The article explores the growing appreciation for classic cars with patina, emphasizing the emotional and historical connections they evoke. It highlights the trend of valuing originality and weathered finishes over restored perfection, citing examples from auctions and personal experiences. The author, Jonathan Ward, shares insights from his company, ICON, which specializes in creating custom vehicles that blend vintage aesthetics with modern mechanics. The narrative underscores the romantic allure of these cars and advises potential buyers to distinguish between genuine patina and neglect.

Jonathan Ward, a historian of recorded sound, has curated 'Excavated Shellac: An Alternate History of the World's Music', a compilation of early 78rpm recordings that were originally made to sell gramophones. These recordings, once considered disposable, are now recognized as invaluable artifacts of global music history. The collection, which includes a 186-page PDF book with detailed notes and has been nominated for a Grammy Award, showcases a variety of regional music from around the world. The sound quality varies, but remastering by Michael Graves has preserved these tracks digitally. The book, designed by Barbara Bersche, features high-resolution images and translations of lyrics but lacks internal hyperlinks. Ward's project highlights many artists who were once famous in their regions, as well as music traditions that were overlooked by the phonograph industry, such as Mongolian throat singing and music from the Sahara.

The article, authored by Moneer Cherie, delves into the history of the Chakmakchi family and their significant contributions to Iraqi music through their company, Chakmakchiphon. Founded by Haj Fathi Chakmakchi in 1918, the company evolved from importing electrical appliances to becoming a pivotal recording studio for Iraqi and Arab musicians. Despite the eventual closure of the company in the mid-1990s due to copyright issues and lack of institutional support, the Chakmakchi name remains a cherished part of Iraq's cultural heritage. The family's extensive archive of recordings is preserved as a national treasure, underscoring their lasting impact on the region's musical landscape.

The article explores the history of Somali music during the 78 rpm era, highlighting the complex colonial backdrop and the various regions where Somali people lived. It details the first recordings made in the Somali language for colonial posterity by the Musée de la Parole et du Geste in Paris in 1931. The article also discusses subsequent recording events in Addis Ababa and the Arabian Peninsula, noting the involvement of various international and independent labels. The narrative underscores the ongoing process of uncovering this musical history, with contributions from several scholars and enthusiasts.

By 2050, 70% of the world's population will reside in cities, necessitating a rethinking of urban development. Tech companies like Amazon, Tencent, Google, and Samsung are integrating digital technology into city planning, challenging traditional high-rise paradigms. Future high-rises should promote social interaction, incorporate green spaces, and utilize new materials like carbon fiber to enhance sustainability. Tencent's headquarters exemplifies using buildings as technology platforms, integrating various systems with their WeChat products. The goal is to create more connected, sustainable urban environments that foster innovation and a better human experience.

The article discusses a 'sleeper record' titled 'Runenae Papa (I Want a Lot of Love)' by Zutty and his Band, highlighting its unique blend of Caribbean-influenced 'rhumba' and hot jazz. Recorded in Chicago on March 27, 1935, by notable musicians including Arthur James 'Zutty' Singleton and Horace Eubanks, the record is a cover of the Cuban son 'La Ruñidera.' Despite its quality, the record did not sell as well as other jazz standards. Zutty later moved to Los Angeles and continued his music career until his death in 1970, while Eubanks died in 1948. The article also notes the record's appearance on a CD compilation and praises the quality of the transfer.

The 1953 Cadillac Ghia, once owned by Rita Hayworth, is a rare and beautifully restored classic car now part of The Petersen Automotive Museum's collection. Originally built by Italian coachbuilder Ghia, the car was intended to attract Cadillac's interest but ended up being purchased by Prince Aly Kahn, who gifted it to Hayworth. The car underwent a thorough restoration and has won multiple awards at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The article highlights the car's unique design, historical significance, and the meticulous restoration efforts by The Petersen Automotive Museum.

Paul-Albert Bucciali was an early automotive innovator who made significant contributions to the industry with his experiments in independent suspension and front-wheel drive. Despite his visionary work, Bucciali and his brother Angelo-Joseph faced commercial struggles with their car company, established in 1921. Their most notable creation, the Bucciali TAV8-32, showcased their mechanical innovations but was not commercially successful. Bucciali's later years were spent defending his patents, with mixed outcomes. The author, Jonathan Ward, expresses admiration for Bucciali's legacy and believes he should be remembered alongside other automotive legends.

The Petersen Automotive Museum has reopened after a significant redesign, featuring several impressive exhibits, including the 'Precious Metal' exhibit in the Bruce Meyer Family Gallery. This exhibit showcases some of the most important silver cars in automotive history, curated by Bruce Meyer. The collection, valued at around $200 million, includes rare and prestigious cars like the 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testa Rossa and the 1995 McLaren F1. The exhibit is a must-see for car enthusiasts, running through August.

The author, an avid collector and restorer of vintage vehicles, travels to Cuba to explore its car culture and discovers a long-lost 1958 Aston Martin DB 2/4. The journey highlights the resourcefulness of the Cuban people in maintaining their classic cars despite limited resources. The article also touches on the broader socio-political context of Cuba, including the impact of restored American-Cuban relations and the challenges faced by Cubans under both communism and capitalism.