The Beatniks "Exitentialist A Xie Xie"
The Beatniks, the unit of Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO, Metafive) and Suzuki Keiichi (The Moonriders), is about to release a 5th album! "Exitentialist A Xie Xie" is the follow-up to "Last Train To Exitown". Included are 10 songs with sounds that...
Posted on April 30, 2018 at 20:37. | Released on May 9, 2018
Pearl Brothers "uma no you ni"
Pearl Brothers (Japanese name "Pearl kyōdai"), a famous rock/new wave band formed in the early 80's, has recently been active with five of its original members, and now here comes a new mini-album! In addition to two new songs and...
Posted on April 22, 2018 at 21:23. | Released on April 25, 2018
Record Store Day 2018
Record Store Day 2018 is coming up this weekend! Like every year many Japanese artists, labels and shops get involved, and many exciting releases will appear on the shelves on Saturday morning. Here's a selection that Tokyo's Coolest Sound readers...
Posted on April 16, 2018 at 23:40. | Released on April 21, 2018
Shonen Knife "Alive! in Osaka"
Shonen Knife has just released a new live album, recorded at Fandango in Osaka on December 22, 2017. This show was performed by Naoko, Atsuko and Risa. It seems that an overseas edition is also to be released on May...
Posted on March 29, 2018 at 22:41. | Released on March 14, 2018
SOLEIL "My Name is SOLEIL"
After having debuted last year with single "Pinky Fluffy", band SOLEIL is already back with a first full-length major album! This consists of only new previously unreleased songs, and matching the band's 60's style all was recorded and mixed in...
Posted on March 7, 2018 at 23:58. | Released on March 21, 2018
Emerson Kitamura "The Countryside is Great e.p." (12")
"Bangkok Nites" is a Japanese movie released in 2016. EM Records, the label that released the soundtrack, has been also releasing a series of tribute 12" EPs. This last installment is by keyboardist Emerson Kitamura. "inaka wa iine" is a...
Posted on February 18, 2018 at 12:13. | Released on February 17, 2018
lyrical school "'Take Me Out' on Dec 16"
Rap idol group lyrical school has a first live album being released, of a show held on December 16, 2017, at Liquidroom in Ebisu, Tokyo. Included are live opening song "debayashi" as well as previously unreleased live favorites "(Get Around!)...
Posted on February 5, 2018 at 23:06. | Released on February 14, 2018
Milli Milli Bar "My Sweet Seventeen" (Download)
Milli Milli Bar (Twitter) is the new band featuring pianist/singer-songwriter Yafune Tetsurō and singer Mia Nascimento (ex-Especia), with bassist Hishikawa Kōtarō and Sugata Naoto. Already having played some shows in Tokyo (some of which can be watched on YouTube)...
Posted on January 19, 2018 at 22:52. | Released on January 19, 2018
Vanilla Beans "Necco ~watashi no mono~" (Download)
Vanilla Beans never stop surprising! Today they suddenly released a brand new song on iTunes worldwide, and it's sung in Korean! Filed under K-Pop, the song actually has a Swedish-style soft rock sound with pizzicato strings that should perk...
Posted on December 20, 2017 at 21:19. | Released on December 20, 2017
The Aprils "Astro +Early Works"
The Aprils' debut album "Astro" was released on Usagi-chang Records in 2003 and had long been discontinued. Now it's back all newly remastered and reworked using the latest technology, sounding better than ever before. In addition, rare bonus tracks such...
Posted on November 22, 2017 at 23:00. | Released on November 15, 2017
Gig report: "Shibuya no Radio no Shibuya-kei Festival"
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Saturday October 21, 2017 was held a very special music event for Shibuya-kei music fans. Shibuya ward organizes annually a music festival called "Shibuya ongakusai" (or "Shibu-on", official site) and for...
Posted on October 28, 2017 at 11:43.
