Full-text search results for iLL

  1. FPM "Scale Remixes" (Download)
    On Christmas day, FPM did a surprise release of a remix album of tracks from his latest album "Scale". Remixers from Japan and also Taiwan are featured. All tracks can be sampled on this official release page. Clicking the "buy...
    Posted on January 3, 2014 at 22:31. | Released on December 25, 2013
  2. Nakatsuka Takeshi with Iga-Bang BB "Big Band Back Beat"
    2013 celebrated a 10th anniversary year of the solo career of Nakatsuka Takeshi (ex-Qypthone), seeing the release of latest album "Lyrics". Then came this "Big Band Back Beat" album, entirely backed by a large brass band, and full of covers...
    Posted on January 3, 2014 at 19:50. | Released on January 8, 2014
  3. Various Artists "PARK compilation 01"
    This is a compilation from 80KIDZ' own label PARK which started in 2013 and has been delivering . Included are previously unreleased tracks, including one by 80KIDZ themselves. Various Artists "PARK compilation 01" (Title / Artist) 1. Face Off /...
    Posted on January 3, 2014 at 18:47. | Released on November 20, 2013
  4. Sakamoto Ryuichi "Ryuichi Sakamoto | Playing the Orchestra 2013"
    Sakamoto Ryūichi has released an album with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, as recorded during 3 concerts held in Tokyo and Osaka last May. It had been 16 years since his previous Japan tour with a full orchestra. The album includes...
    Posted on January 3, 2014 at 17:56. | Released on December 11, 2013
  5. lyrical school "waratte.net / My kawaii nichijōtachi"
    Rap idol unit lyrical school's latest single is new song "waratte.net" coupled with "My kawaii nichijōtachi" from album "date course". Both songs were written by Illreme ((((sssurrounddd)))). The limited edition contains two live tracks from a show held on November...
    Posted on December 31, 2013 at 13:09. | Released on December 11, 2013
  6. Harada Ikuko & Wisut Ponnimit "Baan" (CD+DVD+Book)
    Harada Ikuko (clammbon) has joined forces with Thai manga & animation artist Wisut Ponnimit for this special collaboration album. The album also features special guest Pod from Thai band Moderndog. This comes as a limited edition package including the CD...
    Posted on December 30, 2013 at 15:02. | Released on December 4, 2013
  7. Kinoco Hotel "Salon De Kinoco On Stage" (CD+DVD)
    This is a live album by neo-GS girl band Kinoco Hotel, taking you back in time to May 2009. This comes as a CD, with a bonus DVD of 3 live tracks (of another show from March 2009). Kinoco Hotel...
    Posted on December 30, 2013 at 00:51. | Released on December 4, 2013
  8. Gig report: The Scooters, Juicy Fruits, Kotaro & The Bizarremen at Shibuya WWW
    Text and photos Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On December 5 was a show featuring The Scooters, and it was held at my favorite venue, WWW in Shibuya. Since their official come-back last year, after some 30 years, The...
    Posted on December 14, 2013 at 23:51.
  9. CANDLES "Sense of direction"
    Electro-pop unit CANDLES has a 3rd mini-album out now, filled with melodious upbeat dance tracks. New remixes by NUXX and A-bee are included. A release party will be held on December 13 at Shibuya Glad, also featuring Cutie Pai, SAWA...
    Posted on December 10, 2013 at 22:58. | Released on December 4, 2013
  10. Hanae "jikkai Quiz"
    After a number of singles, here's finally a first full-length album from Hanae, a female singer produced by Manabe Shūichi (ex-sōtaiseiriron member who was also responsible for Tarte Tatin's brilliant 1st album "Tetrad"). She succeeds getting attention from both the...
    Posted on November 24, 2013 at 21:33. | Released on November 27, 2013
  11. Hoshino Michiru "Magic Hour" (7"+CD-R)
    Following spacey album "hoshi ga Michiru", here comes two new songs from Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48). Again this is produced by the winning combination of Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar)! This is released as a limited edition 7" vinyl only,...
    Posted on November 23, 2013 at 22:11. | Released on November 27, 2013
  12. Various Artists "Couleur Cafe Presents JAZZ ME UP! with 21 jazz standard selected by akiko"
    This jazz standards compilation was selected by jazz singer akiko with a focus on lyrics. Included is a previously unreleased song by akiko. The package comes as a 72-page book with a CD. Some tracks can be sampled on this...
