Sweet Jam Style "Shibuya-kei Bossa"
Bossa nova cover project Sweet Jam Style's first release is a collection of Shibuya-kei classics. Included are hit songs by Pizzicato Five, Cornelius, Kahimi Karie, Original Love, Flipper's Guitar and Ozawa Kenji. The album features various female vocalists, and is...
Posted on July 20, 2010 at 22:10. | Released on July 21, 2010
KOR=GIRL "KOR=GIRL I"
A first mini-album from KOR=GIRL (MySpace) is coming this week! KOR=GIRL is a new unit of 2 girls who sing while banging Korg Wavedrums. It's produced by Terukado (Aira Mitsuki, Saori@destiny). It seems that the release had to face some...
Posted on July 18, 2010 at 11:57. | Released on July 21, 2010
CTO LAB. "Okie Dokie!"
There's a new techno-pop unit called CTO LAB., formed of Okada Tōru (Moonriders), Polymoog (Elektel) and Imai Kentarō (The Aprils). "CTO" standing for "Compact Techno Organization", the concept is to use small synthesizers and electronic instruments for making their music....
Posted on July 14, 2010 at 00:11. | Released on July 28, 2010
pal@pop "feat. PLUS"
pal@pop (aka Takano Kenichi) has a new album out imminently, a collection of collaborations with various female singers. Featured are Halcali, Inagaki Saki (aka Sakura), Makino Yui, comedians Morisanchū and more. Note that the previously released Halcali track comes in...
Posted on July 13, 2010 at 00:08. | Released on July 14, 2010
Jazztronik "Bon Voyage!"
Jazztronik (MySpace) collaborates with select shop Tomorrowland to bring this album of rearranged versions of Jazztronik tracks and also Nozaki Ryōta solo piano works. Jazztronik "Bon Voyage!" 1. Butterfly Dance 2. Sign of Tomorrow 3. Beira Mar 4. Abyssal Hill...
Posted on July 12, 2010 at 22:43. | Released on July 14, 2010
Rocketman feat. Cosmetics "Love Is All II ~korekara hajimaru Story~" (Download)
Rocketman (aka comedian Fukawa Ryō) is back with the 3-girl unit he produces, Cosmetics, that he had just disbanded last year stating for reason that their first CD (a limited release at Tower Records) failed to make the charts, even...
Posted on July 8, 2010 at 00:13. | Released on July 7, 2010
Various Artists "Tarot World"
New indies label Dusk Records has a first release, a compilation featuring Elektel and other electro artists. Audio samples of all songs at label site Various Artists "Tarot World" (Title / Artist) 1. Science et Divertissements / ELEKTEL 2. MAHO...
Posted on July 8, 2010 at 00:12.
Pour Lui "minna no Pour Lui"
Pour Lui (MySpace) is a recent unit with girl vocals, techno-pop with a rocking sound. Here comes a promising first album. Two songs that previously gained popularity on iTunes are included. Audio samples at HMV Pour Lui "minna no Pour...
Posted on June 17, 2010 at 00:08. | Released on June 23, 2010
Michael Jackson/The Jackson 5 "Hiroshi Fujiwara & K.U.D.O. Presents Michael Jackson/Jackson 5 Remixes"
Fujiwara Hiroshi and K.U.D.O. bring this collection of their dub/reggae remixes of Jackson 5 and early Michael Jackson songs. A limited edition contains a bonus CD with 4 alternate takes. Another is available only when buying the full album on...
Posted on June 14, 2010 at 21:40. | Released on June 2, 2010
Buffalo Daughter "The Weapons Of Math Destruction"
Buffalo Daughter has a new album coming next month! It's been 4 years since "Euphorica". This time they have a theme of physics, and are said to be throwing in some hip-hop touch.!? This release comes on Blu-spec CD (Wikipedia),...
Posted on June 10, 2010 at 20:42. | Released on July 7, 2010
Buffalo Daughter "A11 A10ne (Radio Edit)" (Download)
Buffalo Daughter has a new track available now for download on iTunes Japan! This is a different edit of a song from their new album "The Weapons of Math Destruction" coming July 7. Buffalo Daughter "A11 A10ne (Radio Edit)" (Download)...
