Mark Barrott Releases "Kyoto (京都)" Off Forthcoming Album 'Jōhatsu (蒸発)'

Creative artist Mark Barrott is taking his unique, downtempo talents to Reflections for the release of his upcoming album Jōhatsu (蒸発).

It’s been nearly four decades since Mark Barrott first stepped on the scene. During this time he’s explored a variety of styles within the electronic music realm that range from ambient drum and bass to Balearic, while also heading up the International Feel imprint to help usher in the bespoke vinyl movement. Mark Barrott’s latest work sees him look to Above & Beyond’s newest imprint, Reflections, for a new album that will offer a plethora of soundscapes to explore, Jōhatsu (蒸発).

While this album is a departure from what Mark Barrott had previously crafted in the studio, it’s also something fresh and exciting from the renowned artist as the project stems from a documentary dubbed Jōhatsu (蒸発) … the art of Evaporation. He was commissioned to write the score for this documentary and subsequently concocted an eight-track journey that features the sights and sounds of Japanese culture, both traditional and contemporary.

The word Jōhatsu (蒸発) describes the phenomenon of “evaporated people” in Japan, who become jōhatsu for a variety of reasons that range from addiction to divorce, and effectively leave their old life behind. The album itself features full pieces for the corresponding film, but those yearning for a taste of the sounds found within it can do so today with the release of its lead single, “Kyoto (京都).” This stripped-back tune showcases the simplicity that Mark Barrott brings with his music while still layering in spontaneous elements throughout to win over your heart.

Listen to “Kyoto (京都)” on Spotify or your preferred platform, and pre-save or pre-order Jōhatsu (蒸発) ahead of its release on April 17!