Full-text search results for The High

  1. dip in the pool "Highwire Walker"
    dip in the pool (official Facebook page), a band that has now been around for 30 years, has a brand new album out now! This is the follow-up to "brown eyes" released in 2011. Included is a cover of "Bali...
    Posted on January 25, 2015 at 12:37. | Released on January 21, 2015
  2. Vanilla Beans "Vanilla Beans IV"
    Vanilla Beans have a brand new album coming, you guessed it, "Vanilla Beans IV"! Once again this comes with artwork that's both very non-idol-like and unforgettable. The album will include several brand new songs, plus the title tracks of the...
    Posted on December 31, 2014 at 23:24. | Released on February 3, 2015
  3. hitomitoi "Pacific High / Aleutian Low"
    hitomitoi has a new mini-album out this week! With a title that refers to summer and winter, it contains three summer songs previously released digitally, then three new winter-themed songs, plus a cover of Yuming's "A Happy New Year". Producers...
    Posted on December 9, 2014 at 20:32. | Released on December 10, 2014
  4. P.O.P "fuyuzora to utagoe wa kirei na hou ga ii" (Download)
    Spend groovy holidays with rappers P.O.P's new winter-themed EP. This contains brand new collaborations with Nakatsuka Takeshi and others. And leave it to YMCK to take a good rap tune into retro game world with their remix of hit song...
    Posted on December 5, 2014 at 20:56. | Released on December 3, 2014
  5. Hoshino Michiru "A/W Collection ~anata to watashi no Collection~"
    Singer-songwriter idol Hoshino Michiru has a new mini-album out now! This includes both songs from the recently released "Planetarium de mattete ne" 7", one of which features Wack Wack Rhythm Band, and also non-album track "mo ichido déjà vu" (from...
    Posted on November 16, 2014 at 13:37. | Released on November 12, 2014
  6. Hoshino Michiru "Planetarium de mattete ne" (CD+7")
    Hoshino Michiru has a new 7" out now. The title track, which translates to "Wait for me at the planetarium", has music written by Michiru herself. B-side "Peaberry o mitsuketara" (a song previously heard in a different version as the...
    Posted on November 2, 2014 at 16:15. | Released on October 22, 2014
  7. Boogie the Machmotors "Hi! Erectus!"
    Boogie The Machmotors is a 3-piece band from Hakata (Fukuoka prefecture). This new album features Nomiya Maki (on "Eleki-Trick") who has previously toured with them and collaborated on a Halmens tribute album, after which they appeared at her 30th anniversary...
    Posted on August 28, 2014 at 23:46. | Released on August 27, 2014
  8. Game Soundtrack "taiko no tatsujin Original Soundtrack 'Girls Pop Mania'"
    This new mini-compilation soundtrack for long-running hit game "taiko no tatsujin" brings four new songs under the theme "girls pop mania". Featured artists are blue marble, Her Ghost Friend, Phenotas (band of which guitarist/composer Yamamoto Shō has produced songs for...
    Posted on August 14, 2014 at 23:59. | Released on August 13, 2014
  9. NeoBallad "03 ~enishi~"
    Here's a 3rd album by NeoBallad, unit of singer Wakasa Sachi and drummer/producer Kamiryō Wataru (ex-P-Model, Grass Valley), who together perform Japanese traditional songs (minyō) with a techno twist. A one-man event will be held at Koenji High on August...
    Posted on August 7, 2014 at 23:44. | Released on August 8, 2014
  10. Kirinji "11"
    After the Horigome brothers split-up Kirinji last year after the release of "Ten", the younger brother (Yasuyuki) went to start a solo career, but the older one (Takaki) recruited new members to continue Kirinji. Here's their first album of the...
    Posted on August 3, 2014 at 18:14. | Released on August 6, 2014
  11. Teen Runnings "Now"
    Having debuted with "Let's Get Together Again" in 2012 (on Kyoto label Second Royal), here's the 2nd album from Tokyo-based 3-piece band Teen Runnings. This one is being released on Sauna Cool, label that popped up at the end of...
