Tokyo's Coolest Sound

New wave band BANK has a new single out now digitally! Lovers rock song "Vivre" features vocals by Kunimi Tomoko (Wack Wack Rhythm Band, nimit & co.) and additional guitars by Ōhashi Nobuyuki (aka Pate, ex-Bridge, an ex-member of BANK). "Number 3" is a tribute to Bronx post-punk band ESG, using their song titles in the lyrics, and features guitarist Yamashita Hiroshi (Wack Wack Rhythm Band).

A split tape with nimit & co. will also be released in mid-December. This release follows last year's 7" single "Time / Himitsu". Also check out the excellent latest album "True Tempo" (2015).

Bank "Vivre / Number 3" (Download)
BANK 「Vivre 私の人生 / Number 3」
(Japanese title: "Vivre watashi no jinsei / Number 3")

1. Vivre
2. Number 3

Too Young Records
Out now (11/28)
Order: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Just days ahead of Wakita Monari's new single "Just a 'Crush for Today'", a new remix of song "yūsei kara no I Love You oh! oh!" has been released digitally. The remix was done by Arai Toshiya (Count Joke) who wrote the music of the original (which appeared on latest album "Ahead!").

Also be sure to check out another remix released last month, "Callin' You (Nite in the Groove Mix)".

Wakita Monari "I Love You Oh! Oh! from The Planet (Get Loose Mix)" (Download)

Vivid Sound
Out now (11/24)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Wakita Monari "I Love You Oh! Oh! from The Planet (Get Loose Mix) [Instrumental]" (Download)

Vivid Sound
Out now (11/24)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Wakita Monari has a new single about to be released! Both tracks have music written and arranged by Arai Toshiya (Count Joke), and Monari wrote the lyrics of title track "Just a 'Crush for Today'". The A-side is said to be a catchy and danceable urban pop track, while the B-side is a disco tune that had already been performed live for some time.

The release will be available on CD and 7" separately. The CD contains bonus instrumentals.

Many in-store events will take place from November 25 to December 9. Just to name a few, Monari will sing on Nov. 27 at HMV & Books Shibuya from 19:30, and on release day Nov. 28 at HMV record shop Shinjuku ALTA from 19:00. Find the full list here. A release event will also be held on December 17 at Ebisu Batica (details).

Wakita Monari "Just a 'Crush for Today'"
脇田もなり 「Just a "Crush for Today"」

1. Just a "Crush for Today"
2. yasashii uso
3. Just a "Crush for Today" (instrumental)
4. yasashii uso (instrumental)

CD edition
High Contrast HCCD-9604
Out 11/28, ¥1000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

A. Just a "Crush for Today"
B. yasashii uso

7" edition
High Contrast HCR-9679
Out 11/28, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Sampler clip

Trauma techno-pop band Urbangarde, which is now celebrating its 10th anniversary, has just released a new special album! Closely following the release of "shojo Fiction" (April 2018), this new album collects rarities and tracks not available on any of their original albums, with three brand new songs added. The regular edition's jacket was illustrated by manga artist Maruo Suehiro, while the limited edition's was photographed by TRMN. Check out the clip for new song "shōjo gannen" below.

The limited edition (only 2000 copies) comes with a DVD of their 10th anniversary show held last April at Nakano Sunplaza. Two songs from the DVD can be seen on YouTube (see below).

All songs can be sampled at CDJapan and other retailers linked below.

A tour has been announced for March 2019, to finish at Daikanyama Unit (Tokyo) on March 16. Find tour details here.

Urbangarde "Urbangarde of Love and Fantasy"
アーバンギャルド 「愛と幻想のアーバンギャルド」
(Japanese title: "ai to gensō no Urbangarde")

1. shōjo gannen
2. Kagamiya-san
3. My Number Song
4. HAL no wakusei
5. Funk Love Song
6. ichigo ure
7. Pla-Model
8. sono shōjo, ningyō ni tsuki
9. U-boshi yori ai o komete
10. moe tero yo feat. PASSPO☆
11. nantonaku, Catharsis
12. Terror
13. Cosplayer
14. tenshi ni shiyagare
15. Ready-made Song (kiseihin -readymade- ver.)
16. Sailor fuku o nuganai de (2012 ver.)

DVD (Limited edition only)
1. Kekkonshiki Opening
2. Onepiece shinjū
3. Skirt Kakumei
4. mizutamabyō
5. jisatsu nyūmon
6. Shinjuku Mon Amour
7. Coin Locker Babies
8. Concrete Girl
9. kizudarake no Maria
10 Heisei shibō Yuugi
11. Kiss ni tsuite
12. rōdoku [shōjo Fiction]
13. atashi Fiction
14. Femme Fata Fantasy
15. Baby Boom
16. hako otoko ni kike
17. Akuma des Akuma
18. yameru Idol
19. sayonara Subculture
20. daihakai kōkyōgaku
21. shōjo ni shiyagare
22. tokai no Alice
23. datenshi Pop
24. Sailor fuku o nuganai de

Limited edition (CD+DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
zenei toshi FBAC-070
Out now (11/21), ¥6200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Regular edition (CD only)
zenei toshi FBAC-071
Out now (11/21), ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships within Japan only
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"shōjo gannen (Danced by Atarashii Gakko no Leaders)"

"Atashi Fiction (Live)"

"tokai no Alice (Live)"

This gem of a party album, the first full-length by Wack Wack Rhythm Band released on Trattoria in 1998, has just been re-released in a newly remastered edition! A bonus disc has been added, containing rarities such as 5 live tracks (previously only released on cassette tape), a recording session from 1993 at Acid Jazz Studio in London, and also new song "Easy Riding" (out just last month on 7" and here available for the first time on CD).

