DubiousOne: A Charleston Man's Guide To All Things Essential

Farewell.

2010-09-15T13:19:00.003-04:00

It's been a long run, guys. May 2008 is when this all started, and I've been all over the place since then. This will always been my first home here on the Internet, but we must all move on to new things.

I appreciate every reader and subscriber that I've gained over the years and hope that you decide to follow me on my newest endeavor, Things My Grandfather Taught Me...

Hopefully I was able to make the male species just a little bit sharper...

Thank you, all!

Watch Yourself!

2010-04-13T12:56:00.008-04:00

Nowadays, men around the country have become increasingly convinced that the more money you blow on a time piece, the better it will look, feel and operate. This may be true; then again, it may not.

There's one thing I do know: there a great deal of cheaper options that rival the sleek sexiness of some pricer models.

1. Analog Black Dial Watch, $115, Fossil. (www.fossil.com)

Based on the original design of a WWI timepiece, this watch is so sharp and lightweight you'll have no problem transitioning from a summer night to a winter day with this watch.

2. The "Easy Reader" Series, $35, Timex. (www.timex.com)

Practically a staple for the no-frills crowd of watch wearers, the 'Easy Reader' line of Timex watches are simple, understated pieces that allow you to do what the name implies: tell the time at a moment's notice

3. Men's Strap Model, $150, Citizen. (www.citizenwatch.com)

A little on the higher end of the spectrum, it's still a solid design with a little bit of attitude without being too in-your-face.

- BJW

Five Favorite Beats from the Past Five Years, '05 to '09

2010-02-10T15:58:00.007-05:00

I've seen a handful of these lists floating around the Internet and I feel like a many of them have been rather self-serving, only mentioning those who have received stellar reviews within the pages of their own publications.

It is my intent to tackle this subject with an unbiased ear and critical mind. Here we go:

DISCLAIMER: I did not include any mixtapes, compilations, remixes or anything that wasn't a full-fledged studio album. This possibilities would have been endless, plus I'm a busy man.

2005: "Sofa King" from the "The Mouse and the Mask" album by DangerDoom.

Aside from the fact that MF Doom decided to release this single solely on 12-inch vinyl, Dangermouse's sampling of Don Harper's "Chamber Pop" gives the track an old school Victrola feel that makes this beat the best of 2005.

2006: "Tell Me When to Go" from the "My Ghetto Report Card" by E-40.

This track brought the Hyphy movement of Oakland to the mainstream in 2006. Using samples from Run D.M.C's "Dumb Girl" ('Dumb! Dumb! Dumb! Dumb'), this beat caused a plethora of suburban white kids to post YouTube videos of them 'ghost riddin' the whip and introduced a whole new vocabulary to the hip-hop world.

2007: "The Art of Storytellin', pt. 4" from "Gangsta Grillz: The Album" by DJ Drama.

Produced by Don Cannon, the mastermind behind the ubiquitous "Cannon!" sound bite, "The Art..." was a strong contender against "Cannon (Remix)" featuring Lil Wayne, T.I., Willie the Kid and Freeway. What put it over the top was its simplicity. Oh, and it didn't hurt that Outkast and Marsha Ambrosius blessed the track with sheer greatness.

2008: "A Milli" from "The Carter III" album by Lil Wayne.

You had to have lived under a rock if you've never heard even a snippet from the beat of this song. Hailed as the 'most rapped-over beat in the last 10 years', "A Milli" skyrocketed Wayne's album to multi-platinum status in a matter of months. Produced by Bangladesh, this track sampled hip-hop classic, "I Left My Wallet in El Segundo", and even Gladys Knight and the Pips.

2009: "House of Flying Daggers" feat. Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah and Method Man from the "Only Built for Cuban Linx II" album by Raekwon.

The beat goes all the way! Samples from the Four Tops' version of "Eleanor Rigby" and produced by the legendary J. Dilla, this song solidified Raekwon's latest studio project. Excerpts from some classic martial arts films from the 60s rounds out this amazing song.

-BJW

Pick Pockets

2010-01-19T11:54:00.003-05:00

Many moons ago, when I worked for the college paper, I made it a point to come up with a great deal of ideas. Unfortunately, I never had the gumption to implement a lot of them.

There was one in particular that I still cling to in the hopes that, one day, it will take hold and skyrocket me to the pinnacle of journalistic creativity.

"Pick Pockets" was going to be a weekly column where a street correspondent with interview random people on the street about the contents of their pockets (a highly underrated method of storage), and have them muse about its contents.

For example, my pockets contain:

- an iPhone w/earbuds

- exactly $0.36 in change

- a monogrammed money clip with various cards and $18 in cash

- a half-used stick of lip balm

Right off the bat I can tell you that I'm relatively broke. This is one of the first times (in a very long time) that I've had a little bit of extra money in my pockets. Surprisingly enough, I am one of the few guys I know who doesn't keep his cell phone on some ridiculous belt clip. Other than that, I really like my money clip (had it for three years or so). It was a gift from my girlfriend.

-----------

You see the potential of a piece like this? The possibilities? From just a few contents in one's pockets you have the potential to create an entire profile story. I will try my hardest to incorporate this idea into future posts and see what I can come up with. I will keep you all posted.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Bago De Touriga (Terroso), 2004 (Douro, Portugal)

2009-12-19T11:12:00.005-05:00

Bago De Touriga - Terroso 2004, $12-16 where available.

Behold! This is the greatest red wine you will ever taste in your lifetime!

I usually try not to make guarantees when it comes to stuff like this, but recently I had the pleasure of tasting this wine at (of all things) a wine tasting.

Hailing from the hillsides of southern Portugal, Terroso de 2004, has a very earthy and heavy taste to it that's perfect for seasoned red-wine drinkers. It was so good, in fact, that I was inclined to go back and have second and third glasses.

Moderately priced, Terroso is a perfect holiday gift for me, ahem, the wine enthusiasts on your list.

Saude!

-BJW

I Also do a Radio Show

2009-11-22T11:58:00.004-05:00

Apologies for being so sparse on this blog thing of mine. I've been ridiculously busy the past few weeks or so trying to get this radio show/podcast off the ground.

I'm already five episodes in and busy editing the latest one as we speak.

Check it out whenever you get a chance. Even better? Subscribe to it on iTunes!

Thank you all again for the continued support of my blog and everything that's been put into it.

Now back to your regularly scheduled programming.

-BJW

The Essentials: Get On the Good Foot...

2009-09-01T15:24:00.010-04:00

Men in modern society, for the most part, have a very narrow scope when it comes to their shoe selections. They rarely tend to venture past that worn-down pair or Rainbow or Reef flip flops and the pair of brown loafers worn for every special occasion from your 12th birthday to your older sister's college graduation.

It's time to refine your palete before you run the risk of being labeled "that guy" who still wears New Balances with khakis:

1. The Chelsea Boot

Made famous by British bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, the chelsea (or dealer boot, for the England natives), became an essential part of the gentlemen's wardrobe from the mid-60s on.

Air Lucarno Chelsea Boot with Nike AIR Technology by Cole Haan. $430. zappos.com.

Chelsea boots are best worn with slim cut pants and suits, becuase the boot itself is usually made of a skinnier design. As long as you keep the boot simple (i.e. - brown or black), the rest of your outfit should, and will, follow suit.

2. The Classic Samba

A quinessential staple for casual Fridays and weekend getaways.

Adidas Samba Classic Soccer Shoe. $40. adidas.com

Pair it with a khaki suit, but make sure you lose the button down and opt for a lightweight polo or t-shirt to maintain the laid-back look.

3. The Wild Card

As much as I would like for all young men to follow the guidelines of sofisticated style, you always need to leave room for a little imagination.

Nike Vandal Supreme High. $140. nike.com

A new favorite of mine would have to be these incredible Nike Vandal Supreme Highs that I scoped a few months ago. I have yet to secure a pair (the soles have wood grain accents, for crying out loud).

No matter what you decide, make sure you're comfortable and go a little crazy if you like. You won't go wrong, though, if you keep it simple and make it your own.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Lasonic i931 Portable iPod Ghetto Blaster

2009-07-27T15:48:00.008-04:00

As much as I hate to perpetuate the stereotype that has come with the ghettoblaster-carrying era of the urban mid-80s, there is something utterly irresistable about the Lasonic Portable iPod Ghettoblaster.

The nostaligic qualities alone make it the perfect summer gift for your freinds, family and even (most importantly) your damned self!

It has an AM/FM tuner, 3.5mm stereo auxiliary input, USB input and SD card reader for direct MP3 playback. The only downside is the incompatibility it has with iPhones, but the auxillary jack should clear that up.

Lasonic's RAP-UP limited-edition Ghettoblaster, $169, lasonic.com

Not only would you be the talk of probably all of your friends, but this is definitely something that could be handed down from generation to generation.

Radio Raheem would be proud.

-BJW

New Music Review: Diddy – Last Train to Paris

2009-07-20T19:11:00.003-04:00

It's bad enough most of us are still trying to get the taste of Press Play out of our mouths, but Diddy has done it again with his art nouveau-inspired album, Last Train to Paris.

First announced (almost seven months before the projected release date), during an episode of Making the Band, this album is anything short of a train wreck.

Promising fans that he's going to "bring a new sound", Diddy is more than confident in his talents as a rapper and producer.

A screenshot of Diddy's LSTP iPhone app that keeps you updated with everything from concert dates to Twitter posts.

But this is just a bunch of hot air out of the wrong end of Bad Boy's head-guy-in-charge.

He should have stuck to things he was go at, like throwing white parties, and left hip-hop to the professionals.

Listen Now (but you really don't have to): "Diddy Bop"

-BJW

DubiousTips: Staying Fit on the Go

2009-07-20T18:58:00.002-04:00

Work, school, children, parents, stress, deadlines, coffee runs and lunch breaks – these are just a handful of the many distractions in our lives that keep us from eating healthy and staying fit. But there is hope. Here are a few tips and tricks of the trade to stay active in an overactive world:

Regardless of how much free time you may have at the end of the day, do NOT exercise at night. The added flow of adrenaline could keep you awake for anywhere up to four hours after you leave the gym. This does not bode well for the morning after.
If you can schedule it, try to work out a weekly routine with a partner a few days a week; preferably someone who isn't prone to convincing you to skip out on workout days. The added pressure of not wanting to stand up or reschedule with your partner will give you enough motivation to keep with the routine.
It's perfectly okay to "workout" at your desk, but don't be that obnoxious co-worker that turns at-your-desk butt crunches into a spectator sport. We've come here to work and complain about work, not watch the strained look on your face.
Treat your workout routine as a sacred ritual; A time when you can release all the stress and strain that you might be carrying. This will make the experience seem more enjoyable and less of a chore.
There are a handful of iPhone apps, like iFitness and the "100" collection, that can help stay in shape without missing a beat. Check them out on the App Store in iTunes under "Healthcare and Fitness".

-BJW

DubiousSighting: Baked Bakery and Coffee

2009-07-07T07:55:00.005-04:00

The view outside my window. I could get used to this...

