I've not posted here in ages. Very busy these days with university. I came back just to sing the praises of this album, and recommend it to everyone. It's one of the most beautiful experiences I have had with a new album in a long time.
Fishmans-
98.12.28 男達の別れ (98.12.28 Otokotachi no Wakare)
This is a live recording like none I have heard before. Fishmans' studio work is amazing but these songs just come to life in a live setting. The performance last for over two hours, and it just builds and builds until it reaches perfection. The music is very unique. A blend of ethereal dream pop, psychedelic guitars and big groovy dub basslines and production. Shinji Sato has an androgynous voice, and it's polarising but versatile. Shinji can use it to create the most upbeat dance anthem, or wring it for every little bit of emotion on the devastating second disc. Sadly he would die within a few months of this recording.
I highly recommend watching the video for the last forty minutes of the performance when they do 'Long Season'. The song is a masterpiece. The catchy central riff is repeated throughout, and everytime it grows stronger. It is altered with effects, it is wrapped around increasing layers of instrumentation. Shinji is at points visibly upset. The lighting is beautiful. It becomes something that can't be put into words. 10/10.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USZbPvVd9A0