1996 is a landmark in Ryuichi Sakamoto’s discography. Released initially in 1996, this intemporal and timeless album is celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2026. It has been celebrated as the album which has been the entry point to many around the world into Ryuichi Sakamoto’s prolific career as a composer and a pianist. The album is a collection of the master’s most popular compositions ranging from his iconic themes to “The Last Emperor”, “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” to “1919” and “A Day a Gorilla Gives a Banana” (two new, original compositions at the time of the album’s original release). All arranged for piano, cello and trio, these recordings are cherished by many as the most moving pieces of music produced and performed by Ryuichi Sakamoto.  The true definition of a classic album.

Milan Records is honored to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of 1996 by releasing for the first time in the West this album on vinyl and cassette format. Housed in its original visual design, the album has been fully remastered for vinyl to provide the best listening experience to Ryuichi Sakamoto’s fans around the world.