Revival of the Traditional Barber Shop Book Cover Release!

Posted on January 20, 2017 by admin

Folks,

In 2013 we started a book, the first of its kind, a modern traditional barber history that documents the revival as it happens. We figured why wait 15-20 years after the fact. Our goal is to document history as it is happening. Not only did we document the revival but also the founders and progenitors of the revival. The barber shops featured in the Southern California edition are influential in their communities and have a worldwide impact in the profession.

The delays have been numerous but we plan to have the book completed by the end of the year. A few delays; a photographer burned us for photos so we had to re-shoot, over 4,200 photos to sort through, selecting the right publisher, and life! Finding the right publisher proved to be a major obstacle. We sought out many publishers during the last few years but each had terms and conditions that we felt compromised the integrity of the book so we decided to do what we have done with all of our projects and that is to be independent and self publish. Another great benefit of self publishing is that we found one in the USA which is a major benefit. The drawback with these choices is a higher cost per unit. The big publishing corporations don’t make it easy for independents to publish their own books but nevertheless that’s exactly what we’re going to do.

We anticipate offering pre-orders and barbershops and companies may obtain the book at wholesale. The barbershops that participated in the book can purchase the book at cost. Our publisher offers volume discounts so that is what we’re aiming for. If we get enough pre-orders with considerable volume then we can place orders.

We thank everyone for your patience. Updates will be posted on social media and our website.

For all the barber shops that participated in the book you need to contact us ASAP to complete the interview if you haven’t already done so. Without your interview the book cannot be published and your history will not be told. I cannot stress this enough because the book is a modern traditional barber history we need you stories. Contact publishing@gentlemensavenue.com

Heritage Series Honors Mid-Century Barber Shop Kawasaki, Japan, limited exclusive design!

Posted on January 1, 2017 by admin

Gents,

As we start 2017 we wanted to kick it in the teeth and get it started by honoring a very dear friend of mine from Kawasaki, Japan. Mr. Toshiyuki Abe established an amazing barber shop in 1996 and has been flourishing for 20 years.

Not only has Mr. Abe created a phenomenal traditional barber shop but both of his sons are also barbers! That’s right the Abe family tradition will carry on the ancient profession of barbering in Japan for the next generation.

Take a look at the gallery of photos that range from when the shop first opened to the present day. There is a deep respect for the profession and a legacy is being forged one cut at a time. Thank you for the support in Japan Mr. Toshi. You can read about his legacy in a previous article we published.

LIMITED TIME ONLY T-SHIRT!
to purchase t-shirt email sales@GentlemensAvenue.com

Has Sailor Jerry’s Dream Come True?

Posted on December 30, 2016 by admin

The other day as I was scrolling through my social media feed and I noticed an interesting pattern of postings from around the world. They originated from Japan, the Netherlands, UK, Spain, North America, Canada, etc… and the one thing they share in common is the reverence for traditional Americana tattoo style.

As I sat there reflecting on this observation a conversation I had with Mr. Ed Hardy a few years ago came to mind in which he stated that Sailor Jerry envisioned that traditional American tattoo style would one day develop and “match the Japanese style”. According to Mr. Hardy, “Jerry made that comment because Japanese tattooing was the most sophisticated visually and thematically in the world at that time and he and I and a (very) few others were on a crusade to realize the potential of the art in the West.” So that got me thinking and I began to wonder, had Sailor Jerry’s goal/dream come true? Has traditional Americana tattoo style risen to the level of intricacy and reverence of the Japanese?

Tattooing has been around for thousands of years and the oldest can be found on Ötzi, the European Tyrolean Iceman that dates to 3250 BC. In Japan the ancient art of tattooing can be traced to as early as 5,000 BC on clay figures that had their faces painted and carvings on their bodies. The Japanese tattoo style contained epic depictions of their history, mythology and folklore with coloring and designs that would adorn the human canvas. Their imagery was iconic an indelible throughout the world.

Sailor Jerry had an appreciation and fondness for the detailed work, coloring, designs and size of these epic suits that were tattooed upon the human body. But how would traditional Americana style ever elevate to the prominence of the Japanese style tattoo. Don’t forget Sailor Jerry died in 1973 and at that time it was unfathomable to think that traditional Americana tattoo style would ever rise to what it has become.

