Acclaimed Japanese artist and composer Nobukazu Takemura has unveiled “an ephemeral radiant,” from his upcoming album, knot of meanings (September 26th, 2025, Thrill Jockey), which marks his first proper full-length release in a decade.
“an ephemeral radiant” is a testament to Takemura’s unique musical vision. The piece weaves a delicate tapestry of sound, blending steady, deliberate piano melodies with flourishes of cello synth, electronic plinks, and a trilling vibraphone. Takemura’s use of sampled glass scrapes adds a fascinating percussive element, conjuring the fleeting, beautiful image of sparks flying from struck stones. It’s a sonic landscape that is both precise and wonderfully understated, capturing a sense of sublime wonder.
The new album, knot of meanings, is a deeply personal and philosophical work that tackles the complex relationship between technology, religion, and the human spirit in the modern age. As Takemura explains, the album’s title is a metaphor for defining spirituality’s role in life and the tangled connectivity of humanity in a world increasingly driven by technology. He describes the album as a search for originality, a departure from the “stagnation” he observes in contemporary culture. Takemura’s lifelong use of the “Child’s View” as a creative foundation shines through, infusing the music with a youthful sense of curiosity and a quest for deeper meaning. knot of meanings promises to be a rewarding journey for listeners, a mosaic of technicolour elements that form a dense and enchanting portrait of struggle and triumph.
Pre-order Nobukazu Takemura’s knot of meanings: Thrill Jockey | Bandcamp