Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive "Techno Recital", Takahashi Yukihiro with In Phase "Phase" (DVD+Blu-ray+2 CDs)
In January this year, Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) formed a super-group under the name Takahashi Yukihiro & Metafive, also featuring Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Towa Tei, Sunahara Yoshinori, Gondō Tomohiko (anonymass, pupa) and Leo Imai. The concert they played at Ex Theater...
Posted on July 20, 2014 at 20:01. | Released on July 23, 2014
Various Artists "Women in Music selected by Cibo Matto"
Cibo Matto are back this year with new album "Hotel Valentine", and here's a nice-priced 2-CD compilation of songs by female artists and female-fronted bands from Japan and the world, selected by the two. Featured are Buffalo Daughter, mi-gu, Charisma.com,...
Posted on May 30, 2014 at 00:20. | Released on June 4, 2014
petit milady "petit miladear"
This is the first album by petit milady, the unit of voice actresses Yuki Aoi and Taketatsu Ayana. Most of the tracks are produced by Satō Seiki (microstar), and the included "Retro Future Mix" is by Elektel! All tracks can...
Posted on May 11, 2014 at 12:23. | Released on May 7, 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
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
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
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
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
Horie Hirohisa "At Grand Gallery"
This is a first solo album by Horie Hirohisa (SoundCloud), better known as half of band Neil & Iraiza (together with Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji aka cubismo grafico) and as keyboardist for The Cornelius Group and pupa (band of Takahashi Yukihiro...
Posted on October 24, 2013 at 04:28. | Released on October 30, 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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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.
Tarte Tatin "TETRAD ENHANCE～tartetatin remix album～", "1st LIVE @ SHIBUYA WWW"
Tarte Tatin is a cute girl duo produced by Azel & Baijan (aka Nishiura Kensuke and Manabe Shūichi, both ex-Sōtaiseiriron). Following 1st album "Tetrad" (2012, Amazon), here comes a remix album fearuting tofubeats, Sexy-Synthesizer (aka (S_S)), Cherryboy Function, Tanaka Takashi...
Posted on April 10, 2013 at 22:37. | Released on April 17, 2013
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
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
Gig report: Happy X'mas with The Scooters
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Christmas day, I went to a show of The Scooters who got active again this year after some 30 years! Last summer was released new album "Une Manche et...
Posted on December 28, 2012 at 23:48.
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.
Kirinji "Super View"
Kirinji have a 9th album titled "Super View" out now! The limited edition comes with a bonus DVD of 4 video clips. Then there's good and bad news... The bad news is that the younger of the two brothers, Horigome...
Posted on November 15, 2012 at 22:38. | Released on November 7, 2012
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
Various Artists "mune kyun Arpeggio ~ Takayuki Fukumura with Friends"
This is a very special compilation paying tribute to Fukumura Takayuki, an original member of advantage Lucy and Vasallo Crab 75 who passed away 10 years ago. Various friend bands got together and recorded brand new songs written just for...
Posted on November 8, 2012 at 23:02. | Released on November 7, 2012
Various Artists "Shibuya-kei Respect" series
October saw the release of a series of 3 Shibuya-kei tribute cover compilations! All of these are full of famous Shibuya-kei songs covered by younger artists and bands who have been influenced by the movement. Included are songs originally by...
Posted on November 1, 2012 at 22:46. | Released on October 10, 2012
Wack Wack Rhythm Band "Long Island Margarita / Ain't Got No, I Got Life" (7")
Party big band Wack Wack Rhythm Band has a new 7" single out now! The A-side is a new version of their hit song "Wack Wack Rhythm Island" now featuring vocals by their newest member Lemon. The B-side is a...
Posted on October 28, 2012 at 22:19. | Released on October 24, 2012
Various Artists "Red Diamond ~Tribute to Yukihiro Takahashi~"
This is a tribute album to Yellow Magic Orchestra's Takahashi Yukihiro who celebrated his 60th anniversary last June 6. Included are new covers of Takahashi's songs from his whole career. O/S/T (Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Sunahara Yoshinori and Towa Tei) offers...
Posted on July 29, 2012 at 13:37. | Released on August 8, 2012
Various Artists "Spa on the Moon" (Download)
The latest from Yasuda Toshiyuki is a concept mini-album featuring robot-bossa original song "Spa on the Moon", and covers of it by artists of various different genres. Find out more about each track on the official release page. Now available...