Posted on June 10, 2010 at 20:28. | Released on June 10, 2010
Kimura Kaela "Ring a Ding Dong"
Kimura Kaela's new single is for the super cute & catchy song heard in the recent DoCoMo commercials (watch below). As a bonus the CD contains no less than 8 live songs from her show at Budōkan held last March....
Posted on June 7, 2010 at 21:46. | Released on June 9, 2010
Meg "Maverick"
Techno-pop idol Meg has a 4th album coming this month, again entirely produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). Included are two tracks from latest single "Secret Adventure". This comes a year since album "Beautiful". The limited edition contains a bonus 24-page...
Posted on June 6, 2010 at 23:53. | Released on June 23, 2010
KOR=GIRL "Nanba"
KOR=GIRL is a 2-girl unit using KORG Wavedrums, produced by Terukado. This is a first CD single but exclusive to Tower Records (ships within Japan only). Included is song "KIYOMIZU", heavily sampling Cornelius' "Star Fruits Surf Rider" as previously released...
Posted on June 1, 2010 at 23:57. | Released on June 2, 2010
Toshiyuki Yasuda "Renix" (Download)
Electro-lounge artist Yasuda Toshiyuki has a first remix mini-album out now, for download only on iTunes worldwide. Included are 3 original songs plus remixes by Los Recyclers, Suzywan, Digiki and Little Nobody. Read the artist's liner notes on his web...
Posted on May 31, 2010 at 20:31. | Released on May 26, 2010
Various Artists "Tokyo Auto-Reverse ~ Neo-Shibuya-kei x 80's ~" (Download)
Here's an interesting compilation of 80's Japanese hit song covers by young bands of the post-Shibuya-kei scene! Featured are The Aprils, Yume to Cosme (previously known as solange et delphine), Mr.COCKROBIN, roly poly ragbear, Sucrette, the Caraway and more. This...
Posted on May 27, 2010 at 23:58. | Released on May 26, 2010
Yakushimaru Etsuko "Venus to Jesus"
Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) has a new solo single out now. Title song "Venus to Jesus" ("Venus and Jesus") is the opening theme of anime "Arakawa Under The Bridge". HMV offers a sticker sheet while supplies last. Audio samples at HMV...
Posted on May 26, 2010 at 23:38. | Released on May 26, 2010
pal@pop feat. Inagaki Saki "hatsukoi" (Download)
pal@pop (aka producer Takano Kenichi) is known for having produced songs like Halcali's "Re: yasashii kimochi" and Chappie's "Welcoming Morning" as well as many others. He now has a new song available now on iTunes Japan, featuring Inagaki Saki (comedian...
Posted on May 26, 2010 at 23:31. | Released on May 26, 2010
Gig report: Fabulous Soundscape vol.2
Text by Ken M (Japan Live), photos by Takanashi Haruno Time-traveling back to the not-too-distant past again, I went to a great event organized by Mr. Henachoko at a venue called Bar Coredo in Nogizaka, featuring the leading lights of...
Posted on May 22, 2010 at 20:38.
Aira Mitsuki "6 FORCE"
Here comes a new release from techno-pop idol Aira Mitsuki, a first mini-album since her 2nd album "PLASTIC" last summer. This release is announced as marking the beginning of a "2nd season". We do notice some change in the visuals,...
Posted on May 20, 2010 at 22:16. | Released on June 2, 2010
Atom™ & Masaki Sakamoto "Alien Symphony"
Atom™ (aka Atom Heart) joins pianist/neurologist Masaki Sakamoto for a first original album titled "Alien Symphony" out now in Japan. Guest vocalists include Koshi Miharu. Also available on iTunes is a special album of remixed tracks from the album: Atom™...
Posted on May 19, 2010 at 22:01. | Released on May 19, 2010
Various Artists "Motivation H compiled by DJ Towa Tei"
Towa Tei has a new compilation, 8th of his "Motivation" series, coming in July! This one is called "Motivation H", after his regular party "Hotel H" that started last summer. Included are 4 new remixes of his own tracks, 3...
Posted on May 15, 2010 at 19:49. | Released on July 7, 2010
Calmera "Hello!! Worldwide"
Osaka instrumental club-jazz unit Calmera (MySpace), acclaimed by Sunaga Tatsuo, has a first album coming up on Orange Records. A non-album track was featured on Sunaga-san's latest compilation "All the young dudes". The album is already available in advance on...