    Posted on November 23, 2013 at 18:58. | Released on November 19, 2013
  13. kaku P-Model "Gipnoza"
    Former P-Model member Hirasawa Susumu's solo unit, kaku P-Model, has a new album out now. This comes 9 years after previous album "Vistoron" (Amazon). The new album features guest musicians Tanaka Yasumi (keyboards, ex-P-Model) and PEVO #1 (guitar, from PEVO)....
    Posted on November 17, 2013 at 12:27. | Released on November 6, 2013
  14. No Lie-Sense "First Suicide Note"
    No Lie-Sense (official Facebook page) is a new unit formed of Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders) and Kera (aka Keralino Sandorovich, of Kera & the Synthesizers, ex-Long Vacation, ex-Uchōten). Featured artists include Nomiya Maki (ex-Pizzicato Five), Sakamoto Miu, Ueno Yōko, Inuyama Inuko...
    Posted on November 15, 2013 at 23:36. | Released on November 6, 2013
  15. Dorian "midori"
    MC-909 maestro Dorian, aka Mr. Tropical Disco, has a brand new full-length original album out this week! On "midori" he explores more exotic and lounge themes, while expanding his world to sampling techniques. Guest musicians include Kashif (aka StringsBurn) and...
    Posted on November 4, 2013 at 17:06. | Released on November 6, 2013
  16. Vanilla Beans "Please Me Darling"
    Here's a new single from Vanilla Beans! The title track is expected to have a Shibuya-kei taste, while the B-side is a take at electro dance-rock, a brand new sound for the duo. Both tracks were produced by long-time collaborator...
    Posted on October 14, 2013 at 19:57. | Released on October 16, 2013
  17. ya-to-i "Shadow Sculpture"
    ya-to-i is a unit started in 1996 by Yamamoto Seiichi (ex-Boredoms), Okada Tohru (Moonriders) (and at the time Ito Junji (ex-Mansfield)), which went on hiatus after a 2001 album release. The two are now back with a new album which...
    Posted on October 7, 2013 at 23:26. | Released on October 16, 2013
  18. blue marble "full color"
    blue marble is the songwriting unit of Shock Tarō (stage keyboardist for frenesi) and Ton-chan, which debuted with album "Valerie" in 2010. Now they have newly teamed up with singer Takei Mariko (previously in 8-bit unit usagi no heitai wa...
    Posted on September 26, 2013 at 23:40. | Released on October 16, 2013
  19. Various Artists "Konishi Yasuharu Presents daitokai kōkyōgaku -Readymade Digs Brunswick-"
    Konishi Yasuharu selects light and sweet tracks from the vast catalog of Chicago's Brunswick label. Songs are featured in their latest digitally remastered versions, and the CD has a 16-page booklet with lyrics. Various Artists "Konishi Yasuharu Presents daitokai kōkyōgaku...
    Posted on September 23, 2013 at 00:12. | Released on October 2, 2013
  20. YMCK "Family Days"
    Jazzy 8-bit unit YMCK have been around for 10 years and counting! Here they're back with a new album, almost 5 years after "Family Cooking" (2009). The new "Family Days" sings not about nostalgia or fantasy but rather about daily...
    Posted on September 22, 2013 at 14:04. | Released on October 2, 2013
  21. Various Artists "Monchhichi Birthday Party"
    Here's what looks like a fun compilation, put together for the 40th birthday of popular Japanese doll Monchhichi. Featured are cool girly indies tracks from the last few years, making it a good opportunity to catch up with the scene...
    Posted on September 20, 2013 at 23:20. | Released on September 18, 2013
  22. CAPSULE "CAPS LOCK"
    CAPSULE just switched labels to Warner, and also started writing its name all in capitals. To make sure we don't miss this detail, the new album is appropriately titled "CAPS LOCK" with track list also comes with a touch of...
    Posted on September 16, 2013 at 02:21. | Released on October 23, 2013
  23. Konishi Yasuharu/Pizzicato Five "'dakishimetai!' Music Collection"
    P5 fans rejoice, here come some lost Pizzicato Five sounds! Hit TV drama "dakishimetai!" was originally aired in 1988, and it's back this year as a special sequel marking its 25th anniversary. The original had music by Pizzicato Five —at...
