Atrem is a genre defying music production unit which hails from Tokyo, Japan. They continue to push boundaries with the release of their latest single, “Times (Axis)”. Released early this month, this single offers a reflective listening experience.
Atrem is a post-rock, ambient duo composed of Ryuichi Shima and Yusuke Kamimura. Ryuichi Shima handles vocals, guitar, and keys while Yusuke Kamimura is in charge of bass and programming. Mixing and mastering are also done by Ryuichi Shima. The brand is influenced by artists like Ólafur Arnalds, Radiohead, River Tiber, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Sigur Rós, Tom Waits and so much more.
Atrem delivers a song that reflects on the passage of Time, personal growth and the strength it takes to move forward. From the beginning of the track, it draws you with a gentle yet captivating arpeggio pattern as you can hear a series of repeated flowing notes that feel like the ticking of a clock or the rhythm of memories. This pattern runs through the song, creating a steady base as other types of sounds are added.
As the song progresses, the mood swifts as it becomes full of life. In the second half of the song, you can hear the ambient tones fading away making room for live drums and Ryuichi Shima’s passionate vocals to shine. This change adds an uplifting and graceful energy to the track, making it feel like a journey from reflection to determination.
The message behind the song and the characteristics of the three versions released are as follows:
“Times” explores the themes of the passage of time, recurring dilemmas, and the growth that comes from overcoming them.
Times (Axis): This track serves as the central axis of the Times series, weaving together arpeggiated phrases, electronic beats, and ambient soundscapes to highlight the flow of time and the afterimages of memories. In the second half, ambient-style textures gradually thin out, allowing the tones of other instruments, like the drums, to become distinctly clearer by contrast. Live drums and powerful vocals emerge, expressing a strong sense of hope and determination to move forward.
Times (Linear): Compared to the other two tracks, this version emphasizes beats over ambiance, creating an arrangement that boldly conveys a resolute drive toward the future without hesitation.
Times (Recursive): By completely removing the prominent beats featured in the other tracks, this version brings out a symphonic depth. The constant ticking of a clock highlights the irreversible nature of time and the introspective themes, creating a sense of quiet tension.
The lyrics of “Times” explore how we can overcome challenges and grow from our experiences. Ryuichi Shima who recorded the song paid very close attention to every detail as a great work was done with the mixing and mastering.
Atrem has been featured on Radio Sakamoto which expanded their presence in the music scene
Listeners have praised Atrem’s beautiful soundscapes noting that their Music is ideal for reflection or studying. The language isn’t a barrier as even when you can’t understand Japanese, the emotion in Shima’s voice makes the meaning clear. The song starts softly almost as if you’re looking at old memories, and builds a strong, encouraging message about moving forward despite difficulty. The mix of emotions-Struggle, nostalgia and hope is something everyone can relate to. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause and think.
One of the remarkable comments made by a fan and listener of Atrems;
“Although I don’t speak Japanese and thus don’t understand the lyrics, it doesn’t detract from this lovely song. The entire atmosphere is delightful for any listener. Moreover, the production style is engaging and entrancing, allowing the vocals to float almost like another instrumental voice. I found myself enchanted and relaxed while listening to ‘?????’. It drifted along like the current of a river, always moving forward but never in a rush to get from one point to another.
This easy-going nature harmonized phenomenally with the light atmosphere. The result was beautiful, delicate, and perfect music for studying or reminiscing. Not only was it thought-provoking, but it was a fantastic all-around listening experience. I highly recommend this song and commend Atrem for its beauty.”
One thing that makes Atrem standout is the ability to mix electronic and natural sounds in creative ways. Fans of emotional music will find a lot of love here. A listener once said about Atrem’s previous work; “Their music drifts along like the current of a river, always moving forward but never in a rush”
Times (Axis) is more than just another single, it is a thoughtful beautifully crafted piece of music that captures the feelings we experience when we look back at the past or moving towards the future. Whether you’ve been a fan of Atrem or you’re just discovering them for the first time, this track is a must listen. It’s a reminder that music has the ability to help us understand, heal and grow.
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