Tokyo's Coolest Sound

Famous Thai singer STAMP (official Facebook page) has teamed up with rapper SKY-HI for a Japanese version of his song "Jailhouse Rap" (original sung in Thai). This is the 2nd collaboration of the two, following a song by SKY-HI that featured STAMP, "Don't Worry Baby Be Happy" (YouTube) released in January.

STAMP comment:
"This song was originally released in Thai and it's one of my favorite songs. When I first heard SKY-HI's voice, I knew I'd found the perfect person to work with for the Japanese version of this song. I sent the Thai version to SKY-HI and asked him to rap to the beat - but when I heard his wild rap, I felt I needed to make a heavier arrangement. So this version turned out to be even more forceful."

SKY-HI comment:
"The original song was the reason I came to know STAMP. When I heard the song for the first time, I remember being shocked and thinking, 'Oh, there's actually a song with this kind of groove in Asia!' I was thrilled to work on that song! The fact is stranger than fiction...I am so proud to have collaborated on this song. Fortunately, we were able to record this song together in the studio last year, and perhaps contrasting with the message of the song, the vibes in the studio were very happy and we had a great time. Let's sing together again soon! I LOVE YOU STAMP!!!"

STAMP has previously collaborated with YMCK and P.O.P. (music video), and also made an appearance on P.O.P.'s album "okaasan ni kiite minai to wakaranai" (2015).

STAMP "Jailhouse feat. SKY-HI" (Download)
STAMP 「ジェイルハウス feat. SKY-HI」

Avex
Out now (9/18)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Recently released for the 2nd anniversary of specialized city pop record shop Adult Oriented Records (located in Yoyogi-Uehara, Tokyo), and first only available directly at the shop, this 12" EP of hitomitoi is now available to order online! Included are two new remixes, by Chocoholic and Night Tempo. The B-side is a brand new cover of Matsuda Seiko's "himitsu no hanazono", arranged by Narahara Hayato (of band Poor Vacation). The art direction and design was done by shop owner and designer Yuge Takumi. The specially colored record lights up under blacklight!

Hear audio samples at Jet Set.

hitomitoi has announced the release of a city-pop style TV drama soundtrack titled "Talio", in collaboration with Ryusenkei. The release is expected for November 11. Stay tuned for details.

hitomitoi "Secret Garden" (12")
一十三十一 「Secret Garden」

A1. Dolphin (Chocoholic Remix)
A2. matenrō no koibito (Night Tempo Shuto Expressway Groove Mix)
B. himitsu no hanazono

Adult Oriented Records AOR008
Out now (9/26), ¥2500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV

Funky idol group Philosophy No Dance has just done their major debut on Sony, with this new single titled "Don't Stop the Dance". The title song's lyrics were written by Hyadain.

There are two limited editions, the "type A" which includes a Blu-ray of the final show of their "Glamorous 4 Tour" held at the end of last year, and the "type B" which comes with a DVD of the music video.

The release is also available digitally as a "deluxe edition" which contains instrumentals.

Philosophy No Dance "Don't Stop the Dance"
フィロソフィーのダンス 「ドント・ストップ・ザ・ダンス」

1. Don't Stop the Dance
2. nande?
3. Optimistic Love
4. Don't Stop the Dance With Dezolve

Blu-Ray (Limited edition type A only)
"Glamorous 4 Tour" final show December 17, 2019 @ Shin-Kiba Studio Coast (Full band set)
1. Idol Philosophy
2. I'm After Time
3. Platonic Party
4. Free Your Festa
5. It's My Turn
6. Heuristic City
7. Supervenience
8. Not Just Knee Deep (Member introductions)
9. Vital Temptation
10. Like a Zombie
11. Dance or Dance
12. Sister
13. Best Four
14. suki kirai Antinomy
15. Dance Founder
16. Live Life
17. Just Memories
18. Happy Ending
19. Bonus movie: MC1/MC2

DVD (Limited edition type B only)
1. Don't Stop the Dance (Music Video)
2. Don't Stop the Dance (Music Video Making Movie)

Limited edition type A (CD + Blu-ray)
Sony Music SRCL-11570
Out now (9/23), ¥5909 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Limited edition type B (CD + DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
Sony Music SRCL-11572
Out now (9/23), ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Regular edition (CD only)
Sony Music SRCL-11574
Out now (9/23), ¥1091 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Don't Stop The Music"

Singer-songwriters HALLCA and yuca (SoundCloud) have just released a first collaboration song! The track was made by Mexico-based producer Skule Toyama (Bandcamp, SoundCloud, Twitter). Check it out on your favorite download/streaming platform, or below via YouTube Music.

HALLCA & yuca "Catch your night" (Download)

yuca & Magellan-Blue Records
Out now (9/27)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Record Store Day's second of three "RSD Drops Days" is being held on September 26. In addition to the items being sold in physical shops from the morning, online sales are allowed from 13:00 on release day. Below are just three picks from the thin list of releases on that day, the ones that you're likely not to want to miss!

