Right after my last message in early February, Detroit’s frigid air broke and the birds returned.

Then the cold came back as we moved into a strange week where the Lunar New Year, Ramadan, and Lent aligned.

Because of the city’s large Polish community, Fat Tuesday is known here as Paczki Day. People flock to bakeries across the region to pick up paczki, Polish-style donuts traditionally eaten right before Lent begins.

Thankfully this year I had a flexible day, so I was able to get over to Hamtramck, the hub of Polish culture in the area, to stroll around.

I caught the last bit of pre-sunrise blue hour, and by 7:30 AM, I was enjoying paczki and coffee at the Polish Sea Club, a classic neighborhood watering hole that opens early on this special day.

After my morning adventure, a couple errands took me north to Royal Oak. While up there, I ran into the National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica. I had passed it once before but didn’t have time to stop. This time I did.

I was floored by the architecture, design, light, and layout. Stunning craftsmanship.

The church was built in the 1930s as a Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to Thérèse of Lisieux, a French nun from the late 1800s who was known as the Little Flower. The name comes from her idea that each person is like a small flower in a garden. Even if unnoticed, it contributes to the beauty of the whole.

Here’s some photos from the visit:

Since then, temperatures warmed again and the clocks changed.

Although the Spring Equinox is still 10 days out, we’ve certainly crossed into a new season.

Hope you have a good run up to spring break.

Next time we talk we’ll be on the other side of Easter.

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Explorations of Culture, Mind, & Spirit

By Andy Armstrong / February 2026 Edition / Detroit, MI, USA

Since last month’s edition went out in early January, we’ve lived several lives.

Settled back in after the strange stretch following New Year’s, it wasn’t long before frigid air arrived.

When it began, I knew I had to get out in the world.

Thankfully downtown makes that possible, even in the harsh cold. Blocks and blocks of stunning buildings to bounce between.

Here’s a collage from January expeditions:

Now on the other side, we shifted from deep winter towards spring.

In the weeks ahead, small signs will show. Birds and early blooms.

Have a good last leg of winter.

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Explorations of Culture, Mind, & Spirit

By Andy Armstrong / January 2026 Edition / Detroit, MI, USA

Can’t believe we’re on the other side of it.

Looking back to the start of the holidays feels like another lifetime.

I spent New Year’s here in Detroit, but was back in my hometown in Pennsylvania for a week over Christmas. 

En route, I made a pit-stop in Pittsburgh (it’s only slightly out of the way). I left Detroit early on the Saturday before Christmas and was pulling into the city by 8:30.

The plan was to grab a few things to take home, pick up a couple gifts, and explore some neighborhoods. 

These quick Pittsburgh ventures often begin in the Strip District. I like to get rooted with a loop around the markets, shops, and warehouses on Penn and Smallman. 

Since I have to get to the Monroeville Turnpike exit to head home, I like to end in Regent Square. From there, you can hop right on the Parkway.

That sets up a perfect cruise from the Strip District through Polish Hill, Bloomfield, Oakland, Shadyside, into Squirrel Hill, and finally to Regent Square.

A classic Pittsburgh jaunt.

There are endless other parts of the city I love to spend time in. The North Side, Point Breeze, and Highland Park, to name a few. But when time is finite, gotta keep it direct. 

I landed in Pittsburgh an hour after sunrise, that perfect window when the light is just right.

I parked up near the 31st Street Bridge, out of the mess and close to Pane e Pronto. Any excuse to stop at a bakery. 
After parking, I walked across the bridge in the frigid air to enjoy the morning light and view. One of Pittsburgh’s many great lookouts. 
Here’s a photo from the excursion:

That’s it.

Now into January we go, the heart of winter. Can’t resist it.

Hope you have a good start to 2026,

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Explorations of Culture, Mind, & Spirit

By Andy Armstrong / November 2025 Edition / Detroit, MI, USA

Last time we spoke, the clocks were about to change. Now the 5 PM sunset already feels normal.

Since Daylight Savings kicked in, my evening golden-hour walks have turned into night ones.

When there’s no obligations to tend to, I want my evenings to look like this:

Get home, shower, move my body a little, and lie down for thirty minutes (or an hour or 2). Then, pop back up, and head out. Sometimes I have to pep talk myself. Other times not.

I go through phases where I like to walk, but Lafayette Park is a staple.

