Album Review: Do You Delay by Atsushi Tsuyama
Atsushi Tsuyama’s Do You Delay is one of those albums that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Released in 2010 under his own label (because sometimes, who needs the big guys?), this Japanese gem blends rock and jazz with a sprinkle of acoustic warmth and experimental weirdness. It’s like someone took a classic jazz club vibe, threw in some psychedelic rock vibes, and let the whole thing simmer until it felt just right.
One track that sticks out is the mysteriously named Untitled. Not giving it a name feels kinda rebellious, doesn’t it? The song starts off all calm and dreamy, like you’re floating down a lazy river, but then BAM—it shifts gears into this wild, unpredictable jam session. Atsushi’s guitar work here is nuts. I mean, he makes it sound like the instrument has a mind of its own, darting around and exploring every nook and cranny of sound. You can tell he’s not afraid to take risks, and honestly, it pays off. By the end, you’re left wondering if you just heard something human or alien. Either way, it’s unforgettable.
Another standout is the opening track (which sadly doesn’t have a catchy title to share). It sets the tone for the whole album—chilled-out yet edgy, with these jazzy undertones that feel like sipping coffee at midnight. There’s something about the way Atsushi layers sounds here; it’s intricate without being overwhelming. You can almost picture him hunched over his guitar, lost in thought, just letting the music flow wherever it wants to go.
Props also go to Ippitsusai Buncho for the artwork. It’s simple yet striking, kind of like the music itself. And hey, self-releasing an album takes guts, so hats off to Atsushi for doing things his way.
Reflecting on Do You Delay, it’s clear this isn’t your typical rock or jazz record. It’s more of an experience—one that invites you to sit back, zone out, and maybe even scratch your head a little. Honestly, it’s the kind of album that makes you wonder what Atsushi was thinking while creating it. Was he trying to break boundaries? Or just messing around in his studio until something cool happened? Either way, I’m glad he did.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: If this album were a food, it’d probably be sushi—fresh, unexpected, and best enjoyed slowly. Just saying.