Posted on May 13, 2010 at 22:07. | Released on May 26, 2010
Gig report: Aira Mitsuki one-man live at Liquidroom
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Aira Mitsuki keeps taking techno-pop to a higher level, always in a way that I like. Yesterday she performed a one-man show at Liquidroom in Ebisu, backed from start to finish by...
Posted on May 7, 2010 at 00:12.
Aira Mitsuki "Heat My Love", Aira Mitsuki sync. Sawagi "LEVEL5" (Download)
Aira Mitsuki has 2 new songs out now on iTunes, ahead of a new mini-album titled "6 FORCE" coming on June 2. "LEVEL5" features instrumental band Sawagi which perform club music live on keyboards, guitar, bass and drums. The mini-album...
Posted on May 5, 2010 at 23:01. | Released on May 5, 2010
KOR=GIRL "KIYOMIZU" (Download)
A brand new unit called KOR=GIRL debuted today with this download-only release. Described as a "2-girl beat hitting unit", the two sing and hit Korg Wavedrums. The producer behind this is Terukado, same as for Aira Mitsuki and Saori@destiny. This...
Posted on May 5, 2010 at 22:42. | Released on May 5, 2010
Halfby "The Island of Curiosity"
3 years since album "Side Farmers", Halfby is now back on label Second Royal with a brand new album. Again this is a summer party album, being described as "resort dance music". Featured are members of foreign indies bands Skibunny,...
Posted on May 4, 2010 at 13:47. | Released on May 19, 2010
Original Love "Volare! The Best Selections of Original Love"
A new greatest hits album is coming from Original Love, containing songs from 1995 to 2006. Included is title track "Volare", a Japanese lyrics version of popular Italian song "Nel Blu, Dipinto Di Blu". Original Love's version was used in...
Posted on May 4, 2010 at 12:25. | Released on May 19, 2010
Tokyo No.1 Soul Set + Halcali "You May Dream"
Halcali and Tokyo No.1 Soul Set have a new collaboration single coming, follow-up to the "konya wa Boogie Back" that was a big hit. This time they do a cover of Sheena and the Rokkets' "You May Dream", a song...
Posted on May 1, 2010 at 20:08. | Released on May 5, 2010
Meg "Secret Adventure"
Meg has a new single out just now, produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). This follows her 3rd album "Beautiful" which was also entirely produced by him. A new album titled "Maverick" is expected for June 23. Stay tuned! Meg "Secret...
Posted on April 29, 2010 at 00:43. | Released on April 28, 2010
Roman Porsche. "nusunda Bike de amagigoe"
Comical new wave (?) two-guy unit Roman Porsche (MySpace) have a new album coming, after about 6 years. Member Okite Porsche, who is an active figure in the idol world, has recently been supporting Vanilla Beans who find themselves here...
Posted on April 17, 2010 at 00:52. | Released on April 21, 2010
Vanilla Beans "Def & Def"
Vanilla Beans are back with a new mini-album titled "Def & Def", after the song they sing in a commercial for unisex deodorant "D&D" (this one stands for "Deo & Dry"). The song is included here in two different versions,...
Posted on April 13, 2010 at 23:08. | Released on May 19, 2010
Various Artists "All Kinds of People ~ Love Burt Bacharach ~ Produced by Jim O'Rourke"
Jim O'Rourke produces this compilation of Burt Bacharach covers, featuring artists such as Kahimi Karie, Hosono Haruomi (YMO), Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron), Nakahara Masaya (Violent Onsen Geisha), Yoshimi (Boredoms) and more. Audio samples at Amazon and HMV. Various Artists "All Kinds...
Posted on April 7, 2010 at 23:44. | Released on April 7, 2010
ROCKETMAN "Dancemusic" (Download)
ROCKETMAN, the solo unit of Fukawa Ryō, brings us another of his piano-led dance tracks, again available only for download. This follows "LifegoesON2.0" released in the same fashion last November. Rocketman "Dancemusic" (Download) Victor Out now (4/7), ¥200 Sample/buy: How...
Posted on April 7, 2010 at 22:26. | Released on April 7, 2010
HNC "Gu-gli Gu-gli" (Download)
A brand new song from HNC (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) is available as of today on iTunes Japan! A sample can be heard on MySpace. HNC "Gu-gli Gu-gli" (Download) White Lily Records Out now (3/31), ¥150 Sample/buy: How to buy from...
