M.I.A. Custom Reeboks

by Josh Rubin

You know we love M.I.A.-- as Ranjani put it, she’s a hyper-conscious, ultra-cool, bi- (tri-?) lingual artist that could, in another universe, be a science fiction superhero. Her album Arular is a big hit and her current tour is sold out all over the place. If you haven't heard it, listen now.

Among the many things I admire is the range of talents M.I.A. packs in. Her art is as gritty and high impact as her music. She made her own video. And her style is funky-fab-- a little 80s, a little island and a dash of hip-hop. Bringing it all together she's customized 10 pairs of Reebok Classics (below). Want a pair? We got access to one. We'll give it away to someone on our mailing list, so drop us a line with your shoe size and be sure to check "join the mailing list." A winner will be picked tomorrow afternoon.

6/16 UPDATE: A winner has been selected. Thanks to all who participated, especially those who generously stroked our egos along the way!

Green Tomato Jam

by Evan Orensten

I was intrigued by the concept, and am now a fan: Green Tomato Jam. An inspired balance of flavors and texture, and one of several fascinating jams made by L'Epicurean in France. A few to note: Gingerbread Clementine, Arbutus Berry, Sweet Potato, Melon with Vanilla Pod, Watermelon and Orange and Strawberry Champagne.

Scale the Black Mountain

by Ari Bendersky

When I was in Montreal last month doing a story on the city’s music scene, a few people told me to check out Black Mountain, a west coast Canadian band that was doing great things. So when their self-titled CD showed up this week I tore into it and instantly liked what I heard.

In what I could only describe as psychedelic metal, Black Mountain’s music lies somewhere between Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Jethro Tull. The songs thrash just enough to the point when you find yourself twirling just at the moment when you think you should bang your head. That’s the beauty in Black Mountain’s sound – just when you ought to go one place, they take you in another related direction that’s removed just enough from the original place.