Fishmans - Long Season

Polydor

On this day in 1996 Japanese Neo-Psychedelic/Dream Pop/Dub legends Fishman’s released their sought after sixth studio album 'Long Season'. Looked upon as the bands magnum opus it is a much respected and adored piece of material. An explanation as to why its held in such acclaim is just one listen away.

Long Season is one 35 minute track split into 5 parts. A journey projected through a myriad of influences including Dream pop, Neo-psychedelia, Progressive rock/pop and backed by dub-like grooves. It revels in otherworldly atmospheric bliss and loosens the latches of the minds eye. Liquid in its flow Long Season weaves its way in fluid form, seeping into all that surrounds it. It's one of those recordings that you confide in. A comfort piece to console the days end. The suns warm embrace. The definition of sonic solace.

Long Season would end up being the final song that the band played at their last concert in 1998. The recording of said show '98.12.28 Otokotachi no Wakare', which translates to 'Farewell of Men', is held in high regard. Often cited as one of the greatest outright live recordings of all time it captures the bands essence, their aura. Closing the gig with a 40+ minute, slightly altered, rendition of Long Season shows you how much the band also found solitude in the material. Frontman Shinji Sato would pass away not long after the concert, not knowing it really would be a final farewell.

October 25th, 1996.