Tokyo's Coolest Sound Japanese music and movie release and event announcement blog.Find out what's happening now in Tokyo and Japan's club, electro-pop, and Shibuya-kei-related scenes. Movable Type tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4 Patrick http://coolestsound.jp/ 2010-09-04T02:01:33Z [via Twitter] Interesting new design "lamp bulb" product Tri Terasu. TV commercial has music by YASUDA Toshiyuki. http://t.co/S0Y8j1a @ToshiyukiYasuda http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/22904198775 2010-09-04T02:01:33Z Interesting new design "lamp bulb" product Tri Terasu. TV commercial has music by YASUDA Toshiyuki. http://t.co/S0Y8j1a @ToshiyukiYasuda http://t.co/S0Y8j1a @ToshiyukiYasuda ]]> Halcali "Roman hikō" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7469 2010-09-03T16:02:01Z 2010-09-03T16:29:45Z Halcali's next single is a cover of Kome Kome Club's "Roman hikō" (1987), featuring Your Song Is Good. I love Halcali, but where did the rap go this time...? The song can be heard in a TV commercial for Sony's... Halcali's next single is a cover of Kome Kome Club's "Roman hikō" (1987), featuring Your Song Is Good. I love Halcali, but where did the rap go this time...?

The song can be heard in a TV commercial for Sony's Cybershot camera DSC-WX5.

Halcali "Roman hikō"

1. Roman hikō
2. Roman hikō (Instrumental)

Epic/Sony ESCL-3549
Out 9/15, ¥816
Order: Tower, Amazon, HMV, YesAsia, CDJapan

Halcali "Roman hikō"

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[via Twitter] This weekend is Blip Festival at Koenji High! YMCK, Saitone, Hally (VORC) and more Japan & int'l artists! http://tokyo.blipfestival.org/ http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/22837066384 2010-09-03T07:55:39Z This weekend is Blip Festival at Koenji High! YMCK, Saitone, Hally (VORC) and more Japan & int'l artists! http://tokyo.blipfestival.org/ http://tokyo.blipfestival.org/ ]]> "YMCK Player" (iPhone App) tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7527 2010-09-02T13:53:53Z 2010-09-02T14:09:10Z YMCK has renewed it's official web site with a bang, the release of a music app for iPhone and iPod touch that lets you ad-lib in 8-bit fashion while listening to your favorite songs from your iPod's library. There are... YMCK has renewed it's official web site with a bang, the release of a music app for iPhone and iPod touch that lets you ad-lib in 8-bit fashion while listening to your favorite songs from your iPod's library.

There are two editions, but you'll want to pick the one that comes with a built-in exclusive new YMCK song, titled "Music Flowing"! And no worries, it's available in the iTunes App Store of 90 countries.

"YMCK Player (with song)" (iPhone App)

Out now (9/1), ¥350
Buy:

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[via Twitter] YMCK official site renewed! http://www.ymck.net/ Also new "YMCK Player" app for iPhone/iPod touch just released! 350yen w/ exclusive song! http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/22716326960 2010-09-02T00:21:53Z YMCK official site renewed! http://www.ymck.net/ Also new "YMCK Player" app for iPhone/iPod touch just released! 350yen w/ exclusive song! http://www.ymck.net/ Also new "YMCK Player" app for iPhone/iPod touch just released! 350yen w/ exclusive song! ]]> Gig report: Rocketman Summer Fes 2010 - thank you for the music!! tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://9.7512 2010-09-01T13:47:58Z 2010-09-01T14:25:18Z Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday August 22, I went to Liquidroom in Ebisu for "Rocketman Summer Fes 2010", an event celebrating the 10 years since the debut of Rocketman, FUKAWA Ryō's music unit.... Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound

RocketmanOn Sunday August 22, I went to Liquidroom in Ebisu for "Rocketman Summer Fes 2010", an event celebrating the 10 years since the debut of Rocketman, Fukawa Ryō's music unit.

Let me sum up those 10 years briefly. Rocketman first started on Readymade and it was a unit formed of Fukawa Ryō with producer Konishi Yasuharu. First album "Flying Rocketman" contained a good amount of spoken word comedy, and some music tracks (a few borrowing from Pizzicato Five songs). 2nd album "Rocketman Deluxe", still on Readymade, wasn't a 2-piece unit anymore, and featured some more music with producers including FPM, Comoestas and Fukutomi Yukihiro. Afterwards, Fukawa went to concentrate more on his musical talents as a songwriter, and released two original albums, "Love, sea & music" and "The Sound of Musique". Recently he has had some success producing idol trio Cosmetics, and this month he released his first greatest hits album.

The 6-hour event featured many of his collaborators since the beginning, as well as some of his comedian friends between each set. The place was quite packed, he said there were over 1000 people!

]]> It started at 16:00 with Rocketman Deluxe, his DJ team with who he has a regular event at club Mishuku Web (every month 3rd Friday). They must have played for about an hour and I got there a bit before they finished, in time for an appearance by comedians Cool-Poko followed by a live set by Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone). He was accompanied by two other musicians, and played songs such as "Stompin' Jack Flash" and "Kiss & Ride".

Next was comedian Yamamoto Takahiro ("kita----!") followed by a DJ set by Verbal (m-flo). I think it was the first time I got to see him DJ, he was really good entertaining the crowd and his DJ skills are not to be discussed!

