Shokobutsu [Limited Edition] (Vinyl)

Shokobutsu by SALON KITTY is a definitive vinyl reissue of the duo's remarkable 1984 debut album, widely regarded as one of the most distinctive and unconventional recordings to emerge from Japan's independent music scene of the early 1980s. Originally released through the Osaka-based label Fantin Latour, the album is now revived by EM Records in a carefully curated limited edition that reintroduces this unique work to a new generation of listeners.

Formed by Atsushi Nakayama and Shinichi Shimomura, SALON KITTY pursued an artistic vision centered on the "liberation of rhythm." Rejecting conventional rhythm sections, the duo created a deeply atmospheric sound built around viola, accordion, piano, koto, bells, and expressive vocals. The result is a floating, chamber-like musical landscape where silence, breathing space, and the Japanese concept of ma (negative space) become essential elements of the composition.

FAQs and Guides

Who are SALON KITTY?

SALON KITTY was an experimental chamber music duo consisting of Atsushi Nakayama and Shinichi Shimomura, active in Osaka during the early 1980s and known for their unique approach to rhythm-free composition and acoustic sound design.

What is Shokobutsu?

Shokobutsu (Japanese for "Plants") is the 1984 debut album by SALON KITTY, combining viola, accordion, piano, koto, bells, and poetic vocals into a highly original form of Japanese chamber music.

What kind of music is featured on the album?

The album blends experimental chamber music, ambient composition, modern classical influences, Japanese traditional aesthetics, and avant-garde acoustic arrangements with rhythm-free structures and spacious melodies.

Is this item collectible?

Yes. This reissue preserves a rare and historically significant Japanese underground recording, and its bonus materials, limited-edition format, and archival restoration make it especially attractive to collectors of experimental and Japanese independent music.

Is this a good gift?

Absolutely. It is an excellent gift for collectors of Japanese vinyl, fans of avant-garde music, ambient listeners, and enthusiasts of obscure and influential underground recordings.

Who would enjoy this vinyl?

This release is ideal for fans of SALON KITTY, collectors of Japanese experimental music, listeners of modern classical and ambient works, and anyone interested in rediscovered underground recordings from Japan's independent music scene