Tokyo's Coolest Sound

THE IMAGE has just released a 2nd single titled "Ai Ha Music" (read "ai wa Music"), following last month's "Starlight". Check out the new music video below!

The soul/funk/disco/rock band mainly features Nakamura Michihiro on vocals, Taku Tomizawa (Number the., Group Tamashii) on guitar and Ori Makoto (aka Francis, ex-The Collectors) on bass. According to their web site, a first album titled "1" is expected to be released on April 28.

THE IMAGE "Ai Ha Music" (Download)
THE IMAGE 「愛はミュージック」

Mitch Records
Out now (3/31)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Fairy Brenda is a rock band formed of guitarist and main vocalist Ryuji Sawa (Kuroneko Chelsea), bassist Tatsurou Nishiyama (Crazy West Mountain) and drummer Pen Ohhtani (The Radio Cassettes). The group has just released a brand new song titled "izure wa Sunshine", available on digital platforms.

This release follows the band's first album "Honey Trip" (CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, OTOTOY) released in January 2020.

Fairy Brenda "izure wa Sunshine" (Download)
FAIRY BRENDA 「いずれはサンシャイン」

Glass Family Record
Out now (3/31)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

hitomitoi's "Surfbank Social Club" (2013) and "Snowbank Social Club" (2014) albums, which had followed "City Dive" (2012), are both being released as double-LPs. "Surfbank Social Club" comes on blue colored vinyl, and "Snowbank Social Club" on white vinyl.

A concert as Ryusenkei / hitomitoi, themed around the recent "Talio" album, will be held on April 16 at Billboard Live Tokyo, also featuring guests Horigome Yasuyuki (ex-Kirinji), Shin Rizumu and Kashif. The 2nd set will be streamed online. Find details here.

hitomitoi "Surfbank Social Club" (2LP)
一十三十一 「Surfbank Social Club」

A1. surfbank social club 1
A2. LAST FRIDAY NIGHT SUMMER RAIN
A3. DOLPHIN
B1. STARDUST TONIGHT
B2. PRISMATIC
B3. BEFORE VELVET HOUR
C1. FEEL LIKE BAYSIDE LOVE
C2. PASSION GIRL
C3. LONESOME AIRPORT
D1. METAMORPHOSE
D2. surfbank social club 2
D3. ENDLESS SUMMER HOLIDAY

Billboard Records/Jet Set HBRV-1013
Out 3/31, ¥4000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

hitomitoi "Snowbank Social Club"
一十三十一 「Snowbank Social Club」

1. Snowbank Social Club 1
2. Catch Me in the Snow ~ginsekai de tsukamaete~
3. Night Flight Telephone Call feat. PUNPEE
4. Winter Rouge Mellow
5. Silver Wind ~utsuri yuku kisetsu~
6. Snow Storm Loneliness
7. Frozen Horizon
8. Chocolate Neverland
9. Diamond Dust
10. Snowbank Social Club 2
11. Park Suite feat. BTB
12. Awakening Town

Billboard Records/Jet Set HBRV-1014
Out 3/31, ¥4000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Surfbank Social Club" short film

"Surfbank Social Club" album digest

"Snowbank Social Club" short film

"Snowbank Social Club" album digest

Ide Yasushi (Grand Gallery) has just released a 7" and CD in collaboration with Afrika Bambaata. This actually revisits the jazz part of album "Cosmic Suite", re-edited in different versions, the 7" and CD contain different edits.

It's available at the official Grand Gallery online shop (with an autograph option (when using the "サイン入り" button or by adding a note in the order form)), also in sets with an exclusive T-shirt, or at the shops linked below.

Yasushi Ide feat. Afrika Bambaata "I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing" (7")

A. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing Part.1 (Afrika Bambaataa 7inch Version)
B. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing Part.2 (Afrika Bambaataa 7inch Version)

Grand Gallery GRGAE-0024
Out now (3/26), ¥1800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Grand Gallery
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Yasushi Ide feat. Afrika Bambaata "I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing" (CD)

1. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Afrika Bambaataa 12inch Long Version)
2. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Afrika Bambaataa 12inch Long Instrumental Version)
3. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Freedom Jazz Dance Long Version)
4. I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Freedom Jazz Dance Long Instrumental Version)

Grand Gallery GRGA-0110
Out now (3/26), ¥1800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Grand Gallery
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Afrika Bambaataa 7inch Ver) Side A" (Short version)

"I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Afrika Bambaataa 7inch Ver) Side B" (Short version)

"I'm Thinking, I'm Spacing (Freedom Jazz Dance Long Version)" (Short version)

New wave gyaru Haruko Tajima has released a new single titled "Eccentric Seinen Boy". Check out the music video below, self-directed as always, in which she turned herself into two eccentric dancing boyish characters! The track appears to be going in a similar direction to "Galnia feat. Marukido, valknee" released in December.

Last year Haruko has also kept busy with 6-MC unit Zoomgals, of which the latest is "GALS feat. Yayoi Daimon".

You can view more of Haruko in this recently published interview clip.

Haruko Tajima "Eccentric Seinen Boy" (Download)
田島ハルコ 「ECCENTRIC青年BOY」

Haruko Tajima
Out now (3/24)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Famous songwriter Tsutsumi Kyōhei passed away last October at the age of 80. This album is a tribute made of brand new recordings, featuring the work of producers Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato One), Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves), Takebe Satoshi, Kameda Seiji, Honma Akimitsu and Matsuo Kiyoshi. The song selection focuses on some of the songwriter's most well-known works, and each is sung by a different artist.

Check out the official page of the release.

HMV and Tower give away a sticker of the jacket artwork (while supplies last).