VerbalDJ KaoriDJ Kaori

Next though was DJ Kaori, a big name with TV spots advertising her many mainstream mix CDs. I was really wondering if she could mix at all. Her show did prove that she does have a few skills. One hilarious thing though is that she's accompanied by a big guy who picks the next record for her, which she'll listen to and either mix to it or reject it and go pick something by herself..! This turns her whole show into a big joke, whether intentionally or not. Anyway she looked good and always smiling, and she knows how to entertain her audience, that's what matters right..?! :)

Then there were two unknown comedians imitating Mariah Carey and Eddie Murphy, they were quite funny. They introduced the next DJ, FPM! He played along with their jokes before moving onto his set. He mixed house tracks and included "Without You" and "If you do, I do" from his latest album, and also his "Smells Like Teen Spirit" club remix. It had been a long time since I had seen FPM, but I was really happy to see he's in such good shape!

Rocketman Summer Fes 2010FPMFPM

Next comedians were none other than Ungirls! They haven't been so much on TV lately, but I like them a lot. They did a few of their "janga-janga" jokes that made them famous. Then they introduced the next DJ: Konishi Yasuharu! Konishi has a lot to do with Rocketman, and Fukawa kept thanking him for all what he did. His set started with Crazy Ken Band's latest single "1107", to continue with Sheena and the Rokkets "Lemon Tea" (from his remix collection album) and Kimura Kaela's "Ring a Ding Dong". He also played "Rocketman no Theme ~We are Rocketman!~" from "Flying Rocketman", for which Fukawa came on stage wearing a 「トマン」 ("toman") yellow sweater, that used to be completed by Konishi wearing 「ロケッ」 ("roke").

Rocketman Summer Fes 2010KONISHI YasuharuRocketman

Then it was Rocketman's turn to DJ, he started playing remixes by Konishi-san: Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" and SMAP's "Shake".
Around here there was a mini-set of a unit called Bakubaku Chicken, two girls wearing big glasses. They sang two songs. They were apparently given their name by DJ Fumiya of Rip Slyme, but no information is to be found online. It remains a mystery.

Rocketman Summer Fes 2010バクバクチキン

This was followed by Kongōchi Takeshi who did his famous air guitar performance. So funny especially after seeing him with his band yes, mama ok? earlier in August!

金剛地武志金剛地武志金剛地武志

There was also an appearance by comedy duo "itsumo kokokara" ("kanashii toki!!!"), who also haven't been seen much on TV recently. They did a few of their funny kamishibai-style sketches. Rocketman continued spinning with some of his songs including "Sweet Summer Song", "kako wa iranai", "kumo wa nagarete", capsule's "Jelly", also his recent track "dancemusic", and some Daft Punk.

Then it was time for Cosmetics! The three girls of the renewed unit arrived on stage and introduced themselves. Then they sang their first single "Love Is All II ~korekara hajimaru Story~". They each talked again saying thanks to their fans and families, and that was it.

CosmeticsCosmeticsCosmetics

Rocketman played a new original song called "Happy end of the world", the title definitely a nod to Pizzicato Five. The song will be available on iTunes within a few months. He also played the original Cosmetics' "Love Is All". Then it was time for the best of the show, Fukawa was alone on stage and played "shōshinmono kokufuku kōza" from "Rocketman Deluxe", the song made to fit his hilarious one-liner jokes. He had a whole bunch of new up-to-date ones about Twitter, iPhone, AKB48, etc. That was just awesome!

RocketmanRocketmanRocketman

The event was reaching its end, he played "thank you for the music", another new songs from his greatest hits album. The show closed with all the comedians and artists coming back on stage, and the last song that was played was nothing but Pizzicato Five's "a new song"!!! He said that his DJ unit loves this song and they play it every time. The crowd had been getting a bit tired after 6 hours standing, but the last energy rush made everyone dance again and even sing along!

Rocketman Summer Fes 2010Rocketman Summer Fes 2010Rocketman Summer Fes 2010

I didn't buy the greatest hits album, because I had most of the songs already, but I did buy one of those great T-shirts for the event. I'm usually not very fond of summer festivals, but make it indoors and with some of my favorite DJs and I'll be there. :)

Larger sizes and more photos at Flickr

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[via Twitter] Cookies with record jackets, made by Twee Grrrls Club (@tweegrrrlsclub) http://twitpic.com/2iwfs0 RT @JETSET_Tokyo_ http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/22366238482 2010-08-29T01:31:43Z Cookies with record jackets, made by Twee Grrrls Club (@tweegrrrlsclub) http://twitpic.com/2iwfs0 RT @JETSET_Tokyo_ tweegrrrlsclub) http://twitpic.com/2iwfs0 RT @JETSET_Tokyo_ ]]> [via Twitter] Vanilla Beans 24 hours truck life live on Ustream. (Still just waking up.) http://ustre.am/n6Io #niowanai http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/22310565467 2010-08-28T09:22:18Z Vanilla Beans 24 hours truck life live on Ustream. (Still just waking up.) http://ustre.am/n6Io #niowanai http://ustre.am/n6Io #niowanai ]]> Gig report: Club Aloe tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://9.7510 2010-08-27T17:00:29Z 2010-08-27T17:23:34Z Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Two weeks ago, on August 10, I had the chance to see what I believe was the first show by Club Aloe, a new band by 5 ex-members of Modern... Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound

Club AloeTwo weeks ago, on August 10, I had the chance to see what I believe was the first show by Club Aloe, a new band by 5 ex-members of Modern Choki Chokies, a collective that used to feature several dozens of members, one of my favorite bands of all time from the early/mid-90's.

The new band features Nullpyon (vocals), Isoda Osamu (guitar), Kajino Hideki (bass), Yoshigaki Yasuhiro (drums), and Inoue Kōichi on "electric taishō-goto". While describing themselves as "beauty and health punk band", they're actually a mix of many genres. Formerly in Modern Choki Chokies, I believe Nullpyon used to be a sort of dancer/entertainer, with some vocal parts.

