Cornelius "NHK 'Design Ah' 3"
A 3rd soundtrack album for NHK's popular educational TV program "Design Ah" (「デザインあ」) has just been released. As usual all the music is by Cornelius! Featured are vocals by Chocolat, Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter), Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius), Leo Imai (Metafive),...
Posted on July 25, 2018 at 23:04. | Released on July 18, 2018
Cornelius "NHK 'Design Ah' 2", "Design Ah" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Out now is a 2nd soundtrack album for NHK's popular educational TV program "Design Ah" (「デザインあ」) for which all the music is by Cornelius! Featured are vocals by Chocolat, Aoba Ichiko, Harada Ikuko (clammbon), Hanaregumi, KAKATO (Tamaki ROY x Chinza...
Posted on March 27, 2018 at 22:42. | Released on March 21, 2018
Cornelius "Design Ah" (10"), "The Cat that lived a Million times" (10")
Two 10" vinyl works by Cornelius are being released at the same time! The first is a cut of 6 tracks from the "NHK 'Design Ah'" soundtrack released on CD last year, including the vocal songs featuring Chocolat, Minekawa Takako,...
Posted on September 1, 2013 at 00:52. | Released on September 13, 2013
Cornelius "NHK 'Design Ah'"
Cornelius' new album is the soundtrack to NHK educative short series "Design Ah" (Ah = hiragana character あ) for which he was in charge of all music. Featured musicians include Chocolat, Minekawa Takako, Ohno Yumiko (Buffalo Daughter), salyu x salyu...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 17:54. | Released on January 23, 2013
Chocolat "No Regrets"
Chocolat has been singing for 15 years, and this is an album of her greatest hits, songs written by the likes of Kaji Hideki, Kanda Tomoki, Horigome Takaki (Kirinji), Horie Hirohisa (Neil & Iraiza), and more. Also included is brand...
Posted on December 20, 2012 at 00:03. | Released on December 12, 2012
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Record Day 2024
This year again, Record Day was held earlier this month on November 3, coinciding with the public holiday Culture Day. Here are some picks from the many releases of this year. The full list can be found here. Cruisic "Euphoria"...
Posted on November 19, 2024 at 23:36. | Released on November 3, 2024
CHiLi GiRL "CARAI"
CHiLi GiRL, the project of singer-songwriter and shamisen player Shinobu Kawashima mixing traditional sounds and city music, has just released a new full-length album! Follow-up to "Mebae" (2020) which had been released just digitally, here comes new album "CARAI" which...
Posted on September 6, 2024 at 22:25. | Released on September 4, 2024
CHiLi GiRL "Secret Secret" (Download)
CHiLi GiRL, the project of singer-songwriter and shamisen player Shinobu Kawashima mixing traditional sounds and city music, has just recently released a brand new song titled "Secret Secret". The music production was done in collaboration with drummer & video...
Posted on April 2, 2024 at 21:14. | Released on March 20, 2024
Hideki Kaji "We Are The Borders E.P.", "Winter Songs For You" (Download)
Hideki Kaji has released today a new EP titled "We Are The Borders E.P.". Its title song is a brand new one that features guest singers Miram and kiss the gambler a.k.a. Kanafun. The CD EP is sold at Tower...
Posted on December 6, 2023 at 23:33. | Released on December 6, 2023
YMCK "Ten+Ten"
Celebrating their 20th anniversary, YMCK has released a brand new album, their 10th, and it's titled "TEN+TEN" (read "Ten Ten"). The double album is made of 20 tracks, and as usual YMCK has a few tricks in their bag...! The...
Posted on November 8, 2023 at 22:01. | Released on September 29, 2023
Perfume "Sumikko Disco" (Download)
Perfume has just released a new song, which is the theme song for the new Sumikko Gurashi movie which has started playing in theaters on the same day, October 3. As always, the song was written and produced by...
Posted on November 3, 2023 at 21:02. | Released on November 3, 2023
Perfume "Perfume Live 2021 [polygon wave]" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Perfume has released a new live Blu-ray/DVD of a show held in August 2021 at Pia Arena MM in Yokohama under the title "polygon wave". Watch the special teaser clip below. There's a limited edition, also available in Blu-ray or...
