全89件 (89件中 1-50件目)
Since this anonymous singer made a debut, she keeps on making great strides forward.Her stage name Ado means supporting role of Japanese traditional performing art Kyougen, or farce presented between Noh plays.On Kyougen, the leading part is called Shite, and supporting role is called Ado.At first, I thought that this name came from Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing", but that was wrong.She has risen to stardom without revealing face.She declares that she wishes to be a cast to fight instead of her listeners and a great supporting role in someone's lives.In this album, several creators who usually write songs as Vocalloid producers wrote songs for Ado, But her place is not the starring singer. She solely devotes herself to a storyteller of each songs. -I imagine that this is expressed by "Motherland" the most.This song was used for a theme song of the latest Winter Olympic program by a commercial broadcasting station.Most of the songs used for special sports programs express glorious victory from the point of winners' view, but this song is losers' perceptive.Last year-end, she appeared on a Year-end special music program as a role of a singer who appears on a popular anime movie.But despite her wide range of performance, her debut song will stay synonymous with her.Her debut song became a social phenomenon since she placed her performance on a video site before her debut.This song expresses heart crying out under oppression; indignation against incomprehensible rules that is supposed as usual for members of society, and conventional calumny punishment awaits if they don't obey those rules.On the other hand, due to the foulmouthed lyrics and despising expression as if all the people are wrong other than her, some parents detest that they don't want children to listen this song.What about those adults? When they were young, they ardently admired rebellious antiestablishment songs by young singers, didn't they? Such as songs about a teenager boy who commits motorbike theft and under-age smoking and damaging building as he struggles against rules set by adults, and a young man with cantankerous mind like a knife who flashes out whether he is responsibility for conflicts with others. And older generation suppressed those youth, didn't they? -Well...it's been repeated in history that adults lament immoral arrogance of youth and youth defy adults but eventually grow up to control younger generation. There was a mass girls idol group that mainly performed songs expressing resistance to group pressure and adults' control.When the center singer was a high-school student, I saw her on TV talking that she hated everything about adults. I suppose she couldn't be unaware that she would grow up to become those adults eventually.Unfortunately, she left the group at age eighteen partly because she was fed up with stereotypical defamation like mentioned above, though.At the time when this album came, Ado explained that her driving force as an music artist is inferiority complex.Even after she succeeds as a singer, she says that she still dislikes herself and cannot have confidence in herself.However, most people have inferiority complex like hers to some extent, especially our nation who grow up under standardized education.There are people who succeed using inferiority complex as a springboard.At the same time, education and society in our state implant inferiority complex on people and make our nation ill-natured.◆:Ready to place summery if asked
2023.03.25
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This is eighth album of Sing Like Talking.There was a music critic who compared this album with The Beatles' "Revolver" -"Revolver" is followed by "Sgt.Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band".S.L.T's next and ninth album is "Welcome to Another World"; it would be up to each listener's imagination whether this album could be compared with "Sgt.Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band", though.From the very opening, two songs are showing their determination."Subarashii yumeno nakade"(in dreaming great future) is a song expressing that in dreaming something in the future, it's more important to think why than what."Keeps Me Runnin'" starts with a phrase saying that we must not complain that everyday is boring because there is a goal we want to reach.According to Chikuzen Satou:Back then, members' interests in music changed after they recorded the previous album "Togetherness".And from the time they recorded "Togetherness", they had tried to approach not from standpoints of "pops" but the essentials of music, which was a "thorny path" for them.Because: They always want what they think they are good and they want to create as musicians to be in accord."Burnin' Love" is popular at their live concerts. Sometimes they have audience sing the part "Hey, hey, hey", sometimes band members other than percussionists and drummers play the percussion.Latter half of this album consists of andante songs.After they made a release of this album, they performed at Nippon Budoukan for the first time, where is regarded as a shrine to pop music in Japan and the place where the Beatles performed at, too.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)August 2, 1995 FHCF-2241When I went to London for semester abroad, I brought a ballad collection of S.L.T.A song in the ballad collection "Kokoro no tobira", which is originally included in this album "Discovery" was favorably received among classmates and teachers, with a praise "What a lovely voice he has!"There was a problem, though -if I translate the title literally, it's "door of heart", which is incomprehensible.So I introduced this song with translation of my own "Open your mind" which is unofficial yet, although I reported to Chikuzen later by contributing to his regular radio program.After I returned to Japan, I introduced some albums of S.L.T. to international friends with letters.When I set up this weblog in May 2006, I thought up placing those English introductions. This is the origin of "Favorite, recommendation" -and dual language weblog. ◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2020.09.29
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"An album packed with songs with various taste. The contents are seven songs, and one more song as extra helping. Each song is substantial like main dish, having taste with variety. Bon appetit to your heart's content!"I suppose it's not irrelevant to describe her that she is like a synonym for a proverb that persistence pays off.For seventeen years until Yoshiko made a release of her first major-label album in 2017, she kept on writing songs while she worked at a bakery as a live-in worker.She has kept on performance mainly at shopping malls, so she is often described as a shopping mall diva.She has met various people at those places and touched various people's lives.That's why her songs touch the heartstrings of people -such as "Sakura -sotsugyou dekinakatta kimie" (cherry -dear friend who couldn't graduate-), a song about a schoolgirl recalling a deceased friend at graduation season in spring, and "Inaho" (ears of rice), a mashup with "Amazing Grace".Some of her songs are realistic, such as "Obentoubakono uta" (a song of lunchbox) -a story of a mother who prepare packed lunch for children every day, and her latest song "Hahae" (to my mother).According to self-introduction note on Yoshiko's official website, she worked at the bakery six days a week and wrote songs in her spare time, living on bread left unsold.Even during long obscurity, somehow she absolutely trusted in herself and her music.Putting aside how she could gain opportunity to perform at shopping malls,She kept working on music and live performance individually without belonging to agencies.As a result, more and more listeners felt sympathy with not only Yoshiko's songs but also her own way of life, and she gradually won favorable coverage in the media, until a front man of a national band in our country praised her as Japanese Anita Baker.Shikao Suga, a male rock singer, once said that when he changed his career from a company employee and made his debut at age 31 in 1997, he was told that his debut was improbably late.Unfortunately, there are still moss-headed men who appraise women that the younger, the more superior.Needless to say, real music fans don't have such code of value,But at the same time, I imagine that her songs could cause a stir in such shallow frivolous sense of value in our country, and she might be a pioneer in our country by carrying out her own way of life.One of her dreams is that her songs are placed on school textbook of music.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)April 5, 2017 Crown Record CRCP-40505Who is 400,000th visitor!?◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2019.06.08
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This year is 30th anniversary of S.L.T., and this album came after absence of five years.After 25th anniversary, S.L.T., they held concerts with different theme each year.In 2015, they performed with string section, and before this concert, they made a release of "Longing -ame no regret-" (regret in the rain). In 2016, they performed with horn section -and held open-air concerts in summer.In that year, they made a release of "Kazega fuita hi "(the day wind blew).Later, one of those stages was made into a movie "Music of my life". In 2017, they held concerts for two days, calling each day "Pop of the day" and "Rock of the day".The song written in that year "Rokugatsu no aoi sora"(blue sky in June; in Japan, June is recognized as rainy season) is the one they are self-confident as absolutely pop.They made a release of single each year with different theme of each.As a result, about half of the songs in this album are already released as singles.And if you like S.L.T.’s songs funky, this album might sound not entirely satisfying to you.At the same time, there is no exaggerated fanfare-It might mean 30th anniversary of S.L.T. is just a passage point of their trajectory of challenge, while this year is a special phase for them.When the list of songs was announced on their official website before this album was on sale, it became the subject among fans what song would be the opening number in this album.As a result, "Kazega fuita hi" followed the opening tune. When they made a release of this song as a single, "Hysterical Parade" was included, too. Rare trial is hidden in interlude of this song: They had trombone player perform freely, and added arrangement and accompaniment on trombone solo later."Yamini saku hana" (flowers in the dark) was written for a revenge tragedy TV drama "Black Revenge" in autumn 2017. They say that this is the darkest song of S.L.T. This song starts with Kyrie eleison, and duet with Sarah Alainn and groovy beat express ray of hope in despair.In creating this album, they wrote a song of cat for the first time in their career: "Sweet Cat Home".Chikuzen Sato had three cats in 2000s, named Kiki, Coocoo and Coco, And often placed photos and diary about them on weblog. But they aged old and died one by one. Now Chiaki Fujita has a cat, and occasionally, he places photos on Twitter. Sound of cat's purring is in this song, but it's difficult to hear unless you listen in quiet place or with headphones.Since they formed a band which was named Sing Like Talking later, they've always tried to create music they believe to be best. Yesterday September 30, 2018 was their 30th anniversary. And their challenge goes on.January 17, 2018 UPCH-2146(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2018.10.01
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Some sweets lovers might recognize a pastry chef and chocolatier Susumu Koyama, who has won titles at worldwide chocolat contests many times. And some music fans -especially if you have preferences like me, and some people who have read this weblog, might recall two songs of Chikuzen Satou:"The Lost Treasure" from "Your Christmas Day III", and "Human" from "Cornerstones 6". They are written inspired by Koyama's chocolat.Koyama's cakes and sweets inspired various musicians, and twelve songs were written or performed, and this compilation album came true.They tasted Koyama's sweets, and some wrote songs for this album, and some covered songs suitable for sweets they experienced.Of course, Chikuzen is one of the musicians who took part in.He selected strawberry shortcake and covered "Strawberry Letter 23" written in 1977.Just like Koyama's cakes and sweets made from different ingredients and different art of cooking, twelve songs are all different-Chamber music with piano, pop tune, rock'n'roll and jazz.Some musicians compare creating music with cooking; ingredients are the most important, and they try to select the best cookery and tableware for good ingredients.You might assent if you listen to this CD.September 27, 2017 Tokuma Japan Communications, TKCA-74552 Why did I place this album not on February 14, St.Valentine's Day, but today?In our country, confectionery industry made Valentine's day into event that women present chocolate to men as token of love and distribute valentine's chocolate and sweets at workplaces out of a sense of social obligation, and besides, established "White Day" on March 14, one month after Valentine's day, that men who received valentine gifts from women return them with sweets and various gifts-Unique aspect of this nation that is loyal to duty and particular about returns! But in this Valentine season, a big-name confectionery ran a newspaper advertisement encouraging to stop distributing obligation chocolates at workplaces -to be precise, men side should suggest women side that they don't need obligation chocolates, and controversy rose.However, I read on website of NASA that March 14 is Pi Day. As I confessed, I flunked in mathematics in high school and gave up interests in space once, though -until I came back in spring 2015. In short... who is π =3(.)14159th visitor!?◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2018.03.14
