YAMAMOTO, KYOJI horizon SM25-5052

Expanding the Horizon: Kyoji Yamamoto’s Debut Solo Album (SM25-5052)

Today we revisit the solo work of legendary Japanese guitarist Kyoji Yamamoto (Bow Wow, Vow Wow), focusing on his debut solo album, “Horizon,” released on SMS Records with the catalog number SM25-5052.

Issued on May 25, 1980, this 9-track, 12-inch vinyl LP predates his “Guitar Man” album, marking Yamamoto’s first full-length step outside of his band Bow Wow. Produced by Yamamoto alongside Yoshimi Ueno and Yoshinori Igishi, “Horizon” showcases his already formidable guitar skills and burgeoning compositional talents.

The album offers a dynamic blend of instrumental and vocal tracks, exploring styles ranging from hard rock to progressive rock. Yamamoto handles guitar, keyboards, and some vocals himself, demonstrating his versatility. He is backed by Naoki Watanabe on bass, Atsuo Okamoto on drums, and Maki Tashiro on additional keyboards. Several tracks feature English lyrics by Judy Anton.

“Horizon” is a fascinating early work, revealing Yamamoto’s diverse musical interests beyond Bow Wow’s straightforward hard rock. It incorporates progressive elements and allows ample space for his expressive and technically impressive guitar playing across tracks like “Solid Movement,” “Mars,” “Crush The Rock,” and the title track.

SM25-5052 is a crucial document for understanding the full scope of Kyoji Yamamoto’s musical vision early in his career. It captures his virtuosity and compositional ambition, making it an essential listen for fans of his work and Japanese rock history.