It's about 8 a.m. as I write this post and I couldn't help but wonder something: why don't I ever see more black people at coffee shops in the morning?

At first, part of me thought that it was just a scheduling conflict, of sorts, you know? Most people usually don't make it into work these days until about 9 a.m or so, right?

But then, as I took a closer look at the types of people coming into the coffee shop, I realized that it's really a certain caliber of human being that frequents these types of establishments at such an ungodly time of the morning (both black and white, mind you).

The same caliber that's been responsible for adapting that old adage: "The early bird gets the worm."

Nina simone "ne me quitte pas"
by GERARDSERGE

They say that there's no real rest for the wary, and now I've finally figured out what that means now after the countless times I've heard it.

It means that in order to be truly successful in this life, you can't allow yourself to be satisfied with the status quo. You always have to have that fire in your belly, so to speak.

It was with this revelation that I also realized that I hadn't felt said "fire" for a long time until recently (which is rather odd for a 22-year-old).

So, I suppose, there is much to be said for that much scrutinized, but often underrated "early bird" crowd that flocks to the nearest java spot. They've got a lot to accomplish in a very short period of time, or to "catch the worm", if you will.

This is a mentality that I could definitely get used to...

-BJW

New Music Review: M.O.P – Foundation

2009-07-07T07:47:00.002-04:00

"Ante Up!" – This is probably the anthem that most hardcore hip-hop enthusiasts are familiar with. Yes, there was a time when M.O.P muscled their way to the tippy top of the rap mountain with head bangers like "Cold as Ice" and the "Ante Up!" remixes with Busta Rhymes and Remy Martin.

But this doesn't mean that their rise to fame, in the late 90s, wasn't riddled with label disputes, petty in-fighting and money woes.

Through it all, they've been able to come from the ashes and release a preview of, Foundation, their ninth studio album overall and first album with the E1 Music label.

Foundation, right off the bat, has something that most hip-hop of this sub-genre doesn't: Intensity.

And I'm not just talking about the bang-your-head-in type of intensity. There is a certain rawness and reality that comes with many of the tracks on the album. The most complex and heavy track is "Prep Foundation". There's not much I can say other than it is definitely the track to be on the lookout for.

The full album is slated to release December 29^th, but for anyone that's even remotely familiar with the rap game, release dates are usually taken for a grain of salt.

Listen Now: "Prep Foundation" and "Blow the Horns" featuring Busta Rhymes.

-BJW

New Music Review: Jeremih

2009-07-06T23:53:00.009-04:00

This young upstart has had a quick rise to the top of the charts over the past few months.

With his signature track, "Birthday Sex", backing him up, most people would look at this artist and think that he has everything going for him and then some.

Unfortunately, I am not most people. The biggest problem with this album is not all-star production cast (Mike Schultz of Def Jam Records), or the official backing of L.A. Reid, Island Def Jam's chairman and executive VP of A&R.

No, it's more so the fact that Jeremih, (pronounced Jere-mee), is just not very good on this album. While one can applaud him for keeping the guest list of supporting artists down to a bare minimum, the album just doesn't have much of a voice.

There is no unique or defining factor that separates him from the rest of the watered-down, sorry excuses for R&B floating around the charts right now. And as much as I would like to give him a chance, I really just can't.

Granted, women are still going to get weak in the knees every time they hear the tell-tale "Girl, you know I-I-I-I" reprieve, but Jeremih's novelty is going to fizzle out faster than most of those same women would like to think.

Listen Now: "Birthday Sex" and "Imma Star (Everywhere We Are)"

-BJW

The Essentials: Summer Survival 2.0

2009-06-23T00:26:00.008-04:00

It's hot. And I don't mean "hot" as in oh-I-gotta-put-on-shorts-and-a-shirt hot, I mean the kind of excruciating heat that keeps most normal human beings from stepping out the house between the 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Unless they really have to.

Between the recession and the rising temperatures, it's hard for a man to stay cool, fresh and dry, but there are a few ways you can make the heat a tad bit more bearable:

1. Shave and a haircut.

Doesn't get much simpler than that. Keeping the hair on your dome to a bare minimum is one of the best ways to stave of a possible case of heat exhaustion and inflammation of the skin.

When getting rid of the winter/spring shag, be sure to take extra care before and after going under the blade. I recommend using Grooming Lounge Beard Master Shave Oil, $25, and American Crew Post-Shave Cooling Lotion, $17. Both of these products are great for keeping you cool and smooth after a mid-morning shave.

Haircuts should be as close to the skin as you'd would prefer, the first time around. Every time after that, you should cut your hair about a quarter of an inch less. This way, you can ease into the cooler, fall months without looking like you just got out of boot camp.

2. Powder it down.

For some reason, men have forgotten that their ancestors and the ancestors that came before that all used some (albeit archaic, at times) form of body powder to keep dry and cool before heading off to work. Hell, there were generations of men who would forgo a shower or bath, altogether, opting for a full-body "powdering" before engaging in the days events.

By no means am I recommending this, but it never hurts to throw a little powder over the shoulders and back, down the chest and legs, as well as on any other part of the body that might be prone to, ahem, heavy perspiration.

LeBron has the right idea.

Gold Bond Medicated Body Powder, $6, has been my favorite for a few years now but you can also go for Johnson's Baby Powder, $5, if you have more sensitive skin.

3. Pucker up.

The lips are the most under-appreciated parts of the male body. For years, we've been taught that if we lick 'em every now and again, the saliva will be more than enough to stave of any kind of dryness.

Thankfully, the majority of us are not L.L. Cool J, so we have to take more conventional approaches to making sure those soup coolers on our faces are adequately hydrated.

As hard as this sounds, the easiest way to maintain this is to carry a modest-sized tube of lip balm on you at all times. Brands like Carmex, Burt's Bees, Nivea for Men and Blistex all make exceptional products that make sure your lips don't resemble cracked earth after a drought.

-BJW

New Music Review: Busta Rhymes - "Back on My B.S."

2009-05-28T13:21:00.004-04:00

After the bomb (and I don’t mean that in a good way) that Busta Rhymes dropped back in 2006 titled, The Big Bang, a great deal of fans started to doubt whether Mr. Rhymes was going to be capable to delivering the same kind of heat heard on albums like Anarchy and Genesis.

Before all hope was lost, radio listeners were given a taste of what Busta and his crew were working on with the song, “Don’t Touch Me… (Throw Da Water on Them) during the fall of 2008. It was with this single that Flipmode fanatics everywhere rejoiced as we were treated to glimpses of the old Busta Rhymes.

Rhymes’ newest record, released May 19^th, teeters on the edge between throwback and club banger. Tracks like “World Go Round” support Busta’s rhymes with the kind of synth-bass beats found in a techno club but still have the substance to keep the die-hard fans happy.

It’s understandable why Busta has to play devil’s advocate with his current, mainstream sound but it’s good to hear that he’s found a stable balance between the past and present.

Busta Rhymes - "Respect My Conglomerate"

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: Black Eyed Peas' "Boom Boom Pow" music video

2009-05-28T04:05:00.003-04:00

Aside from the shameless plug for the newest HP touch screen desktop, the Black Eyed Peas have pulled out a gem with the video for their hot single, “Boom Boom Pow”.

Let’s put it this way, if Hype Williams, director for the “Universal Mind Control” video, and the Black Eyed Peas collaborated on this song, there is a good chance that this video would have been a very strong contender for video of the year.

Black Eyed Peas - "Boom Boom Pow" music video.

Futuristic and very digital, the “Boom Boom Pow” video is a perfect example of what happens when you don’t shortchange your budget when it comes to visuals. Between Fergie rocking a skin-tight bodysuit and Taboo actually doing something decent with his hair, there’s nothing negative you can really say.

Unfortunately, it's going to take a lot more than a few digitized geometric shapes and some choreographed pop n' lock moves to get the nasty taste of the "Fergalicious" video out of our mouths. Their current effort, though, is definitely a step in the right direction.

-BJW

Tech Review: The Zune HD

2009-05-28T03:50:00.004-04:00

Having gone through the lion's share of Apple products in the past 7 years or so, I found it quite refreshing when I came across this device on the Gizmodo.com website.

Given the fact that I don't have the right media credentials to get any pertinent information on its specs or release date, I've left it up to Gizmodo and friends to provide the skinny on what's to be expected and what's still in the dark:

OLED 3.3-inch multitouch screen at a 480x272 resolution, web browser (IE-based), Xbox Live integration (Xbox will get Zune's videos instead of their own separate version), HD radio receiver, 720p TV output and streaming music directly from the Zune store via Wi-Fi.
Here's what we still don't know:

• Will the Xbox platform also get access to the Zune music library? THAT would be a huge coup for the Xbox platform over the PS3, being able to stream music on the fly just like the Zune HD.

• How much will this supposed Xbox music support cost? Our guess is that it'll be free, if you have the unlimited-rentals Zune Pass, but you never know.

• Will this go the other way? Will you be able to access Xbox Live's game trailers and videos on your Zune? Will the two repositories merge?

• How about Live Anywhere, the damn cellphone/mobile device Xbox Live access that was first shown off in 2006 that we're still waiting for. Will Zune HD be the device that FINALLY gets this?

• Xbox games on the Zune? Is this what Microsoft is waiting until E3 to announce? That the Zune will be getting not just games, but Xbox-quality games? Xbox Live Arcade games? They'd have to be retooled for the touchscreen Zune controls, sure, but slapping the Xbox brand on it will sell some Zunes.

• How much will it cost? The OLED touchscreen probably isn't cheap, and if that supposed Xbox game integration is true, that means costly hardware to back it up.

• Where's the Zune Phone? Even if everything we surmised above is true, there's still one caveat: it's not a phone. People only have so many pockets, so it doesn't matter how great a mobile device is—if it's not their phone, which must be taken around everywhere, it'll get left behind much of the time.

I suppose we'll just have to wait and see...

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Nike Air Yeezys

2009-05-28T03:11:00.005-04:00

I really don't like to promote people who have very little problem promoting themselves, but there is something beautiful and undeniable about the (fairly) new set of sneakers that are the product of a Nike and Kanye West collaboration.

Air Yeezys evoke a certain swagger and genius of design that's unparalleled.

Unfortunately, it's rather hard to find a pair at all in Charleston, so it would be in your best interest to make that trip to the source and cop a pair of your own: the Internet. Be careful, though. Just like custom-made Dunks, for every legitimate seller in the world, there are 100 more willing to swindle you out of your hard-earned cash without any remorse.

-BJW

DubiousSighting: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: 50 Years Cultural Ambassador to the World

2009-05-28T02:47:00.005-04:00

There is much justice my words could even begin to do when it comes to describing the Alvin Ailey dance company’s performance. Unfortunately, the powers that be did not allow photography (flash or otherwise) during the show, so mere words will have to do.

What made the 8 p.m. performance so memorable was the fact that the audience was treated to a little something extra—or in theater terms, “Program B”—which meant the addition of an anniversary highlights video that chronicled the life and times of Mr. Ailey and his vision.