Posted on July 3, 2012 at 20:37. | Released on June 27, 2012
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
MEG "Trap"
MEG has a new single coming this week. Title track "Trap" has music written by Okamura Yasuyuki and is produced by Ōsawa Shinichi, and B-side "watashi ga obasan ni natte mo" (included only on regular edition) was produced by Konishi...
Posted on June 11, 2012 at 22:15. | Released on June 13, 2012
Towa Tei "MACH2012"
This new Towa Tei album consists of half-and-half new songs and remixes! New songs include "Wordy" (feat. 2-girl rap unit Bakubaku Dokin) and "Wunderland" which were released in advance digitally on Mach Beat. Dorian, Yasuda Toshiyuki and DJ Uppercut take...
Posted on April 21, 2012 at 20:39. | Released on May 2, 2012
Various Artists "Vanilla"
Here's a charity compilation consisting of, it seems, all new recordings. Featured are various female vocalists, including DadaD, Toki Asako (ex-Cymbals), Suzuki Momoko (ex-Cosa Nostra) and many more. Monsieur Kamayatsu (Spiders) also appears on 2 tracks. The album's jacket shows...
Posted on April 18, 2012 at 23:10. | Released on April 4, 2012
Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful - selected by Shachō"
Here's a compilation of Japanese jazz, selected under the theme keyword "beautiful" by Soil & "Pimp" Sessions' agitator, Shachō. Featured artists include Ino Hidefumi, Calmera, Jazztronik, quasimode, PE'Z, of course Soil & "Pimp" Sessions, and more. Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful...
Posted on March 29, 2012 at 23:35. | Released on March 28, 2012
Various Artists "Happy Holidays! ~80's Pops Covers~"
This is a compilation of various covers of 80's hit Japanese pop songs, featuring Sakamoto Ryūichi with Minekawa Takako, Toki Asako, Yakushimaru Etsuko, Hitomitoi with Sokabe Keiichi, clammbon, Sebastian X, and more. Various Artists "Happy Holidays! ~80's Pops Covers~" 1....
Posted on March 26, 2012 at 21:53. | Released on March 21, 2012
Okamura Yasuyuki "katei kyōshi"
Okamura Yasuyuki's 4th album, "katei kyōshi" (1990), is being re-issued as a high quality Blu-Spec CD. Plus, the album was remastered by Sunahara Yoshinori! The title translates to "home teacher". Lately the song "(E)na" can be heard covered by The...
Posted on February 15, 2012 at 21:00. | Released on February 15, 2012
Japan United with Music "All You Need Is Love" (CD+DVD)
Led by Sakamoto Ryūichi, this charity single covers The Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" in an electronic arrangement, and featuring some 30 big names participating on vocals and production. Profits are said to be donated for children victims of...
Posted on February 1, 2012 at 22:59. | Released on March 7, 2012
Various Artists "Ryuichi Sakamoto Tribute"
Here's a tribute album to Sakamoto Ryūichi, produced by Tobeta Bajune and featuring plenty of great electronic artists such as Atom, MimiCof, DJ Yogurt and more. A cover of "dennōgiwa" also features Ōnuki Taeko. The album is released on Sakamoto's...
Posted on January 15, 2012 at 01:13. | Released on January 17, 2012
Hirado Yūsuke "Speak Own Words"
Hirado Yūsuke is the pianist and leader of jazz band quasimode. Here's a first solo album that features appearances of bird, Hatakeyama Miyuki (Port of Notes) and more. Included are covers of Amy Winehouse, Burt Bacharach, Carole King among others,...
Posted on January 8, 2012 at 01:18. | Released on January 11, 2012
Nomiya Maki "30 ~Greatest Self Covers & More!!!~"
Let's start 2012 with a bang! Finally here's a new album by Nomiya Maki! This time she celebrates 30 years of her singing career by doing self-covers in collaboration with various other artists. Featured are Cornelius, Kaji Hideki, Takahashi Yukihiro,...
Posted on January 2, 2012 at 13:00. | Released on January 25, 2012
Prof. Sakamoto "Sakamoto kyōju no 8bit Juke Box"
Prof. Sakamoto (aka Sakamoto kyōju, a nickname that usually refers to Sakamoto Ryūichi but not in this case) is an 8-bit artist also known for being able to play just about any Famicom game theme on a synthesizer off the...