    Posted on July 31, 2014 at 23:40. | Released on July 23, 2014
  12. Emerson Kitamura "Ochi Kochi Ni (in perspective)"
    Emerson Kitamura is an organ/keyboard player who can often be seen on stage playing in support of other artists. Lately he's also a regular member of The Scooters since their comeback in 2012. Not sticking to a particular genre, this...
    Posted on July 12, 2014 at 16:33. | Released on July 16, 2014
  13. Hoshino Michiru "E-I-E-N Voyage"
    After 7" singles being released every month, here finally comes a full-length album from Hoshino Michiru. The whole is again produced by Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar), which promises a groovy pop journey with touches of spacey synths. Four...
    Posted on July 10, 2014 at 21:29. | Released on July 16, 2014
  14. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Pika Pika Fantajin"
    Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a 3rd full-length album coming very soon! "Pika Pika Fantajin" includes singles "Kira Kira Killer", "Family Party" (new album mix), "Yume No Hajima RIng Ring" (new album mix), "Mottai-Nightland" and its B-side "sungoi Aura" (new album...
    Posted on June 28, 2014 at 23:45. | Released on July 9, 2014
  15. Hoshino Michiru "koi no Funfair" (7"+CD)
    Now here's the last of Hoshino Michiru's 7"+CD series, preparing the way for her new album "E-I-E-N Voyage" coming July 16 (stay tuned for details). As always this is produced by Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar). The title track...
    Posted on June 15, 2014 at 14:13. | Released on June 18, 2014
  16. Hoshino Michiru "Back To The Earth ~Live On A Starry Night~" (DVD)
    This is a first live DVD by Hoshino Michiru, presenting parts of the release live for album "hoshi ga Michiru" (July 17, 2013) and her birthday show (November 25, 2013, with VJ Sally Kubota), both held at Aoyama Cay in...
    Posted on May 31, 2014 at 01:05. | Released on June 4, 2014
  17. Hoshino Michiru "ame no naka no Dreamer" (7"+CD)
    Here's one more 7"+CD single by Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48), again produced by Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar). Here the lead track was written by Michiru herself (lyrics co-written by Hase Hajimu). One more single is to follow in June,...
    Posted on May 19, 2014 at 23:01. | Released on May 21, 2014
  18. Towa Tei with Shinichi Osawa "18" (Download)
    Towa Tei is starting to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his solo career, and it seems like a lot might happen this year! First here comes a track made together with Osawa Shinichi, now available on Tei's digital label MachBeat...
    Posted on April 29, 2014 at 10:27. | Released on March 28, 2014
  19. quasimode "My Favorite Songs"
    Jazz band quasimode have a new cover album out now, including covers of Radiohead, Stevie Wonder, Boys Town Gang, Nat King Cole and more. The limited edition comes as a higher quality SHM-CD (plays in normal CD players) and a...
    Posted on April 27, 2014 at 11:22. | Released on April 23, 2014
  20. Nakatsuka Takeshi "Swinger Song Writer"
    Nakatsuka Takeshi (ex-Qypthone) has had an active solo career for some 10 years, and here comes a first greatest hits album that period. Alongside some all-time favorites, new song "Zero no mugen" (released digitally the week before) is included as...
    Posted on April 20, 2014 at 15:58. | Released on April 23, 2014
  21. Hoshino Michiru "rakuen to kisetsufū" (7"+CD)
    Yet another 7" from Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48), the 2nd of a monthly series of 4. A-side "rakuen to kisetsufū" is described as "samba kayō", while B-side is said to be "Savannah Band-style city pop". Both are written and produced by...
    Posted on April 16, 2014 at 22:13. | Released on April 16, 2014
  22. Gig report: Takako Minekawa solo live at Tensai Sansūjuku
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On March 19, Minekawa Takako played a solo show part of a cassette-themed exhibition. Held at Asakusabashi Tensai Sansūjuku, a multipurpose venue, the exhibition showed various artworks made using audio...