The original album (first disc) is also available on iTunes Japan.

A special 26th anniversary show, also celebrating the release of the two latest singles, will be held on Sunday November 25 at Under Deer Lounge in Shibuya, with Cat Boys and Nakamura Joe & Eastwoods, and guest Hoshino Michiru. The show starts at 18:00. Details here.

Wack Wack Rhythm Band "Weekend Jack (+1 disc)"
ワック・ワック・リズム・バンド 「WEEKEND JACK (+1 disc)」

Disc 1
1. The Cock-a-Doo-dle-doo
2. Hit and Run
3. Karate
4. Otokotachi No Melody
5. Weekend
6. One Day Travel
7. Nothing From Nothing
8. O-hide, Ole-Ola
9. Dogmatic Man
10. Everything Is Mo'Beautiful
11. The Burning Monocycle

Disc 2
1. The Spinning Gear
2. Everything Is Beautiful
3. You're Starting Too Fast
4. Knucklehead
5. I Wouldn't Change A Thing
6. Chocolate Buttermilk
7. Never Learned To Dance
8. Soulful Strut (For Yoyogi Friendship Project's Request)
9. Gimme Gimme Captain Wings
10. Easy Riding [BONUS TRACK]

Bridge BRIDGE-261/2
Out now (11/21), ¥2500 (excl. tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower

The Pen Friend Club, a band that takes inspiration from The Beach Boys and Phil Spector (etc.), has just released a "first and last" Christmas album! Included are 15 covers, of songs by Mariah Carey ("All I Want For Christmas Is You"), Darlene Love ("Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)"), Wham! ("Last Christmas"), The Beach Boys ("Little Saint Nick") and many more standards, as well as an original titled "Christmas Delights".

The Pen Friend Club will take part in a Christmas show titled "Add Some Music To Your Christmas" that will also feature RYUtist, to be held at Moon Romantic on December 22. Tickets are on sale! Meanwhile they will also make an appearance at Sazanami Label's 15th Anniversary Party on November 24 at Shinjuku Loft. All details are here.

The Pen Friend Club "Merry Christmas From The Pen Friend Club"

1. All I Want For Christmas Is You
2. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
3. Frosty The Snowman
4. Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town
5. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
6. Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree
7. Last Christmas
8. Winter Wonderland
9. Christmas Delights
10. White Christmas
11. Let It Snow
12. Jingle Bell Rock
13. Little Saint Nick
14. Amazing Grace
15. Auld Lang Syne
16. Silent Night

Penpal Records PPRD0004
Out now (11/14), ¥2500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Sampler clip

Negicco's 15th anniversary live show, held at Toki Messe Niigata Convention Center on July 21, 2018, has just been released on Blu-ray.

Negicco have an upcoming show titled "relive MY COLOR" to be held on Saturday November 24 at Nakano Sunplaza. Tickets are on sale. A vinyl edition of latest album "MY COLOR" will be sold in advance at the show.

Negicco "love my 15years" (Blu-ray)

SE. Make Up Prelude
1. Negative Girls!
2. Idol bakari kikanai de
3. ai, kamashitai no
4. Sunshine Nihonkai
5. anata to Pop With You!
6. negisama! Bravo☆
7. Calypso musume ni hanataba o
8. RELISH
9. soshite monogatari wa yuku
10. Never Ending Story
11. Nostalgia
12. Anniversaries (Acoustic ver.)
13. SKY (Acoustic ver.)
14. Glass iro no natsu
15. Goodday Your Life (kudari ver.)
16. Negicco kara kimi e
17. hikari no Spur
18. Triple! WONDERLAND
19. kimi wa Dream
20. tokimeki no Headliner
21. nee Vardia
22. shizuku no wa
Encore
23. hajimari no basho
24. ai wa hikari
25. 15
26. koi suru Negicco
27. negi negi ROCK ~watashi mo oyome ni tsuretette~
28. Falling Stars
Double Encore
29. sayonara Music
30. attoteki na Style
31. tokimeki★My Dream

Blu-ray (Region free)
T-Palette Records TPRB-0008
Out now (11/6), ¥6015 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (18% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Teaser clip

The Collectors have a new 23rd album out now, titled "Young Man Rock"! Takanami Keitarō (Playtime Rock, ex-Pizzicato Five) has co-arranged the two last songs, according to credits on Tower Records' page. All songs can be sampled on this official release page.

A tour will start in January 2019, stopping by Shin-Kiba Studio Coast on February 9.