Stardust Brothers "hoshikuzu kyoudai no densetsu" (Download)
An exciting sci-fi rock musical movie titled "The Brand New Legend of the Stardust Brothers" directed by Macoto Tezka (son of Tezuka Osamu famous for "Astro Boy") will start showing in theaters in Japan in January 2018! It will...
Posted on October 5, 2017 at 23:28. | Released on October 4, 2017
fox capture plan "UNTITLED"
Instrumental jazz trio fox capture plan has a 6th album being released. This is the follow-up to "Fragile" released last January, since which they also released Disney cover album "Rock In Disney ~fox capture plan" (Amazon). A tour will be...
Posted on October 1, 2017 at 14:38. | Released on October 4, 2017
Soleil "Pinky Fluffy" (7"+CD)
SOLEIL is a brand new band produced by Sally Kubota (Sally Soul Stew, ex-Les 5-4-3-2-1, The Phantom Gift), and led by the 14-year-old singer of the same name: Soleil! Their first release comes as a single (7"+CD) of original song...
Posted on September 2, 2017 at 11:48. | Released on September 20, 2017
Various Artists "Throw Away Your CDs Go Out To A Show"
Call And Response Records has a new compilation out now! Curated by Ian Martin, author of the book "Quit Your Band! Musical Notes from the Japanese Underground", this album features 17 bands from various areas of Japan, revolving around genres...
Posted on August 20, 2017 at 00:37. | Released on August 16, 2017
Wednesday Campanella "Nippon Budokan kouen ~hakkaku uchuu~" (Blu-ray)
It's hard to believe that this is the first video release by Wednesday Campanella (aka suiyoubi no Campanella), known for their high-energy shows that have a good dose of surprise! This Blu-ray is of a live show held at famous...
Posted on July 31, 2017 at 23:16. | Released on July 26, 2017
lyrical school "natsuyasumi no Baby"
lyrical school, who are now five after three new members joined recently, have a summer-themed single being released this month. Aside from the regular edition listed below, there are five (!) limited editions, each of which includes a bonus drama...
Posted on July 10, 2017 at 00:04. | Released on July 18, 2017
Chie & The Wolf Baits "Chie & The Wolf Baits"
Chie & The Wolf Baits is a rock'n'roll girl trio led by Learners' guitarist Horiguchi Chie. This first album comes in a mini-LP sleeve with a 12-page booklet. HMV gives away a signed 7" sleeve (while supplies last). On June...
Posted on June 16, 2017 at 22:43. | Released on June 21, 2017
Cornelius "Mellow Waves"
A brand new album by Cornelius (international site) is coming at the end of June! Announced a few months ago and preceded by the release of two 7" singles, here comes "Mellow Waves", the long awaited follow-up to "Sensuous" (2006)!...
Posted on June 10, 2017 at 23:34. | Released on June 28, 2017
little moa "Trampoline"
little moa is a trio formed of singer Okada Shion, keyboardist 5MBS, and euphonium player Kanna. This 2nd album is the follow-up to "good evening" (2013, Rallye Label), and features appearances by Iceland-based French singer Olèna, singer-songwriter Matsuki Ayumu, and...
Posted on May 6, 2017 at 12:18. | Released on May 31, 2017
Record Store Day 2017
Record Store Day 2017 will be taking place this weekend, on Saturday April 22! As usual, many limited releases will be available at record shops only from that date. Below is a selection of some of the best stuff that...
Posted on April 18, 2017 at 22:15. | Released on April 22, 2017
De De Mouse "dream you up"
Dé Dé Mouse (who now writes his name with accents aigus) has a new album coming soon! This is his 6th album, and the follow-up to "farewell holiday!" (2015). Included are 11 songs, one of which is a collaboration with...
