Tokyo's Coolest Sound

Negicco's Megu (Twitter, Instagram) is releasing a single in the form of a CD with photobook. The song "taiyō to hoshi no hazama de" was written by connie (Negicco's main producer) and arranged and performed by ska band The Miceteeth. Watch the music video below!

The song and its instrumental are also available digitally (, Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY).

In terms of Megu's solo works, this song follows 2-song EP "itsuka kikasete" released in 2018 (, Spotify, OTOTOY).

Megu "taiyō to hoshi no hazama de" (CD+Photobook)
Megu 「太陽と星の狭間で」

1. taiyō to hoshi no hazama de
2. taiyō to hoshi no hazama de (inst)

T-Palette Records TPRC-0272
Out 6/3, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"taiyō to hoshi no hazama de"

Rocko2 (or in Japanese rokkotsu, meaning ribs or rib cage) is a band formed of Ookubo Kei (Urbangarde), Marianne Shinonome (Kinoco Hotel) and visual artist ALi (anttkc, La veuve mustachue). They had been performing live irregularly since 2018, and now they have started a series of digital song releases, which will see the release of 3 songs in three months, each to be accompanied by a music video. The first is "Skeletal Future".

The next release will be a cover of Kuroki Kaoru's "toki kara no tanjō", on June 23. Then on July 21 will be released a song titled "denkiuo no hone" (translates to "electric fish bones").

Rocko2 "Skeletal Future" (Download)
肋骨 「未来の骨格」
(Japanese title: rokkotsu "mirai no kokkaku")

Rocko2
Out now (5/19)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Ozawa Kenji has released this week his 3rd of three new songs, a series which had started on March 9, the day on which a concert was planned at Nippon Budokan but had to be canceled.

"Makes Me Cry" (or in Japanese "naichau") follows "Ultraman Zenbu" and "El Fuego".

Ozawa Kenji "Makes Me Cry" (Download)
小沢健二 「泣いちゃう」
(Japanese title: "naichau")

Virgin Music / Universal
Out now (5/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

This is the 5th of five monthly "Readymade mirai no ongaku" CD+Book series supervised by Konishi Yasuharu! This time he selected music from his record collection, including some jazz, beguine, rock'n'roll, twist, mambo, cha-cha-cha and folk songs. The 60-page booklet mainly consists of lots of photos from the scrapbooks of Kokaji Mitsugu, even including some rare shots of Konishi! There are also liner notes by Konishi of the songs on the compilation, and some more columns.

This installment ends another fun series of collectibles! The book hints that something else will be coming up. Can't wait!

Aside from the links below, in Japan the series can also be ordered directly via Merurido (home of Oldays Records) and Readymade Shopping.

"Readymade mirai no ongaku Series - CD Book hen 05 'nanimokamo akite shimatta'" (CD+Book)
「レディメイド未来の音楽シリーズ CDブック篇 05 『なにもかも飽きてしまった』」

(Artist / Title)
1. Henri Crolla Et André Hodeir / Saint-Tropez blues
2. Jean Leccia Et Son Orchestre / Calypso Melodie
3. Norman Maine Et Son Orchestre Typique / Rhum Et Coca-Cola
4. Orchestre Samy Cates / Nouvelle Vague
5. Richard Anthony / Nouvelle Vague
6. Conrad Pringel / The Beatles Sound
7. Fred Adison Y Su Orquesta / Whistling Twist
8. Jet Quartet / The Eton Boating Song
9. Francois Lubiana / Douce
10. Harry Madison Et Le Septett Electronic / Rendez-Vous Avec
11. Modern Sound Group / Spatial Ballade
12. Ben, Sa Tumba Et Son Orchestre / Cha Cha Cha Por Nueva York
13. Los Merecumbes / Cha-Cha-Cha A-He!
14. Los Merecumbes / Dame Dame Ya!
15. Roger Morris Et Son Orchestre / Altitude 40
16. Aimé Barelli Et Son Orchestre / Le Stop -op
17. Patrick Jordan Et Son Orchestre / Chez Les Ye-Ye
18. Los Goragueros / Mambo Miam Miam
19. Jean Michel Defaye / Nuits D'Espagne Spanish Harlem
20. Les sandgate / Emmene-Moi A Moorea
21. Lee Chamberlin / Mon Dieu Comme Il Pleut
22. Gerard Lurcy Et Son Orchestre / Quinze Ans
23. Le Groupe J.M.S. / Nuages
24. Didier Boland Et Les Gilles Chœurs / J'entends Siffler le Train
25. Olivier Despax / Tu Dis September
26. Jacques Loussier With The Trio Play Bach / Air On A G String
27. Errol Parker / Sweet Georgia Brown
28. Tony Dallo Et Son Orchestre / Navarone-Twist

Oldays Records ODR7005
Out now (5/28), ¥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"
#03 2021.03.26: "watakushi no Saint-Germain-des-Prés"
#04 2021.04.30: "renai ni akite shimatta"

Upcoming release:
#06 2021.11.26: "Christmas gō koyomi no ue de wa Mirai no ongaku"

Scha Dara Parr and never young beach have released a collaboration single of two songs!

