Kishi Bashi

A singer/songwriter, producer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist whose main instrument is the violin, Kaoru "K" Ishibashi's solo project, Kishi Bashi, is recognized for its playful, highly melodic, often romantic songs. His distinctly kaleidoscopic sound frequently incorporates looping technology, with repeated segments sped up to varying degrees to otherworldly effect. He debuted the project in 2012 with 151A, which helped to establish the Joyful Noise label. His more slickly produced third album, Sonderlust (2016), included increased electronic elements, while Omoiyari (2019) and its companion EP, Emigrant (2021), and related soundtrack album, Music from the Song Film: Omoiyari (2023), relied on a more organic, orchestral folk palette. He switched gears to a mix of high-spirited prog and alternative dance tunes for 2024's Kantos.