Posted on January 2, 2023 at 00:29. | Released on December 24, 2022
City Pop on Vinyl 2022
"City Pop on Vinyl" is a campaign organized by Japan's famous record press Toyo Kasei. It takes place again in 2022, for the 3rd tme. Below is a selection of some titles not to be missed by readers of this...
Posted on August 6, 2022 at 00:55. | Released on August 6, 2022
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Tokyo's Coolest Sound" vol.29
This is Tokyo's Coolest Sound's own radio show, which is featured on La Face B (Facebook page), an Internet radio based in Montréal (Québec, Canada). It brings you some favorite songs and artists that you've read about in these...
Posted on July 15, 2022 at 13:15.
CHAI "Wink"
CHAI has just released today a 3rd album! "WINK" follows "PUNK" (2019) and "PINK" (2017). It includes previously released songs such as "Donuts Mind If I Do", "ACTION" and "PING! PONG feat. YMCK", along with plenty of brand new ones....
Posted on May 21, 2021 at 18:46. | Released on May 21, 2021
hitomitoi "Surfbank Social Club" (2LP), "Snowbank Social Club" (2LP)
hitomitoi's "Surfbank Social Club" (2013) and "Snowbank Social Club" (2014) albums, which had followed "City Dive" (2012), are both being released as double-LPs. "Surfbank Social Club" comes on blue colored vinyl, and "Snowbank Social Club" on white vinyl. A concert...
Posted on March 28, 2021 at 16:48. | Released on March 31, 2021
Nao☆ "gift songs" (12")
The latest mini-album by Nao☆ (Negicco), "gift songs" (, Spotify), is being released on vinyl this week! Included are songs written by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Learners, Neil and Iraiza), Chocolat & Akito, the band apart, and Lee HwangDae, and...
Posted on December 14, 2020 at 20:58. | Released on December 15, 2020
Nao☆ (Negicco) "gift songs", "Nanohana + Best☆Friend" (12")
Negicco's leader Nao is releasing a brand new mini-album this week! Included are songs written by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Learners, Neil and Iraiza), Chocolat & Akito, the band apart, and Lee HwangDae, and also one with lyrics written by...
Posted on October 11, 2020 at 22:45. | Released on October 13, 2020
Perfume "Perfume 8th Tour 2020 'P Cubed' in Dome" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Perfume are now celebrating their 20th anniversary, and the 15th since their major debut. This Blu-ray/DVD release is of the Tokyo Dome show of their latest tour, titled "Perfume 8th Tour 2020 'P Cubed' in Dome", which followed the release...
Posted on September 1, 2020 at 21:46. | Released on September 2, 2020
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Noël Nippon"
Tokyo's Coolest Sound is starting its own radio show! Part of La Face B (Facebook page), an Internet radio based in Montréal (Québec, Canada), the show will bring you some favorite songs and artists that you've read about in...
Posted on December 14, 2019 at 01:04.
Kinoco Hotel "Nude / tenmado" (7"), "ai no awa / yukimachi Elegy" (7")
Here come two new 7" cuts from a href="http://kinocohotel.org/" target="_blank">Kinoco Hotel's latest album "Marianne no ōgi" in which the band added some dance music colors that contrast with its signature garage rock style. Kinoco Hotel are about to finish...
Posted on September 22, 2019 at 11:13. | Released on September 25, 2019
Perfume "Perfume The Best 'P Cubed'"
Perfume, who did their major debut 14 years ago this month, has a new greatest hits album about to be released! Included are 52 songs on three CDs, included are two brand new songs, "nananananairo" and "Challenger". Nakata Yasutaka himself...
Posted on September 12, 2019 at 22:55. | Released on September 18, 2019
Kaji Hideki "Goth Romance"
Kaji Hideki has a brand new album being released! With the title "Goth Romance", he revisits his early music days and also invites a whole lot of friends to participate. The album is produced by Horie Hirohisa (Neil and Iraiza),...
