New band featuring some of Japan's most respected musicians. Fishmans were a legendary dub/rock band of the 1990s, their singer Shinji Sato tragically dying in 1999. So Many Tears comprises Kinichi Mogi (Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, Fishmans), Takashi Kato (Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra) and Yuzuru Kashiwabara (Fishmans). Cool, sophisticated rock with many other elements.

First solo album from Yumiko Ohno of Buffalo Daughter is the soundtrack album to the ccollaboration work by Strange Kinoko Dance Company. Full of warm, relaxing and colorful electronic music with waltz, jazzy swing, steel pans and other sounds.

Three track single with the outro theme to the film Gegege no Nyobu.

Ninth album and first for over two years from the underground dance kings of Japan. Techno, jazz, rock, progressive, dub, psychedelia and more create spellbinding dance grooves. Featuring a superb line-up of musicians, that features two drummers, who also feature in other brilliant Japanese bands including Seiichi Yamamoto (Boredoms), Yasuhiro Yoshigaki (Otomo Yoshihide's New Jazz Quintet, Shibusashirazu), Yuji Katsui (Shibusashirazu), and Tatsuki Masuko (Dub Squad).

First album for four years on their own label, from the acclaimed Buffalo Daughter trio of Sugar Yoshinaga, Yumiko Ohno and MoOoG Yamamoto. Their basic sound incorporates techno pop and progressive rock and on this album, themed around physical laws and challenges to the world of the absurd, hip-hop with a rebellious, punk spirit. Guest musicians include Atushi Matsushita <Actinic:Variable Name = 'drums'/> who also plays with Zazen Boys and Miho Hatori <Actinic:Variable Name = 'vocals'/>. Powerful and dynamic album for rock and dance fans alike.

Live concert of the 'Tokyo 7' tour, their last album released September 2009 and performed in Tokyo March 2010. Moonriders are a veteran band formed by Keichi Suzuki of Hachimitsu Pie that featured Haruomi Hosono and Morio Agata. Considered to be one of the most influential Japanese bands of the last 30 years.

Chaos Jockey is the new project of Seiichi Yamamoto, guitarist with Boredoms, Novo Tono, Rovo and other bands, and drummer Masayuki Chatani who has played with Jasons, Phew and others. Hypnotic guitar noises underpinned by sharp beats in a kind of chaotic way, hence, we think, the name. They were originally formed in 2000, and have had a largely cult fan base. This is their first album which has been gradually made over the years. Psychedelic alternative rock.

Ken Yokoyama was the guitarist with punk band Hi-Standard. His solo stuff is similarly high energy melodic punk. This is, not surprisingly, his fourth album.

New album from four piece post-rock band, whose first album was produced by Jim O'Rourke. Features four guest musicians playing drums and percussion, plus bass and two guitarists.

New album from highly touted rock band from Sapporo. Blend of alternative rock with electropop. Strong songs and popular act on the Japanese festival scene. 13 tracks.

Cover of Eichi Otaki's first album by various artists, newly recorded.

Fourth album from Your Song is Good, an above average rock band who meld in various influences including ska and soul.

Soutaisei Riron (The Theory of Relativity) caused a bit of a stir in 2009 on the Japanese music scene. Sweet girl vocals are accompanied by guitars, syncopated disco and other rhythms. The album reached number 7 in the official charts, and that's without them ever being seen in public, in magazines, being interviewed or their faces appearing in their videos. Sophisticated indie rock.

The Cro-Magnons are the successors to legendary Japanese punk bands The Blue Hearts and The High-Lows, being fronted by the same two, singer Hiroto Komoto and guitarist Masatoshi Mashima. Their music is similar to their previous incarnations, simple high energy melodic punk. Komoto and Mashima are Japan's Strummer/Jones and they're still able to show their legions of like-minded upstart young bands, who they helped spawn, a thing or two. This is their fourth album, with 12 tracks inlcuding the single Glycerin Queen and Tetsu Kabuto.

Carnation were formed all the way back in 1983. Originally a five piece, they have released 15 albums or so, and are these days down to the last two remaining members, vocalist and guitarist Masahiro Naoe, and bass player Yuzuru Ota. Melodic pop /rock, great performances with backing members on piano, drums and more.

Kirihito are an outlandish guitar/drums/synth duo playing a kind of rock/techno/jazz mix. Featuring drummer Shunsuke Hayakawa and vocalist / guitarist Ken Takehisa, they're now veterans of the underground scene with their quirky, unclassifiable music. Pulsating grooves, floating jazz trumpets, funk guitar.

Kuro Neko Chelsea are following in the footsteps of bands such as Thee Michelle Gun Elephant or Guitar Wolf with sweaty fast paced garage rock. First album, critically acclaimed and one of the current hottest live acts in Japan. 8 tracks.

Veteran guitarist, singer and composer, Hiroshi Takano has played with HASYMO, Haruomi Hosono, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Tei Towa and is a member of Ganga Zumba. His solo albums have been produced by Todd Rundgren, Yukihiro Takahashi, Ryuichi Sakamoto and others. Rainbow Magic marked his 20 year anniversary since his first record and is full of good songs. Not the strongest vocals, but excellent musicianship.

