6 Ocean Floor Fantasy (Side A)

In Japanese, the word “fushigi” means wonder, mystery, strange, miracle, marvel, and curiosity; a perfect description of the music found on this album.
This album was specifically written to be enjoyed on vinyl. A limited edition translucent purple 12" vinyl version of Fushigi can be purchased at www.silashite..... Vinyl purchase includes free digital download.
Side A
Side A is an underwater journey across the Pacific Ocean from California to Japan. It begins with the listener being mentally prepared to undertake the arduous voyage with the duo of tracks, "Focus Your Mind" and "Prepare to Dive". The two tracks are full of nervous excitement, and foreshadow the destination through the use of traditional Japanese instruments: taiko, shakuhachi, and koto. Once the listener is submerged, the music becomes wondrous and curious as we explore the world under the surface of the ocean. Side A concludes with the bubbly sounds of "Drifting to the Surface" and a fight against the crashing surf, as heard in "The Struggle Ashore".
Side B
Side B is an exploration of my memories of Japan, beginning with "Welcome to Japan", an epic introduction to an incredible land. From there the album evolves through dreamlike remembrances, from the stoic "Respect", to the urban blink of "Shibuya Glows". It concludes with "Goodbye Fushigi", a subdued yet playful restatement of the musical theme established in "Finding Fushigi", from Side A.
About the album:
For this album I wanted to incorporate new instruments into my musical palette to harness the creativity that I experience when I work with fresh sounds. I chose traditional Japanese instruments to suggest geographical location, and also because the Japanese culture has a strong connection to the sea. These instruments invoke their ancient culture, while drum machines and synthesizers are meant to reflect the vibrant, electronic technology that I equate with modern Japan.
My goal was not to create Japanese music or my impression of Japanese music. The goal was to engage Japanese instruments to inform my writing process and learn more about their musical capabilities along the way.
-Silas Hite
Credits:
Silas Hite: GuitarViol, keyboards, synths, pump organ, electric bass, drum kit, drum machines, cymbals, taiko, shime daiko, bodhran, waterphone
Saeko Kujiraoka Zirkelbach: koto
Mike Penny: shamisen　
Robert Barr: cello
Kathleen Sloan: violin
Ricky Miami: viola
Paul Morin: upright bass
Anthony Parnther: bassoon, oboe
All music was written, arranged, recorded, mixed and, produced by Silas Hite
Album artwork, design, and photography by Silas Hite
Mastered by Hans DeKline
Copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved
www.silashite.com