<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections - JRock / Visual Kei]]>

<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections - JRock / Visual Kei]]>Mon, 04 Nov 2024 22:34:22 -0800Weebly<![CDATA[MIYAVI Releases Music Video for "Running In My Head"]]>Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:48:52 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/miyavi-releases-music-video-for-running-in-my-head

Recently, on August 9th, MIYAVI released a music video for his latest song, “Running In My Head”. This track is the opening theme song for Code Geass: Roze of the Recapture, and can its music video can be found on his official YouTube channel. Details and more can be found below.

“Running In My Head” is an up-tempo rock tune featuring MIYAVI’s signature powerful and thrilling guitar sounds. The music video, set in a grand, futuristic CG environment, leaves a lasting impression with MIYAVI passionately playing his guitar. The video effectively conveys the sense of “resolve” embedded in the song “Running In My Head.” It was directed by mino, known for producing stylish visuals that blend live-action, animation, and VFX.

It was also announced that “Found In Pain,” the second part of the two-part series “Lost In Love, Found In Pain,” will be physically released in Japan on October 9. Like its predecessor, “Lost In Love,” this album is sure to meet fans’ expectations. Additionally, on the release date of “Found In Pain,” a special event titled “MIYAVI ‘Found In Pain’ 2024” is set to take place at KT Zepp Yokohama. This will be a must-see event for fans, offering a rare opportunity to experience MIYAVI’s energetic live performance up close.

The music video for "Running In My Head" can be found below.

Release Information
Album “Found in Pain”
Release Date: October 9
Label: MoooD Records
Publisher: Bandai Namco Music Live Inc.
Formats:
Limited First Edition LAMR-35031 (CD+art piece) ¥6,600 (incl. tax)
Standard Edition LAMR-5031 (CD only) ¥3,190 (incl. tax)
Product Overview:
MIYAVI, the “Samurai Guitarist” who recently celebrated his 20th anniversary as a solo artist, is releasing a new original album with all new tracks for the first time in about three years. This release is a two-part series, with the first part, “Lost In Love,” having been released on April 3. The second part features eight new tracks and will be available in two editions: a standard edition and a limited first edition that includes an art piece. With themes of “Naked” and “Raw,” the album returns to MIYAVI’s edgy and solid identity. Collaborations with international producers and art directors make this work both sonically and visually stimulating and impactful.

Profile
MIYAVI has gained worldwide attention as a guitarist for his unconventional “slap guitar” style, in which he plays the electric guitar with his fingers instead of a pick. He has performed more than 380 live shows in 30 some countries, and has 9 successful world tours under his belt. Other accomplishments include performing the national anthem at the Dodger Stadium in the United States, delivering the opening performance at the National Stadium during the visit of the Paris Saint-Germain soccer team to Japan, and providing music and halftime performances for the NBA's Golden State Warriors.

Apart from his musical pursuits, MIYAVI made his Hollywood debut as an actor in Angelina Jolie’s film “Unbroken.” He also graced the runway of Paris Fashion Week as a model for Yohji Yamamoto and Y-3 and was the first Japanese person to be featured in advertisements for the GUCCI Global Collection. In recent years, he has also been actively involved in advertising campaigns for companies like DELL and McLaren. In 2017, he became the first Japanese to be appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees).

In November 2022, he announced the formation of the band “The Last Rockstars” with YOSHIKI, HYDE, and SUGIZO. As the “Samurai Guitarist,” he is constantly taking on new challenges and is one of the most promising Japanese artists active on the international stage.

