Adult Contemporary Music in Japan

Greg Long / Now <ACM Rating: > Label: Word/Epic, USA (EK 85310) Release Date: February, 2001 Producers: Chris Rodriguez, Don Koch and Todd Collins Executive Producer: Brad O'Donnell

Past Recommended Discs of The Month

February, 1996	March, 1996	April, 1996	May, 1996	June, 1996	July, 1996
August, 1996	September, 1996	October, 1996	November, 1996	December, 1996	January, 1997
February, 1997	March, 1997	April, 1997	May, 1997	June, 1997	July, 1997
August, 1997	September, 1997	October, 1997	November, 1997	December, 1997	January, 1998
February, 1998	March, 1998	April, 1998	May, 1998	June, 1998	July, 1998
August, 1998	September, 1998	October, 1998	November, 1998	December, 1998	January, 1999
February, 1999	March, 1999	April, 1999	May, 1999	June, 1999	July, 1999
August, 1999	September, 1999	October, 1999	November, 1999	December, 1999	Jan/Feb, 2000
March, 2000	April, 2000	May, 2000	June, 2000	July, 2000	August, 2000
September, 2000	October, 2000	November, 2000	December, 2000	January, 2001	February, 2001

 

NEW RELEASES

PETER CETERA / ANOTHER PERFECT WORLD	<ACM Rating: >
It was 1997 that Peter Cetera released his self-remake collection album "You're The Inspiration" under River North Records, Nashville based label which was unfortunately obliged to stop their business in July 2000. In spite of label's bankruptcy, Peter continued his recording sessions and finished his brand-new original recording album "Another Perfect World". I am pleased to advise you that Peter Cetera's sophisticated music style remains on this album. That is to say, you can listen to Peter Cetera's pop tunes and ballads as you could listen as the other late 80's and early 90's Peter Cetera's albums and it might be noted that Peter covers the Beatles' tune "It's Only Love". 5 songs out of 10 on this album are written by Chris Pelcer, whose name was found on Peter Beckett's solo project "Beckett" in 1989 and/or Peter Cetera's producing Ronna's album "Day 14" (1998) and so on. "Feel Like Rain" written by Karla Bonoff with Peter is very good.
Label: DDE, Inc. USA (06632 2001 2) (Japan:Victor Entertainment <VICP-61377>) Release Date: March 27, 2001 (Japan: May 23, 2001) Producers: Michael Omartian and himself Musicians: Guitars :Biff Watson, Bruce Gaitsch, Kenny Greenberg, George Marinelli, Jr., Jerry McPherson Bass: Jimmie Lee Sloas, Wille Weeks Drums: Chris McHugh, John Hammond Horns: Mark Douthit, Mike Haynes, Chris McDonald, Jeff Balley Percussion: Eric Darken Background Vocals: Chris Rodriguez, Michael Mellett, Gene Miller, Tiffany Palmer, Nicol Smith, Lisa Bevill, Michael Omartian
International Order   Melody Blvd.	Tracks: Perfect World Rain Love Just Like Love Feels Like Rain I'm Coming Home It's Only Love Rule The World Have A Little Faith Only Heaven Knows Whatever Gets You Through

 

