Yellow Magic Orchestra ‎– Solid State Survivor

A note about the different Japanese LP pressings that all have the same catalogue number (ALR 6022): There are 5 known versions, not including likely promotional/sample copies -

1st version - yellow vinyl record and red obi noting that. Red labels.

2nd version - black vinyl record, red labels and similar red obi as the first pressing, but without the text referring to coloured vinyl (as of 13/10/2010 this one has not been submitted to Discogs).

3rd version - black vinyl record, yellow obi strip.

4th version (1980) - black vinyl, gradiated pink/purple labels, different red obi strip.
- versions 1 - 4 are manufactured by Victor (this is noted on the obi strip in Japanese and in English in very small print on the record labels)

5th version (1983)- black vinyl, light beige labels, same red obi strip as the 4th version and notation in Japanese that the record is pressed by Warner-Pioneer. As of 13/11/2010 this has not yet been submitted to Discogs.

Considering the catalog number, this might possibly be the second CD ever released by Alfa Records, Inc. To the ones who ever wondered why 38XA, 32XA, etc. it's just related to the prices : 38XA were all 3800¥, 32XA were 3200¥, same for other labels (check Sakamoto's Midi Label with 35MD, 32MD catalog references etc. it was 3500¥, 3200¥, etc.)… That was NOT cheap…

A very strong release and argueably the album which got YMO noticed on a global level. When i listen to this it still amazes me how much innovation is present, and how different these early electronica ideas are in comparison to say Kraftwerk who were also pioneering at the same time on the other side of the globe. The standout track for me is Rydeen, a very energetic synth pop number with heavy synth hooks, live electronic drumming (as opposed to a drum sequencer), and a general feel good factor, it will put a smile on your face. You listen to this and instantly know its a oriental track, yet it is about as electronic as it can get. Rydeen was also the only track on the album written soley by the drummer Yukihiro.