Cutemen "Exhibition Of Love & Desire"
Cutemen, the techno unit of CMJK (early Denki Groove) and singer Picorin, has a new album being released! This is the follow-up to "Humanity" (2016) which marked their 25th anniversary. This new album's limited edition comes with a bonus disc...
Posted on September 3, 2017 at 20:08. | Released on September 6, 2017
Soleil "Pinky Fluffy" (7"+CD)
SOLEIL is a brand new band produced by Sally Kubota (Sally Soul Stew, ex-Les 5-4-3-2-1, The Phantom Gift), and led by the 14-year-old singer of the same name: Soleil! Their first release comes as a single (7"+CD) of original song...
Posted on September 2, 2017 at 11:48. | Released on September 20, 2017
Various Artists "Throw Away Your CDs Go Out To A Show"
Call And Response Records has a new compilation out now! Curated by Ian Martin, author of the book "Quit Your Band! Musical Notes from the Japanese Underground", this album features 17 bands from various areas of Japan, revolving around genres...
Posted on August 20, 2017 at 00:37. | Released on August 16, 2017
Perfume "If you wanna"
Perfume has a new single coming at the end of August! Both songs are used in TV commercials. The title song in a one for Ora2 toothpaste (special site), and B-side "Everyday" of which a version can be heard in...
Posted on August 15, 2017 at 00:22. | Released on August 30, 2017
PARKGOLF "Reo"
Parkgolf (Twitter), a beatmaker/producer based in Hokkaidō whose debut album was released on Seiho's Day Tripper Records, has a 2nd album out now! "hyakunen" (feat. hitomitoi) and "Dance no aizu" (feat. Okamoto Emi) were also released on 7", find details...
Posted on August 14, 2017 at 23:03. | Released on August 9, 2017
Monsieur Kamayatsu "So Long 20 seiki / hatachi no koro" (7")
Kamayatsu Hiroshi (aka Monsieur Kamayatsu, ex-Spiders) passed away last March at the age of 78. Many Shibuya-kei artists deeply respected him. Here's a 7" from Readymade of two songs from the Konishi Yasuharu-produced album "Je m'appelle Monsieur" (2002). The...
Posted on August 13, 2017 at 10:22. | Released on August 30, 2017
Nomiya Maki "Nomiya Maki, Vacances Shibuya-kei o utau." (7"x2)
From the album of the same name released in May, here's a set of two 7"'s containing four summer-themed Shibuya-kei related covers sung by Nomiya Maki. The two records come packaged in a gatefold jacket, designed and photographed by art...
Posted on August 13, 2017 at 09:37. | Released on August 30, 2017
Emerson Kitamura "Madokara / Ame No Saka No Ashimoto" (Download)
Keyboardist Emerson Kitamura has released two new songs digitally! Check them out on iTunes, Spotify, etc. Also don't miss his delightful latest mini-album "Rock'n Roll No Hajimari Ha". Emerson Kitamura will play at Rising Sun Festival 2017 in Hokkaido...
Posted on August 10, 2017 at 23:54. | Released on August 2, 2017
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz gaiden 3 ~ All the young dudes ~ subete no wakakiyarōdomo"
Here's a 3rd compilation by Sunaga Tatsuo of the "yoru Jazz gaiden" series, part of his larger ongoing "Jazz Allnighters" ("yoru Jazz") series, which features many up-and-coming young Japanese jazz bands. Included is a brand new song by Sunaga t...
Posted on August 10, 2017 at 23:40. | Released on August 2, 2017
Kaseki Cider "Onigiri University"
Rapper Kaseki Cider has a brand new album out now! It had been almost 5 years since his previous original album "Mr. City Pop". Guests include Wakita Monari, Negicco, Mashiro Megumi (Hicksville), DJ Misoshiru & MC Gohan, Satō Nanako, Matsuda...
Posted on August 2, 2017 at 22:00. | Released on August 2, 2017
Omisohan to Richakohan "Nihao! Zaijian! Yodaredori!!", Vanilla Beans "Tokyo Crawl (Rena ver.)" (Download)
Vanilla Beans are this year celebrating their 10th anniversary! Today, members Rena & Lisa have each released a separate song now available on iTunes Japan and other download/streaming services. DJ Misoshiru & MC Gohan (nickname: Omisohan) and Lisa (nickname...
