Italian-Japanese singer-songwriter OTO MAYUMI has embarked on a musical odyssey with her debut studio album, “Good and Bad Shades,” released worldwide on December 1, 2023 (available in Japanese stores from December 6, 2023). This eclectic collection of songs delves into the intricate, multifaceted nature of human emotions, exploring the grey areas that define the human soul.
“Good and Bad Shades” is more than just an album title; it’s a thematic exploration of life’s complexities. OTO MAYUMI skillfully captures the essence of the album in its original title, 灰、良い影 (pronounced “Hai, Iie”). Translated, it represents ashes, good, and shadow, symbolizing the nuanced interplay of beautiful and bad things in life. The international title reflects this duality, showcasing the various shades of grey that define our experiences.
The heart of “Good and Bad Shades” lies in its exploration of the grey side of the human soul. OTO MAYUMI believes that life is a continuous intersection of beautiful and challenging moments, creating a spectrum of emotions. The album not only acknowledges but celebrates this ambiguity, inviting listeners into a sonic journey that mirrors the intricate tapestry of the human experience.
The album predominantly embraces the J-Rock genre, with occasional forays into unexpected musical territories. From the catchy singles like “Haisuikou no gomi,” “Owl,” “Zenbu,” and “Datte” to six previously unreleased tracks, the music showcases OTO MAYUMI’s prowess as both a lyricist and a composer. The production and mix, primarily handled by Codadilupo from Tafka, create a seamless sonic tapestry.
Each song within “Good and Bad Shades” weaves a unique narrative, reflecting the album’s overarching theme. Some notable tracks include:
“Kagami mite goran”: Explores the tendency of individuals to judge others while justifying their actions, even when they lie to themselves.
“Haisuikou no gomi”: Addresses the struggle of individuals treated as worthless and suggests embracing the journey of self-improvement despite societal judgments.
“Zenbu”: Explores how our perception of life varies based on perspective, conveying the message that happiness is subjective.
“Red, Blue and Violet”: Delves into a relationship marred by physical and psychological pain, questioning possible solutions to address the issues permanently.
In a nod to her dual nationality, OTO MAYUMI ensures the album’s accessibility by providing lyrics in both the original Japanese and translated into Italian. This bilingual approach not only pays homage to her heritage but also expands the album’s reach to diverse audiences.
OTO MAYUMI, born in Rome to an Italian father and Japanese mother, began her musical journey at the Tokyo Teatro Academy in Japan. Her unique background, coupled with studies in singing, acting, dance, and dubbing, sets the stage for her multifaceted career.
Returning to Italy, OTO MAYUMI initially explored opera alongside her parents before transitioning to Japanese music as a soloist. Her diverse repertoire includes covers, unreleased songs, and collaborations with artists like Tafka, FURAMI, and DJ-V. Beyond music, OTO MAYUMI engages with her audience through columns on her YouTube channel and Radioanimati, exploring curiosities about Japan.
As she continues to focus on her music career, OTO MAYUMI’s unreleased songs are available on various streaming platforms, while her covers remain exclusive to her YouTube channel.
As OTO MAYUMI unravels the “Good and Bad Shades,” listeners are invited to explore the grey realms of human existence. The album stands as a testament to the artist’s ability to navigate complex emotions through music, promising a rich and resonant experience for those who embark on this sonic journey. As the notes of “Good and Bad Shades” reverberate, OTO MAYUMI emerges as a distinctive voice, weaving stories that resonate with the intricate emotions of life’s grey areas.
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