The second album by Memphis funk/soul group EBONEE-WEBB, originally released in 1979.
Japanese folk songs from across the country, including “So Run,” “Yashow Macashow,” and “Smoky Moon,” are boldly transformed into disco sounds through the arrangements of Chikara Ueda, an arranger and composer known for exploring a wide range of musical styles, including Brazilian music.
The album brings together powerful grooves and distinctive Japanese language vocals in an extraordinary and highly unusual set. An extraordinary cult masterpiece receives its first-ever vinyl reissue.
Chinbantei Goraku Shisho (DJ):
The definitive folk-song disco album by Memphis-based group EBONEEWEBB, recorded during their time in Japan—perhaps to make some money?!—finally gets its first-ever vinyl reissue!
EBONEE-WEBB became widely known after their “Disco Otomisan,” a bold arrangement of Hachiro Kasuga’s hit song “Otomisan,” became a huge hit.
Following their first album, the group made this second album, giving Japanese folk songs full-fledged funk and disco arrangements. The person behind the arrangements was Chikara Ueda, one of Japan’s finest arrangers.
The crying guitar, powerful bass, and dynamic rhythm section come together perfectly. “So Run,” and “Yashow Macashow,” have long been favorites among Wamono DJs, but the track to really pay attention to is “Smoky Moon.” Its rhythm and chord progression boldly pay homage⁈ to Stevie Wonder’s hit “Isn’t She Lovely?”—something Ueda himself has acknowledged.
This miraculous oddball record has finally caught up with its time. Don’t miss it!
