Taeko Onuki – Sunshower

Taeko Ohnuki's 1977 album, with arrangements partly by Ryuichi Sakamoto and Stuff drummer Chris Parker in the band, is early city pop with a jazz-fusion feel. Her cool, slightly detached voice floats over sophisticated chords and tight grooves. Tokai, with its urban mood, and Summer Connection are the tracks to start with. Choose it for the genre's more understated, artful roots.