Gig report: WOWOW "Music Ltd." 17th public live recording
Text by Patrick for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On October 12 I went to a public live recording for pay TV channel WOWOW's "Music Ltd." show. The recording isn't done in a TV studio but at a regular live house, and...
Posted on October 17, 2010 at 22:50.
Pasocom Music Club "Fine Line Remixes"
A half-year after Pasocom Music Club's 4th album "Fine Line" was released, this remix album dropped. Included are remixes of most of the album's songs, with remixers including PARKGOLF, Milk Talk, LAUSBUB, TANUKI, and more. Shortly preceding this remix album...
Posted on January 5, 2024 at 23:32. | Released on November 22, 2023
Record Day 2023
Record Day is being held this year again, on November 3, coinciding with public holiday Culture Day. Below are some picks that are not to be missed from the November 3 crates, but there's also much more to be found...
Posted on November 3, 2023 at 11:43. | Released on November 3, 2023
Towa Tei "Touch" (CD/12"), "Zoundtracks" (CD)
Towa Tei is releasing two new albums at once! "Touch" is in the same line as "LP", featuring a large variety of guests, while "Zoundtracks" is Towa Tei's first-ever all-instrumental album with no guest artists. Guests featured on "Touch" include...
Posted on August 28, 2023 at 23:43. | Released on September 6, 2023
City Pop on Vinyl 2023
City Pop on Vinyl is being held for the 4th time, on August 5, 2023. There are many exciting releases this time again, and below are some recommendations to Tokyo's Coolest Sound's readers. There's also a lot more to find...
Posted on August 5, 2023 at 23:05. | Released on August 5, 2023
Rattana "Rainbow Eyes (feat. hitomitoi)" (Download)
Thai singer-songwriter Rattana Chanprasit (aka Na Polycat) (Instagram), a member of band Polycat, has collaborated with hitomitoi on his latest solo single as Rattana, titled "Rainbow Eyes". The song's original version was sung by himself in Thai (music video),...
Posted on December 30, 2022 at 00:15. | Released on December 20, 2022
chelmico "gokigen"
chelmico have just released a brand new album titled "gokigen". Included are collaborations with tofubeats ("Meidaimae"), DJ Fumiya (Rip Slyme) ("O·La"), Tomggg ("ISOGA♡PEACH"), Tsubame (Tokyo Health Club) ("moderation"), and LA-based NVDES ("Roller Coaster"), in addition to chelmico's regular trackmakers Esme...
Posted on June 4, 2022 at 01:19. | Released on June 1, 2022
Posted on March 19, 2022 at 01:07. | Event held on Thursday March 31, 2022 at 17:00 (JST)
Yukihiro Takahashi "Grand Espoir" (CD/12")
This is a compilation album of Yukihiro Takahashi (YMO, METAFIVE) from 1980 to 1985. The songs were selected and remastered by Yoshinori Sunahara (METAFIVE). The CD edition has two discs, the first one of music from YT's own albums and...
Posted on October 29, 2021 at 23:13. | Released on October 27, 2021
Sketch Show "'audio sponge' 'tronika' 'LOOPHOLE'" (3CDs+DVD)
The three albums of Sketch Show (Haruomi Hosono & Yukihiro Takahashi), which were re-issued on vinyl in July, have just been released as one boxed set of three CDs. It's been 20 years since the release of 3rd and latest...
Posted on September 23, 2021 at 10:19. | Released on September 22, 2021
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Tokyo's Coolest Sound" vol.20
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...
Posted on September 23, 2021 at 00:37.
RSD Drops 2021 Day 2
Here comes the 2nd of Record Store Day's "RSD Drops" for 2021, following the first held on June 12. Online sales will start at 13:00 (JST) on release day. Below are some picks for July 17, followed by some related...
Posted on July 17, 2021 at 02:04. | Released on July 17, 2021
Sketch Show "audio sponge" (2x12"), "tronika" (12"), "LOOPHOLE" (2x12")
Three albums of Sketch Show, the unit of Yukihiro Takahashi and Haruomi Hosono, are being re-issued on vinyl for the first time after almost 20 years. "audio sponge" was first released in 2002, followed by "tronika" and "LOOPHOLE" in 2003....
