Masanori Ikeda "The Loud Works"
Masanori Ikeda (SoundCloud) (aka Mansfield) has a new album out now! This is actually his first original album under this name, and it contains a variety of tracks released over the recent years in vinyl or digital forms, including "Mu"...
Posted on July 31, 2013 at 21:30. | Released on July 24, 2013
Various Artists "ASOBITUNES"
This is a compilation from Harajuku-based agency Asobisystem, home of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and also behind parties "Asobinite!!!" and "Takenoko!!!". Featured are songs by many artists who have participated in these events. capsule's new track "Rainbow" is included, as well...
Posted on July 30, 2013 at 23:54. | Released on July 31, 2013
Hoshino Michiru "hoshi ga Michiru"
Idol Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48) has a first full-length solo album out now, and it's produced by Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar)! The album Includes a remix by Dub Master X, and the art direction and design was done by...
Posted on July 27, 2013 at 21:03. | Released on July 17, 2013
Various Artists "Clo Clo Made In Japan 2013"
Here is a special reissue of the 2008 compilation "Clo Clo Made In Japan", tribute album to French singer Claude François. This new edition contains 4 new bonus recordings and the price is lower than the original, and was released...
Posted on July 27, 2013 at 18:16. | Released on July 17, 2013
Various Artists "T-Palette Records 2nd Anniversary Mix ~Diggin' on you~"
This is a mix CD by hip-hop unit Cypress Ueno and Roberto Yoshino made of only tracks from Tower Records' idol-only T-Palette label. Included are songs by Vanilla Beans, Negicco, lyrical school, Rhymeberry, LinQ, Shizukaze & Kizuna and Up Up...
Posted on July 27, 2013 at 17:42. | Released on July 17, 2013
Seiji "Smooth Chanson kuchibiru ni uta o"
Seiji is a singer from Osaka who takes his roots from French chanson. He has already been active for several years on stage, but had never got around to record his music. He decided to ask Takanami K-taro (ex-Pizzicato Five)...
Posted on July 25, 2013 at 23:59. | Released on June 19, 2013
nakayoshi group "The Jesus vs Cheatman"
nakayoshi group is an up-and-coming band that comes with a fresh-sounding lo-fi new wave sound. This first CD release comes from 80KIDZ' recently started PARK label. Ordering at HMV will get you a free badge (while supplies last). Release official...
Posted on July 23, 2013 at 23:37. | Released on July 24, 2013
playtime rock "Play Time"
Playtime Rock (blog) is the unit of Takanami K-taro (ex-Pizzicato Five) and flutist/singer Ichiba Mina. After last year's split-album "Evening Primrose" (2012), here comes their real first full-length album "Play Time". Half of the tracks are covers of foreign songs...
Posted on July 23, 2013 at 22:48. | Released on July 24, 2013
sōtaiseiriron "Town Age"
sōtaiseiriron, band featuring singer Yakushimaru Etsuko, have a new album coming. It's been some 3 years since their previous proper album "Synchroniciteen" (2010), not counting remix/collaboration album "tadashii sōtaiseiriron" (2011). HMV gives away an original sōtaiseiriron future calendar of year...
Posted on July 20, 2013 at 23:56. | Released on July 24, 2013
Negicco "Melody Palette"
Negi-loving idol group Negicco from Niigata has a new album out now! This is actually their first real album, as their previous full-length release "Negicco 2003~2012 -Best-" was made up of early tracks. The new album includes latest single "Idol...
Posted on July 20, 2013 at 03:09. | Released on July 17, 2013
"Maru-chan no Shizuoka ondo"
This promotion song from the city of Shizuoka was written by Hosono Haruomi (YMO), produced by Cornelius, and it's sung by Pierre Taki (Denki Groove)! Anime character Chibi Maruko-chan's creator Sakura Momoko and also Pierre Taki both originate from this...
Posted on July 18, 2013 at 00:12. | Released on July 17, 2013
Takahashi Yukihiro "Life Anew"
Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) has a new solo album out today. His back band consists of James Iha (ex-Smashing Pumpkins) on guitar, Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza, The Cornelius Group) on keyboards, Gondō Tomohiko on euphonium (etc.), and Takakuwa Kiyoshi (Curly...
