Album Review: Morning Grace / 私の愛は小さいけれど by 岡崎律子
Alright, let’s talk about this gem from 2002—Morning Grace / 私の愛は小さいけれど by Ritsuko Okazaki. If you’re into soundtracks, J-pop ballads, or just something that feels like a warm hug for your ears, this one’s worth a listen. It’s got that perfect mix of Stage & Screen vibes, pop charm, and classical elegance. Plus, it’s Japanese music at its finest, coming out of the Starchild label, which is kinda legendary in itself.
The album kicks off with “Morning Grace,” and man, does it set the tone. This track feels like waking up to soft sunlight streaming through your window. The Off Vo. version (that’s “off vocal” for those who don’t know) gives you all the lush arrangement without the vocals, and honestly? It’s dreamy. You can almost picture it playing in some heartfelt anime scene where the protagonist is reflecting on life or saying goodbye. Toshimichi Isoe’s arrangements are smooth as butter here, and the strings? Chef’s kiss.
Then there’s “私の愛は小さいけれど” (or My Love May Be Small if you’re translating). This one hits different—it’s emotional but not in an over-the-top way. Ritsuko’s vocals are so tender, like she’s whispering her heart out to you. The lyrics feel personal, like she’s letting you in on a secret. And again, the Off Vo. version strips it down, showing how strong the composition really is. It’s the kind of song that sticks with you long after it’s over, maybe because it’s bittersweet or maybe because it’s just that good.
What’s cool about this album is how polished yet intimate it feels. You’ve got Motoyoshi Tai and Tatsuya Murayama producing, and they clearly knew what they were doing. Richard Moakes handled the recording, and Seiji Kaneko mastered it, so yeah, technically, it’s flawless. But beyond that, it’s the little touches—Ikuko Itoh’s illustrations, Tadashi Satoh’s design—that make it feel like a complete package.
Honestly, listening to this album feels like stepping into another world. It’s nostalgic but also timeless. Like, if someone told me this was made in 2023, I’d believe them. Weird, right?
Anyway, here’s the unexpected part: I couldn’t stop thinking about breakfast while listening to “Morning Grace.” Don’t ask why—it just felt like pancakes and coffee vibes. Maybe that’s the magic of Ritsuko Okazaki’s music; it sneaks into your brain and pairs itself with random stuff. So yeah, grab this album if you want something that’s equal parts soothing and unforgettable.
