Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

LP: 180g, Heavy 350gsm Sleeve, Stickers

Tracklisting LP
A1. Mukai Kaze
A2. Shiroi Hana
A3. Himawari
A4. Tenjo
A5. Help Me
B1. Hitori Uta
B2. Harmonica Fuki No Otoko
B3. Tsunawatari
B4. Utaitaino
B5. Tanjo Iwai

Release Info:

WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the sophomore album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tsunawatari. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tsunawatari is also available in digital formats.

Recorded right after her outstanding debut Tobimasu, Tsunawatari was released in 1976 on Elec Records, one of the first independent labels in Japan, and solidified Hako Yamasaki as one of the most gorgeous voices of the country and an exceptional musician and singer. A truly perfect follow-up, it immortalizes the bitter beauty of heartache with tearful performances and nostalgic empowerment.

The beauty of melancholic songs reaches heartbreaking heights in Tsunawatari, a magnificent ode to the sorrow of lost love and the time that passes offered to the world with a very unique brand of folk music. The kind of folk that goes for the guts, folk that shamelessly flirts with tearful blues, contemplative soft pop and psychedelic nostalgia. Put the needle on "Help Me" - there’s simply no holding back.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism of 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tsunawatari is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s classic debut album Tobimasu, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, Janis Joplin, Lana Del Rey, being human.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s sophomore album in pristine 180g vinyl.





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Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

Tracklisting LP
A1. Bokyo
A2. Sasurai
A3. Kazaguruma
A4. Hashi Mukou No Ie
A5. Sayonara No Kane
B1. Taketombo
B2. Kage Ga Mienai
B3. Kibun O Kaete
B4. Tobimasu
B5. Komori Uta

Release Info:
WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the debut album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tobimasu. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tobimasu is also available in digital formats.

Originally released in 1975 on legendary independent label Elec Records, Tobimasu is a masterpiece of melancholy carried by one of the most beautiful, moving, melodic, and haunting voices in the history of Japanese music. An extraordinary singer and guitar player, Hako Yamasaki wrote the album at only 18 years old, showing incredible emotional maturity and music making skills, and creating, out of nowhere, a downright classic of folk music, brilliantly arranged and sequenced.

Hako Yamasaki’s folk is bluesy, psychedelic, soft, and poetic, perfectly fitting the themes of nostalgia, love, and nature she covers with heartbreaking intensity. Her songs capture sorrow ravishingly, offering glimpses of empowering hope and uplifting wisdom. A unique voice, a unique approach, and nothing less than magnificent music.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism in 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tobimasu is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s beautiful follow-up Tsunawatari, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, life, just life life life.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s debut album in pristine 180g vinyl.




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Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

CD: Digipack, Stickers

Tracklisting CD
01. Bokyo
02. Sasurai
03. Kazaguruma
04. Hashi Mukou No Ie
05. Sayonara No Kane
06. Taketombo
07. Kage Ga Mienai
08. Kibun O Kaete
09. Tobimasu
10. Komori Uta
11. Otoko To Onna No Heya (Bonus Track - Digital & CD Only)

Release Info:

WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the debut album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tobimasu. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tobimasu is also available in digital formats.

Originally released in 1975 on legendary independent label Elec Records, Tobimasu is a masterpiece of melancholy carried by one of the most beautiful, moving, melodic, and haunting voices in the history of Japanese music. An extraordinary singer and guitar player, Hako Yamasaki wrote the album at only 18 years old, showing incredible emotional maturity and music making skills, and creating, out of nowhere, a downright classic of folk music, brilliantly arranged and sequenced.

Hako Yamasaki’s folk is bluesy, psychedelic, soft, and poetic, perfectly fitting the themes of nostalgia, love, and nature she covers with heartbreaking intensity. Her songs capture sorrow ravishingly, offering glimpses of empowering hope and uplifting wisdom. A unique voice, a unique approach, and nothing less than magnificent music.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism in 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tobimasu is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s beautiful follow-up Tsunawatari, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, life, just life life life.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s debut album in pristine 180g vinyl.



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WORLDWIDE

LP: Biovinyl, Limited Edition of 500, Heavy 350gsm Sleeve, Sticker

Tracklisting LP
A1. Three Is Company
A2. A Shower At Six
A3. Share
A4. Must Have
A5. Star Thing
B1. Spy On Me
B2. Shower Dance
B3. 11PM
B4. Smells Like Flowers
B5. Showering Sad


Info

WRWTFWW Records is so happy to announce Shower, the brand-new album by New York born, Los Angeles based ambient / jazz / downtempo musician Danny Scott Lane, following the recently released and very well-received cozy soundscape, Home Decor. The limited edition LP (500 copies worldwide) is available on biovinyl housed in a heavy 350gsm sleeve featuring an illustration by Gabrielle Rul and design by Jazlyn Fung. The album is also available digitally.
Continuing to gently push (caress?) the boundaries of chill out music, smooth jazz, and comfy electronica, Shower draws inspiration from “the feeling of a steamy shower shared with a stranger after a night on the dance floor”, a warm immersive affair for the mind and the body. This latest funky auditory experience once again invites Matt Elliot Gooden’s soothing saxophone, and this time also welcomes the vibrant beats of drummer David Ruiz. Organic, discreet in the most relaxing and elegant ways, and just the right amount of sexy – Lane’s new creation offers the finest in audio cocooning.
As you tilt your head back and close your eyes, let the hot and dripping sounds of Shower transport you to a world of sonic serenity. Feel the rich textures and appeasing harmonies wash over you, enveloping your senses in pure musical bliss.
Shower is the first new release by WRWTFWW Records made with biovinyl, a sustainable alternative to traditional vinyl. Biovinyl replaces petroleum in S-PVC by recycling used cooking oil or industrial waste gases, resulting in 100% CO2 savings in bio-based S-PVC production. Furthermore, it is 100% recyclable and reusable, embracing the circular economy ideology.

Points of interests

- For fans of ambient, smooth jazz, minimalism, saxophone, solo showers, duo showers, shower à trois, and the fresh side of the pillow.

- Limited edition biovinyl of Danny Scott Lane’s new album featuring saxophone by Matt Elliot Gooden and drums by David Ruiz.






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LP: 45rpm Cut, Inside Out Printed Sleeve, Sticker
WORLDWIDE

Genre: Soundtrack, Classical, Smooth Jazz, Modern Western


Tracklisting LP
A1. Azuma's Theme (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
A2. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (End Title)
A3. Kiyohiro's Theme
A4. Kiyohiro's Theme II
B1. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title)
B2. Fear (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
B3. Intorno all'idol mio (Antonio Cesti)
B4. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title - Saxophone Version)


Info

WRWTFWW Records is thrilled to announce the official reissue of Daisaku Kume's original soundtrack for the highly acclaimed 1989 Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop. Available for the first time outside of Japan, the album comes in a limited edition of 500 copies worldwide with a 45 rpm cut providing full audio pleasure and an iconic record sleeve featuring the movie director and star: the one and only "Beat" Takeshi Kitano!

Violent Cop marks Kitano's directorial debut - a gritty neo-noir in which he stars as a rogue detective fighting a sadistic crime syndicate, only to discover widespread internal corruption in the police force. Poetic, minimalistic, with a superb balance between small soothing moments of beauty and vertiginous sudden violence, the film spearheaded a superb international career for the multi-talented filmmaker, actor, and comedian, which includes works such as Sonatine, Hana-Bi, and Battle Royale. The release of the soundtrack on vinyl presents an excellent opportunity for fans to explore the musical underpinnings of one of Kitano's earliest creations.
Daisaku Kume, known for his work as the keyboardist for late 70s fusion bands T-Square and Prism, showcases versatile musical prowess on the soundtrack, taking listeners on a sonic journey through a blend of genres including magnificent Erik Satie re-interpretations, melancholic smooth jazz sometimes reminiscent of Taxi Driver, ambient-classical, and modern Western atmospherics. It's the perfect setting for Kitano's stoic but tormented lonesome urban cowboy character. Raw power mixed with timeless elegance.

Violent Cop (Original Soundtrack) by Daisaku Kume follows the recent release of the soundtrack from another groundbreaking Japanese movie, Shin'ya Tsukamoto's Tokyo Fist (1995), with music by industrial visionaries Chu Ishikawa & Der Eisenrost, also currently available on WRWTFWW Records.


Points of interests

- For fans of good movies, good soundtracks, Takeshi Kitano and Erik Satie, furniture music in a modern Western setting, ambient, minimalism, classical, Japanese crime movies of the 90s, Daisaku Kume, Taxi Driver, nice looking record sleeves.

- First official reissue of the soundtrack for classic Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop (1989) directed by and starring the legend (Beat) Takeshi Kitano.






