erectricmole "oborozukiyo" (Download)
erectricmole, an electronica unit with a Japanese touch, has a new digital EP out now on Flawless World (post-Usagi-chang Records). Follow-up to the previous "sakura" EP, this includes 3 covers of early 20th century Japanese classic songs that you might...
Posted on November 14, 2012 at 20:39. | Released on November 14, 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
9nine "Yie Ar! Kyonshi feat. Hao hao! Kyonshi Girl / Brave"
Idol group 9nine (pronounced just "nine") has a new single coming. This one contains the theme song of "Hoa hoa! Kyonshi Girl", a TV series starring one of the girls as a kyonshi fighter. Kyonshis are Chinese zombies that were...
Posted on November 8, 2012 at 22:29. | Released on November 14, 2012
Shūnosuke Ishikawa "shumusic 002" (Download)
This month from Delicatessen LAB (Nakatsuka Takeshi's digital label) is a new EP by saxophonist Ishikawa Shūnosuke. This is a follow-up to "shumusic" released in May. This 2 new EP of sax-led danceable funky instrumentals seems to be available on...
Posted on November 7, 2012 at 20:42. | Released on November 7, 2012
hitomitoi "YOUR TIME Route #1"
Following its "Choice" series of foreign song covers, Billboard Records begins a series of Japanese song cover albums titled "Your Time". The first artist of the series is hitomitoi who released her latest original album "City Dive" on the label....
Posted on November 5, 2012 at 21:58. | Released on November 14, 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
DJ Fumiya "Beats For Daddy"
DJ Fumiya (Rip Slyme, O.T.F) has a 1st solo original album coming! As the title says, the concept is club music intended for the current "dad generation" he belongs to. :) Featured guests include Bakubaku Dokin with Nagashima Tomoko (orange...
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 22:56. | Released on November 7, 2012
JiLL-Decoy association "Decade"
Sunaga Tatsuo-acclaimed jazz band JiLL-Decoy association (aka "JiLL-Deco") has a new album out now, self-covering their best songs from a decade of activity, and re-recording them with a "dance music" concept and all English lyrics. Featured collaborators include Coldfeet, Jazzin'...
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 21:52. | Released on October 10, 2012
Wack Wack Rhythm Band "XX Classics"
Wack Wack Rhythm Band is now celebrating its 20th anniversary! Time flies! This first greatest hits album contains favorites from their whole career, as well as the 2 new recordings from their latest 7" single. A total of 20 tracks....
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 21:21. | Released on November 7, 2012
Aurora Acoustic "Harmony of the Spheres", "The Light Chronicles (Best of Aurora Acoustic)"
Aurora Acoustic is the 2-acoustic guitar instrumental unit of DJ/producer Kaoru Inoue (Chari Chari) and guitarist Kojima Daisuke (aka DSK, of Port of Notes). Having previously released albums "Flare" (2004), "Fjord" (2006) and "Feast" (2007) under the Aurora name, here...
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 10:42. | Released on October 24, 2012
Vanilla Beans "Vanilla Beans III"
It's a busy year for Vanilla Beans! Not only have they released 3 singles, a DVD and a photo book so far, but here comes a brand new 3rd album! This one is said to have the particularity of being...
Posted on November 2, 2012 at 00:55. | Released on November 7, 2012
Koizumi Kyoko "Koizumi Chansonnier"
Singer Koizumi Kyōko has a new original album celebrating her 30th debut anniversary. Producers include Konishi Yasuharu ("omoshiro okashiku ikitekita keredo" and "Ma plus belle histoire d'amour"), Kikuchi Naruyoshi ("Une chanson pour les grands"), Soil & "Pimp" Sessions ("Sweet &...
Posted on November 1, 2012 at 23:39. | Released on October 24, 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
Akane Hosaka "pikkonoco"
Independent electronic artist Akane Hosaka from Tokyo's underground Enban scene has a 4th album that was released this month, follow-up to "niko niko denki muzic" (2008 label Sonore). Recorded, manufactured (CD-R) and distributed by the artist herself, the new 10-song...
Posted on October 30, 2012 at 23:51. | Released on October 1, 2012
Kushibiki Sayaka Trio "Lover's Concert" (7")
Kushibiki Sayaka Trio features Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Cubismo Grafico) and Furukawa Taichi (aka TA-1, ex-Riddim Saunter), and this 7" is a first release under this name. The single includes covers of Sarah Vaughan's "Lover's Concert" (original on YouTube) and Suzuki...
