Baby, we're a dying breed

We rallied and raised up

I have to tell you, folks. When I first launched The Style Guide In Brief earlier this summer, I didn’t anticipate it turning, if ever so briefly, into a fan newsletter for The Killers. But, such is the case on the heels of the sixth studio album by the iconic rockers, “Imploding The Mirage” — as I type, I’m listening yet again to “Dying Breed,” a song that only The Killers could write (think Springsteen + The War On Drugs, as sung by the inimitable Mr. Brandon Flowers). Talk about ambition, passion and work ethic — it all comes together in this record. And if you’re as excited about this album (and that song in particular!), I’d love to hear from you — follow me on Twitter or send me an E-mail here.

We’ll step away from The Killers momentarily (very briefly!) to get the rest of this newsletter rolling. After all, it’s Tuesday, and there’s lot to be done this week. On your to-do list: Some time to scope out the ongoing Cool Material Summer Sale. To make it easier on you, I covered one of the best men’s style sales of the moment over on the blog in this post. Have at it, my friends. For now, let’s cover the best of the rest below. Plug in those headphones — we’re getting to work.

What To Listen To This Week: “Dying Breed” By The Killers

As promised in the headline, here we are. “Dying Breed” was the final single released off the latest, truly excellent album by The Killers (one that’s being hailed as a comeback of sorts by some). When it comes to songs to play on repeat, I’ve been equally enthralled by this track (“We’re cut from a stained glass mountain, baby we’re a dying breed”). It’s a barnburner from start to finish, and features what Mr. Flowers himself says are some of the most romantic lyrics he’s ever written, and from a songwriter that knows how to turn a phrase, that’s saying something. I mean, it’s all right there in the lyrics:

“From the coveted touch of a girl in love
I was lifted by the sound of a spirit in need
Baby, we're a dying breed”

It really gets going at about the two-minute work, with crashing drums and light keys that call to mind, yes, The Boss.

Is that a bad thing? Not in my book — not at all, in fact. The Killers have always worn musical influences on their well-appointed, tailored sleeves, and when it’s executed this well and in this unique a fashion (as only they can!), I’ve got no problem with it — how about you? Every era needs a defining band that can bring crowds to their feet and fill stadiums with meaningful music (See: U2, The Rolling Stones, et. al). To me, The Killers just so happen to be that stadium-filling band for my generation, in my humble opinion (heck, look at their Wembley Stadium show, for starters!). I say that because this song in particular is one I can’t WAIT to hear live when live shows return … at the end of next summer? Or next fall?? Who else is with me on that? I know I’ll continue to spin this song the rest of the week (and year).

What To Shop This Week: Belstaff Racemaster Jacket

In honor of the impending start of fall, and of course, in honor of a guy who knows how to wear the bejesus out of a stylish jacket, let’s take a look at the rugged, expertly cut and expertly crafted Belstaff Racemaster Jacket. It’s so named because it’s an ideal jacket for getting behind the wheel or on your bike, and then hitting the open road (and it’s been worn for those pursuits for years on end). This British brand has excelled at making waxed jackets for decades, and they’re also a favorite of another modern-day style icon (that’d be Mr. David Beckham). But why invest in this Belstaff jacket right now? That’s easy: It’s a rugged-yet-refined, seriously versatile jacket fit for fall road trips, complete with tough construction and plenty of wearability. Now, bear in mind, this jacket goes for about $460 USD, and should feature a tailored fit & standout durability. What does all that mean? Quite simply, that means it’s worth the price tag, and you’ll wear it all the time.

To wit: If I were you, I’d wear this over a thermal henley with faded denim and some FRYE leather boots, day after day … after day (you’ve got plenty of henleys and denim ready to go, right?). Remember: When it comes to fall outerwear, go with Belstaff. After all, a guy like David Beckham can’t be wrong, can he?

Shop Belstaff

What To Sip This Week Parlor Coffee’s Wallabout Coffee

It’s energy to fuel the week ahead that you need right now, and what better place to get it from than Parlor Coffee? Well, there’s perhaps one more thing that’ll help fuel your week … the music of The Killers, naturally. But I digress. One of the things I’ve missed the most during the pandemic is the chance to visit a new coffee shop, get a fresh cold brew or a hot mug, kick back with some reading and take in the ambiance. However, that might change soon, because Parlor Coffee just so happens to be based in Brooklyn (and helpfully, they’re stocked and sold by Bespoke Post, also out of NYC). I haven’t had the chance to visit, of course, but it’s very high on my list now. And the fact that they’re sold online? Well, that’s great news for you, because Parlor Coffee’s Wallabout Coffee is bringing the taste of fresh Brooklyn coffee home. For a busy week filled with plenty of writing, that sounds quite ideal to me.

The Final Pick: FRYE Bowery Chelsea Boots

I’m all about pieces you can mix and match together, and if I were you, I’d make it a point to get the iconic Belstaff Racemaster Jacket and team it with the FRYE Bowery Chelsea Boots. What do both of these menswear essentials have in common? Well, in keeping with the theme of today’s post, I can think of … yes, an ever-stylish frontman who’d dig these. Heck, scuffed-up Chelsea boots are as surefire a rock n’roll style staple as it gets, and you’d do well to invest in some of the best boots for men right here. With more than a century of American heritage and craftsmanship, FRYE is surely good for it, my friends. And yes, when rock shows finally start up again, I’m going to be dressed in style for a concert — best believe that.

Who else is ready to face the rest of the week in sufficiently energetic, rock-inspired style? Let’s make it a head-to-toe effort, from the FRYE Bowery Chelsea Boots to your waxed jacket and of course, the soundtrack you’re spinning. It’ll be more music by The Killers for me, as you might have guessed, and I don’t anticipate that changing any time soon. After all, I need the energy — be sure to check out my work at Maxim and GearMoose, plus The Manual. And to tide you over until Saturday’s newsletter, you can always check out my blog. Thanks, as always, for reading and for being here.