This new collection of Asian packaging and design art reminds Heather Lorusso that sometimes the most interesting things to see in Japan are everyday objects.

At this special time of year, let’s not forget the REAL reason for the season… fabulously gaudy displays of Xmas lights! Heather Lorusso sure didn’t - and even in faraway Tokyo she found enough clever uses of wattage to soften the most humbuggy of hearts. You won’t find these in your neighbor’s yard.

From bludgeoning drone metal to rockin’ human pyramids, Boris and Guitar Wolf brought their heavy artillery to this Tokyo gig. Heather Lorusso has your dispatch from the frontline.

“If you want to dance, go on and fucking dance!” How could Heather Lorusso resist such an entreaty from Warren Ellis and the Dirty Three?

Walking Cloud & Deep Red Sky, Flag Fluttered and the Sun Behind (Temporary Residence). Review by Aaron Shaul.

The journey to japanned begins for Gregory Schaefer, in a U-Haul to L.A., chased by the devil, and in Japan, between showers at McDonald’s.