All the band members were just way too good for the tiny venue, Mandala 2 in Kichijoji, making me feel very spoiled! Isoda Osamu's crazy guitar solos were awesome, and the bass and drums really tight. I was also amazed by the taishō-goto, a rare instrument I hadn't seen before, actually a 100-year old type of koto, here in an electric variation.

]]> Club AloeClub Aloe

And Nullpyon! What a character! His voice and singing were really powerful. He never stopped singing or talking throughout the whole 2+ hour show! You'd think they'd manage to fit some 20 songs in a show of that length, but he spent about as much time joking with the band members between each song. There was also a lot of interaction with the crowd too. It was all hilarious, and somewhat felt very Osaka style!

Club AloeClub Aloe

The show actually contained a few songs from Nullpyon's album from 1994 under the band name "kaminari Marathon", and also what seemed to be a bunch of original songs. Watch a clip from the show below, the song is "Antmusic".

By the way, that old album can be actually heard entirely at Club Aloe's MySpace, but I just had to buy it on my way out of the show. I hesitated also getting the cool "Punk Again" T-shirt, will have to next time I see them!

Larger sizes at Flickr

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Various Artists "Speedking Vol.3", "Speedking Vol.1 Remastered and Separated" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7411 2010-08-26T12:21:41Z 2010-08-26T12:25:19Z J-death techno label Speedking Productions brings a 3rd compilation of original tracks. The 2-CD release features YOSHIDA Tetsuto, Bubble-B, Cherryboy Function, Leopaldon, Hally (VORC Records) , omoshiro Sangokushi and many others. Out at the same time is a re-issue of... J-death techno label Speedking Productions brings a 3rd compilation of original tracks. The 2-CD release features Yoshida Tetsuto, Bubble-B, Cherryboy Function, Leopaldon, Hally (VORC Records) , omoshiro Sangokushi and many others.

Out at the same time is a re-issue of volume 1, now remastered and "separated" (non-mixed).

Various Artists "Speedking Vol.3"

(Title/Artist)
CD 1
1. Take me the dance floor / SamplingMasters AYA
2. Hypermedia Selector / Yoshida Tetsuto
3. Roll you up / Cherryboy Function
4. Twilight NU ZONE / MISSILE CHEWBACCA
5. seven force / DJ io & Tsu-ji-
6. SUNDAY EVERYDAY / DJ SHARPNEL
7. D.G.R. / Dee! feat. Rakutensai
8. keep on dancing (hard hard hard) / genkai LOVERZ
9. Dangerous / m2dy

CD 2
1. Final Rave / Yam
2. KAWASAKI IMPACT / BUBBLE-B
3. Reloaded World / M-Project ft. GUHROOVY
4. Baby into the RAVE / SamplingMasters MEGA
5. faminator / Hally
6. EXCITING HYPER NIGHT / LEOPALDON
7. Yellow Warriors (360000 Death) / omoshiro Sangokushi
8. S.D.I -Shousei Dust Identity- / 232COMIT
9. Hold U Now (Pornstar's Hardcore Remix) / DJ SHIMAMURA

Speedking Productions SPK-05
Out now (8/25), ¥2100
Order: Amazon, Tower (Japan only), HMV

Various Artists "Speedking Vol.1 Remastered and Separated"

(Title/Artist)
1. Rave Hurricane / yam (a.k.a.SmileHunters/Valou)
2. Kawasaki Emergency / BUBBLE-B
3. Playing with 92's / DJ io
4. tōsōsanbika ~Running Machine~ / DJ TECHNORCH
5. Scritti Politici / Yoshida Tetsuto
6. beat the meat (2 old MEGADANCE) / Missile Chewbacca
7. The Snap of death / Vultures of Death (from pile of sogshit)
8. Activate / Warping Allergen
9. DEATH BULLDOZER / LEOPALDON
10. PARTY LOVER / M-Project&AGITATOR
11. Pump This Party!! / Dee!
12. CYBER HOLIC -The Paradise of Shousei- / 232COMIT
13. RAVE200008 / DJ SHARPNEL
14. Pessimism (BREAK MIX) / DAT Zoid

Speedking Productions SPKR-01
Out now (8/25), ¥1890
Order: Amazon, Tower (Japan only), HMV

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Panda 1/2 "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji" (Download) tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7485 2010-08-24T15:20:14Z 2010-08-25T15:56:11Z Half-Chinese neo-Shibuya-kei unit Panda 1/2 has a new single available for download on iTunes starting right now. Titled "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji", with a big wink to Pizzicato Five (taking account for the time difference), this fun track has... Half-Chinese neo-Shibuya-kei unit Panda 1/2 has a new single available for download on iTunes starting right now. Titled "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji", with a big wink to Pizzicato Five (taking account for the time difference), this fun track has a definite Shibuya-kei touch. This is their first major release.

Audio sample at Victor (click the "WMP" icon)

Panda 1/2 "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji" (Download)

Victor VE2ML-15285
Out now (8/25), ¥200
Order:

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TRI4TH "TRI4TH" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7291 2010-08-24T14:02:25Z 2010-08-24T14:11:14Z SUNAGA Tatsuo has produced the first album of instrumental jazz band TRI4TH (MySpace) (pronounced in Japanese like "Triforce"), who recently played KONISHI Yasuharu's soundtrack live for musical "Talk Like Singing". This album features guest musicians Jukka Eskola (trumpeter of Five... Sunaga Tatsuo has produced the first album of instrumental jazz band TRI4TH (MySpace) (pronounced in Japanese like "Triforce"), who recently played Konishi Yasuharu's soundtrack live for musical "Talk Like Singing". This album features guest musicians Jukka Eskola (trumpeter of Five Corners Quintet) and Italian saxophonist Max Ionata.