    Posted on September 14, 2013 at 20:52. | Released on September 27, 2013
  24. lyrical school "date course"
    6-girl rap idol unit lyrical school has a new album coming. This is actually their first full-length since they switched names from Tengal6 (see album "City"). This new album includes tracks not only produced by tofubeats, but also collaborations with...
    Posted on September 13, 2013 at 23:32. | Released on September 18, 2013
  25. Nyantora "High Strangeness" (Download)
    Nyantora, the solo project of Nakamura Kōji aka Nakakō (LAMA, iLL, ex-Supercar), has a new album out now that explores ambient sounds. It is available for download through Bandcamp and DIY Stars. Audio samples at label Sound of Romance Nyantora...
    Posted on September 13, 2013 at 23:21. | Released on September 9, 2013
  26. Cornelius "Design Ah" (10"), "The Cat that lived a Million times" (10")
    Two 10" vinyl works by Cornelius are being released at the same time! The first is a cut of 6 tracks from the "NHK 'Design Ah'" soundtrack released on CD last year, including the vocal songs featuring Chocolat, Minekawa Takako,...
    Posted on September 1, 2013 at 00:52. | Released on September 13, 2013
  27. Yashiro Aki "yume no yoru Live In New York"
    This is a live recording of Yashiro Aki's first jazz show abroad, following the release of album "Songs Around Midnight" produced by Konishi Yasuharu. The show was held at Birdland in New York on March 27 this year, and featured...
    Posted on August 18, 2013 at 01:04. | Released on August 21, 2013
  28. Aira Mitsuki "I'll Be Back"
    Techno-pop idol Aira Mitsuki is preparing to go on hiatus, but not before releasing another album. "I'll Be Back" features mostly tracks produced by Terukado as usual, but also ones by Tessy (CANDLES) and Sasaki Kissa (Recoride). All lyrics were...
    Posted on August 16, 2013 at 00:29. | Released on August 21, 2013
  29. Various Artists "WIRE13 Compilation"
    Here comes the annual WIRE compilation, reminding us of the upcoming annual large rave event of the same name organized by Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove). This year WIRE celebrates its 15th anniversary! The 2-CD compilation gives an overview of this...
    Posted on August 13, 2013 at 22:16. | Released on August 14, 2013
  30. Open Reel Ensemble "Tape and Cloth" (CD+DVD)
    This new album by performance unit Open Reel Ensemble is a collection of music made for 3 seasons of Issey Miyake's Paris Collection shows. In addition to a CD of the music, the package contains a DVD of the 2013-14...
    Posted on August 12, 2013 at 23:54. | Released on July 17, 2013
  31. Perfume "LEVEL3"
    Perfume have a brand new album to be released this October! "LEVEL3" comes about 2 years after the previous, "JPN", and will include lead tracks from singles "Spring of Life", "Spending all my time", "mirai no Museum" and "Magic of...
    Posted on August 9, 2013 at 00:25. | Released on October 2, 2013
  32. 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
  33. Denki Groove "'Human Beings and Animals' Tour Panda 2013" (DVD & Blu-ray)
    This video is a whole show from Denki Groove's latest tour, "Tour Panda 2013", in support of their "Human Beings and Animals" album released last February. The show was held on March 13, 2013 at Zepp DiverCity in Tokyo. Always...
    Posted on August 5, 2013 at 22:04. | Released on August 7, 2013
  34. kataomoi "kataomoin Da House"
    kataomoi is an indies band that's been around for about 10 years. While they released some CD-R EPs and participated to some compilations through the years, here comes their first full-length album. It's coming from the Kakubarhythm label. Release special...
    Posted on August 5, 2013 at 00:04. | Released on August 7, 2013
  35. Buffalo Daughter "ReDiscoVer. Best, Re-recordings and Remixes of Buffalo Daughter"
    Buffalo Daughter have been around for 20 years! And of course they still rock! This is a special greatest hits album released for the occasion. Not only some of their best songs are included, but also new remixes (including one...
    Posted on August 4, 2013 at 11:54. | Released on July 24, 2013
  36. Various Artists "T-Palette Records 2nd Anniversary Mix ~Diggin' on you~"
    This is a mix CD by hip-hop unit Cypress Ueno and Roberto Yoshino made of only tracks from Tower Records' idol-only T-Palette label. Included are songs by Vanilla Beans, Negicco, lyrical school, Rhymeberry, LinQ, Shizukaze & Kizuna and Up Up...
