Norito (RSD 25)

The new LP album Norito is the first-ever collaborative release by three prominent Japanese artists from diverse musical backgrounds—Yuima Enya, J.A.K.A.M., and DJ Kensei.

Side X features Waidai, the highly praised first collaboration between J.A.K.A.M. and Yuima, which gained significant recognition on streaming services upon its release in May 2024. Also included is Ouka, which blends the powerful beats of Awaodori, a traditional Japanese folklore dance, with Yuima’s soaring vocals. Additionally, Waidai (MaL RMX) offers a fresh take on the track, featuring an Amapiano beat arrangement by MaL (PART2STYLE), a genre derived from house music in South Africa.

Side Y presents the 9-minute epic Hyottoko, a fusion of DJ Kensei’s stripped-down beats, Yuima’s emotionally rich vocals and poetry reading, and the lyrical storytelling of rapper Hon Da Q. Also featured is rapper Yukko, known for the Japanese hip-hop unit Hahaoya Bunkamura, alongside the spiritual instrument performance of GoRo the Vibratian, who plays original instruments rooted in ancient frequencies. The side also includes Hiotoko, which highlights Yuima’s soothing, soulful vocals, and Bliss, a beatless reimagining of Hyottoko with a distinct musical arrangement.

DJ Kensei and J.A.K.A.M. are highly respected producers and DJs, both in Japan and internationally, with careers spanning over 30 years. Yuima Enya, a versatile Japanese singer with a background in jazz, R&B/soul, and experimental music, lived in New York for seven years and studied jazz in NYC. She remains one of Japan’s most in-demand vocalists, with her 2024 cover of Sade becoming a major hit.

The idea for this unique collaboration was first discussed in late 2023, leading to the decision to create a special album specifically for release on Record Store Day 2025.

All six tracks on Norito are newly written, mixed, and mastered exclusively for vinyl, marking the first time they will be available in this format.