RONN MOSS / I'M YOUR MAN	<ACM Rating: >
It was 1977 that Ronn Moss with fellow musicians Peter Beckett and J.C. Crowley formed "Player". Before Ronn left Player in 1981, they released the albums "Player" and "Danger Zone" and "Room With A View". In 80's, Ronn pursued acting, landing roles in feature motion pictures, until in 19887 when he became a founding cast member and originated the character of Ridge Forrester on the popular CBS Television series "The Bold & The Beautiful". In mid 90's, Ronn teamed up once again with Peter Beckett, and the two have released their fifth album as Player entitled "Lost in Reality" in Japan and later throughout the United States on River North Records. In late 90's, it was reported that Ronn Moss and Peter Beckett wrote and rehearsed their materials towards their sixth album as Player. However, instead of the album as Player, we have herewith got Ronn Moss' solo album "I'm Your Man", on which we could find that most materials are written and produced by Peter Beckett and also some of other materials are written by Dennis Lambert, known as the producer for Player's albums "Player" and "Danger Zone". And you may feel interesting that a talented keyboard player Philippe Saisse produces and writes for Ron Moss. When you would listen to this Ronn Moss' solo album first time, you may be embarrassed because the opening tune "I'm Your Man" is totally different from what we expect for Ronn Moss. "I'm Your Man" is Ricky Martin vein Latin pop tune and the following up "Generate" is also such kinda one. However, rest of the tunes on this album are really comfortable and what we would like to listen.
Label: Force Records, Netherlands <distributed by Universal Music> (013 213-2) Release Date: April, 2001 Producers: Peter Beckett, Dennis Lambert, Philippe Saisse and himself Musicians: Keyboards / Programming: Michael Parnell, Steve Plunkett, Peter Beckett Guitars: Steve Plunkett, Michael Hakes, Peter Beckett, Nick Moroch Drums: Ron Wikso Background Vocals: Peter Beckett, Steve Plunkett
International Order   Melody Blvd. Cruisin' Music at GEMM	Tracks: I'm Your Man Generate For The Rest Of My Life Hearts All I Have To Give In Love Alone Until I Get It Right Once Again One More Try Don't Get Better Than This That's When I'll Be Gone Mountain

  

BRYAN DUNCAN / JOYRIDE	<ACM Rating: >
Bryan Duncan has consistently released stellar solo projects since he stopped his Sweet Comfort Band. I would admit that "Mercy" (1992), "Slow Revival" (1994) and "Blue Skies" (1996) are one of the best CCM albums I ever listened to. However, I have to confess that I was so disappointed with his 1998 album "The Last Time I Was Here" because Bryan seemed to make his music style into wrong direction. I did not understand why he did so. And now I am very glad that Bryan Duncan returns to his rich r&b roots. His new album "Joyride" is the true blue-eyed soul music from start to finish. Bryan covers Paul McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed", which is the best cover version of the tune I ever listened to.
Label: Diadem Music. USA (83061 0656 2) Release Date: March 6, 2001 Producer: Mark Baldwin Executive Producers: George King and Dean Diehl Musicians: Guitars: Mark Baldwin Drums and programming: John Hammond, Steve Brewster Keyboards: Jim Hammerly, Blair Masters, Pat Coil Bass: Jackie Street, Craing Nelson Trombone: Chris McDonald Sax: Mark Douthit Trumpet: Mike Haynes Percussion; Eric Darken Guest Vocals: Ashley Cleveland Mass Choir: Charity Baldwin, Sharenda Barlar, Jennifer Boyer, Christina Carter, Marvin Copaus, Crystal Cumpston, Chad Dickerson, Julle Drosee, Benjie Gentry, Christy Genty, Charity Fontana, Timothy Hall, Bryan Hansen, Chris Jacobs, Dina Kauffman, Aaron Lamb, Shane McConnell, Stephanie McBrayer, Laurie Mellck, Matt Mither, Kathleen Nothreri, Josh Penner, Marty Penner, Toby Penner, Holly Perez, Shanda Perkins, Tommy Rose, Debra Silverstein, Bethany Smith, Jeremy Westby, Mysty Westfall, Jennifer Willemin, Steve Wilmert Background Vocals: Chris Rodriguez, Gene Miller, Lisa Bevill, Lisa Cochran, Marabeth Jordan, Bonnie Keen, Marty McCall, Joy Lagana-Chambly, Chad Dickerson, Darwin Hobbs, Tiffany Palmer, LeAnne Palmore, Angela Primm, Chance Sxoggins, Marcia Ware, Jeremy Westby, Mysty Welmer, Terry White, Jerad Woods, Jovaun Woods
International Order	Tracks: I'd Like To Thank You Jesus (For One Thing) Maybe I'm Amazed It Gets Better Holiday N Heaven Everything In The Garden I'll Always Have Jesus Clap Your Hands If You Pray For Me Where There's Love The Battle Is The Lord's

 