If you missed it, check out Scha Dara Parr's album "shin Scha Dara daisakusen" (Spotify). The latest release by never young beach is EP "Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop" (, Spotify). Both of these were released last year.

Scha Dara Parr & never young beach "Nebayan and Schayan" (Download)
スチャとネバヤン 「ネバやんとスチャやん」

1. Nebayan and Schayan
2. Schayan and Nebayan

Space Shower Music
Out now (5/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Funky soulful sisters Way Wave have just released a 2nd monthly single title "Dance Party"! Like the previous, "Wavy Girl", it's produced by soul & funk band EMILAND. This time the music and lyrics were written by Way Wave's Yuna. There's a trailer clip that you can watch below.

If you haven't yet, also check out Way Wave's latest album "Soul Punch" (2019) ( (Japan), Spotify).

WAY WAVE "Dance Party" (Download)

N-Pro / P-Vine
Out now (5/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY

Trailer clip

Dance music band THE IMAGE, which debuted in February and released its first album "1" last month, has just released another brand new single! This one is a 3rd song featuring guest singer arvin homa aya (ex-Jazztronik), who wrote the lyrics of this song. Check out the music video below, shot at Café Bohemia in Shibuya.

THE IMAGE is led by singer Nakamura Michihiro, with Taku Tomizawa (Number the., Group Tamashii) on guitar, Ori Makoto (aka Francis, ex-The Collectors) on bass, and jazz drummer Hajime.

THE IMAGE "Love Is Blind" (Download)

Mitch Records
Out now (5/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

"Love Is Blind (reprise)"

MANON (Instagram) just dropped a brand new song and music video, titled "GALCHAN MODE" and complete with ParaPara-inspired dancing! Don't miss the spaceship for Planet MANON! The track was written produced by Lil'Yukichi (Twitter) with lyrics by MANON herself. In terms of solo songs, this follows "18" released last November.

It's been announced that the "World's End feat. dodo" 7", which included a remix by Hiroshi Fujiwara, will be re-issued with a new pink jacket for Record Store Day's RSD Drops on June 12. The first edition green one had sold out quickly. Stay tuned for RSD picks on this site soon.

MANON "GALCHAN MODE" (Download)

Asobimusic
Out now (5/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

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. Tune in at the times below at http://lafaceb.live. Happy listening!

"Tokyo's Coolest Sound" (vol.16) will play at http://lafaceb.live on May 26, 2021 from 22:00 (EDT = Montréal/New York).
* Japan time: May 27, 2021 from 11:00 a.m.

This episode was not archived as is. Listen to the Spotify playlist of most of the songs, or scroll down this page to find music videos and individual songs, and also listen to the narration.

Below is the full tracklist with liner notes, and narration parts that you can listen to.

1. U-zhaan x Tamaki Roy x Chinza Dopeness "Meow (feat. Akiko Yano)" (2021)
(Japanese title: U-zhaan×環ROY×鎮座DOPENESS 「にゃー (feat. 矢野顕子)」 "nya- (feat. Yano Akiko)"

To begin the show is the song "Meow", by tabla player U-zhaan with rappers Tamaki Roy & Chinza Dopeness. It's from their brand new album "Tanoshimi" (Spotify, , YouTube Music) just released last month.

The song "Meow" features Akiko Yano... in the role of a cat! Many of the album's songs have music videos up on YouTube.

🔈 Listen to Narration I
Presenting: U-zhaan x Tamaki Roy x Chinza Dopeness, Blank Music

2. Blank Music "My Name is Blank" (2021)

Blank Music is the new project of Dai Nakamura aka NUBACK (also in bands BANK and Vacation Three). While it has started just by himself, it's not a solo project but is expected to evolve into a band once the situation gets better. The song "My Name is Blank" is from the first digital EP "My Name is Blank" (Bandcamp, Spotify, ).

Also check out NUBACK's recently released 7" single "When The Party Is Over" on German label Growing Bin Records.

