CTO LAB. "sekai wa BON HI-BON! ~ dai! tensai TV-kun no Theme 2013"
CTO LAB., the "compact" electro-pop unit of unit of Okada Tōru (Moonriders), Polymoog (Elektel) and Imai Kentarō (The Aprils), has a new single out now! This is the first single by the band, and the first release in their name...
Posted on July 7, 2013 at 19:58. | Released on July 3, 2013
Koshi Miharu "Madame Crooner"
Koshi Miharu has a new album out now, said to be a collection of covers mainly of standards from the 30's and 40's, in arrangements that focus on piano and vocals. All songs can be sampled at the official release...
Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:44. | Released on May 22, 2013
Hosono Haruomi "Heavenly Music"
Hosono Haruomi (YMO) has a new solo vocal album out now! The album consists mainly of covers, including ones of Kraftwerk's "Radio Activity", The Carpenters' "Close to You" and Bob Dylan's "When I Paint My Masterpiece". The album's main recording...
Posted on June 16, 2013 at 01:26. | Released on May 22, 2013
Idiot Pop "Toy Pop."
Idiot Pop is a mysterious techno-pop artist who debuted in 2009 with a self-titled album. After the release of two mini-albums ("Idiography E.P" and "Idiography, Vol.2") came 2nd album "EXWORLD" in 2012. Now here's a first remix album "TOY POP"...
Posted on June 15, 2013 at 13:33. | Released on May 16, 2013
Ino Hidefumi "New Morning"
Electric piano player Ino Hidefumi has a new album out now! "New Morning" contains 8 new original songs, and also 3 covers of songs by Todd Rundgren ("Hello It's Me"), Julie London ("Cry Me A River" written by Arthur Hamilton)...
Posted on May 30, 2013 at 22:49. | Released on May 30, 2013
Perfume "Magic of Love" (Single), "Perfume WORLD TOUR 1st" (DVD)
Perfume is back with a double release. Both coming on May 22 are new single "Magic of Love", and a DVD of Perfume's 1st world tour, more specifically a show held in Singapore. There's a limited edition of the single...
Posted on May 7, 2013 at 22:38. | Released on May 22, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Invader Invader"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a new single coming, for the song "Invader Invader" that's being heard in TV commercials for the GU fashion brand (by Uniqlo). She has already been performing the song on stage starting her 2nd world tour....
Posted on May 5, 2013 at 10:44. | Released on May 15, 2013
michirurondo "I Love Baby"
Electro-pop singer-songwriter michirurondo has a 1st mini-album out now! The songs "BABY" and "hoshi ni negai o" were co-arranged and mixed by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō. In Tokyo, a free in-store live will be held on May 9 from 18:30...
Posted on April 29, 2013 at 09:45. | Released on April 24, 2013
Original Love "Fashion Appeal" (Download)
Here's a new song from Original Love, the solo unit of Tajima Takao (ex-Pizzicato Five). "Fashion Appeal" has a surprising electro touch that makes for a danceable catchy song. The EP also contains two live tracks, and is available only...
Posted on April 28, 2013 at 23:51. | Released on April 24, 2013
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.
Kero Kero Bonito "Why Aren't You Dancing?" (Download)
Kero Kero Bonito isn't Japanese, it is an electronic dance unit based in Bromley (South London), but its first official single is out on label Flawless World (post-Usagi-chang Records). The title track is dark electro while the second track has...
Posted on April 20, 2013 at 16:53. | Released on April 17, 2013
Takako Minekawa & Dustin Wong "Toropical Circle"
What a surprise! Takako Minekawa is back with a new album, and that as a new unit with Dustin Wong (ex-Ponytail)! It has been 13 years since Takako's previous release, "Maxi On" (2000, Amazon U.S.) (a collaboration with New York...
