AIN SOPH, AKIRA ITO AND JAPANESE POST-PROG ROCK

Ain Soph is an instrumental progressive rock band from Japan, formed in 1980, though they originally started under the name Tenchi Sozo in the late 1970s. Known for their unique blend of styles, the band remained active well into the 21st century, with their last known activity in 2018.

Their music is an intricate fusion of jazz, symphonic prog, and the Canterbury Scene, creating a complex and captivating sound. Often compared to bands like Hatfield and the North, Camel, and Kenso, Ain Soph blends the technical precision of jazz fusion with the melodic depth of symphonic prog. Their sound is marked by intricate guitar work, rich keyboard textures, and dynamic rhythms, giving their music a chamber-like quality while exploring improvisational jazz rock.

One of their most notable albums, "A Story of Mysterious Forest" (1980), is a key release in Japanese prog, known for its atmospheric and sophisticated compositions. Despite being a hidden gem in the global prog scene, Ain Soph continues to captivate those who appreciate both intricate musicianship and genre fusion.

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Akira Ito was a Japanese musician and composer known for his work in the ambient and electronic music scene. He began his career as a keyboardist in the 1970s, playing with the progressive rock band Far East Family Band, which was one of Japan's earliest and most influential prog rock groups. Far East Family Band also featured renowned musician Kitaro, and the group’s music combined elements of rock, space rock, and traditional Eastern influences.

After leaving the band, Akira Ito transitioned into creating more meditative and atmospheric music, heavily influenced by new age and ambient styles. His solo work is characterized by the use of synthesizers and serene, minimalistic soundscapes that evoke a sense of calm and introspection. His music from the 1980s, especially albums like "Marine Flowers (Science Fantasy)" (1986), is considered part of the burgeoning new age music movement in Japan, which paralleled the global interest in meditative and healing music.

Akira Ito’s compositions often explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the balance between humans and the environment, aligning with the broader philosophical ideals of the new age genre. His music continues to be appreciated for its ability to transport listeners into a peaceful, reflective state, and he remains a significant figure in the evolution of Japanese ambient music.

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