Ito

It’s autumn. The leaves are turning and there is a crispness running through the air. Falls seems bring out the nostalgic side of me. Maybe it is the chill on my skin, forcing my mind try to draw on the warmth of fond memories. Or perhaps it is just the shortening days, driving me to spend more time inside, and making me appreciate the little gap of time after I leave work and when the sun drops below the horizon. Whatever the reason may be, autumn seems to stir in me the feelings of the past.

This is particularly so when it comes to music. This season seems to latch on to music I love, and to me, they almost become inseparable. And that’s what I want to talk about. What music do you listen to that is tied to certain memories? What are the reasons why? Does it make the music almost more important or memorable than it ever could have been without that memory?

I’ll start…with the obvious; music that is tied with memories in fall.
 


Abingdon Boys School – Their entire self-titled album

Enter fall of 2007. My girlfriend at the time and I started dating earlier in the year, which happened to be our final year in high school. After summer had come and gone, we both parted ways on to our separate colleges. I had chosen to go to a fairly close school, only 45 minutes away from home…close enough that I could go home if I needed to, but far enough to be removed from my parents and high school life. She opted to follow the path of her older sister; going to a private college around 3 hours away.

After a summer of spending most of my available time with her, I had fallen in loved. This wasn’t like my previous relationship, where I thought I knew what love was. This time I could explain it. Each little thing. How it made me feel. Our endless silly talks that meandered everywhere and nowhere. This love felt so much more real, unlike the stuff that I was taught was love from TV, but something that I truly felt inside of me. So at the end of the summer, I’m sure you can understand the sinking feeling inside of me. She left, I left; both of us dropped off at our respective institutions. My car was left at home and her’s likewise.

Fast forward to October. It had been three months since I had last seen her, though that was not to say there was a lack of communication. All I have to say is thank god for Verizon’s free nights and weekends, otherwise my phone bill would have been through the roof. But that didn’t make up for the lack of physical interaction. I found my solace in music.

As I am sure some of you remember, Abingdon Boys School released their first album that October. I loved it…and my girlfriend did too, which was amazing. We rarely shared tasted in music, so to be able to share something like this was really special. But that isn’t what made the memory with this album.

Skip ahead to late October (maybe early November, its been awhile). I had the chance to go up to my family hunting cabin for the weekend, which was only about an hour away from my girlfriend’s college and deep in the woods. After some convincing, I managed to persuade my parents in to letting me pick her up and allowing her to spend the weekend together with us at the cabin. After waiting for about 4 months and 3 hours of driving in anticipation, I met her in what was maybe the best hug of my life. We drove back to my family’s cabin, and Abingdon Boy School quickly fell in to place as the sound track of our weekend.

The pleasant warmth of the sun in the cool air, the burnt orange and vibrant yellow on the trees, and the powerful vocals and guitar of radiating out of my car’s speakers all seemed to meld so perfectly together. The synergy of it all, combined with the shear bliss of finally seeing the person I had missed so dearly, just burned the entire weekend in to my memory.
 
 
 

To this day, whenever I listen to a track off of ABS’s self-titled, I think of that special fall weekend…the glorious weather, the delightful romance of a young couple, and the pure joy of music. I think about what we had and I how wonderful it had been. I think about how things have changed. I think about her. I think about innocence. And I think about fall.



Ok, now it’s your turn! You really don’t have to be as elaborate as me (or as sappy lol), but I look forward to reading your replies!

It’s autumn. The leaves are turning and there is a crispness running through the air. Falls seems bring out the nostalgic side of me. Maybe it is the chill on my skin, forcing my mind try to draw on the warmth of fond memories. Or perhaps it is just the shortening days, driving me to spend more time inside, and making me appreciate the little gap of time after I leave work and when the sun drops below the horizon. Whatever the reason may be, autumn seems to stir in me the feelings of the past.

This is particularly so when it comes to music. This season seems to latch on to music I love, and to me, they almost become inseparable. And that’s what I want to talk about. What music do you listen to that is tied to certain memories? What are the reasons why? Does it make the music almost more important or memorable than it ever could have been without that memory?

I’ll start…with the obvious; music that is tied with memories in fall.
 


Abingdon Boys School – Their entire self-titled album

Enter fall of 2007. My girlfriend at the time and I started dating earlier in the year, which happened to be our final year in high school. After summer had come and gone, we both parted ways on to our separate colleges. I had chosen to go to a fairly close school, only 45 minutes away from home…close enough that I could go home if I needed to, but far enough to be removed from my parents and high school life. She opted to follow the path of her older sister; going to a private college around 3 hours away.

