Tokyo's Coolest Sound

Idiot Pop, whose previous album "EXWORLD" featured Frenesi and PandaBoY, is now back with new album "Universe". Guests include Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji, among others.

Free mixes by the artist can be downloaded on the official site.

Idiot Pop. 「UNIVERSE」

1. Paranoid Universe
2. There We Go!!!
3. DREAMING BOY IN BEDROOM
4. Les Aventuriers
5. Living Dead in Italo
6. HOPE
7. Cosmic Dancer x Platonic Star
8. Everlasting Loving You
9. life is like a bad movies
10. Friction
11. kimi no koto ga shitakute, kimi no koto wo yume ni miru
12. DORAMA

MOTION± MOT-006
Out now (3/25), ¥2250 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†,
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Cosmic Dancer x Platonic Star"

Album trailer & sampler

Un Amin is a cute exotic pop band featuring Taiwan-born singer Min. After having released three demo CD-R EPs sold only at their events, here comes a first pressed CD available through Jet Set! It might also be possible to order this directly from the band (and also their demo EPs), as their shop site instructs to inquire for international orders.

By the way, member Sakabe Shō has also contributed tracks to Tarte Tatin's latest album, "The Gutenberg Galaxy", so Tarte Tatin fans should definitely check out Un Amin.

Un Amin "Hakone ni shiyōka EP"
杏窪彌(アンアミン) 「箱根にしようか EP」

1. On-sen to Off-rō
2. Hakone ni shiyōka
3. ai aiya-
4. Manga kissa "Tōgenkyō"
5. China Town kōsō, renai sata

Out now (3/17), ¥1500 (excl. tax)
Order: Jet Set

"Hakone ni shiyōka"

"On-sen to Off-rō"

Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves) has a first solo album out now, titled "Temple St.". This comes on his new label "Gotown Label" (a word play on his first name), a sub-label of Vivid Sound. Other Nona Reeves members are also featured in the recording band, and the album is co-produced by Miyakawa Dan (ex-Love Tambourines). The song "I Can Live Without U" was the theme song for a recent Snoopy exhibition.

"Empty Heart", song which features Jackson 5's Tito Jackson on guitar and chorus (Nishidera is known to be a huge Michael Jackson fan), is also available on 7", with "Santa Monica" as a B-side, both in 7" edit versions. Find details below.

Nona Reeves will play a show at Billboard Live Tokyo on June 15 (and on June 12 in Osaka). Tickets go on sale on April 11.

Gota Nishidera "Temple St."
西寺郷太 「テンプル ストリート」

1. Empty Heart
2. Temple / Shake
3. Schoolgirl
4. I Can Live Without U
5. Santa Monica
6. Blueberry Bag
7. Silk Road Woman
8. You Must Be Love

Gotown Records VSCD-3129
Out 3/25, ¥2667 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Gota Nishidera "Empty Heart" (7")
西寺郷太 「EMPTY HEART」

A. Empty Heart
B. Santa Monica

Gotown Records VSEP-820
Out 3/12, ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Empty Heart"

Snoopy exhibition TV commercial
("I Can Live Without U")

Follow-up to EP "Marshmallow Glitter" (2012), here's a new full-length album by Nagoya-based idol Mizuka. This album is produced by Okuda Hidetaka (sucrette). The song "KIRAxKIRAxKIRAxKIRA", written and produced by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō, is included in a re-arranged album version.

Mizuka (with Imai Kentarō) can be seen live at Koenji High on March 28, part of event "Some Candy Talking".

Mizuka "Marshmallow Closet"
Mizuka 「マシュマロクローゼット」

1. marshmallow closet
2. FUWA*FUWA*FUWA*FUWA
3. fuyūkan Destiny
4. La La La Love Prologue
5. koi ni ochitara
6. hanashi o kikasete
7. Cosmicrō!
8. KIRA*KIRA*KIRA*KIRA (Album Ver.)

marshmarecords DQC-1223
Out now (2/5), ¥1905 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"KIRA*KIRA*KIRA*KIRA" (EP version)

Here's a 3rd compilation of original tracks made especially for Odawara spinning sushi restraurant "Zen" that goes beyond the rules by not only serving top-class sushi but also wine and French dishes. This time the style of choice is disco, and featured artists include BUBBLE-B (feat. Hatsune Miku), Yoshida Tetsuto, m2dy, genkai LOVERZ and more.