    Posted on April 10, 2014 at 22:37.
  23. Mizuka "Marshmallow Closet"
    Follow-up to EP "Marshmallow Glitter" (2012), here's a new full-length album by Nagoya-based idol Mizuka. This album is produced by Okuda Hidetaka (sucrette). The song "KIRAxKIRAxKIRAxKIRA", written and produced by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō, is included in a re-arranged album...
    Posted on March 22, 2014 at 23:29. | Released on February 5, 2014
  24. Yakenohara "Self-Portrait"
    This is an album of various remix works by rapper, DJ and trackmaker Yakenohara. Also included are original tracks he previously contributed to compilations "White Album" and "Pan Pacific Playa Presents 'Old Fashion Vol.1'", including previously unreleased remixes. Check out...
    Posted on March 22, 2014 at 22:41. | Released on March 19, 2014
  25. Hoshino Michiru "hanashite,,," (7"+CD)
    Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48) starts a countdown, with a total of four 7"s to be released one per month until July when her next album will become available. This first single of the series is again produced by the combo of...
    Posted on March 19, 2014 at 23:30. | Released on March 19, 2014
  26. Various Artists "Free Throw Compilation vol.3"
    This is a 2-CD compilation of recent tracks played at rock-oriented DJ event "Free Throw". Considering this track list and the good price, it seems to be a good opportunity to catch up with Japanese indie rock bands that sound...
    Posted on March 19, 2014 at 22:45. | Released on March 19, 2014
  27. Omodaka "Bridge Song"
    Omodaka, the solo project of Terada Sōichi that mixes up chip-tune with Japanese traditional minyō, has a new album out now! That's 12 new tracks available on iTunes worldwide, Amazon MP3 (U.S. & Japan), and also on CD through Amazon...
    Posted on March 12, 2014 at 00:00. | Released on March 12, 2014
  28. Kinbara Chieko "Sunaga t Experience digs Chieko Kinbara ~Chieko Kinbara Jazz Remixes", "Just Like Love Remixes ~Chieko Kinbara House Remixes"
    Two albums related to club scene violinist Kinbara Chieko are being released at the same time. First, Sunaga t Experience (Sunaga Tatsuo) remixes a full album worth of her best tracks into his classy danceable jazz style. It sounds like...
    Posted on February 9, 2014 at 22:12. | Released on February 12, 2014
  29. Various Artists "Disney Rocks!!! Girls Power!"
    This new Disney cover compilation features girls only, from idol groups (such as Dempagumi.inc, BiS, Tokyo Girls' Style, hy4_4yh) to bands (akai kōen) and solo artists (Ōta Emiri, Maika Leboutet), and even Minnie Mouse. In terms of producers, Dempagumi.inc's track...
    Posted on January 19, 2014 at 00:45. | Released on January 22, 2014
  30. yashka "Hotel New Continental"
    yashka is a new 6-piece band fronted by female singer Yoshika. With accordion, violin, and clarinet, the rock band's sound is a borderless mixture of soul, ska, latin, jazz and pop. All songs can be sampled at the official release...
    Posted on January 13, 2014 at 13:19. | Released on January 15, 2014
  31. the fascinations "Green In Blue"
    Recently I had been wondering what the fascinations are up to, and here's a new album! This is the follow-up to "latona" (2009). "Green In Blue" contains plenty of new originals by the vibraphone-led jazz band, as well as covers...
    Posted on January 10, 2014 at 00:15. | Released on December 11, 2013
  32. YMCK "Tokyo Upside Down" (Download)
    YMCK released a new song, now available on iTunes worldwide. It was made especially for the Short Shorts Film Festival, to be used by video creators who want to participate in the music category. Details can be found here. The...
    Posted on January 5, 2014 at 21:14. | Released on December 9, 2013
  33. Especia "YA-ME-TE! / Aventure wa giniro ni"
    Osaka-based idol group Especia has a new single coming, and track "Aventure wa giniro ni" was produced by Maserati Nagisa, unit of LUVRAW (LUVRAW & BTB) and PellyColo (SoundCloud). Especia are one of those few idol groups that are likely...
