Takahashi Yukihiro "Life Anew"
Takahashi Yukihiro (YMO) has a new solo album out today. His back band consists of James Iha (ex-Smashing Pumpkins) on guitar, Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza, The Cornelius Group) on keyboards, Gondō Tomohiko on euphonium (etc.), and Takakuwa Kiyoshi (Curly...
Posted on July 17, 2013 at 22:23. | Released on July 17, 2013
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
Gig report: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu in New York
Text and photo by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Here's a report of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's latest show, held last weekend in New York. Big thanks to correspondent Nicholas D. Kent. Read on! Kyary Pamyu...
Posted on April 20, 2013 at 14:22.
Gig report: Takako Minekawa & Dustin Wong debut live w/ Living Astro
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday, I finally got to see an artist I had been wanting to see for about 15 years, ever since I got "Cloudy Cloud Calculator"! That's right, Takako Minekawa...
Posted on March 26, 2013 at 21:04.
capsule "rewind BEST-1 (2012-2006)", "rewind BEST-2 (2005-2001)"
Not one but two greatest hits albums coming from capsule, rewinding through the years from their most recent works (album "World of Fantasy") to the early beginnings ("haikara Girl"). All selected by Nakata Yasutaka, "rewind BEST-1" will guide you around...
Posted on February 19, 2013 at 23:41. | Released on March 6, 2013
Kayano Yoshiaki "This is the life" (Download)
Trumpeter Kayano Yoshiaki has a new 2-track single out now on Nakatsuka Takeshi's digital label Delicatessen LAB. Both instrumentals have rhythm guitar that stands out. Kayano was a member of Nomiya Maki's band for her 30th anniversary show. Kayano Yoshiaki...
Posted on February 17, 2013 at 12:12. | Released on February 13, 2013
Various Artists "Girls Sazanami Beat! vol.5"
This is a 5th of Sazanami Label's popular compilation series of indies girl rock/garage/neo-GS bands. Collect them all! All tracks can be sampled at the official release page. The jacket was specially designed by Italian illustrator Luca Tieri. A series...
Posted on January 30, 2013 at 23:49. | Released on February 9, 2013
Nakatsuka Takeshi "Lyrics"
Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone), who this year celebrates 10 years of solo activity, has a new album coming. While several of the songs here have been previously released in demo form for free on the "Takeshi Lab" section of his web...
Posted on January 30, 2013 at 21:45. | Released on February 6, 2013
Various Artists "Dancing After 1AM"
Indies rock compilation "Dancing After 1AM" album is from label Call And Response specializing in post-punk, new wave, often a bit on the noisy rock side, nevertheless a definitely pleasant listen for even my pop-oriented ears. Here are all new...
Posted on December 3, 2012 at 23:28. | Released on October 17, 2012
fantaholic "Me, You, Synthesizer"
Techno-pop-punk unit fantaholic, formed of singer Satō Takako and machinist Takahashi Hiroki, has a first 5-song mini-album out now. fantaholic "Me, You, Synthesizer" 1. Welcome to Another World, Here You Are 2. Till the Party Ends 3. I'm Your Slave,...
Posted on November 3, 2012 at 11:23. | Released on October 24, 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
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
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
Recoride "Sasaki/SASAKI EP"
New digital EP from the brilliant synth-punk band Recoride. Both songs are named "Sasaki", perhaps after the band's composer Sasaki Kissa (ex-Gekkan Pro-Bowler). One is spelled out in kanji and the other in rōmaji, and they sound very different too....
Posted on August 15, 2012 at 21:38. | Released on August 15, 2012
hitomitoi "City Dive"
Singer hitomitoi has a brand new album coming, produced by jazz DJ Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), in collaboration with Dorian and guitarist Kashif aka StringsBurn (Pan Pacific Playa). This album, being described as contemporary city music, is when summer starts! Coming...
