Shakuhachi music centers around the haunting, ethereal tones of the shakuhachi flute, a traditional Japanese bamboo instrument with profound ties to Zen Buddhism. Artists like Clive Bell and Riley Lee evoke a serene and meditative atmosphere, reflecting the shakuhachi's historical use by the Komuso monks as a tool for spiritual awakening. The genre is characterized by its resonant, breathy sound and a distinct melodic simplicity that belies the instrument's complexity and the skill required to master it. Performers such as Yoshio Kurahashi and Minoru Muraoka showcase the shakuhachi's versatility, from the plaintive and introspective solo pieces (honkyoku) to dynamic contemporary collaborations that merge traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern influences, thus resonating with a broad spectrum of listeners who seek a transcendent auditory experience.

At One with the Motion

Riley Lee

Single - Released January 3, 2025