    Posted on January 4, 2014 at 13:12. | Released on January 8, 2014
  34. "Nintendo Famicom Music"
    Need a NES music fix? Try this recent compilation of music from hit Nintendo games. What distinguishes it from previous releases is that the media conforms to the high quality "Blu-spec CD2" standard (plays in normal CD players), a first...
    Posted on December 31, 2013 at 12:34. | Released on December 4, 2013
  35. Hoshino Michiru "Magic Hour" (7"+CD-R)
    Following spacey album "hoshi ga Michiru", here comes two new songs from Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48). Again this is produced by the winning combination of Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar)! This is released as a limited edition 7" vinyl only,...
    Posted on November 23, 2013 at 22:11. | Released on November 27, 2013
  36. Cornelius "'Ghost In The Shell Arise' Official Soundtrack"
    A few months back Cornelius made the music for theatrical anime "Ghost In The Shell Arise", and here's finally the soundtrack! This includes opening theme "Ghost In The Shell Arise", as well as ending themes "jibun ga inai" (salyu x...
    Posted on November 23, 2013 at 21:53. | Released on November 27, 2013
  37. Various Artists "Couleur Cafe Presents JAZZ ME UP! with 21 jazz standard selected by akiko"
    This jazz standards compilation was selected by jazz singer akiko with a focus on lyrics. Included is a previously unreleased song by akiko. The package comes as a 72-page book with a CD. Some tracks can be sampled on this...
    Posted on November 23, 2013 at 18:58. | Released on November 19, 2013
  38. Moonriders "Modern Music Special Edition"
    The Moonriders' album "Modern Music" (1979) has been re-issued as a special edition with a bonus CD. Each song was newly remixed by different artists including Tokumaru Shūgo, Urbangarde, Riow Arai, little moa, Sawabe Wataru (Skirt) and more. This release...
    Posted on November 15, 2013 at 23:04. | Released on November 6, 2013
  39. Nyantora "High Strangeness" (Download)
    Nyantora, the solo project of Nakamura Kōji aka Nakakō (LAMA, iLL, ex-Supercar), has a new album out now that explores ambient sounds. It is available for download through Bandcamp and DIY Stars. Audio samples at label Sound of Romance Nyantora...
    Posted on September 13, 2013 at 23:21. | Released on September 9, 2013
  40. Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band "Take Me To The Land Of Hell"
    Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band has a new album coming in September. The all-star band features Sean Lennon, Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) and Honda Yuka (Cibo Matto)! Guest musicians include Lenny Kravitz, Nels Cline (Wilco), tUnE-yArDs, Andrew Wyatt (Miike Snow) and...
    Posted on August 25, 2013 at 14:18. | Released on September 12, 2013
  41. Ōta Emiri "Renaissance"
    20-year-old pianist singer-songwriter Ōta Emiri has a new mini-album coming, and it contains 2 songs produced by Konishi Yasuharu ("fune no hito" and "ude no ke"). In 2007 he was judge at a contest where she won the grand prix....
    Posted on August 21, 2013 at 23:15. | Released on August 28, 2013
  42. Sister Jet with Dots+Borders "'New Quad' 2x2=4 / very well L.P."
    Dots+Borders, the legendary unit of Kaji Hideki and Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza, The Cornelius Group, pupa), has teamed up with young rock band Sister Jet for a new album full of British-influenced upbeat tracks. Sister Jet with Dots+Borders "'New...
    Posted on August 11, 2013 at 12:26. | Released on August 7, 2013
  43. Hoshino Michiru "hoshi ga Michiru"
    Idol Hoshino Michiru (ex-AKB48) has a first full-length solo album out now, and it's produced by Hase Hajimu and Satō Seiki (Microstar)! The album Includes a remix by Dub Master X, and the art direction and design was done by...
