Yumi Arai – “Misslim” review

Final verdict: 9/10 ★★★★⋆˙⟡

The sentiments expressed on my review of Yumi Arai’s (or Matsutoya’s, or, as I will again refer to her, Yuming’s) debut LP “ひこうき雲” ring true with her follow-up record, too. And the record in question is none other than 1974’s “Misslim” – an album that has rightfully acquired its place in the Japanese music hall of fame.

You see, less than a year after releasing her first of many masterpieces, ms. Yuming was ready to release her second. Preceded by the single “やさしさに包まれたなら/魔法の鏡” (released in April 1974), “Misslim” made its grand entrance in October 1974. The title refers to Yuming’s envy-inducing figure (Miss + Slim. See what she did there?) – but as vain a title that is, do not let it fool you. This album is soulful, warm, beaming with joy.

No corners were cut; the production on this thing is some of the best I’ve heard come out of the 70s, and frankly, all of recorded music. Warm, resonant, with Yuming’s voice piercing through all the layers, clear as day. The musicianship is, as on “ひこうき雲”, incredible. With Masataka Matsutoya (Yuming’s then-future husband) holding the reigns, the arrangements here are full, yet not “too much”, if you catch my drift. Talent including the likes of Caramel Mama and Sugar Babe was employed to bring that vision to life, to great avail. Shots were shot, and all of them were hits, save for one miss. And that Miss was only Slim.

And, well, about the songwriting? I don’t even have to mention it. Remember, this is Yuming we’re talking about – a composer who has proven her worth over the course of the last half century. Without being cryptic, yes, the songs on here are great. Side A is particularly good, but the highest highs can be met on side B – “魔法の鏡” (a song that even my hard-to-please mother likes) and the heart-warming “私のフランソワーズ” (WATASHIIIII NO FRAAAAANÇOIIIISE). Honestly some of Yuming’s greatest work to date, which is nuts considering the sheer amount of incredible songs she’s penned over the years.

9/10. DO THE MISSLIM, EVERYBODY! 🗣️🔥