3. Wataru Sato "Blank" (2021)

Wataru Satō, aka Gecko of instrumental band Gecko & Tokage Parade, is a pianist who makes music described as minimal post-classical. His latest album is "After World" (Bandcamp, Spotify, ) released in January.

This song is a bit of an exception on the album, having an electronica style that contrasts with the more acoustic compositions. Check out the music videos for "Two Worlds feat. Saoirse Casey" and "Requiem".

🔈 Listen to Narration II
Presenting: Wataru Sato, Cutemen

4. Cutemen "Fruits Jerry Planet" (2020)

Cutemen is the techno unit of musician CMJK and singer Picorin. Formed in 1991 and having went through two hiatuses, they've been active again since 2016. This song is from their latest original album "2121" (Spotify, )! An instrumental edition is also available, titled "2121 Instrumentals" (Spotify, ).

Cutemen also just released a mini-album of mostly covers, as the title says: "Covers & Mellow Tunes 2" (Spotify, ). Included are songs originally by Gary Numan, Sparks, Killing Joke and more.

5. NeoBallad "Hachinohe Kouta" (2014)
(Japanese title: NeoBallad 「八戸小唄」)

NeoBallad is a unit formed of unit of singer Sachi Wakasa and drummer/producer Wataru Kamiryō (ex-P-MODEL, GRASS VALLEY), who spread their love for Japanese traditional minyō songs by rearranging them in their signature style. They give a great live performance, which is how I first found out about them. The song "Hachinohe Kouta" is one that originated from Aomori prefecture about 90 years ago. It's the first song of their 3rd album "03 ~enishi~" (Spotify, ).

NeoBallad recently released a 5th album, titled "05 ~zerogo~", and it's available on CD or MP3 only directly via their official shop which also takes international orders. One song features P-MODEL's Susumu Hirasawa.

6. nakayoshi group "Psycho Drastic Kiss" (2013)

nakayoshi group is a band characterized by new wave-y sounds and the deep and low vocals. "Psycho Drastic Kiss" appeared on their first mini album "The Jesus vs Cheatman" (Spotify, (World), (Japan)).

For those who can't get enough, an early EP can also be found on Bandcamp.

7. Maika Loubté "Spider Dancing" (2021)

Singer-songwriter Maika Loubté has just released a brand new song this month, titled "Spider Dancing" (Spotify, )! It's the third advance single from an upcoming album to be released later this year. Also check out the other singles "5AM" and "Mist".

In other recent news, Maika did a remix of Seattle artist Mark Diamond's song "Heartbreaker".

🔈 Listen to Narration III
Presenting: NeoBallad, nakayoshi group, Maika Loubté, Lullatone

8. Lullatone "Late Nights and Mosquito Bites" (2021)

Lullatone is a Nagoya-based duo formed of Shawn and Yoshimi. Just two months ago they released a new song titled "Late Nights and Mosquito Bites" (Bandcamp, Spotify, , YouTube Music). "Palindrome looping" is how they call this technique used in the song: "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)."

Also check out their previous EP "Houseplant Music" (Bandcamp) released in July 2020. Follow Lullatone on Bandcamp, a good place where to keep track of their new sounds.

9. Ino hidefumi "In Dreams" (2021)

Singer-songwriter Ino Hidefumi, whose main instrument is the Fender Rhodes electric piano, has just released a brand new album titled "In Dreams" (Spotify, , YouTube Music), and this is the title song! While his early works were instrumental, since his previous album "Song Album" he has been singing a lot. Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato One) contributed lyrics to a song on each of these two albums.

An instrumental edition of "In Dreams" can be found digitally (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

10. CMJK "Dying Tokyo" (2021)

CMJK (an early member of Denki Groove), who you heard earlier in Cutemen, has just released this year a first-ever solo album as CMJK titled "Landscape 1" (Spotify, ).

Taken from that album, "Dying Tokyo" is a collaboration with musician Kyōichi Watanabe, who co-wrote the song and also plays saxophone and flute.

🔈 Listen to Narration IV
Presenting: Ino hidefumi, CMJK, Elektel

11. Elektel "Goodbye Husky Girl" (2021)
(Japanese title: Elektel 「さよならハスキーガール」 "sayonara Husky Girl")

Elektel has recently released a brand new song ttiled "Goodbye Husky Girl", part of compilation "Pastelphonic pt.3 powered by Guitar Pop Restaurant" (, OTOTOY). Be sure to check out the music video below, directed by Ryōsuke Ishikawa.