After the short video, we were treated to one of the most prolific dance performances to ever grace the Gaillard Auditorium stage. No exaggeration here, my friends, everything from choreography and lighting to the raw talent of each performer just shined with each leap across the stage and pirouette under the spotlight.

Revelations: "Wade in the Water"- Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Company.

The best segment of the night was definitely “Revelations”, easily the most famous all Ailey’s works. From start to finish, it lived up to every inch of its reputation, causing even those unfamiliar with Ailey’s accomplishments to stand up and cheer (much to my chagrin).

In the end, 50 Years… was the perfect way to round out this Memorial Day weekend. Every twist and turn was executed down to a tee. Unlucky are those who didn’t secure their seat for one of the few events that will undoubtedly define the 2009 Spoleto season.

-BJW

DubiousLive Television is a GO!

2009-05-18T17:02:00.003-04:00

This is a milestone for the life of the DubiousOne!

Through the magic of Qik video (and jailbroken iPhones), I will now be able to bring you some of the most up-to-date information on everything you need to know about Charleston style, fashion, music, technology and more.

Granted, I will still try to be as active as possible with my writing and posting, but D.O. Live TV will become a new conduit for the bulk of my posts.

To stay current on the newest "eposides" of each week, be sure to follow me on Twitter via @gqbound. Any tweets that contain the hashtag, #qikbound, will let you know that I'm about to DO IT LIVE!

It's a new day, ladies and gentlemen. I hope you're ready!

-BJW

New Music Review: Asher Roth - "Asleep in the Bread Aisle"

2009-05-17T15:29:00.004-04:00

Now that everyone is starting to come down from the high that was “I Love College”, Asher Roth fans can finally get a taste of what this college-aged rapper from the suburbs is all about. Asleep in…is, as expected, an eclectic and often hilarious album that falls somewhere between weekend keg bender and Afroman. With songs such as “Blunt Cruisin’” (a testament to the age-old practice of driving under the influence) and “Sour Patch Kids” (a playful, but poignant, jab at other underground rappers that leave an unpleasant taste in his mouth), there’s something out there for everyone.

Self-proclaimed “hip-hop purists” will tell you that Roth’s debut album is a dwarf in comparison to the unsigned material found on his Greenhouse Effect mixtape, but with support from artists such as Cee-Lo Green, Busta Rhymes, Jazze Pha and Keri Hilson, Roth will have no trouble proving critics wrong.

Produced mostly by Mr. Roth, Asleep in the Bread Aisle has become the perfect stepping stone for a modest, suburban kid from Philadelphia an opportunity to make him name known in the high-stakes world of mainstream hip-hop.

Listen Now: “Lark on My Go-Kart”, “Bad Day” and “I Love College”.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Nike Dunk Hi from Suite Sole

2009-04-12T18:44:00.004-04:00

When I first laid eyes on them last night the spring release party last night, I instantly fell short of breath.

So, I'll just let the good folks over at Suite Sole give you the lowdown on the freshest kicks for the spring season:

"Let's get straight to the point. We start you off with one of the sickest Dunk Highs we've carried since the store's opening. It's consists of a bright orange Kevlar material, with 3M reflective mesh woven in. The lighter orange swoosh has a subdued look, but works really well with these Dunks. The gum outsole/insole are the finishing touches on this must-have heater..."

Nuff said...

-BJW

New Music Review: Kid Cudi feat. Wale - "Is There Any Love?"

2009-04-12T18:25:00.002-04:00

For the first time a while, I've come across a song that had to grow on me before I decided to accept it.

Kid Cudi seemed like he came out of nowhere, right? A combination of Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and...Dead Prez.

Is There Any Love? is a hauntingly beautiful song that gets to the grittiness of the Ohio-born rapper as he contests whether the hip-hop nation is ever going to give Cudi the recognition and respect that he and his comrades deserve.

Kid Cudi feat. Wale - "Is There Any Love?"/G.O.O.D Music

Now that he has signed with Kanye-owned labe, GOOD Music, it's now left up to time to tell whether he's going to shoot for the stars or crash and burn.

-BJW

DubiousHiadeus: Oh boy!

2009-04-12T18:19:00.003-04:00

First, to all of my loyal readers/followers, I want to apologize for not keeping this little blog of mine in better condition than I have in the past.

It would be much more convenient for me to make a million and one excuses as to why I have failed to bring you the best of my sartorial musings, but that would be doing you a grave disservice, and I want nothing more than to see you happy.

With that said, be on the look out (i.e - the next few hours), for a whole new slew of all things Dubious, because for all those who know me, I aim to please.

It's just what I do,

-BJW

DubiousSighting: The Digitel.com's Debutante Ball

2009-03-04T12:08:00.011-05:00

Yes, I am a tad bit behind with this one, but I just noticed that I was in it so I had to post it:

The Digitel.com's Debutante Ball video at 499 King Street. Courtesy of Ayoka Lucas's 'Charleston Street Style Vlog

If you haven't had a chance, be sure to check out both The Digitel and my girl Ayoka's fashion-forward vlog...

-BJW

DubiousSighting: Suite Sole's February Sneaker Preview

2009-02-04T15:38:00.009-05:00

Terminator. Scandal. Dunk.

To the untrained individual, these words may seem like nothing short of gibberish, but to anyone who had the pleasure of attending Suite Sole’s February Sneaker Preview party this past weekend, these words are about as sacred as anything found in the Bible.

The newest lines of funky fresh sneakers made their debut during the event covering everything from the at-one-time-underground-but-now-a-mainstream-hit, aLife, to the industry staple, Nike. People from all over came out to the small but cozy boutique on the corner of Spring and St. Phillip Streets to show their love to Andrea and Gustavo Serrano, the husband and wife team responsible for the successful establishment of both B’zar and Suite Sole.

“We have been here for about four years or so and we make sure that we cater to the people before we do anything for ourselves. That’s how you keep people coming back,” Gustavo (or "Gus" as most of his friends endearingly refer to him) said in response to the recent closing of many Upper and Lower King Street establishments.

Even though B’zar, their flagship venture, has experienced the onslaught of the local small business shutdown, it did not extinguish their spirits (and hospitality) when it came time to showcase their newest shipment of limited-edition kicks.

“You see these right here!? They’re called the ‘Scandal’ because they are scandalous! You know? Wooo!” Gus exclaimed while he described a new women’s high top that was resting on the top shelf.

Throughout the night, everyone from Gus and Andrea, to store manager Walter Pinckney and the hordes of sneaker heads that poured into the place seemed to almost bask in the glow of every shoe and accessory perched somewhere either high or low on the walls of Suite Sole.

Some looked at them with sheer accomplishment while others looked with pure jealousy. But there was something different when it came to the way that the Serranos, practically the Bonnie and Clyde of the local shoe game, looked at things that night.

There was a certain excitement that would periodically streak across their faces, almost synchronously, when they would realize that this is what it was really all about. Screw the closings, the nation’s economic crisis, or even the guy in the corner who has tried on every shoe in the building with no intention of buying a thing.

It was about the people. The people who have made it their business to keep the Serranos’ alive for as long as they have.

The hipsters and the skaters, the mothers, brothers, uncles and aunts; the friends and enemies, near and far. And, yes, perhaps even that guy trying on all those shoes…

-BJW

DubiousThoughts: Black History 2.0

2009-01-28T21:50:00.006-05:00

Well, kids, it is that magical time yet again. A time where elementary school teachers assign that ubiquitous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech project, McDonalds airs it slew of ‘365Black’ campaign commercials and white people everywhere are left constantly on edge, making damn sure not to disturb the cosmos with the slightest mention of anything remotely offensive.

Yep, you guessed it! It’s finally Black History Month.

But there is something different about this one, my brothers and sisters. I don’t see any Kwanzaa-inspired streamers hanging from the rafters of various campus buildings. No commemorative drum circle chats at Marion Square held by the same five, grungy, dreadlocked white kids that seem to know more about Bob Marley’s smoking habits than the Rastafarian culture that molded him.

Instead, there is a silence. A dead, eerily calm silence. This same silence, oddly enough, speaks volumes and volumes to those who take the time to listen enough: Black History Month has become a relic. An ancient, often times, mythic occurrence.

This spells both good and/or bad news depending on which side of the fence you sit.

For blacks, this can be seen as a chance to breathe a heavy sigh of relief, because you will not longer have to sit idly by and watch the same three documentaries centered around those timeless ‘turning points’ in your history: the American Slave Trade, Fredrick Douglass and anybody that had something to do with the Civil Rights Movement.

Adversely, being on the cusp of electing the first biracial president into the White House, blacks will also have the daunting task of trying to blaze a new trail, so to speak. A new generation has been given new responsibilities, so now there has to be a new set of breakthroughs, pioneers and heroes that were going to have to foster as a people.

Otherwise, there won’t be much material for the good folks over at Mickey D’s to work with now will there?

I haven’t forgotten about you, my beautiful, white brothers and sisters. You guys have a great deal of work ahead of you as well.

First and foremost, you are going to have to get rid of every pre-packaged, spoon-fed and user-friendly version of our history that you may (or may not) have stored in the nether regions of your mind. And as much as you would like to contest with us, Vanilla Ice is not, nor will he ever be, one of the top 5 rappers of our time.

Instead, take a minute or two out of your day and talk to us. Who? Us. Not the ones that you see on BET and MTV, shaking their posteriors and yelling about how their jewelry costs enough to purchase a small country, (Albeit, this is a part of our overall history, but like the drunk uncle that constantly comes to the family dinners, we choose not to talk about this part much), but the ones who you see almost everyday on your way to class: your classmates!

We are your best resource for the most up-to-date news, events and history when it comes to forming the ‘new school’ edition of our black history. We are ultimately the ones who will be left in charge when our superiors become our ancestors. So why wouldn’t you want to jump at the chance to get a first-edition copy of the ‘new, black history’?

Look, the point I’m trying to get across here is that if we as a nation are going to come to the sound agreement to set aside 29 whole days to focus on the cultural obstacles and achievements of a entire race, we might as well work together to make it, well, good!

But in order for that to happen, we must first set aside the time to sit down and actually open up a line of communication between each other because, believe it or not, there are some things about black people that listening to the entire Tupac discography or watching the movie, ‘Separate, But Not Equal’, will not teach you about us.

-BJW

DubiousPolitics: Man of the Hour

2009-01-20T12:33:00.004-05:00

As much I don’t want to rain on anyone’s parade, there is a certain hysteria that came along with the inauguration of the newest (and probably blackest) president in our nation’s history, there’s no doubt about that.

Here is the moment of truth, though. The moment where the streamers stop flying, the confetti is swept up and Sheppard Fairey sulks his way back into the depths of covert, political propaganda. The moment where every man, woman and child will now have to step back and watch with rampant anticipation whether the ‘Last Scion’, er, ‘Great Hope’ (or whatever other nicknames we have adopted for him), can actually pull off one of the greatest comebacks in history since ’86 Mets in the World Series.