The CD is available exclusively at Amazon Japan.

Various Artists "Sushi Disco"

1. Intro
2. Zen Hurry / m2dy
3. hoshizora no Lane ~ Sushi Infinity / BUBBLE-B feat. Hatsune Miku
4. E.D.M (Engawa Dashimaki Metaboroll) / 100-200+tanigon
5. Do the Harlem Sushi / genkai LOVERZ
6. WONDERTABLE / DJ SHARPNEL
7. Negitrical Parade / Yamajet
8. Edgar / Yoshida Tetsuto
9. Outro

Speedking Productions SPK-10
Out now (3/17), ¥953 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon

Sampler clip of all tracks

See also:
"Zen in the House" (2011)
"Tribute to Ajiwai kaitenzushi Zen" (2010)

This is an album of various remix works by rapper, DJ and trackmaker Yakenohara. Also included are original tracks he previously contributed to compilations "White Album" and "Pan Pacific Playa Presents 'Old Fashion Vol.1'", including previously unreleased remixes.

Check out the digest clip of all tracks below, or hear audio samples at HMV.

Yakenohara "Self-Portrait"
やけのはら 「セルフ・ポートレイト」

1. THEME of SP1
2. Nakamura Kazuyoshi / kibō (Yakenohara Remix)
3. Kimyō Reitarō / Sans toi m'amie (YAKENOHARA LOVER'S TRAP MIX)
4. Signaless / Local Surfer (Yakenohara REMIX)
5. Aira Mitsuki / High Bash(Yakenohara Version)
6. SKIT of SP part1
7. YAKENOHARA / oolong dub
8. YAKENOHARA / BABY DON'T CRY
9. idea of a joke / Austin (Yakenohara younGSoul REMIX)
10. SKIT of SP part2
11. Lantern Parade / hitori no kyūaisha risshun hen (Yakenohara LOST DATA MIX)
12. Analogfish / TEXAS (Yakenohara Version)
13. Spangle call Lilli line / dreamer (YAKENOHARA DUB)
14. Merengue / Finale (Yakenohara MIX)
15. SKIT of SP part3

felicity PECF-1093
Out 3/19, ¥2300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Digest of all tracks

This is a new 3-CD live album by Ozawa Kenji (ex-Flipper's Guitar), of a whole show from his sold out 2010 tour, his first in 13 years. Includes a 16-page booklet.

Ozawa Kenji "warera, toki"
小沢健二 「我ら、時」

CD 1
1. nagareboshi Bebop (1)
2. yami (Monologue)
3. nagareboshi Bebop (2)
4. bokura ga tabi ni deru riyū
5. sōzōryoku (Monologue)
6. tenshitachi no Scene
7. ichigo ga somaru
8. Rollerskate Park (1)
9. Tokyo renai senka
10. Rollerskate Park (2)

CD 2
1. uta wa onaji (Monologue)
2. Corolla 2 ni notte
3. tsūkai ukiuki dōri
4. tenki yomi
5. senjo no Boy's Life
6. tsuyoi kimochi tsuyoi ai
7. konya wa Boogie Back
8. jitensha (Monologue)
9. yume ga yume nara
10. jakō

CD 3
1. warai (Monologue)
2. shikkasho bushi
3. sayonara nante ienai yo (1)
4. sayonara nante ienai yo (2)
5. Door o Knock suru no wa dare da?
6. aru hikari
7. jikan jiku o magete
8. Lovely
9. nagareboshi Bebop (3)
10. icho namiki no Serenade
11. aishi aisarete ikiru no sa

Toshiba EMI TYCT-60031
Out 3/19, ¥3500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Kikuchi Naruyoshi (DCPRG, ex-Spank Happy) has a new album out now, backed by "exotic jazz orchestra" Pepe Tormento Azucarar. This time Kikuchi sings ten of the 11 songs himself. About half of the songs are originals, while covers include songs by Frank Ocean, Yakushimaru Hiroko and Kip Hanrahan.

Audio samples can be heard at CDJapan.

The included DVD (Region 2 NTSC) is of various live footage from shows held between 2006 and 2013. The album itself comes in SACD Hybrid format which can be played on SACD players (Super Audio CD) and regular CD players.