Posted on April 9, 2017 at 21:39. | Released on April 12, 2017
Various Artists "Toy Chara Pop Collection Vol.1~3 Selected by DJ Fukutake"
DJ Fukutake, who selected the great "Yava-kayō" mix CD series, is back with this trio of compilations under a "Toy Character Pop" theme! Respectively subtitled "Hero & Hit", "Fancy & Kawaii" and "Video Game", each compilation is filled with Shōwa-era...
Posted on April 1, 2017 at 22:26. | Released on March 22, 2017
Learners "More Learners"
Learners, the 5-piece rockabilly band featuring Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji and singer Sara Mary, has a brand new 2nd album being released this week! Included are many covers, and also 3 original songs. A release party will be held on February...
Posted on January 30, 2017 at 21:29. | Released on January 31, 2017
Emerson Kitamura "Rock'n Roll No Hajimari Ha"
Synth and keyboard lovers should find it hard to resist to Emerson Kitamura! This new album of 6 songs is the follow up to "Ochi Kochi Ni (in perspective)" (2014), and consists of more delectable instrumental pieces, mostly originals but...
Posted on December 16, 2016 at 00:36. | Released on December 14, 2016
Nakano Aya "Mambo Alc.0.00% feat. Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys" (CD+7")
Nakano Aya's new single is a song featuring Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys! The song was written by Comoesta Yaegashi and Fukuhara Mari with lyrics by Paradise Yamamoto. The B-side is a cover of Etta James' "Seven Day Fool", and features...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 16:51. | Released on December 14, 2016
"lyrical school no michi to no sōgū" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Earlier this year rap idol group lyrical school made a sci-fi-themed movie that was shown in theaters in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya, and has now just been released on Blu-ray and DVD. While working in a Tokyo record shop to...
Posted on December 10, 2016 at 13:05. | Released on December 7, 2016
Negicco "Negicco at NHK Hall ~ TADAIMA ~ 2016 Summer" (Blu-ray)
Negicco is releasing a Blu-ray disc of their latest big show, held at NHK Hall in Tokyo on July 30, 2016. All songs from latest album "Tea for Three" were performed live, as well as many other favorites. The entire...
Posted on November 26, 2016 at 00:23. | Released on November 29, 2016
Agata Morio "kindai Rock"
Singer-songwriter Agata Morio has a brand new album out today! The album was sound-produced by Suzuki Sōichirō (World Standard). Check out the sampler clip below. A special show will be held on November 28 at Shibuya WWW, following shows in...
Posted on November 18, 2016 at 00:12. | Released on November 18, 2016
Dorusen from TPD "sensei no okiniiri"
Here's a brand new catchy rocking pop track written and produced by Konishi Yasuharu! Dorusen from TPD, a sub-unit of idol group Tokyo Performance Doll, sings the ending theme of school-themed drama series "Debusen". The title translates to "the...
Posted on September 15, 2016 at 22:53. | Released on September 21, 2016
Nomiya Maki "otoko to onna 'Un Homme et Une Femme' ~ Nomiya Maki, French Shibuya-kei o utau."
Nomiya Maki has a brand new album just about to be released! This album has a theme of "French Shibuya-kei", highlighting bits of the French culture that influenced the Shibuya-kei scene. This is a 2-CD release of both a studio...
Posted on August 29, 2016 at 23:22. | Released on August 31, 2016
YeYe "hito"
Singer-songwriter YeYe has a 3rd album out this week, follow-up to the brilliant "Hue Circle" (2013, CDJapan)! This includes latest single "ate a lemon". Check out its video below and also the sampler clip of all songs from the new...
Posted on July 12, 2016 at 20:41. | Released on July 13, 2016
Learners "Absolute Learners" (Photo book+Download code)
Learners is the rockabilly band led by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji, and featuring singer Sara Mary, guitarist Chie, with bassist Masamichi Hamada (Quattro) and drummer TA-1 (Koncos). Here comes a 116-page photo book that covers their first year since their first...
