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
Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra "The Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary Concert"
"The Legend of Zelda" celebrated last year its 30th anniversary! On October 16, 2016, a special concert where the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra performed music from the famous game series was held, and it is now being released on CD. The...
Posted on February 12, 2017 at 14:05. | Released on February 15, 2017
Wakita Monari "Boy Friend"
Wakita Monari (ex-Especia) has a 2nd solo single being released on Vivid Sound! Both synth-pop style songs were produced by the two of Microstar: Satō Seiki and Iizumi Yūko. The single is available in 3 editions, a limited edition including...
Posted on February 7, 2017 at 21:15. | Released on February 15, 2017
Mother Tereco "Oracle"
Mother Tereco, the unit of Sato Kimitoshi and Namba Takumi (both ex-members of Open Reel Ensemble), has a first album about to be released! Mother Tereco has also been seen on stage performing with Maika Loubté, whose latest album "Le...
Posted on February 5, 2017 at 11:37. | Released on February 8, 2017
Wednesday Campanella "Superman"
Wednesday Campanella (aka suiyoubi no Campanella) has a new album coming this week! "Superman" is the follow-up to album "UMA" (June 2016), and includes two songs from digital EP "Superkid" released last November. The physical album comes in CD and...
Posted on February 5, 2017 at 11:19. | Released on February 8, 2017
Negicco "We Are VR Friends" (Download)
Negicco have just released a new digital single! "We Are VR Friends" is the opening theme song of Tokyo MX "Pakkun & Kawakita Mayuko no atsumare! VR Friends", a kids educational TV show that focuses on virtual reality. How...
Posted on February 5, 2017 at 10:36. | Released on February 3, 2017
Vanilla Beans "sweet life" (Download)
Vanilla Beans have a brand new single out today on iTunes! This song's music was composed by the late singer-songwriter bice, and lyrics by long time collaborator Takata Mikiko. In 2017, Vanilla Beans will celebrate their 10th anniversary! Here's...
Posted on February 1, 2017 at 23:13. | Released on February 1, 2017
Learners "More Learners"
Learners, the 5-piece rockabilly band featuring Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji and singer Sara Mary, has a brand new 2nd album being released this week! Included are many covers, and also 3 original songs. A release party will be held on February...
Posted on January 30, 2017 at 21:29. | Released on January 31, 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
The Scooters "Kaiso-Rasputin" (7"+CD)
The Scooters have a brand new single coming this month! The title track is a cover of German disco band Boney-M's "Rasputin" (Japanese title "kaisō Rasputin") completely rearranged into a "strange polka rock" in The Scooters' manner. B-side "Hang On...
Posted on January 24, 2017 at 23:27. | Released on January 25, 2017
Various Artists "Best of Pied Piper Days Vol.2"
Pied Piper House (official Twitter) was an influential record shop in Tokyo from 1975 to 1989. It has been revived for a limited time on the 5th floor of Tower Records Shibuya since last summer, first for an expected 6...
Posted on January 22, 2017 at 15:36. | 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
Towa Tei "EMO"
A 9th album by Towa Tei has been announced, to be released on March 22! Featured artists include Metafive, UA, Takano Hiroshi, ATOM™, Ano (You'll Melt More!) and Inara George. The album was mastered by Sunahara Yoshinori, and the artwork...
Posted on January 16, 2017 at 22:09. | Released on March 22, 2017
Perfume "Tokyo Girl"
Perfume has a new single coming in February! The title song is being used at the theme song of TV drama "Tokyo tarareba musume", while the B-side can be heard in a TV commercial for Ora2 toothpaste. Both songs are...
Posted on January 16, 2017 at 21:48. | Released on February 15, 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
Various Artists "ExT Best File"
ExT Recordings, the underground electro label of Nagata Kazunao (Organization), is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! This compilation contains a previously unreleased track by De De Mouse, a new mix from Cherryboy Function, as well more brand new recordings...
Posted on January 14, 2017 at 13:17. | 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
fox capture plan "Fragile"
"Fragile" is the 5th original album by instrumental jazz trio fox capture plan. This is the follow-up to "Butterfly" (2015) (Amazon, CDJapan). Included is a cover of Arctic Monkeys' "Brainstorm". A show will be held on release day, January 25,...
Posted on January 8, 2017 at 22:00. | Released on January 25, 2017
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
the fascinations "tsuki no ura de aimashō - Let's go to the darkside of the moon -" (7")
Vibraphone-led jazz band the fascinations are back with a new 7" single! Included are covers of Original Love's "tsuki no ura de aimashō - Let's go to the darkside of the moon -" (originally released in 1991) and Alice Clark's...