    Posted on July 27, 2013 at 17:42. | Released on July 17, 2013
  37. nakayoshi group "The Jesus vs Cheatman"
    nakayoshi group is an up-and-coming band that comes with a fresh-sounding lo-fi new wave sound. This first CD release comes from 80KIDZ' recently started PARK label. Ordering at HMV will get you a free badge (while supplies last). Release official...
    Posted on July 23, 2013 at 23:37. | Released on July 24, 2013
  38. playtime rock "Play Time"
    Playtime Rock (blog) is the unit of Takanami K-taro (ex-Pizzicato Five) and flutist/singer Ichiba Mina. After last year's split-album "Evening Primrose" (2012), here comes their real first full-length album "Play Time". Half of the tracks are covers of foreign songs...
    Posted on July 23, 2013 at 22:48. | Released on July 24, 2013
  39. 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
  40. (((sssurrounddd))) "New Age"
    (((sssurrounddd))), the city pop band of Illreme aka Kamoda Jun with Traks Boys' K404 and Crystal, has a 2nd album out now! "New Age" features guest musicians including Sunahara Yoshinori (who also contributed a remix to their latest 12"), Kashif...
    Posted on July 17, 2013 at 21:45. | Released on July 17, 2013
  41. Gig report: Playtime Rock, BANK live at Saravah Tokyo
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday July 12 was a show of Playtime Rock, the Nagasaki-based band of Takanami K-taro (ex-Pizzicato Five) (blog). Nagasaki being part of the Kyūshū island in the south of...
    Posted on July 17, 2013 at 00:59.
  42. keme "shiranai sekai"
    Guitarist singer-songwriter keme, aka Isabel Keme-Kamogawa of Kinoco Hotel, has a 2nd solo album out now. With her solo project, keme shows a face different from her Kinoco Hotel skillful fuzzy solos, rather playing 70's-inspired folk rock and putting focus...
    Posted on July 15, 2013 at 00:18. | Released on July 4, 2013
  43. Tommy february6 "TOMMY CANDY SHOP ♥ SUGAR ♥ ME"
    Tommy february6 has a new album that was released last month. This follows the "February & Heavenly" album from last year, and contains both songs from the "Be My Valentine" single (Amazon) released on February 6th this year. 2013 marks...
    Posted on July 14, 2013 at 21:34. | Released on June 12, 2013
  44. 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
  45. hitomitoi "Surfbank Social Club"
    Following last year's wonderful "City Dive", here's a new summer city pop album by singer hitomitoi! Again she is joined by Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), Dorian, Kashif aka StringsBurn, as well as new collaborators LUVRAW & BTB, grooveman Spot and Avec...
    Posted on July 14, 2013 at 00:42. | Released on June 19, 2013
  46. Lullatone "Summer Songs" (Download)
    Nagoya bedroom pop unit Lullatone has a new digital EP (or a modest 8-song album) that was released just last month. This one is meant to be a soundtrack to some hot fun in the summer sun. Get it for...
    Posted on July 13, 2013 at 21:55. | Released on June 11, 2013
  47. Gig report: Vanilla Beans, Nomiya Maki & BIBA
    Text and 2nd photo by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound. 1st photo by Kaz Sekiguchi, courtesy of Yoko Fujiwara. On July 5th was the 4th edition of Vanilla Beans' series of shows with a live band. Every time they...
    Posted on July 11, 2013 at 23:34.
  48. Koshi Miharu "Madame Crooner"
    Koshi Miharu has a new album out now, said to be a collection of covers mainly of standards from the 30's and 40's, in arrangements that focus on piano and vocals. All songs can be sampled at the official release...
    Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:44. | Released on May 22, 2013
  49. Hosono Haruomi "Heavenly Music"
    Hosono Haruomi (YMO) has a new solo vocal album out now! The album consists mainly of covers, including ones of Kraftwerk's "Radio Activity", The Carpenters' "Close to You" and Bob Dylan's "When I Paint My Masterpiece". The album's main recording...
    Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:26. | Released on May 22, 2013
  50. Ino Hidefumi "New Morning"
    Electric piano player Ino Hidefumi has a new album out now! "New Morning" contains 8 new original songs, and also 3 covers of songs by Todd Rundgren ("Hello It's Me"), Julie London ("Cry Me A River" written by Arthur Hamilton)...
