Haruomi Hosono: Hosono House Vinyl LP

Celebrated solo debut from Hosono-san finally reissued outside of Japan! Hosono House was originally released in 1973, shortly after the breakup of Haruomi Hosono's previous band Happy End. After the split, his former bandmates would take inspiration from the urban sprawl of Tokyo to pave the way for "city pop." Hosono would go the complete opposite direction and focus on the sounds of the countryside, developing the relaxed, yet highly regarded Japanese-Americana folk of Hosono House.

"The songs on Hosono House display the breadth of Hosono’s talents, from the hushed acoustic folk of "Rock-A-Bye My Baby" and the country twang of "Boku Wa Chotto" to the New Orleans funk of "Fuyu Koe" and the unexpected breakbeats in "Bara To Yajuu." Lauded by artists such as Jim O'Rourke and Devendra Banhart, Hosono House remains a touchstone of the early phase of Hosono’s career." - LITA

This 2018 reissue is housed in a deluxe gatefold sleeve, complete with 10 page booklet featuring a translated article on the album by Masakazu Kitanaka, photos by Mike Nogomi, and interview with Hosono himself. Recommended.

• first time ever released outside of Japan
• black vinyl pressing
• housed in deluxe gatefold sleeve w/ obi strip
• 10 page booklet includes translated interview w/ Haruomi Hosono, article by Masakazu Kitanaka + photos by Mike Nogami
• original release year: 1973
• music label: Light In The Attic 2018

reviewed by otakun 09/2018