description Cobalt Hour Overview
"Cobalt Hour" is the third studio album by Japanese singer-songwriter Yumi Arai, released in 1975. The album was produced during her highly productive early period, prior to her name change to Yumi Matsutoya, and features her signature piano-based arrangements. It contains several compositions that were later established as standards within the Japanese pop canon. The record serves as an important document of the mid-1970s Japanese New Music movement for historians and genre enthusiasts.
insights Ranking position
Cobalt Hour ranks #18 of 114 in the J Pop Album ranking, behind Blue Blood, ahead of HELP EVER HURT NEVER.
help Cobalt Hour FAQ
When was Yumi Arai's album Cobalt Hour released?
"Cobalt Hour" was released in June 1975 as Yumi Arai's third studio album. It came out just a few months before her debut greatest hits album, "Golden Best."
What is the musical style of Yumi Arai's Cobalt Hour?
The album features Yumi Arai's signature piano-based arrangements, blending early J-pop with elements of jazz and soft rock. It is notable for its intricate string and horn arrangements arranged by producer Masataka Matsutoya.
Are there any famous cover songs on Cobalt Hour?
Yes, the album contains "Chuo Freeway" (Chuo Jidosha-do), which later became one of Yumi Matsutoya's most recognizable hits. It also features the original version of "Toshokan," which has been covered by many modern Japanese artists.
Did Yumi Matsutoya release Cobalt Hour under her married name?
No, the album was released under her maiden name, Yumi Arai, as it predated her 1976 marriage to Masataka Matsutoya. She officially changed her stage name to Yumi Matsutoya (often shortened to Yuming) shortly after her marriage.
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