Tempura Kidz "minna no Dance uta"
Kids dance crew Tempura Kidz (which comes from the same agency as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu) has a new mini-album coming. Included are covers of popular kids songs produced by various artists, such as "Computer obaachan" by YMCK, "sakura sakura" by...
Posted on March 9, 2014 at 21:10. | Released on March 12, 2014
Concert "Headache and Heartburn"
Kanazawa label Rallye brings this new vocal mini-album by pop duo Concert. Label-mates YeYe and milk are also featured. Concert "Headache and Heartburn" 1. aimaisa kaihi 2. Party and Cookie 3. dakishimetai 4. Modren Sandpaper 5. Eat 6. Goodbye Flatlander...
Posted on March 7, 2014 at 23:12. | Released on March 5, 2014
kotringo "dare ka watashi o"
Here's a nice-priced single by pianist kotringo. The title track is the theme for TV drama "ashita, mama ga inai". Watch the video below, and hear an audio sample of the other song at HMV. A new album seems to...
Posted on March 7, 2014 at 23:01. | Released on March 5, 2014
Various Artists "More! Electronic Disney Music"
Here's an "EDM" compilation, that's Electronic Disney Music! Featured are old and new tracks by electronic artists from Japan and the world. Brand new ones include Hyadain's "It's a Small World", Ram Rider's "A Whole New World", and De De...
Posted on March 2, 2014 at 22:49. | Released on February 26, 2014
Hanazawa Kana "25"
This 2nd album by voice actress Hanazawa Kana was released on her 25th birthday (February 26, 2014), and the 2-CD package contains 25 tracks, involving a bunch of Shibuya-kei related artists. The whole is produced by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table),...
Posted on March 2, 2014 at 22:13. | Released on February 26, 2014
Konishi Yasuharu "'senryokugai sōsakan' Original Soundtrack"
senryokugai sōsakan (the jacket design shows the English title "The easygoing police") is a comedy TV series about a female detective who is being kept outside of the investigation team. However she still goes to investigate by herself, usually gets...
Posted on March 2, 2014 at 00:38. | Released on February 26, 2014
Cibo Matto "Hotel Valentine"
Have you heard Cibo Matto's new album yet? "Hotel Valentine" was released in the U.S. on Valentine's day, almost 15 years since "Stereotype A" (1999). The new sounds are very fresh but also reminiscent of their earlier material. The Japanese...
Posted on March 1, 2014 at 17:12. | Released on March 3, 2014
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Yume No Hajima Ring Ring"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a new single coming this week! In addition to the new song, another new song ("Slow-mo") which has been featured in a TV commercial for eyewear brand ALOOK. Also an extended version of previous single "Mottai-Nightland"....
Posted on February 24, 2014 at 21:31. | Released on February 26, 2014
Wonder Headz "wonder wanderer"
Wonder Headz is the new electro unit of Kawakami Yuu and Horikawa Itaru, two members of band Nabowa. The sound is made of vintage synths and minimal disco beats, as well as various instruments played by the duo. This first...
Posted on February 11, 2014 at 16:05. | Released on February 12, 2014
Various Artists "yaba-kayō Super Nonstop Mix ~Mixed by DJ Fukutake"
DJ Fukutake (aka Fukuta Takeshi) is one of the selectors who brought us the hit "Techno kayō" compilation series under the name "8-bits" in the late 90's. This new mix CD brings various Japanese rare groove from the 60's to...
Posted on February 9, 2014 at 23:19. | Released on February 19, 2014
Perfume "Perfume Clips" (Blu-ray/DVD)
This is Perfume's first collection of video clips, including all from their years on label Tokuma Japan since major debut "Linear Motor Girl". The limited edition comes with a bonus disc of rare versions, 25 TV commercials, and an audio...
Posted on February 6, 2014 at 23:41. | Released on February 12, 2014
Yun*chi "Asterisk*"
Yun*chi is from agency Asobisystem (the same as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu), and this is her first full-length album. Half of the songs are brand new ones, while the rest have been previously released on mini-albums "Yun*chi" and "Shake you*", as...