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They are a group of eight male singers with heights over 180cm.The name of group expresses dual characters of "Solid" that means cool and stylish, and "Emo" that means "emotional" -in other words, effeminate. They are aiming to be a made-in-Japan musical group of Asia.They've been appealing actively abroad since they made a debut, and their official website is already run in English, Korean, and Chinese.Then, some readers might think that I'm not the right one to place something about them -but read anyway, please.When I watched their performance "Rafflesia" on a music program I regularly watch, what interested me was:It's amazing that they entitle a song with the name of parasitic plant with huge garish flower and offensive odor to lure flies for pollination.Later, I found out to get convinced that this song was a theme song of a TV drama about mounting ladies; people who eagerly compare and vie with each other on various things to make themselves look better than others without even hesitating bully and harassment -nowadays, this is expressed as mounting, a habit of monkeys. This song compares such vanity with rafflesia -strictly speaking, Rafflesia arnoldii. This holoparasitic plant with strong presence is ominous in appearance and malodorous, but flower is short-lived.So is "Heroine" in this album, and this song expresses mentality of ladies in the vortex of mounting battles more straightly, I suppose. If I listen to only a song like this without watching drama or movie at all, sometimes impression of singers and music is not affected by impression and evaluation of drama or movie, but sometimes I cannot have enough comprehension -back then, I thought such a thing.Then why do I place this album NOW?The first single in 2018 of SOLIDEMO "MIRAI" is written by Chikuzen Satou and Chiaki Fujita from Sing Like Talking.This news came up in this November when S.L.T.'s latest single "Yamini saku hana" (flower blooming in the darkness) was on air as a theme song of a revenge tragedy drama thematizing love that Heroine tries to carry out even by disgracing herself. Reportedly, SOLIDEMO side asked a new song to members of S.L.T. as they sought the whole concept in the future as a musical group.Chikuzen and Chiaki gave a ready consent that they could be contributory to enliven music scene in Japan.I suppose this is a big difference from songs in this album -most of them were written for dramas from the beginning.Also, their producer mentions it on weblog that as the group name shows, many of their songs are assumed to be sung to ladies, but "MIRAI" is not the one.And S.L.T. is celebrating 30th anniversary in September 2018. Good luck with MIRAI (future) of SOLIDEMO and Sing Like Talking!(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)cf. http://singliketalking.jp/news/85371 https://ameblo.jp/sk0462/entry-12336367175.html"8 Collars": October 21, 2015 AVCD-93242"MIRAI": January 10, 2018 AVCD-83969Who is 300,000th visitor!?◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2017.12.21
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Some music fans would recognize her with Deep Forest's song "Will You Be Ready" in 2002 before she made a debut. Then, it might not be so surprising that "Nijiga umareru kuni" (the country where rainbow is coming from) was performed with popular local band in Ireland, and used as a theme song of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan.Needless to explain, Cassini is an astronomer who made achievements in Saturn observation. This title is named after this astronomer -So is Cassini spacecraft which ended mission at Saturn on Sep. 15, 2017.It might be only me who listened to the title tune "Cassini -dosei ni waga aru riyuu-"(Cassini -the reason Saturn has rings-) and thought of Cassini orbiter first of all-Because of the line saying that she is so deeply in love and finds herself going around someone she loves.Actually, Gen Ueda, the songwriter, was inspired to write this song when he met Chitose after she got married.In this album as a whole, Chitose expresses circle of people like Saturn's rings that is connected by music.Nine songwriters and producers took part in this recording.Chitose says that the atmosphere of songs written by male songwriters and female songwriters are different, and songs produced by female tend to be more passionate.Back to "Will You Be Ready": The sampled traditional folk song performed by Chitose was "Itokuribushi", a spinning song in Amami.Reportedly, this song expresses concerns that thread might break, followed by lines saying if thread breaks, we can tie, but if relationship between people breaks, it's difficult to tie again.With the lapse of time... Chitose's latest album as of October 2017 is "Heiwa gannen", a collection of antiwar songs. She made a release of this album in summer 2015, 70th anniversary of the end of World War II."Shinda onnanoko", a song about a girl who perished in atomic bombing in Hiroshima, is a song she recorded with Ryuichi Sakamoto in 2005, 60th anniversary of the end of World War II.Chitose performed together with Sakamoto again in album "Cassini"."Will You Be Ready" was a song warning whether human race is ready for the results of what they've done. What if this is presented to self-centered, imbecline, exhibitionistic, dictatorial rulers who don't know that destroying the world and Earth to flaunt themselves means death of THEIR OWN? On the interview about "Heiwa gannen", Chitose says that as a singer and mother, she wants to sing and pass down prayer for peace and resolution never to repeat the tragedy of war.The album "Cassini" is "circle" of people that Chitose has drawn with music.As I line up her earliest work, latest work and one of the works between the earliest and latest works, A concept is coming up that Chitose is connecting people and people with music."Cassini": July 16, 2008, ESCL-3090, Ariora Japan"Heiwa gannen": July 22, 2015 AUCL-184, Ariora Japan◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2017.10.22
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Recently, under worldwide trend, various singers in pops field in Japan are performing with symphony orchestra.Last February, there was a musical event that several singers performed with symphony orchestra, and Chikuzen Satou took part in, too.One of the pioneers might be Kouji Tamaki from Anzen-Chitai, But Chikuzen is not the one who leaped at this movement.Many of those singers arrange their own songs for symphony orchestra and perform.Instead, Chikuzen watched the recent movement of approximation of classical music and pop music, and thought what he wanted to express, and decided to record a cover work.Chikuzen says that he takes prior to be honest to satisfy his own desire in music than appealing himself in pop music scene in Japan.But it doesn't mean he ignores music scene in Japan and fans.Listeners who seek for music different from current Japanese pops, distinction between Japan and world or category is disappearing...Under such situation, he tried to make his place in music scene clear.Eight songs he selected seem to be inconsistent,But as we see the background of those songs, there is a common point; they are selected based on musical roots of each song.Baroque music leading to hard rock is behind "Story Of My Life".Melody of "Hey Brother" is peculiar to country western, and cowboy movie music leads to this, and European classical music is behind them.He didn't want to perform light classical music.The point of arrangement is how to bring out appeals of original songs with the form of symphony music.In "Story Of My Life" and "Africa", African percussionists from Senegal and Gen Oogimi who acquired skill in western Africa, take part in -there is no transcribing the groove on musical score!When Sing Like Talking made their debut, they held a debut concert with Jeff Porcaro. People who know about this would be delighted if they listen to "Africa" -so would have been Jeff-This was my first impression when I listened to this album.Chikuzen didn't record fourth Christmas album in 2016 because of this album.But following "Your Christmas Day III" in 2015, a song inspired by new chocolat of Susumu Koyama, who won a victory at a contest again, is included. Koyama asked Chikuzen to write a song of his new chocolat again, but it's not something organized.Koyama's intention was to spread the story behind his chocolat.Violence of nature like earthquake disasters, blessings of nature like plants... people are tiny creatures existing under such things.The title thought at first was "Legacy", but it ended up in "Human"."Ashitae"(toward tomorrow) was originally written as a college song of an art college in Yamagata.It also works a role as a rooters' song for reconstruction from 3.11 earthquake disaster. The lyricist is a scenario writer from Kumamoto prefecture, where was stricken by earthquake disaster last April. As "For Kumamoto Version", this song was included in this album, with new lyrics and symphony arrangement.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)November 23, 2016 Universal J, UPCH-2099Who is 210,000th visitor!?(Previous)◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2017.01.12
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A folk band Off Course was formed in 1969, and until they broke up in 1989, while members and formation changed several times, they influenced various musicians and pop music scene in Japan.When they made a release of this album "Three and Two", their popularity was rising rapidly with songs "Ai wo tomenaide" (don't stop love), "Sayonara"(farewell), "Yes-No".It was after their single "Sayonara" made a great hit when they decided to make a release of a single "Umarekuru kodomotachino tameni" (for children coming to the world) from this album.Reportedly, record company side opposed because this song was too restrained and political message was contained, so it wouldn't be accepted by general public.But Kazumasa Oda, the songwriter, stuck to his own will and belief.Unfortunately, compared to "Sayonara", this single didn't make a big hit.But later, members of Sing Like Talking, who were listening to Off Course with friends during high school days, learned a lot from Oda's belief.With the lapse of time...Chikuzen Satou from Sing Like Talking has worked on cover songs.After the terrorist attack in September 11, 2001, one of the songs he thought of first of all was "Umarekuru kodomotachino tameni".Superficially, the series of battle is between America and al-Qaeda, but in essence, adults are impregnating children with stereotype about the world and trampling on them. It's always children who are sacrificed in the end -that's the very thing still going on even now.He decided to cover this song as his work and contacted Oda, then Oda readily consented and offered to produce, and also took part in chorus recording.Besides, Toots Thielemans performed harmonica.When Chikuzen performed this song at a concert I went, Chikuzen talked an inside story back then; When he contacted Toots and explained the concept, Toots approved, and sent more than a dozen of performance data.As a result, Chikuzen's single, on sale on November 2002, was recorded by members from wide generation; Toots Thielemans was around eighty, Kazumasa Oda was in his fifties, Chikuzen was just before forty. (Back then)Narration before chorus was by Takako Matsu (mentioned below), in her twenties back then.Superfluously: According to Chikuzen, it's a tendency only in Japan that original songs and cover works are not equal; original songs are worshipped and cover works are underestimated -is that so?In the musical animation movie "Frozen", heroine's song of Japanese version was performed by Takako Matsu.It's true that her song is appreciated highly worldwide.On the other hand, in Japanese version of this movie, a singer May J. sang this song as its theme song, but there are people who abuse that she is just benefitted from the efforts and popularity of Matsu and Disney bland.Chikuzen was indignant that that such people don't understand what is to express in singing.-Me? Back then, I wondered only how general public reacted if other singers were in charge of theme song,And then, whether such people would also abuse "Go The Distance" by Fumiya Fujii or even Eric Clapton’s "Change The World" or Whitney Huston's "I Will Always Love You".As for this, I suppose it was just Matsu was too adequate for the casting in this movie.Excuse me for sidetracking.After Toots Thielemans was called to Heaven at the age of 94, Chikuzen dedicated a eulogy for him: Toots offered his talent and performance with no stint to anybody whom he thought he was good regardless of fame or social status, and he had tolerance and broad mind that cannot be praised enough with the word "friendly"; these are the reasons Chikuzen respects Toots a lot.Today, I'd like to take this occasion to place a condolence for Toots Thielemans, too.October 20, 1979(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-Handle)Who is 191,919 th visitor!?◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2016.09.12
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First of all: Let me type whole sentences in English so that it doesn't garble.Not only musicians from Tohoku and related with Tohoku are working so that they can be light of hope for stricken area and survivors.Kaori is a singer from Okinawa, and has performed at local music scene since her childhood.She experienced 3.11 earthquake disaster when she was on a live radio program in Fukushima.Later, she wrote "Smile Again", which became a title song of this album.At first, this song was sold on distribution, and Kaori has spent the profit for supportive actions for children in Fukushima.Like this song, several songs express her affection for people who love their home town, Such as "Futenma no kaori"(literal translation: "scent of Futenma") and "Sennnen sakura"(thousand-year-old cherry).Also, humorous songs are also highlight, too: "Champ-Loo 2012" and "Minna daisuki"(I like you all)Incidentally...There might be readers who feel that her family name is familiar...this is real name;Yes, since I'm placing in English, I'd like to take this occasion to place a question to general public in the country stationing troops in Asia including our country; how they think about military base relocation problem under contention between nation and prefecture.Although there is no clear answer yet how to solve this problem,Bulldozing self-righteous ruling party and Cabinet, disgraceful opposition parties and emotional demonstrators, -I'm afraid that a description could be applied that they are disputing for the sake of disputing.Not just in and around our country; who are the ones that need to be taught how foolish to exchange chain of hatred?On the sideline: Freedom of expression is secured NOT to bully someone.As I listen to "Champ-Loo" in this album, funny irony attracts me:"a President always in rotten mood and prefers wars, St. Ksitigarbha smiling even when people splash water, if both are added and multiplied and put together and mixed, then there would never be conflicts"Who is 160,000th visitor!?October 24, 2012 Takumi Note TECG-20072(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)(Previous)
2016.01.10