Posted on March 26, 2013 at 20:43. | Released on May 15, 2013
"The Selection of DE DE MOUSE Favorites performed by Rokugen Club with Farah a.k.a. RF vol.01"
This is an album produced by De De Mouse consisting of songs that influenced the artist, but all of these are re-arranged and performed by an "instrumental hip-hop jazz band" named RF. "Floats & Falls" from De De Mouse's latest...
Posted on March 24, 2013 at 00:07. | Released on March 20, 2013
BUBBLE-B feat. Enjo-G "Yo! Sexy Girl (Remixes)" (Download)
This brand new track from BUBBLE-B feat. Enjo-G is a take on cosmetics and shampoo brands, with a wink to "Ga*gn*m St*le"! Check out the fun video below. The digital single contains 2 remixes, and also instrumental and acapella versions....
Posted on March 16, 2013 at 23:00. | Released on March 12, 2013
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Ninjya Re Bang Bang"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's next single is titled "Ninjya Re Bang Bang", song that's already being performed on stage in her ongoing world tour that dropped by Belgium, France and U.K. in February. The song is also used in a TV...
Posted on March 10, 2013 at 16:58. | Released on March 20, 2013
Yakenohara "Sunny New Life"
Rapper Yakenohara has a 2nd album coming this month. Featured guests include Dorian, Beta Panama, Kicell, VIDEOTAPEMUSIC, LUVRAW (LUVRAW & BTB) and more. Yakenohara "Sunny New Life" やけのはら 「SUNNY NEW LIFE」 1. INTO THE SUNNY PLACE 2. HELTER-SKELTER 3. RELAXIN'...
Posted on March 5, 2013 at 23:25. | Released on March 20, 2013
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
Kaji Hideki "Sweet Swedish Winter"
Kaji Hideki has a new album coming this month! This one is a tribute to Sweden's sweet winter, and it's his 2nd release from his own Blue Boys Club label (follow-up to "Blue Heart" (2012)). Title song "Sweet Swedish Winter"...
Posted on February 10, 2013 at 19:16. | Released on February 20, 2013
FPM "Scale"
FPM's 7th original album is almost here! It has been 3 years since "FPM" (not counting classical music cover album "Qlassix"). "Scale" is full of brand new tracks, including some that have been partially heard in commercials for various brands...
Posted on February 3, 2013 at 22:55. | Released on February 13, 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
Hotel Mexico "Her Decorated Post Love"
Kyoto indies band Hotel Mexico has a new album coming from Second Royal. The song "A.I. in Dreams" released on 7" on Christmas day (Jet Set) is included, along with 6 other brand new tracks. Hotel Mexico "Her Decorated Post...
Posted on January 30, 2013 at 21:43. | Released on February 6, 2013
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
P.O.P ORCHeSTRA "1.2.3.4" (Download)
Rap unit P.O.P ORCHeSTRA, characterized by its real band and real twin MCs (the Kamisuzuki brothers), has a new 2-track single out now on iTunes worldwide! Like the previous "P.O.P LAB", this comes from Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen LAB digital label....
Posted on January 10, 2013 at 21:18. | Released on January 9, 2013
tofubeats "yumenonakamade feat. ERA" (Download)
This new track from tofubeats now out on iTunes worldwide! Features rapper ERA. tofubeats "yumenonakamade feat. ERA" (Download) tofubeats 「夢の中まで feat. ERA」 1. yumenonakamade feat. ERA 2. yumenonakamade feat. ERA (Golby $ound Remix) 3. yumenonakamade feat. ERA (Instrumental) 4. yumenonakamade...
Posted on January 10, 2013 at 20:53. | Released on January 9, 2013
CANDLES "Fantastic parallel world"
Indies electro unit Candles has a new mini-album coming on January 30. This is their 2nd physical release, following "Evolutional Form" released last May. On December 5th was also released 3-song digital single "Parallel world" on iTunes worldwide, from which...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 22:09. | Released on January 30, 2013
Tomoki Kanda "Interstellar Interlude"
Kanda Tomoki (Being Borings) has a new solo album out now. Included are "Ride A Watersmooth Silver Stallion" previously released on the "Crue-L Café" compilation, and a cover of Tears For Fears' "Everybody Wants To Rule The World", for a...
