Gincho Wataridori

Description

Wewantsounds continues its extensive reissue program of albums by Japanese actress Meiko Kaji in partnership with the Teichiku label and Meiko Kaji herself, with the release of Gincho Wataridori, her first album for the label released in 1972. This is the first time the album has been reissued since its original release. Famous for her 70s exploitation films (Lady Snowblood), the Female Prisoner Scorpion series, and Stray Cat Rock, and revered by Quentin Tarantino, Meiko Kaji also released a series of albums blending Japanese pop and cinematic grooves. Gincho Wataridori is a superb mix of kayokyoku (Japanese pop), traditional Enka music, psychedelic rock, and cinematic groove. The album features the song “Ginchou Wataridori,” the theme from the eponymous film released in 1972 (known outside Japan as Wandering Ginza Butterfly). Produced by two seasoned producers from Teichiku, Yorifumi Ito and Kenji Nakajima, the album is a skillful blend of pop songs, funkier tracks, and more dramatic pieces. Gincho Wataridori marks the beginning of Meiko Kaji's successful singing career and serves as a unique testament to her talent.