Great Tracks [Japanese Import]

• High-Quality Japanese Pressing
• 12" Compilation EP
• Spins at 45rpm
• Vinyl cutting by Bernie Grundman
• Includes insert with liner notes

A compilation EP by Ryuichi Sakamoto, in which four songs have been selected for the label “GREAT TRACKS” and are compiled into a 12-inch 45-rpm analog record that is renowned for the high-quality sound by record fans.

Total 4 songs are included featuring “STEPPIN’ INTO ASIA”, which a demo tape sent to a radio program was the start for the production in 1985, and 2 songs, “Koudo Kougen” and “Ballet Mecanique” from the album “Mirai-Ha Yaro” released in 1986.

In addition, “BEHIND THE MASK” was recorded in the studio with band members after the 1987 NEOGEO tour.

Also included are liner notes including Eiichi Yoshimura’s explanation for the 4 songs and “Working with Professor Sakamoto” written by Shigeru Takise (current label producer) who was in charge of recording. Disc cutting at Bernie Grundman Mastering in the U.S.

Ryuichi Sakamoto was a genius Japanese musician, composer, and producer who has been active in the music industry for over four decades. He first gained international recognition as a member of the electronic music group Yellow Magic Orchestra in the late 1970s and has since become known for his work as a solo artist and renowned for his prolific film scores and collaborations with other musicians.

Sakamoto's music was known for its experimental, avant-garde sound, which incorporated elements of electronic, classical, and traditional Japanese music. He released numerous albums throughout his career, including the critically acclaimed "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence" soundtrack, which featured his hit single "Forbidden Colours."

In addition to his music career, Sakamoto was involved in a number of environmental and humanitarian causes. He was a vocal advocate for sustainable energy and worked with organizations such as Greenpeace and the Rainforest Foundation.

Sakamoto was also recognized for his contributions to music and culture. He won multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score for his work on the film "The Last Emperor," and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Yellow Magic Orchestra.

On March 28, 2023, Sakamoto passed away at the age of 71 from a long battle with cancer. His influence on music and culture will continue to be felt for years to come.

Learn more about Ryuichi Sakamoto here.

SOLO ALBUMS

1. Thousand Knives (1978)
2. B-2 Unit (1980)
3. Left-Handed Dream (1981)
4. Ongaku Zukan (1984)
5. Esperanto (1985)
6. Futurista (1986)
7. Illustrated Musical Encyclopedia (1986)
8. Neo Geo (1987)
9. Beauty (1989)
10. Heartbeat (1991)
11. Sweet Revenge (1994)
12. Smoochy (1995)
13. 1996 (1996)
14. Discord (1997)
15. BTTB (1999)
16. Comica (2002)
17. Elephantism (2002)
18. Chasm (2004)
19. Out of Noise (2009)
20. Playing the Piano (2009)
21. Three (2013)
22. Async (2017)
23. 12 (2023)