After a summer of spending most of my available time with her, I had fallen in loved. This wasn’t like my previous relationship, where I thought I knew what love was. This time I could explain it. Each little thing. How it made me feel. Our endless silly talks that meandered everywhere and nowhere. This love felt so much more real, unlike the stuff that I was taught was love from TV, but something that I truly felt inside of me. So at the end of the summer, I’m sure you can understand the sinking feeling inside of me. She left, I left; both of us dropped off at our respective institutions. My car was left at home and her’s likewise.

Fast forward to October. It had been three months since I had last seen her, though that was not to say there was a lack of communication. All I have to say is thank god for Verizon’s free nights and weekends, otherwise my phone bill would have been through the roof. But that didn’t make up for the lack of physical interaction. I found my solace in music.

As I am sure some of you remember, Abingdon Boys School released their first album that October. I loved it…and my girlfriend did too, which was amazing. We rarely shared tasted in music, so to be able to share something like this was really special. But that isn’t what made the memory with this album.

Skip ahead to late October (maybe early November, its been awhile). I had the chance to go up to my family hunting cabin for the weekend, which was only about an hour away from my girlfriend’s college and deep in the woods. After some convincing, I managed to persuade my parents in to letting me pick her up and allowing her to spend the weekend together with us at the cabin. After waiting for about 4 months and 3 hours of driving in anticipation, I met her in what was maybe the best hug of my life. We drove back to my family’s cabin, and Abingdon Boy School quickly fell in to place as the sound track of our weekend.

The pleasant warmth of the sun in the cool air, the burnt orange and vibrant yellow on the trees, and the powerful vocals and guitar of radiating out of my car’s speakers all seemed to meld so perfectly together. The synergy of it all, combined with the shear bliss of finally seeing the person I had missed so dearly, just burned the entire weekend in to my memory.
 
 
 

To this day, whenever I listen to a track off of ABS’s self-titled, I think of that special fall weekend…the glorious weather, the delightful romance of a young couple, and the pure joy of music. I think about what we had and I how wonderful it had been. I think about how things have changed. I think about her. I think about innocence. And I think about fall.



Ok, now it’s your turn! You really don’t have to be as elaborate as me (or as sappy lol), but I look forward to reading your replies!

Phantasmagoria's 神歌 (Kami Uta) is —despite Kisaki once having stated he absolutely didn't want it to become their anthem song, preferably had he chosen 未完成とギルト or Material Pain— their anthem song, or so I think so. It's most definitely way down on my list of favourites or not included in that list at all. Personally I hold a grudge against tracks with a continuous theme of lyrics or riffs that go on endlessly and endlessly and that is exactly what 神歌 is especially when it was performed during a live for a duration of at least fifteen minutes straight. There's hardly any variety and at some point I just grew tired of Riku's squealing here. 
 
The only thing I basically like about the track is the overuse of synthesizers (Kisaki trademark, one of his best points, in my opinion, no matter what other people say about it) as it gives it a little more depth. Guitars are messy, lots of pinches/squeals, just— no.

I'm not quite sure if everyone is on the same page with what "tacky" means.

girugamesh Vo.左迅(satoshi) new band "REDMAN" has held their first live at Nagoya ell.FITS ALL at 2013/08/28
 
"REDMAN" members:
Vo.石川聡(ishikawa satoshi) (girugamesh)
Gt.園木理人(sonoki rihito) (ex-SPLAY)
Gt.杉原亮(sugihara ryou) (トワレンズ(towalens))
Ba.吉岡宗一郎(yoshioka souichirou) (トワレンズ(towalens))
Dr.大熊桂斗(ookuma keito) (ex-Ruvie-->My Hearts Breaking Even-->THE HEROES SYNDICATE)
 
 
their new maxi single "Challenge the GAME" will be released at 2013/11/13 (2 TYPE), which will be ending theme of TV anime "遊☆戯☆王ゼアル(yuu☆gi☆ou zexal)"
 
limited edition (1,890yen) will include CD+DVD (including "Challenge the GAME" PV), and regular edition (1,260yen) will include CD only
 
[CD track list]
01.Challenge the GAME
02.doppel
03.Challenge the GAME-instrumental-
04.doppel-instrumental-
 
 
some samples could be listened to in their OHP
 
http://www.redman-official.com/

On top of all this, my friend and I were having a conversation about RWBY. We characterized the feeling behind this show as one of a man making his dreams come true. You can feel the passion in everything, including the extremely janky scenes that he didn't have time to fix up. And you can definitely tell the labor he put into the fight scenes, which I would say are done extremely well.
I can't even get to the story yet because it hasn't gotten started. It feels like there will be a lot going on once it does. Hopefully if it gets more funding it can get to the point where episodes are longer than a few minutes.
But yes I'm biased. Yes my wallpaper is RWBY. And my avatar is red like roses. I'm obsessed.

