Brad Thornton

Loquacious. Style-Oriented. Wanderer. Sharing my salad days in The City by the Bay. var _gaq = _gaq || []; _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'UA-33668627-1']); _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']); (function() { var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true; ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s); })(); (function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));

[bradthornton]

Flugtag

Sorry everyone, it's been a busy few weeks and I haven't been able to take as much advantage of this fabulous city as I'd like to Also I'm broke right now but it's time to gt back on board. First up, my inaugural visit to Red Bull's annual travelling Flugtag Festival.

The German word, which means flight day, features teams of amateur "aircrafts" jettisoning off a pier and into a large body of water, in this case McCovey Cove directly adjacent to AT&T park, home to the Giants. It was the first time since 2002 that the event had returned to San Francisco, the first US city to ever host the travelling exhibition.

Prior to the event, there was a spectacular airshow by a few daredevils who navigated hanggliders powered by propellers to a spectacular and precise landing on the dock.

I set out with my roommates in a Lyft and we found ourselves in a crowd of over 100,000 people who had turned out to witness the spectacle. We soon discovered that between each team's flight (and crash) there were skits and interviews with the other teams. It soon became clear that the few beers we had downed prior wouldn't be sufficient to carry us through the day.

But that's not to suggest that it wasn't enjoyable. There's just such delightful schadenfreude in seeing such magnificent vehicles plummeting into the icy Pacific. 

We eventually realized that the gaping crowds around the edge of the pier were only a portion of the audience. The Park had actually been opened up to allow spectators to view from the giant monitors while sitting on the field.

Security guards monitored vigilantly, chastizing those who were standing on ledges to secure a better view. Although I don't think anyone really minded this little sweetheart.

Once the thrill had worn off, we headed over to the historic Hotel Utah Saloon, famous for its open mic nights and (now) staining my white shorts with its delicious Chili Fries.

We had a couple beers, a couple laughs and went our separate ways. I ended my evening with a few other friends on our back patio sharing a couple glasses of wine, much as I'm doing right now. 

Thanks for your continued support and I hope the rest of your week is going great!

[bradthornton]

Haberdash

Sposored by The Bold Italic and Do415, The Haberdash took place last night at the historic Great American Music Hall. The event, featuring some of the finest in SF Men's fashion coincided with Movember, a monthlong effort launched to promote awareness of cancer that specifically affects men, namely prostate and testicular. To show support, men across the nation make a pledge online and grow out their facial hair. I'm working on a pretty sweete stache myself, but alas I am a Ginger so I can only do so much.

Traveling fashion boutique Topshelf was parked outside the venue, giving those waiting in line a chance to peruse clothes in a unique environment. Taking cues from food trucks, the company's owner Christina Ruiz skipped the overhead of a brick and mortar boutique to bring stylish duds right to her customers.

Once inside, we grabbed our overpriced drinks from our overly aggressive bartender and settled in the mezzanine. Soon, the show began, featuring fashions from contributors as varied as online retailer Bonobos to Lower Haight institution D Structure.

The styling choices were classic hipster SF male. The stylists were definitely going for the tattooed, mustachioed startup-working boyfriend we all wish we had, with his 4 Barrel coffee in one hand and medical marijuana referral in the other. Lots of classic basics in neutral shades, cuffed pants, declarative headware and great shoes (which I learned came courtesy of Kurt Geiger).

.

Though the fashions were on point, the execution was a bit muddled. Models hurried along the runway, running into eachother and even leaving the runway empty for minutes on end as Popscene's DJ Omar tried to keep the vibe of the event up. The unpredictable womp of the dubstep soundtrack mirrored the panic visible on the organizers' faces.

But as always, the show must go on. Switching gears musically and stylistically, The Artful Gentleman took the stage showing off their bespoke attire. I only wish my blurry iPhone pictures could do these suits justice.

As Lenny Kravitz boomed through the speakers, the models strutted the catwalk. Flashing the intricate silk lining of their jackets like a peacock preening, they looked impeccable and they knew it.

And before you knew it the show had come to an end with each of the stylish guys taking the stage one last time.

We hit the everpresent photobooth for a few fun shots before the musical portion of the evening began.

First up? AB and the Sea.

Their brand of infectious sunkissed pop was delightful, although I couldn't shake the thought that they would fit right in on The OC.

Finally the night's headliners Wildcat! Wildcat! took the stage. The ambient rock vibe was an interesting choice, but it wasn't really until they got into their cover of Tears for Fears' classic "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," that the crowd started to feel their vibe. 

All in all a great night of friends, fashion and photobombing. The weekend is almost here! Hope you guys have a fun-filled few days to look forward to!