Also see our list for the first day (August 29), and stay tuned for the third on October 24. The full list can be found on the official site (be sure to look at the release date).

See also the worldwide Record Store Day site if you need to check the list of international releases.

Pizzicato One "The Night Before: Pizzicato One In Person" (LP+7")
PIZZICATO ONE 「前夜 ピチカート・ワン・イン・パーソン」
(Japanese title: "zenya Pizzicato One In Person")

This is the vinyl edition of Pizzicato One's (Konishi Yasuharu) first live album, released on CD and digitally in June. The album comes as a set of LP and 7". Each copy includes an card autographed by Konishi Yasuharu himself!

LP
A1. mezame (The Awakening)
A2. Tokyo no machi ni yuki ga furu hi, futari no koi wa owatta. (Original: Mizuno Mari)
A3. kami no shiwaza (The Work of God)
A4. kimi ni naritai (Y.O.U. [I Wanna Be Like You])
A5. chikyū saigo no hi (Original: kuso yarō All Stars)
B1. Message Song
B2. Tokyo jōkū 3000 Feet (From 3000 Feet The Sky Of Tokyo) (Original: Ino Hidefumi)
B3. Table ni hitobin no Wine (Drinking Wine)
B4. Gondola no uta
B5. namida morokunatta. (Original: Yoshikawa Tomoko)

7"
A. mata koi ni ochite shimatta (Love Again)
B. kodomotachi no kodomotachi no kodomotachi e (To Our Children's Children's Children)

Universal PROZ-7901
Out 9/26, ¥4500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Toki Asako "Passion Blue" (LP)
土岐麻子 「PASSION BLUE」

Toki Asako's latest album "Passion Blue" (2019), which has a city pop vibe.

A1. Passion Blue
A2. utsukushii kao
A3. High Line
A4. Emerald
A5. RADIO
B1. Ice Cream Talk feat. G.RINA
B2. That Summer
B3. ai o tesaguri
B4. kasa
B5. Bubble Gum Town

Kissing Fish Records KMKN60
Out 9/26, ¥3636 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Avec Avec "Rendezvous / Dedication" (7")

Two tracks from Avec Avec's latest EP "Rendezvous" (released in May).

A. Rendezvous
B. Dedication

Avec Avec/Ultra-Vybe OTS-219
Out 9/26, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Pizzicato One "zenya Pizzicato One In Person" (digital edition)

Toki Asako "Passion Blue" sampler clip

Avec Avec "Rendezvous" (full EP digital edition)

Emiri Kanou is back from the hiatus she had annnounced last April, and she has just released a brand new song today! This time she takes a bit of a new approach by adding some real instruments, in contrast to the mostly programmed tracks she had released so far. The song features Watase Kengo (bjons) on guitar, and Kazuya on bass. The mix was done by Satō Seiki (microstar). Listen on your favorite download/streaming platform, or listen to the clips posted on YouTube below.

On October 6, Emiri will perform a streaming live show backed by a full band, to celebrate her return. Find details and tickets here.

Emiri Kanou "Asaninare" (Download)
加納エミリ 「朝になれ」

Emirika
Out now (9/25)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Official audio

This is Tokyo's Coolest Sound's own radio show, which is featured on La Face B (Facebook page), an Internet radio based in Montréal (Québec, Canada). It brings you some favorite songs and artists that you've read about in these pages. If you couldn't tune in at the times below, or to listen once more, you can still listen anytime on Mixcloud.

This time is a selection of songs with either new wave sounds or influences, or otherwise with an arrangement that might surprise along the way. Happy listening! Read on below to learn about each song and artist.

"Tokyo's Coolest Sound" (vol.9) aired at http://lafaceb.live on September 23, 2020 from 22:00 (EDT = Montréal/New York).
* Japan time: September 24, 2020 from 11:00 (a.m.).

Below is the full tracklist with liner notes.

1. Masakosan "10cm no kujira" (1993)
(Japanese title: マサ子さん 「10cmの鯨」 "jussenchi no kujira")

The show starts with Masakosan (Discogs), a unique band featuring sisters Mayutan and Sabrina (the "Ma" and "Sa" in the band's name) among others, and released from the famous indie label Nagomu Records in the early '90s. This song is from their album "Monkeys Wax". Masakosan's music isn't widely available, but luckily mini-album "Moo = Misa" (1990) can be found on iTunes worldwide.

Mayutan's latest works include unit ammakasie noka's "Little Ghost House" (2019, CDJapan, Amazon), and Mint-Lee noka's beautiful picture 7" "bokura wa zutto ikiteiru / haenuki yorinuki ongakutai (2019, Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon).

Also just recently Mayutan participated in a remote session with hi-posi's Miho Moribayashi in promotion of hi-posi's rarities album "hi-posi Cassette", and two songs can be seen on YouTube: "dangomushi no uta" and "boku de aritai".

