Kamasi Washington, Bonobo, and Floating Points Release New Tracks for Adult Swim’s Anime Series Lazarus: Hear Them Now
Shinichirō Watanabe’s New Anime ‘Lazarus’ Features Original Scores from a Dream Team of Artists
The realm of anime is about to get a stunning sonic upgrade with the impending release of Lazarus, directed by the iconic Shinichirō Watanabe, whose previous works like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo have redefined the genre. As the countdown ticks towards its premiere on April 6, 2024, Lazarus has stirred anticipation not only for its visual storytelling but also for its extraordinary musical lineup.
Crafted to elevate the already rich animation experience, the Lazarus soundtrack features three formidable talents: Kamasi Washington, Bonobo, and Floating Points. Each artist has generously contributed unique tracks, which have just been released to coincide with the show’s marketing campaign.
Kamasi Washington leads the charge with “Vortex,” the series’ theme song, introducing listeners to the vast emotional landscape of Lazarus. The track is a sweeping, jazz-infused journey that showcases Washington’s signature saxophone work, inviting fans into a philosophical maze akin to the layered narratives found in Watanabe’s stories.
Bonobo adds a hypnotic touch with “Dark Will Fall,” featuring sultry vocals from former American Idol contestant Jacob Lusk. As the title suggests, the track swells with tension, embodying the darker elements of the anime’s plot while soothing listeners with hypnotic beats and richly layered instrumentation.
Not to be outdone, Floating Points takes a daring approach with “Dexion,” clocking in at just over nine minutes—a testament to his ability to fuse electronic experimentation with jazz influences. The extended length serves as a perfect backdrop for the series’ intended emotional exploration, allowing fans to immerse themselves in its atmospheric depths.
The duo of Bonobo and Washington’s engaging contributions sets a high bar, one that only Floating Points’ avant-garde sounds can match, promising an eclectic listening experience that mirrors the show’s complex themes.
Lazarus premieres on Adult Swim, promising an intriguing blend of art, movement, and sound, likely to captivate both avid anime fans and new viewers alike. Additionally, on April 11, a standalone soundtrack album featuring all three artists will be released via Milan Records, further expanding the vibrant sonic palette introduced by the initial tracks.
As we draw closer to the debut of Lazarus, it becomes clearer that this collaboration promises to be just as influential in the world of music as it is in animation. Combining Watanabe’s direction with the musical prowess of Washington, Bonobo, and Floating Points, Lazarus is bound to become an unforgettable chapter in the anime lexicon, merging genres and creating a truly multi-sensory experience.