Finally! No one will break up while Trombe is away!

Do you have pooh in your mouth? That's sick, bro.

Do I win for most expensive purchase in this thread? XD

Do I win for most expensive purchase in this thread? XD

Fixed.

Fixed.

I'll have to say is that you better fucking stick around. I put way too much time in to my panel to just have awesome people like you only show up on the site for a couple days

2014 for Versus? Too early, 2018 at least.

You guys spoke highly of us at the panel? Big mistake... that is unless you were telling this about this awesome guy called Biopanda, then you were spot on. Would have loved to make it to the panel, but moving from Chicago makes that a bit hard XD
 
Anyways, welcome to the forum! Great to see another Kameleo fan here as well!

Cause if you can't make music, might as well make money off of your looks, right? XD
This has the potential to be really cool (if it is where bands can go to socialize with their fans and make some extra money, cause let's face it, most VK bands make almost nothing) or really bad (if it is where bad bands go to die and steal money from dumb fans).

This album was kind of an oddity for me. I loved it the first time through, but the more I listened, the less I liked it. Or maybe it just got old fast?
 
Lets start it off with what I liked about this album: The overall production of this album is really tight. Everything just sound punchy and really enjoyable. Easily their best album in this regard. The heavy sections of the songs on this album are really the strength of this release imo, which I can not say about their other releases...not that they were band, but I really feel like they stepped it up a notch in this area.
 
Now for the not so good: The lyrics on this album are just plain bad. I found myself going "ugh" whenever I actually played attention to the words...it reminded me of an earlier high schooler's bad poetry. The clean vocal sections also lack a lot of interest from what we found on their previous albums imo, something about them just feels so cheesy. Then there is the problem is that all the songs on this album sounds so similar. I know this can really help create a cohesive package, but it works against Coldrain for this album in the sense that all the songs seemed to blur together.

It makes me sad that all of the stuff the members have gone off to do has been relatively crap compared to D'espairsRay (imo).
 
Karyu joining Angelo is probably the worst blow, considering I don't think that bad has made a single good piece of music.
 
The Micro Head 4N's really isn't terrible, but they aren't that good either. I think I might even like them if they had a decent vocalist.
But all of this just makes me miss D'espairsRay more. I wish they would have tried some solo stuff or something, I think those would have had the potential to be more interesting. Oh well. I wonder how Hizumi's vocals are doing now.

Welcome to the post were Ito decides if your picks are spot on or absolute shit!
Get the majority of the correct and you win the prize of being awesome!
 
I am really only making comments based off of the sample songs you chose, and except where noted (I think only 1 or 2 songs), I listened all of the way through.
 