Posted on April 1, 2010 at 22:38. | Released on March 31, 2010
sōtaiseiriron "Synchroniciteen"
Girl-fronted rock band sōtaiseiriron has a 2nd album coming. Last year saw the release of a solo single by singer Yakushimaru Etsuko, who has also been performing with band d.v.d. (drums video drums) with which album "Blu Day" is being...
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 23:50. | Released on April 7, 2010
FPM "FPM for DJs" (Download)
FPM offers DJ-intended extended mixes and different takes of tracks from his latest album "FPM". These are available as an album (or separate tracks) on iTunes Store Japan. FPM "FPM for DJs" (Download) 1. If you do, I do (no...
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 23:17. | Released on March 31, 2010
mini "Are U Ready?"
New-comer mini, a model for gal fashion magazines, has a first single coming, sounding like electro-rock. A remix by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). A limited edition contains a bonus DVD, and comes with a slightly different jacket. Watch the video at...
Posted on February 26, 2010 at 23:22. | Released on March 3, 2010
Various Artists "Club Jazz Digs Lupin The Third"
Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) produces this new cover album of songs from "Lupin the 3rd", arranged in club jazz fashion. Featured from Japan are Sunaga t Experience, TRI4TH (jazz band recently performing Konishi Yasuharu's "Talk Like Singing" musical), Ego-Wrappin',...
Posted on February 24, 2010 at 23:08. | Released on March 10, 2010
Kojima Mayumi "Blue Rondo"
Singer-songwriter Kojima Mayumi has a new album, her 8th, out earlier this month. Hear sound samples at HearJapan. Kojima Mayumi "Blue Rondo" 1. nemurenai yoru 2. Paper Moon 3. Suspiria! 4. kuroneko no Cha Cha Cha 5. Arabesque 6. usotsuki...
Posted on February 24, 2010 at 00:14. | Released on February 3, 2010
capsule "PLAYER", Nakata Yasutaka "Liar Game 2"
Finally!! Here's a new album from capsule, over a year since their previous original album "MORE! MORE! MORE!". A limited edition contains a video clip for song "Hello" used in promotion for AU mobile phone iida (see the commercial below)....
Posted on February 20, 2010 at 00:18. | Released on March 3, 2010
Various Artists "Kirakira Majocco Cluv"
This looks like it might be a real gem of a compilation! The concept is of idols singing theme songs of anime series about magical girls, and tracks are produced by various club-oriented artists. Featured singers include Shinohara Tomoe and...
Posted on February 8, 2010 at 21:21. | Released on February 10, 2010
Full Swing "Our Song"
Indies instrumental band Full Swing (MySpace), led by two musicians who play Hammond organ and bass, has a 3rd album just out. Their groovy songs are catchy and sound like they're party classics, although they're all original. Check out the...
Posted on January 26, 2010 at 00:14. | Released on January 14, 2010
HNC "Don't You Think You Come To Love Me" (Download)
Today a brand new song by HNC (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) has been released exclusively on iTunes! The love song comes a month ahead of Valentine's Day. HNC "Don't You Think You Come To Love Me" (Download) White Lily Records Out...
Posted on January 13, 2010 at 23:05. | Released on January 13, 2010
Various Artists "Attractions! Konishi Yasuharu Remixes 1996~2010"
Konishi Yasuharu has started a new label called Readymade V.I.C., hosted under major label Victor. This first release is a 2-CD collection of his best remixes from 1997 until now. Included are 6 brand new remixes using Victor's catalog (marked...
Posted on January 11, 2010 at 19:14. | Released on March 3, 2010
Akakage "I'm your clown"
Akakage (aka Itō Yōichirō) has a new album called "I'm your clown" coming! This is his 4th album, the previous being "Fighissima" (2006). This is said to be a sort of conceptual album with a circus theme, being referred to...
Posted on January 2, 2010 at 17:25. | Released on January 15, 2010
The Aprils "Back To The Future Music", "Space Dream Bathroom"
First thing to look forward to in 2010 is The Aprils' new 4th album, titled "Back To The Future Music"! We can expect again more of that great band-style future-pop sound. The album's first pressing comes with a bonus CD...
Posted on December 30, 2009 at 15:15. | Released on January 6, 2010
FPM "FPM"
Fantastic Plastic Machine has officially changed his artist name to FPM! Plus, this new album being self-titled has to show how much this release means to him. This 6th album comes exactly 4 years after "Imaginations". Featured artists include Monkey...