Posted on December 20, 2011 at 22:56. | Released on December 21, 2011
Various Artists "We 'hub' music! Vol. 01-04" (Download)
Just about a year ago was held the first "We 'hub' music!" event organized by Yasuda Toshiyuki. Since then the series has seen 4 events, where the artist always acts as a "hub" inviting others from different genres and scenes,...
Posted on December 1, 2011 at 20:55. | Released on November 23, 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.
Asa-Chang "Asa-Chang & shūshū"
Asa-Chang, now the only member remaining of Asa-Chang & Junray, has a compilation out now of his works as a producer, spanning over his whole career. Asa-Chang used to be the leader of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, and has a...
Posted on November 12, 2011 at 14:27. | Released on November 9, 2011
Kirinji "~Connoisseur Series~ Kirinji 'Songbook'"
Kirinji have often composed songs for other artists. In this 2-CD album they self-cover some of those songs on the 1st CD, while the 2nd CD is a compilation of 10 songs they wrote performed by others. Audio samples of...
Posted on October 16, 2011 at 00:39. | Released on October 19, 2011
The Beatniks "Last Train To Exitown"
The Beatniks is the unit of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) and Suzuki Keiichi (The Moonriders), started 30 years ago. After a 10 year hiatus here comes a 4th album. Included are all original songs except for a cover of Lovin' Spoonful's...
Posted on October 9, 2011 at 18:04. | Released on October 12, 2011
Hatakeyama Miyuki "waga utsukushiki furusato yo"
Singer-songwriter Hatakeyama Miyuki (Port of Notes) celebrates her 10th anniversary since her solo debut with a 5th original album. Included are mainly new original songs, and also covers of standards "What A Wonderful World", "Moon River" and "Over The Rainbow"....
Posted on October 8, 2011 at 22:59. | Released on December 7, 2011
Jazztronik "Dig Dig Dig"
Jazztronik, the solo unit of Nozaki Ryōta, has a new album coming next week with a theme of "dancing" and sounds of funk, disco, acid-jazz, techno and hip-hop. This features guests such as Swedish-Japanese singer Maia Hirasawa, and also the...
Posted on June 3, 2011 at 00:03. | Released on June 8, 2011
mito "Dawns"
mito, bassist of band clammbon, has a solo album coming next week. Featured are many guests including electronic artist agraph, pianist kotringo, and members of bands toe and Rovo. Plus, the album is mastered by Sunahara Yoshinori! Released at the...
Posted on May 15, 2011 at 01:26. | Released on May 18, 2011
Towa Tei "Sunny"
Towa Tei is back with a brand new, 6th album! "Sunny" is the 3rd of a trilogy started with "Flash" and "Big Fun". Featured guests include Hatori Miho (Cibo Matto), Takahashi Yukihiro, Hosono Haruomi (both YMO), Yasuda Toshiyuki, Natural Calamity,...
Posted on April 29, 2011 at 22:26. | Released on May 11, 2011
Various Artists "Velvet Songs"
This cover compilation from Grand Gallery consists of new recordings of songs from the repertory of Alfa label. Featured artists include Nakatsuka Takeshi, Cubismo Grafico feat. Kushibiki Sayaka, Sokabe Keiichi, Nanao Tavito, Shimazaki Hitomi with Nanase feat. Kinbara Chieko, Chocolat...
Posted on April 14, 2011 at 21:36. | Released on April 20, 2011
Various Artists "Nagisa ongaku-sai presents In The Mix mixed by Tomoyuki Tanaka (FPM)"
Tanaka Tomoyuki aka FPM has a new mix CD out today, put together for beach rave event Nagisa Music Festival where he will be DJing. The event is to be held in Tokyo on April 10 and in Osaka on...
Posted on March 23, 2011 at 22:42. | Released on March 23, 2011
Toki Asako "Toki Asako Light! ~CM & Cover Songs~", "Gift ~anata wa Madonna~"
Toki Asako (ex-Cymbals) has a new album coming, a collection of cover songs plus some recent songs for TV commercials (for Shiseidō, Uniqlo, Nissan and DoCoMo). Lead song "Gift ~anata wa Madonna~" has been released as a "one coin" ¥500...
Posted on January 22, 2011 at 01:20. | Released on February 2, 2011
Clémentine "Covermentine"
Following last year's popular "Animentine", French bossa nova singer Clémentine has a new cover album coming this week. This time she covers both Japanese and French famous songs. Included are Yamazaki Masayoshi's "futari de Paris ni ikō" (feat. daughter Solita),...