THE HAMISH STUART BAND / REAL LIVE	<ACM Rating: >
Hamish Stuart, well-known as the falsetto voice behind The Average White Band, ensured his universally acclaimed songwriting talents in 80's. He wrote the No. 1 hits "Whatcha Gonna Do For Me?" for Chaka Khan in 1981. In 1987, 6 years after Hamish disbanded The Average White Band in Hamish started his new blue-eyed soul band "Easy Pieces" with Australian awesome female singer Renee Geyer, Steve Ferrone (ex AWB drummer) and top session bass player Anthony Jackson and released the album "Easy Pieces" under A&M Records, unfortunately unsuccessful commercially. Then, Hamish joined Paul McCartney's band with whom he worked for six years clocking up numerous world tours and five albums along the way. In 1999, Hamish released his own solo album "Sooner Or Later" with the 6 supporting band members.   On the night of Monday and Tuesday 21st and 22nd of February 2000, The Hamish Stuart Band recorded shows at the 606 Club in Chelsea London, running tie lines from Snake Ranch Studios (located above the club) and the results are here ! Hamish played 3 AWB tunes; "Work To Do", "Got The Love", "Person To Person", an Easy Pieces' tune; "Tuggin' At My Heartstrings and 3 tunes from the album "Sooner or Later".
Label: Sulphuric Records, UK (Japan: Dreamsville Records <YDCD-0049>) Release Date: March 29, 2001 Producers: Hamish Stuart and John Gallen The Band: Drums : Ian Thomas Bass & Background Vocals : Steve Pearce Guitar & Background Vocals : Adam Phillips Keyboards & Background Vocal : Andy Wallace Percussion : Jody Linscott Saxophone & Background Vocal : Chris 'Snake' Davis Rhythm Guitar and Vocals : Hamish Stuart
International Order   Melody Blvd.	Tracks: Work To Do Tuggin At My Heartstrings La La Land Got The Love Reach You Same Old Moon Person To Person

BRETT RAYMOND / PRIMARILY FOR GROWN-UPS AGAIN! - more of the songs you never outgrow -	<ACM Rating: >
Brett Raymond, known for his Japanese Market oriented first solo album "Only Love" (1986) continues his musical journey in Salt Lake City, Utah. As well-known, Brett played synthesizer on "When You Look In My Eyes" for the great Jay Graydon's album "Airplay For The Planet" in 1993. Besides writing and arranging theme music for TV programs the theme for the "Today Show" on NBC, production music for TV stations, network Promos, etc., Brett restarted to release his own solo albums on the Dessert Book/Shadow Mountain label, USA in 1994 with his 2nd solo album "Primarily For Grown-Ups". Brett has constantly released his solo albums; "Primarily For Christmas" (1996), "First Light- Scenes From The Restoration vol. 1" (1997), "A Case of Pop" (1998). And now, Brett proudly present you his new solo album "Primarily For Grown-Ups Again!",the new collection featuring fresh, contemporary arrangements of beloved Primary songs that will bring out the kid in adult and young adult listeners alike!
Label : Desert Book, USA (DB55322) Release Date: February, 2001 Producer: himself Musicians: Drums: Todd Sorensen, Vinnie Colaiuta Bass: Pat Smith, Jim Stout, Eric Wahlengren Guitars: Tom Hopkins, Michael Dowdle Percussion: Todd Sorensen Sax: Tom Scott, Ray Smith, Daron Bradford, Dave Halliday Trombones: Bryan Hofheins, Lou Campbell Trumpets: Charlie Davis, Tony DiLorenzo Background Vocals: Maxine Waters, Julia Waters, Oren Waters, Jenny Jordan Frogley, Ramona Lambert, Kenneth Cope Violins: Lenny Braus, Tom Baron, Meredith Cambell, Jackie Coleman, Kathryn Collier, Amy Jackson, Judy Rich, Judd Sheranian, Lois Swint, Gwen Thornton Celli: Ellen Bridger, Jim Hardy Horns: Ron Beitel, Steve Kostyniak Chrous: Kevin J. Abbott, Juan F. Badal, Devin Brown, Seth N. Child, Stephen Jackson, Brian V. Jensen, Michael Jensen, Brian T. Lee, Masa, Ben Nielsen, John W. Parker, Jeffrey Richardson, Randy Lawrence Seely, Salt Lake Children's Choir
International Order	Tracks: Prologue (The Child I Am) Lift Up Your Voice And Sing I Think When I Read Army Of Helaman Truth From Elijah I'll Walk With You The Wise Man And The Foolish Man Popcorn Popping I Have A Graden Christmas in Zarahemla (Samuel Tells Of The Baby Jesus) How Will They Know? The Child I Am