Posted on July 14, 2021 at 22:39. | Released on July 21, 2021
Posted on March 4, 2021 at 21:05. | Event held on Sunday March 21, 2021 at 18:00 (JST)
Various Artists "ALFA Music Live - ALFA 50th Anniversary Edition" (2 Blu-ray + 2 CDs)
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...
Posted on March 2, 2021 at 22:35. | Released on March 4, 2021
Towa Tei "LP"
Towa Tei has a brand new album titled "LP" about to be released on March 3! In terms of original albums, it succeeds "EMO" (2017). "LP" includes recent singles "Magic" and "Birthday" (both released in advance on 7"), and features...
Posted on February 28, 2021 at 21:58. | Released on March 3, 2021
Towa Tei "Birthday" (7")
Towa Tei is releasing this month a new 7" single titled "Birthday"! The new song features Hosono Haruomi, Koike Mitsuko (Beautiful Hummingbird) and HANA. The B-side is "Luv Pandemic" from album "CUTE" (2015), which featured vocals by Hosono Haruomi, Takahashi...
Posted on February 1, 2021 at 22:32. | Released on February 10, 2021
METAFIVE "Environmental" (Download)
Almost 4 years since mini-album "METAHALF", METAFIVE just came back suddenly with a brand new song that features Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) on main vocals, with Takahashi Yukihiro and Leo Imai also singing along. The band had hinted a return...
Posted on July 24, 2020 at 00:25. | Released on July 24, 2020
Takahashi Yukihiro "Yukihiro Takahashi Live 2018 Saravah Saravah!" (CD+DVD, 2x12")
This is a live album of Takahashi Yukihiro, of a show that followed the release of album "Saravah Saravah!" (the 40th anniversary remake of debut album "Saravah!"). The show, which was held on November 24, 2018 at Tokyo International Forum...
Posted on August 18, 2019 at 15:32. | Released on August 21, 2019
chelmico "Fishing"
chelmico, 2-girl rap unit formed of MCs Rachel and Mamiko, has a 2nd major album being released this month! This time there are tracks made in collaboration with Mikeneko Homeless, ryo takahashi and Toshiki Hayashi (%C), and also Chikada Haruo...
Posted on August 14, 2019 at 22:27. | Released on August 21, 2019
Yasutaka Nakata "Pico Pico Tokyo feat. Momo Mashiro" (Download)
Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE) has just released a brand new song under his own name. The track features singer Mashiro Momo (Twitter), the result of her winning an audition that promised a debut produced by Yasutaka. Check out the music...
Posted on May 19, 2019 at 01:27. | Released on May 17, 2019
Record Store Day 2019
Record Store Day 2019 is just around the corner! This year it's to be held on April 13, a week earlier than usual. This year again there are many great releases happening in Japan. Below are Tokyo's Coolest Sound's picks!...
Posted on April 11, 2019 at 22:33. | Released on April 13, 2019
Takahashi Yukihiro "Saravah Saravah!"
Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO, Metafive) has re-recorded the vocals of his debut solo album "Saravah!" (1978) 40 years later with his current voice. Included are strings arrangements by Sakamoto Ryuichi, and features appearances of Hosono Haruomi, Yamashita Tatsuro, Takanaka Masayoshi and...
Posted on November 4, 2018 at 19:51. | Released on October 24, 2018
Record Day 2018
Record Day is this Saturday November 3, always held on the same day as national holiday "Culture Day". Led by Japan's long-running record factory Tōyōkasei, many labels and artists coordinate their releases in the favorite physical format of many to...
Posted on November 2, 2018 at 23:22. | Released on November 3, 2018
Yellow Magic Orchestra "Neue Tanz"
This is a compilation of songs by Yellow Magic Orchestra (and solo ones by each member too) selected by Towa Tei for YMO's 40th anniversary. The album was remastered by Sunahara Yoshinori. The jacket artwork was done by Tomoo Gokita...
Posted on October 20, 2018 at 21:07. | Released on October 17, 2018
chelmico "Power"
chelmico, girl rap unit formed of MC Rachel & MC Mamiko, have a first major album out this week! Tracks were made in collaboration with U-zhaan ("Date"), Parkgolf, Mikeneko Homeless, ryo takahashi and Toshiki Hayashi (%C). The first pressing comes...
Posted on August 7, 2018 at 21:56. | Released on August 8, 2018
Cornelius "NHK 'Design Ah' 3"
A 3rd soundtrack album for NHK's popular educational TV program "Design Ah" (「デザインあ」) has just been released. As usual all the music is by Cornelius! Featured are vocals by Chocolat, Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter), Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Leo Imai (Metafive),...