Posted on February 6, 2014 at 23:03. | Released on February 5, 2014
The Nanbatatin "girlz.reteru.talk"
The Nanbatatin, a collaboration side-project of singer Nanba Shiho and Tarte Tatin, has a first album being released. The whole is produced by Yamamoto Shō of band Phenotas. Matsunaga Temma (Urbangarde) wrote lyrics of the opening track. This is also...
Posted on February 2, 2014 at 22:35. | Released on February 5, 2014
shippai shinai ikikata "jōyatō"
Self-described as "bedtown pop music" or "convenient suburb pop group", shippai shinai ikikata (Soundcloud) is a 6-piece band that's been active in the Tokyo indies scene since around 2010. After gaining popularity with a self-made demo CD-R, here finally comes...
Posted on January 31, 2014 at 23:04. | Released on January 21, 2014
MoliquL "Into the Night" (Download)
MoliquL, the Brooklyn-based electronic dance duo of Avery (Lost Children, Ice Choir) and Tsugumi (Old Monk, ex-PINE*am), has again delivered a new pair of tracks that blend bright pop and their unique style. The beautiful title track "Into the Night"...
Posted on January 29, 2014 at 22:10. | Released on January 29, 2014
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "100% KPP World Tour 2013 Official Documentary" (DVD/Blu-ray)
This is a new DVD from Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, a 90-minute documentary that follows her through last year's world tour that took her to 8 countries. A new world tour is about to start in February, taking KPP to the...
Posted on January 28, 2014 at 23:19. | Released on January 29, 2014
Various Artists "'Sailor Moon' The 20th Anniversary Memorial Tribute"
Here comes a tribute cover album to anime series Sailor Moon (1993), this year celebrating its 20th anniversary. Featured artists include Yakushimaru Etsuko, Kawamoto Makoto, Tommy heavenly6, Momoiro Clover Z, Nakagawa Shōko, Clémentine and more. Producers include Konishi Yasuharu (Fukuhara...
Posted on January 21, 2014 at 23:37. | Released on January 29, 2014
Yakushimaru Etsuko "TV Anime 'Space Dandy' Ending Theme: X jigen e yokoso"
Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) has a new single coming, of a which title song "X jigen e yōkoso" is being used as the ending theme of anime "Space Dandy" (Sunday from 23:00 on Tokyo MX). That song was arranged by Kanno...
Posted on January 19, 2014 at 21:24. | Released on January 29, 2014
Various Artists "Disney Rocks!!! Girls Power!"
This new Disney cover compilation features girls only, from idol groups (such as Dempagumi.inc, BiS, Tokyo Girls' Style, hy4_4yh) to bands (akai kōen) and solo artists (Ōta Emiri, Maika Leboutet), and even Minnie Mouse. In terms of producers, Dempagumi.inc's track...
Posted on January 19, 2014 at 00:45. | Released on January 22, 2014
Tokyo Girls' Style "Maltine Girls Wave" (Blu-ray/DVD+CD)
This is a collaboration album of unit group Tokyo Girls' Style and tofubeats' label Maltine Records (Soundcloud). 5 new tracks are produced by Maltine artists, and each is sung solo by one of the 5 girls. Producers are dancinthruthenights (unit...
Posted on January 18, 2014 at 19:02. | Released on January 15, 2014
hitomitoi "Snowbank Social Club"
Following last summer's hot "Surfbank Social Club", hitomitoi now brings us a winter album, the kind that should warm you up. Again collaborators Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), Kashif (aka Stringsburn) and LUVRAW & BTB are in, as well as tofubeats, Avec...
Posted on January 14, 2014 at 22:59. | Released on January 29, 2014
Elekibass "Home Party Garden Party", "Garden Party EP" (7"+CD)
Elekibass has a new mini-album coming, of which lead track "Garden Party" is a song written by The Apples In Stereo's Robert Schneider specially for Elekibass. Also coming at the end of January is a 7" vinyl single that contains...
Posted on January 13, 2014 at 13:59. | Released on January 22, 2014
yashka "Hotel New Continental"
yashka is a new 6-piece band fronted by female singer Yoshika. With accordion, violin, and clarinet, the rock band's sound is a borderless mixture of soul, ska, latin, jazz and pop. All songs can be sampled at the official release...
