Shigeto Returns with ‘Cherry Blossom Baby’: A Genre-Bending Fusion of Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Electronic Music
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Zachary Shigeto Saginaw, better known by his stage name Shigeto, has long been a key figure in the world of electronic music, seamlessly blending jazz, hip-hop, and electronic influences. His latest album, Cherry Blossom Baby, marks his first full-length release since 2017, and it’s a triumphant return to the scene. Known for his unique sound that merges intricate beats with melodic textures, Shigeto continues to honor his Detroit roots while pushing forward with bold experimentation. This new album reflects his ongoing exploration of genre, drawing from a rich tapestry of influences, including the vibrant electronic scene he’s been part of for more than a decade.
Rooted in Detroit’s ever-evolving music scene, Cherry Blossom Baby highlights Shigeto’s long-standing relationship with the Motor City’s diverse sonic landscape. Having co-founded the label Portage Garage Sounds and hosting a forward-thinking radio show on WDET 101.9FM, Shigeto remains deeply embedded in Detroit’s musical fabric. Much like fellow Detroit artist Theo Parrish, Shigeto integrates the spirit of collaboration and innovation into his work. His new record carries on this tradition, with live instrumentation blending effortlessly into electronic beats, resulting in a rich, multi-layered sound.
Throughout Cherry Blossom Baby, Shigeto taps into his Japanese-American heritage, weaving personal history and cultural reflection into the music. This approach recalls artists like Flying Lotus, whose work often incorporates elements of jazz, hip-hop, and his own family’s musical legacy. Tracks like “Sakura Droplet” offer a perfect example of this blend, using delicate electronic textures and organic rhythms to evoke imagery of blooming cherry blossoms, while heavier tracks feature the kind of percussive power that has defined Shigeto’s drumming style for years.
As Shigeto continues to evolve, his new album serves as a testament to his ability to bridge the gap between past and present. Fans of his earlier works, such as Full Circle and The New Monday, will appreciate the return to his jazz-infused electronic roots, while new listeners will find in Cherry Blossom Baby a fresh, forward-thinking take on genres that are constantly intersecting. Like artists such as Matthew Dear and J Dilla, Shigeto remains a vital part of the ongoing dialogue in modern music, blending old-school techniques with modern innovation.
