Tatsuro Yamashita = Tatsuro Yamashita

"Melodies" occupies an interesting position in Tatsuro Yamashita's discography - it's neither his most acclaimed work nor his weakest, but rather a solid, professional album that showcases his songwriting maturity and vocal excellence. The increased creative control evidenced by his expanded songwriting role demonstrates an artist confident in his vision.

The album's blend of jazz, funk, and soul influences creates a cohesive listening experience that exemplifies the city pop genre's sophisticated approach to pop music. While some tracks like "Ashioto" may not fully connect, standout pieces like "Merry-Go-Round" and "Christmas Eve" have achieved lasting popularity.

"Melodies" serves as both an accessible entry point for new listeners and a solid addition for established fans. Its affordability and availability have helped introduce countless listeners to Yamashita's work, making it arguably more important for its role in expanding his audience than for any individual artistic breakthrough. For city pop enthusiasts, it remains an essential, if not revolutionary, addition to any collection.