Posted on January 3, 2013 at 00:00. | Released on December 21, 2012
Black Bottom Brass Band "Kids Brass ~Big Easy!~"
Black Bottom Brass Band released a kids-oriented cover album, with popular kids songs from "Anpanman", "My Neighbor Totoro" and "One Piece" as well as nursery rhymes, all interpreted in the band's happy and funky original arrangements. Featured vocalists include Hatakeyama...
Posted on January 2, 2013 at 23:29. | Released on December 19, 2012
Muro "Diggin' For Beats"
This is DJ Muro's latest original album, 15 tracks built from records he's dug around the world, but also featuring a variety of musicians. The opening track features Ino Hidefumi. Out now on his label Digot, same name as his...
Posted on December 18, 2012 at 23:29. | Released on December 5, 2012
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
Iga-Bang BB "Bang! Bang!" (Download)
Iga-Bang BB, a big band of 17 musicians led by trombonist Igarashi Makoto, has a 2nd EP available on iTunes worldwide through Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen Lab label. Breakbeats jazz track "Fractale" ranked #1 in iTunes Japan's jazz chart on release...
Posted on December 5, 2012 at 23:09. | Released on December 5, 2012
LAMA "Parallel Sign"
Here's a new single from LAMA. B-side "Seven Swell -based on 'Niji'-" is, as the title says, inspired by Denki Groove's hit song "Niji", and a short version video clip made by the team behind "Eureka Seven OA" can be...
Posted on December 4, 2012 at 22:40. | Released on November 28, 2012
World Order "Find The Light / Permanent Revolution" (CD+DVD)
World Order, the robot dance salarymen unit led by Sudo Genki, has a first single out now. This follows album "2012" released earlier this year. This single includes by default a DVD of the video clip for "Permanent Revolution" filmed...
Posted on December 4, 2012 at 21:13. | Released on November 28, 2012
Round Table featuring Nino "Singles Best 2002-2012 Memories"
Round Table has a greatest hits album out now of a selection from the many "featuring Nino" singles released over the last 10 years. Most of the songs were used in anime series. This release also marks an end to...
Posted on December 2, 2012 at 23:53. | Released on November 28, 2012
Original Love "Overblow Tour 2012 Live in Shibuya Club Quattro"
Original Love has a first live album out now. This 18-song 2-CD recording is from a show held at Shibuya Club Quattro on July 21, 2012, part of the "Overblow Tour". Included are also several old hits such as "seppun...
Posted on November 25, 2012 at 21:41. | Released on November 21, 2012
Panda 1/2 "bokura ga Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte e tabi ni deru riyū" (Download)
-->Panda 1/2 have a new song about their recent trip to Sri Lanka. It's available for download on iTunes worldwide, and also Amazon MP3 Japan & U.S. and Japan indies DRM-free site OTOTOY. Panda 1/2's singer Fujioka Minami will be...
Posted on November 15, 2012 at 22:54. | Released on November 14, 2012
erectricmole "oborozukiyo" (Download)
erectricmole, an electronica unit with a Japanese touch, has a new digital EP out now on Flawless World (post-Usagi-chang Records). Follow-up to the previous "sakura" EP, this includes 3 covers of early 20th century Japanese classic songs that you might...
Posted on November 14, 2012 at 20:39. | Released on November 14, 2012
Little Lounge*Little Twinkle "hvit"
Little Lounge*Little Twinkle has a 2nd album out now! LLLT is the charming pop unit of Kida Shunsuke (composer), Tanaka Keiko (viola, etc.) and Asano Miyuki (vocals, toy instruments). "hvit" means "white" in Norwegian. The CD package contains a DIY...
