Tokyo-based musical collective Rock of Asia, led by the visionary Nikki Matsumoto, unveiled their fourth studio album, TAMI, on June 16. This independent release emerges as an evocative blend of Japanese Folk Rock, echoing a seamless fusion of Eastern and Western musical instruments.
TAMI is not just a listening experience; it’s a journey that transcends cultural and political barriers. With a base of rock music, the album presents a unique amalgamation of Western instruments such as the guitar and violin and Eastern mainstays like the koto, shamisen, sho, and erhu. The result? An ageless power that resonates from the very first note.
Having recently regaled audiences in Singapore and Indonesia with a few of the album’s tracks on their brief Asian tour, Rock of Asia continues to be ambassadors of their signature sound – a sound that has matured and evolved over the years, much like fine wine. This album also sees a music video accompanying its title track, further deepening the sensory experience for fans.
Rock of Asia, founded by Nikki Matsumoto after a 15-year professional stint in America, has been at the forefront of blending the musical aesthetics of the East and West since its inception in 2010. The group’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable.
From their self-titled debut album in 2011, which coincided tragically with the devastating Japanese earthquake and tsunami, to paying tribute to the Arab Spring with their 2012 album “Virtual Colony” and touring the Middle East.
Matsumoto’s passion for intercultural harmony shines through his dedication, evident from his solo project Palestine On My Mind and the consistent tours in Palestine. Their 2019 album The Ancient further solidified their musical prowess, highlighted by their headliner performance at the Cairo Opera House.
Their 2021 collection, Asian Anthology, celebrating a decade since their debut, featured the globally acclaimed track “Lal Dhaga”, which soared to No. 25 on Spotify’s ‘Indie Stream Chart’.
TAMI is not merely an album; it’s a testament to Rock of Asia’s enduring commitment to producing genre-defying, boundary-blurring music. For those who have followed the group’s illustrious journey, this new offering will surely be a treat, and for the uninitiated, a delightful discovery.
Listen to the album below!
#Peace.Love.TAMI
1 comment
The unique and distinctive Japanese group, ROCK OF ASIA, has a brand-new album available now entitled “TAMI” with nine amusing light rock-oriented tunes mixed with slight progressive feel fused with hints of jazz elements using some Asian traditional instruments. Check ’em out!!