*this means I have listened to the full album before
 
For now, I have only done the Japanese releases
 
 
*ATATA - TATAT  This album is awesome. I really liked just how fun of an album it was while always keeping things interesting.   *Ar - Yon I am still not sure how I feel about this album...some of it I like, some I didn't. The vibe is something I feel like you need to let grow on you. I also am not sure if I am keen on the vocalist. Still good stuff though. As a side note, the song you picked for the sample was my least favorite off of that album lol.   *COgeNdshE - cogency Pretty sure you know how I feel about this release already   Esno - Visionary This seriously sounds fantastic. I need to obtain this album.   FilFla - Fliptap Reminds me of miyauchi yuri a lot, and that is a very good thing.   fresh! - What Are You Doing In This Confusion? This is some odd stuff, I think I would need to listen to this at least a couple times before I would start to enjoy it tbh (though I would like to give it a try).   GAGLE×Ovall - GAGLE×Ovall Not bad, but really not my kind of music.   JariBu Afrobeat Arkestra - NO MORE PATIENT Fun stuff! I could see myself turning this on to jam out to every once in a while.   *Jimanica - Torso I wanted to like this, I really did...but the fractured vocals just drive me nuts. I had downloaded this ablum and I ended up deleting it because I just couldn't do it XD   KATUSI from EL SKUNK DI YAWDIE & EXTRAVAGANZA - Rhythm Messenger Once again, good stuff, but not really my kind of music XD   KINGDOM☆AFROCKS - SanSanNaNa See my response to the last Afrobeat band lol   *LAGITAGIDA - CartaMarina I liked this album, but I'm afraid I didn't love it. Nothing really stuck with me after listening to it.   *LITE - PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE I love how this EP almost has sections and they switch over to a completly different feel. I loved the last two songs on this release.   Matryoshka - Laideronnette Ooooh, this is lovely. I need to check out this album, though I will need to be in the right mood to enjoy it I suspect.   middle 9 - Cettia Diphone Sounds like some more great jazz I should snag from you   M-KODA - Inga Reminds me of Ametsub, though the vice is different. I dig it.   mmm (ミーマイモー) - ほーひ Really awesome recording quality, but I can't stand how hard of a pan there is on the horn in the sample song. I would like to hear some of the other stuff of of this album   Moe and ghosts - 幽霊たち Not my kind of stuff, but really interesting. I don't mind it, but I can't imagine listening to it on my own lol.   nego - SANSARA Not sure what to say after listening to the sample song...I think I will pass though.   Re-Trick - re:Re-Trick I really liked their 2010 album, so I will have no question I will love this   ROTH BART BARON - 化け物山と合唱団 Aion linked the sample song previously and it sounded fucking awesome, not sure why I havn't picked up this release yet.   Tam Tam - Meteorite I enjoy this, I like the way they depart from the reggae style put still have that feel still there.   THE★米騒動 - 十九歳でぜんぶ終わる This seems so firmilar...They sound a lot like White Ash, vocals included (infact, I think they might sound a bit better).   *TK from 凛として時雨 - flowering Tk might as well have called this an RTS album lol. I really like this album, but for whatever reason the more I listened to it, the less I liked it. Listening to it now with fresh ears makes it sound a lot better tbh.   Wienners - UTOPIA Hahaha...though maybe a bit much, it is just so out there and aggressive/fun that I will have to check out this album more. My GF will hate this   Wuja Bin Bin - Wuja Bin Bin I think I will need to listen to the whole album to appreciate this. By itself, this song is just so odd...some of the parts of the song felt beyond my ability to enjoy.   *アルカラ - ドラマ This album is just so solid and enjoyable. Not sure if it would make my personal top of 2012 list, but it is a darn good none the less.   キリコ - Greyhound... Hip hop is just not my thing, so a major pass from me.   コトリンゴ - La memoire de mon bandwagon EP This is some really different pop music, I kind of like it! I am sure my GF will enjoy this too, so a win win.   スガダイロー - 春風 If this sample is a good sample of the entire album, I don't think I could do it   トクマルシューゴ - In Focus? Not bad, but to be honest, I felt like I zoned out through the entirety of this album xD   *ハイスイノナサ - 動物の身体 I think this album is going to make it on to my top of 2012 list if I ever finish it   伊集院幸希 - THIS IS MY STORY 憐情のメロディ God no this sounds awful to me. I couldn't make it more than a few seconds in...this stuff is not for me lol.   *八十八ヶ所巡礼 - ○△□ I need to spend more time with this album   *小南泰葉 - 嘘憑キズム I really did enjoy this album a lot, it's fun and really well done. My gf can not stand her raspy part (which I love), though her screams make me laugh.   空きっ腹に酒 - 僕の血 I am going to go out on a limb and say that this song feels a little VK too. Intersting stuff, I want to check out more.   緋と陽 - タイヨウニホエロ I am hoping this is just because it is a sample song, but the production sounds really off on this song. I hope that this is the case, cause it sounds awesome.   鎮座DOPENESS & DOPING BAND- だいぶ気持ちいいね! No thanks XD   高橋征司 - N41° Yes please!   Looks like we have a winner on our hands! Come on down, Cat, and except your prize of being awesome!

I'm a million years late, but as they say, "better late than never!"

2012 was been a wonderful year for Japanese music & abroad. Here are my personal favorite albums and EPs of 2012. I've divided them into 2 parts - Japanese and non-Japanese!  I've also provided full sample tracks from each album.

Please feel free to leave any comments!

Japanese Picks!

ATATA - TATAT


tags: alternative, emo, post-rock
Sample song: General Headquarters

After releasing a string of demos, ATATA has finally released their first full length and it is thoroughly fantastic! Consisting of ex. Bandwagon, nenem, Retromania, Mirror, Holstein, and 3cm tour members, ATATA combines all of the punk, post-rock, and emo/hardcore elements from these bands into one seriously rocking package!


ar - YON


tags: rock, indie-pop, electronic, folk
Sample song: breakin' Mama&Papa

sleepy.ab is usually regarded as Japan's answer to radiohead, but the lesser known ar is also very noticeably influenced by them as well. However, such a simple comparison doesn't do ar's sound any justice. They're much more colorful and adventurous than the aforementioned bands, manage to span several genres within the same album, and yet they somehow maintain their own unique sound. The aptly named "YON" is the ar's 4th full album and does a wonderful job of showcasing the band's highly imaginative musical palette.