GRAND ILLUSION / THE BOOK OF HOW TO MAKE IT	<ACM Rating: >
Probably, you would remember two AOR Heaven releasing album of Promotion's; "Not for sale" and "Yeah yeah", gained great reviews in AOR-press all over the world. In May 2000, Escape Music signed the band. The first thing the label demanded that the band should get rid of "that stupid name", personally I did not think the name "Promotion" so stupid, rather very unique band name! Thus the boys finally settled for "Grand Illusion". The band explains that a slight change of direction, more emphasis on guitars, (HEAVY guitars) had done, but the Grand Illusion trademarks, the outstanding vocal work from Peter Sundell and Per Svensson and Anders Rydholm's classy melodies are intact from the Promotion years. Together with Ola Karlsson's witty lyrics and some groovy drumming by Christian Sundell the Grand Illusion sound is created. I Agree that Grand Illusion has succeded to keep their excellent melodies and outstanding vocal works. However, from my point of view, it is so regrettable that we cannot listen to the great horns on the album, which absolutely made this band very different from other melodic rock bands.
Label: Escape Music, UK (Japan: Avalon/Marquee <MICP-10235> Release Date: April 7, 20001 (Europe), March 23, 2001 (Japan) Producer: Anders Ryfholm Grand Illusion is: Peter Sundell: Lead and Background Vocals Anders Rydholm: Bass, Guitar and Keyboards Per Svensson: Lead and Background Vocals Christian Sundell: Drums Ola Karlsson: Guitar Guest Musicians: Guitars: Stefan Leoson, Robert Vadadi, Per Thuresson Official Website: http://www.godispascen.se/gi/
International Order	Tracks: Feeling Strangely Fine Don't Wait To Know Boys Last Night Out Accidentally On Purpose The Book Of How To Make It Whatever 105 (And Running) Parachute The Desperate Man's Plea (bonus track for Japanese version) Don't Wait Up Crazy From The Heat The Hardest Part

  

Various Artists / UNITED STATES OF AVEX ARTISTS	<ACM Rating: >
This album is the special compilation album gathering English cover versions of Japanese domestic artist's pop hits. This kind of project was very popular in early 90's here in Japan as you may know the album like "Tatsuro Songs From L.A.", so, if you are interested in such kind of project albums, this album would be another one for you. Although the best track on this album must be Jason Scheff's excellent work on track 2, you should pay more attention to the fact that Jay Graydon sings! I could not remember other lead vocal works done by Jay except his legendary Airplay's days with David Foster and Tommy Funderburk.
Label: Avex Trax, Japan (AVCD-11907) Release Date: March 7, 2001 Producer: Kaz Matsumoto Musicians: Lead Vocal: Frank Sinatra Jr., Jason Scheff, Anna McMurphy, Tata Vega, Cindy Braggs (En Vouge), Marilyn Martin, Nobody's Angel <Ali Navarro, Sarah Smith, Jennie Kwan, Tai Woo>, Jay Graydon, Pauline Wilson, Patrice Ruchen, Rachel Ham Guitars: Michael Landau, Alex Van Houten, Tom Strahle, Jay Graydon Keyboards: Tom Keane, Kuk Harrell Programming: Kurk Harrell, Michael North, Randomized Blocks, Christopher Faizi Drums: Curt Bisquera Trumpet: Jerry Hey, Gary Grant Sax: Larry Williams Trombone: Steve Holtman Background Vocals: Jason Scheff, Tom Keane, Jeff Pescetto, Anna McMurphy, Kuk Harrell, Dave Petway, Kristina Hamilton, Tata Vega, Michael North, Carmen Hernander, Tyren Perry, Marilyn Martin, Terry Wood, Wendy Fraser, Janis Foxworth, Warren Ham Strings Arrangement: Tom Washington
International Order   Melody Blvd. Cruisin' Music at GEMM	Tracks (Lead Vocalist): Departures (Frank Sinatra Jr.) Sakebi (Jason Scheff) Break Out! (Anna McMurphy) Seasons (Tata Vega) Give Me A Shake (Cindy Braggs) We Can't Stop The Music (Marilyn Martin) Movin' On (Nobody's Angel) Oasis (Jay Graydon) By Myself (Pauline Wilson) Time Goes By (Patrice Ruchen) Overnight Sensation (Rachel Ham)