Posted on July 17, 2013 at 22:23. | Released on July 17, 2013
(((sssurrounddd))) "New Age"
(((sssurrounddd))), the city pop band of Illreme aka Kamoda Jun with Traks Boys' K404 and Crystal, has a 2nd album out now! "New Age" features guest musicians including Sunahara Yoshinori (who also contributed a remix to their latest 12"), Kashif...
Posted on July 17, 2013 at 21:45. | Released on July 17, 2013
Gig report: Playtime Rock, BANK live at Saravah Tokyo
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday July 12 was a show of Playtime Rock, the Nagasaki-based band of Takanami K-taro (ex-Pizzicato Five) (blog). Nagasaki being part of the Kyūshū island in the south of...
Posted on July 17, 2013 at 00:59.
keme "shiranai sekai"
Guitarist singer-songwriter keme, aka Isabel Keme-Kamogawa of Kinoco Hotel, has a 2nd solo album out now. With her solo project, keme shows a face different from her Kinoco Hotel skillful fuzzy solos, rather playing 70's-inspired folk rock and putting focus...
Posted on July 15, 2013 at 00:18. | Released on July 4, 2013
Original Love "Electric Sexy"
Here's a new album from Original Love, the solo unit of Tajima Takao (ex-Pizzicato Five). It has been 2 years since previous album "hakunetsu", and this new album goes yet into a different direction by taking an electric influence from...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 23:22. | Released on June 26, 2013
Urbangarde "koi to kakumei to Urbangarde"
Trauma techno-pop band Urbangarde has a first greatest hits album out now. This includes previous singles and favorites, as well as brand new songs "hatsukoi jigoku hen" and "tokai no Alice", and the previously unreleased "Baby Boom" and a remix...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 23:02. | Released on June 19, 2013
Tommy february6 "TOMMY CANDY SHOP ♥ SUGAR ♥ ME"
Tommy february6 has a new album that was released last month. This follows the "February & Heavenly" album from last year, and contains both songs from the "Be My Valentine" single (Amazon) released on February 6th this year. 2013 marks...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 21:34. | Released on June 12, 2013
Towa Tei "Lucky"
Towa Tei has a brand new album out now! "Lucky" is full of brand new songs including latest single "Radio". Many artists are featured, including all three of YMO, Dorian, Sugar Yoshinaga (Buffalo Daughter), Sheena Ringo, Predawn, Bakubaku Dokin, visual...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 11:49. | Released on July 10, 2013
hitomitoi "Surfbank Social Club"
Following last year's wonderful "City Dive", here's a new summer city pop album by singer hitomitoi! Again she is joined by Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), Dorian, Kashif aka StringsBurn, as well as new collaborators LUVRAW & BTB, grooveman Spot and Avec...
Posted on July 14, 2013 at 00:42. | Released on June 19, 2013
Misola "Correspondence"
Misola is a recent band that debuted with a 7" last March, and now here comes a 1st album on Orange Records! The band actually features some famous members, with Ōhashi Nobuyuki (aka Pate, now part of BANK, ex-Bridge) on...
Posted on July 13, 2013 at 23:59. | Released on June 12, 2013
Toki Asako "Heartbreakin'"
Singer Toki Asako (ex-Cymbals) has a new original album that was released in June. With an 80's city pop taste, the album has two songs of which the music was written by EPO. Check out the video for "Tokyo Drive"...
Posted on July 13, 2013 at 22:34. | Released on June 12, 2013
Lullatone "Summer Songs" (Download)
Nagoya bedroom pop unit Lullatone has a new digital EP (or a modest 8-song album) that was released just last month. This one is meant to be a soundtrack to some hot fun in the summer sun. Get it for...
Posted on July 13, 2013 at 21:55. | Released on June 11, 2013
Gig report: Vanilla Beans, Nomiya Maki & BIBA
Text and 2nd photo by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound. 1st photo by Kaz Sekiguchi, courtesy of Yoko Fujiwara. On July 5th was the 4th edition of Vanilla Beans' series of shows with a live band. Every time they...
Posted on July 11, 2013 at 23:34.
The Aprils "High-Flying Girl"
This is a brand new EP from The Aprils! "High-Flying Girl" is a song that first appeared on NHK show "dai! tensai TV-kun" (official soundtrack info), but here it is presented in a self-cover version. Also included is short introduction...