Last year Elektel also released another new song featured on compilation "Casiotunes!" (Spotify, ).

12. Ayane Yamazaki "The Moment God Dwells" (2020)

Singer-songwriter Ayane Yamazaki recently released digitally an album titled "Yobikakerarete" (Spotify, , YouTube Music) that's of full pleasant electronic piano and synthesizer sounds. While most songs feature her own singing, "The Moment God Dwells" is a mysterious instrumental with some talking. The album also includes a cover of the theme song from "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind".

Ayane Yamazaki has just released digitally last week a brand new song titled "Melody" (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

🔈 Listen to Narration V
Presenting: Ayane Yamazaki, Soleil

13. Soleil "Kurage No Nanari" (2021)
(Japanese title: それいゆ 「海月のななり」

To end this episode is a song by Soleil (Twitter) (ex-SOLEIL, Tanqun Democracy), who this year released a first self-produced solo single of which the title song is "Kurage No Nanari" (Spotify, , YouTube Music). She wrote herself the lyrics of this song, in which she sings, plays drums and also glockenspiel. She is accompanied by Yasuhiro Nakamori (Hicksville, Mashimaro, ex-SOLEIL) on guitar, and by Takurō Gō and Shūta Ishizuka (both of detune.) on keyboards and bass respectively.

On Saturday May 29 (Japan time), an online show titled "Soleil Acoustic Show vol.1" will be streamed. The performance of about 30 to 40 minutes will feature Soleil and Takurō Gō.

Thank you for tuning in!

Find previous radio shows right here. You can also listen to some previous shows on Mixcloud.

Here are more music videos by the artists featured in this episode.

U-zhaan x Tamaki Roy x Chinza Dopeness "BUNKA"

Dai Nakamura (Blank Music, NUBACK) "Another World"

Wataru Sato "Two Worlds feat. Saoirse Casey"

Cutemen "2121" lyric video (Short ver.)

NeoBallad "Soran-bushi ~Hyper Beat Ver.~ / Sanjo Takobayashi"

nakayoshi group "Haru No Arashi"

Maika Loubté "Mist"

Lullatone "Bonjour Melancholy"

Ino hidefumi "It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night !"

Elektel "Panoramic View of Jazz (URSULA1000mix)"

Ayane Yamazaki "Melody"

Soleil "Cucumber With Honey"

After having been performing together live for a while, here comes a first collaboration release of singer-songwriter ℃-want you! (also a member of Magic, Drums & Love) and "Southern Shimokita Soul Band" Meet The Hopes!

℃-want you! wrote the music and lyrics, and Meet The Hopes arranged it with their band sound. The song is said to have been recorded remotely.

℃-want you ! & Meet The Hopes "Love Dream" (Download)
℃-want you ! & ミートザホープス 「愛が夢」
(Japanese title: "ai ga yume")

Love Dream Records
Out now (5/22)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Singer-songwritter Ayane Yamazaki has released today a brand new song titled "Melody"! This soothing ambient pop tune follows mini-album "Yobikakerarete".

A new album titled "Ribbon" has been announced to be released next month, and will include "Melody". Stay tuned for details!

Ayane Yamazaki "Melody" (Download)

Friendship.
Out now (5/21)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

xiangyu (Twitter, Instagram) has just released a brand new song today! "Milano Sandwich A" (or in Japanese "Milano Sando A") is a popular and tasty menu at café chain Doutor. There's also B and C, but xiangyu's favorite is A! This song was produced as usual by Kenmochi Hidefumi (Wednesday Campanella). Watch the music video below that will take you to more Doutor shops than you would imagine!

Also check out xiangyu's previous song "Y△M△" and her latest mini-album "Kiki".

xiangyu "Milano Sandwich A" (Download)
xiangyu 「ミラノサンドA」

Kujaku Club
Out now (5/21)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY, Amazon MP3 Japan, Amazon MP3 U.S.

CHAI has just released today a 3rd album! "WINK" follows "PUNK" (2019) and "PINK" (2017). It includes previously released songs such as "Donuts Mind If I Do", "ACTION" and "PING! PONG feat. YMCK", along with plenty of brand new ones. Check out the new music video for "IN PINK (feat. Mndsng)" below, as well as their previous ones!

Outside of Japan and Asia, CHAI has recently signed with Sub Pop (!) from which the album's LP (limited color vinyl), CD and cassette editions are available at the label's Mega-Mart or Bandcamp (unless you live in Asia where the label is CHAI's own OTEMOYAN record).