Posted on October 30, 2012 at 22:48. | Released on October 9, 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
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
Ryoma Takemasa "Catalyst"
This is the debut album by newcomer instrumental electro artist Ryoma Takemasa (Soundcloud) who takes his roots from various dance music scenes, and has been making himself known internationally with tracks played by the likes of Laurent Garnier and James...
Posted on October 24, 2012 at 22:44. | Released on October 17, 2012
De De Mouse "sky was dark"
De De Mouse has a 4th album out now! This album is said to have a conceptual story tone based around the "time" keyword. HMV offers an extra CD of a non-album track (while supplies last). There's also a bonus...
Posted on October 18, 2012 at 00:11. | Released on October 17, 2012
mi-gu "Choose The Light"
mi-gu, the unit of drummer Araki Yuko and Shimizu Hirotaka (both also of part of The Cornelius Group, If By Yes, and Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band), has a 3rd album out now on Chimera Music in the U.S. The...
Posted on October 5, 2012 at 00:26. | Released on October 2, 2012
Yapani! "Yapani!Lab." (Download)
This month from Nakatsuka Takeshi's digital label Delicatessen Lab are two original funky tunes by instrumental brass rock band Yapani!. This single has already made it to #1 on iTunes Japan's jazz chart! Yapani! can be caught live on October...
Posted on October 3, 2012 at 20:27. | Released on October 3, 2012
quasimode "Soul Cookin'"
Jazz quartet quasimode has a 6th original album coming. Featured are guests including Yokoyama Ken (Crazy Ken Band) and Toki Asako (ex-Cymbals). The limited edition comes as a high fidelity HQCD (plays in normal CD players), and a bonus DVD...
Posted on October 1, 2012 at 23:25. | Released on October 3, 2012
Yashiro Aki "Songs Around Midnight"
Yashiro Aki is a famous enka singer who has been around since the early 70's. This time she releases her first jazz album, and it's produced by Konishi Yasuharu (ex-Pizzicato Five)! Included are covers of well-known songs from the world...
Posted on September 30, 2012 at 01:19. | Released on October 10, 2012
Nosa Reina "don't kiss, but yes"
"Pizzicato Five 2012 edition!?", "Post-Nomiya Maki?" dare official blurbs say! Nosa Reina is a new singer whose debut album is being produced by Takanami K-tarō (ex-Pizzicato Five), who has also hired the two musicians from Portable Rock for the back...
Posted on September 29, 2012 at 23:58. | Released on October 10, 2012
JOKEMIC "All & About"
Party hip-hop duo JOKEMIC (Shabell & Daijun) has a first album out now, and it's entirely produced by Boot Beat aka Kamiya Naoaki. Check out the video below. Most tracks can also be sampled at the label's official release page....
Posted on September 29, 2012 at 01:12. | Released on September 14, 2012
MEG "Wear I Am"
Meg's new album has songs produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) ("REPLICA"), Konishi Yasuharu ("natsu ga owaru"), Taku Takahashi (m-flo) ("SOUTHPAW"), Miura Kōshi (Kuchiroro) ("WEAR I AM"), Furukawa Yutaka (Doping Panda) ("LOVE EMOTION"), Osawa Shinichi ("TRAP") and more. A limited edition...
Posted on September 27, 2012 at 23:48. | Released on October 3, 2012
Yakushimaru Etsuko "yamiyami / Lonely Planet"
Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) has a new double-A-side single out now! "yamiyami" is a song that was featured on NHK's "minna no uta", while "Lonely Planet" is a post-themed (as in postal service) 15-minute piece featuring Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) and Nagai...
Posted on September 26, 2012 at 00:30. | Released on September 26, 2012
Calmera "1000nichimae High Colors"
Osaka-based instrumental jazz-rock band Calmera has a 4th album out now on Orange Records! Included are 2 remixes, one by Groove Unchant. Also, the first limited pressing comes with a bonus DVD of a show held in Osaka on February...
Posted on September 20, 2012 at 23:06. | Released on August 29, 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
J.A.M "Jazz Acoustic Machine"
Instrumental jazz trio (piano/bass/drums) J.A.M (MySpace), a sub-unit of Soil & "Pimp" Sessions, has a 3rd album out this week. All tracks can be sampled at the band's official site. J.A.M can be seen live at Billboard Live Tokyo on...
