Haino sings. Hasunuma plays. It’s a minimal framework, but what emerges is a
boundary-blurring sonic exploration. Across the album, Haino’s voice threads through
Hasunuma’s layered soundscapes built from analog synths, electric guitar, piano, field
recordings, and more. Haino entered the studio with only lyrics in hand, improvising
melodies in response to Hasunuma’s evolving arrangements. The result is a work of deep
trust, intuition, and sonic tension.
Keiji Haino and Shuta Hasunuma’’s creative connection began in 2017 with an impromptu
performance in Shibuya—Hasunuma on a Buchla modular synthesizer, Haino responding
with the Japanese national anthem, “Kimigayo.” That moment sparked their unlikely
collaboration. A mutual trust developed through performances over the following years,
culminating with this album.
For the recording of U TA, Haino entered the studio with only the lyrics in hand, with
no knowledge of what sounds Hasunuma would produce. Responding to Hasunuma’s music
in real time, Haino composed the melodies and layered in his voice on the spot. With
additional sessions at Hasunuma’s private studio and Haino’s preferred studio, the album
was completed.
