Starbright
New single, Starbright is now available digitally.
otom's first release of 2024, the single Starbright, is their first
new song since "Touch
" (August 2023).
This self-produced track is entirely created by otom, from songwriting and
composition to mixing, mastering, and artwork. Based on a phrase created
around 2020, the project was fully launched in September 2023.
The song features a small ensemble arrangement with a focus on live
energy, Fender Jazzmaster-centered sound design, drums that balance
lightness and weight, and driving bass, with vocals and harmonies
conveying the “light and shade of adulthood.”
Incorporating elements of dreamy guitar pop and bedroom pop, Starbright
delivers an experimental pop sound that sets it apart from traditional shoegaze.
Now on Streaming
Biography
otom
Musician and composer. otom was born in Tokyo, Japan in 1976. otom creates music using guitars, computers, Max/MSP, and various instruments — blending shoegaze, dream pop, electronica, acoustic, drone, ambient, and experimental elements. In addition to music, otom also produces audio/visual works and draws influence from both sound and cinema.
The musical journey began at age 14, inspired by 1960s-70s music, particularly artists known for rich harmonies and floating textures. Discovering My Bloody Valentine, Flying Saucer Attack, Slowdive, Galaxie 500, and various electronica acts became pivotal moments. Fennesz, above all, has significantly shaped otom's output and creative direction.
Since around 1998, otom has released numerous albums, EPs, and singles. In the early years, music was released under the name "alphabet", which changed to "otom" in early 2008.
Today, otom continues to explore diverse sonic forms through Max/MSP.