Kikuchi Naruyoshi to Pepe Tormento Azucarar "senzen to sengo" (CD+DVD)
菊地成孔とペペ・トルメント・アスカラール 「戦前と戦後」

CD
1. Regression
2. Woman W no higeki yori
3. Michelangelo
4. CARAVAGGIO
5. Eros + Massacre
6. I.C.I.C.
7. Une chanson pour les grands
8. Before and after the war
9. Voodoo / Fruits & Sharks
10. Super Rich Kids
11. Nur Eine Stunde : Medley

DVD
1. sokkyō
2. kujaku
3. Kyō Machiko no uta
4. gishiki
5. yoru no zenra
6. Lupe Velez no sōgi
7. Arashigaoka
8. Paris no Elizabeth Taylor
9. gyōretsu
10. gishiki
11. Arashigaoka

Taboo VRCL-10114
Out now (3/19), ¥3400 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon (2% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡)
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"Lupe Velez No Sougi (Live)"
May be different than from the included DVD!

Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48) starts a countdown, with a total of four 7"s to be released one per month until July when her next album will become available. This first single of the series is again produced by the combo of Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar). The B-side was written by the artist herself (music and co-writing of lyrics).

The accompanying CD includes both songs plus the matching instrumentals, so that they can be enjoyed by those without a turntable.

Hoshino Michiru "hanashite,,," (7"+CD)
星野みちる "離して、、、"

A. hanashite,,,
B. Wish on a Starry Night

High Contrast HCCD-9543
Out 3/19, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"hanashite,,,"

Video message & music video clip (short version)

See also:
"Magic Hour" (7"+CD-R)
"hoshi ga Michiru"

This is a 2-CD compilation of recent tracks played at rock-oriented DJ event "Free Throw". Considering this track list and the good price, it seems to be a good opportunity to catch up with Japanese indie rock bands that sound good on a dance floor. Some of the tracks included are previously unreleased. By the way, the two previous volumes are worth checking out too!

An event to be held at Shin-Kiba Studio Coast will feature several of the bands, as well as the Free Throw resident DJs. Other events will be held at Shin-Daita Fever on April 11 (with Orland and LUVRAW & BTB), and Shibuya Vision on April 13.

Various Artists "Free Throw Compilation Vol.3"

CD 1
1. PILLS EMPIRE / Drowning In The Light
2. Christopher Allan Diadora / Hells To Go
3. Kidori Kidori / Watch Out!!!
4. owarikara / 8 to yaku 1/2
5. thatta / Pop Song
6. HOT HOT SEX / Everything Is Totally Up To Her
7. HALFBY / Line It Up
8. Mop Of Head / Superhuman
9. NILE LONG / Rush To The Groove
10. The Flickers / winter long
11. avengers in sci-fi / Sonic Fireworks
12. HOLIDAYS OF SEVENTEEN / Always Fantasy
13. the chef cooks me / shiki ni utaeba
14. Turntable Films / Misleading Interpretations
15. The Keys / Die A Little

CD 2
1. The fin. / Circle On The Snows
2. HAPPY / Pity Xmas (tonight)
3. QUATTRO / Loyal Isolation
4. The Cigavettes / Can't Find Memories
5. The Mammals / I Won't Let You Go
6. MONSTER tairiku / The Call
7. Riddimates / HIGH & LOW
8. UHNELLYS / EL DORADO
9. MOROHA / hadairo no hibi
10. LITE / Bond
11. Tamaki ROY / YES
12. TGMX / HOT FAN IN ONE SUMMER DAY
13. LUVRAW & BTB / On The Way Down
14. tofubeats / No.1 feat. G.RINA
15. Orland / Because Of You

Hipland Music RDCA-9013
Out 3/19, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Mop of Head "Superhuman"

NILE LONG "Rush to the Groove"

avengers in sci-fi "Sonic Fireworks"

More clips after the jump...

Gotch is the solo unit of Asian Kung-Fu Generation frontman Gotō Masafumi. This new single being released as a 7" was mixed by John McEntire (Tortoise, The Sea and Cake) and features a remix by Dorian! The package includes a CD of the same tracks.

Full-length album "Can't Be Forever Young" is planned for release on April 30, with a LP edition being released a bit earlier on Record Store Day (April 19).