Posted on December 19, 2009 at 13:57. | Released on December 23, 2009
Yasuda Toshiyuki "Children's Songs 2050"
In his new album, Yasuda Toshiyuki (MySpace) (early Fantastic Plastic Machine) covers children's songs from around the world into his wonderful electronic sounds, featuring various singers including ROBO*BRAZILEIRA of course. Yasuda Toshiyuki "Children's Songs 2050" 1. Ah! Vous dirai-je, maman...
Posted on November 18, 2009 at 23:23. | Released on November 25, 2009
Kinbara Chieko "Night & Day Remixies"
Club-style violinist Kinbara Chieko has a new remix album out now, covering her two previous albums "Sweetest Day" and "Velvet Night" both released last year. Remixers include some of Japan's top club artists, such as Daishi Dance, Coldfeet, Jazzin' park,...
Posted on November 8, 2009 at 00:58. | Released on November 4, 2009
Ino Hidefumi "Inocology"
Ino Hidefumi is back with a 3rd album, this time entirely original! Also he seems to have an intriguing space concept going, the album being described as "cosmic travel music of the 21st century"! This comes a bit over a...
Posted on November 4, 2009 at 22:25. | Released on November 13, 2009
ROCKETMAN "LifegoesON2.0", COSMETICS "tomorrow~winter mix~", "~sayonara mix~" (Download)
Available today on iTunes are a new song by ROCKETMAN (Fukawa Ryō), and two new remixes of latest track "tomorrow" by COSMETICS, the idol trio he produces. On non-musical news, comedian Fukawa Ryō recently cut his hair after maybe some...
Posted on November 4, 2009 at 20:55. | Released on November 4, 2009
Aira Mitsuki "PLASTIC Live From Tokyo" (Download)
Available now on iTunes Japan are these 4 live tracks, from Aira Mitsuki's last show of her recent tour supporting her 2nd album "PLASTIC". Included is "China Discotica" that opened the show with her playing an electronic drum set. I...
Posted on November 4, 2009 at 20:34. | Released on November 4, 2009
Suzuki Ami "Kiss Kiss Kiss"
Suzuki Ami's brand new single has a B-side ("aishiteru...") produced by Fantastic Plastic Machine! Title track "Kiss Kiss Kiss" is a Japanese lyrics cover of Ananda Project's hit song. A limited edition contains a bonus DVD with a video for...
Posted on October 31, 2009 at 23:21. | Released on October 28, 2009
Aira Mitsuki "Aira Mitsuki '5' mix" (12")
Aira Mitsuki, techno-pop idol who is also popular with the club scene, is having a first ever vinyl release thanks to Dance Music Records. Included are selected tracks from her two albums "Copy" and "Plastic", as well as two previously...
Posted on October 15, 2009 at 23:54. | Released on October 19, 2009
Nomiya Maki/Fernanda Takai "Maki Takai No Jetlag"
Nomiya Maki (ex-Pizzicato Five) unites with Brazilian singer Fernanda Takai (Pato Fu) for a mini-album containing songs selected by the two. Included are a new original song by Maki called "Nagoya" with Japanese lyrics, P5's "A Message Song", Ishida Ayumi's...
Posted on October 14, 2009 at 00:20. | Released on October 20, 2009
Shonen Knife "Capybara" (Download)
Shonen Knife have a new song available now on iTunes Japan, titled "Capybara" this is a nice attempt at some pico-pico techno-pop! This features bassist Ritsuko on lead vocals. Shonen Knife "Capybara" (Download) Out now, ¥150 Sample/buy: How to buy...
Posted on October 7, 2009 at 23:32. | Released on October 7, 2009
DG-10 "DG-10" (Download)
Out at the same time as DG-10's "Love Synthesizer!" was another 3-song self-titled EP sold as a limited edition only at online shop (Tora no ana). Now this one is available on iTunes Japan too! This contains a cover of...
Posted on October 4, 2009 at 00:59. | Released on September 18, 2009
Tokyo No.1 Soul Set + Halcali "konya wa Boogie Back"
The latest from Halcali is this cover of Scha Dara Parr with Ozawa Kenji's hit song "konya wa Boogie Back", here produced by Tokyo No.1 Soul Set. The song was heard a lot on TV in a commercial for Nissan...