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Genre: Soundtrack, 80s, Cult, Horror, Score, Synth

LP: Limited Edition of 500 with exclusive artwork by Pierre Thyss, obi strip, and liner notes

Tracklisting
A1. Main Title
A2. Ghoulies Flambé
A3. Sneaking
A4. Ghoulieboppin’
A5. An Old Tomato
A6. Patty Gets It
A7. For The Benefit of Mr. Satie
A8. Ghouliepalooza
A9. Help Him
A10. Montage
A11. Organus Maximus
A12. Sex Critters
A13. Slice ‘Em, Dice ‘Em
A14. Merle’s Mummy
A15. Yuppie Agenda
A16. Ned Discovers
A17. Larry Sees
B1. They’re Real
B2. Interlude
B3. Ned’s Showdown
B4. Ned Is Gone
B5. Nigel
B6. Studio Chatter
B7. Nicole’s Story
B8. Prepping The Carnival
B9. Larry In Satan’s Den
B10. Fighting
B11. Gang’s All Here
B12. Clown’s Jaws
B13. Froggy
B14. Cuteness
B15. Hell Breaks Loose
B16. Ghoulies Jazz
B17. Danger Zone (Studio Chatter)
B18. Slate 9M2 (Studio Chatter)
B19. Gastroburgers From Hell
B20. Mazel Tov, Molotov
B21. Baroque Indigestion
B22. Ghoulies II Finale


Info

WRWTFWW Records is proud to announce the first ever release of the long-lost original motion picture soundtrack from the 1988 cult horror comedy sensation Ghoulies II by the incomparable Fuzzbee Morse. Digging deep to uncover a true gem of the VHS era, this limited-edition vinyl release (500 copies worldwide) marks history in the making as a piece of film score lore is resurrected from the depths of oblivion. The LP is packed with 39 tracks and features an exclusive artwork by French illustrator Pierre Thyss, as well an obi and composer notes.

The captivating melodies that once played hauntingly in the background of Ghoulies II were long believed to be lost forever. It took over 30 years and Fuzzbee Morse's unwavering determination to dig out the legendary recordings – and restore them for full audio pleasure!
The superb soundscape of Ghoulies II perfectly captures the chilling and wacky essence of the cult movie, as well as its creepy carnival setting. Morse, citing influences such as Bernard Hermann, Frank Zappa, and Igor Stravinsky, flexes his multi-instrumentalist skills, flowing with ease between magical fairground elements (with brilliant use of calliope, tuba, flutes and sparkly sounding synthesizers), dark atmospheres and frightening attacks (tribal percussion, strings, along with dissonant, atonal gongs, bowed cymbals), and goofy moods (bassoon, bass clarinet, glockenspiel, trumpet, clarinet). It’s big cinematic horror movie music with a lighter comedic touch – the 80s live again!

To complete this collector's edition, French illustrator Pierre Thyss (the man behind the WRWTFWW Records logo) lends his (immense) talent to provide awe-inspiring visuals that flawlessly encapsulate the juxtaposition of horror and comedy.

Ghoulies II follows the release of the full uncut soundtrack of Ghoulies (1985) which was released on vinyl for the first time ever by WRWTFWW Records in 2020 alongside soundtracks for other Richard Band-composed, Empire Pictures-produced classics: TerrorVision and Troll. All these 80s horror favorites are still available – complete the collection now!

Points of interests

- For fans of soundtracks, horror, cult, synth, ambient, classical, 80s, VHS, Charles Band, Full Moon Productions, John Carpenter, b-movies, sci-fi, Gremlins, Critters, Munchies, and the best of them all: the Ghoulies!

- First ever release for the soundtrack of Ghoulies II (1988), with obi strip, composer notes, and exclusive artwork by Pierre Thyss.



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- Beautiful 1 LP Edition CLASSIC with 350g cardboard sleeve, Sticker Noen in a 2023 Repress Edition in BioVinyl (co2 neutral in zteh Vinyl Production process)

- THE holy grail album MKWAJU by acclaimed Japanese percussionist Midori Takada's MKWAJU ensemble

WRWTFWW Records is proud to announce the highly anticipated official reissue of holy grail album MKWAJU by acclaimed Japanese percussionist Midori Takada's MKWAJU ensemble, sourced from the original masters and available in two versions: a vinyl LP cut at Emil Berliner Studios (formerly the in-house recording department of Deutsche Grammophon) and a digipack CD.

Originally recorded in February and March 1981 and released by fabled Japanese avant-garde label Better Days (home of Ryuichi Sakamato's debut album, Yasuaki Shimizu's Kakashi, Colored Music self-titled LP and many more) MKWAJU is the fruit of the collaboration between Takada's crew and world-famous composer/musical director Joe Hisaishi, the man behind most of of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli anime soundtracks and over 100 other films scores, including Takeshi Kitano's Sonatine, Hana-Bi, and Kikujiro. The ensemble's transcendental wonder is, in fact, the first-ever Midori Takada album and the first-ever Joe Hisaishi-produced album. Historic.

Led by Midori Takada on marimba, gong, vibraphone, and tom tom, MKWAJU is an inventive and riveting take on Eastern and Western minimalist traditions, African rhythms, and early electronica. Drawing from its jazz-rooted polyrhythmic improvisations in the most inventive ways, the album covers a wide spectrum of sounds, from colorful dance floor-ready percussion pieces that stand somewhere between proto-techno and experimental synth-pop, to cinematic ambient landscapes and ethereal drone delicacies. The feverishly sought-after full-length is a stepping-stone in Midori Takada's career and an all-around pioneering album.

Alongside Takada and Hisaishi (who not only produced the album but also played synthesizers), personnel on MKWAJU includes famed Japanese musicians Yoji Sadanari and Hideki Matsutake of KI-Motion fame, Junko Arase (heard on Satoshi Ashikawa's legendary Still Way - Wave Notation 2), and Pecker (whose stacked resume boasts collaborations with Ryuichi Sakamoto and Jun Fukamachi).

Tracklisting Vinyl LP
A1. Mkwaju
A2. Shak Shak
A3. Lemore
B1. Tira-Rin
B2. Pulse In The Mind
B3. Flash-Back


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Worldwide, DLP: 350gsm Heavyweight Sleeve, Liner Notes, Sticker


Genre: Classical, Minimalism, Ambient, Environmental, Piano, Furniture Music

Tracklisting DLP

Tracklisting DLP
A1. La Balançoire (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
A2. Berceuse (Enfantillages pittoresques) 1913
A3. Caresse 1897
A4. Ce que dit la petite princesse des tulipes (Menus propos enfantins) 1913
A5. 5ème Gnossienne 1889
A6. Colin-Maillard (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
B1. Danses de travers (Pièces froides) 1897
B2. 2ème Gnossienne 1890
B3. 2ème Gymnopédie 1888
B4. Harmonie 1895?
B5. Idylle (Avant-dernières pensées) 1915
B6. Idylle cynique (Préludes flasques) 1912
B7. Lui manger sa tartine (Peccadilles importunes) 1913
C1. La pêche (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
C2. Petite ouverture à danser 1900
C3. Petit prélude à la journée (Enfantillages pittoresques) 1913
C4. Prière 1895
C5. 4ème Gnossienne 1891
C6. 4ème Nocturne 1919
D1. Rêverie du pauvre 1900
D2. Son binocle (Les trois valses distinguées du précieux dégoûté) 1914
D3. Songe creux 1906-08?
D4. Sur un vaisseau (Descriptions automatiques) 1913
D5. Tyrolienne turque (Croquis et agaceries d’un gros bonhomme en bois) 1913
D6. Vexation 1895
D7. Voix d’intérieur (Préludes flasques) 1912



Info

WRWTFWW Records is delighted to announce the first official worldwide reissue of Satsuki Shibano’s Wave Notation 3: Erik Satie 1984, the final album from the sound-defining Wave Notation environmental music series curated by Satoshi Ashikawa. Originally released in 1984 on the Sound Process label, Wave Notation 3 followed Ashikawa’s own Still Way (1982) and Hiroshi Yoshimura's Music For Nine Postcards (1982).

The highly sought-after album, sourced from the original master tape, is available as a double LP (housed in a luxurious heavyweight sleeve) for the first time ever. Digipack CD and digital formats are also available. This exclusive reissue, including English and Japanese liner notes by the artist, was supervised by Japanese ambient legend Yoshio Ojima.

Wave Notation 3 is a splendid tribute to seminal French composer and pianist Erik Satie, himself one of the main influences behind kankyo ongaku / environmental music (alongside Brian Eno, John Cage to name a few). The alphabetically-sequenced album features 26 pieces showcasing Shibano's unique piano interpretation of Satie’s works.

The artist explains: « For this album, I sequenced the compositions in alphabetical order of each title, irrespective of the period of each composition or style. By doing this, I attempted to effectively create ‘Music as an environment’ and at the same time, allow the listener to genuinely experience Satie’s music. »

Satsuko Shibano’s minimalistic approach to ambient classical is simply perfect and offers a beautiful and tranquil listening experience, furniture music with extra comfort and soothing simplicity, relaxing to the mind and to the soul. This Wave Notation deserves a spot among the pillars of Japanese environmental music, next to Midori Takada’s Through The Looking Glass, Hiroshi Yoshimura’s Green, and Satoshi Ashikawa’s Still Way.


Points of interests

For fans of furniture music, environmental music, music as an environment for furniture, ambient, Midori Takada, Satoshi Ashikawa, Hiroshi Yoshimura, of course Erik Satie, Brian Eno, minimalism, piano, classical, complete record collections classified by genre, soothing sounds, waves and notations.

First official reissue of Satsuki Shibano’s Wave Notation 3: Erik Satie 1984, sourced from the original master tape, remastered and available in the double LP format for the first time.