Posted on June 12, 2016 at 23:55. | Released on June 15, 2016
Rocketman "I'm Music"
Fukawa Ryō is back with his long-time Rocketman monicker, with a new released described as a tropical pop summer anthem album. An autograph session will be held at Tower Records Shibuya on June 4 from 13:00. Other upcoming events include...
Posted on May 31, 2016 at 23:09. | Released on June 1, 2016
No Lie-Sense "Japan's Period"
No Lie-Sense (official Facebook page), the unit of Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders) and Kera, has released a 2nd album. Opening with a cover of the theme song from movie "kimi mo shusse ga dekiru", the album is filled with originals taking...
Posted on May 4, 2016 at 23:25. | Released on April 20, 2016
Scha Dara Parr "Ani Shinbou"
Scha Dara Parr has released a mini-album of 6 recent previously unreleased tracks. The title is made of the three members' names (Ani, Shinco and Bose). The limited edition includes a bonus DVD of live and music videos. Check out...
Posted on April 30, 2016 at 20:06. | Released on April 20, 2016
Piggy Banks "Time Thriller"
Piggy Banks is a new girl rock band formed in 2015 with singer Yoko, guitarist Keme (Kinoco Hotel, Tokyo Killer) and bassist Akko (Tokyo Killer, ex-GO!GO!7188). Their first album is out now! Piggy Banks are now touring Japan, and will...
Posted on April 19, 2016 at 23:53. | Released on April 6, 2016
Denki Groove "Denki Groove The Movie?" (Blu-ray/DVD), "tofunsai" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Denki Groove has released two Blu-ray/DVDs just recently! The first is "Denki Groove The Movie", a documentary of the group's 25 years so far that was shown on big screens throughout Japan at the end of 2015. This features a...
Posted on April 13, 2016 at 00:27. | Released on March 30, 2016
FPM "Motions (Best Killer Remixes & Produce works by FPM)" (3CD)
FPM is still celebrating his 20th anniversary, and following greatest hits album "Moments" here comes a 3-CD set of tracks he has produced or remixed for other artists. Some rare and previously unreleased tracks are also included. The album's first...
Posted on March 12, 2016 at 00:56. | Released on March 16, 2016
Especia "Carta"
Osaka 80's style idol group Especia has a brand new album coming this month! Included are songs written by Fujii Naoyuki (ex-Checkers), Rillsoul, Schtein & Longer, PellyColo, with the rest mainly written by Hi-Fi City. The album is being released...
Posted on February 16, 2016 at 00:11. | Released on February 24, 2016
Denki Groove "Denki Groove The Movie? -The Music Selection-"
Denki Groove's official documentary movie "Denki Groove The Movie" is being screened in theaters throughout Japan since December 26 for a limited time. The movie is full of rare footage covering the band's history since it was founded in 1989....
Posted on December 31, 2015 at 21:51. | Released on December 23, 2015
Sexy-Synthesizer "Space"
Sexy-Synthesizer is back with brand new album "Space"! It had been 8 years since previous album "Rock" (2007) which was released in several forms meanwhile. "Space" has a concept of shooting game music, and comes as a mini-LP package of...
Posted on December 30, 2015 at 22:22. | Released on December 9, 2015
Learners "Learners"
Learners is the newest band of Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Cubismo Grafico Five), together fronted by model/singer Sara Mary (half-American half-Japanese). Following the release of three 7" singles, here comes their first full-length album, consisting of mainly covers. They have a...
Posted on December 23, 2015 at 13:57. | Released on December 16, 2015
comoestas "Twist and Dodonpa" (7")
comoestas, the solo unit of Comoesta Yaegashi (Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys), has a brand new 7" single out now! As hints title "Twist and Dodonpa", comoestas made two tunes of the two different styles, but of course in his...
Posted on December 6, 2015 at 15:29. | Released on November 11, 2015
Reina & The Blue Valentines "First Recital in Shibuya"
Reina & The Blue Valentines, who released their first album "Lady or Girl?" last February, now offer a live album that comes with both CD and DVD. This is of their first one-man show that was held on April 25,...
