Well, this reminded me of nothing like the "A reconciliation of.." description below, but reminded me more of a Japanese vocalist who had been listening to John Stewart records, and very capably translating the style from his idiom to ours. No obvious accent at all. The Japanese instruments used sounded very much like mandolins, banjoes, etc. In other words, American folk, not zen. I think the reference to "Tom Dooley" below reveals the influence at work. Not bad at all, quite interesting to listen to.

“A reconciliation of the electric sounds of rock and the instruments of traditional Japanese music, performed in English but with the tranquil spirit of Zen” – original sleevenotes　This band of Japanese exiles released just one album, which first appeared in 1972 and makes its long-overdue CD debut here. A melodic and musicianly collection featuring Japanese instruments such as the shakuhachi, koto and taisho-goto alongside the traditional trappings of Western rock and roll, it’s a hugely enjoyable set that will appeal to all fans of Eastern-tinged psychedelia.East… not just a name, more a signpost, a direction, a path. East… a spirit, a reconciliation of the electric sounds of rock and the instruments of traditional Japanese music, performed in English but with the tranquil spirit of Zen. East… five musicians with one sound, one soul. East… like a single poem, asking you to listen to the sounds and soul of the whole earth.　RUESE SETO - Spent three years in India and learned English there. Also a love of Indian culture. Plays guitar. Main interest is in Japanese music. Wishes to create and tell the stories of ancient Japanese heroes. Born July 24th 1946.　GEN MORITA – Main instrument guitar. Mastered Japanese flute, shakuhachi and koto in three days. Has the uncanny ability to master any musical instrument. Was studying chemistry but found more importance in music. Born January 26th 1947.　TED YOSHIKAWA – Guitar, Japanese flute, harmonica, biwa, taisho-goto, balalaika, percussions. Born March 27th 1947. Determined since childhood to be a successful singer and guitarist. A whiz at impersonations. Real name: Tadahide.　FUMIO ADACHI – Got involved in music after hearing the Kingston Trio singing ‘Tom Dooley’. Interested in modern jazz and rock music., Studied harmony. Plays drums, organ, piano, percussions. Also loves spirituals. Born January 4th 1946.　NOBORU ASAHI – Bass guitar. In university, formed folk group called ‘Black Lily Singers’. Interested in creating a feeling of Zen in his music, something that remains inside you... alone in the blind wall… Born May 6th 1949.