Posted on November 13, 2012 at 23:11. | Released on November 11, 2012
Shūnosuke Ishikawa "shumusic 002" (Download)
This month from Delicatessen LAB (Nakatsuka Takeshi's digital label) is a new EP by saxophonist Ishikawa Shūnosuke. This is a follow-up to "shumusic" released in May. This 2 new EP of sax-led danceable funky instrumentals seems to be available on...
Posted on November 7, 2012 at 20:42. | Released on November 7, 2012
Ryoma Maeda "Fantastic Suicide"
Ryoma Maeda aka milch of source (producer of EeL) is releasing a new album under his real name. With more pop melodies than before, the sound is said to be an upbeat chaos of rock, punk and techno. The odd...
Posted on November 4, 2012 at 10:09. | Released on November 10, 2012
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
Various Artists "Shibuya-kei Respect" series
October saw the release of a series of 3 Shibuya-kei tribute cover compilations! All of these are full of famous Shibuya-kei songs covered by younger artists and bands who have been influenced by the movement. Included are songs originally by...
Posted on November 1, 2012 at 22:46. | Released on October 10, 2012
Akane Hosaka "pikkonoco"
Independent electronic artist Akane Hosaka from Tokyo's underground Enban scene has a 4th album that was released this month, follow-up to "niko niko denki muzic" (2008 label Sonore). Recorded, manufactured (CD-R) and distributed by the artist herself, the new 10-song...
Posted on October 30, 2012 at 23:51. | Released on October 1, 2012
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
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "Fashion Monster"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu has a new single coming in October! Always produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule), this time the title track is a rocking tune. An extended version of "tsukema tsukeru" is included, as well as a B-side that's used...
Posted on September 23, 2012 at 15:34. | Released on October 17, 2012
Mizuka "Marshmallow Glitter"
Nagoya indies idol Mizuka has a new single that's written and produced by The Aprils' Imai Kentarō! Look out for his signature spacy electro-pop! Included are remixes by PandaBoY, and Nakashima Takekiyo (of split-up Nagoya unit Tikatika). Yume to Cosme's...
Posted on September 23, 2012 at 13:40. | Released on September 26, 2012
Kaseki Cider "Mr. City Pop"
Rapper Kaseki Cider has a new album following last year's great "Sound Burger Planet", this time again with back-band the Hugtones! Featured are guests Illicit Tsuboi, Horigome Takaki (Kirinji) and Epo. Covers of Denpa gumi inc's "kuchizuke Kibonnu" (a song...
Posted on September 15, 2012 at 00:49. | Released on September 19, 2012
Keiko "Journey" (Download)
Keiko (pianist of Vanilla Mood) has a 2-song solo single out now on Delicatessen Lab, the digital label of Nakatsuka Takeshi. It's already climbing up iTunes Japan's jazz charts, and seems to be available worldwide. Keiko "Journey" 1. Journey 2....
Posted on September 5, 2012 at 20:26. | Released on September 5, 2012
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
Nanba Shiho "Choice"
Another release from Billboard's "Choice" cover album series. This time it's the turn of singer Nanba Shiho, who changed her looks to short hair for her latest single (YouTube), to select and cover some of her favorite world pop standards....
Posted on August 26, 2012 at 12:25. | Released on July 25, 2012
Gotye "Eyes Wide Open (Remix Bundle)" (Download)
Cornelius has contributed a track to the remix EP for Belgian-Australian artist Gotye's hit track "Eyes Wide Open" (original on YouTube) from latest album "Making Mirrors". This is available on iTunes worldwide, and also Amazon MP3 U.S. at least. Gotye...
Posted on August 23, 2012 at 23:28. | Released on August 22, 2012
Perfume "Perfume Global Compilation 'LOVE THE WORLD'"
Perfume continues to do its best to appeal to a global audience, and here comes a first greatest hits album. No word on an actual overseas CD release, but this will hopefully be available worldwide on iTunes like their recent...
