The Pikasso Guitar: Linda Manzer

There's no question where the inspiration for The Pikasso came from. Designer Linda Manzer created this double sound-hole, quadruple neck, and 42 string instrument back in 1984 after critically acclaimed jazz musician Pat Metheny asked her to design a guitar with "as many strings as possible." She re-did the design in 1992 creating the Pikasso II, which has been on display at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Visit Nanzer's website for video and sound samples of The Pikasso.

(Found via TrendHunter)

Mic Check - One Two

The SOLO pendant light by Re-Surface Design is a new take on the classic mic. The light emitted from the mesh top gives off a disco-like glow. I liked their suggestion for DJs to use it over their turntables to see disc and record labels better.

(Found via Subcontinental.giant)

Double Bass Boombox Fiddle: David Ellis

David Ellis' Double Bass Boombox Fiddle is pretty much what it sounds like (no pun intended). As an artist who was "born into a family immersed in music," his work often mixes music with visual art. I love his fusion of classical instrument and modern technology.

(Found via Sheynk Dot Com)

DIY: Vinyl Projects

Over on Elsewares they carry several vinyl-inspired products like the Vintage Vinyl Frame pictured above (originally seen here). I have a growing record collection and while most of the records I cherish, I've gotten a few that don't play. Inspired by Elsewares' products, I looked into a few DIY projects to find something productive to do with the records. Here's what I found (click for links):

Vintage Vinyl Card Holder

Dali Inspired Melting Clock
The Record Bowl

Does anyone else have any creative DIY projects pertaining to old vinyls? I'd love to hear about them!

Muxtape

Muxtape (no that's not a spelling error) is simple.

1) Create an account
2) Create your own MP3 mix
3) Allow it to be listened to by others on any internet browser/listen to other mixes

Not only is this incredibly easy/brilliant, but it's a great way to share what you're listening to and score some new tunes yourself.

(Found via Urban Outfitters)

Love is In the Air: Carlos Aires

I've alway been impressed with artist who incorporate recycled items into their medium. Carlos Aires' Love is In the Air collection does just that. He's created a line of cut silhouettes from old vinyl records. They are totally fun yet utterly simple!

(Found via Design Crush)

Vampire Weekend

This may be my new favorite band...just kidding...but seriously. I meant to post this a week or so back, but forgot, or got busy. I was reminded after visiting the blog of a man who came and spoke to a class I'm taking.

In their own words:

"The name of this band is Vampire Weekend. We are specialists in the following styles: Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa, Upper West Side Soweto, Campus, and Oxford Comma Riddim."

Vampire Weekend is comprised of four Ivy Leaguers (Columbia Alum to be exact) hailing from New York. Their awesome, their debut CD is out. Give 'em listen!

Learn More / Maybe Fall In Love:

• VW Office Site
• VW Myspace
• VW in Rolling Stone

DIY: iPod Case

Use an old Walkman to camouflage your iPod. Not only is it a great idea, it will likely prevent your iPod from getting stolen.

(Found at swissmiss)

Record Sleeves

Record Envelope is a blog dedicated to showcasing factory record sleeves. I love the concept. It's great to appreciate art and design in less common forms.

Concert Art: Scrojo

Scrojo is a pretty remarkable poster artist working for Belly Up Tavern in Solana, California. He has designed over 800 color prints for a wide variety of musicians.

You can see his work at: Scrojo.com