After a three-year hiatus, the prodigious producer Kazuhiro Yamagami makes a triumphant return with his highly anticipated album, Formula. Released amidst a buzz of excitement, this nine-track odyssey through the realms of trip hop and downtempo beats promises to captivate listeners from the very first note. ‘Formula’ is not just an album; it’s an immersive experience, a testament to Kazuhiro’s relentless pursuit of musical perfection.
Kazuhiro Yamagami’s journey to this point is as eclectic and rich as his music. From his early days at age 13, when he picked up the bass guitar inspired by rock, punk, ska, and alternative bands, to the pivotal moment at 19 when the sounds of Nine Inch Nails sparked a passion for creating music on his own, Kazuhiro has always been driven by a desire to innovate. His transition from band performances to mastering synthesised instruments marked the beginning of a new era in his musical career.
Formula is the culmination of a long, arduous, yet rewarding process of composition spanning two and a half years. Kazuhiro’s dedication to his craft shines through in every track. “I wanted to feel the importance of releasing an album,” he explains. “It was very difficult to live with the repetition and improvement of everyday life (childcare) and to complete multiple songs. I realised that it is important to keep things going in a good state every day.” This insight into his creative process reveals the deep connection between his personal and professional life, making ‘Formula’ not just a collection of songs, but a reflection of his journey.
The album is a dense, eclectic mix that seamlessly blends jazz rhythms, pulsating 808s, and harmonious keyboards and synths. Each track is a testament to Kazuhiro’s ability to transform simple, pleasant sounds into complex, captivating compositions. Despite the huge production sound, Kazuhiro recorded, wrote, mixed, and mastered ‘Formula’ from the comfort of his home using a single iPad, showcasing his ingenuity and mastery of modern music production techniques.
Kazuhiro’s extensive background in the music industry has given him a unique perspective on both the commercial and creative aspects of music. His work at HMV for over 15 years exposed him to a wide array of genres and artists, enriching his musical palette and influencing his distinctive sound. His time in a music therapy class further expanded his horizons, incorporating elements of environmental and experimental music into his repertoire.
Since July 2018, Kazuhiro has released and distributed 27 singles, with his track “Walk on the Water” earning a spot on Spotify’s Midnight Chill playlist in August 2020. His consistent ability to discover and harness simple, pleasant sounds into powerful compositions is a hallmark of his work. Formula builds on this legacy, pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes while evoking deep emotions.
For fans of Massive Attack, DJ Shadow, and the rich soundscapes of 90s Hip Hop and Bristol Sounds, Formula is an essential listen. Each track is a journey, a story told through the language of music, crafted by a producer at the height of his creative powers. As Kazuhiro Yamagami returns to the forefront of the music scene, Formula stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, his innovative spirit, and his ability to create music that transcends boundaries and touches the soul.
Experience Formula today, and let Kazuhiro Yamagami take you on a sonic journey like no other.