Posted on June 5, 2019 at 00:04. | Released on June 5, 2019
Various Artists "Sazanami Label 15th Anniversary Sampler Vol.1", "Vol.2"
Sazanami Label, an independant label known for introducing many bands of genres such as garage rock and neo-GS among lots more of variety. To celebrate its 15th anniversary, here are two new very nice priced compilations that cover respectively years...
Posted on April 13, 2019 at 01:05. | Released on April 24, 2019
Gig report: Adieu, Vanilla Beans!: Retrospective & last gig reports
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound They came carried by winds from Northern Europe, where they returned to last October 7 (2018). So goes the setting of Vanilla Beans, a unique idol group that had debuted...
Posted on December 31, 2018 at 22:03.
Wack Wack Rhythm Band "Weekend Jack (+1 disc)"
This gem of a party album, the first full-length by Wack Wack Rhythm Band released on Trattoria in 1998, has just been re-released in a newly remastered edition! A bonus disc has been added, containing rarities such as 5 live...
Posted on November 22, 2018 at 22:30. | Released on November 21, 2018
Record Day 2018
Record Day is this Saturday November 3, always held on the same day as national holiday "Culture Day". Led by Japan's long-running record factory Tōyōkasei, many labels and artists coordinate their releases in the favorite physical format of many to...
Posted on November 2, 2018 at 23:22. | Released on November 3, 2018
Manon "Teenage Diary"
Fukuoka-based teenage model & singer MANON (Instagram) finally has a full-length album coming! Just over a year since debut single "xxFANCYPOOLxx" (available on pink vinyl 7"), "Teenage Diary" contains all of her great singles so far plus a bunch of...
Posted on June 22, 2018 at 23:03. | Released on July 7, 2018
Various Artists "Brilliant Ideas Works Of Yasuharu Konishi 1986-2018" (5CD)
Here comes a massive boxed set compilation of works by Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato One, ex-Pizzicato Five) spanning his whole career from 1986 to now! Included are many of the hits and wonderful songs he wrote music or lyrics for, produced,...
Posted on June 3, 2018 at 23:09. | Released on June 6, 2018
Various Artists "Sweets Wonderland / es koyama with friends"
This concept album is a collaboration of pastry shop es koyama (located in Hyōgo prefecture) with several artists who created new songs inspired by the shop's various cakes and sweet treats. Included are new songs by Nakatsuka Takeshi, Nanba Shiho,...
Posted on September 23, 2017 at 12:08. | Released on September 27, 2017
Various Artists "Ace 2", "Ace ep" (7"x2)
Konishi Yasuharu compiles another CD from Sony's J-Pop hit catalog, consisting of songs that have not been released on 7". This follows the release of "Ace" last February that was the starting point to the release of several 7" singles...
Posted on September 12, 2017 at 23:20. | Released on September 13, 2017
Manon "xxFANCYPOOLxx" (7")
Fukuoka-based teenage model Manon, of the Asobi System agency (same as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, etc.), debuted last month as a singer with the songs "xxFANCYPOOLxx" and "Beat The Bad Luck" produced by Yuppa (HNC aka Hazel Nuts Chocolate)! Those...
Posted on August 26, 2017 at 15:25. | Released on August 30, 2017
microstar "She Got the Blues" (12")
microstar's latest album "She Got the Blues" (2016) is being released on vinyl. microstar "She Got the Blues" A1. Chocolate Baby A2. Tiny Spark A3. tsuki no Palace A4. tomodachi ni narō A5. My Baby B1. yūgure Girl (Album Mix)...
Posted on May 5, 2017 at 22:34. | Released on May 24, 2017
microstar "She Got the Blues"
microstar, the unit of Satō Seiki (a producer of Hoshino Michiru) and singer Iizumi Yūko, has a brand new album about to be released! It's been 8 years since the previous, "microstar album" (2008). This includes latest single "Tiny Spark"...