Gotch "Wonderland / fushigi no kuni" (7")
Gotch 「Wonderland / 不思議の国」

A. Wonderland / fushigi no kuni
B. Wonderland / fushigi no kuni (Dorian Remix)

Only In Dreams ODEP-004
Out now (3/12), ¥1429 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, (World), (Japan), Amazon MP3 Japan
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Wonderland / fushigi no kuni"

Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) has a new mix CD out now, consisting only of music from Brazil selected with a theme of "jazz samba". This is mixed mainly from Sunaga's collection of Brazilian records.

This mix CD is only available at select record shops such as Jet Set Records where can be heard an audio sample.

Tatsuo Sunaga "Jazz Samba ~Vinyl Junkies Only vol.2~"

Out now (3/9), ¥1900 (excl. tax)
Order: Jet Set

Idol group Dempa Gumi.inc has a new single out now! While the title track is closer to their characteristic style, B-side "Fancy hoppe u-fu-fu" (a tie-up with Chupa Chups) is a refreshing Shibuya-kei-ish track with music written by Kaji Hideki and lyrics by Kaseki Cider! Watch both videos below.

Aside from the two limited editions listed below (type A includes a DVD of the title track's music video and bonus footage), there is also one CD single themed after each of the 6 members each containing a different solo song. All of these are also available in 7" vinyl editions, you can find the regular edition (with the B-side described above) at HMV.

Denpa Gumi.inc "sakura appare-tion"
でんぱ組.inc 「サクラあっぱれーしょん」

1. sakura appare-tion
2. Fancy hoppe u-fu-fu
3. sakura appare-tion (Off vocal)
4. Fancy hoppe u-fu-fu (Off vocal)

Limited edition type A (CD+DVD)
Meme Tokyo TFCC-89484
Out 3/12, ¥3315 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV (10% off *), Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, YesAsia
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Limited edition Type B (CD and sticker)
Meme Tokyo TFCC-89485
Out 3/12, ¥953 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Regular edition (CD only)
Meme Tokyo TFCC-89492
Out 3/12, ¥953 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"sakura appare-tion"

"Fancy hoppe u-fu-fu"

Omodaka, the solo project of Terada Sōichi that mixes up chip-tune with Japanese traditional minyō, has a new album out now! That's 12 new tracks available on iTunes worldwide, Amazon MP3 (U.S. & Japan), and also on CD through Amazon Japan.

Hear a 3-minute sample digest here, or sample each track at iTunes

Upcoming shows: March 30 at Koenji raid=gig, April 12 at Akihabara eggman, April 20 at Koenji AMP cafe, and May 16 at Koenji High.

Omodaka "Bridge Song"

1. Concierto De Aranjuez (Adagio)
2. Shimotsui Bushi
3. Kusatsu Bushi
4. Etenraku
5. Bridge Song (Iyano Kohiki Uta)
6. Galaxy Deca
7. BWV645
8. Sangai Bushi
9. Kiso Bushi
10. Souma Bon Uta (Dai Tensai Terebi Kun 2012)
11. Kokiriko Bushi (PSP Wants You to Sing To)
12. Yosawya San (DS Wants You to Sing To)

Far East Recording
Out 3/12, ¥1514 (excl. tax)
Order: Amazon, , Amazon MP3 U.S., Amazon MP3 Japan, Spotify, YouTube Music

Kids dance crew Tempura Kidz (which comes from the same agency as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu) has a new mini-album coming. Included are covers of popular kids songs produced by various artists, such as "Computer obaachan" by YMCK, "sakura sakura" by Hifana, "suimin busoku" by Oreskaband and more, as well as a medley mix by TeddyLoid.

The limited edition comes with a bonus DVD (Region 2 NTSC) of dance videos for 4 of the songs.

Tempura Kidz will be at Tower Records Shibuya (1st floor) on Saturday March 15 from 12:00 to shake hands with fans.

Tempura Kidz "minna no Dance uta"
TEMPURA KIDZ 「みんなのだんすうた」

1. suimin busoku Produced by ORESKABAND
2. donadona feat. CHI-MEY Produced by CHI-MEY
3. Computer obaachan Produced by YMCK
4. sakura sakura Produced by HIFANA
5. gu- choki pa- de nani tsukurō Produced by Kiyosaku (MONGOL800)
6. minna no Dance uta Medley Mixed by TeddyLoid

Limited edition (CD+DVD)
Sony SECL-1480
Out 3/12, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon (14% off *), HMV (10% off *), Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Regular edition (CD only)
Sony SECL-1482
Out 3/12, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Sampler clip

Here's one more 7" from Nakatsuka Takeshi (ex-Qypthone)'s cover album "Big Band Back Beat", featuring big band Iga-Bang BB. "Just A Pretty Song" was originally by The Peddlers, while "Across The Universe" is a cover of... The Beatles!