Posted on July 25, 2018 at 23:04. | Released on July 18, 2018
BTB tokko "Sweet Machine"
Talkbox musician BTB (Pan Pacific Playa, ex-Luvraw & BTB) is back as "BTB tokkō" (tokkō = 特効 = special effects) with a new album titled "Sweet Machine". Expect mellow urban summer sounds! This follows recent single "I'll Be Around" (2018)...
Posted on July 10, 2018 at 21:30. | Released on July 11, 2018
Non "Super Heroes", "Non, KAIWA Fest Vol.1 ~ongaku ga areba kaiwa ga dekiru!~" (DVD)
Actress-gone-rockstar Non (previously known as Nōnen Rena) has a first full-length album being released! This follows a few singles that were released since her debut as a singer last summer at the World Happiness festival. With five songs written by...
Posted on May 2, 2018 at 21:57. | Released on May 9, 2018
The Beatniks "Exitentialist A Xie Xie"
The Beatniks, the unit of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO, Metafive) and Suzuki Keiichi (The Moonriders), is about to release a 5th album! "Exitentialist A Xie Xie" is the follow-up to "Last Train To Exitown". Included are 10 songs with sounds that...
Posted on April 30, 2018 at 20:37. | Released on May 9, 2018
Various Artists "Toy Chara Pop Collection Vol.1~3 Selected by DJ Fukutake"
DJ Fukutake, who selected the great "Yava-kayō" mix CD series, is back with this trio of compilations under a "Toy Character Pop" theme! Respectively subtitled "Hero & Hit", "Fancy & Kawaii" and "Video Game", each compilation is filled with Shōwa-era...
Posted on April 1, 2017 at 22:26. | Released on March 22, 2017
Especia "Danger"
Especia has a brand new single out now! Both songs were written and produced by Kai Takahashi of Lucky Tapes. A live show titled "Danger" featuring both Especia and Lucky Tapes will be held on January 9 at Shibuya...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 13:21. | Released on December 7, 2016
"Game ongaku taizen" (Book)
This book, of which the title translates to "Game Music Encyclopedia", includes a CD of game play music from 11 Namco games such as "Xevious", "Digdug", "Galaga", "Mappy", etc., plus a special original Namco medley by YMCK. The book...
Posted on June 5, 2016 at 22:18. | Released on May 21, 2016
No Lie-Sense "Japan's Period"
No Lie-Sense (official Facebook page), the unit of Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders) and Kera, has released a 2nd album. Opening with a cover of the theme song from movie "kimi mo shusse ga dekiru", the album is filled with originals taking...
Posted on May 4, 2016 at 23:25. | Released on April 20, 2016
Negicco "Tea for Three"
Negicco have a 3rd original album coming soon! "Tea for Three" is the follow-up to "Rice & Snow" (2014). The album includes single tracks "mujun, hajimemashita.", "nee, Vardia", "Canal no madobe" and "oyasumi" (this one in a new album version),...
Posted on May 3, 2016 at 23:30. | Released on May 24, 2016
unBORDE all stars "Feel + unBORDE Greatest Hits"
unBORDE, the Warner Music Japan sub-label that hosts Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, CAPSULE, tofubeats and lots more, is releasing a greatest hits nice-priced compilation that includes new song "Feel". The song is a collaboration featuring lots of the label's artists totaling...
Posted on March 6, 2016 at 14:33. | Released on March 9, 2016
Metafive "Meta"
Happy New Year 2016!!! Here we go! Metafive finally have a first original album coming! Metafive is an all-star band featuring Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO), Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Towa Tei, Sunahara Yoshinori, Gondō Tomohiko and Leo Imai. All songs are brand...
Posted on January 1, 2016 at 12:40. | Released on January 13, 2016
Halfby "Innn Hawaii"
Halfby aka Takahashi Takahiro has a brand new 5th album out now! This successes "Leaders Of The New School" (2014), and features VIDEOTAPEMUSIC, Alfred Beach Sandal, Hashimoto Tsubasa (cero) and Electric Sisters. Expect danceable exotic soundscapes of Halfby's trademark, with...
