Ribbens ‘Shakey’ Limited edition collection is exclusive to Oi Polloi and is inspired by the legend of Neil Young. Like our ‘Denny’ jacket which was inspired by the works of Dennis Wilson, the ‘Shakey’ Collection reflects a very prominent and creative time in Neil Youngs career, all be a fairly sad time. The three albums known as the ‘Ditch Trilogy’ - ‘Time fades Away’, Tonight’s The Night’ and the once deleted ‘On The Beach’ are a collection of fantastic albums.

Written after the sad loss of his friend The Crazy Horse legend and guitarist Danny Whitten from a heroin overdose (see Needle and the Damage done) these albums are often known as the ‘Ditch Trilogy’ which, from a remarkable lifelong recording career still sound as touching, warm and with a song writing skill that is close to spiritual.

Ribbens focus is also towards the sartorial style around these albums - ‘Tonights The Night’ - seersucker jacket, vintage Levis and the regal homemade patches, Red Wings pulled tight, lank hair and then there is the slightly slacker pomp of a yellow blazer and white slacks with patterned shirt for ‘On The bech’ album cover.

And it’s with this, Ribbens ‘Shakey’ collection salutes the great work of Mr. Neil Young.

The Ribbens Shakey collection includes a very limited slim fit, handwoven Indian Ikat shirt in wild turquoise and a washed back red. The ‘Shakey’ jacket begins as a rigid constructed Japanese Indigo dyed herringbone cotton that should be worn for a good time, to ensure the right shape, then wash gently to break down the fabric like your favourite jeans.

All parts of the collection are very limited and exclusive to Oi Polloi.

ps ‘Shakey’ was a nickname Neil Youngs pals gave him after they watched some home movies he had made. His camera was none too steady.

River song by Dennis Wilson 1977 from the album Pacific Ocean Blue

The ‘Denny’ jacket was inspired by the works of Dennis Wilson, the drummer of the Beach Boys. Apart from carrying out a sturdy job from behind the drum kit for the legendary group, he later found himself in a song writing role which he crafted as his detachment from the group was starting to unfold. As Brian Wilson fell further into his own exile of depression, Dennis seemed he could be reflecting his own demons in singing some of Brian’s songs from the almost godlike rousing call of ‘Be With Me’ to the tender cry of ‘Forever’ and ‘Never Learn Not To Love.

He would in turn look to pen some of his own tortured lovelorn songs. ‘Denny’ could have be reflecting on his own life’s highs, lows and comedowns. These moments would take shape in a creative pinnacle which was to be his solo album ‘Pacific Ocean Blue’. This album and other solo work would embrace a roll of soul drenched songs, from ‘River Song’ and ‘Dreamer’ to the haunting cry’s of  ‘Thoughts of You’ and later, the fragile ‘Carry Me Home’.

Ribbens raises a glass to his work and dedicated our jacket to Dennis Wilson.

(Source: ribbensmenswear.tumblr)