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
Gig report: Nosa Reina release party w/ Portable Rock, Nomiya Maki, Takanami K-taro
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On November 30, I went to the release party for Nosa Reina's first album "don't kiss, but yes". Producer Takanami K-taro was on stage too part of the band, more on that...
Posted on December 11, 2012 at 00:19.
Little Lounge*Little Twinkle "hvit"
Little Lounge*Little Twinkle has a 2nd album out now! LLLT is the charming pop unit of Kida Shunsuke (composer), Tanaka Keiko (viola, etc.) and Asano Miyuki (vocals, toy instruments). "hvit" means "white" in Norwegian. The CD package contains a DIY...
Posted on November 13, 2012 at 23:11. | Released on November 11, 2012
Ryoma Maeda "Fantastic Suicide"
Ryoma Maeda aka milch of source (producer of EeL) is releasing a new album under his real name. With more pop melodies than before, the sound is said to be an upbeat chaos of rock, punk and techno. The odd...
Posted on November 4, 2012 at 10:09. | Released on November 10, 2012
Ryuichi Sakamoto "Three"
Sakamoto Ryuichi has a new album out now, together with his trio also featuring Jaques Morelenbaum (cello) and Judy Kang (violin). The album was recorded in Portugal following last year's European tour. It's his first album as a trio since...
Posted on October 24, 2012 at 23:34. | Released on October 17, 2012
Various Artists "Vee Jay no yoru Jazz - Compiled by Tatsuo Sunaga"
Sunaga Tatsuo selects this compilation of songs from U.S. jazz label Vee-Jay that's been around since the 50's. This is part of his long-running "yoru Jazz" ("Jazz All-nighters") series. All tracks can be sampled at the official release page. Various...
Posted on September 19, 2012 at 23:07. | Released on September 19, 2012
Gig report: frenesi "gendai" release party
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On September 15, 2012, was the release party for frenesi's album "gendai". It was held at Shibuya WWW, one of my favorite venues lately (it used to be a movie...
Posted on September 17, 2012 at 00:34.
Open Reel Ensemble "Open Reel Ensemble" (CD+DVD)
Open Reel Ensemble have been active on stage for several years, using USB-controlled open reel tape recorders to create a unique performance. Here's finally a first album, and it comes from Sakamoto Ryūichi's label commmons. A bunch of unexpected guests...
Posted on June 23, 2012 at 21:25. | Released on June 27, 2012
Gig report: (M)otocompo vs The Aprils, with BiS, Ezypt
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On February 4 was an event organized by (M)otocompo, together with The Aprils, BiS and Ezypt. It was held at Shibuya Milkyway, and it was my first time at this...
Posted on February 12, 2012 at 00:30.
capsule "STEREO WORXXX"
Here's a new album from capsule, follow-up to "World Of Fantasy" released May last year. With a title like "STEREO WORXXX", we're definitely in for some dancing material! The album is said to include the theme song from upcoming movie...
Posted on February 7, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on March 7, 2012
Gig report: Tokyo Outbound vol.02, with CTO LAB., Open Reel Ensemble, etc.
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Saturday was event "Tokyo Outbound vol.02" at Koenji High, presented by CTO LAB. and Otona no kagaku, a popular magazine that always comes with something that you can build...
Posted on January 11, 2012 at 23:36.
EeL "Bossa Nova" (Download)
Here's a rare acoustic album by EeL featuring only acoustic guitar and her sweet voice. It had previously only been released on CD-R, but is now available digitally with a bonus new track that uses piano and toy instruments. This...
Posted on December 13, 2011 at 19:50. | Released on December 11, 2011
Various Artists "Hatsune Miku Dance Remix Vol.1"
This is a compilation of Hatsune Miku tracks remixed by various artists from the club and pico-pico scenes, including Rocketman, Sexy-Synthesizer, PandaBoY, Higedriver and many more. Closing the album is an original by Rocketman, recently released on iTunes. The official...
Posted on December 4, 2011 at 19:17. | Released on December 7, 2011
Gig report: The Aprils "Magical Girls E.P." pre-release party
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last night (November 22) at Koenji High was the pre-release party for The Aprils' new CD, "Magical Girls" EP going on sale on January 11, 2012. The event was even...
