House of Waters creates a sound that is simultaneously ancient and futuristic. At the center is the hammered dulcimer, played with a speed and fluidity that mimics the West African kora or the Indian santoor, yet grounded in a very modern, New York jazz sensibility. It is music that occupies the space between a meditative state and a high-energy jam session.
The magic lies in the interplay between Max ZT's shimmering melodic cascades and Moto Fukushima's virtuosic, chordal bass lines. They don't just play together; they weave a single, continuous tapestry where the rhythm and melody are indistinguishable. It is complex, technically demanding music that remains remarkably accessible and emotionally resonant.
Start with their 2016 self-titled album on GroundUP Music. It perfectly captures their ability to move from delicate, quiet moments to driving, polyrhythmic grooves without ever losing their signature 'watery' texture. It is the ideal soundtrack for moments requiring both peace and momentum.
House of Waters is an American international fusion band. Created c. 2008, it is composed of hammered dulcimer player Max ZT, six-stringed bassist Moto Fukushima, and have worked with a variety of different drummers and percussionists over the years. Its style draws from its members' musical backgrounds, incorporating elements of world music, jazz, progressive rock, classical, Senegalese music, and South American music. It has received critical praise for its unique instrumentation, melodic chemistry, and relaxed and fluid sound.
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