 

  

FOOLS GOLD / MR. LUCKY	<ACM Rating: >
Fools Gold is the late 70's rock group of Danny Henson and Tom Kelly known as one of talented song writers who composed Madonna's "Like A Virgin", Cyndy Lauper's "True Colors" and Whitney Houston's "So Emotional" with Billy Steinberg. Fools Gold was formed as the backing up band for Dan Fogelberg. Band members were Tom Kelly (vo, b), Denny Henson (g, vo), Ron Grinel (ds) and Doug Livingston (key, vo) when their first album was released in 1976. At the CD reissue of this time, Danny Henson recently explained why Fools Gold had became duo comprising Tom and Danny when their 2nd album "Mr. Lucky" was released. According to his interview appeared on the liner notes of the reissued CD, this 2nd album was originally intended to be released also under Arista and Keith Olsen, the producer gathered not a few talented studio musicians such as David Foster, David Paich, Bill Champlin, Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro and Waddy Wachtel as listed. This had caused over budget problems and Arista Records denied to release this over-budget album. Thus, CBS offered to buy master tape of this album and released "Mr. Lucky" in 1997.
Label: SME Records -Sony Music Entertainment Inc., Japan (SRCS-9829) (Original Label: Columbia Records, USA <AL-348238>) Release Date: March 23, 2001 (Original Release: June 14, 1977) Producer: Keith Olsen Fools Gold are: Danny Henson: Vocals, Guitars Tom Kelly: Vocals, Guitars Musicians: Keyboards: David Foster, David Paich, Bill Champlin Guitars: Waddy Wachtel, Andrew Gold Pedal Steel Guitar: Doug Livingston Lap Steel: Dan Fogelberg Drums: Jeff Porcaro Bass: Mike Porcaro Percussion: Jeff Porcaro, Keith Olsen Sax: Colin Tully, Mel Collins, Tom Scott
International Order   Melody Blvd. Cruisin' Music at GEMM	Tracks Sweet Country Air Gypsy Brew Wouldn't I Love To Love You Runnin' And Hidin' Fly Away I Can Hear The Whistle Blow Mr. Lucky Where Did Our Love Go Wrong Captain