Audio samples at Jet Set. Also check out the full-length album out now. This 7" series has two more releases coming up until the end of April, so stay tuned.

Nakatsuka Takeshi with Iga-Bang BB "Just A Pretty Song / Across The Universe" (7")
中塚武 with イガバンBB 「Just A Pretty Song / Across The Universe」

A. Just A Pretty Song
AA. Across The Universe

Unchantable Records UCT-016
Out 3/12, ¥1300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon

See also:
"Skipped Beat / Carnaby Street" (7")
"Big Band Back Beat" CD album

"Snow Monkey Beer Live!" is a music and beer festival that's been held every year since 2012. This genre-less compilation CD contains tracks by related artists including Kaji Hideki, Kushibiki Sayaka Trio (feat. Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji and Furukawa Taichi), Predawn, Frontier Backyard, Kimyō Reitarō Travel Swing Orchestra, AFRA, The Keys and many more. Some audio samples can be heard at Jet Set.

This year the event will be held on March 21st & 22nd. Find details here. A free in-store event will also be held at Disk Union Shinjuku's recently opened Dues event space (map), on Tuesday March 11 from 19:30. Kushibiki Sayaka Trio and The Keys will be playing. Specially produced beer "Snow Monkey Beer" will be sold at the two events.

Various Artists "Snow Monkey Beer Live!"
オムニバス 「SNOW MONKEY BEER LIVE!」

1. THE HOME CREW (AFRA, BASI, SAKKON, GEBO, DJ NAO-K) / SMB no Theme 2013
2. Kaji Hideki / Winter's Sky
3. THE DEKITS / Cuba Libre
4. Kimyō Reitarō Travel Swing Orchestra / Cathrine
5. FRONTIER BACKYARD / Picture of the sun
6. In-Sist / Set Off The Speaker
7. Blue Moon Quartet / I know why
8. Nabowa / tick tick away
9. A Hundred Birds / IN THE SKY feat ten
10. jizue / Dance
11. SPANOVA / Tape Loop
12. THE HOME CREW (AFRA, GEBO, DJ NAO-K) / SMBL no Theme 2012
13. AFRA / Breath Control feat GEBO
14. Build Dub Green / SundayStone
15. Predawn / Drowsy
16. THE KEYS / Die A Little
17. Kushibiki Sayaka Trio / Daydream Believer

Niw! Records NIW-96
Out now (3/5), ¥2191 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

This new compilation from NHK's long-running kids program "dai! tensai TV-kun" features original tracks by a bunch of good artists, such as CTO LAB., Nakatsuka Takeshi ("Jump'n'Jive odore!"), Terada Sōichi (aka Omodaka) ("Dark Matter") and Okamoto's, among others.

CDJapan gives away a bonus B2-size poster while supplies last!

On iTunes Japan can be found an edition of this album with full-length karaoke versions (except the two themes).

Release official site

Various Artists "NHK dai! tensai terebi-kun MTK the 18th"
オムニバス 「NHK大!天才てれびくんMTK the 18th」