Friction, formed in 1978, are pioneers of the Japanese alternative rock scene. Vocalist/guitarist/bassist, Reck and dummer/saxophonist Chiko Hige partly learnt their trade in New York playing with Teenage Jesus & The Jerks and The Contortions among others. Sometimes compared to PIL or the Birthday Party, they've released a constant stream of records, never reaching the mainstream, but growing an ever expanding army of fans while maintaining critical acclaim. Deepers is one such album to have received such critical acclaim, and the band were one of the big hits at Fuji Rock Festival in 2009 playing material from this album, made up of covers and original songs.

The newest band among the best rock releases of 2009, Zutto Zureteruzu are made up of seven teenagers including the late great Donto's son Rakita Kudomi and Ikumi Hamada, son of star comedian Masatoshi Hamada. They play funk rock, old school hip hop and groovy jam rock influenced by artists such as James Brown and The Meters.

Mini-album from the jet-rock 'n' roll garage punk legends. Limited edition comes with DVD of live performances.

One of Japan's seminal rock bands, who started life back in 1978, and whose early albums were produced by Haruomi Hosono and featured other members of YMO. This box set includes seven of their 80s albums on the Invitation label, their biggest single, plus DVD of five tracks. Albums; New Hippies (1984) Main Songs (1985) Gathered (1986) #9 (1987) Happy House (1988) Deram + Revolt (1989)

All of the output of Sheena and the Rokkets from 1992-2008, plus a single and 7 track DVD.

First album for the Victor label from 1984.

Highly rated 1985 album.

1985 hit single. 3 tracks.

From 1986

Live album from 1987

1987 studio album.

10th anniversary album recorded in New York with various American guests.

1989 studio album

1991.

1992 studio album.

Recorded in London with guests including Wilko Johnson.

1997 album produced by Haruomi Hosono.

200O.

Recorded live at the Rock the Rock Tour 2000, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Sapporo, Fukuoka

2008.

10th album from one of Japan's best rock bands. Grapevine are kind of the Japanese version of Radiohead or Coldplay. Good songs, slightly edgy, sometimes anthemic, high quality rock. 11 tracks.

The latest band of the legendary Keichi Suzuki who back in 1972 formed Hachimitsu Pie, and in 1975 Moonriders, and has produced and collaborated with many musicians such as in the Beatniks with YMO's Yukihiro Takahashi. Second in the series of this project with Keichi Sogabe. Rock, 60s soul, dixie, ragtime, folk and more. 19 tracks.

First album for three years from the legendary group, this album has the city of Tokyo as its theme. Recently featured on the World Happiness 2009 tour in Japan along with Yellow Magic Orchestra. Released as a Blue-spec CD.

Tipograhica were a leading Japanese progressive band, in a kind of jazz-rock / Frank Zappa mold. They were around from 1986 until 1998 and have pretty fervent fan base. This is a live album of free-flowing jazzy instrumentals and is considered a masterpiece by fans of the genre.

Avant-garde progressive jazzy sounds on Tipographica's second studio album. Horns and drums in a Zappaesque sound of mid-tempo grooves.

Four track single release from the highly touted electronic music duo of Michiyuki Kawashima and Masayuki Nakano. Lead track is the intro theme to the anime series 'Xam'd: Lost Memories.Their usual blend of electronic dance and big beat with rock and punk.Limited edition version comes with bonus DVD of music video and making of footage. (Region Code 2)

Group formed and fronted by Yoshimi of Boredoms and three other female musicians in 1995. They began playing live as the opening act for Sonic Youth. Recently moved to Ryuichi Sakamoto's label Commmons.

From Kobe, Hidari have been gaining a good reputation for their blend of rock guitars and retro-electronic sounds. They have been compared to Quruli and Flipper's Guitar. They are comprised of Hiroshi Ohta (guitar, vocals), Daisuke Kouzuki (bass) and American, Justin Bacon (programming, keyboards). Wine and Chocolate is their second full album.

Yongen are Toshio and Chieko Kamei. They are based in London, from where they make a mix of rock and electronic music. Toshio sings and plays guitar, violin, keyboards and bass, while Chieko adds the programming and musical collage of sounds. Their music has been picked up by advertsing agencies, and has been used in TV dramas as well. This is their first album of high quality, atmospheric electronic pop.

One of Japan's legendary groups, Moonriders released their first record in 1976, and featured Keiichi Suzuki, Toru Okada, Tetsuro Kashibashi, Ryomei Shirai, Hirobumi Suzuki and Masahiro Takekawa. They are known for their cutting edge rock music, which was a big influence on a future generation of artists. This is a CD of almost their entire live show at Hiroshima Kensho Kodo in 1980. This was the tour to support the release of their masterpiece new wave album, Camera Ecall Stylo. This recording was unearthed only recently and has never been issued before.