Today traditional Americana tattoo art is not exclusive to North America or the human canvas because it can be purchased on flash sheets, prints, T-shirt designs, skate decks, pillowcases and is also displayed in galleries and independent museums. The nostalgic style is virtually around the world and revered. The roots of the style can be credited to artist such as Bob Shaw, Bert Grimm, Paul Rogers, Cap Coleman, Owen Jensen, Ed Hardy and many more. A great example of modern Americana style is Howlin’ Wolf, a tattooer for 20 years, “my earliest recollection of Americana or traditional art was the tattoos of old rockabilly or punk rockers I’d see either at shows, gigs or car shows.” His style hearkens back to Sailor Jerry but remains unique and that is rarity in the tattoo world, “Americana to me in an artistic sense means lots of things, but mainly it’s pure and true nature, whether its patriotic, western or taboo” says Howlin’ Wolf. Following in the footsteps of traditional Americana tattoo masters has become a road that many are traveling and is a testament of the grandeur and legacy of the forefathers.

Tattoo culture was once marginalized but has spread around the world and the bold lines and timeless designs of traditional Americana have stood the test of time. Traditional Americana tattoo style is not only for military, ex-cons, or bikers and society has affirmed this style of art to its rightful place among other ancient revered styles of Polynesians and Japanese. Mr. Hardy says, “I never dreamed it would happen in my lifetime, Sailor Jerry would be stoked.”

You can find the definitive collection of Sailor Jerry books at Hardy Marks

120 Years Of Barbering The Film, Japanese Edition! 2017 Release!

Posted on November 28, 2016 by admin

We are honored to announce that our groundbreaking film will be released in Japan with subtitles in 2017! Not only did we add subtitles to our film but we also translated the iconic film poster created by Howlin Wolf.

The film will be distributed in Japan by our good friend Masa. Be on the lookout early 2017 for this special release.

Watch “Life Comes Full Circle” film for FREE!

Posted on November 17, 2016 by admin

To celebrate the birthday of Eric Webb (11/17) we created a promo code that will enable you to watch the film for FREE (during 11/17/16-11/21/16). Make sure you click this link and use promo code HBD17.

Happy Birthday Eric!

Is This A Threat To Barbering? Case Study #1

Posted on November 9, 2016 by admin

Folks,

Recently we posted a question on social media that stated “The Greatest Threat To Barbering Is…” and a few people responded with their perspective and anecdotal information. One individual provided data that we found interesting and shocking so we decided to use it as a case study. We verified the information and found it to be correct.

We are not going to out the individual and we really do not care that he has “success” but the point of the case study is to document what barbers have been saying about their profession and provide evidence to substantiate or refute their claims. We are not judging them but it is important to document the trends of this ancient profession before catastrophe strikes again (i.e. The Great Barber Depression 1960’s-1990’s).

So let’s get to the case study. The subject, from what we found, was a normal looking fella 3 years ago and was proud of his new job at a big box store. In 2014 there were no apparent tattoos on his torso, neck or arms but we may have missed a lower back or ankle tattoo. In 2013 he was an apprentice at a barber shop. This is vital data because it takes about 1- 1 1/2 years to become a barber after the apprenticeship.

Presently, the subject has tattoos that start on his neck and extend down to his fingers. So within the span of 2 years the subject had tons of ink put into his skin. Not sure if they all have deep meanings but nevertheless it happened. The subject has over 30, 000 followers on one social media platform alone! This is a huge symbol of popularity and creates credibility. The subject is also a “celebrity barber judge/educator” at several major barber/cosmo events and is sponsored by a major corporation. Typically to be a judge or educator in society you need education, experience and credibility.

How did this “success” and meteoric rise to being part of barbering elite or a “master barber” occur within the span of 2 years? Once again, we are not judging or hating on them or doubting their “passion” for the game/hustle. What does this case study mean to the ancient profession of barbering? That is a question that we cannot answer and we leave you to make a conclusion based on the data we collected.

Stay tuned because there is more case studies to come…. Why are we doing this? We are not barbers or pretend to be. We have a deep reverence for the ancient profession and believe that history must be documented as it happens and not after the fact.

Hopefully the catastrophe that many long-term barbers have predicted can be averted.

Mr. M
Founder/Editor

“Life Comes Full Circle” Barber Shop Film Release!

Posted on October 16, 2016 by admin

“Quick lil history lesson for all you up and coming barbers out there across the world who think it’s hip and cool, and are lucky enough to be tattooed with a good job; Eric Webb and his mentor Jake were the first two dudes out of Southern California in the early 90’s to introduce the ‘look and style’ of today’s “tattooed barber” movement across the world! He might just be the reason you became a barber without you even knowing it!”
Tim co-owner of Syndicate Barber Shop in Long Beach, CA

EXCLUSIVE interview with barber icon Eric Webb. Eric is one of two men who set the pace for the Traditional Barber Revival in Southern California that has now spread around the globe.

