Osaka, Japan–based artist Atsushi Matsumoto captivates on a personal EP, Études — shaped by winter solitude and found instruments. Built from restored piano tones, ambient textures, and intimate recording methods, the project captures a nostalgic, introspective journey through various emotional states.
“Prelude” opens the album with contemplative allure, as gentle rainfall moves into elegant piano tones. The trickling, free-flowing keys feel like a natural continuation of the initial rain, in resembling water in its movements. The ensuing “Acid Rain” upholds a similar atmospheric charm, as the title suggests — though with an initial bass-forward unveiling, which is met gorgeously by jazzy piano, heartfelt strings, and click-clacking rhythms. “Rust” is another gem, reminding of Ryuichi Sakamoto in the interplay between piano and wordless backing voices; the EP’s first three tracks envelop, and the quality doesn’t let up from there.
Another highlight, “Fairyland” presents a lovely array of strings and piano work, overlapping with seamless cohesion. The bright, prancing piano and more somber strings result in a striking contrast, and one that resembles the many moods and emotions as we traverse through life. Études consumes with a sound that’s melodically memorable, while also being fit for introspection via its imaginative soundscapes.
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The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Obscure Ambient.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