Posted on November 23, 2011 at 22:37.
Various Artists "Ghibli Jazz Remix"
This latest Ghibli remix compilation features a lot of the best artists from the pico-pico scene. Check out what The Aprils, YMCK, The Lady Spade, Dr.Usui (Motocompo), milch of source (EeL's producer), Candles, Ram Rider, Boot Beat et al. have...
Posted on November 14, 2011 at 22:36. | Released on November 16, 2011
Gig report: Dorian "studio vacation" release party, w/ Luvraw & BTB, (((sssurrounddd)))
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound We've been enjoying some cool autumn weather in Tokyo lately, but last Friday was a hot summer night at Shibuya WWW where was held the release party for Dorian's "studio...
Posted on November 6, 2011 at 23:33.
milch of source "Outsider Musics In My Life" (Download)
Electronic artist Maeda Ryoma aka milch of source (blog, MySpace), also known as the producer of EeL's recent albums ("for common people", "Little Prince"), has a new album available digitally starting tonight, apparently exclusively at the great HearJapan. The album...
Posted on October 16, 2011 at 22:53. | Released on October 17, 2011
Rocketman x Kawashima Ai "soredemo bokutachi wa ikiteyuku ~ go a long way together" (Download)
Rocketman's latest track features singer Kawashima Ai, and is coming to you as a worldwide iTunes release (23 countries). This song was first released freely as an instrumental after the March disaster, along with efforts by Fukawa Ryō and his...
Posted on October 12, 2011 at 00:05. | Released on October 12, 2011
EeL "fuwafuwa pink jellyfishes floating in the sky" (Download)
EeL has a new single available right now! "fuwafuwa pink jellyfishes floating in the sky" is a 2-track digital that might give an idea of what might be to expect on EeL's next album. Also check out this "EeL Mix...
Posted on August 20, 2011 at 11:29. | Released on August 18, 2011
Hotei with Fellows "All Time Super Guest"
Guitarist Hotei Tomoyasu, now celebrating his 30 years of music, has a greatest hits album coming this week under the form of collaborations featuring various guest artists, hence the title "Super Guest" (vs "Best"). The songs are from his solo...
Posted on August 17, 2011 at 00:02. | Released on August 17, 2011
globe "house of globe"
Late 90's mainstream dance unit globe, produced by Komuro Tetsuya, has a remix album coming that attempts to appeal to fans of the current club scene. Remixers include Konishi Yasuharu, FPM, Osawa Shinichi, Shinco (Scha Dara Parr), Kawanabe Hiroshi (Tokyo...
Posted on August 7, 2011 at 23:02. | Released on August 10, 2011
Gig report: Vanilla Beans & Negicco release day in-store event
Text by Patrick for Tokyo's Coolest Sound This week was the release of Vanilla Beans' 2nd full-length original album "Vanilla Beans II"! They are now touring several record stores around the Kantō area in a promotion rush, but it all...
Posted on July 24, 2011 at 00:00.
Soil & "Pimp" Sessions "Movin'"
Jazz band Soil & "Pimp" Sessions has a new single, featuring singer Maia Hirasawa who has recently been heard on Pizzicato One and Jazztronik albums. This release also comes in a limited edition of 6666 numbered copies including a bonus...
Posted on July 14, 2011 at 23:10. | Released on July 20, 2011
Gig report: Saori@destiny "Domestic domain" release event
Text and photo by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound This week was the release of Saori@destiny's new mini-album "Domestic domain", and she is doing a series of mini live shows at Shosen Book Tower, a book and entertainment store...
Posted on June 17, 2011 at 00:12.
Pizzicato One "One And Ten Very Sad Songs"
Here it is! Konishi Yasuharu's debut solo album comes under the name Pizzicato One, and is a collection of English-sung covers of foreign songs all selected and rearranged by himself. This album features an impressive list of foreign guests, even...
Posted on May 18, 2011 at 22:32. | Released on May 25, 2011
Gig report: "Swing in the JICOO" with Nakatsuka Takeshi
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Saturday, May 7, was another swinging cruise hosted by Nakatsuka Takeshi aboard JICOO, the water bus-turned-floating bar designed by manga artist Matsumoto Leiji. The event was a sort of...