The Collectors "Young Man Rock"

1. Crime Suspense
2. hitoribicchi no I Love You
3. Submarine
4. genkai Line
5. Central Station
6. New York kibun
7. eien no 14sai
8. nakanai de kaseijin
9. koi no Hot Summer Recipe
10. furikaeru yoru

Nippon Columbia COCP-40539
Out now (11/7), ¥2593 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡)
† Tower Records ships within Japan only
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"Crime Suspense"

SOLEIL's debut 7" "Pinky Fluffy" (2017) which had sold out long ago is being released once again with a different jacket! Recorded when singer Soleil was still 13, both songs have remained non-album tracks. Note that this release doesn't come with a CD (unlike the original pressing).

"Pinky Fluffy" is a rock-a-ballad reminiscent of Andrea Carroll's "It Hurts To Be Sixteen" with music written by Takanami K-tarō (Playtime Rock, ex-Pizzicato Five) and lyrics by Iizumi Yūko (Microstar). The B-side is a cover of Swing Out Sister's hit song "Breakout" in a dancefloor-friendly 60's style arrangement, probably the song's cutest version ever. Hoshino Michiru sings chorus.

SOLEIL is formed of singer Soleil, bassist and producer Sally Kubota (Sally Soul Stew, ex-The Phantom Gift, Les 5-4-3-2-1) and guitarist Nakamori Yasuhiro (Hicksville). Also featured on this single are drummer Shirane Kenichi (Great 3, Sally Soul Stew), percussionist Itani Takashi, and Hoshino Michiru who sings chorus on both songs.

SOLEIL "Pinky Fluffy" (7")

A. Pinky Fluffy
B. Breakout

Vidid Sound / High Contrast HCR-9678
Out 11/14, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Sampler clip

Wack Wack Rhythm Band has another new 7" single out now! This time the band brings us two new groovy original instrumentals. A-sider "Madras Express" has over 5 minutes and spotlights the brass section in an afro-funk tune, while B-side "Stay-Pressed" pulls the Hammond organ up front in a track that might remind of 60's Memphis soul and Swinging London.

Also be sure check out "Easy Riding / I'll Close My Eyes" released last month. Both can also be heard on Spotify. A re-issue of first album "Weekend Jack" will be released on November 21. Stay tuned!

A release party for both singles will be held on November 25 at Shibuya Under Deer Lounge, also featuring Cat Boys and Joe Nakamura & Eastwoods. WWRB will perform with guest vocalist Hoshino Michiru. The show will start at 18:00.

Wack Wack Rhythm Band "Madras Express / Stay-Pressed" (7")

A. Madras Express
B. Stay-Pressed

WWRB WWRB002
Out now (11/11), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†,
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Sampler clip

Chikada Haruo, a singer-songwriter famous for his "hoshikuzu kyōdai no densetsu" album (1980) which was turned into a cult rock opera movie in the mid-80's, but also for many hits he wrote for other artists, has a brand new solo album being released! The album is sung by himself and consists mostly of brand new songs written by other artists for him.

Title song "chō jōdan dakara" features singer Himeno Tama. The ending song "yukkuri tondeke" was written by Non, and the music is performed by her and band SOLEIL (with singer Soleil on drums), with organ by Haruo. Also included are a self-cover of his song "aa, Lady Hurricane" (released in 1979), and a cover of "La Niña jōnetsu no El Niño" (a song he wrote for Juicy Fruits).

All songs can be sampled at the official release page.

Chikada Haruo "chō jōdan dakara"
近田春夫 「超冗談だから」

1. gokigen Cabriolet
2. chō jōdan dakara
3. 0hatsu 100chū
4. Miss Mirrorball
5. La Niña jōnetsu no El Niño
6. totan・totan・totan
7. yume miru Bedtown
8. aa, Lady Hurricane
9. konya mo tenteten
10. yukkuri tondeke

Victor Entertainment VICL-65050
Out now (10/31), ¥2778 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†,
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"chō jōdan dakara"

Vacation Three is the band of Nakamura Dai (BANK, NUBACK, ex-Arch), saxophonist Nakamoto Kōichiro (Wack Wack Rhythm Band) and percussionist Okyon. After having performed many shows since they got together about 2 years ago, here comes a first album of their beautiful and soothing acoustic sounds. All original songs performed by the trio, and the album was mastered by Kanda Tomoki.

" The Tokyo based Acoustic trio Vacation Three's 1st Album.
Vacation Three experimented for the 1st album with minimal and calming sounds, picking up the feeling of the Bossa Nova, City Folk and Japanese Pops. If you like the following music, we encourage you to listen to their music. Ben Watt, EBTG, Kings of Convenience, João Gilberto... "

Aside form the links below, you can also probably buy directly from the friendly Too Young Records label. Find instructions on their "For foreign customers" page. Also look out for BANK and NUBACK's releases.

Vacation Three "One"

(Official English song titles in parentheses)
1. New Voyage
2. Sweet Magic
3. yokubō (Desire)
4. gogo no Theme (Lazy Afternoon)
5. Moon Song
6. Blue Submarine
7. Asayake
8. atarashii uta (New Song)
9. Mirai
10. umi mo nai machi (City Without Sea)

Too Young Records TYG-VT01
Out now (11/7), ¥1852 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Bandcamp, Amazon, , Spotify

"Blue Submarine"

"New Voyage" (Short version)

Singer-songwriter Hoshino Michiru has released a digital EP of a session recently performed live on TBS Radio show "After 6 Junction" hosted by Utamaru (Rhymester) on weekdays from 18:00 to 21:00.