Various Artists "Kyohei Tsutsumi Song Book"
オムニバス 「筒美京平SONG BOOK」

(Artist / Title)
1. LiSA / ningyo (Producer: Takebe Satoshi, Original: NOKKO (1994))
2. Kataoka Kenta (sumika) / Tokyo Lullaby (Producer: Kameda Seiji, Original: Nakahara Rie (1978))
3. Hashimoto Ai / momen no Hankerchief (Producers: Takebe Satoshi & Honma Akimitsu, Original: Ōta Hiromi (1975))
4. Aina The End (BiSH) / Bluelight Yokohama (Producer: Nishidera Gōta, Original: Ishida Ayumi (1968))
5. Ikuta Erika / sotsugyō (Producers: Takebe Satoshi & Kameda Seiji, Original: Saitō Yuki (1985))
6. Kitamura Takumi (DISH//) / mata au hi made (Producer: Takebe Satoshi, Original: Ozaki Kiyohiko (1971))
7. miwa / Sazae-san (Producer: Honma Akimitsu, Original: Uno Yuko (1969))
8. Serina & Karen from Little Glee Monster / miserarete (Producer: Matsuo Kiyoshi, Original: Judy Ongg (1979))
9. Hitoto Yō / Cinderella Honeymoon (Producer: Konishi Yasuharu, Original: Iwasaki Hiromi (1978))
10. Maeda Nobuteru (TUBE) / saraba koibito (Producer: Takebe Satoshi, Original: Sakai Masaaki (1971))
11. JUJU / Dramatic Rain (Producer: Takebe Satoshi, Original: Inagaki Junichi (1982))
12. Nishikawa Takanori / kimi dake ni (Producer: Takebe Satoshi, Original: Shōnentai (1987))

Sony Music SRCL-11419
Out now (3/24), ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Album trailer #1

Album trailer #2

"momen no Hankerchief"

Here comes the 3rd of the monthly "Readymade mirai no ongaku" CD+Book series! While the other editions are supervised by Konishi Yasuharu, for this special one he passes the baton to guest supervisor DJ Miura Makoto (aka Monsieur Mieurax, Le Grand Escroc, also running creative company COLAXO) who put together a French-themed book and compilation. The book contains text by guest writers including Konishi Yasuharu, Nomiya Maki, Kahimi Karie, Kajino Shōichi and Nagataki Tatsuji.

Aside from the links below, in Japan the series can also be ordered directly via Merurido (home of Oldays Records). Readymade Shopping has said to have already run out of stock from pre-orders.

Various Artists "Readymade mirai no ongaku Series - CD Book hen 03 'watakushi no Saint-Germain-des-Prés'" (CD+Book)
「レディメイド未来の音楽シリーズ CDブック篇 03 『わたくしのサン＝ジェルマン＝デ＝プレ』」

(Title / Artist)
1. Mettez vous le dans la tête / Charles Level
2. C'est pas prudent / Alice Dona
3. Rien n'est trop beau / Les gam's avec Annie Markan
4. Le petit quica / Marpessa Dawn
5. Dis moi pourquoi tu refuses / Thierry Vincent
6. Priez pour moi / Les Dauphins
7. Tu ris de moi / Arlette Avedian
8. Promenades au bois / Alain Goraguer
9. A trop se dire je t'aime / Luc Romann
10. Viens / Migiani Grand Orchestra
11. Anatole / Valerie Lagrange
12. Eléanor Rigby / Erick Saint Laurent
13. Loin de venise / Olivier Despax
14. Les "dix sur vingt " / Henri Tachan
15. Mon ami l'irlandais / Bruno Pasqual
16. Un télégramme / Jacky Gordon
17. Aie l'amour et les voyages / Les Players
18. Beatnik / Marc Moro
19. Vous aimez ce disque là? / Roger Morris et son orchestra
20. Il ne te manquait plus que ça / Jean Leccia
21. Ariba la conga / Molinetti et ses "vocal teenagers"
22. Avant le jazz / Stéphanie
23. "H" comme hippies / Dani
24. Saint-Germain du Brésil / Jean-Max Rivière
25. Les Starlettes / Gérard Doulssane
26. De jour en jour / Sophia Loren
27. All the things you are / Rauber et Goraguer aux 2 orchestres
28. Toi l'enfant sage / Michel Cogoni

Oldays Records ODR7003
Out 3/26, ¥2400 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Previous releases:
#01 2021.01.29: "yoasobi ni tsukarete shimatta"
#02 2021.02.26: "neko mo shakushi mo Twist"

Upcoming releases:
#04 2021.04.30: "renai ni akite shimatta"
#05 2021.05.28: "nanimokamo akite shimatta"
#06 2021.11.26: "Christmas gō koyomi no ue de wa Mirai no ongaku"

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.

Enjoy a jazzy selection of entertaining variety, vocal and instrumental, some quiet, some pop or danceable tunes.

"Tokyo's Coolest Sound" (vol.15) aired at http://lafaceb.live on March 24, 2021 from 22:00 (EDT = Montréal/New York).
* Japan time: March 25, 2021 from 11:00 a.m.

Below is the full tracklist with liner notes.

1. dahlia "Eta Carinae" (2006)

To start the show is a song by dahlia, the first track from her 2006 album "Beautiful, but Noir" (Spotify, ) which was produced by Groove Unchant. I had written a report of the release party for this album which I've always loved ever since.

Be sure to check out dahlia's latest album "Mirror" (2017, ) on which she worked with the same producer.

2. the fascinations "Fascinated Groove (la paresse...)" (2004)

the fascinations is the unit of vibraphonist Masami Watanabe. This song appears on 2nd album "the fascinations" (Amazon, HMV), and it's sung by French singer (also lyricist and composer) Pierre Barouh who passed away 5 years ago. The first time I saw the group was actually at the release party for dahlia's "Beautiful, but Noir".

Since then the fascinations have released 4 albums, of which the latest is "Green In Blue" (CDJapan). Last year, Masami suddenly released a digital EP of old demos titled "fascinated lost tracks".

3. Yuri Kirihara with Tetsuro Yafune Trio "watashi no adana" (2021)
(Japanese title: 桐原ユリ with 矢舟テツロー トリオ 「私のあだ名」)

Yuri Kirihara (aka Manbō) is an artist with several faces, as a solo idol, pianist and trackmaker, and recently she had teamed up as a singer with singer-songwriter and pianist Tetsurō Yafune. Backed by his trio, together they released album "Sophisticated Baby" (Spotify, ) in early March. Check out the music video for "watashi no adana" below!

A recent show of Yuri can be watched online here for ¥2800 (+ service fee ¥100) until April 5 (JST).

Tetsurō Yafune was heard playing piano in Pizzicato One's live album "The Night Before: Pizzicato One In Person" (2020, Spotify, ). The same musicians back the song "Cinderella Honeymoon" produced by Konishi Yasuharu (aka Pizzicato One) on the "Kyohei Tsutsumi Song Book" tribute album out now (Spotify).

4. Le Grand Escroc "Monsieur Diaghilev" (2014)

Le Grand Escroc is a unit by DJ Makoto Miura, which released in 2014 the concept album "Portraits" ( (World), (Japan)) of ten songs about ten Monsieurs and Misters. Here's one of them, "Monsieur Diaghilev", which is sung by Emi Necozawa and Momus (who had collaborated several times before such as in unit Mashcat). The album also featured more vocalists such as Steve Piccolo (Lounge Lizards), akiko, Gak Sato and more.