(Title / Artist)
1. sekai wa BON HI-BON! ~dai! tensai terebi-kun no Theme 2013 / CTO LAB.
2. senaka de bigaku / Degawa Tetsuro
3. sekiei teien / Kurosawa Mirena, Yamada Tōko
4. WARU WARU WORLDS Ψ(｀▽´)Ψ！ / Kaneko Shunya, Okada Yui, Takehara Tsukasa, Kosaka Daimaō
5. Magic Hour / Hasegawa Niina, Nakazato Megumu, Kurosawa Mirena, Nakao Miharu
6. kiseki no ko / Kaneko Shunya, Hasegawa Niina, Shimada Taichi, Noda Shinya, Okada Yui, Nakazato Megumu, Kurosawa Mirena, Aizawa Yūga
7. Dark Matter / Suzuki Akie, Enmei Asami
8. yu-yake akiiro / Shimada Taichi
9. Wonderful Charm / Hasegawa Niina
10. Jump'n'Jive odore! / Soesbe Kōyō, Noda Shinya, Takehara Tsukasa, Aizawa Yūga
11. Cool Japan de ee janai ka! / Aizawa Yūga, ai no te: Okada Yui, Soesbe Kōyō, Kurosawa Mirena, Takehara Tsukasa
12. takara no arika wa Question / terebi senshi 2013
13. kokuhaku ~dai! tensai terebi-kun no End Theme 2013 / terebi senshi 2013
14. senaka de bigaku (Original karaoke TV size)
15. sekiei teien (Original karaoke TV size)
16. WARU WARU WORLDS Ψ(｀▽´)Ψ！ (Original karaoke TV size)
17. Magic Hour (Original karaoke TV size)
18. kiseki no ko (Original karaoke TV size)
19. Dark Matter (Original karaoke TV size)
20. yu-yake akiiro (Original karaoke TV size)
21. Wonderful Charm (Original karaoke TV size)
22. Jump'n'Jive odore! (Original karaoke TV size)
23. Cool Japan de ee janai ka (Original karaoke TV size)
24. takara no arika wa Question (Original karaoke TV size)

Columbia COCX-38417
Out 3/5, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Kanazawa label Rallye brings this new vocal mini-album by pop duo Concert. Label-mates YeYe and milk are also featured.

Concert "Headache and Heartburn"

1. aimaisa kaihi
2. Party and Cookie
3. dakishimetai
4. Modren Sandpaper
5. Eat
6. Goodbye Flatlander

Rallye RYECD-184
Out 3/5, ¥1600 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"aimaisa kaihi"

Teaser clip

"Party and Cookie"

Here's a nice-priced single by pianist kotringo. The title track is the theme for TV drama "ashita, mama ga inai". Watch the video below, and hear an audio sample of the other song at HMV.

A new album seems to be planned for April 30. Stay tuned!

kotringo "dare ga Watashi wo"
コトリンゴ 「誰か私を」

1. dare ka watashi o
2. classroom feat. Aska Strings

commmons RZCM-59564
Out 3/5, ¥500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"dare ka watashi o"

Here's an "EDM" compilation, that's Electronic Disney Music! Featured are old and new tracks by electronic artists from Japan and the world. Brand new ones include Hyadain's "It's a Small World", Ram Rider's "A Whole New World", and De De Mouse's "Mickey Mouse March".

The first pressing is said to have a hologram jacket. Audio samples of all tracks at Amazon.

Japan Various Artists "MORE! Electronic Disney Music"
オムニバス 「モア! エレクトロニック･ディズニー･ミュージック」

(Title / Artist)
1. It's a Small World [New York World's Fair] / Hyadain feat. Maejima Ami (SUPER☆GiRLS)
2. A Whole New World [Aladdin] / Ram Rider
3. You'll Be in My Heart [TARZAN(R)] / DJ Komori feat. Mihiro
4. Derezzed (Remixed by Avicii) [TRON: Legacy] / Daft Punk
5. The Glory Days - Diplo Remix [The Incredibles] / Michael Giacchino
6. Pineapple Princess (Kinsey Moore Remix) [Lilo & Stitch 2] / Annette Funicello
7. Happiness Is Here (World Sketch Remix)[Tokyo Disney Resort(R) 30th Anniversary Theme Song] / TRF
8. Minnie's Yoo Hoo! (Cole Plante's Jazzed Up Remix) [The Mickey Mouse Club] / Cole Plante
9. Palm Tree Escape (Remixed by Adam Freeland) [Pirates of the Caribbean] / Hans Zimmer feat. Rodrigo y Gabriela
10. The Grid (Remixed by Benny Benassi) [TRON: Legacy] / Daft Punk
11. Can't Help Falling In Love (Bapjap Remix) [Lilo & Stitch] / CTS
12. Mickey Mouse March [The Mickey Mouse Club] / De De Mouse & kids
13. Reflection [Mulan] / Jumping Dog feat. Orland
14. When You Wish Upon A Star [Pinocchio] / Faky
15. Main Street Electrical Parade [Disneyland(R)] / DJ Yummy
16. It's a Small World (Extended Instrumental Mix) [New York World's Fair] / Hyadain

Walt Disney Records AVCW-63012
Out 2/26, ¥2800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

This 2nd album by voice actress Hanazawa Kana was released on her 25th birthday (February 26, 2014), and the 2-CD package contains 25 tracks, involving a bunch of Shibuya-kei related artists.

