Originally released in 1979 as Bacco, Cha Cha Me finds Masayoshi Takanaka leaning into a smooth, sunlit mix of jazz fusion, melodic rock and West Coast pop. English-language vocals sit neatly alongside his bright, fluid guitar playing, giving the record an easy, open feel throughout.
From the infectious title track to the breezy Tokyo Lady and the more expansive Seventeen and Blue, this is Takanaka in polished, playful form. Richly arranged and full of character, Cha Cha Me stands as a distinctive, often overlooked entry in his celebrated catalogue.