CHAI "WINK"

1. Donuts Mind If I Do
2. Maybe Chocolate Chips (feat. Ric Wilson)
3. ACTION
4. END
5. PING PONG! (feat. YMCK)
6. Nobody Knows We Are Fun
7. It's Vitamin C
8. IN PINK (feat. Mndsgn)
9. KARAAGE
10. Miracle
11. Wish Upon a Star
12. Salty

CD/Digital edition
OTEMOYAN record CHAI-010
Out now (5/21), ¥2500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, (World), (Japan), Spotify, YouTube Music
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

LP edition
Sub Pop SPLP1420
Out now (5/21)
Order: Amazon, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"IN PINK (feat. Mndsgn)"

"PING! PONG! (feat. YMCK)"

"Nobody Knows We Are Fun"

"Maybe Chocolate Chips (feat. Ric Wilson)"

"ACTION"

"Donuts Mind If I Do"

Night Tempo is a Korean producer and DJ, who in the recent years has gained popularity by revisiting city pop and 80's idol sounds from Japan and giving them his special touch. This is a compilation of many of his mixes of Shōwa-era idol pop songs, many of which were released digitally in advance but also including 4 brand new ones. The artwork is also by a Korean artist, named tree 13, who has also done the artwork of previous digital releases of the series.

If you haven't, be sure to check out Night Tempo's original music too, in the album "Funk to the Future" released last year, and also "Concentration" that came out in January.

Various Artists "Night Tempo presents The Showa Idol Groove"
「Night Tempo presents ザ・昭和アイドル・グルーヴ」

(Artist / Title)
1. Nitta Eri / Deja Vu (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
2. Nishida Hikaru / Nice-catch! (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
3. Wink / sabishii nettaigyo (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
4. Kudō Shizuka / arashi no sugao (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
5. BaBe / Give Me Up (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
6. Saitō Yuki / Straw Hat no natsu omoi (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
7. Morio Yumi / dakara Touch Me (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
8. Wink / Get My Love (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
9. Yūyu / Sayonara shigan (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
10. Saitō Yuki / sotsugyō (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
11. BaBe / I Don't Know! (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)
12. Kudō Shizuka / Wine hitokuchi no uso (Night Tempo Showa Groove Mix)

Pony Canyon PCCA-6038
Out 5/19, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Kudō Shizuka "arashi no sugao"

BaBe "Give Me Up"

Instrumental jazz trio fox capture plan's 9th full-length album has just been released! "Nebula" is a concept album for which each of the members wrote songs that were put together in a story-like manner. In addition to their signature piano trio sound, this time they are joined on two songs by electric guitar performed by Taki Yoshimitsu (of band 9mm Parabellum Bullet), and also strings on several songs.

Official info (from Bandcamp):
fcp's first concept album with the theme of "NEBULA" in galaxy. The album featured Yoshimitsu Taki from 9mm Parabellum Bullet on the electric guitar. The strings, the poetry and the chorus added an amazing ensemble to create the album as a whole.
It is a mythical work that weaves together all the beats and techniques that our ancestors have built and passed down to us, and develops them in an original way. The insane beauty contained in the album tickles our curiosity and makes us go wild. And that energy will turn into hope for the future.

Check out the music videos below! All songs can be sampled on Bandcamp.

Also, to celebrate the trio's 10th anniversary, it has been announced that a tribute album titled "ESCAPE -Tribute to fox capture plan-" will be released on July 21! Featured artists include Yuki Tsujimura, LITE, bohemianvoodoo, Schroeder-Headz, jizue, Shingo Suzuki (Ovall), Yasei Collective and The Third Herd Orchestra 2020, and also a self-cover. Stay tuned for details.

fox capture plan "NEBULA"

1. Stargaze
2. Meteor Stream
3. Blue Planet
4. Hazy Stars
5. Cosmosphere
6. Cosmos
7. Constellation
8. Dark Side of the Moon
9. Zero Gravity
10. The Day
11. Andromeda
12. Messier (drum skit)
13. Eclipse
14. Nebula
15. Tomorrow is Another Day

Playwright PWT-86
Out 5/19, ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Bandcamp, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Blue Planet"

"Meteor Stream"

Cutemen, the techno unit of CMJK (ex-Denki Groove) and singer Picorin, has just released a mini-album of mainly covers! Included are covers of Gary Numan's "Cars", Hideki Saijō & Barry Manilow's "In Search Of Love", Sparks, Killing Joke and The Stranglers. Also included is an original titled "Hometown Sea", which is a reflection by the two members about their northeastern towns that were affected by the earthquake and tsunami 10 years ago. This release follows Cutemen's 5th album "2121" released last year.

