MONOTOONNO NATSU (feat. Muto Ayami)

On August 20th, k.o.i. note will release a cover of "MONOTOONNO NATSU"(which means Monotone Summer), a 1987 song by Kayoko Matsunaga, featuring guest vocals by Ayami Muto. While the track evokes flavors of AOR and city pop, it's the emotionally rich, melodramatic quality--typical of classic Japanese kayōkyok--that shines through its melody and lyrics.
Originally used as the theme song for an OVA in the Urusei Yatsura anime series, the original version of the song has never been made available on streaming platforms, nor has it appeared on any of Matsunaga's official albums. That makes this cover by k.o.i. note not only a treat for retro pop fans but also a special find for anime enthusiasts.
What truly sets this cover apart is the powerful sonic impact absent from the original. The modernized arrangement features a fuller dynamic range, punchier beats, and carefully placed synths, along with live horn sections that give the track a vibrant and colorful new life. A notable addition is a horn break in the instrumental section--something the original lacked--which enhances the overall strength and complexity of the piece.
This new interpretation clearly shows that k.o.i. note is not just indulging in nostalgia. Instead, they focus on reimagining and updating the song for a contemporary audience, while staying true to the charm of the original.
Above all, listeners will be captivated by Ayami Muto's heartfelt vocal performance, which beautifully conveys the song's central theme of tender, unspoken love. Her deep affection for city pop and Showa-era music brings the track into sharper emotional focus and makes this cover something truly special.