Tokyo's Coolest Sound

Singer-songwriter AOI12SAI (Instagram, 𝕏) (read "aoi jūni sai") has just released a new song titled "Antenna". Check it out below or on your favorite download/streaming platform.

This release follows the song "Sea of Neon" (, Spotify, YouTube Music) last December.

AOI12SAI is also active as part of unit ARAKAWAYA, formed of five siblings and their father. They regularly do live streamings on their Instagram account.

AOI12SAI "Antenna" (Download)
あおい12さい 「Antenna」

Office S.K
Out now (7/31)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

This is the debut solo album of Utaha (Instagram, 𝕏), until now known as the current singer of Wednesday Campanella. The songs were written by Utaha herself, and arranged/sound-produced by Ichirō Yoshida (ex-Zazen Boys), giving the album a rock sound with a character different from Wednesday Campanella.

The album is available in advance digitally (, Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY), and will be released on CD on August 8.

HMV and Tower Records will give away a promo postcard, and Amazon a large print of the jacket (while supplies last).

An in-store event will be held on August 11 at Tower Records Shibuya (Cut-Up Studio B1F) from 18:30 for those who bought the CD there (details).

Utaha "Utauyouni, Hogarakani"
詩羽 「うたうように、ほがらかに」

1. MY BODY IS CUTE
2. Ningen Lover
3. magichour
4. Twilight Touhikou
5. Merry-go-round
6. teenager
7. Atogaki
8. deny

Warner Music WPCL-13594
Out 8/9, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"MY BODY IS CUTE"

"teenager"

Negicco has released physical editions of their latest mini-album "Perfect Sense". There is a widely distributed CD edition, and also a 7" boxed set (3x7") and cassette editions which are available exclusively at their label's online shop (shipping internationally). The jacket has different artwork than the digital release, this time illustrated by Hisashi Eguchi.

The mini-album includes songs written by Konishi Yasuharu ("Good to See You Again - How Are You", Japanese title "ohisashiburi desu - ogenki desuka"), Yasuhiro Hase (Yume to Cosme), Mito (clammbon), Koki Okamoto (Okamoto's), Yohei Nanba (The Recreations), and Negicco's main producer connie.

Also just out is a nice-priced white sleeve 7" of previously unreleased song "anata to Negi With You" from their upcoming new album "What A Wonderful World" to be released on August 14. This song was written by connie, and arranged by sugarbeans who has the bandleader role in Negicco's live band. The B-side is an instrumental version. Aside from the label's online shop, it is also available at a few selected shops (listed here) such as Jet Set where an audio sample can be heard.

Note that when ordering the CD edition of "Perfect Sense" via the label's online shop, the price is increased of ¥800 (to ¥3000) to cover extra shipping & handling fees for the promo poster included together. Tower Records also gives away a sticker of the jacket artwork (while supplies last).

Negicco "Perfect Sense" (CD)

1. Make Up Promenade
2. Good to See You Again - How Are You
3. Neggy's House
4. Could It Be Magic?
5. Lu Lu La Means I Love You
6. In the Circle Game

CD edition
Fall Wait Records FAWA-0020
Out now (7/17), ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Fall Wait Records
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Negicco "Perfect Sense" (7"x3)

A. Make Up Promenade
B. Good to See You Again - How Are You
C. Neggy's House
D. Could It Be Magic?
E. Lu Lu La Means I Love You
F. In the Circle Game

7" boxed set edition
Fall Wait Records FAWA-0021
Out now (7/17), ¥6000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Fall Wait Records

Negicco "Perfect Sense" (Cassette)

A1. Make Up Promenade
A2. Good to See You Again - How Are You
A3. Neggy's House
A4. Could It Be Magic?
B1. Lu Lu La Means I Love You
B2. In the Circle Game

Cassette edition (7"x3)
Fall Wait Records FAWA-0022
Out now (7/17), ¥6000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Fall Wait Records

Negicco "anata to Negi With You" (7")
Negicco 「あなたとNegi With You」

A. anata to Negi With You
B. anata to Negi With You (Inst.)

Fall Wait Records FAWA-0015
Out now (7/27), ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Jet Set, Fall Wait Records

"ohisashiburi desu - ogenki desuka"

the Loupes (𝕏, Instagram) (pronounced "Lou-pez"), a band based in Hiroshima, has released digitally a new song titled "ANA". This is apparently from a forthcoming brand new album. Stay tuned!

the Loupes' current line-up features guitar/drums, pedal steel guitar, flute, and bass.

the Loupes "ANA" (Download)

the Loupes KSGA-2001
Out now (7/7)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

A vinyl edition of RYUSENKEI's new album "Illusions" has just been released! The album was first released on CD in April, and it has now also been made available digitally (, Spotify, OTOTOY).