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Worldwide, DLP: 350gsm Heavyweight Sleeve, Liner Notes, Sticker


Genre: Classical, Minimalism, Ambient, Environmental, Piano, Furniture Music

Tracklisting DLP

Tracklisting DLP
A1. La Balançoire (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
A2. Berceuse (Enfantillages pittoresques) 1913
A3. Caresse 1897
A4. Ce que dit la petite princesse des tulipes (Menus propos enfantins) 1913
A5. 5ème Gnossienne 1889
A6. Colin-Maillard (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
B1. Danses de travers (Pièces froides) 1897
B2. 2ème Gnossienne 1890
B3. 2ème Gymnopédie 1888
B4. Harmonie 1895?
B5. Idylle (Avant-dernières pensées) 1915
B6. Idylle cynique (Préludes flasques) 1912
B7. Lui manger sa tartine (Peccadilles importunes) 1913
C1. La pêche (Sports et Divertissements) 1914
C2. Petite ouverture à danser 1900
C3. Petit prélude à la journée (Enfantillages pittoresques) 1913
C4. Prière 1895?
C5. 4ème Gnossienne 1891
C6. 4ème Nocturne 1919
D1. Rêverie du pauvre 1900
D2. Son binocle (Les trois valses distinguées du précieux dégoûté) 1914
D3. Songe creux 1906-08?
D4. Sur un vaisseau (Descriptions automatiques) 1913
D5. Tyrolienne turque (Croquis et agaceries d’un gros bonhomme en bois) 1913
D6. Vexation 1895?
D7. Voix d’intérieur (Préludes flasques) 1912



Info

WRWTFWW Records is delighted to announce the first official worldwide reissue of Satsuki Shibano’s Wave Notation 3: Erik Satie 1984, the final album from the sound-defining Wave Notation environmental music series curated by Satoshi Ashikawa. Originally released in 1984 on the Sound Process label, Wave Notation 3 followed Ashikawa’s own Still Way (1982) and Hiroshi Yoshimura's Music For Nine Postcards (1982).

The highly sought-after album, sourced from the original master tape, is available as a double LP (housed in a luxurious heavyweight sleeve) for the first time ever. Digipack CD and digital formats are also available. This exclusive reissue, including English and Japanese liner notes by the artist, was supervised by Japanese ambient legend Yoshio Ojima.

Wave Notation 3 is a splendid tribute to seminal French composer and pianist Erik Satie, himself one of the main influences behind kankyo ongaku / environmental music (alongside Brian Eno, John Cage to name a few). The alphabetically-sequenced album features 26 pieces showcasing Shibano's unique piano interpretation of Satie’s works.

The artist explains: « For this album, I sequenced the compositions in alphabetical order of each title, irrespective of the period of each composition or style. By doing this, I attempted to effectively create ‘Music as an environment’ and at the same time, allow the listener to genuinely experience Satie’s music. »

Satsuko Shibano’s minimalistic approach to ambient classical is simply perfect and offers a beautiful and tranquil listening experience, furniture music with extra comfort and soothing simplicity, relaxing to the mind and to the soul. This Wave Notation deserves a spot among the pillars of Japanese environmental music, next to Midori Takada’s Through The Looking Glass, Hiroshi Yoshimura’s Green, and Satoshi Ashikawa’s Still Way.


Points of interests

For fans of furniture music, environmental music, music as an environment for furniture, ambient, Midori Takada, Satoshi Ashikawa, Hiroshi Yoshimura, of course Erik Satie, Brian Eno, minimalism, piano, classical, complete record collections classified by genre, soothing sounds, waves and notations.

First official reissue of Satsuki Shibano’s Wave Notation 3: Erik Satie 1984, sourced from the original master tape, remastered and available in the double LP format for the first time.



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DLP: Limited Edition Transparent Vinyl with 45RPM Cut, Sleeve, Sticker


Genre: Liquid Drum n’ Bass, Electronic, Jungle, Video Game Music



Tracklisting DLP
A1. DUALSHOCK
A2. LOW POLY ROMANCE
B1. EMOTION ENGINE
B2. DREAMSHELL
C1. LEVEL SELECT
C2. SHADOW MOSES
D1. GLACIER ZONE (FT. DJ TOTAL 90)
D2. POLYGON DREAMSCAPE

Info

WRWTFWW Records is extremely excited to announce the first ever vinyl release for Pizza Hotline’s brilliant 2022 full-length Level Select, originally only released on cassette and digital. The liquid drum & bass meets Y2K era video gaming aesthetics monster is now available in a limited edition transparent vinyl double LP with a glorious 45rpm cut, p

Entirely written and composed by UK producer Pizza Hotline (apart from "GLACIER ZONE", a collaboration between Pizza Hotline and DJ Total 90), the stellar 8-song album was initially released as a limited cassette in January 2022 and quickly gained cult status - making a full-on vinyl release quite the necessity. It’s here now with the the previously unreleased track "POLYGON DREAMSCAPE" (which sounds as magical as its title) and 45rpm cut for louder, bigger, deeper bass rumbling.

Spellbinding, atmospheric, and beautifully melodic, Level Select is a large scope dreamy adventure of liquid DnB filled with ambient escapades, ethereal jungle, high vibe breaks, and a heavy loving dose of late 90s / early 2000s video game influences. Hypnotic late night hype and pensive chill moods mesh with ease in a cinematic soundscape that re-contextualizes and gives a new life to a beloved music genre - LTJ Bukem, Peshay, the Wipeout OST or Soichi Terada's Ape Escape come to mind, and sounds and soundtracks from the Sony Playstation, the Nintendo 64, and the Sega Saturn resonate from the speakers. It’s all fresh with a subtle nostalgia and so much heart. An instant classic.

Press start.

Points of interests

For fans of liquid DNB, Video games, ambient, late night vibes, computers and clubs, Soichi Terada's Ape Escape, LTJ Bukem, Peshay, Wipeout OST, good music, good music on video games, playing video games all night and possibly all week.

Limited edition vinyl of Pizza Hotline’s 2022 cult hit album redefining liquid drum & bass with a Y2K video game twist.

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- Limited 2023 REPRESS EDITION - 2x 180g, ORIG STOUGHTON TIP ON Sleeve, Black Vinyl, 45rpm Cut Edition (Emil Berliner) - Last 500 with Original Stoughton Tip On Sleeve
- sticker

*** TERRITORY RESTRICTION - NO SALES TO JAPAN ***

Tracklisting:
1. Mr. Henri Rousseau's Dream
2. Crossing
3. Trompe-l'œil
4. Catastrophe £

Info


Considered a Holy Grail of Japanese music by many, "Through The Looking Glass" is Midori Takada's first solo endeavor, a captivating four-song suite capturing her deep quests into traditional African and Asian percussive language and exploring contemplative ambient sounds with an admirably precise use of marimba. The result is alternatively ethereal and vibrant, always precise and mesmerizing, and makes for an atmospheric masterpiece and an unparalleled sonic and spiritual experience.

The fully licensed reissue is available as a single 33rpm LP and a limited 45rpm DLP, both cut directly from the original studio reels (AAA), at Emil Berliner (formerly the in-house recording department of renowned classical record label Deutsche Grammophon) for the 45rpm DLP, and at the equally famous Frankfurter SST Studio for the LP. It is also available in CD format for the first time. All versions come with extensive liner notes.

Bio

Midori Takada is a composer, multi percussionist, and theater artist renowned in Japanese vanguard circles. She will tour Europe this year.

Midori released two solo albums: "Through The Looking Glass" and "Tree Of Life" and wrote music for Tadashi Suzuki's theater plays. Her hypnotic, minimalist music is based in the concept of coherence between sound and the human body. She performs solo on marimba and other percussion instruments.

She debuted on the scene of Berlin Philharmonic, performing with the RIAS Symphonie-Orchester Berlin just after graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1974. She continued her career with solo concerts in Japan and abroad.

In the 1980s Midori began to explore the traditional music of Asia and Africa. Her fascination resulted in joint projects with Kakraba Lobi from Ghana, Lamine Konte from Senegal, Farafina Band from Burkina Faso, and Korean musicians: zither player Chi Seong-Ja, flute player Won-Il, and saxophone player Kang Tae-Hwan. She also led Mkwaju Ensemble's innovative percussion project and still performs with free-jazz band Ton-Klami with Kang Tae-Hwan and jazz pianist Masahiko Satoh.

In the past 20 years, Midori Takada spent more time in theaters than in concert halls - composing and performing live music for theater. She regularly works with Tadashi Suzuki and his Suzuki Company of Toga on their adaptations of "Electra" and "King Lear".

Takada's compositions have a remarkable way of affecting the imagination. Her minimalist, contemplative music is filled with the concept of infinity and reminds us of a moon voyage, falling stars, a journey into the ocean, or a walk in the garden. The trans melodies, initially simple, begin to loop and splinter, their rhythm breaking and thickening, slowly drawing the listener into another reality.

Every live performance Midori Takada gives is unique and prepared especially for that occasion.


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Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

Tracklisting LP
A1. Bokyo
A2. Sasurai
A3. Kazaguruma
A4. Hashi Mukou No Ie
A5. Sayonara No Kane
B1. Taketombo
B2. Kage Ga Mienai
B3. Kibun O Kaete
B4. Tobimasu
B5. Komori Uta

Release Info:
WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the debut album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tobimasu. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tobimasu is also available in digital formats.

Originally released in 1975 on legendary independent label Elec Records, Tobimasu is a masterpiece of melancholy carried by one of the most beautiful, moving, melodic, and haunting voices in the history of Japanese music. An extraordinary singer and guitar player, Hako Yamasaki wrote the album at only 18 years old, showing incredible emotional maturity and music making skills, and creating, out of nowhere, a downright classic of folk music, brilliantly arranged and sequenced.