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As Chikuzen had declared, making release of his series of Christmas album came true for the third time.Chikuzen says that as a radio personality, he has taken interest in Christmas songs all over the world,And listened various kinds of songs, even heavy metal and hip-hop.He has found Christmas songs expressing large scale of world view, not only love songs and for family and friends.In Japan, "Harukanaru Christmas" by Masashi Sada would be the one.Chikuzen says that in recording Christmas albums, he selects songs on triad criteria:1. Standard Christmas songs including traditional songs -this time, "O Holy Night" and "Please come home for Christmas"2. His original songs -Chikuzen doesn't write songs with an awareness of Christmas.3. Songs that can deliver different message in Christmas seasonsThis time, "After The Rain" is one of them.This song is the opening number, and you might be surprised at the sound of rock music.Arrangement is by Kouichi Tabo from Superfly."Whenever I Call You Friend" is sung with SHANTI, who writes lyrics for his Christmas albums.And one of the important appeals of this album is "I Need You" sung with Ayaka HiraharaYou might recognize her "Jupiter", which shows appeals of her low voice.This song of Philip Bailey is not a Christmas song, of course.Chikuzen talked at his Christmas concert that he selected this song because this song has elements of both classical music that Hirahara studies and soul music that Hirahara likes.This song is arranged highlighting elements of baroque.Another important appeal is cover photo and "The Lost Treasure".Cakes on cover photo and lyrics cards are made by Susumu Koyama.Koyama is a chocolatier who won the top at a contest "Salon Du Chocolat 2015".According to Chikuzen, at first, he was going to ask Koyama just for those cakes for cover photos.But when they began to talk about this, Koyama told Chikuzen that he created a magnificent fantasy story for his chocolat he sent to the contest, and asked Chikuzen for music for this story.Chikuzen thought that Koyama wanted theme songs of his chocolat, but realized that what Koyama imagined was a suite.-And a suite "The Lost Treasure" was written.You don't have to worry about language barrier; all the songs including this suite are English.In English, sound and delivered messages are different from Japanese, and Chikuzen wishes listeners enjoy such difference.December 2, 2015 Universal Music UPCH-2059◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2015.12.24
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After S.L.T. made their debut, it took time to be recognized and they went through hardship, Then they began to rise in popularity. Their former album "Encounter" won the top of the chart, And they went into period of seeking "music of S.L.T." again.The title "Togetherness" shows their resolution to create their music with various people;What it means to them for them to pass down great things and working on something together.Just when this album was about to be completed, Chikuzen Satou talked at an interview from a music journal S.L.T. place reliance on: At the recording of former album, he experienced how his songs change by performance of excellent musicians.They began to consider how to have musicians working together flesh out their songs, since music, melody and chord progression they create are mere structures.Instead of exerting strong control by three members of S.L.T., they began to work on recordings and arrangement on even ground with musicians taking part in recordings.The opening number "Together" starts with sampled phrase from Django Reinhardt's "Dinah".This is also an expression of their resolution they express with the title of this album.In this spring, they performed this song starting with "How High The Moon", and they talked that they start with phrases from various jazz songs when they perform "Together" on stage.One of the noteworthy things is: Strings arrangement for "Your Love" and "Tomoshibino youni"(like a candle light) is by Clare Fischer.From the experience of these recordings, Chikuzen learned that what is important to create their music; how musicians work together, expressing what kind of message with each musical instruments and song.Satoru Shionoya alias SALT, who took part in recordings of this alum, respects Clare a lot, and after the recording of those two songs, he said that he is bringing back music sheet and study strings arrangement.Later, Clare took part in recordings of their next album "Discovery" and engaged in strings arrangement again. In this October, they had special concerts in Osaka and Tokyo; they performed with strings section.They talked how they learned a lot from Clare, and they are already over fifty and now they can express this song enough, and performed those two songs.In 2018, their 30th anniversary is coming.The title of this special concert was "27/30" -counting up to their 30th anniversary.Next year, they plan to have their first open-air concerts on their own, and perform with horn section.What is coming in their 29th anniversary?April 27, 1994 FHCF-2155◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2015.11.13
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From late 1970s, in music scene in our country, there are two bands called two major fusion band; "Casiopea" and "T-Square".In 1990s, Masato Honda was a member of T-Square as a saxophonist.He started his professional career just after he entered college of music.And after he quit T-Square, he experiences various groups -including FOUR of a KIND, and his solo works.Also, he is one of the indispensable musicians of Toshiki Kadomtsu's back-up band.This album is recorded live on December 8, 2000, in Tokyo.The band members are:Guitar: Jun KajiwaraKeyboards: Keiji MatsumotoBass: Tomohito AokiDrums: Hiroyuki NoritakeBasically, they are the members of "Honda Band", although sometimes different.The appeal of this album is: Needless to say, performance of those five musicians.Especially, while Aoki performs devotedly for the whole band, when it comes to his part of solo, he attracts attention of whole audience in a flash.-In listening to "Joy", imagine this scene. Even after Aoki departed from his life, not so many members of Honda's band have changed.Birthdays of Honda, and Tetsuo Sakurai from Casiopea, are the same day -November 13,And from 2007, Sakurai often takes part in Honda's band on tour and recordings.Honda's new album after six years of absence is coming soon -on June 24; the title is "Saxes Street".In addition to regular musicians, a young musician, the age of Honda's son, takes part in recordings; Yuuya Komoguchi.Who is 141,414th visitor!?Victor Entertainment, May 23, 2001 VICJ-60736"Saxes Street": Universal Music, June 24, 2015, UCCJ-2126◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2015.06.12
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Last month was twenty years after 1.17 earthquake in Kobe...In twenty years, there is a song that has been sung for Kobe: "Mangetsu no yuube" (evening of full-moon) in this album.I confess that I went to a memorial event held at nearest place this year, and listened to this song for the first time in twenty years.This song was written by Takashi Nakagawa from Soul Flower Union and Hiroshi Yamaguchi from Heatwave, and since then, this is included in several of their albums, and sung by many singers.This is the album of Soul Flower Union made a release after 1.17 for the first time -except for best album, that is.On Jan. 17, 1995, a massive earthquake and widespread fire destroyed Kobe and surrounding town still in sleep in the early morning -under the full moon.The basic form of this song had already been written before that day.Nakagawa was in Kobe, and after the earthquake disaster, one of his band members said that she was worried about elderly people cocooning in half collapsed houses, So they began to visit evacuation places for mercy live performance.About one month passed and when the night of full moon was coming again, Nakagawa heard some survivors say that they were afraid of seeing full moon -that inspired him to finish this song then and there.Nakagawa says that people living around Osaka and Kobe and such area smile and laugh even under difficult situation; he cannot forget smiles of people who work hard to live their new lives.Their tough spirit must be very important driving force for reconstruction.With the lapse of time...After the 3.11 earthquake destroyed vast area and people's lives in Eastern Japan, this song had been placed on video site, and survivors posted messages that they could shed tears for the first time thanks to this song;They couldn't even cry after they lost their family or daily lives.Since then, "Mangetsu no yuube" has been a mediator between Kobe and Tohoku, especially Fukushima.Nakagawa says that he is simply grad that this song is sung by many people, regardless of whether this song was written by him.He happens to be a writer and performer of this song, but that's not important.This song prays happiness for today and hope for the future in the stricken areas of earthquake disasters, encouraging all the people to live daily lives fully, and stand up again for their dreams, never to be defeated.-And keeps on liberating many people's mind...October 21, 1996 Sony Music KSC2-164 ----------Who is 131313th visitor!?◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2015.02.15
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Chikuzen Satou's second Christmas album came to us.In this album, well-known popular songs are included.At the tour after the release of this album, Chikuzen said that music is beyond category if melody is good.Last year, he made a release of his first Christmas album "Your Christmas Day".At that time, he said that he was planning to release Christmas album every year.For the past couple of years, he listened to all kinds of Christmas songs -including thrash metal, and he found:Even songs unrelated with Christmas can deliver message with different way at Christmas season.In his former work, he sang "I'm Kissing You".This year, he covered "What A Wonderful World" -and "Happy"."Happy" won the top of the chart in various countries except for Japan.In Japan, this song didn't win the top of the chart -at that time, it was AKB48 who won the top of the chart."Another Christmas Time", one of the songs he wrote for this album, is sung in English and Japanese.Japanese title is "Yukino hoshi"(starry snow).Originally, Japan was not Christian nation while freedom of religion is guaranteed in the Constitution,And I understand that the evaluation of Christmas and New Year is reverse in Japan and Occident.At the same time, it's funny that funny sense of obligation prevails that single people must find someone to spend Christmas together.Most of famous Christmas pop songs in our country are related with lovers, which is more than enough proof.Even contemporary Christmas pop songs from overseas well-known in our country, it's true -such as "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and "Last Christmas" in this album.As long as I know, songs in our language like "Happy Xmas" are rare -all I come up with are "Harukanaru Christmas" of Masashi Sada and "Dear Santa" of Misako Odani.Chikuzen hopes that the mature way to spend Christmas season will be common in Japan; Enjoying time with family, giving thoughts of people, world, and peace.-Me? I'm a member of a band of gospel choir and in this Christmas season, we performed at a Christmas mass at a local church.And I went to early Christmas concert of Chikuzen after the release of this album, enjoyed parties with my family and friends before Christmas.But I loafed on New Year's greeting cards because of those events.We have to post New Year's greeting cards by Christmas so that they are delivered on New Year's Day -at least Japan Post Co., Ltd. announces so.So I had to spend Christmas days busy with New Year's greeting cards.In our country, the next day of Christmas day, Christmassy feel is cleared out.But Chikuzen says that in the Occident, Christmas songs are on air at least until New Year's eve.So I suppose not so many people would mind even if I place today's diary.December 3, 2014 Universal Music UPCH-1999◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2014.12.27
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Kazufumi Miyazawa, from THE BOOM, has visited various countries in the world and he must be known well.Their music is based on rock music, and they've tried various kinds of music -techno, world music and traditional music.In 1993, their "Shimauta" made a smash hit, which is included in this album again twenty years later.And they have written various songs that express affection to local hometown in Okinawa -Such as the title tune "Sekaide ichiban utsukushii shima"(the most beautiful island in the world), and "Shinkanucha"("family" or "fellow" in Okinawa word).In this album, some songs are written in dialect of Okinawa, and they perform songs written by a grand musician of local folk song, and they cover traditional songs in Okinawa.But actually, they are not from Okinawa but Yamanashi, a prefecture in eastern Japan with no access to the sea.According to Miyazawa, when "Shimauta" made a smash hit, some local people repelled that out-of-towners sing about Okinawa and perform local musical instruments.But younger generation changed the situation.Thanks to this song, younger people began to take interested in local traditional songs and then traditional culture.Gradually, more and more people are proud of their birthplaces and hometown.Now they accept this song as a song of hometown, and this song is indispensable for traditional dancing.Miyazawa says that when they went to Okinawa for the first time, he had an impression that that this place lacked in spirits, but people's mind change in twenty years.In twenty years, the local people have cultivated pride for their native places and resolution to live with their home town.He still has a lot to learn from this place, so that he can show such spirit of people in Okinawa to people in main island, especially eastern Japan.Unfortunately, THE BOOM broke up this month; they explain that they feel they have done everything they can do by four members.Whatever...Patriotism and love for hometown -including home countries- can be mixed up -a writer and professor from the neighboring peninsular country points out this, And I admit I'm also the one who still cannot distinguish those two things precisely.But before discussing how to tame children with patriotic education, the government and education authorities might have something to learn from Okinawa they sacrifice, don't they?After the sudden Lower House election, if there is something I could say for the current ruling party, I'd like to reproach them to reflect on themselves why all the candidate of this party in Okinawa failed:While half voters abstained from voting, please refrain from being self-complacent that you've gained the confidence.Your victory is thanks to clothespin votes; you are elected simply because you are better OFF than other parties.-Me? I didn't vote for them, but I cannot say that I decided whom to vote for positive reason -that's all I can say.We must admit that we've played into the current Prime Minister's hands as a result,But number of the seats in the House is not so big difference than before, then what was the meaning of this election?June 19, 2013 YOSHIMOTO R and C YRCN-95211 ◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2014.12.23
