Various Artists "Kirakira Majocco Cluv"
This looks like it might be a real gem of a compilation! The concept is of idols singing theme songs of anime series about magical girls, and tracks are produced by various club-oriented artists. Featured singers include Shinohara Tomoe and...
Posted on February 8, 2010 at 21:21. | Released on February 10, 2010
Various Artists "Jobiniana ~ai to hohoemi to hana"
This tribute album to Antonio Carlos Jobim will feature artists from the club-jazz scene, and then some. Interpretations by Cubismo Grafico, Ino Hidefumi, Toki Asako, akiko, Minami Yoshitaka, bird, Monday Michiru, ... should make this a must for bossa nova...
Posted on August 30, 2007 at 20:03. | Released on October 10, 2007
Full-text search results for Tica
Gallantique Kazue & Yasushi Suzuki Group "tada sore dake no koto" (CD/7"/Download)
Gallantique Kazue (of Hoshikuzu Scat) has released a new single on CD and vinyl. It features for backband the Yasushi Suzuki Group (a group based at U.F.O. Club in Koenji) and also members of Wack Wack Rhythm Band. The...
Posted on February 24, 2025 at 18:45. | Released on February 19, 2025
Hajime Tachibana "hajimeht"
Hajime Tachibana (known as the guitarist of Plastics) has released a greatest hits album, the first to cover his whole solo career that started with his first album "H" (1982). The album was supervised by Kan Takagi, and the songs...
Posted on January 21, 2025 at 23:07. | Released on January 15, 2025
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Tokyo's Coolest Sound" vol.56
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 January 14, 2025 at 22:58.
VIOLAVIE "Destiny" (Download)
VIOLAVIE (YouTube, 𝕏, Instagram), the idol group produced by Emiri Kanou, has released a first EP titled "Destiny". Included are new songs "Destiny", which has music co-written by ISAFAT and Emiri, and "Tailwind", composed by Hyoe Yasuhara. All lyrics...
Posted on October 18, 2024 at 00:44. | Released on October 9, 2024
cubismo grafico "Seaside Weekend (feat. Kaori Takeda)" (Download/7")
cubismo grafico, the solo uniit of Gakuji "Chabe" Matsuda (Instagram, 𝕏) (Learners, Neil and Iraiza), has released a new song! "Seaside Weekend" is a cover of Isabelle Antena, and it is here sung by Kaori Takeda (Instagram, 𝕏) (Tica)....
Posted on July 15, 2024 at 11:30. | Released on August 21, 2024
Record Store Day 2023
Record Store Day will be held worldwide on Saturday April 22! Below is a list of recommended releases coming from Japan. The full list of Record Store Day Japan can be found here. As always, there are no online pre-orders,...
Posted on April 15, 2023 at 23:40. | Released on April 22, 2023
Yuri Kirihara with Tetsuro Yafune Trio "kimi wa tenneniro / kimi wa niji Girl" (7")
A new 7" single of Yuri Kirihara (nickname: Manbō) with Tetsurō Yafune Trio has just been released! The A-side is a cover of Eiichi Ohtaki's "kimi wa tenneniro", and the B-side is of a song that was previously distributed...
Posted on July 21, 2022 at 09:46. | Released on July 20, 2022
Various Artists "A Girl's Favourite Oldies Vol.1: The Musical Roots of SOLEIL"
Bassist and producer Sally Kubota revisits the roots and inspirations of his band SOLEIL, which was active from 2017 to 2019, in this compilation selected, supervised and designed by himself. This collection consists of 30 songs from the 60s, which...
Posted on March 25, 2022 at 10:34. | Released on March 25, 2022
xiangyu "Life!" (Download)
xiangyu (Twitter, Instagram) released this month a brand new song titled "LIFE!". It's the theme song of the movie "hotobori Meltsounds" which features xiangyu and Suzuki Keiichi (Moonriders). The song was produced by Kenmochi Hidefumi (Wednesday Campanella). The movie...