Hako Yamasaki’s folk is bluesy, psychedelic, soft, and poetic, perfectly fitting the themes of nostalgia, love, and nature she covers with heartbreaking intensity. Her songs capture sorrow ravishingly, offering glimpses of empowering hope and uplifting wisdom. A unique voice, a unique approach, and nothing less than magnificent music.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism in 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tobimasu is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s beautiful follow-up Tsunawatari, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, life, just life life life.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s debut album in pristine 180g vinyl.




More

Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

CD: Digipack, Stickers

Tracklisting CD
01. Bokyo
02. Sasurai
03. Kazaguruma
04. Hashi Mukou No Ie
05. Sayonara No Kane
06. Taketombo
07. Kage Ga Mienai
08. Kibun O Kaete
09. Tobimasu
10. Komori Uta
11. Otoko To Onna No Heya (Bonus Track - Digital & CD Only)

Release Info:

WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the debut album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tobimasu. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tobimasu is also available in digital formats.

Originally released in 1975 on legendary independent label Elec Records, Tobimasu is a masterpiece of melancholy carried by one of the most beautiful, moving, melodic, and haunting voices in the history of Japanese music. An extraordinary singer and guitar player, Hako Yamasaki wrote the album at only 18 years old, showing incredible emotional maturity and music making skills, and creating, out of nowhere, a downright classic of folk music, brilliantly arranged and sequenced.

Hako Yamasaki’s folk is bluesy, psychedelic, soft, and poetic, perfectly fitting the themes of nostalgia, love, and nature she covers with heartbreaking intensity. Her songs capture sorrow ravishingly, offering glimpses of empowering hope and uplifting wisdom. A unique voice, a unique approach, and nothing less than magnificent music.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism in 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tobimasu is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s beautiful follow-up Tsunawatari, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, life, just life life life.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s debut album in pristine 180g vinyl.



More

Genre: Folk, Alternative, Psychedelic

LP: 180g, Heavy 350gsm Sleeve, Stickers

Tracklisting LP
A1. Mukai Kaze
A2. Shiroi Hana
A3. Himawari
A4. Tenjo
A5. Help Me
B1. Hitori Uta
B2. Harmonica Fuki No Otoko
B3. Tsunawatari
B4. Utaitaino
B5. Tanjo Iwai

Release Info:

WRWTFWW Records is proud to present the first official worldwide reissue of the sophomore album from fabled Japanese folk singer-songwriter/actress/writer Hako Yamasaki, Tsunawatari. The limited edition 180g vinyl LP comes in a heavy sleeve with the original artwork, and the digipack CD has one bonus track. Tsunawatari is also available in digital formats.

Recorded right after her outstanding debut Tobimasu, Tsunawatari was released in 1976 on Elec Records, one of the first independent labels in Japan, and solidified Hako Yamasaki as one of the most gorgeous voices of the country and an exceptional musician and singer. A truly perfect follow-up, it immortalizes the bitter beauty of heartache with tearful performances and nostalgic empowerment.

The beauty of melancholic songs reaches heartbreaking heights in Tsunawatari, a magnificent ode to the sorrow of lost love and the time that passes offered to the world with a very unique brand of folk music. The kind of folk that goes for the guts, folk that shamelessly flirts with tearful blues, contemplative soft pop and psychedelic nostalgia. Put the needle on "Help Me" - there’s simply no holding back.

Hako Yamasaki, a pioneer in both the creative boom and the rise of feminism of 1970s Japan, went on to release over thirty albums, building an impressive discography and a fascinating career filled with ups and downs. Her work, inimitable and timeless, deserves the utmost recognition and should be celebrated. Again and again and again.

Tsunawatari is released in conjunction with Hako Yamasaki’s classic debut album Tobimasu, also available on WRWTFWW Records.

Points of interests

- For fans of folk, alternative, ballads, psychedelic, poetic music, the joy of love, the sorrow of love, nostalgia, nature, Janis Joplin, Lana Del Rey, being human.

- Official reissue of Hako Yamasaki’s sophomore album in pristine 180g vinyl.





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WORLDWIDE

Genre: Ambient, Tapes Loops, Electronic, Experimental, Minimalism

LP: Limited Edition of 500, Liner Notes Insert, Sticker

Tracklisting LP
A1. Ar Ais Arìs
A2. Tréimhse Chiúin
A3. Sobhriste
A4. Le Stealladh Báistí
B1. Faoiseamh Soiléire
B2. An tAistear
B3. Muiníneach
B4. Le Sruth


Info

WRWTFWW Records is overjoyed to announce Ar Ais Arís, the third album by Irish producer Gareth Quinn Redmond, following his amazing Satoshi Ashikawa-inspired Laistigh Den Ghleo released in 2019 and this year’s ambient-meets-Irish-traditional-music soundscape Umcheol. The 8-track LP comes as a limited edition of 500 copies worldwide with an artwork by Dublin artist Barry Gibbons and liner notes from Gareth Quinn Redmond himself. It is available in digital format as well.

Ar Ais Arís is Gareth Quinn Redmond’s fortuitous love affair with the art of tape loops - a practice he discovered while performing with Ross Chaney and Myles O’Reilly in late November 2020. Fascinated, he spent months experimenting with the technique: "By cracking open the shell of a cassette, cutting the tape and splicing the ends together, I created repeating sound loops of varying lengths. After reassembling and slotting the cassette into the Tascam Portastudio, I recorded and played back the sounds of the tape loop. These sounds were then manipulated using the pitch wheel to make subtle and warbly inflections to the recordings. This is achieved by speeding up or slowing down the playback speed of the tape, which offers dynamic contrasts in both mood and texture."

The result is 8 deliciously enchanting minimalistic tape loops creating a very rare kind of daydreaming environmental music full of accidental miracles and dusty soothing backdrops. It’s a very very very pleasant listening experience inspiring a feeling of enveloping warmth and gentle coziness, with an uncanny touch of spellbinding magic. Press play.

Gareth Quinn Redmond’s previous albums, Laistigh Den Ghleo, an ode to the work of Satoshi Ashikawa, and Umcheol, mixing ambient with traditional Irish music instruments, are still available on WRWTFWW Records - perfect occasion to complete the collection!


Points of interests

- For fans of ambient, tape loops, super chill music, minimalism, Satoshi Ashikawa, Mort Garson’s Plantasia, old cassettes with magic songs, the unknown.

- Limited edition (500) vinyl of Gareth Quinn Redmond’s brand new album, with an artwork by Barry Gibbons.





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WORLDWIDE

SLEEVE ARTWORK VARIANT 1

Title: The White Lotus (Soundtrack from the HBO® Original Limited Series)

Genre: Soundtrack, Exotica, Ambient, Shamanic, Dance

DLP: 180g White Colored Vinyl, Heavy 350gsm Gatefold Sleeve, 3 Sleeve Artwork Variants, Inside Out Sleeve Printing, Obi, 12" x 12" Art Print Inlay

Tracklisting DLP
A1. Aloha!
A2. Pineapple Suite
A3. Jungle Fever
A4. Rejuvenated
A5. Pool Walk
A6. Dinner
A7. Courtship
A8. Special Chosen Baby Child
A9. Honeymoon
B1. Ocean Call
B2. Wtf!
B3. Sabotage
B4. Decadence
B5. Ashes
B6. Welcome to America
B7. Drugs
B8. Waves
B9. Manchild
C1. Human Remains
C2. Wake Up!
C3. Meds
C4. Mahalo
C5. Finally Jesus!
C6. A Way Out
D1. Fuck This Place!
D2. A Mistake & the Ocean
D3. Sea Turtle Song
D4. I Want to Live


Info

WRWTFWW Records is ecstatic to announce the first ever vinyl release for the remarkable soundtrack of HBO® hit series The White Lotus by Chilean born composer, arranger, music producer, multi-instrumentalist Cristobal “Cristo” Tapia de Veer (Utopia, Smile, Black Mirror and many many more).
This limited edition release is packed with 28 tracks, showcasing the complete music score of the cult series’ first season. It comes as a deluxe double LP with white-colored 180g vinyl housed in a heavyweight gatefold sleeve with an OBI strip and a double-sided 12x12 inches art print. It is available in a choice of 3 different sleeve artwork variants, each based on the series’ brilliant opening sequence concept by Plains of Yonder and illustrator Lezio Lopes.
Shamanic, feral, mysterious, sexual, sometimes very danceable, sometimes slightly frightening (in the best ways), and always insanely enjoyable, The White Lotus soundtrack is a roaring beast of its own and one of the most visceral listening experiences in recent memory. Tapia de Veer’s haunting score sensually blends tribal percussion with charango, bass, atmospherics, and organic vocals from humans and animals, bringing to life the tension, the wildness, as well as the rare but precious serenity and romance felt throughout the guests’ adventurous stay at The White Lotus Resort - with grace and a just the right amount of insolence. It’s big, wonderful and audacious music, sure to captivate a wide array of melomaniacs, from soundtrack collectors to exotica adventurers, library diggers, ambient dreamers, sorcerous dancers, and experimental pop bon vivants.
Included in the release is the series’ iconic theme song (S01 version), a bonafide hit and spellbinding sensation.
Cristobal Tapia de Veer’s work has been celebrated with numerous award wins, including 2 Emmy Awards for The White Lotus.

Points of interests

- For fans of soundtracks, tv series, ambient, percussion, exotica, library, experimental pop, shamanism, zeitgeist sensations, HBO, Cristobal Tapia de Veer, tension, wild animals, secret romance, luxury resorts, mystery, Alfred Hitchcock, Hawaiian shirts.

