Subscriber Gift: The Rain Verses
A field recording and ambient soundtrack of Kyoto's rainy season
I’m SJF, a composer and sound artist living in Kyoto, Japan. These letters are for wanderers and creators seeking the quieter side of life; stories, soundscapes, and moments of beauty. For those feeling burned out by the modern world and those drawn to traditional craftsmanship, ambient music, and mindful internet spaces. If that’s you, then you’re welcome here.
Since the beginning of June, I've been walking Kyoto's rain-soaked streets with my field recorder, leaning in to the beauty of the rainy season here.
Back in London, rain often led to mild anxiety for me. Leaks on the boat, wet clothes & shoes not drying out properly were usually what awaited. But now, I’m trying to make it a conscious habit to re-discover the beauty of when the heavens open.
I took the opportunity to head out with my field recorder and capture the sound of this transitional time between spring and summer here in Japan. What started as documentation became something a little deeper; I also created a soundtrack that pairs nicely with this somber time.
This is tsuyu (梅雨). Japan's rainy season that transforms Kyoto into a lush blanket of verdant green and exploding hydrangeas. In Japanese folklore, Yōkai (妖怪, supernatural creatures) are said to roam the streets during this time, adding an element of mystery to an already atmospheric season. Perhaps I’ve captured the spirit of one in this video?
This Month's Subscriber Gift
First, a short preview:
The Rain Verses is a 2-and-a-half-minute immersive soundscape I recorded during Kyoto's transition between spring and summer. Layer upon layer of raindrops in those quiet moments between the storms, accompanied by an ambient soundtrack from yours truly.
It's designed to be best enjoyed with headphones in a quiet moment when you can let the sounds wash over you.
The full experience continues below, along with downloads of the video and the soundtrack if that’s your thing.
If you enjoy this kind of slow, contemplative work and want to support more monthly field recordings, soundtracks, botanical art, and more:
Your support makes all of this possible.
And of course a huge thank you to the thoughtful people who are already supporting.
One more thing…
Are you visiting Kyoto soon and want to experience something utterly unique? Please join me on a sound walk, where we’ll focus on listening to this stunning city. More information can be found here.
⬇️ Paid subscribers can access the full video and download below.