Posted on June 15, 2012 at 23:28. | Released on June 20, 2012
The Beauty "Love In The Heart of The World Shout"
Out now from Crue-L Records is a first album by The Beauty (MySpace, Bandcamp), solo project of Yuji Oda. While described as contemporary electro-pop, the official blurb also mentions a hallucinating list of influential genres: gothic, shoe gaze, balearic, dark...
Posted on May 26, 2012 at 15:12. | Released on May 25, 2012
Emi Necozawa & Sphinx "Pyramidia"
It's been 10 years since singer and percussionist Necozawa Emi's previous album ("café tu ronronnes" (2002)). This time she is backed by a jazzy band of 6 musicians making this her first band recording. Songs include covers of Serge Gainsbourg...
Posted on March 8, 2012 at 21:05. | Released on March 7, 2012
Nakata Yasutaka "Liar Game - saisei (Reborn) - Original Soundtrack"
Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) has produced a 3rd soundtrack for the a new movie of the Liar Game series. Along with many new songs is a remastered version of theme "Liar Game". The soundtrack is said to be mainly upbeat electro,...
Posted on February 28, 2012 at 23:24. | Released on March 2, 2012
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.
capsule "STEREO WORXXX"
Here's a new album from capsule, follow-up to "World Of Fantasy" released May last year. With a title like "STEREO WORXXX", we're definitely in for some dancing material! The album is said to include the theme song from upcoming movie...
Posted on February 7, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on March 7, 2012
Lullatone "Soundtracks for Everyday Adventures"
Nagoya dreamy toy pop unit Lullatone have a new album coming this week! The Japanese edition CD comes with a bookmark that allows you to 3 downloadable bonus tracks. Order it directly from the band via Bandcamp, or at the...
Posted on October 17, 2011 at 22:41. | Released on October 20, 2011
Maezono Naoki Group "tabun modotte mairimasu / itoshi no Macks" (7")
After 2 albums of only covers, here's a first original song from Maezono Naoki Group, coming as a 7" and a few days later for download. The title track has music written by Kirinji's Horigome Takaki and lyrics by the...
Posted on September 28, 2011 at 23:50. | Released on October 2, 2011
Calmera "Knack Is The Ketchup"
Here's a 2nd album by Osaka instrumental jazz-rock band Calmera (MySpace) on Orange Records, coming a year after debut album "Hello!! Worldwide". This one contains a cover of "Everybody Loves My Baby" feat. Maki Rinka, released on 7" earlier this...
Posted on June 30, 2011 at 21:16. | Released on July 2, 2011
Nakatsuka Takeshi "Black Screen" (Download)
Nakatsuka Takeshi has a brand new club track available on iTunes (Japan) only. The song was made especially for a TV commercial for DoCoMo's SH-12C phone, which can be viewed here. A music video is planned to be made available...
Posted on June 26, 2011 at 19:11. | Released on June 22, 2011
Tokyo Girls' Style "kodō no himitsu / sayonara, arigatō."
5-girl teenage idol group Tokyo Girls' Style, in Japan better known as Tokyo joshiryū, have a new single coming this week for which YMCK contributed not only a remix but also a video clip! Even the single's jacket seems to...
Posted on May 18, 2011 at 00:22. | Released on May 18, 2011
Maezono Naoki Group "tooku e. Maezono Naoki Group dai2shu"
Maezono Naoki Group, the band in which Konishi Yasuharu plays piano, has a 2nd album coming this month! It's already been almost 2 years since their first. This time the trio (vocals, bass and piano) are joined by drums and...
Posted on May 5, 2011 at 01:54. | Released on May 13, 2011
Juju "sayonara no kawari ni / negai"
Mainstream J-pop singer-songwriter Juju has a new double-A-side single out now which contains a remix by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). This comes as with CD-Extra content of "Juju Acappella for Remix" data. Juju "sayonara no kawari ni / negai" JUJU 「さよならの代わりに／願い」...
Posted on April 6, 2011 at 00:03. | Released on April 6, 2011
Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no kōkotsu", "Monzetsu!! namakinoko zuroku" (Book)
Kinoco Hotel has a brand new original album coming up, being announced as their first full-length album. The title translates to "Marianne's ecstasy", and the CD will include a video clip as CD-Extra content in a "not suitable for children"...