Official Site: https://japan.miyavi.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miyavi_ishihara/
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MIYAVI_OFFICIAL
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MIYAVI.OFFlCIAL
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MIYAVIOfficial
Weibo: https://weibo.com/u/2381640694

]]><![CDATA[Performing Beyond Borders & Cultures: An Interview with ASH DA HERO]]>Mon, 15 Jul 2024 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/performing-beyond-borders-cultures-an-interview-with-ash-da-hero

ASH DA HERO is a band that formed in September 2021. It consistst of vocalist ASH, guitarist Narukaze, bassist Sato, drummer WANI, and DJ Dhalsim. Their music crosses several genres, including, but not limited to, rock, punk, and hip hop. Fans of the anime Blue Lock may have heard their recent singles, "Judgement" and "Beast Mode/Octave", within the popular show. We recently had the opportunity to ask them some questions regarding their formation, the creation of their most popular songs, and lots more. This interview is sure to be a treat for existing fans of ASH DA HERO, as well as for those discovering them for the first time. Check it out, and be sure to give their music a listen via the links at the end of the interview!

A-to-J: Hello and thank you for the interview! Can you tell us a bit about yourselves and your music?
A-to-J: こんにちは！あなた方とあなたの音楽について簡単に教えてください！
ASH DA HERO: ハロー。ASH DA HEROです。僕らは日本の音楽と、国外の様々な音楽をミックスしているロックバンドです。
ASH DA HERO: Hello. We are ASH DA HERO. We’re a rock band that mixes Japanese music with various international music styles.

A-to-J: Can you tell us a bit about the formation of the band and your early history?
A-to-J: バンドの結成とこれまでの経歴について少し教えていただけますか？
ASH DA HERO: それぞれミュージシャンとして活動する中で、COVID19をきっかけにバンドを結成したんだ
ASH DA HERO: Each of us was individually active as a musician, and we formed a band as a result of COVID-19.

A-to-J: How would you describe ASH DA HERO's music? Is there any song that you feel truly encompasses your sound?
A-to-J: ASH DA HEROの音楽をどのように表現しますか？自分たちの音楽を最も体現していると感じる曲はありますか？
ASH DA HERO: 日本の音楽の多様性と、国外の様々な音楽をミックスして、常に俺たちのオリジナリティを尖らせているよ。最も体現しているのは Judgementだと思う。
ASH DA HERO: We mix the diversity of Japanese music with various international music styles, constantly sharpening our originality. I think this is best embodied in our song “Judgement”.

A-to-J: Your recent single, "Beast Mode/Octave", dropped just days ago, can you tell us a bit about it?
A-to-J: 数日前にシングル「Beast Mode／オクターヴ」がリリースされました。この曲について簡単に教えてください。
ASH DA HERO: Beast Modeのダンサブルなビートは、人間が覚醒する時の心拍数を表現している。そしてサビのコールアンドレスポンスは、"自問自答"を表現しているんだ。オクターヴは凪と玲王の2人の感情の交錯を歌詞で描き、また主旋律とハーモニーで2人の気持ちのすれ違いを表現したんだ。元々1曲の予定だったが、いくつかDEMOを投げると監督から「2曲使わせて欲しい」と言われて、2曲になったんだ。とても光栄な事だよね。大好きな作品だったから、作品への愛が歌詞に溢れて止まらなかった。純粋に僕も作品のファンだからね。だからこそ責任も感じたし、とても苦労したよ。
ASH DA HERO: The danceable beat of “Beast Mode” represents the heart rate of a person when they awaken. The call-and-response in the chorus represents “self-questioning.” “Octave” depicts the emotional interplay between Nagi and Reo through its lyrics, and the main melody and harmony express the misunderstandings between them. Originally, it was supposed to be one song, but after submitting several demos, the director asked to use two of them, so it became two. It was a great honor. We love the anime, and that love overflowed into the lyrics. Because we’re fans ourselves, we also felt a sense of responsibility. That was tough.

"Beast Mode" MV

"Octave" MV

A-to-J: Since your music has been featured in it, are you a fan of the anime Blue Lock? Or soccer in general?
A-to-J: アニメ「ブルーロック」のファンですか？それともサッカーそのものが好きですか？
ASH DA HERO: ブルーロックのファンだし、サッカーの大ファンだよ。時々プレーもしているんだ。
ASH DA HERO: I’m a fan of Blue Lock, and a huge fan of soccer. I still play occasionally.