It’s a muse.

Designed by the legend Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the park and surrounding residences have a Japan-like, yet of-the-place feel. Simple, elegant, and strong. There are modular lines of brick, steel, and glass. And a blur between inside and outside.

Classic and futurist at once. Sums up Detroit.

Here are a few photos from a November post-sunset walk:

This past week’s full moon shot us into an intense month ahead.

During this string of holidays, it’s always tempting to disconnect and float through on autopilot, escaping into easy vices. Sitting in it reaps the reward though. But it ain’t easy.

Hope you have a good few weeks leading up to Christmas.

Talk to you after the new year,

-Andy Armstrong / We Speak in Colors

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Explorations of Culture, Mind, & Spirit

By Andy Armstrong / October 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

Last time we spoke, it was the end of September. Still summer during the day, but fall in the morning and night.

Since then, we’ve slipped through the Harvest Moon and into the majestic part of fall. Crisp air that wakes you up and pumpkin-flavored everything (there’s a few Mexican bakeries right by my work and I gotta talk myself out of pumpkin empanadas every morning, ain’t easy).

Now we’re at the cusp of a new phase.

Clocks are about to change and into the depths of fall we go. Before long, trees will be bare. This time of year is always a bit scary, but no choice but to sink into the cold water. The more you fight it the more it hurts.

For now, enjoy a few collages from a Detroit October. Lots of roaming.

That’s it.

Have a good weekend and enjoy the 2 final later sunsets before the clocks change.

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Cultural Explorations

By Andy Armstrong / September 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

In honor of summer officially ending last week, I chose one photo to represent the season past.

So much slips from our memory. 

Seasons come and go, and before long it’s like they never happened. 

These monthly journals help me create an archive that I can look back on in 30 years to hopefully remember a sliver.

This photo will remind me of the dozens of early morning and golden-hour summer explorations. Miles and miles of epic walks around Detroit, Somerset, Columbus, and Pittsburgh. Opening myself to whatever whimsy the world was ready to offer.

Moving the body so the mind can connect dots.

Is there a photo that represents your summer?

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL

Cultural Explorations

By Andy Armstrong / August 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

We’re through summer’s dog days and into the in between.

Summer in the daytime, fall in the mornings and evenings.

This past June / July I visited my hometown Somerset, PA to see family. These trips make me whole again. They’re part of my spirit.

Enjoy some collages of the visit below:

That’s it.

Hope you enjoyed seeing Somerset.

Next message, we’ll be on the brink of fall coming in full force.

Talk to you soon,

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL: Explorations for the culturally curious

By Andy Armstrong / July 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

Summer’s ripping by. In the dog days now, but cooler nights ahead.

Since my last message, I visited my hometown Somerset, Pennsylvania, as well as Pittsburgh, the first place I lived after high school. 

And on the way back to Detroit, I made a 48-hour stop in Columbus to see some close friends. Just enough time to dig in.

Columbus feels a lot like a mix of Detroit and Pittsburgh.

All three share strong architecture, prominent rivers / public spaces, and rich cultural landmarks. Columbus mirrors Detroit in its flat layout, wide roads, and long blocks, but leans closer to Pittsburgh in its energy.

From German Village up through Worthington, there are great pockets of bookstores, parks, record shops, libraries, and cafés.

The highlight was Japan Marketplace, a sweet cluster with a ramen shop, bakery, market, variety store, as well as a more formal restaurant, and a cultural center. Nice stop for a bowl of noodles, some mochi, a small gift, or info on upcoming events. 

On my last morning, I took two long walks downtown. One early when it was quiet, and one later when the city was moving. 

Collage of the treks below:

That’s it for the Columbus edition.

Soak up the rest of these dog days. Next chapter will be here before we know it. 

-Andy

We Speak in Colors Digital Journal

By Andy Armstrong

Magical June.

Everything green, Strawberry Moon, hydrangeas, Summer Solstice, wild energy.

Enjoy some photos from this month’s treks:  

Top: Summer Solstice evening stroll in Hamtramck, a legendary Detroit neighborhood

Bottom: Morning walk through Lafayette Park (home to the world’s largest collection of Mies designed buildings) / midday dive into the John K Kings Bookstore labyrinth

Top: From a vision quest trek up and down Detroit’s epic Riverwalk

Bottom: Morning golden hour stroll across Belle Isle, the city’s beloved island park  

That’s it.

