By Chris on August 17th, 2009 | Comments

Cute, kitschy and a bit sexist in a innocent mid-century way, this 25 minute long film tributes the American woman in the American family household. Through the course of it we get to experience her wifely responsibilities, such as planning the family budget, finding time to be social and shopping for daily necessities. Pay attention to the lovely and cheerful muzak-styled songs that are played in the background. I am also very sure that this is the same narrator that was heard in a handful of other similar films in the 1950s and 1960s. Anyone know who I am referring to? [Thanks Cam]

Update: the narrator is legendary Ken Nordine. Hat tip to commenter PJ for clearing that up.

By Chris on November 9th, 2007 | Comments

retro christmas 793734 520x520 Retro Christmas

Since Christmas is almost upon us, I thought it would be a great idea to share a special Christmas compilation with you fine folks. This is a custom made compilation made for this blog, the compilation features 25 songs, one for each day until Christmas day. The theme is as the title of the compilation suggests, mostly 50s, 60s and 70s Christmas songs. You will most likely recognize the titles, but probably not have heard them played like this (well, not all of the songs anyway). Happy holidays from Ultra Swank!

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By Chris on June 17th, 2007 | Comments

retro shopping vol2 729676 520x520 Retro Shopping Volume 2   Shopping Spree

It is summer and hot again. Why not return to the nice temperature controlled environment inside the malls one more time? Browse all the exotic goods from all over the world, walking up and down the isles in a dreamy waltz while the soft music echoes through the muzak system and then grab a bite to eat at one of the convenient placed coffee shops. This compilation is the continuation of my Retro Shopping series. The first one was released in July last year and became very popular among the Ultra Swank visitors. The second one features the same kind of happy, cheerful, instrumental easy going music that was played in malls during the 50s and 60s. As a bonus I have included a special montage with shopping related jingles and commercials, just to help you get in the mood. Grab it while supplies last! Feedback is as always appreciated.

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By Chris on November 10th, 2006 | Comments

This is a cut from a educational promotion film that explains some aspects on why Täby Centrum was built. The film is in Swedish and narrated by the architect of the center who explains some particulars about it. If you look closely you will see the Domus sign in the background on the second floor of the mall. Domus was one of the typical anchor type stores at Swedish malls during the 60s and 70s. Most of the Domus stores are gone today or have been renamed Coop, which is the new brand for the KF owned stores. Täby Centrum is now the largest indoor mall in Sweden and one of the largest in Europe. It opened september 26, 1968 and had major expansions made in 1991. There are now plans to make it even bigger.

Listen to the dreamy shopping music that can be heard in the background inside the shopping center. If you like this kind of music, be sure to download my custom made compilation "Retro Shopping Volume 1 - Music to buy toasters by".

By Chris on July 6th, 2006 | Comments

retro shopping 794272 520x520 Retro Shopping Volume 1   Music to Buy Toasters By

Since it is summer and very hot outside (at least here in Sweden), many people prefer to stay indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. So why not spend some time at your local mall? This is a exclusive custom made compiltion for this website, to celebrate the mood and feel of the American malls from the 1950s and 1960s. This compilation has everything a mall need to make their vistors feel relaxed. From "happy-go-lucky" fast-paced rythms to swank fashion show mood music. It even features a Christmas themed song for the holiday season! There are 24 tracks in total and the length of the compliation clocks in at about 70 minutes. Enjoy!

A special thank you to Keith from Malls of America for the postcards.

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