Masayoshi Takanaka: Natsu Zen Kai (Colored Vinyl)

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his solo debut, this remaster features popular albums from the Kitty Years by Japan's leading guitarist, Masayoshi Takanaka.

Takanaka is a driving force behind the recent global Japanese fusion boom, enjoying a surge in popularity not only in Japan but also in the West. Using high-resolution audio from the original master tapes, these albums were remastered and cut at London's Abbey Road Studios. All three albums were remastered and cut by Abbey Road's renowned engineer, Alex Wharton. Each release is released on colored vinyl, enhancing the image of the jacket artwork.

"Summer Full Throttle"
Welcome to the Kingdom of Summer! The track begins with the line, "It's so hot! I want to go somewhere," and A1, with its reggae rhythm, immediately transports you to a tropical world. Takanaka's lustrous, soaring guitar creates a perpetual summer atmosphere throughout the album.

Packed with killer summer tunes, including the all-out Latin tune "CUBAN HEELS" featuring Orquesta del Sol and the funky guitar explosion of "DANCING TO CAT GUITAR" over an electric beat. (Original release date: July 10, 1984)

■ Remastering and cutting: Alex Wharton (Abbey Road Studios, London)