Posted on September 18, 2012 at 23:38. | Released on September 19, 2012
marino with Teapot Orchestra "Bathtub de chōshoku o"
marino is back, 6 years after the release of hit album "Lollipop" (2009 reissue here), and now she's with a full brass band and going in a more jazzy direction, actually sounding very musical-like. The title translates to "breakfast in...
Posted on September 17, 2012 at 23:58. | Released on September 20, 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.
Kaseki Cider "Mr. City Pop"
Rapper Kaseki Cider has a new album following last year's great "Sound Burger Planet", this time again with back-band the Hugtones! Featured are guests Illicit Tsuboi, Horigome Takaki (Kirinji) and Epo. Covers of Denpa gumi inc's "kuchizuke Kibonnu" (a song...
Posted on September 15, 2012 at 00:49. | Released on September 19, 2012
Various Artists "Tokyo Crossover Night 2012"
Here's a club-jazz/crossover compilation being released ahead of the 9th Tokyo Crossover/Jazz Festival to be held on September 29. This is compiled by Kyoto Jazz Massive's Okino Shūya, and artists featured also include DJ Kawasaki, Bembe Segue (UK) and more....
Posted on September 13, 2012 at 23:54. | Released on September 12, 2012
Kaoru Inoue "A Missing Myth"
Crue-L Records family's Kaoru Inoue (aka Chari Chari) has a new album coming this week on his Seeds And Ground label. This album is non-stop mixed and includes new songs and a few remixes. A few tracks are available in...
Posted on September 9, 2012 at 13:41. | Released on September 12, 2012
Julia Oki "É da Julia"
This is the debut album of Julia Oki, her music described as Japanese Brazilian Crossover. The album is produced by jazz singer-songwriter akiko, and this also features artists such as Nakatsuka Takeshi, Shimizu Hirotaka (The Cornelius Group), Miura Makoto, and...
Posted on September 5, 2012 at 21:57. | Released on September 5, 2012
Tokumaru Shugo "Decorate"
Tokumaru Shūgo's new single is titled "Decorate", and it's being released in 3 formats: CD, digital (maybe iTunes Japan only), and... sonosheet! The sonosheet plays at 33⅓ RPM and contains 2 of the 3 songs. A new album titled "In...
Posted on September 5, 2012 at 20:47. | Released on September 5, 2012
Keiko "Journey" (Download)
Keiko (pianist of Vanilla Mood) has a 2-song solo single out now on Delicatessen Lab, the digital label of Nakatsuka Takeshi. It's already climbing up iTunes Japan's jazz charts, and seems to be available worldwide. Keiko "Journey" 1. Journey 2....
Posted on September 5, 2012 at 20:26. | Released on September 5, 2012
Gig report: hitomitoi sings "City Dive"
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last June singer hitomitoi's new album "City Dive" was released on Billboard Japan Records. The album was produced by Cunimondo Takiguchi of city pops unit Ryūsenkei, with some tracks by Dorian and...
Posted on September 3, 2012 at 00:20.
Idiot Pop "EXWORLD"
Described as "dreamy colorful super pop sound", here's a 2nd full album of Idiot Pop's fun and danceable tracks. Featured are several guest appearances including Frenesi and PandaBoY. Check out the video and sampler clip below! Idiot Pop "EXWORLD" 1....
Posted on August 30, 2012 at 23:45. | Released on September 5, 2012
Chocolat & Akito "tobira ep"
Chocolat & Akito, the unit of Chocolat and husband Katayose Akito (Great3). Aside from new song "tobira" are included remixes by Nagai Seiichi (sōtaiseiriron), Hamano Kenta (Sakerock), John McEntire (Tortoise) and Miyauchi Yuri. This new EP comes on the Rallye...
Posted on August 30, 2012 at 00:20. | Released on September 5, 2012
Cornelius "CM4"
Cornelius has a new collection of his remixes and mixes for other artists over the last few years. Titled "CM4", it contains tracks by Nomiya Maki, sōtaiseiriron, Yoko Ono, If By Yes (band formed of Yuka Honda, Petra Haden, Araki...
Posted on August 29, 2012 at 00:15. | Released on September 5, 2012
Nanba Shiho "Choice"
Another release from Billboard's "Choice" cover album series. This time it's the turn of singer Nanba Shiho, who changed her looks to short hair for her latest single (YouTube), to select and cover some of her favorite world pop standards....