COgeNdshE - cogency


tags: post-rock, experimental, female vocals
Sample song: un deux trois

Zankyo records is well respected amongst fans of indie and post-rock due to their impressive roster of quality bands (mudy on the 昨晩, the cabs, and te' to name a few), and COgeNdshE is a welcome addition to the label. Their music isn't as easy to digest as some of their label-mates, however. Cogency has a dark, often brooding quality to it and is chock-full of unusual rhythms and time signatures. In addition, the hauntingly melodic female vocals provide a stark contrast to the music itself. The band focuses more on creating a solid atmosphere as a single unit as opposed to employing overly flashy instrumentation in an attempt to highlight themselves as individual musicians. This album is perhaps a bit more left-field than most Monochromians are accustomed to and may require several listens to truly wrap your head around, but it's a rewarding listen if you're willing to give it a try...or two!

ESNO - Visionary


tags: electronic, jazz, female cocals
Sample song: RR

Debut album from ESNO, the new project of jazz/hip hop producer Kenichiro Nishihara. In contrast to his normal material, Nishihara has taken a decidedly electronic approach on this album and it's quite possibly his best work to date.

FilFla - Fliptap


tags: electronic, folktronica
Sample song: Morse Mall

4th album from FilFla, one of Keiichi Sugimoto's many monikers, and the the latest addition to the "’10 Songs In 20 Minutes’ series by music label Someone Good. Given the duration, Fliptap emphasizes the essentials of FilFla's sound - a stunning mishmash of organic elements like acoustic guitars and field recordings, and vibrant electronic programming. Short, but oh so sweet!

fresh! - What Are You Doing In This Confusion?


tags: hardcore, avant-garde, progressive, instrumental
Sample song: ハイビスカス

fresh! have been around for a few of years performing on the Japanese underground circuit, but have finally released their first proper album - the aptly titled "What Are You Doing In This Confusion?". This album is one nonstop cacophony of hectic drumming, disharmonic guitar noodling and obnoxious saxophone screeching. fresh! fits right in with bands like NATSUMEN and PANICSMILE. I can only imagine how killer their lives shows are!

GAGLE×Ovall - GAGLE×Ovall


tags: hip-hop, smooth-jazz, soul
Sample song: Heaven Feat. Shea Soul

For those that follow the non-mainstream Japanese hip hop world, GAGLE×Ovall is a match made in heaven! The amount of talent between the 2 groups is undeniable. Gagle (consisting of MC Hunger, DJ Mu-R, and DJ Mitsu the Beats) is already a powerhouse, but with the added abilities of Ovall (Shingo Suzuki, Mabanua, and Shingo Sekiguchi/Vusik) these guys are pretty much incapable of producing anything less than quality.

JariBu Afrobeat Arkestra - NO MORE PATIENT


tags: afrobeat, funk
Sample song: No More Patient Prt 1&2

Along with KINGDOM AFROCKS, JariBu Afrobeat Arkestra is one of the Japan's premiere afrobeat bands in a small, but flourishing scene. Their last album "Mediacracy" ALMOST made my list for 2011, but the production value wasn't quite as dynamic as I'd hoped for. Thankfully, that's been rectified on this new album and JAA's grooves are more sonically tangible than ever!

Jimanica - Torso


tags: electronic, experimental, instrumental
Sample song: Walking Behind

Jimanica is a drummer and laptop musician who is one-third of the trio "d.v.d" (drums visuals drums) and also 'partners in sound' with fellow electronic musician, Ametsub. Torso is Jimanica's 3rd solo album is a dynamic assortment of live drumming, electronics, and fractured vocal lines (provided by Anna Yamada, Hitomitoi, and Koshi Miura).

KATUSI from EL SKUNK DI YAWDIE & EXTRAVAGANZA - Rhythm Messenger


tags: reggae, jazz, acoustic
Sample song: マチマチ feat. CHAN-MIKA&長崎真吾

As you can somewhat gather from his name, KATUSI is the drummer/percussionist from the little-known bands EL SKUNK DI YAWDIE & EXTRAVAGANZA!. Rhythm Messenger is KATUSI's solo effort in which he features various musicians and singers over his Cajon playing/Drumming. In addition to reggae and jazz, there's a variety of "organic" genres to be found throughout the album. Some awesome features include Likkle Mai, EKD, CHAN-MIKA, and 千尋 (Chihiro)!

KINGDOM☆AFROCKS - SanSanNaNa


tags: afrobeat, funk, jazz
Sample song: No Son Tuyas (Not Yours)

SanSanNaNa is the 2nd studio album from Japanese afrobeaters, KINGDOM☆AFROCKS. Their first studio album Fanfare made it on my list last year, but the grooves here are just as prominent and uplifting!

