Evening Cinema Delivers a Nostalgic yet Modern Masterpiece with Latest Release “A Heart Wave”

Hailing from the serene Ibaraki Prefecture, Natsuki Harada's musical voyage began amidst the verdant landscapes at the foot of Mount Tsukuba. Growing up in a literary and musically rich household, thanks to his parents who were high school Japanese language teachers, Harada was immersed in classical piano from an early age.

His transformative encounter with The Beatles at the age of 10 set him on a lifelong path in pop music. Interestingly, this harmoniously coexists with his academic pursuits in philosophy—a discipline informing the reflective quality of his music.

For Harada, creating music is not merely an occupation but an extension of his identity. "A Heart Wave" distills this sentiment into nine captivating tracks. Among these gems, "ハイライト (Hi-Lite)" stands out with its fusion of funky rhythms and J-Pop melodies. It’s a poignant reflection on life’s uncertainties and a heartfelt dedication to cherishing moments with loved ones. The song "夜明けまえ (Enchanted)" takes listeners on a journey back to the 80s with its homage to City Pop.

Crafted with classic soul rhythms, brass brilliance, intricate basslines, and catchy guitar riffs, it’s a top-tier love song brimming with timeless romance and modern flair.

The album is a collective effort with a talented line-up that includes Natsuki Harada as the lead vocal and producer, along with remarkable collaborations from artists such as isoken on guitar, Kazuaki Yamamoto on bass, and Mamoru Ishizawa on drums. The horn section features the dazzling trumpet of pontaro and the saxophone skills of Kan Akiyama and Yuhei Seishu.

Behind the sound engineering magic are Akihiro Iizuka in mixing and recording, and Moe Kazama in mastering. For a taste of evening cinema's new sonic venture, two tracks can be enjoyed "Hi-Lite" and "Enchanted".

Evening cinema’s distinct sound, coined as "Neo-Classical City Pop," sets it apart from Japan's mainstream trends. Drawing inspiration from music legends like The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, and Tatsuro Yamashita, Harada’s work pays homage to musical forebears while embracing new influences like Jacob Collier and Anderson .Paak. This blend of nostalgia and freshness makes evening cinema's music feel familiar yet exhilaratingly new.

For those eager to engage with evening cinema beyond their speakers, Harada shares detailed song breakdowns and live studio performances on Instagram Live—a novel approach that has been warmly received by his fans. These sessions offer a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, enriching the fan experience by connecting listeners with the intricacies of his music.

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