A-to-J: Outside of music, what are some of your favorite hobbies?
A-to-J: 音楽以外で何か好きな趣味はありますか？
ASH DA HERO: サッカー観戦かな！イングランドのプレミアリーグが大好きなんだ！
ASH DA HERO: Watching soccer matches! I love England’s Premier League!

A-to-J: What are some of ASH DA HERO's goals for the future?
A-to-J: ASH DA HEROの今後の目標は何ですか？
ASH DA HERO: 僕らは国や文化を越えて活動したいと思っている。言語や文化、国を越えて全ての人々が俺たちの音楽を聴いて１つになる事が夢であり、目標だよ。
ASH DA HERO: We want to perform beyond borders and cultures. Our dream and goal is for people from all languages, cultures, and countries to come together by listening to our music.

A-to-J: Are there any messages you’d like to give your fans, especially those from overseas?
A-to-J: ファン、特に海外のファンに向けてメッセージをお願いします！
ASH DA HERO: 僕らの音楽に触れてくれてありがとう！君の住む街の近くでショウをしたいと思っているからこれからも熱い声援をよろしくお願いします！
ASH DA HERO: Thank you for listening to our music! We hope to perform in a city near you, so please continue to give us your passionate support!

We're very grateful to ASH DA HERO for taking the time to answer our questions, and to all of you for checking them out! Be sure to check out their music, as well as all their social media, which can be found below!

For More Information on ASH DA HERO:
Website: https://ashdahero.com/
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/ashdahero
Weibo: https://www.weibo.com/ASHDAHERO
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashdahero__official/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashdahero_official
LINE: https://lin.ee/dVPCVHz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASHDAHERO
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/ASHDAHERO
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2XKXvzE0lpnqHcqu5l2lyT
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/jp/artist/ash-da-hero/987304750

]]><![CDATA[MIYAVI’s New Album “Lost In Love, Found In Pain” to Release in Two Parts]]>Fri, 16 Feb 2024 19:16:32 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/miyavis-new-album-lost-in-love-found-in-pain-to-release-in-two-parts

MIYAVI is never one to stay silent for long when it comes to music releases, and there are some new details regarding his upcoming sixteenth album. All the available details regarding this release can be found below!

At his year-end live performance, MIYAVI announced his first album release in three years to the enthusiastic cheers of the audience. This album, titled “Lost In Love, Found In Pain,” will be a two part series with the theme of “duality.” The release date of the first part, “Lost In Love”, has been set for April 3. In terms of sound production, it will be crafted in collaboration with Lenny Skolnik, a longtime partner in music creation, and involve various producers and collaborators in Los Angeles. On the visual front, Darren Craig, known for his work with A$AP Ferg and Justin Timberlake, was enlisted to explore new expressions.

In addition, the first pre-release single from the album, titled “Broken Fantasy / Tragedy Of Us,” is available for streaming starting from February 4, 2024. “Broken Fantasy” features a solid, up-tempo rock sound, showcasing not only MIYAVI’s distinctive guitar play but also a captivating vocal style that reveals a new aspect of his artistry. In contrast, “Tragedy Of Us” is a medium-tempo tune that incorporates scattered guitar phrases, dramatic developments throughout the song, and a narrative-like vocal delivery.

More information about the album and its songs will be gradually revealed, and there will undoubtedly be several more updates throughout 2024

For More Information:
https://japan.miyavi.com/feature/broken_fantasy

Profile
MIYAVI has gained worldwide attention as a guitarist for his unconventional “slap guitar” style, in which he plays the electric guitar with his fingers instead of a pick. He has performed more than 380 live shows in 30 some countries, and has 9 successful world tours under his belt. Other accomplishments include performing the national anthem at the Dodger Stadium in the US, delivering the opening performance at the National Stadium during the visit of the Paris Saint-Germain soccer team to Japan, and providing music and halftime performances for the NBA's Golden State Warriors.

