Innocent Japan Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Ino Hidefumi is an electric pianist, jazzist, experimental electronicist, and music venue owner based in Japan. The sole purveyor of music on his own, strikingly singular, idiosyncratic Innocent Record label, Hidefumi's output remains starkly un-fuck-withable, betraying the highest concern with both songrcraft and packaging design. Sonically, everything he's made over the years sounds as tight as an oxidised tap in a vacuum seal, and 2018's 'Can't Sleep' is no exception to this. Emblematic of his preference of short EPs over albums, Hidefumi's tendency to pour over his music is evident here: 'Can't Sleep' portrays him slumped over the piano, having involuntarily dozed off, presumably after spending hours composing this curt but crucial sonic corpus. Embossed Rhodes novae and gullet-sung vocals abound on the title track, their effortless feel working to portray the hilarity of such eugeroic lapses, while 'Good Night' moves ever so slightly more emphatic, beelining to wish the listener goodnight, despite the subverted resolution to fall asleep after all.

Review: Japanese prodigy Ino Hidefumi has completed Memories, his ninth original album here after following his unique journey at his own pace. Crafted entirely in his home studio, the album features his stripped-down compositions and distinctive voice after many years of writing songs but never actually singing on them himself. Shared with the world from his bedroom, the music's simplicity, its careful use of space within the ensemble, and the soothing electric piano create a captivating sound. This latest work captures a fresh, unfiltered essence while also conveying the artist's unwavering strength and sharpness as he continues to evolve his musical expression.

Review: Born in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, Ino Hidefumi displayed his musical talent early and started piano at age five. His journey took a significant turn in 2002 when he founded his own cafe, "Tenement," in Ebisu, Tokyo, which became the home base for his music projects. This new release features an AOR love song on the A-side coupled with an unreleased track from 2019 on the B-side. After transitioning from a non-singing songwriter to a singer-songwriter, Ino now explores new ground and 'Squall,' here is an AOR track that debuted digitally in September 2019. Meanwhile, 'Eternal Slowmotion' is previously unreleased and so makes its first appearance on this 7" pressing.

Review: Inocology by master pianist Ino Hidefumi is one of many great examples of his unique blend of jazz, funk, and soul and it brims with the Japanese artist's signature laid-back style. The album features mellow grooves, smooth basslines, and warm, analogue synths that are both nostalgic yet timeless. Tracks like 'Ants Funeral Procession' and 'Space Butterfly' are standout highlights of his skilful fusion of genres that blend organic instrumentation with deft electronic touches. this is one of the prodigy's many great albums and is denied by its relaxed tempo and soothing melodies so it is a perfect soundtrack for unwinding into a dreamy, soulful world.