Posted on August 18, 2012 at 17:42. | Released on September 12, 2012
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
TRI4TH "TRI4TH AHEAD"
Instrumental jazz band TRI4TH has a 2nd album out now. This time again the producer is Sunaga Tatsuo (Sunaga t Experience) who also did their first album. TRI4TH "TRI4TH AHEAD" 1. Sunlight Yellow Over Drive 2. TRY AHEAD 3. Night...
Posted on August 9, 2012 at 21:38. | Released on August 8, 2012
Rocketman "koi Romantic!!"
Rocketman (aka Fukawa Ryō) has a new album out this week! This contains a few tracks that were released for download only over the past few years, but also several brand new songs. Featured are Verbal (m-flo) and Hatsune Miku,...
Posted on August 7, 2012 at 23:55. | Released on August 8, 2012
Yellow Magic Orchestra "Fire Bird" (Download)
Yellow Magic Orchestra have a brand new song available for download! First preformed live at World Happiness 2011, annual summer festival always headlined by YMO, "Fire Bird" was inspired by Tezuka Osamu's character "hi no tori" (aka "Phoenix") which was...
Posted on August 2, 2012 at 20:59. | Released on August 1, 2012
novaFASE "Opportunities" (Download)
The song "Opportunities" from novaFASE's "Girls Lab Haus" album released from Orange Records has being reworked into a 2012 new mix edition. Also, "Milk Crown Music", used on the same album as a short interlude, is being made available in...
Posted on August 2, 2012 at 00:15. | Released on August 1, 2012
Perfume "Perfume 3rd Tour 'JPN'" (DVD)
Perfume have a new DVD coming of their latest tour for album "JPN". This DVD consists of the show in their hometown of Hiroshima held on April 1st this year. 21 songs are included! At this time, online shops are...
Posted on July 8, 2012 at 12:27. | Released on August 1, 2012
Iga-Bang BB "Bang!" (Download)
This month from Nakatsuka Takeshi's Delicatessen Lab digital label is a release by Iga-Bang BB, a big band of 17 musicians led by trombonist Igarashi Makoto. This first release from the band contains 2 original songs. This is another instant...
Posted on July 4, 2012 at 23:21. | Released on July 4, 2012
Nag Ar Juna "How Many Friends Can Die Happily?"
Brand new from White Lily Records is a first album by Nag Ar Juna. Behind this strange name is the band project of Hashimoto Tatsuki, better known for his production works for the likes of Harvard and Kaji Hideki, and...
Posted on July 3, 2012 at 23:34. | Released on July 4, 2012
Various Artists "Spa on the Moon" (Download)
The latest from Yasuda Toshiyuki is a concept mini-album featuring robot-bossa original song "Spa on the Moon", and covers of it by artists of various different genres. Find out more about each track on the official release page. Now available...
Posted on July 3, 2012 at 20:37. | Released on June 27, 2012
World Order "2012" (Blu-ray/DVD+CD)
World Order, the Genki Sudō-led salaryman robot dance unit that got the world's attention with their impressive videos on YouTube, such as one of a performance held at a Microsoft event, has a 2nd album out now! This comes as...
Posted on June 19, 2012 at 21:18. | Released on June 20, 2012
Nona Reeves "Choice II"
Nona Reeves have a 2nd cover album out now on Billboard Records, this time featuring songs by Madonna, Blur, Pet Shop Boys, Michael Jackson, Elvis, Earth Wind & Fire, New Kids On The Block (...), and more. The first of...
Posted on June 9, 2012 at 16:25. | Released on June 6, 2012
Shonen Knife "Pop Tune"
Shonen Knife, who celebrated their 30th anniversary last year, have a new album out now! A special site for the album has been set up here with plenty to read (in English too!), such as this comment from Marty Friedman...