    Posted on July 27, 2013 at 21:03. | Released on July 17, 2013
  44. The Aprils "High-Flying Girl"
    This is a brand new EP from The Aprils! "High-Flying Girl" is a song that first appeared on NHK show "dai! tensai TV-kun" (official soundtrack info), but here it is presented in a self-cover version. Also included is short introduction...
    Posted on July 7, 2013 at 20:17. | Released on July 3, 2013
  45. 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.
  46. Vanilla Beans "Muscat Slope Love"
    Vanilla Beans have a new single coming, this time a new song produced by Kaji Hideki who Rena and Lisa like to call "Mr. Sweden". This release follows album "Vanilla Beans III" released in November 2012, while the previous single...
    Posted on May 3, 2013 at 14:17. | Released on May 8, 2013
  47. Gig report: Joy Ride vol.133: soyuz project, CTO LAB., NeoBallad
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday April 19 was the 133rd edition (!) of electro-themed event series "Joy Ride" that started in 2006. That's an average of 2+ events per month! I went to...
    Posted on April 25, 2013 at 23:18.
  48. Muro "Diggin' Salsoul Breaks"
    Following Towa Tei's recent Salsoul mix CD, here comes another one from DJ Muro. This features a unique selection by the "King of Diggin'", and the right dose of his top mixing skills. The art direction was done by Shindō...
    Posted on April 21, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on April 10, 2013
  49. Various Artists "NHK CD dai! tensai terebi-kun MTK the 17th"
    This latest soundtrack for NHK kids program "dai! tensai terebi-kun" (aka "TV-kun") has tracks produced by Takanami Keitarō ("sora to umi no hikari"), Kamomiya Ryō ("bokuntoko koi Blues") (both ex-Pizzicato Five), The Aprils ("High Flying Girl"), Omodaka, Okii Reiji (Scott...
    Posted on February 25, 2013 at 23:35. | Released on March 6, 2013
  50. Isao Tomita "Symphony Ihatov"
    Composer and synthesizer artist Tomita Isao meets Hatsune Miku, put in the middle of an orchestra of over 300 (including choir) for this symphony performed on stage. This album was recorded live on November 23, 2012 at Tokyo Opera City,...
    Posted on January 19, 2013 at 00:13. | Released on January 23, 2013
  51. Nona Reeves "Hippy Christmas / Live Thirteen"
    Nona Reeves have been making a tradition of doing a Christmas show every year at Shibuya Club Quattro, and year 2012 saw its 14th edition. This live album release is of the show from the previous year (the 13th) held...
    Posted on January 2, 2013 at 21:18. | Released on December 19, 2012
  52. 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.
  53. Chocolat "No Regrets"
    Chocolat has been singing for 15 years, and this is an album of her greatest hits, songs written by the likes of Kaji Hideki, Kanda Tomoki, Horigome Takaki (Kirinji), Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza), and more. Also included is brand...
    Posted on December 20, 2012 at 00:03. | Released on December 12, 2012
  54. Sekitova "premature moon and the shooting star"
    Sekitova is a high school student DJ and deep-house artist who debuted last year on acclaimed net label Maltine Records. He has now started his own label, Zamstak, of which the first release is his own album. Definitely worth a...
    Posted on December 12, 2012 at 23:48. | Released on December 5, 2012
  55. Polysics "Weeeeeeeeee!!!"
    Polysics have a new album out now! 14 songs including recent singles "Lucky Star" and "Everybody Say No". The limited edition contains a bonus DVD with these two videos as well as a documentary about how they decide of a...
    Posted on December 12, 2012 at 23:33. | Released on December 5, 2012
  56. Various Artists "Speedking Vol.5"
    J-death-techno label Speedking Productions brings a 5th edition of its popular "Speedking" compilation series! This 2-CD release features the latest tracks by Bubble-B, Yoshida Tetsuto, m2dy (aka m1dy), Missile Chewbacca and many more. Various Artists "Speedking Vol.5" Disc 1 (Title...