Posted on October 31, 2015 at 23:26. | Released on November 3, 2015
Various Artists "G.I.R.L.S RAP"
As the title says, this is a compilation that will let you catch a glimpse of some of the best acts in Japan's constantly growing girl rap scene. Featured are Tokyo's Coolest Sound favorites such as Bakubaku Dokin, Noppal, idol...
Posted on September 20, 2015 at 15:53. | Released on September 16, 2015
Recoride "Freshless"
Brilliant synth-punk band Recoride has a brand new full-length album out now! Check out the clip below to give you a perfect idea. A double release party of Recoride and KOTO will be held tomorrow Friday July 17 at Disk...
Posted on July 16, 2015 at 21:38. | Released on July 15, 2015
Tokyo Killer "Tokyo Killer Street"
Tokyo Killer is a girl-fronted surf rock instrumental band formed of guitarist Keme (Kinoco Hotel), bassist Akko (ex-GO!GO!7188), keyboardist Kei (Urbangarde) and drummer Kyōichi (ex-Urbangarde). This first album, released at the end of April, features some famous covers as well...
Posted on May 24, 2015 at 22:53. | Released on April 22, 2015
petit milady "cheri*cheri? milady!!"
Follow-up to last year's "petit miladear", here's a 2nd album by unit petit milady of voice actresses Yuki Aoi and Taketatsu Ayana. Once again most songs are produced by Satō Seiki (microstar). The album comes in 3 different editions. Limited...
Posted on May 23, 2015 at 17:31. | Released on May 13, 2015
Sunaga t experience "STE"
Next week will bring us a brand new 5th album by Sunaga t Experience, DJ Sunaga Tatsuo's long-running jazz solo project. This year marks Sunaga's 30th anniversary as a DJ! Featured musicians include Scha Dara Parr, YOU THE ROCK★, ECD,...
Posted on May 15, 2015 at 23:27. | Released on May 20, 2015
Cypress Ueno & Roberto Yoshino "Condor"
Rapper duo Cypress Ueno & Roberto Yoshino have a new album out now! The album features guests such as Bose (Scha Dara Parr) and Zen-La-Rock among others. Various producers participated, with one track produced by Halfby. HMV gives away a...
Posted on April 4, 2015 at 00:00. | Released on April 1, 2015
Tweedees "The Sound Sounds."
Tweedees is a brand new band formed of Okii Reiji (Scott Goes For, Frog, ex-Cymbals) with 24-year-old singer/actress Kiyoura Natsumi. Check out the video below, and hear other audio samples at CDJapan. The song "KLING! KLANG!!" is available in advance...
Posted on March 15, 2015 at 13:16. | Released on March 18, 2015
Various Artists "Yaba-kayō 2 Non-stop DJ Mix -TV Theme hen- Mixed by DJ Fukutake"
Following the success of compilation "Yaba-kayō" (sometimes better spelled "Yava-kayō"), here comes a follow-up that's full of songs once heard on TV, mainly in the 70's and 80's. Another common point is that they're all groovy as can be, and...
Posted on February 22, 2015 at 22:43. | Released on February 25, 2015
akiko "Rockin' jivin' swingin'"
Jazz singer akiko has a brand new album out now, of rockin', jivin' and swingin' songs (as the title says!) from the 40's and 50's. Featured musicians include Gentle Forest Jazz Band, Blue Moon Quartet, Fats & Fats, and also...
Posted on February 8, 2015 at 20:09. | Released on February 4, 2015
Count Joke "bird man c/w ameagari" (7"+CD)
Count Joke (aka jōdan hakushaku) (Facebook page) is the unit of Maezono Naoki and Arai Toshiya. Starting this January they are releasing a series of 7"'s (coming with a bonus CD) of songs limitedly released on CD throughout last year....
