Killer track built around a dope piano melody. The second album by Japanese singer Keiko Kobayashi. Features a cover of the Jacks’ “Karappo no Sekai” (Empty World) — originally a raw psychedelic track that was banned for years due to the use of the word “oshi” (mute), which was considered offensive at the time. This version transforms it into an understated soft rock and folk rock arrangement driven by Yumi Arai’s brooding piano and Yukihiro Takahashi’s drums. A completely unknown gem. The lyrics are equally dope — lines like “so quiet, at the bottom of the sea, there is nothing” capture a uniquely Japanese sense of emptiness. An absolute killer. Artist: Keiko Kobayashi (小林啓子) Song Name: Karappo no Sekai (からっぽの世界) Album: Kanashimi Gokko (かなしみごっこ) Label: King SKD-1011 year: 1972 - @portal___records