Toshiyuki Honda & Burning Waves/ Boomerang (original 1981)

Saxophonist Toshiyuki Honda leads his band Burning Waves on this 1981 release from the Japanese fusion label Electric Bird.

Featuring an impressive lineup including Shoichi Noriki, Tetsuaki Hoashi, Hiroki Miyano, and Bobby Broom, the album showcases the high level of Japan’s fusion scene at the time. Highlights include the breezy track La-La-Yah, which moves between reggae and samba rhythms; the Latin fusion piece Nile (Pt.2 / Pt.3) with its explosive mid-section synths; and the refreshing tropical mellow tune Magic Mushroom. A strong 8-track set that reflects the sophistication of early Japanese fusion.