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Young and pure, only seventeen (at the point of release of this album) -is not a line of "Dancing Queen" but description of this young genius girl drummer among general public.While she has performed with experienced senior musicians at jazz festivals, including the current members of Casiopea, and been recognized among jazz fans,She took part in a popular anime of light music club in school and rose in popularity in public.-But I even feel sorry for her that just such aspect attracts attention of general public.She began to play the drums when she was five, and studied under a famous drummer Kouzou Suganuma.During under training, she was clued up with irregular meter, so difficult songs with irregular meter in this album are a piece of cake now.After the release of this album, they held a concert tour in this August.At this concert, Jun Abe, one of the members of her band, praised Senri that her appeal is comfortable groove heard from snare drum, needless to say about technique.Especially when you listen to "All This Love", pay attention to this.Some musicians who took part in recording are elder than the age of her parents, as well as musicians who went on tour together.Such senior musicians place their hopes on her progress, and their affection is shown in this album, and also in the live performance.For example, "Onyx" expresses Senri who works on schoolwork and music honestly.Her natural black hair is compared with black jewel onyx.Usually, natural hair color of Japanese is black, but some young people color their hair although they don't have gray hair.Keita Matsuno, another of the members of the band, wrote "Spring in Lviv" so that he could have Senri try a song with story.According to Senri and Matsuno, "Lviv" is a town located between Russia, Poland, Ukraina and Middle East.Pronunciation of "Lviv" is different in Russian and Ukrainian.When Senri was nine, she placed a motion picture of "Tombo in 7/4" on YouTube and came into the limelight.She grew up to be a promising jazz drummer, and in creating this album, she closed this album with the opening number "See You Much Later" without drums.The intention is: Aspiring drummers can perform drums with this track, and place the motion picture on YouTube.Is there anybody who accepts this challenge?June 4, 2014 MOST Company, MOCA-1847◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2014.10.27
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The total time of this album is about 52 minutes and only five songs-Because this album includes two big pieces -to be precise, suites.Kadomatsu says that he likes progressive, especially YES, and he has been interested in writing big piece of progressive.Besides, he was fed up with writing songs with stereotyped form of verse A, verse B and chorus, which is innocuous and commercially-acceptable.With such adventurous spirit, he wrote "The moment of 46 billion years".Incidentally, there was a big change in Kadomatsu's life; right before his fifties, he married and had a child. When his wife was in pregnancy, he heard that a fetus follow an evolutionary pattern of life on Earth.This also inspired him in writing this suite.At his 30th anniversary concert in June 2011, he declared that he's going to keep on his career at least until seventy.You might feel his affection to his child from "I See The Light" -a song used in Disney movie "Tangled".As he wondered that what this world would be like twenty years later or so when his child grows up to be an adult,He began to feel apprehensive about the current situation of the world, especially our country.If you feel the current prime minister's remarks sound like desiring contingencies, your sense cannot be entirely wrong.This is one of the backgrounds he wrote a gospel suite "Get Back To The Love".Once he lived in New York, and experienced real local gospel music.Back then, he thought that he shouldn't dabble in gospel music simply for entertainment because it's a way of confession of faith by black people.But later, a local famous gospel singer encouraged him that he has a mission to deliver message.Kadomatsu majored in Indian philosophy in college, so he has a comprehension about religion.Needless to explain, in our country, while religious freedom is secured by Constitution, some people seem to have an antipathy to religion.He selected words carefully so that this song is accepted by both Christians and non-Christians.Regardless of religion, there is no difference in people's feeling such as respect, affection and gratitude for someone you care.Recently, the sales of CDs have been declining.Kadomatsu has worked on live performances with excellent musicians.At the same time, he wants audience to listen to CDs as recording works.Consumers' imagination is failing due to information overload, so Kadomatsu sets forth "albums with concept" strongly all the more.May 19, 2014 Ariora Japan BVCL-30017◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2014.07.01
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From the end of April to the beginning of May, dogwood blossoms are in bloom.When it comes to a song of dogwood, many people would think of a song by You Hitoto -But today, I'd like to place this album.To get this album at a record shop, visit "New Age" or "Classical" section.This album is produced by Iwao Furusawa, a leading classical violinist in Japan.Furusawa admires Yuu Hatakeyama as a brightest hope opening the future in Japan while percussions tend to be seen as backseat musical instruments in the shadow;From covered songs such as "Caravan" and "Lupin the Third", you can see her talent as an arranger and performance as if her musical instruments were singing.Reportedly, Hatakeyama performs various kinds of percussions on stage, large ones and small ones, even various ethnic musical instruments, not only Latin percussions.Her home town is Rikuzen-takata, one of the cities damaged badly by 3.11 earthquake and tsunamis.From 2011, she visits her home town again and again for charities and free live performances and percussion lessons.The title tune of this album is a theme song of "dogwood road" project:After Rikuzen-Takata was destroyed badly by tsunamis and many residents were perished, interested survivors decided to plant guide trees along evacuation route to the mountain, to prevent another tragedy in case tsunamis strike again.The floral language of dogwood is said to be "return""Please receive my affections", so they selected dogwood to plant.In the past, cherry trees were sent to America as a token of friendship.As a return, dogwood trees were sent to Japan.In our country, after the season of cherry blossoms is the season of dogwood blossoms.Two songs with the names of two flowers "Sakura"(cherry) and "Hanamizuki no negai"(prayer of dogwood) - They are sung by Chikuzen Satou from Sing Like Talking, whose home town is Aomori prefecture;With Chikuzen's warm and laith voice, these songs express determination to get over deep grief and make new steps toward the future-Like planted flowering trees coming into bloom.March 12, 2014 Kino Music, LLCD-1106(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)(April 2014)◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2014.05.11
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"From Kesennuma to the world"With this slogan, Ikumi Kumagai expresses the current situation of her hometown and home ground Kesennuma, one of the places damaged badly by 3.11 earthquake disaster."blue" is color of sea and sky.When she was eighteen, she left her hometown went to Tokyo to be a singer, but back then, she didn't succeed, and returned to the hometown.Even so, her hometown welcomed her return warmly, and she couldn't give up her dream.So since then, she has been based at Kesennuma even after she could make her debut in 2009, and "Getsurenka" (moon love song) was adopted for a theme song of a movie and she rose in popularity.She experienced 3.11 earthquake that destroyed vast area of eastern Japan.She could escape from tsunamis, and her home was on high ground and safe.But she witnessed massive tsunamis and fire destroying her home town.Once she was conflicted about music, but when she visited a shelter to look for her relatives, children asked her to sing something for them.At that time, she realized that music has power to encourage and heal people.She held live performances wherever she was visited, and introduced the situation in stricken areas.Since then, she thinks of her mission as performing music by "herself living her life in Tohoku".After this earthquake disaster, she rewrote about half of the lyrics in this album.In this album, messages stand out that we must make every effort to overcome difficulty:The opening number is "Saisei" (regeneration),Followed by "Jikuashi" (the pivot leg) -"I don't mind lying to myself so that I can stay strong","Kumono haruka" (faraway clouds), which she wrote after her dream shattered once and returned to Kesennuma -"if I whine, please scold me like usual"-I suppose back then, such atmosphere covered all over our country.At the same time, she doesn't forget to express sadness and sympathy:"Umi" (sea) -"here is the sea familiar to me, the sea I have come before ...""Niji" (rainbow) -"you don't need to hide when you are hurt, so keep your head up high"Closing number is "Bokurano koe" (our voice), which she wrote first after the earthquake disaster.Even though her home town was damaged badly by earthquake disaster, as well as residents living usual daily life there, she writes songs and performs for granted.This is to introduce the present situation in stricken areas, she believes.In Japan, due to launching days of an authoritative hit-chart magazine, many CDs from major labels are on sale on Wednesdays.My pocket diary includes calendar of the next year.As I realized that next March 11 is Wednesday, I couldn't help wondering whether this affects on music scene next year-I suppose she is the one who should make a release of something on this day if she is ready to.Future aside... three years have passed, and we have still long long way to go.While more than two hundred and sixty thousand people are still under refuge lives and progress of reconstruction is uneven, In the capital, the matter of concern -especially the government's, seems to be resumption of nuclear power plants and Olympic -I feel like suspecting.To prevent memories and lesson of earthquake disaster from fading, there are various things that music and art and sports can do.October 19, 2011 Teichiku Entertainment, TECG-30056(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)(February)(Last year)(Back then)◆:Ready to place summery if asked
2014.03.11
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This year 2013 is the 25th anniversary year of the career of Sing Like Talking, and members' 50th birthday.The closing of this anniversary year is Chikuzen's first Christmas album.There are a lot of Christmas songs of all kinds of music in the world.And in the Occident, various musicians make release of Christmas albums.In our country, there are compilation albums of Christmas songs by various musicians.But this is the first album specialized in Christmas by one musician in Japan.Even so, Chikuzen declares on his microblog that he never loses himself in commercial projects.Originally, our country is not a Christian country while religious freedom is allowed by constitution.And Christmas has been thought to be an event for lovers, and a merrymaking season to enjoy year-end parties.So a funny sense of obligation prevail that single people must find someone to spend Christmas together.-Although I understood later that evaluation of Christmas and New Year's Eve is reverse in the Occident and Japan, and about the background how commercialized Christmas has infiltrated,I suspect that one of the backgrounds is that December 23, the day before Christmas Eve, is a national holiday from quarter century ago, and that makes people feel as if Christmas season is extended.Excuse me for sidetracking... Chikuzen hopes that mature way to spend Christmas season will be common in Japan;Enjoying time with family, giving thoughts of people, world, and peace...So he tried to create an album suitable for time with hospitality.First, he selected six songs to cover by message of the lyrics.He focused on images of Christmas uncommon in Japan.Standard songs like "Winter Wonderland" are included, too.He wrote two new songs for this album; "Christmas Moon" and "Julie".In arranging those songs, he expressed warm atmosphere like chamber music.Don't worry about the language barrier; all the songs including two songs he wrote are English.Chikuzen plans to keep on creating a series of Christmas albums in the future, so I hope even one of his those songs will be new standard Christmas songs someday, like Tatsurou Yamashita's "Christmas Eve".December 11, 2013 MICK-1001◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2013.12.24
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Some people might think that I usually don't place deified big-names like her on "Favorite" -that's right, but just read.Since she made a debut in 1975, she is the only singer in our country who won the top of the chart in 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s.With sharp insights and ingenious expression and storytelling, there are many songs expressing dark side of human beings such as hatred, jealousy and entreaty, until some songs are commented to be frightening.At the same time, there are many songs staying present to the weak and weakness of people.While this album is described that many of the songs use everyday life for subject matter, the closing number starts with the introduction that today can be completely different from yesterday.In the early morning on Apr. 23, 1997 (JST), she turned on TV to take a break during work, and happened to watch a relay broadcast of a battle.-It was from Peru; daring storming was going on to solve siege of Japanese ambassador's residence.The TV camera caught a sacrificed soldier carried out, but the reporter was just keep on reporting only that all the Japanese hostages were safe, without mentioning anything at all about this soldier while this soldier had family as well as Japanese hostages.While there was no judging the fight going on in countries like the scene of this song, she felt that how her country gave cold shoulder to anything that don't resemble this country, and felt apprehensive.With the lapse of time... the attitude of our country toward other countries has changed, I suppose.On the other hand -there is a trend to label pro and anti even between fellow country people, and it seems a kind of misunderstood patriotism is spread, ...When I decided to place this album on "Favorite" today and began to grapple with this composition, I confess I wondered how she feels about such situation-As well as the possibility that our country can repeat the same mistake she sang in this song.March 18, 1998 AARD-VARK◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2013.12.23