For those wondering from the title, there's also an album titled "Covers & Mellow Tunes" that was released in 1992, which contained covered of Tears for Fears, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, John Lennon & more. That one can be heard on iTunes.

Cutemen "Covers & Mellow Tunes 2" (Download)

1. In Search Of Love (Hideki Saijō & Barry Manilow cover)
2. Cars (Gary Numan cover)
3. When Do I Get To Sing My Way (Sparks cover)
4. Adorations (Killing Joke cover)
5. Never Say Goodbye (The Stranglers cover)
6. Hometown Sea (Cutemen original)

22nd Century Tunes
Out now 5/19
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY, Amazon MP3 Japan, Amazon MP3 U.S.

Ryusenkei / hitomitoi recently released the city pop soundtrack of TV drama series "Talio", first on CD and then vinyl. The song "kanashii kurai Diamond" was the show's ending theme, sung by hitomitoi, and here it comes as a 7" single pressed on clear yellow vinyl. A previously unreleased instrumental version is included for B-side. Like the album, the single's jacket features an illustration by Hiroshi Nagai (Instagram) who had made a cameo appreance in the series.

The song and also the whole soundtrack are also available digitally (, Spotify).

Ryusenkei / hitomitoi "kanashii kurai Diamond" (7")
流線形 / 一十三十一 「悲しいくらいダイヤモンド」

A. kanashii kurai Diamond
B. kanashii kurai Diamond (inst)

Kissing Fish Records KMKN82
Out 5/19, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"kanashii kurai Diamond"

Singer-songwriter Ino Hidefumi has a brand new album being released! "In Dreams" is the follow-up to "Song Album" (2018). Along with the 8 original songs, one of which has lyrics written by Konishi Yasuharu ("My Definition Of Blues"), covers of Johnny Mercer's "Dream" and The Beatles' "Good Night" are also included. Don't miss checking out the music videos for "In Dreams" and "It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night !" below!

There's a limited edition that comes with a T-shirt (large size only).

Four of the songs were released in advance on 7": "In Dreams / Magnetic Dance" in January (still available at least at CDJapan & HMV) and "Squall / Eternal Slowmotion" last year.

An instrumental edition of the album is also available digitally on , Spotify, YouTube Music, etc.

Ino hidefumi "In Dreams"

1. Déjà Vu
2. Squall
3. It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night !
4. Portrait Of A Gangster
5. My Definition Of Blues
6. In Dreams
7. Magnetic Dance
8. Dream
9. Eternal Slowmotion
10. Good Night

Regular edition (CD only)
Innocent Record IRCD-008NML
Out 5/16, ¥2700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Limited edition (CD + T-shirt (L size))
Innocent Record IRTS-018
Out 5/16, ¥5300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night !"

"In Dreams"

Seiho (Twitter, SoundCloud) (Sugar's Campaign) has just released a new mini-album titled "CAMP" exclusive to Amazon Music. Each track features different guests, namely Chinza Dopeness, ASOBOiSM with BTB Tokko & LUVRAW (these two previously known as LUVRAW & BTB), ACO, cero and Kid Fresino, in order of appearance. Find it at Amazon Japan, Amazon U.S., Amazon U.K., and probably in other countries too?

Check out the sampler clip below that's made of 5 cool short version music videos, and also the documentary that shows some studio and interview footage!

Official info:
"PRODUCERS" is a new series by Amazon Music that focuses on music producers. The first installment is called "CAMP" produced by Seiho. The album features Hip Hop and R&B artists leading the Japanese music scene. "PRODUCERS" is a project unique to Amazon Music that focuses on the trend of artists expanding their activities in the pop culture scene beyond music, and going into areas of videos and fashion. Seiho, who is a track maker, DJ, as well as a restaurant owner, was selected for the Amazon Music's new series. He produced 5 songs and 5 music videos featuring Hip Hop and R&B artists who are trendsetters of the Japanese music scene. Participating artists include ACO, ASOBOiSM, BTB Tokko, cero, KID FRESINO, LUVRAW, and CHINZA DOPENESS.

Seiho "CAMP" (Download)

1. iLL (feat. Chinza DOPENESS)
2. SHAKE (feat. ASOBOiSM, BTB Tokko & LUVRAW)
3. STAY (feat. ACO)
4. SHANTI (feat. cero)
5. IF YOU (feat. KID FRESINO)

CAMP
Out now (5/12)
Sample/buy: Amazon Japan, Amazon U.S., Amazon U.K.