Vitamin-Q are touted as a 'Super Producers Band', and feature Kazuhiko Kato (of Sadistic Mika Band and Folk Crusaders) who has produced Yosui Inoue, Takuro Yoshida, Shigeru Izumiya and Mariya Takeuchi; Rei Obama (also of Sadistic Mika Band and Folk Crusaders) who has produced Masaharu Fukuyama and Ami Ozaki; Masami Tsuchiya (of Ippudo and Japan) who has produced Blankey Jet City, The Mods, Kyoko Koizumi and The Back Horn; and Gota Yashiki (of Mute Beat, Melon and Simply Red) who has produced Fumiya Fujii, Shikao Suga, Nokko, Kyoko Koizumi and B-Dash. Female singer Anza of Head Phones President is the guest vocalist. The album's concept is 'England' and contains some of the styles to have originated in the UK that have been major influences on all of them, such as glam rock, punk and Merseybeat.

Zazen Boys were formed by ex-Number Girl vocalist and guitarist Shutoku Mukai, and also feature ex-Number Girl drummer Ahito Inazawa. Their music is an elaborate mix of math rock, hip-hop, funk, punk and improv. They have become both commercially succesful and critically acclaimed. This, their fourth album was recorded and mixed by Dave Friedmann at Tarbox Road Studios.

Flower Travellin' Band are back together after 35 years. They are thought of as an influential group, who were at their peak in the late 60s and 70s and played a kind of psychedelic rock. They were also one of the groups who starred in Julian Cope's book, Japrocksampler. They appeared at Fuji Rock festival in 2008 and this is the album to coincide with their 'We Are Here' tour.

Second album from Tokyo's The Beaches, one of Japan's most hotly tipped artists to break internationally. Their music is a blend of ska, rock, punk with catchy hooklines and some Japanese elements. In 2008 they toured in the US as part of the Japan Nite, performing in seven cities. Their leader is Hisashi the KID on vocals and guitar, augmented by drums, bass and keyboards.

High speed covers of various pop tunes done in a highly infectious and fun style. 1. Let Me Out (The Knack) 2. Don't Stop me Now (Queen) 3. Radio (Teenage Fan Club) 4. Surrender (Cheap Trick) 5. Camera! Camera! Camera! (Flipper's Guitar) 6. Video Killed the Radio Star (The Buggles) 7. Come and Get It (Badfinger) 8. Rock 'n' Roll Love Letter (Bay City Rollers) 9. Since Yesterday (Strawberry Switchblade) 10. Mr Tambourine Man (The Byrds) 11. Iny Iny Iny (Primal Scream) 12. So Sad About Us (The Who) 13. Summertime Blues (Eddie Cochran) 14. Dreaming (Blondie) 15. Shout it Out Loud (Kiss) 16. Welcome to the Jungle (Guns 'n' Roses)

Tokyo Pinsalocks are an all-girl electronic rock band. They don't play guitars, but instead keyboards, distorted bass and drums. Their music is fairly danceable, slightly pyschedelic, rather poppy and retro-futuristic. A sort of technopop for the noughties. The group toured the UK in 2007 and in March 2008 are off for a US tour. Seven tracks. 1. Antena 2. Circle 3. 4. Ajito 5. A Wolf Faced Sheep 6. Ideal Cosmo 7. Airport

Underground psychedelic rock champions Yura Yura Teikoku have released their latest album, voted as Best Japanese Rock album of 2007 by the prestigious Music Magazine. They've been going sinced 1989 with vocalist / guitarist Shintaro Sakamoto, bassist Chiyo Kamekawa and various drummers before settling on Ichiro Shibata in 1997. The trio have grown steadily in popularity culminating in this fantastic new album. 10 tracks.

Compilation of indie rock bands from throughout Japan. 17 tracks and artists including Nova Era, Pumpkin Pie Pochette, Cross Chopper, Magic Number, Scrap and Build, Mona Chop Bear, Heart Noise, The Default Man, Pussydrive, The Nacking Style, Anthem for a Silence, Very Ape, Jumping Clover, Back Side 180, Monster Jam.

A bit of a strange one. German punk band who like Japanese music, decide to cover 11 Japanese songs, although they can't speak a word of Japanese. Still, they give it a go in pigeon Japanese, adding a punk flavour to some well known Japanese childrens' and anime songs including 1000 Winds (Sen no Kaze ni Natte), Kuma-san, Tsutomu Yamaguchi, Zui-Zui, Sacchan, Genkotsu-Yama, Aki, Ultra-Seven, Pass The Way!, Tai-Yaki.

Siberian Newspaper are an instrumental group of seven musicians playing violin, acoustic guitar, contrabass, piano, percussion and didgeridoo. They performed at the In The City event in the UK in 2006 and at the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan in 2007. 11 tracks including Comical Salute, New Delhi Stream, Miss Silence, Ondine, Tori ga Shaberu Kotoba Towa and Awaku Chiisana Menuett.

Somewhat surprisingly, Japan's foremost noise band have never released a DVD before. This is a live DVD from their American tour 2005 plus 6 tracks of original break beats from member EyE Yamataka.

