The Shelf #1

Not got the time to read? No problem, here’s the roundup

Shelf #1:

In a world of streaming and endless content, Cantilever is a breath of fresh air. Curated music with a time limit, write ups and interviews with the artists, getting to know an artists and their music as it should be.

The "What": A curated music streaming service, celebrating independant music. It’s a streaming service backed by independant record labels, you get a limited library of music that is available for a limited period of time and then replaced by something new.

The "Why": It really makes you listen and appreciate the music, improve your taste and get’s you to try something new. They also include write ups or interviews with the artists so you can learn more about them.

It’s 4.99 a month but for me it’s well worth it, it stops you reaching for your most listened to playlist and broadens your music library and taste. Granted you might not like it all, but it’s better than putting sitting in an echo chamber.

I stumbled on this in Waterstones and it is a delight. It tells the story of Casa ML and its recipes, along with its incredible decor and classic vehicles.

The "What": A look into Casa Maria Luigia, Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore’s idyllic guest house in the Italian countryside. A cook book with a twist that gives incredible recipes and shows the gorgeous interiors filled with contemporary art, unique design objects, and an impressive collection of Italian cars and motorcycles.

The "Why": Simple, 2 keys to my heart, food and classic cars and motorbikes. Great photography wrapped up in physical print, need I say more!

Nothing are hands down making the most fun and interesting bits of tech in an industry that is sending out cookie cutter devices, Nothing are giving me hope.

The "What": A new release of Nothing’s value ear buds that kick some life into a often boring product from the big names. I also love the way they market their products and create fun and engaging material.

The "Why": It’s not just a fun looking product, they have a new and interesting feature I haven’t seen anywhere else, built-in storage for voice capture directly to the buds. I really love how nothing push outside of the box and try something new, looking good but functioning just as well.

A highlight of the 2026 world cup for me, the Mexico Manager shouting Anthony Gordon just to tell him to F you and them both laughing. A funny sight but also goes to show not to take things too seriously.

The "What": A capturing of a hilarious moment at the 2026 world cup game between England and Mexico. If you haven’t seen the clip, go and watch it, it’s weirdly infectious. A funny moment in an often serious game.

The "Why": It’s funny and a sick tee. Need I say more.

Teenage engineering are up there for me with the best of designers, their standout design language and approach is recognisable and engaging. Yes the prices are steep, but for the design alone I think their products are worth it. It’s easy to make boring looking things, but to push the boundary time and time again is a feat in itself. Even if you don’t know what the product in the below image does, you can appreciate the design and form.

The "What": A professional record cutter built and designed for producing original playback discs at a superior quality than your average. A collaboration with SUPERSENSE with the goal to enable access to anyone who wants their music or sounds on a physical record.

The "Why": Getting a record cut is no easy feat and you can’t go at it with a hammer and chisel. I love that Teenage Engineering are still pushing the boundaries of design as well as consumer music products. The fact that they are now looking to bring professional record cutting to studios, labels and your average joe is a testament to their boldness. Also it looks like something out of an imperial ship in star wars.

However, you know it’s going to be expensive when there’s no price listed and just a ‘Get in Touch’ button. Alas, we can dream.