Hiroshi Yoshimura's "Flora" showcases playful, melodic evolution

Hiroshi Yoshimura's album, Flora, was released posthumously in 2006, three years after his death. This 1987 recording stands out in his music collection because it is more melodic and playful compared to his earlier works. Yoshimura was a unique figure in ambient music, primarily focused on creating sounds reminiscent of nature. At the time he composed Flora, Yoshimura had few rivals. Unlike Steve Roach, who had a more intense approach to music, Yoshimura made soundscapes that reflected gentle natural sounds, such as leaves rustling. The boldness of Flora's melodies differs from his previous, simpler compositions, which is likely why it was never released during his lifetime. Yoshimura often created music for practical purposes, like his 1986 album Surround, intended as a soundtrack for homes. Temporal Drift, a record label, is reissuing Flora, framing it as a continuation of Surround. This collection challenges the idea that Yoshimura was just a practical composer. Unlike his previous works, Flora takes listeners on a journey through different musical landscapes. Some tracks blur into dreamy sounds, while others surprise with lively melodies and unconventional elements. The 11 tracks on Flora feel like a series of interconnected gardens, each one uniquely crafted. Most songs are around five or six minutes long and have a flowing quality, helping them stand out from his earlier, more static pieces. The track “Over the Clover” begins with a playful melody but introduces quirky notes that make it feel chaotic. Other highlights include the title track, which features soft electric piano sounds, and “Adelaide,” which starts simply before weaving in complex textures. Overall, Flora presents a richer, more vibrant side of Yoshimura's artistic vision.