RYUSENKEI is the city pop group led by Cunimondo Takiguchi, now fronted by new singer Sincere (Instagram, 𝕏).

A first show of the new RYUSENKEI will be held on September 19 at Billboard Live Tokyo. Find details here.

RYUSENKEI "Illusion" (12")
RYUSENKEI 「イリュージョン」

1. Super Generation
2. Moon Beams
3. Tricot
4. Tasogare
5. Monkey Business Part 2
6. Time Traveler
7. Midnight Driver
8. Quiet Love Melody
9. Maybe I Can Love My Neighbor Too
10. I Remember Nico

Sony Music MHJL-347
Out now (7/24), ¥4300 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Super Generation"

"Tricot" (Short ver.)

SHURO (𝕏) is the unit of Yō Kurosawa (yawk) and Nozomu Satō (aka M. Lemon, plantar, of caméra-stylo, Fujin Club, Madame Croissant). It's the latest form of what started as Orangeade and later became conte, bands that featured other members. This is their first album as a duo, titled "Town Pages", and it's out now on download/streaming platforms.

On July 31, a release party will be held at Star Pine's Cafe in Kichijoji. Find details here.

SHURO "Town Pages" (Download)
棕櫚 「Town Pages」

1. Deliciousness and Bustle
2. Cloudy Sky
3. Sunday
4. Shinjuku, Good Night
5. Always Blue
6. Seize the Season
7. Romantic
8. Satellite View
9. Routine
10. For You
11. Fade in the Rain

SHURO
Out now (7/24)
Sample/buy: , OTOTOY, Spotify, YouTube Music

Natsu Summer has just released a brand new album titled "Orange Airmail". As usual it is produced by Cunimondo Takiguchi (RYUSENKEI). In addition to reggae city pop sounds that Natsu Summer is well known for, this time touches of Amapiano beats have been added. This is the follow-up to "Sun Kissed Lady" released in 2022.

There's a cassette edition released at the same time which, in addition of the songs, contains talk by Natsu Summer to make it feel as if it was a radio program. It comes with different artwork. Find details below.

An LP edition is also expected to drop on October 2, and it can be preordered at Amazon, HMV, Tower, etc. There's also a 7" of "2025 / Kamisama Onegai" coming on August 21 (CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower)

Only three of the songs ("2025", "Kamisama Onegai" and "Rakuen") are available so far digitally, on , YouTube Music, and also individually on Spotify, etc.

Natsu Summer "Orange Airmail"
ナツ・サマー 「オレンジ通信」
(Japanese title: "Orange tsūshin")

1. 2025
2. Hare, Tokidoki My Love
3. Kamisama Onegai
4. Rakuen
5. AFTERGLOW
6. ORANGE AIRMAIIL
7. Like a kitten

CD edition
CMT Records CMTR-013
Out now (7/24), ¥2727 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

A1. 2025
A2. Hare, Tokidoki My Love
A3. Kamisama Onegai
A4. Rakuen
B1. AFTERGLOW
B2. ORANGE AIRMAIIL
B3. Like a kitten

Cassette tape edition
CMT Records CMTR-014
Out now (7/24), ¥2273 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Rakuen"

DÉ DÉ MOUSE and hitomitoi have released a new collaboration song, titled "Skyscraper Starlight". Check out the image clip below, and find the song on Bandcamp or other download/streaming platforms.

This is the 3rd time that the two have collaborated, following "Love Groovin'" and "The Night of Neon Light".

Since the previous DÉ DÉ MOUSE news last month, his unit EFUEMU TOWNS' first single "Pastel☆Night", he has also released a 6th single with project Henryne Girls (info), and a first single with a new unit called nite pianos (music video). Find out about all of his releases in his official site's news pages.