Of course, saying that President Obama is going to have his hands full is a gross understatement and should be taken for more than just a grain of salt. Between the perpetual ‘war zone’ that is the Gaza Strip and a crumbling world economy, the new president is going to have to do a little more than shake a few hands and make music videos with Will.i.am to take us off of this seemingly one-way ticket to oblivion.

It is a tough thing to ask of one person, but I feel that Obama was well aware of his job description before he filled out the application. That is not to say this feat has never been accomplished in our ‘eventful’ past as a free nation.

Enter: Franklin Delano Roosevelt, or FDR, for those partial to brevity.

Delano, somewhat of a miser in his earlier days, was instrumental in pulling this country up by its bootstraps out of the economical muck that was the ‘Great Depression’. With the First and Second New Deals, Roosevelt was able to nearly quadruple the gross national product and all but dissolve the national unemployment rate before his death in office.

In regards to his foreign policy, there is no question that he made strides to form alliances with some of the most influential countries in the world; that, coupled with his military tact during World War II, caused Roosevelt to become one of the world’s most renowned political leaders.

Now, with such an impressive resume, Roosevelt would seem to be a tough act to follow.

Quite the contrary, though.

America is now going to have the difficult task of coming to grips with the fact that no matter how many collectors’ cups, personalized t-shirts and commemorative coins we sell in effigy to the new president, there is going to be a time where the president’s meddle is going to be tested sooner than later, and I hope that Obama has everything that it takes to turn this country around. Our reputation as a country is counting on it…

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: iminlikewithyou.com

2009-01-14T09:48:00.003-05:00

As the title of the site suggests, this is a place where people young and old (but mostly young), can come together to waste time at the office/school all the while kicking each others' butts at everything from 'Blockles', a flash-inspired version of 'Tetris', to 'Tracism' (sort of like a glorified 'Pac-Man').

A great, little site that is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end, iminlikewithyou.com is the perfect escape for those trying to dodge the daily grind.

-BJW

Tech Review: Street Fighter IV

2009-01-12T19:45:00.007-05:00

The newest addition to the long line of head-to-head fighting games from the Capcom studios, Street Fighter IV has stirred up a great deal of buzz over the past few months.

With the final product having been unveiled just recently at CES 2009, SF IV has all the promise of being the premiere arcade game of the year. Capcom, known for the Mega Man series as well as a slew of crossover fighting games, has pulled out all the stops by creating a 3-D masterpiece.

With home copies available for X-Box 360, Playstation 3 and Windows PC, there should be no problem finding someone with an available copy; and much like the multi-platform release of Soul Caliber IV, the platform you choose to buy the game for will determine the list of characters you will be able to play with.

The fighting style of the game is very reminiscent of SF: 3rd Strike with the ability to perform tech blocks and combos. But it is when you perform a character's Super/Ultra combo that the difference becomes clear:

Gameplay between Akuma and Gouken.

With crisp, Anime-style graphics, responsive gameplay, and classicly recognizable controls at your fingertips, SF IV is definitely a gem you'll need to add to your collection.

-BJW

DubiousRant: Obama is Black?

2009-01-12T19:29:00.003-05:00

There is this nagging feeling that I’ve had in the back of my head for the past few days. Coincidentally enough, this feeling came about around the same time as the country elected its first president of African descent.

Amidst all the applause, laughter, tears, expletives and fist pumps, I felt like there was something brewing inside the president-elect’s head as well. I could not quite put my finger on it until the day after the election results were announced, and it was with this announcement that the floodgates suddenly opened.

It seemed as though everyone with a MySpace page or witless Facebook status raced to their keyboard, frantic with excitement, clicking and clacking away to profess their excitement (and sometimes rage) concerning America’s decision.

The comments ranged from, “OBAMA 2008! WE DID IT!” and “Obama.Obama.Obama.Obama” to “Great! Now I have to move to Canada! Smart choice, America!” and my personal favorite: “I don’t want a nigger president!”

But these comments and status changes did not bother me nearly as much as the slew of race-baiting word vomits that spewed from many members of the black community. Comments such as, “My president is BLACK! Take that!” and “Our people are now triumphant! We are not the minority anymore!” to yet another personal favorite: “Yup! I DO want a nigga president! LOL!!!”

Now, far be it from me to play devil’s advocate, because it is nearly impossible for even the most rational of human beings to truly consider the “other side,” but I felt it was a bit hasty and ill-advised to make such inflammatory claims concerning such a high-profile public official. This is mainly because with every “my-president-is-black” statement made, the cogs in the self-balancing machine turn faster and faster all the while shifting the weight in a very unbalanced way.

For example, people tend to forget that president-elect Barack Obama came from very humble beginnings and lived a very multi-faceted (and multi-racial) life. The son of a Nigerian father and white mother, Obama is considered a bi-racial individual.

All considerations aside, there is nothing conditional at all about his ethnicity. Technically, one could use the age-tested “One Drop” rule…if it was 1895 and America was still locked in the crushing grip of the Jim Crow laws.

Fortunately, for me especially, this is not 1895, and the idea of “claiming” a candidate because their African father just so happened to have relations with a white woman and conceive demonstrates the kind of ignorance that is usually reserved for those who don those fashionable white robes with the matching hoods.

It almost makes me wonder, if Barack Obama lost the election, would those same folks who were so adamant about choosing sides in the beginning still have the same political and ethnic fervor? For some reason, I feel that a lot more focus would have been placed on his “whiter” attributes if the tables were turned.

Essentially, what I’m trying to get at is the fact that it is rather counterproductive to discuss how electing a candidate like Barack Obama would be beneficial to the unification of the country on one hand, but then on the other hand attempt to explain to friends and family how you voted strictly for his “black side” at the polls.

Not only are you doing yourself a disservice by completely denying an integral portion of the president-elect’s character, political know-how and diverse life experiences that helped get him to where he is now, moreover, you run the risk of being pegged a racist. (Yes, individuals from other races can be racists, too. It’s crazy, I know).

Instead, be happy about the idea that the majority of this country’s inhabitants came together in an act of selfless social responsibility and voted. Not for a candidate that has a white mother but demonstrates dominant African traits, but more so for a candidate that is the physical embodiment of everything that our ancestors—whether white, black or in between—fought for: a united front that is concerned with the betterment of the country as a whole.

-BJW

New Music Review: Karaoke - T. Pain feat. DJ Khaled

2008-12-19T01:18:00.007-05:00

This is one of those classic tracks that spends most of its potential and energy calling out other rap artists for stealing or 'borrowing' a style from the accuser that was already created by an artist that was around way before them.

Enter: T-Pain's effigy to the Auto Tune, 'Karaoke' featuring the ubiquitous DJ Khaled.

There is something to be said about a new school rap artists who puts out a track that admonishes anyone who has ever used an Auto Tune to create their own hit: They are more than likely a hypocrite.

T-Pain (left) and DJ Khaled performing at a Miami club earlier this year.

Unfortunately, T-Pain is absolutely no exception to this rule. Even though he may pay tribute to the great Roger Troutman, but most of the song is dedicated to the idea that people are biting a style that he (clearly) made more popular than Zapp and Roger themselves.

Bottom line: T-Pain was a tad bit misguided with the production of this song. He took a few jabs at his style too seriously and allowed it to manifest itself into the song, 'Karaoke'. Hopefully, he will not take this oversensitivity to any higher levels and make a whole album damning those who stand against him. Hopefully...

-BJW

DubiousSighting: Guerrilla Cuisine - SPAM Jam 2008

2008-12-19T00:29:00.008-05:00

So, I had the pleasure of attending Guerrilla Cuisine's SPAM Jam 2008 (much to the chagrin of my innards), and sampled some of the finest, most inventive dishes that I never would have expected from a standard can of the processed, yet iconic, meat.

Held at the Tin Roof in West Ashley, SPAM Jam 2008 brought together some of the most eccentric minds and personalities in the the greater Charleston area for a night that did not disappoint.

Some of the dishes that stood out included the SPAMburger and French Fries. The spuds were fried in truffle oil and the burgers were accompanied by an Asian pickle and black truffle mayonnaise. Another favorite of mine was the Hawaiian-style SPAM Kabobs with a spicy, chile oil and balsamic vinaigrette.

Jimi Hatt, practically the face of Guerrilla Cuisine, graced us with his presence in between meals to make sure everything was copacetic (and to provide a great deal of comic relief), which made the experience twice as enjoyable.

The infamous Jimi Hatt posing for the cameras. Guerrilla Cuisine/BadJon Photography

All in all, it was an enjoyable experience filled with wine, music and canned meats that no one in this world should have missed. Their next event should be taking place near the end of this year and will include a rather popular, French dessert.

I'll be sure to keep you posted...

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: 12seconds.tv

2008-12-18T23:37:00.005-05:00

The funny thing about this site is that it really isn't anything revolutionary, by any means of the definition, or cutting edge. It is basically a video version of Twitter.

But there's a catch with 12seconds.tv: It is one of the most user-friendly vlog services that I have seen in a long time. Yes, you could invest the time and money into an awesome video studio setup, light box, reflector and all the other cumbersome goodies that come with the whole kit 'n kabootle.

Or you could go to your nearest electronics store/department, pick up a $30 webcam and get cracking on potentially making some of the most entartaining and interesting, 12-second videos that the world has ever seen!

If your not that ambitious, you could just vlog about your daily goings-on and with the mobile video feature, you could become your very own walking, talking mini-vlogger.

Either way, I highly recommend asking a friend (or even a complete stranger) for an invite to one of the best condensed vlogging sites to come around in a long time.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: The Nokia 7900 'Prism' Phone

2008-11-24T03:04:00.005-05:00

Why is it that some of the most advanced, highy adaptable and asthetically pleasing phones are never available in the United States?

Why do we have to settle with all the second-rate crap that comes across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans while folks in other countries get to revel in the idea of own phones that can e-mail, tether WiFi connections, babysit the kids and make a mean shrimp and grits all at the same time?

Nokia's 7900 'Prism' Quadband Phone, $699

Since I do not have the $500+ dollars it takes to acquire one of these babies via eBay, I guess I am forced to envy from afar.

-BJW

P.S. - This Nokia is a beast. A sexy, 3G-capable beast...

The Essentials: How To Be a Hipster

2008-11-24T01:59:00.009-05:00

I have never really been one to place people in categories or sub-categories based on the way they dress, but in recent years I've caught myself paying more and more attention to the wardrobes of my peers in an attempt to gain a better sense of how my generation thinks and acts.

Therein lays the concept of the hipster. One of the most reviled and revered looks in contemporary fashion circles, 'hipster chic' was created through a skilful combination of the acid punk movement and the inner-city, hip-hop sub-culture that arose in the 1980s.

Nowadays, people from ages 10 to 110 (don't ask me), can be seen sporting elements of this fashion-forward movement all around the world, and Charleston is absolutely no exception to the rule.

Now, in an effort to keep guys from looking like straight-up poseurs, I am here to make sure you find the perfect balance between Joey Ramone and Biz Markie:

1. Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars, $50, converse.com

When it comes to the kicks, keep one thing in mind: It's either 'all or nothing'. 'All' means finding a pair of shoes that look like a million dollars and cost about as much, too. You can easily accomplish this at stores such as Suite Sole and Urban Outfitters. 'Nothing' means getting your shoes from either the nearest Goodwill or Salvation Army store. This way, you still maintain that rakish, devil-may-care attitude that many hipsters are famous for without falling victim to the superficial machine.