- First ever vinyl release of HBO® hit series The White Lotus soundtrack by Cristobal Tapia de Veer

- 28 tracks on double 180g white-colored vinyl

- Heavyweight gatefold sleeve with a choice of 3 artwork variants, with OBI, inside out sleeve printing, 12x12inches art print inlay







More

WORLDWIDE

SLEEVE ARTWORK VARIANT 2

Title: The White Lotus (Soundtrack from the HBO® Original Limited Series)

Genre: Soundtrack, Exotica, Ambient, Shamanic, Dance

DLP: 180g White Colored Vinyl, Heavy 350gsm Gatefold Sleeve, 3 Sleeve Artwork Variants, Inside Out Sleeve Printing, Obi, 12" x 12" Art Print Inlay

Tracklisting DLP
A1. Aloha!
A2. Pineapple Suite
A3. Jungle Fever
A4. Rejuvenated
A5. Pool Walk
A6. Dinner
A7. Courtship
A8. Special Chosen Baby Child
A9. Honeymoon
B1. Ocean Call
B2. Wtf!
B3. Sabotage
B4. Decadence
B5. Ashes
B6. Welcome to America
B7. Drugs
B8. Waves
B9. Manchild
C1. Human Remains
C2. Wake Up!
C3. Meds
C4. Mahalo
C5. Finally Jesus!
C6. A Way Out
D1. Fuck This Place!
D2. A Mistake & the Ocean
D3. Sea Turtle Song
D4. I Want to Live


Info

WRWTFWW Records is ecstatic to announce the first ever vinyl release for the remarkable soundtrack of HBO® hit series The White Lotus by Chilean born composer, arranger, music producer, multi-instrumentalist Cristobal “Cristo” Tapia de Veer (Utopia, Smile, Black Mirror and many many more).
This limited edition release is packed with 28 tracks, showcasing the complete music score of the cult series’ first season. It comes as a deluxe double LP with white-colored 180g vinyl housed in a heavyweight gatefold sleeve with an OBI strip and a double-sided 12x12 inches art print. It is available in a choice of 3 different sleeve artwork variants, each based on the series’ brilliant opening sequence concept by Plains of Yonder and illustrator Lezio Lopes.
Shamanic, feral, mysterious, sexual, sometimes very danceable, sometimes slightly frightening (in the best ways), and always insanely enjoyable, The White Lotus soundtrack is a roaring beast of its own and one of the most visceral listening experiences in recent memory. Tapia de Veer’s haunting score sensually blends tribal percussion with charango, bass, atmospherics, and organic vocals from humans and animals, bringing to life the tension, the wildness, as well as the rare but precious serenity and romance felt throughout the guests’ adventurous stay at The White Lotus Resort - with grace and a just the right amount of insolence. It’s big, wonderful and audacious music, sure to captivate a wide array of melomaniacs, from soundtrack collectors to exotica adventurers, library diggers, ambient dreamers, sorcerous dancers, and experimental pop bon vivants.
Included in the release is the series’ iconic theme song (S01 version), a bonafide hit and spellbinding sensation.
Cristobal Tapia de Veer’s work has been celebrated with numerous award wins, including 2 Emmy Awards for The White Lotus.

Points of interests

- For fans of soundtracks, tv series, ambient, percussion, exotica, library, experimental pop, shamanism, zeitgeist sensations, HBO, Cristobal Tapia de Veer, tension, wild animals, secret romance, luxury resorts, mystery, Alfred Hitchcock, Hawaiian shirts.

- First ever vinyl release of HBO® hit series The White Lotus soundtrack by Cristobal Tapia de Veer

- 28 tracks on double 180g white-colored vinyl

- Heavyweight gatefold sleeve with a choice of 3 artwork variants, with OBI, inside out sleeve printing, 12x12inches art print inlay







More

WORLDWIDE

SLEEVE ARTWORK VARIANT 3

Title: The White Lotus (Soundtrack from the HBO® Original Limited Series)

Genre: Soundtrack, Exotica, Ambient, Shamanic, Dance

DLP: 180g White Colored Vinyl, Heavy 350gsm Gatefold Sleeve, 3 Sleeve Artwork Variants, Inside Out Sleeve Printing, Obi, 12" x 12" Art Print Inlay

Tracklisting DLP
A1. Aloha!
A2. Pineapple Suite
A3. Jungle Fever
A4. Rejuvenated
A5. Pool Walk
A6. Dinner
A7. Courtship
A8. Special Chosen Baby Child
A9. Honeymoon
B1. Ocean Call
B2. Wtf!
B3. Sabotage
B4. Decadence
B5. Ashes
B6. Welcome to America
B7. Drugs
B8. Waves
B9. Manchild
C1. Human Remains
C2. Wake Up!
C3. Meds
C4. Mahalo
C5. Finally Jesus!
C6. A Way Out
D1. Fuck This Place!
D2. A Mistake & the Ocean
D3. Sea Turtle Song
D4. I Want to Live


Info

WRWTFWW Records is ecstatic to announce the first ever vinyl release for the remarkable soundtrack of HBO® hit series The White Lotus by Chilean born composer, arranger, music producer, multi-instrumentalist Cristobal “Cristo” Tapia de Veer (Utopia, Smile, Black Mirror and many many more).
This limited edition release is packed with 28 tracks, showcasing the complete music score of the cult series’ first season. It comes as a deluxe double LP with white-colored 180g vinyl housed in a heavyweight gatefold sleeve with an OBI strip and a double-sided 12x12 inches art print. It is available in a choice of 3 different sleeve artwork variants, each based on the series’ brilliant opening sequence concept by Plains of Yonder and illustrator Lezio Lopes.
Shamanic, feral, mysterious, sexual, sometimes very danceable, sometimes slightly frightening (in the best ways), and always insanely enjoyable, The White Lotus soundtrack is a roaring beast of its own and one of the most visceral listening experiences in recent memory. Tapia de Veer’s haunting score sensually blends tribal percussion with charango, bass, atmospherics, and organic vocals from humans and animals, bringing to life the tension, the wildness, as well as the rare but precious serenity and romance felt throughout the guests’ adventurous stay at The White Lotus Resort - with grace and a just the right amount of insolence. It’s big, wonderful and audacious music, sure to captivate a wide array of melomaniacs, from soundtrack collectors to exotica adventurers, library diggers, ambient dreamers, sorcerous dancers, and experimental pop bon vivants.
Included in the release is the series’ iconic theme song (S01 version), a bonafide hit and spellbinding sensation.
Cristobal Tapia de Veer’s work has been celebrated with numerous award wins, including 2 Emmy Awards for The White Lotus.

Points of interests

- For fans of soundtracks, tv series, ambient, percussion, exotica, library, experimental pop, shamanism, zeitgeist sensations, HBO, Cristobal Tapia de Veer, tension, wild animals, secret romance, luxury resorts, mystery, Alfred Hitchcock, Hawaiian shirts.

- First ever vinyl release of HBO® hit series The White Lotus soundtrack by Cristobal Tapia de Veer

- 28 tracks on double 180g white-colored vinyl

- Heavyweight gatefold sleeve with a choice of 3 artwork variants, with OBI, inside out sleeve printing, 12x12inches art print inlay







More

Worldwide

Genre: Ambient, Environmental, Electronic, Experimental

Tracklisting DLP
A1. Travelling Through The Stars To Gaia
A2. Whales Of Sirius
B1. Cassiopeia's Lady
B2. A Calm & Elegant Utopia
C1. Gaia's Love Theme
C2. Valley Of Wind In A Cosmic Garden
D1. Melting Clocks
D2. Lights Of Alpha Centauri

Info

WRWTFWW Records is very excited to present a new full-length collaborative project by Japanese ambient/environmental legend Takashi Kokubo (Ion Series) and Italian/Swiss trombonist Andrea Esperti (Esperti Project): Music for a Cosmic Garden.

Recorded during the heights of the pandemic and completed in February 2021, the majestic 8-track ethereal/botanical soundscape created by Kokubo and Esperti is available as a limited edition double LP, a digipack CD, as well as in digital format.

Takashi KOKUBO, environmental music figure, celebrated sound designer, and founder of Studio Ion, has released over 20 albums, including the genre-defining and highly sought-after Ion Series. He's also played a major role in the sonic identity of Japan, creating the country’s mobile phone earthquake alert sound, credit card payment validation jingles, and much more. In 2020, Takashi Kokubo received a Grammy nomination for his track "A Dream Sails Out to Sea, Scene 3" off Light in the Attic’s Kankyo Ongaku compilation. He is known for recording “sound scenes from nature” around the world using a binaural CyberPhonic microphone of his own invention and for his very unique brand of healing music.

Andrea ESPERTI is a Swiss trombonist and composer originally from Puglia (Italy). He plays in multiple genres (classical, pop, world, electro, jazz) with a globe-trotting approach: encounters with peers, rhythmic exchanges, and unplanned music projects; this is where lies the foundation of his work.

Music for a Cosmic Garden is an ode to celestial botanics, a contemporary and hallucinogenic take on the soothing ambient genre immortalized by artists such as Midori Takada and Satoshi Ashikawa, a beautiful pairing of synthesizers and the mighty trombone, taking you to a meditative galaxy far, far away, where other-worldly is just another word for cozy.

Recommended track for maximum pleasure: "Gaia’s Love Theme".

Points of interests

- For fans of environmental, chill-out, ambient, Satoshi Ashikawa, Midori Takada, Hiroshi Yoshimura, the Ion Series, parallel universes, music for space traveling but also music for gardening, and music for gardening in space.