Posted on August 26, 2012 at 12:25. | Released on July 25, 2012
akiko "Dark Eyes"
Jazz singer akiko has a new album being released this month. Recorded in New Orleans like previous mini-album "Swingy, Swingy", this one is produced by Ska Flames' Ōkawa Tsuyoshi, and features Dirty Dozen Brass Band's sousaphonist Kirk Joseph as well...
Posted on August 23, 2012 at 23:45. | Released on August 29, 2012
Gotye "Eyes Wide Open (Remix Bundle)" (Download)
Cornelius has contributed a track to the remix EP for Belgian-Australian artist Gotye's hit track "Eyes Wide Open" (original on YouTube) from latest album "Making Mirrors". This is available on iTunes worldwide, and also Amazon MP3 U.S. at least. Gotye...
Posted on August 23, 2012 at 23:28. | Released on August 22, 2012
frenesi "gendai"
frenesi has a brand new album coming in September! Titled "gendai" ("modern times"), it contains the song from latest video of the same name, and also a track that appeared in game "taiko no tatsujin" last year, and a cover...
Posted on August 20, 2012 at 22:49. | Released on September 5, 2012
Perfume "Perfume Global Compilation 'LOVE THE WORLD'"
Perfume continues to do its best to appeal to a global audience, and here comes a first greatest hits album. No word on an actual overseas CD release, but this will hopefully be available worldwide on iTunes like their recent...
Posted on August 18, 2012 at 17:42. | Released on September 12, 2012
lyrical school "sorya natsu da! / oide yo"
6-girl hip-hop idol unit lyrical school, formerly known as tengal6, has a first single being released under the new name, and that on from Tower Records' T-Palette idol-only label. Both tracks were written and produced by Tofubeats. lyrical school "sorya...
Posted on August 17, 2012 at 22:14. | Released on August 22, 2012
Being Borings "Esprit"
Being Borings, the unit of Takimi Kenji and Kanda Tomoki, has a first album coming! Judging from a track included on compilation "Crue-L Café" last March, a "short edit" that clocked near 6 minutes, this album is set to take...
Posted on August 17, 2012 at 21:24. | Released on September 14, 2012
milk "greeting for the sleeping seeds"
This is the first album by milk (official Facebook page), the solo unit of composer/pianist Umebayashi Tarō known for having worked with naomi & goro and Harada Tomoyo. Featured are several guests such as Au Revoir Simone and Sally Seltman...
Posted on August 14, 2012 at 21:16. | Released on August 15, 2012
Polysics "Lucky Star"
Polysics has a new single coming soon, and its limited edition comes with a bonus DVD of a digest of 18 songs from their 1000th show held last March 3rd! Audio samples of the single can be heard at Sony...
Posted on August 14, 2012 at 20:45. | Released on August 22, 2012
Yakushimaru Etsuko "kirikirimai" (Download)
Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) has a new single now available for download on iTunes Japan. This is a cover of Yamamoto Linda's french-pop style song "kirikirimai" from 1973. The song was actually recorded in 2010 for a 3-CD compilation paying tribute...
Posted on August 13, 2012 at 23:49. | Released on August 1, 2012
Various Artists "Who is the Star? WITS Compilation Vol.3 -20th anniversary edition-"
WITS was a Shibuya-kei label that in its early years mainly focused on releases by L⇔R (a band of which Minekawa Takako was a member for some time), Spiral Life, and also Minekawa Takako's early solo career ("Chit Chat", "(A...
Posted on August 12, 2012 at 12:28. | Released on August 8, 2012
SMAP "GIFT of SMAP"
SMAP has a new album out now, and as usual they manage to have a bit of good connections and taste in terms of producers. This time again Konishi Yasuharu produces one song, a cover "karajishi botan", the theme from...
Posted on August 12, 2012 at 11:15. | Released on August 8, 2012
TRI4TH "TRI4TH AHEAD"
Instrumental jazz band TRI4TH has a 2nd album out now. This time again the producer is Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) who also did their first album. TRI4TH "TRI4TH AHEAD" 1. Sunlight Yellow Over Drive 2. TRY AHEAD 3. Night...
Posted on August 9, 2012 at 21:38. | Released on August 8, 2012
Rocketman "koi Romantic!!"
Rocketman (aka Fukawa Ryō) has a new album out this week! This contains a few tracks that were released for download only over the past few years, but also several brand new songs. Featured are Verbal (m-flo) and Hatsune Miku,...