For those of you who like to remain somewhat in the middle, you can always spring for a comfortable pair of canvas Chucks (pictured above). But remember: 'all or nothing'. Either buy them in a bold off-the-wall color (i.e. - neon green, pink or yellow), or keep them mute.

2. Cardigan Sweater, $283, nomdeguerre.com

Made famous by the likes of Pete Doherty, Pharrell Williams and Mr. Rogers, the cardigan sweater has transcended the closet of the nuclear family's father and has become modernized in the eyes of hipsters everywhere. Popular colors include: grey, black and the iconic burgundy.

3. Skinny Jeans, $69.50, us.levi.com

As much as your 'boys' are not going to like being stuffed in practically a 4x4 square of denim, this is the best way to optimize the hipster look. Make sure your jeans are a color other than classic blue. Red, black, grey and white are all acceptable choices. And if there is no way you could possibly shimmy your way into a pair, opt for the roomier straight-leg (which is what I usually wear) or a slim-fit jean. It will still do the trick.

4. Retro T-Shirt, $24, redbubble.com

Think vintage, not necessarily 'old'. Anything that incorporates bright, bold colors or fabrics/patterns that haven't been used since the mid-1970s are all perfect candidates for pulling off the look. Just make sure you stay away from 'ironic' shirts like: 'South Korea's Got Seoul'. You'll look like a poseur and, more importantly, a douche bag...

5. The Hipster Media Library, $13-$20, amazon.com or other music dealers

This one is pretty straightforward: Delete everything that has been heard on the radio in the past 18 months and substitute that for artists such as Chromeo, The Shrines, Neon Neon, The Klaxons, Cut Copy, Little Jackie, The Arctic Monkeys and others of the like. This will indefinitely boost your hipster score. You can get extra points for mentioning bands that no one else has ever heard of.

-BJW

Brian J. Wilder Photography

2008-11-15T14:19:00.006-05:00

Yes, it's official!

I am now (some what) an accomplished photographer...

I've completed my first portfolio and I'm hoping for great results.

Here are a few from the collection:

'Lichen' - Taken with Sony Alpha 100

'Water Drops' - Taken with Sony Alpha 100

Anyone with a discerning, photographic eye please do not hesitate to give me some constructive criticism on how I could get better. Thanks.

-BJW

Tech Review: MinoHD Mini Cam from FlipCam

2008-11-12T00:47:00.004-05:00

I am very excited about the release if this camera. With that, I'll save you the sappy, gushy stuff and get right down to the nitty gritty:

This camera shoots in 720p high-definition. Period.

There is nothing that YouTubers and video bloggers alike are going to love more than this one feature. With its 4GB storage space and relatively long battery life (60 minutes of footage on one charge), the MinoHD is a great investment for those looking to upgrade their video arsenal without getting too technical.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Cotton Suit by Nautica

2008-11-12T00:17:00.005-05:00

I need a suit. Every self-respecting man in this world needs a suit.

But not just any suit, my friends...

Cotton Suit by Nautica, $369, nautica.com

We as men need a suit that we can feel both comfortable and confident in. Some tailored to our every contour in such a way that makes women turn thier heads and other guys feel just a little less superior than they once were.

This is my suit, ladies and gentlemen. What's yours?

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: TheDigitel.com

2008-11-11T21:08:00.003-05:00

There is something going on with the transition from print to digital media nowadays, and that is the complete lack of a transition! In Charleston, there are a handful of print publications that have made their mark of the greater population, so much so that even if they manage to produce less-than-stellar work, readers will still flock to the stands to pick up the latest issue. No questions asked.

Enter: TheDigitel.com

The Digitel is an aggregation site that was designed to sift through all the fodder that the online versions of larger publications tend to haphazardly throw on their sites everyday. Local and easy to use, The Digitel serves as sort of a news terminal that allows readers to determine what they think is truly newsworthy.

-BJW

New Music Review: Kanye West - "Heartless"

2008-11-11T20:19:00.002-05:00

As much flack as Mr. West has been getting from the hip-hop world for his latest album, '808's and Heartbreak' set to drop Novemebr 21st, there is absolutely nothing wrong with the new idea that he has taken with his music.

The best example of this comes from the single, 'Heartless', and I for one cannot wait until the album release. But the big surprise was the music video for the song. Not only was it produced by the legendary Hype Williams, but it was shot entirely in rotoscope animation!

Kanye West - Heartless Official Music Video. Directed by Hype WIlliams.

Think 'American Pop' or 'A Scanner Darkly'...

-BJW

DubiousSighting: My 'Green' Initiative

2008-11-10T20:07:00.004-05:00

I've been contemplating creating a photography portfolio for my resume and have been taking a few pics here and there. Nothing too exciting, (or perhaps more exciting than I think).

But this photograph in particular struck a chord with me:

Taken with a Sony Alpha 100. 75mm lens.

I was at the Starbucks downtown on Calhoun Street and this one little shoot of grass that decided to defy convention and set up shop on a barren plot of land.

As much as I would like to make some cockamamie parallelism to how this plant is like America and change and blah blah blah, but I don't think it would it justice.

Simply put: It's nature striking out on its own. Nothing more, nothing less...

-BJW

DubiousPolitics: Email from Jeri O. Cabot, Dean of Students for the College of Charleston

2008-11-04T18:59:00.002-05:00

We have reaffirmed with the Charleston Election Commission that CofC students can use their CofC ID cards and voter registration cards to vote. If for some reason you were turned away today or given a provisional ballot, please return to your precinct to vote.

We have arranged for people to be present to assist returning students and guide them to the head of the line. Tell a poll watcher that you are a CofC student that was improperly turned away earlier. This message is likely to apply mostly to the precincts voting at Buist Academy, Memminger Elementary or Charleston Water Works. The differences in interpretation of state law have been resolved.

The polls close at 7:00 p.m., so please hurry if you this message applies to you!!!

Sincerely,

Jeri Cabot

Dean of Students

Late Night Technophilia

2008-10-22T03:19:00.002-04:00

Here's my current screen shot. This is the 'cleaned up' version:

-BJW

It's The Little Things...

2008-10-22T02:00:00.007-04:00

Accessories. When a man hears this word, he automatically assumes (more often than not), that it is more of a concern for the female persuasion. Unfortunately, it is that kind of one-sided thinking that has brought us androgynous attempts such as the 'Fanny Pack' and 'Chaco' sandals.

Here are a few, more 'manly' accessories that have caught my eye over the past few weeks:

Collar Stiffeners by James & Longbourne

Watch by Simon Carter of London

The Blackberry Storm by RIM for Verizon Wireless

Moleskine notebook

Business Card Holder by Acme Studio

Dino Bone Dog Tag Necklace by David Yurman

Thoughts?

-BJW

New Music Review: Beyonce - 'Single Ladies'

2008-10-20T13:09:00.003-04:00

This is one of those rare occasions when I deviate from the status quo and take the road less traveled. The focus is not necessarily on the song or lyrics of this track, but more so on the visuals.

A friend sent me an audio sample from Beyonce's new album, 'I Am...', and at first I was quite reluctant to say anything about them, let alone donate the space on my blog for it.

Beyonce's video for 'Single Ladies'.

But then, I came across the music video for 'Single Ladies' and for a moment I was stunned. There was something about the choreography that I could not quite put my finger on. Then, after the 7th or 8th viewing, it hit me! She borrowed much of her steps from an old performance on the Ed Sullivan Show back in the mid-70s.

A trio headed by Gwen Verdon performed a dance number called, "Mexican Breakfast", that has been manipulated to follow the song, 'Walk It Out' by DJ Unk.

The original Gwen Verdon performance from the Ed Sullivan Show.

Granted, it was a formidable attempt by Beyonce to reaffirm herself as a mainstream, pop queen but it was her videos, not her voice, that took the cake this go-around.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: Coppa Salami

2008-10-17T04:38:00.003-04:00

Yes, this is rather weird at first glance but bare with me. Coming from a mainly Italian/Sicilian upbringing, I have had the liberty of tasting a fair amount of what the Mediterranean has had to offer; but amidst all the amazing frutti de mare that have helped to hone this palette, I have always had an affinity for the turf and not so much the surf.

With that said, I must mention one of my most beloved cuts of meat, Coppa Panchetta, or 'Coppa' for short. This cured ham is cut from one of the most sought after parts of the pig, the spare ribs. It's a very sweet-smelling and strong-tasting salami that I have been having so much trouble finding here in Charleston.

Fortunately, I was recently tipped off by one of my foodie friends that Mr. Sean Brock, of Food Network and McCrady's fame, just so happens to create his own selection of cured meats, including Coppa! I just might have to make the trek to his farm in the near future. Trust me, it is definitely worth it...

-BJW

The Essentials: The Recession Wardrobe

2008-10-17T03:16:00.009-04:00

As much flack as I have gotten in the past about my opulent clothing/accessory choices, I feel that in light of our country's current financial situation, perhaps a more spendthrift-friendly 'Essentials' is more in order. So, without further adieu:

1. TopMan Indigo Straight Leg Jeans, $70, topman.com

I am firm in the fact that every self-respecting man needs a good pair of dark-washed jeans in their closet. Not only can you pair them with a nice driving shoe or moccasin, but they are dressy enough to match with a dark blazer and leather dress shoes as well.

2. US Navy Type Pea Coat, $69, peacoats.com

Granted, it may not get cold enough for a full-on, military-inspired pea coat, but that's all the more reason to perhaps take a trip to a more frigid climate. If all else fails, you can wear this indoors, because you will lose your heat at least once this season. In the end, I recommend pairing this with a broken in Oxford and a skinny tie to get the desired effect; this way, the modern look of the tie will offset the imposing silhouette of the coat.

Oh and remember: Never by a coat like this a size or two too large, you don't want to give off the appearance of an actual sailor. It should fit snug on the shoulders and give you room throughout the arms.

3. Argyle V-Neck Sweater, $49.50, gap.com

A lightweight sweater is essential to any male wardrobe as the go-to 'top', so to speak, if myour not in the mood to throw on a heavy-duty jacket or coat. Try put it over an unbuttoned, point-collar shirt for a very unkempt, rakish look.

4. Desert Boots, $80, eastlandshoe.com

Seeing that I am about to graduate from college, there seemingly needs to be a point where one have to throw out those bulky, square-toed shoes that get dusted off for anything that may remotely resemble a 'special occasion' (i.e. weddings, funerals, job interviews, etc.).

Instead, i would opt for a pair of these understated boots that can be worn from the office to the dinner table without scrutiny. I would still suggest picking up a pair of leather dress shoes (cap toe or otherwise), for the intermittent interview...

5. Rugby Stripe Scarf, $26, urbanoutfitters.com

I've noticed lately that men are really getting elaborate with their scarf selections, which is odd, considering the fact that it's still about 80+ degrees during the day here in Charleston.