- New full-length collaborative project by Japanese ambient/environmental legend Takashi Kokubo (Ion Series) and Italian/Swiss trombonist Andrea Esperti.



More

Worldwide

Genre: Ambient, Environmental, Electronic, Experimental

CD: Digipack, Sticker

Tracklisting CD
01. Travelling Through The Stars To Gaia
02. Whales Of Sirius
03. Cassiopeia's Lady
04. A Calm & Elegant Utopia
05. Gaia's Love Theme
06. Valley Of Wind In A Cosmic Garden
07. Melting Clocks
08. Lights Of Alpha Centauri

Info

WRWTFWW Records is very excited to present a new full-length collaborative project by Japanese ambient/environmental legend Takashi Kokubo (Ion Series) and Italian/Swiss trombonist Andrea Esperti (Esperti Project): Music for a Cosmic Garden.

Recorded during the heights of the pandemic and completed in February 2021, the majestic 8-track ethereal/botanical soundscape created by Kokubo and Esperti is available as a limited edition double LP, a digipack CD, as well as in digital format.

Takashi KOKUBO, environmental music figure, celebrated sound designer, and founder of Studio Ion, has released over 20 albums, including the genre-defining and highly sought-after Ion Series. He's also played a major role in the sonic identity of Japan, creating the country’s mobile phone earthquake alert sound, credit card payment validation jingles, and much more. In 2020, Takashi Kokubo received a Grammy nomination for his track "A Dream Sails Out to Sea, Scene 3" off Light in the Attic’s Kankyo Ongaku compilation. He is known for recording “sound scenes from nature” around the world using a binaural CyberPhonic microphone of his own invention and for his very unique brand of healing music.

Andrea ESPERTI is a Swiss trombonist and composer originally from Puglia (Italy). He plays in multiple genres (classical, pop, world, electro, jazz) with a globe-trotting approach: encounters with peers, rhythmic exchanges, and unplanned music projects; this is where lies the foundation of his work.

Music for a Cosmic Garden is an ode to celestial botanics, a contemporary and hallucinogenic take on the soothing ambient genre immortalized by artists such as Midori Takada and Satoshi Ashikawa, a beautiful pairing of synthesizers and the mighty trombone, taking you to a meditative galaxy far, far away, where other-worldly is just another word for cozy.

Recommended track for maximum pleasure: "Gaia’s Love Theme".

Points of interests

- For fans of environmental, chill-out, ambient, Satoshi Ashikawa, Midori Takada, Hiroshi Yoshimura, the Ion Series, parallel universes, music for space traveling but also music for gardening, and music for gardening in space.

- New full-length collaborative project by Japanese ambient/environmental legend Takashi Kokubo (Ion Series) and Italian/Swiss trombonist Andrea Esperti.





More

No sales to Japan!

CD
Genre: Jazz, Fusion, Funk

Tracklisting CD
01. Shrimp Dance
02. Kuro To Shiro
03. Walk Tall
04. Cat
05. Romance


Info

We Release Jazz is ecstatic (purrrr!) to announce the official reissue of Hiroshi Suzuki's glorious jazz-fusion-funk Holy Grail Cat (originally released in 1976), sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD. Both versions come with liner notes by Teruo Isono.
Cat was recorded in October 1975 at at Nippon Columbia Studio, while Hiroshi Suzuki was visiting his home country of Japan after moving to Las Vegas in 1971 to play with Buddy Rich and perfect his craft. Back on his old stomping grounds, the man known as Neko (Cat) immediately reunited with his dear friends for an epic two day session of groove magic. The chemistry was still intact. The skills and style had grown.
The result, Cat, is a smooth masterpiece, a deep and soulful affair where stunning trombone solos by Hiroshi Suzuki flirt with Takeru Muraoka's heavenly saxophone and the sensual rhythm section of Hiromasa Suzuki (keyboards), Kunimitsu Inaba (bass), and Akira Ishikawa (drums).
Celebrated in jazz collectors circles, in the lofi beat scene, and among music diggers around the world, Cat has become one of the most sought-after Japanese jazz albums of all time and, much like Ryo Fukui's Scenery, has fascinated old and young generations alike.

Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, fusion, funk, trombone, Japanese jazz, smooth rides, cats, allure.

- Official reissue of the glorious jazz-fusion album by Japanese trombonist extraordinaire Hiroshi "Neko" Suzuki.

- 10th release from We Release Jazz, following Ryo Fukui's Scenery, Mellow Dream, A Letter from Slowboat, and Ryo Fukui in New York, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, Stuff Combe 5 + Percussion, Marc Moulin's Placebo Live 1971 and Boillat Thérace Quintet albums. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records (Midori Takada's Through The Looking Glass and Lunar Cruise with Masahiko Sato, Pierre Barouh's Le Pollen, Jun Fuka-machi's Nicole, Grauzone's discography, …)
More

No sales to Japan!

LP: 180g vinyl, half speed mastered, heavy sleeve, obi, gold ink
Genre: Jazz, Fusion, Funk

Tracklisting LP
A1. Shrimp Dance
A2. Kuro To Shiro
B1. Walk Tall
B2. Cat
B3. Romance


Info

We Release Jazz is ecstatic (purrrr!) to announce the official reissue of Hiroshi Suzuki's glorious jazz-fusion-funk Holy Grail Cat (originally released in 1976), sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD. Both versions come with liner notes by Teruo Isono.
Cat was recorded in October 1975 at at Nippon Columbia Studio, while Hiroshi Suzuki was visiting his home country of Japan after moving to Las Vegas in 1971 to play with Buddy Rich and perfect his craft. Back on his old stomping grounds, the man known as Neko (Cat) immediately reunited with his dear friends for an epic two day session of groove magic. The chemistry was still intact. The skills and style had grown.
The result, Cat, is a smooth masterpiece, a deep and soulful affair where stunning trombone solos by Hiroshi Suzuki flirt with Takeru Muraoka's heavenly saxophone and the sensual rhythm section of Hiromasa Suzuki (keyboards), Kunimitsu Inaba (bass), and Akira Ishikawa (drums).
Celebrated in jazz collectors circles, in the lofi beat scene, and among music diggers around the world, Cat has become one of the most sought-after Japanese jazz albums of all time and, much like Ryo Fukui's Scenery, has fascinated old and young generations alike.

Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, fusion, funk, trombone, Japanese jazz, smooth rides, cats, allure.

- Official reissue of the glorious jazz-fusion album by Japanese trombonist extraordinaire Hiroshi "Neko" Suzuki.

- 10th release from We Release Jazz, following Ryo Fukui's Scenery, Mellow Dream, A Letter from Slowboat, and Ryo Fukui in New York, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, Stuff Combe 5 + Percussion, Marc Moulin's Placebo Live 1971 and Boillat Thérace Quintet albums. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records (Midori Takada's Through The Looking Glass and Lunar Cruise with Masahiko Sato, Pierre Barouh's Le Pollen, Jun Fuka-machi's Nicole, Grauzone's discography, …)
More

Territory - NO Sales to Japan
Ryo Fukui's 1976 highly sought-after jazz masterpiece SCENERY in a
Deluxe Limited Edition 2018 Reissue, 180g, Half Speed Master, Gold Sticker, Obi Tag, Stoughton Sleeve

We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is proud to present its first release, the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's highly sought-after masterpiece Scenery (1976), sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180g vinyl mastered at half speed for audiophile sound and on digipack CD.

Unquestionably one of the most important Japanese jazz albums ever recorded, Scenery reveals Ryo Fukui as a miraculously brilliant self-taught pianist fusing modal, bop, and cool jazz influences for a very personal, dexterous and game-changing take on classic standards made famous by Bing Crosby and John Coltrane among others. From "It Could Happen To You" and its serene and calm intro which magically flows into a jubilant and upbeat piece, to the out-of-this-world piano solo of "Early Summer", or the incredible teamwork of "Autumn Leaves" where Fukui leads Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) into groove heaven, every single note on the album oozes precision, confidence and flair and every single section slides seamlessly into one another, creating a supreme and elegant blend of jazz. Often compared to McCoy Tyner or Bill Evans, Ryo Fukui was a genius in his own right, a true master of his craft whose perfectionism gave birth to some of the greatest music ever recorded. Scenery is his magnum opus and an absolute must-have.

The Hokkaido wizard-pianist followed Scenery with the soulful gem Mellow Dream (also available on We Release Jazz) in 1977. He then focused on improving his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui) and releasing 2 live albums. Ryo Fukui sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come.


Tracklisting Vinyl LP
A1 It Could Happen To You
A2 I Want To Talk About You
A3 Early Summer
B1 Willow Weep For Me
B2 Autumn Leaves
B3 Scenery
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-NO SALES TO JAPAN-
CD

Tracklisting CD
01. Sonora
02. Stella by Starlight
03. Speak Low
04. Nobody Knows The Trouble I’ve Seen
05. Old Country
06. Soultrane
07. Chasin’ The Bird
08. Be My Love

Info:

We Release Jazz is delighted to announce the official reissue of Ryo Fukui’s final album, the very personal contemporary jazz offering, A Letter from Slowboat, sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD.
Known for his miraculous albums Scenery (1976) and Mellow Dream (1977), legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui, with the help of his wife Yasuko, opened his very own jazz club in Sapporo in 1995, Slowboat. This is where Ryo Fukui spent the latter half of his career, playing again and again, welcoming peers for unforgettable sessions, and perfecting the craft he lived for: jazz.

