KAYAMA, YUZO aisurutoki wa ima TP-90025

The Enduring Appeal of a Japanese Pop Icon: Yuzo Kayama’s “Aisurutoki wa Ima”

Yuzo Kayama is a true giant of Japanese entertainment. As an actor and a singer, his career has spanned generations, and he holds a special place as one of the country’s most beloved pop stars. A wonderful example of his musical work from the mid-1970s is the album, “Aisurutoki wa Ima” (Now is the Time to Love), which we’re looking at here in its Japanese pressing on the Toshiba Records label with the catalog number TP-90025.

By the time this album was released in 1974, Kayama was already a well-established superstar, famous for his “Wakadaishō” (Young General) film series and a string of hit songs. This album showcases his mature style, a sophisticated blend of Kayokyoku (Japanese popular song), pop, and soft rock, often with a slightly Western, orchestral feel.

“Aisurutoki wa Ima” is a collection of beautifully crafted songs that highlight his smooth, warm, and confident vocal delivery. The arrangements are lush and romantic, typical of the high-quality studio production of the era in Japan. The songs are melodic, heartfelt, and delivered with the effortless charm that made him a household name. This is classic, sophisticated Japanese pop music, perfect for easy listening and appreciating the work of a master performer.

For any fan of classic Japanese Kayokyoku and the iconic stars of the Showa era, this Yuzo Kayama album is a wonderful and essential listen. It’s a snapshot of a legendary entertainer at a high point in his celebrated musical career. You can find this album on our website.