I Am Damo Suzuki

Synopsis

When the anarchic vocalist of Can left the celebrated German band in late 1973, the ensuing decade-long absence was taken by many to be the end of his personal story. But it was just the beginning... In I Am Damo Suzuki, Kenji Damo Suzuki and co-author Paul Woods illuminate a life in music driven by the principle of randomness. The book spans the influence of western music on Suzuki growing up in post-WWII Japan, his rejection of national traditions and a lifelong journey of exploration. After his hiie-influenced beginnings as a provocative street musician, Suzuki's story took an unlikely turn after a chance recruitment into Can, one of the most innovative bands of the seventies. A stint of family life and the role of Japanese salaryman preceded his return to the music world with The Damo Suzuki Band and later with Damo Suzuki's Network, an international vehicle for musical communication using sound instead of words. With contributions from family members, lifelong friends, musical collaborators and Damo's long-term partner, I Am Damo Suzuki is an absorbing portrait of a musical catalyst and enigmatic icon.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Early Years

This chapter covers Damo's childhood in Okayama, Japan, and his early musical influences. Damo grew up in a musical household, and he was exposed to a wide range of music, including jazz, classical, and traditional Japanese folk. He began playing the guitar at a young age, and he formed his first band, The Sinners, in high school.

Real Example: Damo recalls a childhood memory of hearing his grandmother sing a traditional Japanese folk song. This memory would later inspire his own songwriting.

Chapter 2: Can

After graduating from high school, Damo moved to Tokyo and joined the band Can. Can was a groundbreaking experimental rock band, and Damo's unique vocal style quickly became a central part of their sound. Damo's lyrics were often improvised, and he would often use his voice as an instrument, creating strange and ethereal sounds.

Real Example: Damo's vocal performance on Can's song "Spoon" is a classic example of his experimental approach. He uses his voice to create a haunting and otherworldly soundscape.

Chapter 3: Solo Career

After Can disbanded in 1979, Damo embarked on a solo career. He has released over 50 albums, and he has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Brian Eno, John Cale, and Jaki Liebezeit. Damo's solo work is often more experimental than his work with Can, and he has explored a wide range of musical genres, including ambient, dub, and electronic.

Real Example: Damo's album "Time to Tell" is a collaboration with Brian Eno. The album is a mix of ambient and electronic music, and it features Damo's signature improvised vocals.

Chapter 4: Later Years

In recent years, Damo has continued to release new music and perform live. He has also been involved in a number of other projects, including writing a book and directing a film. Damo is a true musical pioneer, and his work continues to inspire and challenge musicians and music fans alike.

Real Example: Damo's recent album "Go" is a return to his roots in experimental rock. The album features a mix of heavy guitars, electronic sounds, and Damo's signature improvised vocals.