Posted on August 7, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on August 8, 2012
Okada Tohru "kakū eiga ongakushū II ~Erewhon no roku de~"
Moonriders' Okada Tohru, lately active with CTO LAB., has a 4th album out this week. It has been no less than 19 years since his previous solo album! Included are several self-covers of Moonriders favorites, and the album is full...
Posted on August 7, 2012 at 22:39. | Released on August 8, 2012
Recto Berso "Nice To Love You!"
Recto Berso is a band of two guys who love vintage instruments, especially Beatles-era Gibson guitars. They even go as far as using recording equipment from back in the day to create sounds of the same texture. For that reason...
Posted on August 5, 2012 at 22:06. | Released on August 8, 2012
Chiroline ver.2 "Chit Chat Chiroline"
Chiroline (reads -lyn) was a girl techno-pop unit that was produced by Okada Tohru (CTO LAB., ex-Moonriders) in the mid-to-late-80's. This year sees the formation of a group of 4 new girls borrowing the same name, again produced by the...
Posted on August 5, 2012 at 12:47. | Released on August 8, 2012
COMA* "idea" (Download)
COMA*, described as a genre-less electro band with a danceable sound, is featured this month on Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen Lab digital label. Lead track "P.O.P" has already managed to get a #1 in iTunes Japan's jazz chart! COMA* can be...
Posted on August 2, 2012 at 23:34. | Released on August 1, 2012
Yellow Magic Orchestra "Fire Bird" (Download)
Yellow Magic Orchestra have a brand new song available for download! First preformed live at World Happiness 2011, annual summer festival always headlined by YMO, "Fire Bird" was inspired by Tezuka Osamu's character "hi no tori" (aka "Phoenix") which was...
Posted on August 2, 2012 at 20:59. | Released on August 1, 2012
novaFASE "Opportunities" (Download)
The song "Opportunities" from novaFASE's "Girls Lab Haus" album released from Orange Records has being reworked into a 2012 new mix edition. Also, "Milk Crown Music", used on the same album as a short interlude, is being made available in...
Posted on August 2, 2012 at 00:15. | Released on August 1, 2012
Sawagi "Punch Games"
Sawagi has a first full-length album coming. The band of guitar/bass/synths/drums has a concept of performing instrumental dance music entirely live, no programming involved, with hints of rock, jazz, funk and electro influences. This album follows the brilliant mini-album "hi...
Posted on July 30, 2012 at 22:25. | Released on August 8, 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 "WIRE12 Compilation"
Here's this year's compilation for Ishino Takkyū's arena techno party WIRE, to be held on August 25 at Yokohama Arena. Included are several branc new tracks by Ishino Takkyū, Sunahara Yoshinori, Tanaka Fumiya, Ken Ishii & Mickey Zhang, DJ Sodeyama,...
Posted on July 29, 2012 at 01:06. | Released on August 1, 2012
Perfume "Spending all my time"
Perfume's next single is coming next month! Very cute new outfits too! B-side "Point" has already been heard on Hyōketsu TV commercials (watch below). To those who want the limited edition, which comes with a DVD of the title track's...
Posted on July 22, 2012 at 21:37. | Released on August 15, 2012
Blu-Swing "Find Your Way"
New-jazz band Blu-Swing has a 2nd original album coming. Along their original songs are included covers of "Say You Love Me" and "Free". This follows their first original album "Revision" (2008). Blu-Swing can be seen live on July 28 at...
Posted on July 22, 2012 at 00:42. | Released on July 25, 2012
YMO "YMONHK" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Yellow Magic Orchestra have a new Blu-ray and DVD out today of a studio-recorded show aired last year on NHK in front of an audience of 1000. The three original members were backed by Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Gondo Tomohiko (anonymass)...
Posted on July 18, 2012 at 23:33. | Released on July 18, 2012
mishmash* Julie Watai "Don't Shoot Me. I'm Only the Pin-up Girl." (Download)
Here's a 3rd digital single from mishmash* Julie Watai, unit of Cornelius' programmer Mishima Toyoaki (blog) with singer/model/photographer Julie Watai. Same formula as before, with the song released in both Japanese and English. The sexy video (seen below) was directed...
Posted on July 17, 2012 at 22:30. | Released on July 15, 2012
Fishmans+ "A Piece of Future"
Fishmans is a band that's been around for now over 20 years. After a long hiatus they came back at the beginning of 2011 under the name Fishmans+, and together with a vast number of collaborators they have made efforts...