Posted on March 31, 2011 at 22:10. | Released on April 6, 2011
Gig report: Ohno Yumiko "The Rainy Table" release party
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Friday was a public holiday, Japan's National Foundation Day, and early evening I went to Roppongi SuperDeluxe for an event organized by multi-talent Ohno Yumiko of Buffalo Daughter. Yumiko...
Posted on February 14, 2011 at 22:52.
capsule "World Of Fantasy"
capsule has a brand new album coming this March May! The album is said to be at a constant 128 BPM. I've heard that this time there will be no stock vocals, and that it's the first time singer Koshijima...
Posted on February 9, 2011 at 22:33. | Released on May 25, 2011
TRI4TH "TRI4TH"
Sunaga Tatsuo has produced the first album of instrumental jazz band TRI4TH (MySpace) (pronounced in Japanese like "Triforce"), who recently played Konishi Yasuharu's soundtrack live for musical "Talk Like Singing". This album features guest musicians Jukka Eskola (trumpeter of Five...
Posted on August 24, 2010 at 23:02. | Released on August 25, 2010
Gig report: Rehabilitation: yes, mama ok? & Yume to Cosme
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday August 6, I went to mona records in Shimokitazawa for an event called "Rehabilitation", featuring a show by mid-90's indies band "yes, mama ok?". 5 years ago leader...
Posted on August 15, 2010 at 20:09.
kazunari seto "Black de ikō"
Osaka trumpeter Seto Kazunari (MySpace) presents his first mini-album which describes as instrumental techno-pop with catchy melodies. Audio samples at MySpace kazunari seto "Black de ikō" 瀬戸一成 「ブラックでいこう」 1. nusumareta jitensha wa tsugi no hi mitsukatta 2. Balkan Merengue 3....
Posted on July 6, 2010 at 08:47. | Released on July 11, 2010
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz gaiden ~ All the young dudes ~ subete no wakakiyarōdomo"
Here's a new jazz compilation selected by Sunaga Tatsuo, picking up where he left with "Jazz Allnighters No.8" three years ago. This time he selects tracks by young and upcoming jazz artists from Japan, including quasimode, Soil & "Pimp" Sessions,...
Posted on April 28, 2010 at 00:16. | Released on April 28, 2010
The Aprils "Back To The Future Music", "Space Dream Bathroom"
First thing to look forward to in 2010 is The Aprils' new 4th album, titled "Back To The Future Music"! We can expect again more of that great band-style future-pop sound. The album's first pressing comes with a bonus CD...
Posted on December 30, 2009 at 15:15. | Released on January 6, 2010
Aprils feat. Hatsune Miku "Miku-Ro Adventure!"
The Aprils are back after a long wait, over 4 years since album "Space Dream Bathroom". First we are treated to this self-cover album featuring virtual idol Hatsune Miku. It seems that the whole is programmed by artists Penguins Project,...
Posted on December 20, 2009 at 01:25. | Released on December 23, 2009
Erieza Royal & AsamixJuice "Vacuum"
This is a new 2-girl techno-pop unit with an adult twist, featuring SM queen and punk band Ecodamned drummer Erieza Royal with performer and "doll" maker AsamixJuice. Their first album is produced by Nagata Kazunao and features remixes by Yoshida...
Posted on December 13, 2009 at 01:42. | Released on December 11, 2009
ROCKETMAN "LifegoesON2.0", COSMETICS "tomorrow~winter mix~", "~sayonara mix~" (Download)
Available today on iTunes are a new song by ROCKETMAN (Fukawa Ryō), and two new remixes of latest track "tomorrow" by COSMETICS, the idol trio he produces. On non-musical news, comedian Fukawa Ryō recently cut his hair after maybe some...