Bottom line: Your scarf should be one of the more understated accessories in your repertoire as not to run the risk of clashing with any of the other colors in your outfit. I know that crazy, multi-colored Tartan scarf looks bad ass now, but once you find out that you can't wear it with anything without looking like a douche, then it just looks bad. Keep your colors to about one or two per scarf; you'll thank me later.

-BJW

Tech Review: Amex Digital Blu-Ray Burner/Player

2008-10-17T02:31:00.007-04:00

In the wake of Steve Jobs' lackluster 'announcement' of a new-and-improved MacBook/MacBook Pro release, people have been left wondering, 'Where's the Beef?'

Not only did Apple fail to introduce anything really compelling to an audience that was practically on the edge of its seats waiting for the 'next big thing', the upgrades that were revealed lacked any real staying power, I mean, removing the track button? Really?

Amex Digital Blu-ray burner and player, $289, amexdigital.com

But fear not, for the good folks over at Amex Digital have unveiled an external Blu-ray burner (and player), for USB-ready Macs, including, iMac and MacBook Air, and with a rather light price tag of only $289, it just might force Apple to start burning the midnight oil.

-BJW

In Other News: Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka Goes National

2008-10-17T02:15:00.009-04:00

Anyone who has been around me in the past few months knows that I have been a HUGE supporter of Firefly's Sweet Tea Vodka and after I found out that they sold the brand to a Kentucky-based distillery for over 16 million dollars, I was unsure as to the future of such a specialized 'elixir'

I mean, in all honesty, sweet tea is a very Southern thing, you know? Very few people in the world, let alone this country, can really grasp the gravity of the situation.

Firefly Distillery. Wadmalaw Island, SC.

Luckily, I got word from TheDigitel.com that said distillery has decided to mass-produce the product and will definitely go nation-wide on January 1st. So, for all of those who thought that Sweet Tea vodka was just a fleeting memory, it's time to wash out those glasses.

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: Pandora Radio

2008-10-16T15:43:00.004-04:00

So what if I'm just a tad bit late to jump on the online radio bandwagon, in essence, Pandora Radio is pretty much the only radio client you will ever need.

More so, because they have recently added the most updated version (Pandora 1.2) to the Apple Apps Store, so anyone with an iPhone or iPod Touch will have the opportunity to listen to Rilo Kiley, Prince or Talking Heads all day, everyday ad nauseum.

Either way, I highly recommend adding this site to your bookmarks and letting the tunes flow forever and always.

-BJW

New Music Review: Common feat. Pharrell - "Universal Mind Control"

2008-10-07T02:44:00.008-04:00

First off, I am a very big fan of the music video legend, Hype Williams. The same individual who directed memorable videos for Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliot and Noreaga has come back with a very futuristic and robotic video for a very futuristic and robotic song (which is the main attraction here).

It is safe to say that Common has definitely fallen under the influence of the N.E.R.D machine. Not saying that this is a bad thing at all, it's almost kind of refreshing to see Common Sense take a shift from the overly sensitive, bleeding-heart rap that everyone has grown accustomed to.

Common - Universal Mind Control music video. Courtesy of Hype Williams.

In the end, I am very excited to see what Common has in store for us...

-BJW

DubiousSighting: The Suite Sole Opening Party

2008-10-05T20:24:00.011-04:00

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening party for 'Suite Sole' the newest addition to the Charleston fashion scene.

Owned and run by Gustavo and Andrea Serrano, 'Sole' has all the makings of an uptown boutique with the heart and soul (for lack of a better term), of a downtown, neighborhood sneaker shop.

These are my absolute favorite: Nike Vandal Hi, $150.*

With brands like Nike, Creative Recreation, Adidas and Alife, 'Suite Sole' shows no signs of becoming a one-hit wonder.

Good luck, you guys...

-BJW

*Andrea and Gustavo: If you could, I'm an 11.5. Hit me up as soon as you get that new shipment, feel me?

Quick Update!

2008-09-30T16:50:00.005-04:00

As I had mentioned in a much earlier post, 'Janelle Monae is the proverbial shit!'.

She now has an amazing music video to reaffirm that fact:

Janelle Monae - 'Many Moons' music video. Bad Boy Records.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: The Heineken Beertender

2008-09-26T21:51:00.004-04:00

Ok, I am well aware that I am still a college student, so old habits tend to die a little harder than most others. With that said, this $300 gem is definitely being put on my wish list for a few reasons:

It’s a mini-kegerator.

It keeps track of both core temperature and capacity.

It determines how many 16-ounce beers you have left at all times.

It comes with a nifty little ‘skimmer’ that allows you to make your beers look like the ones in those ultra-mod Heineken commercials.

Either way, I need this delivered to my residence as soon as possible, any takers? Who knows? There might even be a beer or two in it for you…

-BJW

The Essentials: Technophiles Only!

2008-09-26T21:37:00.012-04:00

To honor those who have willingly given their lives (and savings accounts) to the never-ending quest for, well, ‘stuff’, I have taken the liberty of compiling a list of items, both past and present that every techno freak, geek and misanthrope should own. Or at least think about owning:

1. Western Digital 120GB Passport Hard Drive, $80, wdc.com

Keeping in with the true spirit of American excess, the Passport is the perfect companion for those who insist on owning the entire series of ‘Seinfeld’ on iTunes. Not only that, but it is a great way to store music, photos and large projects on an auxiliary drive without having to sacrifice your computer’s processing speed.

2. Apple iMac, $1,200, store.apple.com

Granted, I am typing this very post from a PC, but don’t let me be misunderstood. My loyalty definitely lies with Apple’s latest line of desktop computers. Its integrated CPU design makes the iMac very portable and excellent for easy transport. Not to mention, they are just so damn sexy, right?

3. LG Dare, $199, verizonwireless.com

This is a very ‘smart’ phone considering the fact that the iPhone is still the must-have item of the decade. The Dare incorporates all of the syncing technology found on many of the leading handsets, but what sets it apart is its advanced touch-screen technology. Very fluid and highly responsive, the Dare is a smooth operator with amenities that stack up against the best of ‘em.

4. X-Box 360, $260, microsoft.com

Because it’s 2008, already. At least make very good friends with someone who doesn’t mind you freeloading in their house for hours at a time.

5. Lumix DMC-TZ50 Digital Still Camera, $450, panasonic.com

From the makers of some of the most popular electronics out now, Panasonic outdoes itself with the creation of the DMC-TZ50 digital camera. With an impressive 9.1 megapixel range and 28mm wide lens, the Lumix has all the makings of an advanced piece of technology. That’s not even the best part, though: It also comes with built-in Wi-Fi! This means you can send your photos to an online account for viewing, editing and sharing all in one fell swoop. Facebook, beware.

-BJW

Tech Review: The ‘G1’ for Google Android by T-Mobile

2008-09-26T21:06:00.007-04:00

In the past few weeks, I have been scanning the Internet trying to figure out what the ‘true’ final verdict on what the ‘G1’ has to offer. Frankly, there is very little I can say in regards to Google’s attempt at raking in some of the market shares on the high-end smart phone business.

From what I can tell, it almost seems a little counterproductive for Google to compete with the one company that all of its products and services are most compatible with. This seems to be a situation where Google is trying to take a stab at Apple on a near-personal level otherwise I see no reason to release the ‘G1’. Unless, of course, Google is trying to further expand its empire Alexander-the-Great style?

T-Mobile 'G1' for Google Android

Either way, the ‘G1’ has practically the same amenities that iPhone does (save for the fact that you CANNOT sync/dock your contacts and agenda via Outlook), and is slated to cost about the same as its Apple opponent.

Bottom line: Save your money and your time, keep your iPhone and pick up a copy/subscription of MobileMe as soon as you can. It will be the better decision in the long run, hands down.

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: Twitter

2008-09-26T20:59:00.009-04:00

For all of you out there who live life slightly on the ADD side, there is treatment available in the form of a 140-character update service known as Twitter.

Now, although Twitter may not be the most amazingly new thing on the web right now, it has—since its establishment back in 2006—the micro-blogging site has gained a very loyal following, so to speak, with over 2.2 million accounts registered as of July 2008.

Twitter screen shot.

Allowing you to do everything from mobile updating to being able to link other micro-blogging accounts/features (i.e. Digg, Facebook, MySpace, etc.) to you ‘Twit’ account, there is no reason why I would could not see this service reach unspeakable heights within the next few years. Twitter integrated into the public school system, perhaps? We’ll see…

-BJW

New Music Review: 88-Keys feat. Kanye West - 'Stay Up (Viagra)'

2008-09-07T14:19:00.007-04:00

This track is a very good example of what neo hip-hop should be.

88-Keys, who has been in the game since 1998, is a Long Island-born rapper and producer who got his start making beats for artists and producers such as Q-Tip, Pete Rock and Large Professor.

88-Keys: Adam's Case Files mixtape. 2dopeboyz.com/RS

‘Stay Up’ is a very jazzy and simple-beat song that has the potential to do big things in the very near future along with the highly anticipated release of his solo project, The Death of Adam. I, for one, cannot wait to see what 88-Keys has in store for the hip-hop world.

-BJW

DubiousSighting: McCrady’s Restaurant's 10-Course Tasting Event

2008-09-07T13:28:00.008-04:00

Chef Blais doing what he does best. Bravo/Top Chef

Recently, I had the distinct pleasure of being wined-and-dined by one of the most innovative, and often times ‘explorative’, duos in the dining world. Chefs Richard Blais, of ‘Top Chef’ fame and McCrady’s executive chef, Sean Brock, treated guests to an astounding 10-course tasting menu that featured everything from pork belly (my personal favorite) to green tomato soup, and everything in between.

Chef Brock hard at work in the kitchen. CCP/Reuters

All in all, it was an amazing event that I implore every man with half a conscience to participate in. Not only is it an opportunity to fill one’s gullet with preposterously good food, moreover, it is a chance to experience something that is truly awe-inspiring and beneficial to upping one’s ‘cuisine cred’.

Blais' 'Canned Soup' course that put a Southern twist on traditional gazpacho (top) and a rendition of crab and cole slaw. DubiousOne/GSO

- BJW

Tech Review: 'SPORE' for PC

2008-09-07T13:13:00.004-04:00

For a game that allows you to ride an evolutionary roller coaster from start to finish, Spore, a creature creator and wildlife simulator, has managed to keep me glued to my seat for nearly a week now. Developed by the same companies that brought you classics like the Madden series and the infamous line of SIM-related games have put their creative minds together and have produced one hell of an entertaining game.

A brief synopsis: You start out on a non-descript planet somewhere in the galaxy as a single-celled microorganism whose main goal is to eat without getting eaten. More importantly, Spore gives you the opportunity to climb the evolutionary ladder all the way to a point where you can take your new-grown civilization to new heights and populate other planets in space.

One of many creatures that your 'spore' can evolve into. Maxis/EA Games.

All in all, it is an amazing new angle Maxis has taken on a relatively overdone concept. It’s fresh, unique, whimsical and wildly engaging.