Posted on June 7, 2012 at 23:39. | Released on June 6, 2012
P.O.P ORCHeSTRA "P.O.P LAB" (Download)
Identical twins rap unit P.O.P ORCHeSTRA have a new 2-song digital EP out now! This is the 2nd monthly release from Nakatsuka Takeshi's "Delicatessen LAB" digital label. Released just today, lead track "At, we now..." is already comfortably sitting at...
Posted on June 6, 2012 at 22:09. | Released on June 6, 2012
Sayonara Ponytail "sora mo toberu hazu / Bianca / koi suru Sports"
The limited edition of pop band Sayonara Ponytail's new EP comes with remixes by Tofubeats, Hyadain,... which is what deserves it a mention here. Lead track "sora mo toberu hazu" is a cover of Spitz. The various editions are a...
Posted on June 4, 2012 at 22:54. | Released on May 23, 2012
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
CANDLES "Evolutional Form"
After several years being active in the indies scene, electro-pop unit Candles have a first ever CD release! This comes as a mini-album of 6 songs. CANDLES "Evolutional Form" 1. Discovery 2. Stay With Me 3. Star Way 4. Infinity...
Posted on May 30, 2012 at 23:10. | Released on May 30, 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
Various Artists "zoku Fami-Compi"
This is a follow up to last year's "Fami-Compi", again full of new pico-pico club-style covers of popular Famicom (NES) theme songs. Producers include sasakure.UK and TeddyLoid. Various Artists "zoku Fami-Compi" オムニバス 「続ファミ・コンピ」 1. Opening ~Menuet da Pico~ 2. ikki...
Posted on May 21, 2012 at 21:54. | Released on May 23, 2012
Shūnosuke Ishikawa "shumusic EP" (Download)
Here's a new series of monthly digital releases under the name "Delicatessen LAB", brought by Nakatsuka Takeshi. The first is of Ishikawa Shūnosuke, a sax and flute player who is a regular member of Nakatsuka's live band and who also...
Posted on May 10, 2012 at 21:35. | Released on May 2, 2012
MoliquL "Forest" (Download)
MoliquL is the new Brooklyn-based unit of Takashi Tsugumi (PINE*am, Old Monk, Les Sewing Sisters) and Avery Brooks (Ravens & Chimes, Lost Children), taking inspiration from 70's and 80's synth pop/new wave to recent indies/alternative/club music. The EP includes remixes...
Posted on May 8, 2012 at 16:37. | Released on May 2, 2012
80kidz "Turbo Town"
Electro duo 80kidz have a 3rd album out now, and it features a line-up of vocalists from the world, including the likes of The Whip, Yes Giantess, Frankmusik and Ghostape. This follows album "Weekend Warrior" that was released 1½ year...
Posted on April 22, 2012 at 00:03. | Released on April 18, 2012
mishmash* Julie Watai "Roll of Love", "koi no tamashii" (Download)
Mishima Toyoaki (blog) has been a long-time programmer for Cornelius, and recently started his own unit called mishmash*! His first track features Julie Watai (JulieHally, model, photographer) on vocals, and it's now available in both Japanese and English on iTunes...
Posted on April 20, 2012 at 00:04. | Released on April 14, 2012
Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful - selected by Shachō"
Here's a compilation of Japanese jazz, selected under the theme keyword "beautiful" by Soil & "Pimp" Sessions' agitator, Shachō. Featured artists include Ino Hidefumi, Calmera, Jazztronik, quasimode, PE'Z, of course Soil & "Pimp" Sessions, and more. Various Artists "JPJZ Beautiful...
Posted on March 29, 2012 at 23:35. | Released on March 28, 2012
Nakamura Kazuyoshi "6 Remix'n Birds"
Singer-songwriter Nakamura Kazuyoshi, leader of J-rock band 100s, has a remix mini-album out just now. The originals aren't something I'd recommend, but the impressive list of remixers here is sure to draw attention, with Ishino Takkyu (Denki Groove), FPM, Yakenohara,...
