Wewantsounds is delighted to announce the release of Ryuichi Sakamoto's classic LP Ongaku Zukan, originally issued in Japan on his own School label in 1984. The reissue replicates the original Japanese release which offered two versions: a normal edition featuring the LP with a bonus 2-track 7" EP, and a limited edition which includes a 3-track 12" EP in place of the 7". Remastered by Saidera Mastering in Tokyo the reissue boasts the original gatefold artwork plus an extra 2-page insert with new liner notes by Andy Beta.
The early ‘80s were a turning point for Japanese musician Ryuichi Sakamoto. As a solo artist, the smash hit soundtrack he had composed for 1983’s Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence (a film in which he had also acted), had put him on the verge of becoming a global superstar. Meanwhile he had called a halt to his work with Yellow Magic Orchestra; the influential, globally successful pop trio calling it quits after the release of their 1983 album Naughty Boys.