Apart from his musical pursuits, MIYAVI made his Hollywood debut as an actor in Angelina Jolie’s film “Unbroken.” He also graced the runway of Paris Fashion Week as a model for Yohji Yamamoto and Y-3 and was the first Japanese person to be featured in advertisements for the GUCCI Global Collection. In recent years, he has also been actively involved in advertising campaigns for companies like DELL and McLaren. In 2017, he became the first Japanese to be appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees).

In November 2022, he announced the formation of the band “The Last Rockstars” with YOSHIKI, HYDE, and SUGIZO. As the “Samurai Guitarist,” he is constantly taking on new challenges and is one of the most promising Japanese artists active on the international stage.

Official Site: https://japan.miyavi.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miyavi_ishihara/
X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MIYAVI_OFFICIAL
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MIYAVI.OFFlCIAL
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MIYAVIOfficial
Weibo: https://weibo.com/u/2381640694

]]><![CDATA[DaNeel Releases New Double A-Side Single: "Ignition/Blackout"]]>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 23:02:59 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/daneel-releases-new-double-a-side-single-ignitionblackout

Hailing from Osaka, Japan, four-piece band DeNeel are captivating listeners with a nostalgic yet fresh new sound that has been dubbed “Osaka revival pop”. They recently released their new double A-side single, titled "Ignition/Blackout", and you can check out all the latest details below.

The song "Ignition" was written as the opening theme song to Season 5 of the hit NHK anime series Kingdom, and the band also released a new music video to go along with it. In addition to "Ignition", the double A-side single also includes the song "Blackout", the opening theme song for the drama series Kanojo to Kareshi no Akarui Mirai, which began broadcasting on January 11 on Japan’s MBS TV station. These two long-awaited tracks are finally available on download and streaming services as a double A-side single.

The lyrics for "Ignition" were written by DeNeel vocalist Nakano, a diehard Kingdom fan, while the music was composed by guitarist Urano. This hot and powerful song reflects the themes of the anime, expressing the unrelenting assault and tension of battle, with an intensity that will light a blazing fire inside every listener.

The music video for "Ignition" depicts a young student of Shorinji Kempo, a Japanese martial art based on Shaolin kung fu, as he continues his training in a burning temple, even as the flames rise all around him. This is interspersed with footage of the members of DeNeel playing a smouldering performance in front of the temple. You can check out the music video for yourself below.

"Ignition/Blackout" Purchase Links:
https://deneel.lnk.to/0207CD

DeNeel Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeNeel
Official Website: https://deneel.jp/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNYvhqxWPZ4y866Uslon2Jg

]]><![CDATA[XANVALA Releases Digital Single: “R.I.P”]]>Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/xanvala-releases-digital-single-rip

Japanese alternative band XANVALA recently released their latest digital single, titled “R.I.P”, on January 31. This hard-rocking track shows off their unique style and you can read all about it, and even listen to the song yourself, below!

“R.I.P” showcases XANVALA’s mastery of a riff-driven, intense yet melodic style that heats up the stage. It's a hard-rocking track that beautifully blends a blast of frenzied energy with a melancholic aura, and it's composed by guitarist Yuhma. This single presents a palpitating rhythm with guitar work that brings out the emotional side of the song along with the vocals.

The members of XANVALA share their thoughts on the single:
"It’s a song with the distinctive XANVALA-like sound. As for the lyrics, each person should give their own interpretation based on their perception."
— Vocalist Tatsumi

"The music and the sound waves emerge together. Those undulations that are propagated have a cosmic expanse. It’s the birth of a new universe. Everybody, silence please. I’m tuning in."
— Guitarist Yuhma

"This song encapsulates all the greatness of Visual Kei. It’s aggressive yet mellow at the same time. This feeling is reminiscent of my first encounter with the Visual Kei scene."
— Guitarist Souma

"It boasts a cool sound that hits you in the face like no other. Enjoy XANVALA’s new way of expression."
— Bassist 70.

