Listen: Kishi Bashi – “Philosophize In It! Chemicalize With It!”

Kishi Bashi is the musical moniker adopted by K. Ishibashi, a violinist and vocalist based in Athens, Georgia. The effervescent new single “Philosophize In It! Chemicalize With It!” finds him expanding upon the freewheeling orchestral pop sound that characterized his 2012 full-length debut, 151a.

Bashi’s music has always evoked a celebratory atmosphere and “Philosophize…” shows up to the party with unfettered enthusiasm. Ishibashi’s vocals are among his most joyful to date, sliding up into a swoonsome falsetto with ease. Lively violin melodies flirt with snappy guitar, and hand claps and drumbeats add a bit of stomp-and-clatter to the mix. When a sped-up string loop begins warbling along like a choir of chattering gnomes, it’s a moment of sheer delight.

More surprises are tucked into Bashi’s sleeves for this spring. “Philosophize…” is the lead single from his sophomore LP, Lighght (pronounced “light”). The record will be released on 12 May via Joyful Noise Recordings. Lucky audiences at the upcoming SXSW festival in Austin, Texas and a smattering of additional U.S. tour dates will be treated to Bashi’s energetic performances. Hop to it.