Posted on January 10, 2011 at 15:25. | Released on January 12, 2011
erectricmole "hōka no hirune"
Usagi-chang Records fans rejoice! The label's boss Suzuki Akira has started a new label, named flawless world. Now that's something exciting to look for in 2011 already! The first release is by new electro-pop unit erectricmole (MySpace). The unit is...
Posted on January 2, 2011 at 21:33. | Released on January 12, 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.
Original Soundtrack "Cheburashka and the Circus ~ Circus ga yatte kita ~"
There's a new Cheburashka movie around the corner, starting in theaters here on December 18 (movie official site)! Made mainly by Japanese staff, the movie consists of a remake of "Gena The Crocodile" (original 1969), plus two brand new episodes...
Posted on December 14, 2010 at 23:04. | Released on December 18, 2010
Various Artists "utau Piano danshi"
Here's a first compilation on Delicatessen Recordings, the label of Nakatsuka Takeshi. The title translates to "singing piano guys", and indeed features male singer-songwriters, a few of the songs mainly just piano and vocals while over half is more band-...
Posted on December 7, 2010 at 23:10. | Released on December 8, 2010
Various Artists "Christmas Songs"
Here's another Christmas compilation, coming from commmons, made up of all previously unreleased Christmas tracks by a fascinating line-up of artists. Featured are all three of YMO, Minekawa Takako, Tokumaru Shūgo, Harada Tomoyo, kotringo, naomi & goro, Sean O'Hagan (The...
Posted on November 10, 2010 at 22:55. | Released on November 17, 2010
Jazztronik feat. Yuki "Bedtime Story"
Here's a new EP by Jazztronik, featuring singer Yuki (ex-Judy and Mary). Title song is being used in the movie "shikeidai Elevator" (a remake of "Ascenseur pour I'Echafaud" / "Elevator to the Gallows"). Watch video below. Jazztronik feat. Yuki "Bedtime...
Posted on September 29, 2010 at 00:25. | Released on September 29, 2010
kotringo "picnic album 1"
Pianist and singer-songwriter kotringo has a cover album coming this week. Included are her takes on hit songs by Flipper's Guitar, YMO, Yuming, Clammbon, Epo and more. Audio samples on official site kotringo "picnic album 1" 1. koi to Machinegun...
Posted on September 20, 2010 at 20:47. | Released on September 22, 2010
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.
Fujimura Tohru & Yasuda Toshiyuki "Silent Disco Live 2010.07" (Download)
Last July, Fujimura Tohru and Yasuda Toshiyuki (MySpace) played an improvised live show at Shimokitazawa's Slow Comedy Factory using various electronic instruments, the audience listening to the music via headphones. I had the chance to be there (my report here)....
Posted on September 8, 2010 at 00:08. | Released on September 8, 2010
Gig report: Rocketman Summer Fes 2010 - thank you for the music!!
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday August 22, I went to Liquidroom in Ebisu for "Rocketman Summer Fes 2010", an event celebrating the 10 years since the debut of Rocketman, Fukawa Ryō's music unit....
Posted on September 1, 2010 at 22:47.
Gig report: Fujimura Tohru + Yasuda Toshiyuki "Shimokitazawa Silent Disco"
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Recently I got to go to an interesting event held in a café called Slow Comedy Factory in Shimokitazawa. Limited to some 30 people, as many seats as there were,...
Posted on August 5, 2010 at 23:50.
pupa "dreaming pupa", "floating 6 pupas ~Live in Tokyo 2008~" (DVD)
All-star band pupa (*), that was believed by many to be a one-time thing, is back with a 2nd album out now! Released at the same time is a live DVD containing a full show held in November 2008. Also...
Posted on July 28, 2010 at 22:50. | Released on July 28, 2010
Takanami Keitarō to Nangasaki Five "Ryōma no hanauta (akaban)"
Where did Takanami K-tarō go? He's doing fine, back to his hometown of Nagasaki since last year. And it seems like he fell in love with the roots he found there, as he offers this surprising new album consisting of...
Posted on July 24, 2010 at 00:49. | Released on June 16, 2010
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
Toshiyuki Yasuda "Renix" (Download)
Electro-lounge artist Yasuda Toshiyuki has a first remix mini-album out now, for download only on iTunes worldwide. Included are 3 original songs plus remixes by Los Recyclers, Suzywan, Digiki and Little Nobody. Read the artist's liner notes on his web...