Posted on March 27, 2012 at 23:04. | Released on March 28, 2012
Various Artists "Big Collabo Remix EP"
Here are remixes of tracks from concept collaboration album "Big Collabo" (Amazon) released in August 2011, matching Japanese and foreign artists. Featured are remixes by Dorian, tofubeats and Eccy, along with each original. This is also available worldwide on iTunes...
Posted on March 27, 2012 at 22:38. | Released on March 23, 2012
Lo-Fi-Pnk "Tune Up!" (Download)
Lo-Fi-Pnk (read "Lo-Fi Punk") is a unit from Sendai, formed of DJs from regular electro-pop party Poptune. This first release is a single called "Tune Up!" that features vocals by Candles' Pepe. Also included are remixes by The Aprils' Imai...
Posted on March 24, 2012 at 11:14. | Released on February 29, 2012
Perfume "Spring of Life"
Perfume have a new single titled "Spring of Life" coming next month! Details are still few at this time, but the title song is again a tie-up with Kirin's hyōketsu alcoholic drink, and a little bit can be heard in...
Posted on March 13, 2012 at 00:01. | Released on April 11, 2012
erectricmole "sakura" (Download)
erectricmole, Japanese-taste electronic unit from label Flawless World (post-Usagi-chang Records), has a 3-track digital EP out now! This follows first album "hōka no hirune" released last year. The 3 songs are old Japanese songs rearranged in erectricmole's style. erectricmole "sakura"...
Posted on February 29, 2012 at 19:33. | Released on February 29, 2012
(((sssurrounddd))) "(((sssurrounddd)))"
(((sssurrounddd))) is the recently formed band of rapper Illreme (Kamoda Jun), Track Boys' K404 and Crystal (Crue-L Records). Described as a unique city pop album, this is the result of the three members' various backgrounds from the hip-hop, house and...
Posted on February 28, 2012 at 23:47. | Released on March 7, 2012
Kinbara Chieko "Best Mix"
Club-style violinist Kinbara Chieko has a greatest hits album out now. This is actually a non-stop mix by DJ Spinna, with each track selected by "25 of the world's greatest DJs". The selection covers her entire solo career that started...
Posted on February 12, 2012 at 01:21. | Released on February 8, 2012
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
Takanami Keitarō to Nangasaki Five "Do-Re-Mi no daikōkai Nagasaki yōgaku kotohajime"
It took me this long to notice, but Takanami Keitarō (ex-Pizzicato Five) has a new album that was released last month! Continuing the series with his "Nangasaki Five", this album still focuses on his home roots of Nagasaki while taking...
Posted on December 21, 2011 at 23:08. | Released on November 11, 2011
Various Artists "The Chocolate Factory" (Download)
Nakatsuka Takeshi, eli (ex-Love Tambourines), Small Circle of Friends and P.O.P Orchestra have all collaborated together to create this 5-song mini-album, out now on iTunes worldwide. A release party will be held at Daikanyama Loop on December 11. Details at...
Posted on December 7, 2011 at 23:49. | Released on December 7, 2011
Various Artists "Hatsune Miku Dance Remix Vol.1"
This is a compilation of Hatsune Miku tracks remixed by various artists from the club and pico-pico scenes, including Rocketman, Sexy-Synthesizer, PandaBoY, Higedriver and many more. Closing the album is an original by Rocketman, recently released on iTunes. The official...
Posted on December 4, 2011 at 19:17. | Released on December 7, 2011
Sunaga t Experience "Choice"
Sunaga t Experience (the jazz unit produced by Sunaga Tatsuo) is back with a new album, this time backed by Billboard Japan part of a series of cover albums on its recently started Billboard Records label. The album features collaborations...
Posted on November 27, 2011 at 23:33. | Released on December 7, 2011
LAMA "New!"
After singles "Spell" and "Cupid / Fantasy", here finally comes a first album from official site, the super-group of Nakamura Kōji (iLL, ex-Supercar), Furukawa Miki (ex-Supercar), Ushio Kensuke (agraph) and Tabuchi Hisako (bloodthirsty butchers, ex-Number Girl). "New!" contains a total...