The set featured keyboardist Inoue Kaoru (Blue Peppers) and guitarist Takenouchi Kazuya, who together played one song from album "12 signs of the zodiac" and two from album "You Love Me" (2015), including "natsu nandashi" (written by Konishi Yasuharu), plus a brand new song written for her dad which she sang for the first time.

Hoshino Michiru's next show will be a special one on November 18, the eve of her birthday. There will be two sets, one in which she will perform solo at the piano, and another together with her band members. Find all details here.

Hoshino Michiru "After 6 Sessions" (Download)
星野みちる 「AFTER 6 SESSIONS」

1. shūichi Romance (Radio Version)
2. natsu nandashi (Radio Version)
3. ikitai hō e (Radio Version)
4. dai suki dayo, Papa (Radio Version)

Vivid Sound
Out now (10/31)
Sample/buy: (Japan)

Electro singer-songwriter Tajima Haruko, who is also active as duo Francis avec Haruko (see new mini-album "Zero Gravity Love"), has released a brand new album recently! Be sure to check out the cool videos she posts on YouTube, starting with her new songs below.

Upcoming shows include "Ramen Expo Vol.1" on November 7 at Shimokitazawa Three (details), an event on November 11 at Shinjuku Motion (details), and event "Sneak Kill" on November 12 at Shibuya WWW (details).

Haruko Tajima "Holy Holy Holy Holy"
田島ハルコ 「聖聖聖聖」

1. St. Tesla Gal
2. Pink Hiziri
3. Selfie
4. More Than Human
5. Miracle Controller
6. Flood Of The Vibes
7. Angry Jewel
8. My Era
9. Data Totem
10. 567000000 Years Later
11. Cry Weird Dancing (Re Edit)
12. Oyasumi Higher Self
13. Let's Lie Down
14. Ending feat. Nyanyanga Poo (Bonus track)

Harucorium HRC-001
Out now (10/3), ¥1900 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Bandcamp, CDJapan, Amazon (1% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡), Spotify
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

"Let's Lie Down"

"Oyasumi Higher Self"

"My Era"

"St. Tesla Girl"

"More Than Human"

"Miracle Controller"

"Flood Of The Vibes"

"Selfie"

"Pink Hiziri"

"More Than Human"

"Oyasumi Higher Self"

Learners' latest mini album "Learners High" has been released on 10" vinyl. It's limited to 1000 copies. Fans and rockabilly DJs, get it while you can!

Hear some audio samples at Jet Set.

LEARNERS "LEARNERS HIGH" (10")

A1. Cassis Oolong
A2. Take a Trip
A3. Walk Like An Egyptian
B1. Moi je joue
B2. Mirror Man feat. Kaji Hideki
B3. Allelujah

KiliKiliVilla KKV065VL
Out now (10/31), ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Cassis Oolong"

Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO, Metafive) has re-recorded the vocals of his debut solo album "Saravah!" (1978) 40 years later with his current voice. Included are strings arrangements by Sakamoto Ryuichi, and features appearances of Hosono Haruomi, Yamashita Tatsuro, Takanaka Masayoshi and Katō Kazuhiko. The mastering was newly done by Sunahara Yoshinori (Metafive) and the cover artwork is by Towa Tei (Metafive). It is available on CD and vinyl.

Takahashi Yukihiro "Saravah Saravah!"
高橋ユキヒロ 「Saravah Saravah!」

1. Volare (Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu)
2. Saravah!
3. C'est Si Bon
4. La Rosa
5. Mood Indigo
6. Elastic Dummy
7. Sunset
8. Back Street Midnight Queen
9. Present

CD edition
Nippon Columbia COCB-54275
Out now (10/24), ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (12% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†, (Japan ^‡), Far Side Music (UK)
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only
‡ How to buy from iTunes Japan?

A1. Volare (Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu)
A2. Saravah!
A3. C'est Si Bon
A4. La Rosa
A5. Mood Indigo
B1. Elastic Dummy
B2. Sunset
B3. Back Street Midnight Queen
B4. Present

Vinyl edition
Nippon Columbia COJA-9341
Out now (10/24), ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Far Side Music (UK)
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

This Denki Groove show held in March 2018 at Zepp Tokyo was first released digitally (audio only) recently, but now here it comes on Blu-ray and DVD. Included is bonus commentary by the group's two members (Takkyu Ishino and Pierre Taki) and live support musician Ushio Kensuke (agraph). Each edition comes with 2 CDs of the whole show, and there's also a CD-only edition for those who don't want video.

Unlike the digital edition, the CDs have audio taken directly from the console with no sound from the audience. You can hear the difference in the clips below.

Denki Groove will perform at festival "Countdown Japan 18/19" on December 28, at Makuhari Messe. The festival goes on for 4 days until December 31.