Posted on July 17, 2016 at 10:47. | Released on July 20, 2016
Shuntaro Okino "Too Far [F-A-R Remixes]"
Okino Shuntarō (ex-Venus Peter) released last year album "F-A-R" (CDJapan), his first solo album since 2001 ("Gimmie Brighter" as Indian Rope). Now here comes a remix album including remixes by Cornelius, Salon Music, Nakamura Kōji (LAMA, ex-Supercar, aka iLL, Nyantora),...
Posted on June 16, 2016 at 20:47. | 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
Chocolat & Akito meets The Mattson 2 "Chocolat & Akito meets The Mattson 2"
Chocolat & Akito (Facebook) have collaborated with Californian surf jazz twins The Mattson 2 for this brand new album. Guests such as Toro Y Moi, Ray Barbee and Tommy Guerrero are also featured, and the whole was mixed by John...
Posted on March 1, 2016 at 20:57. | Released on March 2, 2016
Perfume "Perfume Anniversary 10days 2015 PPPPPPPPPP 'LIVE 3:5:6:9'" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Here's a new Perfume live Blu-ray/DVD, of a show titled "LIVE 3:5:6:9" part of 10-day event "Perfume Anniversary 10days 2015 PPPPPPPPPP" held to celebrate their 15th anniversary and also 10 years since their major debut. The limited edition contains a...
Posted on January 15, 2016 at 00:35. | Released on January 13, 2016
Chiroline ver.3 "Last Pajama Party"
Chiroline ver.3 (previously Chiroline ver.2) are back as a trio with new mini-album "Last Pajama Party"! While produced by Okada Tohru (Moonriders), songs written by fellow CTO LAB. members Imai Kentaro (The Aprils) and polymoog (Elektel) are also included. There...
Posted on July 29, 2015 at 21:45. | Released on August 5, 2015
Various Artists "Zher the Zoo Yoyogi 10th Anniversary Compilation Album 'Here Come The Girl'zoo'"
Zher the ZOO (a venue in Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku) has been around for 10 years already. Here's a nice-priced compilation of various female vocal songs by artists familiar to the venue. Most of these are rare or brand new recordings. Featured...
Posted on March 15, 2015 at 13:51. | Released on March 18, 2015
Perfume "5th Tour 2014 Gurun Gurun" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Perfume's 5th tour, titled "Gurun Gurun" (official page) and held through August and September in 2014, has now been released on Blu-ray and DVD. The recording is of the tour's finale show held at Kokuritsu Yoyogi Daiichi Taiikukan in Tokyo...
Posted on March 11, 2015 at 23:09. | Released on March 10, 2015
Perfume "Perfume WORLD TOUR 2nd" (Blu-ray/DVD), "Perfume WORLD TOUR 1st" (Blu-ray)
Perfume have a new DVD/Blu-ray coming, of a show from their 2nd world tour held last year. The chosen show is the one held at London's O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire on July 5, 2013. The show in London was first...
Posted on September 21, 2014 at 12:12. | Released on October 1, 2014
Various Artists "Techpri Tribute ~Techpri Happy Ever After~"
Sendai-based techno-pop idol group Techpri (English name "t.c.princess") was active from 2009 to 2013, produced by electro artist Tobeta Bajune, with their last show held part of TIF2013 (the annual Tokyo Idol Festival). This tribute album features mainly girl-fronted units...
Posted on May 24, 2014 at 12:44. | Released on May 21, 2014
Perfume "Perfume 4th Tour in DOME 'LEVEL3'" (Blu-ray/DVD)
Perfume have a new live Blu-ray/DVD coming, of a show held at Tokyo Dome last December following the release of album "LEVEL3". Limited editions include a bonus disc different versions of "Spring of Life" and "Party Maker" as well as...
Posted on April 5, 2014 at 00:12. | Released on April 9, 2014
Perfume "Perfume Clips" (Blu-ray/DVD)
This is Perfume's first collection of video clips, including all from their years on label Tokuma Japan since major debut "Linear Motor Girl". The limited edition comes with a bonus disc of rare versions, 25 TV commercials, and an audio...
Posted on February 6, 2014 at 23:41. | Released on February 12, 2014
hitomitoi "Snowbank Social Club"
Following last summer's hot "Surfbank Social Club", hitomitoi now brings us a winter album, the kind that should warm you up. Again collaborators Cunimondo Takiguchi (Ryūsenkei), Kashif (aka Stringsburn) and LUVRAW & BTB are in, as well as tofubeats, Avec...