A Letter from Slowboat is a poetic, soulful, and honest love letter to Hokkaido, to Fukui’s jazz club, and to endless hours of practicing artistry in a place called home. Backed by longtime collaborators Takumi Awaya on bass, and Ittetsu Takemura on drums, Ryo Fukui flows through classics and originals with natural class, fluidity and absolute precision, expressing a smooth balance between skills and heart. Slowboat, full of breathtaking solos and exquisite moments of clarity, is another crucial piece in the career of one of the most fascinating jazzmen to ever grace the piano. It was released in 2016, sadly the year Ryo Fukui passed away, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come, and Slowboat, where the magic still happens to this day.

This is reissued in conjunction with Ryo Fukui’s Ryo Fukui in New York (1999), also available via We Release Jazz.


Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, soul jazz, modal, hard bop, piano, Japanese jazz, boats, Sapporo, Scenery, jazz clubs and very personal letters.

- Official reissue of the final album by legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui.

- 8th release from We Release Jazz, following Ryo Fukui’s Scenery and Mellow Dream, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, Stuff Combe 5 + Percussion, Marc Moulin’s Pla-cebo Live 1971 and Boillat Thérace Quintet albums. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records (Midori Takada’s Through The Looking Glass and Lunar Cruise with Masahiko Sato, MKWAJU ensemble’s KI-Motion, Jun Fukamachi’s Nicole, Bruno Spoerri’s Voice of Taurus and The Sound of the UFOs, Piero Umiliani’s Tra Scienza e Fantascienza and Il Mondo Dei Romani…)


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The Standard Edition - Territory - NO Sales to Japan
Ryo Fukui's 1976 highly sought-after follow up to SCENERY!
LP Edition: Mastered at half speed, 140g vinyl, Sticker

We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is thrilled to present the official reissue of criminally overlooked Japanese jazz gem Mellow Dream (1977) by Hokkaido pianist wunderkind Ryo Fukui, released in conjunction with the its legendary predecessor Scenery, sourced from the original masters and mastered at half speed.

Firmly standing on the foundation he laid down with Scenery, Ryo Fukui continues his exploration of modal, bop and cool jazz sounds with meticulous grace and absolute mastery. As its title suggests, Mellow Dream ventures into slightly mellower, more soulful, and sometimes more contemplative territories (the Bill Evans-reminiscent "Mellow Dream" and "My Foolish Heart") while still packing the commanding punch Fukui's work is loved for, as heard on the amazingly bombastic "Baron Potato Blues" or the gigantic McCoy Tyner/John Coltrane-influenced "Horizon" which sees each member of the trio (Satoshi Denpo is on bass and Yoshinori Fukui is on drums) demonstrating their virtuosity for 9 exhilarating minutes. With his sophomore album, Ryo Fukui swings from melancholy to vibrant joy with ease, reminding us that jazz is best served with a pinch of blues, and displays an immensely rare combination of pure talent, unique personal approach and focused discipline. The man undeniably deserves a spot in the pantheon of all-time great jazz pianists.

After releasing the outstanding Scenery and Mellow Dream back to back, Ryo Fukui worked on developing his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui), and even releasing 2 live albums. He sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that all jazz lovers should explore.


Tracklisting Vinyl LP
A1 Mellow Dream
A2 My Foolish Heart
A3 Baron Potato Blues
B1 What's New
B2 Horizon
B3 My Funny Valentine

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-NO SALES TO JAPAN-
LP: 180g vinyl, half speed mastered, heavy sleeve, obi, liner notes, sticker

Genre: Jazz, Hard Bop, Contemporary Jazz, Soulful, Solo Piano

Tracklisting LP
A1. Voyage
A2. Scenery
A3. Mellow Dream
A4. Nobody Knows The Trouble I've Seen
B1. Nobody's
B2. My Conception
B3. After Hours
B4. Nord Tracklisting CD
01. Voyage
02. Scenery
03. Mellow Dream
04. Nobody Knows The Trouble I've Seen
05. Nobody's
06. My Conception
07. After Hours
08. Nord



Info

We Release Jazz is very happy to announce the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's only solo piano al-bum, recorded live, June 4-5, 1994 at The Lutheran Hall in Sapporo. Sourced from the original mas-ters, this intimate offering from the Japanese jazz legend is available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD. Both formats come with liner notes by Yusuke Ogawa.
Originally released on CD only by Sapporo Jazz Create in 1994, My Favorite Tune is a beautiful bop adventure which includes two superb compositions that Ryo Fukui wrote as an homage to his belo-ved Hokkaido region, the fan-favorite "Nord" and "Voyage", a tribute to his mentor Barry Harris ("No-body's"), alternate versions of his mega classics "Scenery" and "Mellow Dream", and, last but not least, bewitching takes on timeless gems by Sonny Clark and Avery Parrish.

My Favorite Tune plays like a cool summer night, full of contemplative notes and deep feelings, with Ryo Fukui baring his heart on the piano and displaying the soulful sophistication he is loved for. A true masterpiece completing his amazing discography.


Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, soul jazz, modal, hard bop, piano, Japanese jazz, Hokkaido, Scenery, cool sum-mer nights and intimate piano moments.

- Official reissue of the only solo piano album by legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui.

- 11th release from We Release Jazz, notably following Hiroshi Suzuki's Cat, Ryo Fukui's Scenery and Mellow Dream, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, and Marc Moulin's Pla-cebo Live 1971. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records.

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-NO SALES TO JAPAN-

LP: 180g vinyl, half speed mastered, heavy sleeve, obi

Tracklisting LP
A1. Hot House (Charlie Parker)
A2. All The Things Your Are (Jerome Kern)
A3. Red Carpet (Duke Ellington)
A4. Bouncing With Bud (Bud Powell)
B1. Embraceable You (George Gershwin)
B2. Just One of Those Things (Cole Porter)
B3. Mellow Dream (Ryo Fukui)

Info

We Release Jazz is so happy to announce the official reissue of Ryo Fukui’s New York sessions with Lisle Atkinson and Leroy Williams, the aptly titled album Ryo Fukui in New York, sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD.
Recorded in February 1999 at Avatar Recording Studios in New York and inspired by Ryo Fukui’s idol and mentor Barry Harris, the fourth album from the famed Sapporo pianist captures memorable ses-sions with seasoned American jazz musicians (and frequent Barry Harris collaborators) Lisle Arthur Atkinson on bass and Leroy Williams on drums.

Ryo Fukui in New York is pure bop heaven, glowing with poetic takes on classics by Charlie Parker, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, and Bud Powell, plus a supreme remake of Fukui’s very own "Mellow Dream". It’s expressive, soulful, and vibrating with a bouncing swing feel all the way through; every note falls exactly where it should, undeniable brilliance. Much like the other albums by the genius from Hokkaido, it’s got that "special something", hard to grasp, hard to describe, but 100% felt. Skills and heart, the Ryo Fukui way.

Following his New York adventures, Ryo Fukui headed back to Sapporo, and more precisely to his jazz club Slowboat, where his newly acquired experience inspired numerous jam sessions and a full dedication to perfecting his craft. He sadly passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come, and Slowboat, where the magic still hap-pens to this day.

This is reissued in conjunction with Ryo Fukui’s A Letter from Slowboat (2016), also available via We Release Jazz.


Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, soul jazz, modal, hard bop, piano, Japanese jazz, Barry Harris, Scenery, jazz clubs and New York nights.

- Official reissue of Ryo Fukui’s New York sessions with Lisle Atkinson and Leroy Williams.

- 9th release from We Release Jazz, following Ryo Fukui’s Scenery, Mellow Dream, and A Letter from Slowboat, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, Stuff Combe 5 + Percussion, Marc Moulin’s Placebo Live 1971 and Boillat Thérace Quintet albums. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records (Midori Takada’s Through The Looking Glass and Lunar Cruise with Masahiko Sato, MKWAJU ensemble’s KI-Motion, Jun Fukamachi’s Nicole, Bruno Spoer-ri’s Voice of Taurus and The Sound of the UFOs, Piero Umiliani’s Tra Scienza e Fantascienza and Il Mondo Dei Romani…)


More

Territory - NO Sales to Japan
Ryo Fukui's 1977 highly sought-after jazz gem MELLOW DREAM in a Deluxe Limited Edition 2018 Reissue CD

We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is thrilled to present the official reissue of criminally overlooked Japanese jazz gem Mellow Dream (1977) by Hokkaido pianist wunderkind Ryo Fukui, released in conjunction with the its legendary predecessor Scenery, sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180g vinyl mastered at half speed for audiophile sound as and on digipack CD.

Firmly standing on the foundation he laid down with Scenery, Ryo Fukui continues his exploration of modal, bop and cool jazz sounds with meticulous grace and absolute mastery. As its title suggests, Mellow Dream ventures into slightly mellower, more soulful, and sometimes more contemplative territories (the Bill Evans-reminiscent "Mellow Dream" and "My Foolish Heart") while still packing the commanding punch Fukui's work is loved for, as heard on the amazingly bombastic "Baron Potato Blues" or the gigantic McCoy Tyner/John Coltrane-influenced "Horizon" which sees each member of the trio (Satoshi Denpo is on bass and Yoshinori Fukui is on drums) demonstrating their virtuosity for 9 exhilarating minutes. With his sophomore album, Ryo Fukui swings from melancholy to vibrant joy with ease, reminding us that jazz is best served with a pinch of blues, and displays an immensely rare combination of pure talent, unique personal approach and focused discipline. The man undeniably deserves a spot in the pantheon of all-time great jazz pianists.