Goodbye til next year, sweet June.

Next up, 4th of July on Friday holy smokes it’s summer.

Thanks for reading,

-Andy

A Local Loop through THE CITY’S Cultural Gems

We Speak in Colors Digital Journal

By Andy Armstrong

Towering architecture, shimmering riverside, concrete caves.

Downtown Detroit becomes a mythic arena for a weekend of the planet’s freakiest electronic music.

In town for Movement and want to see more of the city?

This Field Guide loops you through 5 classic Detroit neighborhoods.

The route: 

• Lafayette Park

• Eastern Market

• Milwaukee Junction

• Hamtramck

• Cass Corridor

Let’s jump in.

1. Lafayette Park

Start your Detroit exploration by heading east along the river from the festival grounds. 

Pass the Ren Cen (a legendary cluster of Detroit skyscrapers worth a quick detour) and continue until you reach William G. Milliken State Park.

From there, cut inland and drop into the Dequindre Cut, an old railroad line turned art-filled greenway. Walk a bit and exit at the Lafayette Street ramp to reach our first stop: Lafayette Park.

Spend your time in Plaisance Park, the heart of this Modernist architectural wonderland. Loop the park to take in the futurist spirit of the Lafayette Towers and Mies van der Rohe Townhouses. 

Then, continue just north to stop 2: Eastern Market.

2. Eastern Market

Eastern Market is an old-school neighborhood packed with warehouses, markets, and creative spaces. 

Think Pittsburgh’s Strip District, Amsterdam’s Noord, or Abu Dhabi’s Port Zayed.

As you enter, you’ll first hit Gratiot Street, a main drag that runs from Downtown through the city and beyond. This stretch is a landmark in electronic music history. In the 1980s, it became a hub for techno through its network of artists, producers, studios, listening rooms, and labels (For more, check out Techno Rebels by Dan Sicko).

Get a feel for the area with a coffee at La Ventana or Trinosophes, then head to Peoples for a wonderful selection of music and books.

Afterward, cross Gratiot into the heart of the neighborhood. If it’s a Saturday, hit the actual Eastern Market (both open-air and indoor vendors) for anything from local food to house plants to handmade goods. The meat market is worth a stop too—plenty of hot, ready-to-eat options.

When it’s time to refuel, grab a corned beef omelet at Zeff’s, one of the city’s classic Coney Islands (Detroit’s version of the diner). 

Round out your visit at Vintage Eastern Market for some souvenirs, like old postcards, maps, and magazines.

3. Milwaukee Junction

With Lafayette Park and Eastern Market under your belt, head north to Milwaukee Junction. 

Once an industrial powerhouse, this neighborhood now hums with gritty creative energy.

The easiest way in: walk to Woodward Avenue and catch the QLine streetcar. You can also rent a bike or of course hop in a rideshare.  

Start at Submerge, a record shop/techno museum that is a must stop for electronic enthusiasts.

Just minutes away, grab a to-go coffee at Milwaukee Caffe, then check out the Tangent Gallery grounds, a unique local venue featuring multiple stages and trippy outdoor industrial art. 

If you’re up for exploring a bit further, check out these nearby highlights:

• The Schvitz- an old-school, Eastern European-style health lounge with saunas, a cold pool, patio, and cafe (check the schedule for men, women, and co-ed hours)

• The Fisher Building- an art-deco landmark on the legendary Grand Boulevard 

• The Congregation- a beautifully converted church-turned-cafe in the classic Boston-Edison neighborhood

• Russell Industrial Center- a massive former auto factory that’s now home to music venues, shops, studios, and more

4. Hamtramck

Just minutes north of the Russell Industrial Center lies Hamtramck, a fascinating mini-town carved out within Detroit.

Known for its Polish migrant roots, Hamtramck now attracts a large Yemeni Arab population and hosts a vibrant creative scene.

Start with a take out coffee or tea from Yemen Cafe and Restaurant, then take a stroll around Veterans Park. 

For a taste of Hamtramck’s cultural heritage, head up Joseph Campau Avenue to New Palace, a legendary Polish bakery, and the beloved Polish Village Cafe for some classic pierogies.

5. Cass Corridor

Wrap up your journey by looping back Downtown through the Cass Corridor.

