Ursula 1000’s fascination with Japan didn’t just stop with his love of Shibuya-kei and its massive influence on his sound's DNA. City Pop, that sub-genre of Japanese music from the late '70s and into the '80s that blended synth pop, soft rock, boogie, and jazz funk is something Ursula truly digs but never explored in his productions … until now. Japan’s Yuuko Sings, who Ursula discovered doing vocals for English art rock group Django Django, is an ideal fit for this collaboration. She’s sung on tracks for anime soundtracks and J-pop, plus she has a killer rap style to boot! "Life Is So Beautiful" is what emerged from this meeting of minds. Wrapped up in a bundle of bossa nova chords, tropical daytime nu disco beats, and that timeless City Pop sheen, Ursula and Yuuko have concocted the perfect summer cocktail. All this song needs is a pineapple wedge and a parasol.
Bill Speakman (Rhythm & Culture) – “I have been dying to hear this! The influences listed here blend so seamlessly and it still has that distinct Ursula 1000 vibe. Inspiring and perfectly timed with the recent explosion of interest in City Pop. A favorite for sure.”
Rory Hoy (Super Hi-Fi) – “This is amazing!”
Stevie Kotey (Chicken Lips) – “This is superb. Fantastic production.”
Steve / Fort Knox Five (Fort Knox Recordings) – “A delicious combo of sugary vocals and bubbly beats!”
Jon Wesley (Music Goes On Radio Show) – “Love it! Ursula always sounds so fresh. Great production, vibes and the tempo is perfect. I'll be playing this a lot.”
Gina Calicura (KALX 90.7) – “Immediately fell into a state of utter bliss less than halfway through this incredibly inviting track. It got me! The elements all coalesce into a perfect whole… it’s like good medicine! Ursula 1000 has crafted something very powerful here. This track gently - and gorgeously - beckons listeners to drop whatever it is they’re doing and just dance. Cannot wait to spin this on a show. So perfect!”
Available Now From: Bandcamp, Beatport, Apple Music, And Spotify.