Posted on July 7, 2013 at 20:17. | Released on July 3, 2013
MEG Zombies "Kiss or Bite", MEG "Save"
MEG has a new pair of singles out now, one as MEG and another as MEG Zombies. MEG Zombies' "Kiss or Bite" is produced by EDM artist TeddyLoid, while MEG's "Save" is produced by anime music composer Yokoyama Masaru. Each...
Posted on July 4, 2013 at 23:41. | Released on June 5, 2013
FQTQ "Hyperactive"
Electro artist FQTQ (SoundCloud, Facebook page) has a new album out now (his 4th I believe). It features vocalists such as aco (spoon+), kuske (KPLECRAFT), Ōtsuki Maki and komaku Shredder. Official release page FQTQ "Hyperactive" 1. Super Hero feat. komaku...
Posted on July 3, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on June 5, 2013
Various Artists "Revisit - Brunswick - selected by Tatsuo Sunaga" (Download)
Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) has started a new compilation series called "Revisit". In this first offering he selects songs from the Chicago soul music label Brunswick. This release is only available digitally on iTunes Japan. Various Artists "Revisit -...
Posted on July 3, 2013 at 22:15. | Released on June 5, 2013
Gig report: blue marble, mishmash* Julie Watai
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Saturday June 22 was an event presented by blue marble, a band that released first album "Valerie" (Amazon) four years ago to then sort of disappear. This was to...
Posted on June 29, 2013 at 11:26.
mishmash* Julie Watai "Electromotive romances" (Download)
mishmash* Julie Watai, unit of Cornelius' programmer Mishima Toyoaki (blog) with singer/model/photographer Julie Watai, has a 4th digital single that was released recently. The song is available in English and Japanese versions. A self-titled CD album that comes with a...
Posted on June 22, 2013 at 12:56. | Released on May 27, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "nanda Collection"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, currently very popular in Japan, has a new album dropping next week! "nanda Collection" (which I'd roughly translate to "What the...? collection") contains single hits "Fashion Monster", "kimi ni 100 Percent", "furisodeshon", "Ninjya Re Bang Bang", "Invader...
Posted on June 22, 2013 at 11:00. | Released on June 26, 2013
Towa Tei "Radio (Edit) with Yukihiro Takahashi & Tina Tamashiro" (Download)
Towa Tei has a new album on the way, "Lucky" to be released on July 10! Here's a new track to enjoy meanwhile. "Radio" features Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) and model Tina Tamashiro, and is available now on iTunes Japan. Be...
Posted on June 21, 2013 at 23:22. | Released on June 19, 2013
mononkul "tobu monotachi, hau monotachi, utau monotachi"
mononkul is a 4-piece jazz band with female vocalist. Their first full-length album is produced by Kikuchi Naruyoshi (DCPRG, Spank Happy) and out now. mononkul "tobu monotachi, hau monotachi, utau monotachi" ものんくる 「飛ぶものたち、這うものたち、歌うものたち」 1. kibō no koto 2. Marionette 3....
Posted on June 18, 2013 at 22:09. | Released on May 22, 2013
hoshikuzu Scat "Cosmetic Siren"
Shōwa-kayō groovy drag queen trio hoshikuzu Scat have a new EP out now, and it's again produced by Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone)! The two first songs are originals he wrote the music for, and "aoi sangoshō" is a cover of Matsuda...
Posted on June 18, 2013 at 20:54. | Released on May 22, 2013
Koshi Miharu "Madame Crooner"
Koshi Miharu has a new album out now, said to be a collection of covers mainly of standards from the 30's and 40's, in arrangements that focus on piano and vocals. All songs can be sampled at the official release...
Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:44. | Released on May 22, 2013
Hosono Haruomi "Heavenly Music"
Hosono Haruomi (YMO) has a new solo vocal album out now! The album consists mainly of covers, including ones of Kraftwerk's "Radio Activity", The Carpenters' "Close to You" and Bob Dylan's "When I Paint My Masterpiece". The album's main recording...
Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:26. | Released on May 22, 2013
Idiot Pop "Toy Pop."
Idiot Pop is a mysterious techno-pop artist who debuted in 2009 with a self-titled album. After the release of two mini-albums ("Idiography E.P" and "Idiography, Vol.2") came 2nd album "EXWORLD" in 2012. Now here's a first remix album "TOY POP"...