This iconic strip has long been a hub for music, art, and creative energy.

On the way in, stop through the Cultural Center Historic District to take in some incredible architecture. This pocket of the city is home to landmarks like the Detroit Public Library, Wayne State University, and the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Cruise down Cass Avenue and pass the former site of the Gold Dollar, a legendary underground venue.

Then swing right on Temple Street to explore the Cass Park Historic District, featuring Cass Park itself and The Masonic Temple, a stunning music and events venue.

This renowned area hugs the northern edge of Downtown and offers an easy escape from festival chaos. Bonus: TV Lounge, one of Detroit’s most iconic electronic music venues, is just around the corner.

Back Downtown

As you re-enter Downtown, make a quick stop at The Leland. This former luxury hotel is now an apartment building and underground club, a longtime haven for artists in Detroit’s electronic music circles.

Next, cut up to Grand Circus Park and stroll past Comerica Park and Ford Field—home to the Tigers and Lions. Then wander through Greektown and Bricktown toward the towering Renaissance Center.

And back where you started.

An efficient loop through some of Detroit’s rich cultural pockets. 

Of course, there are countless spots I had to leave out, but no doubt you’ll feel the city’s magic following this path.

Thanks for reading,

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL 

Explorations for the culturally curious

By Andy Armstrong / April 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

Since last month’s Digital Journal, a lot has come and gone.

Spring Break season, Eid, a full moon, Holy Week, Easter. 

A magical time of year, with earth awakening.

Enjoy this 8-photo set documenting the first half of the season:

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1. Looking onto the Financial District in Downtown Detroit

2. An eerie blue hour in Hamtramck

3. Ponce de Leon Lighthouse in Ponce Inlet, Florida 

4. Winding trail in Smyrna Dunes Park in New Smyrna Beach, FL

5. Lafayette Park neighborhood, a Detroit treasure

6. Last bit of the day’s light along the Detroit Riverside

7. April’s full moon 

8. From Belle Isle, looking onto Downtown Detroit, USA (right) and Downtown Windsor, Canada (left)

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That’s it, hope you enjoyed this 8-photo set from the past month.

A couple weeks out til Mother’s Day. Then a couple more and it’s Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. 

A nice runway here leading up to it. 

Thanks for reading,

-Andy

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL 

Explorations for the culturally curious

By Andy Armstrong / March 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

And just like that, spring is here. 

With the equinox, full moon, and Daylight Savings, the past couple of weeks have been full of energy.

Daylight Savings, especially.

Strangely, here in Detroit, as Saturday turned to Sunday morning and the clocks changed, so did the air.

Went to sleep on Saturday in winter. Woke up on Sunday in spring. 

To celebrate the transformation, I spent time outside—cruising, parking, and then setting out on foot.

A few of the stops: Poletown East, Elmwood Cemetery, and the Lafayette Park neighborhood, a mecca of parks, design, and architecture.

Enjoy a Daylight Savings expedition photo collage:

Have a good start to the spring and talk to you next month,

-Andy / We Speak in Colros

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL 

For the culturally curious

By Andy Armstrong / February 2025 / Detroit, MI, USA

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First day of spring is less than a month away.

March 20, the Spring Equinox.
Pretty crazy. 

Didn’t know til now, but there’s 2 equinoxes a year—1 in the fall and 1 in the spring. I also learned an equinox is when the daytime and nighttime are about the same length. 

And from the Spring Equinox forward, the days start getting longer. 

With this milestone approaching, it feels like a good time to kick into gear on a project. In hindsight, winters often seem to be for research and gathering, following rabbit holes. And then spring for production.

But for now, I wanted to share a photo collage from this past month.

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time on the People Mover—the strange elevated train loop that weaves through Downtown Detroit, slicing through buildings and skimming along the riverside. It’s how I at once can move my body, think, write, scheme, visualize, play, create, and rest. 

Hop on, ride around. Get off, stroll. Find somewhere to sit. Then hop back on and repeat.

A few stops even connect directly into buildings (The RenCen and Huntington Building), which are great for wandering, especially when it’s frigid outside. 

Hopefully, these photos give some insight into how Detroit feels—timeless, and like a strange collision of classic, futurist, and psychedelic.

Enjoy the collage below:

There we go. 

A February collage. 

