Masayoshi Fujita’s latest track, “Tower of Cloud,” offers a tantalizing preview of his forthcoming album ‘Migratory,’ set for release on September 6th via Erased Tapes. This new single showcases Fujita’s signature blend of delicate synths and evocative marimba melodies, creating a rich and immersive soundscape.
“Tower of Cloud” begins with delicate yet decisive synth fragments, gradually introducing the vibraphone to add textural depth. As the track progresses, the vibraphone becomes more prominent, while additional electronic processing and synth elements come to the fore, enhancing the engaging and evolving soundscape. Fujita explains, “‘Tower of Cloud’ took form when I was preparing a live set for a tour a few years ago, and it evolved as I played in Europe and Thailand. The synth riff gives me a late summer feel and reminds me of cumulonimbus clouds, and I can see a swallow drawing a circle in the sky to the marimba melody.”
Fujita, a Japanese vibraphonist and marimba player, is known for his sonic explorations into the unknown. After 13 years in Berlin, he returned to his native Japan in 2020 with his family, fulfilling his dream of living and composing music in nature. Settling on the coast of Kami-cho, Hyōgo, he transformed an old kindergarten into Kebi Bird Studio, where ‘Migratory’ was created. The album continues his experimentation with vibraphone, marimba, and synthesizers, a journey that began with his acclaimed 2021 album ‘Bird Ambience.’
‘Migratory’ features collaborations with artists like Moor Mother and Hatis Noit, adding diverse elements to Fujita’s intricate compositions. The album’s title reflects the theme of migratory birds and the blending of musical influences from different lands, inspired by Fujita’s experiences living abroad and returning to Japan.
Nature’s influence is a recurring theme in Fujita’s work, and on ‘Migratory,’ it takes center stage. Field recordings and evocative melodies invite listeners to imagine the natural world through sound. The album also includes contributions from Fujita’s father, adding a personal and familial dimension to the project.