Posted on May 12, 2011 at 22:58.
Gig report: Charity event: KAJI Hideki, Chabe, Harvard, Love and Hates
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Wednesday was held a charity event organized by Kaji Hideki, with the help of Harajuku Astro Hall where he has been doing regular events for a long time. The...
Posted on April 25, 2011 at 23:25.
If By Yes "Salt On Sea Glass"
If By Yes is a new all-star band led of Yuka Honda (Cibo Matto) with Petra Haden (that dog., The Rentals), Araki Yuko (mi-gu, The Cornelius Group) and Shimizu Hirotaka (also of The Cornelius Group)! This first album also features...
Posted on February 21, 2011 at 22:27. | Released on March 2, 2011
Bakubaku Dokin "guppy" (Download)
First released last December on Towa Tei's Mach Beat digital label (which unfortunately only sells within Japan so far), here comes a first song by Bakubaku Dokin on iTunes! The wacky 2-girl unit formed of Naoko and Yui is produced...
Posted on February 17, 2011 at 22:47. | Released on February 16, 2011
EeL "for common people"
Osaka cute-electro-punk-future-pop indies artist EeL has a new album on the way, full of brand new songs! This comes on post-Vroom Sound label Stubbie Records. Check out the new video and sampler clip below. Also if you missed it, last...
Posted on January 14, 2011 at 22:27. | Released on January 26, 2011
Gig report: Harajuku Performance+: Nomiya Maki, Open Reel Ensemble
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last week on Tuesday December 22 was the first of two days of a performance-themed event at La Foret Museum, Harajuku, titled "Harajuku Performance+". On that day were two artists that I...
Posted on December 30, 2010 at 21:37.
Gig report: We "hub" music Vol. 01: Yasuda Toshiyuki, the firefly clan, Wono Satoru
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On December 11 was held a very special event organized by Yasuda Toshiyuki. The place was a beautiful house with a large garden in Yotsuya managed by Pierre Barouh, a...
Posted on December 26, 2010 at 18:54.
Gig report: Electronic World Cup 2010
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound It's been a month already since I went to this really fun event titled "Electronic World Cup 2010". Organized by Kishino Yūichi (hige no mibōjin aka La veuve moustachue aka...
Posted on December 18, 2010 at 14:08.
EeL "Kung-Fu People Etcetera"
Have you missed EeL's early albums? Here's a new release that contains the best tracks from both "Kung-Fu Master" and "people people", now both pretty rare, as well as 2 new tracks and a new arrangement! A free MP3 if...
Posted on December 15, 2010 at 22:56. | Released on December 21, 2010
Nakatsuka Takeshi "hagane no onna - She's a steely woman"
Nakatsuka Takeshi has produced this jazzy soundtrack for TV series "hagane no onna", aired earlier this year on TV Asahi. This features members of quasimode and Tropical Jazz Big Band (aka nettai Jazz gakudan). This has been released earlier on...
Posted on November 10, 2010 at 22:29. | Released on November 17, 2010
Various Artists "Good Lovin' - Shimokita-kei Guitar Pop Compilation -"
Here's a compilation album that focuses on 90's Shimokitazawa guitar pop. Shimokitazawa is a young area of Tokyo where many artists live, and also the home of CD shop and live space mona records. Included are tracks by Luvy Van...
Posted on October 2, 2010 at 11:04. | Released on October 6, 2010
Gig report: Guitar Pop Restaurant vol.3: Three Berry Icecream, Acoustic Soft Parade
Text and photos by Ken M (Japan Live) Many of the musicians friendly with the group Three Berry Icecream live in that rectangular zone in Tokyo west of Shibuya, surrounding Shimo-Kitazawa, along the Inokashira-line and east of Mitaka. It's a...
Posted on September 20, 2010 at 19:47.
Fantastic Explosion "Sounds In Space"
Fantastic Explosion (label ExT Recordings' MySpace) has a new mini-album coming this week! This succeeds the soundtrack for SF hero movie Hyperion released last year, though it's been 6 years since their previous original album "Return of Fantastic Explosion" (1994)....
