Misaki Umei and Fuki Kitamura have launched a new unit, “°pbdb” (pronounced QpQd). Their debut work, qpqd (QpQd), was digitally released on Wednesday, December 18.
“°pbdb” is a free-spirited creative unit formed by pianist/composer Misaki Umei and singer-songwriter Fuki Kitamura, aiming to create music that transcends genres and formats. The two first collaborated in 2023 on Kitamura’s track amaranthus feat. Misaki Umei and Umei’s piece hannah feat. Fuki Kitamura. These experiences sparked a mutual resonance with each other’s musicality, leading to the formation of their unit.
In their unit, Misaki Umei, rooted in jazz and classical music, and Fuki Kitamura, who traverses a spectrum from folk to club music, create in a lab-like style that transforms ideas into reality the moment they are born. The unit’s name, which can be read by rotating it 180 degrees, embodies a playful approach to both visuals and concepts.
Their debut release, qpqd, features two tracks, “qp” and “qd.” The first track, “qp,” combines a neo-soul-inspired groove with playful sampling, including snippets of the duo playing games together. The track also incorporates elements that hint at the second track, “qd,” showcasing an intricate and clever composition.
The second track, “qd,” is characterized by a thrilling drum and bass foundation. Kitamura’s free-spirited scat vocals intertwine seamlessly with Umei’s technically sophisticated piano, creating a genre-crossing experience unique to the duo.
The mixing of the tracks was handled individually: “qp” by Kitamura and “qd” collaboratively by both Umei and Kitamura. Kitamura also took charge of the mastering. The cover art reflects the unit’s creative freedom, combining a photo by Shöka, vocalist of Umei’s other project haruyoi, with 3D art crafted by Kitamura using Blender. The result is a visual that perfectly complements the duo’s musical innovation.
°pbdb “qpqd”
M1 qp (Music: Misaki Umei, Fuki Kitamura Mix, Mastering: Fuki Kitamura)
M2 qd (Music, Mix: Misaki Umei, Butterbur Kitamura Mastering: Butterbur Kitamura)
Photo: Shöka / Cover art: Butterbur Kitamura
Release date: December 18, 2024 (Wednesday)
Distribution link: linkco.re/TNahVbbQ