Posted on June 15, 2013 at 13:33. | Released on May 16, 2013
Ino Hidefumi "New Morning"
Electric piano player Ino Hidefumi has a new album out now! "New Morning" contains 8 new original songs, and also 3 covers of songs by Todd Rundgren ("Hello It's Me"), Julie London ("Cry Me A River" written by Arthur Hamilton)...
Posted on May 30, 2013 at 22:49. | Released on May 30, 2013
Negicco "Idol bakari kikanai de"
This new single from idol trio Negicco has a lead track written & produced by Konishi Yasuharu (ex-Pizzicato Five)! This clavinet and violin-led upbeat pop tune is sure to please P5 fans! The song tells listeners not to listen to...
Posted on May 30, 2013 at 00:06. | Released on May 29, 2013
lyrical school "Parade"
This is the new single by lyrical school, rap idol unit produced by tofubeats. "Parade" marks the welcoming of new member Hina. Also included is a self-cover of theme song "tengal6" (the former name of lyrical school) in a new...
Posted on May 17, 2013 at 00:07. | Released on May 15, 2013
fox capture plan "trinity"
fox capture plan is a new jazz band formed of Kishimoto Ryo on piano (Jabberloop), Kawai Hidehiro on double bass (Immigrant's Bossa Band) and Inoue Tsukasa on drums (direction of the chord, nhhmbase). A first album is coming on May...
Posted on May 11, 2013 at 22:48. | Released on May 15, 2013
Perfume "Magic of Love" (Single), "Perfume WORLD TOUR 1st" (DVD)
Perfume is back with a double release. Both coming on May 22 are new single "Magic of Love", and a DVD of Perfume's 1st world tour, more specifically a show held in Singapore. There's a limited edition of the single...
Posted on May 7, 2013 at 22:38. | Released on May 22, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Invader Invader"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a new single coming, for the song "Invader Invader" that's being heard in TV commercials for the GU fashion brand (by Uniqlo). She has already been performing the song on stage starting her 2nd world tour....
Posted on May 5, 2013 at 10:44. | Released on May 15, 2013
Nakatsuka Takeshi "Young, Alive, in Love / Have you ever seen the rainbow?" (7")
Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone), whose latest album "Lyrics" was released last February, has a 7" cut of two songs being released. One of the chosen songs is a cover of Flipper's Guitar "Young, Alive, in Love"! This release comes from Groove...
Posted on May 5, 2013 at 00:32. | Released on May 8, 2013
(((sssurrounddd))) "kūchū bunkai suru I Love You" (12")
(((sssurrounddd))), the band of rapper Illreme, with Track Boys' K404 and Crystal, has a new single just out on 12". The B-side is a remix by Sunahara Yoshinori! The 12" comes with a MP3 download code. Jet Set has an...
Posted on May 5, 2013 at 00:12. | Released on April 26, 2013
Cold Name "Few Of Us"
This is a 2nd release part of White Lily Records' "Cult Club Manners" mix CD series (the first was by YO!HEY!! in 2011). Cold Name is the solo project of Nobuyuki Sakuma who is mainly active as the lead member...
Posted on May 4, 2013 at 23:51. | Released on April 26, 2013
Gig report: Vanilla Beans band live with Kaji Hideki
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Until recently, Vanilla Beans had always performed their shows "idol style", singing karaoke over a backtrack of the music. Last year marked their 5th anniversary, and then came 3rd album...
Posted on May 3, 2013 at 20:01.
Vanilla Beans "Muscat Slope Love"
Vanilla Beans have a new single coming, this time a new song produced by Kaji Hideki who Rena and Lisa like to call "Mr. Sweden". This release follows album "Vanilla Beans III" released in November 2012, while the previous single...
Posted on May 3, 2013 at 14:17. | Released on May 8, 2013
Sexy-Synthesizer feat. Chihiro "POP!"
8-bit unit Sexy-Synthesizer (official Facebook page) has a new mini-album out now, with the tag line "This is not 'ROCK' but 'POP!'" This features singer Chihiro who has appeared before on 2008 album "Sexy-Synthesizer presents Funky-Bit" (Amazon). The CD is...
Posted on May 3, 2013 at 13:50. | Released on May 1, 2013
Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no gyakushū"
Kinoco Hotel has a new mini-album, actually a maniac selection of GS-oriented covers. Included are Tokyo Bravo's "Eleki de Swim" (1980, original on YouTube), Carmen Maki's "Noisy Baby" (1969, watch Kinoco Hotel's version below), Izumi Mishuko's "konya wa tottemo ikenai...