Have a good few weeks til the Spring Equinox.

Talk to you then,

-Andy / We Speak in Colors

We Speak in Colors Digital Journal / For the culturally curious

Over the past year, I’ve been sending out this “Digital Journal” once a month.

I’ll usually focus on one topic—like music, culture, or mindset—and then once a quarter do a photo recap. In these recaps I choose a handful of photos from the previous 3 months to archive and comment on. 

After doing a few of them, I found myself really enjoying the process of looking back and documenting the season. 

So, I figured why not do them more than once every few months.

With that said, here are a few photos to kick off the year.

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One of the fun things about moving through adulthood is continuing traditions from past lives, while also adding new ones. 

These rituals feel like scheduled opportunities to connect with dimensions we know exist but can’t quite put a finger on. 

A favorite yearly tradition of mine has become the New Year’s Day adventure—a dose of fresh air, movement, and exploration to begin the year. 

In a nod to my time in Japan, I started 2025 with a venture down to the river to catch the hatsuhinode, or first sunrise of the year. A cherished custom in Japanese culture when people seek out a special spot to greet the year’s first light.

East Downtown Detroit / January 1, 2025

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Looking at the edge of the Financial District from Hart Plaza—a striking, open concrete park where Downtown and the river meet.

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Detroit is filled with incredible architecture, and the Fisher Building is a standout.

Anchored in the city’s New Center neighborhood, this iconic Art Deco landmark is a guiding light when cruising through north Detroit.

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That’s it for this one. 

About 8 weeks til spring starts peeking in—hope it’s a good run up til then.

Catch you soon, 

-Andy / We Speak in Colors

WE SPEAK IN COLORS DIGITAL JOURNAL 

Storytelling and photography for the culturally curious

With the fourth quarter of 2024 coming to a close, here are 12 photos to walk you through this past October, November, and December.

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1. One of the highlights of Somerset County is its access to superb outdoors recreation. 

And one of my favorite places to take advantage of this is in Laurel Hill State Park via the iconic Pumphouse Trail.

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2. View from Downtown Pittsburgh across the Monongahela River to the edge Station Square.

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3. There’s some spectacular views, architecture, and history to discover in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, especially if you’re interested in the booming jazz scene (and adjacent ecosystem) of the 1930’s-50’s. 

Hotel Terrace Hall is one of the spots in this network of businesses I would’ve loved to have gotten to experience in its heyday.

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4. A view from Schenley Oval, one of my go-to spots when in Pittsburgh. 

The massive urban green space tucked in the back part of Oakland is a true treasure of the city.

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5. Italy has the caffè, Japan the kissaten, and America the diner. 

When on the move, either traveling or just out and about for the day, these spaces are invaluable when you need a place to reset and scheme.

They’re also great for getting a feel of the community.

Eat’n Park is a family restaurant/diner chain born in Pittsburgh with locations mainly in Southwestern PA. Growing up with one only a few minutes away, it’s near and dear.

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6. Also minutes from my parents’ home is Somerset Lake, a home base of sorts.

Over the years, it’s been a trusty place to go for a walk or to just sit and have a think.

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7. The classic late-November winter arrival in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

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8. Penn Mac is a Pittsburgh institution.

This Italian and Mediterranean gourmet foods shop sits in the heart of the Strip District, a lively riverside neighborhood filled with food-focused mom-and-pop shops.

As you explore the Strip, you'll come across bakeries, markets, cafes, and diners representing a wide range of cuisines, including Italian, Asian, European, Middle Eastern, and Latin American.

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9. Belle Isle, an iconic 982-acre island, rests in the Detroit River right off the city’s east side.

The beloved landmark features sprawling park spaces, a beautiful conservatory, several beach areas, and excellent views of Detroit and across to Canada.

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10. Astronomical amounts of money have gone into revitalizing Downtown Detroit, transforming it from what many once called a ghost town into a shiny destination.

But the Leland Hotel (now converted apartments) stands as a gritty icon of the city skyline. 

Venture inside its revolving glass doors, up the lobby stairs, and through the eerie foyer, and you’ll find Leland City Club,  a dark, industrial electronic club that feels ripped straight from a dystopian film.

A historic landmark in Detroit’s music history.

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11. Detroit Metro is home to the largest population of people of Arab descent in the US, and one of the most significant in the world, alongside regions in Brazil, Argentina, Canada, and France.

