'The opportunity to make 'My Favorite Things' came when Takuro Okada, who worked with me on the recently released album 'Your Favorite Things,' suggested that I make an album of the same album with my own guitar and vocals. I've played solo countless times up until now, but I don't have any particular attachment to this form of sound or ideals, so I didn't have any guidelines for making an album of my own guitar and vocals, and I didn't feel like I could make it, so I always hesitated. However, this time, Okada said he would work with me, so I was able to go to the recording with the feeling that we might be able to make something good. As expected, I realized that I lacked the skills and the lack of thought in arranging alone, and I was left feeling cold and cold at my own arrogance and insensitivity, thinking, 'I've been doing this way...' It was a time to face the current situation, and although I felt embarrassed and it was hard to hold on, I'm really glad that I had this recording. If it weren't for this one, I think I would have continued to play and sing aimlessly forever. It was like he saved me from a quiet crisis... I was really glad to realize that music time, no matter what form it takes, is never easy, and that there is always so much to think about. I think it was an incredible luxury to have such a great musician like Okada-san be with us and look back at such a very beginning-like place. Furthermore, after Toshihiko Kasai did the miking on the first day, the recording was done by Okada-san, the management Hayama-san, and the three of us, and it was amazing that they managed to complete it while struggling with the big SSL mixer. (I finished before I even understood anything about SSL.) I am so grateful to Yu Taniguchi-san for teaching me how to sing on the keyboard from scratch, for attending the recording, and for encouraging me when I was in despair that I didn't think I could play anymore. Thank you so much to everyone for working with me and giving me this rare experience! I think it's a great album. I hope you enjoy this as well as 'Your Favorite Things', so please look forward to it!