Posted on September 19, 2010 at 15:45. | Released on September 22, 2010
Gig report: It's a Sunny Day
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last weekend, on Sunday September 12, I had the chance to go to this very special event. Wack Wack Rhythm Band recently lost one of their important members 6 months...
Posted on September 18, 2010 at 13:29.
Gig report: Future Pop Lounge 2010
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On August 28, I went to Future Pop Lounge (official site), a festival style event at Shibuya O-Nest. It was the 3rd time the yearly summer event was held though...
Posted on September 8, 2010 at 22:37.
Gig report: Club Aloe
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Two weeks ago, on August 10, I had the chance to see what I believe was the first show by Club Aloe, a new band by 5 ex-members of Modern...
Posted on August 28, 2010 at 02:00.
SMAP "We are SMAP!"
Boy idol group SMAP has a new album featuring a bunch of interesting artists, such as Sōtaiseiriron, Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove), CMJK (ex-Denki Groove), Fukutomi Yukihiro, Nishidera Gōta (Nona Reeves), Rip Slyme, Love Psychedelico, and more. Last but not least,...
Posted on July 19, 2010 at 11:46. | Released on July 21, 2010
Cubismo Grafico Five "Double Dozen"
Cubismo Grafico Five has a new album coming. Having recently sized down to 4 members, and feeling like a brand new band, they call this a "first album", and it comes with no less than 24 tracks, hence the title...
Posted on June 23, 2010 at 22:05. | Released on July 7, 2010
DJ Mami "First Chic", Yū Suzuki "First Chic"
Here continues a series of mix CDs started by Horibe Yūmin (resident DJ of party "Joke"). All titled "First Chic", these are the first mix CDs by DJ Mami and Yū Suzuki (also of "Joke"). DJ Mami is introduced a...
Posted on June 12, 2010 at 09:45. | Released on March 22, 2010
Various Artists "Beautiful Girls Electro"
First of a compilation series, "Beautiful Girls Electro" presents Osaka indies electro artists including EeL, Sucrette, Tokyo Pinsalocks and many more. Not to be missed at this low price! Various Artists "Beautiful Girls Electro" (Title / Artist) 1. introduction 2....
Posted on June 3, 2010 at 23:59. | Released on May 19, 2010
Shinohara Tomoe "Super Model 15th Anniversary Edition" (CD+DVD)
Celebrating the 15th years of Shinohara Tomoe's debut album "Super Model" comes this limited anniversary edition. Produced by Denki Groove's Ishino Takkyū with Sunahara Yoshinori, Pierre Taki, CMJK, and also Chikada Haruo, Nakahara Masaya, Surf Coasters and more, this is...
Posted on May 18, 2010 at 21:31. | Released on June 30, 2010
FPM "FPM ep.2" (12")
Here's a 2nd 12" EP from FPM's self-titled album, containing DJ-intended mixes. The non-album mixes have previously been released digitally on iTunes. FPM "FPM ep.2" (12") A1. If You Do, I Do [no juggling extended mix] A2. If You Do,...
Posted on May 3, 2010 at 13:47. | Released on June 11, 2010
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz gaiden ~ All the young dudes ~ subete no wakakiyarōdomo"
Here's a new jazz compilation selected by Sunaga Tatsuo, picking up where he left with "Jazz Allnighters No.8" three years ago. This time he selects tracks by young and upcoming jazz artists from Japan, including quasimode, Soil & "Pimp" Sessions,...
Posted on April 28, 2010 at 00:16. | Released on April 28, 2010
FPM "FPM for DJs" (Download)
FPM offers DJ-intended extended mixes and different takes of tracks from his latest album "FPM". These are available as an album (or separate tracks) on iTunes Store Japan. FPM "FPM for DJs" (Download) 1. If you do, I do (no...
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 23:17. | Released on March 31, 2010
Gig report: Contrary Parade, Ashigaru Youth, Plectrum at Que
Text and photos by Ken M (Japan Live) Strange how standing on the concrete floor of the Que can feel sofa-like, at a pal's pad, when there's good music. And there was, including Contrary Parade. Their drummer always sends me...
Posted on January 13, 2010 at 07:47.