Posted on January 14, 2014 at 22:59. | Released on January 29, 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
No Lie-Sense "First Suicide Note"
No Lie-Sense (official Facebook page) is a new unit formed of Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders) and Kera (aka Keralino Sandorovich, of Kera & the Synthesizers, ex-Long Vacation, ex-Uchōten). Featured artists include Nomiya Maki (ex-Pizzicato Five), Sakamoto Miu, Ueno Yōko, Inuyama Inuko...
Posted on November 15, 2013 at 23:36. | Released on November 6, 2013
ya-to-i "Shadow Sculpture"
ya-to-i is a unit started in 1996 by Yamamoto Seiichi (ex-Boredoms), Okada Tohru (Moonriders) (and at the time Ito Junji (ex-Mansfield)), which went on hiatus after a 2001 album release. The two are now back with a new album which...
Posted on October 7, 2013 at 23:26. | Released on October 16, 2013
FQTQ "Hyperactive"
Electro artist FQTQ (SoundCloud, Facebook page) has a new album out now (his 4th I believe). It features vocalists such as aco (spoon+), kuske (KPLECRAFT), Ōtsuki Maki and komaku Shredder. Official release page FQTQ "Hyperactive" 1. Super Hero feat. komaku...
Posted on July 3, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on June 5, 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
Gig report: Vanilla Beans band live with Kaji Hideki
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Until recently, Vanilla Beans had always performed their shows "idol style", singing karaoke over a backtrack of the music. Last year marked their 5th anniversary, and then came 3rd album...
Posted on May 3, 2013 at 20:01.
Muro "Diggin' Salsoul Breaks"
Following Towa Tei's recent Salsoul mix CD, here comes another one from DJ Muro. This features a unique selection by the "King of Diggin'", and the right dose of his top mixing skills. The art direction was done by Shindō...
Posted on April 21, 2013 at 22:40. | Released on April 10, 2013
Chocolat & Akito "Duet"
Chocolat & Akito, the unit of singer Chocolat and husband Katayose Akito (GREAT3) have a new album out now. This is their 3rd album, following "Tropical" (2007), and contains the song "tobira" from their latest EP (check it out for...
Posted on December 4, 2012 at 22:14. | Released on November 28, 2012
Chocolat & Akito "tobira ep"
Chocolat & Akito, the unit of Chocolat and husband Katayose Akito (Great3). Aside from new song "tobira" are included remixes by Nagai Seiichi (sōtaiseiriron), Hamano Kenta (Sakerock), John McEntire (Tortoise) and Miyauchi Yuri. This new EP comes on the Rallye...
Posted on August 30, 2012 at 00:20. | Released on September 5, 2012
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
Chiroline ver.2 "Chit Chat Chiroline"
Chiroline (reads -lyn) was a girl techno-pop unit that was produced by Okada Tohru (CTO LAB., ex-Moonriders) in the mid-to-late-80's. This year sees the formation of a group of 4 new girls borrowing the same name, again produced by the...
Posted on August 5, 2012 at 12:47. | Released on August 8, 2012
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
Gig report: Vanilla Beans one-man live vol.4
Text and photo by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Sunday June 17, I went to see Vanilla Beans who were holding their 4th one-man live. I had been to the first held in December 2009 (report), and have...
Posted on June 21, 2012 at 23:35.
Gig report: Beat Communist vol.10: Nakatsuka Takeshi, Kaji Hideki, akiko, P.O.P ORCHeSTRA
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Saturday May 26 was the 10th edition of the "Beat Communist" event presented by Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone), which is regularly held every 3 months at jazz club JZ Brat....
Posted on May 30, 2012 at 23:20.
Kaji Hideki "Blue Heart"
Kaji Hideki has a brand new album out this week! This is a first release on his own label Blue Boys Club, coming 1½ year after "Teens Film" (a collaboration album with Riddim Saunter), and 2½ years after latest solo...
