Awesome video, courtesy of Adam Harding.

Auditory Coffee: Friendo - Callers

Here's some nice footage of Mike Wallace (Women) and his band Friendo courtesy of Tyler Stalman.

Auditory Coffee: The Crayon Fields - Graceless

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Women - Public Strain

I'm more excited about this release than anything that's come out recently, and if you've jammed Women's stunning self-titled debut as much as I have, you know exactly why. It's been two years too long but it was well worth the wait. "Heat Distraction" -- holy fuck.