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Timeless Masterpieces of Eiichi Ohtaki That Make You Fall in Love — The Niagara Sound

Featuring the music of Eiichi Ohtaki, a multifaceted figure not only as a musician but also as a recording engineer, producer, and label owner!

Often called a pioneer of Japanese rock, he was a member of the band Happy End, which was active around 1970, and after going solo he founded the Niagara label.

He released meticulously crafted masterpieces such as NIAGARA TRIANGLE Vol.

1 and NIAGARA CALENDAR, as well as the timeless classic Yume de Aetara (I Wish I Could Meet You in My Dreams).

Though his more idiosyncratic sounds initially struggled to gain acceptance, his 1981 album A LONG VACATION became a historic landmark.

Ohtaki’s intricately constructed songs are said to stem from his student days, when he listened widely and analyzed musical structures.

A trove of classics that can be seen as laying the foundations of J-pop.

The unfading Niagara Sound continues to shine brilliantly across the ages.

Niagara Sound: Timeless Masterpieces by Eiichi Ohtaki That Make You Fall in Love (21–30)

Blue Valentine’s DayOhtaki Eiichi

This is the track corresponding to “February,” the second song on the album “NIAGARA CALENDAR,” released on December 25, 1977.

It sings about a bittersweet Valentine’s Day where the singer didn’t receive chocolate from the person they wanted it from.

Even so, what a beautiful melody.

heavy; weighty; serious; profound; feelings/emotions (context-dependent)Ohtaki Eiichi

Initially, Otaki himself intended to make it an a cappella song like the Beach Boys, but it is said that this arrangement came about on the advice of engineer Kinji Yoshino.

This vocal style is also one of Eiichi Ohtaki’s fortes, and you could say he successfully incorporated it into a pop song.

Timeless masterpieces by Eiichi Ohtaki that make you fall in love — The Niagara Sound (31–40)

Town of WatercolorsOhtaki Eiichi

Pilgrimage to Niagara in Fussa – BGM: Watercolor Town
Town of WatercolorsOhtaki Eiichi

In this song, which features a superb intro arrangement reminiscent of James Taylor, the bongos drive the central beat, while the resonant tone of a 12-string guitar beautifully floats above.

Eiichi Ohtaki’s singing is endlessly gentle, drawing listeners completely into its world.

A Midsummer Day’s DreamOhtaki Eiichi

It’s a track from the album “NIAGARA CALENDAR,” corresponding to August.

The sound of waves that can be heard continuously from “Oyoge Kanazuchi-kun,” the song for July, perfectly sets a summer mood.

These kinds of devices and surprise ideas are Naoki Ohtaki’s specialty.

Rock ‘n’ Roll New Year’s Gift MoneyOhtaki Eiichi

A track included on Eiichi Ohtaki’s solo album “NIAGARA CALENDAR,” known for his work as a member of Happy End.

As the title includes “rock ’n’ roll,” it features a light, upbeat rock ’n’ roll arrangement topped with laid-back vocals.

The lyrics are filled with New Year’s imagery, and listening to it is sure to get you excited! If you’re looking for a cheerful song that’s perfect for the New Year, this one comes highly recommended!

New Year’s gift of Rock ’n’ RollOhtaki Eiichi

This is a rock ’n’ roll number by Eiichi Ohtaki, a legendary Japanese musician, that you’ll want to sing at New Year’s.

The song oozes an old-school rock vibe and is a lot of fun, with lyrics that are enjoyable to listen to.

Eiichi Ohtaki’s rock ’n’ roll is hugely popular with younger generations of music fans as well—be sure to give it a listen.

Mitsuya CiderOhtaki Eiichi

The hand game inspired by the refreshing fizz of Mitsuya Cider is a big hit with kids! The choreography, which uses fingers to count numbers as you go, also helps with number learning.

With its breezy rhythm and fun movements, it’s perfect for keeping spirits high even in hot weather.

It’s ideal for starting an activity or when you want to draw everyone’s attention.

When teachers and children enjoy it together, it creates summer memories too.

You can freely adapt it by changing the tempo to suit different ages or having pairs face each other to play.

You can just picture the children’s eyes sparkling with excitement!