Ryuichi Hayashi – Dive Into The Clear (EP Review)

Dive Into The Clear presents Ryuichi Hayashi as an artist with a strong creative identity and a clear sense of direction. As a Japan-born, UK-based Music Creative Director and bassist, Hayashi brings together his wide-ranging experience in international touring, production, and composition to shape an EP that feels intentional, cohesive, and emotionally grounded. This release reflects not only his musicianship but also his ability to guide a band through concept, sound, and structure with confidence.

Throughout the EP, Hayashi’s influence is especially clear in how the bass functions as more than a supporting instrument. His playing often carries melodic and emotional weight, subtly directing the flow of each track. Combined with his role in song direction and sound development, the result is a record that feels carefully constructed while still retaining the energy of live band interaction. The production is consistently strong, allowing dynamic shifts and layered arrangements to unfold naturally.

Float opens the EP with a calm and atmospheric introduction, gradually building into a song that feels both reflective and anthemic. The bass work adds movement and depth, helping translate the song’s emotional tension into sound. The vocals sit comfortably within the arrangement, supported by clean production and a chorus that is instantly memorable. Small vocal details add character and warmth, making the track feel thoughtfully written and emotionally engaging.

El Control explores a darker tone, beginning with a restrained feel before expanding into a more intense and textured sound. The blend of electric and synthetic bass creates a distinctive foundation, while keyboards add richness to the overall mix. Hayashi’s production input is evident in how the song moves between softer and heavier moments without losing focus. The layered vocals and recurring motifs give the track strong identity and replay value.

Knowhere develops at a measured pace, opening with a delicate guitar line before gradually introducing rhythm and weight. There is a sense of sadness running through the song, reinforced by extended vocal phrases and a chorus that feels quietly powerful. The bass remains central throughout, maintaining momentum even as the harmonic structure stays relatively minimal. Subtle stylistic hints surface within the arrangement, adding interest without distracting from the song’s emotional core.

Death of a Nameless Man closes the EP on its most dramatic and emotionally heavy note. With Hayashi acting as concept creator and main composer, the track unfolds with purpose and restraint. The slower tempo and sustained bass tones create a solemn atmosphere, allowing the lyrical perspective to take centre stage. As the song builds, the vocals intensify, leading to a moving and cathartic conclusion that feels earned rather than overstated.

SCORE / Outstanding – Dive Into The Clear is a strong and convincing release that highlights Ryuichi Hayashi’s talent as both a musician and a creative leader. It showcases an artist with a clear vision, technical skill, and emotional sensitivity, and it leaves a strong impression of someone with a compelling future ahead.

[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]

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