Posted on July 15, 2012 at 18:53. | Released on July 11, 2012
Sally Soul Stew "Blue Angel Deluxe"
Sally Soul Stew, the band of bassist Sally Kubota (Les 5-4-3-2-1, Phantom GIft), has released a deluxe CD edition of its latest 7", "anata ni maketa no" (2010). The band also features singers Mashiro Megumi (Hicksville), Lemon, guitarist Nakamori Yasuhiro...
Posted on July 15, 2012 at 10:22. | Released on June 27, 2012
Various Artists "Tokyo Luxury Lounge 5"
This is the latest of label Grand Gallery's "Tokyo Luxury Lounge" series, featuring some of the best and latest of Japan's club artists. This time included are Nakatsuka Takeshi, Kinbara Chieko, Octet Sunaga t (Sunaga Tatsuo), Studio Apartment, Coldfeet, i-dep,...
Posted on July 10, 2012 at 22:16. | Released on July 11, 2012
Various Artists "Shibuya-kei feat. Hatsune Miku"
Virtual idol Hatsune Miku sings Pizzicato Five, Flipper's Guitar, Kahimi Karie, Kaji Hideki, Original Love and Ozawa Kenji in this Shibuya-kei cover compilation put together by producers from the Vocaloid scene. Two original songs are also included as bonus tracks....
Posted on July 9, 2012 at 20:44. | Released on July 11, 2012
Perfume "Perfume 3rd Tour 'JPN'" (DVD)
Perfume have a new DVD coming of their latest tour for album "JPN". This DVD consists of the show in their hometown of Hiroshima held on April 1st this year. 21 songs are included! At this time, online shops are...
Posted on July 8, 2012 at 12:27. | Released on August 1, 2012
Takkyu Ishino "WIRE TRAX 1999-2012"
Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove) has a new album out now, a collection of all his original contributions to the compilations for his annual WIRE arena techno party. A 2nd disc consists of rare related tracks that were used in commercials...
Posted on July 8, 2012 at 02:09. | Released on July 4, 2012
Scooters "Une Manche et La Belle"
It's a dream come true: Tokyo's Motown sound girls' group the Scooters are back! The band directed by Shindō Mitsuo have a new album coming, 30 years since their previous only original album "musumegokoro wa Scooters" (1982). The first cut...
Posted on July 7, 2012 at 00:04. | Released on July 11, 2012
Rocketman feat. Verbal (m-flo) "koi Romantic!!" (Download)
Rocketman has a new dance track out now on iTunes Japan, featuring rapper Verbal from m-flo. The song is currently #1 in the dance chart. A new album has also just been announced for release on August 8. Stay tuned!...
Posted on July 4, 2012 at 23:51. | Released on July 4, 2012
Iga-Bang BB "Bang!" (Download)
This month from Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen Lab digital label is a release by Iga-Bang BB, a big band of 17 musicians led by trombonist Igarashi Makoto. This first release from the band contains 2 original songs. This is another instant...
Posted on July 4, 2012 at 23:21. | Released on July 4, 2012
Vanilla Beans "Non-Section"
Vanilla Beans have a brand new single out this week! "Non-Section" is a rocking catchy pop tune. The video for this song also gives life to a few scenes from their recently released photo book. This comes in 3 different...
Posted on July 3, 2012 at 22:51. | Released on July 4, 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
hoshikuzu Scat "Magnet Joe ni ki o tsukero (Single Version)"
hoshikuzu Scat, the Shōwa-kayō drag queen trio featuring Gallantique Kazue, has a new groovy single out now. All 3 songs are produced by Nakatsuka Takeshi. Included are covers of Gal ("Magnet Joe ni ki o tsukero") and Messengers ("That's The...
Posted on July 2, 2012 at 23:42. | 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
DadaD "mission passion"
"Dada pop music" unit DadaD (pronounced "da da da") has a new album coming next week! This contains "Ride Out" and "Special Lady", recently being used in commercials for Nissan and magazine Biteki (YouTube). DadaD "mission passion" 1. Mermaid 2....
Posted on June 23, 2012 at 11:46. | Released on June 27, 2012
Gig report: Vanilla Beans one-man live vol.4
Text and photo by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday June 17, I went to see Vanilla Beans who were holding their 4th one-man live. I had been to the first held in December 2009 (report), and have...
Posted on June 21, 2012 at 23:35.
