Farewell To Yesterday’s Memories

Japan’s folk scene in the 1970s can provide a continuous source of bounty for cratediggers who know where to look. Masaji Otsuka and Yoh Nagai took their name from the Osaka coffee bar and venue which provided a fulcrum for the Kansai folk rock scene from the end of the 60s, and their 1972 debut on Underground Record Club is an absolute gem. The pair’s love for their namesake is evident, but they paint their own vision of Americana, one which is both earthy and exotic. A meaty, Band-like rhythm section provide a sturdy bedrock for a warm, Autumn breeze of an album in which twists of mandolin, bar room piano and melody combine sublimely. As the title suggests, however, there is something acutely bittersweet tugging at these songs’ heart.