[bradthornton]

Kelly Clarkson

It's not every weekend that includes a Knife Party, An American Idol and legions of children, but when the opportunity arises, you just kinda have to go with it. 

On Friday night, I made my first voyage to Oakland's Fox Theater to see Knife Party. I was really excited as this group, rising from the ashes of other favorite group Pendulum, has come up with some bangers. What I wasn't anticipating was the crowd.

Everyone was in High Middle School. I know I've been trying to go to EDM shows less and less but this might have just done it for me. The only thing more depressing than a sea of thizzed out 12 year olds in "Sex, Drugs and Dubstep" brotanks and Kandi is being a 24 year old at the same concert. I couldn't bring myself to stay for the whole event, I had to get my geriatric ass back to San Francisco. But I'll definitely be back as long as someone keeps the fetuses out.

I woke up Saturday morning and, after a brief check-in with facebook, discovered that America's sweetheart and love of my high school life, Kelly Clarkson would be playing a free concert in Corte Madera just north of the city as a promotion for the newly opened Windows Store.

We picked up the tickets and decided to have a Real Housewives of Marin day, sipping wine al fresco, running errands and even getting ice cream.

When showtime finally arrived I once again was greeted by a crowd of children, only this time the age range skewed even younger. We weren't quite surprised, having wondered aloud what the demo for a Kelly Clarkson concert is. Regardless, it was a delightful family friendly day with the delightfully self-deprecating Clarkson belting out modern classics like "Since U Been Gone", "Stronger and even a cover of "We are Young" by fun.

[bradthornton]

Election

Beautiful day here in San Francisco. Can't wait to get off work and go VOTE even if my polling place is in a dilapidated halfway house on 6th street

[bradthornton]

Oscilating

Mission and First Street, San Francisco

[bradthornton]

Climb

It wasn't all Whiskey and Crosby Stills during my recent jaunt in Joshua Tree. On our last morning we decided that we couldn't possibly go all the way out to Joshua Tree and not go on a hike. So off we set, this time fully prepared. 

The landscape is absolutely breathtaking. Acres and acres of trees spread out before your eyes, the jagged leaves playing tricks on you.

As you leave civilization behind, the paths lead off into a seemingly endless desert landscape.

We ascended to peak after peak, climbing to the top and taking in breathtaking views from the vista.

Making our way back down was a bit of a challenge, but the trip was well worth it. 

I can't wait to go back.

Additional photos courtesy Jake Akemann

[bradthornton]

Glenfiddich

Being single in the city, you grow weary of going on the same dinner date over and over, the only difference being the name of the company where your potential paramour works. To this end, I refuse to go on any more dinner dates (shit get's expensive!) and until I eventually give in and start going to AA, I much prefer the casual post-work drinks date. But even that can get a little boring. So last night I took my possible future ex out to an event I'd registered for, a Glenfiddich tasting held in the vaults of The Old Mint, just a few blocks from my apartment.

Entering into the catacombs of the building, we were greeted by dim lighting and restored brick walls. Gentle house music filled the corridor as we walked between the vaults to either side.

In the first one, we sampled the 12 year single malt whiskey, which featured a smooth, fruity overtone.

You know I love a good hors d'oeuvre and fortunately the event did not disappoint.

Brass lighting fixtures cast a gentle glow against the age brick of the vaults.

Originally constructed in 1874, the building housed reserves until closing in 1937. Also known as the Granite Lady, in 1961 it was declard a National Historical Landmark and is the future home of the Museum of the City of San Francisco. In the interim, its vaults are rented out as an event venue.

Next up was the 15 years aged sample, which was my favorite. The delicate taste literally evaporated on my tongue.

We made casual conversation, found some common ground, made some jokes, got to that intimate proxemic zone  and finally ventured to the variety that had been aged 18 years just the way I like my men. 

A man in a kilt took this opportunity to inform us that Glenfiddich, still owned and operated by the original family who had started the brand was celebrating its 125th year anniversary. The main visual of the night, the cask (below) was even decorated in Giants colors.

He further explained that the special select that we sampled below is referred to as a dram, a beverage given to a visitor once they entered your home in a traditional show of Scottish hospitality. 

I loved the intimate yet historical feel of the venue, and the date wasn't half bad either. I let him walk me home the whole 2 blocks before telling him good night. Sure he was really handsome but a boy's gotta learn self-control at some point. But when the single malt is this good, denying yourself of one type of physical satisfaction is a concession I'm willing to make.