TRI4TH "TRI4TH"

1. WISDOMINANT feat. Jukka Eskola
2. Yellow Butterfly
3. Little Italy feat. Max Ionata
4. Janome De Dance
5. The Way Of The World
6. Hustle March
7. BMW no onna
8. Sahara
9. PC-caution!
10. Sonic City
11. A Rainy Holiday

P-Vine PECF-3007
Out now (8/25), ¥2500
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV, Amazon, CDJapan

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[via Twitter] Halcali's upcoming single "Roman hikou" can be heard in this new Sony Cyber-shot commercial. http://t.co/cc8o4OO Single release coming 9/15 http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21658578232 2010-08-20T21:00:20Z Halcali's upcoming single "Roman hikou" can be heard in this new Sony Cyber-shot commercial. http://t.co/cc8o4OO Single release coming 9/15 http://t.co/cc8o4OO Single release coming 9/15 ]]> [via Twitter] Nevermind that Yajima Biyoushitsu should have been a one shot, video "Hamaguri Bomber" feats Kinoco Hotel as a backband! http://t.co/CwcZ3Ro http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21658338983 2010-08-20T20:56:11Z Nevermind that Yajima Biyoushitsu should have been a one shot, video "Hamaguri Bomber" feats Kinoco Hotel as a backband! http://t.co/CwcZ3Ro http://t.co/CwcZ3Ro ]]> [via Twitter] Maia Barouh "ikiru" live w/ Buffalo Daughter, watch @ YouTube http://youtu.be/ZGeBkFnAe4M RT @buffalodaughter @maiabarouh http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21491365731 2010-08-18T22:46:20Z Maia Barouh "ikiru" live w/ Buffalo Daughter, watch @ YouTube http://youtu.be/ZGeBkFnAe4M RT @buffalodaughter @maiabarouh http://youtu.be/ZGeBkFnAe4M RT @buffalodaughter @maiabarouh ]]> Meg "Passport / Paris" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7409 2010-08-18T13:14:48Z 2010-08-18T13:15:10Z Following the release of album "Maverick" last June, Meg has a new single coming, her 2nd this year. This double-A-sider is produced by NAKATA Yasutaka (capsule). The single is available in advance starting today on iTunes Japan. Meg "Passport /... Following the release of album "Maverick" last June, Meg has a new single coming, her 2nd this year. This double-A-sider is produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule).

The single is available in advance starting today on iTunes Japan.

Meg "Passport / Paris"

1. Passport
2. Paris
3. Paris (T12X-mix)

Universal UPCH-5666
Out 8/25, ¥1200
Order: Tower, HMV, Amazon, YesAsia, CDJapan,

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[via Twitter] NOMOTO Karia modeled for a wedding-themed compilation of bossa covers. She doesn't sing though. iTunes: http://bit.ly/a4oAVQ http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21410137778 2010-08-18T00:08:40Z NOMOTO Karia modeled for a wedding-themed compilation of bossa covers. She doesn't sing though. iTunes: http://bit.ly/a4oAVQ http://bit.ly/a4oAVQ ]]> [via Twitter] Just realized that KONISHI Yasuharu-produced Ryō-san single from last year had Cubismo Grafico Five for back band! http://bit.ly/bUc7mn http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21320241915 2010-08-16T23:44:40Z Just realized that KONISHI Yasuharu-produced Ryō-san single from last year had Cubismo Grafico Five for back band! http://bit.ly/bUc7mn http://bit.ly/bUc7mn ]]> Gig report: Rehabilitation: yes, mama ok? & Yume to Cosme tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://9.7476 2010-08-15T11:09:27Z 2010-08-15T11:11:54Z Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday August 6, I went to mona records in Shimokitazawa for an event called "Rehabilitation", featuring a show by mid-90's indies band "yes, mama ok?". 5 years ago leader... Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound

On Friday August 6, I went to mona records in Shimokitazawa for an event called "Rehabilitation", featuring a show by mid-90's indies band "yes, mama ok?". 5 years ago leader Kongōchi Takeshi suddenly started showing up on variety TV programs in Japan, acclaimed for representing Japan and getting a 4th place in an air guitar contest in Finland (watch on YouTube). This prompted for a brief comeback, and the release of boxed set "Incomplete Questions" (2008) reissuing of their now rare CDs. This time was their first show in 4 years, and hopefully the band might be caught on stage more regularly! This time the show sold out in a day, and needless to say mona records' small 3rd floor space was packed!

]]> The event also featured Yume to Cosme. I was especially excited to see them as it had been a while, and it was also the first time I saw them since they changed their name at the beginning of the year (they were previously known as solange et delphine). The band has two faces, sometimes performing as a DJ techno-pop unit in a house-y style, but this time they played with a full band in their original jazzy style with piano, violin, guitar, bass and drums.

They played the three songs from their latest release (single "zettai Love Motion"), some earlier ones, and a song they wrote for Akiba-kei maid idol unit mellow.

Set list: Yume to Cosme / deaigashira no ichibyōgo / taiyō no shoi ~ One More Love ~ / kono koi, kyūsekkin! (mellow) / mahō no Powderly / New York Walk on Fame / zettai Love Motion

ユメトコスメユメトコスメ

Next up was yes, mama ok?. Kongōchi played guitar and sang, accompanied by bass, drums and chorus, and a guy who played occasional saxophone bits.