"This will be our new standard. I can’t wait to play it live!"
— Drummer Tomoya

In addition to this digital single, XANVALA will be releasing a live Blu-ray and DVD on March 20, featuring the finale of their previous tour “ANS” at Ebisu Liquidroom on August 31, 2023. Pre-orders start on March 10 through the Starwave Records online store, where fans will get a signed photobook as an exclusive benefit.

The band recently celebrated their 4th anniversary with the final date of the first leg of the Japanese tour “THE CULTURE”, which will culminate on April 11 at Zepp Shinjuku. As part of a new generation, XANVALA is determined to continue showing that the Visual Kei culture is very much alive and still has plenty to offer to the world.

"R.I.P" Streaming Links:
https://lnkfi.re/6y5qCbwd

XANVALA ONEMAN TOUR「ANS」GRAND FINAL at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM 2023.08.31 LIVE DVD&Blu-ray
March 20, 2024
1. Ta ga Tame no Koufukuron [誰が為の幸福論]
2. Desperate [デスパレート]
3. MY BLACK
4. ratchet
5. Ochiteiku Mahou [落ちていく魔法]
6. joke
7. Ashita, Mushi ni Natte mo [明日、虫になっても]
8. Janome [ジャノメ]
9. Meimei [ 冥冥 ]
10. Kuchinashi [クチナシ]
11. Haru ga Sasaru [春が刺さる]
12. Shuumaku [終幕]
13. Lead Actress [リード・アクトレス]
14. Kinema [キネマ]
15. ANS
16. Artist [アーティスト]
17. ΛLIVE
18. XANADU
en.
19. Azayakana moudoku [鮮やかな猛毒]
20. Bamby
21. Bunmei kaika [文明開花]
22. Hidarimimi no akuma [左耳の悪魔]
23. Seisen [聖戰]
24. NIX
25. CREEPER

About XANVALA
XANVALA is one of the most thrilling emerging acts of the actual Japanese alt-rock / visual kei scene. Their music is a burst of energy characterized by a heavy yet melodic base, along with a catchy with a catchy rhythm, dynamic guitar riffs, electronic backings, and emotive vocal lines. XANVALA’s adrenaline-fueled style ranges from darker, aggressive sounds to more vibrant, effervescent melodies. Under the concept of “messy things are beautiful” and the name XANVALA (pronounced as “zanbala”) carrying the meaning of “disheveled hair”, it’s no surprise that headbanging is a must at their concerts. Their fierce presence and intense music create a mesmerizing atmosphere that captivates audiences both in and outside Japan.

Official Sites
Website: https://xanvala.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@paraguasinc.1339
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3roFgDP
Apple Music: https://apple.co/3sH7Pwk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/XANVALA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/xanvala
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@xanvala_official

Line-up
Tatsumi – vocals
Yuhma – guitar
Souma – guitar
70. (Nao) – bass
Tomoya – drums

]]><![CDATA[Chilli Beans. Release Sophomore Album: "Welcome to My Castle"]]>Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/chilli-beans-release-sophomore-album-welcome-to-my-castle

Chilli Beans. recently released their second full-length album, titled "Welcome To My Castle", and you can read all about this new release below!

The three-piece band from Japan consists of Moto (Vocals), Maika (Bass & Vocals), and Lily (Guitar & Vocals). "Welcome To My Castle" is a captivating musical journey that explores the boundaries of imagination and creativity. With each track, the band transports listeners to different worlds, evoking a sense of wonder and adventure. Through their unique blend of catchy pop tunes and garage rock, the band creates a sonic landscape that is both ethereal and dynamic.

"This is a concept album inviting everyone to Chilli Beans.'s castle! We would be delighted if you could enjoy the various worlds we have created through the music, from beginning to end." – Chilli Beans.

"Welcome" MV

Formed in 2019, Chilli Beans. has crafted a signature sound that has won over the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Since the band’s formation, they have consistently garnered strong support from industry tastemakers as well as the media.