Denki Groove "Kraken Taka" (Blu-ray/DVD/2CD)
電気グルーヴ 「クラーケン鷹」

1. Fallin' Down
2. Missing Beatz
3. Puerto Rico no HITorIKKO
4. ichigo musume wa hitorikko
5. 3gatsu wa March
6. Tropical Love
7. Slow Motion
8. Kao Kawacchatteru.
9. The Big Shirts
10. flight to Shang-hai
11. Garigari-kun
12. Shame
13. Shameful
14. B.B.E.
15. Upside Down
16. Mononoke Dance
17. MAN HUMAN
18. Baby's on Fire
19. Kakinokizaka (Guitar: Yoshida Satoshi)
20. Caty Summer (Guitar:Yoshida Satoshi)
21. UFOholic (Guitar: Yoshida Satoshi)
22. CATV 2017 (Guitar: Yoshida Satoshi)
23. moeru! Barcelona (Vocals: Hidero, guitar: Yoshida Satoshi)
24. Ningen President (Guitar: Yoshida Satoshi)

Blu-ray edition (Blu-ray + 2 CDs)
Ki/oon Music KSXL-273
Out now (10/24), ¥7000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (24% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

DVD edition (DVD (Region 2 NTSC) + 2 CDs)
Ki/oon Music KSBL-6327
Out now (10/24), ¥6000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (24% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

CD edition (2 CDs)
Ki/oon Music KSCL-3116
Out now (10/24), ¥3500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Fallin' Down" (Video edition)

"Fallin' Down" (Audio edition)

La Veuve Moustachue (aka Mustached Widow, Hige no Mibōjin) is back with a brand new single, its first release since the vinyl edition of brilliant album "Les Vacances de la Veuve Moustachue" (2016). This time the charming widow has her take at idol pop and rock styles in what results in some of its most danceable tracks ever.

Hear audio samples at Jet Set.

La Veuve Moustachue can be seen live on December 4 at Shimokitazawa Three, part of event "Hallo Excentrico!". Francis avec Haruko will perform too. Reserve through the form linked here.

La Veuve Moustachue "Zettai Renai! Count Down!!" (7")
ヒゲの未亡人 「絶対恋愛!COUNT DOWN!!」

A. Zettai Renai! Count Down!!
B. Rokku o Odoru Miboujin

Vivid Sound/High Contrast HCR-9677
Out now (10/31), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Kayōkyoku singer Nagisa Yōko suddenly passed away in September just days after performing part of a Crazy Ken Band concert, ahead of her annual recital which was to be held in November. R.I.P. to a great singer and entertainer.

Although this 7" single had already been announced, the release sadly became posthumous. The A-side is a take on standard "Zundoko bushi" with original lyrics written by Yokoyama Ken (Crazy Ken Band), and the B-side is a cover of Pinkara Trio's "onna no michi" (1972). Both are great groovy tracks! The jacket artwork was done by painter Yoshioka Rina.

Nagisa Yoko "Nagisa no Zundoko bushi" (7")
渚ようこ 「渚のズンドコ節」

A. Nagisa no Zundoko bushi
B. onna no michi

Vivid Sound VSEP-832
Out now (10/24), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Record Day is this Saturday November 3, always held on the same day as national holiday "Culture Day". Led by Japan's long-running record factory Tōyōkasei, many labels and artists coordinate their releases in the favorite physical format of many to make Record Day an event to look forward to. Items are available in shops and online.

Here's a selection of releases that caught Tokyo's Coolest Sound's eye. There's much more to be found on the shelves though, including new Japanese pressings of artists such as France Gall, Brigitte Fontaine, Marc Bolan and more. Check out the lengthy full list here. Happy vinyl shopping!

Nomiya Maki & The Shaolin Brothers "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji c/w Happy Sad" (7")
野宮真貴と少林兄弟 「東京は夜の七時 c/w ハッピー・サッド」

Self-covers of Pizzicato Five's "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji" (aka "the night is still young"), from Nomiya Maki's new album, and "Happy Sad". Brand new recordings produced by Konishi Yasuharu and performed by rockabilly band The Shaolin Brothers. "Happy Sad" is exclusive to this 7"! Color vinyl! Check out the video of "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji" below.

A. Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji
B. Happy Sad

Universal Music UPKY-9017
Out 11/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Miyata Rou "kanashimi wa sazanami no yō ni" (7")
宮田ロウ 「悲しみはさざ波のように」

7" by singer-songwriter from Kobe. The B-side contains a cover of Pizzicato Five's "Message Song". Liner notes by Konishi Yasuharu. Audio samples here.

A. kanashimi wa sazanami no yō ni
B1. Message Song
B2. manmaru

Unchantable Records UCT-027
Out 11/3, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Yara Families "Go Go Chimborah / Bossa Nova Jintōyō Remix" (7")
屋良ファミリーズ 「ゴーゴー・チンボーラー / ボサノバ・ジントーヨー リミックス」

Okinawa rare groove remixed by Comoesta Yaegashi and DJ SASA. Check below for an audio sampler.

A. Go Go Chimborah (Comoesta Yaegashi Remix)
B. Bossa Nova Jintōyō (DJ SASA Remix)

Unchantable Records UCT-026
Out 11/3, ¥1700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Kikuchi Tomoka "Kitchen Rhapsody / Donuts no mukō gawa" (7")
菊池ともか 「きっちん・らぷそでぃー / ドーナツの向こう側」

Two new songs, inspired by a restaurant and a record shop respectively. Audio samples here.