    Posted on November 20, 2012 at 21:56. | Released on November 21, 2012
  57. 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
  58. 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
  59. 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
  60. 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
  61. 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
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. 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
  65. 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
  66. 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
  67. 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
  68. 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
  69. Zoobombs "The Sweet Passion"
    Here's a 10th album from worldwide-acclaimed rock band Zoobombs, 6 years since their previous "B★B★B". This album is planned for release this fall in the U.S., Canada and Australia, and a world tour should be held around the same time....
    Posted on June 4, 2012 at 21:50. | Released on June 6, 2012
  70. Meg "La japonaise"
    This new album by Meg, who had escaped to France for a while, is mainly a collection of anime covers previously released on iTunes in France only. Included are tracks produced by Konishi Yasuharu, Nakata Yasutaka (capsule), 2 ANIMEny DJs...
    Posted on April 22, 2012 at 11:51. | Released on April 25, 2012
  71. Gig report: Tokyo eleport 006: The Aprils, Candles, Cutie Pai, ExceNtRip
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On April 12 was the 6th event of the "Tokyo eleport" series organized by indies techno-pop unit Candles. It was held at Shibuya Star lounge, a quite nice venue I...
    Posted on April 14, 2012 at 17:05.
  72. 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
  73. 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
  74. Gig report: Love And Hates "L.A.H." release party
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Sunday, February 5, was the release party for Love And Hates' 1st album "L.A.H." The event was held at Shinjuku Marz, starting at 5pm and to finish around 10!...
    Posted on February 14, 2012 at 21:41.
  75. 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.
  76. 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.
  77. 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.
  78. Clémentine "Varientine"
    After various anime covers, now you can hear Clémentine singing Imokin Trio's "High School Lullaby", Epo's "Downtown", The Drifters, and even "Maru-Maru-Mori-Mori" in her usual bossa nova style. Check out her charming cover of Crazy Cats' "sūdara bushi" (in French...
    Posted on August 4, 2011 at 00:11. | Released on August 3, 2011
  79. 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.
  80. Gig report: CTO LAB. Presents Tokyo Outbound #01, with (M)otocompo, Shampoo
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Monday June 27 was an event organized by CTO LAB. at Koenji High, a good venue for which I've heard many praises for its good sound and tall stage....
    Posted on July 4, 2011 at 00:18.
  81. Yellow Magic Orchestra "YMO"
    Here's yet another greatest hits album from Yellow Magic Orchestra selected by the 3 members. Worth of mention are the inclusions of HASYMO's "Tokyo Town Pages" (2008) and some tracks from live albums (tracks 4, 5 from "Faker Holic" and...
    Posted on June 4, 2011 at 01:16. | Released on June 15, 2011
  82. "Tokyo Idol Festival 2010" (DVD)
    Here is a live DVD set (2 discs) of event Tokyo Idol Festival 2010 ("TIF") held last August 7-8, which featured some 45 up-and-coming idol groups. Included are 6 or 7 songs with Vanilla Beans, making this much worth of...
    Posted on February 7, 2011 at 23:22. | Released on February 9, 2011
  83. YO!HEY!! "Cult Club Manners Vol.1: Fantazy Mix"
    Out this Friday on HNC's White Lily Records is the first of a mix album series, on which YO!HEY!! shows how hip-hop and indie rock go together. YO!HEY!! is one of the three members of Threepee Boys who contributed a...
    Posted on February 2, 2011 at 23:29. | Released on February 4, 2011
  84. Nakano Aya "zurui hito"
    Trying to move on to 2011 but here's something I had failed noticing from last year. 25-year-old hostess Nakano Aya has a debut album released at the end of November that was produced by Hase Hajimu, consisting of various covers...
    Posted on January 3, 2011 at 21:30. | Released on November 24, 2010
  85. Gig report: CTO LAB., Candles, Hi-5, spoon+
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Monday (December 27) was my first occasion to see CTO LAB., a side-unit of Imai Kentarō (The Aprils), polymoog (Elektel) and Okada Tōru (Moonriders), which I had been wanting...
    Posted on December 31, 2010 at 17:46.
