by Martin Walters
This debut recording is a stunning introduction to the Japanese noise guitarist's earliest work. Those expecting a primitive guitar workout will be surprised to learn that his first recording is a Cecil Taylor-like free form piano improvisation. Proving that he never needed the feedback and noise of electric guitar to send shivers down the spine, this acoustic ritual has all the dark magic of his later work. Impassioned free jazz may have been the springboard from which he launched in the '70s, and his affection for that form can be heard through into his psychedelic rock with Fushitsusha and his dark solo electric rituals. "Watashi Dake" is an essential of the Japanese outsiders enormous body of work.
Comes with lyric sheet, printed with black ink on black paper. Album title is read as 'Watashi dake?'
Unofficial translation of title: 'Only Me?'
Originally released on Pinakotheca on LP (PRL #2 - released 1981).
Tracks 1, 7, 13 are CD-only bonus tracks, recorded live in 1981.
Comes with a booklet of lyrics and photographs.