Posted on February 6, 2015 at 23:50. | Released on January 28, 2015
Reina & The Blue Valentines "Lady or Girl?"
After the release of two 7" singles, here's a first album by Reina & The Blue Valentines, girl band fronted by Nosa Reina (whose latest solo album "don't kiss, but yes" was produced by Takanami K-tarō (ex-Pizzicato Five)) and formed...
Posted on February 6, 2015 at 21:56. | Released on February 11, 2015
Scha Dara Parr "1212"
It's been about 6 years since Scha Dara Parr's previous album, "11" (2009), and here comes a brand new one! This 12th album features 12 new songs including collaborations with girl rock band Chatmonchy, talent Shimizu Michiko and also longtime...
Posted on January 26, 2015 at 21:23. | Released on January 28, 2015
clammbon "Why not clammbon!? ~ clammbon Tribute"
This recently released clammbon tribute album features a great amount of like-minded artists, including Buffalo Daughter, salyu x salyu, Nona Reeves, Tokyo No.1 Soul Set, GREAT3, Hanaregumi, Rekishi and more. Check out the trailer clip below, and hear samples of...
Posted on December 31, 2014 at 17:53. | Released on December 3, 2014
Kojima Mayumi "On the Road"
Kojima Mayumi has a 9th album out now! Her back-band features Kaji Hideki on bass, with guest appearances by Asa-chang and others. All songs are originals. Her "last show of the year" is to be held on December 18 at...
Posted on December 7, 2014 at 14:47. | Released on December 3, 2014
Reina & The Blue Valentines "Space Camera" (7"+CD-R+DVD)
Nosa Reina's band has a 2nd 7" out now. Both songs are brand new originals. Included is a CD-R (probably of the same content) autographed by Reina, and a DVD of herself playing unreleased song "Star Ocean" on ukulele. A...
Posted on December 4, 2014 at 21:21. | Released on November 19, 2014
Nomiya Maki "Miss Maki Nomiya Sings Shibuya-kei Standards"
A waterfall of events led Nomiya Maki (ex-Pizzicato Five) and producer Sakaguchi Osamu (a soundtrack producer who first got in touch with Maki in the Portable Rock days) to start a project that re-introduces Shibuya-kei hit songs and important influences...
Posted on November 8, 2014 at 14:26. | Released on November 12, 2014
U-zhaan "Tabla Rock Mountain"
Tabla musician U-zhaan (formerly of Asa-chang & Junray) has a first solo album out now. Featured are guest artists Sakamoto Ryūichi (on a cover of YMO's "Technopolis"), Cornelius, Hanaregumi, De De Mouse, Hifana, Kakato (Tamaki Roy & Chinza Dopeness), Ametsub...
Posted on October 23, 2014 at 22:49. | Released on October 8, 2014
Especia "Viva Discoteca Especia 2014" (DVD)
Osaka-based city-pop idol group Especia had a new live DVD out now, of a show held on June 1st, 2014 at Umeda Club Quattro in Osaka. In this show, they were backed by a live band of 8 musicians. The...
Posted on October 22, 2014 at 22:10. | Released on October 1, 2014
Quruli "The Pier"
Band Quruli has an 11th album coming this week! The limited edition comes with a 7"-sized 300-page booklet of all of the songs' sheet music, and also a download code for song "Liberty&Gravity" in an "hi-res" audio format. HMV gives...
Posted on September 14, 2014 at 22:45. | Released on September 17, 2014
Funassyi "Boogie Boogie Funassyi -Funassyi Official Theme Song 2-"
Funabashi city's unofficial (though insanely popular) mascot Funassyi has a 2nd single coming. This one includes as a B-side the song "Funassyi no kaimono wasshoi!" produced by Konishi Yasuharu recently, first advertised as to be only available on YouTube. Title...