Posted on September 27, 2009 at 13:22. | Released on September 23, 2009
DG-10 "Love Synthesizer!"
Out just now is this first mini-album by DG-10, a three-piece idol unit produced by the maker of Nintendo DS synthesizer Korg DS-10. The singers are Imai Asami, Hasegawa Akiko (from game "The Idolm@ster"), and Matayoshi Ai (Xbox 360 game...
Posted on September 20, 2009 at 00:12. | Released on September 18, 2009
Vanilla Beans "LOVE&HATE"
Vanilla Beans are back with a new single, following their first full-length self-titled album earlier this year. They continue to appeal to Shibuya-kei fans, with title song "LOVE&HATE" having lyrics by Kaji Hideki. The two B-sides are also great! This...
Posted on September 14, 2009 at 23:58. | Released on September 9, 2009
YMCK "hateshinai sekai" (Download)
After first being heard as anime series "Arado senki"'s ending theme, and released for download on mobile phone only last May, finally here comes this great YMCK song to a more consumer-friendly form through iTunes Japan! This is the full-length...
Posted on September 3, 2009 at 19:43. | Released on August 26, 2009
Crazy Ken Band "Girls! Girls! Girls!"
Crazy Ken Band is back with a new 11th album! It's their first on a major label. A limited edition contains a bonus DVD with live performances from the "Zero Tour". Crazy Ken Band "Girls! Girls! Girls!" クレイジーケンバンド 「ガール! ガール!...
Posted on August 15, 2009 at 16:02. | Released on August 12, 2009
Crazy Ken Band "Girl Friend"
Crazy Ken Band has moved to major label Universal (they were always indies until now!), and here comes a 1st major single. An album titled "Girls! Girls! Girls!" is on the way on August 12, stay tuned! This comes in...
Posted on July 21, 2009 at 22:51. | Released on July 22, 2009
Fantastic Explosion "Sound Track (from Time Evaluation Tactics Hyperion)"
Fantastic Explosion is back after 5 years with this techno soundtrack for hero movie "Hyperion" coming to the big screen all over Japan. The band is now a duo formed of Nagata Kazunao and Yoshida Tetsuto. Yoshida Tetsuto is very...
Posted on July 21, 2009 at 00:33. | Released on July 22, 2009
Aira Mitsuki "PLASTIC"
This week, Aira Mitsuki is back with a 2nd album, not even a year since "Copy". I count 7 tracks taken from the three latest singles: "Robot Honey", "sayonara Technopolis", and "BARBiE BARBiE", leaving us with 7 brand new tracks...
Posted on July 19, 2009 at 22:25. | Released on July 22, 2009
Cosmetics "tomorrow" (Download)
Cosmetics, the 3-girl unit produced by Rocketman (aka Fukawa Ryō), has a new EP available for download on iTunes Japan. This contains new catchy vocoder track "tomorrow", that can be heard in full in the YouTube clip below, plus new...
Posted on June 17, 2009 at 22:25. | Released on June 17, 2009
akiko "Hit Parade -London Nite Tribute-"
Jazz singer akiko has a rocking new album coming up, paying tribute to Japan's first rock DJ event "London Nite". Featured producers include Konishi Yasuharu, Sunaga Tatsuo (sunaga t experience), Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Cubismo Grafico) and more. Konishi Yasuharu's tracks...
Posted on June 11, 2009 at 23:51. | Released on June 24, 2009
Vanilla Beans "koi no Theory" (Download)
More good post-Shibuya-kei pop from Vanilla Beans with their latest single "koi no Theory", now available for download only. The song is the theme of movie "fujoshi kanojo". There's some remix contest going on, grab the files by going here...
Posted on June 10, 2009 at 23:59. | Released on April 28, 2009
Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band "Don't Stop Me!" (Download)
Yoko Ono's latest work brings back the Plastic Ono Band name with a new EP titled "Don't Stop Me!" now released for download only. Featured musicians include Oyamada Keigo, Araki Yūko, Shimizu Hirotaka (all three of The Cornelius Group), Honda...
Posted on June 10, 2009 at 23:23. | Released on June 9, 2009
Sucrette "Bon Voyage"
Kyoto-based post-Shibuya-kei boy-girl unit Sucrette (MySpace) has a 2nd album coming soon, and it will include remixes by Aprils and Melting Holidays. The album is available a bit early at iTunes Japan. Sucrette "Bon Voyage" 1. bon voyage 2. lovely...