Posted on November 15, 2015 at 18:23. | Released on November 11, 2015
Towa Tei "Cute"
This week brings us Towa Tei's 8th solo album, "Cute", the follow-up to "Lucky" (2013)! The album features members of METAFIVE (Tei's all-star band with Takahashi Yukihiro, Oyamada Keigo, Sunahara Yoshinori et al.), and also Hosono Haruomi, Ino Hidefumi, Yasuda...
Posted on July 27, 2015 at 23:50. | Released on July 29, 2015
Hosono Haruomi "Hosono Haruomi x Sakamoto Ryuichi at EX Theater Roppongi 2013.12.21" (Blu-ray/DVD)
A live collaboration show of Hosono Haruomi and Sakamoto Ryūichi (both of Yellow Magic Orchestra) has been released on Blu-ray and DVD. The show was held on December 21, 2013 at EX Theater Roppongi, and featured appearances of Oyamada Keigo...
Posted on March 21, 2015 at 00:27. | Released on March 18, 2015
NyoROBOtics "3 micron no neji"
Osaka-based "idol robot group" NyoROBOtics has a first original album out now on Orange Records. The songwriters behind this include Jean-Paul Takahashi and Rinda, both of group Chupi*Chupi on the same label. Audio samples of all songs at HMV. NyoROBOtics...
Posted on December 7, 2014 at 21:11. | Released on November 26, 2014
Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive "Split Spirit" (Download)
After live album "Techno Recital", here comes a brand new song by Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive (Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Towa Tei, Sunahara Yoshinori, Gondō Tomohiko and Leo Imai). This song is the ending theme for movie "Ghost In The Shell...
Posted on September 3, 2014 at 22:53. | Released on September 3, 2014
Towa Tei "94-14", "94-14 Covers"
Towa Tei continues to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his solo career. Following remix collection "Towa Tei 94-14 Remix" released in July, here comes greatest hits album "94-14" and best covers album "94-14 Covers". The latter includes 6 brand new...
Posted on August 24, 2014 at 13:16. | Released on September 3, 2014
Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive "Techno Recital", Takahashi Yukihiro with In Phase "Phase" (DVD+Blu-ray+2 CDs)
In January this year, Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) formed a super-group under the name Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive, also featuring Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Towa Tei, Sunahara Yoshinori, Gondō Tomohiko (anonymass, pupa) and Leo Imai. The concert they played at Ex Theater...
Posted on July 20, 2014 at 20:01. | Released on July 23, 2014
risa*risa "cream soda"
risa*risa (aka Kametani Risa, previously part of Chupi*Chupi) has a first solo mini-album out now on Orange Records. Included are two songs written by herself, and two songs produced respectively by Okuda Hidetaka (Sucrette) and Jean-Paul Takahashi. risa*risa "cream soda"...
Posted on July 2, 2014 at 00:14. | Released on July 2, 2014
Horie Hirohisa "At Grand Gallery"
This is a first solo album by Horie Hirohisa (SoundCloud), better known as half of band Neil & Iraiza (together with Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji aka cubismo grafico) and as keyboardist for The Cornelius Group and pupa (band of Takahashi Yukihiro...
Posted on October 24, 2013 at 04:28. | Released on October 30, 2013
Kaseki Cider "Kaseki Cider no Ani-song!! Vacation!"
Rapper Kaseki Cider's new album is a collection of anime song covers, arranged in his own style. Guests include Kaji Hideki, Kojima Mayumi, Horigome Takaki (Kirinji), EPO, Yumemi Nemu (Dempa Gumi.inc) and Mashiro Megumi (Hicksville). HMV gives away a 20-minute...
Posted on August 7, 2013 at 00:22. | Released on August 7, 2013
Takahashi Yukihiro "Life Anew"
Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) has a new solo album out today. His back band consists of James Iha (ex-Smashing Pumpkins) on guitar, Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza, The Cornelius Group) on keyboards, Gondō Tomohiko on euphonium (etc.), and Takakuwa Kiyoshi (Curly...
Posted on July 17, 2013 at 22:23. | Released on July 17, 2013
Towa Tei "Lucky"
Towa Tei has a brand new album out now! "Lucky" is full of brand new songs including latest single "Radio". Many artists are featured, including all three of YMO, Dorian, Sugar Yoshinaga (Buffalo Daughter), Sheena Ringo, Predawn, Bakubaku Dokin, visual...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 11:49. | Released on July 10, 2013
Towa Tei "Radio (Edit) with Yukihiro Takahashi & Tina Tamashiro" (Download)
Towa Tei has a new album on the way, "Lucky" to be released on July 10! Here's a new track to enjoy meanwhile. "Radio" features Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) and model Tina Tamashiro, and is available now on iTunes Japan. Be...
