Hisashiburi ひさしぶり
Music of Japan #16
A return from hiatus…
It’s been a minute, hasn’t it? After a 6-month hiatus, I’m back with a fresh edition and excited to share a wide range of Japanese tunes I’ve found and enjoyed with you all.
During the break, I’ve taken a bit of time to re-evaluate the core reason that I started this lil’ newsletter and it really was to simply share a range of Japanese music that I have found and enjoyed with an international community.
I’m thrilled to welcome the hundreds of readers who have subscribed during my hiatus. I’m excited to share some tunes with you all.
Let’s dive in.
“MARIONETTE” by Boøwy
🎶 rock, visual kei 📍gunma 🗓️ released on 22nd July 1987
BOØWY was a highly influential rock band in Japan formed in the 1980s, known for their energetic performances and distinctive sound blending punk, rock, and new wave elements. BOØWY are fundamentally a “visual kei” act - a genre which combines dramatic music with elaborate costumes and make-up.
Led by vocalist Kyosuke Himuro and guitarist Tomoyasu Hotei, BOØWY achieved massive success in Japan, becoming one of the country's most iconic rock acts before disbanding in 1988.
"Marionette" by BOØWY is a song that delves into the theme of manipulation and control in relationships. The lyrics speak to the feeling of being controlled like a marionette, with strings pulled by someone else. The protagonist feels trapped and manipulated, unable to break free from the puppeteer's hold. The song's energetic rock sound adds to the sense of urgency and frustration conveyed in the lyrics, making it a powerful anthem for those struggling with the dynamics of power and control in their relationships.
What’s more, that main guitar line gets stuck in your head for days following your first listen!
“Dark Gold” by Ovall
🎶 jazz/hip-hop📍tokyo 🗓️ released 4th december 2019
Shingo Suzuki and Daisuke Kojima’s music production unit, Ovall, merges electronic, jazz, and hip-hop genres. Ovall is acclaimed for collaborations with notable artists and their skill in crafting intricate, genre-blending tracks. I first discovered these guys whilst listening to a range of jazzy hip-hop whilst at work and then explored more of their work after discovering their live performances.
"Dark Gold" - not the first I discovered from them but certainly my favourite - is a mesmerizing track that seamlessly blends electronic, jazz, and hip-hop influences into a captivating piece.
My favourite element is the organ-voiced keyboard line that drives the melody of this groovy song along. That said, you will notice upon watching the live performance above that each member of Ovall have a masterful command of their instrument.
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“jya-ji” ジャージ (Jersey) by saba sister
🎶 punk 📍tokyo 🗓️ released on 30th september 2022
Tokyo all-girl rock band saba sister blend pop and rock influences into a high-energy sound, with catchy melodies and strong guitar riffs. Formed in 2022, they've already achieved major label success and played at big festivals in just two years.
March 2024 saw Saba Sister hit the big time with their debut album "Decide Your Resolution!" on Pony Canyon, a major Japanese label. Led by a charismatic frontwoman, Nachi, they're known for electrifying live performances and addictive melodies. Tracks like "My best love!" and "Timesale Nogashitekure" are testaments to their infectious energy.
2022’s “Jersey” is my favourite from the trio - it’s a fun and upbeat punk track that puts you in a good mood!
“Take Five” by Minoru Muraoka
🎶 jazz📍yamada, iwate 🗓️ released on 1st january 1970
Japanese shakuhachi (traditional Japanese bamboo flute) master Minoru Muraoka (1923-2014) left a significant mark on contemporary music. Pioneering the fusion of jazz with traditional shakuhachi music, he created a unique and captivating sound. Muraoka's innovative approach significantly contributed to the shakuhachi's enduring popularity within Japanese music.
Muraoka’s cover of "Take Five" is a unique take on the famous Dave Brubeck jazz standard. It completely transforms the song with a Japanese twist. The track also incorporates elements of funk and breaks, creating a groovy and unexpected fusion of styles. This cover has been praised by DJs and music lovers for its creativity and ability to breathe new life into a classic American jazz piece.
“RIVER” by 10-FEET
🎶 alternative, punk rock📍kyoto 🗓️ released on 23rd october 2002
Made in Kyoto in 1997, 10-FEET is a Japanese rock force. They've carved out a niche for themselves by fusing the raw energy of punk and rock with unexpected flavors like reggae and hip-hop.
Not just a studio act, they're renowned for electrifying live shows. Over two decades, they've dominated the Japanese music scene and even taken their unique sound on international tours. Most recently, they climbed the charts with the pounding rock track “Dai Zero Kan”, which served as the theme for basketball anime “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK”.
I first heard the trio on YouTube back in the late 2000’s as a teen down a rabbit hole of music videos. One of my first ever J-rock discoveries, “RIVER” is my favourite track from the band. The power and rhythm 10 FEET cultivate behind the guitars with their technique is excellent. Look out for the reggae influence, too.
Thank you for reading! I hope you discovered some music you may have liked in this edition.
If you have any thoughts on how I can improve this newsletter and your experience with it, please get in touch at themusicofjapan@gmail.com.
Absolutely great music and energy in each group!