Posted on August 2, 2017 at 20:46. | Released on August 2, 2017
Wednesday Campanella "Nippon Budokan kouen ~hakkaku uchuu~" (Blu-ray)
It's hard to believe that this is the first video release by Wednesday Campanella (aka suiyoubi no Campanella), known for their high-energy shows that have a good dose of surprise! This Blu-ray is of a live show held at famous...
Posted on July 31, 2017 at 23:16. | Released on July 26, 2017
Wakita Monari "I am ONLY"
After three great singles, here comes Wakita Monari (ex-Especia)'s 1st solo album! All songs are said to be worth single cuts. Included are songs written by Hase Hajimu, Microstar, Fukutomi Yukihiro, Yafune Tetsurō, Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves), Count Joke, Hase...
Posted on July 22, 2017 at 23:38. | Released on July 26, 2017
Negicco "Negicco 2011~2017 -Best- 2"
Negicco has a new greatest hits album coming this month! Included are songs revolving around albums "Melody Palette" (2013), "Rice&Snow" (2015) and "Tea for Three" (2016), but also a single B-side ("sayonara Music"), previously unreleased show opening song "Make Up...
Posted on July 16, 2017 at 22:40. | Released on July 20, 2017
Charan-Po-Rantan "toritomenai ongakukai" (Blu-ray/DVD)
This is a live DVD (and Blu-ray) of the last show of Charan-Po-Rantan's latest tour, titled "Charan-Po-Rantan to yukai na Cancan Balcan Tour 2016-17 'taishū ongaku no tebiki'", which closely followed the release of album "toritomenashi". This show was held...
Posted on July 9, 2017 at 22:15. | Released on July 12, 2017
Mira Parameter "Reborn"
Singer-songwriter Etuka's new electro-pop solo unit Mira Parameter has a first album being released on Gooondo, the label of Gondō Tomohiko (Metafive). The album, with a sound reminiscent of 80's techno, was produced by Gondō and mastered by Sunahara Yoshinori....
Posted on July 5, 2017 at 21:08. | Released on July 6, 2017
Natsu Summer "Hello, future day"
After the release of a few EPs, tropical city pop female singer Natsu Summer has a first full-length album being released. The producer is Cunimondo Takiguchi (of Ryūsenkei, who also produced hitomitoi's "City Dive" album). Check out the clip below...
Posted on July 2, 2017 at 22:33. | Released on July 5, 2017
STE "koyoi mo, sakaba ni te." (7"+CD)
This is a single produced by Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience), commissioned by Tochigi Doughnuts, an association that promotes restaurants, bars and shops of Utsunomiya city in Tochigi prefecture, and also 7" records. The song is a kayō-ska hymn...
Posted on June 30, 2017 at 23:33. | Released on July 5, 2017
Inoue Honoka "Sparkling Chinatown" (7")
Two songs from voice actress Inoue Honoka's excellent first mini-album "First Flight" are being released on 7"! This was written and produced by Mukaju Dan (ex-blue marble), and comes from the Luxury kayō label. The 7"'s sleeve is reversible....
Posted on June 25, 2017 at 14:17. | Released on June 28, 2017
Tamaki Roy "nagi"
Rapper Tamaki ROY has new album out now! This is the follow-up to "Lucky" (2013). Most songs are collaborations with various producers, including Miura Kōshi (Kuchiroro), Hasunuma Shūta, Ametsub, and many more. Check out the two clips below! A 7"...
Posted on June 25, 2017 at 13:22. | Released on June 21, 2017
Hoshino Michiru "12 signs of the zodiac"
Hoshino Michiru has a new album out now! "12 signs of the zodiac" contains three new songs from singles "kagami no naka no watashi" and "nagareboshi Rendez-vous" (with also B-side "kyōkaisenjō no futari") released just last month, plus 9 brand...
Posted on June 20, 2017 at 22:46. | Released on June 21, 2017
Alfred Beach Sandal + STUTS "ABS+STUTS"
This is a collaboration mini-album by singer-songwriter Alfred Beach Sandal and trackmaker STUTS. "Horizon" features Yu Arauchi (cero) on Rhodes, and nakayaan (mitsume) on bass, while "Quiet Blue" features Omoide yarō A team (OYAT). Check out the clip below! A...
Posted on June 16, 2017 at 23:09. | Released on June 21, 2017
Chie & The Wolf Baits "Chie & The Wolf Baits"
Chie & The Wolf Baits is a rock'n'roll girl trio led by Learners' guitarist Horiguchi Chie. This first album comes in a mini-LP sleeve with a 12-page booklet. HMV gives away a signed 7" sleeve (while supplies last). On June...