Posted on June 21, 2013 at 23:22. | Released on June 19, 2013
Gig report: Joy Ride vol.133: soyuz project, CTO LAB., NeoBallad
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday April 19 was the 133rd edition (!) of electro-themed event series "Joy Ride" that started in 2006. That's an average of 2+ events per month! I went to...
Posted on April 25, 2013 at 23:18.
fantaholic "Me, You, Synthesizer"
Techno-pop-punk unit fantaholic, formed of singer Satō Takako and machinist Takahashi Hiroki, has a first 5-song mini-album out now. fantaholic "Me, You, Synthesizer" 1. Welcome to Another World, Here You Are 2. Till the Party Ends 3. I'm Your Slave,...
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 11:23. | Released on October 24, 2012
MEG "Wear I Am"
Meg's new album has songs produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) ("REPLICA"), Konishi Yasuharu ("natsu ga owaru"), Taku Takahashi (m-flo) ("SOUTHPAW"), Miura Kōshi (Kuchiroro) ("WEAR I AM"), Furukawa Yutaka (Doping Panda) ("LOVE EMOTION"), Osawa Shinichi ("TRAP") and more. A limited edition...
Posted on September 27, 2012 at 23:48. | Released on October 3, 2012
Various Artists "Red Diamond ~Tribute to Yukihiro Takahashi~"
This is a tribute album to Yellow Magic Orchestra's Takahashi Yukihiro who celebrated his 60th anniversary last June 6. Included are new covers of Takahashi's songs from his whole career. O/S/T (Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Sunahara Yoshinori and Towa Tei) offers...
Posted on July 29, 2012 at 13:37. | Released on August 8, 2012
Open Reel Ensemble "Open Reel Ensemble" (CD+DVD)
Open Reel Ensemble have been active on stage for several years, using USB-controlled open reel tape recorders to create a unique performance. Here's finally a first album, and it comes from Sakamoto Ryūichi's label commmons. A bunch of unexpected guests...
Posted on June 23, 2012 at 21:25. | Released on June 27, 2012
Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful - selected by Shachō"
Here's a compilation of Japanese jazz, selected under the theme keyword "beautiful" by Soil & "Pimp" Sessions' agitator, Shachō. Featured artists include Ino Hidefumi, Calmera, Jazztronik, quasimode, PE'Z, of course Soil & "Pimp" Sessions, and more. Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful...
Posted on March 29, 2012 at 23:35. | Released on March 28, 2012
Kinbara Chieko "Best Mix"
Club-style violinist Kinbara Chieko has a greatest hits album out now. This is actually a non-stop mix by DJ Spinna, with each track selected by "25 of the world's greatest DJs". The selection covers her entire solo career that started...
Posted on February 12, 2012 at 01:21. | Released on February 8, 2012
Japan United with Music "All You Need Is Love" (CD+DVD)
Led by Sakamoto Ryūichi, this charity single covers The Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" in an electronic arrangement, and featuring some 30 big names participating on vocals and production. Profits are said to be donated for children victims of...
Posted on February 1, 2012 at 22:59. | Released on March 7, 2012
Nomiya Maki "30 ~Greatest Self Covers & More!!!~"
Let's start 2012 with a bang! Finally here's a new album by Nomiya Maki! This time she celebrates 30 years of her singing career by doing self-covers in collaboration with various other artists. Featured are Cornelius, Kaji Hideki, Takahashi Yukihiro,...
Posted on January 2, 2012 at 13:00. | Released on January 25, 2012
The Beatniks "Last Train To Exitown"
The Beatniks is the unit of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) and Suzuki Keiichi (The Moonriders), started 30 years ago. After a 10 year hiatus here comes a 4th album. Included are all original songs except for a cover of Lovin' Spoonful's...
Posted on October 9, 2011 at 18:04. | Released on October 12, 2011
Rhymester "Flashback, natsu."
Hip-hop unit Rhymester has a new mini-album that comes as a collection of summer-themed tracks. Included are collaborations with Crazy Ken Band's guitarist Onose Masao and pianist singer-songwriter Sakai Yū (the latter who appeared on compilation "utau Piano danshi"), and...