DÉ DÉ MOUSE & hitomitoi "Skyscraper Starlight" (Download)
DÉ DÉ MOUSE ＆ 一十三十一 「摩天楼Starlight」
(Japanese title: "matenrō Starlight")

not records NOT0069
Out now (7/17)
Sample/buy: Bandcamp, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Dai Nakamura (a.k.a. NUBACK) has released a new solo EP. Titled "Nami Oto" (which means "sound of waves"), it is available on Bandcamp and other download/streaming platforms.

This follows the 2-song single "Goodbye c/w for Alison" released last December.

Dai Nakamura "Nami Oto" (Download)

1. Ututu
2. Nami Oto
3. Jose

Too Young Records TYGD024
Out now (7/11)
Sample/buy: Bandcamp, , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

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 https://lafaceb.live.

"Tokyo's Coolest Sound" (vol.51) was aired at https://lafaceb.live on July 18 from 20:30 (EDT = Montréal/New York).
* Japan time: July 19, 2024 from 9:30 a.m.

This episode is not archived as-is. Some replays are expected to be aired in the following weeks including the times below:

EDT (Montréal/New York) —

Mon. July 29, 2024 at 8h30 a.m., Fri. August 2 at 1h30 a.m.

Japan time —

Mon. July 29, 2024 at 21h30, Fri. August 2 at 14h30

Listen to the Spotify playlist of some of the songs played (some replaced according to Spotify availability), 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 which you can listen to.

1. GOOD BYE APRIL "Summer BGM of Us feat. Asako Toki" (2024)
(Japanese title: GOOD BYE APRIL 「ふたりのBGM feat. 土岐麻子」 "futari no BGM feat Toki Asako")

City pop band Good Bye April has just released a new song which features Asako Toki. Titled "Summer BGM of Us" (Japanese title "futari no BGM"), it is available digitally (Spotify, , YouTube Music, OTOTOY), and there's also a music video that you can watch below.

Good Bye April will do a "Billboard Live Tour 2024" which will feature guest Asako Toki. The tour goes to Osaka on September 16 and then to Yokohama on September 20.

🎙️ Listen to Narration I
Presenting: Good Bye April, Mira Parameter

2. Mira Parameter "yoru Marathon" (2017)
(Japanese title: ミラパラメータ 「夜マラソン」)

Mira Parameter (Instagram, 𝕏) is a singer-songwriter who is also a tarot fortuneteller. In her first album "Reborn" (Spotify, , YouTube Music, OTOTOY), in which the song "yoru Marathon" can be heard (its title meaning "Night Marathon"). Check out the music video below!

Mira Parameter's latest release is as piano trio ○△□ (Marusankakushikaku), an album titled "Hoshi Ga Furu" (Spotify, ) in which she re-arranged some songs from "Reborn" and also including several new songs.

3. Milk Talk "Sakura Chill" (2023)

Milk Talk (Instagram, 𝕏, Bandcamp) is a duo formed of The Hair Kid, a U.S.-born musician who lives in Himeji (Hyōgō pref.), and the Tokyo-based vocalist Q.i.

After having released several singles digitally, their first full-length album "Milk Talk" "Milk Talk" (Bandcamp, Spotify, , YouTube Music) was released towards the end of last year. It includes the song "Sakura Chill", of which you can watch the lyric video below.

🎙️ Listen to Narration II
Presenting: Milk Talk, Mukaju Dan

4. Mukaju Dan "Sayonara Free World" (2023)

From techno-pop unit Mukaju Dan's latest 3rd album titled "Hinafu Tone" (Spotify, , YouTube Music), this is the song "Sayonara Free World".

The album is named after its vocalist, Hinafu. Mukaju Dan is a production unit of which the main members are arranger Shock Tarō and composer Ton-chan, and their sound is reminiscent of Japanese new wave pop music such as early Pizzicato Five and Saeko Suzuki.

5. Wink Music Service "Spirit of the Beehive" (2024)
(Japanese title: Wink Music Service 「ミツバチのささやき」 "mitsubachi no sasayaki")

"Spirit of the Beehive" is the title song of Wink Music Service's latest 7" single, released last month but apparently sold out from reservations before its release, as it has become tradition with this popular series... This is the first time the unit features guest singer Sana Shiratori (member of idol group Lit Moon, and ex-member of Sakura Gakuin). "Spirit of the Beehive" is an original song with music written by K-taro Takanami (Playtime Rock, ex-Pizzicato Five) and lyrics by Yūko Iizumi (microstar). The single's B-side is a cover of Tomoyo Harada's "Romance".

