"I hope to see you." Originally released in 1977, Iroha Ni Konpeitou found Akiko Yano at a creative peak, and arguably at her funkiest. Here the charismatic Japanese singer/songwriter is backed by an all-star line-up of musicians from Tokyo and New York (both locations where recording took place), including YMO mastermind Haruomi Hosono, Shigeru Suzuki, Tatsuo Hayashi, Rick Marotta, Will Lee, and modular synth wizard Hideki Matsutake. In addition to highlighting Yano's exuberant singing and brilliant keyboard playing (she toured with YMO as keyboardist during the late 70's/early 80's), the album showcases her unique approach to music making that combines Japanese pop with funk and a touch of electronics. Check out the title track, "Iroha Ni Konpeitou," "Potsun," "Ike Yanagida" or "Yamase" for a taste. Chances are, even if you don't speak Japanese, the musicality is so infectious that you'll catch yourself humming along in no time. Her status as an exuberant performer and singularly talented singer/songwriter may not be that well known outside of Japan, but hopefully these reissues from Wewantsounds will help change that. This is the first time this album has been released outside of Japan and features fully remastered sound sourced from the original tapes. Comes complete with foldout poster and obi strip. Recommended.

• 1st ever release outside Japan
• remastered from original tapes
• foldout poster insert
• obi strip
• music label: Wewantsounds 2019

reviewed by Sportsman 06/2019