London-based artist Hinako Omori has delivered a devastatingly beautiful debut that proves that music does indeed calm the savage beast. The aptly named 'a journey…' sees Omori taking inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku or forest-bathing and combining it with her interest in sound therapy.
This meditative work drifts over the listener like a cool breeze and proves a treat for both head and heart. With angelic vocals floating over analog synths, each track remains grounded enough to make an impact yet remains fluid in nature. Like most ambient music, this is best enjoyed in one sitting and with a decent pair of headphones.
In a genre often suffering from pretension, 'a journey…' succeeds in sounding original and, more importantly, organic.
8/10
Words: Sam Walker-Smart
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