A. Kitchen Rhapsody
AA. Donuts no mukō gawa

Apricot Sounds ACDU-1
Out 11/3, ¥1600 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Delisya Sweets "senyu e iko! no Theme Song" (7")
デリシャスウィートス 「銭湯へ行こう！のテーマ・ソング」

First vinyl release. Audio samples here.

A. senyu e iko! no Theme Song
B. Sōran bushi

Sazanami Label SZDW-1060
Out 11/3, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "Ohtaki Eiichi Cover Book -Next Generation hen- 'GO! GO! ARAGAIN'"
オムニバス 「大瀧詠一 Cover Book -ネクスト・ジェネレーション編- 『GO! GO! ARAGAIN』」

Cover album of Ohtaki Eiichi works. Clear vinyl.

A1. The Shaolin Brothers / kimi wa tenneniro
A2. Kiichi Beer & The Holy Tits / yubikiri
A3. ayU tokiO / shiawase na ketsumatsu
A4. bjons / ame no Wednesday
A5. Spoonful of Lovin' / sore wa boku janai yo
A6. KEEPON / Rock'n'Roll March
B1. Shibata Satoko / kaze tachinu
B2. Triple Fire / asa nebō
B3. Yanagisawa Machiko / ureshii yokan
B4. OLD DAYS TAILOR / Velvet Motel
B5. Siamese Cats / yume de aetara
B6. himitsu no Meanies (Secret Meanies) / haru ranman

Record Day/Toyokasei TYOLP8-1103
Out 11/3, ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Ino Hidefumi "Song Album"
猪野秀史 「SONG ALBUM」

Vinyl edition of the brand new album out last month.

A1. Skytree
A2. Miracle Of Rendez-vous
A3. Now I See It
A4. Man And Dog
A5. Witchcraft
B1. Can't Sleep -Album Version-
B2. The Sound Of Waves
B3. From 3000 Feet The Sky Of Tokyo
B4. You Are So Beautiful

Innocent Record IRLP-003
Out 11/3, ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

HALFBY "Last Aloha" (12")

Halfby's excellent latest album. Check out the video for "Diamond Head" below.

A1. Last Aloha
A2. The Sun
A3. Pearl City
A4. Underwater
A5. All Supported by Aloha
A6. Diamond Head
B1. kurikaesu
B2. In & Out of Town
B3. Waikiki Rain
B4. Countryside
B5. Beach of Memories
B6. Honeymoon
B7. The Wonderful World of Aloha (Album Version)

Second Royal EMF-087
Out 11/3, ¥2700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

The Pen Friend Club "The Garden of the Pen Friend Club" (12")

Latest album now on vinyl.

A1. Our Place
A2. hishō suru nichijō
A3. Don't Take Your Time
A4. Melt Away
A5. egao egao
B1. My Little Red Book
B2. mabataki
B3. suisaiga no machi
B4. Good Lovin'
B5. boku to kimi no Melody
B6. Our Place (Reprise)

Sazanami Label SZDW-1062
Out 11/3, ¥3300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Small Circle of Friends presents STUDIO75 "Over Your Shoulder" (12")

4th album by SCoF's instrumental project STUDIO75.

A1. O'Keeffe's cactus
A2. HELIX
A3. Chime's Ren
A4. Ride jet on the slope
A5. mackerel sky
A6. stroll along in a daydream
A7. Indigo bubbles
A8. dopey
A9. hello,translation
B1. parallelogram
B2. underground
B3. view of cathedral
B4. 9 times knock
B5. Inside chimney
B6. Over Your Shoulder

Musicaanossa Gryps MNGP18
Out 11/3, ¥3241 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Ackky & KH "Aurora" (7")

Cover of Chari Chari's "Aurora" by Ackky and Katsunori Hiraiwa.

A. Aurora (Love Is Gone) feat. Kashif
B. Noid

HMV record shop HR7S109
Out 11/3, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

DMX & Pianica Maeda / VIDEOTAPEMUSIC "Tokyo Luv Story" (10")
DMX & ピアニカ前田 / VIDEOTAPEMUSIC 「Tokyo Luv Story」

Lovers rock cover of "Tokyo Luv Story" by Dub Master X and Pianica Maeda feat. singer YOU (ex-Fairchild) and percussionist Asa-Chang. Split EP with cover of the same song by VIDEOTAPEMUSIC previously released on his 2015 album "sekai kakukoku no yoru".

A1. Tokyo Luv Story feat. YOU
A2. Tokyo Duv Story
B1. Tokyo Luv Story feat. Tsuruoka Ryū
B2. Tokyo Luv Story feat. Patricia Pombo

Pony Canyon/Kakubarhythm BRJA-00002
Out 11/3, ¥2000 (excl. tax)
Order:: Jet Set, Tower Records, HMV

DJ Kawasaki "Don't Put My Heart Down" (7")

First release from DJ Kawasaki's new label "Kawasaki Records". Features Canadian singer Maylee Todd.