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This is their 25th anniversary album and a compilation of their 25-year career, and a new starting point of their next 25-year.During their period of solo works, each member became able to work on most part of recordings at home.From 2010s, their works show that the songs and sound are created by three of them, except for rhythm, strings and horns.This illustration is by Chiaki Fujita.Two years ago, they came back together again after each of their solo works for seven years.But just before they made a release of the former album "Empowerment", there was a massive earthquake disaster.From this experience, they decided that there are a lot of things they can do with music.In that summer, they distributed a charity song "Luz" recorded with percussionists from Senegal.Later, this song was included in the next album "Befriend".From this year, they perform this song at series of open-air summer concerts "Jonetsu Tairiku" every year.And according to them, when they wrote "Human", a Celtic pop song, they had an imagination to have audience sing together at concerts."Empowerment" was an introspective album, but in contrast, this album "Befriend" has extrovert energy -except for "Forget-Me-Nots"."Empowerment" had atmosphere to reflect to each of ourselves as a person and respond to hardship like earthquake disaster as reality.On the other hand, "Befriend" expresses determination to make new steps forward together."Befriend" is a word used in "Rakuen" (paradise built of enthusiasm): To become a friend of somebody, especially somebody who needs your help. (cf. Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary)I guess that this song expresses where they hope to go. Both in positive and negative way, since 3.11 earthquake disaster, people have thought about "kizuna" (bonds) again.Since they began to record their 25th anniversary album "Befriend", they hope all the people have more and more happy time, supporting each other.About two weeks after the new DVD of their 25th anniversary concert was on sale, Chikuzen Satou introduced a comment by a playwright who dealt with a popular morning serial drama that made a big hit until this September:Refraining from laughter is anything but eulogy; or it would mean we must not show bright faces throughout the year.We should laugh and smile, cry, feel pleasure and sadness, and live full lives for perished people.From the point of the flow of the times, both "Empowerment" and "Befriend" look like predestined albums.Incidentally; this album starts with an energetic funk song "The Great Escape" and a bright pop-rock song "89banmeno seiza" (89th constellation) follows.Besides, the total time is 46 minutes -a compact album.So I think this is suitable to start a day in the morning.Today is 25th anniversary of S.L.T's professional career.And this year, members are 50 years old.Then, by simple calculation, half of their lives are their career, and they are twice as old as when they made a debut!June 5, 2013 Universal Music UPCH-1930(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2013.09.30
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After S.L.T. made their debut in 1988, they went through hardship until they rose in popularity gradually.Back then, they were appreciated highly by musicians they worked together, such as Jeff Porcaro and Nethern East.On the other hand, until they released their third album, their image among the general public was dexterous artisans of pops, and their music was thought to be esoteric.But in recording their 4th album, they made a big change.According to Chiaki Fujita, they were fumbling for music expressing themselves better, but they stopped fumbling once.They decided that it would be necessary to enjoy themselves first of all, and to be frank with what they want to express.This resolution might be hidden in "Do What U want 2 do 4 Luv".The title is "0"; they made a fresh start from "0".It leads "love"; there is "love" between a man and a woman -which they express with "Ai to ierumade" (until we can call it love), And in family, local community, and all over the world.As a result, this album became a frank and candid work -and upon the release of this album, their popularity began to rise.They went into the fumbling period again from their 7th album "Togetherness", though.One of the songs made them rise in popularity was "Steps of Love" released as single.Above all, not only themselves but also fans realized the power of music from "La La La".With African beat, this song expresses concerns about environmental disruption, encouraging listners to think what we can do.There is an inside story:This album including "La La La" was recorded in Los Angels in 1991.This song includes lyrics saying "stop fighting".When they were recording Chikuzen Satou's lead vocals of this song, Gulf War broke out.Ten years later, in 2001, terrorist attack in the U.S.In this year, they made a release of 10th album "Metabolism".They performed this song with only three of them on concert tour.Another ten years later, in 2011, a massive earthquake destroyed vast area of eastern Japan.At that time, this song was put on the air on the radio again and again.S.L.T. distributed a charity song "Luz" recorded with percussionists from Senegal.In this April, they held their 25th anniversary concerts in Osaka and Tokyo; "Amusement Pocket 25/50"Percussionists from Senegal and Mali appeared as secret guests and performed "Luz" and "La La La" together, showing genuine power of music and a strong impression.-Did you miss it? Then, their concert in Tokyo was made into DVD.This is going to be on sale on Aug. 28.April 25, 1991 Fun House, FHCF-1120 (June 2013) ◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2013.07.15
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Toshiki Kadomatsu has been working on various things in more than thirty-year career since he made a debut in June 1981.One of them is a guitarist.In 1980s, music described as "fashionable" was regarded as "cool and sophisticated", and popular among music fans, like Casiopea:Tetsuo Sakurai from Casiopea (back then) takes part in "The Bass Battle".Sing Like Talking was also regarded as a band like this back then when they made a debut in 1988.The theme of this album is "summer", although a stereotyped image of "summer" symbolized by "sea""sky" and "sun".As his album "The gentle sex" shows, Kadomatsu has sense of admiration and respect for women, so the subtitles are Japanese names of women.Kadomatsu devoted himself solely to a guitarist and a composer, and recorded this album.He made a release of another album like this in 1990.Once he suspended his career as a singer, but after the resumption, he held live concerts as a guitarist with old and trusted members.However...One of those members Tomohito Aoki, the bassist who performed with Kadomatsu from the beginning of his career, suddenly departed from his life on June 12, 2006.At that time, Kadomatsu declared that he would put the instrumental music project itself under seal, since he couldn't think of any other bassists to work together in creating his music as a guitarist.(Back then)(2011)Even so...In autumn 2011, he held live concerts as a guitarist again; "Kadomatsu plays the guitar", preparing two new songs.And he performs his songs as a guitarist on his stages since then.In this month, he is going to hold live concerts as a guitarist again.In an interview before the concert, he mentions about a new album including new songs as a guitarist.As for this -and about "Toshiki Kadomatsu, a guitarist", I think I'm placing after I listen to this album.July 1, 1987 Ariora Japan BVCR-1526◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2013.06.12
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According to Sakurai at his solo performance concert on May 8, 2013, this album is going to be on sale in Thailand.But first of all... I cannot write Thai at all, and this weblog might not display Thai characters.So let me place in English.I suppose there is no need to explain about Casiopea:Their record debut came in 1979.They grew up in popularity in no time, and became worldwide famous during 1980s.Sakurai was one of the original members, but in 1989, he left the group with Akira Jinbo, the drummer.Unfortunately, it was when I was a child who didn't have gained ear for music yet.So a few of his fans I met at concert places wonder how I knew about him while I didn't experience the first Casiopea boom in real-time.As for me, I found his name for the first time in 2003 as a Japanese who has performed with my favorite Brazilian singer.From 1990s, Sakurai has been working on various bands and projects, recording his solo works.This trio is one of them; with a guitarist Greg Howe and a drummer Dennis Chambers whom Sakurai respects a lot.This album "Vital World" was recorded in 2010 with the trio after nine years of absence.He shared his essential latent idea about his music with Greg and Dennis so that they could express their appeals enough through his music.His title is a jazz bassist, but this album will gain favor also with hard-rock fans.Sakurai started to play the electric bass when he was thirteen, and "Are You Ready?" by Grand Funk Railroad is the first song he played with electric bass.This album must be beyond border, with high energy and interaction of beat, melody and harmony.Actually, he took part in jazz festivals in Indonesia twice.And he's been invited to a jazz festival in Cairo, and "Vital World" is going to be on sale in Thailand and he will visit there to perform, too-So he will be busy traveling Asia and other countries.I wonder what kinds of live performance he is showing -he didn't mention the details.He might perform with guitar trio or band -but prospectively, solo performance he has been working on from 2010.Then, some people might wonder what a bassist's solo performance is like.Well... seeing is believing, but if you cannot see his stage, how about listening to his latest album "Talking Bass"?Electric bass is usually inconspicuous musical instrument performing vital role in music -but this notion might change.Of course, great bassists support the music they perform firmly and perform fabulous solo.In this album, electric bass is the main instrument.Sakurai says that electric bass is partner in his life, alter self, and a buddy getting along in years together.And he declares to continue his career for life -at least until seventy or eighty. Back to "Vital World"; while he was recording this album, his father fell into critical condition due to illness.So the closing number is "Father", the only ballad in this album -and his father departed to Heaven in summer 2011.This is one of the backgrounds he has decided to make all the things he wants to do come true as a musician so that he wouldn't regret at the end of his life.He plans to make a release of a new album tribute to Jaco Pastorius on Sep. 21 -and this is one of them.This information is also from Sakurai's talk on May 8. It's the first time I place two albums on "Favorite" at once-I placed an album and a single at once before, though."Vital World": September 8, 2010 King Record, KICJ 598"Talking Bass": August 8, 2012 King Record, KICJ 641
2013.06.01
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If you are a guitar lover, I'd like to recommend you this album as one of the works our country can be proud of.Since Jun Kajiwara started his career as a musician, he has performed with various musicians and bands.And he used to form a duo with Yoshiyuki Asano alias Butcher -"J&B" -with a band, and "J to B", only two acoustic guitars.But after he lost his partner Asano six years ago, he was working on solo career.Now Jun is working on a new duo: "J&K" -Jun and Kumi.The partner is Kumi Adachi, who performed with Orianthi, and took part in a jazz festival in Cairo, Egypt.Although they perform some songs performed by J&B at their concerts -but it's a completely new duo.At their concert I went on March 11, they introduced the opening number in this album "Joker & King" as their theme song of "J&K".Two "Interlude" songs work filler between electric section and acoustic section.Both are homage to Steely Dan.Between those two "Interlude" songs, four songs are performed on two acoustic guitars.So we can enjoy both electric guitar sound and acoustic guitar sound in one album.According to Kumi at the concert, she used to perform only the electric guitar, and she took up the acoustic guitar for the first time at J&K.Speaking of first time, they worked on singing as a recording work in this album: "Pinball Wizard".I remembered empathizing Jun's talk at a concert; a blues singer Takashi Nagai alias Hotoke recommended Jun to sing on stageWhen he actually tried singing, he found that singing was tough:When he is performing as a guitarist, he is listening to the whole sound, but when he is singing, his ears catch only his voice.The closing number "Quiet Times" was written when a friend of Jun passed away a few years ago.Back then, he didn't intend to perform this song at live concerts, but since 3.11 earthquake, he performs this song at concerts as a requiem.Also on March 11, they performed this song when I went to their concert.This month, J&K is on tour in Tohoku, and visiting stricken prefectures, too.-But it would be only the two of them who know whether this song is dedicated to Asano, too -I suppose.January 9, 2013, King Records, KICJ-652◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2013.04.20
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Note: This CD is available only at record shop chain HMV, convenience store chain Lawson and Rakuten.Also at places of concerts Chikuzen takes part in.Chikuzen's new series of cover works "Cornerstones" -but this album is different.(Cornerstones 2)(Cornerstones 3)(Cornerstones 4)Strictly speaking, this album is not "cover works".Chikuzen made a debut as a member of Sing Like Talking in 1988.Since then, as a session vocalist, he has performed with various topflight musicians who support music scene in Japan, taking part in not only live performances with them but also their works.Such recordings which "he sang at their requests" are collected in this album, so this is, so to speak, his side works collection.Some songs are studio recordings and some are live recordings.One of his important works is "SALT & SUGAR" with the pianist Satoru Shionoya alias SALT. (See Sep. 16, 2009)"Let Love Lead Me" is a song when they started a duo, and "I Can Recall Spain" is live recording at their concert tour in 2009.From those songs, we can see SALT&SUGAR's trajectory.The oldest song is in 1994, and the latest one "I Can't Tell You Why" is a new recording created all by himself at home.Due to recording time, only recordings sung in English are collected.Even so, this album shows Chikuzen's trajectory as a "first-call session vocalist" and how he has grown up as a musician by working with topflight musicians and composers he respects.Also as a composer: "The Flame In My Soul" is written by him for a theme song of a TV drama."The wings of time" was originally written for Takashi Numazawa's (See Apr. 25, 2008) solo album in 1999.This song is dedicated for the late Jeff Porcaro who performed with S.L.T. at their debut concert.And this song turned out to be the final recording of the guitarist Kenji Oomura who departed from his life in Nov. 1998. (See May 18, 2007)I hope Japanese version of album like this is coming someday.This year 2013 is 25th anniversary of Sing Like Talking.And the members of S.L.T. will be 50 years old.So this year is going to be an important phase for them.Their new single "89banmeno seiza" (89th constellation) is coming on Mar. 6.And anniversary concerts are held in Osaka and Tokyo in April.November 7, 2012 Mastard Records, LNCM-1009(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2013.02.01