2. Novko Hasebe "The ondo" (2000)
(Japanese title: ハセベノヴコ 「The ondo」)

This song is by Novko Hasebe, who played keyboards and composed in mid-'90s band Modern Choki Chokies, one of my favorite bands ever. This song is from her solo mini-album "Pandaman" (Artist official shop "Kumazasa Shōkai", Tower Records). It also features Isoda Osamu, guitarist of Moda-choki and also Novko's husband. (Don't miss hearing one of Osamu's solo songs later in the show!)

Members of Modern Choki Chokies had planned a return on stage this September, under the name Kindai Hasami Dan (近代鋏団), but sadly the show had to be canceled. In compensation, the band will post a video on YouTube on September 25 at 19:15 (JST) when the show was supposed to be held. It will be viewable only until October 31, 2020 at 19:15 (JST). Find details and a countdown clock at Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information.

3. (M)otocompo "Detective 2016" (2016)

(M)otocompo (read "otocompo"), the ska-electro unit led by Dr.Usui (ex-Motocompo), disbanded this spring making room for Dr.Usui's new project DISCOMPO. A favorite in their live shows, this song is a special version of "Detective" recorded with (M)otocompo as a band, and included on album "POPLOT TIMES 2016" (OTOTOY, CDJapan, Amazon), a split-album with new wave girl trio Kit Cat. "Detective" was originally performed by Motocompo and first heard on their album "Krackerjack Party" (2000).

DISCOMPO with Izumi Mari has just released a brand new song on YouTube, titled "rinkaku". It's the theme song of short film "DISCOMPO" directed by member Nakama Norihisa (also of The Aprils). There's two more songs by DISCOMPO up on YouTube: "Boys, Boys, Boys....." and "Another Century".

4. CTO LAB. "hitogomi no naka no obake dōshi" (2018)
(Japanese title: CTO LAB. 「人ごみの中のおばけ同士」)

This one is from CTO LAB.'s latest album "Beyond The Box" (Spotify, ). "hitogomi no naka no obake dōshi" is a self-cover of member Okada Tohru (also of moonriders), song which first appeared on his solo album "Portraiture of T" (2016, , OTOTOY).

CTO LAB. is a supergroup formed of Okada Tohru (moonriders), polymoog (Elektel) and Imai Kentarō (The Aprils). With a meaning of "Compact Techno Organization", their concept is to use nothing but small synths and gadget instruments.

5. Chiroline ver.2 "Post! Post! Post!" (2012)
(Japanese title: 新・チロリン Shin-Chirorin 「Post! Post! Post」)

Chiroline ver.2 (and later ver.3) was a renewed project of techno-pop unit Chiroline (active in 1986 and 1987) but featuring new young members. Produced by Okada Tohru (moonriders), the project also featured arrangements by members of CTO LAB. The song "Post! Post! Post" was written by Temma Matsunaga of Urbangarde.

Chiroline ver.2 released album "Chit Chat Chiroline" (2012, , OTOTOY), on which appears "Post! Post! Post!", and then mini-album "Forever Chiroline-zaka" (2013, OTOTOY), and following a member change Chiroline ver.3 released another mini-album titled "Last Pajama Party" (2015, , OTOTOY).

6. Bakubaku Dokin "Darara" (2018)
(Japanese title: バクバクドキン 「ダララ」)

Bakubaku Dokin is a unit of two girls, Yui and Naoko, whose music is always fun and surprising. The song "Darara" was released only as a 7" single (Jet Set, HMV).

Be sure to check out their brand new song "Hotter Than Havana" (Spotify, ) of which you can watch the music video below.

7. Mira Parameter "Skirt no naka no shiro" (2017)
(Japanese title: ミラ パラメーター 「スカートの中の城」)

Mira Parameter is a singer-songwriter who is also a tarot fortuneteller. In her first album "Reborn" (OTOTOY, CDJapan, Amazon), in which "Skirt on naka no shiro" can be heard, she crafted the songs one note at a time on her computer, evolving them into complex yet beautiful pieces.

After releasing a digital single titled "Phantasmagoria" (Spotify, ) at the end of 2019, this year she surprised again with an album release as piano trio ○△□ (Marusankakushikaku) titled "Hoshi Ga Furu" (Spotify, ) in which she re-arranged some songs from "Reborn" as well as including several new songs.

8. Frenesi "Die-in" (2012)
(Japanese title: フレネシ 「ダイ・イン」)

This song is from the latest full-length original album of Frenesi, titled "Gendai" (Spotify, ).

Since "Gendai", Frenesi released an album of early and rare works titled "Dolphino" (2013) (Spotify, ), after which she went on hiatus at the end of 2014. Last year she contributed a song to band SOLEIL ("Anachronic Girl" on album "Lollipop Sixteen"), and since April this year she has been participating in a project that has resulted in virtual singer idol Misazaki Honoha.