In 2021, their release “lemonade” climbed to #1 on Spotify’s Viral Top 50 Chart in Japan, and in January of 2023, "rose feat. Vaundy" topped Billboard Japan’s "Heatseekers Songs" twice. “Raise”, which was released earlier this year was selected as the ending theme song for the TV anime series ONE PIECE.

"Raise" MV

Known for their exceptional songwriting and harmonious vocals, they continue to impress with engaging live performances. This summer, they played at the beloved Fuji Rock Festival and in August 2023, they opened for Two Door Cinema Club in Taipei, expanding their musical impact to a global audience. Building on this momentum, the band's highly anticipated first Budokan show in February 2024 is already sold out, marking an important milestone in their career. The iconic venue holds deep significance for Japan, initially constructed for the inaugural Olympic judo competition but has subsequently expanded to host musical performances. Some notable names that have performed there include The Beatles, Blur, Duran Duran, Kiss, Morrissey, Ozzy Osbourne, Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Journey, Deep Purple and Pink Floyd. Blackpink too made their debut Japan showcase at this renowned stage. The venue has played a vital part in the Japanese music scene, especially for rock/alternative music fans.

"Welcome To My Castle" is the perfect sonic embodiment of Chilli Beans. and this release solidifies their standing as one of the most exciting Asian artists to keep an eye on. Echoing the band's album, the title track "Welcome" also encapsulates the mantra of the album by welcoming listeners to a place where only fun exists, urging them to enjoy the moment and go with the flow. The song features an upbeat and head-bobbing sound that showcases each member's instruments. Merging their vocals with plenty of bass and incorporating the quintessential synth sound of 70s~80s Soul/Disco Funk, it seamlessly complements the guitar riffs, capturing the song's energy and delivering an infectious musical experience for listeners.

For more Information:
Website: https://chilli-beans.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYJAsBGHhfG0OAxMfWWp27w
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chillibeansmusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chillibeans_mc
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chillibeans.official
Club Beans.: https://chilli-beans.com/feature/entry

"Welcome to My Castle" Streaming Links:
chillibeans.lnk.to/WelcometoMyCastleOverseas

1. Intro
2. Hello bad boy
3. Welcome
4. aaa
5. My life is saikooo
6. doll
7. stressed
8. you n me
9. wonderland
10. 105☻
11. Raise
12. spark
13. I like you

]]><![CDATA[THE MORTAL's Album, "I AM MORTAL", Gets First Ever Vinyl Release]]>Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/the-mortals-album-i-am-mortal-gets-first-ever-vinyl-release

It's been a few months since the passing of Atsushi Sakurai, and a new release for both his solo album, and the first album of his band THE MORTAL, have been announced. Details and relevant links can be found below.

The Japanese band THE MORTAL was formed in 2005 by BUCK-TICK member Atsushi Sakurai. The lineup featured Sakurai (vocals), Jake Cloudchair (guitar), Yukio Murata (guitar), Ken Miyo (bass), and Takahiko Akiyama (drums). Together with his band members, Sakurai created a unique lyrical style that deeply examined topics such as life and death, the essence of humanity, the malice and hatred nested in the depths of the heart, the passion and reason that sway with the breeze, society and organizations, the friction and alienation rampant in the outside world, self-love and self-discipline, and a dark and gloomy spiritual world.

Now, THE MORTAL’s first album "I AM MORTAL", which was originally released on November 11, 2015, will be made available on vinyl for the very first time, set for release on March 7, 2024. This special vinyl edition was remastered and pressed by Toru Kotetsu, a leader in Japan’s vinyl production industry, to create a release that will allow listeners to experience the highest possible sound quality while preserving the atmosphere of the original release.

In addition, a vinyl version of Sakurai’s only solo album "Ai no Wakusei", originally released on June 23, 2004, will also be released on the same day.