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Looking for something to wake you up after New Year's holiday?This CD could be the one.Suitable for his stage-name, his cheerful songs with high energy such as "Yeah!" and "Gamushara-la" (frantically) are really rousing:"Inti" is "sun", "Raymi" is "festival" in Inca words.At the same time, sentimental ballad songs are also included, like the closing number "Aishiteta" (I loved you) -a sad unrequited love song.-But don't worry; following this album, a single of a merry dance pop tune "Naitetatte" (even if you are crying) was released.Some people might say that this album is chaotic.The other side of the coin is: Naoto has a lot of potential and tries various kinds of music.Before the debut, Naoto decided a goal to go on a world tour, and went on a travel worldwide as a "preliminary inspection".This experience is reflected to his songs.When he is ready to go on a world tour, why don't you welcome him who brings you "sun festival"?Last April, my grandfather passed away.In our country, if someone dies, the bereft family members in mourning refrain from the next New Year's greeting, noticing beforehand.But there is not such custom at least in the culture people send Christmas -or "Happy Holiday" cards.So today, I'm placing "A Happy New Year" only in English.Best regards.April 18, 2012 Universal Music UMCK-1413 ◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2013.01.04
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Like various musicians from the stricken prefectures, Rake is also the one who believes in power of music.Besides, he lives in and he is based in Sendai where he was born in, while he holds live performances and takes part in open-air events at various places.His masterpiece "Hyakumankaino I love you" (million-times "I love you") was released two days before the 3.11 earthquake."Hyakumankaino ..."(million-times "...") in this album is a continuation of this song.After going through the earthquake disaster and hardship, this experience was made into the title tune of this album "Subarashiki sekai" (wonderful world).At first, he couldn't believe in "wonderful world".But as he watched people unite as one and go through hardship, he grew his resolution to live in Sendai and work the life and soul of his home town.I think the song that expresses his love for his home district the best is "Town Beat".July 18, 2012 Ariora Japan, BVCL-343/4(November 2012)◇:Ready to place translation if asked
2012.12.10
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This is the first time I introduce a single CD on "Favorite".I bet all the songs are worth introducing overseas, adding translation like Cocco's works. (See May 30, 2010)According to the newspaper article that introduced this work, On March 8, 2011, Kenji Sawada alias Julie happened to see a cloud in the sky, and took a few pictures.This picture is used for jacket.Three days later, a massive earthquake and tsunamis destroyed vast area of eastern Japan -and atomic power plants in Fukushima.(Back then)One year later, Sawada made a release of this work including four songs dedicated for stricken area and victims of 3.11 earthquake.As I was grappling with this composition for today, a report came up admitting that atomic power accident in Fukushima is completely man-made disaster -sounds like a big fat duh.At the same time, nuclear power plants were resumed after all.I recalled watching "No Nukes" in spring 2003 -a documentary about a music festival against nuclear power plants in the U.S. in 1979.Back then, I remember learning that one of the musicians' public missions is to spread a proper sense of value.But not so many singers perform anti-nuclear songs openly like "F.A.P.P." singing "Bye-bye A.P.P": Various anti-nuclear movements including such songs used to be repressed in hopes of fending off the antinuclear movement.When Sawada was young, he was a member of a rock band regarded as an idol group, and he wasn't allowed to express unbecoming an idol.But now he doesn't hesitate to sing social messages like "Waga kyuujou" (our Article 9 of the Constitution under distressed condition) included in album "Rock'n'Roll March" in 2008.Even so... many of us have learned the hard way, except for some people who still cling to illusion and profits of nuclear power plants.Just before this composition was fixed, there was a music festival against nuclear power plants "No Nukes 2012".Such movement can cause a change... introducing CDs including antinuclear songs like this on "Favorite" might be some help, I hope.(June 2012)March 11, 2012 Cocolo Corporation, COLO-1203 ◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2012.07.11
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(About her: See Sep. 3, 2010 first)Last year, there were full of word "kizuna" ("bonds" or "ties") in Japan, for better or for worse:Due to 3.11 earthquake, there have been various bonds strengthened and various bonds torn apart.And various musicians have written songs expressing about bonds; bonds of friendship, family ties...and life continued generation by generation.This album could also be the one, as the title "Te to te" (hand and hand) shows.Besides, Kana Uemura is from Hyogo prefecture.She experienced 1.17 Kobe earthquake in her childhood. (See Jan. 16, 2012)After she grew up to be a popular singer, there was 3.11 earthquake."Himawari" (sunflower) is dedicated to survivors in the stricken area.It took time for Kana to raise in popularity until "Toireno kamisama" (the god of the toilet) became a smash hit."Toireno kamisama" is a song about her memories with Grandmother.And again, songs about family are included in this album; "Sekaiichi gohan" (mom's cooking, the best food in the world) and "Chimugukuru"."Kimito boku" (you and me) and "Gomenne." (I'm sorry) are about friendship."My Favorite Songs" is about her wish that her songs would be "favorite songs" and supports for someone one day, just like favorite songs for Kana.Excluding Sing Like Talking and Toshiki Kadomatsu families, I think she is the first musician I placed more than one CD on "Favorite".(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)January 25, 2012 King Record KICS-1746◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2012.04.06
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"Anzen chitai" (safety zone) is named from traffic sign shaped like "V".They made their debut in 1982, and went through suspension and resume several times, and came back completely in 2010.In the liner notes, they declare that "V" is for V-sign meaning "peace", not "victory".They declare that their music is for struggle for peace:As they encourage that we must keep on running with "straight" heart even if we are defeated in "Kekkai"(barrier),Cast an idea that there is no "good" things nor "bad " things, and "the front side" and "the reverse" side are similar after all seen from the sky in "R-★ sitei"(R-★ rating),And suggest that it's not to "judge" other people that we were born in "Step"."Step" is dedicated for a young man from Korea who perished in a train accident during the stay as a student, rescuing a Japanese man who fell off the platform.Later, he is enshrined as a mediator between Korea and Japan.While there are people who try to reconstruct good relationships, it is deplorable that there are some people who enjoy bullying each other, trampling on their effort.Needless to say about a motion picture insulting victims of 3.11 earthquake by a young man in this neighboring country.I'm aware that some people in this country still hate our country.Even so, although an apology motion picture was placed three days later, did this poster understand that bullying other people brings bad reputation not only to himself but also people around him including his home country in the end before posting insulting motion picture?And from the retaliatory motion picture, I saw a simple example that you are just demoting the subject to your low level when you bully other people:Tit-for-tat responses just end up showing each other's stupidity -fool-proof and proof of foolishness.Today's diary is like a mixture of "Favorite" and "10-line" -sorry.I'm NOT dealing with international relationship but human relationship.Now back to "Favorite":The opening number "Mudana ase"(sweat of no use) was a tentatively title of "STEP"."Sweat of no use" is taking action for someone else without considering the consequences, without expectation of a return, sometimes ready to give your life."Love is action" -this is the message they express overall, especially in closing number "Kiyoku tadashiku utsukushiku"(pure, upright and beautiful)."Anzen chitai"(safety zone) also means a place of peace.They keep on fighting for love and peace through their music so that the world is united as one someday.(See also Oct. 22, 2011 and Sep. 11, 2011)September 14, 2011, USM Japan, UICZ-4244
2012.03.25
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Note: This CD is available only at concerts Satoru Shionoya alias SALT or Chikuzen Satou take part in, or for members of their fan clubs.About SALT&SUGAR: See those introductions first;"Interactive""Concerts II" "Concerts" 2009 was the year of SALT&SUGAR for Chikuzen.In autumn 2009, they went on tour with only two of them.Those songs in this album are from performance in Shibuya.The stage is very simple -just SALT's piano and Chikuzen's song.But since they describe themselves as an equivalent duo, not a singer and an accompanist, their music is deep and worldwide, with their freewheelingness and wide musical background.From a song with classical elements to a reggae song "Day-O"Now Sing Like Talking is back, so even they themselves are not sure when their next move as SALT&SUGAR, although annual "Saltish Night", which you can enjoy their performance on "Concerts II" is held every year around Christmas.But Chikuzen declares that he is looking forward to seeing themselves in the future.This must be expressed with "Kawano nagareno youni (like the river current)", a famous song of Hibari Misora.Incidentally...The opening narration is by Hiro Teradaira alias Hiro T, a popular radio personality of FM 802, a radio station in Osaka.Nov. 27, 2011 was Hiro's 60th birthday -60th birthday is regarded as one of the happy and important phase in Japan.On this day, there was a birthday concert for him on a massive scale in Osaka.15 musicians and bands took part in this event and went on for about 6 hours.This was unprecedented -10 thousand audience gathered in a large hall for cerebration of a birthday of a radio personality.For more than twenty-two years, he has been respected and adored by many musicians, not only listeners.Many musicians owe him; many of them raised in popularity by their songs on air on Hiro's radio programs.Sing Like Talking is also one of them. (See also May 19, 2009)This is for his stance as a radio personality: Once he finds good musicians, he treats them impartially with affection and supports eagerly, regardless of their popularity or genre.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-Handle)◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2011.11.29
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(See Feb. 13, 2011 first)Today is 23rd anniversary of S.L.T.'s professional career.From 2004, each of them was concentrating on their solo works.In spring 2009, they came back once for a special concert of a radio station. (See May 19, 2009)After that, they hit it off again for their new recording and works.And they came back together, improving each of their respective realms of expertise in seven years.Since they absorb various range of music, they believe that they can create their own music if they create what they believe.The opening of "Through the Night" with a sense of fun must show that.It was Chiaki Fujita who decided to start this album with this song.During the past seven years, Chiaki was working on producing and engineering.Chiaki insists that we should listen to this album with CD players with speakers for music:Recently, more and more people enjoy music with portable players with ear bud, but we cannot truly enjoy the real sound quality including Chikuzen Satou's vocal tone."Empowerment" means to give ourselves more control over our own life or the situation we are in:In eight years while the members of S.L.T. put on years and improved maturity, their fans have put on years and live in various circumstances.Whatever the situation they are facing, all of us can find and improve ability to carve way for happiness in their life by ourselves."Kimino nakani kagayaku mono" (something shining in your spirit) and "Namida no rasen" (spiral of tears) would express that the best.(See Apr. 23, 2011)It was before the release of this album that a massive earthquake and tsunamis struck vast area of eastern Japan on Mar. 11, 2011.The release of this album was postponed more than one month -and came to us fully prepared."Inori" (prayer) from this album is included in a charity compilations album.As I mentioned before, Chikuzen and his manager were in Sendai to take part in a radio program on the very day of the earthquake.While they experienced this tragedy, Chikuzen said that the evaluation of their new songs has never changed, as for themselves.Of course, interpretations of their songs could have changed for some people.But so many men, so many minds -there is no correct interpretation of their songs-Chikuzen talked at the concert before they sang "Wild Flowers".From the same day of the release of this album, their charity song for survivors of 3.11 earthquake "Luz" is distributed."Luz" means "light" in Spanish and Portuguese.This song was recorded with the world-famous percussionist Gen Oogimi and his friends from Senegal.Incidentally- Chikuzen's new regular radio program is starting from Oct. 7.This is on air from a local radio station in Kanagawa prefecture.But with Internet or Smart Phone, you can listen to this program all over the world!May 17, 2011 Universal Music, UPCH-1829◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2011.09.30