Posted on January 13, 2014 at 13:19. | Released on January 15, 2014
Terunuma Fareeza to Shūkyō "kakkoii" (Download)
Terunuma Fareeza to Shūkyō is a new pop unit formed of producer Ōkawa Kazuto and singer Terunuma Fareeza, a half-Syrian/half-Japanese model/photographer/director from the adult scene. Their first song had been released digitally, and the sound has a Shibuya-kei feel that...
Posted on January 12, 2014 at 13:57. | Released on December 24, 2013
Yucca "You are right" (Download)
Post-rock band Yucca has a new track now available on iTunes worldwide and also Bandcamp! Check out the video clip below too. Also check out previous single "summer emotion" and latest album "our journey (to anywhere we want)", if you...
Posted on January 7, 2014 at 23:42. | Released on January 4, 2014
Polysics "ACTION!!!"
Polysics have a new album coming this month! This follows EP "Mega Over Drive" (released last October) of which the title track is included here. The album is said to include sounds of new wave, EDM, hard core and some...
Posted on January 6, 2014 at 23:43. | Released on January 15, 2014
Especia "YA-ME-TE! / Aventure wa giniro ni"
Osaka-based idol group Especia has a new single coming, and track "Aventure wa giniro ni" was produced by Maserati Nagisa, unit of LUVRAW (LUVRAW & BTB) and PellyColo (SoundCloud). Especia are one of those few idol groups that are likely...
Posted on January 4, 2014 at 13:12. | Released on January 8, 2014
Various Artists "Sauna Cool 1"
New label Sauna Cool starts things off with this 51-track compilation, with a rule of "no more than 30 seconds per track". Featured are mainly artists from the Tokyo indies scene, including Chabe, HNC, Miila and the Geeks, VIDEOTAPEMUSIC, Mitsume,...
Posted on January 3, 2014 at 23:24. | Released on December 25, 2013
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
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
80KIDZ "80:XX-01020304", Una "True of Lights / Danse Danse"
Indie dance unit 80KIDZ have released 4 EP of the "80" series ("80:01" to "80:04"), and this compilation album contains all tracks from these. All 4 EPs are also available on iTunes worldwide. Released at the same time is an...
Posted on January 3, 2014 at 18:31. | Released on December 18, 2013
Riow Arai "Drum Dub Delay" (Download)
Riow Arai has released a new album exclusively on iTunes store. The conceptual "spin-off" album consists of one-shot recordings of only drums and bass, that were then mixed in dub fashion. The drums and dub mixes were done by Riow...
Posted on January 3, 2014 at 18:15. | Released on December 11, 2013
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
Hanazawa Kana "Love Planet"
Voice actress/singer Hanazawa Kana's new single again features a great line-up. The title track was written and produced by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table), with strings arranged by Hase Yasuhiro (Yume to Cosme). "Spanish Apartment" was written and produced by Okii...
Posted on December 31, 2013 at 18:35. | Released on December 25, 2013
Various Artists "Nameko no CD 2"
Popular character Nameko inspired this compilation that features new tracks by the likes of YMCK, Kaseki Cider and YeYe, and many others. The first pressing comes with a bonus CD and Nameko handkerchief towel, so you might be lucky if...
Posted on December 31, 2013 at 17:21. | Released on December 18, 2013
Pecombo "Pecombo sings French Classics" (Download)
Scat vocal group Pecombo's latest release is a cover mini-album of French standards. This is a download-only release, available worldwide on iTunes. Pecombo "Pecombo sings French Classics" (Download) ペコンボ 「ペコンボ、フランスのスタンダード・ポップを歌う」 (Japanese title: "Pecombo, France no Standard Pop o utau") 1....
Posted on December 31, 2013 at 15:09. | Released on December 16, 2013
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
"Nintendo Famicom Music"
Need a NES music fix? Try this recent compilation of music from hit Nintendo games. What distinguishes it from previous releases is that the media conforms to the high quality "Blu-spec CD2" standard (plays in normal CD players), a first...
Posted on December 31, 2013 at 12:34. | Released on December 4, 2013
MEG "Continue"
MEG dropped a new full-length album this month. This includes tracks written and/or produced by artists such as tofubeats, TeddyLoid, Kojima Mayumi, DE DE MOUSE and more. A limited edition comes with a DVD of two music videos plus a...