The set contained maybe some 20 songs, only a few that I knew, and despite some parts of the show sounding a bit like rehab wasn't quite over yet, I was really pleased to hear Kongōchi's great guitar playing (he's not only good at air guitar) and singing. Songs I recognized included "Coffee Cup de Rendez-vous" and "The Charm of English Muffin".

yes, mama ok?yes, mama ok?

Larger sizes and more photos at Flickr


yes, mama ok? "Coffee Cup de Rendez-vous"

Yume to Cosme (then solange et delphine) "mahō no Powderly"

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ISHINO Takkyū "Cruise" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7376 2010-08-14T03:03:00Z 2010-08-15T10:32:32Z ISHINO Takkyū (Denki Groove) has a new mini-album coming next week! This is his first original solo release since the "Title" series (2004). The first pressing comes as a digipak. All tracks can be sampled at his official site by... Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove) has a new mini-album coming next week! This is his first original solo release since the "Title" series (2004). The first pressing comes as a digipak.

All tracks can be sampled at his official site by clicking "Cruise Sample" (part of a random track is played each time).

Ishino Takkyū "Cruise"

1. Feb4
2. Spring Divide
3. SpinOut
4. Hukkle
5. Arek
6. Y.H.F.

Ki/oon KSCL-1614
Out 8/18, ¥2300
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower, Tower, CDJapan, YesAsia

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[via Twitter] New video from pupa, "dreaming pupa ~yume miru bokura~" @ YouTube: http://is.gd/egRHi Album info: http://bit.ly/96LPrT http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/21117020076 2010-08-14T11:47:55Z New video from pupa, "dreaming pupa ~yume miru bokura~" @ YouTube: http://is.gd/egRHi Album info: http://bit.ly/96LPrT http://is.gd/egRHi Album info: http://bit.ly/96LPrT ]]> Crazy Ken Band "Mint Condition" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7385 2010-08-12T13:41:17Z 2010-08-12T13:46:50Z Crazy Ken Band has a brand new album out this week! Included is an album version of title track from single "1107" released last month, and a cover of Korean singer Park Sang Chul's "mujōken" (original at YouTube), for a... Crazy Ken Band has a brand new album out this week! Included is an album version of title track from single "1107" released last month, and a cover of Korean singer Park Sang Chul's "mujōken" (original at YouTube), for a total of 21 tracks!

There's a limited edition containing a bonus DVD of 7 songs from a recent live show in Osaka.

Crazy Ken Band "Mint Condition"

1. 1107 -album version-
2. Mint Condition
3. Singapura
4. Hong Kong Typhoon
5. Body Talk
6. Hideaway
7. eye catch -mekurumeku sekai-
8. Revolution Pop
9. MOTTAINAI
10. migaki
11. Yokosukan Miracle
12. Station Wagon
13. Revolution Funk
14. eye catch -from editor-
15. kebyō
16. kankō Twist
17. mujōken
18. eye catch -negishi jocky club-
19. Merry Christmas 4-093
20. Shantung
21. chisō

DVD (Limited edition only)
Official Bootleg Live DVD (Mint Condition 2010 at BigCat Osaka 2010.6.18)
1. Medley - Intro / chōjamachi Blues
2. Hama-fū
3. Zero
4. Medley - Hong Kong Typhoon / kebyō / Singapura
5. Request corner (romen densha)
6. Suzy Wong no sekai
7. Girlfriend
8. 1107 (PV) (Live video ver.) (Bonus video track)

Limited edition (CD+DVD)
DoubleJoy International UMCK-9369
Out now (8/11), ¥3800
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV (15% off), Amazon (20% off on pre-orders), CDJapan, YesAsia

Regular edition (CD only)
DoubleJoy International UMCK-1365
Out now (8/11), ¥3000
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV, Amazon, CDJapan, YesAsia,

"1107"

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[via Twitter] 5 ex-members of Modern Choki Chokies formed a new band: Club Aloe! First show tomorrow Aug. 10 in Kichijoji! Info: http://bit.ly/b7QevE http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/20705396732 2010-08-09T21:53:09Z 5 ex-members of Modern Choki Chokies formed a new band: Club Aloe! First show tomorrow Aug. 10 in Kichijoji! Info: http://bit.ly/b7QevE http://bit.ly/b7QevE ]]> [via Twitter] Halcali will play a special mini-live at HMV Shibuya on August 21 from 14:00. HMV Shibuya closes the next day. http://is.gd/e6Gdy @harusen http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/20508042069 2010-08-07T08:46:17Z Halcali will play a special mini-live at HMV Shibuya on August 21 from 14:00. HMV Shibuya closes the next day. http://is.gd/e6Gdy @harusen http://is.gd/e6Gdy @harusen ]]> Gig report: FUJIMURA Tohru + YASUDA Toshiyuki "Shimokitazawa Silent Disco" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://9.7455 2010-08-05T14:50:58Z 2010-08-05T14:50:37Z Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Recently I got to go to an interesting event held in a café called Slow Comedy Factory in Shimokitazawa. Limited to some 30 people, as many seats as there were,... Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound

FUJIMURA Toru + YASUDA ToshiyukiRecently I got to go to an interesting event held in a café called Slow Comedy Factory in Shimokitazawa. Limited to some 30 people, as many seats as there were, the event featured electro artists Fujimura Tohru and Yasuda Toshiyuki (MySpace) (ex-member of Fantastic Plastic Machine).

The music made its way to everyone's ears through headphones, brought by each, connected to serial-linked hubs dispersed around the room. I had heard of this sort of event before, such as the worldwide Le Placard festival, which was also held in Tokyo until 2008.

