Mujō, a profound and ancient concept rooted in Buddhist philosophy, encapsulates the transitory nature of existence. This Japanese term, often translated as "impermanence" or "constancy of change," serves as a reminder of the inherent fragility of life and all temporal things. In a world where everything is in a perpetual state of flux, mujō invites contemplation on the fleeting nature of joy, sorrow, and the very essence of being. 

Mujō's significance extends beyond philosophical musings; it deeply influences Japanese culture and aesthetics. Traditional Japanese art forms like ikebana, wabi-sabi, and haiku often draw inspiration from the concept of mujō. These artistic expressions seek to capture the beauty of the ephemeral, embracing the fleeting moments that define our existence. Thus, mujō serves as a catalyst for finding profound beauty in the transient and mundane. 

Drawing inspiration from the concept of mujō, Zensō’s latest album once again immerses listeners in his distinctive style of ambient-jazz fusion. This musical journey seamlessly melds the tranquil tones of ambient music with the intricate rhythms of jazz, using generative soundscapes and field recordings as the backdrop for elaborate melodic and percussive improvisations.

Mujō

Amaterasu

Dream a Silver Moon

Terraforma

Here’s a new experimental ambient-jazz piece about impermanence. Musically, I’m once again experimenting with subtly unstable rhythms and vague meters to create a type of “rhythmic dissonance”.

I hope you find some beauty here. As always, your feedback is carefully considered and greatly appreciated. 

--Alan

We live near a creek and walk along its banks on most days. The surrounding fields are full of thistles, which attract large numbers of goldfinches this time of year. It’s a beautiful scene I’ve attempted to capture in this composition. I hope you enjoy it!

In a Field of Thistle

Mottainai is a Japanese word that describes a feeling of regret when something is discarded without realizing its full potential. In recent years, the term has been used by the environmental movement to describe challenges related to dwindling natural resources and environmental degradation. With this piece I've tried to capture both the hope and despair that surrounds this topic.

Mottainai

This track is inspired by, and built upon samples of, the Tūī bird of New Zealand. This bird makes unusual sounds that are interesting and fun to play on an instrument such as the Zendrum, which is what I’ve done here. Thanks for taking a listen.

Tūī

Natsukashii is Japanese word that means “happy nostalgia”. It describes the moment when memory transports you to a beautiful place that fills you with warmth and joy.

Natsukashii

In Zen, ensō (円相) is a circle that is hand-drawn in one uninhibited brushstroke to illustrate the moment when the mind sets the body free to create.