- BJW

DubiousCraves: Panasonic PT-LB80U Projector

2008-08-21T05:25:00.004-04:00

As much as I would love to bore you with all of the specs of this crafty machine, I’m going to cut to the chase on this one: There should be absolutely nothing that stops you from purchasing this beautifully crafted device.

In my opinion, there is nothing worse that inviting people over to watch a top-notch movie—perhaps a few drinks—and then treating said guests to that 19-inch abomination you refer to as a ‘television’. My God, man! Have a tad bit of respect for yourself!

Panasonic PT-LB80U Projector, $2,999, panasonic.com

Think about it: Not only is this projector portable but it also sports the possibility of an HD conversion, this means that whenever the mood strikes you—and you’ve purchased the correct cable package—you can view Discovery’s ‘Shark Week’ in the most crisp-and-clear of conditions in the privacy of your own home.

Look, all I’m saying is if you’re not going to buy one for yourself, at least buy one for yours truly. Consider it a tax write-off.

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: The '1001 Rules...' Blog

2008-08-21T05:21:00.004-04:00

A blog that a friend of mine recommended to me not to long ago, ‘1001 Rules for My Unborn Son’ is definitely one of those gems that you should not give just a passing thought to.

To be concise: It is a no-nonsense blog that unforgivably outlines all of the things that a male (whether white or black, or anything in between), growing up in this tumultuous world should always be aware, regardless of the situation.

An image from the latest post.

I (more than anyone) cannot be more appreciative of such a privilege than to bear witness to a piece of online writing with more poignancy than that of, say, Heller’s ‘Catch 22’. And I cried at the end of that book.

-BJW

DubiousSighting: The September 2008 Issue of Esquire

2008-08-21T05:12:00.008-04:00

September 2008 cover of Esquire with Tom Brady. Photo credit: DubiousOne

This is one of the few issues of this magazine that I have admittedly read from front to back, verbatim.

That says a great deal for an industry that has suffered loss after loss for at least the past six or seven years. But now worries, there is most definitely a light at the end of the tunnel and its name is Esquire—although GQ got to Brady first.

September’s particular issue not only addresses those of us who are feeling the effects of the economic recession more than others, but it also sports an 18-page portfolio, of sorts, that gives an in-depth look at that age-old, American pastime known as steak.

From both a design standpoint as well as the matter of content, Esquire definitely takes the cake on this one. To say that it is ‘flawless’ may seem like somewhat of an overstatement but I promise you, it would be in your best interest to purchase two copies: one for you and someone else that you also give a damn about…

-BJW

New Music Review: Janelle Monae - "Many Moons"

2008-08-17T18:23:00.005-04:00

There is not enough that I can say about this girl: revolutionary, scathingly progressive, eccentric and unbelievably gorgeous…

Ok, well perhaps there were a few adjectives left in the English vocabulary that had yet to be used to describe Ms. Monae. A proponent of the Afro/punk sub-genre, Janelle has successfully created a sleeper hit with her new EP, ‘Metropolis: The Chase Suite”, and has single-handedly restored hope for the mainstream R&B world.

I remember the first time I heard her it was a cut from the soundtrack for the movie, Idlewild, and since that day I’ve been hooked.

Originally born in Kansas City, Kansas, Monae relocated to New York City for music schooling and then to Atlanta, Georgia where she started her singing career.

Her single, “Many Moons”, is just one of many tracks on the album that I had a hard time narrowing down. It reminds me of the electric, high-tempo energy that songs like Outkast’s, “B.O.B (Bombs Over Baghdad)” and Busta Rhymes’s, “Gimmie Some More” possess.

Janelle Monae - "Many Moons"/Wonderland Arts

The only unfortunate thing I can say about her new album—as is the axiom for most independent labels and their artists—is that it has the potential to go one of two ways: Either it does relatively well in the underground scene, perhaps gaining a spin or two on the more progressive, mainstream stations in the country, and then fall into complete and total obscurity within eight months. Or it does exceedingly well underground, gains a spin or two, and then falls into obscurity within the year.

For our sakes, I hope there is an Option Three…

-BJW

Re-Inventing The Wheel

2008-08-11T14:25:00.004-04:00

...That's what it seems like I'm doing every now and then.

Don't get me wrong, I love blogging and keeping the male (and female, apparently) masses thoroughly informed on all the new(ish) goings-on around the globe, but there needs to be a change; A drastic change...

Here are a few I've been cooking up:

- 'DubiousSighting': This would an intermittent post that would showcase everything from fashion faux pas to architectural marvels found throughout the fair city of Charleston via photographs. It's still a work-in-progress kind of thing that I hope to get off the ground within the next few weeks.

- If you haven't noticed by now, which I hope you have, I've gotten rid of the 'DubiousTrend' portion of this blog for a couple of reasons: 1) I have come to the realization the trends, especially in the nation, are a dime-a-dozen, meaning they probably don't have an impressive enough shelf-life for me to even mention and 2) Not to sound self-righteous but I feel that I serve a higher purpose than some of those run-of-the-mill blogs that always seem to be a 'day late and a dollar short' when it comes to the provision of pertinent information en masse. That is all...

- That cool graphic of a cassette tape serves as the link to my Muxtape that I found with the help of Chris Renne's blog. I just started posting it and it has gotten some much deserved attention. It will be updated monthly and serve as a place to relax, become enlightened and even discover (or rediscover) some artists that might have fallen through the cracks.

Most, if not all, of these ideas will probably be implemented in due time. Just wanted to keep readers (that's you) up to date on exactly what's going on in the head of the DubiousOne...

...be easy

The Essentials: The BIG Fall Preview

2008-08-04T14:43:00.018-04:00

As the summer winds down for the better half of the world, it's almost kismet that we find ourselves left with an absurd amount of time to reflect on many of our sun-filled shenanigans--some more memorable than others--and once we're able to come to terms with that tequila-induced stupor during Cinco de Mayo or that less-than-glamorous weekend of Independence, we can all find a sense of closure and look to the future. Namely: that comforting purgatory between blazing heat and freezing cold...

1. Secure Your Earnings.

It never hurts to ditch that over-stuffed file folder you call a “wallet” for something that saves a little more space in your pockets and adds a great deal of style to your already budding fall wardrobe (you do have one, correct?).

Nova Money Clip, $20, thingsremembered.com

Besides, if I’m even remotely correct about the ways of our government, you’ll own a money clip around the same time the rest of us receive that much-fabled economic stimulus check. Perfect timing!

2. Discover Your Green Thumb.

With the cooler weather approaching, there’s not only a change in primary wardrobe, but something magical happens to the world’s vegetation: some of the hardiest, best-tasting vegetables ever become readily available, ripe for the picking.

Avocados (which need not be cooked—just a quick chop session; add olive oil, salt and pepper, toss into a salad and presto!), along with bok choy, kale, carrots, watercress, collards and even the unwieldy rutabaga will all have a place on people’s tables this fall. Why not get into the spirit and visit your nearest farmer’s market or vegetable provider for the freshest produce the season has to offer?

Assorted veggies available at your local market.

Here’s an example of that “freshness” I was talking about earlier:

Skinny Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

-Ingredients

1 garlic bulb, unpeeled
splash of olive oil
4 large potatoes (Idaho or russet)
about 1 cup Basic Chicken Stock (see recipe), or low-sodium canned
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

-Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Place the garlic cloves in an oven-proof dish and drizzle with olive oil. Place the dish, uncovered, in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the garlic is golden brown and soft.

3. Remove from the oven and let cool.

4. Peel the potatoes and cut them in half. Place them in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender when pricked with a fork, about 30 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes. Drain.

5. Bring the stock to a boil, and turn down to a simmer.

6. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves to release each clove of garlic. Mash the garlic with a fork and throw the skins away.

7. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork, or use a food mill. Add the roasted garlic. Slowly add the stock until the desired consistency is reached.

8. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Size: about 1/2 cup

Adapted from Discovery Health’s: Guide for Fall Vegetables Recipe Guide

3. Up Your Street, er, Surburban Cred.

What started as a simple blog created and moderated by a nice couple from

Canada

boomed into an online encyclopedia of white culture, with a multi-million-hit count and a book that
has been flying off the shelves since July 1^st.

Stuff White People Like on paperback, $11, amazon.com

“Stuff White People Like” is an effigy of all things considered ‘white’ and covers everything from Asian women (#11) and coffee (#1) to unpaid internships (#105) and Barack Obama (#8). And with the introduction of the book to the market, you can expand your ‘white’ knowledge with sections that help you learn, “How to Name a White Child” and to, “Determine Your Level of Whiteness”.

4. Dress Up.

One of the essential pieces to any man’s wardrobe, the v-neck sweater is dressy enough to pair with a crisp Oxford shirt and a skinny tie and just this side of versatile enough to wear with anything from a suit and nice shoes to a rumpled shirt, a pair of broken-in jeans and some canvas sneakers.

Cashmere V-Neck Sweater by Vince, $245, neimanmarcus.com

Buy one as soon as you possibly can. As a matter of fact, buy two for good measure.

5. Or Down.

This very modest shoe, as of late, has become something of a cult classic with the scenesters, hipsters, hip-hoppers and their groupies, indie folks, graffiti artists and, well, I think you get the general idea.

Nike Dunk Retro High-Tops, $80, sneakerhead.com

Nowadays, you can get a clean-slate pair of this ubiquitous shoe and put your own personal stamp on it by visiting one of the sneaker gods found on major cities like Tokyo, New York and L.A. If you don’t have direct access to such luck than you can always find and commission an artist via the Web to get your shit tight just in time for the fall.

6. Wrap It Up.

Just as long as it is lightweight and nothing too busy, you should be absolutely fine. Wear it with a t-shirt and jeans to get that rakish, devil-may-care look or combine it with a suit and overcoat for a cleaner, more refined look.

College Stripe Scarf by Paul Smith, $80, paulsmith.com

7. Play It Straight.

As much as I tried to devise a comprehensive review of one of the most anticipated games of the season, I just don’t have proper credentials to get anything more than the generic press release (Trust me, I tried). So, without further adieu I’ll let the professionals take it from here:

E3 2008 Interview. Provided by gametrailers.com

One of the many box art possibilities floating about the Internet. Estimated release date: 11/30/08

8. And Cap It Off.

I’m not exactly sure why more men aren’t wearing these iconic yet enigmatic pieces of head gear? Is it the underlying stigma attached to it that only makes persons over the age of 65 allowed to don one? Perhaps someone may mistake you for a newsie, toss you a nickel for your trouble and pat you—curmudgeonly, no less—on the head as they go about their way?

The British Tweed Driving Hat available in charcoal and brown, $28, hatsinthebelfry.com

Regardless of what anxieties or insecurities you may have about it, the fact still remains that you need a driving cap in your collection. So take a minute, toss out that pre-frayed, ‘AE 99’ baseball cap and go for the upgrade.

-BJW

Tech Review: Olympus' EVOLT E-520 DSLR

2008-07-31T01:42:00.004-04:00

I had to pull some very, very tough strings to even get my hands on this camera (ah, I love press privileges), and I must say that there are very few defects that I can point out with this unit.