Wink Music Service is the unit of K-taro Takanami and Sally Kubota (The Scooters, ex-The Phantom Gift, SOLEIL, Les 5-4-3-2-1). So far they have released four 7" singles, featuring three different guest singers (the others being Angie Hiyori and Lin Oberndorff). Only the first single is available digitally (Spotify, , YouTube Music), and it was also released as a 3" (8cm) CD single for Tanzaku CD Day 2024 including exclusive instrumentals (HMV, Tower). There has been hint that an album should be coming next fall.

As "Spirit of the Beehive" isn't available digitally, this episode's Spotify playlist contains the song "To Rome With Love" instead.

6. Nathalie Wise "A world of nothingness" (2023)
(Japanese title: ナタリーワイズ 「何もない世界の果てに」 "nanimo nai sekai no hate ni")

Nathalie Wise is a band formed in 2000, featuring singer Bikke (Tokyo No.1 Soul Set), Tetsuya Saitō (Sai-Tama) and Hiroshi Takano. The song "A world of nothingness" is from their latest album "Open Sky" (Bandcamp) out last year, almost 19 years since the release of their previous ("raise hands high" in 2004). The sound is produced by HAAS (a.k.a. Hiroshi Takano).

While the full album "Open Sky" is only available digitally on Bandcamp, with a CD edition available within Japan via the band's online shop, there's also an EP of four of the songs that's available via download/streaming platforms (Spotify, , YouTube Music).

On August 4, a solo show will be held at Sangenjaya Grapefruit Moon. Details and tickets can be found here.

🎙️ Listen to Narration III
Presenting: Wink Music Service, Nathalie Wise, Nagie Lane

7. Nagie Lane "Cafe Doki (Baião Groove Remix)" (2024)

Nagie Lane is a neo-city pop group of all singers, formed in 2018. "Cafe Doki" is their latest song released earlier last year, and here is a remix of it from the brand new remix EP "Cafe Doki (Remixes)" (Spotify, , YouTube Music). The "Baião Groove Remix" was remixed by Benny Shake.

The group that has been performing with four members has announced that one (keiji) will be leaving at the end of July. The other members (mayu, mikako and baratti) will continue to perform from August.

Nagie Lane has previously released an a cappella cover of Pizzicato Five's "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji" (aka "the night is still young"). Their latest release is the single "Ikenai Couple" available digitally (music video).

Thank you for tuning in! Information about replays can be found at the top of the page.

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

cubismo grafico, the solo uniit of Gakuji "Chabe" Matsuda (Instagram, 𝕏) (Learners, Neil and Iraiza), has released a new song! "Seaside Weekend" is a cover of Isabelle Antena, and it is here sung by Kaori Takeda (Instagram, 𝕏) (Tica). It had been a long time since Chabe released music as cubismo grafico (I think over 10 years?), and it was done per the request of selector Tōru Hashimoto (Café Après-midi, Free Soul, Suburbia).

The song is available in advance digitally, and will then be included on compilation album "Seaside Chillout Breeze" to be released on July 31, selected and supervised by Tōru Hashimoto. Also, a 7" cut from the album, including "Seaside Weekend" will be released on August 21. Find details of the 7" below.

Details of the compilation album "Seaside Chillout Breeze" can be found here. It also contains cubismo grafico's "Jamaica Song feat. Sayaka Kushibiki" (a classic from year 2000).

cubismo grafico "Seaside Weekend (feat. Kaori Takeda)" (Download)
cubismo grafico 「Seaside Weekend (feat. 武田カオリ)」

Insense Music Works
Out now (7/12)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

cubismo grafico / Irondale & BrandonLee Cierley "Seaside Weekend (feat. Kaori Takeda) / High Five" (7")
cubismo grafico / Irondale & BrandonLee Cierley 「Seaside Weekend (feat. 武田カオリ) ／ High Five」

A. cubismo grafico / Seaside Weekend (feat. Kaori Takeda)
AA. Irondale & BrandonLee Cierley / High Five

Insense Music Works IMWVR-1045
Out 8/21, ¥2000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: HMV, Tower Records (Japan only) ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Singer-songwriter Machi Akari has released a 2nd new mini-album of this year. Following her previous disco one, "", this time she goes for sounds of folk rock. All songs were written by herself, and again arranged by Yumi Okada.

