KIKUCHI, HIMIKO

Himiko Kikuchi’s FLASHING is a peak J-fusion masterpiece originally released in 1981. Backed by the band Dead End and featuring legendary American saxophonist Ernie Watts, this record delivers an incredibly cohesive and upbeat instrumental experience. Kikuchi’s masterful electric piano and synthesizer work set a vibrant, energetic tone from the cosmic sci-fi opening of "Cosmic Dust Blue" to the intricate chord progressions of the closing track "After the Festival". Tracks like "Everyday's A Miracle" and "Higher Levels" showcase an ethereal yet punchy interplay between smooth saxophone leads and dense, technical rhythm sections that never feel pretentious. Meanwhile, the playful "Back To Bop" injects a bouncy, animated joy that beautifully previews the whimsical textures she would later perfect on Flying Beagle. For fans of Japanese jazz-fusion, city pop, and stellar musician chemistry, this album remains an absolute must-listen.