9. Emiri Kanou "Moonlight" (2019)
(Japanese title: 加納エミリ 「Moonlight」)

Self-produced idol Emiri Kanou released last year a great first album titled "GREENPOP" (Spotify, ), on which "Moonlight" appeared.

Although Emiri announced going on hiatus last April, she is already back to pursue making music at her own pace. A brand new song titled "Asaninare" will be released digitally on September 25 (teaser clip), and then on October 6 she will perform a streaming live show backed by a full band (find details and tickets here).

10. Kai "Moonlight - Tokyo" (2019)
(Japanese title: カイ 「ムーンライト ・ Tokyo」)

Idol Kai has released since last year two wonderful mini-albums, "Moonlight Tokyo" (Spotify, ) and "Paper Diamond" (Spotify, ), featuring producers such as Yoshida Tetsuto and Suzuki Keiichi (moonriders). This is the title song of her first solo mini-album, an original techno-kayō track written and produced by Yoshida Tetsuto (a co-selector of the famous "Techno-Kayo" compilation series in the late '90s). The song was also released on 7" for Record Day 2016.

Although usually a bit camera-shy, there will be a rare and last opportunity to watch her perform live on September 27, when her last show will be held and streamed online. Find details and ticket information here.

11. FINAL SPANK HAPPY "NICE CUT" (2019)

Final Spank Happy is the latest (not to say "final") incarnation of what started with unit Spank Happy (first formed in 1992), a unit led by Kikuchi Naruyoshi who is well known also for his jazz projects such as DCPRG (aka Date Course Pentagon Royal Garden).

Final Spank Happy features himself as Boss the NK and also acolyte OD (aka Oda Tomomi of CRCK/LCKS, DCPRG). The song "Nice Cut" is the opening track of their album "mint exorcist" (Spotify, ) released in October last year.

12. nakayoshi group "Haru no Arashi" (2013)

nakayoshi group is a band characterized by deep and low vocals. This song comes from their first mini album "The Jesus vs Cheatman" (Spotify, ), which was released on 80kidz' PARK label. For those who can't get enough, an early EP can also be found on Bandcamp.

Their music videos are also mesmerizing art pieces in themselves. Watch the one for "Haru no Arashi" below, directed by VIDEOTAPEMUSIC. Find the one for "Psycho Drastic Kiss" on YouTube.

13. Isoda Osamu "midori no omoi" (2005)
(Japanese title: 磯田オサム 「みどりの想い」)

Guitarist Isoda Osamu was also a member of Modern Choki Chokies (like his wife Novko Hasebe heard early in the show) in the '90s, since which he has made music for a large number of plays such as kids-oriented play "Ping Pong" produced by tupera tupera, which has been shown in many cities in Japan (and even abroad). He has also made several solo tracks and released two solo CD-Rs. The latest is "Avant Nurd Additional Volume" which includes "midori no omoi" (official shop "Kumazasa Shōten").

As mentioned above, members of Modern Choki Chokies have announced a special treat YouTube on September 25 at 19:15 (JST) (and viewable until October 31, 2020). Find details and a countdown clock at Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information.

14. Francis avec HARUKO "Stardust" (2017)
(Japanese title: ハルコとフランシス 「星屑」 Haruko to Francis "hoshikuzu")

Francis avec Haruko is the collaboration unit of Francis (aka bassist Ori Makoto) and new wave gyaru Haruko Tajima. The song "Stardust" is from their first mini-album "Jamón, jamón" (Bandcamp, Spotify, ). Since this they have released mini-album "Zero Gravity Love" (Bandcamp, Spotify, ), and also a cover of Virna Lindt's "Wild Strawberries" (Bandcamp).

Francis is currently working on a new album (he was recently shooting a music video!), while Haruko has been dropping regular singles (check out her YouTube channel).

Thanks for tuning in!

Find previous radio shows right here. You can also listen directly and follow on Mixcloud.

Below are videos of songs and artists featured in this radio show.

hi-posi Miho Moribayashi & Mayutan "boku de aritai"

Novko Hasebe "Bunta to watashi"

DISCOMPO with Izumi Mari "rinkaku"

CTO LAB. "Beyond The Box" sampler clip

Chiroline ver.3 "Cowgirl At High Noon"

Bakubaku Dokin "Hotter Than Havana"

Mira Parameter "yoru Marathon"

frenesi "Gendai"

Emiri Kanou "Koiseyo Otome"

Kai "Moonlight - Tokyo"

Final Spank Happy "Alien Sex Friend"

nakayoshi group "Haru no Arashi"

Play "Ping Pong" trailer, music by Isoda Osamu

Francis avec HARUKO "Joy of a Toy"

Rapper valknee (Twitter) released a new mini-album titled "Diary". Check out the music videos for "Super Kawaii Oshi" and title track "Diary" below!