THE MORTAL - "I AM MORTAL"
Release Date: March 7, 2024
Tracklist:
Side A
1. Tenshi
2. DEAD CAN DANCE
3. Barbaric Man

Side B
4. Yume – Deep Dream
5. Fantômas – Tenrankai no Otoko
6. MOTHER

Side C
7. Guignol
8. Tsuki
9. PAIN DROP – It rains cats & dogs

Side D
10. Grotesque
11. Mortal
12. Sayonara Waltz

Official Website: https://the-mortal.com/
Preorders: https://avex.lnk.to/themortal
Streaming:
https://open.spotify.com/intl-ja/album/57uIDWLBTZbtrhutnTl5LT?si=WMzf6fK1S_mrRg84qXI02A

Atsushi Sakurai "Ai no Wakusei"
Released Date: March 7, 2024
Tracklist:
Side A
1. SACRIFICE (Last Confused Mix)
2. YELLOW PIG
3. X-LOVER
4. I HATE YOU ALL

Side B
5. WONDERFUL WORLD (Injection to UK mix)
6. SMELL
7. Märchen
8. Fantasy

Side C
9. Taiji
10. Hallelujah!
11. Shingetsu

Side D
12. Yokan (2004 re-construct)
13. Wakusei
14. Neko

Official Website: https://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/sakurai_atsushi/
Preorders: https://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/-/Linkall/VIJL-60327.html

]]><![CDATA[I Don’t Like Mondays. Release New Digital Single: "What’s going on? feat. Celina Sharma"]]>Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/i-dont-like-mondays-release-new-digital-single-whats-going-on-feat-celina-sharma

Japanese rock band I Don’t Like Mondays. recently released their fifth digital single of 2023, "What’s going on? feat. Celina Sharma", and you can check out all the release details below!

"What’s going on? feat. Celina Sharma" on Wednesday, November 15 and is a collaboration with rising Australian diva Celina Sharma. Sharma is a female singer who is currently making waves having already received high praise from top US artists such as Snoop Dogg and Ne-Yo. You can check out how her voice blends with I Don’t Like Mondays. sound below.

I Don’t Like Mondays. are set to release their fifth studio album, titled "RUNWAY", in fall 2023, and the band are currently on a national domestic tour. All performances of their solo tour held earlier this year sold out, while their shows as part of the more recent Billboard Live Tour 2023 sold out on the first day of ticket sales. Additional dates were added, and these sold out too.

The band intend to build upon this success with their first world tour. The first date took place at the BubblePop festival Barcelona in July, and the band also played in Yantai, Bueno Aires and Seoul. On November 12, they played their first solo concert in Taipei. The band gained sudden attention from music fans around the world when their song ‘PAINT’ was used as the theme song for the anime series ‘ONE PIECE’, leading them to perform a concert in Brazil. With the 10th anniversary of their debut just around the corner, I Don’t Like Mondays. look set to keep expanding their horizons.

"What’s going on? feat. Celina Sharma" Download & Streaming Links:
https://idlms.lnk.to/whats_going_on

I Don't Like Mondays. Social Media Links:
Website / https://idlms.com
YouTube / https://www.youtube.com/idontlikemondaysofficial
Music / https://avex.lnk.to/idlms
Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/idlms.official
Twitter / https://twitter.com/IDLMs_OFFICIAL
TiKTok / https://www.tiktok.com/@idlms_official?lang=ja-JP
Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/rockidlms
LINE / https://page.line.me/426mrqde?openQrModal=true

]]><![CDATA[Japanese Band THREE1989 Release New Single: "Aiiro"]]>Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/japanese-band-three1989-release-new-single-aiiro

Japanese band THREE1989, whose three members were each born in 1989 and whose band name is simply pronounced “Three”, recently announced that they've been selected to provide the ending theme tune to the new TV drama "kiss×kiss×kiss~LOVE ii SHOWER~". Details on the release can be found below.

"kiss×kiss×kiss~LOVE ii SHOWER~" began broadcasting on TV Tokyo on November 2, and will continue broadcasting on Thursdays. Their ending theme song "Aiiro" was released on November 8.