FUJIMURA Toru + YASUDA ToshiyukiFUJIMURA Toru + YASUDA Toshiyuki

]]> What they played was entirely improvised music, performed on various sync'd instruments. The sound was rather techno with constant beats. They played two sets, each consisting of one evolving song.

FUJIMURA Toru + YASUDA ToshiyukiFUJIMURA Toru + YASUDA Toshiyuki

In between they talked about how listening to music through headphones can make you more attentive and absorbed, and if someone was to tap your shoulder it might make you jump in surprise. Also many people were using their phones (browsing, reading emails, etc.) while it wouldn't usually be at a regular show.

I found it a really fun experience and will definitely be willing to attend this kind of show again!


Yasuda Toshiyuki released last year an album of children's songs with an electronic flavor, "Children's Songs 2050", and recently a remix mini-album titled "Renix".

Larger sizes and more photos at Flickr

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Perfume "VOICE" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7365 2010-08-05T12:18:28Z 2010-08-18T14:22:00Z Next week brings a brand new single by Perfume, again of course produced by NAKATA Yasutaka (capsule)! Check out the teaser video clip below. There is (was?) a limited edition too, including a bonus DVD with the title track's video... Next week brings a brand new single by Perfume, again of course produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule)! Check out the teaser video clip below.

There is (was?) a limited edition too, including a bonus DVD with the title track's video clip, but it seems to have sold out for pre-order online. You might still be able to get a copy at YesAsia, or in real stores once out...

Perfume "VOICE"

1. VOICE
2. 575 
3. VOICE -Original Instrumental-
4. 575 -Original Instrumental-

Regular edition (CD only)
Tokuma Japan TKCA-73565
Out 8/11, ¥1000
Order: YesAsia, CDJapan, Tower (Japan only), Amazon, HMV

Limited edition (CD+DVD)
Tokuma Japan TKCA-73560
Out 8/11, ¥1300
Order: YesAsia, Amazon

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Various Artists "VerSus 'Japanese Rock VS FPM' selected and non-stop mixed by FPM" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7418 2010-08-03T12:41:22Z 2010-08-03T12:41:58Z FPM starts a new series of mix CDs, titled "VerSus". In the first he has his take on J-rock, mixing rocking tracks while keeping a club attitude. The first pressing comes in a specially printed jewel case, like it was... FPM starts a new series of mix CDs, titled "VerSus". In the first he has his take on J-rock, mixing rocking tracks while keeping a club attitude.

The first pressing comes in a specially printed jewel case, like it was for the "Sound Concierge" series.

Various Artists "VerSus 'Japanese Rock VS FPM' selected and non-stop mixed by FPM"

1. shinseiki no Love Song / Asian Kung-Fu Generation
2. I Don't Wanna Be With You / Zazen Boys
3. O.K. Funky God / Suzuki Ami joins Buffalo Daughter
4. kōfuku na chōshoku taikutsu na yūshoku / Saitō Kazuyoshi
5. nōdōteki 3punkan / Tokyo Jihen
6. Q&A / 100s
7. Man-like Creatures / Straightener
8. wakamono no subete / Fujifabric
9. Caramel Flavor / Sister Jet
10. Acacia / Remioromen
11. nagisa / Spitz
12. hoshi / Sokabe Keiichi Band
13. sonar / sleepy.ab
14. Pretty Little Darling / Ōhashi Trio
15. Yes ~free flower~ / My Little Lover
16. Native Dancer / Sakanaction
17. sekitō / Acidman
18. Shangri-La / Chatmonchy
19. Sunday 2010 / Tokyo No.1 Soul Set
20. kensaku shōnen / Nanao Tavito
21. ai shi ai sarete ikiru no sa / Ozawa Kenji
22. tsuki ni saku hana no yō ni naru no / Sambomaster

avex trax AVCD-38079
Out 8/4, ¥2100
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV, Amazon, YesAsia, CDJapan

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[via Twitter] See Kahimi Karie and her baby girl, named Niki. http://milkjapon.com/feature/2010/07/kahimi-karie.html RT @hakujins http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/20134664682 2010-08-02T21:13:52Z See Kahimi Karie and her baby girl, named Niki. http://milkjapon.com/feature/2010/07/kahimi-karie.html RT @hakujins http://milkjapon.com/feature/2010/07/kahimi-karie.html RT @hakujins ]]> Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no kyūjitsu" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7390 2010-08-01T11:50:59Z 2010-08-06T23:38:36Z Girl neo-G.S. band Kinoco Hotel has a new mini-album just around the corner. The title means "Marianne's holiday", and it consists of 6 covers of cult Showa kayō songs. Definitely hard to resist! The release is already available in advance... Girl neo-G.S. band Kinoco Hotel has a new mini-album just around the corner. The title means "Marianne's holiday", and it consists of 6 covers of cult Showa kayō songs. Definitely hard to resist! The release is already available in advance on iTunes Japan.

The CD contains the funny video "mayonaka no Angel Baby" as CD-Extra, which shows the members having their revenge on singer/keyboardist Marianne's sadistic character. Watch it below.

Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no kyūjitsu"

1. mayonaka no Angel Baby (Original: Hirayama Miki (1975))
2. Peacock Baby (Original: Ōhara Reiko (1968))
3. koi wa kibun (Original: Poppies (1974))
4. koi wa furimukanai (Original: The Lingers (1969))
5. nazo no onna B (Original: Hiraoka Seiji (1967))
6. yamaneko no uta (Original: Elza (1973))

Wax Records TKCA-73550
Out 8/4, ¥2100
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV, Amazon, CDJapan,

"mayonaka no Angel Baby" music video

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[via Twitter] Sad news... Singer-songwriter bice passed away on July 26 at the age of 38. http://bice.jp/ http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/19902356844 2010-07-30T20:17:24Z Sad news... Singer-songwriter bice passed away on July 26 at the age of 38. http://bice.jp/ http://bice.jp/ ]]> Rocketman "thank you for the music!" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7187 2010-07-29T14:05:41Z 2010-07-29T14:05:25Z Rocketman (aka comedian Fukawa Ryō) has a greatest hits album coming soon. Aside from 7 songs from his two solo albums ("Love, sea & music" (2006) and "The Sound of Musique" (2007)), included are 3 songs he produced by Cosmetics, 3 recent non-album tracks (previously available for download), 1 song featuring Suzuki Ami (from her album "Dolce"), and perhaps (unless I missed something) one brand new song. Still some "album edits" suggest that these could be versions different than those previously released.

A release party titled "Rocketman Summer Fes 2010" will be held at Ebisu Liquid Room on August 22, featuring DJs Konishi Yasuharu, FPM, Nakatsuka Takeshi, and more. Details at Tokyo Gig Guide. Rocketman celebrates his 10th anniversary in music, since his debut with Konishi Yasuharu.

Rocketman "thank you for the music!"

(Title / Artist)
1. dancemusic / ROCKETMAN
2. FLY AWAY (album edit) / ROCKETMAN feat. KARIN
3. EVERYDAY (album edit) / ROCKETMAN feat. eico
4. IN THE LIGHT / ROCKETMAN feat. Sakai Yu
5. LOVE IS ALL / COSMETICS produced by ROCKETMAN
6. kako wa iranai (album edit) / ROCKETMAN
7. tomorrow / COSMETICS produced by ROCKETMAN
8. itsumo no asa / ROCKETMAN feat. Hitomitoi
9. kumo wa nagarete (album edit) / ROCKETMAN
10. korekara otozureru subete no kanashimi e / ROCKETMAN
11. ai no uta / Suzuki Ami joins ROCKETMAN feat. YOU THE ROCK★
12. LOVE IS ALL II ~korekara hajimaru story~ / ROCKETMAN feat. COSMETICS
13. Romantique 66 / ROCKETMAN
14. thank you for the music! / ROCKETMAN
15. LifegoesON2.0 (album edit) / ROCKETMAN

Victor VICL-63645
Out 8/4, ¥2500
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower (Japan only), YesAsia, CDJapan

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[via Twitter] New Uniqlo Calendar with FPM's music, a cover of "Toreador Song"! http://www.uniqlo.com/calendar/ @tomoyukitanaka @FPM_report http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/19825061527 2010-07-29T22:19:44Z New Uniqlo Calendar with FPM's music, a cover of "Toreador Song"! http://www.uniqlo.com/calendar/ @tomoyukitanaka @FPM_report http://www.uniqlo.com/calendar/ @tomoyukitanaka @FPM_report ]]> pupa "dreaming pupa", "floating 6 pupas ~Live in Tokyo 2008~" (DVD) tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7288 2010-07-28T13:50:40Z 2010-08-14T02:47:38Z All-star band pupa (*), that was believed by many to be a one-time thing, is back with a 2nd album out now! Released at the same time is a live DVD containing a full show held in November 2008. Also... All-star band pupa (*), that was believed by many to be a one-time thing, is back with a 2nd album out now! Released at the same time is a live DVD containing a full show held in November 2008.

Also available as a download release is a remix EP of songs from the new album. Remixers include Miyauchi Yuri and i am robot and proud.

(*) pupa is Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO), Harada Tomoyo, Takano Hiroshi (HAAS), Takada Ren, Horie Hirohisa (Neil and Iraiza) and Gondō Tomohiko (anonymass).

Audio samples at HMV

pupa "dreaming pupa"

1. Meta
2. Changing Skies
3. Azalea ~5gatsu no hikari - kimi no inai michi~
4. Mr. Epigone
5. dreaming pupa ~yume miru bokura~
6. Current
7. Circadian Rhythm
8. Your Favorite Pain
9. All It Takes
10. If
11. Away Into Yesterday
12. Dun
13. Let's, Let's Dance
14. Kaleidoscope Waltz

EMI TOCT-26960
Out now (7/28), ¥3000
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower (Japan only), , CDJapan, YesAsia

pupa "floating 6 pupas ~Live in Tokyo 2008~" (DVD)

pupa Live Tour 2008 "floating 6 pupas" Shibuya C.C.Lemon Hall 30 November 2008
1. Jargon -What's pupa-
2. Unfixed Stars
3. At Dawn
4. Home Of My Heart
5. Tameiki
6. marimo
7. Lov
8. floating pupa
9. Laika
10. Cicada
11. Sunny Day Blue
12. Glass
13. Are You There?
14. Creaks
15. Anywhere
16. Eternally
17. New Order
18. It's Gonna Work Out (Encore)
19. Romance (Encore)
20. How? (Encore)

Bonus Movie
pupa Live 2008 "Preparation ~Before Floating~" at LIQUIDROOM, Ebisu June 2, 2008
Jargon / What's pupa- / Unfixed Stars / At Dawn ~MC / Glass ~MC / Home Of My Heart / How?

EMI TOBF-5677
Out now (7/28), ¥4800
Order: Amazon (27% off on pre-orders), HMV (23% off on pre-orders), Tower (Japan only), CDJapan, YesAsia

pupa "dreaming pupa pre-remix e.p."

