Kishi Bashi
In the landscape of contemporary music Kishi Bashi stands alone as a thoroughly unique creative force. Kishi Bashi is the pseudonym of singer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Kaoru Ishibashi.The classically-trained violinist has crafted a distinct signature sound, fusing his stunning experiments on violin with an impeccable sensibility for pop songcraft. Since issuing his debut album 151a in 2012, Kishi Bashi has been collecting major accolades. Bob Boilen of NPR’s All Songs Considered tagged Kishi Bashi as one of 2012’s best new artists, and praised 151a as “a radiant, uplifting soundscape.” His follow-up efforts "Lighght" (2014) and "Sonderlust" (2016) also garnered serious critical acclaim. The Guardian marveled at the “heady, classical-pop hybrid” Kishi Bashi created on Lighght, while the Wall Street Journal lauded Sonderlust as “arresting, whimsical and beautifully played”.His latest album Omoiyari was released May 31st 2019. Channeling the heard-learned lessons of history Kishi Bashi has crafted an uncompromising musical statement on the turbulent sociopolitical atmosphere of present-day America. Although many of the songs were initially inspired by history and oppression, Kishi Bashi deftly weaves tales of love, loss, and wanting as a way to connect listeners to the past.
“arresting, whimsical and beautifully played” Wall Street Journal
"heady, classical-pop hybrid” The Guardian
"another sure-footed surprise from an artist who never stops seeking new ways to engage, connect and delight" NPR