Two remixes were also released in the following months: "Fake Balenciaga (Ryoko2000 Sweet 16 Blues Mix)" (, Spotify, YouTube Music) and "Pure Mind Pure Heart (Lil Soft Tennis Remix)" (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

valknee "Diary" (Download)

1. Diary
2. Fake Balenciaga
3. Super Kawaii Oshi
4. Pure Mind Pure Heart
5. I Can't Be as You Think

valknee
Out now (9/23)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

"Super Kawaii Oshi"

"Diary" lyric video

5-piece band the oto factory (Twitter, SoundCloud) has just released a brand new album! With a theme of "imaginary vacation", the album includes a song that features singer hitomitoi. The release follows album "date course" (2016, CDJapan), since which digital EP "Recruit" (free download on Bandcamp) was also released.

The album was also released on vinyl at the same time, though it's first only available at shop Adult Oriented Records (Yoyogi-Uehara, Tokyo). It might be available online later. The songs "uwaki na Party Girl" and "A_T_A_M_I" were released as a 7" last year (still available at HMV).

the oto factory "paraíso" (Download)

1. sunao ni narenakute
2. Dance The Summer Night Away
3. Last Dance wa nemurenu Paraíso feat. hitomitoi
4. tokonatsu no Do Do Di Da
5. R U S H H O U R
6. A_T_A_M_I
7. uwaki na Party Girl　
8. Breezin'

the oto factory
Out now (9/20)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

"Last Dance wa nemurenu Paraíso" sampler clip

MANON (Instagram)'s latest single "World's End feat. dodo" is being released on vinyl! Here the A-side is the remix by Hiroshi Fujiwara (who is about to release a new solo album of his own on October 7), while the B-side is the original produced by Yuppa (HNC). The jacket design was done by Hiroshi Fujiwara.

The release being a limited edition, it is said to be safer to pre-order by September 28 in order to secure a copy.

MANON "World's End feat. dodo (LUV STEP REMIX) - Remix by Hiroshi Fujiwara" (7")

A. WORLD'S END feat. dodo (LUV STEP REMIX)
B. WORLD'S END feat. dodo

Caticorn/Asobimusic CATI003
Out 10/28, ¥1700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"WORLD'S END feat. dodo (LUV STEP REMIX)"

"WORLD'S END feat. dodo"

VIDEOTAPEMUSIC is releasing a vinyl edition of his 4th album "The Secret Life of VIDEOTAPEMUSIC" (2019) (Spotify, ), but not without a twist. Several of the songs were re-mixed, the order changed, and the jacket also renewed for 2020. Also included is a "Nepenthes (Doctoral Mix)" in a version performed by Emerson Kitamura & mmm. The record even comes with a download code of dub and instrumental mixes of the album's songs!

Audio samples of several songs can be heard at Jet Set.

Since the album's release last year, VIDEOTAPEMUSIC also released a 10" of versions of album track "Cocktail Moon" (HMV, Spotify), and also recently an EP titled "Spring Fever EP" on cassette and digitally (with 4 bonus tracks on Bandcamp).

VIDEOTAPEMUSIC "The Secret Life Of VIDEOTAPEMUSIC" (12"+Download code)

A1. oshiete
A2. Stork (Alternative Version) feat. Orisaka Yūta
A3. PINBALL feat. Takagi Shōhei
A4. Faster Than The Sun feat. Kabeya Shūto
A5. renrakusen (Alternative Version) feat. Robochū
B1. You Drive Me Crazy (Alternative Version) feat. Murky Ghost
B2. ilmol (Alternative Version) feat. Kim Na Eun
B3. Summer We Know feat. mmm
B4. Nepenthes (Doctoral Mix) by Emerson Kitamura & mmm

"The Secret Dub Life of VIDEOTAPEMUSIC" (Download code)
1. Southern Screen (CT-701 Dub)
2. Stork (Instrumental)
3. ilmol (CT-701 Dub)
4. Renrakusen (Instrumental)
5. PINBALL (Instrumental)
6. Faster Than The Sun (NT Extended Version)
7. Cocktail Moon (Instrumental)
8. Summer We Know (Summer Meadow Dub)
9. Nepenthes (Doctoral Dub)

KAKUBARHYTHM KAKU-130
Out 9/18, ¥3200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV

"Summer We Know (feat. mmm)"

Teaser clip

ZEUS is the new monicker of guitarist/keyboardist Okuda Kensuke, member of band Nona Reeves. He starts his new project with the release of two songs digitally. One of the songs features Bonnie Pink on vocals, while the other, "Horizon", features on chorus Nakagawa Risa of The Natsuyasumi Band. Nona Reeves' Komatsu Shigeru plays drums on both songs. A solo album by ZEUS is expected to be released next spring, including these two songs.

These releases are on the new Tower Records sub-label daydream park records, which released in July the 2nd solo album of Nishidera Gōta (also Nona Reeves) titled "Funkvision" (CDJapan, Spotify, , OTOTOY).