Eric and Phil Hernandez have created an amazing shop in Orange, California that is only a few steps away from the founder of the traditional tattooed barbering movement, Jake Bricks, original shop. Although, Eric does not seek fame or prestige and his humility in the profession of barbering is a rarity.

We also included interviews with Wolfman barber, Local Barber Hirakawa from Japan and Barber Harley from South Korea! Watch them discuss the influence of American Barbering on their culture and the consequences of being tattooed barbers in their countries. This is a super rare interview that you don’t want to miss and wont find anywhere else.

To watch the full 40 min film and trailer click here
Use Promo code: JakeBricks15
for 15% off

A Trip Down Memory Lane With American Razor Barber Shop

Posted on August 12, 2016 by admin

An eight year old boy and his father get ready to partake in a bi-weekly trip to the local barber shop. As long as he can remember only one barber shop has cut his hair. This particular barber shop is located in a strip mall. As they approach the barber shop the sight of young and old sitting down patiently waiting for their turns as they watch sports on TV quickly floods the boys field of view. Upon entering the shop the sounds of laughter and muffled discussions fills the air. All the familiar smells and fragrances of musk and bay rum rushes into his nostrils as the father and son have a seat. Copies of Sports Illustrated and hunting magazines fill the shelves and it is the only time the young boy will have a chance to read these magazines. Suddenly his father signals the barber and the waiting begins.

Finally it is the young boys turn, as he gets up and looks around the barber shop he is fascinated by all the sports pennants hanging on the wood paneled walls. The only words that he is instructed to speak to the barber are, “please give me a trim and taper.” For the next 30 minutes the young boy sits on the same chair were young and old alike sit. Once the haircut is complete and he has examined it through the handheld mirror the boy slowly rises from the chair and once again becomes an eight year old but his father has given him one more responsibility because he must pay the barber. Not only will he pay for the cut but he will also give the tip. Before he leaves the cash register the barber produces a bowl full of candy and the man-child quickly obliges and walks away completely content.

Scenes such as these are played out all around the world and the setting may be different but barbering and life go hand-in-hand whether you’re young or old every man needs grooming. It seems like barbershops today are popping up on every corner and sometimes within a block or two of each other. Social media and superstar status have become the norm but in the college town of Fullerton, California one barbershop has been in business for over 50 years and its soul remains intact.

The shop is located a few miles from California State University Fullerton and Fullerton College. The city has a large college population and many people are only passing through but the barber shop is a constant. During the last 50 years a few cosmetic changes have taken place but the original barber chairs remain. The wood paneled walls and the back bar got a face lift but the shop layout and atmosphere is the same and the current owner has alot to do with that. Bruno Sanchez has been barbering since 1983 and took over the shop in 2011. Bruno is an old-fashion type of barber with the gift of gab. He may tell you stories that’ll make you question their validity but will be wholeheartedly entertaining. There is no sense of flare or “prima-donna-esque” tendencies.

Although Bruno may not have tens of thousands of followers on social media or possess any barber battle belts or trophies the shop is true to professional barbering. Make no mistake this is an old-fashion barber shop. What I mean by old-fashion is not a time warp or leap to another century because this shop is an original 1960’s men’s barber shop. We are talking pre-Beatles and pre-hippies! I cannot remember the last time I saw a shop in person or social media that had live plants. The colors just really pop and I am not sure if Bruno or anyone else realizes it but that is true 1800’s-early 1900’s barber decor.

The name of the shop has changed to American Razor Barber Shop and is an institution where men can receive grooming services. A place that is not work or home but is the magical third place where camaraderie and style are intertwined.

This is my childhood barbershop where I remained a patron well into my teen years and as an adult I have been back a few times and sat in the same chair. I may be older and have a few more accomplishments under my belt but that barber chair is not concerned whether I am a child, Mr. M, writer, publisher or a filmmaker because in that chair I am a patron.

Walking into American Razor barber Shop floods my mind and senses with memories of being a child and the awe in which I viewed barbers. That reverence continues because barbering is sacred and vital in all communities. I am sure if anyone would have mentioned barbering as a “game”, “hustle” or “brand” in this barber shop back in the day they would have been ridiculed and badgered.

