Akira Inoue
Imaginary Arboretum
Express (Japan) 1985
ETP-90317 (LP) w/original inner sleeve.
sleeve : EX+(slightly wear on corner.)
media : EX+/EX+(some slightly noise.)
Featured in the first edition of the obscure sound guidebook, this is a 1985 album by keyboardist/producer Akira Inoue, who remains active across a wide range of fields to this day. Best known for an endless list of songs written and produced for others — including Akira Terao’s classic “Ruby no Yubiwa” — Inoue’s own records have generally never quite hit the same level. But this one is a different story altogether. Rooted mainly in a new wave-informed rock sound, the album stands out for its exceptionally refined production, packed with electronics and striking sonic detail. Recommended cuts include A4, an electro-wave piece elevated by primitive percussive polyrhythms and masterful use of stereo panning, and B4, a beautiful ambient track built on the contrast between perspective-rich synthesizer textures and the fluid melodic lines of electric bass.
A2: 5000本の樫の木
A4: 架空庭園論
B4: Forest of Thought