Keep in mind, there was an earlier unit of a similar caliber that was reported to have several defects coming along with it. A setback like that would cause any prominent camera company to take their flagship product back to the drawing board.

Considering the fact that it would seen difficult to convince a novice photographer to pick up this camera without becoming a tad bit intimidated, the fact remains that the Olympus is a perfect model for those who may seem more than anxious to hold such an advanced piece of technology in their hands for the first time.

-BJW

New Music Review: The Streets - "The Escapist"

2008-07-31T01:28:00.006-04:00

I haven’t heard from this character since, ‘You’re Fit’ and quite frankly I am kind of relieved that he has finally mustered up the energy and courage to release a brand spankin’ new album. On the unfortunate side, The Streets has a very definite

release set for September 15 but there I absolutely no stateside release slated—well, as far as I’ve heard.

I have always been a fan of The Streets ever since I first heard him and this newest release has absolutely flaws from hat I can tell. The music video alone has the title rapper coasting through the French countryside to a very menacing beat. The same kind of beat that you would be likely to find on a Dizzie Rascal or a catchy Timbaland-produced track.

Either way, I am very excited to see what The Streets has in store for the greater population; even if that means me having to swim across the pond to see what all the fuss is about this time around.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: The Technics SL1200 MKVI Turntable

2008-07-25T16:46:00.006-04:00

Nostalgia at its very best; turntables have been staples of the both hip-hip and techno/rave music genres since the mid-1980s. Since then, over 350,000 units have been sold worldwide which is pretty impressive for a device that required elbow grease (and ample amounts of patience), to operate.

The SL1200 MKVI Turntable with Direct Drive Technology, $699, panasonic.com

Not until recently have I gained, lost and then regained an unexplained appreciation for vinyl. Moreover, I couldn’t figure out why until I was promptly reminded by my mother not to long ago, “You know nothing about this music right here!” she said. She was beyond right, not withstanding. She possessed a collection that spanned decades and included the classics (The Temptations – Motown Hits), the unexpected (Public Enemy – It Takes a Nation of Millions…) and the downright obscure (Hiroshima – Providence).

Either way, her bounty was the stuff legends were made on. This was until a minor flood claimed almost 95% of her precious stockpile. Years and years of history and memories down the drain—literally.

With that inspiration, I have set myself on a life quest, of sorts, not only to restore her collection to its once pristine condition, but to add this turntable as kind of the icing on the cake. Granted, she probably won’t have the capacity to appreciate the increase in torque or improved vibration dampening technology like most professional DJs, but I have a feeling that what she’ll lack in overall techno-savvy will be made up for in sheer exhilaration when it is all said and done.

-BJW

DubiousPraise: All's Well That Ends Well

2008-07-25T13:38:00.002-04:00

A few things:

I wanted to take some time and thank everyone (men and women, surprisingly enough), who have made the perilous trek to and from my blog. From the die-hard fans to the one-night standers, you are truly the glue that holds this rickety, old ship together. Merci, beaucoup.
As always, if there is anything that you would like me to feature more--or less, for that matter--do not hesitate to let me know at bri4579@gmail.com.
I am happy to report that DubiousOne surpassed the 2,000-page-views mark a few days ago with the addition of nearly 300 new visitors in the last three weeks. In layman's terms: Great Success!
Lastly (shameless plug alert!), if you know of anyone who would find my content even remotely appealing, do not be afraid to give them the head's up. Think: Pay It Forward.

-BJW

The Manual: The Perfect Pair--of sunglasses, that is...

2008-07-22T23:02:00.007-04:00

Like taking a thorough shower every morning, you also need a quality pair of sunglasses to get you through the unforgiving rays of the summer sun. Many people fail to take the proper steps towards securing a reliable and stylish pair of shades usually opting for something far less superior located on the plastic, revolving kiosks found in ‘beach’ shops en route to the shore.

Before you fall victim to the vicious cycle of that dreadful machine, take some time and familiarize yourself with these high-quality examples of the ‘perfect pair’:

The Perfect Throwback – ‘Wayfarer’ by Ray Ban, $109, rayban.com

Yadda, yadda! Before all the eye wear impresarios start flapping their gums about this model making the list, take heed: I am not including the ‘Wayfarer’ out of some unspoken deal with the Devil (or Ray Ban, whichever you prefer). This is simply an attempt to pay homage to one of the most iconic pair of shades to grace everything from the silver screen to the walls of the Smithsonian and everything in between.

Wear them with anything else in your closet that you may deem a ‘favorite’. I assure you, no matter how bad the rest of your outfit might look; your sunglasses will be absolutely perfect…

The Perfect Tortoise shell – Rectangular Sunglasses by Persol, $360, persol.com

What may seem like something geared more towards the ‘hipster’ crowd, the rectangular version of Persol’s legendary frames have been created with special attention paid to detail. This devotion to quality has allowed wearers of all facial types to walk the Earth with a better sense of both style and self.

The Perfect Aviator – ‘Hawkings’ Aviators by Tom Ford, $490, shop.nordstrom.com

If you purchase nothing else this summer, be sure that you at least invest in a sleek pair of aviators that you can easily carry over into the just-as-humid-but-not-as-hot fall months. Tom Ford is and was the front-runner for the Gucci fashion house and knows a thing or two about making men look invariably sexy without compromising their masculinity, so it is only fitting that the ‘Hawkings’ takes the cake for the perfect pair of aviators.

-BJW

Tech Review: The Apple iPhone 3G

2008-07-18T05:05:00.004-04:00

Half the price. Twice the upgrades. Those are the two most important things that I wanted to get out as far as the newest iPhone release is concerned.

There is not a phone on Earth right now that could stand up to the capabilities that the new iPhone is willing to offer right now. Along with push e-mail pretty much coming standard, the newest addition to the Apple family boast real-time GPS in conjunction with the Google Maps application as well as faster download times when it comes to surfing the Internet.

In essence, the iPhone 3G is practically everything we’ve been hoping for and more with all the capabilities of some of the most sophisticated Smartphones at nearly half the price of all of them.

-BJW

New Music Review: Santogold - "L.E.S Artistes"

2008-07-18T04:35:00.003-04:00

For some reason when I first heard this track, I was eerily reminded of Tegan & Sara circa "Walking with a Ghost”. Now, I’m not exactly sure if this is a good thing or what but I would like to think that Santogold has a lot of promise with her latest album. Oddly enough, many people would be surprised to find out that Snatogold has been in the singing/songwriting business since 1993, which makes her even more of a wild card at this point.

Santogold - L.E.S Artistes. Directed by Nima Nourizadeh.

All in all, I have a very good outlook for Ms. Santogold but keep in mind that if she doesn’t establish her individuality among the younger crowd as soon as possible she mind end up falling in the ranks somewhere between M.I.A and Tracy Chapman, and that is a level a purgatory I don’t think Dante himself would want to be stuck in.

-BJW

The Essentials: "Something to Drink, Anyone?"

2008-07-14T23:11:00.007-04:00

As we hit the halfway point of the summer, I have quickly come to the realization that for most people in the South there are only a few things that this sticky, humid climate are good for: a reason for women to traipse around in next to nothing, a ruse to legitimize the idea of throwing those infamous 'Hurricane" parties, and the license to drink after 2 P.M.

But before you venture to your nearest grocery store to grab the usual case of Bud Light and ever-so-nifty Styrofoam coolers, sit down and reconsider your options with these no-frills essentials. Bottoms up!

1. Long Drink Tumblers by Riedel (Set of 2), $67, tableandhome.com

These glasses are not only stylish and a great companion to your ever-growing glass collection (you do have one, right?), but they are also serve as a multi-purpose tumbler in the sense that you can make drinks that usually require a highball or you can opt for just a short cocktail kind of elixir with the same glass. Essentially, you need these. Well, at least until you can bump up to a more extensive, glassware roster.

Warning: If you have roommates who are prone to using your newfound glasses for everyday wear-and-tear, please invest in some new roommates, for your own sake.

2. Hendrick's Gin, $30 (750 ml), hendricksgin.com

I must admit, I was never really a huge gin fan until I took a trip to New York a few months back and had a Hendrick’s variation of the gimlet at the Roosevelt Hotel. After that, the rest was practically history. Speaking of which, Hendrick’s gin has a very rich past that started all the way across the pond in Scotland during the 19th century. Hendrick’s has strong hints of both juniper and cucumber (yes, cucumber) which makes this spirit worthy of more than just a half-and-half of store-brand orange juice.

3. Martini and Rossi Asti Spumante, $11, martini.com

Keep a bottle or two of this on chill at all times, you know, for those small victories in life. This sweet spumante is perfect for those who aren’t privy to the dozens and dozens of high-end champagnes that are on the market. Don’t worry, I don’t judge…

4. Chivas Regal 12-Year Old Scotch, $35 (750 ml), chivas.com

Do not be intimidated at the idea of indulging in a spirit that is probably older than many of the things that you own, that just means that this scotch is delightfully aged and mature (read: delicious). Scotch of this caliber should be consumed both neat and slow because it’s not everyday you’ll have the opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy something this uncommon.

5. Mr. Boston's Bartender's and Party Guide, $10, amazon.com

Take an afternoon and flip through the pages of the book that has been the Bible for bartenders from some of the most well-known establishments in the country since 1935. Maybe after a little practice you, too, can shake and stir ‘em like some of the best...maybe...

-BJW

DubiousEndorses: The 'I'm So Chris-py" Blog

2008-07-14T00:14:00.006-04:00

I don’t normally do this but…

As much as I would love to forever inhabit this heavenly slice of the World Wide Web, I’ve realized that the only way the masses are ever going to get their hand on that good, wholesome, Dubious-type advice is to branch out to my fellow bloggers.

Speaking of which, I stumbled upon one such individual who willingly admits that he is “just tryin’ to get famous on the internet”…Duly noted, Chris.

This Central Jersey native’s musings include everything from a shout out to an up-and-coming remix impresario from Canada to a mini-war, of sorts, with the lead singer of the group who sang about a quaint, little town in Massachusetts—whom he just so happened to go to college with.

Either way, this guy is definitely one to keep a look out for if you’re in search of a good laugh, a promising new act or even the occasional ‘friend fight’.

-BJW

DubiousCraves: The John Varvatos Henley

2008-07-13T23:27:00.006-04:00

John Varvatos Henley, $109, shop.nordstrom.com

Aside from the fact that Mr. Varvatos is probably one of my more admired designers, it has been scientifically proven that women love a man in a long-sleeved henley shirt.

There is a certain, rakish c’est la vie attitude that comes with wearing one and not only are they practical enough to wear during those cooler summer nights, but they have enough of a trim and stylish appeal that they can be paired with a good pair of jeans, desert boots and a relaxed jacket for more ‘dressed-up’ affairs.

Give yourself a reason to show off those summer workout sessions and leave a button (or two) open for good measure. Oh, and don’t brandish a full-waxed chest for this one; there’s something almost pre-pubescent about the ability to see one’s reflection off of themselves.

-BJW