Posted on June 16, 2017 at 22:43. | Released on June 21, 2017
Cornelius "Mellow Waves"
A brand new album by Cornelius (international site) is coming at the end of June! Announced a few months ago and preceded by the release of two 7" singles, here comes "Mellow Waves", the long awaited follow-up to "Sensuous" (2006)!...
Posted on June 10, 2017 at 23:34. | Released on June 28, 2017
Mondo Grosso "Reborn Again and Always Starting New"
Mondo Grosso, the solo unit of Ōsawa Shinichi, has just released a brand new album! It had been some 14 years since his latest works under the Mondo Grosso name, and then suddenly came the "Labyrinth" single released on Record...
Posted on June 9, 2017 at 23:51. | Released on June 7, 2017
Sunny Kubota & Old Lucky Boys "One from Sunny's Heart"
This is the 2nd album of Sunny Kubota & Old Lucky Boys, band led by Kubota Shingo who once was the frontman of late 70's new wave band 8 1/2. The band has 10 members including guitarist Muramatsu Kunio (ex-Sugar...
Posted on June 7, 2017 at 21:32. | Released on June 1, 2017
Hoshino Michiru "kagami no naka no watashi" (CD+7"), "nagareboshi Rendez-vous" (CD+7")
Hoshino Michiru has not one but two new singles out this week! The first, "kagami no naka no watashi" is a new song written by Okii Reiji (Tweedees, ex-Cymbals), with lyrics by Kiyoura Natsumi (Tweedees). Its B-side is "kare no...
Posted on May 30, 2017 at 21:45. | Released on May 31, 2017
J.A.M "Silent Notes"
J.A.M, the instrumental jazz trio led by pianist Josei, with double-bassist Akita Goldman and drummer Midorin (all of Soil & "Pimp" Sessions), has a new album being released! The album features a song with Jin Oki, and one with L.D....
Posted on May 21, 2017 at 22:41. | Released on May 24, 2017
Shibata Satoko "Do You Need a Rest From Love?"
Singer-songwriter Shibata Satoko has a 4th album out today! This is the follow-up to her eponymous album released in 2015. Two songs were arranged by Kishida Shigeru (Quruli), and one by Yamamoto Seiichi (Boredoms). In June she will tour Japan,...
Posted on May 17, 2017 at 23:05. | Released on May 17, 2017
Gig report: "Godzilla Legend -- Music of Akira Ifukube" in New York
Text and photos by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound(Except where indicated) Correspondent Nicholas D. Kent went to the "Godzilla Legend" concert held recently in New York. Here's his report! "Godzilla Legend—Music of Akira Ifukube" April...
Posted on May 14, 2017 at 10:35.
Mocche Nagai "Yeh! Yeh!"
Singer & guitarist Mocche Nagai has a 2nd album coming this month! Produced by Chabe, the back band features members of Learners and Gentle Forest Jazz Band. Mocche Nagai can next be seen on stage on May 17 in Tokyo...
Posted on May 8, 2017 at 21:50. | Released on May 17, 2017
Smooth Ace "Sing Like Talking Complete"
First released in 2014, this 6th album by chorus group Smooth Ace had become rare. This time it is reissued on a major label, remastered and with two newly recorded songs added! Including the new songs, a total of 5...
Posted on May 8, 2017 at 21:34. | Released on May 10, 2017
microstar "She Got the Blues" (12")
microstar's latest album "She Got the Blues" (2016) is being released on vinyl. microstar "She Got the Blues" A1. Chocolate Baby A2. Tiny Spark A3. tsuki no Palace A4. tomodachi ni narō A5. My Baby B1. yūgure Girl (Album Mix)...
Posted on May 5, 2017 at 22:34. | Released on May 24, 2017
Gallantique Kazue "Chigasaki Memory" (7")
Singer Gallantique Kazue has a new 7" out now! The two songs were selected from her ongoing cover EP series "Anthology" that began last year (a 5th one is coming on May 31), consisting of covers of kayō̄kyoku from the...
Posted on May 4, 2017 at 20:56. | Released on May 3, 2017
The Nyantokanyaru's "The Nyantokanyaru's chikyujo CD Debut"
The Nyantokanyaru's is a new idol group formed of Eve Nyan Laurent (aka Evenyan, of Kit Cat) and Sorano Aozora (aka Aonyan). The whole is produced by Dr.Usui (of (M)otocompo), who also produces Kit Cat, as well as songs for...