Posted on July 24, 2011 at 00:59. | Released on July 27, 2011
Gig report: Yellow Magic Orchestra U.S. shows, with Cibo Matto, Buffalo Daughter, Towa Tei
Text, photos and videos by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Two reports of Yellow Magic Orchestra shows held in California last month (June 26 at Hollywood Bowl, L.A., with Cibo Matto, Buffalo Daughter and Towa...
Posted on July 23, 2011 at 20:13.
Towa Tei "Sunny"
Towa Tei is back with a brand new, 6th album! "Sunny" is the 3rd of a trilogy started with "Flash" and "Big Fun". Featured guests include Hatori Miho (Cibo Matto), Takahashi Yukihiro, Hosono Haruomi (both YMO), Yasuda Toshiyuki, Natural Calamity,...
Posted on April 29, 2011 at 22:26. | Released on May 11, 2011
Various Artists "Christmas Songs"
Here's another Christmas compilation, coming from commmons, made up of all previously unreleased Christmas tracks by a fascinating line-up of artists. Featured are all three of YMO, Minekawa Takako, Tokumaru Shūgo, Harada Tomoyo, kotringo, naomi & goro, Sean O'Hagan (The...
Posted on November 10, 2010 at 22:55. | Released on November 17, 2010
pupa "dreaming pupa", "floating 6 pupas ~Live in Tokyo 2008~" (DVD)
All-star band pupa (*), that was believed by many to be a one-time thing, is back with a 2nd album out now! Released at the same time is a live DVD containing a full show held in November 2008. Also...
Posted on July 28, 2010 at 22:50. | Released on July 28, 2010
Various Artists "commmons: schola vol.5 Yukihiro Takahashi & Haruomi Hosono Selections: Drums & Bass"
Sakamoto Ryūichi's label commmons has a series of compilations coming with a book, called "schola". The series started with 3 installments of classical music, but vol.4 brought jazz, and now vol.5 invites the two other YMO members Takahashi Yukihiro and...
Posted on May 5, 2010 at 09:12. | Released on April 21, 2010
Coldfeet "MJ The Tour"
This made it too late, although maybe just at the right time for listeners. Coldfeet's monster 2-year project to cover Michael Jackson's best hits features some of Japan's best club scene artists, making many of these great songs more danceable...
Posted on November 8, 2009 at 01:16. | Released on November 4, 2009
Various Artists "for winter music lovers ~ Technopop Xmas"
This new compilation of both recent and classic Christmas-themed techno-pop songs features Nomiya Maki (with a song from her first 1980 album), Aira Mitsuki, Denki Groove, Hosono Haruomi, Takahashi Yukihiro, Logic System, and much more. Various Artists "for winter music...
Posted on November 6, 2009 at 23:52. | Released on November 11, 2009
Various Artists "From Us To You! The covers of the Fab Four by Japanese performers"
This new Japanese release contains previously released covers of The Beatles performed by Japanese artists, including Takahashi Yukihiro (Yellow Magic Orchestra), Clammbon, Hirota Mieko and many more. Nice jacket too! Various Artists "From Us To You! The covers of the...
Posted on October 13, 2009 at 23:43. | Released on October 21, 2009
Crystal Kay "Best of Crystal Kay"
Ok this is out of my camp, but this 30-song 2-CD greatest hits album of singer Crystal Kay (Wikipedia) will contain a new song by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule, Perfume), only on a bonus 3rd disc in the limited edition. Other...
Posted on August 18, 2009 at 21:21. | Released on September 2, 2009
Various Artists "Mellow Beats, Friends & Lovers"
Out now is this jazzy hip-hop compilation selected by Hashimoto Tōru (Après-midi), featuring Ino Hidefumi, rei harakami, Takagi Masakatsu, chari chari (Inoue Kaoru) and many more. Various Artists "Mellow Beats, Friends & Lovers" 1. Kiss Of Life / Nujabes with...
Posted on June 16, 2009 at 23:09. | Released on June 10, 2009
ravex "trax"
Here's a full-length album by ravex, the all-star producer unit of Fantastic Plastic Machine, Ōsawa Shinichi and Taku Takahashi (m-flo). This special unit celebrates the 20th anniversary of Avex, and the 80th anniversary of birth of Tezuka Osamu, and the...
