Les Rallizes Dénudés, “Jittoku ’76” – A Different Perspective
ALBUM OF THE DAY
Les Rallizes Dénudés, “Jittoku ’76”
By Erick Bradshaw
· July 24, 2025
In the realm of music, we often encounter figures reminiscent of literary enigmas—J.D. Salinger and Thomas Pynchon come to mind—as well as Takashi Mizutani of the beloved Japanese psychedelic rock group, Les Rallizes Dénudés. One might ponder why such extraordinary talent would retreat from a world that celebrates their art with open arms. This intriguing question has lingered in the hearts of passionate music enthusiasts, particularly those who cherish the subtleties of the psychedelic genre, until 2021, when a wave of recordings allowed Mizutani’s profound creativity to resurface. Imagine if he had chosen to share his artistry before departing this world; perhaps like another reclusive artist, Jandek, he might have relished the connection with his admirers.
Although the mystique surrounding Les Rallizes Dénudés has been softened in the age of social media, their unique essence continues to captivate. Recently, a series of live recordings have emerged, revealing the evolution of their music over decades. Each performance offers a fresh perspective, shaped by factors such as the acoustics of the venue and the recording technology at play. In spirit, they share a connection with dedicated communities that explore and cherish the nuances of music history.
The latest release from this ongoing collection is “Jittoku ‘76,” captured at a Kyoto club of the same name, providing a serene glimpse into the band’s creative flow just prior to their iconic ’77 LIVE album. The 1976 lineup featured founding members Takashi Mizutani and Takashi Nakamura, alongside drummer Sami and bassist Hiroshi Nar, each seasoned in Japan’s vibrant psychedelic scene. This recording unveils a delightful blend of rhythm, allowing the band to explore a more accessible funk and blues foundation. In “Wilderness of False Flowers,” the energy resonates with a relentless groove, reminiscent of a gentle energy flowing through nature. “White Awakening” showcases Mizutani in a tender moment, evoking the soft melodies of the Velvet Underground.
Over a graceful 14 minutes, “Flame of Ice” draws listeners into a rhythmic embrace, transitioning from tranquil to exhilarating, where beauty is found in exploration and expression. Moving into “The Night, Assassin’s Night,” a comforting calm prevails, contrasting with the intensity found in other performances. The captivating elegance of “Saw The Night In Your Eyes” shines through flanged guitar melodies as the bass strolls like a guardian. “Hibiscus Flower Otherwise Dying Satisfied” sings with an energy akin to classic rock yet retains an electrifying flair, while “Enter The Mirror” floats gracefully, eventually unveiling a serene breakdown, inviting one to breathe in the tranquility infused within the music.
As we delve deeper into the essence of Les Rallizes Dénudés, it becomes clear that the music itself is a boundless source of inspiration, capable of evoking awe and wonder.