KEANE
"Keane" is the band of genius Keane brothers of Los Angeles, Tom Patrick Keane (birthday: March 13, 1964) and John Morgan Keane (birthday: April 26, 1965). As "The Keane Brothers", they released their 1st album "The Keane Brothers" under 20 century Records in 1977 produced by David Foster and supported by Westcoast talented musicians such as Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Harvey Mason, Lee Sklar, Larry Carlton, Bill Champlin and many many more. In 1979, their 2nd album "Taking Off" produced by Lamont Dozier , David Paich and David Foster. 2 years later, Keane brothers had completed their 3rd album "Keane" under the name of the band "Keane", which was sold about 40,000 copies in Japan and in those days called as "Little Toto" or "Young Toto" for the sound of them. This is the album shown here. In 1982, "Today, Tomorrow and Tonight" were released, on which albums Jason Scheff joined the band as bass player instead of Mike Milwood. Nowadays, Keane brothers are appearing on many albums as supported musicians, songwriters and/or producers. One of most wanted albums to be reissued will be available on CD at last. Another album release "Today, Tomorrow And Tonight" will be also reissued on CD. You will be able to find out Jason Scheff as the member of this group on this album.
KEANE	<ACM Rating: >
Label: Cool Sound, Inc. Japan (COOL-068) (Original Label: Label : CBS Sony, Japan <25 AP 2099>) Release Date: April 8, 2001 (Original Release Year: 1981) Producer: Tom Keane Keane are: Guitar and Vocals : Mark Moulin Keyboards and Vocals: Tom Keane Bass and Vocals: Mike Millwood Drums and Percussion: John Keane Additional Musicians: Lapsteel: David Pearlman Background Vocals: Michael Zorro Singers
	Tracks: Tryin' To Kill A Saturday Night Bad Little Baby Girl You Got The Better Of Me Kill Or Be Killed My Special Way Baby I'm Dead I Love My Life Anything Less Than Love Lorelei Judy
TODAY, TOMORROW AND TONGIHT	<ACM Rating: >
Label: Cool Sound, Inc. Japan (COOL-069) (Original Label: Label : CBS Sony, Japan <25 AP 2099>) Release Date: April 8, 2001 (Original Release Year: 1982) Producer: Tom Keane and Gary Lubow Keane are: Guitar and Vocals : Mark Moulin Keyboards and Vocals: Tom Keane Bass and Vocals: Jason Scheff Drums and Percussion: John Keane
International Order   Melody Blvd. Cruisin' Music at GEMM	Tracks: Oh Oh Oh My Kind Don't Make Love You I Can See You Tomorrow Is Today It's All Over I'm Ready Tonight Mindreader You Don't Have To One Two Many Lovers

KENNY MARKS
It was around 1978 when Kenny Marks moved to Nashville with his dreams to be a solo singer. Almost 1 years later, Kenny knocked the door of Word, the leading CCM label and succeeded to get a deal with Word/Myrth. However it took almost 3 years before releasing his 1st album "Follow Him" produced by Keith Thomas. And "Right Where You Are " followed. Those two are really good AOR/Westcoast albums. Those reminds me of Tommy Funderburk's mid 80's works, i.e. "Front" and "What If". Someone says Kenny's pop tune has same atmosphere as Nielsen-Pearson's one. For your information, Kenny released further 6 albums including his best album "Absolutely Positively" (1993) featuring 3 brand-new songs.
FOLLOW HIM	<ACM Rating: >
Label: Cool Sound, Inc. Japan (COOL-066) (Original Label: Myrrh, USA <MSB-6714>) Release Date: March 10, 2001 (Original Release Year: 1982) Producer: Keith Thomas Executive Producer: Neal Joseph Musicians: Keyboards: Keith Thomas Piano: Bobby Ogdin Guitars: Dun Huff, Jon Goin, Brent Rowan Bass: Mike Brignardello, Jimmy Lee Solas Drums: Mark Hammond, Tommy Wells, Bob Gelotte Percussion: Mark Hammond, Terry McMillan Sax: Dennis Solee Harp: Cindy Reynolds Strings Arrangement: Don Hart Background Vocals: Keith Thomas, Doana Cooper, Patti Leatherwood, Diana Dewitt, Pamela Marks
	Tracks: Lean On Him Lovin' Me For Myself You Need Love You Don't Have To Try And Be Somebody In The Middle Of The Night He'll Finish What He Started Follow Him I Give It All To You Ringin' The Bells When I Least Expect It
RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE	<ACM Rating: >
Label: Cool Sound, Inc. Japan (COOL-067) (Original Label: Myrrh, USA) Release Date: March 10, 2001 (Original Release Year: 1984) Producer: Keith Thomas Executive Producer: Neal Joseph Musicians: Keyboards: Keith Thomas Bass: Mike Brignardello Drums: Dennis Holt Guitars: Jon Goin Percussion: Terry McMillan Sax: Mark Douthit Background Vocals: Denny Henson, Randy Guidry, Keith Thomas, Patti Leatherwood, Pamela Marks
International Order   Melody Blvd. Cruisin' Music at GEMM	Tracks: Right Where You Are One Small Voice The Prisoner It's Incredible Gift From God Growing Up Too Fast Single-Minded Love Still Be Believing You're The Best Sing For Joy