    Posted on May 30, 2013 at 22:49. | Released on May 30, 2013
  51. fox capture plan "trinity"
    fox capture plan is a new jazz band formed of Kishimoto Ryo on piano (Jabberloop), Kawai Hidehiro on double bass (Immigrant's Bossa Band) and Inoue Tsukasa on drums (direction of the chord, nhhmbase). A first album is coming on May...
    Posted on May 11, 2013 at 22:48. | Released on May 15, 2013
  52. Perfume "Magic of Love" (Single), "Perfume WORLD TOUR 1st" (DVD)
    Perfume is back with a double release. Both coming on May 22 are new single "Magic of Love", and a DVD of Perfume's 1st world tour, more specifically a show held in Singapore. There's a limited edition of the single...
    Posted on May 7, 2013 at 22:38. | Released on May 22, 2013
  53. Ino Hidefumi "Cry Me A River" (7")
    Fender Rhodes player Ino Hidefumi will be back this month with a new album, but first comes this 7" of a Japanese lyrics cover of "Cry Me A River" (originally sung by Julie London). This song features Suzuki Shigeru (Happy...
    Posted on May 5, 2013 at 00:53. | Released on May 10, 2013
  54. (((sssurrounddd))) "kūchū bunkai suru I Love You" (12")
    (((sssurrounddd))), the band of rapper Illreme, with Track Boys' K404 and Crystal, has a new single just out on 12". The B-side is a remix by Sunahara Yoshinori! The 12" comes with a MP3 download code. Jet Set has an...
    Posted on May 5, 2013 at 00:12. | Released on April 26, 2013
  55. Cold Name "Few Of Us"
    This is a 2nd release part of White Lily Records' "Cult Club Manners" mix CD series (the first was by YO!HEY!! in 2011). Cold Name is the solo project of Nobuyuki Sakuma who is mainly active as the lead member...
    Posted on May 4, 2013 at 23:51. | Released on April 26, 2013
  56. Gig report: Vanilla Beans band live with Kaji Hideki
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Until recently, Vanilla Beans had always performed their shows "idol style", singing karaoke over a backtrack of the music. Last year marked their 5th anniversary, and then came 3rd album...
    Posted on May 3, 2013 at 20:01.
  57. Vanilla Beans "Muscat Slope Love"
    Vanilla Beans have a new single coming, this time a new song produced by Kaji Hideki who Rena and Lisa like to call "Mr. Sweden". This release follows album "Vanilla Beans III" released in November 2012, while the previous single...
    Posted on May 3, 2013 at 14:17. | Released on May 8, 2013
  58. Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no gyakushū"
    Kinoco Hotel has a new mini-album, actually a maniac selection of GS-oriented covers. Included are Tokyo Bravo's "Eleki de Swim" (1980, original on YouTube), Carmen Maki's "Noisy Baby" (1969, watch Kinoco Hotel's version below), Izumi Mishuko's "konya wa tottemo ikenai...
    Posted on April 29, 2013 at 10:33. | Released on May 1, 2013
  59. michirurondo "I Love Baby"
    Electro-pop singer-songwriter michirurondo has a 1st mini-album out now! The songs "BABY" and "hoshi ni negai o" were co-arranged and mixed by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō. In Tokyo, a free in-store live will be held on May 9 from 18:30...
    Posted on April 29, 2013 at 09:45. | Released on April 24, 2013
  60. Original Love "Fashion Appeal" (Download)
    Here's a new song from Original Love, the solo unit of Tajima Takao (ex-Pizzicato Five). "Fashion Appeal" has a surprising electro touch that makes for a danceable catchy song. The EP also contains two live tracks, and is available only...
    Posted on April 28, 2013 at 23:51. | Released on April 24, 2013
  61. 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.
  62. Yumiko Morgan Oscillators? "Instantaneous" (DVD)
    Yumiko Morgan Oscillators? ("YMO?") is a project formed of Minimoog maestro Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter) with rare vintage electronic instruments collector Morgan Fisher. This first show of theirs was held on November 3, 2012, and recorded using 10 video cameras....
