Feng Shui, Madagascar Carry On [Lofi, Techno, House, Breakbeats]
Channel: Masaki Okamoto
Date: 29/02/2024

My original track "Feng Shui" and "Madagascar Carry On" played live with Ableton Live & Akai APC40.

[Kiyomizu-dera Temple]
Kiyomizu-dera, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, is a historic temple that stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural prowess of ancient Japan. Founded in the late 8th century during the Heian period, it is renowned for its main hall, which boasts a large wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering breathtaking views of the cherry and maple trees below, which dramatically change colors with the seasons. This UNESCO World Heritage site is dedicated to Kannon Bosatsu, the Goddess of Mercy, a testament to its deep-rooted significance in Japanese Buddhism. Its name, translating to "Pure Water Temple," is derived from the Otowa Waterfall running beneath its grounds, believed by visitors to have therapeutic properties. Kiyomizu-dera's historical significance, architectural grandeur, and spiritual ambiance make it a quintessential symbol of Kyoto's enduring heritage.

[Hashigui-iwa Rocks]
Hashigui-iwa, located near the coastal town of Kushimoto in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is an awe-inspiring natural landmark that captures the imagination of all who visit. This series of strikingly uniform rock formations stretches for over 850 meters along the Pacific Coast, creating a bridge-like appearance that seems to lead into the horizon. According to local legend, these rocks are the remnants of an attempted bridge construction to the nearby Oshima Island by the mythical monk Kōbō Daishi, which was thwarted by demons. The name Hashigui-iwa translates to "Bridge Pillar Rocks," aptly describing the natural pillars that stand majestically against the backdrop of the ocean. This geological marvel, designated as a Natural Monument of Japan, offers breathtaking views at sunrise when the sun appears to rise directly from between the gaps of the rocks. Hashigui-iwa is not only a testament to the natural beauty of Japan's coastline but also a source of inspiration for numerous myths and legends, making it a captivating destination for visitors seeking to experience the country's natural wonders and cultural heritage.

[Akai APC40 MIDI controller]
The Akai APC40 mk2 is a comprehensive control surface designed specifically for use with Ableton Live, a digital audio workstation (DAW). 

Channel Strips:
The APC40 has eight channel strips, which are sets of a knob, pads, buttons and a fader that are aligned vertically.

Pads:
The RGB backlit pads are arranged in an 8x5 grid at the heart of the APC40. These are used for launching clips in Ableton Live. The green-lit pads are the ones currently playing, while the flashing ones are to be launched next. They are color-coded with the musical part they're assigned to.

Faders and Knobs:
Below this grid, there are eight channel faders and a master fader, each accompanied by a knob. These are used for precise control over the mix, allowing you to adjust volume and send levels. Each channel strip also includes a knob for device control, typically used for manipulating effects.

Other:
The APC40 has a dedicated section for device control, with eight rotary faders that control the parameters of the selected device in Ableton Live. The crossfader, at the bottom right, is assigned to Ableton Live’s A/B crossfade assignments. On the right side of the matrix, there are buttons for launching entire rows of clips (called scenes.)

The "studio version" of both "Feng Shui" and "Madagascar Carry On" are part of my album "Opus Nine".
https://masakiokmt.bandcamp.com/album/opus-nine
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/masakiokamoto/opus-nine

Aside from YouTube and YouTube Music, my music is also on these platforms:
https://www.amazon.com/music/player/artists/B07FNBGW97/masaki-okamoto
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/masaki-okamoto/1492681802
https://masakiokmt.bandcamp.com/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7c28M9IEmF6c9JnrtXWiK2
https://tidal.com/browse/artist/10100222
https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/15373899