Atsuko Niina/ Play Room ~Tawamure (original 1983)

In recent years, this album has seen a sharp rise in appreciation among City Pop and Japanese jazz enthusiasts, becoming increasingly sought-after on the secondhand market. The arrangements were shared by Hirotaka Izumi—then a member of The Square—alongside other contributors. Backing musicians include members of The Square, with guitarist Kenji Kitajima also taking part.

The album delivers high-quality city pop and fusion sounds throughout. A standout track is the high-speed samba arrangement of “MAN OR BOY (The Girl from Ipanema),” an outstanding example of Japanese rare groove that still fits seamlessly into today’s club jazz scene.

Blending the innovative yet quintessential fusion sound of its time, the record showcases her versatile and expressive vocals across the entire album.