"CAMP" sampler clip (5 music videos in one!)

"CAMP" Documentary

Rapper You The Rock★ (Twitter) is back with a brand new album, this time entirely produced by hip-hop group The Blue Herb whose trackmaker O.N.O made all of the music. It had been over 11 years since his previous album "The Rock" (2009). Check out the music video for "Think About Why You Started" below!

The new album has a limited edition which includes a bonus disc of instrumentals. The regular album can also be found digitally on OTOTOY and Amazon MP3.

YOU THE ROCK★ "WILL NEVER DIE"

1. TAKE YOU AND ME BACK TODAY
2. ON FIRE MORE LOUD ACTION
3. MOVE THE CROWD, ROCK THE HOUSE
4. GO AROUND
5. Chaos Panic In Asia
6. THINK ABOUT WHY YOU STARTED
7. hebi no gakkō
8. FLASH BACK SO FRESH
9. SAPPORAW CLASSIC
10. LONESOME SOLDIER
11. NOBODY BEATS THE YTR★
12. T.O.U.G.H.
13. ILL Nakameguro BLUES
14. YOU KNOW HELL? I KNOW WELL
15. ELEVATION
16. FOR YOU FROM YOU
17. PARTY OVER HERE

Limited edition (2 CDs)
Tha Blue Herb Recordings TBHR-CD-035
Out 5/12, ¥4000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

Regular edition (Main CD only)
Tha Blue Herb Recordings TBHR-CD-036
Out 5/12, ¥3000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, OTOTOY, Amazon MP3 Japan, Amazon MP3 U.S.
† Tower Records ships within Japan only

"Think About Why You Started"

Niigata-based idol group RYUTist has just released a brand new song titled "Mizugarasu" (which translates to "soluble glass" or "waterglass"). The new song was written and produced by Ohzora Kimishima, and also included is a remix by Amane Uyama (SoundCloud. This release follows RYUTist's 4th album "Falsetto" (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

RYUTist will be celebrating their 10th anniversary in July, and a special show is planned to be held in Niigata on August 9.

RYUTist "Mizugarasu" (Download)
RYUTist 「水硝子」

1. Mizugarasu
2. Mizugarasu - Uyama Amane remix -

Penguin Disc
Out now (5/9)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Post-Shibuya-kei compilation series "Pastelphonic" (produced by Yu_Asahina) is back with a 3rd installment, this time in collaboration with Shibuya-kei event series "Guitar Pop Restaurant" (which has been going on over 10 years). The compilation and featured artists give respect to the Shibuya-kei movement, while they give their own interpretation with a breath of fresh air. Check out the sampler clip below, along with the music video for Elektel's new song "Goodbye Husky Girl"!

The compilation is now available for purchase digitally on iTunes, OTOTOY, etc. or also on CD via selected online shops such as Diverse Direct and Akiba-Hobby (which both ship internationally).

Official release page

The two previous compilations of the series can be found at Bandcamp.

Various Artists "Pastelphonic pt.3 powered by Guitar Pop Restaurant"

(Title / Artist)
1. sekai no hate yori/tsūjiru kokoro / Yu_Asahina feat. Sugimoto Kiyotaka, Tokiwa Yū
2. sour sweet / Limonène
3. uso desho? / TAKU1175 feat. Kanatan
4. puZzle / three-weeks-old lovesick puppy
5. warui yume ni kuchizuke o / Penoreri feat. punipunidenki
6. Darling! Darling! Baby! / soyomogi feat. Takagi Miyo
7. Kawaii☆Photography / MELOGRAPHICA
8. Goodbye Husky Girl　/ ELEKTEL
9. nagisa ni te / atsuzoukun feat. Mine
10. yoake o matsu kimi to sekai no uts / red glasses feat. Dadaco
11. Greensleeves / Sugimoto Kiyotaka (orangenoise shortcut)

Klamnop Next NEXT-007
Out now (4/25)
Order: , Spotify, OTOTOY, Akiba-Hobby, Amazon MP3 Japan, Amazon MP3 U.S., Diverse Direct

Elektel "Goodbye Husky Girl"

Sampler clip

Soleil (Twitter) (ex-SOLEIL, Tanqun Democracy) has made a first self-produced solo single, which has just been made available digitally! For title song "Kurage No Nanari", Soleil wrote lyrics herself for the first time, and she is accompanied by Nakamori Yasuhiro (Hicksville, Mashimaro, ex-SOLEIL) on guitar, and by Gō Takurō and Ishizuka Shūta (both of detune.) on keyboards and bass respectively. The B-side is a song written by Gō Takurō, who was a co-producer of Tanqun Democracy. Soleil sings, plays glockenspiel, and on the title song also drums!

