Mignonne (remastered) vinyl

City pop thrived at a unique intersection of time, culture, and genre during Japan's economic boom in the 70s and 80s. This era of optimism contrasted sharply with the darker times of war and occupation. Taeko Ohnuki, a pivotal figure in city pop, drew heavy influence from American pop artists like Joni Mitchell and Steely Dan, who themselves were inspired by jazz fusion greats like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. Thus, city pop, and Ohnuki's Mignonne in particular, is a perfect product of its time, uniquely Japanese yet globally influenced. Mignonne is more than feel-good yacht rock; it carries a melancholic depth that rewards attentive listening. While ballads dominate the album, with Ohnuki's voice soft and mournful, evoking the intimacy of a jazz singer in a smoky 1978 lounge, while the album's lead single, '4:00A.M.,' stands out as a masterpiece with its smoky flute intro.