Kimi Ga Suki * Raifu. That’s the title of Matthew Sweet’s new Japanese album and it means “I love you, life”. I think this CD is just what I needed right now. Matthew is absolutely my favorite artist of all time and it’s good to hear him upbeat and jangly, layered vocals and all.

He dedicates the album to the nation of Japan and all his Japanese fans. He says he’s a fan of theirs, just as they are his fans. But most of all, he wanted to let everyone know that he’s a fan of life – in love with living.

If Matthew can form The Thorns and put out a cool new album, the world is going to be OK. This really has cheered me up. Thanks Matthew, and thanks Nate for sending it to me.