Description
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Originally intended for release as a series of ten cassettes on the label YLEM, the “Collection” stands as a cornerstone of Merzbow’s catalogue. Beginning in 1981, Akita and Mizutani recorded in YLEM’s studio — a room within an apartment building equipped with mixers, effects, and various instruments, including guitars and basses — creating an environment that fostered creative experimentation. After finishing the first five cassettes, with “Collection 005,” it was decided that the mixing of the subsequent volumes would no longer take place at YLEM’s studio, as the label had ceased operations. Consequently, Akita undertook the task of producing the remaining cassettes independently at home, ensuring that the series would be completed. With the inactivity of YLEM and the cancellation of both YLEM productions and Fool’s Mate distribution, Akita made the decision to release “Collection 001-010” on ten cassettes under the newly founded label, Lowest Music & Arts. This move not only solidified his commitment to his artistic vision but also established the label as the platform where Merzbow would release all of his early works from the beginning of the 1980s.
During and after the transition from recording at YLEM’s studio, the project continued to evolve while maintaining its innovative and provocative essence. As the journey progressed, the duo of Masami Akita and Kiyoshi Mizutani emerged with a raw and energetic sound that hinted at numerous musical paths they would explore in the years to come. Employing innovative recording techniques, they blended live instrumentation with tape manipulation and found sounds, crafting rich sonic textures that became defining characteristics of their early work. Each of the ten volumes in the “Collection” series offers a unique auditory experience, showcasing the evolution of their artistic vision during this pivotal period. These initial recordings incorporated techniques such as multitracking and live improvisation, which would later become hallmarks of Merzbow’s expansive career. Ongoing experimentation and the quest for new sonic expressions solidified his role not just as a composer but also as a pioneer in a rapidly evolving musical landscape.
As we explore Merzbow’s work, it becomes evident that the soundscapes captured in the “Collection” are a reflection of a pioneering era when the boundaries of sound were actively being pushed and redefined. Each composition not only serves as an exploration of sonic experimentation but also documents the beginnings of a legacy that has profoundly influenced noise music and beyond. In a world increasingly dominated by fleeting moments and disposable media, the “Collection” series stands as a monumental testament to the rich tapestry of sound, art, and philosophy that Merzbow represents. It is not only a historical record of his early days but also an essential listening experience that embodies the fierce experimentation and boundless creativity of its time. For those already familiar with Merzbow’s extensive discography, the “Collection” reissue is a vital addition that enhances the landscape of noise music. Meanwhile, newcomers will find it an enlightening entry point into a profound sonic world meticulously crafted over decades.
Merzbow‘s influence within the realm of experimental music is undeniable, serving as a vital entry point for many artists and listeners. Thurston Moore encapsulates this by describing it as a “gateway drug” in his closing notes of the booklet, reflecting how Merzbow’s work has opened up sonic possibilities that transcend traditional musical boundaries and pioneered Japanoise. Each track in the “Collection” invites audiences to delve into richly layered textures, reinforcing the notion that noise can be a profound and transformative experience rather than merely chaotic. Lasse Marhaug, in his extensive notes for this box set, elaborates on this idea by stating, “Even when the soundstage is dense and layered with what seems like a million frequencies colliding, there is still a clear sense of consideration to the music.” This perspective encourages listeners to appreciate that every distortion, hiss, and pulse carries its own story, contributing meaningfully to the overall narrative arc of a piece. It transforms listening into an active participation, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the evolving sonic tapestry and promoting exploration and contemplation of their own perceptions and emotional responses to sound. Jim O’Rourke, in his exclusive interview for this reissue with Masami Akita, articulates the transformative nature of Merzbow’s artistry by asserting that with his work, “you don’t just listen; you embark on an auditory journey” that challenges and reshapes your understanding of art and sound. All these insights highlight the profound impact Merzbow’s work has on its audience, framing the journey as one that extends beyond exploring harsh sonic landscapes to recognizing noise as a legitimate form of expression capable of evoking a wide range of emotions and ideas.
This reissue of the “Collection” is limited to just 299 hand-numbered copies, making it a truly special release for fans and collectors alike. Encased in a beautifully crafted wooden box, this deluxe edition features ten LPs, each adorned with original collages by Masami Akita, printed in black silkscreen on Cordenons Astropack ivory cardboard sleeves. Accompanying the vinyl is a 12-inch booklet, also printed on the same high-quality cardboard as the cover, containing 32 pages filled with previously unpublished photographs, as well as artwork and collages by Masami Akita from 1981-83. This booklet includes exclusive notes by Lasse Marhaug, Thurston Moore and Masami Akita along with an unique interview of Jim O’Rourke with Masami Akita. This release is not merely a reissue; it is an effort to preserve the rich aesthetic and historical significance of Merzbow’s work while inviting listeners to embrace the innovative spirit that defined the era. The box set is more than just a collection of noise; it serves as an invitation to engage with an artistic legacy that resonates with audiences worldwide.The marriage of sound and visual art in this box set reflects Merzbow’s multifaceted approach to music, challenging listeners to embrace the chaotic beauty of noise while encouraging them to explore the interpretations of sound. The prospect of possessing a piece of history is genuinely thrilling, as it signifies an unparalleled chance to engage with an extraordinary legacy, as it offers a tangible connection to an artist whose work has redefined the boundaries of sound through noise.