A. Don't Put My Heart Down
B. Don't Put My Heart Down (Dr Packer Disco Remix)

Kawasaki Records/HMV record shop HR7S111
Out 11/3, ¥1300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

She Is Summer "Call Me In Your Summer / tobikiri no oshare shite wakatebanashi o - SIRUP & Mori Zentaro Remix -" (7")
She Is Summer 「Call Me In Your Summer / とびきりのおしゃれして別れ話を -SIRUP & Mori Zentaro Remix-」

A-side produced by Katayose Akito (Chocolat & Akito, GREAT3). Check out the video below.

A. Call Me In Your Summer
B. tobikiri no oshare shite wakatebanashi o - SIRUP & Mori Zentaro Remix -

HMV record shop HR7S114
Out 11/3, ¥1667 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records

Kukangendai x Sakamoto Ryuichi "ZURERU" (12")
空間現代 × 坂本龍一 "ZURERU"
First collaboration of Kukangendai and Sakamoto Ryuichi. Includes a collaboration song, an original by Kukangendai and its remix by Sakamoto.

A. Kukangendai x Sakamoto Ryuichi / ZURERU
B1. Kukangendai / SUUJI
B2. Sakamoto Ryuichi / SUUJI REMODEL

Kukangendai LLC. KKG-1
Out 11/3, ¥2300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "PENGUIN CAFE ORCHESTRA -tribute-" (12")

(Title / Artist)
A1． Penguin Cafe Single / Hasumi Shigeomi
A2． Air A Danser / The Other Four
A3． Telephone And Rubber Band / Minekawa Takako
A4． Pythagoras's Trousers / Takahashi Yukihiro
A5． Paul's Dance / Sakamoto Ryūichi + Takada Ren
A6． Simon's Dream / Anonymass
B1． Music For A Found Harmonium / Moose Hill
B2． Isle Of View (Music For Helicopter Pilots) / Steve Jansen
B3． Southern Jukebox Music / Haas (A.K.A. Takano Hiroshi)
B4． Sketch / Kama Aina
B5． Perpetuum Mobile / Takagi Masakatsu
B6． Vega / Mishina Teruoki

HMV record shop HRLP-131
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

The Beatniks "Extentialist A Xie Xie" (12")

While released on vinyl at the same time as the CD last May, it sold out quickly. Here it is again with a different jacket and pressed on white vinyl.

Columbia COJA-9342
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Far Side Music (UK)
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

The Beatniks "The Beatniks Live 2018 Night of the Beat Generation" (2x12")

Previously unreleased live album of a show held at EX Theater Roppongi following the release of "Existentialist A Go-Go".

Columbia COJA-9343
Out 11/3, ¥5500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Kotringo "Slow LIVE at HONMONJI ~hakoniwa de Pizzicato~" (12")
コトリンゴ 「Slow LIVE at HONMONJI 〜箱庭でピチカート〜」

Live album. Also being released on the CD at the same time. Color vinyl

Slow LIVE LABEL HSLLP-0001
Out 11/3, ¥5000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

rei harakami "wasuremono" (2x12")
rei harakami 「わすれもの」

First time on vinyl. Gatefold jacket. Audio samples here.

A1. niji zō
A2. aru Theme
B1. itoguchi
B2. machibuse
B3. wasuremono
C1. kieta koi
C2. okashi
D1. omukae
D2. mebae
D3. sayōnara

rings RINR5
Out 11/3, ¥4167 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records

Itō Gorō "Getz/Gilberto+50 e.p."
伊藤ゴロー 「ゲッツ/ジルベルト+50 e.p.」

7" cut from the 2013 tribute album of the same title produced by Itō Gorō.

A. The Girl From Ipanema feat. Toki Asako
B. Vivo Sonhando feat. Harada Tomoyo

Universal Music UCKJ-9003
Out 11/3, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "Christmas Songs"

Christmas album released in 2010 on commmons. Red vinyl!

A1. Harada Tomoyo / Frosty the Snowman
A2. Hosono Haruomi / Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
A3. Takahashi Yukihiro / White Christmas
A4. Tokumaru Shūgo / Christmas Eve ~ We Wish You a Merry Christmas
A5. Sean O'Hagan (The High Llamas) / Kabon's Christmas
A6. kotringo / Sleigh Ride
B1. naomi & goro / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
B2. Minekawa Takako / Listen, The Snow Is Falling
B3. Itō Gorō / Snow
B4. Arthur Jeffes (The Penguin Cafe) / Finland
B5. Sakamoto Ryūichi / Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence re-modeled by Gorō Itō

HMV record shop HRLP-130
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Crazy Ken Band "Going To A Go-Go" (12"x2)
クレイジーケンバンド 「GOING TO A GO-GO」

Latest album (Aug. 2018). Check out the video for "Going To A Go-Go" below.

