O-ARC
About O-ARC
MINIMALISM, FRAGILITY AND BOLDNESS IN HARMONY – ALTERNATIVE AMBIENT ZEN POP FROM HYBRID DUO O-ARC
Combining fragility and boldness, the songs draw their charm from O-ARC’s minimalist approach to their music. In deceptively simple arrangements, guitar parts and vocals are interwoven to create a beautiful and compelling vibe. Neil’s delicate but intense playing creates a colourful sound collage, over which Masa floats haunting melodies with his distinctive mellow voice. His lyrics are poetic and profound, and the whole combines brilliantly to put the listener in a meditative state. With all these elements their music is incredibly refreshing and soothing.
O-ARC is the creative collaboration between Masa Iida, singer/songwriter from Yokohama, Japan and London-born guitarist & co-writer Neil Mason. They started playing together in late 2002 when Neil contributed to the recording sessions for Masa's first EP. Since then, the duo have played in a variety of unconventional spaces that match the style of their music: ICA London, Tate Britain, Whitechapel Gallery, Comme des Garçons Boutique in Dover Street Market, and Art Car Boot Sale at Brick Lane.
In 2008 they were nominated for 2 awards on internet radio station ABC: “Fame Game's The Effigy Awards Final” V – Best Artist in Style (adult alternative category) and Best Song in Style (adult alternative category) for their song So Beaten.
In 2009 they changed their duo name from MASA to O-ARC to reflect the fact that this project was now longer Masa’s solo project. In February they supported Sean O'Hagan's High Llamas tour in Tokyo, Japan.
The name O-ARC is inspired by the concept of enso (which means circle in Japanese). Closely linked to Zen philosophy, enso represents enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, the void, and the moment. It is believed that only someone who is spiritually complete can draw a perfect circle.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/OARCinUK
HOPE FOR JAPAN's video is online now! Hope you enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZrBnVBDPUI
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