This cultural presence is particularly evident in Hamtramck and Dearborn, two areas I found myself repeatedly drawn back to.

Although I’ll need more time to fully grasp the dynamics and origins of this influence, it was a surreal blast from the past to hear Arabic spoken as the default language in many of the area’s cafes, bakeries, and markets.

The experiences of my five years in Abu Dhabi—particularly my visits to Lebanon and Palestine, and the daily interactions with people from across the Middle East—are forever engrained in my psyche.

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12. Along with cafes and parks, libraries are some of the best places to quickly connect with a new city.

The Detroit Public Library’s Main Branch is no exception.

With its striking architecture both inside and out, particularly the stunning, high-ceilings of the music rooms on the third floor, the library was the perfect spot to rest, get some work done, and roam.

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That’s a wrap on 2024 from the We Speak in Colors world. 

Thank you for the support as my photography/writing/music universe evolves. 

Have a good Christmas and New Year’s, and talk to you in 2025, 

-Andy / We Speak in Colors

A look inside Osaka’s buzzing electronic scene with house music legend Larry Heard 

Like all the best artists, Larry Heard follows his intuition, absorbing and reacting to the sounds around him.

Osaka Meets Memphis

His journey began in Chicago, one of the twin epicenters of underground electronic music alongside Detroit. But unable to remain under the radar in the Windy City, Heard found solace in Memphis—an iconic southern city with an incredibly rich musical history of its own.

This past May, at the height of Japan’s Golden Week festivities, Heard brought his unmistakable touch to Osaka, the country’s alternative haven.

A Hundred Birds: Bridging Cultures

The city is home to a dynamic electronic music community, where international house and techno producers and DJ’s collaborate with local artists both on the stage and in the studio.

One of the driving forces behind this sturdy talent exchange is A Hundred Birds, an Osaka-based production and promotion collective. This electronic ambassador has cultivated an ecosystem that spans oceans, bringing some of America and Europe’s best names to some of Japan’s best rooms, including:

• Noon, Club Daphnia, Muffin, Edenico (Osaka)

• Vent, LIQUIDROOM, Contact (Tokyo)

• Metro (Kyoto)

• Precious Hall (Sapporo)

• OPPA-LA (Enoshima)

Magic at Joule

Heard’s set at Joule, a local staple, reflected his evolution, effortlessly transitioning from smooth acid house into gritty, psychedelic pulses. As always, he stayed connected to the room, organically drawing from and directing its energy.

The night kicked off with Chanaz, a superb young DJ from Kyoto, alongside DJ Ageishi, a local legend, and YAMA, a storied master of the craft who’s known both nationally and overseas.

See more of my favorite moments from the night below:

DJ Ageishi (above)

Chanaz (above)

YAMA (above)

Larry Heard (above)

Special Thanks to A Hundred Birds, Hagi, Larry Heard, Yama, DJ Ageishi, Chanaz, and Joule.

Thank you for reading.

-Andy / We Speak in Colors

9 photos to walk you through this past July, August, and September​​—a bizarre few months but aren’t they all.

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An installation celebrating the whimsical Tanabata festival that happens during Japan’s rainy season. 

Humid, gray, and green—the perfect setting to make a wish and hang it on some bamboo.

Few things are as special as an evening walk along the Kamogawa riverside in Kyoto.

Beautiful view from one of Osaka’s endless towering apartment buildings. 

Took a quick photo pit stop on a nice ride from my apartment in Bentencho to Maishima, a strange and quiet little island on the outskirts of town.

August in Japan feels like a month-long string of celebrations, largely due to Obon, a holiday honoring those who came before. 

Venture through Osaka at night, and you're bound to stumble upon some kind of neighborhood festival, reflecting the country’s remarkably deep sense of tradition and community.

Days before moving back to the US, I took a solo pilgrimage to Tokushima, a laid-back big town/small city just a couple hour ferry ride away. 

Had to be with myself to work a few things out before such a transition.

This trip and place will forever be etched in me.

Summit Diner in Somerset, Pennsylvania, USA. 

My hometown spot for reflecting and scheming over a hot cup of decaf.

A nice scene from a jaunt down to historical Grantsville, Maryland with mom. 

Such a great area, known for its Amish and Mennonite farm stands and markets.

