Lifestyle pioneers Avalaan are bridging the gap between life, fashion, art and sport like no other UK brand. Stranger travels to their mash up world to talk war, art and partying on roofs.

Photographs by Kirstin Prisk

“It’s amazing what some people throw away,” says Al Lindsay with a smile, glancing proudly at his impressive collection of vintage surfboards. Picked up from rubbish dumps and car boot sales, found overgrown in gardens or washed up with the tide, Al’s boards prove that one man’s junk is another man’s gold.

Optimus Prime doing his thing

If you’ve read Blam! in the latest issue of Stranger you’ll know all about how Hollywood blew up the comic book, and you’ll most likely be wanting to read the full interview with Steve White, editor of the new Transformers comic.

Photo Ivory Serra

This is Chris Johanson building a massive installation of traffic, buildings and hot-air balloons when we went to Tokyo together in 2001. The whole thing was built out of cardboard, wood and duct-tape.

Photo by Neil Miyake

Beneath the wheels of the surfing juggernaut lies forgotten stoke. Stranger revisits the uncommon joy of bodysurfing. 

Biz Markie

One of the long-standing pillars of hip hop culture, beatboxing is as old as the hills. Maybe even older still… 

Candie Payne

With names as sweet as a summer’s breeze, female artists are wafting back into the spotlight bringing with them a fresh brand of sexy but savvy pop. Stranger swapped some pillow talk with the leaders of the pack… 

hoodie by stussy

When it comes to cool there is only one place that can boast the beginnings of so many brands that have revolutionised the surf, skate and fashion industries. That place is California. Stranger takes a look at the goods, both old and new... 

Photo by Sho Kikuchi

The new Joe Strummer documentary appeared to be essential viewing. Stranger attended the premiere to find out. 

The Enemy Chorus album artwork

Defiantly paddling against the mainstream, The Earlies know what they're not. And a damn good thing that is too...

Sea of Joy album artwork

Classic surf films have often been accompanied by classic soundtracks. Stranger reveals one man's obsession.