Love Live Life + One

Exploring "Love Will Make A Better You"

"Love Will Make A Better You" is an album released in 1971 by the Japanese group Love Live Life + One under King Records. This project was spearheaded by multi-instrumentalist Kosuke Ichihara, who brought together a collection of talented musicians from the Japanese underground scene. The lineup features notable artists such as guitarist Kimio Mizutani, keyboardist Hiro Yanagida, and bassist Masaoki Terakawa, among others.

Album Composition

The album is structured into two distinct sides. Side A is dominated by the nearly 18-minute experimental jazz-rock suite titled "The Question Mark." This extended piece showcases a blend of intricate arrangements and improvisational flair, characteristic of the jazz-rock genre. In contrast, Side B comprises shorter tracks that lean towards blues-rock and heavy funk. Songs like "Runnin' Free," "Love Will Make A Better You," and "Shadows Of The Mind" offer a more traditional rock sound infused with energetic rhythms.

Vocals and Instrumentation

Akira Fuse provides the lead vocals for the album. His style is a departure from his previous work in mainstream pop, delivering aggressive and soulful English rock performances. The instrumental contributions from the group are varied and rich, featuring saxophones, flutes, electric guitars, and a Hammond organ. This combination of instruments adds layers of texture to the tracks, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Production Details

The album benefits from the arrangements and compositions crafted by Kosuke Ichihara, ensuring a cohesive sound throughout the project. The liner notes for the original vinyl edition are credited to radio broadcaster Goro Itoi, providing context and insight into the album's creation. This collaborative effort reflects the experimental spirit of the early 1970s Japanese music scene, bridging genres and pushing artistic boundaries.