Posted on December 30, 2013 at 22:16. | Released on December 4, 2013
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
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
Tokyo No.1 Soul Set "try∴angle"
Tokyo No.1 Soul Set has a new album that was released this month! This includes song "One Day" that's being featured as the theme song of game-themed TV series "No-Con Kid". The limited edition contains a bonus DVD with the...
Posted on December 28, 2013 at 23:10. | Released on December 4, 2013
sugar me "Why White Y?"
sugar me, the solo project of singer-songwriter Teraoka Ayumi, has a 1st album out now! This features guests including Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Itoken, and members of milk and number 0. sugar me can be seen live together with Au Revoir...
Posted on December 19, 2013 at 22:23. | Released on December 18, 2013
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.
fox capture plan "BRIDGE"
Here's a 2nd album from fox capture plan, instrumental jazz-rock trio formed of Kishimoto Ryo (Jabberloop), Kawai Hidehiro (Immigrant's Bossa Band) and Inoue Tsukasa (direction of the chord, ex-nhhmbase). This follows "trinity" released just last May. All songs are originals...
Posted on December 11, 2013 at 22:51. | Released on December 4, 2013
Taketatsu Ayana "shūmatsu Cinderella"
Voice actress Taketatsu Ayana has a new single out now, of which title track "shūmatsu Cinderella" (translates as "Weekend Cinderella") is a ska song written by TMGX (Frontier Backyard). Musicians include members of Frontier Backyard, Wack Wack Rhythm Band, etc....
Posted on December 8, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on December 4, 2013
mishmash* Julie Watai "The Second Album" (Booklet+Download)
mishmash* Julie Watai, unit produced by Mishima Toyoaki ("the man behind Cornelius") and featuring singer/model/photographer Julie Watai, has a new album out now! This "Second Album" contains new songs "Do a 180" and "Heartbrakeroid" and the previously digitally released "Electromotive...
Posted on December 8, 2013 at 21:17. | Released on December 5, 2013
DJ Misoshiru to MC Gohan "oriori no oryōri ~X'mas~"
Girl duo hip-hop unit DJ Misoshiru to MC Gohan ("DJ Miso soup & MC Rice", aka DMMG) have gained popularity with their DIY-style cooking-themed clips on YouTube for some time. Their first major release is this Christmas mini-album which was...
Posted on November 24, 2013 at 22:45. | Released on November 27, 2013
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
OOIOO "Gamel"
OOIOO, band of the Boredoms' Yoshimi, has a new album out now. "Gamel" is built around the gamelan, a traditional Indonesian set of percussion instruments. The album was recorded by ZAK, a long time collaborator of bands such as Buffalo...
Posted on November 24, 2013 at 20:56. | Released on November 22, 2013
Cornelius "'Ghost In The Shell Arise' Official Soundtrack"
A few months back Cornelius made the music for theatrical anime "Ghost In The Shell Arise", and here's finally the soundtrack! This includes opening theme "Ghost In The Shell Arise", as well as ending themes "jibun ga inai" (salyu x...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 21:53. | Released on November 27, 2013
Nagisa Yoko "jitsuroku Shinjuku gebageba Recital ~ Nagisa Yoko Shinjuku koma gekijo"
This is a DVD of a full recital by Shōwa-style singer Nagisa Yōko. The show was held on October 4, 2008 at Shinjuku Koma Theater, shortly before the 1956-built gorgeous venue closed. Featured guests included Comoesta Yaegashi, Crazy Ken Band's...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 19:52. | Released on November 20, 2013
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
Cutie Pai "Love chururi"
Self-produced idol-songwriter Cutie Pai has a new single out now! Title track "Love chururi" was arranged by tessy (CANDLES). B-side "zutto, gyutto" is an image song for character Noobow who celebrates its 25th anniversary, this one was arranged by elect-link...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 18:07. | Released on November 13, 2013
Akira Kosemura "niji no kanata - seven colors variations -"
Composer Akira Kosemura has a new solo single out now. New song "niji no katana" featuring vocalist lasah is included in its original version plus 6 remixes. The remixers include Yasuda Toshiyuki (ex-FPM), I Am Robot And Proud and more....