Posted on May 14, 2012 at 22:24. | Released on May 16, 2012
Vanilla Beans "Choco Mint Flavor Time"
Vanilla Beans have a brand new single coming! Title track "Choco Mint Flavor Time" is a catchy pop tune that can be heard in the cute videoclip below, which features more dancing than usual. The jacket even shows Rena and...
Posted on April 4, 2012 at 23:45. | Released on April 11, 2012
Tommy february6 & Tommy heavenly6 "February & Heavenly"
Kawase Tomoko (The Brilliant Green) is back with her two solo projects, Tommy february6 and Tommy heavenly6. Here's a joint album containing 7 songs by each persona. Two of the songs by Tommy heavenly6, "monochrome rainbow" and "I'm Your Devil...
Posted on February 27, 2012 at 20:28. | Released on February 29, 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.
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
Love and Hates "L.A.H."
Love and Hates, the girl party unit of Yuppa (HNC) and Moe (Miila and the Geeks) has finally a first album coming, after several cassettes that all sold out almost instantly! 17 tracks are included, totaling 36 minutes (2:07 average)....
Posted on November 27, 2011 at 17:27. | Released on December 7, 2011
Kimura Kaela "8EIGHT8"
Singer Kimura Kaela is back with a new album, especially noteworthy because it's entirely produced by Asparagus' Watanabe Shinobu, responsible for her recent catchy singles "Ring a Ding Dong" and "A winter fairy is melting a snowman". Kimura Kaela "8EIGHT8"...
Posted on October 9, 2011 at 18:31. | Released on October 12, 2011
DadaD "Touch Touch Touch"
Following their fun debut single "Go Around" release in June, girl-boy duo DadaD (pronounced "Da da da") finally has a full-length album coming this week! DadaD makes guitar-driven pop songs with soft beats and a slight touch of electro. "Go...
Posted on September 4, 2011 at 15:50. | Released on September 7, 2011
Gig report: Charity event: KAJI Hideki, Chabe, Harvard, Love and Hates
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Wednesday was held a charity event organized by Kaji Hideki, with the help of Harajuku Astro Hall where he has been doing regular events for a long time. The...
Posted on April 25, 2011 at 23:25.
Various Artists "Velvet Songs"
This cover compilation from Grand Gallery consists of new recordings of songs from the repertory of Alfa label. Featured artists include Nakatsuka Takeshi, Cubismo Grafico feat. Kushibiki Sayaka, Sokabe Keiichi, Nanao Tavito, Shimazaki Hitomi with Nanase feat. Kinbara Chieko, Chocolat...
Posted on April 14, 2011 at 21:36. | Released on April 20, 2011
Sloppy Joe "The Boy Who Talks About Someone" (Download)
Going hand-in-hand with the upcoming Sloppy Joe album "With Kisses Four" (out March 9) is this iTunes-only EP of lead track "The Boy Who Talks About Someone" including remixes by HNC and The Pegasuss. Sloppy Joe "The Boy Who Talks...
Posted on March 3, 2011 at 23:40. | Released on March 2, 2011
Perfume "Perfume Live @ Tokyo Dome '1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11'" (DVD)
Perfume has a new DVD coming of their concert held at Tokyo Dome on November 3 last year. Their biggest yet show for an audience of 50000 fans marked their 10th anniversary (and also the 5th of moving to a...
Posted on January 24, 2011 at 22:16. | Released on February 9, 2011
HNC "Witches' Party EP" (7"+CD)
HNC (aka Hazel Nuts Chocolate)'s new offering is a 7" of "Witches' Party", a track from album "CULT" (2009). The B-side is a remix by Threepee Boys, said to be borrowing a sample from a well-known witch. This actually comes...
Posted on January 22, 2011 at 22:30. | Released on February 4, 2011
Gig report: Fantastic Explosion "Sounds In Space" release party
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last week, on Friday October 22, was Fantastic Explosion's release party for new mini-album "Sounds In Space". The event was held at heavysick ZERO, a small-sized 2-floor club in Nakano,...
Posted on October 30, 2010 at 11:39.
