Yum Cha Chats: Lycoriscoris takes us on a shutterbug tour of Setouchi, Japan
The Anjunadeep artist manifests sights & sounds from close to home
A maestro of the deep and melodic realm, Yunosake Senoo aka Lycoriscoris is always on a quest to enrich his understanding of life through both sights and sounds. The most recent output from the Japanese producer is a full length album titled 'Chiyu' on Anjunadeep, a label he's closely grown together with over the last decade. The album drops on Friday, 26 March.
The album explores a sangfroid approach to self-discovery during difficult times, filled with soft and subtle tones that manoeuvre into wildly stunning crescendos, while staying safe in comfortably locked grooves and melancholic basslines that leave you in a state of tenderness.
Lycoriscoris has ensured that the visual factor behind 'Chiyu' is as impactful as the music, creating stunning videos and animations together with video director Callum Bain — a large part of his inspiration stems from the region in Japan he grew up in, Setouchi. So for this week's Yum Cha Chats, the visionary artist takes us on a scenic route across Setouchi to show his favourite vistas for shutterbugs to let their imaginations loose over, from panoramic bayside views to industrial splendour.
We're about to get lost with Lycoriscoris in the stunning region of Setouchi. Join us.
Bikan District in Kurashiki
This place is a rare example of an old style building that has been preserved. I went there once when I was a kid, but it seems to have become more touristy since then. Nowadays it is much less crowded because of Corona, but I think it will be busy all year round once Corona is finished. There are antique furniture shops, small stalls, and restaurants.
The Great Seto Bridge
I'm afraid of heights, so crossing the bridge is quite scary for me, but for those who have a good vantage point, the view is fantastic. This photo was taken from a viewing platform at a place called Washu Mountain. By the way, I also recommend the amusement park here. There is a roller coaster which is said to be the scariest in Japan in some way. If you are brave enough, why don't you try to see the reason with your own eyes? Of course, I won't go there.
Shodoshima
It is an island with a quiet rural landscape. The island's film village is an old-style schoolhouse, from which this photo was taken. It is a small island that you can drive around in a day, but it is a great place for a holiday.
The industrial zone of Mizushima
The air may not be very good. But by far the coolest industrial area around, and any place you take a picture is quite photogenic. It's also beautiful at night. This is also the city that I visited for the music video of the song 'Chiyu'.
Onomichi
There are quaint back alleys, sloping streets and beautiful streets reminiscent of the Showa era. The view of the city from the hill is spectacular. The Seto Inland Sea and the streets of Onomichi can be seen from there. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the lovely restaurants and unique shops. There are also lots of cats.