It seems as though we, as listeners of obscure music, still can't get over the hump that is the “new solo artist” bias. They don't have the flashy names, or the intriguing sense of mystery, or the well-known back catalog of works that more well-established bands have (when they have a back catalog at all). Bottom line – people are less likely to even read about a solo artist (check the page views on solo reviews versus other, comparably scored reviews if you don't believe me) let alone spend some time researching and experiencing the artist's work. I know I'm biased in this way – perhaps I'm the only one, although I doubt it. In any case, we need to struggle to overcome this bias against the solo artist, to work against this illogical block we place in the path of our musical exploration, for if we do not, we risk missing out on artists like Takahiro Kido.

Kido's latest effort, Fleursy Music, is a stunning display of ambient/classical orchestration, deftly moving between the genres in order to create a kaleidoscopic vision of beauty. The balance between ambient-focused tracks and more classically aligned ones is struck perfectly, allowing variety to keep the listener's attention while avoiding the certain doom that is a lack of focus. As a member of Anoice, Kido proves time and again over the course of three quarters of an hour that working outside of the critically-acclaimed confines of the band has done nothing to hinder his ability to accomplish ambitious, powerful designs. If nothing else, working alone has allowed Kido to create music that is on the brighter end of the emotional spectrum – always a welcome sight in the melancholy-drenched world of instrumental music. Note that the album being more “happy” does not prevent it from satisfying the close listener – it is still a subtle, well-composed work, just not engineered to take you to a dark place, which is an effort I think we all can appreciate.  

Second track “Smile-Spotter Chronicle” demonstrates the sheer power of the more classical compositions on the release. A lovely piano melody ushers in the track, and is then slowly over taken by a soaring violin, while soft electronics work their subtle magic in the background. Soon, another violin launches itself into the mix, offering what would be considered a “release” on a post-rock track, but bringing the listener to ever-higher levels of joy rather than relieving tension. The careful sliding of the piano further back in the mix at the introduction of the second violin is testament to Kido's mastery of his craft – it is barely noticed, but it prevents the track from becoming cluttered and chaotic. It is a standout track if I've ever heard one, and the album's only just begun. “Christmas Song” works in a similar fashion, though shorter, and with a greater emphasis on electronics. One listen to either track will erase any doubts as to Kido's skill at classical composition. 

If those tracks aren't enough for you, why not give the fantastically soothing guitar of “Milk Tea” a try? Or perhaps the more ambient, chill-out rhythms of “Poco!” are more to your taste? In any case, there is so much to love on this little album that it would be a crime to avoid it. Fleursy Music is probably the best ambient release so far this year, and will be a tough act for future ambient artists to follow. If you have ever needed solid evidence to conquer your biases, here it is – Takahiro Kido shows that the solo artist should be given just as much credence as any other band. Don't let your biases overwhelm your curiosity – listen to this album. You will be glad you did.

-Zach Mills