Orange

"Orange," the fourth studio album by the iconic Japanese band Fishmans, is a captivating journey through the realms of Shibuya-kei and dream pop, released on November 1, 1994, under PONY CANYON INC. This masterpiece, recorded primarily at Metropolis Studio in London, marks a significant milestone as the last album to feature Hakase-Sun on keyboards. With a runtime of just 40 minutes, "Orange" packs a punch with its nine meticulously crafted tracks, each offering a unique blend of groove and pop melody that defines the band's signature sound.

The album opens with the atmospheric "Intro," setting the stage for the enchanting melodies that follow. Tracks like "Kibun" and "My Life" showcase the band's knack for creating infectious hooks and dreamy soundscapes, while "Melody" and "Kaerimichi" highlight their ability to weave intricate layers of instrumentation. "Kansha (Odoroki)" and "Woofer Girl" add a touch of quirkiness, demonstrating the band's versatility and playful spirit. The album concludes with the introspective "Yoru no Omoi," leaving a lasting impression on the listener.

The vinyl version of "Orange" features a stunning cover photo taken at the 9th Sea Festival in Osaka, capturing the band's essence and the album's ethereal vibe. The limited 180-gram vinyl LP, released in 2021, includes an insert with an obi-strip, making it a collector's item for fans of Fishmans and dream pop enthusiasts alike. "Orange" is a testament to Fishmans' rapid rise as a live band and their enduring influence on the Japanese indie and J-rock scenes.