Los Angeles-based multi-instrumentalist and composer Patrick Shiroishi has announced his powerful new solo album, Forgetting Is Violent, set for release on September 19 via American Dreams. A prolific collaborator known for his work with The Armed, Fuubutsushi (read our review of their latest album here), and Chelsea Wolfe, Shiroishi’s solo material has often reckoned with the history of racism against Japanese Americans. This new record broadens that scope, confronting historical and ongoing racism as a global, persistent crisis.
As a first glimpse into this defining statement, Shiroishi has shared the mournful and moving lead single, “There is no moment in my life in which this is not happening.” The track, featuring the haunting vocals of otay::onii, a China-raised, Berlin-based artist and vocalist, serves as a poignant memorial to the victims of systemic oppression. It explores how silence, erasure, and the ignoring of painful histories around injustices allow them to perpetuate today, establishing a contemplative yet urgent tone for the album.
Forgetting Is Violent marks a significant evolution for Shiroishi, as it is his first solo project to feature guests. The impressive roster includes a who’s who of experimental and heavy music: Aaron Turner (SUMAC, ISIS), Gemma Thompson (Savages), Faith Coloccia (Mamiffer), Mat Ball (BIG|BRAVE), and otay::onii. “I think it stems from my love for collaboration,” Shiroishi explains, noting how ensemble playing informs his solo practice.
Using his signature saxophone layered with effects pedals, Shiroishi builds soundscapes that are both raw and intricate. He views these tools as essential for conveying a message rooted in lived experience and a deep understanding of history. “Stemming back to my ancestors, and the stolen land that we live on—there’s just so much of this racism that is so alive and well, and so apparent, and continues to be apparent in our country and around the world,” Shiroishi says. “Something that cannot be forgotten.”
He adds, “That act of sharing and bringing it up, even though it’s difficult, it makes us feel like we’re not alone. And I think that’s important, especially in a time where it’s just so fucking grim, that we can support each other and be together, that there is hope in the future….”
With Forgetting Is Violent, he offers a resonant and vital source of hope and solidarity.
Pre-Order the album: https://patrickshiroishi.bandcamp.com/album/forgetting-is-violent