Michiro Endo - Off [Japanese Import] Michiro Endo

Released at the exact moment the world entered a new millennium, this remarkable album captures Michiro Endo at a pivotal point between two eras.

Released at midnight on January 1, 2000, precisely as the world crossed into the new millennium, this album is a fascinating snapshot of Michiro Endo standing at the threshold of a new century.

Following his previous self-titled work, the album continues to center on Endo’s intimate singer-songwriter style, with his voice and acoustic guitar forming the core of the music. However, the arrangements are expanded by several distinguished collaborators. Toshiaki Ishizuka of Zuno Keisatsu contributes drums—later joining Endo to form NOTALIN’S—while Norihiko Yamakita adds percussion and Daisuke Yamaguchi contributes saxophone.

The album is particularly significant within the catalog of Hokkyoku Bacteria, as it marks the label’s first release to feature lyrics and music entirely written and composed by Michiro Endo himself. The artwork also carries a deeply personal touch, incorporating photographs taken by Endo himself.

Combining the raw intimacy of his acoustic performances with carefully chosen instrumental textures, the album presents a compelling portrait of Endo's creativity at the turn of the millennium—personal, experimental, and unmistakably his own.