    Posted on April 23, 2013 at 23:26. | Released on April 24, 2013
  63. Muro "Diggin' Salsoul Breaks"
    Following Towa Tei's recent Salsoul mix CD, here comes another one from DJ Muro. This features a unique selection by the "King of Diggin'", and the right dose of his top mixing skills. The art direction was done by Shindō...
    Posted on April 21, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on April 10, 2013
  64. Gig report: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu in New York
    Text and photo by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Here's a report of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's latest show, held last weekend in New York. Big thanks to correspondent Nicholas D. Kent. Read on! Kyary Pamyu...
    Posted on April 20, 2013 at 14:22.
  65. RF "Fill the bill"
    Jazz band RF covers hip-hop classics with their signature live band sound. This follows De De Mouse-produced cover album of De De Mouse influences (here). For audio samples, checkout Amazon MP3 (U.S.). RF "Fill the bill" (Original artists in parentheses)...
    Posted on April 1, 2013 at 22:11. | Released on April 3, 2013
  66. Gig report: Takako Minekawa & Dustin Wong debut live w/ Living Astro
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday, I finally got to see an artist I had been wanting to see for about 15 years, ever since I got "Cloudy Cloud Calculator"! That's right, Takako Minekawa...
    Posted on March 26, 2013 at 21:04.
  67. "The Selection of DE DE MOUSE Favorites performed by Rokugen Club with Farah a.k.a. RF vol.01"
    This is an album produced by De De Mouse consisting of songs that influenced the artist, but all of these are re-arranged and performed by an "instrumental hip-hop jazz band" named RF. "Floats & Falls" from De De Mouse's latest...
    Posted on March 24, 2013 at 00:07. | Released on March 20, 2013
  68. Gig report: Monochromoon: Tabuchi Jun, Nosa Lena, Nacional, DeliciouSweets
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On March 6 was event "Monochromoon!" at yumemiru kimiomou (aka Moon Romantic). I wanted to go there for at least 3 reasons. The first was to see Nosa Lena, a...
    Posted on March 22, 2013 at 23:59.
  69. Kirinji "Ten"
    Here comes Kirinji's final album, as the Horigome brothers are calling it quits after 17 years making music together. This follows 9th album "Super View" released just last November. Younger brother Horigome Yasuyuki is expected to move on with a...
    Posted on March 21, 2013 at 23:27. | Released on March 27, 2013
  70. Nona Reeves "Pop Station"
    This is a new original album by Nona Reeves, it has been 4 years since their previous, "GO" (2009, Amazon). It has a pop music theme, as you can guess from the title, and label-mate female singer hitomitoi is featured...
    Posted on March 4, 2013 at 21:14. | Released on March 6, 2013
  71. naomi & goro "Cafe Bleu Solid Bond"
    Bossa nova unit naomi & goro's new album is a cover album of all songs off The Style Council's "Cafe Bleu" album (1984). The Style Council was Paul Weller's band, active through the 80's. All tracks can be sampled at...
    Posted on March 3, 2013 at 23:27. | Released on March 6, 2013
  72. capsule "rewind BEST-1 (2012-2006)", "rewind BEST-2 (2005-2001)"
    Not one but two greatest hits albums coming from capsule, rewinding through the years from their most recent works (album "World of Fantasy") to the early beginnings ("haikara Girl"). All selected by Nakata Yasutaka, "rewind BEST-1" will guide you around...
    Posted on February 19, 2013 at 23:41. | Released on March 6, 2013
  73. Emi Necozawa & Sphinx "EP" (12")
    Following last year's "Pyramidia" album, here comes a 12" cut of songs by Necozawa Emi's jazz group. Included is a remix by Miura Makoto (on whose latest album Emi contributed narration), and two 12" mixes of some of the best...
    Posted on February 17, 2013 at 13:06. | Released on February 20, 2013
  74. Kaji Hideki "Sweet Swedish Winter"
    Kaji Hideki has a new album coming this month! This one is a tribute to Sweden's sweet winter, and it's his 2nd release from his own Blue Boys Club label (follow-up to "Blue Heart" (2012)). Title song "Sweet Swedish Winter"...
    Posted on February 10, 2013 at 19:16. | Released on February 20, 2013
  75. FPM "Scale"
    FPM's 7th original album is almost here! It has been 3 years since "FPM" (not counting classical music cover album "Qlassix"). "Scale" is full of brand new tracks, including some that have been partially heard in commercials for various brands...