View from the top of Hidden Valley Resort, just outside my hometown. 

Love the memories of skiing there all through elementary school, but my body just isn’t built for the biting cold. 

Still love being in the snowy mountains though, as long as I’m sheltered in the lodge with a hot drink.

A cross somewhere between Latrobe and Greensburg in Pennsylvania. 

I’m always drawn to shooting iconography that makes a place itself—especially anything religious or spiritual.

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Alright, hope you enjoyed. 

Time to shift into mental prep phase for the upcoming cold, and get the 2025 game plan going. How’s it happen so fast. 

Talk soon, 

-Andy

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Spanning North America, South Africa, Sweden, and Japan, here are 6 standout tracks of the year so far.

1. “My Hands in the Water” by Amanda Bergman

Bergman and her band take their time in this trancey, indie-pop composition, slowly building a beautiful and psychedelic landscape, much like the Swedish countryside where they reside.

And then the chorus hits—one of those once-in-a-lifetime cosmic hooks that every songwriter hopes to tap into. But for Amanda Bergman, it’s second nature. 

In a track full of treasures, it's the calm and easy demeanor radiating from Bergman that shines.

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2. “Criminal” by TAEMIN

With 'Criminal', Seoul-based pop sensation TAEMIN delivers a slick electronic anthem.

The journey starts with whisper-like vocals overtop a subtle pulse, and evolves into a full-on dance frenzy. 

This dark-pop smash makes it obvious why TAEMIN is a star to even the brightest of the K-Pop stars.

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3. “When U Saw Love” by ELIO

Highlighted by an irresistible chorus and a propulsive, bouncy groove, this entrancing electro-pop track perfectly complements ELIO’s introspective, laid-back spirit.

While she keeps much of her personal life under wraps, including her early years in Wales and eventual move to Canada, ELIO’s sound and talent are an undeniable force.

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4. “ファッションディレイ (Fashion Delay)” by Sakusen 53

Sakusen 53 is a leading force in Osaka, Japan’s flourishing left-field/hyper-pop scene. 

Unrelentingly committed to her craft, the artist consistently delivers thrilling, pop-infused electronic arrangements that are at once tender, aggressive, and trancey.

‘Fashion Delay’ is a whimsical swirl of meditative, mantra-like verses, erratic drums, pulsing bass, and frantic, sorrowful vocals not to be missed.

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5. “Meant” by Hovvdy

This dreamy, transcendent ballad feels like a cosmic cruise through the heart of the South. 

In “Meant”, Hovvdy beautifully layers acoustic and electronic textures, blending booming bass and whirling synths into an atmospheric anthem.

The verse’s hypnotic melody, contrasted by a big chorus lift, will stop you in your tracks.

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6. “Water” by Tyla

In her mesmerizing Popiano masterpiece, Tyla effortlessly weaves a patchwork of house, soul, pop, and gospel—a multicultural collage that captivates from start to finish.

With this distinctive and infectious energy, the young artist has limitless potential to elevate the spirit of South African music on the global stage.

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From K-Pop to Psychedelia to Popiano, I hope you find something to enjoy here.

-Andy / We Speak in Colors

The last photo journal took us through January, February, and March, and now somehow it’s already time to recap Quarter 2. 

Here are 12 photos to walk you through my April, May, and June of 2024:

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Long roams and bike rides are pillars of my weeks and process. These essential chunks of time give the brain a chance to simultaneously rest, reset, recover, and subconsciously connect dots and generate ideas. These periods of no media input combined with physical movement feel like tapping into a superpower.

Osaka Castle is an icon of the city, and for good reason. The sprawling complex boasts huge park areas, endless nooks, moats, a restored traditional castle, and spectacular views. As a result, it gets overrun during the day. But go early in the morning or later in the evening, and there’s barely a soul in sight. Just you and the other freaks.

Sumiyoshi is a classic Osaka neighborhood. Although it’s just a handful of train stops from the center of town, it feels like going back in time a couple decades. Enjoy a stunning park and shrine duo, as well as a stroll through a timeless shotengai (outdoor, covered, shopping strip).

With an endless sprawl of towering offices and apartments, you can never run out of locations to do some good old-fashioned guerilla shooting in Osaka. This photo is from an afternoon of skyscraper hopping to capture some unique perspectives of the city.

