Some may know the Joyful Noise Records artist because of his works with Of Montreal or Jupiter One, but we are talking about neither one of those acts today. This time, it is the solo works of Kaoru Ishibashi, also known by his stage name, Kishi Bashi.
The Athens, Georgia resident delivers one of the most superlative songs to start off the winter season, “Can’t Let Go, Juno”. The song comes off of his September record, ‘Sonderlust’, and working alongside the skilled sound engineer Pat Dillet (Sufjan Stevens, David Byrne) Kishi Bashi finds himself pursuing new heights in his solo works. Check it out below.
Enter one of the most luscious and inviting soundscapes that your ears have the opportunity to feast on.
Droning synths and pinging strings lay the groundwork for the introduction to “Can’t Let Go, Juno”. The song is a gigantic leap for Kishi Bashi, who previously was known for his looping and repetitive violin and string works being the driving force of most songs. As soon as Kishi Bashi starts singing, the listener is engaged with personally warm and inviting vocals. Singing “And every time I check in on myself // I’m drinking my soul away” it becomes clear that this song relates to an avenue of depression and self- expression. Later in the chorus, he delivers, “And if you loved her, would you fake it? //And every letter, would you burn it?”.
Interesting and brilliant takeaways are found in the song, and it is clear that Kishi Bashi is more powerful than ever. The latest record, ‘Sonderlust’ is available for streaming on multiple platforms, and for purchase here. Check it out and let us know what you think!
Kishi Bashi Tour Dates:
10/19: Vancouver, BC @ The Fox Cabaret ^
10/20: Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom ^
10/21: San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic ^
10/22: Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst Atrium ^
10/23: San Diego, CA @ Irenic ^
10/24: Los Angeles, CA @ The Belasco Theater ^
10/26: Tucson, AZ @ Club Congress +
10/28: San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger +
10/29: Austin, TX @ Mohawk +
10/30: Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall +
11/1: New Orleans, LA @ One Eyed Jacks +
11/2: Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse +
* w/ Twain
^ w/ Busman’s Holiday
+ w/ Laura Gibson