Makoto Miura has supervised a CD & book set coming on March 26 part of the "Readymade mirai no ongaku" series (all details here). Related to that, he just posted last week a video titled "On The Table #0" in which he DJs while enjoying a selection of tasty-looking plates with a boisson.

5. Shunosuke Ishikawa "On Second Thought" (2016)
(Japanese title: 石川周之助 「On Second Thought」)

Shūnosuke Ishikawa is a saxophonist and flutist, but also multi-instrumentalist, who has graduated from music schools in New Orleans and Rotterdam. In 2015 he did a tour of Europe and released the album "Mind Your Step" (2015, (World), (Japan)). He's also often seen playing in various combos, and in bands such as Takeshi Nakatsuka's.

In the recent years he also released several other songs and EPs, and the song "On Second Thought" is from one of them that's titled "Can't wait for spring" ( (World), (Japan)). It's just the right time of the year to listen to it! His latest release is a cover of "Mas Que Nada" of which you can watch the music video below!

A recent show of two tenor saxophones, with Kōsuke "JAW" Kadota, can be viewed for ¥1500 (+ service fee ¥100) on Twitcasting until March 27 (JST).

6. Manaka "Vermilion" (2021)

Manaka Tanabe (Twitter, Instagram) is a skillful drummer, often seen performing in various bands such as Emiri Kanou's, Picturesque Water (with an upcoming show that can be viewed online from April 17), and Yui's Quartet (video of a recent performance). Having also studied the piano, she is also a composer and recently released a first solo EP as Manaka titled "M world" (so far only available on CD in her web shop) from which "Vermilion" is taken.

Subscribe to her YouTube channel and follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

7. fox capture plan "Yakeni Sunshine feat. Emi Okamoto" (2020)
(Japanese title: fox capture plan 「やけにSUNSHINE feat. おかもとえみ」)

fox capture plan is an instrumental jazz trio formed 10 years ago, featuring Ryo Kishimoto on piano, Hidehiro Kawai on double bass and Tsukasa Inoue on drums. Last November they released their 8th album titled "Discovery" (Spotify, ), which was followed by 7" single "Kōshu-kaidō wa mō natsu nanosa / Yakeni Sunshine" (available at CDJapan, Amazon, HMV), of which both songs featured singer Emi Okamoto. Both of these songs are also available digitally with added instrumental versions: "Koshukaido wa mo natsu nanosa" () and "Yakeni Sunshine" ().

In May, a 9th album by fox capture plan titled "Nebula" will be released. Stay tuned for details later on this site!

8. Izumi Ookawara "Usual Way" (2016)
(Japanese title: 大河原泉 「いつも通りの道」 / "itsumo dōri no michi")

Izumi Ookawara (Facebook page), well known as the singer of band Qypthone, otherwise performs as a solo singer, often writing her own songs. "Usual Way" is one of those, taken from digital release "Friendly Ghost" ( (World), (Japan)).

Recent news include an appearance of Qypthone on NY producer Ursula 1000's latest album Esoterique (song "Campari and Soda") (, Spotify), and also a collaboration song with P.O.P. titled "How I met you" (, Spotify).

9. Sunaga t Experience "Alvo" (2019)

Sunaga t Experience is the jazz project of DJ Tatsuo Sunaga, and it has been ongoing for about exactly 20 years now (first album "Crouka" was released in March 2001). The song "Alvo" is from the 6th and latest album "Suomenlinna" (Spotify, ), and it's sung by Emily Styler.

Recent label compilation "Playwright Library of Sounds -solo works at home- vol.2" featured a previously unreleased demo of Sunaga t Experience, as well as songs by members of fox capture plan, and many other artists of label Playwright's great line-up.

10. Takeshi Nakatsuka "Cold Passion" (2013)
(Japanese title: 中塚武 「冷たい情熱」 / "tsumetai jōnetsu")

This one by Nakatsuka Takeshi is from previous-to-latest album "Lyrics" ( (Japan), Spotify). There's a music video that you can watch below.

A bandmate of Izumi Ookawara in Shibuya-kei band Qypthone, Takeshi's latest release is a collaboration 7" single with horn section band videobrother, in which they covered "TOKIO" and "Hashire Shojikimono". Find details here. Both songs are also available digitally. He also participated in the recent Pac-Man 40th anniversary compilation, and in December he arranged a single for Hoshikuzu Scat titled "Christmas kanpa".

11. Aya Nakano y Central "Yawn" (2021)
(Japanese title: なかの綾とCENTRAL 「あくび」 / Nakano Aya to Central "akubi")

To close the show is a smoother number by singer Aya Nakano backed by latin sound big band Central. It's taken from brand new album "La Vida" (Spotify, , YouTube Music) released in January. Aya and Central had also collaborated on previous album "Reverse" (2019, Spotify, , YouTube Music).

Thank you for tuning in!

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

dahlia "Beautiful, but Noir"

the fascinations "Winelight" (Live)

Yuri Kirihara with Tetsuro Yafune Trio "watashi no adana"

Le Grand Escroc "Monsieur Cocteau" (Short version)

Shunosuke Ishikawa "Mas Que Nada"

Manaka "M world" Trailer clip

fox capture plan "Yakeni Sunshine feat. Emi Okamoto"

Izumi Ookawara "Usual Way"

Sunaga t Experience "yureru."

Takeshi Nakatsuka "tsumetai jōnetsu"

Aya Nakano y Central "hanakin"

Gal rapper valknee, also active as a member of Zoomgals, has just turned 30 on March 21 and she released a new catchy track titled "Sweetie30" to celebrate her own birthday! Happy Birthday!

valknee has special skills of mixing in Korean in her raps, as the result of living in Korea for several years when she was in elementary school. For more of her stuff, her YouTube channel is a good place where to start! Also the latest Zoomgals single can be found here.

valknee "Sweetie30" (Download)

valknee
Out now (3/21)
Sample/buy: YouTube Music, , Spotify, OTOTOY

Ryusenkei (project of Cunimondo Takiguchi) and hitomitoi's city pop-themed soundtrack of NHK TV series "Talio", released on CD and digitally last November, is about to be released on vinyl. All 21 tracks of the soundtrack are included, including theme song "kanashii kurai Diamond" sung by hitomitoi, a duet with Horigome Yasuyuki (ex-Kirinji) ("usotsuki tejina"), and the opening theme sung by him ("kinyōbi no Venus").

The album's recording musicians are drummer Kitayama Yūko, bassist Matsuki "Makkin" Toshirō, guitarist Yamanouchi Toshio, keyboardist Hirahata Tetsuya, percussionist Hirano Eiji, and keyboardist Shiina Akiko.