Posted on May 1, 2017 at 22:22. | Released on May 3, 2017
METAFIVE "METAHALF" (12")
METAFIVE's latest, mini-labum "METAHALF" released last November, has just been released on vinyl. It even comes with a new track, "Marine" written by Sunahara Yoshinori! The track order and jacket are also different from the CD. METAFIVE "METAHALF" (12") A1....
Posted on April 26, 2017 at 23:35. | Released on April 26, 2017
Agata Morio & Hachimitsu Pie "Baby-lon"
Hachimitsu Pie was a band formed in the early 70's by singer Agata Morio and Suzuki Keiichi, a few years after which Morio went on with his solo career while several others moved on to become Moonriders. Some 45 years...
Posted on April 25, 2017 at 23:17. | Released on April 26, 2017
Nomiya Maki "Nomiya Maki, Vacances Shibuya-kei o utau. ~Wonderful Summer~"
Of her "Shibuya-kei standards" series, Nomiya Maki brings us a new album of summer & vacation-themed covers of Shibuya-kei songs, or ones that inspired the scene's artists. Included are songs originally by Watanabe Marina (written by Ozawa Kenji & Oyamada...
Posted on April 20, 2017 at 21:46. | Released on May 3, 2017
Record Store Day 2017
Record Store Day 2017 will be taking place this weekend, on Saturday April 22! As usual, many limited releases will be available at record shops only from that date. Below is a selection of some of the best stuff that...
Posted on April 18, 2017 at 22:15. | Released on April 22, 2017
Urbangarde "Urbangarde 2016 Xmas Special Hall Live Tenshi des Akuma"
Trauma techno-pop band Urbangarde is releasing a new live album of a show held at the Shibuya Cultural Center on December 17, 2016. The show was divided in "devil" and "angel" segments, and the audience had to vote for the...
Posted on April 11, 2017 at 22:57. | Released on April 12, 2017
De De Mouse "dream you up"
Dé Dé Mouse (who now writes his name with accents aigus) has a new album coming soon! This is his 6th album, and the follow-up to "farewell holiday!" (2015). Included are 11 songs, one of which is a collaboration with...
Posted on April 9, 2017 at 21:39. | Released on April 12, 2017
Perfume "Perfume 6th Tour 2016 'COSMIC EXPLORER'" (Blu-ray/DVD)
This new live Blu-ray/DVD from Perfume is about their latest tour that followed the release of album "Cosmic Explorer", and it contains not one but two full shows! The first disc is of a show held at Osaka Kyocera Dome...
Posted on April 2, 2017 at 21:30. | Released on April 5, 2017
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Easta", "KPP 5iVE YEARS MONSTER WORLD TOUR 2016 in Nippon Budokan" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a brand new single coming in time for Easter, and it's called "Easta"! Both new songs were produced by Nakata Yasutaka, and are used respectively in commercials for Aeon's Easter campaign and Glico's "Ice no mi"....
Posted on April 2, 2017 at 19:19. | Released on April 5, 2017
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
Charisma.com "not not me"
Charisma.com has a new full-length album out now! It's their first since they moved to major label Warner. All songs are produced by different artists, with ones by Cibo Matto, Nishidera Gota (Nona Reeves), Shacho (Soil & "Pimp" Sessions), Hama...
Posted on March 29, 2017 at 23:20. | Released on March 22, 2017
Various Artists "Kayama Yuzo no shin sekai"
Kayama Yūzō is a singer-songwriter who will soon be celebrating his 80th birthday. This is a remix album of some of his songs, featuring artists such as Scha Dara Parr, Wednesday Campanella, Rhymester, Momoiro Clover Z with Cypress Ueno &...
Posted on March 29, 2017 at 22:55. | Released on March 8, 2017
Ryuichi Sakamoto "async"
Sakamoto Ryūichi has a brand new album out now! While it is out today in Japan, "async" will be released in the rest of the world on April 28 on Milan Records. Also, a 2-LP vinyl edition is expected to...
Posted on March 29, 2017 at 10:00. | Released on March 29, 2017
Shinohara Tomoe "Tomoe Shinohara ☆All Time Best☆"
This is a compilation of Shinohara Tomoe's greatest hits, going beyond label boundaries to include songs from her whole solo career, with of course many from her major releases but also from her self-produced albums "-:*Better*:-" and "-:*Oh Yes Say...
