Shomyo

Shomyo is a form of Japanese Buddhist chanting that emerged over a thousand years ago, presumably to keep monks awake during lengthy meditations and perhaps to impress the locals. Characterised by its free rhythm and layered harmonies, it sounds like a serene mix of a lullaby and a train announcement, which is oddly soothing yet slightly unsettling. When the monks weren't busy chanting, they were probably debating whether it was a spiritual experience or just really good acoustics, but let’s be honest; it's probably both.