Posted on April 29, 2013 at 10:33. | Released on May 1, 2013
michirurondo "I Love Baby"
Electro-pop singer-songwriter michirurondo has a 1st mini-album out now! The songs "BABY" and "hoshi ni negai o" were co-arranged and mixed by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō. In Tokyo, a free in-store live will be held on May 9 from 18:30...
Posted on April 29, 2013 at 09:45. | Released on April 24, 2013
Muro "Diggin' James Brown"
DJ Muro has another mix CD out now, this time using only 7"'s by none other than James Brown, with many tracks that are now hard to find. 2013 would celebrate JB's 80th anniversary, of course a good reason to...
Posted on April 29, 2013 at 00:08. | Released on April 24, 2013
Original Love "Fashion Appeal" (Download)
Here's a new song from Original Love, the solo unit of Tajima Takao (ex-Pizzicato Five). "Fashion Appeal" has a surprising electro touch that makes for a danceable catchy song. The EP also contains two live tracks, and is available only...
Posted on April 28, 2013 at 23:51. | Released on April 24, 2013
tofubeats "Lost Decade", "university of remix", "college of remix"
1990-born young genius DJ tofubeats has a first full-length album out now! This features hit song "suisei" (feat. rapper Onomatope Daijin), as well as a lot of new tracks, including songs featuring vocalists Nanba Shiho, PUNPEE, G.RINA, Kariya Seira and...
Posted on April 28, 2013 at 23:31. | Released on April 24, 2013
Gig report: Joy Ride vol.133: soyuz project, CTO LAB., NeoBallad
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday April 19 was the 133rd edition (!) of electro-themed event series "Joy Ride" that started in 2006. That's an average of 2+ events per month! I went to...
Posted on April 25, 2013 at 23:18.
Kero Kero Bonito "Why Aren't You Dancing?" (Download)
Kero Kero Bonito isn't Japanese, it is an electronic dance unit based in Bromley (South London), but its first official single is out on label Flawless World (post-Usagi-chang Records). The title track is dark electro while the second track has...
Posted on April 20, 2013 at 16:53. | Released on April 17, 2013
Gig report: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu in New York
Text and photo by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Here's a report of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's latest show, held last weekend in New York. Big thanks to correspondent Nicholas D. Kent. Read on! Kyary Pamyu...
Posted on April 20, 2013 at 14:22.
Tamaki ROY "Lucky"
Rapper Tamaki ROY has a 4th album out now, with tracks made by the likes of Miura Kōshi (Kuchiroro), Todaka Masafumi (Art-School), Gondo Tomohiko (Anonymass), and electro artists Hasunuma Shūta and Himuro Yoshiteru. HMV is giving away a bonus autographed...
Posted on April 10, 2013 at 21:40. | Released on April 3, 2013
Yakushimaru Etsuko "Radio Onsen Eutopia"
This new release by Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) consists of a special radio session that was aired on NHK-FM on Christmas day 2012. Aside from all sōtaiseiriron members, this also includes appearances by Ōtomo Yoshihide, Emerson Kitamura and many others. In...
Posted on April 6, 2013 at 19:35. | Released on April 10, 2013
Taketatsu Ayana "apple symphony"
Popular voice actress Taketatsu Ayana ("K-on!", etc.) has a first album coming, and it contains songs written by composers including Okii Reiji (ex-Cymbals), Suemitsu Atsushi and hit-maker Tsutsumi Kyōhei. Lead track "haru ga kimi o kirei ni shita" was written...
Posted on April 5, 2013 at 00:19. | Released on April 10, 2013
RF "Fill the bill"
Jazz band RF covers hip-hop classics with their signature live band sound. This follows De De Mouse-produced cover album of De De Mouse influences (here). For audio samples, checkout Amazon MP3 (U.S.). RF "Fill the bill" (Original artists in parentheses)...
Posted on April 1, 2013 at 22:11. | Released on April 3, 2013
Gig report: Takako Minekawa & Dustin Wong debut live w/ Living Astro
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday, I finally got to see an artist I had been wanting to see for about 15 years, ever since I got "Cloudy Cloud Calculator"! That's right, Takako Minekawa...
Posted on March 26, 2013 at 21:04.
