Akira Kosemura releases music video for ‘Ongaku feat. Devendra Banhart’ from latest album
Renowned composer and pianist Akira Kosemura has just released his highly anticipated album “MIRAI,” meaning “future” in Japanese, on the Tokyo-based independent label Schole Records. This album marks a departure from his past solo piano work in “SEASONS” as it is his first vocal project. Collaborating with a talented lineup that includes Devendra Banhart, Mr Hudson, Tom Adams, Baths, Saro, Benjamin Gustafsson, and Miyuki Hatakeyama, Kosemura has crafted a unique musical experience that transcends genres and languages.
The inspiration for “MIRAI” struck during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting Kosemura to explore themes of the future and create a musical journey for the next generations. This album is a blend of diverse influences ranging from traditional Asian instruments like dilruba and shakuhachi to Naga songs from Myanmar, film soundtracks, post-rock, neo-classical, and electronica. This fusion of genres, accompanied by lyrics in several languages, reflects the dynamic cultural evolution of Japan in the post-war era.
To celebrate the release of “MIRAI,” Kosemura has shared a visually stunning video for the track “Ongaku” featuring Devendra Banhart. Directed by Joel Kazuo Knoernschild, the video takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into Kosemura’s vision of the future and his quest for a musical utopia. The collaboration between Kosemura and Banhart brings a new dimension to the music, enriching the listener’s experience and offering a glimpse into Kosemura’s creative process.
In a time where art and music have the power to bring people together and transcend boundaries, “MIRAI” stands as a testament to Kosemura’s artistic vision and his dedication to crafting meaningful and impactful music. By embracing a diverse range of influences and collaborating with a talented group of artists, Kosemura has created an album that is both innovative and introspective, inviting listeners to explore the complexities of the future through the beauty of music.
As Kosemura’s musical journey continues to unfold, “MIRAI” serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music and its ability to connect people across cultures and generations. Through his evocative compositions and thoughtful lyrics, Kosemura invites listeners to join him on a sonic exploration of the future, offering a glimpse into a world where music transcends boundaries and unites us in a shared vision of hope and possibility.