First Flight

Part of the Sugo! NIPPON JAZZ Masterpiece Selection Volume 1, this limited-edition release celebrates Japanese jazz from the 1960s-1980s that has earned global recognition. From Ultra Vybe's extensive catalog, it features the debut leader album by Mitsuaki Katayama-later known as Bison Katayama-originally released on Johnny's Disk before his move to the U.S. in 1985. The album includes the dance-jazz classic "Hatsuhikou, " a long-time favorite among DJs, "Michino Pointo" featured in a BBE compilation, and "Arizona Highway, " highlighting Kichiro Sugino's piano artistry. Revered as a powerful example of Japanese black jazz, this SACD Hybrid edition comes in a cardboard sleeve and is available at a special price for a limited time until April 30, 2026.