Applesead: Ex Machina is new film anime created by Shirow Masamune (comic author) John Woo (producer) and Shinji Aramaki (director). Haruomi Hosono is the music supervisor and not surprsingly therefore is a superb kaleidoscope of sounds featuring HASYMO, (pronounced 'hashimo', Human Audio Sponge Yellow Magic Orchestra) Hosono together with Ryuchi Sakamoto and Yukihiro Takahashi with the track Rescue. Also featured are Cornelius with Haruomi Hosono, Towa Tei, Miharu Koshi, Rei Harakami, M-Flo Loves and Alex (Clazziquai Project). CD 2 is of the film score. DVD features Trailer Short Version / Long Version, HASYMO _ Rescue Music Video - Ex Machina x Studio 4 'C Version, HASYMO Rescue Live at Pacifico Yokohama 19.05.07, Lina Ohta Puzzle Riddle Music Video, Lina Ohta Puzzle Riddle Music Video - feat. Deunan Knute Version, Lina Ohta Puzzle Riddle Music Video Making of, Interview 1. Haruomi Hosono x Shinji Aramaki, Interview 2. Haruomi Hosono x Tetsuya Takahashi

The same as the above but without the extra CD of the film score and abridged version of the DVD. Trailer Short Version / Long Version, HASYMO _ Rescue Music Video- Ex Machina x Studio 4 'C Version, Lina Ohta Puzzle Riddle Music Video - feat. Deunan Knute Version, Lina Ohta Puzzle Riddle Music Video Making of, Interview 1. Haruomi Hosono x Shinji Aramaki, Interview

Yashiki Gota has been a force on both the Japanese and UK music scenes for many years. He's played with Mute Beat, Melon in Japan and in the UK has worked with Soul II Soul, Bomb the Bass, Depeche Mode, Seal and has become a long term member of Simply Red. This best of 2 CD collection features on disc 1, 15 of his own tracks that he has performed solo (and as Gota & Heart of Gold) and 13 tracks he has produced, performed by other musicians, including Blue Angel, Nokka and Moomin as well as a few by Gota himself.

New album, first in eight years from the rock 'n' roll veterans, this year celebrating their 30th anniversary. Includes new songs with lyrics by Chris Mosdell (early YMO lyrics), long time friend and collaborator Wilko Johnson and cover of Pom Pom Joki by another long term collaborator Haruomi Hosono. 1. Planet Guitar 2. Japanic 3. I Can't Get Across To You 4. Empty Bed 5. Oh Only Boy 6. Koi no Menue 7. Katami no Necklace 8. What a Wonderful World 9. Chosenjo - Dipinto Hop 10. My Way 11. Johnny B.Goode 12. Pom Pom Joki (Studio Jam)

22 track compilation of the early years of one of Japan's longest running rock bands, recordings between 1979 and 1982, featuring Sheena on vocals, backed by Makoto Ayukawa on guitar, bass and drums. 1. You May Dream. 2. Baby Maybe 3. Ukabino Peach Girl 4. Hot Line 5. Batman Theme 6. Stiff Lips 7. You Really Got Me 8. O Ma E Ga- Hoshi 9. Lazy Crazy Blues 10. Suzy-Q 11. Pin-up Baby Blues 12. One Night Stand 13. Radio Junk 14. Kiss Me Quick 15. My Boyfriend 16. Dead Guitar 17. Krazy Kool Kat 18. Koi no Dance Tengoku 19. Heart ni Hio Tsukete 20. Cry Cry Cry 21. Satisfaction 22. Lemon Tea.

First album for nearly three years, and first addition to the Super Roots series since 1999, this is an edited live album from a concert at the end of 2005. The band used three drummers, and a 20 strong choir. Boredoms have been one of Japan's most amazing acts for nearly two decades playing a kind of avant-garde electronic rock. Their reputation around the world has largely been built upon theeir extraordinary live show, all the more surprising that this album is their first official live release.

Volume 10 in the Superroots EP series, whereby Boredoms get even more zanier than usual. 4 tracks.

Solo project from the female drummer of Boredoms, who also sings, plays guitar, keyboards and leads the group OOIOO. Engineered by Fishman's engineer and jacket design by Yamantaka Eye.

Guitar Wolf have been playing their underground garage trash punk for 20 years and this is their 9th album. They are often compared to the Ramones with influences such as Johnny Thunders and Link Wray and dress in black leather, shades and greased up hair. This is the first album from the trio with a new bass player after Billy Bass Wolf died from a heart attack in 2005. Seiji Guitar Wolf and Toru Drum Wolf have been joined by UG on a hard hitting album of hard core punk.

2 CD+ CD extra from Sadistic Mika Band, the legendary glam rock band with Kazuhiko Kato, singer Mika, guitarist Masayoshi Takanaka and Yukihiro Takahashi (Yellow Magic Orchestra). CD1 is the most recent concert of the latest incarnation of the group from March 2007 at NHK Hall Shibuya. CD 2 is from September 1975 from Kanda, and was the last concert of the first edition of the group from 1972-75. They later reformed in 1989 and again in 2006. CD1 has 12 tracks including Tumbleweed, Last Season, King Fall. CD 2 has 8 tracks including In Deep Hurt, Narkissos, Sadistic Twist. CD3 has 9 tracks including Mada-Mada Samba, Funky Mahjong, Sumie, Black Ship Sweet.