Takako Minekawa & Dustin Wong "Toropical Circle"
What a surprise! Takako Minekawa is back with a new album, and that as a new unit with Dustin Wong (ex-Ponytail)! It has been 13 years since Takako's previous release, "Maxi On" (2000, Amazon U.S.) (a collaboration with New York...
Posted on March 26, 2013 at 20:43. | Released on May 15, 2013
Predawn "A Golden Wheel"
Female singer-songwriter and guitarist Predawn has a first full-length album coming. This follows mini-album "te no naka no tori" ("A Bird In The Hand", iTunes) released in 2010. Check out the brand new video below! Other audio samples can be...
Posted on March 24, 2013 at 14:58. | Released on March 27, 2013
"The Selection of DE DE MOUSE Favorites performed by Rokugen Club with Farah a.k.a. RF vol.01"
This is an album produced by De De Mouse consisting of songs that influenced the artist, but all of these are re-arranged and performed by an "instrumental hip-hop jazz band" named RF. "Floats & Falls" from De De Mouse's latest...
Posted on March 24, 2013 at 00:07. | Released on March 20, 2013
Gig report: Monochromoon: Tabuchi Jun, Nosa Lena, Nacional, DeliciouSweets
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On March 6 was event "Monochromoon!" at yumemiru kimiomou (aka Moon Romantic). I wanted to go there for at least 3 reasons. The first was to see Nosa Lena, a...
Posted on March 22, 2013 at 23:59.
Kirinji "Ten"
Here comes Kirinji's final album, as the Horigome brothers are calling it quits after 17 years making music together. This follows 9th album "Super View" released just last November. Younger brother Horigome Yasuyuki is expected to move on with a...
Posted on March 21, 2013 at 23:27. | Released on March 27, 2013
Misola "Train Song" (7")
Groove Unchant's label Unchantable Records (sub-label of Orange Records) brings us a brand new band called Misola, led by Ōhashi Nobuyuki (aka Pate, who was a member of Bridge and also played in The Cornelius Group). This unit has a...
Posted on March 19, 2013 at 23:54. | Released on March 19, 2013
BUBBLE-B feat. Enjo-G "Yo! Sexy Girl (Remixes)" (Download)
This brand new track from BUBBLE-B feat. Enjo-G is a take on cosmetics and shampoo brands, with a wink to "Ga*gn*m St*le"! Check out the fun video below. The digital single contains 2 remixes, and also instrumental and acapella versions....
Posted on March 16, 2013 at 23:00. | Released on March 12, 2013
Tucker & Emerson Kitamura "Special Presets" (7")
Keyboardists Tucker and Emerson Kitamura join forces for a delightful 4-song organ & beatbox split 7". Two of the tracks are collaborations. Check out the cool trailer below. Tucker & Emerson Kitamura "Special Presets" (7") TUCKER & エマーソン北村 "SPECIAL PRESETS"...
Posted on March 16, 2013 at 14:07. | Released on March 2, 2013
Sloppy Joe "Once And For All / That Day" (7"+CD)
From White Lily Records comes a 7" by guitar-pop band Sloppy Joe. The 7" itself contains 2 new songs, and the bonus CD contains a cover of Housemartins' "Me And The Farmer" (original on YouTube), an acoustic version of "That...
Posted on March 10, 2013 at 17:33. | Released on March 15, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Ninjya Re Bang Bang"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's next single is titled "Ninjya Re Bang Bang", song that's already being performed on stage in her ongoing world tour that dropped by Belgium, France and U.K. in February. The song is also used in a TV...
Posted on March 10, 2013 at 16:58. | Released on March 20, 2013
Yakenohara "Sunny New Life"
Rapper Yakenohara has a 2nd album coming this month. Featured guests include Dorian, Beta Panama, Kicell, VIDEOTAPEMUSIC, LUVRAW (LUVRAW & BTB) and more. Yakenohara "Sunny New Life" やけのはら 「SUNNY NEW LIFE」 1. INTO THE SUNNY PLACE 2. HELTER-SKELTER 3. RELAXIN'...
Posted on March 5, 2013 at 23:25. | Released on March 20, 2013
Nona Reeves "Pop Station"
This is a new original album by Nona Reeves, it has been 4 years since their previous, "GO" (2009, Amazon). It has a pop music theme, as you can guess from the title, and label-mate female singer hitomitoi is featured...
