MEGALOPOLIS (1969)

"Even if it doesn't sell well, let's create records that carry the scent of culture. I want you to perform Japanese jazz by Japanese people." Inspired by these words from the director, Hiroshi Matsumoto decided to record the album "Megalopolis." The concept is "Tokyo." Drawing inspiration from the rapidly changing cityscape seen from the airplane window, Matsumoto began production. Together with Hideyo Ichikawa, Kunimitsu Inaba, and Motohiko Hino, the four musicians positioned themselves in a circle to see each other's faces and movements. They intentionally recorded without detailed planning.

The result includes the suite-like masterpiece "Tokai no Ichinichi," the longing for lost things portrayed in "Nostalgia," the exhilaration and thrill of viewing the city from above in "Megalopolis," the bittersweet ennui of "Serenade," and the raw intensity of "Tokai no Iradachi." This is a brilliant work that vividly portrays the megacity and its people through sharp, creative performances. The original release was part of Victor's "Nihon no Jazz" series.

Text by Yusuke Ogawa (UNIVERSOUNDS / DEEP JAZZ REALITY)