Posted on May 31, 2010 at 20:31. | Released on May 26, 2010
Various Artists "Tokyo Auto-Reverse ~ Neo-Shibuya-kei x 80's ~" (Download)
Here's an interesting compilation of 80's Japanese hit song covers by young bands of the post-Shibuya-kei scene! Featured are The Aprils, Yume to Cosme (previously known as solange et delphine), Mr.COCKROBIN, roly poly ragbear, Sucrette, the Caraway and more. This...
Posted on May 27, 2010 at 23:58. | Released on May 26, 2010
Various Artists "Attractions! a vinyl sampler" (7")
Here comes a 7" cut of two new remixes by Konishi Yasuharu, recently released part of his "Attractions!" remix compilation on new label Readymade V.I.C. So far this is only listed at DMR, which only ships within Japan. Various Artists...
Posted on May 7, 2010 at 22:13. | Released on May 14, 2010
Various Artists "commmons: schola vol.5 Yukihiro Takahashi & Haruomi Hosono Selections: Drums & Bass"
Sakamoto Ryūichi's label commmons has a series of compilations coming with a book, called "schola". The series started with 3 installments of classical music, but vol.4 brought jazz, and now vol.5 invites the two other YMO members Takahashi Yukihiro and...
Posted on May 5, 2010 at 09:12. | Released on April 21, 2010
Crazy Ken Band "Best tsuru", "Best kame"
Crazy Ken Band's leader Yokoyama Ken will celebrate his 50th birthday this year on July 7. Fans are treated to two all-time greatest hits albums, each containing 15 tracks. This covers their whole career, and comes from two different labels,...
Posted on February 19, 2010 at 23:16. | Released on February 24, 2010
Various Artists "Kirakira Majocco Cluv"
This looks like it might be a real gem of a compilation! The concept is of idols singing theme songs of anime series about magical girls, and tracks are produced by various club-oriented artists. Featured singers include Shinohara Tomoe and...
Posted on February 8, 2010 at 21:21. | Released on February 10, 2010
Various Artists "Attractions! Konishi Yasuharu Remixes 1996~2010"
Konishi Yasuharu has started a new label called Readymade V.I.C., hosted under major label Victor. This first release is a 2-CD collection of his best remixes from 1997 until now. Included are 6 brand new remixes using Victor's catalog (marked...
Posted on January 11, 2010 at 19:14. | Released on March 3, 2010
Maezono Naoki Group "hi o tsukeru. Maezono Naoki Group dai1shū."
Maezono Naoki Group, band featuring Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato Five) on piano, released its first album on vinyl only last June and sold out quickly. Finally this is also coming on CD, and that in a mini-LP sleeve! The CD will...
Posted on December 6, 2009 at 01:43. | Released on December 9, 2009
Yasuda Toshiyuki "Children's Songs 2050"
In his new album, Yasuda Toshiyuki (MySpace) (early Fantastic Plastic Machine) covers children's songs from around the world into his wonderful electronic sounds, featuring various singers including ROBO*BRAZILEIRA of course. Yasuda Toshiyuki "Children's Songs 2050" 1. Ah! Vous dirai-je, maman...
Posted on November 18, 2009 at 23:23. | Released on November 25, 2009
Denki Groove "Upside Down"
Denki Groove is back again with a brand new single called "Upside Down", a previously unreleased song being used as the opening theme of anime "kūchū buranko". The B-side here is hit song "Shangri-La" in a new "remodeled" version by...
Posted on November 11, 2009 at 20:52. | Released on November 18, 2009
Coldfeet "MJ The Tour"
This made it too late, although maybe just at the right time for listeners. Coldfeet's monster 2-year project to cover Michael Jackson's best hits features some of Japan's best club scene artists, making many of these great songs more danceable...
Posted on November 8, 2009 at 01:16. | Released on November 4, 2009
Various Artists "for winter music lovers ~ Technopop Xmas"
This new compilation of both recent and classic Christmas-themed techno-pop songs features Nomiya Maki (with a song from her first 1980 album), Aira Mitsuki, Denki Groove, Hosono Haruomi, Takahashi Yukihiro, Logic System, and much more. Various Artists "for winter music...
