If you’re ever interested in exploring Japanese jazz fusion, I have a recommendation: start with the music of Masayoshi Takanaka.

His songs sound warm like nature, cheerful like a summer festival, and sometimes nostalgic—like reminiscing about old friends. The way he makes his guitar sing is really unique, and I don’t think I’ve found anyone else who can do it quite the same. (There’s CASIOPEA too, but that’s a story for another time!)

In this short blog, I’ll recommend various songs from different corners of his discography—the happiest ones, the adventurous ones, and even the nostalgic ones. I’ll try not to comment too much, so just give them a listen, will you?