The Passage of Youth

Akihiro Kuwajima's first full-length original album is a heartfelt collection rooted in the power of song and lyric. From the danceable electro-kayō "Yamato Nadeshiko" to the ballad "Marine Liner No. 77," which reflects his longing for home, the album spans ten tracks (including one bonus track).

Also featured are "A Pictureless Town," a Reiwa-era take on the classic Group Sounds genre performed with full band ensemble; "Where the Rainbow Is," highlighted by Motoki Shigeta's composition and guitar, Yuu Matsuba's percussion, and choral vocals by Ramu; and "The Station of Words," co-written with gentle-hearted guitarist ug.

The album title, Shunju ("Spring and Autumn"), traditionally refers to the seasons of a year, but here, it hints at something broader: the passage of life itself. With a year and a half spent in recording, this deeply personal work represents what the artist calls a 'final summary of his youth'-a resonant collection that reaches the hearts of all who live in this time.