1. Mr. Epigone -miyauchi yuri ael_remix-
2. Kaleidoscope Waltz -GND remix-
3. dreaming pupa -i am robot and proud remix-
4. Meta -GND remix-

EMI DD-01221
Out now (7/14), ¥450
Sample/buy:

"dreaming pupa ~yume miru bokura~"

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[via Twitter] RT @ZacBentz: New Perfume song/video "Voice." Watch it while you still can! http://bit.ly/coFl1b http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/19580431214 2010-07-27T00:08:57Z RT @ZacBentz: New Perfume song/video "Voice." Watch it while you still can! http://bit.ly/coFl1b ZacBentz: New Perfume song/video "Voice." Watch it while you still can! http://bit.ly/coFl1b ]]> [via Twitter] Club Aloe is a new band of 5 members of Modern Choki Chokies! Many songs up on MySpace: http://is.gd/dJJZ9 Show on Aug. 10 @ Mandala 2! http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/19571168355 2010-07-26T21:55:12Z Club Aloe is a new band of 5 members of Modern Choki Chokies! Many songs up on MySpace: http://is.gd/dJJZ9 Show on Aug. 10 @ Mandala 2! http://is.gd/dJJZ9 Show on Aug. 10 @ Mandala 2! ]]> [via Twitter] Great new video by Kinoco Hotel, "mayonaka no Angel Baby", from upcoming cover album "Marianne no kyuujitsu" http://youtu.be/UsySlDDrjO0 http://twitter.com/coolestsound/statuses/19501442845 2010-07-25T23:58:16Z Great new video by Kinoco Hotel, "mayonaka no Angel Baby", from upcoming cover album "Marianne no kyuujitsu" http://youtu.be/UsySlDDrjO0 http://youtu.be/UsySlDDrjO0 ]]> SUNAHARA Yoshinori "Subliminal" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7345 2010-07-25T14:41:43Z 2010-07-25T14:43:15Z SUNAHARA Yoshinori is back with a first original solo release since "Lovebeat" (2001)! That's if you don't count soundtrack "No Boys, No Cry" (2009) and the collaboration single "kamisama no iu tōri" out recently. This new EP consisting of 4... Sunahara Yoshinori is back with a first original solo release since "Lovebeat" (2001)! That's if you don't count soundtrack "No Boys, No Cry" (2009) and the collaboration single "kamisama no iu tōri" out recently.

This new EP consisting of 4 brand new tracks! The release is said to be a time limited edition until January 2011, so it's best to buy early. A new album is rumored to be coming soon...

Sunahara Yoshinori "Subliminal"

1. The First Step
2. subliminal
3. Unconscious Fragment
4. Capacity

Ki/oon KSCL-1665
Out 7/28, ¥1223
Order: Tower (Japan only), HMV, Amazon, YesAsia, CDJapan

See also:
Sunahara Yoshinori "Works '95-'05"

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Rocketman "dancemusic" (Download) tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7429 2010-07-25T02:12:21Z 2010-07-25T02:13:21Z 2 weeks ahead of an upcoming greatest hits album, Rocketman offers an iTunes-only collection of 8 recent works. Aside of 6 that can be found on the upcoming album ("thank you for the music" is previously unreleased though), there's a... 2 weeks ahead of an upcoming greatest hits album, Rocketman offers an iTunes-only collection of 8 recent works.

Aside of 6 that can be found on the upcoming album ("thank you for the music" is previously unreleased though), there's a previously released remix of "Love Is All", and then there's a new remix of "dancemusic" that won't be included on the album.

Rocketman "dancemusic" (Download)

1. dancemusic
2. LOVE IS ALL ~summer breeze~
3. LOVE IS ALL II ~korekara hajimaru story~
4. tomorrow
5. thank you for the music
6. LifeGoesON2.0
7. LOVE IS ALL
8. dancemusic remix

Victor VEAML-24246
Out now (7/21), ¥800
Sample/buy:

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TAKANAMI Keitarō to Nangasaki Five "Ryōma no hanauta (akaban)" tag:coolestsound.jp,2010://4.7427 2010-07-23T15:49:16Z 2010-07-23T15:53:18Z Where did TAKANAMI K-tarō go? He's doing fine, back to his hometown of Nagasaki since last year. And it seems like he fell in love with the roots he found there, as he offers this surprising new album consisting of... Where did Takanami K-tarō go? He's doing fine, back to his hometown of Nagasaki since last year. And it seems like he fell in love with the roots he found there, as he offers this surprising new album consisting of traditional Japanese music, many songs featuring only Nagasaki singer and gekkin player Kotone. Still Takanami's pop sound we know can be found in several tracks performed with a band, including a cover of Burt Bacharach's "Me Japanese Boy" which he sings in duet translated into Nagasaki dialect. Guests include Kawaguchi Yoshiyuki (Kuricorder Quartet), Watanabe Masami (the fascinations) and Groove Unchant.

Sub-titled "Lounge music of Bakumatsu" (referring to the end of the Edo period), this album is out on his new label Playtime Rock (blog) and a follow-up release is expected around July-August.

Takanami Keitarō to Nangasaki Five "Ryōma no hanauta (akaban)"
高浪慶太郎となんがさき ふぁいぶ 「龍馬のハナ唄(赤盤)」

1. sanminkyo
2. Nagasaki buraburabushi ~ sono ichi
3. meriifuhaa
4. sasō ~haru wa 3gatsu~
5. yosakoibushi ~ sono ichi
6. peepanchau (Instrumental)
7. Nagasaki buraburabushi ~ gekkin hen
8. suisenka
9. sakurazaka (Instrumental)
10. kinzuenfahaa
11. Me Japanese Boy
12. aru hareta hi ni (Instrumental)

Playtime Rock PTR-001
Out now (6/16), ¥2800
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower (Japan only)

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