The album is available on CD in regular and limited editions (the latter including a DVD with the music videos and extras), and also digitally.

A solo show of Machi Akari will be held on September 8 at Shibuya 7th Floor, starting at noon. Details and tickets can be found here. Find details of the tour and other shows on her official site.

Also check out streaming platforms for several songs that Machi Akari has been releasing steadily, singing bits of Japanese culture in English. The latest is "Happy Sontaku" (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

Machi Akari "New Folk"
町あかり 「New Folk」

1. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu
2. Daishitsuren Hasshō no Chi
3. Medatta Kizu ya Yogore nashi
4. Hyakkin ni Arukamo Shirenai
5. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu (Alternative version)
6. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu (Karaoke)
7. Daishitsuren Hasshō no Chi (Karaoke)
8. Medatta Kizu ya Yogore nashi (Karaoke)
9. Hyakkin ni Arukamo Shirenai (Karaoke)
10. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu (Alternative version) (Karaoke)

DVD (Limited edition only)
1. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu (Music video)
2. Daishitsuren Hasshō no Chi (Music video)
3. Machi Akari jisaku New Folk o kataru Part.1
4. Machi Akari jisaku New Folk o kataru Part.2
5. Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu (Music video Making Clip)

Limited edition (CD+DVD (Region 2 NTSC))
Hotwax Trax HOTWAXCD-2010
Out now (7/10), ¥2700 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Regular edition (CD only)
Hotwax Trax HOTWAXCD-2009
Out now (7/10), ¥1800 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

"Seizei Hoshi Hitotsu ka Futatsu"

"Daishitsuren Hasshō no Chi"

This year again, Tanzaku CD Day is being celebrated on July 7, the same day as Tanabata. Started last year for the 35th anniversary of the now nostalgic 8cm CD format (3" CD/mini CD), Tanzaku CD Day brings several great releases by all kinds of artists. See recommendations below, and also don't miss checking out the full list.

Beware that you may need a special adapter to play the smaller disc in regular CD players (except those designed to support them).

A special event named "Tanzaku CD Festival 2024" will be held on July 15 at Younger Than Yesterday in Yokosuka. Find details here.

Tokyo Kakehiki Club "himitsu no kennan Show / Tochigi, shō ga nai Lullaby" (3" CD)
Tokyoかけひき倶楽部 「秘密のケンナンSHOW/栃木、しょうがないララバイ」

New songs by Tokyo Kakehiki Club, following the release of album "Encore". The company president of Iwashita New Ginger is featured in his first singing appearance. The jacket and music video (not yet available at time of writing) were shot at the New Ginger Museum.

1. himitsu no Kennan SHOW
2. Kennan ni yōkoso
3. Tochigi, shō ga nai Lullaby
4. Tochigi, shō ga nai Lullaby (Karaoke Ver.)

dapple DAP-013
Out now (7/7), ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Masakosan "10cm no kujira" (3" CD)
マサ子さん 「10cmの鯨」

Special release of late-80s/early-90s band Masakosan. Included are the song "10cm no kujira" (from album "Monkeys Wax"), plus for bonus tracks two recordings from a rehearsal in 1991.

1. 10cm no kujira
2. 10cm no kujira (Studio Rehearsal 1991)
3. Crystal Papa (Studio Rehearsal 1991)

dapple DAP-014
Out now (7/7), ¥1000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Frenesi "Märchen" (3" CD)
フレネシ 「メルヘン」

8cm collector-only release of a selection of three songs from Frenesi's album "Märchen" (2010).

1. furyō Mannequin
2. machi
3. Märchen

Otomesha OTMSH-101
Out now (7/7), ¥1364 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Fumio Nunoya with Niagara Shachū "Eiichi Ohtaki Produce: Niagara Ondo EP" (3" CD)
布谷文夫 with ナイアガラ社中 「大瀧詠一プロデュース: ナイアガラ音頭 EP」

Compilation of summer songs produced by Eiichi Ohtaki. Included are "Niagara Ondo (Single Version)", "Let's Ondo Again" and previously unreleased tracks. The EP is also available digitally (, Spotify).

