Recorded June-July 1998

Kokoro is Japanese for heart (in the non-biological sense). This is a concept album that chronicles 20th century Japanese history. The album was largely inspired by reading ‘Japan’s Postwar History’ by Gary D Allison and my general interest in Japan.

1. Nipponica (June 12)
Much of the words of this song gave from translated poems found in ‘Myths & Legends of Japan’ (F. Hadland Davis 1913). Specifically verses 1,2 adapted from Ise, verse 3 by Korunushi, bridge adapted from Yone Noguchi, and verse 4 adapted from Yasuhide.

2. Article Nine (June 18)
Article nine refers to the part of the postwar Japanese constitution that renounces war. The song about the militarism of the 30s, the consequences and regret.

3. Too Young to Remember (June 25)
A song about the nuclear bombings and the ending of the war. And also criticises the proliferation of nuclear arms in the world.

4. In Your Image (June 28)
A look at postwar Japan and the influence of American culture upon it.

5. Out of Time (June 30)
The widening generation gap of those growing up in more affluent times.

6. Ancient Art of Yen (July 7)
Reflecting on the rise economic rise of Japan through to the 80s and struggles in the 90s.

7. Plastic World (July 9)
A lament about materialism and disposable culture taking over from nature and traditional values.

8. Japan Inc. (July 12)
Japan Inc refers to the close coordination of Japan during second half of the 20th century between the government (dominated by the Liberal Democratic Party ‘LDP’), the bureaucracy (specific the Ministry of International Trade and Industry ‘MITI’), and large corporations. The song looks at the relative weakness of the average working man in this system.

9. Dream a New Dream (July 13)
A reflection on uncertain times Japan found itself in the late 90s, with an optimistic message to continue to seek new horizons.