When persons think of the word “punk” it usually conjures images of loud, abrasive music with extreme vocals, violent dancing in front of the stage and a certain look, clothes, hair and an attitude coiled in anger, rage and variations of nihilism.
But that definition is too narrow. If pulled off deftly, punk can be an action of simple non-conformity against societal “expectations.”
And so it was that thanks to a brilliant recommendation by a recent traveller to the Kyoto area, Mary- Lou, we came to meet Matsudo and Yoko of MATSUDO BOOK BINDING WORKS.
It was here that Kimberly and I attended their book-binding class on April 1st.
Now some of you that know me might be inclined to think this is some kind of delayed April Fool’s joke, but it is not.
I offer this as proof that this is no spoof.
The class we attended was sold out. There was just us and another couple from Turkey.
MATSUDO is a very humble 82 year old craftsman (of a soon to be lost art) and an extraordinarly proficient bookmaker.
He and his daughter, Yoko demonstrated to us the fine art of bookbinding over a captivating two hour session, while they assisted us binding personal books.
They explained the history and tradition of book binding in Japan. Matsudo’s paper cutter is one of only 3 like it in Japan.
Yup. That’s me glueing the spine of my book.
I could go on it was that cathartic and exhilarating. It was a quintessentially existential moment for me.
In the face of iPhones, AI, automation and the pace of modern life it seemed like an incredibly punk thing to be doing on a Wednesday afternoon in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵
Now, you might think
a track by RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE 🇺🇸 would work here. However, I don’t have that artist in my collection.
A song does come to mind though that contains lyrics that reminds me of this punk moment.
STRANGELOVE 🇬🇧 hailed from Bristol. Over 7 years (1991-1998) they made 3 LPs I still admire..
There is a song fron their second record “Love And Other Demons” that whacked me over the head on first listen and ever since.
I have selected “Living With The Human Machines” especially for these 3 lines-
I know it is 2 am here in Japan and Easter Sunday back home but that is mere coincidence as the lyrics speak to the day- but there is nothing proselytizing in this selection. Enjoy and think. If the words from this bombastic track move you- so be it!
Here it is played live at Glastonbury and then on SPOTIFY with lyrics.
Punk On Everyone
SPOTIFY-
https://open.spotify.com/track/39eJ7tL0TTIAPFhuBOZbpS?si=HNyVr054Ruy2xu_LVdfo7Q
(SONG 1646)
Play Loud Bind Books Louder
April 6 here
April 5 there 🐰
underground365 
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