Posted on December 23, 2021 at 13:47. | Released on December 10, 2021
Tetsuro Yafune "A Sweet & Dangerous Scent / A Transparent Moment" (7")
Pianist and singer-songwriter Tetsurō Yafune is about to release a new full-length album on December 15, which is entirely produced by Konishi Yasuharu (Pizzicato One)! With the title "uta, Piano, Bass, Drums." (uta means song/singing), the album will feature...
Posted on November 23, 2021 at 23:59. | Released on November 24, 2021
Saoriiiii "Prove Myself" (Download)
Saoriiiii has just released a new single titled "Prove Myself". The music was written by TRON (Twitter) of Seijaku in Tokyo. Saoriiiii will perform at a birthday event for FQTQ titled "StrawberryKick presents 'VeryBerryPOP! vol.1'" to be held on...
Posted on October 26, 2021 at 22:54. | Released on October 23, 2021
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Tokyo's Coolest Sound" vol.15
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 March 25, 2021 at 00:36.
Yuri Kirihara with Tetsuro Yafune Trio "Sophisticated Baby"
Singer Yuri Kirihara (nickname: Manbō) has a brand new album about to be released, which is produced by singer-songwriter and pianist Tetsurō Yafune and performed by his trio (with Katsuto Suzuki on bass and Ryūsuke Kakizawa on drums). The result...
Posted on March 1, 2021 at 01:02. | Released on March 3, 2021
Interview: BJ Rubin
Interview of BJ Rubin by Patrick Benny (Tokyo's Coolest Sound)--> BJ Rubin is the New Yorker who is behind the eclectic TV show titled "The BJ Rubin Show" that's currently being aired on the Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN). The show...
Posted on February 27, 2021 at 22:00.
Gallantique Kazue "sekitou / My Address" (Download)
Singer Gallantique Kazue has a new single out today! Both songs are arranged by Yoshida Tetsuto, who also wrote the music of original song "sekitō". "My Address" is a cover of Azusa Michiyo, a song of which the music...
Posted on February 3, 2021 at 20:14. | Released on February 3, 2021
Posted on August 5, 2020 at 20:00. | Event held on Sunday August 16, 2020 at 14:00 (JST)
Gallantique Kazue "namida, ame, Adieu / kizashi no Season" (Download)
Singer Gallantique Kazue has just released a new single of two songs. "namida, ame, Adieu" is an original written by Mitz Mangrove (another member of Hoshikuzu Scat), while the B-side is a cover of Nakajima Miyuki's "kizashi no Season"....
Posted on July 29, 2020 at 23:24. | Released on July 29, 2020
Tokyo's Coolest Sound radio show on La Face B: "Tokyo's Coolest Sound" vol.4
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 April 23, 2020 at 00:50.
Gallantique Kazue "yume miru gogatsu ningyo" (7")
Singer Gallantique Kazue has just released a new 7"! The title song "yume miru gogatsu ningyō" is one that was released digitally in May 2019. It was written by manmancers, the project of drummer Shirane Kenichi (GREAT3), and co-arranged...
Posted on April 5, 2020 at 00:03. | Released on April 4, 2020
Hoshino Michiru "Moonlight Confessions (tsuki ga kirei desune)"
Hoshino Michiru, who this year started her own label and released 4-song EP "gyakkō", is now back with a new full-length album! It's also her first album in her singer-songwriter style, which puts the focus on gentle and beautiful melodies....
Posted on October 13, 2019 at 13:16. | Released on October 23, 2019
Ursula 1000 "Esoterique"
New York producer Ursula 1000 (aka Alex Gimeno) has a brand new album out now! Featured are collaborations with Qypthone's Ookawara Izumi and Nakatsuka Takeshi, The Gentle People, Ferd Schneider (The B-52s), Isabelle Antena, Loredana Grimaudo (Swingrowers), and remixes by...