Posted on August 17, 2014 at 22:54. | Released on August 20, 2014
Kemio & Amigachu "Kerokero"
Konishi Yasuharu produces another debut single, this time for teen male model Kemio. The title track is an original song written by Okuda Tamio, while the B-side is a cover of rocker Imawano Kiyoshirō's "boku no me wa neko no...
Posted on August 8, 2014 at 23:48. | Released on August 13, 2014
nananon "Nana Nana Non Non"
Some new sounds from Konishi Yasuharu coming this August! First is duo nananon formed of idol/actress/model Nana (aka Naabōdōfu@Nana) and model Maeda Nozomi, who are 20 and 21 respectively (with birthdays on June 17 and 16). They're often told they...
Posted on August 8, 2014 at 23:13. | Released on August 12, 2014
KANADe "TARIKi" (Download)
KANADe is the unit of Honda Michiyo (ex-Overrocket) and T-AK (Okazaki Takashi). Following the release of single "Happy & Sad" last month, here's a mini-album that includes the song as well as 5 new others, and two remixes. KANADe "TARIKi"...
Posted on July 30, 2014 at 21:49. | Released on July 30, 2014
ryo fukawa "life is music 2"
ryō fukawa (aka Rocketman) has a new album out this week, his second release under his real name. This album features guest singers Mizuno Mari (paris match) and Cana (Sotte Bosse) among others, with a cover of "love theme from...
Posted on July 22, 2014 at 23:10. | Released on July 23, 2014
Buffalo Daughter "Konjac-tion"
Here comes a brand new original album by Buffalo Daughter, follow-up to "The Weapons of Math Destruction" (2010). The new album has a theme of "block party" and comes as a set of 2 CDs, one of the original new...
Posted on July 20, 2014 at 17:56. | Released on July 23, 2014
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
fox capture plan "Wall"
fox capture plan, the instrumental jazz-rock trio of Kishimoto Ryo (Jabberloop), Kawai Hidehiro (Immigrant's Bossa Band) and Inoue Tsukasa (direction of the chord, nhhmbase), have a 3rd album coming this month. While mostly consisting of originals, covers of Radiohead's "Paranoid...
Posted on July 6, 2014 at 14:05. | Released on July 9, 2014
KANADe "Happy & Sad" (Download)
KANADe is the new unit of Honda Michiyo (ex-Overrocket) and T-AK (Okazaki Takashi). Both born in Kyoto, they met in London and then again in Tokyo where they started this new project. Their first single "Happy & Sad" was...
Posted on June 28, 2014 at 22:28. | Released on June 25, 2014
Children Coup d'État "Fear of Liberty"
Formed in 1982 in Kyoto, Children Coup d'État is an improvisation/rock/jazz band led by bandmaster/bassist Hosoi Hisato. Currently the band still features two other original members, drummer Maebuchi Norihide (who also played in Modern Choki Chokies, etc.) and violinist K-ko,...
Posted on June 22, 2014 at 22:43. | Released on June 20, 2014
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
Old Monk "Posing as Love" (12"+download code)
Brooklyn 3-piece indie rock band Old Monk has a 2nd album out now! Their bassist is Tsugumi Takashi (ex-PINE*am), which is more than enough of a reason to mention them here. Well of course they're truly great too, so check...
Posted on June 10, 2014 at 23:41. | Released on June 10, 2014
Vanilla Beans "watashi... fukō guse"
Vanilla Beans have a new single out today! The title track is a Shōwa-kayō style song with a Motown beat flavor. The B-side is an electro-rock track. This release has two different limited editions. Type A includes 6 bonus tracks...
Posted on April 23, 2014 at 23:37. | Released on April 23, 2014
Record Store Day 2014 in Japan
Record Store Day in Japan has been getting bigger every year. This year there are dozens of exclusive vinyl releases to be found on the shelves of these record shops on Saturday April 19. Below is a selection of releases...
