Following the Pearl Harbor attack in 1942, over 100,000 Japanese-Americans were sent to US incarceration camps simply because of their ethnic origin. The current socio-political climate in the States has caused many to show concern of a similar path toward intense discrimination, including Kaoru Ishibashi aka Kishi Bashi, whose own parents emigrated from Japan to America. It's the basis for the former Of Montreal member's fourth album, 'Omoiyari', and more specifically, 'Summer Of '42'.
The subject matter is at odds with the uplifting orchestral sound that Kishi Bashi has become well known for, suitably showcased on the likes of the kaleidoscopic 'Philosophize In It! Chemicalize In It' and his cover of 'This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)'. 'Summer Of '42' opens in dramatic fashion, before introducing Kishi Bashi's soothing vocals which reflect a tale of love in the face of adversity within an internment camp. It's perhaps surprising then that Kishi Bashi is somewhat optimistic for the future, sensing "a paradigm shift coming, especially for minorities". We can only hope so.
'Omoiyari' is due out in May on Joyful Noise Recordings. Find more info at kishibashi.com.
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