Amsterdam-based alt artist Tomo Katsurada, founder and lead singer of the acclaimed psychedelic band Kikagaku Moyo, has released his debut solo record, Dream of The Egg, and launches the pre-order for the accompanying limited edition picture book.
Having recently launched Future Days concept store and workshop in Amsterdam, Dream of The Egg sees Katsurada collaborate with Japanese visual artist Shoko Otake, marking the beginning of an ambitious project—a long-held dream of creating sound and picture books. This record is the first in a series of five, each dedicated to a unique picture book, where Tomo aims to push the boundaries of physical media by merging music with visual storytelling.
Inspired by the Japanese 1920s children’s book “Yume No Tamago (Dream of the Egg)”, the record reveals a deeply personal journey, reflecting Tomo Katsurada’s dreams and the numerous rebirths experienced in 2024—a year marked by profound new beginnings in every facet of his life.
The creation of this EP was driven by a passion for raw and immediate expression. Every song was crafted and recorded with only the materials available to him at the time, embracing an organic and handmade atmosphere. By eschewing rhythm clicks and standard instrumental tunings, a spontaneous sound emerged, capturing the essence of both uncertainty and immediacy. Adding to this distinctive sonic landscape, guest musician Jonny Nash (UK) contributed ethereal guitar sounds on the first and final tracks, enriching the record’s dream-like quality.
Throughout the record’s 20 minute narrative a variety of instruments come into play, drifting between notes and embracing the beauty of imperfection. By incorporating free-form sounds in a highly technological age, the record aims to reconnect listeners with the tangible, human-made quality of sound.
Giving this one a spin?
