Album Liner Notes - Radiance

First Light

Single
Released February 3, 2023

I grew up fishing here on the shores of Oahu, Hawaii.  The fish would often bite best in the morning, so I would wake up early and get to the fishing spot while it was still dark.  I vividly recall those serene moments at “First Light”.  The calming rhythm of waves rolling up on the shore, the crisp clean salt air, the sand beneath my feet and beautiful hues that appear in the ocean and sky.  When our senses are surrounded by such beauty, songs somehow create themselves.  This song has an easy going feeling about it that I hope will bring a relaxing vibe to your day!

Twilight

Single
Released December 8, 2023

This song has a joyful and uplifting air about it.  A feeling of embracing the moment and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.  Setting a tone of hope and happiness that will carry us to a brighter tomorrow! 

Haven

Single
Released January 6, 2023

 When we pause to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, struggles seem less challenging and the song in our hearts flow effortlessly.  My hope is that “Haven” will impart a feeling of contentment and comfort wherever you wish to find your happy place.

Together Again

Single
Released November 10, 2023

A light and festive song with a warm folk charm.  It has a comforting spirit which I hope will touch many peoples’ hearts as family and friends celebrate being “Together Again”.  An appropriate song as the holiday season approaches.

Casual

Single
Released April 7, 2023

A laid-back folksy guitar solo with warm melodic interludes.  Lighthearted music for winding down, daydreaming, reminiscing or just escaping the day-to-day routine.

Glowing

Single
Released September 15, 2023

In the quiet corners of the universe, an ember of goodness twinkles in the darkness. Luring us closer with its attractive glow.  As we descend upon it, we feel a calmness resonating throughout our body.  It consumes our soul and captures our hearts with peace and happiness.  We are now another ember glowing in the darkness.

Elegance

Single
Released March 3, 2023

It's good to know that despite the many struggles we face, we can still look around us, take a deep breath and absorb the vast beauty and serenity of nature.  This song is really about Mother Earth’s “Elegance” as she struggles to maintain the intricate balance of nature’s magnificence through this age of climate change.

Our Home

Single
Released June 23, 2023

Wherever we reside in the world, we tend to call our home a place where we love to be.  A place of refuge, bliss, contemplating our dreams and creating unforgettable memories.  I hope “Our Home” brings a feeling of warmth and comfort to yours.

Aloft

Single
Released May 26, 2023

This song was inspired by a day of fishing on the west coast of Oahu, I had just casted out my poles and laid on my sand chair with guitar in hand, when I spotted 2 long-tailed white sea birds high up in the clear blue atmosphere, soaring effortlessly in synchronized fashion. It was like they were dancing in space.  I never saw them again, but I captured the breathtaking experience in song.

Summer Reflection

Single
Released July 21, 2023

As a child, I really longed for summers.  It was my escape from the disciplined school regimen.  I can vividly recall one summer spent at a beach house, swimming on a sand bar and picking ogo (seaweed).  I loved it so much I was reluctant to go back to school.  I later spent many summers fishing with my dad and remember a lifetime of memorable moments with him.  Everyone has their own “Summer Reflection” but this explains why mine has a serene and heartfelt vibe.

Back In The Day

Single
Released August 18, 2023

August 2023 featured “Back In The Day”.  It has an uplifting vintage vibe for celebrating fond and delightful memories of the good old days and dreaming of those yet to come.

I Do

Single
Released April 28, 2023

The layered guitar parts gave this song a special dimension. As it neared completion I felt it took on a vibe that tugged on the heartstrings of trust, hope, joy, and bliss.  A song that would perhaps be fitting for weddings, anniversaries, and relationships in general.  I got right to the point on a title, naming it “I Do.”  I hope you like the delightful sounds of a marriage made in paradise! 

Premonition

Single
Released October 13, 2023

Premonitions are apparitions of our fears during troubling times.  “Premonition” the song is about the struggle to conquer those fears. To fill the void of despair with hope and peace.  That’s the beauty of musical expression.  

All songs were instrumentals played on
6 String Nylon Guitar
Tuning:  Drop C (CGDGBD), Capo 2nd fret
By Lance Takamiya