Noise #193: Russia, UNIQLO, and lines to the moon

Music reacting to how money makes the world go 'round.

A historical nanosecond ago, Russia was a global pariah. International brands fled the country following its invasion of Ukraine.

Now, with its geopolitical position rising like fizz in an over-shaken Diet Coke, Russia is eager for foreign brands to reoccupy empty storefronts and barren shopping malls.

Japan’s Asahi Shimbun reports that companies like Uniqlo, Coca-Cola, and Ikea top the list:

Russia's state media and netizens named clothing retail chain Uniqlo Co. among the businesses the country hopes will return if sanctions are lifted following government negotiations with the United States over ending its invasion of Ukraine.

One Russian commenter wrote that, if major foreign brands return, “lines will be to the moon.”

I’m fascinated by the often-bizarre interplay between big countries and bigger companies—how nations can act like the bitterest of enemies, yet remain inextricably entangled when it comes to commerce and consumerism.

I’m also fascinated by how money moves like water, flowing into any economic opening, filling any open space as a matter of nature and gravity.

I recorded Noise #193 thinking about themes of geopolitical whiplash and unhinged economic change, the weirdly unifying power of big-brand commerce and the fractious nature of big-brand nationalism. The music also channels the brilliantly satirical chirpiness of “Money Makes The World Go ’Round” from the musical Cabaret.

I hope you enjoy listening to Noise #193:

Wishing you peace,

Michael

(Noise #193 by Michael Gallant. Copyright 2025 Gallant Music LLC. All Rights Reserved.)