Music Highlight - Kanon Wakeshima

The young cello vocalist, Kanon Wakeshima, is famous for her hauntingly beautiful songs and astounding original cello melodies. She picked up her first cello at the age of 3, after her parents suggested taking some lessons. By the age of 16, Kanon was already composing her own music, performing in recitals, and astounding audiences with her passionate instrumental performances. It’s no wonder she became a finalist in the Sony Music Entertainment auditions, which later earned her a contract with Sony label DefSTAR Records. Wakeshima’s talent and “Gothic Lolita” style also caught the eye of Visual-kei star, Mana (Moi dix Mois, ex-MALICE MIZER). The dark ambient, neoclassical sounds of Kanon’s works certainly fit the “Gothic Lolita” street fashion culture, for which her then new producer, Mana, is well known.

Kanon Wakeshima debuted May 28, 2008, performing her popular single, “Still Doll” – later known as the ending theme to the anime adaptation of Matsuri Hino’s Vampire Knight manga series. That same year, Kanon’s second single, “Suna no Oshiro” (Castle of Sand) became the ending theme for the second season of the show. Since then, she has released two albums, three singles, and performed with the An Café bassist, Kanon (they are referred to as kanon×kanon). Together, they performed the second theme for the horror anime series, Shiki.

As a blossoming artist, Kanon Wakeshima is off to a good start – her concert tours and special event performances, thus far, have been met with record audiences. I suppose that part of what makes her such an appealing musician is her musical range and presentation. That is to say, she produces anything from upbeat pop-like tunes, to more somber classical melodies, all while playing one of her 3 cellos and wearing beautiful Victorian-style dresses (some of which she designed herself) with matching miniature top hats.

I must admit, after listening to “Still Doll,” I became an instant fan of her work. Sometimes, I just can’t help but play Shinshoku Dolce and feel inspired to draw. I can’t wait until the release of her third album!