This was released on clear 7" vinyl in January, available exclusively on her own online shop (though shipping only within Japan).

Soleil was recently featured in the music video for Urbangarde's "kimi wa okuman gaso (You are 100,000,000 pixels)".

Soleil "Kurage No Nanari" (Download)
それいゆ 「海月のななり」

1. Kurage No Nanari
2. Cucumber With Honey

Soleil
Out now (5/8)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, OTOTOY, YouTube Music

Maika Loubté has just released another brand new song, titled "Spider Dancing"! It's now available on digital platforms. This comes ahead of her upcoming new album, which should also include recent songs "Mist" and "5AM".

The music video for "Spider Dancing", created with 3D computer graphics, will be premiered on YouTube on May 8 from 20:00 (JST). Set yourself a reminder here. Maika will participate in the chat space too! A bit of the song can also be heard in a promotion short video for RVCA that you can watch below!

Maika Loubté "Spider Dancing" (Download)

Water Records
Out now (5/7)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music

Music video (Premieres on May 8 from 20:00 (JST))

"RVCA Women's Active Collection" feat. Maika Loubté

For the 20th anniversary of the release of Toshiyuki Yasuda's album "Robo*Brazileira" (released in 2000) (, Spotify, YouTube Music) — a concept album on which a robot sang human feelings over Brazilian music — the artist did self-covers of all of the songs but this time played on a felt piano with a soft and soothing sound. All songs are originals except for a cover of Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Chovendo na roseira".

Official info:
A self-covered piano solo album played on a felt piano of "Robo*Brazileira", Toshiyuki Yasuda's 1st album in 2000. The original album had a strong concept, robot voice and authentic Brazilian music, and put emphasis on composing contrary to Brazilian music scene in Japan. As the 20th anniversary of it, Yasuda takes a piano to spotlight the aspect of songwriting. And it turns into unique timeless feelings. In the deep nights with the pandemic of COVID-19, the piano was played so softly and intimately not to wake up whoever good or evil.

The album was first released in January as a "Robo*Brazileira 20th Anniversary" limited boxed set containing the new "Once a Robot Sings" album as a download card (giving access to hi-res audio wav files), the CD edition of the original album from 2000, and a set of 5 promo drink coasters. Prior to that, just three of the songs were also released in advance on download/streaming platforms (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

In addition to those formats, the full album is now available as a download card plus two promo coasters. Both the boxed set or the download card formats are sold via the artist's official online shop, and the price seems to include shipping worldwide!

By the way, the song "Nunca Mais" was featured on Tokyo's Coolest Sound's May 2020 radio show.

Toshiyuki Yasuda "Once a Robot Sings (Piano Solos of Robo*Brazileira)" (Download)
安田寿之 「Once a Robot Sings (Piano Solos of Robo*Brazileira)」

1. Baiza (Piano Solo)
2. Decor Samba (Piano Solo)
3. Cesna (Piano Solo)
4. Reversonia (Piano Solo)
5. Nunca Mais (Piano Solo)
6. Day-To-Day (Piano Solo)
7. Augusta (Piano Solo)
8. Zampano (Piano Solo)
9. Chovendo na roseira (Piano Solo)
10. Wave'n Tide (Piano Solo)

The Institute of Music and Environment (TIME)
Out now (4/30), ¥1400 (excl. tax)
Order: Megadolly, , Spotify, YouTube Music

Jun Kamoda (Facebook) (aka Illreme, also the singer of band (((sssurrounddd)))) has just released a brand new album titled "II"! The artist explains that his process to make the songs is to create them at regular house BPM (of 120 to 128) and then pitch them down to a hip-hop-friendly tempo of 80 to 110. You can read more about it on Bandcamp where the album is available in digital format.

You can find more of his recent works on his label Jun Records' Bandcamp. Last year he also released a book & CD set titled "kotoba no seiza".

Jun Kamoda "II"

1. Internet Friends
2. Behind
3. Hard Rain
4. Funk And Lonely Banger
5. Who Need You
6. A Soul Grain
7. Post Utopia
8. Cyber Dumpling
9. Night-Blooming Cereus
10. Ragga Pudding
11. Rewind Us
12. Sweet Paranoia

Jun Records JUN013
Out now (4/30)
Sample/buy: Bandcamp