Kingo Hamada’s fourth album, Midnight Cruisin’, remains one of the key City Pop records of 1982. Originally released during his time with Alfa Moon, it’s a beautifully made set of sophisticated urban grooves, mellow soul and polished AOR with a real late-night glow. The record also features a superb lineup of players, including close friend and ace guitarist Makoto Matsushita, whose work has found a growing international audience in recent years. The fan-favourite title track, Midnight Cruisin’, is here too. An essential listen for anyone drawn to Japanese City Pop, mellow soul and Yacht Rock.