Posted on October 5, 2019 at 18:27. | Released on October 1, 2019
HALLCA "Villa"
Following the release of an EP and 5 digital singles, here finally comes a full-length album by HALLCA (aka Tominaga Haruka, ex-Especia)! In addition to previously released tracks, new song "Complex City" and also two remixes are included. Check out...
Posted on September 19, 2019 at 07:38. | Released on September 25, 2019
xiangyu "The First ○○ Picture Book"
xiangyu (Twitter, Instagram) is a newcomer solo female artist who debuted last year. Her music is produced by Kenmochi Hidefumi (Wednesday Campanella). Following a few digital releases since October 2018, here comes her first physical mini-album! You can also enjoy...
Posted on May 24, 2019 at 22:27. | Released on May 22, 2019
HALLCA "Show the Night" (Download)
HALLCA (aka Tominaga Haruka, ex-Especia) has just released a new track digitally! "Show the Night" is a brand new song written by herself and arranged by PellyColo. HALLCA's next show will be her self-organized event "Tipsy Bar Vol.4" on...
Posted on May 6, 2019 at 23:22. | Released on May 6, 2019
Mom "Detox"
21-year-old singer-songwriter/trackmaker Mom has a new 2nd album being released this month! Check out his cool tracks & smooth vocals that are quite irresistible. This album follows "Playground" released in November 2018 (CDJapan, Spotify, ). HMV gives away a promo...
Posted on May 1, 2019 at 22:39. | Released on May 22, 2019
Magic, Drums & Love "Hurricane Upsetter"
Tokyo rock'n'roll band Magic, Drums & Love has a brand new album coming this month! The whole was produced by Matsuda "Chabe" Gakuji (Learners, Cubismo Grafico). With a base sound of soul/disco, there are felt influences of exotica, city pop...
Posted on May 1, 2019 at 20:25. | Released on May 15, 2019
HALLCA "Moisture Milk" (Download)
Today HALLCA (aka Tominaga Haruka, ex-Especia) has a new track out now digitally! This one was produced by PellyColo, and it concludes a series of three monthly releases (see also "Wanna Dance!" and "burning in blue"). HALLCA's next live...
Posted on April 1, 2019 at 22:22. | Released on April 1, 2019
Gallantique Kazue "Original Collection", "Cover Collection"
Singer Gallantique Kazue has two new albums being released at the same time! One is an album of her original songs, while the other is a collection of covers. "Original Collection" is actually her 2nd original album, the previous dating...
Posted on March 24, 2019 at 20:58. | Released on March 27, 2019
HALLCA "burning in blue" (Download)
HALLCA (aka Tominaga Haruka, ex-Especia) has a new track out now digitally! "burning in blue" is a track arranged by Rillsoul, who also produced "guilty pleasure" on "Apéritif e.p". One more song is to follow on April 1st. Stay...
Posted on March 1, 2019 at 23:24. | Released on March 1, 2019
Various Artists "chansoiree"
Live venue Saravah in Shibuya opened in December 2010 with the supervision of French artist Pierre Barouh (who passed away in 2016) and taking its name from his record label. The unique venue will close its doors on February 17,...
Posted on February 9, 2019 at 21:33. | Released on February 17, 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.
Tentenko "All Your Need Is Cat ~ neko koso wa subete"
Tentenko has a new mini-album out now in which she sings songs about her favorite animal, the cat. Guest artists include Kawamoto Makoto, Kera, Kishino You-ichi, Yoshida Tetsuto, Nakahara Masaya, neco nemuru, Itoken, ayU tokiO, Carre and more. A free...
Posted on December 6, 2018 at 00:04. | Released on December 5, 2018
Wakita Monari "Just a 'Crush for Today'" (CD/7")
Wakita Monari has a new single about to be released! Both tracks have music written and arranged by Arai Toshiya (Count Joke), and Monari wrote the lyrics of title track "Just a 'Crush for Today'". The A-side is said...