Posted on November 4, 2009 at 20:55. | Released on November 4, 2009
"komadori eiga: Komaneko no Christmas ~maigo ni natta Present~" (DVD)
A sequel to the popular cute stop-animation movie "Komaneko" (2006), featuring a cat who in turn created stop-animation, is coming in time for Christmas! The title translates to "Komaneko's Christmas: The Lost Present". The previous movie had no dialog, except...
Posted on October 18, 2009 at 11:51. | Released on December 2, 2009
capsule "FLASH BEST"
After Nakata Yasutaka has gained lots of fame as a producer for various artists (Perfume, Meg, Suzuki Ami,..), it's now time for a first greatest hits album from capsule! This focuses on releases since "S.F. sound furniture" (2004) and seems...
Posted on August 25, 2009 at 23:30. | Released on August 26, 2009
Maezono Naoki Group "hi o tsukeru. Maezono Naoki Group dai1shū." (12")
Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato Five) is a pianist! Maezono Naoki Group started performing late 2008 and has been releasing small-sized magazines irregularly. Finally here's a first album, but be aware that it's vinyl only (no CD anyway). If you're interested at...
Posted on June 12, 2009 at 00:42. | Released on June 24, 2009
Vanilla Beans "koi no Theory" (Download)
More good post-Shibuya-kei pop from Vanilla Beans with their latest single "koi no Theory", now available for download only. The song is the theme of movie "fujoshi kanojo". There's some remix contest going on, grab the files by going here...
Posted on June 10, 2009 at 23:59. | Released on April 28, 2009
Towa Tei "Big Fun"
DiscID: 890a430a
Posted on January 11, 2009 at 12:44. | Released on February 4, 2009
capsule "MORE! MORE! MORE!"
DiscID: 7d0a9f0a
Posted on November 9, 2008 at 02:20. | Released on November 19, 2008
EeL "keep making fun of me" (Download)
EeL has a new single out with 3 brand new tracks. Featured producers are Ito Hidenobu, Elegant Ferry and DJ Vivienne Kanye Westwood (drummer of Harajyuku Sisters). Included is an a cappella version of the title track, to be used...
Posted on June 13, 2008 at 11:27. | Released on June 12, 2008
World Happiness
Takahashi Yukihiro (Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sketch Show) and art director Shindō Mitsuo (Contemporary Production) present this summer festival where can be caught pupa (Takahashi's new all-star unit), HASYMO, Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders), Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, Bonnie Pink, NRT320 (Shindō Mitsuo's...
Posted on May 8, 2008 at 13:56. | Released on August 10, 2008
Neo-Shibuya-kei web site and free download compilations
April 28 is Shibuya day (4=shi, 2=bu, 8=ya), and to celebrate, a neo-Shibuya-kei information web site has opened! The content is all in Japanese, but still you can find lots of links to artists who fall under the category. That's...
Posted on April 30, 2008 at 10:52. | Released on April 28, 2008
Hosono Haruomi "Archives Vol.1", Various Artists "Daisy Holiday"
Hosono "Harry" Hauromi (YMO, Sketch Show) brings his label daisyworld back from the dead. The first releases will coincide with his 61st birthday on July 9. These are a collection of rare musical works of his, ranging from TV shows...
Posted on April 22, 2008 at 15:51. | Released on July 9, 2008
Tower × Club King × Contemporary Production T-shirt and ecobag
Art director Shindō Mitsuo (CTPP) has designed a T-shirt and ecobag to be sold only at Tower Records online, in a collaboration with Club King (publisher of the popular free magazine Dictionary). The items promote Earth Day Tokyo 2008 and...
Posted on April 15, 2008 at 15:51. | Released on April 19, 2008
Holly Dolly "Pretty Donkey Girl"
Who would have thought? The Japanese edition album of Internet phenomenon Holly Dolly (MySpace), out last summer, contains a remix by Tokyo Panorama Mambo Boys! This Japanese edition also contains the video of "Dolly Song" as CD-Extra content. Audio samples...