Various Artists "Oceanus Presents Time To Play -Generation Hip Star- Mixed by Yoichiro Itoh"
Just after the release of his new album "I'm your clown" comes this mix CD by Itō Yōichirō (aka Akakage). Containing a selection of rock and pop tracks, the whole is centered on Akakage's new song "Together" which is featured...
Posted on January 2, 2010 at 23:24. | Released on January 20, 2010
FPM "FPM"
Fantastic Plastic Machine has officially changed his artist name to FPM! Plus, this new album being self-titled has to show how much this release means to him. This 6th album comes exactly 4 years after "Imaginations". Featured artists include Monkey...
Posted on December 19, 2009 at 13:57. | Released on December 23, 2009
Erieza Royal & AsamixJuice "Vacuum"
This is a new 2-girl techno-pop unit with an adult twist, featuring SM queen and punk band Ecodamned drummer Erieza Royal with performer and "doll" maker AsamixJuice. Their first album is produced by Nagata Kazunao and features remixes by Yoshida...
Posted on December 13, 2009 at 01:42. | Released on December 11, 2009
capsule "FLASH BEST"
After Nakata Yasutaka has gained lots of fame as a producer for various artists (Perfume, Meg, Suzuki Ami,..), it's now time for a first greatest hits album from capsule! This focuses on releases since "S.F. sound furniture" (2004) and seems...
Posted on August 25, 2009 at 23:30. | Released on August 26, 2009
Various Artists "PANIC Level.01"
Excellent magazine Marquee, always keeping the post-Shibuya-kei scene happy, brings us a compilation featuring some of the best Japan has to offer recently, and that at a nice price. Included are songs by Urbangarde (MySpace), Dr.USUI (Motocompo), Sweet Vacation (MySpace),...
Posted on August 11, 2009 at 23:54. | Released on August 5, 2009
Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band "Between My Head and The Sky"
Following a download-only EP, Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band now brings us a full-length album! Featured musicians include Oyamada Keigo, Araki Yūko (mi-gu), Shimizu Hirotaka (all three of The Cornelius Group), Honda Yuka (Cibo Matto), and Sean Lennon. The recording was...
Posted on August 10, 2009 at 23:48. | Released on September 16, 2009
Soccerboy "My Dear Horse"
Soccerboy (MySpace), boss of label Tokyo Fun Party and salaryman DJ acclaimed in Tokyo's underground club scene, has a first real mix CD out now, available through HMV Japan only. The CD contains plenty of floor-ready tracks and even a...
Posted on August 2, 2009 at 14:10. | Released on August 1, 2009
Various Artists "World Standard.08 -A Tatsuo Sunaga Live Mix-"
Here comes a new live mix CD from Japan's club-jazz leading DJ Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience). The theme is "This is how I feel about jazz, #2", but beyond jazz this mix is said to breaks barriers with house...
Posted on July 5, 2009 at 23:38. | Released on August 5, 2009
Perfume "⊿"
Perfume's 3rd album is coming next week, with a strange title that reads "Triangle". Always produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule), this follow-up to best-selling "Game" comes with very high expectations! Included are the 3 latest singles "One Room Disco", "love...
Posted on July 1, 2009 at 22:35. | Released on July 8, 2009
Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band "Don't Stop Me!" (Download)
Yoko Ono's latest work brings back the Plastic Ono Band name with a new EP titled "Don't Stop Me!" now released for download only. Featured musicians include Oyamada Keigo, Araki Yūko, Shimizu Hirotaka (all three of The Cornelius Group), Honda...
Posted on June 10, 2009 at 23:23. | Released on June 9, 2009
Boot Beat "Full Swing"
2 years after "Switch", DJ Boot Beat is back with a swingin' and rockin' 2nd full-length album! First video clip, for song "akai Heel no onna" ("The red-heeled girl"), stars party girl Nomoto Karia in the 2nd half. Watch it...
Posted on May 18, 2009 at 23:08. | Released on May 20, 2009
Various Artists "14 Girls' Life"
This compilation titled "14 Girls' Life" has a concept of featuring female vocalists from different genres, from electronica to post-rock, jazz and future-pop. I'm delighted to see favorite future-pop artists such as Iguchi Miho (Aprils), Yuppa (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) and...