LAGITAGIDA - CartaMarina


tags: instrumental, progressive-rock
Sample song: Yellow Shark

Just a few months after their first EP, instrumental prog-rockers LAGITAGIDA have returned with their 2nd EP and they mean business! The band consists of members from the now defunct bands mahiruno, Green Milk From The Planet Orange, and school food punishment. They site their major influences as Frank Zappa, Led Zeppelin, King Crimson, Can, The Mars Volta, Battles, Metallica, Slayer, and Melt-Banana. CartaMarina is intense from beginning to end and proves that LAGITAGIDA is worthy of sharing the stage with Japan's best instrumental bands.

LITE - PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE


tags: math-rock, post-rock, female vocals
Sample song: Bond

LITE is no doubt one of Japan's finest instrumental acts, and their latest EP, PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE offers a glimpse into the band's evolution over the years. From their humble beginnings as a traditional post-rock band to their more experimental, vocal-driven compositions that strive to defy classification.

Matryoshka - Laideronnette


tags: modern classical, ambient, IDM, female vocals
Sample song: Cut All Trees

Absolutely gorgeous modern classical pieces embroidered with subtle electronic glitches and angelic female vocals. The tone of Laideronnette is epic and highly emotional - captivating from start to finish.

middle 9 - Cettia Diphone


tags: post-rock, jazz
Sample song: Deja

Cettia Diphone is middle 9's third album and continues the band's tradition of immaculately fusing jazz and post-rock. With only five tracks spanning about 30 minutes, I only wish this one were a bit longer!


M-KODA - Inga


tags: idm, electronic, ambient
Sample song: Glow

Only in his early 20's, M-KODA (real name Satoshi Kodama) is young, but already producing music like a seasoned pro. Inga is his 2nd full album and it exhibits just the right amount of minimalism - not overly melodic, but not subtle to the point that it's boring either.

mmm (ミーマイモー) - ほーひ


tags: folk, indie, female vocals
Sample song: 無題

2nd full album from the indie-folkstress, mmm (pronouced me-my-mo)! Fortunately, she hasn't fallen into a sophomore slump - in fact, she's managed to produce an even better folk album than her first! With her unique voice, memorable songwriting, and endless charm, I don't think this woman is capable of doing any wrong. ;3

Moe and ghosts - 幽霊たち


tags: hip hop, experimental, indie,  female vocals
Sample song: ルー=ガルーガール

Splendid debut album from the enigmatic underground hip hop unit, Moe and Ghosts, who unsurprisingly, describe themselves as a "ghost coast hip hop group from Japan". The production on 幽霊たち has a distinct "underground" feel with many experimental liberties taken, while the rapping/vocals are all handled by the equally interesting female known as Moe (萌); who has a remarkably dynamic flow and style. The tone of moe's voice is also atypical for hip hop, but then again, this is not your typical hip hop album. : )

nego - SANSARA


tags: dub, psychedelic, tribal, experimental, club
Sample song: Raga Naja

Sophomore album from the fascinating, hybrid-band, NEGO. Mixed and mastered by none other than KASHIWA Daisuke, SANSARA (meaning "metempsychosis" in Sanskrit) is a riveting album that utilizes simplicity and repetition at the core, and builds around that core a diverse wall of sound that is utterly entrancing! Members from bands like sgt., kacica, ROVO, egoistic 4 leaves, and WUJA BIN BIN have all given praise to NEGO and this album!

Re-Trick - re:Re-Trick


tags: jazz, club-jazz
Sample song: Regeneration

While some of the more popular of acts of Japan's jazz scene have been on a steady decline (quasimode and jabberloop come to mind), Re-Trick has only been improving! After the release of their last album in 2010, the band went on hiatus for about 15 months, but they haven't missed a beat. As the title of the album implies, re:Re-Trick is a bit of a self-cover album since half of the tracks are re-recordings of early tracks. However, each of those tracks have been redone masterfully and in most cases, aren't even identical to the originals. And of course, the new tracks maintain re-trick's originality and technical prowess. Hands down, my favorite jazz album of 2012!

ROTH BART BARON - 化け物山と合唱団


tags: folk, indie
Sample song: Campfire

I was initially introduced to this band by MH's resident Japanese folk expert, Aion, a year or 2 ago and I've been following them ever since. The world of Japanese folk music is vast and saturated with mediocrity, so it's easy to point out the greats from the fakes - and ROTH BART BARON is the former. Their music has a simplistic beauty to it and it's evocative without being either overly sappy or too depressive. Hopefully, these guys will release a full length one day!


Tam Tam - Meteorite


tags: dub, reggae, alternative, female vocals
Sample song: dry ride

Meteorite is the first full album from the obscure, reggae/dub outfit, Tam Tam. While they employ a lot of traditional elements from reggae/dub, their sound also incorporates pop and alternative sensibilities - giving them a young and fresh appeal.