Most tracks can be sampled at Jet Set.

A 7" of "kanashii kurai Diamond" and its instrumental has also been announced, to be released on May 19.

Ryusenkei / hitomitoi "Talio" (12")
流線形 / 一十三十一 「タリオ」

A1. kinyōbi no Venus feat. Horigome Yasuyuki
A2. Talio no Theme
A3. Monkey Business
A4. yokokuhen
A5. shin-ki-rō
A6. aishū no Talio
A7. renai shōsetsu
A8. uoza no saigo no hi
A9. shinjitsu no Theme ~Focus~
A10. Chevrolet 67
A11. Cheap Thrill
A12. mayonaka no hōmonsha
B1. usotsuki tejina feat. Horigome Yasuyuki
B2. fukushu to reisei no aida de
B3. Eden no wakusei
B4. kumori tokidoki ame
B5. Mister k
B6. shinjitsu no Theme ~City Light~
B7. Talio no Ballad
B8. kanashii kurai Diamond
B9. kuroiwa no Theme

Victor Entertainment VIJL-60239
Out 3/24, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"kanashii kurai Diamond"

World Standard's first original album, first released in 1985 on Haruomi Hosono's Non-Standard label, is being re-issued on vinyl remastered under the supervision of Suzuki Sōichiro (World Standard). Included are newly written liner notes by himself, in Japanese and English.

The album, which was produced by Haruomi Hosono, credited chorus by Pizzicato V on "taiyō to Daliya" and "tanpopo no osake" and by Sandii on "yashi no mi" and "Jappan Mars".

To avoid delays shipping from Japan due to COVID-19, it is suggested for U.S. customers to order from Light In The Attic. Light In The Attic and Juno (UK) are the distributors for U.S. and Europe respectively.

World Standard just released a new album last November, titled "Shikisai Ongaku", as well as a LP of an early demo (pre-World Standard) titled "Asagao" (pianola records, Far Side Music (UK), Juno (UK)).

World Standard "World Standard" (12")

A1. taiyō to Daliya
A2. seishun gunzō
A3. Le Train Musical
A4. tanpopo no osake
A5. Fellini & Rota
A6. yashi no mi
B1. suifutachi no utagoe
B2. Jappan Mars
B3. yume no tsuki
B4. Pavane pour une infante défunte
B5. kuroi kage no Gondola
B6. watashi no unmeisen

Teichiku TEJI-38055
Out 3/24, ¥3500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Farside Music (UK), Juno (UK), Light In The Attic (U.S.)
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Shōko Suzuki, singer-songwriter who debuted in 1988, is back with a brand new song which was sound produced by Emiri Kanou! It had been 10 years since Shōko released a new song. The mix was done by Emiri and Satō Seiki (microstar). This release will apparently not be available on CD or digitally.

Audio samples can be heard at Jet Set.

Shoko Suzuki "So Help Me, GOD!" (7")
鈴木祥子 「助けて！神様。〜So Help Me,GOD!」
(Japanese title: "tasukete! kamisama. ~ So Help Me, GOD!")

A. tasukete! kamisama. ~ So Help Me, GOD!
B. tasukete! kamisama. ~ So Help Me, GOD! (DUET with EMIRI Ver.)

Narisu Records NRSP-795
Out 3/21, ¥1429 (excl. 10% tax) (excl.tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Lullatone has just released a new song, titled "Late Nights and Mosquito Bites"! The song uses a technique that Lullatone calls "palindrome looping", explained: "The melody bounces forwards and backwards until it weaves itself into a cozy blanket that wraps around the drums. The whole thing turns into a mellow beat about wishing for warmer weather, with all the texture of hazy memories of summers past (we mastered it on an old cassette 4-track)."

Listen for yourself at Bandcamp or on your favorite download or streaming platform. :)

Also check out this demonstration on YouTube of the palindrome looping technique. For those who make music, drop by Lullatone's sample sets Bandcamp, to which a "Domestic Drums" set has just been added this month.

Lullatone "Late Nights and Mosquito Bites" (Download)

Lulla-Label
Out now (3/16)
Sample/buy: Bandcamp, Spotify, , YouTube Music

Minimal post-classical pianist Wataru Satō (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter), also the leader of instrumental band Gecko & Tokage Parade, has a new solo album about to be released on April 14. In its anticipation, the song "Remembrance" has been released in advance digitally on download and streaming platforms. This follows another single titled "Forget Me Not" released digitally last month (Spotify, ).

The single's artwork features a photo by Swedish photographer Elis Hoffman (Instagram, Facebook). More of his works will be used in the upcoming album "After World".

The album is available for pre-order digitally at Bandcamp, and on CD at CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, etc. A trailer clip of the album can be viewed on YouTube. Also check out his previous album "Feel Like April" released last year.

Wataru Sato "Remembrance" (Download)

Playwright
Out now (3/17)
Sample/buy: , Spotify

Natsu Summer's latest album, "Hayama Nights" (2020), is getting a vinyl release! Produced by Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), the album features collaborations with Kobayashi "Mimi" Izumi and Saigenji. Covers of Ryusenkei's "3gōsen" (aka "Route No.3 Shibuya") and Miyazawa Rie's "kokoro kara suki" are included.

This is Natsu Summer's first vinyl LP! A 7" of "ano koro, Poolside de / kokoro kara suki" released a few months ago is also available.

Natsu Summer "Hayama Nights" (12")
ナツ・サマー 「HAYAMA NIGHTS」

A1. mayonaka no Miss DJ
A2. ano koro, Poolside de
A3. 3gō sen
B1. nageki no Office Lady
B2. futari no kankei
B3. kokoro kara suki
B4. Hello My Darling

P-VINE RECORDS PLP-6774
Out 3/17, ¥3800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Sampler clip

Frun Frin Friends is the idol unit of Beni Usakura (also of APOKALIPPPS) and Aku Nayuta, both of who used to be in group Avandoned. The duo has just released a brand new double-A-sider single, and at the same time music videos which were directed and edited by member Beni. Check them out below! The single is available on digital platforms.

Frun Frin Friends was formed in April 2020, and this is their 5th single so far.

Frun Frin Friends "Vanilla / Strawberry" (Download)
FRUN FRIN FRIENDS 「バニラ / ストロベリー」

1. Vanilla
2. Strawberry

hana to Pops & Frun Frin Friends
Out now (3/14)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY, YouTube Music

"Vanilla"

"Strawberry"

Lupin The Third Jam Crew is a remix project of songs from Lupin The Third's recent years anime movies and series. Featured remixers include tofubeats, fox capture plan, banvox, Kan Sano and many more. The remixes have been released digitally one-by-one since October 2020, and here finally comes a full album of them in LP and CD formats.