Posted on November 23, 2018 at 22:13. | Released on November 28, 2018
Pizzicato Five "On Her Majesty's Request -Analog Edition-" (12")
Pizzicato Five's 3rd album, "On Her Majesty's Request" (1989), is being released on vinyl for the first time! This follows a 7" EP release of 3 songs earlier this year. Just for the record, back in the day a 4-song...
Posted on July 7, 2018 at 01:15. | Released on July 13, 2018
Hoshikuzu Scat "keshoushitsu"
Hoshikuzu Scat, the Shōwa-kayō drag queen trio formed of Mitz Mangrove, Gallantique Kazue and Meili Mu, has a first full-length album being released! Most songs were arranged—and many written—by Nakatsuka Takeshi. Most songs can be sampled at CDJapan and other...
Posted on April 22, 2018 at 22:46. | Released on April 25, 2018
Record Store Day 2018
Record Store Day 2018 is coming up this weekend! Like every year many Japanese artists, labels and shops get involved, and many exciting releases will appear on the shelves on Saturday morning. Here's a selection that Tokyo's Coolest Sound readers...
Posted on April 16, 2018 at 23:40. | Released on April 21, 2018
Bakubaku Dokin "Darara / tasogare no Catherine" (7")
Following a great single titled "Good Night Baby" released just last month, here's a 2nd 7" from Bakubaku Dokin. The A-side "Darara" is said to be a mellow tune that sounds best at night, while B-side "tasogare no Catherine"...
Posted on February 20, 2018 at 22:21. | Released on February 28, 2018
Gallantique Kazue "kagayaite Night Flight", "yoru ni okiru Patron" (7")
Drag queen singer Gallantique Kazue, also a member of hoshikuzu Scat, has new single with music written and produced by Gary Ashiya (La veuve moustachue) being released this week. The title song is a disco tune, while the B-side has...
Posted on October 9, 2017 at 11:54. | Released on October 10, 2017
The Lady Spade "Phenomenon"
The Lady Spade has released just recently a brand new mini-album, the follow-up to "Reverse Shaped Black Heart" (2014). Their sound is more sophisticated and danceable than ever, cuter but also perhaps a bit scarier!? That the album is available...
Posted on September 17, 2017 at 17:35. | Released on September 6, 2017
Kaseki Cider "Onigiri University"
Rapper Kaseki Cider has a brand new album out now! It had been almost 5 years since his previous original album "Mr. City Pop". Guests include Wakita Monari, Negicco, Mashiro Megumi (Hicksville), DJ Misoshiru & MC Gohan, Satō Nanako, Matsuda...
Posted on August 2, 2017 at 22:00. | Released on August 2, 2017
Gig report: "Godzilla Legend -- Music of Akira Ifukube" in New York
Text and photos by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound(Except where indicated) Correspondent Nicholas D. Kent went to the "Godzilla Legend" concert held recently in New York. Here's his report! "Godzilla Legend—Music of Akira Ifukube" April...
Posted on May 14, 2017 at 10:35.
Gallantique Kazue "Chigasaki Memory" (7")
Singer Gallantique Kazue has a new 7" out now! The two songs were selected from her ongoing cover EP series "Anthology" that began last year (a 5th one is coming on May 31), consisting of covers of kayō̄kyoku from the...
Posted on May 4, 2017 at 20:56. | Released on May 3, 2017
Izumi Ookawara "Friendly Ghost" (Download)
Izumi Ookawara (Qypthone) has two new songs about to be released on iTunes! Both were written by herself, and co-arranged by guitarist Ishigaki Kentarō (Qypthone) and pianist Mami Oonishi. Both tracks also feature Suzuki Kaoru on drums among others....
Posted on September 27, 2016 at 23:00. | Released on September 28, 2016
Various Artists "Aloha Exotica"
Yasuda Toshiyuki, Jazztronik and Tamura Genichi (Kirinji, Little Tempo) cover famous Hawaiian and exotica songs in this new compilation that includes collaborations with Sandii, Lica, Takeda Kaori, cellist Mizoguchi Hajime, and Hawaiian singer Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole. Perfect for summer! Hear samples...