THE★米騒動 - 十九歳でぜんぶ終わる


tags: rock, garage, female vocals
Sample song: ストランゲーゼ30番地

2nd mini album from the young garage rock trio, The rice panic. They have a fantastic, raw energy that's reminiscent of MASS OF THE FERMENTING DREGS' more agressive side.

TK from 凛として時雨 - flowering


tags: alternative, indie-rock
Sample song: flower

Solo album from Rin Toshite Shigure vocalist and distinguished guitarist, TK (Toru Kitajima). Even with the ensemble of strings, piano, and additional electronics, flowering isn't much of a departure from rin toshite's sound. In fact, it shows just how much influence TK has over the band. Though this isn't much of a gripe considering the consistently high quality of rin toshite albums. Naturally, TK remains above par.

Wienners - UTOPIA


tags: punk, hardcore, pop, electronic
Sample song: 三原山の怪獣

2nd full album from wienners! Wild, zany, and fun punk that sporadically fuses elements of pop, hardcore, and electronica. Highly energetic with hardly ever a dull moment.

Wuja Bin Bin - Wuja Bin Bin


tags: jazz, avant-garde
Sample song: Middle Age Riot

Wuja Bin Bin is the new project of ex. ex-BEAT CRUSADERS' keyboardist, KEITAIMO, but this is no ordinary project. WBB is more like a super-group of superb indie and "under the radar" musicians. Within the line-up you have achico (on button down/KAREN), jazz trumpeter Shinpei Ruike, Satoru Takeshima (EGO-WRAPPIN & THE GOSSIP OF JAXX), Takuji Nomura (goodluckheiwa/natsumen/sakerock), Keisaku Nakamura (toe/hotel new tokyo/stim/kowloon) and more! Wuja Bin Bin's debut is an amazing mix of jazz, progressive, and experimental elements.

アルカラ - ドラマ


tags: indie-rock, alternative
Sample song: 踊れやフリーダ

I consider Arukara the flag-bearers of a particular brand of rock in Japan that see bands blending traditional elements of "indie-rock" with pop sensibilities. While many attempt this style, trying to appease the indie/DIY fans and exert mass appeal at the same time, Arukara simply excels at it. Whether they're doing ballads, instrumental tracks, or simply rocking out, they always manage to remain catchy and melodic without compromising their skills as musicians. Drama does a wonderful job at showcasing the band at their best.

キリコ - Greyhound...


tags: hip-hop, underground, female vocals
Sample song: Layered

subenoana is one of my favorite Japanese indie labels, as they're constantly releasing some of the most interesting, abstract and experimental Japanese hip hop. Although kiriko is usually very left-field, his new album features a more accessible sound full of soul and jazz-laden samples (courtesy of DJ OLDFASHION) and a host of female rapper/singer collaborations. Kiriko's flow and style remain very off-kilter though, which makes for a unique and refreshing listen.

コトリンゴ - La memoire de mon bandwagon EP


tags: pop, singer-songwriter, female vocals
Sample song: Ghost Dance

Stunning EP from Ryuichi Sakamoto's handpicked protege, Kotoringo! For this EP, Kotoringo formed a trio with Shige Murata (□□□, Cubismo Grafico Five, Circle Darko) on bass and Jumpei Kamiya (Akai Kutsu) on drums - and of course, herself on piano. As always, kotoringo has managed to produce some of the most exquisite pop music around and proves that she is in a league of her own.

スガダイロー - 春風


tags: free-jazz, avant-garde
Sample song: 不屈

New album from the insanely talented avant-garde pianist, Suga Dairo. His previous album actually made it onto my BEST-OF 2011 list; however, this work is almost entirely different. 46 minutes of pure piano work without the accompaniment of bass, drums, or vocals. Replete with broken melodies and meandering improvisation, this album may not be the easiest listen for some, but may be rewarding to those with an ear for the uncanny.

トクマルシューゴ - In Focus?


tags: folk, indie-pop
Sample song: Helictite (LeSeMoDe)

5th album from singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Shugo Tokumaru. Extravagant and meticulously crafted folk-music with a cartoon-ish flare. Superb~!

ハイスイノナサ - 動物の身体


tags: math-rock, post-rock, indie, female vocals
Sample song: logos

haisuinonasa's first full album is every bit as fabulous as their previous 2 mini albums suggested it would be. While the band has always mixed several genres (math-rock, post-rock, electronic, etc), they've really been able to let loose and expand their musical prowess to new areas on this full length. At this point, trying to dissect their music into genres would be futile. Despite the varying elements, their sound is so cohesive that it's nearly indescribable. Whatever haisuinonasa has become, I only have one word for them - EXQUISITE.