Posted on January 2, 2017 at 22:13. | Released on January 18, 2017
YMCK "Family Swing"
YMCK kicks off 2017 with a brand new album! "Family Swing" goes back to their jazzy roots which are blown full-size into a musical-like concept album. It's also the return of the "Swingers" characters who first appeared in album "Family...
Posted on January 2, 2017 at 19:40. | 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
D.A.N. "SSWB" (Download)
Band D.A.N., formed in August 2014, has a new digital EP out now! The whole was mixed by Aoki Takamasa and mastered by Sunahara Yoshinori. The title track almost 8-minute long! Its video clip shows young people spending a...
Posted on December 25, 2016 at 19:56. | Released on December 23, 2016
Hamada Maron "kisetsu meguredo jazz ver." (CD+7")
Jazz singer Hamada Maron has a new single out now, and it's produced by Sunaga Tatsuo! Featured are members of instrumental jazz band TRI4TH. The B-side is "mirei Butterfly", recently featured on Sunaga Tatsuo's "yoru Jazz gaiden 2 ~ All...
Posted on December 24, 2016 at 00:22. | Released on December 21, 2016
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
Negicco "ai, kamashitai no"
Negicco has a brand new single out this month! The brand new song "ai, kamashitai no" was written by Dōjima Kōhei, it's a catchy and fun pop track with a Shibuya-kei vibe. Check out the fun video below! The B-side...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 20:21. | Released on December 20, 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
Especia "Danger"
Especia has a brand new single out now! Both songs were written and produced by Kai Takahashi of Lucky Tapes. A live show titled "Danger" featuring both Especia and Lucky Tapes will be held on January 9 at Shibuya...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 13:21. | Released on December 7, 2016
"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
Learners "Learners Christmas EP" (7")
LEARNERS, the rockabilly band led by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji and fronted by singer Sara Mary, has a new Christmas 7" out this week! The A-side is a cover of "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus", previously performed by Jackson...
Posted on November 29, 2016 at 22:38. | 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
sugar me "6 femmes"
Follow-up to last year's 2nd album "AROUND the CORNER", here comes a new cover mini-album by sugar me! Included are songs originally by Jane Birkin, Lou Reed and Judee Sill among others. One song is a duet with Oh Shu...
Posted on November 22, 2016 at 00:02. | 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
Wakita Monari "In The City / anone,,," (CD+7")
Wakita Monari (ex-Especia) is back as a solo artist! She now shows up on the great Vivid Sound label with a first solo single. Both songs are originals, with the A-side "In The City" arranged by Arai Toshiya (Count Joke),...
Posted on November 14, 2016 at 23:56. | 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
Taketatsu Ayana "Lyrical Concerto"
Voice actress/singer Taketatsu Ayana has a 3rd album about to be released. It features an outstanding list of composers/producers including Takeshi Yokemura (YMCK), Hayashibe Tomonori (Plus-tech Squeeze Box), Mito (clammbon), Okii Reiji (Tweedees, ex-Cymbals) and Nakatsuka Takeshi among others. The...
Posted on November 1, 2016 at 00:29. | Released on November 2, 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
Rovo "XI (eleven)"
ROVO is an instrumental band that's celebrating this year its 20th anniversary! Sometimes qualified as a "dance music band", it goes much beyond that by featuring double drums/percussions, electric violin, and by making songs that are mostly over 10 minutes....
Posted on October 25, 2016 at 23:44. | Released on October 26, 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
lyrical school "Magic Hour / kakko warui furarekata -lyrisch no baai-"
lyrical school have a new single coming this week! "Magic Hour" is a brand new song, while "kakko warui furarekata" is a cover of Ōe Senri's hit song that was featured in the movie "Moteki" (2011) with added rap lyrics....
Posted on October 1, 2016 at 12:25. | Released on October 5, 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
Predawn "Absence"
Female singer-songwriter and guitarist Predawn has a 2nd full-length album out now, follow-up to "A Golden Wheel" (2013)! Check out the special page here. HMV offers a special set including a tote bag. A tour will be held through December,...
Posted on September 22, 2016 at 12:25. | Released on September 21, 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
ShinoVani (Shinohara Tomoe + Vanilla Beans) "onna no ko ☆ otoko no ko / kokoro no usagi"
ShinoVani is the new unit of Shinohara Tomoe & Vanilla Beans! They have actually been doing a weekly net TV program together under the same name since April 2015, but now here comes a music debut single! The new song...
