Blue Eye Samurai by Amie Doherty

Set against the background of 17th-century Edo-period Japan, Netflix’s Blue Eye Samurai is a gorgeously-realized tale of revenge and resilience. Protagonist Mizu embarks on an undercover quest for vengeance against her father, setting off a story that touches on themes of identity and belonging – all while pushing the boundaries of sophisticated TV animation.

It’s a series that wears its influences on its sleeve. Wife-husband creator duo Noizumi and Michael Green blended together Eastern and Western touchpoints, as well as 2D and 3D animation, to build something striking and singular.

Likewise, the music of Blue Eye Samurai melds Eastern and Western influences, creating a sweeping, immersive sound that practically bathes the listener in its historical setting. Composer Amie Doherty pulled out all the stops, recording authentic Japanese instruments such as Shakuhachi, Shamisen, Taiko, and Hichiriki. The result is a distinct, beautiful and moody masterpiece. We, here at iam8bit, are humbled to bring it to vinyl.

This is the Blue Eye Samurai 2xLP. It features the soundtrack from the award-winning first season of the hit show, pressed on Forged Steel Silver vinyl as a nod to Mizu’s legendary blade.

The album artwork pays tribute to the stunning, unique look of Blue Eye Samurai. Longtime iam8bit friend and cohort Kevin Wilson cooked up a veritable visual feast that captures the show’s bold imagery as well as its moments of calm, confident quiet.

Blue Eye Samurai is a modern animated classic. This album is our way of cementing its legacy forever.