Posted on April 4, 2009 at 22:53. | Released on April 29, 2009
Various Artists "14 Girls' Life"
This compilation titled "14 Girls' Life" has a concept of featuring female vocalists from different genres, from electronica to post-rock, jazz and future-pop. I'm delighted to see favorite future-pop artists such as Iguchi Miho (Aprils), Yuppa (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) and...
Posted on April 2, 2009 at 22:20. | Released on April 1, 2009
Iwamura Manabu "Woman"
I didn't know that Iwamura Manabu released a 3rd album at the end of last year! This is actually a collection of songs written for fashion brand Anteprima. Included is a remix by m-flo's Taku Takahashi. Iwamura Manabu "Woman" 1....
Posted on March 22, 2009 at 02:28. | Released on November 22, 2008
ravex "Believe in LOVE feat. BoA"
ravex, the all-star producer unit of Fantastic Plastic Machine, Ōsawa Shinichi and Taku Takahashi (m-flo), brings us a 2nd single, this time with tracks featuring BoA and Gotō Maki. A curious "MEGA ravex" track also holds a long list of...
Posted on February 7, 2009 at 10:29. | Released on February 18, 2009
ravex "I Rave You feat. DJ Ozma"
The latest from Fantastic Plastic Machine is this new all-star unit called ravex in which he teams up with Ōsawa Shinichi and Taku Takahashi (m-flo). As the name makes it sound, this is not quite the FPM we've been used...
Posted on December 14, 2008 at 14:41. | Released on December 17, 2008
HASYMO "the city of light / tokyo town pages"
HASYMO, the recent unit of Sakamoto Ryūichi, Hosono Haruomi and Takahashi Yukihiro (all three formerly YMO = Yellow Magic Orchestra), has a new single coming up. Included are "the city of light", the theme song of News23, and "tokyo town...
Posted on July 22, 2008 at 15:38. | Released on August 6, 2008
pupa "floating pupa pre-remix e.p."
I just learned about this, but pupa (Takahashi Yukihiro et al.) had released on iTunes a 4-track remix EP a week before the release of album "floating pupa". 4 tracks from the album are remixed by members Takada Ren, Horie...
Posted on July 6, 2008 at 01:00. | Released on June 25, 2008
pupa "floating pupa"
pupa is the brand new all-star band of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO/HASYMO, Sketch Show) together with Harada Tomoyo, Takano Hiroshi (HAAS), Takada Ren, Horie Hirohisa (Neil and Iraiza) and Gondō Tomohiko (anonymass). A first album is coming in July. The band...
Posted on June 2, 2008 at 15:58. | Released on July 2, 2008
World Happiness
Takahashi Yukihiro (Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sketch Show) and art director Shindō Mitsuo (Contemporary Production) present this summer festival where can be caught pupa (Takahashi's new all-star unit), HASYMO, Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders), Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, Bonnie Pink, NRT320 (Shindō Mitsuo's...
Posted on May 8, 2008 at 13:56. | Released on August 10, 2008
HASYMO "HAS/YMO" (DVD)
The three members of Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sakamoto Ryūichi, Hosono Haruomi and Takahashi Yukihiro, got back on stage together last year as HASYMO (HAS = Human Audio Sponge) for the time of a special charity concert, held at Pacifico Yokohama...
Posted on February 27, 2008 at 15:19. | Released on March 12, 2008
Nomiya Maki "Elegance chūdoku girigiri no onnatachi" (Book)
Nomiya Maki has a new book coming, actually a hard copy of her popular "Tokyo Sex and the City" column on her web site (in the living room of her "château de la mode"). The monthly column consists of herself...
Posted on February 18, 2008 at 17:52. | Released on February 23, 2008
Various Artists "10Girls' Voice"
A compilation of electronic tracks with female vocal will be released by label Elegant Disc. Including songs by both pro and amateur singers, the compilation features Yoshimi (Sonicberry Favour), Anna Yamada (singer praised by Sakamoto Ryūichi), Takahashi Yūki (...
Posted on May 16, 2007 at 14:22. | Released on May 23, 2007
Various Artists "Hosono Haruomi Tribute Album - Tribute to Haruomi Hosono"
Here comes a very interesting tribute album to Hosono Haruomi (Sketch Show, Yellow Magic Orchestra, Happy End). The 2-CD set will include appearances and many surprising collaborations, such as Sakamoto Ryūichi + Minekawa Takako (a return!), Yano Akiko + Rei...