There's a YouTube channel where tracks can be heard in full.

The LP has just been released, while the CD will follow on March 24 with two bonus tracks. The LP release itself is part of the ongoing Anime On Vinyl 2021 campaign, which will have a bunch of releases next month of Ghibli soundtracks (a 7" box and several LPs) and ones of "Kimagure Orange Road" among a lot more.

Lupin The Third Jam Crew "Lupin The Third Jam -Lupin The Third Remix-" (CD)
ルパン三世 JAM CREW 「LUPIN THE THIRD JAM -ルパン三世REMIX-」

1. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by banvox
2. CHASING THE HUSTLER 2015 Remixed by Moe Shop
3. SAMBA TEMPERADO 2019 Remixed by fox capture plan (Hidehiro Kawai)
4. ENDLESS TWILIGHT feat. TIGER Remixed by Shingo Suzuki (Ovall)
5. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 (N-PAPPALA-PER) Remixed by yonkey
6. LOVE IS EVERYTHING Remixed by WONK
7. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2019 Remixed by AmPm
8. YUMENARA IINONI Remixed by YUC'e
9. ZENIGATA MARCH 2019 Remixed by Tamaya2060% (Wienners) (CD Bonus Track)
10. LOVE SQUALL feat. Sayuri Ishikawa Remixed by Kan Sano
11. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by tofubeats
12. ENDLESS TWILIGHT feat. TIGER Remixed by Lobster Boy (Oyster Kids) (CD Bonus Track)

Vap VPCG-83545
Out 3/24, ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Lupin the Third Jam Crew "Lupin The Third Jam -Lupin The Third Remix-" (12")
ルパン三世 JAM CREW 「LUPIN THE THIRD JAM -ルパン三世REMIX-」

A1. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by banvox
A2. CHASING THE HUSTLER 2015 Remixed by Moe Shop
A3. SAMBA TEMPERADO 2019 Remixed by fox capture plan (Hidehiro Kawai)
A4. ENDLESS TWILIGHT feat. TIGER Remixed by Shingo Suzuki (Ovall)
A5. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 (N-PAPPALA-PER) Remixed by yonkey
B1. LOVE IS EVERYTHING Remixed by WONK
B2. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2019 Remixed by AmPm
B3. YUMENARA IINONI Remixed by YUC'e
B4. LOVE SQUALL feat. Sayuri Ishikawa Remixed by Kan Sano
B5. THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by tofubeats

Vap VPJG-31014
Out now (3/13), ¥4500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Play-Asia, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"THEME FROM LUPIN III 2019 Remixed by AmPm"

"LOVE SQUALL feat. Sayuri Ishikawa Remixed by Kan Sano"

"THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by banvox"

"CHASING THE HUSTLER 2015 Remixed by Moe Shop"

"LOVE IS EVERYTHING Remixed by WONK"

"YUMENARA IINONI Remixed by YUC'e"

"THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 (N-PAPPALA-PER) Remixed by yonkey"

"ENDLESS TWILIGHT feat. TIGER Remixed by Shingo Suzuki (Ovall)"

"THEME FROM LUPIN III 2015 Remixed by tofubeats"

"ZENIGATA MARCH 2019 Remixed by Tamaya2060% (Wienners)"

Here's a brand new compilation from Koenji record shop disques blue-very. Having taken some economical damage from the pandemic's 2nd state of emergency (which started in January), the label prepared this compilation of rare and new songs by artists of the nearby scene. Featured artists include Sloppy Joe, Dai Nakamura (NUBACK, also of BANK, Vacation Three) and also his unit Memory Girls, The Caraway, Naive Super, Reina (of pot-pourri), as well as Australian indie-pop band Foreign Correspondent, and many others.

A limited number of copies include a CD-R with 4 bonus tracks of demos, etc.

In terms of label compilations, this album follows "Christmas Pavilion ~ natale ai mirtilli" (Bandcamp, disques blue-very).

Various Artists "a young person's guide to blue-very"

1. yumenoma / romantique
2. 101 Dalmatians / Waitin'
3. Sloppy Joe / Weekend
4. Memory Girls / Our Freedom, Our Darkness
5. The Caraway / Electric Girl
6. Time Between / In The Dandelion Graveyard
7. Dai Nakamura / I Love You
8. Naive Super / Again Under The Cherry Moon
9. the Sweet Onions / shizuka na amaoto
10. Small Garden / haru no hi
11. Foreign Correspondent / The First One (Olsson Remix)
12. Reina / Make a pancake

blue-very label blvd-020
Out now (3/13), ¥1818 (excl. tax)
Order: disques blue-very, Bandcamp, Amazon

Here comes a 3rd compilation of the "Lake of Illusions" (aka "maboroshi no mizuumi") series, this time consisting of all newly written songs by the featured artists, with a common theme of "jazz" in various perspectives. Artists include Takako Minekawa (SoundCloud), Ytamo, and many others (see the tracklist below). The album of over 70 minutes comes in cassette tape and CD editions, limited to 100 and 300 respectively. The whole was mastered by sound engineer Tokunō Naoya.

A few of the songs can be sampled here (click the "試聴1" to "試聴4" links).

Various Artists "Lake Of Illusions Vol.3"
「新・幻の湖 -LAKE OF ILLUSIONS Vol.3」
(Japanese title: "shin maboroshi no mizuumi -LAKE OF ILLUSIONS Vol.3")

(Artist / Title)
1. Bushmind / Stellar Blue
2. Yamaan / 空中林
3. ind_fris / Texture Of Green Pond
4. Hakobune / The Way Out
5. Rachael Dadd & Ichi / Mirror
6. Takako Minekawa / Hourglass In The Dunes
7. Kin Leonn / Love Letter 3
8. Yoshiharu Takeda / Stella By Starlight
9. Ytamo / Elements
10. Blahmuzik / ame no nioi
11. Inner Science / Woven Ambient
12. Uncle Fish / Plantation
13. Taichi Hirano / Free Bird

CD edition
maboroshi no mizuumi / inpartmaint MBNM001
Out now (3/12), ¥2273 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Cassette edition
maboroshi no mizuumi / inpartmaint MBNM002
Out now (3/12), ¥1545 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Twin rappers Kamisuzuki Kyōdai (of P.O.P) have teamed-up with YMCK again, this time for the ending theme of anime series "oshiete Hokusai!" about Japanese art and philosophy. Check out the music video below!