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Half year since 3.11 earthquake.(Back then)(Last month)Originally, this album including this title tune "Try Again" was on sale last autumn.As this title shows, this song must have been encouraging many people, not only his fans.Even so, who would ever know that this song would turn out to be one of the most important encouraging message for us?Just after 3.11 earthquake, Nagabuchi was also the one who was discouraged that it might not be the right time to sing. (See also Apr. 23, 2011)But after the access to stricken area became possible, he visited the bases of the Self-Defense Forces working at the spot.And he keeps on supporting the victims various ways:He started a radio program for the stricken area from April, held a summer camp in Kagoshima for children evacuated from towns near atomic power plants in Fukushima, and made a release of charity work "Try Again for Japan" -newly recorded with human voice of about one hundred people:Nagabuchi visited Ishinomaki for recording of a music program, one of the place damaged the worst, and dedicated this song with about one thousand various people -about one hundred children, residents, gospel choirs from Tokyo and Sendai, college students in Sendai.Nagabuchi declared that a bond between people is fragile, but it would be stronger if they are tied; voices get stronger if people get together one by one -he would like to create a song for reconstruction with the power of those human voices.Like various folk and rock musicians, Nagabuchi has various critical songs against society and government -such as "Shiran furi" (playing the innocent) in this album.On the B-side of "Try Again for Japan" includes "Ouchie kaerou (version 2011)" (let's go home) - a song he was going to sing at Year-end Grand Song Festival in 1990, but was changed to other song due to a phrase of urinating over the Diet Building: The second verse is rewritten to criticize the government after 3.11 earthquake more sensationally.(See also Jun. 7, 2011)Incidentally- Nagabuchi is appreciated highly not only as a singer wielding influence over many younger rock musicians -"manly" would be really suitable for him -, but also as an actor.In summer 2010, he took part in a special drama for the anniversary of the end of World War II and acted a spirit of a soldier died in one of the fierce battlefields during World War II."Aishiteiru to tsutaete kudasai" (please bring word "I love you") is the theme song of this drama and its original theater act.I understand that today is just 10 years since terrorist attack in 2001.But this time, let me place my prayer for the victims of 3.11 earthquake.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)"Try Again": November 10, 2010 Nayutawave Records UPCH-20210 "Try Again for Japan": September 7, 2011 Nayutawave Records UPCH-80249◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2011.09.11
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I hear that there is another rock band named "Source" in Japan.But what I'm introducing today is a fusion band consists of:Sax: Osamu KoikeTrumpet: Sirou SasakiGuitar: Jun Kajiwara (See Apr. 21, 2009)Bass: Tomohito Aoki (See Sep. 21, 2007)Drums: Masaharu Ishikawa.In their first album "SOURCE", the trumpeter was Masahiro Kobayashi, but he left and Sasaki joined.At first they met as members of Toshiki Kadomatsu's back-up band and according to Aoki, they formed a band to enjoy solid fusion music casually among friends.Akira Onozuka (See Mar. 16, 2011) takes part in recording and live performance, too.But due to the contract with their label, he is regarded as a guest.Solid and tight sound performed with sax, trumpet and rhythm section with power, speed and technique...Sometimes tough and funky, sometimes soft and melodious...Those songs would remind us of Brecker Brothers."Thank You" by Jun Kajiwara is often performed at the last of their concerts.This song is included also in Jun's first solo album "Ever".On the same day of the release, Aoki's second solo album "Experience" was on sale, too. (See Dec. 7, 2006)Since they are all on great demand at various stages and recordings, so it was difficult for them to adjust their schedule and get together.And on Jun. 12, 2006 -just five years ago-, Tomohito Aoki passed.They might not have come back together again.But from Oct. 15, 2009, a new bassist Kiichirou Komobuchi joined and they resumed performance.However...I wondered if they were planning to record new albums or going on live performances at places except for Tokyo, and asked an avid fan of them about their next move.According to the information, Koike wishes to record their new album.But now, music business is under serious recession and their next recording or concert tour would be difficult under tight budget.Musicians like them who wishes to deliver really good music are going through hard situation.Even so, since it might be time to be called into question what music can really heal, inspire, and encourage people, many real music fans must be waiting for their new move and new albums-At least Aoki must also be the one.July 26, 2000 P-Vine Records PVCP-9416◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2011.06.12
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As reported, a massive earthquake that turned out to be 9.0 on the Richter scale, and enormous tsunamis destroyed the Pacific coast of Tohoku, eastern Japan on March 11, 2011.(See also Mar. 16, 2011)On March 13, 2011, a song was placed on YouTube as a "gift song" for the stricken area.The story of the song "Kanade" by Sukima Switch is:When I saw you off, I just hoped that your future wouldn't be filled with sad songs.But if there is a song like this, our hearts are together anytime.I'm sending my love and emotions with my voice to you in a distant town.Sukima Switch is a duo of Takuya Oohashi(Vocal, guitar) and Shintarou Tokita(Piano and other instruments).Originally, "Kanade" is included in this album -their 1st album.Sukima Switch made a debut in July 2003.Their singles "Kanade" and "Zenryoku shounen" (all-his-might boy), and many songs have made smash hits.From 2007, Takuya started his solo works and Shintarou started producing works, too.Their songs include both causality and soulfulness -perhaps Hironori Okano could be such a musician, too. (See Jun. 23, 2009)On contributing this song to YouTube, Takuya e-mailed his friend Chikuzen Satou:After discussing what they could do, they decided to place this song.At first, they were anxious to do such thing.Once Takuya and Shintaro went into argument over that.But their answer was "go on", although they needed courage to do it.(Free translation of the main point)This motion picture starts with a message asking viewers to listen to this song although all they could do for people right now is to sing to encourage people.Takuya asked Chikuzen to introduce their "gift song".Chikuzen placed an article about "gift song" from Sukima Switch on his weblog, and added "La La La", a song of Sing Like Talking:This song was written at the time of Gulf War in 1991, and it's encouraging us to think what we can do for the world.Since I'm also the one who is wondering what I can do, I'd like to introduce their "gift songs" on English section of this weblog.Now it might be time to be called into question what kind of music really save, cheer up and inspire people...And -again, let me take this occasion to place my gratitude for various supports from all over the world.June 23, 2004 BMG Japan, AUCK-11004(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-Handle)◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2011.03.21
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(See Jan. 12, 2009 first)Akira Onozuka is a keyboardist of DIMENSION, an electric jazz group in Japan.At the same time, he is performing also as a solo pianist, and this is his second solo work.Onozuka talked at a concert in Osaka on March 9, 2011 that he likes outdoor activities -camping, hiking and trekking.He often visits Hokkaido."Rera" means "wind" in word of Ainu -aboriginal population in Hokkaido.As this title shows, it includes two more songs expressing "wind":"Land Breeze" -originally a song of DIMENSION-, and "High Wind".As I heard that at the concert, I felt that his solo works reminds me of Michael Gettel, who has created various albums expressing nature.Some people might recognize his albums "Winter" and "Places in Time".I think that Onozuka's solo works would sound more like New Age music like Michael Gettel than Jazz, and it wouldn't sound strange if his albums were on shelves of the label Michael Gettel belongs to.Some more songs describing nature and views in Hokkaido are included in this album:"Owl's Eye" -Onozuka says that his image of "owl" is Blakiston's fish owl, one of the endangered species in Hokkaido."High Grown Cafe" is a name of cafe in Sapporo, where we can enjoy night views of Sapporo.Onozuka said that he would like listeners to feel the views of nature from his music.However...Who would ever know that a massive earthquake would hit Japan on March 11, 2011, two days after I went to a concert of Onozuka?Large regions on the Pacific coast in Tohoku were destroyed by the earthquake and enormous tsunamis.Fortunately, there were little damages caused at the area where I live in.But some of my relatives live in Akita -Sea of Japan side in Tohoku.Fortunately, none of them was injured.As the daily life came back to me, I couldn't help thinking of "Gift from God" in this album:Onozuka said that it's about a small lake in Hokkaido.This lake is so beautiful that it's admired as "gift from God"."Gift from God" is not only beautiful things in nature, but also daily life and people we have encountered.The first thing I decided to start was to save electricity.I think if we save electricity and gasoline, the fuel for generation could be used for stricken area.I'm ready to do whatever I can do to support victims, even little by little.And -let me take this occasion to place my gratitude for various support from all over the world.July 14, 2010 Zain Records, ZACL-9045◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2011.03.16
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Many of singers from her label have owed this composer when they made their debut and make smash hits.Oono sings songs she composed for various singers in two albums -this is the second one.All the songs were translated into English, and released both in Japan and the U.S.In this album, seven songs were for Mai Kuraki -some people might recognize her as Mai K.,Three songs were for Rina Aiuchi -who retired last year-end,Two songs were for the tambourines, One song was for Sweet Velvet. Especially, Kuraki owes Oono a lot since her debut and for first few albums -and also for her latest album.Reportedly, both of them are similar in voice quality, and Oono's songs are said to go well together with Kuraki's voice.Then, some people might wonder why I haven't placed albums of those singers whom Oono has written songs for.To speak plainly, I placed this album as a respect for a behind-the-scenes architect.As for people who have already got a lot of media exposure -it's much better to refer introductions on media.This is also a reason why I haven't placed albums of idol groups who became million sellers in 2010 (See Dec. 27, 2010)-but if I try to mention furthermore, I would have to reveal the criteria I set to select CDs to place on "Favorite", so that's about it for.December 4, 2002 GIZA studio GZCA-5024◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2011.01.20
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His music is called pop-opera, using both vocalism of pop music and opera in one song.Various elements of classical music are adopted in his songs -except for "Ti Amo" and "Aino kiseki" (miracle of love).Maybe Sweetbox could be regarded as such musicians, uniting classical music and hip-hop.Fujisawa took interested in music as a little boy, and reportedly, he was inspired to become a singer by Celine Dion.He went on to a music college and majored in vocal music, and made a debut after graduation.Some people would recognize "Jupiter", Ayaka Hirahara's debut song.The original melody is Holst's "Jupiter", of course.Fujisawa and Hirahara belong to the same label.Recently, Hirahara is also trying classical music, and made a release of a duet song with Fujisawa: "Sailing my life".This year 2010 was 200th anniversary of Chopin's birth.However, in a home country of classical music, the government had reduced budget on culture and art by firing teachers of art and various measures.Then, for the past ten years, younger generation is losing interest in classical music, and this has become a major problem.Such movement is going on in this country, too -I read on newspaper.Since it seems that the government tends to regard immediate profits, and classical music and opera are still thought to be too sophisticated for general people, I would like to hope that musicians like him would save audience from such situation-or do we count on boys and girls idol groups who became million sellers this year!?For example, with members more than one class at school, they could sing some chorus music like Wiener Sangerknaben...December 2, 2009 Dreamusic MUCD-1220◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2010.12.27
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Hideaki Tokunaga's series of cover albums "Vocalist" have made long hit from 2005.He released four cover albums, singing famous Japanese songs by female singers.Since he made a debut in 1986 and made his first smash hit in 1987, he has fascinated many fans with outstanding singing ability and high-tone voice.So far, "We All" is his latest original album released between "Vocalist 3" and "Vocalist 4".The release of original album was after five years absence.Reportedly, his songs has become more spiritual after he stopped performing due to illness in 2001 and resumed again in 2003.His latest release is "Vocalist 4".As a result, "Vocalist" series have been sold more than three million on total.It could sound more like introduction of "Vocalist" series -sorry.On introducing Tokunaga, no doubt that his cover works "Vocalist" series is an important factor-and also he is a great vocalist who is suitable for the title of his albums "Vocalist".Do I stick to original albums to place? No -If so, I wouldn't have placed Chikuzen Satou's "Cornerstones" series.Then why did I select this album of Tokunaga to place on "Favorite"?One of the singers I was producing was deeply into Tokunaga, and asked me to write songs like songs in this album.May 26, 2010 Universal Sigma UMCK-9358
2010.11.16