A1. GOING TO A GO-GO
A2. eye catch * Departure
A3. Soul Train
A4. shuro
A5. ZZ
B1. GARDEN
B2. ８８３
B3. LOCOMOCO
B4. yamabato Waltz
B5. Setsuko
B6. eye catch * Transit
C1. SOUL tsū SOUL
C2. yoru no Dodonpa
C3. Parang tanga iyan
C4. ponkotsu
D1. MIDNIGHT BLACK CADILLAC
D2. Honmoku Garage
D3. ohayō gozaimasu
D4. eye catch * Arrival
D5. nopperabō

Universal Music UMJK-9099
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Crazy Ken Band "Hong Kong Taxi" (12"x2)
クレイジーケンバンド 「香港的士」

2016 album. Check out the video for "Hong Kong Taxi" below.

A1. Hong Kong Taxi
A2. Honmoku Soul Lady
A3. Time Tunnel
A4. taikutsu na nichiyōbi
B1. T-jirō (duet with Nomiya Maki)
B2. onna tomodachi
B3. Ouyang Feifei
B4. eye catch - Wan chai Bus Stop -
B5. Bus ga kuru
C1. oyako no March
C2. Argentine tōhikō
C3. daisan Keihin
C4. chabangeki
C5. eye catch - Honmoku Central Station -
D1. TOTSUZEN CAR CLUB
D2. Motomachi burabura
D3. BABY BABY BABY
D4. PLEASE
D5. Cinderella Liberty

Universal Music UMJK-9097
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Crazy Ken Band "mō sukkari are nandayone" (12"x2)
クレイジーケンバンド 「もうすっかりあれなんだよね」

2015 album.

A1. SOUL PAINT
A2. kaitakusha
A3. machigai darake no kuruma erabi
A4. ningen modoki
A5. mō sukkari are nandayone
B1. yubiwa
B2. Papa no komoriuta
B3. eye catch : sukkari 8 hyōe
B4. 6789
B5. ENGINE
C1. Café Racer
C2. MONEY HONEY
C3. Singapore Sling
C4. Race! Race! Race!
D1. tatsunootoshigo
D2. eye catch : sukkari 16 hyōe
D3. Japanese Night
D4. La Americana
D5. GTR

Universal Music UMJK-9095
Out 11/3, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra "chienowa feat. Mineta Kazunobu / oyoge! taiyaki-kun ~kugure! sakana-kun Ver.~" (7")
東京スカパラダイスオーケストラ 「ちえのわ feat.峯田和伸 / およげ!たいやきくん～潜れ!さかなクン Ver.～」

Check out the videos for both songs below.

A. chienowa feat. Mineta Kazunobu
B. oyoge! taiyaki-kun ~kugure! sakana-kun Ver.~

Toyokasei TYO7S1005
Out 11/3, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Fishmans "Night Cruising 2018"

A. Night Cruising 2018
B. Night Cruising

Universal Music UPKY-9012
Out 11/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "Roger Nichols Works ~ Special 7inch Box" (7"x3)

A set of three 7"'s selected respectively by Nagato Yoshirō (Pied Piper House), Konishi Yasuharu and Hashimoto Tōru (Suburbia/Café Après-midi).

Selection by Yoshiro Nagato
A. The Sundowners / Always You
AA. Heidi Bruhl / The Drifter

Selection by Yasuharu Konishi
A. Al Martino / I Can See Only You
AA. Shirley Scott / Rainy Days And Mondays Always Get Me Down

Selection by Toru Hashimoto
A. The Four King Cousins / I Fell
AA. The Carnival / Love So Fine

Universal Music UIKY-75058
Out 11/3, ¥4500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "Suburbia Suite; Future Antiques EP"

A selection of songs from the "Ultimate Suburbia Suite Collection ~ Future Antiques" compilation (2015), selected by Hashimoto Tōru (Café Après-midi).

A1. Elis Regina / Corrida De Jangada
A2. Paige Claire / I'm Too Shy
B1. Jane Birkin / Ballade De Johnny Jane
B2. Beverly Kenney / It's A Most Unusual Day

Universal Music UIKY-75062
Out 11/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Various Artists "Suburbia Suite; Evergreen Review EP"

A selection of songs from the "Ultimate Suburbia Suite Collection ~ Evergreen Review" compilation (2015), selected by Hashimoto Tōru (Café Après-midi).

A1. Michel Legrand / Chanson Des Jumelles
A2. Lill Lindfors / Teresa
B1. Monica Zetterlund / Speak Low
B2. Alain Romans / Quel Temps Fait-Il A Paris

Universal Music UIKY-75061
Out 11/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Pico "Adam to Eve mo / I Love You" (7")
Pico 「アダムとイブも / I Love You」

Single cut from Pico's album "ABC" (1972) including a different take of "I Love You". "I Love You" is also well known as having been covered by Nomoto Karia around 2001.

A. Adam to Eve mo
B. I Love You

Universal Music UPKY-9013
Out 11/3, ¥1800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records

Nomiya Maki & The Shaolin Brothers "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji"

Yara Families "Go Go Chimborah / Bossa Nova Jintōyō Remix"

HALFBY "Diamond Head"

She Is Summer "Call Me In Your Summer"

Crazy Ken Band "Going To A Go-Go"

Crazy Ken Band "Hong Kong Taxi"

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra "chienowa feat. Mineta Kazunobu"

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra "oyoge! taiyaki-kun ~kugure! sakana-kun Ver.~"

See also:
Record Day 2017
Record Day 2016