Sadistic Mika Band are a legendary glam rock band that featured Kazuhiko Kato, singer Mika, and guitarist Masayoshi Takanaka. The group later featured Yukihiro Takahashi of Yellow Magic Orchestra fame. The band has broken up and reunited three times, under the core membership of Kato, Takahashi and Takanaka with different female singers. The latest is from 2006 with young singer Kaela Kimura, and this is the resulting album.

Latest album from Yukihiro Takahashi (ex- Sadistic Mika Band, YMO, Sketch Show) is a delightful blend of electronic pop with collaborators including Steve Jansen, Haruomi Hosono, mostly sung in English. 12 tracks.

The best Japanese rock album of 2006 according to Music Magazine. Sensuous is the first Cornelius album for five years and proves he is still one of the most visonary artists in Japan. The sound is more stripped down than his previous offering, the 12 tracks ranging from electro funk, synth pop, electronica, ambient to pop, with even a couple of lullabies. At times disjointed maybe, but ultimately an air of enigmatic mystery adds to the overall effect.

Album of remixes by the brilliant Cornelius. Tracks include Sketch Show / Chronograph, Bloc Party / Banquet, If By Yes / You Feel Right, Denki Groove x Schadara Paa / Twilight, The Go! Team / Universal Speech, James Brown / Call Me Super Bad, Mondo Grosso / Everthing Needs Love, Ryuichi Sakamoto / War & Peace, Crystal Kay / One, Sketch Show / Ecot and more...

Buffalo Daughter's Europhorica is their fifth album and first for three years. German krautrock influenced funky electronica. At times haunting, other times disturbing, with monotone voices and odd harmnonization. An intriguing album of kitsch pop. Comes as SACD hybrid.

RC Succession's Kiyoshiro Imawano goes to Nashville to record his latest solo album.

Now going for over 30 years, Moonriders latest album was recorded under the theme of 'Neo New Wave'.

Arranger and producer (Misia, Ken Hirai etc..) Tomita Lab records second album with help from an array of guest vocalists, including Chemistry, Yoshika, Soulhead and more.

Fronted by Mukai Shutoku (ex Number Girl) Zazen Boys play a hard brand of indie rock with scratchy guitars, house beats and off tune vocals. Like an impromptu jam session, the enegy is undeniable, and for those who stick with it, neither is the inventiveness.

Atmospheric outing from female singer songwriter with the help of several guests adding their own flavours. These include pianist Takeshi Shibuya, hip-hop artist Illreme, jazz band Sakerock, Rei Harakami, and Mama! Milk.

Hard core punk band leave the indie world to record for Avex. Guests include Kahimi Karie, The Gangsta and Abraham Cross.

Underground Japanese muscians including guitarist Seichi Yamamoto (Boredoms, Novo Tono, Rovo) head to Buenos Aires to play with some of Argentina's hip new wave indie rock musicians.

Quruli Best of Live. CD 1 was performed together with an orchestra in Yokohama, which works pretty well. CD 2 is of the usual rock outfit recorded in Kyoto and other cities. 22 tracks.

Eighth album recorded in New York from one of Japan's best and original rock bands. Mix of rock with roots, jazz, soul, blues and electronica. The band reunited with recording and mixing engineer Tom Durack (David Byrne, Cornelius) who worked on their first album 'Sayonara Stranger'.

The excellent Qururi from Kyoto play alternative experimental rock combining pop, punk and lo-fi electronica. Haunting slow numbers are intersperced with loud rocking tunes. Their 17 singles so far are compiled onto this 2 CD set together with 9 other tracks including unreleased songs dating back to their first album.

A new release from Quruli is always welcome. This latest album was recorded in Vienna with the French producer Stephane 'Alf' Briat (Air, Phoenix) and includes the single Jubilee, and their theme song to the film, Tennen. More of their impressive mix of good songs with lo-fi, electronica and punk.

Quruli are one of Japan's best rock groups, combining Brit style pop, electronica, and punk. Their songs are consistently strong, with some superb melodic slow tunes and occasional wilder faster numbers. Favorites on the Japan rock festival circuit, the band have also played in the US. This new album of thirteen tracks is one of their best yet.

Their fifth album and the first with a new line-up, that includes drummer Christopher McGuire. Innovative music combining memorable melodies with clever backing and instrumentation.

Soundtrack to the film 'Jose, a Tiger and Fishes' from this excellent rock band. Two songs and five instrumental tunes, with guest Yumiko Ono from Buffalo Daughter.

One of Japan's most lauded groups at the moment. Absorbing mix of electronica and intelligent guitar rock. Described by critics as their masterpiece.