Posted on July 20, 2016 at 22:27. | Released on July 20, 2016
Various Artists "Sunaga Tatsuo no yoru Jazz gaiden 2 ~ All the young dudes ~ subete no wakakiyarōdomo"
Here's a new installment of Sunaga Tatsuo's long-running "Jazz Allnighters" ("yoru Jazz") compilation series. Follow-up to the 2010 compilation of Japanese jazz tracks, this new album contains the latest of young Japanese jazz bands. Being released on jazz label Playwright,...
Posted on June 4, 2016 at 10:31. | Released on May 25, 2016
Aoi "Girl"
And while Tarte Tatin release new album "re:10 tartetatin", Aoi (aka Ishikawa Aoi (Twitter)) took some distance by becoming a "honorary member", not further taking part in Tarte Tatin anymore. Instead she went solo and made a first mini-album with...
Posted on March 5, 2016 at 12:46. | Released on March 2, 2016
Tarte Tatin "Tartetatin Are Allright!"
Tarte Tatin are back with a new album, follow-up to single "Political na ikimonotachi" released last April. It has also been announced this month that the unit now has 3 members: Aoi, Yūki, and new member Yurie. This new album...
Posted on September 15, 2014 at 00:26. | Released on September 24, 2014
P.O.P "Summer of P.O.P" (Download)
Out today on iTunes Japan and OTOTOY is a summer-themed EP by identical twin tappers P.O.P. The EP includes a remix of "Watch me" by DJ Jet Baron (aka Takano Mandokoro), known for bringing Indonesian dance music sounds to Japan's...
Posted on August 18, 2014 at 23:49. | Released on August 18, 2014
Bakubaku Dokin "Bakubaku Dokin"
Bakubaku Dokin, the wacky and mysterious 2-girl unit formed of Yui and Naoko, finally has a debut mini-album out now! Previously they have released a 3-song EP on Towa Tei's digital label Machbeat, and also appeared on his albums "MACH2012"...
Posted on June 21, 2014 at 17:14. | Released on June 20, 2014
P.O.P "tanoshii koto bakari arimasu yō ni."
P.O.P (previously known as P.O.P ORCHeSTRA) is a hip-hop band led by two identical twin rappers. They have long been active on stage, and have released several songs on iTunes before, but finally here comes their first album being released...
Posted on June 18, 2014 at 23:09. | Released on June 18, 2014
Sunaga t Experience "Inugami Jazz EP" (12")
Sunaga t Experience has a new 12" EP coming! Two brand new jazzy covers up to the usual standards. Both can be heard in full at SoundCloud. Sunaga Tatsuo goes far with this release, also putting together a premium set...
Posted on May 12, 2014 at 23:16. | Released in May 2014
Tarte Tatin "Political na ikimonotachi"
Tarte Tatin have a new single coming, this one produced by Yamamoto Shō (Phenotas) who also produced The Nanbatatin's first album. This is also a first release as Tarte Tatin since the latest member change. Tarte Tatin "Political na ikimonotachi"...
Posted on April 14, 2014 at 22:46. | Released on April 16, 2014
YMCK "Family Days"
Jazzy 8-bit unit YMCK have been around for 10 years and counting! Here they're back with a new album, almost 5 years after "Family Cooking" (2009). The new "Family Days" sings not about nostalgia or fantasy but rather about daily...
Posted on September 22, 2013 at 14:04. | Released on October 2, 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
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu "kimi ni 100 Percent / furisodeshon"
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, who will be turning 20 on January 29, has a new single to be released on the next day. This double-A-single contains "kimi ni 100 Percent", theme song of anime series "Crayon Shinchan", and new song "furisode-shon"...
Posted on January 4, 2013 at 16:51. | Released on January 30, 2013
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
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
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
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
Yakushimaru Etsuko "yamiyami / Lonely Planet"
Yakushimaru Etsuko (sōtaiseiriron) has a new double-A-side single out now! "yamiyami" is a song that was featured on NHK's "minna no uta", while "Lonely Planet" is a post-themed (as in postal service) 15-minute piece featuring Oyamada Keigo (Cornelius) and Nagai...