The series' episodes can be viewed for free via streaming platform Abema (though perhaps only available within Japan?). The opening theme is by CHAI (short version here).

Kamisuzuki Kyōdai (P.O.P) & YMCK "oshiete Hokusai!" (Download)
上鈴木兄弟 (P.O.P) & YMCK 「‎おしえて北斎！」

CoMix Wave Films
Out now (3/10)
Sample/buy: (Japan), Spotify, OTOTOY, Amazon MP3 Japan

Illreme, aka Jun Kamoda (Facebook, Bandcamp) and also active as the singer of band (((sssurrounddd))), has just released a new 7" on his own label. The song is an homage to the band Carnation, and it was previously released digitally as Jun Kamoda (on album "二 (The Sketch Mix)"), although the 7" is of a remade version that features Naoe Masahiro (of Carnation) on backing vocals. The B-side is an instrumental dub version. The title is made to sound like "you may dream" while containing the word yume (Dream).

Audio samples can be heard at Jet Set.

This follows another 7" of his own last year, titled "Escape The Night / Funky Protection". Jun Kamoda has announced that a new album titled "II" will be released on April 30 (on cassette and digitally).

Meanwhile, his label Jun Records has also just released a digital EP by Manila-based electronic artist Pamcy. It can be found on Bandcamp.

Illreme "yumeidoriimu" (7")
イルリメ 「ゆめいどりいむ」

A. yumeidoriimu (Vox)
B. yumeidoriimu (Dub)

Jun Records / Jet Set JS7S291
Out now (3/10)
Order: Jet Set, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Saoriiiii has a brand new song out now, and it's written and produced by Sasaki Kissa of Recoride! The energetic and fun rave-themed track has a chiptune-esque bassline.

Saoriiiii had previously collaborated with Sasaki Kissa on song "3cm Distance" (collage of live performances on YouTube).

Saoriiiii will take part in event "Back To The Universe Tour" on March 13 at Daikanyama Loop, part of a tour organized by KOTO. The other artists will be Recoride, DISCOMPO, Fennec Fennec and Jun Fantatheater. The event can be viewed online (details here).

Saoriiiii "Rave Once More" (Download)
Saoriiiii 「もう１回RAVE」
(Japanese title: "mō ikkai RAVE")

Rooftop Studio
Out now (3/10)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Teaser clip

Ozawa Kenji has just released a brand new song, titled "Ultraman Zenbu" (zenbu = all / everything) from a hero name his 4-year-old son came up with. This song follows album "So kakkoii Uchu" (2019). The single is the first of 3 monthly releases starting on March 9, the date on which was supposed to be held a concert at Nippon Budokan that was unfortunately canceled. The music video of "Ultraman Zenbu" is made up of animation by 11 graphic designers.

A 15-minute live performance that was held on March 8 is available for archived viewing only until March 10 (JST). Go here to buy a ticket and view it.

Ozawa Kenji "Ultraman Zenbu" (Download)
小沢健二 「ウルトラマン・ゼンブ」

Virgin Music / Universal
Out now (3/9)
Sample/buy: , Spotify

"Ultraman Zenbu"

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra has just released a brand new album titled "SKA=ALMIGHTY". This follows album "tsugihagi Colorful" (2019). Included are theme songs from Kamen Rider, "Almighty ~ Kamen no yakusoku", "Kamen Rider Saber" and "tajū rokō", as well as "taorenai domino" written for radio station J-Wave, and also a tie-up song with wireless earphones Aviot titled "Great Conjunction 2020". Guests include Hasegawa Hakushi, AiNA THE END (BiSH) and Kawakami Yōhei (of [Alexandros]), as well as a collaboration with Chilean band Moral Distraída.

There are limited editions that each come with two Blu-ray or DVD discs. Both contains a show titled "Great Conjunction 2020" held on December 3, 2020 at Zepp Haneda in Tokyo, which featured guest appearances by Okuda Tamio and Tajima Takao (Original Love). The Blu-ray edition only also contains 4 music videos and behind-the-scenes footage.

With any edition, CDJapan gives away an A3-sized poster, Amazon a large-sized artwork print (except on the discounted limited editions), HMV a sticker, and Tower Records a small bag (all while supplies last).

The album is also available digitally (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

A show titled "'LIVE with YOU' ~TOKYO SKA JAM 9+~" will be streamed online on March 24 (archived until March 28). Find details here.

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra "SKA=ALMIGHTY"
東京スカパラダイスオーケストラ 「SKA=ALMIGHTY」

Disc 1 (CD)
1. Salvation Ska
2. 9
3. Great Conjunction 2020
4. ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (The Masked Promise) feat. Kawakami Yōhei
5. JUMON feat. AiNA THE END (BiSH)
6. aitai ne (miss you) ｡ﾟ(ﾟ´ω`ﾟ)ﾟ｡ feat. Hasegawa Hakushi
7. Together Again
8. Kamen Rider Saber
9. This Is My Life
10. tajū rokō (Multiple Exposure) feat. Kawakami Yōhei
11. A Touch Of Spring
12. taorenai Domino (Standing Dominoes)
13. (Everybody is a) SUPERSTAR
14. Ribbon feat. Moral Distraída

Disc 2 "Great Conjunction 2020" (Blu-ray/DVD) Limited edition only
1. Great Conjunction 2020
2. hi no tama Jive
3. MONSTER ROCK
4. yūgi mitai ni GO
5. Filmmakers Bleed (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
6. koya no chikai (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
7. Jon Lord (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
8. Skarada (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
9. Streaming Tears (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
10. Howlin' Wolves (Tokyo Ska Medley "Great Conjunction Special")
11. Paradise Has No Border (Guest: Okuda Tamio)
12. Marai no gō (Guest: Okuda Tamio)
13. utsukushiku moeru mori (Guest: Okuda Tamio)
14. MC: Paradise Radio
15. taorenai Domino
16. hana fubuki
17. taiyō ni onegai
18. mekureta Orange (Guest: Tajima Takao (Original Love))
19. ue o muite arukō (Guest: Tajima Takao)
20. kaze no Profile
21. Glorious
22. Encore: Kamen Rider Saber
23. Encore: seppun (Guest: Tajima Takao)
24. Encore: DOWN BEAT STOMP (Guests: Okuda Tamio, Tajima Takao)