1. Niagara Ondo (Single Version)
2. anata ga utau Niagara Ondo
3. Let's Ondo Again ('81 Mix)
4. Let's Ondo Again ('81 Mix Karaoke)
5. natsubate (necchushō Version)

Sony Music SRDL-4755
Out now (7/7), ¥1364 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

BABY JOHNSONZ "BABY JOHNSONZ e.p." (3" CD)

First release of a brand new unit which features Tetsuto Yoshida (who last year released albums "The Summing Up" and "The World Won't Listen") with Tomonao Tanaka (a.k.a. Tremorela).

1. POLE SHIFT
2. SLOW DANCE
3. ONE
4. SON (of) POLE SHIFT

Gouache / Neo New Music / Narisu Records GCNM0001
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

3776 "mō hashirenakunatte mo" (3" CD)
3776 「もう走れなくなっても」

Advance single cut from the upcoming new album of Mount Fuji local idol 3776 (minanaro). It is expected that the album versions would probably differ.

1. mō hashirenakunatte mo
2. futari nori yori yabai koto
3. mō hashirenakunatte mo [Instrumental]
4. futari nori yori yabai koto [Instrumental]

Narisu Records 8CMCD-3776
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Evenyan Roller Coaster "Sartre de nemurenai" (3" CD)
イヴにゃんローラーコースター 「サルトルで眠れない」

Solo idol Evenyan Roller Coaster's first 8cm CD is a techno arrangement cover of "Sartre de nemurenai" (song first released by Saho Nozaki in 1985, and later covered by Yukako Hayase). The B-side is a techno-pop sound song.

1. Sartre de nemurenai
2. futsū no onna no ko
3. Sartre de nemurenai (Original karaoke)
4. futsū no onna no ko (Original karaoke)

Narisu Records NRSD-3125
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Wink Music Service "To Rome With Love / My Funny Honey" (3" CD)
Wink Music Service 「ローマでチャオ／ヘンな女の子」
(Japanese title: "Roma de Ciao / hen na onna no ko")

The first single of Wink Music Service (K-tarō Takanami and Sally Kubota), of which the 7" edition had since gone rare, is back as a 8cm CD. This single featured guest singer Angie Hiyori. Instrumentals are also included.

1. To Rome With Love
2. My Funny Honey
3. To Rome With Love (Inst.)
4. My Funny Honey (Inst.)

Vivid Sound VSCD9738
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: HMV, Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Jun Parker "Summer Silhouette / If You'd Only Known" (3" CD)

New songs by Australia-based city pop singer-songwriter Jun Parker. The title song "Summer Silhouette" was arranged by Rillsoul (of Blackstone Village), and is available digitally (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

1. Summer Silhouette
2. If You'd Only Known
3. Summer Silhouette - instrumental -
4. If You'd Only Known - instrumental -

Sello Casa Robot / Jun Parker Music ANCP-1989
Out now (7/7), ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Rukatama "Kana, atama o yoku shite ageyō / dakko shite cho" (3" CD)
ルカタマ 「香菜、頭をよくしてあげよう／だっこしてチョ」

New covers, of songs by Kinniku Shōjo Tai (King-Show) and Fumie Hosokawa ("dakko shite cho" has music written by Takkyu Ishino (Denki Groove)). Instrumentals are included. The single is also available digitally (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

1. Kana, atama o yoku shite ageyō
2. dakko shite cho
3. Kana, atama o yoku shite ageyō (Original Karaoke)
4. dakko shite cho (Original Karaoke)

Narisu Records/Les Disques Du Echalote NRSD-3135
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Yuri Hirano (Yurimaru) "Super Yurimaru Ondo" (3" CD)
平野友里（ゆり丸） 「超ゆり丸音頭」
(Japanese title: "chō Yurimaru Ondo")

New song by Yurimaru, with music written and produced by Ryōmei Shirai (moonriders). Two different karaoke versions are included. The single is also available digitally (, Spotify, YouTube Music).