Posted on September 26, 2012 at 00:30. | Released on September 26, 2012
Perfume "Spending all my time"
Perfume's next single is coming next month! Very cute new outfits too! B-side "Point" has already been heard on Hyōketsu TV commercials (watch below). To those who want the limited edition, which comes with a DVD of the title track's...
Posted on July 22, 2012 at 21:37. | Released on August 15, 2012
hoshikuzu Scat "Magnet Joe ni ki o tsukero (Single Version)"
hoshikuzu Scat, the Shōwa-kayō drag queen trio featuring Gallantique Kazue, has a new groovy single out now. All 3 songs are produced by Nakatsuka Takeshi. Included are covers of Gal ("Magnet Joe ni ki o tsukero") and Messengers ("That's The...
Posted on July 2, 2012 at 23:42. | Released on June 27, 2012
Gallantique Kazue "hitohada chūdoku" (Download)
Drag queen Gallantique Kazue (also part of unit hoshikuzu Scat) has a new single available now for download on iTunes Japan. Music and words were written by Nishimura Ikuyo (ex-arcorhyme), and the arrangement is by Shirane Kenichi (Great 3). A...
Posted on June 14, 2012 at 22:36. | Released on June 13, 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
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.
Gig report: Tokyo Outbound vol.02, with CTO LAB., Open Reel Ensemble, etc.
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Saturday was event "Tokyo Outbound vol.02" at Koenji High, presented by CTO LAB. and Otona no kagaku, a popular magazine that always comes with something that you can build...
Posted on January 11, 2012 at 23:36.
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
Gig report: Yellow Magic Orchestra U.S. shows, with Cibo Matto, Buffalo Daughter, Towa Tei
Text, photos and videos by Nicholas D. Kent (Japanese Electronic Music) for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Two reports of Yellow Magic Orchestra shows held in California last month (June 26 at Hollywood Bowl, L.A., with Cibo Matto, Buffalo Daughter and Towa...
Posted on July 23, 2011 at 20:13.
Gig report: CTO LAB. Presents Tokyo Outbound #01, with (M)otocompo, Shampoo
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Monday June 27 was an event organized by CTO LAB. at Koenji High, a good venue for which I've heard many praises for its good sound and tall stage....
Posted on July 4, 2011 at 00:18.
Gig report: Farm Party #6: Abikyokan, Hosaka Akane, Young Fratellis, N'toko
Text and photos by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound On Friday April 22 was a fun event held at Asagaya GaMuSo, of the Farm Party series organized by the great Tokyo Gig Guide. Started just last year, it was...
Posted on April 29, 2011 at 11:49.
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
Aira Mitsuki "Aira Mitsuki LiVE TOUR 2011 '???' in LIQUIDROOM" (DVD+CD)
Aira Mitsuki has a 2nd live DVD coming up, this time of the awesome final show of her latest tour for 3rd album "???". This show was held last January 30 at Liquidroom in Ebisu, Tokyo. I had the great...
Posted on April 10, 2011 at 00:19. | Released on April 20, 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.
Gig report: Aira Mitsuki "???" tour final
Text by Patrick Benny for Tokyo's Coolest Sound Last Sunday I had the chance to catch Aira Mitsuki's last stop of her tour for the release of latest album "???". The show was held at Ebisu LiquidRoom on January 30....
Posted on February 6, 2011 at 22:56.
Aira Mitsuki "??? (Three Question)"
Aira Mitsuki's 3rd full-length album is coming this month! Aside from being full of brand new tracks expected to be produced by Terukado, there's said to be a song collaborating with a trio of Korean songwriters of KARA fame (mainstream...
Posted on November 4, 2010 at 22:55. | Released on November 17, 2010
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.