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 12:36. | Released on November 13, 2013
"Yoshida Rui no sakaba hōrōki Soundtrack"
TV show "sakaba hōrōki", a variety show in which host Yoshida Rui travels to visit bars in Tokyo and Japan. Celebrating the show's 10th anniversary, this CD contains music used in the show, as well as a new cover of...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 12:09. | Released on November 13, 2013
Sheena Ringo "ukina", "mitsugetsushō"
Sheena Ringo has two new albums out now. "ukina" consists of collaborations with other artists, including a new one with Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE), and the previously unreleased "It Was You" written by Burt Bacharach. "mitsugetsushō" is a collection of her...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 11:28. | Released on November 13, 2013
tofubeats "Don't Stop The Music"
This is tofubeats' first major release, coming as a mini-album of which the lead track features singer Moritaka Chisato who has been active since the late 80's (since before tofubeats was born, he'll turn 23 this month!). The limited edition...
Posted on November 18, 2013 at 23:41. | Released on November 13, 2013
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
Tokyo Shock Boys "Dengeki Damashii" (Download)
Dengeki Network, aka Tokyo Shock Boys, known for their freak show-like live performances, have a new mini-album out now. This is available on iTunes worldwide (or almost). Tokyo Shock Boys can be caught on stage on the last day of...
Posted on November 15, 2013 at 22:45. | Released on October 30, 2013
Kimura Kaela "Rock"
Kimura Kaela (official Facebook page) has a new cover album focused on 80's popular tunes (and some older ones). Various producers and collaborators are featured, including Ishino Takkyu (Denki Groove), Hosono Haruomi (YMO), Okamura Yasuyuki, Chara, Predawn, Kishida Shigeru (Quruli),...
Posted on November 13, 2013 at 23:45. | Released on October 30, 2013
NeoBallad "02 ~ōgon no sato~"
NeoBallad is the unit of singer Wakasa Sachi and drummer/producer Kamiryō Wataru (ex-P-Model, Grass Valley). Together the duo perform Japanese traditional songs (minyō) with programmed electro backtracks. On this 2nd album, each song featured comes from a specific prefecture in...
Posted on November 11, 2013 at 23:34. | Released on November 8, 2013
Perfume "Sweet Refrain"
Perfume's upcoming single "Sweet Refrain" is being used as a theme song in TV drama "toshidensetsu no onna" (TV Asahi on Friday from 23:15). This is as always produced by Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE). The limited edition includes a DVD of...
Posted on November 7, 2013 at 22:37. | Released on November 27, 2013
Chiroline ver.2 "Forever Chiroline-zaka"
Here's a new mini-album by gadget-loving girl unit Chiroline ver.2, follow-up to album "Chit Chat Chiroline" (2012). Again produced by Okada Tohru (Moonriders), this also contains a new song writted by Suzuki Keiichi (also Moonriders), as well as ones by...
Posted on November 5, 2013 at 21:07. | Released on November 6, 2013
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
Negicco "tokimeki no Headliner"
Idol group Negicco have a new single coming, their first since the release of album "Melody Palette" last July. The title track was produced by Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves), and B-side "sayonara Music" is by Negicco's main producer connie. A...
Posted on November 3, 2013 at 14:33. | Released on November 6, 2013
frenesi "Dolphino"
Here's a new release from frenesi! This album contains the 8 songs from now rare album "Landmark Theater" (2000, Bambini Records), but also 3 rarities from a compilation and a 7", and 3 brand new songs ("8:30 no Theme", "GO...
Posted on November 2, 2013 at 23:54. | Released on November 6, 2013
Taikuh Jikang "Rainichi"
Taikuh Jikang is the solo unit of Kawamura Kohey, a gamelan player (Indonesian instrument). The unit's visuals involve shadow play. This 2nd album features Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) on one track. Taikuh Jikang "Rainichi" TAIKUH JIKANG 滞空時間 「RAINICHI 来日」 1. HUTAN...
Posted on November 2, 2013 at 23:52. | Released on October 23, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Mottai-Nightland"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a new single on the way! This one is a tie-up with mobile carrier au, and the song is featured in the commercial. Needless to say, this is produced by Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE). The limited edition...
