Mateus Asato Releases First Album ‘Asato’ – Rock and Blues Muse

Mateus Asato, a Brazilian guitarist, has recently released his debut album, ASATO, marking a significant milestone in his career. Throughout his musical journey, Asato has been recognized as one of the most influential figures in modern guitar, and this album serves as a powerful testament to his artistry and personal growth.

The title of the album, ASATO, holds great significance for Mateus as it symbolizes a reclamation of his name and heritage. As a child, his Japanese surname often led to feelings of alienation and a loss of identity. However, today, ASATO stands as a proud celebration of his Japanese roots, a recognition of his unique heritage. The inspiration for this project stemmed from a transformative trip to Japan in 2017, during which Mateus experienced a shift in perspective, transitioning from a renowned sideman to a confident solo artist.

ASATO is more than just a collection of songs; it is a reflection of Mateus’s creative evolution over a decade. From the earliest compositions like “Change” to the final studio recordings of tracks such as “HENDRIX” and “Goodbye,” the album encapsulates the diverse facets of Mateus’s musical identity. Inspired by the landscapes of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hokkaido, and his ancestral home of Okinawa, ASATO takes listeners on a sonic journey that is both introspective and expansive.

In a world where instrumental music is often undervalued compared to lyrical compositions, Mateus defies conventions with ASATO. Through his intricate melodies and emotive guitar work, he explores the power of music to evoke complex emotions that transcend language. Whether in the high-energy bursts of “Kyoto’s Jam” or the tranquil, spiritually resonant acoustic tracks, Mateus utilizes the guitar as a versatile medium for storytelling and emotional expression.

Reflecting on his artistic journey, Mateus shares, “Sometimes the point of a message is its own subjectivity, like an abstract painting with no description.” After two decades of honing his craft, ASATO represents not only a debut album but a culmination of Mateus’s musical odyssey, a testament to his growth and self-discovery as an artist.

Mateus Asato’s reputation in the music industry precedes him, with accolades from publications such as Guitar World Magazine and Total Guitar recognizing him as one of the top guitarists of our time. Having collaborated with esteemed artists across various genres, including Bruno Mars, Silk Sonic, Jessie J, and Tori Kelly, among others, Mateus’s versatility and talent have solidified his status as a powerhouse in the world of guitar music.

ASATO is not just an album; it is a manifestation of Mateus Asato’s artistic vision, a testament to his cultural heritage, and a celebration of his musical identity. Through this transformative body of work, Mateus invites listeners to embark on a sonic journey that transcends boundaries and resonates with the universal language of music.