Album Review—Lost There Found Here

Rediscovering Life’s Lost Symphony With The Power Of Music

In the vast expanse of existence, amidst the ever-changing rhythms of life, there exists a melody—subtle, yet profound—that echoes the essence of our being. It is a melody often lost amidst the cacophony of everyday existence, buried beneath the weight of responsibilities, expectations, and the ceaseless march of time. Yet, within the depths of our souls, it lingers—a faint whisper, a distant echo—waiting to be rediscovered.

In “Lost There Found Here,” we embark on a philosophical journey guided by the transformative power of music. Through the deft compositions of Masako and the collaborative efforts of a talented ensemble of musicians, we traverse landscapes both internal and external, seeking to unearth the melodies of our existence that have long been obscured.

The Album

“Lost There Found Here” is a masterful collaboration between pianist and composer Masako and a talented ensemble of musicians, brought together under the skilled production of Masako, Will Ackerman, and Tom Eaton. This album serves as a deeply introspective journey, weaving together the soulful compositions of Masako with the unique contributions of each artist involved. Notably, this is Masako’s eighth album, which unveils a transcendent masterpiece. Recorded, mixed, and mastered under Eaton’s expert guidance, the album serves as a testament to Masako’s unwavering commitment to her craft and her profound connection to the natural world.

Artist Info

Masako stands as a luminary figure in the realm of contemporary music. With a career adorned by accolades and honors, including four prestigious awards from the 2024 New Age Notes Music Awards, Masako’s creative prowess has left an indelible mark on the world of New Age and instrumental music.

Born in Japan, Masako’s musical journey began at an early age, nurtured by a deep reverence for both classical traditions and the improvisational spirit of jazz. Now, residing in the Northeastern USA, Masako’s compositions serve as a poignant reflection of her dual identity, seamlessly blending the elegance of classical piano with the organic beauty of nature-inspired motifs.

A Journey Through The Tracks Of ‘Lost There Found Here'”

Masako’s virtuosity on the piano is evident from the opening notes of “Spirit Forest,” a piece inspired by the spirituality of mountains, where she deftly navigates intricate melodies that evoke the essence of nature’s tranquility. Throughout the album, her compositions showcase a remarkable range of emotions and experiences, from the delicate nuances of “Miracle of Spring,” an ode to Chopin’s ‘Berceuse,’ to the introspective musings of “Reasons,” where Masako reflects on her lifelong dedication to music and her profound connection to the natural world.

The collaborative efforts on tracks like “Walk Together” and “Brooks and Cascades” bring a rich tapestry of sound to the album, with contributions from musicians such as Will Ackerman on guitar, Vin Downes on guitar, Tom Eaton on synthe and bass, Jeff Haynes on percussion, and Noah Wilding on vocals. Together, they create immersive musical landscapes that transport listeners to serene vistas and flowing streams, where the interplay of instruments mirrors the ebb and flow of nature itself.

Other standout moments include “Ice Blue,” featuring the synth work of Tom Eaton and the haunting melodies of Jeff Oster’s flugelhorn and trumpet, as well as “Winter Tale,” where Premik Russell Tubbs’ EWI adds an ethereal quality to Masako’s piano melodies. Each artist brings their own unique voice to the album, enriching Masako’s compositions with their individual talents and perspectives.

As the album draws to a close with the poignant beauty of “Into the Dusk,” featuring Eugene Friesen’s cello and Jeff Oster’s flugelhorn alongside Masako’s piano, listeners are left with a sense of profound reflection and introspection. “Lost There Found Here” is not just an album, but a deeply personal exploration of the human experience, brought to life through the collaborative efforts of a group of exceptional musicians.

Take Away

As an advocate for environmental consciousness, Masako infuses her music with a heartfelt dedication to preserving the planet’s precious ecosystems. Through her compositions, she hopes to inspire listeners to embrace a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature and to recognize their role in its protection.

With each note she plays, Masako invites us on a journey of introspection and renewal—a journey where the boundaries between the physical and the spiritual dissolve, and the music becomes a vessel for transcendence. As we immerse ourselves in the harmonies of “Lost There Found Here,” we are reminded of the profound power of music to illuminate the beauty that surrounds us and to awaken within us a sense of awe and wonder for the world we call home.