Osakako, the city’s port area, is nestled in an out-of-the-way corner, with highlights including seaside parks and trails, interesting architecture (the Culturarium), and a massive ferris wheel. 

Yama is a revered Osaka DJ who flows between a dizzying spectrum of tribal-infused techno, house, and DnB. She is known for her ability to swiftly read a room, and then direct its energy. A mesmerizing conductor. 

This photo is from her set at Club Joule with Chicago legend Larry Heard this past Golden Week.

A shrine nestled amongst the skyscrapers. 

Treasures are to be found around every corner when on foot or bike in Osaka.

Plopped in the middle of Lake Biwa, one of the region’s most prized possessions,  is the little island of Chikubu. Although no permanent residents inhabit the island, there are a few different ferry options that get you there.

I took the journey earlier this summer to soak up the energy of the power spot’s views, shrines, and temples.

Deep into the Nara countryside is Murou, a splendid and idyllic small town resting on a sweet little river. 

This visit is easily one of my most memorable Japan experiences.

The Nara countryside is packed full of sacred shrines and temples perfect for exploring.

One of these is Murouji: the town of Murou’s stunning, multi-level compound of shrines and temples of all sorts and sizes.

Luckily (and a bit intentionally), the timing of my visit lined up perfectly with the peak of hydrangea season.

This photo features one angle of Murou Art Forest, an overwhelmingly impressive countryside park about a 20-minute trek from Murou town center.  

The site was home to this year’s Prythm music event, which celebrated the summer solstice. The day was capped off by a magical full moon.

A church’s cross lit up in the blue hour magic.

Vantage point: from the crest of the Yodogawa riverside, while looking back over Juso neighborhood.

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Quarter 2 2024 in the books.

Crazy to think that the pumpkins will be out next time I put together one of these quarterly recaps.

Let’s get a good 3-month burst in before Halloween is staring us down.
Thanks a lot for reading and talk soon,

-Andy

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Celebrating two new tracks from Osaka’s mystical messenger

It feels like Sakusen 53 was dropped into our dimension from elsewhere. A mystical messenger sent to deliver the supernatural via song and dance.

Although it’s only a matter of time til the leading alternative music tastemakers come knocking, she’s already adored within Osaka, Japan’s vibrant left-field / electronic / singer-songwriter circles. 

Beloved for her strange and electrifying stage presence, Sakusen 53 performances are at once spastic and subdued. Fantastical and grounded. Grimy and ethereal.

This depth and range is beautifully showcased in the electronic-pop artist’s two dazzling new tracks.

After meeting through staple Osaka noise-duo HYPER GAL, as well as connecting at several shows, Sakusen 53 and I collaborated on a rainy season rooftop photoshoot last June. 

On that day, the air was thick, gray, and sentimental, creating the perfect backdrop to capture portraits of the layered artist.

While this series has remained in the archives over the past year, it now sees the light of day in celebration of her recent 2-track release. 

On the surface “3.141592653589793238462643383” is a noisy, aggressive, and bizarre electronic composition. 

But through the veil of squeals, distortion, and grime, lies a dynamic and seductive pop track.

The song is enthralling from start to finish:

• Beginning with the trance-inducing vocals in the verse

• Then moving into the dirty, hasty electric guitar-led chorus

• Followed by the bridge’s heartfelt vocal delivery 

• And ending with a reserved, dropped out chorus smoothly transitioning into an anthemic burst

The second of the two tracks dives down its own whimsical rabbit hole.

“Fashion Delay” (officially written in Japanese Katakana: ファッションディレイ) is another dynamic display of songwriting and sound production, featuring a magnificent and intense swirl of:

• Meditative mantra-like verses

• Erratic, urgent drums 

• Pulsing, trance-inducing bass

• Frantic and sorrowful-but-spirited vocals

Driven by an overwhelming sense of desperation, the song moves like water- smoothly and intentionally molding itself to the energy of each section.

All of this culminates in a jubilant and raucous final chorus, followed by a brief synth outro that gives the listener a moment to process. 

From this realm or another, wherever Sakusen 53 came from, I’m glad she arrived. 

And with this recent release, it’s even more clear that Sakusen 53 is a star.

-Andy 

Note: Sakusen 53’s official artist name is written using the Japanese Kanji- 作戦53