Posted on April 2, 2009 at 22:20. | Released on April 1, 2009
Various Artists "Songs For Tibet From Japan"
Out just now is a benefit compilation for Tibetan freedom, featuring Japanese artists such as Cornelius, Cubismo Grafico, Hosono Haruomi, Ōsawa Shinichi, Boredoms, Afrirampo, dj Kentaro, etc. Release official page Various Artists "Songs For Tibet From Japan" オムニバス 「ソングス フォー...
Posted on March 26, 2009 at 23:09. | Released on March 25, 2009
Cornelius "CM3"
This 3rd album of Cornelius' remix works focuses on the part of his career between and around the albums "Point" and "Sensuous". Also released at the same time is a 2-DVD set of a live show plus TV footage, "Ultimate...
Posted on March 5, 2009 at 21:43. | Released on May 13, 2009
Citrus "Pits Are The Pits (25 GOLD=RARE=DEBRIS 1992-2000)"
Legendary band Citrus has a first and last "album" out just now! This is actually a collection of all of their 4 released EPs plus a bunch of rarities, such as rare tracks "Hivernate under the ground" (from magazine Barf-Out!,...
Posted on January 17, 2009 at 23:33. | Released on January 21, 2009
Various Artists "Second Royal vol.4 ~Winter Issue~"
Kyoto label Second Royal brings us a 4th compilation, this time with a winter theme. This contains new tracks by residents Handsomeboy Technique, Rufus and Halfby (actually, Halfby's is a recycled iTunes-only release from 2 years ago). There's also a...
Posted on November 24, 2008 at 20:31. | Released on December 13, 2008
Various Artists "House of Jewels mixed by DJ Hico"
DJ Hico is a female DJ gaining popularity recently in the Tokyo house scene. Having been spinning at receptions for brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Miu Miu and Armani, now Towa Tei brings us her first mix CD on his...
Posted on September 1, 2008 at 23:32. | Released on September 3, 2008
Yann Tomita "Yann Tomita's 'Summer Workshop'" (2 DVDs+Book)
Yann Tomita brings us this set of 2 DVDs mainly consisting of a live show and lecture held on July 9, 2006 at small venue Shibuya Uplink. Featured are Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter, Doopees), Kahimi Karie, and Takagi Kan. As...
Posted on August 24, 2008 at 23:56. | Released on August 27, 2008
Various Artists "Speed Racer Japan ~Mach GoGoGo Tribute~"
Anime series "Mach GoGoGo", known to the rest of the world as "Speed Racer", is being paid homage on this tribute album featuring Fantastic Plastic Machine, Halfby, Kaji Hideki, Kiiiiiii+DJ Codomo, Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove, InK), Kawanabe Hiroshi (Tokyo No.1...
Posted on August 24, 2008 at 23:37. | Released on August 27, 2008
bridge: Iwamura Manabu free afternoon DJ
There will be a free afternoon DJ party next weekend in Aoyama, with Iwamura Manabu (Readymade) and Matsumoto Koichi (Le3, ex-Soul Bossa Trio). The venue has a large window and an outdoor space, which should feel very good on a...
Posted on June 28, 2008 at 13:04. | Released on July 6, 2008
EeL "keep making fun of me" (Download)
EeL has a new single out with 3 brand new tracks. Featured producers are Ito Hidenobu, Elegant Ferry and DJ Vivienne Kanye Westwood (drummer of Harajyuku Sisters). Included is an a cappella version of the title track, to be used...
Posted on June 13, 2008 at 11:27. | Released on June 12, 2008
Eco-Beauty Style: Nomiya Maki special talk
Part of an Eco-Beauty Style exhibition, Nomiya Maki will give a talk about her ways to be "eco" all while wearing high-heels. It's a good opportunity to get a close look and learn a few eco-friendly tips. Entrance is free,...
Posted on May 13, 2008 at 17:04. | Released on May 21, 2008
Hosono Haruomi & The World Shyness "08.04.22 @ Billboard Live TYO"
2 songs from the recent April 22 show that Harry Hosono & The World Shyness gave at Billboard Live Tokyo have been made available on iTunes Music Store Japan. Both songs are self-covers of Hosono works. The band features Hosono...
