Kishi Bashi, born Kaoru Ishibashi in Seattle, Washington, is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist best known for his unique blend of indie-pop and baroque pop.
Kishi Bashi began his musical career as the founding member of the indie rock band Jupiter One, which released two albums before disbanding in 2009. After Jupiter One, Kishi Bashi began working as a solo artist and released his debut album 151a in 2012. The album was widely acclaimed for its lush production, soaring melodies, and Kishi Bashi's use of looping and sampling techniques to create complex layers of sound.
Since then, Kishi Bashi has released several more critically acclaimed albums, including Lighght (2014), Sonderlust (2016), and Omoiyari (2019). He is also known for his dynamic live performances, in which he loops and layers intricate arrangements of violin, guitar, and vocals to create a rich and immersive sound.
Kishi Bashi's music is often described as joyful, bittersweet, and deeply emotional. His songs are deeply personal, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of the human experience. His music has been compared to artists such as Sufjan Stevens, Andrew Bird, and Arcade Fire, but Kishi Bashi's style is truly unique and difficult to categorize.
In addition to his music career, Kishi Bashi is also known for his work as a film composer and producer. He has contributed music to several films and TV shows, including The Silver Lining Playbook, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Overall, Kishi Bashi is a talented and versatile musician whose music has resonated with audiences around the world. His unique blend of indie-pop and baroque pop, combined with his skill as a multi-instrumentalist and his deeply personal and emotional lyrics, make him a memorable and inspiring artist.