Posted on October 28, 2013 at 21:31. | Released on November 6, 2013
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
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
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
Polysics "Mega Over Drive"
Here's a new mini-album from Polysics! This contains 3 brand new tracks, and also re-recorded versions of two favorites in Polysics' latest three-piece style. The limited edition comes with a special 3D jacket. Polysics are currently touring Europe, with dates...
Posted on September 23, 2013 at 23:04. | Released on October 9, 2013
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
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
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
Scandal "Over Drive"
Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE) produced the title track of this new single by girl rock band Scandal, for a result quite different from the sounds he's got us used to. Worth checking out! The limited edition comes with a video of...
Posted on September 20, 2013 at 19:58. | Released on September 18, 2013
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
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
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
Hair Stylistics "Music For The Murder Festa"
Hair Stylistics (SoundCloud), aka Nakahara Masaya, has a new album out now! This is a beat-oriented album said to remind of the sound of his 90's works as Violent Onsen Geisha. The album was created without any computer involved, originally...
Posted on September 13, 2013 at 22:48. | Released on September 11, 2013
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
Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band "Take Me To The Land Of Hell"
Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band has a new album coming in September. The all-star band features Sean Lennon, Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) and Honda Yuka (Cibo Matto)! Guest musicians include Lenny Kravitz, Nels Cline (Wilco), tUnE-yArDs, Andrew Wyatt (Miike Snow) and...
Posted on August 25, 2013 at 14:18. | Released on September 12, 2013
Ōta Emiri "Renaissance"
20-year-old pianist singer-songwriter Ōta Emiri has a new mini-album coming, and it contains 2 songs produced by Konishi Yasuharu ("fune no hito" and "ude no ke"). In 2007 he was judge at a contest where she won the grand prix....
Posted on August 21, 2013 at 23:15. | Released on August 28, 2013
Yucca "summer emotion" (Download)
Post-rock band Yucca have a sweet-sounding new single and clip for the summer! The song is available at Bandcamp and iTunes worldwide. Yucca "summer emotion" (Download) abcdefg*record Out now (8/13) Sample/buy: Bandcamp,...
Posted on August 19, 2013 at 23:58. | Released on August 13, 2013
J.J. Abrams, Charles Scott, Nakata Yasutaka "Into Darkness (Digital Edit)" (Download)
Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) co-produced a song for the movie "Star Trek: Into Darkness", featuring vocals by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. The song "Into Darkness" is said to be used in a futuristic club scene, in the Japanese edition of the movie....
Posted on August 18, 2013 at 15:24. | Released on July 10, 2013
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
BiS kaidan "BiS kaidan"
"Alternative" idol group BiS unites forces with veteran noise band hijōkaidan (founded in 1979), together forming the first ever noise-idol band: BiS kaidan. This album self-covers several of BiS' songs, and also brings a new cover of Togawa Jun's "suki...
Posted on August 18, 2013 at 00:37. | Released on August 7, 2013
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
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
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
Portmanteau "Portmanteau"
Portmanteau is a new ambient unit, collaboration of Yasuda Toshiyuki (ex-FPM), Morgan Fisher (ex-Mott the Hoople) and Kimura Tatsuji (dip in the pool). This first album features guest vocalists Koda Miyako (dip in the pool) and Honda Michiyo (ex-Overrocket). Portmanteau...
Posted on August 12, 2013 at 22:30. | Released on June 26, 2013
Sister Jet with Dots+Borders "'New Quad' 2x2=4 / very well L.P."
Dots+Borders, the legendary unit of Kaji Hideki and Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza, The Cornelius Group, pupa), has teamed up with young rock band Sister Jet for a new album full of British-influenced upbeat tracks. Sister Jet with Dots+Borders "'New...
Posted on August 11, 2013 at 12:26. | Released on August 7, 2013
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
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
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
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
Nakano Aya "heta na uso"
Here's a 2nd album by hostess and singer Nakano Aya. Like her previous album "zurui hito", this is produced by DJ Hase Hajimu and consists of various covers in jazz and latin styles. A 7" can also be found at...
Posted on August 4, 2013 at 21:50. | Released on July 24, 2013
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