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(See Aug. 11, 2010 first)Toshiki Kadomatsu's latest album described as "Summer 4 Rhythm part2".For 29 years in his career, he has written various songs about "city" and "night".They are regarded as byword of Kadomatsu as much as "sea, sky and resort", the main theme of "Summer 4 Rhythm".At the beginning of his career, the producer back then tried to promote him as a star of city-pops.He repelled such a movement, though -and that turned into a driving force of his challenge.This time, "4 rhythm" are-Drums: Tom TamadaBass: Hideki MatsubaraGuitar: Tsuyoshi Kon (See Sep. 1, 2008)Keyboards: Toshiyuki Mori (See Mar. 17, 2008)All the members except for Tamada are old and trusted members of Kadomatsu's back-up band.Tamada is the only one of the four who is in his thirties.Kadomatsu was looking for musicians in younger generation with talent.Mori and Shingo Kobayashi (See Mar. 17, 2008) introduced Tamada to Kadomatsu, and Tamada took part in Kadomatsu's former album "No Turns".Later, blu-ray discs of "Citylights Dandy" were on sale.Kadomatsu says that the sound is much better.Besides, motion pictures of night views edited by Kadomatsu are included.He explained why he made a release of blu-ray version at a concert in Osaka:Recently, entertainment is under serious recession.One of the problems is illegal copy, but blu-ray cannot be copied.Besides, a blu-ray disc can include various data sources -music, motion pictures, and so on.And from next year, transition to terrestrial digital broadcasting is going to be completed.It is possible that blu-ray can connect TV and Internet, with diversity of information blu-ray can include.It seems that in his way, he is concerned about the situation of entertainment -and trying to cause a new movement.However, even without motion pictures on blu-ray, we would see various views of "city" and "night" as we listen to the music:"Hot Lazy Night" -cool night bleeze is coming into a dark room after a hot and humid day in summer,"Fly By Night" -as shown by the title,"La Carnaval" -the only song with Latin flavor; a city in Brazil.According to Kadomatsu, his father wished to immigrate to Brazil when he was young, but it didn't come true due to opposition from his family.The son Kadomatsu wrote this song, thinking of Father.However, Kadomatsu might not have been here if his father had immigrated to Brazil -Kadomatsu said on stage.The closing number "See You Again" might have been written in a state of mind like "Yoru no semi" (a cicada shrilling at night) in "No Turns"... (See also Dec. 17, 2009)August 4, 2010 Ariora Japan, BVCL-117(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-Handle)◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2010.10.03
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As this title shows, this album is about memories of hometown, friends and family of Kana Uemura, who loves music and comedy very much.Reportedly, she liked a popular comedy programs on TV so much that once she felt like being a comedian when she was a child.One of the songs "Toireno kamisama" (the God of the toilet) in this album became a smash hit.This nine-minute long song is about the memory of her grandmother:It is when Kana was 3rd grade at school that the story starts.She used to play her favorite board game with her grandmother, go daily shopping together, and helped her family with housework at home every day.Back then, she disliked cleaning the toilet.But one day, Grandmother said:"In the toilet, there is a really really beautiful Goddess.So if you keep the toilet sparkly clean every day, you can be beautiful like the Goddess..."Since then, Kana began to clean the toilet eagerly every day, believing that she would be a beauty.However, as she grew up, she conflicted with Grandmother and family.People often end up losing their important things by hurting other people...Two years after Kana moved to Tokyo, Grandmother was hospitalized with illness.She visited Grandmother in hospital.The next morning, Grandmother departed to Heaven -as if she were waiting until Kana came back to see her again.Kana became grateful for Grandmother for love and bringing her up, and regretted about the conflict, not repaying any favor and not being a good granddaughter.She believes that if there is something makes her beautiful, it must be Grandmother's affection expressed with a tale about "the God of the toilet".Now she still keeps cleaning the toilet every day...No doubt this is her breakthrough song, and will be a representative work.But this is not all of her appeal.Her expressiveness shown by the gap between sorrowful voice in "Wasurenaiyo" (I'll never forget) and cute voice in "Watashi hajime" (the start of my new life), and her sense of melody show that she would never end up in one-hit wonder.Kana's next new album "Kana -my favorite things-", recorded with various musicians she respects, is coming on Sep. 15.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)March 10, 2010, King Record, KIZC-59/60 ◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2010.09.03
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It was 1981 Kadomatsu made his debut.Back then, he wrote many songs about sky, sea and resort.However, to his regret, he was young and green as a musician, and his skill and technique was immature.So he wasn't satisfied with his works.About 20 years later, he recorded this album with the latest technique to get rid of his dissatisfaction.The concept of this album is "summer in 1980s" -as this cover photo shows.According to Kadomatsu, this was the idea he had been nursing for a while."4 Rhythm" means four instruments in a rhythm section.Drums: Takashi Numazawa (See Feb. 5, 2007)Bass: Tomohito Aoki (See Sep. 21, 2007)Guitar: Yoshiyuki Asano (See Apr. 25, 2008)Keyboards: Shingo Kobayashi (See Mar. 17, 2008)His latest album "Citylights Dandy" is on sale from Aug. 4, 2010.In this spring, he described this album as "Summer 4 Rhythm II".This time, "4 Rhythm" are-Drums: Tomu TamadaBass: Hideki MatsubaraGuitar: Tsuyoshi Kon (See Sep. 1, 2008)Keyboards: Toshiyuki Mori (See Mar. 17, 2008)Tomorrow (Aug. 12, 2010)is Kadomatsu's 50th birthday.Next year is 30th anniversary of his professional career. And his challenge goes on...(See also Dec. 17, 2009)August 6, 2003 BMG Japan BVCR-11051◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2010.08.11
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"kimagure" means moody and flightiness -this word is used more often as negative description, but with this band name "Kimaguren", the duo of ISEKI and KUREI express their freewheelingness.Some songs and ISEKI's guitar performance might remind us of "Life is Water" by Sim Redmond Band.They are inspired by various music -reggae, hip-hop, Latin music, rock music.At the same time, the music they create and perform is pop music.The theme of their songs are "Three L's -Love + Life + Local".They mainly sing about friendship -such as "Ganbare robo" (more power to you) and "By Your Side",And straight love -such as "SUKI" (I like you).They started a seaside club with live music in Zushi in 2005.While they booked musicians performing there, they themselves started performing on stages.This summer, Toshiki Kadomatsu is performing at this place again. (About him: See Dec. 17, 2009)-A concert at a seaside live house would be a perfect setting for Kadomatsu who often performs songs with stories set in sea and sky, isn't it?Also, the songs of Kimaguren would be a perfect setting for summer.This summer, we can enjoy their performance at various open-air concerts.(Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)July 25, 2007 Under Horse Recores UHR-16◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2010.07.13
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This title means true blue that a mermaid saw."zan" is a name of a mermaid in an old folk tale in Okinawa -hometown of Cocco.Cocco loves her hometown Okinawa a lot.This title shows her prayer for love and hope.Reportedly, she wanted to become a dancer first, but she decided that music would express herself better, and became a singer.In a video clip of "Swinging night", she shows a dance performance with her sister.She made a debut in Mar. 1997, but once she stopped working on music from Apr. 2001.This is her fifth album -and the first album after resumption in 2004.Overall, songs seem to be more pop and gentler compared to former four albums that sounded desperate.Even so, her songs sometimes sound harsh -like "Nobi" (Field Fire)sometimes gentle -like "Natsuiro" (Color of Summer)sometimes innocently -like "Utaibito" (Singer)and sometimes painful -like "Anmoku jijou" (Tacit love affair)Such purity wouldn't change.When "Hino terinagara ameno furu" (Raining in the sun shine) -a song that includes chorus sung by 64 people- was released as a single, the cover photo was taken at a path leading to a hill overlooking Ooura Bay in Okinawa.This hill is called "Jugon no mieru oka" (the hill of dugongs)In Okinawa, the numbers of dugongs are declining due to excessive hunting after the World War II and development including military lands. On June 21, 2007, two dugongs appeared in Ooura Bay.When Cocco saw this news on TV, she was so moved into tears.A few hours later, she wrote up a song dedicated to the two dugongs: "Jugon no mieru oka" (The Hill of Dugongs)At first, this song was released only in Okinawa, but released as a single in all over Japan later in Oct. 2007.This song is not included in any albums so far.-I couldn't help wondering how she felt about the political chaos surrounding base relocation problems, as I was grappling with this composition...The website I referred for composition:http://www.cocco.co.jp/english/index.htmlJune 21, 2006 Victor Entertainment VICL-61954
2010.05.30
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One of her most famous songs "Tomodachino uta" (a song of friends)in this album is a song she wrote for the first time when she was fifteen. In 2006, Hiromi Iwasaki (About her: See Oct. 26, 2006), one of the national female singers, covered this song in her album "Natural" -this shows Nakamura's talent as a songwriter.Iwasaki described Nakamura's songs as analects by someone who has kept on struggling.As "Sayonara juudai" (good-bye my teenage days) shows, she expressed complications and despair -and hope in teenage days.She took interested in music as a child.But in adolescence and the period of voice breaking, she disliked her voice -and she began to write songs to put her inexpressible emotion into words.She says that she wished to become a songwriter back then.And even after she made her debut as a singer with a single "Yogoreta shitagi" (dirty underwear), she kept on straggling between eagerness to sing and rejection to sing.Since she come out publicly about gender identity disorder, this fact drew attention.However, the essential appeal of her songs is personal magnetism regardless of gender -this album shows.Her third album in Feb. 2010 "Ashitawa haremasu youni" (I hope it will be sunny tomorrow) is said to be different from two other albums.Mainly she used to express pain and bitter emotion, but the main theme of this album is departure.The title "Tenmade todoke" (penetrate heaven, my desire)is a phrase used in "Kakeashino ikizama" (life in the fast lane).As I realized it, I thought of Shawn Colvin's "A Few Small Repairs" -the title is taken from a phrase of "Sunny Came Home".Actually, Shawn Colvin is not known very well in Japan although she won Grammy's Award several times.So I don't remember how I knew about her -but somehow I felt that she paralleled me in some way.April 1, 2007 Avex Trax AVCD-23109 (Translation: Unable-to-think-up-handle)◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2010.04.30
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AGA-SHIO is a duo of Hiromitsu Agatsuma, a Shamisen player, and Satoru Shionoya alias SALT, a pianist.The name of the duo is: AGA for Agatsuma, and SHIO for Shionoya.They met at recording of Agatsuma's album, and since then they've performed together on stages.The naming is cheap, but their music is deep.Shamisen is a traditional three-stringed Japanese musical instrument.Piano is an Occidental musical instrument that originally didn't exist in Japan. What if the two of them perform together...?SALT describes that their music is born from collision:Now it's not so unusual that players of traditional Japanese musical instruments and other instruments perform together.But this duo is never trying to be different.The two of them are completely different in musical backgrounds.As a performer of traditional Japanese music, Agatsuma expresses subtle nuance and spirit with his Shamisen.SALT started his music career as a member of a salsa band and performed around the world, and he has worked together with various musicians as a pianist.When they perform together, there is collision first -and then harmony and fusion.On a stage, they talked that both piano and Shamisen have tone that decay, and it's hard to be in time together -but this is the very element that makes their music interesting."Jonkara", a standard tune of Shamisen, and "Shufflin' City", originally a song of SALT's band, would describe that."Tabaruzaka" is a traditional folk song about a civil war in 1877."Namida no kioku" (memory of tears) is a song Agatsuma wrote for a play about the last days of the Tokugawa shogunate.They selected and recorded those songs to express the joy of living, praying for peace.In this spring, they are performing in some cities in Europe.Why don't you welcome them and enjoy completely new Japanese traditional music...? -Seeing is believing!We can preview some of their songs on MySpace. http://www.myspace.com/agashio◇ :Ready to place translation if asked
2010.03.01
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-Have you ever called "honey" to someone you love? ... Somehow it seems that there had been a kind of stereotyped model for female singers, but Chara has defied the boundaries of such a singer from the beginning when she made her debut in 1990:Her style of singing, her music created with freewheelingness, and even her lifestyle.More and more singers like her have appeared on the scene in 1990s -She could be one of the pioneers.Her songs express various kinds of "love" -sometimes for her family, sometimes for nature, and sometimes eroticism.The main theme of this album is adolescence.Her daughter was 13 years old back then, and Chara wrote some of the songs wishing every happiness for her daughter:She would watch over her daughter growing up through music, too.Her style of singing has such a character that it would be love it or hate it.However, that's the very reason she is a singer like nothing else.To tell the truth, I took dislike of her when I heard her song for the first time in 1997, but a few years later, I acquire a liking for her.About her latest album, refer:http://www.charaweb.net/honey/english.htmlJune 25, 2008 Universal Sigma UMCK-1251 ◆ :Ready to place summery if asked
2010.01.30
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