Saturday, November 12, 2011

Sympathy Nervous - Automaticism LP (Minimal Wave, 2011)


Sympathy Nervous is the project of Japanese artist Yosihumi Niinuma. Influenced by both classical and Krautrock, he began recording in 1979, and released several records on the highly coveted Vanity label. He continued to record and self-release much of his work throughout the 80s and 90s. His sound is intelligent and probably the most unique minimal synth to come out of Japan. Exploring dystopian themes, his music is well balanced and beautifully recorded.

Automaticism features songs Yosihumi Niinuma recorded between 1979-1981. Most were originally slated for a cassette release but never saw the light of day until now. When the Tsunami washed away the coast of Japan last March 2011, Niinuma lost everything: an entire lifetime of recordings, instruments, hand built sequencers, and even his home. Fortunately, he had sent us his audio masters prior to the disaster. This release is fully dedicated to him, in memory of all his lost recordings. The record is pressed on 180 gram ultra clear vinyl and comes in a printed heavy clear sleeve, with Niinuma's account of what happened on that day of March 11, 2011 and the months that followed. This is a benefit album, all the proceeds go to the artist. Special thanks to Narumi Omori for translation assistance and Gustavo Eandi for cover art.


This release is absolutely crucial to readers of Stalking Duppi, and is available now from Minimal Wave.

5 comments:

Thomas Kyhn said...

Just heard from Minimal Wave, it will be available in digital format in two weeks.

Anonymous said...

amazing record - hope people support this and Yosihumi - nice to know buying a record will actually help him rebuild his torn up life - hope more opportunities come for him

Atlantis Audio Archive said...

left a comment for you on Mutant Sounds NO More Expo post, but not sure if you'll see it...

Do you know if '80 It's Second Coming has been posted anywhere?

I have been meaning to post that cassette for quite some time, then stalled when I heard about this reissue, but per your other comments, it sounds like only two of those tracks were on this re-issue...

c.patera said...

AAA,

Good to hear from you!
I saw your comment, but I'll respond here.
No, I don't believe it has been posted anywhere. You should certainly post it -- I'm dying to hear it!
Let me know when you do it and I'll make a new post linking to your blog.

c.

Atlantis Audio Archive said...

The SN tape has been posted:

http://atlantisaudioarchive.blogspot.com/2012/01/sympathy-nervous-its-second-coming.html