Ryojiro Furusawa/ Kijimuna (original 1981)

A standout 1980 release on Better Days by Ryojiro Furusawa, showcasing his wide-ranging musical vision beyond traditional Japanese jazz.

The album features tight, precise drumming and intense performances throughout, including the dark and spiritual jazz-funk piece Aoi Shuzoku (Tuareg), the light and joyful fusion-samba Atatakai Gogo, and the cool, funky crossover groover Beaver.

While different in direction from his earlier works such as Racco and his 1975 debut You Wanna Rain, this album highlights Furusawa’s versatility, blending fusion elements with a strong sense of rhythm and global influences. A rich and exploratory work that expands the boundaries of Japanese jazz.