Posted on March 23, 2017 at 00:13. | Released on March 8, 2017
DJ Hasebe "DJ HASEBE Butter Smooth - Tokyo 90's Groove -"
DJ Hasebe (official Facebook page) has a new mix album out now of 90's songs revolving around Shibuya-kei. This includes a brand new original song that features Nomiya Maki! DJ Hasebe "DJ HASEBE Butter Smooth - Tokyo 90's Groove -"...
Posted on February 24, 2017 at 00:10. | Released on February 22, 2017
Various Artists "manatsu no Innocence ~ Urino Masao Works Covers"
This is a cover album of songs by lyricist Urino Masao whose career amounts to 35 years. These are all new arrangements of some of his most known works, here sung by many vocalists such as hitomitoi, Mizuno Mari (paris...
Posted on February 24, 2017 at 00:04. | Released on February 22, 2017
Various Artists "Ace", Pizzicato Five "couples ep" (7"), "Bellissima! ep" (7")
Konishi Yasuharu supervises a new 7" single project on the Great Tracks label (Sony). First of all comes a compilation called "Ace", named after monthly event (((((((A))))))) held at Organ bar the 3rd Friday of each month. Having been playing...
Posted on February 16, 2017 at 23:30. | Released on February 22, 2017
Pizzicato Five "Pizzicatomania!" (Remaster)
Here comes a remastered edition of Pizzicato Five's "Pizzicatomania!" (1985), with bonus previously unreleased 1985 mixes of "Action Painting". The whole CD was also newly remastered this year, and the leaflet includes new liner notes by Konishi Yasuharu in regard...
Posted on February 16, 2017 at 23:07. | Released on February 22, 2017
dahlia "Mirror"
Singer dahlia has a brand new album out soon! This was sound produced by Groove Unchant who had previously produced her album "Beautiful, But Noir" (2006). One song features programming by Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei). A very limited edition of 100...
Posted on February 14, 2017 at 07:34. | Released on February 22, 2017
Hamada Maron "Lady Monochrome"
This is singer Hamada Maron's 3rd album, her first since switching to the Vivid Sound label a year ago. Included is single "KarisomenaErosTokimeku", and an album version of "kisetsu meguredo" which was also released as a single last month. Check...
Posted on January 26, 2017 at 23:40. | Released on January 25, 2017
Toki Asako "Pink"
Toki Asako (ex-Cymbals) has a new album coming this week, the follow-up to "Bittersweet" (2015) (CDJapan, Amazon). This time the album is sound produced by Tomi Yo who had written a few songs on "Bittersweet" and previous album "Heartbreakin'" (2013)....
Posted on January 22, 2017 at 01:22. | Released on January 25, 2017
G.Rina "Live & Learn"
Singer-songwriter/trackmaker G.Rina has a new album out now! "Live & Learn" entirely consists of songs written and produced by herself, with guest vocals by Toki Asako, Chinza Dopeness, yoshiro (underslowjams), Dengaryu and Kick A Show. Samples of all songs can...
Posted on January 14, 2017 at 13:45. | Released on January 11, 2017
Inoue Honoka "First Flight"
Voice actress Inoue Honoka has a debut album that was released just recently. This was entirely written and produced by Mukaju Dan, a production unit formed of Shock Tarou and Ton-chan, both songwriting members of blue marble (unit that ended...
Posted on January 12, 2017 at 22:58. | Released on December 28, 2016
Charan-Po-Rantan "toritomenashi"
Accordion and vocals sister duo Charan-Po-Rantan have a new mini-album coming this month! Consisting of 8 new songs, including two theme songs for recent TV dramas, this follows cover album "karimono kyōsō" released last September. The song "otakebi" features Tokyo...
Posted on January 3, 2017 at 12:13. | Released on January 18, 2017
hitomitoi "The Memory Hotel" (LP+7")
hitomitoi's latest album "The Memory Hotel" (2015), a mysterious fiction musical journey, is being released on vinyl! This comes as a set of one LP plus one 7", which include all 10 songs from the album. hitomitoi "The Memory Hotel"...
Posted on December 28, 2016 at 22:59. | Released on January 4, 2017
Urbangarde "Akuma des Akuma"
The first release of 2017 is a brand new single by trauma techno-pop band Urbangarde! Check out the video below, and this official comment by band leader Matsunaga Temma. "This is URBANGARDE. We're releasing a single after 4 and half...
Posted on December 28, 2016 at 00:41. | Released on January 4, 2017
Budo Grape "oyatsu no kakushibasho"
Nagoya-based new wave band Budo÷Grape has a brand new album out now! Included are 10 songs that have been pre-released digitally over the last few years, but also two new songs one of which features vocals by latest member, keyboardist...
