What makes Ki-Oku by DJ Krush notable?

'Ki-Oku' received significant acclaim for its unique sound and is often cited as a major influence in both the Japanese hip-hop scene and the global downtempo genre. The album solidified DJ Krush's reputation internationally, contributing to the growing interest in Asian electronic music during the mid-90s. When 'Ki-Oku' was released in 1996, DJ Krush had already established himself as a key figure in the Japanese hip-hop scene with his debut album 'Krush' (1994) and was known for his innovative fusion of hip-hop and ambient styles. This album marked his third studio effort and showcased his artistic evolution, exploring deeper, more introspective soundscapes that set him apart from contemporaries.