1.　Super Yurimaru Ondo
2.　anata ga utau Super Yurimaru Ondo - Ondo De Yurimaru
3.　Super Yurimaru Ondo ~Super Inst.~ (instrumental)

Narisu Records NRSD-3133
Out now (7/7), ¥1572 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Kiyotaka Sugimoto "Return to music" (3" CD)
杉本清隆 「Return to music」

This year is the 20th anniversary of the CD debut of Kiyotaka Sugimoto a.k.a. orangenoise shortcut. This special CD release includes new song "Return to music" (which had been played live lately), as well as "Blowin' (the gloom away)" which was previously released on 7" only in 2017, and a new version of "Number 5" re-recorded with current live members. Mixed by Seiki Satō (microstar).

1. Return to music
2. Blowin' (the gloom away)
3. Number 5 (Re-Recording)

miobell records PCMR-0028
Out now (7/7), ¥1500 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records (Japan only) ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Various Artists "BLUE TENTION #bt20240707" (3" CD)

3rd compilation of the "Blue Tention" series from miolbell records. Includes a selection of songs by Japanese and international artists, all remastered in 2024.

(Title / Artist)
1. shiroi asa / advantage Lucy
2. Mellow Yellow Spring / Hideki Kaji
3. Femme Fatale / The Velvet Underground
4. Our Secret Life / BMX Bandits
5. Small Blue Sailboat (Mono Mix 2018) / Swinging Popsicle
6. Podria Ser Peor / La Casa Azul

miobell records PCMR0027
Out now (7/7), ¥1200 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: Tower Records ^†, Disk Union
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Cornelius has suddenly released a new song titled "Mind Train" of over 9 minutes! Check out the music video below!

This song will be included on the upcoming 12" EP "Bad Advice / Mind Train" to be released on August 21, which will also include new song "Bad Advice" featuring Arto Lindsay and a new remix of "Sparks". Released at the same time will be the LP edition of latest original album "Dream In Dream". Find vinyl release details below!

The new song's release shortly precedes a special show for Cornelius' 30th anniversary to be held on Sunday July 7 at Tokyo Garden Theater (tickets).

In September, Cornelius will tour Europe (UK & Netherlands) and U.S. (west coast). Find tour dates here.

Cornelius "Mind Train" (Download)

Warner Music
Out now (7/5)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

Cornelius "Bad Advice / Mind Train" (12")
(Jacket artwork not yet available at time of writing)

A1. Bad Advice feat. Arto Lindsay
A2. Sparks (Joseph Shabason Remix)
B. Mind Train

Warner Music WPJL-10224
Out 8/21, ¥2636 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Cornelius "Dream In Dream" (12")

A1. Change and Vanish
A2. Sparks
A3. TOO PURE
A4. Out of Time
A5. Environmental
B1. NIGHT HERON
B2. Mirage
B3. DRIFTS
B4. Dream in the Mist
B5. All Things Must Pass

Warner Music WPJL-10225
Out 8/21, ¥4000 (excl. 10% tax)
Order: CDJapan, Play-Asia, Amazon, HMV, Tower Records ^†
† Tower Records ships directly within Japan only. International orders are available via WorldShopping.

Here's the 2nd song from the new collaboration of usabeni (a.k.a. Beni Usakura) (Instagram, 𝕏) and nonayu (Instagram, 𝕏), the two of who have previously collaborated in idol groups Frun Frin Friends and Avandoned. Following "Ice Bahn" released last week, here comes "PEEK-A-BOO!". The music of this one is by EnnU (𝕏, Instagram), a member of the collective Kang Sigh Hyper Crew. Check it out on your favorite download/streaming platform.

usabeni has a show in Tokyo on Friday July 5 for the release party of eik, at Shibuya Club Malcolm (details). Find her full schedule on her official site. nonayu has an upcoming show on Saturday July 6, part of event "Summer Situation vol.3" at Shin-Okubo bacon (details).

nonayu × usabeni "РЕЕК-A-BOO!" (Download)

usabeni & nonayu
Out now (7/3)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY

xiangyu (Twitter, Instagram) has a new song out now digitally. Titled "zutto iru Tomato", it's about a lonely neglected tomato slice that sometimes remains on the plate at an izakaya get-together. The track produced by Gimgigam takes inspiration from Brazilian bailefunk. Check out the lyric video below!

This follows her previous song "rasuichi no Pizza" about a pizza slice of similar fate.

xiangyu "zutto iru Tomato" (Download)
xiangyu 「ずっといるトマト」

Kujaku Club/Tsubasa Records TRHG-1038
Out now (6/26)
Sample/buy: , Spotify, YouTube Music, OTOTOY