From Kyoto, Quruli are led by Shigeru Kishida (guitar and vocals) and Masashi Sato (bass). Their music is a quite original alternative experimental rock combining pop, punk and lo-fi, electronica. Haunting slow numbers are interspeced with loud distorted tunes, but somehow they manage to fit them together in an entirely organic way. They have played with a host of international artists such as Manic Street Preachers, Mercury Rev and Super Furry Animals. From 2001, Team Rock is their most accomplished album to date.

Second album by well regarded rock group released in 2000, some tracks featuring Jim O'Rouke, creating a different style of progressive and electronic music.

First album released in 1999. In comparison to their genre-less later material, it sounds quite poppy, but still enjoyable and clever.

Latest album on a new label. The energy levels are turned up full, with a stronger message than ever. Recently toured in US winning many fans.

One of their most critically acclaimed albums. Straightahead punk and rock, with the usual strong melodies and energetic performance.

Second major album. More sophisticated, yet keeping that certain hard edge.

Gevil mix Japanese taiko drums with punk rock, backed by 'hayashi' festival chants and even elements of enka. The group have been causing a bit of a stir in Japan and the US. Led by the charismatic and powerful taiko drummer and vocalist (and well known tattoo artist) Waka, the group dress in 'happy coats' worn at Japanese festivals, the audience at their explosive gigs join in the moves, matsuri or Japanese festival style. This is their first major single, released November 2006, 4 tracks including a pretty incredible taiko meets hard rock version of Mission Impossible.

Released 2005, Matsuri Tengoku features seven tracks of taiko/punk mayhem. From Tokyo, Waka's (aka Hirozumi Jadoh) taiko drums and vocals are augmented by guitar, bass and drums. The group spent some time in New York where they played at S.O.B's and CBGB's among other live venues in the city. The tracks include a version of the Japanese minyo classic Soran Bushi, (titled Haikei Zipang Soran Bushi) and Gevil Samba.

Taiko meets punk rock in the hands of this explosive band from Tokyo. Their material is a mixture of original tunes and outrageous arrangements of traditional folk tunes. This album is of 10 tracks, including Kokoro Bushi, Love Lotion, Dream Catcher and Koko ni Saku Hana.

Electronic pop soundcapes from female outfit, released in America on Grand Royal Records. Quintessentially Japanese.

Boom Boom Satellites are bassist/DJ Masayuki Nakano and guitarist/singer Michiyuki Kawashima. Their music is a dance / rock blend - think Prodigy, Chemical Brothers- and they duo have been much championed overseas playing at Glastonbury, Roskilde and SXSW festivals and supporting Fatboy Slim, Underworld and Moby. This latest album (May 06) featurs 12 tracks .

The group that have probably done more to popularize Okinawan music- although they are not from Okinawa- on an album of mostly re-recorded versions of their best known Okinawan influenced songs. Arguably the originals are superior (Shima Uta) but occasionally better (Hyakuman Tsubu no Namida) Elsewhere original versions are included, and even material from Miyazawa's solo albums, that had an Okinawa connection. Overall, good introduction to one of the best sides of the Boom's work, and a success that helped change Japanese perceptions of Okinawa.

3rd solo album from Boom leader, combines strong songwriting with innovative arrangements, imaginative instrumentation, and inventive production by Arto Lindsay. The various recording locations, (Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, New York, Buenos Aries, Tokyo, Okinawa) reflect the diversity of sounds on the album. Brazilian music provides probably the strongest thread throughout, with elements of samba, bossa nova and other Brazilian music. Intertwined between these, are glorious Okinawan influences heard on songs such as "Snow in Okinawa" and "Chimuguri Utasha". In addition to the original versions these two tracks have been given a dancefloor remix by Chris Franck (of De Lata) Ryukyu Underground (UK/American duo) and Monaural. Elsewhere, "Perfect Love", "Deeper than Oceans" "Mandala" and "It's Me" feature that laid back yet funky Brazilian groove. Each varies in style and accompaniment, some with a decidedly more contemporary feel than others with "Eu Vou Junto" probably the purest Brazilian track of all. "Tokyo Story" has a jazzy hip hop feel, while "A Tango for Evita and Che Guevara" is a remarkable poetry reading.

Was £26.66. One of the best of Japan's current pop and rock songwriters. Big production, great songs, on a album that seamlessly switches from one style to the next, that creates an album as a collective whole rather than just a series of songs. Backed by a specially formed group Hyaku Shiki, featuring other talented musicians, a rare treat among the mainstream. !!<

100s (Hyaku-Shiki) is the new group featuring the brilliant songwriter Kazuyoshi Nakamura. He is joined by bass, drums, guitar and keyboards (Takafumi Ikeda of Super Butter Dog). More energy than Nakamura's solo albums, with a harder edge but the same outstanding tunes and an experimental side that sets 100s apart from the mainstream.

Third album from the band fronted by the talented songwriter Kazuyoshi Nakamura, plus Takafumi Ikeda on keyboards (also of Super Butter Dog), guitarists Masahiro Machida and Shinichi Ono, bassist Hiroo Yamaguchi and drummer Tom Tamada. The album is themed around Nakamura's home town of Tokyo.

