MURASAKI, GEORGE, AND MARINER mariner two BMC-4021

Charting New Waters: George Murasaki & Mariner’s ‘Mariner Two’ (BMC-4021)

Let’s explore a fascinating project from Okinawan rock royalty, George Murasaki. This is the 1980 album ‘Mariner Two,’ credited to George Murasaki & Mariner, released on Bourbon Records with the catalog number BMC-4021. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

This album represents a significant chapter in George Murasaki’s career. Following the dissolution of his legendary pioneering hard rock band, Murasaki (紫), he formed Mariner in 1979. This new project featured a lineup of American musicians: John Patterson (vocals/percussion), Glenn Ford (guitar), Morgan Hoffler (bass/vocals), and John Pringle (drums), with George Murasaki himself handling keyboards and backing vocals.

Musically, “Mariner Two” continues in the vein of powerful, keyboard-driven rock that George Murasaki is celebrated for. The album blends hard rock energy with progressive rock influences across its eight tracks, including “The Ancient Mariner,” “Nightrider,” and “For Whom The Bell Tolls.” It showcases Murasaki’s signature keyboard prowess within a new band dynamic, backed by his American collaborators.

This lineup was unfortunately short-lived, reportedly disbanding after about two years due to visa issues for the American members. BMC-4021 thus stands as a rare document of this unique, international collaboration led by one of Okinawa’s most important rock musicians, making it a significant find for collectors of Japanese rock history.