Through the help of fans on Kickstarter.com, Kishi Bashi (who also goes by K Ishibashi) was able to raise enough money to record his debut album, 151a. Although this is Kishi Bashi’s first full-length, the Norfolk, VA, native isn’t new to music; he’s the founder and singer of Jupiter One, a member of Of Montreal and has toured with artists such as Regina Spektor and Sondre Lerche.
What stands out specifically on 151a is Ishibashi’s magnificent violin playing that he uses to create other unconventional sounds. Although the release is animated, it also feels like a continuous trip on one’s drug of choice, though opium or ecstasy works well. Bashi shows off his talent with the orchestral piece, “Intro/Pathos, Pathos,” which starts off the series with a bouncy beat and double-tracked vocals.
The disc definitely has an Of Montreal feel to it, however, Bashi’s voice on some of the cuts has a classic light Beatles like feel, which makes for an interesting mash up. “Chester’s Burst Over The Hamptons” is a speedy number with flying violins and a quick-tongued Kishi Bashi. Despite the energetic pop side of 151a, it ends on a majestic note with “I Am The Antichrist To You” and “Beat The Bright Out Of Me.” The ominous and spacey tones of “Beat The Bright Out Me” drop the listener out of their trip and brings them back to reality.
151a is an intelligent, unique release that is certain to put Kishi Bashi’s name out there with other prominent solo artists. With each track sounding better and wilder than the previous, the album doesn’t lose its sparkle.
In A Word: Fresh
