Various Artists

180 gram black vinyl with obi strip

Originally recorded on 78 rpm discs during the 1920’s, this collection of pre-war Japanese jazz contains some of the earliest recordings of jazz from Japan.

Inspired by records brought into the country by US soldiers, Japanese musicians attempted to emulate the then hitherto unheard sounds of New Orleans – with varying degrees of success. Yet many of these records would be distributed, sold, and played at night clubs across the country; serving as the soundtrack to the early years of Japan’s Showa-era. These recordings certainly have historical significance, and as outdated as they may be, you won’t be able to stop yourself from tapping your foot. It’s no wonder that Haruomi Hosono has expressed his love for these records!

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. My Blue Heaven
• A2. Sing Me A Song Of Araby
• A3. Tell Me
• A4. Falling In Love
• A5. Song Of The Vagabonds
• A6. With My Guitar & You
• A7. Shanghai Lil

• SIDE B
• B1. Yes Sir, That's My Baby
• B2. Sigh & Cry Blues
• B3. Bugle Call Rag
• B4. St Luois Blues
• B5. Dinah
• B6. Fiesta
• B7. Lady Of Spain