Description
The singer asuka ando, who continues to embody 〈LOVERS ROCK〉 and enjoys immense support from a wide range of generations, returns with a 7-inch release after a long hiatus. It features the 2026 version of “Miss Apricot,” a crossover lovers tune that could also be described as STREET SOUL, originally included on her second album, “Amai Hitokuchi.” Released in 2018, her second album is a masterpiece featuring many popular and hit songs, and “Miss Apricot” drew attention from its release as an eclectic track with 90s R&B flavors produced by Hatayoung, as well as a pop sensibility. Listening to it again now, however, its strong affinity with STREET SOUL—which sat alongside LOVERS ROCK in the UK during the 80s and 90s (an underground UK SOUL movement blending US SOUL/R&B, BRIT FUNK, REGGAE, and LOVERS ROCK, which later led to GROUND BEAT, RARE GROOVE, and ACID JAZZ, characterized by reggae-derived basslines, drum machine beats, and synthesizer sounds) is even more apparent. Perhaps unconsciously, it can be said that she anticipated the wave of re-evaluation of STREET SOUL and DISCO REGGAE that followed from 2020 onward. Furthermore, for this 7-inch release, the bass was re-recorded by MAH (Green Massive / Little Tempo), a different vocal take from the album was used, and producer Hatayoung himself re-mixed it, giving it a brand-new 2026 sound—it’s fantastic. The single release eight years later truly couldn’t have come at a better time.
The B-side is a superb instrumental version featuring Hatayoung’s refreshing keyboards and synths floating fantastically, with an AOR/BOOGIE feel!
It is also worth noting once again that the song’s expression—capturing the subtle, uncertain nuances of the heart, like the “texture of an apricot,” in a melancholic urban scene—is truly asuka ando at her best.
Mastered by Rei Taguchi (Saidera Mastering), who has worked on many of today’s talked-about releases, with artwork by NONCHELEEE, this 2026 must-buy 45rpm donut-hole record is completed in the finest possible form.
NOOLIO (ARRROUND Wicked Sound Maker)
【Credit】
Produced & Mixed by Hatayoung
Vocal & Lyrics by asuka ando
Key. Hatayoung / B. MAH ( GREEN MASSIVE / LITTLE TEMPO ) / Gt. Ryuichi “ARI” Matsumoto
Mastered by Rei Taguchi (Saidera Mastering)
Artwork & Design by NONCHELEEE
Tracklist:
Side-A: asuka ando - Miss Apricot
Side-B: Hatayoung - Apricot Love