[bradthornton]

Joshua Tree

It's weird how much changes as you get older. I used to despise wheat bread and crunchy peanut butter. Now the thought of white and creamy PB makes me ill. Similarly, my rotund childhood self hated pulling himself away from the television to go outside and play and now, despite my general penchant for sarcasm and citylife, I've found myself spending more and more time in nature provided there's a bathroom and a beer.

After facing the most horrendous drive from LAX to the desert, we arrived in Joshua Tree National Park, a spot famous for inspiring the landmark U2 album of the same name, hallucinogenic trips and featuring an alien-like landscape. We set up camp in our yellow tent, which we dubbed JuJubee. 

We set out on a hike, but quickly decided that, apart from Justin's random burst of speed (and chucking our water bottle into the desert landscape) we weren't really feeling too active on this particular day. 

We made attempts to make ourselves comfortable amid the spiky plants and I draped myself in a flag, convinced that I looked like a vintage Ralph Lauren campaign. But the desert is a hostile place and we quickly sought shelter back at the campsite, cracking open some cold beers and pumping classic rock.

At a certain point we noticed that many of us had brought bubbles. Because clearly what else do you need in a wind-ravaged, sun-bleached environment but soap and wands? Gotta say though, they were pretty entertaining.

And yes, I changed outfits roughly 10 times but whatever, it's the desert the climate shifts. And so do my moods. And I packed entirely too much for a 2 night trip.

The flag, which we dubbed Old Tragic, was an endless source of entertainment. I'd be lying if I said Lana Del Rey's recent "Ride" music video didn't have anything to do with it. But there's just something about clutching the billowing Stars and Stripes above your head as the desert wind rips through the canyon. 

We had earlier been joking that unicorns were going to show up. And y'know what? They kinda did. The beauties below were named Rio and Jazz and were giving me crazy flashbacks.

It was an amazing trip, but it was a trip where we all started to admit that we were getting older. I had thrown my back out prior to coming down and needed to use a special sleeping pad, we swapped Tylenol and eye drops. While I guess you could attribute this to general roughing it, it felt a little weird to admit this weakness. Even in our mid twenties, we're already starting to slow down. But there's no sense dwelling on it.  And it's not like we weren't piecing cigarettes, beers and even an original 4Loko. Afterall, we'll never be this young again.

[bradthornton]

CHAMPIONS!

Last night the San Francisco Giants faced off against the Detroit Tigers in Game 4 of the 2012 World Series. Entering the night, the Giants led the series 3-0 but Detroit, back on their own turf, had the home field advantage. 

The game was a nailbiter, with each team scoring multiple runs but ultimately at the end of the 9th inning, the teams were gridlocked, 3-3. Finally in the 10th inning, the Giants swept ahead and scored a final run edging out the Tigers. And as they struck out the remaining batters, the Giants claimed the title of World Series Champions.

And the city went nuts. The Civic Centered glowed a celebratory orange.

Brooms were hoisted into the air to symbolize the sweep.

Thousands descended upon the plaza in front of the downtown government building to celebrate, throwing their heads back in ecstatic delight.

News stations from all over the bay covered the story with each person vying for camera time.

People and flags hung from moving vehicles as a chorus of horns added to the night's symphony.

Fans of all ages took in the spectacle that paraded down Market Street.

The joy turned rambunctuous as the masses turned their energy on a deserted bus, covering it with graffitti and scaling to the roof.

But despite the slight destruction, nothing can take away that the Giants overcame adversity to seize the title of World Champions. San Francisco!!!!

And now back to my complete indifference towards sports.

[bradthornton]

Flour + Water

Finally made it out to Flour + Water over in the Mission. This famed Italian restaurant has long been on my bucket list and I'm so glad I was able to enjoy it thanks to a last minute cancellation. The group I went with decided to go all and we devoured literally the entire menu.

I loved the soft lighting that they employed to show off the random knickknacks. 

Reservations are hard to get and walk-ins can wait for as much as two hours before getting one of the limited tables available.

  Everything is doused in butter and simply delivcious. I can't wait to go back!

[bradthornton]

World Series

Because I am a huge Sports Fan The Luckiest Boy in the WORLD, I was able to score a ticket to watch the San Francisco Giants dominate in game one of the World Series. Beer in one hand, hot dog in the other, I took my seat in the bleachers.

There's just something incomprehensibly powerful about being surrounded by a sea of fans. Whereas before I was sitting above the crowd, here I was really entrenched in it. My spirits were soaring higher than the fly balls.

I'm so grateful that I've been able to be a part of this historic time in this amazing city.

[bradthornton]

Pioneertown

On our way to Joshua Tree, we passed a sign for a town whose name convinced us we had to check it out. Visions of gunslingers, dusty bonnets and wild horses danced through our head. And you know what? We were pretty spot on. The place's name? Pioneertown.