Posted on February 18, 2008 at 15:05. | Released on August 8, 2007
Various Artists "Akakage presents... rosebullet"
A new mix CD from Akakage in collaboration with ladies' fashion brand Rosebullet will be released in March. Out on his own label Noboru. Details to follow. Various Artists "Akakage presents... rosebullet" 1. G-Swing feat. Diamond Legs / Goin' Nuts...
Posted on January 24, 2008 at 16:05. | Released on March 5, 2008
Collette "Hot Banana" (12")
Second Royal artist Collette has a 12" coming, containing the 2 new songs that first appeared on "Second Royal volume.3" last year, plus a remix of the title track by Sakerock's Hamano Kenta. Audio samples at Second Royal (popup window)...
Posted on January 22, 2008 at 14:48. | Released on February 27, 2008
Ayuse Kozue "One"
Ayuse Kozue, whose first album "A♥K" was released in October, has a new single coming early next year that's produced by Towa Tei! Update (2007/12/27): There's a remix contest for the song "cry baby" in collaboration with HMV. Acapella download...
Posted on December 18, 2007 at 13:54. | Released on January 16, 2008
Various Artists "Modal Jazz loves Disney"
After Konishi Yasuharu a few years ago, it's Sunaga Tatsuo's turn to cover famous songs from Disney's collection! He's even called up his international friends such as Nicola Conte and The Five Corners Quintet, and also Readymade's Iwamura Manabu, to...
Posted on November 20, 2007 at 17:18. | Released on January 23, 2008
Various Artists "Blue Note Street"
Japan's top club jazz artists contribute to a Blue Note tribute cover album with all brand new recordings. Featured are Sunaga t Experience, Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone), Jazztronik, Kyoto Jazz Massive, and many others. Audio samples at MySpace, where there's also...
Posted on November 6, 2007 at 14:09. | Released on November 21, 2007
"standard of 90's" re-issue series part 1
EMI and BMG have got together and decided to re-issue a bunch of Shibuya-kei related CDs, under a "standard of 90's" theme. Part 1 and 2 (out in October and November) got my interest with titles by Original Love, Spank...
Posted on October 21, 2007 at 14:33. | Released on October 24, 2007
capsule "Flash Back"
Don't look surprised, you knew it was coming! Following previous album "Sugarless GiRL" in February and "capsule rmx" in October, and also the new coltemonikha album in September, is a brand new album by capsule coming up in December. That's...
Posted on October 11, 2007 at 10:36. | Released on December 5, 2007
capsule "MUSiXXX / I'm Feeling You" (12")
Yes, it's that time again! capsule has a new single that will be released on vinyl, for DJs and those who can't wait until the new album out in December..! capsule "MUSiXXX / I'm Feeling You" (12") A. MUSiXXX B....
Posted on October 11, 2007 at 10:25. | Released on November 7, 2007
capsule "capsule RMX EP" (12")
A month ahead of capsule's first remix album will be released this 12" EP containing two new self-remixes of "Sugarless GiRL"'s title track and another song from "FRUITS CLiPPER". capsule "capsule RMX EP" (12") A. Sugarless GiRL (rmx ver.) B....
Posted on August 18, 2007 at 01:33. | Released on September 5, 2007
capsule "capsule rmx"
capsule has a first remix album coming up, actually a collection of the best remixes previously released all self-remixes by Nakata Yasutaka, of songs from recent albums "Sugarless GiRL", "FRUITS CLiPPER" and "L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer". All songs can be...
Posted on August 12, 2007 at 14:54. | Released on October 10, 2007
Chromeo "Fancy Footwork"
The long-awaited 2nd album from Chromeo is finally dropping! We'll even get a Japanese edition with two bonus remixes and CD-Extra content. Sound samples of all tracks can be heard here at Amazon U.S. Chromeo "Fancy Footwork" クローメオ 「ファンシー・フットワーク」 1....
Posted on May 17, 2007 at 15:31. | Released on July 4, 2007
TV soundtrack "Liar Game"
This soundtrack to new manga-based TV drama "Liar Game" (Fuji TV), about to start on April 14, is produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule) and will be released on his label contemode in May. "Liar Game" airs on Fuji TV every...
