Naoko Ken – Naoko vs. Miyuki (Canyon Records, 1977)
By 1977, Naoko Ken was already known for her smoky voice and sly, theatrical delivery, but here she takes a step sideways into the emotional world of songwriter Miyuki Nakajima. Every track on Naoko vs. Miyuki was penned by Nakajima, whose storytelling defined a generation. Instead of imitation, Ken transforms the material into something moodier and more urbane, shaped by string arrangements, warm analog reverb, and late 1970s studio depth. Includes early interpretations of Jidai, Wakare Uta, and Kono Sora o Tobetara, all before Nakajima’s own versions cemented them as standards.