The whole is produced by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table), with songs written by Nakatsuka Takeshi (ex-Qypthone), Kaji Hideki, Okii Reiji (Scott Goes For, ex-Cymbals), Yano Hiroyasu (ex-cymbals), mito (clammbon), Miyakawa Dan (ex-Love Tambourines), Furukawa Honpo, with strings arrangements by Hase Yasuhiro (Yume to Cosme), among others.

The limited edition comes with a bonus Blu-ray disc (Region A — there's no DVD edition) and a 50-page photo booklet, all in a 3-pane sleeve.

Kana Hanazawa "25"
花澤香菜 「25」

Disc 1
1. Birthday
2. 25 Hours a Day
3. Brand New Days
4. koi suru wakusei
5. Marathon
6. Yesterday Boyfriend
7. mujaki na kimi to manatsu no Melody
8. Make a Difference
9. tabidatsu kanojo to furui sebyōshi
10. Summer Sunset
11. dōshinenjo no Distance
12. flattery?
13. Waltz for Praha

Disc 2
14. kataomoi ga sekai o sukū
15. daenkei
16. Papa, I Love You!!
17. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe
18. konayuki
19. Young Oh! Oh!
20. aimai na sekai
21. mayonaka no himitsu kaigi
22. Merry Go Round
23. last contrast
24. hanabira
25. Good Conversation

Limited edition (2 CDs+Blu-ray)
Aniplex SVWC-7988
Out 2/26, ¥4500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Play-Asia, Amazon (18% off *), HMV (10% off *), Tower Records ^†, YesAsia
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Regular edition (2 CDs)
Aniplex SVWC-7991
Out 2/26, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"koi suru wakusei (Short version)"

Sampler clips

senryokugai sōsakan (the jacket design shows the English title "The easygoing police") is a comedy TV series about a female detective who is being kept outside of the investigation team. However she still goes to investigate by herself, usually gets in a bit of trouble, to then solve the mystery. You get the idea!

This soundtrack was produced by Konishi Yasuharu (ex-Pizzicato Five). A classic sports theme song from Nippon TV (NTV) was remixed for the first time in history into various versions, making for a recurring theme through the series. All other tracks are brand new compositions by Konishi. Featured are male chorus group Time Five (formed in 1968 and still today includes all original members) and jazz band TRI4TH.

Audio samples of all tracks at Amazon and HMV.

Konishi Yasuharu "'senryokugai sōsakan' Original Soundtrack"
小西康陽 「日本テレビ系土曜ドラマ 戦力外捜査官 オリジナル･サウンドトラック」

1. Sports kōshinkyoku (senryokugai sōsakan Remix)
2. sasoriza - kuroobi
3. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ Scat hen featuring Time Five
4. utsukushii kaiseki
5. genba kenshō
6. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ kuchibue hen
7. warui yatsura
8. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ Rag time hen
9. nani ka ga michi o yatte kuru
10. oikakeru
11. oitsumeru
12. "dokusō" no Theme
13. "bansō" no Theme
14. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ Dixieland hen
15. doyō no yoru no Pianist
16. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ Hard Bop hen featuring TRI4TH
17. doyō no yoru no banka
18. Sports kōshinkyoku ~ Hard Bop hen featuring TRI4TH (Jingle)

Vap VPCD-81793
Out now (2/26), ¥1905 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon (2% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†, YesAsia, (Japan ^‡)
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

Have you heard Cibo Matto's new album yet? "Hotel Valentine" was released in the U.S. on Valentine's day, almost 15 years since "Stereotype A" (1999). The new sounds are very fresh but also reminiscent of their earlier material.

The Japanese edition comes a bit late but with a reward, as it includes two exclusive bonus tracks!

Cibo Matto "Hotel Valentine"
チボ・マット 「ホテル・ヴァレンタイン」

1. Check In
2. Deja Vu
3. 10th Floor
4. Emerald Tuesday
5. MFN
6. Hotel Valentine
7. Empty
8. Lobby
9. Maid Song
10. Check Out
11. Front Desk (Japan bonus track)
12. Party Time Feeling (Japan bonus track)

commmons RZCM-59469
Out 3/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"MFN"

"Keepin' House - Episode 1"