Posted on April 2, 2007 at 17:48. | Released on May 23, 2007
Various Artists "The Transformer - Remix Works by Yukihiro Fukutomi"
Fukutomi Yukihiro, leading club music producer and also ex-programmer for Pizzicato Five (think "Happy End of the World"), has a 2-CD compilation of his remixes for Japanese and foreign artists coming up. The compilation will contain 20 tracks, and celebrates...
Posted on March 27, 2007 at 17:16. | Released on April 25, 2007
Agawa Yasuko "Re-Mode: Club Jazz digs Yasuko Agawa"
Jazz singer Agawa Yasuko who debuted in 1975 and is still active to this day, has a remix album coming up. The whole is produced/supervised by Sunaga Tatsuo, who is a big fan of hers, and features international artists. This...
Posted on March 27, 2007 at 16:44. | Released on May 23, 2007
Suzuki Ami "Connetta"
Shortly after the release of her three collaboration singles (one with Buffalo Daughter), Suzuki Ami also has a new album planned. The three collaboration singles' title tracks should be included, as well as more collaborations with the likes of Kaji...
Posted on January 23, 2007 at 10:15. | Released on March 21, 2007
capsule "Starry sky" (12")
About a month before their new album is released, capsule first has a 12" maxi single coming out. capsule "Starry sky" (12") A1. Starry sky B1. Reality B2. Sugarless GiRL contemode YCJC-10004 Out 12/13, ¥1365 Order: HMV, Tower Thanks to...
Posted on November 23, 2006 at 11:53. | Released on December 13, 2006
orange pekoe "Best Remixes & Clips" (CD+DVD)
This week is a bit calm on the release front, so I thought I'd liven things up with this orange pekoe remix collection that comes with a DVD of nine videoclips. Included are three remixes by Sunaga t̀ Experience, and...
Posted on November 20, 2006 at 12:25. | Released on November 22, 2006
capsule "Sugarless GiRL"
DiscID: 8c08700a
Posted on November 10, 2006 at 17:32. | Released on February 21, 2007
Oto 11th Anniversary Party
Shinjuku Oto will be host of one hell of a line-up for its 11th anniversary at the end of the month! With a live by Nomoto Karia and a bunch of the best DJs around, the place is sure to...
Posted on September 9, 2006 at 12:24. | Released on September 29, 2006
Various Artists "bakuretsu! New Wave 1980"
With contents similar to the recently released "Technoroid - Japanese 80's New Wave Sampler" comes a 2-CD compilation on the same theme. Once again this is a good introduction to Japanese 80's new wave/punk, and seems to contain more essentials...
Posted on August 22, 2006 at 16:07. | Released on September 21, 2006
"ninkyō hiroku ningen gari", "kaiki! yuurei Snack nagurikomi!" (DVD)
The two recent films by Sugisaku J Tarō that I've written about before have been scheduled for release on DVD! The films feature dozens of subculture stars, such as Yokoyama Ken (Crazy Ken Band), Paradise Yamamoto, Gyokō, Anzai Hajime (Tamori...
Posted on August 4, 2006 at 15:56. | Released on November 8, 2006
West/Rock/Woods "JAMZZ#2 Song Selected by Sunaga Tatsuo"
Contemporary piano trio West/Rock/Woods, a word game from the names of members Nishijima Toru (contrabass), Iwase Tappy (drums), Hayashi Masaki (piano), is to play rock, pop and new wave songs from the 60's to the 80's selected by Sunaga Tatsuo...
Posted on August 3, 2006 at 12:40. | Released on August 23, 2006
COPTER4016882 "2D2D"
Not enough contemode for your spring? Along with the new capsule and coltemonikha releases, there's also a new COPTER4016882 12-track album on its way! The unit's lead member Ukai Yasuhiro has also been active lately as part of the successful...