Celebrating 17 years, Spitz have released a new album up to their usual high standard of J-pop. Great melodies, written by their excellent singer Masamune Kusano, sort of nostalgic without being overly sweet.

After ten albums still one of Japan's best pop and rock bands. Consistently good songs, in distinctive style.

Glorious album by a band who play their brand of electric rock and roots with more gusto than any other. Japanese and Korean roots with a psychedelic twist.

All singles by one of Japan's best rock groups from their Ki/oon Sony period (1993-1999). 2 CDs with English lyric transalations including rare and unreleased tracks. Disc 1 : 1. Sekai Shimin wa Subete no Hata o Orosu 2. Tell Mama 3. Mangetsu no Yube (Single Version) 4. Lepun Kamui (Single Mix) 5. Mukaikaze (Single Mix) 6. Gaiko Funosho (Sutakora Version) 7. Eejanaika 8. Eejanaika - Takkyu no Gokudo Denshi Bonuta Version 9. Soul Flower no Yume wa Hiraku (Live Version)10. Jungle Boogie 11. Uchu Futen Swing 12. Sayonara dake no Rojiura 13. Chicchana Toki kara 14. Mogura to Matsuri (Live Version)15. Tankyori Sosha no Kodoku (Respectable Single Mix) / Soul-Cialist Escape 16. Onboro no Yoake / Soul-Cialist Escape 17. Denshoku no Machi (Demo Version) / Takashi Nakagawa

New Soul Flower Union studio album is one of their best ever.Their usual powerful mix of punk, soul, funk, ska, celtic, rock, psychedelic, blues and yes, Japanese music. Great songs overflowing with energy, politically insightful lyrics (booklet comes with English translation). One of the Japanese albums of the year in 2001.

Hiroshi Yamaguchi, leader of Heatwave, once said the group is finishing. Seeing as he is basically Heatwave, nothing much changed and now he's back with another album and the name of Heatwave again. There is nothing much Japanese here, just great songs, good singing and guitar playing in the mode of Waterboys, Hot House Flowers and hints of Van Morrison or Bob Dylan. Big selling indie album, great rock 'n' roll.

Hiroshi Yamaguchi recorded with Donal Lunny plus Soul Flower Union and others. Rock, Irish and some Japanese flavours, including the lullaby, Komori no Uta.

Guitarist Hiroshi Yamaguchi provides an atmospheric accompaniment to the poetry reading (in English) of Native American Tom LaBlanc together with electronics and accordion by Hosomi Sakana. An unlikely combination but it works surprisingly well, sounding like some of Leonard Cohen's finest moments in places.

One of the best punk groups to emerge in recent years. From Nagata, Kobe, includes a 100mph version of the classic Soul Flower / Heatwave / Takashi Hirayasu song 'Mangetsu No Yube'. Great, cathcy melodies, fun, energetic with a political message, as all good punk should be.

Bo Gumbos were the New Orleans inspired group fronted by Donto, who tragically died a few years ago. This is a compilation of their six, 2 track singles released between 1989 and1995. Great songs, with funk blues and rock added to the New Orleans boogie.

Dont, who died in 1999 was one of Japan's most off beat, yet highly talented musicians, with his groups Bo Gumbos, Rosa Luxenburg, Uminosachi and as a solo musician, incorporating influences from New Orleans, Indonesia and Okinawa. The 16 tracks on this demo tape, now released on CD, are mostly of the New Orleans piano and boogie woogie variety, but performed in his own inimitable style.

Donto was one of Japan's most exhuberant and diverse musicians who died suddenly in January 2000. A member of rock group Rosa Luxemburg, the Bo-Diddley inspired Bo-Gumbos, he went on to record Indonesian music with Uminosachi, and was inspired by Okinawan music where he re-located and recorded solo albums. Before he died, Donto had compiled a tape of his favorite tracks, and this is now compiled onto a double CD.

Dont was one of Japan's most innovative musicians before he died unexpectedly at the age of 37 in January 2000. This live album also features the excellent Amama, a trio of female musicians. Dont plays electric guitar, sanshin and sings in one of the wackiest blends of Okinawan and rock ever made.Not the greatest recording quality, but a great document of a great artist who is sadly missed.

Umi no Sachi is the group that featured Don't, Keni Inoue and Hideo Inoura (of the Sunsetz) and Sachiho of Zelda. They made a fine album on Sony, which has been deleted even after renewed demand following Dont's untimely death. Umi no Sachi went back into the studio and recorded another album, this time without Dont. While excellent, it doesn't have that wacky Indian, Indonesian, Okinawan mix, instead is slightly more reserved and laid back in an Hawaiian and reggae kind of way.

New album from the funky hardcore group, who have made an impact in the US. 9 pulsating tracks, mostly recorded in one take. High energy, thrilling stuff.

Compilation of New Orleans inspired r 'n'b band, led by the eccentric Donto.

First new album for 2 years from the funk, rock, punk, hip-hop, improv, jam band outfit who have built a following in Canada, Australia and the US. Tracks include the rocky Zoobomcrazy and the hip hop / rap mixture of Superman.

