From the sparse fragility of Magic Thread to the fluid resonance of Sakura, Susumu Yokota manages to capture ephemeral, deep emotion with a powerful force. Yokota is intimately in touch with human, and other, spirits, and the spiritual in nature. The Boy And The Tree is no exception.

In Yokota’s own words:

“The boy of The Boy And The Tree is me, and this is my dream story. There is an island called Yakushima in the south of Japan, which is designated as a world heritage site. It rains a lot there and there are many trees that are two or three thousand years old. It is a very mysterious island. Also, there is an animation film called Mononokehime directed by Hayao Miyazki. The scenario, nature itself, is the living thing and this film has sharp animal sensibilities. These two things have effected this album very much.

“I also moved to the suburbs of Tokyo two years ago, and live in a place which is closer to the mountains and river. I go to the mountains a few times a week and this atomosphere is reflected in my music. The smell of grass and trees, the air in the woods makes my mind clear. And it gives good effect for making music. Walking among the big trees, I can hear my heartbeat and also the sound of the earth echo.”

Limited edition double black vinyl LP (1,500 copies) – BAY 25V

CD – BAY 25CD

BAY 25E