Originally conceived in the 40's as a live-in movie set, it is built to resemble an old western town complete with dirt roads and old-style wooden buildings.

Clearly meant as a tourist trap, "Donation" buckets are scattered everywhere and older residents are dressed in period costumes as those who've stumbled upon it take novelty photos.

Like this...

Creepiest mannquin I've ever seen.

Deceptively beautiful purple cactus.

Hitching a ride.

The Old Western Saloon was nothing more than a series of swinging doors with a painted wall behind it. Simmi emerging and looking radiant.

We took some photos and avoided cactuses, but ultimately it was just a stop on the way to Joshua Tree and one of the most incredible weekends of my young life.

[bradthornton]

NL Champs

A list minute ticket to Game 7 of the NL Championships had me back at AT&T Park last night. There had been scattered showers earlier so I had a little trepidation, but when you get a free seat to the most anticipated game of the year, you don't say no.

The stadium was packed with over 43,000 fans, all waving their orange rally rags and cheering as if their lives (and the life of the team) depended on it.

As the sun set, the seagulls began circling and the air became misty. But with 5 runs in a single inning, this wasn't a game I intended to miss any part of.

The mist turned into a heavy drizzle, soaking the field and forcing the team to put down new dirt and send in a relief pitcher. But with the score locked at 9-0 in the 9th inning and the clouds opening up, we just wanted it to be over so we could celebrate.

And as Romo struck out their last batter, celebrate we did. Smoke cannons erupted and fireworks ignited the night sky. 

As we exited the stadium, the rain began coming in torrents, absolutely blanketing the emerging crowds and soaking us to the bone.

But at a certain point you have to accept that you might be wet, but your team are champions. We ran through the streets, screaming, jumping in puddles (my boat shoes will never be the same) and delighting as car horns honked and people shouted out of their windows.

I may not be a huge sports fan but I am damn proud of my city. GO GIANTS!

[bradthornton]

Getting outdoorsy in Joshua Tree this weekend, back with photos and stories on Monday.

[bradthornton]

[bradthornton]

TI

I rose with the sun, last night's drinks still hanging faintly on my breath. The sky was positively illuminated and I skipped out from my apartment, headphones in my ears ready to embrace the day at Treasure Island Music Festival.

Widely considered to be the last hurrah of SF Festival Season, Treasure Island is now in it's sixth year taking place on its namesake island in the middle of the Bay. Our first stop was at Momo's the restaurant that sits directly across from AT&T Park. 

We gobbled up the spread to pad our stomachs for the day's adventure. 

But no brunch would be complete without drinks. Muddled raspberries just add such a nice kick to champagne so artisan. Thanks for the hand in the background, Travis.

The tickets came courtesy of Pandora, who supplied a bus to get us all to the island.

Chad making friends with the woman checking us in for our VIP bracelets. Love her hat! 

Approximately 2 seconds after this shot, security demanded suggested that I move on to another area.

So we chased the magical bubbles.

Making our way to the VIP tent, I took refuge in the shade while our other friends were glued to the flatscreens following the day's football games.

Unfortunately I missed out on the facepainting adventure.

I ventured out to meet Eric at the Pirate ship and drink in the complimentary beer the view of the island.

Following a misadvised run-in with a trampoline, I joined Peter, Kate and our other friends resting on the grass. Like Hardly Strictly, I like how this is a smaller festival where even if you lose friends, you're never really lost. I had a great time but don't know if I've ever paid less attention to the musicians at a festival #FirstWorldProblems

Sorry that the last few posts have been so scattered. We'll return to our regularly scheduled program soon.

[bradthornton]

Prizm

My roommate Peter has an apparel line, Free Dirt. I've featured his can't-miss-it Windsnapper in these pages before and on Friday he teamed up with his friend Tony as well as PrizmEyes to host an event at a new club in Soma, Alibi.

The merchandise laid out in the entryway.

Tony and Tyler work together as TNT DJ's (get it? Tony and Tyler) playing bombastic house music to rev up the crowd. 

PrizmEyez, the co-sponsor of the party, sells prizm infused plastic glasses that refract light sent from lasers. Essentially they're more substantial versions of the paper glasses handed out at concerts that literally melt to your face as your dancing makes you sweat. Carolyn, the founder, after being inspired at Coachella a few years ago, started the business out of her parent's house and now is selling them on a huge scale, even supplying 10,000 pairs to the Electric Daisy Carnival this past June.

The founder models some loud fashions.

Hope you all had a great weekend!