Posted on May 9, 2008 at 11:21. | Released on May 9, 2008
Various Artists "P-K-P-K"
This compilation focusing on the "picopico" indies scene will include songs by Aprils ("Cosmo '80s" previously released on "Space Dream Bathroom"), Sweet Vacation, Sexy-Synthesizer, Tongari Kids, tofubeats and more. It will be sold only at Tower Records. Various Artists "P-K-P-K"...
Posted on May 2, 2008 at 13:42. | Released on May 15, 2008
Various Artists "World Standard.07 -A Tatsuo Sunaga Live Mix-"
You could say this is Sunaga Tatsuo's first real "World Standard" mix in 2½ years (not counting "06" that only consisted of his own works, and the recent "Wada Akiko"). Various Artists "World Standard.07 -A Tatsuo Sunaga Live Mix-" (Title/Artist)...
Posted on May 2, 2008 at 09:51. | Released on June 18, 2008
Neo-Shibuya-kei web site and free download compilations
April 28 is Shibuya day (4=shi, 2=bu, 8=ya), and to celebrate, a neo-Shibuya-kei information web site has opened! The content is all in Japanese, but still you can find lots of links to artists who fall under the category. That's...
Posted on April 30, 2008 at 10:52. | Released on April 28, 2008
Various Artists "Joyful Grooves!: Exceed"
This all-genre club jazz compilation, while focusing on foreign artists, includes tracks by Japanese club artists Sindbad, Halfby, Fujisawa Shiho and Boot Beat. Various Artists "Joyful Grooves!: Exceed" オムニバス 「ジョイフル・グルーヴス! イクシード」 1. Don't Take It Too Hard 2. Eastside Connection...
Posted on March 21, 2008 at 11:41. | Released on March 21, 2008
Various Artists "No More Heroes Sound Tracks: Dark Side"
This remix album of music from the Wii game "No More Heroes" will feature artists such as 6955 and Hondalady. Various Artists "No More Heroes Sound Tracks: Dark Side" 1. Yoshioka Taku Squad / It's kill or be killed mix...
Posted on March 10, 2008 at 16:04. | Released on March 14, 2008
Various Artists "Detroit Metal City Tribute Album ~ikenie Metal Mix~"
How to headbang to Kahimi Karie? Check out this tribute album to popular manga "Detroit Metal City", consisting mainly of metal remixes of hit songs by popular J-pop artists. Also featured are Scha Dara Parr, Kimura Kaela, Tommy february6, Yuki,...
Posted on February 22, 2008 at 11:23. | Released on March 26, 2008
Yumin Horibe "First Chic"
Horibe Yūmin is a young DJ and organizer of Tokyo regular party "Joke". He recently contributed tracks to the vinyl compilations "Christmas Will Be Just Another Lovely Day" and "Joke Collection 01", and now he's offering us a first mix...
Posted on February 5, 2008 at 10:58. | Released on January 30, 2008
Various Artists "Tokyo Luxury Lounge 3"
Out now on Grand Gallery is a 3rd installment of the compilation series "Tokyo Luxury Lounge". This one contains all new previously unreleased tracks by artists such as Ito Yoichirō (Akakage), Coldfeet, i-dep and more. Official release page with sound...
Posted on January 17, 2008 at 15:40. | Released on January 17, 2008
Suzuki Ami "Dolce"
Not even a year after her album "Connetta" with a similar collaboration concept, Suzuki Ami is back with another album featuring Shinohara Tomoe, Nakata Yasutaka (capsule), Rocketman, Captain Funk, sugiurumn, Hoff Dylan, Studio Apartment, and more. Rocketman's track is produced...
Posted on January 15, 2008 at 17:29. | Released on February 6, 2008
columbia*readymade jazz-rock re-issues
DiscID: 7a088909,ae090a0c,9309480c,8109510c,b5088f0c,a708b60c,8707a10c,8c08220c,9e08770c
Posted on January 15, 2008 at 17:18. | Released on April 16, 2008
Miura Makoto "be bop or do something"
DJ Miura Makoto (aka Monsieur Mieurax) brought us earlier this year this mix CD of happy, upbeat jazz with hints of breakbeats and latin house. Included is Fun Lovers' "Samba" that FPM has been spinning. The German version of "Hit...