Posted on September 16, 2016 at 22:49. | Released on September 28, 2016
Dorusen from TPD "sensei no okiniiri"
Here's a brand new catchy rocking pop track written and produced by Konishi Yasuharu! Dorusen from TPD, a sub-unit of idol group Tokyo Performance Doll, sings the ending theme of school-themed drama series "Debusen". The title translates to "the...
Posted on September 15, 2016 at 22:53. | Released on September 21, 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
TRI4TH "Defying"
"Dance jazz quintet" TRI4TH has a 5th album coming, their 2nd on jazz label Playwright, follow-up to last year's "Awakening" (CDJapan). All songs are originals. A Japan tour will be starting in September, with the final show on January 9,...
Posted on September 7, 2016 at 21:15. | Released on September 14, 2016
lyrical school "-RUN and RUN- lyrical school one man live 2016@CLUB CITTA'" (Blu-ray/DVD)
lyrical school are releasing this week on Blu-ray and DVD a recent show held last April to coincide with the release of single "Run and Run". Only the Blu-ray edition contains bonus footage. Meanwhile, member Yumi (aka Shimizu Yumi) has...
Posted on September 5, 2016 at 23:05. | Released on September 7, 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
Nomiya Maki "otoko to onna 'Un Homme et Une Femme' ~ Nomiya Maki, French Shibuya-kei o utau."
Nomiya Maki has a brand new album just about to be released! This album has a theme of "French Shibuya-kei", highlighting bits of the French culture that influenced the Shibuya-kei scene. This is a 2-CD release of both a studio...
Posted on August 29, 2016 at 23:22. | Released on August 31, 2016
Jintana & Emeralds "Mirage" (Download)
Jintana & Emeralds, the neo-doo-wop group of Jintana and Kashif (both of PPP), DJ Crystal (XTAL, (((sssurrounddd)))), and 3 female vocalists including hitomitoi, has a new single out now on iTunes Japan! A release party will be held on...
Posted on August 26, 2016 at 00:40. | Released on August 3, 2016
Maika Loubté "Le Zip" (Download)
Half-French half-Japanese singer-songwriter Maika Loubté has a brand new album out now on iTunes! This is the follow-up to "100 (momo)" (December 2014), and includes latest single "Universal Metro". The song "FEEL" was produced by Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter), and...
Posted on August 24, 2016 at 23:46. | Released on August 24, 2016
Pizzicato Five "Couples", "Bellissima!"
The two first albums of Pizzicato Five, "Couples" (1987) and "Bellissima!" (1988), are being re-issued! Both were newly remastered from the original master tapes under the supervision of Konishi Yasuharu himself, and are pressed as high-quality Blu-spec CD2 (they play...
Posted on August 23, 2016 at 21:59. | Released on August 24, 2016
Metafive "Metalive" (Blu-ray+CD)
Metafive have released a first live Blu-ray, of a show held at EX Theater Roppongi on January 21, 2016. The full show plus 3 video clips are included, and the release comes with a CD of a selection of songs...
Posted on August 19, 2016 at 21:17. | Released on August 17, 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
Perfume "Cosmic Explorer" (2x12")
Perfume's 6th album "Cosmic Explorer", released last April, has just been released in a limited vinyl edition! This comes in as a set of two 12"'s, and the 1st record is blue, while the 2nd comes in a random color...
Posted on August 14, 2016 at 11:43. | Released on August 3, 2016
Especia "Mirage"
Idol group Especia is now back as a trio with a brand new EP! There has been a serious image change following their dramatic move from Osaka to Tokyo earlier this year, with a cool sound that has evolved and...
Posted on August 11, 2016 at 22:45. | Released on August 10, 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
Ishino Takkyu "Lunatique"
Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove)'s brand new solo album "Lunatique" is about to be released! This follows mini-album "Cruise" (2010). The album has artwork by Ukawa Naohiro (Dommune), taking source from a cover illustration of defunct magazine "Manga Erotopia". Hear samples...
Posted on August 2, 2016 at 23:06. | Released on August 3, 2016
Negicco "Tea for Three" (2LP)
Negicco's 3rd album "Tea for Three" (out last May) is being released as a limited double LP! Don't miss this! On the same day, Saturday July 30, Negicco will perform a one-man live at NHK Hall in Shibuya. Tickets are...
Posted on July 28, 2016 at 23:38. | Released on July 30, 2016
sione "Golden Age" (Download)
Singer-songwriter Yukawa Shione, lately based in both Japan and New York, has a new digital release out now as her new project "sione" with which she focuses on voice. This first EP is produced by world's end girlfriend, and...
