Keiji Haino, the avant-garde maestro, returns with his highly anticipated album "う た" on September 3, 2025, under Virgin Music Label And Artist Services (S&D). This enigmatic collection of nine tracks is a testament to Haino's fearless exploration of sound, blending noise rock, free jazz, and experimental noise into a dense, immersive soundscape. The album's title, a play on the Japanese word for "empty," hints at the sonic voids and textures that await within.
Clocking in at just over 42 minutes, "う た" is a journey through Haino's sonic universe, where drone metal and noise collide, creating a cacophony that is as mesmerizing as it is chaotic. Tracks like "噴" and "溢れ出る微笑みの雫たちがおりてくる" showcase Haino's signature style, layering dissonant noise with moments of eerie beauty. Meanwhile, "景" and "人" offer glimpses of free jazz improvisation, highlighting Haino's virtuosity on the guitar and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional music.
For fans of experimental music, "う た" is a must-listen, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the mind of one of Japan's most innovative musicians. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Keiji Haino or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to challenge and captivate you.
Vinylscout