Midori Takada is a pioneering Japanese composer, multi-instrumentalist, and theater artist known for her minimalist and deeply meditative soundscapes that meld a variety of global musical traditions, from African drumming to classical minimalism. Born in Tokyo in 1951, she began her musical voyage studying at the Tokyo University of the Arts, where she cultivated a profound appreciation for the percussive arts. Takada's approach to music is characterized by an introspective exploration of sound and silence, with an emphasis on rhythm and texture.

Takada's career extends over several decades, during which she has made significant contributions to the worlds of experimental and ambient music. Her seminal 1983 album, "Through the Looking Glass," has been influential across various music scenes, admired for its entrancing and hypnotic quality. Although she spent years outside the limelight, a resurgence of interest in ambient music in the 21st century brought renewed enthusiasm for her work. Her recent releases continue to showcase her unique sound, with "Le Renard Bleu" (2018) being a collaborative EP with Lafawndah, drawing on mythological themes and transcultural sonic dialogues. "Cutting Branches For A Temporary Shelter" (2020), "You Who Are Leaving To Nirvana" (2020), and "Tree of Life" (2021) all exhibit her characteristic style of marrying rhythmic repetition with atmospheric textures. Lastly, her project "MSCTY X V&A Dundee" (2021) continues to push the boundaries, demonstrating her unrestrained creativity and the timeless quality of her compositions.

Genres

Fourth World

Japanese Experimental

Latest Release

MSCTY X V&A Dundee

Midori Takada

Single - Released July 21, 2023