Posted on May 4, 2009 at 23:26. | Released on May 20, 2009
Aira Mitsuki "Aira Mitsuki Special Live '090319' in LIQUIDROOM" (DVD)
A first DVD from Aira Mitsuki (MySpace), of a show recorded at Liquid Room just 2 months before release! With 19 songs, 5 different costumes, this was a really great show! Read my report of the show. You bet that...
Posted on April 28, 2009 at 23:49. | Released on May 20, 2009
Cosmetics "Love Is All" (Download)
Cosmetics is a new 3-girl idol unit produced by Rocketman (aka Fukawa Ryō). Their first song "Love Is All" was first released for download on mobile phone only in December, but it's now finally available on iTunes Japan! The song...
Posted on April 18, 2009 at 23:59. | Released on April 15, 2009
Various Artists "House Nation - Ruby"
This new compilation of Avex' House Nation series includes two Fantastic Plastic Machine appearances: a ravex track and also a remix he did of The BPA (aka Norman Cook) feat. Iggy Pop. Also included is a version of Ayuse Kozue's...
Posted on April 17, 2009 at 00:11. | Released on April 8, 2009
Mizuno Mari "mariage"
Konishi Yasuharu contributes a newly written song to this solo mini-album by Mizuno Mari (paris match (MySpace)), who was featured last year on "uta to Guitar. Piano. kotoba." from columbia*readymade. His song here is titled "kekkon shiyō yo." ("Let's get...
Posted on April 11, 2009 at 12:00. | Released on April 29, 2009
ravex "trax"
Here's a full-length album by ravex, the all-star producer unit of Fantastic Plastic Machine, Ōsawa Shinichi and Taku Takahashi (m-flo). This special unit celebrates the 20th anniversary of Avex, and the 80th anniversary of birth of Tezuka Osamu, and the...
Posted on April 4, 2009 at 22:53. | Released on April 29, 2009
marino "lollipop+"
Indies techno-pop singer marino's first mini-album "lollipop" (2006) is being re-issued because it sold out and has gone rare since. The new release includes all 5 original songs produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) and Hayashibe Tomonori (Plus-Tech Squeeze Box), plus...
Posted on February 26, 2009 at 21:48. | Released on April 22, 2009
Hamasaki Ayumi "Rule / Sparkle (Jacket B)"
We'll have seen it all once YMCK remixes Hamasaki Ayumi... oh wait! Hamasaki Ayumi "Rule / Sparkle (Jacket B)" 浜崎あゆみ 「Rule / Sparkle （ジャケットB）」 1. Rule (Original mix) 2. Sparkle (Original mix) 3. Days (8-bits of tears YMCK remix) 4....
Posted on February 16, 2009 at 22:01. | Released on February 25, 2009
ravex "Believe in LOVE feat. BoA"
ravex, the all-star producer unit of Fantastic Plastic Machine, Ōsawa Shinichi and Taku Takahashi (m-flo), brings us a 2nd single, this time with tracks featuring BoA and Gotō Maki. A curious "MEGA ravex" track also holds a long list of...
Posted on February 7, 2009 at 10:29. | Released on February 18, 2009
Various Artists "Second Royal vol.4 ~Winter Issue~"
Kyoto label Second Royal brings us a 4th compilation, this time with a winter theme. This contains new tracks by residents Handsomeboy Technique, Rufus and Halfby (actually, Halfby's is a recycled iTunes-only release from 2 years ago). There's also a...
Posted on November 24, 2008 at 20:31. | Released on December 13, 2008
Aira Mitsuki "Robot Honey"
DiscID: 730aa80a
Posted on September 2, 2008 at 22:29. | Released on October 29, 2008
Barfout! presents Club Authentica vol.25: bice live
bice is doing a promotion tour throughout Japan tour this August, promoting her new album "kanaerarenai koi no tame ni" out now on columbia*readymade. This special show here presented by magazine Barfout! is a unique chance to see a full...
Posted on July 23, 2008 at 16:30. | Released on August 7, 2008
Clazziquai Project "Beat In Love"
Korean club unit Clazziquai Project, good friends with m-flo, FPM and the likes, has a new album aimed at Japan coming soon. Included are mostly tracks from their previously released (outside of Japan) album "Robotica", including remixes by FPM and...