ZEUS a.k.a. Kensuke Okuda "Little Bit Better with Bonnie Pink" (Download)
ZEUS a.k.a. 奥田健介 「Little Bit Better with Bonnie Pink」

daydream park records
Out now (9/15)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

ZEUS a.k.a. Kensuke Okuda "Horizon" (Download)
ZEUS a.k.a. 奥田健介 「ホライズン」

daydream park records
Out now (9/15)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

New wave gyaru Haruko Tajima, known for her self-produced tracks and music videos, has just suddenly dropped a brand new song titled "Still Summer"! It's now available on streaming platforms. Also check out the video below!

Haruko Tajima "Still Summer" (Download)
田島ハルコ 「夏のままで」
(Japanese title: "natsu no mama de")

Haruko Tajima
Out now (9/10)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Idol duo SAKA-SAMA has just released a new digital EP of brand new song "Dance o tomeru na" plus two new versions of previously released songs. This is the first of three releases to happen over three consecutive months.

SAKA-SAMA can be seen performing live online part of event "Tokyo Online Club vol.4" on September 21 from 13:40 (JST), along with Her Serves & Receive and O'CHAWANZ. Stay tuned for details on Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming calendar or watch SAKA-SAMA's official Twitter account. Member Suzuki Kokone (who has just released solo album "Fever") will also appear in an online event on September 12 from 13:00 (JST) (details here & countdown clock here).

SAKA-SAMA "Saka-Sama Songbook 1: Dance o tomeru na" (Download)
SAKA-SAMA 「SAKA-SAMA SONGBOOK 1： ダンスを止めるな」

1. Dance o tomeru na
2. natsuyasumi jūdan no koi
3. mayonaka no Sketch

Trash-Up!! Records
Out now (9/9)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Tokyo Beethoven, the project of Tanaka Tomoyuki (FPM) with art director Chihara Tetsuya (of design agency Lemonlife), is releasing a 2nd 7" single featuring Momo of Charan-Po-Rantan.

Like the previous release from last March, "Colorful Tokyo / uchuu wa taihen da!" (which also featured Momo), this is a collaboration with lingerie brand Une Nana Cool of which some shops have been selling the 7" in advance. The regular release date is September 16, when the tracks will also be made available digitally. The jacket illustration is by Hong Kong artist Little Thunder (門小雷) who also did the previous one.

Tokyo Beethoven "Nippon kuishin BOY feat. Momo" (7")
トーキョーベートーヴェン 「ニッポン食いしんBOY FEATURING もも」

A. Nippon kuishin BOY feat. Momo
B. Nippon kuishin BOY Organ Instrumental

Kiss,Tokyo Records KTLR-002
Out 9/16, ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Music video

Teaser clip

Perfume continues to celebrate their 20th anniversary, as well as the 15th since their major debut. Following the live Blu-ray/DVD that has just been released, here comes a brand new single! The B-side was previously released digitally at the end of last year (Spotify, , YouTube Music) and used as the theme song of movie "shijinsō no satsujin". It had been 2½ years since their previous single release, "mugen mirai" (2018).

The release comes in two editions, both of which include a DVD with music videos and bonus footage. Plus, the limited edition comes with a cassette tape of which the contents remain a secret for fans to enjoy.

Perfume will be holding an online festival titled "P.O.P" (Perfume Online Present) on September 21. Find all details and tickets here (in Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information).

Perfume "Time Warp"

CD
1. Time Warp (, Spotify, YouTube Music)
2. saisei
3. Time Warp -Original Instrumental-
4. saisei -Original Instrumental-

DVD
1. Time Warp -Video Clip-
2. saisei -Video Clip-
3. Perfume View
4. saisei -Making eizō-

Limited edition (CD + DVD (Region 2 NTSC) + Cassette tape)
Universal Music UPCP-9026
Out 9/16, ¥2627 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

First pressing (CD + DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
Universal Music UPCP-9027
Out 9/16, ¥1818 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Time Warp" (Short ver.)

"saisei"

Formed in 1996, instrumental band ROVO is releasing a 12th original album, and it's titled "ROVO"! Check out a live versio of "AXETO" below, as performed at last year's "MDT Festival" (ROVO's yearly festival).

ROVO "ROVO"

1. SINO RHIZOME
2. KAMARA
3. ARCA
4. AXETO
5. NOVOS
6. SAI

wonderground music WGMPCI-071
Out 9/9, ¥2700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"ARCA" (Edit ver.)

"AXETO" (Live performance)

Kaede (Negicco) is releasing a new mini-album! This follows a 1st mini-album released last year and a full-length album out on New Year's Day. The new mini-album features production and performance by members of bands Lamp and UWANOSORA among other musicians.

Also, about a week later will be released a 10" vinyl edition of single "Cloud Nine", first released as a limited CD-R for her solo debut. B-side "omedetō" was only previously released on that CD-R. The two songs were newly mixed by Satō Yūsuke (caméra-stylo). Find details below.