I hope that barber shops, wherever they may be, will be encouraged to develop an institution that is built upon tradition and is conducted in a professional way because you never know who that child may grow up to be. Maybe a man who will one day write about you for his website and barber magazine. Never underestimate the influence of this ancient profession known as Barbering. Thank you for taking the trip down memory lane with me.

Editing Resumes On 120 Years Of Barbering The Film: Update 2.0

Posted on July 15, 2016 by admin

Gents,

On the set of 120 Years Of Barbering The Film, “Mr. Fred could spit into the wind and it will keep on going.” photo credit: Eric

It’s been a long 1 1/2 months recovering from my back injury and an extremely slow process but I thank God that progress has been made. Still not 100% healthy but your patience and understanding has been a great blessing.

I am glad to resume the final edits on this amazing film. Although my pace may be a bit slower, that is dependent on a day to day. I already edited the film twice and this should be the last and final edit. I anticipate the edits should be done by the end of July and if everything goes well the film will be released in August. Barring any unforeseen changes or setbacks. The first two edits have forged this amazing story of two old time barbers who have a combined 120 years of barbering experience.

My standard for the film has not been lowered and I am still determined to make this the best damn film on barbering history available. You will not view barbering the same!

I must thank everyone involved with the film and especially our sponsor Donnie Hawley for his understanding during this difficult time.

Your Friend,

Mr. M
Editor/Founder
Psalm 36:5

Are Cuban Cigars Good Because They Are Forbidden Fruit?

Posted on July 5, 2016 by admin

Gents,

In the early 1960’s American culture was conservative and the hippies and beat-nicks had not made their impact upon the world. The Super Powers (USA and Soviet Union) were engaged in a race to land on the moon and the birth control pill was approved by the FDA. These events were pre-1962 in which the Super Powers had a missile crisis in Cuba that led to the USA imposing a trade embargo against Cuba.

Before President John F. Kennedy signed the trade embargo he sent his press secretary to buy 1,200 boxes of H. Upmann Petit Coronas, Cuban cigars, before they were made illegal. This act by the President demonstrated the value and importance of Cuban cigars before politics.

Since 1962 Cuban cigars are no longer imported into the USA. Current policy only allows $100 worth of Cuban tobacco products that can be brought into the country which amounts to 2-6 cigars (depending on quality).

For the last 50 plus years Cuban cigars were a forbidden fruit in the USA. Cigar aficionados have differing opinions on whether Cuban cigars are the apex of tobacco but make no mistake the climate, tradition, seed and history is firmly planted on that island and incomparable. Cuban cigars hold such a high regard there are plenty of fakes on the market so buyer beware.

A few online companies sell them but do your homework and make sure they are credible and don’t sell fakes. One great website is www.TopCubans.com who supplied the Cohiba Siglos IV for this article. Make sure to visit their website and explore the extensive offerings and deals.

We have many different cigars in our humidor/coolidor and must admit the Cohiba’s are unique. It’s not only the iconic logo and black, gold/yellow color scheme that sets them apart but the quality of each cigar is amazing. The triple cap, embossed label and quality of the leaf is everything a cigar should be.

Much like everything else in life everyone’s five senses will not be identical but Cuban cigars should be highly regarded because the history and tradition can produce one of the best smokes of your life.

Cuban cigars are not “good” because they are the forbidden fruit their reputation and quality is what sets the benchmark for all others. Many companies state “Cuban seed” tobacco that is grown somewhere else which is an indicator of the powerful lineage and that is the true greatness of this unique tobacco that is planted on a beautiful island 90 miles away from Florida.

Mr. M
Founder/Editor
Psalm 34:4

GENTLEMEN'S AVENUE

Modern Men of Tradition and Distinction

Tag Archives: Tradition and distinction

Revival of the Traditional Barber Shop Book Cover Release!

Heritage Series Honors Mid-Century Barber Shop Kawasaki, Japan, limited exclusive design!

Has Sailor Jerry’s Dream Come True?

120 Years Of Barbering The Film, Japanese Edition! 2017 Release!

Watch “Life Comes Full Circle” film for FREE!

Is This A Threat To Barbering? Case Study #1

“Life Comes Full Circle” Barber Shop Film Release!

A Trip Down Memory Lane With American Razor Barber Shop

Editing Resumes On 120 Years Of Barbering The Film: Update 2.0

Are Cuban Cigars Good Because They Are Forbidden Fruit?