After releasing the outstanding Scenery and Mellow Dream back to back, Ryo Fukui worked on developing his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui), and even releasing 2 live albums. He sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that all jazz lovers should explore.

Tracklisting CD
01 Mellow Dream
02 My Foolish Heart
03 Baron Potato Blues
04 What's New
05 Horizon
06 My Funny Valentine
More

- Beautiful 1 LP 33rpm Cut Re-Edition
- 33 rpm LP mastercut by Emil Berliner

*** TERRITORY RESTRICTION - NO SALES TO JAPAN ***

Tracklisting:
1. Mr. Henri Rousseau's Dream
2. Crossing
3. Trompe-l'œil
4. Catastrophe E

Info


WRWTFWW & Palto Flats Records are ecstatic to announce the highly-anticipated reissue of Japanese percussionist Midori Takada's sought after and timeless ambient / minimal album "Through The Looking Glass", originally released in 1983 by RCA Japan.

Considered a Holy Grail of Japanese music by many, "Through The Looking Glass" is Midori Takada's first solo endeavor, a captivating four-song suite capturing her deep quests into traditional African and Asian percussive language and exploring contemplative ambient sounds with an admirably precise use of marimba. The result is alternatively ethereal and vibrant, always precise and mesmerizing, and makes for an atmospheric masterpiece and an unparalleled sonic and spiritual experience.

The fully licensed reissue is available as a single 33rpm LP and a limited 45rpm DLP, both cut directly from the original studio reels (AAA), at Emil Berliner (formerly the in-house recording department of renowned classical record label Deutsche Grammophon) for the 45rpm DLP, and at the equally famous Frankfurter SST Studio for the LP. It is also available in CD format for the first time. All versions come with extensive liner notes.

Bio

Midori Takada is a composer, multi percussionist, and theater artist renowned in Japanese vanguard circles. She will tour Europe this year.

Midori released two solo albums: "Through The Looking Glass" and "Tree Of Life" and wrote music for Tadashi Suzuki's theater plays. Her hypnotic, minimalist music is based in the concept of coherence between sound and the human body. She performs solo on marimba and other percussion instruments.

She debuted on the scene of Berlin Philharmonic, performing with the RIAS Symphonie-Orchester Berlin just after graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1974. She continued her career with solo concerts in Japan and abroad.

In the 1980s Midori began to explore the traditional music of Asia and Africa. Her fascination resulted in joint projects with Kakraba Lobi from Ghana, Lamine Konte from Senegal, Farafina Band from Burkina Faso, and Korean musicians: zither player Chi Seong-Ja, flute player Won-Il, and saxophone player Kang Tae-Hwan. She also led Mkwaju Ensemble's innovative percussion project and still performs with free-jazz band Ton-Klami with Kang Tae-Hwan and jazz pianist Masahiko Satoh.

In the past 20 years, Midori Takada spent more time in theaters than in concert halls - composing and performing live music for theater. She regularly works with Tadashi Suzuki and his Suzuki Company of Toga on their adaptations of "Electra" and "King Lear".

Takada's compositions have a remarkable way of affecting the imagination. Her minimalist, contemplative music is filled with the concept of infinity and reminds us of a moon voyage, falling stars, a journey into the ocean, or a walk in the garden. The trans melodies, initially simple, begin to loop and splinter, their rhythm breaking and thickening, slowly drawing the listener into another reality.

Every live performance Midori Takada gives is unique and prepared especially for that occasion.


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Territory - NO Sales to Japan
Ryo Fukui's 1976 highly sought-after jazz masterpiece SCENERY in a Deluxe Limited Edition 2018 Reissue digipack CD

We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is proud to present its first release, the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's highly sought-after masterpiece Scenery (1976), sourced from the original masters and available on digipack CD.

Unquestionably one of the most important Japanese jazz albums ever recorded, Scenery reveals Ryo Fukui as a miraculously brilliant self-taught pianist fusing modal, bop, and cool jazz influences for a very personal, dexterous and game-changing take on classic standards made famous by Bing Crosby and John Coltrane among others. From "It Could Happen To You" and its serene and calm intro which magically flows into a jubilant and upbeat piece, to the out-of-this-world piano solo of "Early Summer", or the incredible teamwork of "Autumn Leaves" where Fukui leads Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) into groove heaven, every single note on the album oozes precision, confidence and flair and every single section slides seamlessly into one another, creating a supreme and elegant blend of jazz. Often compared to McCoy Tyner or Bill Evans, Ryo Fukui was a genius in his own right, a true master of his craft whose perfectionism gave birth to some of the greatest music ever recorded. Scenery is his magnum opus and an absolute must-have.

The Hokkaido wizard-pianist followed Scenery with the soulful gem Mellow Dream (also available on We Release Jazz) in 1977. He then focused on improving his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui) and releasing 2 live albums. Ryo Fukui sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come.

Tracklisting CD
01 It Could Happen To You
02 I Want To Talk About You
03 Early Summer
04 Willow Weep For Me
05 Autumn Leaves
06 Scenery

More

-NO SALES TO JAPAN-
CD (digipack)

Genre: Jazz, Hard Bop, Contemporary Jazz, Soulful, Solo Piano

Tracklisting CD
01. Voyage
02. Scenery
03. Mellow Dream
04. Nobody Knows The Trouble I've Seen
05. Nobody's
06. My Conception
07. After Hours
08. Nord




Info

We Release Jazz is very happy to announce the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's only solo piano al-bum, recorded live, June 4-5, 1994 at The Lutheran Hall in Sapporo. Sourced from the original mas-ters, this intimate offering from the Japanese jazz legend is available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD. Both formats come with liner notes by Yusuke Ogawa.
Originally released on CD only by Sapporo Jazz Create in 1994, My Favorite Tune is a beautiful bop adventure which includes two superb compositions that Ryo Fukui wrote as an homage to his belo-ved Hokkaido region, the fan-favorite "Nord" and "Voyage", a tribute to his mentor Barry Harris ("No-body's"), alternate versions of his mega classics "Scenery" and "Mellow Dream", and, last but not least, bewitching takes on timeless gems by Sonny Clark and Avery Parrish.

My Favorite Tune plays like a cool summer night, full of contemplative notes and deep feelings, with Ryo Fukui baring his heart on the piano and displaying the soulful sophistication he is loved for. A true masterpiece completing his amazing discography.


Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, soul jazz, modal, hard bop, piano, Japanese jazz, Hokkaido, Scenery, cool sum-mer nights and intimate piano moments.

- Official reissue of the only solo piano album by legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui.

- 11th release from We Release Jazz, notably following Hiroshi Suzuki's Cat, Ryo Fukui's Scenery and Mellow Dream, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, and Marc Moulin's Pla-cebo Live 1971. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records.

More

-NO SALES TO JAPAN-
LP: 180g vinyl, half speed mastered, heavy sleeve, obi

Tracklisting LP
A1. Sonora
A2. Stella by Starlight
A3. Speak Low
A4. Nobody Knows The Trouble I’ve Seen
B1. Old Country
B2. Soultrane
B3. Chasin’ The Bird
B4. Be My Love

Info:

We Release Jazz is delighted to announce the official reissue of Ryo Fukui’s final album, the very personal contemporary jazz offering, A Letter from Slowboat, sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180 gram vinyl mastered at half speed for full audiophile sound, as well as on digipack CD.
Known for his miraculous albums Scenery (1976) and Mellow Dream (1977), legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui, with the help of his wife Yasuko, opened his very own jazz club in Sapporo in 1995, Slowboat. This is where Ryo Fukui spent the latter half of his career, playing again and again, welcoming peers for unforgettable sessions, and perfecting the craft he lived for: jazz.

A Letter from Slowboat is a poetic, soulful, and honest love letter to Hokkaido, to Fukui’s jazz club, and to endless hours of practicing artistry in a place called home. Backed by longtime collaborators Takumi Awaya on bass, and Ittetsu Takemura on drums, Ryo Fukui flows through classics and originals with natural class, fluidity and absolute precision, expressing a smooth balance between skills and heart. Slowboat, full of breathtaking solos and exquisite moments of clarity, is another crucial piece in the career of one of the most fascinating jazzmen to ever grace the piano. It was released in 2016, sadly the year Ryo Fukui passed away, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come, and Slowboat, where the magic still happens to this day.

This is reissued in conjunction with Ryo Fukui’s Ryo Fukui in New York (1999), also available via We Release Jazz.


Points of interests

- For fans of jazz, soul jazz, modal, hard bop, piano, Japanese jazz, boats, Sapporo, Scenery, jazz clubs and very personal letters.

- Official reissue of the final album by legendary Hokkaido pianist Ryo Fukui.

- 8th release from We Release Jazz, following Ryo Fukui’s Scenery and Mellow Dream, the soundtrack of Le Cercle Rouge by Eric Demarsan, Stuff Combe 5 + Percussion, Marc Moulin’s Pla-cebo Live 1971 and Boillat Thérace Quintet albums. We Release Jazz is the sister-label of Geneva-based WRWTFWW Records (Midori Takada’s Through The Looking Glass and Lunar Cruise with Masahiko Sato, MKWAJU ensemble’s KI-Motion, Jun Fukamachi’s Nicole, Bruno Spoerri’s Voice of Taurus and The Sound of the UFOs, Piero Umiliani’s Tra Scienza e Fantascienza and Il Mondo Dei Romani…)


More