Latest offering from Don Matsuo and his energetic band. More funky rock n' roll with more than just a cursory nod to the Rolling Stones and at times on this album, the Doors. The group have mellowed over the years but seem to have reached a musical maturity that makes this one of their best yet.

From one of Japan's hottest 'indie' bands (now signed to a major). A more mature sound from the high energy funky hard rock/rap of the previous album, although there is still plenty of this. Otherwise, the group's leader draws his diverse influences from the Rolling Stones to Fela Kuti which can make for an interesting result. Zoobombs have recently toured with great success in Australia, following on from a US west coast tour.

Album of high energy rock, rap style vocals and dance beat. No1. in college charts in USA.

Recorded live at El Mocambo, Toronto, the same venue as one of the band's heroes, the Rolling Stones recorded 'Love You Live'. Zoobombs are often called one of Japan's best live bands, and all their energy is captured here on an album of 'atomic' funk rock.

Hard rock, rap and funk. Dynamic live act who toured in US and Canada.

It's 25 years since sisters Naoko and Atsuko Yamano together with Michie Nakatani formed Shonen Knife. The group soon gained a cult following, especially outside Japan, for their pop punk songs about life in Japan, sung in a mixture of English and Japanese. They could count Sonic Youth and Nirvana among their fans, both of whom they played with. They found more popularity at home from the mid 90s or so and by 1999 Michie had left the band and Atsuko moved from drums to bass. This is their best of album as chosen by the band. CD 1 has 20 of their greatest tunes including Twist Barbie, I am a Cat, Burning Farm, Cobra versus Mongoose, E.S.P. Explosion! Konnichiwa and Chinese Disco. CD2 has 15 rare tracks including Space Christmas, Milky Way, Till the End of the Day, Girl's Rock.

Shonen Knife's first ever live album, mainly recorded in their home town of Osaka in 2005 featuring new member Etsuko (drums) playing on 19 tracks while the other 3 feature China, also a member of DMBQ who tragically died in a car accident in 2005.

Tribute album to Shonen Knife to celebrate their 25th anniversary. The Osaka based band have always had a lot of admirers and collaborators both in the US and Japan and this album features songs of Shonen Knife played by those people.1.Hiroto Komoto / Elmer Elevator (Basement Tape) 2.Bloodthirsty Butchers / Rocket Ni Notte 3.Beat Crusaders / E.S.T. 4.Masatoshi Majima / Secret Dance 5.Eastern Youth / Concrete Animals 6.Zoobombs / Burning Farm 7.Kazumi Nikaido / Tortoise Brand Pot Cleaner's Theme 8.Mo'some Tonebender / Miracles 9.DMBQ / Buddha's Face 10.Hiroto Komoto / Elmer Elevator 11.Seiichi Yamamoto / Insect Collector

One of Japan's best rock bands who have toured successfully on the US west coast. Hard hitting rock,ska, punk, sung mostly in English, accompanied by horns and sounding a bit like the Jam/Clash circa 1980. In other words nothing new, but what they do, they do well.

Japanese rock/ska band who sing in English and regularly tour America. Guitar based rock with brass accompaniment.

Mad Capsule Markets are one of a fairly rare breed of Japanese groups to have some profile in the US and Europe as well as maintaining a fan base at home. Their music is a mixture of metal punk and industrial. They have played alongside Rage Against the Machine, Korn, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and have had their CDs released by Palm Pictures in the UK. This album features 24 of the best tunes from the first 6 years of Mad Capsule Markets, all given new mixes.

Second volume of greatest hit remixes covers the period when the band became increasingly hard core speed metal and techno punk machine merchants. 19 tracks of pure energy.

Compilation of one of Japan's most succesful groups ever. Often compared to Elvis Costello, no bad thing, and the songs stand up to anything by similar in any country. Simply great rock and pop tunes. If you want to hear the acceptable side of the Japanese charts.

Compilation of another pioneering folk group featuring Kiyoshiro Imawano.

Above average hardcore and rock,with it's occasional quiet moment such as their cover of UA's "Rhythm". If you're tastes in Japanese music are toward Mad Capsule Markets, Zoobombs etc..this could also be for you.

Rock group influenced by the Waterboys in particular and British rock in general.They even sing in English. Pealout write great songs, are a good live band, and are now gaining a lot of fans after spending a few years building up a following on the live circuit. The equal of their peers, but not for those who want to hear something distinctly Japanese.

Eccentric female singer from Okinawa, described by the New York Times as Japan's answer to Fiona Apple.

Speed Racer was an English language adaptation of a legendary Japanese animation from 1967 called Mahha GoGoGo which centered on car racing. Speed Racer was one of the earliest anime hits in the US. 12 tracks by artists including Takkyu Ishino, Hideki Kaji, Yuhi Komayama, Hiroshi Kawabe (Tokyo No.1 Soul Set) Kiiiiiiii + DJ Codomo, Fantastic Plastic Machine and Halfby. 9 tracks plus original anime ending theme, original anime main theme and US version main theme. DVD is of the first episode of Mahha GoGoGo plus a promotional video for the newly recorded tribute tracks.

200O.