Posted on December 22, 2016 at 22:05. | Released on December 21, 2016
Ishino Takkyu "EUQITANUL"
Takkyu Ishino (Denki Groove) has a new remix album out this week! All tracks from latest album "LUNATIQUE" were remixed by many of his close DJ friends, including Towa Tei, Sunahara Yoshinori, agraph, Hiroshi Watanabe (Tokyo No.1 Soul Set, InK),...
Posted on December 20, 2016 at 00:40. | Released on December 21, 2016
Uchoten "Kafka's Rock/Nietzsche's Pop"
Uchoten, band formed in 1982 and led by Kera (Kera & The Synthesizers, No Lie-Sense), is back with a first full-length album in 26 years — their previous was "dekkachi" released in 1990 (though mini-album "lost and found" was released...
Posted on December 19, 2016 at 21:55. | Released on December 14, 2016
Emerson Kitamura "Rock'n Roll No Hajimari Ha"
Synth and keyboard lovers should find it hard to resist to Emerson Kitamura! This new album of 6 songs is the follow up to "Ochi Kochi Ni (in perspective)" (2014), and consists of more delectable instrumental pieces, mostly originals but...
Posted on December 16, 2016 at 00:36. | Released on December 14, 2016
Nakano Aya "Mambo Alc.0.00% feat. Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys" (CD+7")
Nakano Aya's new single is a song featuring Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys! The song was written by Comoesta Yaegashi and Fukuhara Mari with lyrics by Paradise Yamamoto. The B-side is a cover of Etta James' "Seven Day Fool", and features...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 16:51. | Released on December 14, 2016
"lyrical school no michi to no sōgū" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Earlier this year rap idol group lyrical school made a sci-fi-themed movie that was shown in theaters in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya, and has now just been released on Blu-ray and DVD. While working in a Tokyo record shop to...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 13:05. | Released on December 7, 2016
Okada Tohru "Aurora miru made nemurenai c/w Muscat Coconut Banana Melon" (7")
Here comes a 7" single of two songs from Okada Tohru's brand new album "Portraiture of T"! Included are "Aurora miru made nemurenai" featuring Shibata Satoko (vocals) and Yamamoto Seiichi (guitar), and "Muscat Coconut Banana Melon" featuring Ide Chiyono (3776)....
Posted on December 1, 2016 at 23:34. | Released on November 30, 2016
Hoshino Michiru "suteki ni X'mas Night" (7"+CD)
Yes it's getting time for Christmas music! Hoshino Michiru has a new single out this week, including new song "suteki ni X'mas Night" which is arranged by Gary Ashiya (of La veuve moustachue)! The B-side, also Christmas-themed, is taken from...
Posted on November 29, 2016 at 21:54. | Released on November 30, 2016
Negicco "Negicco at NHK Hall ~ TADAIMA ~ 2016 Summer" (Blu-ray)
Negicco is releasing a Blu-ray disc of their latest big show, held at NHK Hall in Tokyo on July 30, 2016. All songs from latest album "Tea for Three" were performed live, as well as many other favorites. The entire...
Posted on November 26, 2016 at 00:23. | Released on November 29, 2016
Cutemen "Humanity", "Cruel Memories -The Best & Rarities-"
Cutemen, the techno unit of CMJK (early Denki Groove) and singer Picorin, has a brand new album out today! Cutemen is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, although the unit had been inactive for a long time. "Humanity" is the...
Posted on November 23, 2016 at 00:50. | Released on November 23, 2016
Okada Tohru "Portraiture of T"
Okada Tohru (Moonriders, CTO LAB., ya-to-i) has a new solo album coming this week! This follow-up to "kakū eiga ongakushū II ~Erewhon no roku de~" (2012) is actually his first entirely vocal album, with himself singing on every song. Featured...
Posted on November 20, 2016 at 21:11. | Released on November 23, 2016
Agata Morio "kindai Rock"
Singer-songwriter Agata Morio has a brand new album out today! The album was sound-produced by Suzuki Sōichirō (World Standard). Check out the sampler clip below. A special show will be held on November 28 at Shibuya WWW, following shows in...
Posted on November 18, 2016 at 00:12. | Released on November 18, 2016
Various Artists "Japanese Sounds - A Tatsuo Sunaga Live Mix", "Japanese Sounds mixed by Muro"
Here are two mix CDs of "Japanese sounds", selected and mixed by DJs Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) and Muro. Check out the sampler clips below for details. Shindō Mitsuo does the art direction for this new label called Tokyo...