Posted on April 11, 2006 at 14:03. | Released on May 10, 2006
coltemonikha "coltemonikha"
Fashion designer Kate Sakai ("Kate" read in English, or Keito) of brand Colkinikha teams up with capsule's Nakata Yasutaka for this first mini-album of new unit coltemönikha (a mix of "contemode" and "colkinikha"). Samples at contemode's news page (click "詳細"...
Posted on April 10, 2006 at 10:52. | Released on May 17, 2006
capsule "FRUITS CLiPPER"
Follow-up to "L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer" released last September, a new capsule album is coming this May! They promise a high level of dancefloor-oriented electro-club music. There will be a limited edition, contaning a CD-sized vinyl record holding the song...
Posted on March 26, 2006 at 23:26. | Released on May 10, 2006
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz: Jazz Allnighters No.4"
Next up from Sunaga Tatsuo's "All nighters"/「夜ジャズ」 series is a collection of tracks from major label Toshiba EMI. Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo yoru Jazz: Jazz Allnighters No.4" オムニバス 「須永辰緒の夜ジャズ～Jazz Allnighters №4～」 (aka "Special Jazz Alnighters") (aka "EMI Edition") 1. Samba...
Posted on March 22, 2006 at 15:18. | Released on May 17, 2006
"Steam kakarichō: kakarichō Original hen" (DVD)
Late night short series Steam kakarichō's first DVD is just out, and already a second DVD is to be released in a week! Unlike the first series, these will feature not real comedians but the original characters Dick Tarō, Ikura-san,...
Posted on March 15, 2006 at 12:12. | Released on March 24, 2006
"komaneko - hajime no ippo" (DVD)
The very cute stop-animation 5 minute film "komaneko - hajime no ippo" (I had talked about it before on my main blog), about a cat recursively making puppets and shooting a stop-animation flick using those, is coming out on DVD...
Posted on March 13, 2006 at 23:26. | Released on April 14, 2006
capsule "Jelly" (12")
A new capsule vinyl-only single containing an extended mix of "jelly", song previously released on iTMS and which hit #1 in the electronic music chart, will be out in April. The B-side has two more brand new tracks. All or...
Posted on February 21, 2006 at 19:26. | Released on April 19, 2006
Nomiya Maki "Party People"
Nomiya Maki's next album "Party People" will be out in October. Seems like she's back on the major scene, on the Avex label Rhythm Zone, news that goes hand in hand with her September single with m-flo "Big Bang Romance"....
Posted on August 11, 2005 at 09:52. | Released on October 12, 2005
capsule "Aeropolis" (12")
A 12" single will be released 2 weeks before the release of capsule's next album, "L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer" capsule "Aeropolis" (12") A1. soratobu toshi keikaku A2. Lounge Designers Killer B1. twinkle twinkle poppp! contemode YCJC-10001 Out 9/7, ¥1365 Order:...
Posted on August 10, 2005 at 09:48. | Released on September 7, 2005
capsule "L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer"
A new capsule album is on the way! Now what's up with this creepy title?! Includes "sora tobu toshi keikaku", the song from the final short film of the Ghibli collaboration trilogy. capsule "L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer" 1. sora tobu...
Posted on July 15, 2005 at 11:26. | Released on September 21, 2005
Fantastic Plastic Machine "Sound Concierge #502"
A new mix CD in FPM's Sound Concierge series is coming out in August. The mix CD will contain a new FPM song, "Tell Me", from his forthcoming album expected in October! As usual, there will be a limited edition...
Posted on July 4, 2005 at 10:54. | Released on August 31, 2005
Shōwa Dance Party Record yose
Following the release of the great compilation "Moodsville Presents Shōwa Dance Party @ Ikenoue Koan", a talk show will be held at Tower Cafe in Ebisu, sharing anecdotes and showcasing the rare jackets of the selected songs. Shōwa Dance Party...
Posted on June 1, 2005 at 11:08. | Released on June 4, 2005
Aprils "Space Dream Bathroom"
A brand new album by the Aprils is coming out as soon as next month on Softly! The album features many guests including YMCK and tetrapletrap-F, and is mixed and mastered by Plus-tech Squeeze Box' Hayashibe Tomonori. The first, limited...