    Posted on February 3, 2013 at 22:55. | Released on February 13, 2013
  76. Various Artists "Girls Sazanami Beat! vol.5"
    This is a 5th of Sazanami Label's popular compilation series of indies girl rock/garage/neo-GS bands. Collect them all! All tracks can be sampled at the official release page. The jacket was specially designed by Italian illustrator Luca Tieri. A series...
    Posted on January 30, 2013 at 23:49. | Released on February 9, 2013
  77. Natsuki Mari "Impression group collection"
    This album from singer and actress Natsuki Mari consists of the whole of mini-albums "La Marie en Septembre" (1995) and "gorilla" (1996), her first collaborations with producer Konishi Yasuharu (ex-Pizzicato Five), as well as "inshōha" ("Impressionist", 1997) from her play...
    Posted on January 28, 2013 at 22:16. | Released on February 6, 2013
  78. Hanazawa Kana "Silent Snow"
    This is a 4th single by Hanazawa Kana, a voice actress who debuted as a singer last year. All songs are written by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table), and the title song has strings arranged by Hase Yasuhiro (yume to...
    Posted on January 15, 2013 at 22:20. | Released on January 16, 2013
  79. hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1" (12")
    hitomitoi's cover album "YOUR TIME Route #1" (released on CD in November 2012) is being released on vinyl. All 9 songs from the album are included. Some audio samples can be heard at Jet Set. hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1"...
    Posted on January 14, 2013 at 18:47. | Released in January 2013
  80. kotringo "tsubame Novelette"
    Pianist and singer-songwriter kotringo has a new album to be released this week. This is a concept album starring a white swallow (tsubame). In addition to songs with the 3-piece band from previous album "La mémoire de mon bandwagon", woodwind...
    Posted on January 14, 2013 at 12:40. | Released on January 16, 2013
  81. Gig report: Saitō Neon Sign, Love & Revolution, Emmy Lee & The Psyzans
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday January 6, I went to an event at Koenji U.F.O. Club part of a series celebrating the 17th anniversary of the popular GS (Group Sounds)/garage rock oriented venue....
    Posted on January 14, 2013 at 00:11.
  82. Perfume "mirai no Museum"
    Perfume has a new single coming at the end of February, and the title song is being used as the new ending theme of anime series "Doraemon" (TV Asahi every Friday from 19:00). It will also be used as the...
    Posted on January 12, 2013 at 01:09. | Released on February 27, 2013
  83. Gig report: Beat Communist vol.12: Nakatsuka Takeshi, Iga-Bang BB, P.O.P ORCHeSTRA, Aoki Karen, Rie Fu
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound My last show of 2012 was Beat Communist, a regular event organized by Nakatsuka Takeshi every 2 or 3 months at cool jazz lounge JZ Brat located in Cerulian Tower,...
    Posted on January 5, 2013 at 12:42.
  84. Denki Groove "Missing Beatz"
    This month Denki Groove are back with a new single coming, a pop tune titled "Missing Beatz". This comes ahead of a new 13th album to be released on February 27, about which full details have yet to be announced...
    Posted on January 4, 2013 at 17:24. | Released on January 16, 2013
  85. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "kimi ni 100 Percent / furisodeshon"
    Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, who will be turning 20 on January 29, has a new single to be released on the next day. This double-A-single contains "kimi ni 100 Percent", theme song of anime series "Crayon Shinchan", and new song "furisode-shon"...
    Posted on January 4, 2013 at 16:51. | Released on January 30, 2013
  86. Nona Reeves "Hippy Christmas / Live Thirteen"
    Nona Reeves have been making a tradition of doing a Christmas show every year at Shibuya Club Quattro, and year 2012 saw its 14th edition. This live album release is of the show from the previous year (the 13th) held...
    Posted on January 2, 2013 at 21:18. | Released on December 19, 2012
  87. Gig report: Happy X'mas with The Scooters
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Christmas day, I went to a show of The Scooters who got active again this year after some 30 years! Last summer was released new album "Une Manche et...
    Posted on December 28, 2012 at 23:48.
  88. Original Soundtrack "Tokyo zenryoku shōjo"
    Konishi Yasuharu produced the music for TV drama "Tokyo zenryoku shōjo", about a 19-year-old girl who suddenly arrives to Tokyo to look for her father she hadn't met for 15 years. This series is from the makers of "Dekawanko" and...