伊集院幸希 - THIS IS MY STORY 憐情のメロディ


tags: soul, pop, doo-wop, female vocals
Sample song: 家に帰ろう

First full album from the obscure, but lovely singer-songwriter, Ijuuin Yuki. THIS IS MY STORY is like a blast from the 50's/60's past - even the production of the album is tailored to suit Yuki's impeccable retro-pop sound. Vocally, she sounds similar to early 90's Bonnie Pink, who also had a retro vibe around that time. All-around great tunes~

八十八ヶ所巡礼 - ○△□


tags: rock, progressive, experimental
Sample song: ((((未練))))

○△□ is 88kasyo's 3rd full album, with their previous 2 albums being released in 2011 and 2010 respectively (all in the month of August btw). With releases so close together, you'd think it would be hard for a band to maintain the quality of their work, but that hasn't been the case with this trio. 88kasyo has only improved and grown even wilder with each release. Their skills are simply undeniable (srsly, their guitarist does more on his guitar in one song than some bands with 2 guitarists do in an entire album *cough*thegazette*cough*). But more importantly than their skills as musicians is their ability to craft songs that are unique, refreshing, and keep your ears craving more. Their previous album made my into my top picks of 2011, and they've managed to do so again this year.


小南泰葉 - 嘘憑キズム


tags: pop-rock, female vocals
Sample song: ルポルタージュ精神病棟

Impressive major debut from the up-and-coming singer/songwriter, Kominami Yasuha. She plays an edgy, yet radio-friendly brand of pop-rock that harkens back to early "Muzai Moratorium" days of Shiina Ringo. It's not often that you come across quality major artists, but Kominami is definitely one worth keeping an eye on!

空きっ腹に酒 - 僕の血


tags: indie-rock, punk, hip hop
Sample song: 記憶

Imagine throwing bands like qomolangma tomato, usotsuki barbie, and UHNELLYS into a blender - you'll likely end up with a concoction like this band. "Boku no chi" is Sukipparanisake's first full album and is a spastic mix of indie-rock, punk, and hip hop with just enough craziness to keep your ears excited from start to finish.

緋と陽 - タイヨウニホエロ


tags: hardcore, emo, post-rock
Sample song: いざ沙らば

hitohi's first EP made my best-of list last year, and their new EP is equally as deserving. While the band's songwriting seemed to meander aimlessly a few times on the last EP, they've made noticeable progress in streamlining their "mathy-proggy-postrockish-folky-hardcore" sound. Unfortunately, this EP is only 4 tracks long, but each one is epic in it's own right! ; )


鎮座DOPENESS & DOPING BAND- だいぶ気持ちいいね!


tags: hip-hop, alternative, experimental
Sample song: ヒップ ホップ IS...

With the bulk of Japan's hip hop culture filtered through the likes of MTV, it's tough to find Japanese rappers that really understand the essence of hip hop, but thankfully, CHINZA DOPENESS knows what hip hop is all about! CHINZA has formed a band (THE DOPING BAND), which consists of the up-and coming reggae songstress, CHAN-MIKA, percussionist and producer, IZPON (from KINGDOM☆AFROCKS, Panorama Steel Orchestra, and Orquesta, Nudge! ) with the rest of the members coming from the disbanded reggae/dub outfit 犬式 a.k.a Dogggystyle. This is anything but your typical rap record, as CHINZA and the DOPING BAND play a diverse array of styles including funk, jazz, reggae/dub, as well as your more traditional, old-school hip hop numbers. CHINZA and the DOPING BAND aren't out to talk about their swag or brag about material riches, they simply want to show you a good time!

高橋征司 - N41°


tags: ambient, glitch, minimal
Sample song: first report

This album nearly flew under my radar, as it was released under an obscure, fledgeling label called Te Pito Records. Seiji Takahashi's first album, N41° is only the 3rd release from this label. I bought this on a whim, but was pleasantly surprised by the quality of it! Incredibly soothing ambient soundscapes!

Ito, I agree 1.000.000% with you. This is the most awesome drink imo. It's becoming my favorite.

If I remember well, Takumi plays piano in Dir en grey's unplugged tracks on DSS... 
 
Edit: Well, it seems he also did tour with Dir en grey doing their manipulation and does programming for their albums. And Mika has worked with some Dir en grey videos(single dvds and stuff like that) as he has an audio visual company called Unravel Films.
 
takumi's blog http://ameblo.jp/takumixofficial/

Though now that I think about it, Takumi (guitarist) did compose a song or two for Kaya... but that's it. xD
 
edit: he composed this one~
 

Fffffffffff!!! God I'm so jealous of dat picture quality!!
and don't tell me you have super photoshop skills to edit out the background!
SO MANY JELLY FISHES
Edit: I know this doesn't have to be mentioned but SUPER NICE PICTURE