Henshin Ninja Arashi (変身忍者 嵐, roughly translated as “Storm the Transformed Ninja”) is a 1972 JidaigekiToku series created by Shotaro Ishinomori.
“Set in the Edo Period of Japan, the series follows a young ninja named Hayate, who is the son of a man who developed a special technique called the “Transformation Jutsu” capable of granting a superhuman form. However, their Ninja clan, the warmongering Blood Wheel Clan, begins using the Transformation Jutsu to spread fear and terror all throughout Japan as part of their campaign to conquer it.”
Riverside, The Beat Farmers (1990) From their album Loud, Plowed & Live. The Beat Farmers (1983–1995) were a great band from San Diego, California (best experienced live with lots of beer) and featured the late Country Dick Montana.
In November 1855, the Great Ansei Earthquake struck the city of Edo (now Tokyo), claiming 7,000 lives and inflicting widespread damage. Within days, a new type of color woodblock print known as namazu-e (lit. “catfish pictures”) became popular among the residents of the shaken city. These prints featured depictions of mythical giant catfish (namazu) who, according to popular legend, caused earthquakes by thrashing about in their underground lairs. In addition to providing humor and social commentary, many prints claimed to offer protection from future earthquakes.
Namazu are normally kept under control by the god Kashima using a large rock known as kaname-ishi. The Great Ansei Earthquake of 1855 is said to have occurred when Kashima went out of town and left Ebisu (god of fishing and commerce) in charge. In this print, the giant subterranean catfish unleashes destruction on the city while Ebisu sleeps on the job. Kashima rushes home on horseback while the city burns, and Raijin the thunder god defecates drums. Large gold coins fall from the sky, symbolizing the redistribution of wealth during the rebuilding phase.
Namazu with construction tools, portrayed as the legendary warrior Benkei.
Ark Nova was created as a result of joint efforts of British sculptor Anish Kapoor and Japanese architect Arata Isozakiand it is the only inflatable concert hall currently in the world.
Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings did a great cover of Gregg Allman’s Midnight Rider (even though it’s a commercial). Sharon Jones succumbed to pancreatic cancer in 2016 at the age of 60.
The Mitsukoshi Department Store, Japan 1970
Tacky Raccoons 