In a tribute to the enduring spirit and artistic genius of Shota Yokoyama, HIGHFeeL has announced the release of “Melting,” a posthumous compilation that weaves together the last notes of Shota‘s unfinished works. Set for a worldwide digital release in May 2024, with CDs already available since November 30, 2017, this album emerges not just as a collection of music but as a profound statement of legacy and emotional depth.
“Melting” showcases four main tracks—each with its own unique backstory and a place in Shota‘s artistic vision. The title track, along with “Trick” and “Oxeye Daisy,” were part of an instrumental project that Shota envisioned as a stepping stone toward his dream of becoming a producer for cinema, particularly for documentaries. The fourth track, “Down the Rules,” was initially intended as a promotional single for what would have been Shota‘s next pop solo album, planned for release in March 2016.
Tragically, Shota‘s aspirations were cut short by his sudden passing from a brain aneurysm on November 30, 2015. This devastating loss not only halted his transition from stage performer to film producer but also left the musical project incomplete. However, the tracks on “Melting” were among the few that Shota had fully mixed and approved, preserving a glimpse into what could have been a significant shift in his career.
Adding to the album’s raw emotional impact is a guitar solo—the final piece performed by Shota, recorded just a day before his untimely death. This track, unpolished and poignant, offers listeners a direct connection to the artist’s last creative moments.
The planned promotional videos for these tracks, envisioned to blend cinematic elements with personal artistic touches, also remained unfulfilled. “Melting” was to be captured in a series of melancholic black and white scenes, “Trick” would have featured close-ups of magic tricks, while “Oxeye Daisy” was expected to reflect traditional Japanese aesthetics. The video for “Down the Rules” was set to showcase a bold, aggressive style mixed with whimsical elements, a testament to Shota’s dynamic artistic spirit.
Despite these unfinished elements, HIGHFeeL, along with Shota‘s friends, family, and fans, has embraced the challenge of honoring his memory and vision by releasing this album. The outpouring of support from the community has been a critical part of navigating the emotional landscape of bringing “Melting” to the public.
The collective effort to release “Melting” underscores a broader commitment to preserving and celebrating Shota‘s artistic legacy. As expressed by those closest to him, Shota Yokoyama‘s impact on those around him remains timeless—a sentiment deeply embedded in the very fabric of “Melting.”
In this final gift, we find not only the echoes of Shota’s musical talents but also a lasting reminder of his dream, his passion, and his indelible mark on the world of music. As “Melting” now plays on stages worldwide and in the hearts of his followers, it stands as a poignant farewell from a visionary artist taken too soon.