Aira Mitsuki "Why Two?" (Download)
Here's a 2nd advance track from Aira Mitsuki's upcoming album "???"! This is available now on iTunes along with last week's Ozawa Kenji cover. Aira Mitsuki "Why Two?" (Download) D-topia Out now (10/20), ¥200 Sample/buy:...
Posted on October 21, 2010 at 23:38. | Released on October 20, 2010
Hatsune Miku "Hatsune Miku sings Halmens"
Part of Halmens' 30th anniversary releases is this tribute album sung by virtual idol Hatsune Miku. Not only she sings Halmens' greatest hits, but on two bonus tracks she even pays tribute to Nomiya Maki's album "Pink no kokoro"! Don't...
Posted on October 20, 2010 at 22:16. | Released on October 20, 2010
Aira Mitsuki "aishi aisarete ikirunosa" (Download)
Aira Mitsuki has a new track now available on iTunes, in advance of her upcoming album "???" (expected release date November 17). The song is a cover of a Ozawa Kenji song into a dance version heavy on vocoder, reminding...
Posted on October 18, 2010 at 00:10. | Released on October 13, 2010
JiLL-Decoy association "JiLL-Deco 4 ~ugly beauty~"
"Shibuya-kei funk pop" unit (as I saw them described somewhere) JiLL-Decoy association is a trio of guitar, drums and female vocals. Having debuted in 2007 they're already at their 4th album. While mostly original tunes, this one contains two Sunaga...
Posted on October 17, 2010 at 22:01. | Released on October 20, 2010
80kidz "Weekend Warrior"
Melodic electro unit 80kidz's 2nd full length album upon us. This is a follow-up to "This Is My Shit" (April 2009), since which they've also released download-only EP "Voice" and single "Spoiled Boy" . Jet Set offers a "Blackbox Test"...
Posted on October 17, 2010 at 19:43. | Released on October 20, 2010
Saeki Kenzo & Boogie The Machmotors "21seiki-san Sings Halmens"
Out at the same time as "Pink no kokoro + 2" is this tribute album to early 80's new wave band Halmens (Techno-Pop Academy). Produced by original member Saeki Kenzō, this features guest appearances by Nomiya Maki and Urbangarde's Hamasaki...
Posted on October 11, 2010 at 13:19. | Released on October 20, 2010
Nomiya Maki "Pink no kokoro + 2" (SHM-CD)
First released in 1981 (almost 30 years ago!), Nomiya Maki's debut album as a new wave idol, "Pink no kokoro", is being reissued (again), this time with 2 rare live tracks as a bonus. This is a great album produced...
Posted on October 11, 2010 at 11:19. | Released on October 20, 2010
Ino Hidefumi "Kaleidoscopic"
Ino Hidefumi (MySpace) has a live album coming next week, of the final show of his tour for album "Inocology". Held at Shibuya Club Quattro on April 10, the show featured his songs in different arrangements, and also some new...
Posted on October 9, 2010 at 22:01. | Released on October 15, 2010
Urbangarde "shōjo no shōmei"
A 3rd album from trauma techno-pop unit Urbangarde is out now! The first pressing comes with 3D artwork. Check out the videos below. Urbangarde "shōjo no shōmei" アーバンギャルド 「少女の証明」 1. Print Club 2. kizudarake no Maria (proof mix) 3. maegami...
Posted on October 9, 2010 at 11:20. | Released on October 8, 2010
Tropico Q "Hard Rock PAFE"
What's hidden behind this strange name? It's the new unit of Plus-tech Squeeze Box' Hayashibe Tomonori, together with Maeda Ryōma. This album is all covers of hard rock songs you've heard before, but redone in electro-dance fashion, all featuring vocals...
Posted on September 20, 2010 at 21:10. | Released on September 22, 2010
kotringo "picnic album 1"
Pianist and singer-songwriter kotringo has a cover album coming this week. Included are her takes on hit songs by Flipper's Guitar, YMO, Yuming, Clammbon, Epo and more. Audio samples on official site kotringo "picnic album 1" 1. koi to Machinegun...