Posted on July 22, 2008 at 16:49. | Released on August 13, 2008
Aira Mitsuki "Copy"
DiscID: ad0d230c
Posted on July 16, 2008 at 00:35. | Released on September 3, 2008
Various Artists "Beautiful Techno"
Especially with Perfume taking over the charts lately, Japan is really in techno-pop mode right now! This compilation is a great opportunity to catch up, and will feature artists like Meg, Aira Mitsuki, immi, Q;indivi, and more. It will total...
Posted on May 28, 2008 at 15:49. | Released on July 16, 2008
Bonsai Girl
It's his first movie as a director, you might have guessed it from the title, it's Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys' Paradise Yamamoto! This is a 30-minute film about a foreign boy and a Japanese girl who both discover the world...
Posted on March 31, 2008 at 23:53. | Released on April 19, 2008
Pure Pop Fes vol.1
A bunch of great indie-pop units will share a stage in Shimokitazawa: future guitar pop band Aprils who recently made the soundtrack for animated film "kaede Newtown", Hazel Nuts Chocolate who is said to have plenty of new songs as...
Posted on March 31, 2008 at 16:44. | Released on April 26, 2008
OnePeace "umi no mieru machi (from 'Kiki's Delivery Service')" (7")
This track from the great "kirakira Ghibli" compilation is being released on 7" via Jet Set. The B-side is a previously unreleased acoustic version. Both tracks are already available on iTunes Music Store. --> OnePeace "umi no mieru machi (from...
Posted on February 19, 2008 at 11:00. | Released on February 20, 2008
Holly Dolly "Pretty Donkey Girl"
Who would have thought? The Japanese edition album of Internet phenomenon Holly Dolly (MySpace), out last summer, contains a remix by Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys! This Japanese edition also contains the video of "Dolly Song" as CD-Extra content. Audio samples...
Posted on February 18, 2008 at 15:05. | Released on August 8, 2007
"'Death Note × Death Note the Last name × L change the WorLd' Original Soundtrack Triple Club Re-mix"
This remix album of music from the three films inspired from the "Death Note" manga (Wikipedia) will feature Iwamura Manabu, Akakage, Fukutomi Yukihiro, Jazztronik, Ken Ishii, DJ Maar (Dexpistols) and more. Official release page with some audio samples Original Soundtrack...
Posted on February 13, 2008 at 14:06. | Released on February 27, 2008
Towa Tei "N705i" (Download)
Towa Tei made the music for the new DoCoMo mobile phone N705i designed by amadana, his brother Shūwa Tei's brand. The song comes pre-loaded on the handset that went on sale on February 1st, but will also be available from...
Posted on February 7, 2008 at 18:04. | Released on February 13, 2008
Various Artists "Diva"
Ide Yasushi's label Grand Gallery brings us a new compilation focusing on Japanese female vocalists of the dance/club scene. Various Artists "Diva" 1. Monday Michiru / You Make Me 2. bird / Beats 3. AK / say that you love...
Posted on February 7, 2008 at 12:10. | Released on February 6, 2008
Karly "blink: Nike+ Original Run" (Download)
Nomoto Karia is back, under her pseudonym Karly, with a surprise release of brand new instrumental electro/techno tracks that she made for the Nike+ project! The songs are sold only on iTunes (Japan only?). She says that she also did...
Posted on January 30, 2008 at 13:30. | Released on January 30, 2008
SOFFet "New Standard"
SOFFet has a new album coming soon, and it includes a collaboration with Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience), among others. Last year both SOFFet and Sunaga-san collaborated to separate tracks on a dorlis single. The album comes in two editions,...
Posted on January 29, 2008 at 10:53. | Released on February 27, 2008
Aira Mitsuki "China Discotica"
Aira Mitsuki, who debuted as an audition-winning indies idol last August, has a first major single coming up! For those not in the know, she says that she loves Perfume and capsule, and that surely reflects very much in her...
Posted on January 22, 2008 at 09:57. | Released on March 5, 2008
Meg "Magic"
Electro-pop idol Meg has a new single coming up, her first since album "Beam" released last December. Once again the producer is Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). Meg "Magic" 1. Magic 2. Miracle 3. Magic (extended mix) Universal UPCH-5529 Out 3/5, ¥1200...
Posted on January 17, 2008 at 16:17. | Released on March 5, 2008