Fantastic Explosion "Return of Fantastic Explosion"
Fantastic Explosion's long sold out amazing mash-up album from 2003 is back! Full of groovy club tracks packed with shōwa samples. A classic! Produced by Nagata Kazunao (ExT Recordings) and Yoshida Tetsuto. Audio samples at Jet Set Fantastic Explosion "Return...
Posted on October 20, 2010 at 22:31. | Released on October 20, 2010
Various Artists "Grrrls Talk (compiled by Twee Grrrls Club)"
Twee Grrrls Club (MySpace) is a grrrls unit doing what indie grrrls do: make cassette mix tapes, fanzines, collect records and DJ. The unit features Yuppa (HNC, Love And Hates), Miila (Love And Hates), Sumire and Satomi. This is their...
Posted on October 4, 2010 at 20:56. | Released on October 6, 2010
Gig report: Nagisa Yoko Recital 2010
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Monday April 26 was Nagisa Yōko's recital at Shibuya Quattro, an event to celebrate the issue of her new 400-page photo book titled "NAGISA" . The show featured a full band,...
Posted on May 4, 2010 at 18:55.
Gig report: HNC Release Party "Cult Club"
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Friday April 30 was the overdue release party for HNC's album "Cult" released last December. HNC used to be known as Hazel Nuts Chocolate, the solo project of a girl...
Posted on May 2, 2010 at 14:50.
HNC "Gu-gli Gu-gli" (Download)
A brand new song from HNC (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) is available as of today on iTunes Japan! A sample can be heard on MySpace. HNC "Gu-gli Gu-gli" (Download) White Lily Records Out now (3/31), ¥150 Sample/buy: How to buy from...
Posted on April 1, 2010 at 22:38. | Released on March 31, 2010
HNC "Don't You Think You Come To Love Me" (Download)
Today a brand new song by HNC (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) has been released exclusively on iTunes! The love song comes a month ahead of Valentine's Day. HNC "Don't You Think You Come To Love Me" (Download) White Lily Records Out...
Posted on January 13, 2010 at 23:05. | Released on January 13, 2010
Perfume "Perfume Second Tour 2009 'chokkaku nitouhen sankakkei Tour'" (DVD)
Perfume's recent tour for album "⊿" is getting a DVD release. More specifically, this is the final show of the tour, held at Yokohama Arena on October 30, 2009, included in its entirety. A bonus disc contains 2 songs with...
Posted on December 30, 2009 at 22:05. | Released on January 13, 2010
HNC "CULT"
Hazel Nuts Chocolate is back with a 3rd album as HNC! Yuppa said somewhere that you can call her "H.N.C." or any old names you got used to. As heard on some demo tracks at MySpace, she continues doing fun...
Posted on November 9, 2009 at 22:12. | Released on December 2, 2009
Yoshimoto shinkigeki All Stars "ebibadi! warao Samba!!"
Yuppa (aka Hazel Nuts Chocolate) has written the new theme song for entertainment company Yoshimoto shinkigeki which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Yoshimoto shinkigeki All Stars "ebibadi! warao Samba!!" 吉本新喜劇オールスターズ 「エビバディ！笑おうサンバ！！」 1. ebibadi! waraō Samba!! 2. Somebody Stole My Gal...
Posted on June 16, 2009 at 23:14. | Released on May 20, 2009
8bit Project "Spicy Innovator VS Superior Marionette"
Here's a 2nd album by 8bit Project, the unit of Itō Toshiharu (ex-Mansfield), Matsutake Hideki (Logic System, and also the said "4th member of YMO") and Saitō Hisahi (of YMO homage band Y Setsu O). Like their first album "Familiar...
Posted on April 27, 2009 at 21:46. | Released on April 29, 2009
Perfume "Perfume 'BUDOUKaaaaaaaaaaN!!!!!'" (2DVD)
Here comes a DVD of the live shows that Perfume gave at Tokyo's large venue Nippon Budokan over two days last year (November 6 and 7, 2008). Perfume "Perfume 'BUDOUKaaaaaaaaaaN!!!!!'" (DVD) (Region 2 / NTSC) Disc 1 1. Computer City...
