RYUSENKEI

Ryusenkei is the primary musical vehicle for Japanese producer and multi-instrumentalist Cunimondo Takiguchi. Formed in 2001, the project became a cornerstone of the 21st-century City Pop revival, predating the genre's global internet explosion by over a decade.

Takiguchi's sound identity is defined by a rigorous adherence to the production standards of the 1970s Japanese 'City Music' scene, drawing heavy influence from pioneers like Tatsuro Yamashita, Haruomi Hosono, and Minako Yoshida. The music is characterized by intricate jazz-fusion chord progressions, prominent Rhodes piano, and a 'warm' analog mix that avoids the digital harshness of modern pop. Ryusenkei often functions as a collaborative platform, featuring various female vocalists such as Atsuko Hiyako and Hitomitoi, which allows Takiguchi to tailor the vocal delivery to his meticulously crafted arrangements. Critically, Ryusenkei is respected for its authenticity; rather than being a pastiche, the project is viewed as a legitimate continuation of the sophisticated AOR and soul-pop traditions. Takiguchi's influence extends into his work as a producer and curator, shaping the modern landscape of Japanese indie-pop and neo-city-pop.