TV Tokyo has teamed up with avex to create a series for broadcast television based on the successful show ‘kiss×kiss×kiss’, which was originally shown on dTV®, racking up some 220 million views and an audience including more than 5 million women. The new song will be used as the ending theme for the project’s second season.

The song is closely based on the TV series itself, with the band members reading the show’s script before writing the lyrics and composing the music. The song was arranged by kei matsuura, who worked with the band early on in their career. Each episode of the TV show tells a different story, and the song’s lyrics express the diversity of modern romance through the conceptual use of “color”, using as few sounds as possible and featuring a piano melody that shines from the intro, resulting in a mellow love song.

Download & Streaming Links:
https://three1989.lnk.to/aiiro

THREE1989 (pronounced “Three”) Profile

Shohei (vocals)
Datch (DJ)
Shimo (keyboard)

THREE1989 was formed by three members who were each born in 1989. Each of the three members write the music and lyrics together, uniquely blending 1970s, ’80s and ’90s sounds such as New Jack Swing, funk, disco and R&B, interwoven with dance music to create a sound that is both modern and what the band call “New Nostalgic”.

The band are set apart by vocalist Shohei’s incredible singing technique and stunning voice, DJ Datch’s play style that uses scratching and samplers to go beyond the usual framework of a DJ, and keyboardist Shimo’s impressive multi-instrumental abilities.

The band have already held headline shows at prestigious venues in Japan such as Liquidroom in Tokyo and appeared at multiple Japanese music festivals, as well as performing overseas in countries such as Taiwan, South Korea and Spain. They have also worked with several artists from around the world, releasing musical collaborations with Ink Waruntorn (Thailand), Midas Hutch (The Netherlands) and LINION (Taiwan) – placing THREE1989 firmly on the global stage.

Official website: https://www.three1989.tokyo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/three1989.tokyo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/three1989tokyo/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/THREE1989tokyo
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@three1989tokyo

]]><![CDATA[LUNA SEA to Release Re-Recorded Versions of Iconic Albums "MOTHER" & "STYLE"]]>Thu, 12 Oct 2023 16:54:56 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/visual-kei-jrock/luna-sea-to-release-re-recorded-versions-of-iconic-albums-mother-style

Japanese rock band LUNA SEA, a legendary group that needs little introduction, recently announced the release of re-recorded versions of two of their most loved albums: "MOTHER" and "STYLE". These albums are set to be released later this year and you can read more about them below.

Seeing as these albums originally released about twenty years ago, the band went back to the mindset they had when they first began their journey. They took months to discuss rearrangement of the 21 tracks, and re-recorded each track from the scratch. The re-recorded version of the albums have also been helped along by Steve Lillywhite, a multi-Grammy Awards-winning producer who is known for his work for U2, Talking Heads, The Killers and many more.

"MOTHER", originally released in 1994, marked a pivotal moment in the band's career as it showcased a distinct evolution in their sound and artistic direction. Not only did it demonstrate the band's musical versatility but also expanded their fan base, solidifying their position as an undeniable force in the Japanese rock scene. "STYLE", on the other hand, presented a significant evolution in their sound and image, leading to a more accessible and mainstream appeal while still maintaining their artistic integrity. It eventually earned the band their first #1 title from the Oricon Albums Chart in 1996.

Simultaneously, the revolutionary force in Japanese rock also kicked off their nationwide tour, “LUNA SEA DUAL ARENA TOUR 2023”. Thousands of highly devoted followers in Yokohama filled the arena to the brim and witnessed the evolution of the sounds from both of the iconic albums across the weekend. They were also fortunate to be the first ones who were allowed and encourage to take pictures during the mind-blowing shows.

Relevant links, and a teaser for "MOTHER" and "STYLE", can be found below.

For More Information on "MOTHER" & "STYLE":
https://avex.jp/lunasea/mother_style/

For More Information on "LOVELESS" & "G.":
https://avexlunasea.lnk.to/LOVELESSandG.

For More Information on LUNA SEA:
https://www.lunasea.jp

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