KASAI, KIMIKO love talk 28AH1688

In the hierarchy of Japanese jazz and fusion vocalists, Kimiko Kasai stands as one of the most respected and innovative figures. While she began as a pure jazz singer, her work in the 70s and 80s saw her brilliantly merge her vocal talents with funk, soul, and the sophisticated, emerging “City Pop” sound. A perfect jewel from this era is her 1984 album, “Love Talk,” released on the CBS/Sony label with the catalog number 28AH 1688.

“Love Talk” is the epitome of high-end, 1980s Japanese AOR and City Pop. The album is a masterclass in slick, polished production, featuring some of Japan’s top-tier studio musicians. The sound is a smooth, intoxicating blend of jazz-infused melodies, deep funk basslines, crisp 80s rhythms, and lush keyboard arrangements.

At the center of it all is Kasai’s incredible voice. She sings with an effortless, cool, and soulful elegance, perfectly navigating the sophisticated chord changes and infectious grooves. The songs are the perfect soundtrack for a late-night drive through Tokyo, a feeling that is central to the City Pop aesthetic. The entire album flows with a smooth, luxurious, and urban energy that has made it a sought-after classic and a holy grail for collectors of the genre.

For any fan of Japanese City Pop, AOR, or sophisticated 80s soul and funk, “Love Talk” is an absolutely essential and definitive album. It represents the peak of the genre, delivered by one of Japan’s greatest vocal talents. You can find this album on our website.