Kaede will hold her online birthday event, titled "beside you", on September 11 from 19:30 (JST). Find details and tickets here (Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information). She will turn 29 on September 15. Also, "Negi Fes 2020 Online" has also just been announced to be held on October 3, with tickets at only ¥500 (details).

Kaede "Stardust in Blue"
Kaede 「秋の惑星、ハートはナイトブルー。」
(Japanese title: "aki no wakusei, Heart wa Night Blue.")

1. aki no wakusei -Opening-
2. kimi ga otona ni natte
3. Morning Call
4. sayonara wa Heart shikake
5. Sepia iro on 9gatsu
6. Jupiter
7. Heart wa Night Blue -Ending-

T-Palette Records TPRC-0256
Out 9/8, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Kaede "Cloud Nine" (10")
Kaede 「クラウド ナイン」

A. Cloud Nine
B. omedetō

T-Palette Records TPRC-0221
Out 9/15, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Jupiter"

"Cloud Nine"

Nickey, the singer of punk band Nickey & The Warriors formed in 1984, has just released a new EP. Included are two duets with Morishige Jūichi: title song "Le Soleil est Solitaire" and "All Kids Love Rock and Roll". This comes 7 years since her previous solo release "A Taste of Honey" (2013).

The EP was first planned to be released in May but got delayed because of the pandemic, during which a single titled "LOVE × HURTS" was made and quickly released in June. Details are included below. Audio samples of this one can be heard at CDJapan (and other retailers). The art direction of both releases was done by Sally Kubota.

Also on sale are Nickey & The Warriors' 35th anniversary album "One From the Heart" (2019, CDJapan), and 7" single "Velvet Lips" (Spotify, , YouTube Music) that was just released on RSD Drops on August 28.

Nickey "Le Soleil est Solitaire"
NICKEY 「太陽はひとりぼっち」
(Japanese title: "taiyō wa hitoribocchi")

1. taiyō wa hitoribocchi feat. Morishige Juichi
2. EMPTY STREET ~haikyo no machi kara~
3. ALL THE KIDS LOVE ROCK AND ROLL feat. Morishige Juichi
4. Freesia
5. APRILL FOOL ~otona wa wakatte kurenai~
6. ALL THE KIDS LOVE ROCK AND ROLL (Nickey version)

Wild Cherry Records WCCD-003
Out now (9/4), ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

NICKEY "LOVE × HURTS"

1. LOVE x HURTS
2. Empty Street ~haikyo no machi kara~
3. LOVE x HURTS (Instrumental)

Wild Cherry Records WCCD-004
Out now (6/5), ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Indonesian city pop band ikkubaru, also very active in the Japanese city pop scene, has just released a 2nd album of which the Japanese edition CD contains several bonus tracks! Included are three songs from a commemorative release of their 2019 visit to Japan, plus two of their original songs in Japanese including a self-cover of "Cloudless Night" featuring Wakita Monari (a song that first appeared on her album "I am ONLY"). It had been 5 years since their first album "Amusement Park" (2015).

ikkubaru "Chords & Melodies"
イックバル 「コード&メロディーズ」

1. 1986
2. Tik Tok
3. Street Walkin'
4. Hilang
5. Memories
6. Evelyn
7. Pesona
8. Silent
9. Let the Love
10. Light
11. Evergreen
12. Let It Swing
13. Atlantic
14. Cloudless Night feat. Monari Wakita
15. Skyline

Ca Va? Records HYCA-8002
Out now (9/2), ¥2400 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

International edition (10 first tracks only)
ikkubaru
Out now (2/14)
Sample/buy: Spotify, , YouTube Music

"Memories"

"Street Walkin'"

"Skyline"

"Silent"

"Let it Swing"

Album digest

tofubeats has just released a digital EP of remixes of songs from 2018 album "RUN" (, Spotify, YouTube Music). Along with the "RUN" remix featuring Kreva & VaVa (watch the video below!) are ones by Pasocom Music Club, Sekitova, tofubeats himself and more.

tofubeats will be featured part of Kreva's "908 Festival Online 2020", along with Punpee, Miyavi and more. Tickers for overseas viewers are available via Pia Live Stream. Find more info and the countdown clock at Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information.

tofubeats "RUN REMIXES" (Download)

1. RUN REMIX (feat. KREVA & VaVa)
2. RUN (Kabanagu Remix)
3. Immortal Love (Yu Novation Remix)
4. Immortal Love (Yuigot Remix)
5. Immortal Love (Pasocom Music Club Remix)
6. newtown (SEKITOVA Remix)
7. RIVER (Chopped and Screwed)
8. RIVER (Tofubeats Remix)

Warner Music
Out now (9/4)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

"RUN REMIX (feat. KREVA & VaVa)"

Bakubaku Dokin has just suddenly released a new track titled "Hotter Than Havana"! It's available digitally on iTunes, Spotify, etc. The new track was produced by Giorgio Blaise Givvn and mixed by Illicit Tsuboi, and the music video directed by Gyuri Cloe Lee. Watch it below.