Posted on March 1, 2007 at 11:47. | Released on April 25, 2007
Various Artists "Upper's Flava ~Remixes Of Watanabe Hit Tune~"
Following the release of the p&art sasanoooha and DJ Mitsy mix CDs last summer, Watanabe Productions now brings us remixes of some of its artists' greatest hits. Featured remixers include FPM, Sunaga t Experience, p&art sasanoooha, Fukutomi Yukihiro, CKB-Annex (members...
Posted on January 26, 2007 at 11:02. | Released on January 31, 2007
Sadistic Mikaela Band "Narkissos"
17 years after their 1989 return, Sadistic Mika Band (also "Sadistic Mica Band") are back with a brand new album, on which popular singer and youth icon Kimura Kaela is their guest singer! Original band members Katō Kazuhiko, Takahashi Yukihiro,...
Posted on August 25, 2006 at 10:35. | Released on October 25, 2006
Mai "Maiself"
Sexy idol Mai has appointed Nomiya Maki in the role of "visual producer" for her nude bodypainting photo booklets that will accompany the upcoming first album "Maiself". The music features arrangements by Coldfeet, Takahashi Yukihiro, and others. Worth a check!...
Posted on July 19, 2006 at 16:44. | Released on September 6, 2006
Kawakami Tsuyoshi and His Moodmakers "Singers Limited"
Kawakami Tsuyoshi and His Moodmakers' next album will be a collection of vocal covers, original songs and remixes featuring many collaborators such as Nomiya Maki ("Luna Cruise" first released on her album "Lady Miss Warp"), Wada Akiko, Matsudaira Ken, Takahashi...
Posted on July 19, 2006 at 16:09. | Released on September 13, 2006
"otoko wa sore o gaman dekinai -Un homme ne peut endurer ça-"
There's a new film by Shindō Mitsuo (C.T.P.P.) coming out this year, titled 「男はソレを我慢できない -Un homme ne peut endurer ça-」 ("otoko wa sore o gaman dekinai"). The film is shot in Shimokitazawa and one of its goals is to archive...
Posted on May 7, 2006 at 12:06. | Released on July 29, 2006
Ayuse Kozue "boyfriend"
Still on the Tei Towa side, he's produced the first single of 21-year old Ayuse Kozue, new singer-songwriter of Japan's club scene. This is the first since of a series of three, to be released one per month, though only...
Posted on April 10, 2006 at 11:47. | Released on April 19, 2006
YMCK "Family Racing"
Finally! A second album from YMCK is coming before the end of the year! The album features 8 new songs, one featuring Japan's Famicom hero Takahashi Meijin. There will be two editions, one of the CD only, and a limited...
Posted on October 27, 2005 at 10:09. | Released on December 21, 2005
Second Royal presents Freaky!: Halfby "Green Hours" Release Party
November will see the release of Halfby's first full-length album "Green Hours", and excellent Kyoto label Second Royal will be hosting a release party in Tokyo on October 1st! The album will be on sale at the event, a few...
Posted on September 12, 2005 at 14:22. | Released on October 1, 2005
Nomiya Maki "Party People"
Nomiya Maki's next album "Party People" will be out in October. Seems like she's back on the major scene, on the Avex label Rhythm Zone, news that goes hand in hand with her September single with m-flo "Big Bang Romance"....
Posted on August 11, 2005 at 09:52. | Released on October 12, 2005
Various Artists "Yellow Magic kayōkyoku" & "Techno Magic kayōkyoku"
Two interesting compilations of 80's techno-pop/kayō, certainly containing a lot of gems, will be released in February at a relatively low price. The first compilation has 3 CDs and consists of only songs written/produced by Yellow Magic Orchestra members (Sakamoto...
Posted on December 7, 2004 at 17:54. | Released on February 23, 2005
Jon the Dog double-release
Jon, the singing and organ-playing dog (really a girl in a fantastic costume), has two interesting CDs coming out soon. The first, "Jon (inu) e, takkomu Disk deko" (「ジョン（犬）へ、たっこむディスク凸」), is a tribute album where no less than 18 artists cover...
Posted on December 3, 2004 at 11:33. | Released on December 10, 2004