  86. 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
  87. Cornelius "Fantasma" (2CD+DVD)
    It's been 13 years since the release of "Fantasma", Cornelius' masterpiece that won him worldwide recognition. Here it is reissued entirely remastered, by none other than Sunahara Yoshinori! The limited edition comes with a bonus CD of rare tracks, remixes...
    Posted on October 30, 2010 at 15:57. | Released on November 3, 2010
  88. Gig report: Fantastic Explosion "Sounds In Space" release party
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last week, on Friday October 22, was Fantastic Explosion's release party for new mini-album "Sounds In Space". The event was held at heavysick ZERO, a small-sized 2-floor club in Nakano,...
    Posted on October 30, 2010 at 11:39.
  89. Nomiya Maki "Pink no kokoro + 2" (SHM-CD)
    First released in 1981 (almost 30 years ago!), Nomiya Maki's debut album as a new wave idol, "Pink no kokoro", is being reissued (again), this time with 2 rare live tracks as a bonus. This is a great album produced...
    Posted on October 11, 2010 at 11:19. | Released on October 20, 2010
  90. Tropico Q "Hard Rock PAFE"
    What's hidden behind this strange name? It's the new unit of Plus-tech Squeeze Box' Hayashibe Tomonori, together with Maeda Ryōma. This album is all covers of hard rock songs you've heard before, but redone in electro-dance fashion, all featuring vocals...
    Posted on September 20, 2010 at 21:10. | Released on September 22, 2010
  91. 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.
  92. Gig report: Rogue Wave vol.1
    Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Tuesday after a rough day at work, I headed to Shindaita Fever (Shindaita is the station next to Shimokitazawa), a venue I had yet never been to. There was...
    Posted on May 30, 2010 at 23:00.
  93. 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
  94. Gig report: Aira Mitsuki one-man live at Liquidroom
    Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Aira Mitsuki keeps taking techno-pop to a higher level, always in a way that I like. Yesterday she performed a one-man show at Liquidroom in Ebisu, backed from start to finish by...
    Posted on May 7, 2010 at 00:12.
  95. Roman Porsche. "nusunda Bike de amagigoe"
    Comical new wave (?) two-guy unit Roman Porsche (MySpace) have a new album coming, after about 6 years. Member Okite Porsche, who is an active figure in the idol world, has recently been supporting Vanilla Beans who find themselves here...
    Posted on April 17, 2010 at 00:52. | Released on April 21, 2010
  96. Various Artists "SPUNKY! Mixed by matzz (quasimode)"
    Here's a first mix CD by Matsuoka "matzz" Takahiro, percussionist for club-jazz unit quasimode (MySpace). The theme here is to recreate the ambiance of his popular DJ party "Spunky!" held at The Room in Shibuya. Included are recent tracks as...
    Posted on March 9, 2010 at 23:52. | Released on March 3, 2010
  97. Yuka Honda "Heart Chamber Phantoms"
    Yuka Honda (Cibo Matto) has a brand new 3rd solo album out this week on John Zorn's Tzadik label! This succeeds "Eucademix" (2004) and "Memories Are My Only Witness" (2002), both truly brilliant electronic music albums that give high expectations...
    Posted on January 25, 2010 at 22:10. | Released on January 26, 2010
  98. 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
  99. Various Artists "Speedking presents: 8bit Rave"
    From Japan's first "death techno" label SPEEDKING comes this 8-bit Famicom/Gameboy chip-tune compilation featuring Yoshida Tetsuto, BUBBLE-B, KPLECRAFT, Cherryboy Function, Bokusatsu Shoujo Koubou and many more. See the promo sampler clip at YouTube below. This comes out at the same...
    Posted on October 8, 2009 at 21:40. | Released on October 21, 2009
  100. DG-10 "DG-10" (Download)
    Out at the same time as DG-10's "Love Synthesizer!" was another 3-song self-titled EP sold as a limited edition only at online shop (Tora no ana). Now this one is available on iTunes Japan too! This contains a cover of...
    Posted on October 4, 2009 at 00:59. | Released on September 18, 2009

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