［Description］
Celebrating her 10th anniversary as a solo artist, Nao Kodama awakens with her latest album, IN YOUR BOX.
After 9 years since SPARK, this marks her first self-produced 3rd album. Joining her on this musical journey are a stellar lineup of musicians including bassist Wataru Iga, drummer Yuko Kitayama, guitarist Katsuhiko Sato, Ryuta Koshino, Kazuho Kageyama (NABOWA/THE BED ROOM TAPE), YOSSY (YOSSY LITTLE NOISE WEAVER), and remixer Kan Sano. The recording and mixing were handled by Naoyuki Uchida.
The title track "IN YOUR BOX" carries a powerful message: "Everyone has their own box, so why not open it? Nevertheless, the answers are inside." Additionally, the 2013 original version of "Kimi Dake no Magic Hour" has been reborn with a fresh, urban yet warm remix by Kan Sano. This album features a total of 7 exquisite tracks, each a gem in its own right.
This album serves as a bold new world for Nao Kodama, expanding her horizons as if it were her debut album.
"In life's bitter and sweet (with a bit more bitterness), I've grown quite a bit as an adult. As I get better at controlling my emotions and engaging in small talk, I almost forget what lies beneath the layers. The spirit of rebellion, cheekiness, mischievousness, and those uncontrollable love affairs. While creating this album and drawing inspiration from the various people who supported me, I found myself reminiscing.
(Why am I doing music again?)
As I remember, I want to shine a light on what lies beneath the layers of everyone else too. I want to gently illuminate the richness of their lives. That's the kind of song I want to sing.
After releasing MAKER as a singer-songwriter and 10 years later, this time as a musician, debuting with IN YOUR BOX, I feel this surge of emotions. This album is a confident piece where my strengths and the strengths of everyone involved explode.
May it reach many people.
Nao Kodama awakens here.
Cheers!"
Text by Nao Kodama
Nao Kodama / IN YOUR BOX (CD) / LTR-002
Tracklist
1. ドラマティック・ノンフィクション "Dramatic nonfiction"
2. Melody & Harmony
3. 時のおりがみ "Toki no Origami"
4. アーユーレディ "Are you ready"
5. Bye bye bye
6. きみだけのマジックアワー "Kimi dake no Magic hour" remix by Kan Sano ＊Music Video is now on Youtube
7. IN YOUR BOX ＊Music Video is now on YoutubeProduct ID
Release Date: April 10, 2019
Catalog Number: LTR-002
Released by: Lunch Time Record
Distributed by: Ultra-Vybe, Inc.
Credit
Recording:
Shigetake Ao at Nasoundra Palace Studio,
Shinji Kawase at GUMBO STUDIO,
Naoyuki Uchida at STUDIO MECH.
Mixing:
Naoyuki Uchida at Makisato Lab (except track 6).
Mastering:
Mistukazu Tanaka at Studio ATLIO.
Song Commenatry
1. Dramatic Nonfiction
Featuring YOSSY (YOSSY LITTLE NOISE WEAVER), this exotic funk number seamlessly blends synth with the robust drums of Yuko Kitayama.
2. Melody & Harmony
An acoustic dream soul collaboration with Ryuta Koshino (formerly of Rozoku/Albatross), creating a soulful acoustic atmosphere.
3. Folding of Time
A solid and tension-filled funk fusion track.
4. Are You Ready
A dreamy and profound acoustic number highlighted by Katsuhiko Sato's impressive lap steel guitar playing.
5. Bye Bye Bye
A gentle dance music piece perfect for listening in the morning light, featuring track production by Kanade Kageyama (NABOWA/THE BED ROOM TAPE).
6. Your Magic Hour (Remix by Kan Sano)
The original version from 2013 is reborn with Kan Sano's urban yet warm and fresh remix.
7. IN YOUR BOX
There is a message, within the song, that urges everyone to open their box, as the answers lie within. You must listen to Katsuhiko Sato's versatile rap style.