Posted on April 15, 2005 at 10:23. | Released on May 18, 2005
"Kahimi Karie + Marquee" (Photo book)
Marquee is releasing a 84-page Kahimi Karie photo book. We're told that the title reads "Kahimi Karie with Marquee". Ok? Ok! Contents: 1. March 15, 2005 shooting by Zoren Gold and Murakami Minori 2. Pictures from Marquee 2000-2004, plus outtakes...
Posted on March 31, 2005 at 10:52. | Released on April 22, 2005
Various Artists "Playroom presents Soma & Classic Room Play Selection"
Not sure whether this is a non-stop mix or a compilation, but it's selected by Ikeda Masanori (Mansfield) and it's not only 1 but 2 CDs, at a good price! It's said to include many songs available for the first...
Posted on March 28, 2005 at 10:50. | Released on March 30, 2005
Cityboys "20th Century Cityboys" (2CD)
Almost missed this one... This is a 2CD selection of songs from various City Boys soundtracks from 1992 until 2000 (covering at least "Toilet Without Key", "i messaggeri degli imbecilli vanno all'ovest", "Love's Rubber Brain", "Building on a Strong Foundation",...
Posted on March 16, 2005 at 12:01. | Released on March 9, 2005
"saku saku Ver.1.0" (DVD)
Update (2005/3/17 17:26): Re-scheduled to 4/28!! Update (2005/3/2 17:12): This release has been delayed (cancelled?). :( "saku saku", the popular daily TV show (TVK Yokohama Monday-Friday 7:30) MC'd by Kimura Kaela and character Zigorow, is coming to DVD! The DVD...
Posted on February 4, 2005 at 15:09. | Released on April 28, 2005
Digiki "Kitchen"
After a long wait, French producer Digiki's first album, "Kitchen", is finally out in Japan on Hattrick Records! The album includes remixes of Toog, Eel and Crazy Curl, and also features Castellane artists Monsieur Darsh and Eric Ker. If you've...
Posted on December 27, 2004 at 14:09. | Released on December 26, 2004
Daft Punk "Human After All"
Finally a new Daft Punk album is on its way! Europe release 3/21, Japan release 3/16 3/9 with bonus CD-Extra contents and sticker! Daft Punk "Human After All" 1. Human After All 2. The Prime Time Of Your Life 3....
Posted on December 25, 2004 at 11:50. | Released on March 9, 2005
capsule "NEXUS-2060"
The next capsule album will be out in February, and will be a conceptual album about the universe's first space station resort completed in 2060(!). A vinyl edition, titled "space station No.9" (YCAC-10001, ¥1365) will be out on 2/2 and...
Posted on December 15, 2004 at 13:18. | Released on February 9, 2005
Various Artists "Contemode V.A.2"
A second compilation of club/interior pop is coming from Contemode, compiled by capsule's Nakata Yasutaka and promising sounds yet more groovy and fashionable than ever. The album will feature capsule, Plus-Tech Squeeze Box, Kofta, Spaghetti Vabune!, Nagisa Cosmetic, dahlia, Hazel...
Posted on November 18, 2004 at 17:47. | Released on December 8, 2004
Fantastic Plastic Machine "Sound Concierge" #501 and Annex
A third series of mix CDs by Tanaka Tomoyuki aka Fantastic Plastic Machine has been announced. The formula is same as before, one lounge CD and one house CD. Update 1/6: This time, one of the two CDs seems to...
Posted on November 12, 2004 at 13:12. | Released on February 23, 2005
"Sound x Vision 2004" (DVD+CD+Booklet)
In the context of the upcoming Sound x Vision 2004 exhibition, a limited edition DVD + CD + booklet package is being released featuring works by the following artists: Cornelius x Groovisions "Wataridori" Buffalo Daughter x Odani Motohiko Ian Jelinek...
Posted on September 14, 2004 at 12:18. | Released on September 24, 2004