Posted on March 4, 2013 at 21:14. | Released on March 6, 2013
naomi & goro "Cafe Bleu Solid Bond"
Bossa nova unit naomi & goro's new album is a cover album of all songs off The Style Council's "Cafe Bleu" album (1984). The Style Council was Paul Weller's band, active through the 80's. All tracks can be sampled at...
Posted on March 3, 2013 at 23:27. | Released on March 6, 2013
Hanazawa Kana "claire"
This is the first album by anime voice actress Hanazawa Kana. This seems to have a good dose of Shibuya-kei, as the whole is sound produced by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table), with some songs written by Kaji Hideki ("Library de...
Posted on February 20, 2013 at 23:25. | Released on February 20, 2013
capsule "rewind BEST-1 (2012-2006)", "rewind BEST-2 (2005-2001)"
Not one but two greatest hits albums coming from capsule, rewinding through the years from their most recent works (album "World of Fantasy") to the early beginnings ("haikara Girl"). All selected by Nakata Yasutaka, "rewind BEST-1" will guide you around...
Posted on February 19, 2013 at 23:41. | Released on March 6, 2013
VIDEOTAPEMUSIC "Slumber Party Girl's Diary" (7")
From VIDEOTAPEMUSIC, who released 1st album "7haku 8ka" last year, here comes a 7" cut of the song "Slumber Party Girl's Diary", both in its original version and also as a remix by keyboardist Tucker. The package includes a download...
Posted on February 17, 2013 at 23:22. | Released on February 20, 2013
Denki Groove "Human Beings and Animals"
Denki Groove is back with a brand new album! Their previous was 20th anniversary album "20" (2009). Album versions of singles "Upside Down" (2009), "Shameful" (2012) and "Missing Beatz" (2013) are included, as well as a cover of The Monkees'...
Posted on February 10, 2013 at 23:28. | Released on February 27, 2013
Kaji Hideki "Sweet Swedish Winter"
Kaji Hideki has a new album coming this month! This one is a tribute to Sweden's sweet winter, and it's his 2nd release from his own Blue Boys Club label (follow-up to "Blue Heart" (2012)). Title song "Sweet Swedish Winter"...
Posted on February 10, 2013 at 19:16. | Released on February 20, 2013
Komatsu Mikako "THEE Futures"
Voice actress Komatsu Mikako's first album contains two songs produced by James Panda Jr. (Twitter). Those who miss Panda 1/2 (from which singer Minami quit at the end of 2012) should check out this one! All songs can be sampled...
Posted on February 10, 2013 at 13:29. | Released on February 13, 2013
Negicco "ai no Tower of Love"
New single from Niigata-based idol group Negicco, this time a song produced by Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves). B-side "Party ni tsuite." is by connie who produces most of Negicco's tracks. The limited edition is a good deal, coming with a...
Posted on January 31, 2013 at 23:59. | Released on February 13, 2013
Various Artists "Girls Sazanami Beat! vol.5"
This is a 5th of Sazanami Label's popular compilation series of indies girl rock/garage/neo-GS bands. Collect them all! All tracks can be sampled at the official release page. The jacket was specially designed by Italian illustrator Luca Tieri. A series...
Posted on January 30, 2013 at 23:49. | Released on February 9, 2013
Nakatsuka Takeshi "Lyrics"
Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone), who this year celebrates 10 years of solo activity, has a new album coming. While several of the songs here have been previously released in demo form for free on the "Takeshi Lab" section of his web...
Posted on January 30, 2013 at 21:45. | Released on February 6, 2013
Crazy Ken Band "ma, iiya"
Crazy Ken Band has a new single out now! Title song "ma, iiya" (translates to "oh well") is the theme song for movie "Tsuya no yoru" to start in theaters on January 26. Crazy Ken Band "ma, iiya" クレイジーケンバンド 「ま、いいや」...
Posted on January 24, 2013 at 22:45. | Released on January 23, 2013
Isao Tomita "Symphony Ihatov"
Composer and synthesizer artist Tomita Isao meets Hatsune Miku, put in the middle of an orchestra of over 300 (including choir) for this symphony performed on stage. This album was recorded live on November 23, 2012 at Tokyo Opera City,...
Posted on January 19, 2013 at 00:13. | Released on January 23, 2013
Hanazawa Kana "Silent Snow"
This is a 4th single by Hanazawa Kana, a voice actress who debuted as a singer last year. All songs are written by Kitagawa Katsutoshi (Round Table), and the title song has strings arranged by Hase Yasuhiro (yume to...