Posted on April 13, 2014 at 13:46. | Released on April 19, 2014
Shonen Knife "arashi no Overdrive"
Shonen Knife's new album "Overdrive" is being released in various countries on April 16. Only in Japan it contains Japanese lyrics versions of "Dance To The Rock", "Shopping" and "Like A Cat". Shonen Knife have a busy live schedule this...
Posted on April 11, 2014 at 23:26. | Released on April 16, 2014
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
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
Tokyo Girls' Style "Maltine Girls Wave" (Blu-ray/DVD+CD)
This is a collaboration album of unit group Tokyo Girls' Style and tofubeats' label Maltine Records (Soundcloud). 5 new tracks are produced by Maltine artists, and each is sung solo by one of the 5 girls. Producers are dancinthruthenights (unit...
Posted on January 18, 2014 at 19:02. | Released on January 15, 2014
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
Yucca "You are right" (Download)
Post-rock band Yucca has a new track now available on iTunes worldwide and also Bandcamp! Check out the video clip below too. Also check out previous single "summer emotion" and latest album "our journey (to anywhere we want)", if you...
Posted on January 7, 2014 at 23:42. | Released on January 4, 2014
Riow Arai "Drum Dub Delay" (Download)
Riow Arai has released a new album exclusively on iTunes store. The conceptual "spin-off" album consists of one-shot recordings of only drums and bass, that were then mixed in dub fashion. The drums and dub mixes were done by Riow...
Posted on January 3, 2014 at 18:15. | Released on December 11, 2013
fox capture plan "BRIDGE"
Here's a 2nd album from fox capture plan, instrumental jazz-rock trio formed of Kishimoto Ryo (Jabberloop), Kawai Hidehiro (Immigrant's Bossa Band) and Inoue Tsukasa (direction of the chord, ex-nhhmbase). This follows "trinity" released just last May. All songs are originals...
Posted on December 11, 2013 at 22:51. | Released on December 4, 2013
Hanae "jikkai Quiz"
After a number of singles, here's finally a first full-length album from Hanae, a female singer produced by Manabe Shūichi (ex-sōtaiseiriron member who was also responsible for Tarte Tatin's brilliant 1st album "Tetrad"). She succeeds getting attention from both the...
Posted on November 24, 2013 at 21:33. | Released on November 27, 2013
Sheena Ringo "ukina", "mitsugetsushō"
Sheena Ringo has two new albums out now. "ukina" consists of collaborations with other artists, including a new one with Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE), and the previously unreleased "It Was You" written by Burt Bacharach. "mitsugetsushō" is a collection of her...
Posted on November 23, 2013 at 11:28. | 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
Vanilla Beans "Please Me Darling"
Here's a new single from Vanilla Beans! The title track is expected to have a Shibuya-kei taste, while the B-side is a take at electro dance-rock, a brand new sound for the duo. Both tracks were produced by long-time collaborator...
Posted on October 14, 2013 at 19:57. | Released on October 16, 2013
Scandal "Over Drive"
Nakata Yasutaka (CAPSULE) produced the title track of this new single by girl rock band Scandal, for a result quite different from the sounds he's got us used to. Worth checking out! The limited edition comes with a video of...
Posted on September 20, 2013 at 19:58. | Released on September 18, 2013
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
Yucca "summer emotion" (Download)
Post-rock band Yucca have a sweet-sounding new single and clip for the summer! The song is available at Bandcamp and iTunes worldwide. Yucca "summer emotion" (Download) abcdefg*record Out now (8/13) Sample/buy: Bandcamp,...
Posted on August 19, 2013 at 23:58. | Released on August 13, 2013
Various Artists "WIRE13 Compilation"
Here comes the annual WIRE compilation, reminding us of the upcoming annual large rave event of the same name organized by Ishino Takkyū (Denki Groove). This year WIRE celebrates its 15th anniversary! The 2-CD compilation gives an overview of this...
Posted on August 13, 2013 at 22:16. | Released on August 14, 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
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
