Whence the Beard?

Since the time of our first blog post, we've noticed a marked decline in beard chatter. Perhaps fewer beards on the L train, as well. We ask, what happened? Perhaps it's the fault of Jed Lapinski, the author of A Brief History of Beards, a sociological analysis of beards that pretty much says everything there is to be said on the topic. Perhaps because it's summer and, well, I don't really know what that has to do with anything. Or, perhaps because, now that we're all laid off, we no longer have to mark ourselves as being different from the working world. And beards itch my face, anyway.

The One

Above, the beard that began it all: guitarist/vocalist Matthew Houck of Phosphorescent, from Navy Yard, Brooklyn. They played the Bell House in Gowanus on November 28th. The audience was filled with bears, and Matthew was their king.

There is a possibility that he hides snacks in his beard. For secret eating, after every show.

Beards of Brooklyn

The beards of Brooklyn are numerous and bountiful. Herein, we will attempt to document King County's best and brightest celebrations of facial hair.

We hope to define not only a movement, but a generation -- THE generation. A generation that dared to hope and failed to shave.

We've learned from the wisdom of our elders, but have taken it to a new level. We've taken it local. We've taken it to Brooklyn.

We will not say no to lucrative book deal offers, public appearances, or photographic tips (send them to brooklynbeards@gmail.com).

Beard power.