Posted on November 25, 2011 at 00:05. | Released on November 30, 2011
Various Artists "Ghibli Jazz Remix"
This latest Ghibli remix compilation features a lot of the best artists from the pico-pico scene. Check out what The Aprils, YMCK, The Lady Spade, Dr.Usui (Motocompo), milch of source (EeL's producer), Candles, Ram Rider, Boot Beat et al. have...
Posted on November 14, 2011 at 22:36. | Released on November 16, 2011
Salon Music "Sleepless Sheep"
Japanese new wave band Salon Music debuted 30 years ago, and had an important place in the 90's Shibuya-kei scene releasing many albums on Trattoria. Here they're back after 9 years since their previous album "New World Record" (2002, Amazon)....
Posted on November 14, 2011 at 22:09. | Released on November 16, 2011
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz digs Venus Jazz Opus II"
Here's a 2nd installment of Sunaga Tatsuo's selection of jazz gems from the catalog of Japanese label Venus Records. The 3rd is coming on December 21. All tracks can be sampled on the official release page by clicking the track...
Posted on November 14, 2011 at 00:13. | Released on November 16, 2011
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "tsukematsukeru"
Here's a new single from Harajuku model turned singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, again produced by Nakata Yasutaka. This is to contain 2 new songs plus an extended version of "Cherry Bonbon" from "moshimoshi Harajuku". Little details are available so far,...
Posted on November 7, 2011 at 22:50. | Released on January 11, 2012
Various Artists "Fami-Compi"
Here's a compilation of new cover and remixes of themes from popular Famicom (NES) game themes, reworked into drum'n'bass, dub-step, house and electro styles. The producers include TeddyLoid, Koshihikari and Hello Stupid People, who appear to have a following in...
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 19:58. | Released on October 26, 2011
LAMA "Cupid / Fantasy"
LAMA, the unit of Nakamura Kōji (iLL, ex-Supercar), Furukawa Miki (ex-Supercar), Ushio Kensuke (agraph) and Tabuchi Hisako (bloodthirsty butchers, ex-Number Girl), has a 2nd single out now. B-side "Fantasy" is being used as the ending theme of anime "UN-GO",...
Posted on October 27, 2011 at 00:12. | Released on October 26, 2011
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz digs Venus Jazz Opus 1"
Sunaga Tatsuo begins a new sub-series of jazz compilations, part of his ongoing "yoru jazz" ("Jazz All-Nighters") series. This time he selects from the catalog of Japanese label Venus Records, which since 1992 has brought many releases from worldwide artists...
Posted on October 14, 2011 at 22:26. | Released on October 19, 2011
Rocketman x Kawashima Ai "soredemo bokutachi wa ikiteyuku ~ go a long way together" (Download)
Rocketman's latest track features singer Kawashima Ai, and is coming to you as a worldwide iTunes release (23 countries). This song was first released freely as an instrumental after the March disaster, along with efforts by Fukawa Ryō and his...
Posted on October 12, 2011 at 00:05. | Released on October 12, 2011
Hatakeyama Miyuki "waga utsukushiki furusato yo"
Singer-songwriter Hatakeyama Miyuki (Port of Notes) celebrates her 10th anniversary since her solo debut with a 5th original album. Included are mainly new original songs, and also covers of standards "What A Wonderful World", "Moon River" and "Over The Rainbow"....
Posted on October 8, 2011 at 22:59. | Released on December 7, 2011
Chloe "Norwegian Wood"
Singer dahlia sings all songs on this new cover album by Irma Records Japan-based producer unit Chloe. This is a concept album featuring only covers of songs mentioned in books by writer Murakami Haruki ("1Q84", "Norwegian Wood", "Kafka on the...
Posted on October 3, 2011 at 23:08. | Released on October 5, 2011
