Tag Archives: soraya

soraya “soraya” Interview (2024)

by

Here is an interview with soraya about their self-titled debut album from 2024. Of all the new music I’ve discovered this past year or so, this duo is one of my personal favorites. Highly recommended listening for anyone in search of some warm, laid-back, jazz-infused pop with genuinely memorable songwriting. Or, really, for any music fan in general.

Most of this post originally comes from an article by AVE, along with some additional questions from the April 2024 issue of Music Magazine. (These segments are marked “MM.”)

Interview & text: Murao Yasuo (AVE), Munekata Akimasa (Music Magazine)
English translation: Henkka
soraya: Website, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube

Note: You can buy this album on CDJapan.


soraya
Ishikawa Kurena & Tsubosaka Kento

soraya is a unit comprised of two musicians active in the jazz scene, Tsubosaka Kento (piano) and Ishikawa Kurena (vocals, bass).

Drawing influences from a variety of musical styles—not only jazz, but also folk, rock, R&B, and world music—the duo aims to create something universal; songs that can move the heart precisely because of their simplicity. Even as their work overflows with playful ideas, one can clearly sense their sincere love for music.

We got to ask the two about their feelings behind their first album soraya.

Continue reading →

Henkka’s New Music Discoveries #3

by

One of these days, there could come a day when finally, at long last, I get bored of listening to music. “All right,” I’ll say. “That’s enough music for me.” Having decided I’ve heard all I want to hear, I’ll hang up my music hat. One day, who knows? I might graduate from listening to music.

But that day is not today. And in all likelihood, it’s not tomorrow either.

Here’s some of the better music I’ve found since last time.

Urakami Souki
“Dreaming of Dream Harbour”
2024 | POP

The freshest of these findings. I only just discovered this artist last month.

In a word, I love how beautifully melodious his music is. Just listen to the song—it’s crazy the directions his melody lines go. It’s too early to say for sure, but I think I’m about to become a fan. Can you imagine how cool this song would sound live?

Fun fact: this song features on bass guitar the great Shin Rizumu. He is a fantastic solo artist in his own right.

Continue reading →