Posted on November 17, 2016 at 00:05. | Released on November 16, 2016
La Veuve Moustachue "Les Vacances de la Veuve Moustachue" (12")
La Veuve Moustachue (aka "hige no mibōjin" in Japanese) is releasing an album on vinyl! This unit of Kishino You-ichi and composer/pianist Gary Ashiya first released a 5-song mini-album of the same title in 2002. All of those 5 songs...
Posted on November 15, 2016 at 23:49. | Released on November 16, 2016
METAFIVE "METAHALF"
METAFIVE has a brand new mini-album out this week! Included are 5 brand new songs. Check out the new clip for "Musical Chairs" below, and a one-take studio live clip of "Chemical". Amazon and HMV give away a promo badge...
Posted on November 8, 2016 at 23:48. | Released on November 9, 2016
Record Day 2016
Record Day (not the same as "Record Store Day") has been set to coincide with Japan's "Culture Day" public holiday on November 3 since 1957. Since last year, Japan's only record press Tōyō Kasei takes the lead inviting Japanese artists...
Posted on November 6, 2016 at 23:02. | Released on November 3, 2016
Hoshino Michiru "watashi ga obasan ni nattemo" (7"+CD)
Hoshino Michiru has released a single cut (7" with CD) of two songs from her new cover album "My Favorite Songs". Title song "watashi ga obasan ni nattemo" is a cover of Moritaka Chisato (1992), co-arranged by Arai Toshiya (Count...
Posted on October 31, 2016 at 22:39. | Released on October 19, 2016
dorlis "Portrait"
Singer-songwriter dorlis has just recently released a new original album on Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen Recordings label. This is her first self-produced album, and the follow-up to "swingin' street 4" released 6 years ago (2010). "furidashi no kataomoi" was arranged by...
Posted on October 10, 2016 at 13:19. | Released on September 21, 2016
Halmens X "35 seiki"
Halmens X is a limited time project led by two original members of new wave band Halmens (formed in 1979), Saeki Kenzo and Sensui Toshiro. 2016 marks the 35th anniversary of the release of album "Halmens no 20 seiki" (1981),...
Posted on October 10, 2016 at 11:49. | Released on September 21, 2016
Nakata Yasutaka "Nanimono EP / Nanimono (Original Soundtrack)"
Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE) collaborated with singer Yonezu Kenshi (aka Hachi) for the title song of movie "Nanimono". This soundtrack includes remixes as well as more music used in the film, all produced by Nakata. The movie will open in theaters...
Posted on October 2, 2016 at 22:13. | Released on October 5, 2016
Konishi Yasuharu "hulu Original Drama 'Debusen' Original Soundtrack"
Konishi Yasuharu didn't only produce the excellent ending theme (performed by Dorusen from TPD) of drama "Debusen", but also all of its BGM! Here's the original soundtrack. Most tracks can be sampled at CDJapan. Konishi Yasuharu "hulu Original Drama 'Debusen'...
Posted on September 29, 2016 at 23:06. | Released on September 28, 2016
Izumi Ookawara "Friendly Ghost" (Download)
Izumi Ookawara (Qypthone) has two new songs about to be released on iTunes! Both were written by herself, and co-arranged by guitarist Ishigaki Kentarō (Qypthone) and pianist Mami Oonishi. Both tracks also feature Suzuki Kaoru on drums among others....
Posted on September 27, 2016 at 23:00. | Released on September 28, 2016
Charan-Po-Rantan "karimono kyousou"
Accordion and vocals sister duo Charan-Po-Rantan have a new album out now, consisting of all covers of Japanese and foreign bands. All songs can also be sampled on this official release page. The limited edition comes with a DVD of...
Posted on September 19, 2016 at 23:27. | Released on September 14, 2016
Ushio Kensuke "'koe no katachi' Original Soundtrack - a shape of light"
Ushio Kensuke (aka agraph, also live support member for Denki Groove) has made the music for anime movie "koe no katachi", to open in theaters on September 17. This 2-CD soundtrack of 119 minutes contains all of his music from...
Posted on September 13, 2016 at 00:08. | Released on September 14, 2016
(M)otocompo x Kit Cat "POPLOT TIMES 2016"
(M)otocompo, the ska-electro unit led by Dr.Usui, unites with synth-pop idol group Kit Cat for this split album. Included is collaboration song "FLASHBACK50" for which a music video has been shot. Check it out below! "FLASHBACK50" has been available for...
