TRACKLIST
A1 Be Like a Cloud
A2 Diamonds (feat. Cazeaux O.S.L.O.)
A3 Ordinary Life
B1 Need U (feat. Kee'Ahn)
B2 Love & Company
B3 Her Grace
B4 Nothing Bad
ABOUT
Having carved out his space within the scene as a deft jazz/soul guitarist and songwriter in the raw RnB three-piece Izy, Ojiaji aka Ryotaro is finally presenting his new solo work. His debut album ‘Love & Company’ is a tribute to the art of being present for others, to honor the legacy of his mother’s nurturing spirit, and foster a more empathetic world. Warm, lo-fi and jazzy in nature, the album features some of Melbourne’s finest instrumental musicians from acts such as Surprise Chef, Karate Boogaloo, Nikodimos and more. Eclectic in form, OjiAji’s gentle and soulful voice pulls us in with catchy melodies; his colourful and idiosyncratic guitar playing reminiscent of the leftfield, whimsical sounds of Connan Mockasin and Hether. Love & Company is released via Hopestreet Recordings on Friday, 27th June.
Opening track and single ‘Be Like A Cloud’ follows a beautifully wonky chord progression, accentuated by Mellotron by keyboardist Jake Amy, with restrained, floating vocal harmonies that evoke the song's title, encouraging listeners to express their emotions and hold a space for others to do the same. Warm, hollow-body guitar plucked chords open ‘Diamonds’, as OjiAji’s relaxed vocals pick out an easily hummable tune. The honeyed voice of renowned wordsmith Cazeau Oslo (So.Crates) makes an entrance, the lyrics celebrating the beauty of enduring hardship and staying true to oneself. ‘Ordinary Life’ begins with a breathtaking flute and string composition, bringing to mind the nostalgic romance of 60’s Disney cartoons. Gentle and simple, woody bass is allowed to shine through, and the track opens up to a beautiful plucked acoustic guitar solo. The short interlude ‘Need U’ welcomes the sublime vocals of Naarm singer & songwriter Kee’ahn, whose backing vocals are heard on the single Diamonds, along with Naarm RnB rising star Tiana Khasi. Every track is brought to life by Naarm’s leading instrumental practitioners, Hudson Whitlock (Surprise Chef, Karate Boogaloo, The Pro-Teens,) on drums, Darvid Thor (Karate Boogaloo, Frollen Music Library) on bass and soaring flute and keys from Nikodimos. The album is co-produced with Henry Jenkins (Surprise Chef) and Kuzich (Mwanje, Mandarin Dreams).Now based in Naarm/Melbourne, OjiAji finds his creative voice through music and writing, reflecting on his powerful journey as a Japanese man living life in Australia. Through Love & Company, he hopes to create a ripple effect of kindness and emotional support; a practical guide offering listeners a roadmap for fostering empathy and understanding. The album is a celebration of OjiAji's natural instinct for writing understated yet intricate jazz/soul compositions, and showcases his authenticity as he steps confidently into his new era as a solo artist.