Posted on December 29, 2007 at 22:26. | Released on June 16, 2007
Various Artists "Summer Break EP", "Summer Samba!" (12")
Too much snow and not enough samba? Check out these breakbeats 12" compilations from a few months ago. Aside from German breakbeats unit Big M are tracks by Japan's Shiho Fujisawa, V-Neck Afternoon, Snob Doggs and Monsieur Mieurax. "Summer Break...
Posted on December 20, 2007 at 21:41. | Released on August 1, 2007
Boot Beat "Manifesto! 2"
After offering us his great first album "Switch", Boot Beat is back with a new mix CD, follow-up to last year's "Manifesto!" that sold out very quickly. No details yet, except for the artwork and the news that it should...
Posted on October 29, 2007 at 13:12. | Released on November 29, 2007
"standard of 90's" re-issue series part 2
After Original Love and Spank Happy, here come re-issues of Scha Dara Parr, Great 3 (unit of Katayose Akito, husband of Chocolat) and Tokyo No.1 Soul Set (unit of Kawanabe Hiroshi now member of InK). These are also all remastered...
Posted on October 22, 2007 at 22:23. | Released on November 28, 2007
capsule "Flash Back"
Don't look surprised, you knew it was coming! Following previous album "Sugarless GiRL" in February and "capsule rmx" in October, and also the new coltemonikha album in September, is a brand new album by capsule coming up in December. That's...
Posted on October 11, 2007 at 10:36. | Released on December 5, 2007
capsule "MUSiXXX / I'm Feeling You" (12")
Yes, it's that time again! capsule has a new single that will be released on vinyl, for DJs and those who can't wait until the new album out in December..! capsule "MUSiXXX / I'm Feeling You" (12") A. MUSiXXX B....
Posted on October 11, 2007 at 10:25. | Released on November 7, 2007
Port of Notes "Oasis" (12")
Sunaga Tatsuo's remix of Port of Notes' "Oasis", which ended up at the wrong speed in the first pressing of the recent remix album "Joint Adventure 2", will be released on a limited 12". Also included are an instrumental version,...
Posted on August 30, 2007 at 17:21. | Released on October 31, 2007
Various Artists "Second Royal volume.3"
It's been over 3 years since Second Royal's previous label compilation, "Second Royal volume.2", and it was about time for a new one! Aside from new and previously unreleased tracks by the label's artists, there's an appearance by The Chi...
Posted on August 1, 2007 at 14:42. | Released on August 29, 2007
Various Artists "AKSB ~kore ga Akishibu-kei da!~"
There's a relatively new genre called Akishibu-kei, a mix of Shibuya-kei and Akiba-kei (the latter referring to cosplay idols singing in high-pitched voices over electro-pop), which is getting acknowledged by this compilation of anime songs from Victor's discography. Featured producers...
Posted on July 31, 2007 at 15:35. | Released on September 21, 2007
Lee Morgan / Hank Mobley "Essential Blue ~ Classics of ... ~ Compilation by Sunaga Tatsuo"
Preceding the release of the various artists compilation "Essential Blue ~ A New Concept Of Blue Note ~ Compilation by Sunaga Tatsuo", which has been delayed until at least September, will be these two compilations of jazz artists Lee Morgan...
Posted on June 23, 2007 at 01:19. | Released on November 21, 2007
Port of Notes "Joint Adventure 2"
Port of Notes has a new remix album coming soon. Included are remixes by Sunaga t̀ Experience, Lindstrom and Prins Thomas, and DJ Kawasaki, along with the Crue-L regulars, and also a new track produced by Kanda Tomoki. Important info...
Posted on June 21, 2007 at 15:55. | Released on June 30, 2007
Tokyo Midtown free live shows
There are free live shows to be seen at Tokyo Midtown's "Atrium" (B1F of "Galleria") on weekends. I'll personally be looking into seeing Lullatone on the 27th, but there are plenty of other great artists to be caught for free!...
Posted on May 17, 2007 at 14:09. | Released on May 26, 2007