It had been two years since the 7" singles "Darara / tasogare on Catherine" and "Good Night Baby".

Bakubaku Dokin "Hotter Than Havana" (Download)
バクバクドキン 「Hotter Than Havana」

Gokuraku Record
Out now (9/3)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Okino Shuntarō (Venus Peter) has just released a brand new solo song digitally! It's now available on major platforms. Also check out the teaser clips below.

Catch up with his other recent works on his official site.

Okino Shuntaro "June July August" (Download)
沖野俊太郎 「June July August」

indiansummer
Out now (9/2)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Teaser Pt.1

Teaser Pt.2

Tsudio Studio (Twitter) has just released a new song which features HALLCA (aka Tominaga Haruka, ex-Especia). The release includes a 10-miute remix by Cat System Corp (猫 シ corp.). The tracks are available digitally via Bandcamp, but also as a limited 12" maxi single (180g colored vinyl) that apparently comes with a bonus instrumental and a download code. The 12" can be ordered from Hiraeth Records on Bandcamp.

Check out the release official page. The main version is also available on streaming platforms (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

By the way, Friday September 4, 2020 is Bandcamp Friday, on which Bandcamp doesn't take their service fees from sales, so it's the best day of the month to support your favorite artists by buying via Bandcamp.

Tsudio Studio "Promise of Summer feat. HALLCA" (12")

1. Promise of Summer
2. Promise of Summer (猫 シ corp. Mallsoft Remix)

Digital
Local Visions
Out now (8/30)
Sample/buy: Bandcamp

Limited edition 12" (Includes dowload code)
Hiraeth Records
Out approx. 11/12
Pre-order: Bandcamp

Teaser clip

Fujin Club has just released a new single that recalls memories of a trip to Taiwan. It had been three years since their CD single "tabi to Ferry" (2017). New member "Fujin E" has joined this mysterious pop unit of housewives from Sadogashima (Niigata pref.) who don't reveal that faces.

Fujin Club "Taiwan Tour" (Download)
婦人倶楽部 「そいえば台湾」
(Japanese title: "soieba Taiwan")

Fujin Club
Out now (9/2)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Perfume are now celebrating their 20th anniversary, and the 15th since their major debut. This Blu-ray/DVD release is of the Tokyo Dome show of their latest tour, titled "Perfume 8th Tour 2020 'P Cubed' in Dome", which followed the release of greatest hits album "Perfume The Best 'P Cubed'". The tour was supposed to end with two days at Tokyo Dome, but only the first day's show was held (on February 25) while the next day's was canceled because of growing worries from COVID-19. The show featured lots of Perfume's best songs.

The limited editions include a bonus disc of rare footage, plus a deluxe photo booklet, and a laminated pass of a design featuring logos of past tours. These come as a digipak inside of a special sleeve.

Perfume will hold an online festival titled "P.O.P" (Perfume Online Present) on September 21 from 1pm (JST) with archive available until September 30. Find all details on this official news page in English. Find it also with a countdown clock here (Tokyo's Coolest Sound's Live streaming information).

Perfume "Perfume 8th Tour 2020 'P Cubed' in Dome" (Blu-ray/DVD)

1. Opera
2. Game
3. Spending All My Time
4. Dream Fighter
5. Laser Beam
6. Hurly Burly
7. daijobanai
8. nananananairo
9. Seventh Heaven
10. P Cubed Medley (Chocolate Disco / Baby Cruising Love / nee / Computer City / Spring Of Life / Sweet Refrain / Night Flight / mirai no Museum / Star Train)
11. Chrome
12. Edge
13. Visualization
14. saisei
15. "P.T.A." no Corner
16. Party Maker
17. Perfect Star Perfect Style
18. Tokyo Girl
19. Polyrhythm
20. Challenger
21. My Color

Bonus disc (Limited editions only)
1. Edge -A-Chan Edit-
2. Edge -Kashiyuka Edit-
3. Edge -Nocchi Edit-
4. P Cubed Medley -Osaka&fukuoka-
5. P Cubed Medley -Nagoya-
6. gotōchi MC shū
7. Perfume View
8. Interview -10nen mae to onaji shitsumon o shite mita-
9. Challenger -Video Clip-
10. Challenger -Making eizō-

Blu-ray limited edition (2 Blu-ray discs (Region A) + Deluxe photo booklet + Laminated pass)
Universal Music UPXP-9014
Out 9/2, ¥7500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

DVD limited edition (2 DVDs (Region 2 NTSC) + Deluxe photo booklet + Laminated pass)
Universal Music UPBP-9016
Out 9/2, ¥6500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Blu-ray regular edition (Main Blu-ray disc only (Region A))
Universal Music UPXP-1014
Out 9/2, ¥5000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

DVD regular edition (Main DVD only (Region 2 NTSC))
Universal Music UPBP-1014
Out 9/2, ¥4000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Main disc digest

Bonus disc digest