Disc 3 (Blu-ray) Limited edition Blu-ray only
1. Music videos
- taorenai Domino (Standing Dominoes) (Lyric Video)
- Great Conjunction 2020
- ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (The Masked Promise) feat. Kawakami Yōhei (Special Edit)
- tajū rokō (Multiple Exposure) feat. Kawakami Yōhei
2. ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (The Masked Promise) feat. Kawakami Yōhei (Making Video)
3. "Space Shower TV 'Tokyo Ska Jam 9+ ~Live House hen~'"
- mekureta Orange (Guest: milet)
- ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (Guest: Kawakami Yōhei ([Alexandros]))
- tsuioku no Lilac (Guest: Ōki Nobuo) (ACIDMAN))

Disc 3 (DVD) Limited edition DVD only
"Space Shower TV 'Tokyo Ska Jam 9+ ~Live House hen~'"
1. mekureta Orange (Guest: milet)
2. ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (Guest: Kawakami Yōhei ([Alexandros]))
3. tsuioku no Lilac (Guest: Ōki Nobuo) (ACIDMAN))

Limited edition (CD+Blu-ray)
cutting edge/Justa Record CTCR-96018
Out now (3/3), ¥7500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (17% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Limited edition (CD+DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
cutting edge/Justa Record CTCR-96019
Out now (3/3), ¥5500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (13% off *), HMV, Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Regular edition (CD only)
cutting edge/Justa Record CTCR-96020
Out now (3/3), ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"aitai ne (miss you) ｡ﾟ(ﾟ´ω`ﾟ)ﾟ｡ feat. Hasegawa Hakushi"

"ALMIGHTY ~ Kamen no yakusoku (The Masked Promise) feat. Kawakami Yōhei" special edit

"tajū rokō (Multiple Exposure) feat. Kawakami Yōhei"

"Great Conjunction 2020"

"taorenai Domino (Standing Dominoes)" lyric video

"MONSTER ROCK" live video

"Paradise Has No Border" live video

"SKA=ALMIGHTY" digest video

Rock band DYGL (read Day Glo) have just released a new single titled "Sink"! It's their first release since album "Songs of Innocence & Experience" (2019), and will be included in their upcoming 3rd album.

DYGL will tour Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Okinawa this month. A show in Tokyo on March 20 will be streamed online (with archive viewable until April 4), and online ticket buyers will later be emailed instrument-separated audio files of "Sink" plus its guitar chords! Find details here.

DYGL "Sink" (Download)

Hard Enough
Out now (3/3)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Teaser clip

Seattle singer-songwriter Mark Diamond's "Heartbreaker", a single released in May 2020, has been remixed by Maika Loubté and it has just been released digitally!

You can compare with the original which can be heard here.

Mark Diamond "Heartbreaker (Maika Loubté Remix)" (Download)

Superbloom
Out now (3/3)
Sample/buy: Spotify, , YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Official audio

Seikō Itō's dub poetry unit, Seiko Ito is the poet (aka ITP) (Twitter), has just released a first album! Included are songs "iuai" and "naoshite tsugi ni watasu", which had been released on 7" in 2019. Also, last year's single "ikari o hoeru kemono" appears part of a 22-minute suite that takes all of the B-side. Each side of the album was given dub treatment by a different famed engineer, respectively Dub Master X on the A-side and zAk on the B-side.

The album is available on LP and also digitally. The digital release includes one more song titled "conquere ~ Waiting in Vain".

SEIKO ITO is the poet "ITP 1" (12")
いとうせいこう Is The Poet 「ITP 1」

A1. iuai
A2. ITP
A3. naoshite tsugi ni watasu
A4. kesetareta
B1. ikari kumikyoku (Prologue ~ ikari o hoeru kemono ~ Walking Down The Street ~ Dear A)

DIRTY30 Records DIRTY-30004
Out now (3/3), ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, (World), (Japan), Spotify, YouTube Music
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"ikari o hoeru kemono" (Teaser for 7")

Live performance of "ikari sanbusaku" (similar to "ikari kumikyoku")

HallKariMaako (Twitter) is a new unit formed of three singer-songwriters: HALLCA (ex-Especia), Seira Kariya and AmamiyaMaako. On this first EP, "Terminal" and "Glitter" were written in collaboration of the three, while "nettai no Citronade" was written by HALLCA, "Brand New Day" by Seira Kariya and "kimi ni Giftt" by AmamiyaMaako. All of the songs were arranged by AmamiyaMaako. The music video of "Terminal" was shot in one-cut style. Check it out below!

While the EP is available in advance digitally, the CD edition will be released on March 17.

HallKariMaako have also started a YouTube channel. To stay tuned of all news, also watch their official Twitter account.

HallKariMaako "Terminal"
はるかりまあこ 「TERMINAL」

1. TERMINAL
2. Glitter
3. nettai no Citronade
4. Brand New Day
5. kimi ni Gift

HKM Project HKMP-0001
Out 3/17, ¥1818 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Terminal"

Tentenko, who has been active as a proficient electronic artist for several years already, has a new EP about to be released on German label TAL! The EP contains two new tracks, "Ki-Iro" and "Mizu-Iro", as well as remixes by Tolouse Low Trax, MM/KM (Mix Mup & Kassem Mosse) and Nika Son, all of who she had met during a Germany tour she did in December 2019. The same label had released split album "Super Mild" in 2019 (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

"An Antworten EP" is a release limited to 400 copies, and it includes a download code.

The song "Mizu-Iro" can be heard in Tokyo's Coolest Sound's radio show vol.14.

Tentenko has two events upcoming in March: DJ event "uzu" on March 10 at Jingumae bonobo (details), and live event "The Second Coming" on March 21 with Childish Tones feat. Usakura Beni and Magic, Drums & Love (details).

Tentenko "An Antworten EP" (12")

1. Ki-Iro
2. Mizu-Iro
3. Spray Sky Mix (Tolouse Low Trax)
4. Get Version (MM/KM)
5. Mizu-Iro Morph (Nika Son)

TAL TAL021EP
Out 3/5
Order: Anost (Germany), Bleep (UK), Juno (UK)

In September 2015 was held a special concert for the 70th birthday of composer and music producer Murai Kunihiko, founder of the record company Alfa Music. The show was planned by Matsutoya Masataka, and featured performances of many artists close to the label, including YMO, Arai Yumi (Yuming), Yoshida Minako, Koshi Miharu, Sheena & the Rokkets, Bread & Butter, Akai Tori, and more. There were also several guest presenters who appeared through the show, including Hosono Haruomi, Takahashi Yukihiro, Nomiya Maki, Sakamoto Miu, etc.