Posted on April 11, 2009 at 16:37. | Released on April 22, 2009
Mizuno Mari "mariage"
Konishi Yasuharu contributes a newly written song to this solo mini-album by Mizuno Mari (paris match (MySpace)), who was featured last year on "uta to Guitar. Piano. kotoba." from columbia*readymade. His song here is titled "kekkon shiyō yo." ("Let's get...
Posted on April 11, 2009 at 12:00. | Released on April 29, 2009
Various Artists "14 Girls' Life"
This compilation titled "14 Girls' Life" has a concept of featuring female vocalists from different genres, from electronica to post-rock, jazz and future-pop. I'm delighted to see favorite future-pop artists such as Iguchi Miho (Aprils), Yuppa (Hazel Nuts Chocolate) and...
Posted on April 2, 2009 at 22:20. | Released on April 1, 2009
Various Artists "Juicy Fruits"
This compilation has for theme "covers of songs with fruits in their title". Tracks are produced by young units Cherryboy Function, Harley & Quin, Beat Panama, etc., and featured vocalists include Yuppa of Hazel Nuts Chocolate (with a Halcali cover!),...
Posted on February 16, 2009 at 00:29. | Released on February 18, 2009
YMCK "Family Cooking"
DiscID: 6d063e09
Posted on December 2, 2008 at 23:57. | Released on January 21, 2009
Perfume "First Tour 'GAME'" (DVD)
Perfume toured sold out venues throughout Japan for hit album "GAME". Now here's your chance to enjoy the show too! Video sample at Tower Records (look for the large yellow banner) Perfume "First Tour 'GAME'" (DVD) Perfume 「First Tour 『GAME』」...
Posted on October 14, 2008 at 00:37. | Released on October 15, 2008
Hazel Nuts Chocolate "Cute (Korean Edition)"
Good news for all of those who have been going nuts trying to get their hands on the now rare 2nd album "Cute" (2005) by Hazel Nuts Chocolate, it's being released in Korea! Just don't miss it this time around....
Posted on August 2, 2008 at 02:57. | Released on August 14, 2008
Cubismo Grafico Five "Pleasures"
Cubismo Grafico Five has been releasing a bunch of 7"'s containing new songs over the last year or so, all in collaboration with different artists. Most of those have sold out since, but no worries, all songs can finally be...
Posted on July 22, 2008 at 16:30. | Released on August 8, 2008
Switched On! #5: Hazel Nuts Chocolate and Motocompo live
Hazel Nuts Chocolate and Motocompo will perform at the 5th edition of the Switched On! new-wave-dance-pop party series. Switched On! official MySpace Switched On! #5 on 6/29 (Sun.) at Kichijōji Bar Drop Live: Hazel Nuts Chocolate Motocompo V/order DJs: Dr.Usui...
Posted on June 24, 2008 at 17:42. | Released on June 29, 2008
Pure Pop Fes vol.1
A bunch of great indie-pop units will share a stage in Shimokitazawa: future guitar pop band Aprils who recently made the soundtrack for animated film "kaede Newtown", Hazel Nuts Chocolate who is said to have plenty of new songs as...
Posted on March 31, 2008 at 16:44. | Released on April 26, 2008
utakata onpu na haru: Chocolat & Akito live
Chocolat & Akito will perform their music at a special event while illustrator Satō Yuri will produces live painting. Paper cutting master Hayashiya Shōraku will also show his tricks. Food from vegetarian café Alaska will be available. Official information page...
Posted on March 24, 2008 at 18:01. | Released on April 26, 2008
Perfume "Game"
DiscID: 8d0d230c
Posted on January 23, 2008 at 16:53. | Released on April 16, 2008
"standard of 90's" re-issue series part 2
After Original Love and Spank Happy, here come re-issues of Scha Dara Parr, Great 3 (unit of Katayose Akito, husband of Chocolat) and Tokyo No.1 Soul Set (unit of Kawanabe Hiroshi now member of InK). These are also all remastered...
Posted on October 22, 2007 at 22:23. | Released on November 28, 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
