Fushigi - Limited Edition 12" Translucent Purple Vinyl
In Japanese, the word “fushigi” means wonder, mystery, strange, miracle, marvel, and curiosity; a perfect description of the music found on this album. This album was specifically written to be enjoyed on vinyl.
Side A is an underwater journey across the Pacific Ocean from California to Japan. It begins with the listener being mentally prepared to undertake the arduous voyage with the duo of tracks, "Focus Your Mind" and "Prepare to Dive". The two tracks are full of nervous excitement, and foreshadow the destination through the use of traditional Japanese instruments: taiko, shakuhachi, and koto. Once the listener is submerged, the music becomes wondrous and curious as we explore the world under the surface of the ocean. Side A concludes with the bubbly sounds of "Drifting to the Surface" and a fight against the crashing surf, as heard in "The Struggle Ashore".
Side B is an exploration of my memories of Japan, beginning with "Welcome to Japan", an epic introduction to an incredible land. From there the album evolves through dreamlike remembrances, from the stoic "Respect", to the urban blink of "Shibuya Glows". It concludes with "Goodbye Fushigi", a subdued yet playful restatement of the musical theme established in "Finding Fushigi", from Side A.