Nº 42 Kofū III – Meitei

Hailing from Hiroshima, Meitei, unveils the final chapter of his transformative Kofū trilogy. Kofū III marks the apex of a musical journey that began in 2020, unraveling an introspective exploration of the artist’s psyche while delving deep into the essence of Japanese culture. This latest release invites listeners into the innermost sanctums of Meitei’s existence — a passage filled with serenity, self-discovery, and the triumphant conquest of personal demons.

Meitei’s journey has been deeply intertwined with his surroundings. His move from bustling Kyoto to the tranquil rural town of Onomichi in Hiroshima wasn’t just a change of location but a profound shift in his life. Navigating through the ebbs and flows of mental well-being, Meitei found solace in the quiet, low-key energy of Onomichi, where he began creating his distinctive brand of “ambient” music dedicated to resurrecting ‘lost Japanese moods’.

Kofū III is not just a collection of songs; it’s a window into Meitei’s mind, where he reflects on ‘the Japanese mental landscape,’ as experienced during the period of his return to his hometown. This album stands as a testament to Meitei’s evolution, from his tentative inner quest to a state of deep healing.

Kofū and its precursor, Kwaidan, germinated in the solitude of Onomichi, embodying the mysterious, vanishing essence of Japan that Meitei unearthed in the shadows of his hometown. With Kofū III, this exploration reaches its zenith, weaving musical landscapes that transcend temporal bounds. Each track vividly paints bygone eras and vignettes, all while drawing on the rich tapestry of Japanese literature and mindscapes.

Meitei introduces listeners to the tranquil Hiroshima countryside in Reimei, while Hiroshima reflects upon the city’s transformation. It explores Meitei’s intricate relationship with the city and contemplates the ever-changing visage of contemporary Japanese progress.