Posted on November 6, 2009 at 23:52. | Released on November 11, 2009
Various Artists "From Us To You! The covers of the Fab Four by Japanese performers"
This new Japanese release contains previously released covers of The Beatles performed by Japanese artists, including Takahashi Yukihiro (Yellow Magic Orchestra), Clammbon, Hirota Mieko and many more. Nice jacket too! Various Artists "From Us To You! The covers of the...
Posted on October 13, 2009 at 23:43. | Released on October 21, 2009
Aira Mitsuki "PLASTIC"
This week, Aira Mitsuki is back with a 2nd album, not even a year since "Copy". I count 7 tracks taken from the three latest singles: "Robot Honey", "sayonara Technopolis", and "BARBiE BARBiE", leaving us with 7 brand new tracks...
Posted on July 19, 2009 at 22:25. | Released on July 22, 2009
Various Artists "Mellow Beats, Friends & Lovers"
Out now is this jazzy hip-hop compilation selected by Hashimoto Tōru (Après-midi), featuring Ino Hidefumi, rei harakami, Takagi Masakatsu, chari chari (Inoue Kaoru) and many more. Various Artists "Mellow Beats, Friends & Lovers" 1. Kiss Of Life / Nujabes with...
Posted on June 16, 2009 at 23:09. | Released on June 10, 2009
Maezono Naoki Group "hi o tsukeru. Maezono Naoki Group dai1shū." (12")
Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato Five) is a pianist! Maezono Naoki Group started performing late 2008 and has been releasing small-sized magazines irregularly. Finally here's a first album, but be aware that it's vinyl only (no CD anyway). If you're interested at...
Posted on June 12, 2009 at 00:42. | Released on June 24, 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
Digiki "Dense Music EP" (12")
Digiki's remix album "Dense Music" (out last year) finally gets a vinyl release! Included are remixes by Toshiyuki Yasuda (ex-Fantastic Plastic Machine), Dexpistols, O.Lamm, Jean Nipon, plus even some non-album remixes. Out on Tokyo Fun Party! Audio samples at Jet...
Posted on January 20, 2009 at 23:44. | Released on January 21, 2009
Polymoog free live at Apple Store Shibuya
Polymoog (Elektel) will perform techno-pop using the Gakken SX-150 (toy synthesizer) and other instruments. He will be accompanied by VJ HIGUCHI Yasuyuki (faction bleu). Polymoog free live on 10/3 (Friday) at Apple Store Shibuya Starts at 20:00 (30 min.) Price:...
Posted on October 2, 2008 at 09:41. | Released on October 3, 2008
Various Artists "incense"
DiscID: 2b114513
Posted on September 27, 2008 at 23:15. | Released on September 24, 2008
HASYMO "the city of light / tokyo town pages"
HASYMO, the recent unit of Sakamoto Ryūichi, Hosono Haruomi and Takahashi Yukihiro (all three formerly YMO = Yellow Magic Orchestra), has a new single coming up. Included are "the city of light", the theme song of News23, and "tokyo town...
Posted on July 22, 2008 at 15:38. | Released on August 6, 2008
Digiki "Dense Music"
International remixers bring the beat back from vacation and put it on the dense floor. Digiki's tracks from latest album "Beat Vacation" are here more danceable than ever! Features Toshiyuki Yasuda (Japan, early Fantastic Plastic Machine), Dexpistols (Japan), O.Lamm (France),...
Posted on July 10, 2008 at 22:17. | Released on July 5, 2008
pupa "floating pupa pre-remix e.p."
I just learned about this, but pupa (Takahashi Yukihiro et al.) had released on iTunes a 4-track remix EP a week before the release of album "floating pupa". 4 tracks from the album are remixed by members Takada Ren, Horie...
Posted on July 6, 2008 at 01:00. | Released on June 25, 2008
arcorhyme afternoon live at Grand Cru (vol.4)
For the 4th month in a row, arcorhyme will play an early afternoon show at Après-midi Grand Cru, the pasta and wine restaurant located below Café Après-midi. There will be two free sets with different songs. Charge is free, so...
Posted on June 11, 2008 at 15:00. | Released on June 15, 2008
pupa "floating pupa"
pupa is the brand new all-star band of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO/HASYMO, Sketch Show) together with Harada Tomoyo, Takano Hiroshi (HAAS), Takada Ren, Horie Hirohisa (Neil and Iraiza) and Gondō Tomohiko (anonymass). A first album is coming in July. The band...
Posted on June 2, 2008 at 15:58. | Released on July 2, 2008