This special package contains the entire show from September 28, 2015 held at Tokyo Bunnkamura Orchard Hall, totaling about 4 hours on 2 Blu-ray discs, and also 2 CDs worth of the audio (pressed as high quality Blu-spec CD2, which play in normal CD players).

Release official page

Various Artists "ALFA Music Live - ALFA 50th Anniversary Edition" (2 Blu-ray + 2 CDs)

Disc 1 (Blu-ray Disc)
1. [Presenter: Arai Yumi]
2. ai wa totsuzen ni... / Kahashi Katsumi
3. hana no sekai / Kahashi Katsumi
4. [Presenter: Yoshida Minako]
5. Takeda no komoriuta / Kami Fūsen (Akai Tori)
6. [Presenter: Mickey Curtis]
7. gakuseigai no kissaten / Ohno Masumi (GARO)
8. [Presenter: Hattori Katsuhisa]
9. soshū yakyoku / Yukimura Izumi (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley)
10. Tokyo Boogie Woogie / Yukimura Izumi (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley)
11. [Presenter: Nomiya Maki]
12. Hikōki-gumo / Arai Yumi (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley)
13. Chuo Freeway / Arai Yumi (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley)
14. [Presenter: Hosono Haruomi]
15. hōrō / Kosaka Chū (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley + Takahashi Yukihiro)
16. kikansha / Kosaka Chu (Music performed by Tin Pan Alley + Takahashi Yukihiro)
17. [Speech: Kuwahara Moichi]
18. [Presenter: Mokaiya Minoru]
19. asa wa kimi ni / Yoshida Minako
20. yume de aetara / Yoshida Minako
21. [Presenter: Kami Fūsen]
22. Mr. Summertime / Circus
23. American Feeling / Circus
24. [Presenter: Circus]
25. Pianist / Yamamoto Tatsuhiko

Disc 2 (Blu-ray Disc)
1. [Presenter: Sakamoto Miu]
2. ano koro no mama / Bread & Butter
3. MONDAY MORNING / Bread & Butter
4. [Presenter: Bread & Butter]
5. La vie en rose / Koshi Miharu
6. [Presenter: Ayukawa Makoto]
7. YOU MAY DREAM / Sheena & the Rokkets
8. LEMON TEA / Sheena & the Rokkets
9. [Presenter: Takahashi Yukihiro]
10. Hot Beach / Hinata Daisuke with encounter
11. [Presenter: Arai Yumi]
12. RYDEEN / YMO, Murai Kunihiko
13. tsubasa o kudasai / Asiah, Ohmura Shinji, Hayashi Kazuki, Murai Kunihiko, Kami Fūsen, Murakami "Ponta" Shūichi
14. We believe in music / Kosaka Chu、Asiah、Ohmura Shinji、Hayashi Kazuki, Murai Kunihiko, Murakami "Ponta" Shūichi
15. utsukushii hoshi / Murai Kunihiko

Disc 3 (Blu-spec CD2)
1. ai wa totsuzen ni... / Kahashi Katsumi
2. hana no sekai / Kahashi Katsumi
3. Takeda no komoriuta (Single Version) / Akai Tori
4. gakuseigai no kissaten / Garo
5. soshū yakyoku / Yukimura Izumi
6. Tokyo Boogie Woogie / Yukimura Izumi
7. Hikōki-gumo / Arai Yumi
8. Chuo Freeway / Arai Yumi
9. horo / Kosaka Chu
10. kikansha / Kosaka Chu
11. asa wa kimi ni / Yoshida Minako
12. yume de aetara / Yoshida Minako

Disc 4 (Blu-spec CD2)
1. Mr. Summertime / Circus
2. American Feeling / Circus
3. Pianist / Yamamoto Tatsuhiko
4. ano koro no mama / Bread & Butter
5. MONDAY MORNING / Bread & Butter
6. La vie en rose / Koshi Miharu
7. YOU MAY DREAM / Sheena & the Rokkets
8. Lemon Tea / Sheena & the Rokkets
9. Hot Beach / INTERIOR
10. RYDEEN / YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA
11. tsubasa o kudasai (Single Version) / Akai Tori
12. We believe in music / Kosaka Chu, Asiah
13. utsukushii hoshi / Akai Tori

Sony Music MHXL-92
Out 3/4, ¥13000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon (23% off *), HMV (13% off *), Tower Records ^†
* Discount at time of writing
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Digest movie

Voice actress Aida Rikako (Twitter) has just released a 2nd EP, of which one song is written and produced by Kaji Hideki: "taikutsu ga daisuki". The song was co-arranged by Arai Toshiya (COUNTJOKE), and features Nagai Seiichi (ex-sōtaiseiriron) on guitar and Nari (Scafull King) on flute.

The EP is available in regular and limited editions, the latter including a DVD. It's also available digitally on iTunes.

Rikako Aida "Fiction"
逢田梨香子 「フィクション」

1. Dream Hopper
2. Fiction
3. taikutsu ga daisuki
4. hanamushiro

Regular edition (CD only)
DMM music / Astro Voice AZCS-1097
Out now (2/24), ¥1800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†,
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

DVD (Limited edition only)
1. Dream Hopper (Music Video)
2. "Fiction" Behind The Scene
3. Dream Hopper (Dance Guide)

Limited edition (CD+DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
DMM music / Astro Voice AZZS-113
Out now (2/24), ¥3500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, YesAsia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Dream Hopper"

Sampler clip

Trailer clip

Singer Yuri Kirihara (nickname: Manbō) has a brand new album about to be released, which is produced by singer-songwriter and pianist Tetsurō Yafune and performed by his trio (with Katsuto Suzuki on bass and Ryūsuke Kakizawa on drums). The result is an album that can be both listened to as jazz or pop music. All of the songs were written by Tetsurō Yafune except for "ningyo" which is a cover of Nokko.

All songs can be sampled at Disk Union (which offers a promo CD-R of a non-album song while supplies last, although they only ship within Japan).

Yuri Kirihara has two planned shows that can be viewed online, on March 7 with Nagisawa Karin (details) and on March 14 with Zettai Wasureruna (details). Both will be viewable archived for two weeks.

Yuri Kirihara with Tetsuro Yafune Trio "Sophisticated Baby"
桐原ユリ with 矢舟テツロー トリオ 「Sophisticated Baby」

1. Lady, Girl, Baby
2. Surprise You
3. amaku shoppai koi no uta
4. ningyo
5. Speak Like A Baby
6. renai hoken
7. watashi no adana
8. shippo no Blues
9. se no takai onna no ko

Urban Discos URDC17
Out 3/3, ¥2300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"watashi no adana"

Trailer clip