Posted on September 20, 2010 at 20:47. | Released on September 22, 2010
Fantastic Explosion "Sounds In Space"
Fantastic Explosion (label ExT Recordings' MySpace) has a new mini-album coming this week! This succeeds the soundtrack for SF hero movie Hyperion released last year, though it's been 6 years since their previous original album "Return of Fantastic Explosion" (1994)....
Posted on September 19, 2010 at 15:45. | Released on September 22, 2010
Vanilla Beans "VaniBest"
Vanilla Beans have a new release that comes as a greatest hits album, although over half of it is actually previously unreleased tracks. Most notably there's a cover of Pizzicato Five's "Tokyo wa yoru no 7ji" ("the night is still...
Posted on September 19, 2010 at 14:47. | Released on September 22, 2010
Nakatsuka Takeshi "53512010" (Download)
Nakatsuka Takeshi (Qypthone) has a new download-only album out now on iTunes! This album is a collaboration with men's fashion brand 5351 POUR LES HOMMES by Abahouse. When buying the full album, a bonus 42-minute non-stop mix is included. A...
Posted on September 9, 2010 at 23:04. | Released on September 8, 2010
Towa Tei with Yurico "Marvelous" (Download)
Towa Tei has a new track available now on iTunes! The EP contains 4 versions of the song featuring singer (model?) Yurico on vocals. The song can also be heard in a TV commercial for Mobage (watch below). Towa Tei...
Posted on September 9, 2010 at 00:29. | Released on September 8, 2010
Fujimura Tohru & Yasuda Toshiyuki "Silent Disco Live 2010.07" (Download)
Last July, Fujimura Tohru and Yasuda Toshiyuki (MySpace) played an improvised live show at Shimokitazawa's Slow Comedy Factory using various electronic instruments, the audience listening to the music via headphones. I had the chance to be there (my report here)....
Posted on September 8, 2010 at 00:08. | Released on September 8, 2010
Panda 1/2 "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji" (Download)
Half-Chinese neo-Shibuya-kei unit Panda 1/2 has a new single available for download on iTunes starting right now. Titled "Shanghai wa yoru no 6ji", with a big wink to Pizzicato Five (taking account for the time difference), this fun track has...
Posted on August 25, 2010 at 00:20. | Released on August 25, 2010
Meg "Passport / Paris"
Following the release of album "Maverick" last June, Meg has a new single coming, her 2nd this year. This double-A-sider is produced by Nakata Yasutaka (capsule). The single is available in advance starting today on iTunes Japan. Meg "Passport /...
Posted on August 18, 2010 at 22:14. | Released on August 25, 2010
Crazy Ken Band "Mint Condition"
Crazy Ken Band has a brand new album out this week! Included is an album version of title track from single "1107" released last month, and a cover of Korean singer Park Sang Chul's "mujōken" (original at YouTube), for a...
Posted on August 12, 2010 at 22:41. | Released on August 11, 2010
Kinoco Hotel "Marianne no kyūjitsu"
Girl neo-G.S. band Kinoco Hotel has a new mini-album just around the corner. The title means "Marianne's holiday", and it consists of 6 covers of cult Showa kayō songs. Definitely hard to resist! The release is already available in advance...
Posted on August 1, 2010 at 20:50. | Released on August 4, 2010
pupa "dreaming pupa", "floating 6 pupas ~Live in Tokyo 2008~" (DVD)
All-star band pupa (*), that was believed by many to be a one-time thing, is back with a 2nd album out now! Released at the same time is a live DVD containing a full show held in November 2008. Also...
Posted on July 28, 2010 at 22:50. | Released on July 28, 2010
Rocketman "dancemusic" (Download)
2 weeks ahead of an upcoming greatest hits album, Rocketman offers an iTunes-only collection of 8 recent works. Aside of 6 that can be found on the upcoming album ("thank you for the music" is previously unreleased though), there's a...
Posted on July 25, 2010 at 11:12. | Released on July 21, 2010
