Irie / Sakamichi

A long-awaited new 7' release from TsuchiYaniBond, led by Koyasan-based musician and healer Takamasa Tsuchiya, coupling the sublime reggae number 'Irie' with a cover of Yuta Orisaka's classic 'Sakamichi'!! 'Irie' features Kazuhiko Masumura on percussion, Takujuro Iwade of Honjitsu Kyuen on guitar, and Sho Hateruma on drums. The track was recorded during the COVID period in a near-live, one-take style, but remained unfinished for a long time. It finally took shape after the addition of a guitar part inspired by samba techniques and lyrics by Makito Watanabe, developing into a song with an inviting, kayokyoku-like warmth. On 'Sakamichi,' Tsuchiya himself performs all of the instruments. Imagining an '80s-style sense of freshness and sparkling atmosphere reminiscent of splashing water, he also incorporated rhythmic elements of Cuban music and salsa, allowing the track to come together in one burst of inspiration. Recording, mixing, and mastering were handled by Kosuke Nakamura, known for his work with Yuta Orisaka, Uchu Nekoko, and others. An essential listen.