Posted on September 12, 2016 at 00:12. | Released on September 21, 2016
Hoshino Michiru "My Favorite Songs"
Hoshino Michiru has a cover album coming! Selected by herself and producer Hase Hajimu, this includes many new recordings and a few songs from recent singles, such as "koi suru Fortune Cookie feat. The Scooters" that is sold at live...
Posted on September 4, 2016 at 12:30. | Released on September 7, 2016
kataomoi "Quiero V.I.P"
Here's a 2nd album by kataomoi, follow-up to "kataomoin Da House" (2013). This was engineered by Illicit Tsuboi, and is being released on Kakubarhythm. Check out the release special page. A release party will be held at Kinema Club on...
Posted on August 14, 2016 at 17:54. | Released on August 3, 2016
Crazy Ken Band "Hong Kong Taxi"
Crazy Ken Band's new album "Hong Kong Taxi" consists mainly of self-covers of songs first written for other artists. Included are songs first sung by Nagisa Yōko, Wada Akiko, SMAP, and many others. Also included are a few rare songs...
Posted on August 3, 2016 at 00:01. | Released on August 3, 2016
Various Artists "Nippon Samba"
In line with "Bossa Brasilia 2016" just out last week, here's another groovy samba/bossa nova compilation selected by Itō Yōichirō (aka Akakage), though this one consists of all Japanese artists. Many of the songs included are from the 60's, with...
Posted on July 26, 2016 at 23:39. | Released on July 27, 2016
Various Artists "Aloha Exotica"
Yasuda Toshiyuki, Jazztronik and Tamura Genichi (Kirinji, Little Tempo) cover famous Hawaiian and exotica songs in this new compilation that includes collaborations with Sandii, Lica, Takeda Kaori, cellist Mizoguchi Hajime, and Hawaiian singer Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole. Perfect for summer! Hear samples...
Posted on July 20, 2016 at 22:27. | Released on July 20, 2016
Various Artists "Bossa Brasilia 2016"
This compilation of samba/bossa nova songs was selected by DJ Itō Yōichirō (aka Akakage), mainly from the vast repertory of UK label Far Out Recordings. Included is an original by Akakage taken from his "Fighissima" album (2006). Various Artists "Bossa...
Posted on July 18, 2016 at 01:08. | Released on July 20, 2016
microstar "She Got the Blues"
microstar, the unit of Satō Seiki (a producer of Hoshino Michiru) and singer Iizumi Yūko, has a brand new album about to be released! It's been 8 years since the previous, "microstar album" (2008). This includes latest single "Tiny Spark"...
Posted on July 17, 2016 at 10:47. | Released on July 20, 2016
Taikuh Jikang "umitoyoru"
Taikuh Jikang, the solo unit of gamelan player Kawamura Kohey, is releasing a 3rd album. This one revolves around a theme of an imaginary paradise island named Warake. A free in-store live will be held on Saturday August 13 from...
Posted on July 16, 2016 at 20:18. | Released on July 20, 2016
Tweedees "The Second Time Around"
Tweedees, the unit of Okii Reiji (ex-Cymbals) and Kiyoura Natsumi, has a 2nd album about to be released! This is the follow-up to last year's "The Sound Sounds.". The song "Phillip" features Indonesian band ikkubaru. The limited edition includes a...
Posted on July 16, 2016 at 19:58. | Released on July 20, 2016
Reina & The Blue Valentines "Once in a blue moon"
Nosa Reina's band, Reina & The Blue Valentines, has a 2nd album about to be released! This follow-up to "Lady or Girl?" (2015) contains recent 7" single B-side "konya wa Night Fever", and also new remixes by Illicit Tsuboi of...
Posted on July 16, 2016 at 01:48. | Released on July 20, 2016
Fujin Club "Fujin Color"
Fujin Club is a mysterious unit said to have been formed in Sadogashima (an island off the west coast of Niigata pref.), and produced by Satō Nozomu of caméra-stylo (Camera=mannenhitsu) aka M. Lemon. Their first album "Fujin Color" is out...
Posted on July 12, 2016 at 22:20. | Released on July 13, 2016
Negicco "Live & Life II Negicco 2016 Winter-Spring" (Blu-ray)
Negicco has a new live Blu-ray disc out this week, of their recent tour titled "The Music Band of Negicco". Featured is the entire Tokyo one-man live held on April 27, 2016 at Nakano Sunplaza in Tokyo, which was backed...
Posted on July 10, 2016 at 23:47. | Released on July 12, 2016
