A Tokyo-based project that revives traditional Japanese folk songs, Suzumeno Tears showcases their memorable sound with the track “Itokuri Bushi.” Trickling acoustics complement the sparkling vibraphone playing from Tomoko Kageyama, while Agatha and Miyuki Sato lend their enchanting vocal presences. The soaring vocal tones and meditative instrumentation builds to a dazzling one-minute turn, where the lush trickles assembles into a multi-vocal layering with spine-tingling results.
The polyphonic vocals’ hypnotic impact melds with the acoustical folk allure throughout, with Kageyama’s vibraphone adding a nostalgic touch of lounge-fitted jazz. A wordless vocal section at mid-point is especially lulling, emitting a strongly psychedelic pull amidst the twinkling, chilly vibraphone tones. Suzumeno Tears breathe new life into the gorgeous “Itokuri Bushi,” described as “a Japanese traditional work song from Amami Island.” This modern, serene twist is gripping throughout.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