Posted on January 15, 2013 at 22:20. | Released on January 16, 2013
Kaseki Cider "Mr. City Pop EP" (12")
A selection of tracks from rapper Kaseki Cider's latest album "Mr. City Pop" are being released on 12" Audio samples of all tracks at Jet Set. Kaseki Cider "Mr. City Pop EP" (12") かせきさいだぁ 「MR.CITY POP EP」 A1. Mr.CITY POP...
Posted on January 14, 2013 at 18:48. | Released in February 2013
hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1" (12")
hitomitoi's cover album "YOUR TIME Route #1" (released on CD in November 2012) is being released on vinyl. All 9 songs from the album are included. Some audio samples can be heard at Jet Set. hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1"...
Posted on January 14, 2013 at 18:47. | Released in January 2013
Gig report: Saitō Neon Sign, Love & Revolution, Emmy Lee & The Psyzans
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday January 6, I went to an event at Koenji U.F.O. Club part of a series celebrating the 17th anniversary of the popular GS (Group Sounds)/garage rock oriented venue....
Posted on January 14, 2013 at 00:11.
Perfume "mirai no Museum"
Perfume has a new single coming at the end of February, and the title song is being used as the new ending theme of anime series "Doraemon" (TV Asahi every Friday from 19:00). It will also be used as the...
Posted on January 12, 2013 at 01:09. | Released on February 27, 2013
tofubeats "yumenonakamade feat. ERA" (Download)
This new track from tofubeats now out on iTunes worldwide! Features rapper ERA. tofubeats "yumenonakamade feat. ERA" (Download) tofubeats 「夢の中まで feat. ERA」 1. yumenonakamade feat. ERA 2. yumenonakamade feat. ERA (Golby $ound Remix) 3. yumenonakamade feat. ERA (Instrumental) 4. yumenonakamade...
Posted on January 10, 2013 at 20:53. | Released on January 9, 2013
CANDLES "Fantastic parallel world"
Indies electro unit Candles has a new mini-album coming on January 30. This is their 2nd physical release, following "Evolutional Form" released last May. On December 5th was also released 3-song digital single "Parallel world" on iTunes worldwide, from which...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 22:09. | Released on January 30, 2013
Cornelius "NHK 'Design Ah'"
Cornelius' new album is the soundtrack to NHK educative short series "Design Ah" (Ah = hiragana character あ) for which he was in charge of all music. Featured musicians include Chocolat, Minekawa Takako, Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter), salyu x salyu...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 17:54. | Released on January 23, 2013
Denki Groove "Missing Beatz"
This month Denki Groove are back with a new single coming, a pop tune titled "Missing Beatz". This comes ahead of a new 13th album to be released on February 27, about which full details have yet to be announced...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 17:24. | Released on January 16, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "kimi ni 100 Percent / furisodeshon"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, who will be turning 20 on January 29, has a new single to be released on the next day. This double-A-single contains "kimi ni 100 Percent", theme song of anime series "Crayon Shinchan", and new song "furisode-shon"...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 16:51. | Released on January 30, 2013
Tomoki Kanda "Interstellar Interlude"
Kanda Tomoki (Being Borings) has a new solo album out now. Included are "Ride A Watersmooth Silver Stallion" previously released on the "Crue-L Café" compilation, and a cover of Tears For Fears' "Everybody Wants To Rule The World", for a...
Posted on January 3, 2013 at 00:00. | Released on December 21, 2012
Black Bottom Brass Band "Kids Brass ~Big Easy!~"
Black Bottom Brass Band released a kids-oriented cover album, with popular kids songs from "Anpanman", "My Neighbor Totoro" and "One Piece" as well as nursery rhymes, all interpreted in the band's happy and funky original arrangements. Featured vocalists include Hatakeyama...
Posted on January 2, 2013 at 23:29. | Released on December 19, 2012
Small Boys "ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ"
Small Boys is a new unit formed of Nona Reeves' Nishidera Gōta and singer-songwriter Dōjima Kōhei. The two have in the past contributed many songs to Japan's top male idol groups such as SMAP, V6, Shōnentai, Kinki Kids, KAT-TUN, and...
Posted on January 2, 2013 at 21:55. | Released on December 19, 2012