Posted on July 27, 2016 at 23:26. | Released on July 22, 2016
Uno Digital "Weird Piece" (Download)
Uno Digital ("unō" means "right brain") is the new genre-free unit of drummer Suzuki Kaoru (lately seen performing with Nakatsuka Takeshi and De De Mouse) and composer Hayata Yoshihiro. Their first single is out today on iTunes and Apple...
Posted on July 27, 2016 at 23:09. | Released on July 27, 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
Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no kakumei"
Group sounds girl band Kinoco Hotel have a brand new album coming this week! This follows a move to King Records, and it's their 5th original album since going major. The limited edition comes with a DVD of a music...
Posted on July 24, 2016 at 22:06. | 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
YeYe "hito"
Singer-songwriter YeYe has a 3rd album out this week, follow-up to the brilliant "Hue Circle" (2013, CDJapan)! This includes latest single "ate a lemon". Check out its video below and also the sampler clip of all songs from the new...
Posted on July 12, 2016 at 20:41. | 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
Lucky Tapes "Cigarette & Alcohol"
3-piece band Lucky Tapes (Twitter) has a 2nd album out now on label Rallye. This is the follow-up to last year's "The Show". Upcoming shows include event "Awesome Love Tapes" on August 10 at Shibuya WWW, with Awesome City Club...
Posted on July 6, 2016 at 00:02. | Released on July 6, 2016
lyrical school "Summer Foundation"
lyrical school has a new single coming this week! Two new songs are included, and limited editions come with a live DVD of 5 songs or bonus remixes by Illreme ((((sssurrounddd)))) and Dorian. CDJapan gives away a promo paper fan...
Posted on July 4, 2016 at 21:00. | Released on July 6, 2016
Hoshino Michiru "Love Me Again feat. ikkubaru" (CD+7")
Hoshino Michiru has a new single coming, the A-side is a Japanese cover of Indonesian 4-piece band ikkubaru's "Love Me Again" and features the band itself (recent live version by ikkubaru). By the way, ikkubaru is also known for writing...
Posted on July 2, 2016 at 14:08. | Released on July 6, 2016
Perfume "WE ARE Perfume -WORLD TOUR 3rd DOCUMENT" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Perfume's first documentary movie is being released on Blu-ray and DVD! The movie follows them throughout their 3rd world tour (held in 2014) that led them to Taiwan, Singapore, the U.K. and the U.S. Special features include audio commentary by...
Posted on July 1, 2016 at 00:52. | Released on July 6, 2016
jan and naomi "Leeloo and Alexandra"
jan and naomi have a 2nd EP out now, containing 6 new songs! This is the follow-up to "jan, naomi are" released in 2014 (CDJapan). jan and naomi will play a show at the Gloria Chapel in Shinagawa on July...
Posted on June 25, 2016 at 01:48. | Released on June 24, 2016
Nakano Aya "Emerald In Paradise"
Here's a new album by Kyoto-born singer Nakano Aya, produced by Hase Hajimu as usual. Included are 8 original songs and 2 covers, one of which features salsa band Central. Two 7" singles (incl. CD) were released in advance: "Episode...
Posted on June 20, 2016 at 22:57. | Released on June 15, 2016
Shuntaro Okino "Too Far [F-A-R Remixes]"
Okino Shuntarō (ex-Venus Peter) released last year album "F-A-R" (CDJapan), his first solo album since 2001 ("Gimmie Brighter" as Indian Rope). Now here comes a remix album including remixes by Cornelius, Salon Music, Nakamura Kōji (LAMA, ex-Supercar, aka iLL, Nyantora),...
Posted on June 16, 2016 at 20:47. | Released on June 15, 2016
Learners "Absolute Learners" (Photo book+Download code)
Learners is the rockabilly band led by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji, and featuring singer Sara Mary, guitarist Chie, with bassist Masamichi Hamada (Quattro) and drummer TA-1 (Koncos). Here comes a 116-page photo book that covers their first year since their first...
Posted on June 12, 2016 at 23:55. | Released on June 15, 2016
Un Amin "Giant Panda ni notte mitai"
Un Amin, band with an exotic pop sound fronted by Taiwan-born singer Min, has a new mini-album coming soon! Included is one of their trademark songs, "Giant Panda ni notte mitai", in a brand new version, plus a bunch of...
Posted on June 9, 2016 at 23:33. | Released on June 15, 2016
"Game ongaku taizen" (Book)
This book, of which the title translates to "Game Music Encyclopedia", includes a CD of game play music from 11 Namco games such as "Xevious", "Digdug", "Galaga", "Mappy", etc., plus a special original Namco medley by YMCK. The book...
Posted on June 5, 2016 at 22:18. | Released on May 21, 2016
