Japanese folk singer Ichiko Aoba has quite possibly one of the purest voices in music. Whether it’s her delicate acoustic guitar melodies, intimate lyrics or silky-smooth vocals, Aoba has steadily gained a legion of admirers since releasing her first album in 2010.
Now, as part of Rising, Melburnians have a chance to see the ethereal performer at the Forum Upstairs on June 7 and at the Toff in Town on June 8.
Hailing from Kyoto, Aoba was taught by her mentor Anmi Yamada how to master classical guitar – she also plays the piano, clarinet, accordion and flute – and began publishing her music online. In 2010, she released her debut album Kamisori Otome and has since released several more albums, including 0, Utabiko and QP, which have received critical acclaim in Japan and internationally.
Aoba often incorporates elements of traditional Japanese music into her fragile-yet-powerful songs, such as min’yō (Japanese folk). Her unique sound and enrapturing performances continue to cement her place as an influential figure in the Japanese music scene.
Get tickets to see Ichiko Aoba perform an intimate show at the Forum or the Toff in Town on the Rising website here.
