Amsterdam based record label Music From Memory third 12” release features two versions of the track “On Retinae” by the Japanese pop duo Dip In The Pool. With support from friend Yasuaki Shimizu (AKA Mariah) on clarinet, the track is pure end of the night pop perfection and something of a lost classic.
Originally appearing on Dip In The Pool’s 1989 LP of the same name, “On Retinae” was also pressed in Hong Kong as 50 copies only promo 12” release, the existence of which remained unknown even to the band themselves until recently. True to that original promo release Music From Memory have chosen to present both the ‘West’ (English Version) and ‘East’ (Japanese Version) again in 12” format.
Blending a unique sense of music and style, Dip In The Pool created a refined sense of dreamy minimal pop formed by the productions of Tatsjui Kimura and the ethereal, floating vocals of Miyako Koda. Something of a fashion icon and a much-photographed model in Japan, Miyako is also an actress and has appeared in a number of Japanese feature films.
Since their debut LP on the UK’s Rough Trade label in 1985, the group gained something of a cult following and have continued to record and perform live, with this 12” coming ahead of a much-deserved compilation of the groups work which is to be released by Warner Brothers digitally and on CD later this year.
Vibe to both versions of “On Retinae” below and grab a copy here.