Vanilla Beans "gekkan NEO Vanilla Beans" (Book)
Vanilla Beans have a first ever photo book being released next week! The 104-page book is full of pop, sexy and cute photos of Rena and Lisa posing in various situations. A special edition comes with a hard cover and...
Posted on June 20, 2012 at 23:57. | Released on June 26, 2012
Teams "Teams X White Lily Remixes"
Coming next from HNC's White Lily Records is a release of LA-based electro unit Teams (funnily borrowed from label White Iris Records). Included are 4 original tracks plus 5 remixes by White Lily's current roaster and friends. Featured are HNC,...
Posted on June 20, 2012 at 22:48. | Released on June 25, 2012
Noko Inoko "Noko Inoko taizen Returns"
"TV commercial song queen" Noko Inoko, having sung some 800 during her career, has an album coming. This is a follow-up to "Noko Inoko taizen" released in 2006. Included here are 42 tracks, many of commercial and TV show jingles,...
Posted on June 19, 2012 at 21:52. | Released on June 20, 2012
VIDEOTAPEMUSIC "7haku 8ka"
VIDEOTAPEMUSIC have been active in the indies scene for many years, sampling VHS tapes and creating a unique video and audio experience, and also releasing several CD-Rs of their music works. This time is their first official CD release, and...
Posted on June 16, 2012 at 23:11. | Released on June 20, 2012
Negicco "anata to Pop With You!"
Negicco have traded their green onions for blue wigs to bring us this new catchy pop tune! This new single is being released on Tower Records' idol-only T-Palette label. Don't miss the fun video below! Free in-store events will be...
Posted on June 15, 2012 at 23:22. | Released on June 20, 2012
Gallantique Kazue "hitohada chūdoku" (Download)
Drag queen Gallantique Kazue (also part of unit hoshikuzu Scat) has a new single available now for download on iTunes Japan. Music and words were written by Nishimura Ikuyo (ex-arcorhyme), and the arrangement is by Shirane Kenichi (Great 3). A...
Posted on June 14, 2012 at 22:36. | Released on June 13, 2012
mishmash* Julie Watai "Veiled by Reverb" (Download)
Following "Roll of Love" released in April, here's a 2nd song from mishmash*, unit of Cornelius' programmer Mishima Toyoaki (blog), feat. Julie Watai. Like last time, the song has being released in both Japanese and English versions. The full-length music...
Posted on June 14, 2012 at 22:14. | Released on June 13, 2012
Yucca "our journey (to anywhere we want)"
Wonderful post-rock band Yucca from Tokyo has a 3rd album out now, 6 years after the previous that was titled "the orange sun in my room". The hiatus had much to do with their drummer who broke a bone in...
Posted on June 9, 2012 at 21:31. | Released on June 9, 2012
Nona Reeves "Choice II"
Nona Reeves have a 2nd cover album out now on Billboard Records, this time featuring songs by Madonna, Blur, Pet Shop Boys, Michael Jackson, Elvis, Earth Wind & Fire, New Kids On The Block (...), and more. The first of...
Posted on June 9, 2012 at 16:25. | Released on June 6, 2012
Shonen Knife "Pop Tune"
Shonen Knife, who celebrated their 30th anniversary last year, have a new album out now! A special site for the album has been set up here with plenty to read (in English too!), such as this comment from Marty Friedman...
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 23:39. | Released on June 6, 2012
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Kyary Pamyu Pamyu TV JOHN!" (DVD)
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu fans will be happy that her crazy and chaotic TV show aired only in Nagoya is now available on DVD. Contained are the two episodes so far, as well as bonus features and behind the scenes footage....
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 00:01. | Released on June 6, 2012
P.O.P ORCHeSTRA "P.O.P LAB" (Download)
Identical twins rap unit P.O.P ORCHeSTRA have a new 2-song digital EP out now! This is the 2nd monthly release from Nakatsuka Takeshi's "Delicatessen LAB" digital label. Released just today, lead track "At, we now..." is already comfortably sitting at...
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 22:09. | Released on June 6, 2012
Miyauchi Yuri "Tone After Tone"
Miyauchi Yuri has a new album out this week, featuring none other than Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) as a guest musician throughout, it seems, and also Kanda Tomoki for engineer. Miyauchi Yuri "Tone After Tone" 宮内優里 「トーンアフタートーン」 1. toaf_ 2. digo_...
Posted on June 4, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on June 6, 2012