    Posted on December 20, 2012 at 00:09. | Released on November 28, 2012
  89. LAMA "Modanica"
    Following single "Parallel Sign", here comes a brand new 2nd album from LAMA. The limited edition comes with a bonus DVD of what seems to be 5 videos of songs from first album "New!" (2011). The Modanica tour will stop...
    Posted on December 18, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on December 12, 2012
  90. Gig report: Nosa Reina release party w/ Portable Rock, Nomiya Maki, Takanami K-taro
    Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On November 30, I went to the release party for Nosa Reina's first album "don't kiss, but yes". Producer Takanami K-taro was on stage too part of the band, more on that...
    Posted on December 11, 2012 at 00:19.
  91. Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no yūwaku"
    Organ-led girl GS band Kinoco Hotel has a new original album coming up, consisting of 10 brand new songs. Kinoco Hotel will be play 2 nights at Tokyo Kinema Club on December 8 and 9. Also on December 20 will...
    Posted on December 4, 2012 at 23:06. | Released on December 5, 2012
  92. LAMA "Parallel Sign"
    Here's a new single from LAMA. B-side "Seven Swell -based on 'Niji'-" is, as the title says, inspired by Denki Groove's hit song "Niji", and a short version video clip made by the team behind "Eureka Seven OA" can be...
    Posted on December 4, 2012 at 22:40. | Released on November 28, 2012
  93. Round Table featuring Nino "Singles Best 2002-2012 Memories"
    Round Table has a greatest hits album out now of a selection from the many "featuring Nino" singles released over the last 10 years. Most of the songs were used in anime series. This release also marks an end to...
    Posted on December 2, 2012 at 23:53. | Released on November 28, 2012
  94. ShibusaShirazu "shibusai kayō taizen"
    ShibusaShirazu, a big band that mixes various genres and uses all kinds of performances in their shows, has a cover album out earlier this month. Featured are various guest vocalists including Nagisa Yōko, Sakamoto Miu and Sandii. Songs include "Rydeen"...
    Posted on November 18, 2012 at 10:26. | Released on November 7, 2012
  95. Panda 1/2 "bokura ga Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte e tabi ni deru riyū" (Download)
    -->Panda 1/2 have a new song about their recent trip to Sri Lanka. It's available for download on iTunes worldwide, and also Amazon MP3 Japan & U.S. and Japan indies DRM-free site OTOTOY. Panda 1/2's singer Fujioka Minami will be...
    Posted on November 15, 2012 at 22:54. | Released on November 14, 2012
  96. Kirinji "Super View"
    Kirinji have a 9th album titled "Super View" out now! The limited edition comes with a bonus DVD of 4 video clips. Then there's good and bad news... The bad news is that the younger of the two brothers, Horigome...
    Posted on November 15, 2012 at 22:38. | Released on November 7, 2012
  97. spoon+ "hear"
    Indies electro-pop unit spoon+'s 2nd album "hear" has just been released. spoon+ will hold a one-man show at Shimokitazawa MOSAiC on November 24. Reservations can be made here. spoon+ "hear" 1. LIP CRAP 2. delicious & journey 3. me &...
    Posted on November 15, 2012 at 00:00. | Released on November 8, 2012
  98. Various Artists "mune kyun Arpeggio ~ Takayuki Fukumura with Friends"
    This is a very special compilation paying tribute to Fukumura Takayuki, an original member of advantage Lucy and Vasallo Crab 75 who passed away 10 years ago. Various friend bands got together and recorded brand new songs written just for...
    Posted on November 8, 2012 at 23:02. | Released on November 7, 2012
  99. Shūnosuke Ishikawa "shumusic 002" (Download)
    This month from Delicatessen LAB (Nakatsuka Takeshi's digital label) is a new EP by saxophonist Ishikawa Shūnosuke. This is a follow-up to "shumusic" released in May. This 2 new EP of sax-led danceable funky instrumentals seems to be available on...
    Posted on November 7, 2012 at 20:42. | Released on November 7, 2012
  100. hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1"
    Following its "Choice" series of foreign song covers, Billboard Records begins a series of Japanese song cover albums titled "Your Time". The first artist of the series is hitomitoi who released her latest original album "City Dive" on the label....
    Posted on November 5, 2012 at 21:58. | Released on November 14, 2012

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